9

Midnight after the second day had ended.The pool that was crowded during the daytime was now silent.Kiyotaka and Karma were there to wait for Chabashira-sensei.

Chabashira did come as she was looking indifferent." ...Sorry to keep you waiting, Ayanokouji, Akabane. "

" We don't really care." Karma said." Sorry we call you out this late. "

" It's a consultation from students, as a teacher I have an obligation to respond.It's nothing strange.For better or for worse, this is your first time calling me out here alone, especially you Akabane." Chabashira let her eyes roam around the two boys.

" There's something we'd like to ask sensei... " Kiyotaka turn to his teacher." Your face is looking quite pale. "

" ...Don't worry about it.It's just adult things.So what's the matter? "

Kiyotaka nod." In this school, you told me there's nothing that cannot be 'bought' with points.But are there exceptions correct? "

Chabashira rub her head." I suppose so, exceptions naturally exist.For example, if you try to buy the lives of teachers and students with points we cannot allow that to happen. "

" Then the most expensive thing ever bought with points in the past— "

" Ya-ha!Sae-chan, are you feeling good~? "

The two boys turn to see the teacher of Class B running towards their direction.

" ...Aren't you drunk?" Chabashira ask the happy woman.

" Hmm?No of course not, there's no way I could be drunk.Are you perhaps playing dumb with me? "

" Really...you can hold your liquor really well as usual.Both yesterday and today as well." Chabashira comment.

Hoshinomiya Chie then took notice of the boys." Hello Ayanokouji-kun.Are you feeling well?Oh, and you.Are you that famous Akabane Karma-kun? "

She approached them and put her hands around their shoulders.

Karma looked uncomfortable as he hesitantly replied." Yeah.. "

" I'm fine.I wouldn't be here if I wasn't." Kiyotaka answered without a care.

The teacher giggled." A really impressive cute answer.So do Ayanokouji-kun and Akabane-kun like tsundere onee-sans like Sae-chan? "

" Don't do that with students.It will interfere with our professional conduct." Chabashira-sensei grabbed Hoshinomiya-sensei by the nape and dragged her off them.

" So what are the two of you talking about late at night?Isn't this by itself a big problem? "

Chabashira let out a scoff." Big problem?As a teacher, isn't it obvious for me to respond to my student's anxieties and consult them on it? "

" But if that's true, couldn't you do it in a more open place?There's no need to be sneaky with him. "

" They both wanted to consult me in private without anyone knowing." Chabashira reasoned.

Hoshinomiya hummed." Hmmm...well it's not like I have any complaints towards this. "

" I see, if you understand then go back to the bar.I'll join you shortly. "

" Ok, ok!Take your time, but remember not to do anything sexual." Hoshinomiya-sensei then went back into the ship.

Chabashira shake her head." Sorry.For being troublesome teachers. "

You'll also like

" No such thing." Kiyotaka said.

" Anyways, continuing where we left off.The biggest thing bought with points in the past.If I have to say, it would be 'to change the rules of the school'.Of course you can only change it realistically.For instance, you could change the regulations to allow you to arrive at school a minute later than usual and such. "

Karma arch a brow." So only an example? "

Chabashira glance at Karma." Dissatisfied? "

" No, it's ok.With this we can more or less understand the school system and the uses of points better." Kiyotaka said.

" You could've asked that through mail.You didn't need to call me out for that. "

" Because sending mail to you leaves a record.We'd like to avoid that." Karma said as he left his body off the railings.

Kiyotaka too turn around with Karma." We will be asking you for a favor soon. "

As they leave and walk away, Chabashira-sensei for a moment looked at them with uncertainty.

_____________________

Two hours past midnight.Yosuke slowly got off the bed.The duo also grabbed their room's card key and got off the beds.Once he realized they were also awake, he quickly turned to look at them.They told him there's something they needed to talk to him about.He replied that he would be waiting in the corridor.

" Did I wake you or were you already awake, which one is it?" Yosuke ask the two.

" The latter." Karma simply answered.

" I thought you'd leave the room tonight." Kiyotaka said.

" Why did you think that?Tonight's the first night I actually left the room at night. "

Karma lean on a nearby wall." Isn't it just that Karuizawa contacted you tonight? "

" Do you know something? "

" We're in the same group as Karuizawa after all.We don't know to what extent, but more or less we understand the situation.You once told us you wanted us to act as the bridge between you and Suzu-chan, right? "

Yosuke scratch the back of his head." I see, so you're here because Horikita-san ordered you to, is that it? "

Kiyotaka nod." Yes.She ordered us to report everything from (Rabbit) group to her, including Karuizawa's situation.So once we heard about Karuizawa's situation and reported back to her, she ordered us to watch you as well. "

" Of course she ordered us to eavesdrop on you, but since you told us to be the bridge between you and her, we thought we'd rather not sneak up on you.This is a chance for us to hear it from you as well." Karma add after.

Yosuke tilt his head cautiously." What information does she want? "

" Everything that Hirata knows about Karuizawa and the contents of your talk with her. "

" I'm not sure how much I can tell you, I still need to consider Karuizawa-san's feelings." Hirata and the dup then started walking down the corridor.

" I'm sure Ayanokouji-kun and Akabane-kun won't say anything unnecessary, but what I'm about to tell you is extremely sensitive information.And there's the possibility Karuizawa-san will simply refuse to talk and go back.I'd just like you to keep those facts in mind. "

___________________

The meeting place was in front of a vending machine on the second floor.

Kei was already there.At first when she saw him she smiled for a moment, but when she saw them behind Yosuke she quickly lost the smile and it was replaced with an angry expression, but it was most likely because of Kiyotaka.

Karma let out a sympathetic look at Kiyotaka, who is unknowingly hated by a girl.

Kei cross her arms." I can understand why Karma-kun is here, but why is Ayanokouji-kun together with Hirata-kun? "

Yosuke said assuringly." It's ok I called them and we came together. "

" Hirata-kun did? ... Why?I told you I wanted to talk to you alone. "

Yosuke sighed." I know, but I was worried about what Karuizawa-san told me on the phone.So I brought along Ayanokouji-kun and Akabane-kun, who seemed to understand the situation.Sorry for acting alone like this. "

Kei stand helplessly." But...I still want to talk to you alone... "

" If need be, but you never told me we'd be talking alone on the phone though.You were telling me about the quarrel you had with Manabe-san and her friends from Class C. Is that true?Do Ayanokouji-kun and Akabane-kun already know about your quarrel with Manabe-san and the others? "

Karma chuckled a bit." Yeah.. "

" From what Karuizawa-san told me, it seems they accused her first.And then dragged her off to an isolated place and were on the verge of attacking her violently." Yosuke explained.

Kiyotaka nod." Yes.That's true.We witnessed it.Yukimura also witnessed it. "

" I see... If Manabe-san and the others indeed used violence, then we definitely need to do something about it.I cannot allow friends to use violence against each other. "

Kiyotaka and Karma saw Karuizawa smile at Hirata.But once she realized Kiyotaka was looking at her, she immediately reverted back to her angry expression.

Yosuke then turn to Kei." Karuizawa-san, you were bullied to the point of not being able to fight back right? "

" No.... "

" I see that's why you told me something like that." Yosuke nod in understanding but it didn't wash away the worry from his face.

Karma scroll his pupils to Kei." Something like that? "

" Karuizawa-san told me to stand up for her and get back at Manabe-san and the others. "

Kei rushed." Why are you telling them all this...?

" Because this isn't the usual Karuizawa-san.You're not the type to try and fight violence with violence, Karuizawa-san. "

" But she's being bullied right?" Kiyotaka step in." If you really are her boyfriend, then you have an obligation to save her. "

Yosuke declined." Yes, I know that's the case.But I don't believe in that eye-for-an-eye talk.You know don't you?Let's think about it together then, how to get along with Manabe-san and her group! "

Kei gave Yosuke a pleading look." That's impossible.I was one-sidedly attacked by them.Please understand... "

" One-sided?Wasn't it because you bullied Morofuji-san first, Karuizawa-san? "

" But that's...I had no other choice...Shinohara-san and the others were watching me. "

Kiyotaka raise a brow." So basically because Shinohara was there, you had no other choice, is that what you mean? "

Kei send a glare at Kiyotaka." You shut your mouth!I beg you, please save me...Hirata-kun you'll protect me right? "

Yosuke still looked troubled." Of course I intend to protect you, but I won't do anything to Manabe-san and the others as well.I'll try and find a way for you to talk with each other and get along together. "

" I'm telling you that's impossible!If things were that easy I wouldn't even ask you to help me in the first place." Kei nudge harder.

Yosuke then argued back." It doesn't matter what the reason is, I cannot do what you expect me to do.For me, Karuizawa-san is indeed a precious classmate.If there's something troubling you I'll protect you.But whatever the reason, I won't hurt someone else either.Even if it's a student of Class C. "

" You liar!You told me you'd protect me!" Kei trembled as she tightened her fist.

