Light Novel 2nd Year Volume 9/Summary

Prologue
Miyabi Nagumo monologues of his journey as a student. Being the best in academics and sports, many tried to take advantage of him. He wasn't that hard working but rather grasp things faster than others. Popularity was important to him but he couldn’t be rid of a discomfort that was augmented with Horikita Manabu, someone smarter, more impressive and determined than him. Next was Ayanokoji Kiyotaka, someone arrogant but had unquestionable abilities. He began doubting himself despite having similar accomplishments. The only way to quell this discomfort was to finally defeat someone of similar capabilities, proving he is in fact, the real deal.

Chapter 1
With the 2nd term of the second year ending, winter holidays were about to start. Nagumo summoned Kiyotaka to the student council room via text, which he accepted. He saw Kushida who went past and glared at him. Kei arrived soon after, apologising for being late and had some bed-hair. She was embarrassed by it and his comments that some boys were worse.

Hirata greeted him as he entered class, escaping for the group of girls surrounding him. Hirata tells him to confide in him if he requires help. Despite saying it often, he was uneasy about the unstableness of the class, but returned to the girls eyeing him. Sae announced there’d be a quiz before winter break, a little more than 2 weeks left. She assures that expulsion is unlikely, but class points were important. The test was simple as it consist of direct academic aptitude against other classes. Their class were already picked to face Class A.

For class points, Arisu's A had 1250, Horikita's B had 985, Ryuen's C had 684, Ichinose's D had 655. They will be taking the exam as a class, meaning, collectively, every student has to answer at least 2 questions and 5 at most, one by one as they enter the exam hall. 10 minutes were given per student, and they can't change the answer of another. Written and verbal hints were disallowed. If the whole class finished 1 hour before the total time given, they will receive 10 points, 30 minutes 5 points, and 10 minutes 2 points. Special rules were dependent on a person's academic OAA, someone with A will get 1 point per correctly solved question, B has 2 and vice versa till E with 5. Depending if the bottom E students can solve correctly, they could equalise 5 Class A students of A and above abilities. Absentees meant that 2 questions will be left unanswered. Sae was acting like a mother to her children as she wishes them luck.

Theoretically, Horikita's class had a 100% chance to win considering the lopsided points distribution. Horikita suggest that low rated student should answer as many as they can first. The students assures her they’ll do their best, with Sudou being excited despite being unable to contribute as much since his E abilities had went up to a C+.

Kiyotaka went into the student council room and saw Nagumo and Kiriyama waiting for him. The Y2 council members were also called and will join later. The two banter saying Y3s will have another special exam, with the latter saying there was no use since the end result was already determined, and all those that could change it were already expelled. Turning his attention, Nagumo states the Y2 classes were unnaturally close with class points. Usually there would be 2 at most 3 classes in the race, but now all 4 were in the run. By the final test in Y2, that would change as he shared his own story. He already had the longest tenure as student council president and the school has intervened to make him pass the baton. Thus, he intended to use Kiyotaka to help him decide the next one, each of the supporting a different candidate, either Horikita or Ichinose.

Nagumo already secured all the Y3 votes, and Kiyotaka's only chance to equalise was to either get all the Y1s or Y2s to vote for his candidate. If Nagumo chose Ichinose, it would be simple as she alone could secure the majority of the Y2 votes too, garnering at least a simple majority vote of the student population. Kiyotaka ponders his choice of candidate and sets his terms. He wants voting to be anonymous and that this will be considered a real duel between them. Nagumo accepts the second but inquires whether Kiyotaka thinks that the Y3s would betray him if they become untraceable. Kiyotaka candidly states so as they accepted the deal, as they moved on to their bets. If Nagumo won, Kiyotaka would drop out, but if Kiyotaka wins, he wants all of Nagumo's points, enough to transfer to another class. Kiriyama vehemently objected but was shut down as Horikita and Ichinose asked for permission to enter.

Surprised at Kiyotaka's presence and sitting next to him, Horikita endorses Ichinose to be president due to her experience and lack of weak points. Nagumo agrees but says that Ichinose low class position is her Achilles heel as presidents have all graduated from Class A. Being evenly matched, Horikita chose to enter the race as Nagumo signals for Kiyotaka to choose one of them. Wanting to advance his plan, Kiyotaka made up his mind and was about to say the name but Kiriyama interjected and asked both candidates whether they want to participate first. Nagumo was irritated by the stalling tactic, as Kiryuuin just then, forcibly entered the room. Nagumo was suspicious of how Kiriyama messed up the time schedule with her despite specific instructions.

Kiryuuin says she’s been wrongly framed as a shoplifter. The fastest to react was Ichinose while Kiriyama explained the entire scene. Nagumo was crossed as he says that if she admits her crime, he'll close both his eyes. She already got the admission of Yamanaka who framed her so she wasn’t afraid. Nagumo tells her to leave the footage and exit, being annoyed at the interruption as he seeked Kiyotaka's participation, to which he already agreed. Horikita also accepted but Ichinose tells everyone that she is officially withdrawing from the student council. She voices her low class position as well as past history as detriments to her rising up and so, she decides to not only forgo the election, but the council entirely. Nagumo says the past doesn’t define her future though Ichinose replied it doesn’t change or erase it. Kiriyama supported Ichinose, saying she’s serious and that no one has the right to stop her decision. She turns to Horikita and says she has her support. She then tells the rest that she is unwell and will leave first.

