Chapter 4: The Beginning of Hell.

Monday. May 1.

Pov Arthur:

I woke up as usual and for some reason my throat is dry. As I approached the kitchen, I turned back and picked up my phone. While I was turning it on, I poured myself some water and started drinking. Checking your balance…

210,500 points

That's how it works, isn't it? There may be a chance that this is a mistake. I texted two people and went into the bedroom. While I was putting on my home T-shirt, I received several messages. Horror, I give them a word, and they give me a hundred…

After putting on a T-shirt and shorts, I watched my chats. I opened the window and took out a pack of cigarettes, pulled out one and lit it, I began to read the messages.

{Arthur: Hi, sportswoman! Do you mind if I ask if you got points today?}

{Sakayanagi: Athlete? Arthur, if you're trying to make a joke, then this is not a very appropriate joke. But I'll answer the question anyway. Yes, my class got them, why?}

Your class, right?

{Arthur: Understood, thanks for the answer. But about the athlete, don't you play chess? Chess is an international sport, so don't be offended. If you want, I won't call you that.}

{Sakayanagi: ... Okay, just don't say it, use your first name.}

Huh!? Period? Why did it upset her so much? There are even Paralympic Games, can't they be called athletes? Is she feeling bad about it? Okay, we'll talk when we meet.

So, who's next?…

{Arthur: Good morning, have you checked your phone? Did you get any points?}

{Chiaki: Good morning! No!}

{Chiaki: I didn't get any points!}

{Chiaki: Arthur! Do you know what that means?}

{Chiaki: Arthur! Are you here?!}

Whoa, whoa. What kind of energy is she in a panic? I wonder if she spent a lot or sees more?

{Arthur: Why are you panicking? Write in one message. And yes, why are you panicking so much? You don't have any points left, do you?}

{Chiaki: You did, but it's just weird that the points didn't come. Is this a mistake?}

{Arthur: Well, a friend from another class says that he got points. So I think we're the ones who didn't get anything. But it's best to wait for the teacher, see what she says.}

{Chiaki: Yes, you're right. Okay, see you later!}

After finishing my cigarette, I went to wash my face, did my exercises and went to school. I also found Ichinose in the elevator. It looks like we're going to cross paths until she changes her route.

Ichinose: Hello, Arthur! Didn't you get all the points too?

Arthur: Good morning, Ichinose. Yes, not everything can be said. It looks like something is going on at school.

Ichinose: Yes, my classmates have already written to me asking what happened. I wonder how this will be explained to us.

I just looked at her. She stood thoughtfully, putting her finger to her lips. Haha, she's seriously thinking about it.

Arthur: Ichinose, leave your thoughts to others. The teacher will explain everything anyway.

Ichinose: Yes! You're right! We'll get an explanation today anyway, hurry up, you'll make people laugh!

She turned to me with a big smile when I just raised an eyebrow in surprise. Did she remember what I said? It seems that she wasn't lying when she said that she likes to learn about foreign culture. Maybe it's worth continuing to go to school with her after all.

Arthur: They judge by the student and the teacher. Listen, Ichinose, how about I teach you Russian?

Ichinose: Ah!!?

The elevator door opened and we walked down the street. The weather is cloudy today, it looks like it will rain.

Arthur: Well, I thought it wouldn't hurt anyone to know an additional language, you never know what will be useful in life. And so, here a native speaker will teach you himself, I think there will be no problems at least on my part.

Ichinose: Really?! I agree. But when do you want to teach me? I'm just with friends.…

Arthur: Before school. I will teach you at this time when we go to school. Do you agree? It won't take much time, but you can also spend it usefully.

Ichinose: Yes, I agree. We can even say that we will have our own language, which no one will understand except us, it's like a secret cipher!

Arthur: …

She's acting like a child, haha. If she had been born in the Soviet Union, she would have decided to join the Octobrists, then the pioneers and the Komsomol. She would probably have blossomed there. But thank God she's here.

While we were walking to school, I taught her the basic words that we met on the street. After 6-7 months, he will know plus or minus for the average communication with me. When we reached the school, we went our separate ways and only now I realized that I had forgotten about the points. Yes, the good mood did not last long.

When I entered the classroom, I felt a suffocating atmosphere. It looks like it's going to be noisy today. I went to my seat and sat down. I looked to my left and saw a focused Horikita. She seems to be thinking about what the school has prepared for us. I decided to touch on this topic slightly and asked in a barely loud voice so that others would not hear us.

Arthur: Horikita, why do you think we didn't get the points? I must say right away, we are the only class who did not receive them.

HORIKITA: !!!

She was surprised at my words, she didn't seem to have any information. That's what loneliness means.

Arthur: I also know that no one has received 100,000 points. Everyone got less.

She was still surprised, but then she narrowed her eyes and asked, also in a low voice.

Horikita: Where did you get this information from?

Arthur: Ay, Horikita… That's not a question you should be concerned about, is it? I'll say it briefly, my friends from other classes said. So what? Why do you think we didn't get the points?

She looked forward again, and tucked her hands under her chin. Looks like she's been processing for the past month, let's see if she can find the right answer.

She's serious. But she's been thinking for a couple of minutes. Maybe she forgot about me? No, it's just that there are probably several possible answers and he thinks who has a higher probability of success.

Arthur: Hori…

Horikita: Probably because of our relationship. Maybe it's like a punishment? Or is it because of the grades at all. If so, then this class is complete garbage.

Arthur: …

She's right, I'm surprised. But for so long? Maybe she couldn't concentrate?

Arthur: Horikita, do you have any other options? Or maybe there is another option?

Horikita? Are you trying to change my mind? I am almost 90% sure that there is a reason for this. The remaining percentages relate to the hope that this is a class error, maybe an accounting error or worse. Well, we'll wait.

Arthur: Even without clothes, but not without hope.

Horikita: What?! What do you mean?

Arthur: This is a Russian proverb, although we are left with nothing, but we have hope. That's what it says. Fits the situation, right?

Horikita: Well, yes. Fits. Listen, you often say something from Russian, you quote proverbs. Why?