" Liar?" Yosuke slightly glared." I told you from the start I would take this stance.I told you from the start, didn't I?That we are not boyfriend and girlfriend.Not for real.I don't mind pretending to date you, but I won't help you like this and you won't be able to depend on me. "

" ...Why are you telling me this now? "

" I thought to save you, a new approach was required." Yosuke then approached Kei.

" Are you saying...I need to use violence myself? "

Yosuke's face stayed serious." I didn't say that.I will do my best to save you.In the morning, I intend to have a chat with Manabe-san and the others.To ask her to stop bothering Karuizawa-san.You might not like it, but I intend to tell them you wanted to apologize to them. "

Kei shake her head aggressively." That's not what I want! "

" I see.If that's the case then there's nothing I can do for you.Sorry about that.Akabane-kun, Ayanokouji-kun, if you have any ideas please tell us." A sigh escaped Yosuke lips as he said.

" No need!If you're not going to listen to my request, then I don't need someone like you!" Kei shouted that while kicking a can of juice from the vending machine down the corridor.

* Clank!Bang!

" Our relationship ends here today.It's over!" Despite Kei running away, Yosuke did not show any signs of chasing after her.

Instead he turn to the two witnesses. " ... Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun there are certain things that I cannot do.That is why you're here right now; I'd like you to understand that. "

Karma scratch his head." You seem to want to be more than a bridge that connects everyone; That's quite selfish of you.You're everyone's ally right? "

" Yes.I'm on Karuizawa-san's side and I'm also on Akabane-kun and Ayanokouji-kun's side.But depending on who I'm talking to, I also end up changing my attitude.You're far more capable than what everyone else thinks. "

" You're praising us too much." Kiyotaka said.

" Really, I'm quite confident in reading the feelings of other people.That's why I can tell." Yosuke stated.

Karma place his hands in pockets as he stare directly at Yosuke." Firstly, we'd like to ask about your relationship with Karuizawa.It looks like your relationship with her is just a front, and not real. "

" That turn of phrase, it seems you two already suspected this? "

" It's been almost four months since you started going out with Karuizawa.But I haven't seen any signs of your relationship having progressed since then." Kiyotka explained." Of course, you could consider the option that you are maintaining a pure and platonic relationship with her.But you've always been keeping your distance from her, and you're still calling each other by your last names. "

Yosuke sighed as he idle on the corner." That's right.We weren't really dating.We only went out with each other because we felt it was necessary.Do you understand the contradiction here? "

Kiyotaka nod." The rumors started roughly three weeks after the start of semester, and from that point onwards Karuizawa's popularity soared. "

Karma understand completely." So you pretended to be Karuizawa's boyfriend to help raise her status. "

Yosuke smiled at them.

' So what exactly—was the trigger that caused her to approach Machida? '

Kiyotaka close his eyes.' Now I finally feel like I understand the girl named Karuizawa Kei.'To protect herself' huh? '

Yosuke gave a slight chukle." You understand now don't you?To be honest when I heard this answer from you, I had goosebumps. "

" We just heard it from Horikita, that's all, that Karuizawa has her own reasons for using Hirata and the others. "

" Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun if I had to tell you honestly...it might sound rude but I find you creepy.Like an ominous existence.If I've offended you I apologize. "

Karma curiously raise his head as he fiddle the hem of his shirt." Ominous?I can understand that if it's me, but why do you think Ayano-kun is like that? "

" I've been looking at you two ever since the school year started.Akabane-kun didn't change much, but Ayanokouji-kun then and the Ayanokouji-kun now are like different people.The presence you emit, and the words you use.Almost like you're a different person than usual. "

' So he noticed, huh.' Karma wasn't suprised, Kiyotaka does slowly show his own sense of character the more he stayed with him.

" But I do think you're still amazing, Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun.You're different from Ike-kun or Yamauchi-kun." Yosuke said with a harmless grin.

" I'm inferior to both of them." Kiyotaka said.

That sentence alone made Karma want to snort.

" Even if you two are only following Horikita-san's orders, it's still you who's talking to me right now.It's not like the conversation will include only the details of her order.To adapt to the flow of the conversation takes clear logic.It's not something you can simply think up overnight.It's something you said, but the reason I accepted Karuizawa-san's request to be her boyfriend was to help her 'protect herself'.That's what she requested.That she wants me to save her.It might be hard for you to believe but, throughout her elementary and middle school years, for 9 whole years.She received a horrifying amount of bullying. "

As Yosuke finished confessing, he gave a guilty expression.

" We don't doubt you, but this story is real isn't it?" Karma ask.

" Of course I only met Karuizawa-san after she entered this school, but I do understand.I know the look and smell and presence of a person who's been a victim of bullying.That's why I agreed to go out with her.By using her position as my girlfriend, Karuizawa-san would be able to escape her past of being bullied.I think right now, the attitude she has isn't the real Karuizawa-san.She's desperately trying to act tough isn't she? "

Kiyotaka felt more curious." We can understand that now more or less, but wait, what are the benefits of doing this for you? "

Yosuke blink." Benefit?That would be Karuizawa-san living her high school life without being bullied.That's all.Won't you believe me?If that's my only reason. "

Karma watch as Yosuke walk towards the vending machine." It's not that we distrust you, but there's a deeper meaning behind that isn't there? "

As Yosuke bought the canned drinks, he then toss them each to Kiyotaka and Karma.

" Until my second year of middle school, if I have to honestly say I was an average guy who didn't stand out much. "

' I can't imagine that.. '

Yosuke noticed the hesitant glance at both boys as he chuckled lightly.

" I didn't stand out too much, but I also wasn't invisible.I had a friend I got along with really well ever since I was a kid named Sugimura-kun.For six years in elementary school we were together in the same class.When we entered middle school, for the first time, we were separated into different classes.I began playing with boys from my new class.It's a normal story you could've heard anywhere.

But you see...even though I was busy playing with my friends.In the back, Sugimura-kun was actually being bullied.Sugimura-kun sent me an SOS many, many times.But I instead prioritized playing with my new friends and never took him seriously.When we both became 2nd year students, we reunited with each other.And by that time, Sugimura-kun's had become heartbroken.He was not even allowed to go to the toilet and forced to leak in the middle of class.That sort of thing became routine...

I didn't do anything.I was too afraid that I would become the new target.I was afraid that my enjoyable life would then be destroyed...and towards Sugimura-kun who'd always been together with me, I continued to pretend to not see him.I believed that one day the bullies would get bored of him.

Karma became more intrigued in the story." And that Sugimura person...what happened to him in the end? "

" Even now the memory of that day is burned into my head.After morning soccer practice, I returned to my classroom.And there, I saw Sugimura-kun and decided to wait until going in.Honestly, at the time, I felt uncomfortable.I could not help but think cruel thoughts like I would be bullied along with him.Perhaps Sugimura-kun also saw my ugly heart, but he didn't say anything.But almost like a plea for help...that day in the middle of class, he jumped out the window. "

" Jumped out?" Kiyotaka repeats.

" Is he dead?" Karma ask.

" It seems he was declared brain dead.But even now, his parents are still waiting for Sugimura-kun's recovery and believe in it.But whether he's still alive or dead now, I don't know.I still wonder if it was merely a dream or a hallucination.Because the moment Sugimura-kun jumped, I became acutely aware.By treasuring myself, I pushed my precious friend to his death.I want to repent.And to do that, I thought the only way was to save someone else like him. "

After Yosuke finished explaining, Kiyotaka comment first.

" It's not like I don't know how you feel but, the world isn't that simple is it?Even right now, someone somewhere is getting bullied.And like Sugimura you talked about, they're trying to take their own lives.You cannot stop those people can you? '

Yosuke nod earnesity." Of course I understand that.I'm not a hero of justice.But, I'd like to save the people in front of me.I have to save them.That is the responsibility of me who bears that sin. "

" Then how will you decide on this case?You want to save both Karuizawa and Manabe.But that is an impossible task." Kiyotaka ask.

" I know it's a contradictory task, that's why you're here right now.I never expected the day would come that I'd tell this story to someone else.Nobody knows about this, that is part of why I chose this school.Can I entrust this to Horikita-san? "

Karma shrug his shoulders." If you can promise not to talk halfway, I'm sure Suzu-chan will do something about this. "

" Then I will choose to believe in the three of you.Because that is also my ideal. "

" Hirata.Since you have a large social network we'd like to ask you for a favor." Kiyotaka paused." Can you hear us out? "

He handed Hirata a piece of paper.And after reading it, Hirata accepted their request without so much as making an unpleasant face.

Yosuke raise his head." And also Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun.Ever since the exam began, there is still one thing I've been hiding from you.I know who's the last "target" amongst the Class D students... "

______________________

On the day of the exam's interval, the duo was unexpectedly called by Sakura.

" It seems the (Cow) group's exam has ended." Kiyotaka hummed.