Nagumo was annoyed that his fun was taken away as he tells the new president to fill in the 2 missing vacancy of the council. With the bets off, Nagumo tasks Kiyotaka in helping Horikita find the replacements, with the conditions being one must be from their class and the other being from the first year, promising that she'll be informed as well. Kiyotaka went on to give Nagumo a souvenir, telling Kiriyama to share since he wasn’t aware he'll be here too. Nagumo predicted correctly that Kiyotaka's class was facing Arisu's Class A in the next special exam, as he says they have a good chance to win. He shares how this seasons of exams are usually advantageous for bottom classes to rise up and increase competition. Class A always has a lead, but this year's lead was unprecedentedly low.

With that, his plan of getting 20 million points were postponed as expected that it wasn’t going to be easy. Horikita waited for him outside as they agreed on how unexpected it was for Ichinose to do that. Horikita also ponders the veracity of Kiryuuin being framed and could only think someone did it for revenge. She invites Kiyotaka to join the student council but was quickly declined. She settled for him helping to find replacements but was also rejected as he says easy contenders like Yousuke would fit right in. Sensing his desire to leave quickly, Horikita tries to get his input about the previous special exam but was also shut out, with him pointing to 40 other classmates to ask about that. He tells her that he has no advice to give her but as a classmate, he will follow her orders if it's something akin to solving the hardest question, as he assures her it'll be correct.

Someone with B grade solving 5 hard questions makes her life easier. She shares how even though she won’t abuse her powers as president, she'll gladly dive into the grey area as well as make full use of its reputation. He was peeved that the seeds he sowed had created more issues, and Ichinose sudden action but it couldn’t be helped. He went on to update Kei with a call, who answered in an angry tone. He was able to appease her after giving a clear timeline.

Their relationship had progressed whereby Kiyotaka learnt that one's intuitiveness and perception couldn’t compare to the effectiveness of spending time and knowing another's feeling, to the extent that it becomes better than reading another's mind. Like how feelings can change from tense to serene instantly by using feelings. However, the pages of this books are quickly decreasing as each topic takes longer than the beginning. He was already ready to move to the next step as the end draws closer.

Chapter 2
Juggling between student president work and class leader work wasn’t easy for Horikita. She was grateful the class was motivated to study but was sad when reflecting on Airi. Kiyotaka reprimands her for getting hung up on the past. She was also glad to know Nagumo had convinced Kiyotaka to help her though he added he's doing so begrudgingly. She had already made the decision for the Y2 student as Kushida appears just then. She laughs when Horikita praised and invited her to join, baiting her with the role of vice-president. Horikita grabbed Kushida's hand and begged her openly, saying it will help to reach Class A and her wish to pay back the class.

Seeing how she was adamantly opposed and piecing all the pieces together instantly, Ichika stealthily interjected behind them by saying Kushida won’t be easily targeted if she was inside the council. Despite noticing her presence first, Kiyotaka kept silent and raised his dominance, something only Ichika could notice, as he glared at her so she wouldn’t go overboard. Ichika took the warning but still played with her enough to be an annoyance as she listed numerous irrefutable benefits for Kushida's case. He vouched for Ichika that she only heard the bare minimum. Deciding to help their cause, Ichika began poking Kushida all over, whom could only endure for her public persona. Ichika used Horikita's public weapon as her own weapon, forcing them to change to a more secluded location.

Wanting not to stay too long, Kiyotaka caution Ichika to not play much further when she antagonised the two girls. Kushida says she’ll only join if Horikita kowtowed to her which Horikita quickly did so. With her position secured, more power given, as well as ability to shame Horikita constantly, Kushida was more than appeased. Kiyotaka grabbed Ichika's arm as they moved away, listening to Horikita ashamed plea to only let Kushida see this sight.

Afterward, Horikita felt humiliated but justified after getting Kushida's assistance. Kiyotaka says she could had been smarter in choosing another tactic that wouldn’t tarnish her dignity but she glossed past his words. Kiyotaka recommended Ichika to be on the council as well, stating her OAA was more than qualified, though Horikita says Ichika wasn’t what she envisioned her council to be. She went on to find her candidate, leaving Ichika and Kiyotaka to talk. The former saying she was testing Kushida and how much stronger she’s gotten psychologically. It was a mistake for her to pick a fight with three Whiteroom students, but she was able to get stronger out of it, even if they didn’t take her seriously.