ARTHUR: And? It is our custom to comment on a situation in order to indicate its general level based on a common opinion. If everyone understands the meaning, then they understand how to present it better. But here I speak out of habit, sometimes in Russian.

Horikita: I see. Yes, if you look at it that way, your words fit the situations. You have a pleasant habit.

She thought about it, focusing her gaze on a certain point.

Arthur: [Мило] (Cute)

Horikita: Huh? And now what was that?

Arthur: I say, I agree, it's a useful habit. [Не пойман, не вор] (Not caught, not a thief)

Horikita: …

Horikita did not believe my answer and slightly squinted at me for about a minute. I also looked at her with a slight smile until she sighed.

Horikita: Huh, okay. I'll believe you, but I feel like there's something wrong here.

Arthur: Believe me, I will never say something bad about you~~

She just gave me a sidelong glance and turned away to get out her notebook and pen. I just looked around the classroom, which is already full. Even Sudo came early. The girls themselves, who used to laugh and sit on the phone, now communicate with a gloomy expression on their faces, and the boys just sit and think about something of their own.

The door to the classroom opened and Chabashira entered with a poster in her hand. She's still the same, nothing changes.

Ike: Teacher, are you on your period?

Chabashira: So, let's start the morning class hour! She ignored Ike and continued, "Do any of you have any questions for me?" If something bothers you, don't hesitate to ask.

Ike is an imbecile, right? Or just a moron? I hope it's not contagious.

After the teacher's question, several hands immediately rose, but some prefer to see how others speak.

Hondo: Um, I checked the score this morning, and it's zero points. Shouldn't they have been listed to us today? It bothers me because I couldn't buy my own juice.

Chabashira: Hondo, as I explained, the points are credited to the students' accounts on the first of every month. All the points you have earned have already been paid.

Hondo: Um, but... I didn't get any points.

Speaks for himself, but not from the whole class? Egoist. He shouldn't have raised his hand, there was disappointment in the eyes of several people, so he probably will stay at the bottom of the class.

Chabashira: Are you... really that dumb?

Hondo: Are they dumb? What do you mean?

Arthur: [В прямом, идиот] (Literally, idiot)

I muttered to myself and turned my gaze to the window. In my peripheral vision, I see Horikita, who looked at me, but turned back to the teacher. Did she think I wanted to talk to her? Maybe later.

While I was watching the light rain, the teacher continued to explain to the class why they were stupid. But what caught my attention was that guy Koenji. Is he always this cheerful? The joy of life and... self-satisfaction? Don't I think so?

Koenji: Ha ha ha, I see, that's it, teacher! I've got it all figured out! Koenji exclaimed through laughter. Throwing his feet up on the table, he looked smugly at Hondo, "We didn't get points because we're from Class D."

Um, well, judging by his wording, he's wrong. Does he know about it? Or doesn't he care?

I continued to watch the pleasant rain, which is increasing outside the window. Has the weather decided to finish off our class emotionally? Coincidences can be interesting. When I was in Russia, it rarely rained on the first day of school, but on the last day of the holidays, as luck would have it, it rained constantly. Is this a joke from above or a global conspiracy?

Chabashira: Ninety-eight absenteeism and tardiness in a month, three hundred and ninety-one cases of chatting and using phones during class. I've been counting all your violations since day one. At this school, your behavior and grades are reflected in the number of points you receive. As a result, the hundred thousand points that you could have received simply disappeared. That's what happened! I warned you on the day of the entrance ceremony that this school evaluates students according to their abilities. This means that over the past month, your value in the eyes of the school has dropped to zero.

Whoa, that much? How were these children accepted here? The elite? Pfft, any remedial class might as well achieve more success than this one.

I still wonder why we were accepted to this school? I'm not talking about my class. I mean all the students. Aren't grades the most appreciated in Japan? Then why accept those who cannot meet the minimum?

Chabashira: We've been talking too much. I hope you understand me. Anyway, let's get to the main point," she straightened the twisted poster and fixed it on the board with a magnet.

Horikita: Are these... the results of each of the classes?

I looked at the board and saw a small table there.

Class A – 940

Class B – 650

Class C – 490

Class D – 0

So does one class point equal one hundred personal points? And surprisingly, are we set up here as the school intended? Sakayanagi's class is not at the top, and the elites probably sit there. Maybe someone saw this system earlier and decided to take action? Hold on. Elite Class A and the rest below it… Really?

Chabashira: Okay, I have more bad news for you," with these words, she attached a second sheet to the board. It had the names of all the students in our class on it. Next to each was a number, "Looking at this, I understand how many idiots there are in class D," she looked back at the students and clicked her heels, "Here are the results of the test you wrote a few days ago. I was just delighted with your amazing abilities. Seriously, what the hell did you do in high school? — mostly 60 points, but damn, Sudo. 14 points? Ike 24? What did they do in the last school? Although it's better not to know — If this test had been taken into account, seven of you would have already been eliminated. It's good that his results won't affect the final grades, isn't it?

Horikita looked at the results and opened her eyes in surprise. She immediately turned to me, but I just ignored her.

Horikita: Arthur, you…

Chabashira: What did I say that I didn't understand? If you fail the exam at the end of the semester or year in at least one subject, you will be expelled. At the moment, this applies to everyone with less than 32 points. You are the real scum.

So you're being expelled from school for grading? Wow, so the teachers here don't care how they present the subject, their task is just to give the material, and the students have to teach everything themselves? We would have been fired for this.

Chiaki, Karuizawa, and Hirata, who had already run through the estimates of others, turned to me, asking with their eyes how such a result could be? I don't blame them, I just wanted to.

Chabashira: Oh, and one more thing. This school is run by the state, and many graduates actually receive higher education and are easily employed. This is a well-known fact. Most likely, most of you will go to college or find a job.

Chabashira: But it's not that simple in our world. People like you low–level scum are sure to face big problems," Chabashira—sensei's words echoed off the walls of the classroom.

Hirata: So if we dream of getting a job and going to university, we need to at least become a Class C?

Chabashira: That's not exactly true, Hirata. You can fulfill all your dreams only by going all the way to class A. For the rest of the students, the school does not guarantee anything.

