Chapter 14: Sports Festival Preparation

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(A/N: I have worked hard to write every day :'), please give me support by giving a review on this novel so that the rating on this novel can be seen and the power stone for the next milestone!!!!)

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Arriving at school, the second semester's opening ceremony begins. In the afternoon classes, there are two hours of homeroom, and Chabashira-sensei , the homeroom teacher for Class D, arrives and starts explaining matter-of-factly.

Chabashira: "Today marks the beginning of the classes again. In the second semester, from September to early October, for a month, there will be an increase in physical education classes in preparation for the sports festival. Keep the new schedule securely. Also, we will distribute materials related to the sports festival along with the schedule. The front row students pass the printouts to the back."

Hirata: "Sensei, is this also part of a special exam?"

Hirata, the class leader, asks. But the response from Chabashira-sensei was unexpected.

Chabashira: "How you perceive it is up to you. Well, either way, it won't change the impact on the class points."

Although it's quite vague, about half of the students don't seem concerned. The athletic students express joy, while those less skilled in sports emit cries of dismay.

Amidst the slight commotion in the classroom, I continue reading the materials. There, some unexpected content is written.

Chabashira: "Some of you seem to have already read it, but in this sports festival, we are adopting a competition format dividing all grades into two teams, red and white. As a result of the draw, the red team for this year is Class A and Class D, and the white team is Class B and Class C."

Chabashira: "First, pay attention to the results of the sports festival. I won't explain it repeatedly, so listen carefully once."

Chabashira conveys the key points while tapping the handout. Leaning in and lowering our gaze, the following is written:

- Rules and team division for the sports festival

- Point distribution for all-participation events: Individual events - 1st place: 15 points, 2nd place: 12 points, 3rd place: 10 points, 4th place: 8 points, and from 5th place onwards, a decrease of 1 point each. In team competitions, the winning team receives 500 points.

- Point distribution for recommended participation events: Individual events - 1st place: 50 points, 2nd place: 30 points, 3rd place: 15 points, 4th place: 10 points. For 5th place and beyond, there is a decrease of 2 points each. (In the final relay, triple points are awarded.)

- Impact of the red team vs. white team results: The losing team deducts 100 class points equally for all grades.

- Impact of the grade-specific rankings: The class that takes 1st place in the overall points for each grade receives 50 class points. The class that takes 2nd place maintains its class points. The class that takes 3rd place deducts 50 class points. The class that takes 4th place deducts 100 class points.

Chabashira: "In simple terms, it means you need to give your best without letting your guard down. The penalty for the losing team is not light at all."

- Individual event rewards: Students who achieve top positions in each event receive the following rewards: 1st place: 5000 private points or the equivalent of 3 points in a written test. 2nd place: 3000 private points or the equivalent of 2 points in a written test. 3rd place: 1000 private points or the equivalent of 1 point in a written test. (Points from the written test can only be used in the next mid-term test and cannot be transferred to others.)

- Best student reward: The student with the highest score among all students receives 100,000 private points.

- Grade-specific best student reward: The top 3 students who achieve the highest scores in each grade in all events receive 10,000 private points each. (However, those who receive the 100,000-point gift as the best student will not receive the grade-specific reward.)

- Violation items: Adhere to the rules of each event. Violators will be treated similarly to disqualification, and in the case of serious offenders, there may be expulsion or deprivation of accumulated points.

Ike: "Hey, sensei! About the written test points...!"

Chabashira: "As you imagine, Ike. You can only use them in the next mid-term test, but they will help you supplement the points you earn in the test. It will be quite useful for you."

Chabashira: "After the sports festival, the points earned in all events will be totaled by grade, and penalties will be imposed on the bottom 10. The contents of the penalty may vary by grade, so check with your respective homeroom teachers."

Ike: "Sensei, what about this penalty...?"

Chabashira: "The penalty imposed on this year's first-year students is a deduction of 10 points in the written test. Questions about how the deduction will be applied will not be accepted here. It is a rule that it will be announced along with the bottom 10 during the test explanation.

Ike: " Geez, really!?"