She tagged alone to also inspect the new president, wondering whether to join herself. Kiyotaka says she could had made it in if she sternly made her case to Horikita, though the key word is seriously. She was still in year one and could make herself known in the future if she seriously intends to be a part of the council. With Yagami gone, Kiyotaka welcomes her to turn her malice to him if she ever so wished. Horikita came back with news of Ishigami's whereabouts, with Ichika praising her for noticing her classmate. He was a class adviser of Class 1A and walked past coincidentally in front of them. Ishigami rejected the offer as they understood that with no one coming forward, none were interested in the council. Horikita decides to choose from Class 1D instead, with Ichika offering Housen's name jokingly.

Nanase greeted them outside 1D's classroom and asked to be a part of it after hearing Horikita's objective. Kiyotaka and Ichika vouched for her OAA and serious attitude, which sold Horikita on the idea. She was against the latter for her attitude and personality despite being high in terms of abilities. Exchanging contact, Horikita promises to disseminate Nagumo's action and put in good word that Kiyotaka helped her. Ichika left soon after as Horikita invites him to join a study session reasoning Kei would be involved. He decides to attend, surprising Horikita though not because of her reason.

Kei was happy to see him attend but was soon dissatisfied when he said it was only for a short visit. Sudou was also late as he wore his glasses. He shared that he has found studying to be fun instead of a chore, thus, he was able to continue without being burnt out. He also wanted to expand his opportunities if he fails in basketball. His words inspired the weaker students to also work harder as they started studying.

The day after, Kiyotaka tried to avoid meeting Nagumo in the student council room but was dragged by Horikita. Kiyotaka quipped that the council would run fine even without her as they saw the two new members getting along. Nagumo laughed at Horikita's boldness in appointing Kushida, and said it was a first that girls outnumbered the boys internally. With that, Nagumo approved the procedure and reluctantly moved from the president's chair, leaving it to Horikita and officially stepping down. He found it a pity that despite having much power, he couldn’t overturn the school decisions in many aspects, but was still able to implement the transfer ticket. Kiyotaka took his leave and allowed them to continue the formalities, knowing Horikita's goal was to make her name known as the president that started from Class D at 0 points and graduating as Class A.

A unexpected guy texted Kiyotaka to meet whom agreed to do so at 2pm. Kiryuuin walked by Kiyotaka and was about to storm inside the room again before being told that the new president was being inaugurated. She begrudgingly stopped and asked for some of his time. He knew she wanted to use his expertise instead of knowing through Nagumo and expanding more effort. He excused himsel by saying that Kei was waiting for him, though she retorted back that the duties of girlfriends include patiently waiting for the house patriarch, which was ironic to say for herself.

She threatened to disclose his displays during the uninhabited island exam if he didn’t help her find the culprit. He tells her that she should had done it from the start but she instead tried to have a friendly relationship with him. Despite not wanting to go against a third year, he decides to help her out slightly.

Chapter 3
Kanzaki contacted Kiyotaka and brought along his classmates Himeno, Watanabe and Amikura. They decide to use the Karaoke room to conduct their meeting, the latter two only coming since they heard that they were meeting Kiyotaka. Kanzaki decides that now is the prime time to move forward. Kanzaki wanted everyone to write a credible oath of secrecy but eventually settled with their verbal promises. They heard that their class leader Ichinose had quit the student the council, but nothing concrete has ensured that yet. Some gossiped that Kiyotaka was the replacement, as he confirms the formal while rejected the latter. Himeno asks if Ichinose had given up on Class A, though the newer two defended her. Nonetheless, without communicating, Ichinose only sowed doubts into everyone’s mind.

Kanzaki was 70% while Himeno was 50% sure Ichinose had given up on Class A. They had no right to blame Ichinose as both ideals clashed. Kanzaki looked to Kiyotaka for confirmation as he too was shocked by her action. He tells them that classmates should know more about her than someone who doesn’t spend every day in class with her. He tells Kanzaki there was no need for secrecy to find her intention, and that he shouldn’t be content only having a few like minded people, that would never change the class. Kiyotaka tells them to look for small changes to see her mindset. They recalled but she was still unchanged after resigning, it was only the island exam that she wasn’t herself. The boys were clueless as Amikura asked Kiyotaka what she should do. Himeno instantly knew as she answered Kanzaki that Kiyotaka had a role in Ichinose's lack of energy.

Cutting in, Kiyotaka said he received a confession from Ichinose but was unable to answer her, shocking everyone. Shibata and the others would be shattered hearing this as Kanzaki wonders if things would be better if Kiyotaka broke up with Kei and dated their leader. Kiyotaka says that such a thing can’t be decided due to another student’s suggestion as he brought them back to Ichinose's reason. They wondered if it was reluctance to fight Ryuen but it was unlikely. The bottom line was that as leader, she's obligated to tell the class her thoughts, and if she steps down, she would then regain the personal freedom to choose to fight or give up. The other two began to come to terms but was against betraying Ichinose though they could see if she decided to cover up the truth and bluff them to provide false security.