These words had their effect. Some of the students sank into their chairs as if they had lost their soul. Others sat in complete shock, looking at the teacher. And a small part…

Yukimura: That's... I've never heard of it! It's completely absurd! The bespectacled man jumped up. He had the same high score as Koenji.

Koenji: Shame on you! There is nothing more pathetic than boys shaking and panicking," Koenji sighed, as if something from Yukimura's words had hurt him.

Yukimura: Koenji, isn't it a shame for you to be in Class D?

Koenji: Is it a shame? Why would that be? I don't understand.

Yukimura: Because we were told that our class is a bunch of trash and that our chances of getting a higher education and a job are negligible.

Koenji: Ha! This is all nonsense! I don't need to answer such stupid arguments," he replied, continuing to saw his nails. He didn't even look at Yukimura as he spoke:

Koenji: This school just hasn't seen my full potential yet. I appreciate, respect and treat myself better than anyone else. Even if the school assigned me to class D, it doesn't mean anything at all. If, for example, I get expelled, it's okay too. Eventually, they'll beg me to come back.

Haha, he may not be very smart, but when evaluating himself, he looks like a peacock. Seriously? Give him a tail with feathers and he will walk around the class and show off.

Chabashira did not pay attention to this dispute, turned around and left the classroom. Yeah, it's going to be a difficult day.

***

Yukimura is now ranting about how he was transferred to the class by mistake. The girls go around collecting money. What else can they do? Do guys sell things? Huh, can I make a website for the "Flea Market of an Elite school"? It's going to be fun.

Horikita: Arthur, what do your grades mean? Did you do this on purpose, or is this really your level of knowledge?

Arthur: Mmm? I just made myself some A's. Do you know that we have a five-point grading system in Russia? That is, there are only 4 marks for the entire test, two, three, four, five. One is rarely given, but mostly only four grades. So I made myself five in each subject.

Horikita: But that's not five for the test, but only points. Judging by the test, this is one solved example.

Arthur: Yes, but if I show my friends that I have only A's, how will they understand that this is not a grade? Haha. Okay, don't build a face like that, Horikita, wrinkles will appear.

Horikita: !!

She raised her eyebrows and just turned away, looking like she was pretending to be an offended girl.

Arthur: [Мило] (Cute)

Arthur: Listen, I just heard that it doesn't affect the report card, so I decided to make such a joke. I don't think this will affect me in any way in the future, so there's no reason to be outraged about it. If I were you, I would pay attention to something else.

Horikita: What do you mean? Are you talking about school, classes, or what?

Arthur: Do you see anything else strange here?

Horikita: …

Oh no, that thoughtful face again. But seriously, fifty points?

Arthur: Horikita, there are devils in a quiet pool.

HORIKITA: !!!

She seemed to understand something and turned to Ayanokoji and then to the blackboard. She seemed to understand what I meant. Then she started a conversation with him. Well, I won't dwell on it, let him figure it out for himself, hehe.

Hirata came up to us with Chiaki and looks like he's going to say something. He's not going to act out a soap opera again, is he?

Hirata: Horikita, Arthur, Ayanokoji, can I talk to you for a minute?

Horikita: What did you want?

Straight to the point? Why is she so strict with everyone?

Hirata: I would like to discuss how to influence the situation. Therefore, if you…

Horikita: I refuse. I don't see the need for my presence. Is that all?

Hirata: I just wanted to hear everyone's opinion so that everyone could figure it out together.

Horikita: I have already given the answer, and it will not change.

 It seems like class issues don't matter to her. Of course, you can interpret her refusal in a different way, but it's clear from the tone that the general thing is not her problem.

Hirata: I see. And you, Ayanokoji and Arthur?

Arthur: I'll pass too, I'd better think about it myself, then maybe I'll suggest something.

Ayanokoji: I also seem to refuse.

Hirata: Of course, if your opinion changes, then I'm always in touch.

Hirata turned around and left, but Chiaki stayed. She came up to my desk and seemed to want to talk about my grades.

Chiaki: Arthur, did you make such assessments on purpose?

I looked at her with a playful smile and answered very quietly, which was not audible at the noise level in the classroom.

Arthur: People are not judged by themselves, okay?

CHIAKI: !!!

She opened her eyes wide and took a deep breath. She didn't seem to expect me to give her that answer, did she? Of course, it was just a little joke, but seeing her attitude from two different sides, I decided to check out this part as well. About sixty-five points, right? So she can do at least a few jobs better?

ARTHUR: Well, forget it. Tell me, how many points do you have left?

Chiaki: Uh, I have about fifty thousand left. I tried to save money on shopping with the girls. And you?

Arthur: I have more or less. Maybe you should take it off so that you feel more confident?

CHIAKI: No, thanks. That's enough for me until next month. If I have any problems, I'll tell you, okay?

Arthur: Yes, no problem.

She smiled and went to her friends. I leaned to the left and looked at Horikita with an expectant look.

Horikita: What do you want, Arthur?

Arthur: It's just that simple. Tell me, are you all right at the moment?

Horikita: Yes, I didn't spend much last month, so I think I'll last long enough.

Arthur: I'm not talking about that, but it's still not good to eavesdrop.

HORIKITA: !!!

She seemed to realize that I was checking on her. Her cheeks flushed a little, but immediately returned to their usual tone. It's probably because she's ashamed. But I'm not going to harden up on this.

ARTHUR: Okay, never mind. I'm talking about the class. Do you seem to have the same opinion as Yukimura?

When it was announced that the class was inferior and we were not worthy of the elite, she strained very much. It seems that she did not expect that such a harsh reality would touch her. But what will she do? Yukimura openly protested, but she sat quietly, usually such people do something strange.

Arthur: You're not going to do something shameful, are you? It's just that we don't have a very good reputation right now, but if there are more scandals, then it's unlikely that we will be able to lead an ordinary life in relation to other classes. So what did you want to do, or rather still want to do?

Horikita: Why are you asking such questions? I don't seem to remember that we talked so closely. So please don't ask personal questions.