If one ends up in the bottom 10, the next test will be quite challenging. At least, one needs to score high enough to avoid failing. While contemplating this, very important information enters my ears.

Chabashira: "Quiet down. I'm going to talk about something very important. In this sports festival, you will decide the order of participation in all events yourselves and fill out this participation form, submitting it to me, your homeroom teacher. Literally everything. From which class and who will participate in each event and in what order, all of it needs to be decided by you through discussion. The deadline is from a week before the sports festival until 5 p.m. the day before. After that, changes will not be accepted for any reason. Also, if you miss the deadline, you will be randomly assigned, so be careful."

In events held so far, similar things have happened. On the uninhabited island, it was the key card; on the ship, it was for the privileged students. Above all, in this sports festival, it is this participation form that must be safeguarded.

Horikita: "If it's okay, may I ask a question?"

Having been silent until now, Horikita quietly raises her hand.

Horikita: "On the day of the event, what happens if there are absentees? In the case of team events, I think there might be situations where the event itself cannot take place."

Chabashira: "If the minimum number of participants required for the 'all-participation' event cannot be secured due to absences, it will result in disqualification. For example, in the case of the two-person three-legged race, you would participate with one pair less. However, there is a relief measure. In the case of 'recommended participation' events, we allow the appointment of substitutes by paying points as a special exception."

Horikita: "How many points are required?"

Chabashira: "For each event, it's 100,000 private points. Whether you consider it high or low is up to you."

Horikita: "...Understood."

Some students, such as those who persevered as privileged students on the ship, like Kushida and Karuizawa, and those who have acquired private points from the third years, like Koenji, probably have amounts that are not difficult to provide. Well, I don't intend to provide them, but if Horikita were to publicly disclose my points, I would resent that.

Chabashira: "If there are no more questions, we'll end it here. The next class will move to the main gym, where you'll meet students from other grades. Until then, how you use your time is up to you."

As Chabashira-sensei leaves the teacher's desk, the classroom becomes instantly noisy with discussions about the sports festival. Each group gathers and starts discussing the sports festival freely.

Horikita: "From now on, class discussions will be essential..."

Horikita, you've grown up to use terms like 'discussions' on your own. If you think with such an adult attitude, you might get glared at. So why do you know what I'm thinking?

.....

The second-period homeroom takes place in the gym, where students from different grades gather. D-class moves on time and lines up with other grades. Whether they are divided into red and white groups or not, A-class first-year students are sitting nearby.

This school has a fixed number of students, with each grade having four classes of 40 students each. The total number of students in the entire school is 480. Despite a few dropouts, about 500 people have gathered in the gym, including both students and staff.

Due to proximity, Me, Ayanokoji, and Horikita are all close to each other in the gym. When I glance at Hori-kita, she seems restless, probably trying to spot her brother, the student council president Horikita Manabu. While I've never directly confirmed it with her, she's likely a big sister-loving girl. However, finding him in this situation might not be easy.

As we wait, a few senior students step forward.

Fujimaki: "I'm Fujimaki from 3rd-year class A. I'll be in charge of the red team this time. First, let me give some advice to the 1st-year students. Some of you may think it's unnecessary, but understand that this sports festival is crucial. This experience will undoubtedly lead to the next. The upcoming exams may seem like games at first, but each one is a battle for survival in this school. You may not realize it yet, but if you're going to do it, aim to win. Remember that."

It seems Horikita's brother isn't the one leading.

Fujimaki: "The only event involving all grades is the 1200-meter relay at the end. Other than that, each grade has its own events. Use the remaining time for discussions within your grades."

With that, Fujimaki-Senpai retreated to the A-class group. Following his instructions, groups are formed based on grades. Starting with A-class led by Katsuragi, they gather.

D-class seems overly intimidated by the elite A-class. Maybe I'm the only one who thinks we shouldn't be concerned since we're in the same grade.

Katsuragi: "We've joined forces in a strange way, but let's build a smooth cooperative relationship among ourselves, fellow comrades. I'm counting on you."

Hirata: "I feel the same way, Katsuragi-kun. Let's work together and do our best."