Kanzaki had also called the tardy Hamaguchi along as had planned to use him as Ichinose's replacement. Kiyotaka compares him to Yosuke from his class in role as he thanks him for helping him out during the island exam. Unexpectedly, they already had 5 members, 3 being official, whilst the two promises to not say anything. As Kanzaki was about to share the next stage, the door was burst opened by Ishizaki who notices Kiyotaka. Most likely Ryuen had ordered them to consistently disturbed their classmates, this being no different as they were chased away.

The newer unofficial members shared how it wasn’t just Ichinose, but also Kanzaki's strong voice that stifled many opinions. Amikura hated the lack of transparency and them having to rely on Kiyotaka. She questioned Himeno on her sudden change, though the latter rebuts saying it isn’t new, but something she bother sharing since no one would listen. After Amikura relented, Kanzaki bowed his head and asked Kiyotaka to go on a date with Ichinose, to find her mental state, intention and future plan. Kiyotaka was already on board and easily accepted, assuring them that Kei wouldn’t be an issue.

He found their growth to be a great harvest, and readily accepted their proposal so their progress won’t be impede. He started pondering how to approach Ichinose, her mental state being the main factor. Watanabe shares with him privately that if it was done earlier, he and many other students would have jumped to Kanzaki's wagon faster as he also reveals having a crush of Amikura. He requested Kiyotaka to inquire whether Ichinose knows Amikura was dating elsewhere. He promised to do so but told him to manage his expectation, as the latter thanked him profusely.

After departing, Kiyotaka received a picture of Kei snuggled closely with Satou. He glanced past it and called Ichinose who was preparing dinner. He asks for just the two of them to meet up tomorrow, and explain that it was just to hang out and not on official business. He added that he just wants to meet her which caused her to yelp. She agreed, saying she wants to meet him too, as he spent the rest of the day alone.

At night, they shared a couple texts when he notices Himeno standing and gazing at the sky. She invites him to walk back together and shares how his words hit her sore spots. He says it natural for her to be anxious since her class dynamics are changing, and answers conditionally that Ichinose's class could reach Class A. Himeno was shocked he didn’t say it was impossible, though he added that everyone must be willing to change. He shares how he strongly desires to see how much and far Ichinose's class could go, and he's willing to impede his own class if need be. If they were in deep trouble, he would come to their aid. She became innocently assured as he tells her to continue having that confident face, making her blush.

They walked in different ways after noticing a sitting Kei nearby. Kei was waiting for him and asks why he walking walking alone with Himeno. She wanted to shop with him tomorrow, though Kiyotaka said he would be spending time with Ichinose alone. He explains Kanzaki's plea and despite understanding, she was uncomfortable with it. She tells him of possible alternatives but he rejects them all. Kei was confused why he helped their rivals so much and was hurt when he couldn’t share his reason with her. He knew the best way was to reassure her but he wanted to know the result of the opposite. He invites her to mess up his meeting and said that if she couldn’t, she will patiently wait for him next week. She was running to the store at a pace that was inviting him to catch up and chase after her, but instead, Kiyotaka broke his gaze and turned towards the dorms. He wanted their gap as a couple to widen and see how she would react, so that he too will also find out whether he would react if at all.

Chapter 4
The time to meet Ichinose approached as Kiyotaka was certain Kei didn’t stalk him but wasn’t sure of the future. If she does, he would stand his ground as he turned his thoughts to Ichinose's thoughts and feelings. She was already there waiting for him as the atmosphere seemed rather fresh and free from tension. When looking at her more closely, she dropped her eyes so as to not look directly at him. He didn’t want to maintain silence with her for long since he came to understand her daily routine. He began by giving a good impression of Watanabe and praised her ability to make friends with everyone. He wanted to learn from her but she was unaware that she naturally had this drawing. At 10am, they entered the mall as he assures her that his timing today was flexible and had no limitations.

Knowing she was more intuitive than an average student, Kiyotaka assumed she had already guessed his secret intention assigned by her classmate but not his outward intention yet. She brought him to the gym as an introduction to what she does on her days off. She had already done this for over two months. As she went to change, a male staff began explaining the procedure. Amikura was surprised to see the two of them at the gym. She whispered to Ichinose that her clothing was rather new, causing her to blush and hide from Kiyotaka's view.

Telling them not to worry, they began with training on the treadmill. 30 minutes later they took a break as Ichinose went to collect herself after being embarrassed the whole time. Amikura says Ichinose has been smiling way more now with him and asks if he'll celebrate with Kei or Ichinose. She wanted her friend to be happy, but breaking up a current relationship is too far for her currently. Kiyotaka asks if Watanabe could be a substitute, though Amikura rebuts that Ichinose deserves someone better. She revealed that she has had a crush for 5 years, which allowed Kiyotaka to give an answer to Watanabe.

As Ichinose returned, they continued for another hour. Amikura intentionally stayed behind to allow the other two to proceed with their date. Ichinose comments that they'll see other more often as Kiyotaka seriously intends to join the gym regularly. He thanks her for thinking about their appearance but voices that he doesn’t mind moving to a public spot to rest, even if they are seen. As they rested at a cafe, Ichinose asks if he was here to find her reasoning behind leaving the council. He affirms it as she thanks him for his honesty. In reality, he was rather sure she would win against Horikita, and if Nagumo had picked to support Horikita, he would have thrown his full weight behind supporting Ichinose. She was flatted, happy but slightly poignant as she didn’t felt like she deserved to win on a psychological level.