" Yeah.. "

Sakura said between the two boys.

A moment ago, Kiyotaka checked the mail on his phone that was sent to Sakura with Karma reading it as well through his shoulder.

It simply said: "The test for the (Cow) group has ended.Members of the (Cow) group are no longer required to participate in the exam.Please make sure to not disturb the other students".

Sakura awkwardly shifts her body as Karma and Kiyotaka stand beside her." Have I...done something wrong? "

Karma shake his head assuringly." No that's not it.It just means that someone in the (Cow) group reported the "target" to the school. "

" By the way, Sakura, were you the "target" of your group or was it someone else?" Kiyotaka ask.

Sakura shook her head from side to side to deny it.

" N-no.I'm not the "target".But, I'm not sure about Sudo-kun and the others... "

" Don't overthink it; even we still don't know the "target" of our group after all. "

Sakura shyly looks down." Yeah...thank you Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun.I'm happy you told me that. "

" How was the situation with Class A?From the rumors it seems like they didn't participate in the discussions. "

" That's...yeah.Just like the others have been saying.They didn't talk at all. "

Karma nod his head as he lifts his hand on Sakura's shoulder." If there's anything else, feel free to consult us anytime. "

Sakura nod back as she let out a small smile.

" Thank you, Ayanokouji-kun, Karma-kun.See you. "

Having bid farewell to Sakura, they now headed down towards the basement.Then they descended into the lower levels of the ship where people don't usually go.

Karma punch Kiyotaka's arm." I hope your plan will succeed. "

" Don't worry, all the pieces are in place. "

Kiyotaka open his eyes.' All that's left is to execute the plan step by step.First I'll have to contact Hirata, and then have him call Karuizawa to this place. '

' We'd have to call Karuizawa here at least an hour early." Karma thinks as he retracted his fist.

They both ascended back up to the upper floors to make the call.

* Ding

Hirata Yusuke: [I've already asked Karuizawa-san to be there at 4PM.I'll send Manabe-san's address to you now.But I cannot help you any more than this.Don't make Karuizawa-san sad please. ]

Ayanokoji then quickly skipped through the text he wrote earlier and sent it.

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Hey, do you have a moment?]

Manabe Shiho: [Who are you?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Is there anyone around you right now?]

Manabe Shiho: [No.I'm alone...who are you?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Don't show this chat to anyone.This is for your sake.]

Manabe Shiho: [Like I said, who are you?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [I'm the same as you.We hate the same person.Let's just leave it at that.]

Manabe Shiho: [Have you mistaken me for someone?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [I'm not making a mistake, Manabe-san.I'm contacting you to inform you about the Karuizawa-san you hate so much.I thought I could consult you on the situation, Manabe-san.]

Manabe Shiho: [I don't know what you're talking about.Please stop sending me messages.]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [The truth is, as her fellow classmate, I've been harboring a grudge against Karuizawa-san for a while now.That's why I thought we could cooperate and have our revenge on her.Since I'm her classmate it's hard for me to exact my vengeance on Karuizawa-san directly, but that's why I would like to cooperate with you.]

Manabe Shiho: [I don't know what you're talking about.I'm going to ignore you then.]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Rika-chan is still scared of Karuizawa-san.Don't you want to help her as a friend?Your face has revenge written all over it you know?But the truth is, you can't do it even if you want to.After yesterday's events, Karuizawa-san is on her guard.I'm sure she won't leave Hirata-kun or Machida-kun's side for a while.And she'll always be together with her female friends so she won't be alone either.]

Manabe Shiho: [I don't need your help.I just need to bring Rika into contact with Karuizawa-san.The truth will be out then.]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [I wonder if it'll be that easy.I don't think she would easily admit to her wrongdoing.On the contrary, it would just trouble Rika-chan.If Karuizawa-san uses heartless words she'll only just end up wounding Rika-chan further.No, that's not all.If she harbors a grudge, she might even bully Rika-chan further.]

Manabe Shiho: [...then what should I do?Are you saying there's a way?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [There is.We can cooperate to make sure we can exact our revenge on her in a secure location.]

Karma can't help but smirk.' Working in both sides really is fun. '

Manabe Shiho: [And the guarantee?It looks like you're just planning on selling me out to the school.This smells like a sub account anyways.]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [If I am indeed selling you out, please feel free to show this chat log to the teachers, Manabe-san.This account has been registered with the school's phone.In other words, I'm risking my identity to take revenge on Karuizawa-san.That way, I'm the one bearing the most responsibility.Isn't that right?]

Manabe Shiho: [Then if I show this chat to the school now what would you do, it's over for you.]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Because I believe Manabe-san is not the type of person to do that.I must trust in order to be trusted after all.]

Manabe Shiho: [I understand what you're trying to say, more or less.I'll hear you out at least.]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Once we return to land, contact with Karuizawa would surely become difficult.Since the school dorms are littered with surveillance cameras, even if you tried to bring her into a private area, there would be eyes watching you.This place, a battlefield with no escape, would be the perfect place for you.]

Manabe Shiho: [So...what are you proposing you can do?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [I can call Karuizawa-san.After that, you can take your time talking with her and settling the problem.]

And with that, through the chat, Kiyotaka sent her a map of the lower levels of the ship.

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [Since phones don't get reception down there.She can't call for help either.And no one normally goes down there anyways.]

Manabe Shiho: [I see...so you can call Karuizawa-san down there as a classmate?]

Ayanokoji Kiyotaka: [I would like you to decide now whether to cooperate with my plan or not.After I call her, you can decide whether or not you'd like to have your revenge.There would be no problems that way, no?]

Once the reply came, Kiyotaka became sure he would succeed.

" Now, let me see what you can do, Manabe. "

Karma, who was standing behind Ayanokoji, then looks at him.

' Ayano-kun, your plan is good, no maybe even perfect, but... '

Karma then slightly glares at his friend's back.

' You better make sure that it works according to your calculations, or else... '

After they made sure Manabe's gang has left, Kiyotaka re-entered the room, while Karma chose to hide behind the door.He don't want any mishap happen between him and Kei.

Kei continued to squat on the floor and cried.

' So this is the true face of the egotistic and unyielding class' girls' leader?' Kiyotaka stared at the female before him.

" Karuizawa. "

By that, Kei gasped." Wh, how...?! "

She started to panic.But the experience was too traumatic for her to stop crying at once and pretend everything is fine.After a while, Kei sobbing gradually turned to quiet subdues.

" Calm down yet?" Kiyotaka ask.

Kei looked down in shame." ...More or less... "

Kiyotaka reached out his hand to help her up, but she didn't take it.

" Where is Hirata.. "

" Even though you two were supposed to meet here, I believe the teacher called him.I was with him then, so I came in place of him.So, why are you crying?" Kiyotaka planned to make it simple and ask to distract her from anything else.

" It's Manabe and her gang...I will not let them get away with this.Do not tell anyone that I cried.If you do, I will not forgive you.You know, to get back at them, even someone like you can do it.They are just girls after all. "

Karma is pleased that Kei is a kind of girl that is straighforward.

" What an unreasonable request." Kiyotaka said.

" Are you afraid that they will pay you back?And you claim that you are a man... " Kei muttered.

" It is apparent from Sudou's incident that a simple 'payback' is not going to solve anything.An eye for an eye would only escalate the conflict.It would also bring the school in and start an investigation.This is not what you wish, yes? "

Kei snapped." So you are telling to suck it up?Like, they would, no; for sure they would continue to do all kinds of things to me... "

" It would be a shame if things returned back to how they were before.I can empathize with you on this. "

" Ah...?What did you say?What do you mean? "

Kiyotaka tilt his head, his eyes still unto hers." What do I mean?Exactly what the sentence meant.Against all odds you escaped to this isolated ward, and even claimed the throne of the D class leader.But the fact that you are a victim of bullying has not changed. "

Kei turned red." Who, who did you say is a victim of bullying! "

" I mean you, Karuizawa!" Kiyotaka grabbed Kei's wrist and dragged her up.

Kei panicked." Wait, what are you doing?! "

Kiyotaka then pinned Kei onto the wall and forced her face towards him.

" You were being tormented by Manabe, weren't you?They dragged your hair.They slapped your face.They kicked your breasts, your waist, and your stomach.And that's how you ended up on the ground, miserable, humiliated, pitifully sobbing. "

" !? "

Kiyotaka continued." Ever since you were little you were a victim.Grade school middle school the bullying was non-stop.Isn't this why you want to put a stop to it? "

Kei slowly raise her head." Did you hear...from Hirata? "

" I don't know if I should tell you this or not.Hirata fancies himself as everyone's trusted companion.He will help you, and he will help others.Even if you did secure your place in D class by pretending to be his girlfriend, he will not be much use to you in situations like this.In other words, as a parasite, he is not a good host. "

Kei grit her teeth." Why you.... What gives you the right to pretentiously lecture me! "

" My right?You haven't realized it yet?" Kiyotaka bored into his glare." You should know your place.Do you know who is in front of you?It's not Hirata.It's me.I know your checkered past.I know about the fake relationship between you and Hirata.I know that Manabe just physically assailed you and all you could do was haplessly cry.I know all these.In other words?If you become too much of a handful, I can at any time release this information. "

" Don't, don't joke around!Who do you think you are! "

" Someone who knows the truth.That's all there is to it.Isn't this all you care about?" Kiyotaka bluntly replied as he grabbed Kei cheeks forcing her face back towards him.