Katsuragi and Hirata express their commitment to cooperate closely. Normally, there would be no advantage for A-class, the top class, to team up with the lowest class, D-class, but if they don't join forces, they'll hinder each other.

This is more about establishing a non-contentious agreement rather than trusting each other like siblings.

Whether D-class students are aware of the strange glances and emotions directed at them or not, Katsuragi continues with the meeting, and the gym becomes noisy.

Ichinose: "Are we not going to have a discussion?"

From a place close to where I'm facing, Ichinose's voice resounds. The gym becomes restless as people observe. The reason is simple – C-class is trying to leave the gym. Led by Ryuen, C-class gathers near the exit. The autocracy remains unshaken.

Ryuen: "So, you guys are trying to leave with good intentions? Even if I said I'd cooperate, I doubt you guys would accept it willingly. So, it's better not to do it from the beginning."

Ichinose: "I see. To save time, huh?"

Ryuen: "That's right. Be grateful."

Ichinose: "Hey, Ryuen-kun, do you have confidence in winning this exam without cooperation?"

Ryuen: "Haha, who knows?"

With a small, eerie laugh, all C-class students leave.

D-class may not be well-organized, but compared to C-class, they are still better off. Seeing this, Katsuragi advises Horikita.

Katsuragi: "Since D-class is on our side this time, let me warn you. Don't underestimate Ryuen; he approaches with a smile and suddenly attacks. If you're careless, it can be quite painful."

Hirata: "I appreciate the warning, but is that based on your experience?"

Katsuragi: "...I did give a warning."

Without delving deeper into the topic, Katsuragi returns to his original position.

Sakayanagi: "It seems they've already started moving,"

Such a calm voice is heard from behind, causing many students to turn around. The voice comes from Sakayanagi, the one I first spoke to during the ship exam. Despite her calm demeanor, her eyes radiate a strong will.

At that moment, my right shoulder is lightly tapped, and turning my head, I find Masumi standing there with a stern expression, sitting next to me.

Masumi: "Are you interested in Sakayanagi?"

Jin: "Not really..."

Sakayanagi: "Oh, look who we have here, isn't it Horagasaki-kun."

With a tapping sound of her cane, Sakayanagi approaches us.

Sakayanagi: "Unfortunately, I won't be able to participate in this sports festival as a combatant. I'll concede in all the events. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Please allow me to express my apologies for that point."

Hirata: "No need to apologize, I don't think we'll be pursuing that matter."

Even Hirata and the others don't express any dissatisfaction with that decision. No one blames her for something beyond her control.

Many people might have received a different impression of Sakayanagi than what was expected. She doesn't seem to have an aggressive personality. Her tone is calm and polite, diverging somewhat from the imagined image. The current impression aligns with her character, and in terms of mindset, it seems unlikely that she would directly oppose Katsuragi. However, I am very cautious of the unknown aspects of Sakayanagi.

Sakayanagi: "As I mentioned earlier, I won't be participating this time, but I'll be cheering for everyone in D-class from the shadows."

Jin: "Ah, yeah, sure... I appreciate it."

While it wouldn't have been a big deal if I were interrupted, if she's offering support, I'll accept it straightforwardly.

Sakayanagi: "Well then, let's do our best. Oh, Masumi-san, how's it going with Horagasaki-kun?"

Upon hearing those words, Hirata, Sudo, Ayakoji, and Ike all widen their eyes and look towards us.

Jin: "Sakayanagi... are you serious?"

Masumi: "I've already gone to a deep level with him."

Masumi states this bluntly while glaring at Sakayanagi. What are you saying? Seriously, stop it, this atmosphere is getting awkward. Ayanokoji and Ike seem frozen in place!

Although the surroundings remain tense, Sakayanagi leaves, saying, "Please prosper as you wish." Hirata avoids delving into the matter and smoothly continues the conversation with Katsuragi. Ike and the others seem like they want to say something but are ignored. I share my thoughts on Katsuragi with Masumi.

Jin: "Hmm, Katsuragi still has some influence left, it seems."

Masumi: "This time, or rather, even during this time, I think Katsuragi has no choice but to pull us in since Sakayanagi can't participate... Well, that's what I think."