She assures him that she hasn’t given up on Class A, and that his words of lending her a hand stirred her resolved. She didn’t want to fight a war on two front so she decided to focus on just one. The council would had split her attention, with the worry outweighing the pros. She would tell her class this next week, as Kiyotaka finally relaxed, knowing she had gained a strength stronger than what the council president could provide. With that, he asked her whether she knew the type of boy Amikura likes, freezing her instantly.

Her reaction made Kiyotaka for the first time want to look away as she comments how uncharacteristic it was for him to ask and that his namedrop was rather cute. As she stared deeply into him, making him uncomfortable, she decides to stop playing with Kiyotaka's feelings and says Watanabe has come to rely on him much. She figured out the entire context without a single clue from him, shocking Kiyotaka at how intuitive and in tune she was to things around her. She also noticed how he was communicating with Amikura through their eyes and deduced they had met beforehand, and that some in their class had entrusted him to find out her state. She was scary enough for Kiyotaka to want to clap for her while averting his eyes towards a waitress, though that didn’t stop her gaze. She showed no reaction when she explained how she didn’t want to entertain the thought of him being curious of Amikura, which astonished him yet again. Her glare finally broke when she blurted out how she has always been watching him.

Kiyotaka apologies to Watanabe and confessed to Ichinose, though he did leave out his name. Ichinose answered that she isn’t aware if Amikura likes anyone from the school, but she presumes from her demeanour that Amikura hasn’t fully gotten over someone from middle school before, which was in fact true. Her growth was incredible as Kiyotaka admitted his failure of keeping the situation clandestine whereby Ichinose was now able to piece everything together easily. She had mentally recovered and now has no intention of keeping her love for him secret either. Kiyotaka found the current her to be hard to read, something the other leaders will soon learn as well.

They walked around the mall for a while and it started raining after they left for lunch. She thanks him for the time spent while he apologises for being sneaky. She was grateful as it lead them to spend time together but worries that Kei would be anxious. She asks who confessed first, to which he replied he did so. Ichinose answered that she was jealous but Kiyotaka felt no negativity coming from her. She was in tune to her feelings, yet it doesn’t feel like she gave up. Ichinose offers to explain to Kei since she was still angry, though Kiyotaka said it was his responsibility. They finally separated after a day together, eyes not looking away until the elevator door closed. Kiyotaka went on to write a report to Kanzaki. He was surprised that Kei didn’t contact him as he anticipates what this new aggressive Ichinose has in store.

Chapter 5
Many students were studying for the upcoming test. The lower academic score students had more responsibilities and some were slowly burning out. Shinohara smacked Ike for displaying affection and told him to do it after they’re done focusing. Their collective motivation now was to not be given a reason for expulsion.

As Kiyotaka walked down a corridor, he saw a blend of Class C and D students making noise as well as Hashimoto being nearby witnessing everything. Ishizaki shouted and demanded Ichinose to show her face as Shibata was holding him back. Ryuen was smiling at the back when Ichinose broke through the grip of the students sheltering her and exited the class. Ryuen remarked that the idiotic council quitter finally showed her face, and that she was likely kicked out. Ichinose wasn’t shaken in the slightest and embraced his words, knowing nothing would deter him. Ryuen continued, trying to remove any chances and impetus for them to rise again.

With an unflinching smile, Ichinose reassured Kanzaki and disquieted Ryuen, asking whether he was done. She welcomed his words but warns him from hindering others. Smiling in sowing doubt, Ryuen pulled out as the other students dispersed. Ichinose went on to approach Kiyotaka with a smile, apologising for creating a scene. After being told she was fine, he was confused when Ichinose said that the blatant provocation worked in her favour. She ended with a see you later, causing Kiyotaka's curiosity in what those words meant to rise.

Hashimoto addresses Arisu as princess and begs her to do something early against Class B. She says that Ryuen was doing the same thing but in different ways as she was disinterested in his worries. Noting his dissatisfaction at them doing nothing, she states that manpower had to be exhausted to use a tactic like Ryuen's, with the benefits being minuscule compared to if they study. She even added that hiring other years to do it for them won’t bring much results. Additionally, their reputation would be tarnished by the school if they had to resort to such dirty methods. She objected to him acting alone as any blame would be turned to the Class. She further explained that such moves could only be done by Ryuen since his class lacks academics, so instead of doing the impossible such as raising grades, it was easier to sabotage their rivals and lower their grades.

She explained that the school has geared it so the lower classes had higher chances to win and gain points. Thus, even if they lose, they shall use this to gain intelligence. She argues that their final test was already predetermined to be against Ryuen, so a lost at this stage would hardly be a setback. Hashimoto apologies for his words and left soon after. Kaneda saw the whole thing and laughed at his outburst. Kaneda shares how the winner between a three way battle between those classes in Year 3 would be way more interesting and Class A worthy, compared to if one class took a substantial lead by Year 2. Hashimoto went to resolve himself on finally choosing one class to stay in soon, be it Arisu, Ryuen or even Horikita.