Kei closed her eyes fearfully." What!What do you want from me!Are you aiming for my body? "

There's a pause.

" Your body huh.That might not be a bad idea. "

Kiyotaka fingertips slide across Kei's thighs.

" No!! "

Kei fidget aggresively as she tried to escape Kiyotaka's grasp.It only resulted for Kiyotaka to strengthen his hold on her cheeks and made her look into his eyes.

" Do not resist.If you do then I will release everything about you to the school. "

This line, like a curse, had cursed her body into a constrained stiffness.

" Spread your legs. "

Karma scrunch his face in alert as he sweatdrop.' Such an erotic scene.Rapist alert!! '

He almost felt envious at the scene.

Karma, on the other side of the door, clenches his fist tightly.' No, not right now.I will only reveal myself if he will truly do it. '

Kei's tears began to drop as she slowly spread them.Kiyotaka placed his hand on his belt and intentionally played with the metal buckle.Even then, Kei did not run away.

' Karuizawa Kei is a usable tool.My goal is not her body.I am threatening her to see how far she would go to protect what she has. '

Kei hiccuped through her sobs." I will not bow down to you...I am not being bullied by you...You merely got hold of my weakness and used me!You asshole just do whatever you want and violate me!But it's fine.This is not the first time I've succumbed to forces... Ho ho...Hey, do you know?When an immutable truth is presented, how do humans react...?I give up.Yes, I was preyed on and devoured.I was reduced to mechanically reacting to stimulus.I couldn't even muster the courage to resist.I couldn't do anything else.All I can do is receive them. "

Kei herself lifted her skirt, and placed her hands on her panties.Kiyotaka grasped her wrists and held her against the ship's wall.

" What did you receive?Where were the pains that tormented you?" Kiyotaka ask her.

Kei looked hesitant." What...Of course everything I had.My shoes were tacks put in.My table drawer was filled with dead animal carcasses.When I go to the washroom I get splashed with dirty water.My uniforms were written with words like 'prostitute'.My hair was dragged on.Punches and kicks were so numerous they were not worth mentioning.Any kind of bullying that you can imagine, I've experienced it.What I said was just a selected sampling.They were so relatively 'gentle' I could laugh.So why don't you start laughing?Laugh at me who was continuously spit on and bullied? "

" Are these the only torments that you experienced? "

" What... "

Kiyotaka repeat." What you said, were they the whole truth?What are you hiding? "

" Wha, nothin... "

Kei turned her head to her left waist.Kiyotaka noticed that, and reached his hand to touch it.

Kei looked alarmed." S-Stop!! '

Kiyotaka grabbed her uniform and pulled it up.On her beautiful skin lay an ugly scar.

He scroll his eyes up at her." Is this your darkness? "

Kei answered with a quiet cry.

' In the last few days I have been observing Karuizawa Kei.This person, to protect herself, forcefully dragged surrounding people into her camps. '

" Despair comes in many shapes and forms; but what you have experienced was, indisputably, despair. "

" Wh, what....You...! "

Kiyotaka's hold became firm." I can promise you one thing, and that is from now on I will protect you from intimidation.We are much more reliable than Hirata and Machida. "

Kei looked suprised before she looking confused." Wait, what do you mean by 'we'? "

" He means me. "

Karma stepped into the room silently.When Kei heard his voice, she quickly turned to him.

" Karma-kun, what are you- "

But before Kei can finish her sentence, Karma quickly chops Kiyotaka both on the head and ribs.

" Ouch. "

Karma puffed his cheeks." This is your punishment for making me worry too much. "

Earlier, Karma really want to walk up to him and punch Kiyotaka's handsome face right then and there.That damn virgin being shamless makes Karma's blood boil.

Kei still was new to the relationship of the two.

" Worry?What do you buy that...? "

Karma then turns to Kei as he scratch the back of his head." Karuizawa-san, I'm sorry you had to endure that, but I and Ayano-kun needed to see what length you will go to save yourself.And now that we know that, we will help you. "

Karma can't make mistakes that he has done before, he's a new man.Even though he's out of his teenage childish stage, being young again is new, he'll need to act daring as before.

Kei tilt her head." You mean you can stop Manabe and her gang...? "

Kiyotaka rub his bruised body." What you should do now is to decide how trustworthy our words are.A tiny kinder is easy to blow out, but a larger flame would have the opposite effect. "

Karma rephrased." You will act on our behalf.We will act on your behalf.Do you agree with this relationship?First let's get rid of your worries. "

Karma held his phone out as he let out his trademark smile." We have a way to stop Manabe's actions. "

On his phone was a photo of Karuizawa being assaulted by Manabe's gang.

It made Kei want to blink a couple time because of her being completely speechless.

" This is... "

" If we send this to them, they should reconsider doing any more things to you." Kiyotaka reasoned.

Karma smiled innocently." If they still decide to pursue you by spreading rumors, this would give us good ammunition to intervene. "

" I am only seeking someone to assist us.I hope that in the future, you will be our aid when needs arise. "

Kei blink." What, our aid?What do you want me to do...? "

Karma sighed." If the current situation continues, D class will never overtake A class.While D class's members' individual abilities are passable, we are severely lacking in cohesion. "

" We are like beach sand.However, if you can control the girls for us, this situation will gradually turn for the better. "

Kei still didn't take the shock away from her." You, what are you doing... "

" The first step of our cooperation shall be to lead our group to victory for this exam. "

" Victory?But how do- "

" Because you are-, isn't that right?" Kiyotaka said sharply.

When Kei heard the key word, she widened her eyes and looked at them.

' A parasite can only live by attaching itself to a host.' Kiyotaka stared back.' And now that Karuizawa has attached to us a new host, her life now has no way to move forward but with us. '

Karma casually lean by the wall beside Kei.' I won't need to worry, Kei doesn't have much of a choice in this matter. '

Karma then turns to look at his friend's face.The last thing Karma wants is a threat like Kiyotaka.

______________________

The final day of the exam had begun.

" Waah.I pulled it again!Maybe I'm just bad at Old Maid?" Ichinose cried.

Ichinose once again suggested playing cards.As Kiyotaka has sent the photos to Manabe, she and her friends stop approaching Kei, who is also acting normal.

" Is it ok for me to stay here like this?" Yukimura hesitantly ask.

Ichinose pout." You're being gloomy, Yukimura-kun.This is where you play your heart out and shake out your anger.Rematch.Rematch! "

Yukimura shake his head." I'll pass on that.I don't feel like it anyway.More importantly, is this fine, Ichinose-san?Ending the exam like this.I thought you were the one holding the reins to this group and guiding us all through the dialogue. "

" Isn't that being too convenient for you, Yukimura-kun?If you really want to win, don't rely on someone else to do it for you and use your own power to win. "

" ...I understand that much. "

///////

" And with the next meeting, the exam will be over.How are things on your side, Ayanokouji-kun, Karma-kun?" Suzune ask the two boys.

" No particular change on our side.It looks like the "target" will be able to safely escape.How about you? "

" I will win." Suzune point out.

Karma smirk." So you've found the "target" then? "

" I don't know who's listening in on us so I cannot tell you the details yet, but, I won't mind if you believe in me.Everything will go well.Did you perhaps want to consult me? "

Kiyotaka shake his head." There's no need for that.You make your move however you like. "

" So, you two said you needed to talk to me about something, what is it?I would like to avoid careless contact if possible. "

Karma bonk Suzune on the head." You can't afford to be terrified by Ryuuen's gaze forever you know. "

" Judging from that tone, can I assume you have a plan?" Suzune ask as she slap Karma's fist and fix her hair.

Kiyotaka informed." We've pulled Hirata over to our side.We can build a cooperative relationship with him in the future. "

Suzune look away dejectedly." I don't really want any of that. "

Karma chuckled." Neh, don't worry, we'll handle that Suzu-chan~! "

Suzune still looked unsatisfied." ...I don't like this.I don't like you two moving around like that behind my back. "

' It really shows how cautious she became from the both of us. '

" Then show your face when we discuss things.Even if you can't force yourself to say something, you can keep up with the discussion so there's no problem there right?" Kiyotaka ask.