Arthur: …

My face got bored and I just went back to my desk. So that's your answer? I decided to make a splash after all. But going into such a blind defense is the first time she's done this to me. It seems that I have raised personal issues with her too often. Then we'll wait for her decision, maybe even something interesting will come out.

***

It's the end of classes, and the girls are still begging. Yamauchi goes and sells his console, I would buy it if it were a desktop, but I don't really want a pocket one.

"Ayanokoji-kun and Smirnov-kun from Class D. Chabashira-sensei is calling you. Please come to the staff room!!!" a voice came from the loudspeaker.

Why did she have to call us that? You could have just told them to come in after school. By God, it looks like she wants me to go to her for sure.

I got up and headed for the exit, followed by Ayanokoji.

Arthur: Listen, did you do anything wrong by any chance?

Ayanokoji: I don't remember breaking anything. And you?

Arthur: But he didn't seem to fall down…

He looked at me curiously, but I just decided to move on and ignore his gaze. If he had been more relaxed, maybe he would have talked to him more.

When he reached the teachers' office, Ayanokoji knocked and opened the door. While he was looking around the office, I couldn't stand it and came forward a little. That drunk teacher was standing there.

Arthur: No hangover today?

Teacher: Huh?! What? Who are you?

Arthur: Yes, our homeroom teacher called us here, but it looks like she's not here. So I'll go wait for her at the entrance.

I quickly closed the door and looked at Ayanokoji.

Arthur: I hope Chabashira will come quickly.

But right after my words, this drunkard came out with a flirtatious smile.

Hoshinomiya: I see, why did Sae-chan invite you to her place? We've been best friends since high school. I wonder why she needs two young guys right after lessons~~?

Arthur: I didn't know you were the same age as the teacher, but Hoshinomiya, you're too close.

Yes, she has already put her hands on the shoulders of Ayanokoji and me. She turned her head to me and, raising an eyebrow, ran her hand over the back of my head. What is she doing?

Hoshinomiya: Well, I look younger, yes. But do you communicate without formalities? Have I already got you this close to me? Hehe, interesting boy~~

Arthur: First of all, - I took her hands off us and took her by the shoulders, pulled her away from me, - I'm not a boy, but a guy. The kid, if I may say it briefly. Secondly, I'm not from this country, so I don't know the whole culture yet, can you tell me how you can formally communicate with a teacher? Are there any honors there too? And thirdly… Do you know where our teacher is?

Hoshinomiya pouted, propped her hands under her chest and looked at me a little disappointed. But then, as if something clicked, she smiled seductively and spoke.

Hoshinomiya: Ah! So are you a student who came from Russia? I didn't realize right away that you were an interesting guy~~ And as for the address, it's just sensei, after the name, but you can just use the name with me~~

Arthur: So where is Chabashira-sensei?

Chabashira: I'm here, Smirnov.

Speaking of ray, by the way. The teacher appeared behind Hoshinomiya and hit her on the fifth point with her documents. Ugh, now think about whether it's great for her or pleasant.

Hoshinomiya: Ah! It hurts Sae-chan..." She screamed and took a couple of steps away from us.

Chabashira: Because there is nothing to harass my students! She looked sternly at her colleague. – Smirnov, Ayanokoji, follow me.

We went to the office, but a third person followed us? Probably an extra fourth. Walking on tiptoe and slightly hunched over, does she think that she is not visible?

Chabashira: Che! This is a conversation in our class, you, as the other class leader, should not be here.

Hoshinomiya: Sae-chan~~ Why did you call these two guys~~ Could it be that you have some obscene... - before she could finish, she received the very look that makes her heart sink.

Chabashira: One more word and I'll…

At that moment, there was a knock on the door and it opened softly. First, the top of the head appeared, and then a beautiful face. It looked cute. Ichinose looked around the room slightly, entered it and called Hoshinomiya.

Ichinose: Sensei, we have a question with the student council here... - when her gaze stopped on me, she smiled innocently and said in a low voice – [Прьивет] (Hello)

Hahaha, I could barely keep from laughing! This is the cutest thing I've seen at school so far. A Japanese high school student speaks bad Russian. It's a pity she only knows one word, but I'll fix it.

This situation did not go unnoticed by Hoshinomiya and she was about to say something when suddenly…

Hoshinomiya: Oh~~ Ichinose-san…

Chabashira: They're waiting for you, Chiyo. Hurry up and sort out your business!

Hoshinomiya: Oh, okay. Let's go Ichinose-san. She exhaled in disappointment and went with her student.

Chabashira: Well, let's go. You and I have some business to attend to.

She led us into a room and continued talking.

Chabashira: Now I'll make tea, sit here for now. – She started walking around the room, but I decided to stay at the entrance. – Smirnov, are you going to stand there? It's going to be a long conversation.

Arthur: Well, I just sat up today, decided to stretch my legs.

Chabashira: Oh, are you tired of intensive study? She went to the door and said the last words. – Stay in this room! Don't make unnecessary movements and don't make any noise. Until I give you permission to come out, stand still here. Disobey – and you will be immediately expelled!

The door slammed shut, and we both stared at the place where the teacher had just been. A sudden change of mood and an aggressive look, did she really think it would work? Such pressure on a junior student may work, but not for a high school student. Neither Ayanokoji nor I are shaking with fear.

Arthur: Listen, Ayanokoji. Do you know why they put us here?

Ayanokoji: I have no idea. Can it wait? She's not going to keep us here.

Arthur: I hope so.

While we were discussing what we were doing here, the door in the other room opened and a dialogue began there.

Chabashira: Here, come in. So what did you want to tell me, Horikita?

Did she summon Horikita as well? Is the whole class going to be here?

Horikita: Let me ask you directly, why was I enrolled in class D?

Oh, no. It looks like Horikita came by herself.

Chabashira: Seriously, just like that in the forehead?

Horikita: You said this morning that the classes were distributed according to potential. And that Class D is a bunch of trash.

Chabashira: That's exactly what I said. You get the impression that you belong to a higher caste.

Horikita: I believe that I solved almost all the problems in the entrance exams and did not make serious mistakes in the interview. That's why I don't think I should be in Class D.