A-class appears to be sitting together as a class, but Katsuragi's faction and Sakayanagi's faction are clearly divided.

However, the difference in numbers is overwhelming. Currently, students belonging to Sakayanagi's faction make up the majority of the class, while Katsuragi's faction has only a few male and female students. Initially, it was said to be balanced, but the reason for Sakayanagi's faction expanding its influence to this extent might not be solely due to Katsuragi's failure during vacation. It seems like Sakayanagi has achieved results in places we can't see.

...…

The discussion for the sports festival began. As expected, there was disagreement in opinions. There was a proposal supported by Horikita and Sudo, determining the participants in recommended events based on their abilities. On the other hand, there was Shinohara's proposal, giving everyone a chance.

However, Shinohara's side was not doing well. Sudo's exceptional athletic ability was understood by the entire class, giving Sudo's words much more weight and influence. It seemed that the discussion was leaning towards prioritizing abilities when, just as they thought, something unexpected happened.

Karuizawa: "Hey, can I say something? I'm against it. Will making others cry, as Shinohara-san suggests, really unite the class?"

Standing up at the counter was Karuizawa.

Horikita: "Uniting the class? That's what it means. Don't you understand?"

Karuizawa: "Not at all. Hey, what do you think, Kushida?"

Today, Kushida, who hadn't spoken yet, was asked for her opinion.

Kushida: "It's difficult, isn't it? The best solution is to consider both opinions..."

Horikita : "There's a way for both sides to agree. By offsetting the private points gained by the top-ranked person with the private points lost by the bottom-ranked person. Then there should be no complaints."

Karuizawa: "But that's just about points, and the chances of winning will decrease. What about everyone else?"

Perhaps to tilt the situation in their favor, Karuizawa asked for the opinions of the girls who usually accompany her.

Sato: "I think... if Karuizawa-san is against it, then I'm against it."

Horikita: "Wait a minute. Just because she's against it, you're against it? Are you guys stupid? That's not logical at all. There won't be fools like you in other classes."

Shinohara: "We don't know that. I'm against it, too. Consider other people's opinions more."

Hirata: "When opinions don't align, we have to take a majority vote."

Quickly intervening, Hirata acted as a referee, putting an end to the deadlock in the discussion.

Shinohara: "If Yousuke says yes, I agree."

Horikita: "...Well, yeah. I don't think it's the time for our class to be in conflict. I hope you guys make the right decision."

Although Horikita said so, no one knew which side was right. They were about to take a majority vote to decide. In most cases, the side with more votes is considered right.

Hirata: "Alright, those who agree with Horikita's proposal prioritizing winning, raise your hands."

People like Sudou and others in the upper ranks raised their hands, but the more flexible ones like Miyake and Karuizawa's group did not.

Hirata: "16 people, thank you. Now, those who think Karuizawa's proposal is better?"

The number of hands raised in response to Hirata's first statement was sparse. But when Karuizawa raised her hand, several girls followed suit.

Hirata: "12 votes for Karuizawa. The rest can be considered as abstentions, right? So, the class policy will be to prioritize winning, is that okay?"

There were no objections to the result determined by the majority vote. Finally, it felt like they were standing at the starting line.

In the subsequent discussion, the participants for the recommended events were decided. Sudo, leading the pack, along with Horikita, Hirata, Miyake, Me , and Onodera from the swimming club, among others. Sudo was confirmed to participate in all recommended events. Of course, once the decision was made, there were no objections.

The participation chart was posted on the blackboard. At this point, about a third of the recommended participation slots were filled.

Sudo: "Hey, Koenji, aren't you participating?"

Sudo glared at Koenji while saying this. If anyone could compete with Sudo, it would likely be Koenji, who had an equal or even higher potential. Sudou probably understood this, hence the invitation.

Koenji: "I'm not interested. You guys can do as you please."

Sudo: "Don't mess around."

Koenji: "I'm not messing around. Do you have the right to force me to participate? Well, even if you did, it wouldn't concern me."

Hirata: "Don't forcefully invite him here, Sudo-kun. Koenji-kun might have strengths and weaknesses as well."