" I....suppose so. "

" Including Hirata too, there's a person we'd like to introduce you to.Please free up some time before the end of the exam. "

" I still don't like it.Don't include more people than needed. "

Kiyotaka let out another sigh." Please consider it a consequence of you standing on the front lines.Besides, that person will surely be useful to us. "

Suzune finally nod." I think I can more or less understand what's going on...but fine.Let's meet here right after the exam ends then. "

They look at the time on their phones.The last discussion will take place in 30 minutes.

" In this exam, I wonder how many groups will be decided by traitors " The two boys hear Suzune mutter.

Karma think that would be fun." I was surprised that the (Cow) group's exam suddenly ended, but I doubt something like that will be repeated. "

" I think the likeliest outcome will be the "target" escaping with the time of the exam running out." Kiyotaka suggest.

Suzune let out a hum." I suppose so.I think that too. "

Karma notice Suzune being a little distracted by how she said her words.

" Something wrong, Suzu-chan? "

" Nothing." Suzune look away." It's just; I just sensed something wrong with the way this exam developed.But there shouldn't have been any errors.I definitely shouldn't lose. "

__________________

Both Kiyotaka and Karma came to the last group meeting 30 minutes early, they expected it to be empty but spotted someone.

" ... A prior arrival huh?' Kiyotaka whispered.

It was Ichinose.Since she was lying down, Ichinose's plump thighs were even more apparent than usual; the two boys found themselves unable to take their eyes off them ( mostly Kiyotaka ).

They were suddenly distracted by the phone she must have been using.As something interest them during when they see how much points she had.Slowly and cautiously, the duo approached her.

" ...uuuuu. "

Once Ichinose groaned, Karma stopped his movements.' Woah. '

As the distance between them closed, Ichinose slightly stirred.But then she immediately fell asleep again.They close their distance again.

Karma was three steps ahead of Kiyotaka as his distance between Ichinose is much closer, step by step his eyes focus on the phone laying by the laying female.

" ...nnn. "

Two steps.

" ...nnnnn...hmmmnnn. "

Every time Karma moves, Ichinose constantly shows signs of waking up.He notice Kiyotaka having the same problem too.Even though Karma can snatch it right away, there's going to be several stop signs after.

' ...This is pathetic.If anyone sees us now, all they would see is the word perverts. '

They were lucky, Ichinose is a kind of girl that isn't aggressive.

Karma can feel himself growing closer until he felt a hand on his shoulder.Kiyotaka shake his head as if to draw back the plan, soon enough Karma let out a sigh and gave up on stealing her phone and took their distance from her again.

Then, around 20 minutes before the discussion was due to start, cute music rang out in the room.

It came from Ichinose's phone.

" ...Nnnn. "

While still keeping her eyes closed, Ichinose reaches out for her phone and she stops the music.Still looking sleepy, Ichinose raises herself off the floor and notices the foreign presence in the room.

" Goooood morning, Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun.Sorry, did my alarm startle you? "

Kiyotaka shake his head." No.Not particularly.Looks like you slept well. "

Ichinose sheepishly scratch her head." Ahahahaha.Sorry, sorry.I just suddenly fell asleep.You're early, there's still 20 minutes left. "

Karma then sat down." Since when have you been here Ichinose-san? "

" Since an hour ago.I just wanted to spend some time quietly.If it's in my room, it's quite rowdy with my friends going in and out after all.Besides, I wanted to collect my thoughts too. "

" Did you get any results?" Kiyotaka ask her.

" More or less." Standing up, Ichinose walked across the room to them and sat down beside them." There's still time left before the exam so shall we have a little chat?If I'm not annoying you guys, that is. "

Karma rest his head by his arms." Nope! "

Kiyotaka nod." Your not annoying us Ichinose-san. "

Ichinose grinned." Then it's decided.The truth is there's something I wanted to ask Ayanokouji-kun and Akabane-kun.I've also asked this of all my classmates, including the boys like Kanzaki-kun too.But I haven't heard the opinions of the other classes too, so I got curious.Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun, have you ever strongly wanted to rise to Class A? "

Kiyotaka is the first to reply." Of course, I do think about that.No...More than wanting to rise to Class A, it's more that I 'have' to aim for Class A. That would be a more appropriate way of putting it. "

" In other words...because of the guarantee of a good career and job placement? "

" In this day and age, after graduation you won't be able to keep up with your life and job, especially when it comes to being employed. "

Ichinose nod slowly." I suppose that's true.I think so too.But having too much faith in the system is also dangerous, don't you think?In 99.9% of the words they say, there are invisible pitfalls that our eyes cannot see. "

Kiyotaka add her statement." But even so this school...if you think about it, has massive influence doesn't it?And many people have succeeded in life because of its assistance.Or are you saying you're not interested in it, Ichinose? "

Ichinose gently shake her head." No such thing.Even I have a dream, to graduate from Class A. And also a dream I want to fulfill.The school system is good and all, but if you cannot graduate from Class A, your prospects are dim.Because the school operates on realism, if you cannot win using your own talents, there's nothing you can do about it.

And most importantly, students are assigned to classes based on their merits so right now, between me, Akabane-kun and Ayanokouji-kun here, only one of us could achieve their dreams by moving to the top.Aah, but there are also cases where neither of our dreams can be fulfilled though. "

Karma's eyes shone a bit with awe." Well then, I guess you two have a different reason than me for aiming for Class A. "

That comment made both Kiyotaka and Ichinose look at Karma.

" What do you mean by that, Karma-kun?" Ichinose curiously ask.

Karma obligued." Ever since I started middle school, many called me a genius.I had good marks; good build, and helped people who were bullied.But... I didn't really think about it as a talent.Talented people often make the same mistake of thinking they have a talent for everything.But, I myself know that I'm not good at everything.For example, you, Ichinose, have good communication skills and can make almost every person your friend. "

After hearing that compliment, Ichinose slightly blushes.

" But me, I don't have that kind of talent.But, if you rob the person of their talent, they will still have one thing." Karma then smirks and puts his elbow on his leg to support his head." All people in the world strive to win.But me, I don't want to simply win.I want a total victory.Total victory is scoring an easy win by doing what you always do.And that's what I will do to reach class A - do what I always do. "

After that, silence washed before the three.

After a moment, Ichinose speak up." Did you hear there are also exceptions to those rules that I mentioned earlier? "

" Hmm?Is that where individuals accumulate 20 million points?" Kiyotaka ask Ichinose.

" Yep.It seems no one has achieved something like that in the history of the school, but there are Ultra C's like that too" Ichinose replied." Yeah, yeah.If we factor that in too, it's possible that the three of us can graduate from Class A. "

" The problem is whether you can save up 20 million points or not in the first place, even if you save up points in the exams, the system's already set so it won't reach 20 million." Karma remind.

Ichinose sigh by that." I suppose that's right.If you start saving up your points, by only reaching half of that amount, you would already raise suspicion. "

Kiyotaka close his eyes." That's true.The financial situation in Class D, especially, is terrible.Even though Horikita is doing her best for us, the points earned from the uninhabited island are still far off. "

" No, it's even possible that we may lose those points in this exam.Ichinose, are you saving up points?" Karma ask." It doesn't seem to me like you're the type to work hard on getting points. "

Ichinose tilt her head thoughtfully." Ummm...I wonder.I don't know about the others, but I use points sometimes and save them too sometimes I guess.Even though I'm in Class B, I still don't have that many points you know.Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun. "

" Hmm? "

Both boys turn to her.

Ichinose suddenly closes the distance with them and turns to face them while staring at their faces.

" Looks like you saw it after all that time." she murmured.

Kiyotaka slowly move his head back by the distance." ...Sorry.While you were using your phone earlier, we just happened to see the screen.We got curious and just wanted to ask you. "

Ichinose blink before smiling." Ahaha...it's not like I'm blaming you for it.Certainly that's a large amount of points, right? "

" Have you been able to find a way to win?" Kiyotaka ask.

" Ummmm...I guess so.I think I've found a hint. "

" Then this fight...it becomes a battle to see whether A will win or B will end." Karma look at the ceiling.

" I won't know that until the curtains fall.The victory I'm aiming for is— "

But before Ichinose could finish, the other members of the group arrived for the last meeting.

Yukimura looked a bit suprised at the early arrival of the two boys." What?You're already here, Ayanokouji, Akabane? "

Sotomura gave them a stink eye." Together with Ichinose-dono.Just the three of you.What kind of secret rendezvous were you two planning here? "

Hamaguchi look around the room." This is the final one, huh?Have you found any hints? "

Kiyotaka shrug his shoulders." Honestly, I have no idea.We haven't been able to establish proper dialogue at all. "

Karma didn't bother to respond as he's distracted on something.

Ichinose raise her hand." Good evening, let's get along! "

" If everyone's ok with it... / There's something I'd like to say. "

Both Kiyotaka and Hamaguchi look at eachother as they say something at the same time.

" Excuse me; please go ahead Ayanokouji-kun." Hamaguchi offered.