Have you solved almost everything? She's seriously smart. Has a serious approach to learning. Is there any specific reason why she would do this? Or is it propaganda, the better the grades, the more successful you will be?

Chabashira: Have you solved all the problems, then? We don't usually show the results of the entrance exams, but I'll make an exception for you. I happened to have your answer sheet.

Horikita: And you have prepared well. It seems that they knew in advance that I would come here to protest my distribution.

Chabashira: I am a teacher, and it is my responsibility to know my students, at least to a certain extent. Horikita Suzune, as I thought, you were the third among the enrolled students. The gap between the first and second places is minimal. I did it perfectly well. There are no problems with the interview either. You were rated very highly.

Horikita: Thank you. But then why?

Chabashira: First of all, tell me, are you unhappy with getting into class D?

Horikita: No one will be happy if his abilities are left undervalued. In addition, there is a difference between classes, which significantly affects the prospects in the future. Naturally, I'm not happy.

Chabashira: Undervalued? Hey, hey, your self-esteem is too high! — giggled... no, Chabashira laughed openly, — Your academic abilities are high. You're smart. But who said that the smartest people get into the best classes? I didn't say that.

Horikita: That would be logical.

No, it's not logical. If all the geeks were in Class A, they would not be the elite of the country. The maximum they could go to is office plankton. They couldn't even impose a more demanding job on themselves.

Chabashira: Is it logical? Wasn't it logic that created the flawed Japan we live in now? In ordinary schools, classes are really distributed according to test scores. As a result, the inept desperately try to cope with the truly superior ones. This eventually led to a hereditary system.

Chabashira: Of course, I'm not arguing, you're a capable student. However, the purpose of the school is to educate ideal citizens. This is the first thing we explained at the opening ceremony. Think about it calmly. Do you think someone like Sudo would have come here if we accepted students based only on their mental abilities?

Ayanokoji: Damn…

Arthur: Eh?

Did he just get disappointed? Did he really understand something before that, but categorically refused to accept it?

Chabashira: However, to say that no one will be happy if they are underestimated is a bit presumptuous. For example, Class A is under constant pressure from the school and the envy of students from the lower classes. It's harder to fight under such pressure than you think. There are students who are only too happy to be underestimated.

Horikita: Is this some kind of joke? I don't understand such people.

Chabashira: Yes? But it seems to me that there are several of them in class D at once. Weirdos who are happy to stay in a low-level class.

Is that why she called me here? Because personally, there is no reason for me whether I would have received a recommendation or not. But this guy... was he brought here for the same reason that he doesn't care? If so, why only us? There is also Koenji, for example, but he is not here. Could there be something else?

Horikita: You still haven't explained, I was really assigned to class D, and it's not a mistake? Please double-check!

Chabashira: I'm sorry, but you're not in Class D because of some mistake. You're definitely where you need to be. This is definitely your level.

Horikita: That's how, in that case, I'll try to ask the top management.

It goes to the last one. I tried to prevent it, but she decided she knew better.

Chabashira: Anyone will tell you the same thing. There is no need to be disappointed once again. As I said this morning, classes can outrun and outperform each other. Remember that the opportunity to rise to Class A still exists before graduation.

Horikita: It doesn't look like it's going to be easy. How can the last class on the list earn more points than Class A? No matter how you look at it, it's impossible!

"Nothing is impossible. Not for me, not for you, not for anyone. A lot of things are difficult, yes, almost everything in life is difficult. But "impossible" is a meaningless word. A dangerous, false idea." - William Boeing. I remember this quote, one might say, one of my favorites.

Chabashira: I don't know. Whether to follow this crazy path or not is up to you. Do you have any personal reasons for being in Class A?

Horikita: The thing is... I'm sorry about today. But please remember that I never accepted such an allocation.

Chabashira: Okay, I'll remember that.

Is that all? Then why was I called here? Maybe she wanted to influence Horikita in some way?

Chabashira: Oh, and also, I called someone here. Someone who is quite appropriate for you.

Horikita: Is it appropriate for me? No... brother…

Brother? So that guy was her brother.

Chabashira: Come out, Ayanokoji, Smirnov.

I looked back at this guy, but he's looking at me too. Do you think I'll go first? Yeah, of course.

I went to the door and opened it, but since it opens on itself, I hid behind it, showing Ayanokoji with all my appearance. He gave me a sidelong glance, sighed, and left. I followed him.

Horikita: Did you... did you eavesdrop on us? – she was surprised, but it's not very appropriate to lie here, after all, it's not our fault.

Ayanokoji: No, the walls are too steep here.

Arthur: Yes, you've heard, but... what?! God, this guy…

Horikita: Why did you do that, teacher? – Oh, it's good that she realized whose fault it was.

Chabashira: You'll understand everything now.

Horikita: Then I'd better go. – she was going to go to the door, but the teacher stopped her.

Chabashira: Wait, maybe you'll figure out how to get to Class A.

Horikita: And? – What? I was also surprised, does she think that this little game of hers will work?

Chabashira: First Smirnov. Five points for all subjects?

Arthur: I already explained, the test was not a credit, so I…

Chabashira: Maybe so, but to solve the tasks of the highest level. There was one impossible task for each subject and you solved them all, for which you got your points, but you didn't do it.

Arthur: Well, that's how it happens, what can I say? It was optional …

Chabashira: Huh? It looks like we're not talking about the same thing. I'm talking about the entrance exams.

Horikita: Wh-what?! Did you do the same in the entrance exams?

Chabashira: Yes, Horikita, he solved the tasks that you couldn't. He also scored exactly five points in each subject. It's interesting, isn't it?

Horikita: B-but how was he accepted if there were only five points? And how did you solve these tasks? Horikita looked from me to the teacher in surprise. Ayanokoji also looked at me in surprise.

Arthur: Well, I just solved difficult tasks, maybe that's why they took it?

Horikita: Were you not sure that they would take you? Is it just a game for you, will you get into this school or not?

Arthur: Haha, I was just guessing, plus or minus. As a result, I'm here, so you can skip this topic.