Without criticizing Koenji's attitude, Hirata reassured Sudou. The class mediator was still active today.

Hirata: "At least what we can decide in today's discussion is the class policy and the will of those who want to participate in individual events. The rest can be decided carefully later, right?"

With that statement, the discussion came to an end.

However, some students, including myself, found it puzzling. Why did Karuizawa continue to oppose Horikita's proposal?

.....

Now, the intensive training has begun. Everyone was diligently practicing on the field. Although Sudo's grip strength was measured recently, his record was an unbelievable 82.4 kg, ranking at the top of the class. Next in strength was Ayanokoji with 60.6 kg, followed by myself and Hirata, both tying at 60.6 kg, and then Hirata with 57.3 kg.

Ayanokouji had set Ayanokouji's grip strength exactly to match Sudo's, making him quite a mysterious character. I could set it as well, but seriously, what was he?

Sudo:"Power is important, but for this, you have to use your hips to pull."

Sudo was teaching a few people the secrets of tug-of-war. Clearly, he was lively in his favorite field.

I then approached Miyake, who had become my partner in the three-legged race.

I was faster than Miyake in terms of speed, and among the candidates for partners, Miyake and I felt the most comfortable working together. Apparently, Miyake felt the same way, and we quickly formed a partnership.

I never expected that we would get along surprisingly well. I'm happy about that.

Jin: "Okay, let's go, Miyake."

Miyake: "Sure, let's go."

Following the start signal, we moved our bound legs forward, gradually increasing our speed. Oh, we're doing well.

Jin: "Miyake, you're fast, huh?"

Miyake: "If that comes from you, who's faster than me, it sounds like sarcasm."

While laughing together, Miyake and I finished first, leaving the other pairs about 10 meters behind.

Miyake: "Phew... If the actual event is like this, we'll probably be fine."

Jin: "We won't make it to the top at all."

With a few words exchanged, Miyake and I parted ways.

Horikita: "It's surprising. You and Miyake-kun are getting along so well. And you seem to have good compatibility."

Holding a conversation with me, Horikita was standing in front of me.

Jin: "Well, yeah, but it's surprising that you and Onodera didn't get along."

Both being a pair with high running ability, they couldn't improve their time, and eventually, their partnership was dissolved.

Jin: "We should try a little more, don't you think?"

Horikita: "I was told something similar by Ayanokouji-kun earlier... I also feel the need for that. It's something I've sensed."

Jin: "Sensed?"

I asked again, but I didn't get an answer.

Horikita: "For this sports festival, it's undoubtedly effective to use a straightforward approach, right?"

Jin: "Of course."

Horikita: "Yeah... I guess so."

Uttering those words with uncertainty, Horikita seemed different from her usual self. Perhaps the inability to do anything in the deserted island test and the shipboard test was lingering.

Horikita: "If you were going to do something, you should have started moving during the face-to-face meeting in the gym, don't you think?"

At that time, Ryuuen left the gym without any discussion with Class B. It was possible because he had some strategy. A crucial strategy to nullify discussions and cooperation with other classes.

And, he didn't even bother hiding it. Whether it was hedonism or something else, I didn't know, but I had a fairly good idea of Ryuuen's way of thinking from my past experiences.

Ayanokoji: "Can I ask you something?"

Jin: "Sure, what is it?"

Ayanokoji: "Are you free next weekend?"

Ayanokouji asked about my plans for four days later. What would happen if I said I wasn't free?

Jin: "What if I'm not free?"

When I asked, Ayanokoji made a slightly disappointed face. Well, it was still expressionless.

Jin: "Well, I'm free, but what do you want to do?"

As soon as I said I was free, Ayanokouji's face brightened. Well, as expressionless as ever.

Ayanokoji: "I want to conduct reconnaissance on other classes."

Jin: "With just the two of us?"

Ayanokoji: "No. I plan to invite Horikita and Kushida as well."

Jin: "Really? Well, that's fine."

Ayanokoji: "Thanks."

With Ayanokoji's words, the chime signaling the end of class echoed throughout the school.

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