Kiyotaka shake his head." No...by all means, you first.I'm fine speaking later. "

Hamaguchi then coughed his fist." Then, with your permission.For the past three days, I've been constantly thinking on how best to achieve the first outcome.And finally I came up with only one conclusion: that it's possible for the entire group to aim for the first outcome and a way to make it possible. "

Yukimura blink." Is that really true, Hamaguchi? "

" Of course.It's an idea I came up with after listening to everyone here, including Ichinose-san and Machida-kun. "

Machida sweat." There's no way the first outcome can be achieved through dialogue alone. "

" Let's hear him out first.Hamaguchi-kun isn't the type to speak before thinking." Ichinose said softly.

Hamaguchi nod before he begin.

" I will now proceed to show you all, my phone.Naturally, there is a mail sent to me by the school.I'm sure you understand what I'm getting at.Since it is prohibited to falsify or alter the mails from the school in any way, there's no risk of being deceived this way.That's why it's a simple matter, just by showing each other our mails, we can find who the "target" is, and that is my way of finding the truth. "

Machida scoffed." This is stupid.Who would show their mail like this?We still don't know that someone won't betray us the moment we show our mails, there's no one who would go along with this. "

" Indeed, because they know there is the possibility of betrayal, the "target" will not show the mail on their phone.But looking at it from the perspective of those who are not the "target", there is little risk in showing the mail.The exam will soon be over, if we don't make our move now, we will not win.If a class were to collaborate to protect the "target", none of them would show their mails.Through this, cornering the "target" is possible. "

Machida argue back." Even if you know the identity of the "target" or the class they belong to, if somebody betrays us it's over.The problem won't be resolved.Are you planning to play the game where the quicker one to betray wins? "

Hamaguchi felt his eyebrow twitch." Then please shut up.It'll be fine if Machida-kun doesn't participate after all. "

Hamaguchi proceeded to show them the mail on his phone.

One Class B student agreed." I agree with Hamaguchi-kun's idea.I'll show mine too. "

Ichinose smiled." I think this is unexpectedly a good idea.I have no objections to showing my phone too. "

Matching the actions of the others, Ichinose also reaches to take her phone out." I've been pondering this for a long time now but I finally understand now after hearing what Hamaguchi-kun said.Sorry I've kept this hidden until now but... "

Kiyotaka turn to Ichinose." You're serious aren't you, Ichinose?If you're going to bet on that, then I'll take you up on that offer. "

While some are concerned about it, others start to follow suit and show their mail, including Kiyotaka.However, he has switched his phone before that with someone else.

" Ayanokouji-kun... are you fine with that?" Ichinose ask.

" Yeah.After listening to Hamaguchi, I think there's no other way than this.Since I'm bad at communicating, the only thing I can do is show you the truth, so that's what I'll do. "

" Well, then me too." Karma then also places his phone on the table.

" Wait Ayanokouji, Akabane.I object.There's no way this kind of blunt strategy is going to go well." Yukimura tried to stop them, but they simply showed their mails.

" Then I'll show mine too." Ibuki said as she grab her phone.

Manabe turn to Ibuki." Are you insane?There's no profit for us in doing this. "

" The ones who are not the "target" themselves, nor belong to the same class as the "target", gain no advantage in keeping the status quo.Class B understands that too.If we do nothing, we will never catch up to the classes above us.That's why they are showing their phones.And I'm thinking the same thing as them.That's all. "

" But that's... "

" Or perhaps, are you the "target" then? "

Manabe flinch." N-no t-that's... "

" Then you should be able to show it too, your phone that is. "

Manabe and the others then also brought out their phones.Kei also takes out her phone and hands it over in front of everyone.

" Karuizawa, you're also going with Ayanokouji and Akabane?Are you going to follow this strategy too?" Yukimura ask Kei.

" I'm just doing this for myself, because I want private points too. "

Kei was considered clear too.

Sotomura scratch the back of his neck." ...Ehhh.What should I do? "

Karma sighed." Think for yourself, Sotomura.This isn't a compulsory check but a voluntary one, you know. "

" Uuuu...just get it over with, I guess." Sotomura also moves to show his phone.However, Yukimura quickly stopped him.

" ...Do you really think showing it is the right move? "

" Since a while ago, why are you butting in?Perhaps you're the "target" then?" Ibuki ask.

" No.Yukimura isn't the "target"." Kiyotaka replied directly after Ibuki said that.

Karma boredly nod his head making it confirmed.

Spontaneous laughter came from some of the students.

Manabe glared at the boys." Do you really expect us to believe just your words?You might be lying. "

" It's still too soon to draw a conclusion.Because Yukimura-kun also has a point.I got caught up in the flow for a bit, but I'd also like to show my phone." Ichinose said.

" Wait, Ichinose.Earlier, you said there's something you wanted to tell us.You said you've been keeping quiet about it the whole time? "

" That?It's just the fact that I also always had the same idea too, that's all." She replies to Machida.

" ...The same idea? "

" I say the same idea, but as the leader of Class B, I was just regretting having been beaten to the punch by Hamaguchi-kun. "

Yukimura sighed.

" ...Fine I understand.I'll show you.I just have to show you right?" Yukimura took out his phone as well." But before I do so, I want you to promise me just one thing. "

Ichinose tilt her head." Promise?What do you mean by that, Yukimura-kun? "

" That nobody here is a traitor.Especially Class A, I want you to take out your phones and place them where I can see them.No, everyone does too.Everyone put your phones where I can see them. "

Machida raise his brow." I don't understand what you're getting at.What do you mean? "

" Exactly what I said." Yukimura said.

" Fine.If it's just placing them there. "

The rest of the class A students accept and put the phones in front of him.Yukimura pulls his phone out of his pocket, and then he opens the mail sent to him from the school.

" ...I'm sorry for lying to you, Ayanokouji, Akabane... "

Yukimura opens up the mail sent from the school.

" I am the target... "

On the screen was a mail different from what everyone else had received.

Sotomura gasped." W-what Y-Yukimura-dono was the "target" all along? "

However, Yukimura is the person who Ayanokoji exchanged phones with in secret.

" If I knew things would end up like this, I would have talked from the start." Yukimura continued as he played the role.

Kei also seemed shocked and her expression showed unease.Machida then stood up and peered at the mail on Yukimura's phone once more.

He then confirmed." It seems the mail is real.All the other personal mails also seem to be Yukimura's without a doubt. "

Ichinose nod her head." There's no way it would be a fake.After all, you know the rules the school put in place.In regards to the mails sent by the school concerning the exam, copying the mail and transferring it are explicitly forbidden.As long as the mail is sent from the school's address, the possibility of it being fake is zero. "

" That means it's definitely Yukimura-kun then. "

Ichinose gave an apologetic smile to Yukimura." I'm sorry Yukimura-kun...I thought of this as a last resort... "

Yukimura shake his head." No.I think this is the right thing to do.I tried to somehow lie my way out of this.But that was wrong.I'm sure Ayanokouji, Akabane and Sotomura, and also Karuizawa would feel this is the right thing....with this everyone should know the "target" is me.So you should've all arrived at an answer. "

" Please.Let's not waste Yukimura-kun's courage.Please cooperate with us. "

" We were just following Katsuragi-san's instructions from the start.We won't do anything on our own." Machida said.

Yukimura look down." I want to believe...no, I believe in everyone... "

However, Yukimura's phone suddenly rings.The caller is Ichinose.She looked at Yukimura, and then Kiyotaka and Karma with serious eyes.

Machida look at Ichinose confused." What are you doing, Ichinose?There's no point in calling Yukimura's phone at a time like this. "

" The school said that 'altering or copying the mail' is forbidden.That's why we believed the mail in front of our eyes was undoubtedly real.That much is certain.But there's no rule saying you cannot deceive someone with the phone itself.Do you understand what that means? "

Ichinose says while picking up the fallen phone and giving it back not to Yukimura, but to Kiyotaka.

" The person who owns the phone with the "target" mail written on it, it's you isn't it, Ayanokouji-kun?Because just now, I didn't call Yukimura-kun's phone, but Ayanokouji-kun's after all. "

Machida ask." B-but isn't it strange?Yukimura was able to unlock the phone's password in front of our eyes.I also checked his private mails and history in front of everyone's eyes. "

" That's fake.He could easily know the password just by asking Ayanokouji-kun or Karma-kun beforehand.Also, all call history, mail and even applications can be replicated even though quite a bit of effort must have been needed for that. "

Machida then quickly grabbed the phone that had been returned to Kiyotaka.

" People can't lie so easily, you know.Especially when the goal is in sight, they will inevitably become anxious and openings will reveal themselves.Yukimura-kun lied, and that's why his gestures and attitude appeared different from usual and appeared suspicious. "

Having heard Ichinose's deduction, Yukimura's face had already turned pale.

Ichinose then turn to Karma and Kiyotaka.

" We've also been thinking about it for a while, if the "target" were in our class there's always the option of simply switching phones with them.Using the password to pass oneself off as the "target" was also one of the things we thought of.But you see, there is a weakness in that strategy.It's the fact that a phone number exists.