Chabashira: It would be possible, but Horikita. She looked at her student with a serious look. – he may be joking, but he didn't do it for luck. It seems that even before he entered, he understood some feature of the school, which, unfortunately, I cannot tell you. Okay, now Ayanokoji.

Ayanokoji: What about me? I am an ordinary student.

Chabashira: Yes? Exactly fifty points in each subject at a recent job and at the entrance exam exactly fifty. The tasks that only 3% of the students solved were also solved. Is it possible that this is on purpose?

Ayanokoji: A coincidence, it's a coincidence that everyone can have!

Even at the entrance exams? He looks like a real imp. Yes, I probably would have done the same if I wanted to, but it just shows that he is smarter than he shows.

Meanwhile, Horikita watched his work with wide eyes until she put the sheets on the table and asked a question.

Horikita: Is this a coincidence for sure? It doesn't look like it was pure chance.

Ayanokoji: She's the one, why would I manipulate my grades? Would a normal student do that? – Oh, it hurt my heart.

Chabashira: As you can see, Horikita, they may be smarter than you, at least academically. Now come on, come out, I still have things to do.

The teacher escorted us out of the office, closed it and went about her business. The three of us stayed standing until I decided to go home.

Horikita: Arthur! I have a question for you.

Arthur: If it's about raising the class, then it's not interesting, maybe somehow in the mood, but now I want to rest, bye-bye.

I didn't wait for her answer and went to the exit of the school. Raise the class? What for? Let them work themselves, if someone does everything for them, it will only make it worse for them. Now I urgently need to go to the hostel.

So I got to my room, changed my clothes and sat down by the window as usual with a cigarette in my hands. Only this time I was wearing headphones and listening to the song "Hey Young" - 4k

Is there a chance of a peaceful life here? Of course, I could raise the class and then rest, but how quickly will it go down? In a month? Two? As a result, we will not graduate from school the way everyone planned. Maybe I should watch a little bit and then start acting? I wrote a message to Sakayanagi, maybe she can give an answer to the question that tormented me?

{Arthur: Hi, do you happen to know how much it costs to cancel an exception?}

I didn't have to wait long, just a couple of minutes later the answer came.

{Sakayanagi: Fu-fu-fu, I usually don't answer such questions, but since you're asking me, I don't mind giving an answer. 20 million, the same amount as a class change.}

{Arthur: Understood, thank you.}

That much? What should I do to collect this amount alone? And yet, a change of class… A dangerous thing, it will be necessary to stop such moments in relation to our class, otherwise they will run around.

* move*

Who wrote to me? Eh? Ichinose?

{Ichinose: Hello, Arthur. I heard how you had a situation in class, is everything okay?}

She should take care of her class, not deal with others. Is it possible that everything has been resolved there?

{Arthur: Well, basically everyone is panicking, but I think it will work out within a few days. What about you? Were there any problems with the class?}

{Ichinose: We were shocked too, but then everything settled down. Tell me, are we enemies now?}

{Arthur: Haha, so that's why you texted me? Don't worry, there are many ways to solve this dilemma, for example, right now I'm not really interested in raising the class, so our communication won't hurt. And as for the enemies, I don't consider anyone an enemy here, competitors, yes. But not the enemy, we can also continue to communicate, and I will tell you about bears and alcohol, don't worry)}

{Ichinose: Arthur! I asked you to! Forget about it!!!!}

{{Arthur: Ha ha, good, good. Tomorrow at the same time, I will continue to teach you.}

{Ichinose: Good! See you tomorrow! By the way, do you have any problems with points? I can borrow it if necessary.}

{Arthur: Don't worry, I'm fine. Thanks for the offer, see you tomorrow.}

I turned off my phone and continued listening to music.

The light of a distant star

Bird songs until morning

You looked into my eyes, whispered the words

You didn't believe me, but you loved me.

I left with you

Half of yourself

What was forgotten

What happened has passed

You waved a turquoise handkerchief after me.

I kissed you by the night fire

You left it for me

Half of me

***

The next day came. It was lunchtime, the students had already recovered a little from yesterday's shock, but there were fewer joyful smiles.

Horikita seems to have talked about something with Ayanokoji and came to some kind of agreement. Otherwise, I can't explain why she stabbed him with a pair of compasses during lessons. Maybe she didn't want to hurt him, but just to flaunt him?

Hirata: Excuse me, can I have your attention for a moment? Habashira-sensei said that we can fix our situation if we tighten up our studies, and since there will be intermediate classes soon, I decided to create study groups.

Activity and self-promotion are a plus for the class. But will everyone agree with his decision?

Hirata: I plan to study for two hours a day, after school and in the evening. If you want to join, then I don't mind. Thank you all!

Sudo: Pfft

Sudo snorted and left the classroom with Ike and Yamauchi. They are now called the trinity of idiots, I think it's an appropriate name. I got up too, not interested in studying and went to the dining room.

Walking down the corridor, Hirata called out to me.

Hirata: Arthur! Do you mind if you join us to improve your knowledge?

ARTHUR: And? No, I don't want to. I'll pass without any problems, so you don't have to worry about me." I smiled and waved my hand.

Hirata: Are you sure? You have the lowest grades, so I thought..." I held up my hand to signal him to stop talking.

Arthur: Hirata, I just made a joke, we have the highest grade in our country, so I made five in all subjects. I just decided to pull it off because it doesn't count. So please, I won't have any problems!

Hirata: Oh, that's how it is. Then it's good, I hope everyone passes without any problems.

Arthur: I hope so too. Well, I'm off, good luck.

Hirata: Yes, come on.

I went further into the dining room and took a tea and a bun, began to look for a place. Oh? It's like Ichinose is there and it looks like she noticed me. She waved at me, beckoning me over.

Since it's a chore to look for a place, and it's uncivil to refuse her invitation, I went to her.

Her classmates were sitting next to her, they all had happy faces and it seems that the whole story did not affect them, or they just decided to forget for a while.

Arthur: Thanks for the invitation, Ichinose.

Ichinose: You're welcome. Have a seat, you're welcome here.

I looked around at the other participants of the meal and did not notice any looks that would speak against. Only one girl was smiling mischievously, what kind of bad feeling was that?