Kiyotaka declined a study session hosted by Horikita. Kei has also been distanced from him but observes his every moves. He then decided to settle the troublesome matter of Fuuka being framed as a shoplifter. He decides to go straight to the source and went to the gym to find her. After practice, he followed her and saw her crying near the stairs to the rooftop. He excused himself but his sleeve was grabbed by Asahina, a year 3 Class A student. Apparently she was crying because a friend of hers from Class C was expelled for a serious violation recently, and no one has told her the reason. Kiyotaka thought that if the school themselves hid it, she must have done something desperate to reach Class A. Nagumo was probably informed but he didn’t care much for a small fry. When he began his term, he vowed that anyone with talent would graduate from Class A.

She divulged the conditions he laid out, but the most key part was that one has to transfer 75% of points earned to Nagumo monthly. He probably wanted a lottery at the end of the year. He being the sole receiver also stops rebellion from growing. For class A, their tax was 50%, which equates to the same amount for other students so dissent won’t occur from lower classes. She was grateful that they were in Class B and how Nagumo worked hard and their class eventually became Class A. She was crying because her friend's expulsion was the result of Class A's rule. Kiyotaka requested her helping in giving an objective view of Yamanaka. She felt heartened to be depended on since many had a poor impression due to her proximity with Nagumo.

She had saw Kiryuuin earlier stepping on Absai from Class D looking disgruntled. Thus, Asahina understood quickly on how she may had been wrongly framed as a shoplifter. Kiyotaka asks her to set up a meeting between him and Yamanaka. After a short text, the meeting was set, with the two sharing some light conversations. A few minutes before the appointed time, a lone guy confirms Kiyotaka's name through Asahina, and asks for his intention to meet with Yamanaka. He tells Kiyotaka not to disobey Nagumo and that he is bound by a contract with him. Kiyotaka deduced that hush money was given to him and that he was one of many to frame Kiryuuin. Kiyotaka took out a camera and verbally recounted whatever was said, scaring Tachibana who left quickly. His silence helped convey who the real framer was as Kiyotaka thanked Asahina.

Returning to his room, he saw that Kei hadn’t contacted him and decides to solve Fuuka's situation first. As he exited the elevator, he saw Ichinose who welcomed him back outside his door. She had waited at the spot since 4.30 where they separated, and it was now about 6. Recalling her words, he wished she had called first but Ichinose wanted to ask whether he had made up with Kei. Answering with a no, her face was unreadable to him as he invited her to his room for a chat. She saw the many changes in the room and said it has become much cuter as they recounted the last time they were here. He remembered what he made that day and brewed Cocoa for her again. He praises girls for enduring the winter weather just with skirts, with Ichinose replying that she has gotten used to it.

She went on to ask how he came to like Kei since the school only knows her for dating Yousuke. He was unsure himself but said it was the process of working in the same class together. Ichinose comments that Kei is cute which Kiyotaka also agrees. He shows her the gym form he had filled up to reassure her when she was worried of how they spent their date. This elates Ichinose as it meant they had more chances to be together. She reveals the something she really wanted to tell him, and requested that he sits next to her on the bed. She had wanted closure and wanted to use their first and last date to release her feelings and bless his relationship. However, she realised that was a wrong way of thinking, and nothing would change if she chose not to meet him anymore. She had vowed to not ask about Kei back then, since prior to that, her heart had always ache hearing it.

Her curiosity got the better of her as she asked him that question, surprisingly, the answer she received made her feel no tinge of sadness. That resulted in her accepting that she does love him, that it was not something disposable as her eyes communicated her intentions of not letting him go. She realised how much again she loved him and that she had to change to be worthy of him. She then sought his permission to touch his face as he jokingly agrees. With both hands and a blush face, this was the first time she did this with anyone or felt romantic love for anyone. Even after all the pain and failures that has happened and is currently happening, this was the moment that she was happiest, and her heart was beating quickly. No matter how much pain she has to endure, she realises that just being next to the person she loves, fills her completely.

He brings up the question he asked her before of what she wants. She resolutely replies that she wants to be in Class A. Perhaps even more resolutely, she wants another thing which was Kiyotaka himself, her grip geting tighter as she answers. She started to pull his face closer but stopped, not wanting to take that last immoral step. She knows that he has Kei but the difference now is that she will change to be someone Kiyotaka would want to look at. She tells him to watch her from now on, Kiyotaka replying that he was always going to do that even if she didn’t want it. They agree at the end of the school year again, as he makes a promise to meet again, just the two of them as he gives his answer. Her enthusiasm, maturity and mentally have all significantly improved.