Even if you can perfectly replicate your history and apps, you can't do anything with your number.Once, me and Hamaguchi-kun tried swapping out SIM cards, however, the SIM cards we were provided were locked onto our specific terminals so even if we swapped it, we couldn't use our swapped SIM cards.That means if you've swapped your cards too, I wouldn't have been able to call you.

It doesn't matter who switched phones with who, as soon as I call that number, I can easily find out who the real owner is.If I couldn't do this, I wouldn't have even come up with the plan to reveal our phones after all.Simply exchanging phones and replicating the history went perfectly this far, but you must have never expected that we would use the fact that the SIM cards are locked to specific terminals to check, did you?Fuuuu~ "

She then exhaled.

At that moment, the announcement that the 1 hour discussion period ends in five minutes came in.

" Shit!" Yukimura turn away.

" Too bad, Yukimura.That was a good try, though." Machida console.

" In any case, we've already determined that Ayanokouji-kun is the "target".Machida-kun, promise me that we will aim for the first outcome together without betraying anyone." Ichinose proclaimed.

" Naturally.Trust in me, let's go." Machida said.

Having been called by their friends, the three students of Class A were the fastest ones out of the room.

Ichinose then turn to the others left in the room." The ones who believe will be saved, you know.I will never betray you.That's why I also want Class C to do the same.You just have to bear with it for 30 minutes. "

Manabe and the others simply nod their heads in response.Yukimura glanced at Kiyotaka and Karma.

" I was a fool for following your plan.This is the worst." Yukimura muttered.

Karma can't help but look smug.

No less than minutes everyone left the room, leaving Kiyotaka, Karma and Ichinose alone.

" Now we just have to trust everyone. "

" Yeah.. I suppose so." Kiyotaka said.

Ichinose turn to the two boys." Ayanokouji-kun, you're quite calm.Aren't you worried?And Akabane-kun, you've been close with Ayanokouji-kun, your not effected to this outcome? "

Karma let out a lame shrug." We can't do anything but believe in the others after all...We're going back to our room. "

Kiyotaka and Karma turn their feet towards the exit of the room.

" Hey, wait a minute. "

Ichinose stops them by putting a hand on their shoulders.

" Who was the one that came up with this plan to swap phones? "

" Of course, that's Horikita." Kiyotaka answered immediately.

" I see.Then please tell Horikita-san, that her plan was a huge success. "

Karma arch a brow." Huge success?Don't you mean to say huge failure?It was a crushing and disastrous defeat. "

Ichinose let out a smile." Ahahahaha.You didn't expect us to have thought of the same plan did you? "

" Sorry for lying to you like that, even after we agreed to an alliance with you.Are you angry at us? '

The girl laughed more." Of course not.We also started our own plan without your knowledge, so we're even. "

karma nod his head." I see.Suzu-chan will be relieved. "

They then moved to leave the room.

" Waa, wait wait.The important part isn't over yet. "

Kiyotaka turn around to face at Ichinose." The important part? "

Ichinose let out a sigh.

" Mou—you're bad at dealing with people, Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun.Indeed the SIM cards we're given are locked onto their terminals.But, there's a way to release that lock...right?I asked Hoshinomiya-sensei to check but, it seems with enough points, you can unlock the terminal lock right away.That's what she told me.The answer that comes after a false answer is revealed.

Most people will take that to be true.After Yukimura-kun, who solved the password to unlock the phone, was outed as not being the "target".The moment that lie was revealed, the truth that Ayanokouji-kun is the "target" reared its head.And the fact of the SIM card sealed the deal.Nobody would suspect anyone other than Ayanokouji-kun now.

But that itself is the real trap.I did say the swapping strategy is imperfect, but that was a lie.But of course, you need to make a double-layered trap for it.If this trap is laid out, the truth will forever be buried in darkness.There would no longer be a way to ascertain who the real "target" is with 100% certainty. "

The real VIP student is Kei, who had swapped phones with Kiyotaka.Karma used his points to unlock the SIM and transfer his number to the phone.He then approached Yukimura under the pretext that he's the VIP and swapped Keia's phone with Yukimura's, telling him it was his phone.

Ichinose then ask." If Class D didn't have the "target" in it, what would you have done? "

" Same as you.I'd tried to figure out who was the "target" amongst the classes, swap phones with them, and pass myself off as the real "target" instead." Karma explained.

" So it's out, huh? "

Ichinose then started pulling out phones from her left and right pockets.One of them belonged to the "target" from Class B from another group, one of them from another student who wasn't the "target" from another group.

" By the way, this is just my prediction but if I go from the flow of today's discussion— The identity of the "target" is Karuizawa Kei-san.Correct? "

Having written that, she shows her screen.That was the 'betrayal' mail she was going to send to the school now.But before anything could happen, their phones and Ichinose's both rang at the same time.

[The exam for the (Rabbit) group has now ended.Please wait for the announcement of results.]

Ichinose nod her head in understanding." Aaah...somebody betrayed us in the end, huh?It's either Class A or C, one of them. "

" Why did you suspect Karuizawa? "

Ichinose face Kiyotaka." The same reason as Yukimura-kun.Because she's been acting differently from usual too.She usually doesn't care about Ayanokouji-kun, but she's been looking at you and Karma-kun quite a lot, and she's been making faces at you more than necessary.But that wasn't proof that Karuizawa-san was the "target" either, so either way I wouldn't have sent that mail. "

Karma looked curious." Why didn't you tell anyone about that?That way, the lie would have been revealed "

Suddenly the two boys hear a melodic sound.

Ichinose just laughed.Her smile right now was a deep and genuine one, the deepest and most genuine one they had ever seen.

" That's obvious, isn't it?A or C, if either one of them gets it wrong, it's still a plus for us.From the start, I had neither intended on clearing it together with everyone through outcome 1 nor betraying everyone through outcome 3.The moment the "target" wasn't in Class B, I had always intended to let another class betray us on purpose.I think the betrayer this time is from Class A. "

Kiyotaka blink." Machida, huh? "

Ichinose giggled." No, no.It's Morishige-kun.He's from Sakayanagi-san's faction.He probably doesn't want to meekly obey the Katsuragi faction.He probably thought it was better to betray and just take the points, that would be about it?Ayanokouji-kun, Karma-kun, you're unexpectedly amazing.The conversation you just had with me, was made up on the spot wasn't it? "

" If you're going to praise, praise Suzu-chan.She just gave us several hypothetical situations and we obeyed her orders." Even when Karma actually wants to take the praise for his pride, this wouldn't be the right chance to take.

Ichinose let out a bright grin as she waves." I'll be leaving then.It'll be bad if we end up breaking the rules. "

Before they leave, they suddenly receive 4 messages from the school.

Ichinose looked suprised." W-What does this mean? "

Yesterday's enemy is today's friend

______________________

The three, Kiyotaka, Karma and Kei meet at the café.Kei walks in as she was called out by the two boys.

" ...Sorry for making you wait." Kei said as she sat on the seat.

" Sorry for calling you out this late." Kiyotaka apologise.

" No, that's fine... " Kei took a few second before she speak." Ahh, umm...I was wondering if everything went alright. "

Kiyotaka wave his hand to assure her." It's fine.I'm sure the guys from Class A sent the mail to the school with my name on it. "

Kei tilt her head." How can you say that for sure? "

" Isn't that because the paper you gave me meant something, Ayanokouji-kun, Akabane-kun?Good work on the exam, the three of you.Mind if I take a seat? "

The three turn their heads and see Yosuke infront of them.

Karma let out a smile." Hm. "

Kei shifted uncomfortably and looked away from Hirata.It is now 10:55 PM.In 5 more minutes, an email will be sent to all the students.

" It's almost time.Is Horikita-san not coming yet?Shouldn't we contact her?" Yosuke ask concerned.

Kiyotaka shake his head." She's the type to always cut it close.We can afford to wait another four minutes. "

" Ahh.It looks like she's here. "

Suzune looked tired out as she walk towards them.She then let out a heavy sigh.

" Haa~ If I see this bunch meeting in front of my eyes like this, I can't help but sigh. "

Karma beamed." You've finally arrived, Suzu-chan~.By the way, what's that behind you? "

Suzune trace her hand through her hair." If you pay any attention to him, you lose.Just think of him as a ghost riding my back and ignore him that way. "

Sudou let out a whine." Don't say that, Horikita.I thought you would be anxious during the exam period and I got worried about you, that's why I called out to you like that. "

" You're in my way, get lost. "

" D-Don't say that.I challenged this exam with my very best efforts, you know. "

Suzune put her hands on her waist as she glance at Sudo.

" Then do you have any confidence that you left behind a good result? "

Sudou nervously scratch the back of his neck." ...I was only a step away from that.But it looks like someone faster than me sent the mail first. "

Suzune then takes a seat in the last vacant seat.Sudou panics and quickly moves to pull over a chair from a nearby table.