Ichinose: Guys, meet Arthur. He's from Class D, he also came from Russia, so treat him well! – By the way, I agreed with her not to speak Russian in front of anyone. Let's keep this between us, which she gladly agreed to.

Ichinose: Arthur, this is Mako-chan, Chihiro-chan, and Shibata-kun and Kanzaki-kun are sitting there. They're all from my class.

Arthur: Nice to meet you.

Amikura: Likewise, Arthur. Have you been in touch with Honami-chan for a long time?

Arthur: Well, we started talking relatively recently.

Amikura: Yes? Are you close? Just Honami…

Ichinose: Mako-chan! We are just friends and have common interests. Let's eat, we'll have a call soon.

Amikura: Hehe~~ okay, Honami-chan.

Is she her personal matchmaker? Ichinose has a difficult life. It's almost at the level of Ayanokoji. He also suffers a lot from Horikita. Okay, it's time to eat, otherwise I don't want to suffer in class later.

***

Evening came, and I decided to make the same walk around the campus. Maybe I'll find some place where few people go. When I went outside in a black suit, I started walking around the buildings.

After walking through the special buildings for about an hour, I realized one thing. They have a lot fewer cameras than at school. Why? There seem to be a lot of classrooms that are better guarded even in everyday life than schools. A chemical room, a warehouse for a pharmacy and a storeroom.

You can find very interesting things in all these offices. Of course, if they get caught, it will fly in big. But that's right, for the record, there are very few cameras there.

Walking down the alley, I saw a very familiar figure through the trees. Deciding not to pay attention, I went on, but when I heard bangs and screams, I took out my phone, turned on the recording and ran to the place where I heard it all.

After walking a few more steps, I realized that the first class breakdown had occurred.

Kushida: How infuriating! Horikita! Why can't you just be normal! Wow! – she was screaming and hitting the railing.

*Bang* * Bang*

Kushida: You just can't stand it! Don't you want to make a band with me!? It hurts! I'll do everything myself!

Kushida: And also to work with these idiots! Ufff!!!

So that's how she is, right? I'm not particularly surprised, she didn't have that characteristic that is inherent in good people. So far, I've only seen her at Ichinose, but Kushida… She has never been kind, so she cannot fully become one.

While she continued to scream and beat, I decided to show myself. What for? It's just that this moment can really mess up in the future. And I understand her, though not much.

Arthur: Haaaaaah! I yawned loudly on purpose so that she could hear me and it worked.

Kushida: Ah!? K-who's there? Show yourself! She shuddered and jumped back a couple of meters. It looks like I scared her.

I came out of the bushes and looked at her with a serious face.

Arthur: Zubenko Mikhail Petrovich. The mafia.

Kushida: Eh?

Yes, that's what I wanted. She definitely won't be able to redeem this joke.

Arthur: Kushida, I heard the noise and the bangs, so I came here, are you okay?

Kushida: ...Did you hear that? – She quickly came to her senses and immediately came up to me, asking this question.

Arthur: Did you hear that? Well, I'm just looking for this bully who insulted Horikita, have you seen anyone here?

Kushida: I see, so that's it, right? She furrowed her brows and snuggled up to me .

Arthur: Kushida, answer me the question, how did Horikita offend you? What did she do to you?

Kushida: It's none of your business! And anyway, why are you here at this time?

Arthur: Well, I like to go out in the evenings, so it's... an accident, yes, it's an accident. So why are you so angry? Although no, why are you pretending to be kind?

Kushida: Stop asking questions! What does this have to do with you at all?

Arthur: Well, yes, nothing yet. – it looks like she's still emotional, so it's better to talk later.

Kushida: Listen, if you tell anyone, then I..." she wanted to take my hand, but I quickly took a step back and raised my hands in front of me.

Arthur: Listen, I won't tell anyone, but touch me now, I don't want to delve into Japanese laws in this way.

Kushida: And? What… It doesn't matter though. Why should I believe you? Do you think stupid people live here?

Arthur: Well, I never lie when there's a serious topic going on. I'm not joking right now because I don't care how you behave. But Kushida, I don't care about your relationship with someone, so let's break up.

Kushida: Do you think that's enough for me to believe you? You're an outsider guy that I..." but before she could speak, I took out my phone and showed her that the conversation was being recorded. "W–what, why would you do that?"

Arthur: Well, I started doing it after they told us about the points, so, like I said, I don't care about this situation. And this will be a guarantee that you won't do anything against me. I hope I'm making myself clear?

Kushida: Argh... well, it's just that if you tell anyone, you'll have to deal with the consequences.

Arthur: Of course, of course. [Загнанная в угол мышь, даже кошку искусает] (A cornered mouse even bites a cat), And now I'm off. Good luck.

I turned around and walked briskly. Yeah, the beast is running at the hunter. Why do I need all this trouble?

When I got to the old building and went around the corner, I lit a cigarette and began to think. Is Kushida the only one like this here? Can anyone else be with such features? How and why did the school select her? These are clearly not grades or anything else. Do they make a complete biography of the students? If so, what do they know about me?

After finishing my cigarette, I wanted to get a second one, but I heard footsteps behind me. I didn't turn around because the man was walking slowly, he seemed to want me to know that someone was coming.

...: Minors are not allowed to smoke on school grounds, and indeed in Japan. Is it arranged differently for you?

I turned to the person who was talking and realized that the conversation was going to be long.

Arthur: And I see, do you like walking in the evening? Or are you specifically tracking someone down?

...: Your accusation is unfounded. I took a walk like an ordinary student.

Arthur: So you saw this broken girl scene too, Manabu?

Manabu: Is that why you didn't do anything? Did you think it was broken?

Arthur: Everyone in my class is partially broken. But what is your question for me, Manabu?

Manabu: By name, right? There doesn't seem to be any respect at all.

He approached me, stabbing me in the stomach. He wants to fight, right? I'm just taking a step back. But it wasn't a single attack, he continued with a left kick, aiming at my right side. Karate? Mavase-geri looks like it. If this is the case, then it is better to put an elbow. He saw the movement and stopped the blow.