Kiyotaka monologues that Ichinose dependence was unlike Kei's. It has become one of her greatest strengths but could also be a weakness. Its natural for her to want the object of her desire to return her 'i love you', the desire to touch and go beyond. Unlike Kei, she won’t beg but is determined to win and earned that pledge herself. As she pulls her hand back slowly, she tells him to make up with Kei soon and waved goodbye. The room was full of citrus smell as he ponders what world she will end up creating. Would she affect those around and change even his mind too? This has undoubtedly made him look forward to school much more.

Chapter 6
The day of the special exam, the order had been decided. She allowed Koenji to do as he pleases, resigned to losing 4 points. With the preparation done, Kiyotaka felt their victory had a higher probability due to the conditions set by the school. After the end of the exam, Kei came forward and said it was time for her to forgive Kiyotaka. Horikita wanted to borrow him much to Kei’s dismay but eventually relented after it was Kiriyama that called them to the student council. When alone, Kiyotaka says she doesn’t have to obey orders from them anymore, however, she replies that its purely respect for seniors. Nanase was following them as secretary and had already prepared her materials to do her job.

Bot Nagumo and Kiriyama were waiting for the new council as the former explained how Fuuka is attempting to pursue a lawsuit against the council. He left his seat and allowed the new president to be seated, though he was slightly curious why Kushida was chosen to be her deputy. With Horikita having that position, he had no say towards the matter as they turned their minds to the tardy Fuuka. She eventually arrives and was ready to answer the new president's questions. She explains her intention to sue and how Yamanaka confessed it was Nagumo. He rejected the accusation and said he had long since lost interest in her and wouldn’t risk his reputation on something so publicised. Horikita went on to ask Kiriyama of his objective opinion as he says Nagumo isn’t the type to do things so haphazardly and is likely neither Nagumo nor Yamanaka as the mastermind.

Fuuka was still convinced that Nagumo was guilty and anyone that said otherwise was against her, even if the evidence piled up contradicts her. Horikita tells Fuuka not to report it to the school, as without evidence, an innocent person may just be punished for nothing. Still wanting an apology from the culprit, Horikita asks for a report from Kiyotaka's research. Nagumo stopped himself from interrupting the new president's first task but reasons that he never told Tachibana to do anything. Horikita agrees with Nagumo, saying if Fuuka wasn’t close to Tachibana, he wouldn’t be incentivised to harm her, hinting there was still a third party who convinced Yamanaka and Tachibana to do it. Kiyotaka did not give Horikita the full information to her and wanted to see whether her deduction will still be correct as she thought for a while before elaborating.

Horikita chose to believe both Nagumo who said he never gave any orders, as well as the two who said Nagumo had ordered them. Thus, she explained that someone close in power and relation to Nagumo had used his name to persuade the others into believing without the former president's knowledge. She confronts the former vice-president Kiriyama to confirm whether he was the one pulling the strings, shocking everyone. He says that Kiyotaka's words can’t be proven and that he would never crossed Nagumo. Fuuka agrees that a dog would never threaten its master. Horikita asks Nagumo if she could call upon the two witnesses, as he tells her to do as she pleases as President. Kiriyama started to crack as he admits that it was him.

His condition to Tachibana was that if he succeeds in having Fuuka framed for shoplifting and not be caught. he would be guaranteed a spot in Class A. Nagumo said that if he had succeeded, Kiriyama's plot would have unravelled. He chose Fuuka knowing it will fail, and adjusted the time schedule meeting to ensure conflict between parties would arise. All to shut down the student council election and decrease Ichinose's self-esteem. He could have done it himself, but he knew Fuuka's words would be more painful for her.

Fuuka admitted defeat and clapped. He elaborated that had he known Ichinose would voluntarily drop out, he would have had no need to resort to this. Kiriyama explains that this was an outright rebellion towards Nagumo arbitrary decisions, and he would have bought votes to win if need be. He was tired of Nagumo using the Year 3s as his plaything, and being the scorn of others for standing close to him. Nagumo was impressed since he only chooses the most self-centred and competent people to be in Class A, yet here he was.

He threatened to rescind Kiriyama ticket to Class A as Fuuka tries to leave early, leaving the punishment to Nagumo. Horikita stops them all and lays out her conditions, stating that as President, she is going to have a say regarding this matter. It was highly likely Kiriyama wanted to be found out as he didn’t chose the safest option such as secretly contacting Ichinose to resign. Her answer made her figure overlapped with her brother in Kiriyama's eyes. Nagumo didn’t reject the blame of ignoring many year 3s and would accept Horikita's decision no matter what it was for solving this puzzle. She wants Kiriyama to apologise to Fuuka and to voluntarily suspend himself from school for a week, as punishment for dragging unrelate parties. For Nagumo, she makes him promise not to deprive Kiriyama of his ticket as it was his fault that a contract was created in the first place. Lastly, she orders him to use the points he collected to only benefit the year 3s.

Nagumo accepted the terms, deeming it foolish to refuse the president, looking crestfallen as if he had given up on something whilst Kiriyama was unconvinced and looking at the future. Horikita declares the case closed and forbids all present from speaking of this as not even the school should be made aware.