" You're still in the way." Suzune remark.

" It's fine, right?I'm just going to listen to you.Also, don't exclude me. "

Suzune let it go as she begin to the discussion." More importantly, the chain of mails we got earlier... "

Yosuke nod." Yeah, I was also curious about that. "

About roughly 2 hours ago, it was an incident that occurred just as the duo had parted ways with Ichinose.Four mails were sent to their phones one after another.The contents of those mails informed us of the end of the exam for several groups.The (Rat) group, the (Horse) group, the (Bird) group and the (Boar) group.All those groups had their exam ended by the appearance of a traitor.

" The (Horse) group is the one where the "target" was Minami-kun, right?" Suzune ask to check.

" Yes.In other words, there's a possibility his identity was uncovered by someone. "

" ...I see. "

Yosuke hummed." In the end, this exam.I wonder why the briefing was done with such a small group of people? "

" When Kouenji-kun sent the betrayal mail, the response from the school was immediate.If we assume that they reply as fast as an automatic response... "

" The possibility that the mails were sent together at once is extremely high.In other words, it may be that it's one class responsible for all the betrayals." Karma add.

" It may have been that they timed their betrayal mails to let us know it was them who did it. "

" Yes.I also cannot think of any alternative reason than that.And there's only one man who would do something like that... " Before Suzune can continue, another voice rang out.

" As expected, you were here. "

" Ryuuen...!!! "

Sudou stands up with a scowl.

Ryuuen did not pay him any attention and simply grabbed a vacant chair before sitting down next to Suzune and Karma.

" I thought I'd come and enjoy the results with you.Thanks for being here in such an easy-to-tell place. "

Suzune look away." Yes.I chose this place especially so that even you with your stupidity would be able to find this place.Thank you. "

" But even so, Suzune, Akabane.This is a rather large gathering for you.What's with the change of heart? "

" I was bothered by your persistent nagging.I was consulting them about it here." Suzune said.

" That's kind of true." Karma chuckled.

" Don't give Horikita any trouble!" Sudou threatened.

" Sudou-kun / Sudou, shut up." Both Kiyotaka and Karma said.

".....ou......".

Ryuuen lay his head to his fist." I thought you didn't have any friends that were actually friends.Well that's fine.The results will be announced soon.Did you get any results? "

" More or less.You look pretty relaxed. "

" Kukuku.I wouldn't be out here if I weren't.It also seems like the same people from last time are here. "

Sudo sent a mocking smirk." Oh that's right.Last time during the results announcement after acting all high and mighty, you lost miserably.HAHAHA! "

And as if to match Sudou's actions, Suzune also looks down at Ryuuen with a disgusted expression, while Karma observes the situation carefully.

" I can tell you who the "target" for the (Dragon) group is now. "

Suzune scoff." I'm sorry but you just sound like a loser at this point.The exam is already over and no one from the (Dragon) group turned traitor.It can only mean one thing. "

It would only mean that Ryuuen had finished the exam without realizing that Kikyo was the "target".That would be the undeniable truth.

" If you come to know my kindness, you'll be so grateful that you'll wet your crotch. "

Ryuuen laughs as though he were amused, while Karma glares at the dictator.

Suzune furrow her eyebrows." ...tell me then.Who is the "target" of the (Dragon) group? "

And as if he were waiting for her to say that, Ryuuen raised his hand while laughing.He peeps through the gaps of his fingers like a beast, as if he were preparing to leap on the throat of his prey.

" Kushida Kikyou. "

" Eh?" Suzune froze with a small, surprised voice.And also, Yosuke from the same (Dragon) group seemed shocked too.

Ryuen's smirk returns." I'm sorry but from the second day of the exam, I already knew that Kushida was the "target" of the group. "

" This is a joke...right?If so, you could have ended the exam by sending the betrayal mail.But the exam didn't end like that.That means you only realized it after the exam ended through some other means, am I wrong?" Suzune ask with an acussing tone.

Ryuen shrug his shoulders." I just felt sorry for you after seeing you try so desperately to protect the identity of the "target", then seeing you so confident, so relaxed and sure about your victory that you would even look down on others.That's why I led you on until the end. "

" How did you figure it out?" Yosuke ask hesitantly.

" Unfortunately the answer to that...involves you, Suzune. "

'" Me?" Suzune looked confused.

" I realized it from the movement of your eyes, breathing, movement of your mouth, your tone of voice and everything else about you. "

" Stop with the jokes. "

" Joke?Then are you claiming to know how else I would have known the truth? "

Suzune didn't stop her glare." That's...surely you heard that from someone else just now. "

" He's not joking. "

Everyone then turned to Karma, who was oddly calmly drinking milk.

Ryuen raise a brow interested." Oh and why do you believe me, huh, Akabane? "

" It's just as you said." Karma then puts down the milk, and faces Ryuuen." 'I realized it from the movement of your eyes, breathing, movement of your mouth, your tone of voice and everything else about you'. "

After that, Ryuuen starts to laugh, and then faces Suzune again.

" I understand your feelings of not wanting to admit it.But don't blame yourself for that, Suzune.You just picked the wrong guy to mess with.And besides, the exam was chaotic anyways.In particular, the ones you watched out for most were Class A. Relax. "

Suzune's eyes grew wide." W-What are you s-saying you've done? "

Ryuen close his eyes with a confident grin." You'll know the answer soon enough. "

A mail comes in at 11:00 PM and they all check the results, except Ryūen.

[ Outcome #1 (The group answered correctly): Dragon.

Outcome #2 (The VIP was not identified): Tiger, Snake, Sheep, Dog.

Outcome #3 (The traitor answered correctly): Rat, Horse, Monkey, Rooster, Pig.

Outcome #4 (The traitor answered incorrectly): Cow, Rabbit.

Based on the results, increase and decrease in class points (CL) and private points (PR) are as follows:

Class A: -200 CL; +2,000,000 PR

Class B: No change in CL; +2,500,000 PR

Class C: +150 CL; +5,500,000 PR

Class D: +50 CL; +3,000,000 PR ]

Suzune furrow her brows." Class C...is the top. "

" Isn't it great, Suzune?Thanks to your misfortune, the (Dragon) group has gotten the unexpected outcome 1.Now, all the classes should equally receive a large amount of points." Ryuuen claps his hands and laughs satisfactorily." If you bow your head before me and beg.I can tell you the answer. "

" Who would do something like that?" Suzune sputtered with gritted teeth.

" That expression of yours, it's pretty sexy." Ryuuen then takes out his phone from his pocket but before he places it on the table-

" You discovered the root of this exam and then focused on targeting Class A. "

That statement made everyone stop, and then turn to Karma once again.

Ryuen's face turn into pure shock." How did you- "

" Well, I said it before, didn't I- " Karma then smirks at Ryuuen." I and you are too similar.If I was in your shoes, I would've done the same. "

There was silence.But then, after a minute, Ryuuen starts to laugh." Man, you figured the fun part.Oh well.By the way, my next target is you, Suzune.In the next exam, I will make sure to especially target you.I will keep going until I have completely torn your mind and heart to pieces. "

" And what about me, dictator-kun?" Karma 'cutely' ask with an innocent face.

" Heh, as I said before, I'll take you and the mastermind together, so relax.Look forward to the second semester. "

Having paid back the debt from the island test, Ryuuen seemed satisfied as he walked away, but not before glancing at Karma, who did the same.

Yosuke's expression turn into worry." I can still accept that Ryuuen-kun simply gathered information on Class A's "targets".I can chalk it up to him having a talent we don't have.But how did he get the (Dragon) group's result? "

Kiyotaka sighed." It's not that hard of a task.If you put your mind to it, it's pretty simple. "

" What do you mean? "

Karma explained." All he had to do was announce 'Kushida is the target' before the end of the exam.Of course, nobody would believe in the words of someone like Ryuuen.Especially a group of gifted people like that group.But, the closing period alone is different. "

Kiyotaka nod by this." Even if you answer mistakenly during that window, there would be no risk.As such, even someone playing defense like Katsuragi would be tempted to vote.If there is even a 1% chance that Kushida really is the "target", the first outcome would be most convenient to all of them after all. "

" Suzu-chan.Just perhaps but— "

" We may face some hurdles in the future. "

Suzune snort." ...Hurdles from Ryuuen-kun?Indeed he managed to do well in this exam; that much is true.But there's no guarantee that he will be able to repeat this in the future.In fact, your group actually won, am I wrong? "

Karma nod." That's right.We might just be overthinking this. "

" Don't worry." Kiyotaka said.

Kiyotaka turn to Karma.' Right now it's still nothing but a premonition. '

Karma smiled as he glance back.' I can't help but think this may be the first step towards despair. '

' But at the same time, I feel the emotion of 'excitement' start to grow inside of me / But at the same time, I feel excited. '