It is at this moment that the athletes have a hitch. Even professionals make mistakes, but such teenagers without significant experience do not know anything better. The simplest option is to change the trajectory, slightly higher or lower. That way you'll avoid the hitch and the pain, oh, he seems to be one of those who just give up kumite and kato. What a pity.

I grabbed his raised leg with my right hand. It ended up under my armpit, but striking in such a stance is dangerous against an athlete. I crouched down and rushed to the front, grabbing him by the back of the knees of the other leg and pressed down on myself. Accordingly, by inertia, he began to fall to the ground. But, I held him down so that the blow fell on the back area, and not at one point, and he also grouped himself so as to minimize the damage.

Still holding his leg, I shifted slightly on his leg, closer to the heel, and when I landed, I did a heel twist. It is a very painful technique and it is extremely difficult for a non-wrestler to get out of it.

Manabu: Whoof…

He let out a painful sigh and tapped my leg three times. Is that all? I see, so that's what it means to have no experience of fighting.

I let him go and stood up. I also gave him a hand to help him up. He stood up and, limping slightly, stared at me in surprise.

Manabu: What have you been doing?

Arthur: A lot of things, but we can say that the basic ones are boxing and sambo. As for the leg, I didn't twist it much, so it won't hurt anymore tomorrow.

Manabu: I see, but why didn't you fight?

ARTHUR: And? And now what would that be? Just because there were no punches doesn't mean it's not a fight. I could break your leg, which would be more dangerous than a bruise on your face.

Manabu: Yes, you're right. What did you say, sambo?

Arthur: Yes, sambo. If there is a one-on-one fight on the street, then if you want to win, then ARB, army hand-to-hand combat, and Greco-Roman sambo wrestling will help a lot. I think the combination is better when you fight one-on-one. It doesn't matter what level the opponent has in hand–to-hand combat, if he ends up on the ground, you are the winner.

Manabu: Fighting... it looks like I have a lot more to learn. Arthur, right? You're an interesting student. It might get more interesting with you.

Arthur: Yeah, I've already figured out what's unusual here. But listen... - I looked towards the dormitories, or rather at the floors of the girls. "you're Horikita Suzuna's brother. Why is she acting so aloof?

Manabu: I probably won't be able to answer that question. It concerns…

ARTHUR: Yes, yes, family matters. I don't get into them. I looked at him and held up two fingers. – But I just know from experience, if you put up barriers with a loved one, ostensibly for the benefit of one of them, it will lead to even more problems.

I bent one finger and continued.

Arthur: So let me give you some advice. Do not deny your loved ones, take care of them and be with them at all times.

Manabu: ... he looked at me and nodded, it seems he took my advice to heart.

Arthur: You know a Russian poem. It sounds like this:

"Do not destroy the relationship,

So as not to part forever,

Erase the gray doubts,

There is only emptiness behind them.

It's hard to find a friend today,

The world is not the same as it was yesterday,

Loosen the girth of pride,

Utter angry words.

Both of you learn to forgive as a couple,

The world does not live without mistakes,

Sometimes it's cold, there's a blizzard

And the worm is gnawing at distrust.

But you will find the strength,

To save your love from them,

Be kind to each other, be nice,

Don't let your feelings burn away.

Then walk along the road

You have your own circle of life together,

Don't get lost in the stream

In the midst of lonely mournful destinies" - after reading it, Manabu opened his eyes in surprise.

Manabu: A beautiful poem.

Arthur: Yes, I agree. It applies to people like you. I don't know if you've watched Naruto. But there is such a character Itachi. It was only before his death that he realized that avoiding his brother all his life, in order for him to become stronger, was a mistake. As a result, they both ended up with a lifelong injury. So think about it at your leisure, why and how you do it.

Manabu: Before he died? It's clear. It seems that you really like the culture, both Russian and Japanese. I'll go then, but about smoking. – while he was talking, I was taking out a cigarette, but stopped. – you're just ruining your health, why do you need this stuff?

Arthur: Does it have a bad effect on your health? – I looked at the cigarette in my hands and continued – perhaps it is my health savior. I'll do it more carefully so that they don't burn it down.

Manabu: Eh, it's your choice. Then I'm off. He held out his hand and I shook it.

Looking after him, I muttered to myself.

Arthur: It only took Itachi's resurrection to understand and comprehend this. Maybe it will be different here?

After finishing my cigarette, I went to the dorm. Today was a busy day. I also stretched my bones a little. If he had only fought against wrestlers before, maybe it would have been a little more fun. With such thoughts, I fell asleep.

A/h

That's the end of the chapter. A little more than 8 thousand words. Did you have such a meeting with Horikita Manabu, how do you like it?

I thought that their communication might be closer than Ayanokoji's in the canon. Why? Because Arthur sees a way to solve this family drama, and more importantly, has the desire to solve it. Why? Perhaps you will find out in the future.

Also, why do you think Chabashira summoned him along with Ayanokoji? Personally, from what has been shown, I can say that Arthur has a little understanding of why and how they are accepted to school and tested this on entrance exams. Chabashira realized this and decided to harness him too.

Perhaps Arthur and Ichinose are in a hurry to communicate? I don't think so, I introduced to her what could be in the canon, namely an interest in a foreign language, how people live there, what they are interested in, etc. It's just that her personality of kindness and companionship can lead to this. And her communication with Arthur is nothing more than a mutual interest, of course in the future a real friendship may blossom, maybe even more, but so far only this way.

Horikita Suzune, of course, settled down a bit when Arthur climbed into a place where she doesn't want to let anyone in. Had she distanced herself from him? It doesn't seem clear yet, but it will be noticeable how their attitude will change. She is a very difficult character in the first year, we hope for Arthur's patience.

Ayanokoji has not aroused significant interest in Arthur yet. Maybe this will change when the bolder moves of the first one are shown. But so far.

What about Arthur's backstory? It will develop slowly, but aptly. But at least one flashback will be in the first volume. Maybe I'll stick it in the SS, maybe in some chapter. But in the future there will be at least one such, maybe in the second half of the first year there will be more, while there is no way to correctly insert it.

Well, that's it. Also write if there are errors in the story or in the words, I will respond and correct as much as possible.