Sae announced that Horikita's class won against Airus's class in the special exam. 50 points were added and deducted from winning and losing teams, causing them to close in on Class A as everyone including Sae broke into a smile. Immediately, Ichinose sent a congratulatory text to Kiyotaka while Kei kept looking at him. He left the classroom but it was Horikita who chased after him. He sad her strategy was interesting as even she was unsure of its effectiveness. Using Keisei, one of the top students, he was tasked to finish two questions quickly and use the remaining time to find the easiest question. He would then show that number with his hands to the student entering the room. This saved ample time while not breaking any rules.

Class A had 86% of the answers right whilst Class B had 72%. Horikita wasn’t disappointed but frustrated. Although they were still sure Arisu was, despite her streak of being first in written exams continuing. She asks what happened for Kei to be so upset, with Kiyotaka replying that it was a cold war. It was natural for a male and female to do so after a long time together, saying it was a good experience. Additionally, she achieved great results. Horikita agrees but was dissatisfied, saying Kei could easily affect the morale of the class and asked him to make up with her soon. Kiyotaka blew it off and left soon after.

Ichinose's class standing was back in the running for Class A after winning against Ryuen. Coincidentally both Ichinose and Arisu had contacted Kiyotaka to meet after the exam as they were curious of each other's presence. Arisu congratulated both their victories, saying Ichinose's overwhelming victory was unexpected when she thought it was at most a 50-50. It could only be done by a focused leader giving clear instructions. Seeing her positivity improved, Arisu knew something happened to Ichinose as he warns her not to be obsessed with one thing again. She gave Ichinose an ultimatum, which was to distance herself from Kiyotaka immediately.

Ichinose was unbothered as she rebuts that no matter what feelings she has, its not compulsory for her to do as she says when its by virtue as friends. She was free to speculate but Ichinose rejected her words, stating that if Kiyotaka didn’t have complains about it, she won’t need to change her mindset. Arisu says she’s practically fully controlled by him and that she didn’t want her to be unrecoverable. Ichinose says she isn’t being controlled and states that Arisu's strategy is obvious. By sowing doubts, Arisu wants to control Ichinose instead and use her for convenience. More importantly, Ichinose recognised earlier than anyone else that Arisu has also taken Kiyotaka to be special and harbours feelings for him, thus her presence is a nuisance.

For the first time, it was Ichinose that was undeterred whilst Arisu was upset. Someone who used to stand above her in every way was just brought down from her pedestal. Ichinose confronted Arisu’s denial and lack of awareness of her own feelings, causing her evaluation and cautiousness of Ichinose to shoot up quickly as she warns Ichinose not to regret and plead for her help next time. Even Kiyotaka himself felt a strong effect of Ichinose’s counter-attack, which meant it definitely caused some damage to Arisu. Ichinose ended by saying she has a Karaoke to go to as she turns and waved goodbye to Kiyotaka.

Arisu never thought that she had to reevaluate Ichinose again, saying it was a shame to lose a good pawn. Kiyotaka said she missed the point. Ichinose abilities were never low, and with love in the equation, the unexpectedness give rise to surprises. Regardless if she was suited to be a leader or an advisor, Kiyotaka had faith that she has the capabilities to oppose Horikita, Ryuen and even Arisu. In fact, in certain situations, she surpasses them.

Though her hidden power was unforeseen, all it changed was who was the one to take her out. Arisu had no intention of keeping her around and would had been rid of her after her use was up. She tells Kiyotaka that she’ll visit his room soon too.

Epilogue
Kei was at the mall with Satou. The latter had realised the her best friend relationship has been unusually distant. She points to the fact that Kei invited her instead of Kiyotaka out during their breaks when Ike and Shinohara had already went to the movies. Kei honestly asked her for some advice. Despite not thinking it might happen, she still thought that at the current pace, she might be breaking up with Kiyotaka. Seeing her serious face, Satou was shocked that their fight lasted for so long.

Satou blamed Kiyotaka after hearing the issue as a whole. Ichinose wasn’t dating anyone either so it further added to the issue. Kei regretted not listening and understanding him better leading to this. Satou knew Kei wouldn’t lose to just anyone in terms of looks and personality. But if that person was the formidable Ichinose, even as Kei’s best friend, she couldn’t lie and say Kiyotaka wouldn’t choose Ichinose over his current relationship. Satou couldn’t fathom that Kiyotaka could switch girls, however, this became a likely possibility only because it was Ichinose and no one else.

Kei decides not to be hung up on it and to see him tonight, to resolve their fight and to have fun with Satou now. She elatedly opened her phone, thinking it was Kiyotaka message that just came in. She froze soon after. Satou saw the screen and it was Ichinose and Kiyotaka together in the gym. Kei didn’t even know he went to the gym and just then, Ichinose coincidentally appeared before them. She answered their questions with a smile and dispelled their doubts that there was something with happening between herself and Kiyotaka.

Ichinose apologised for any misunderstandings and said Kiyotaka helped them rise from Class D position when none of them could. He gave them the strength and will to continue, and therefore, Kanzaki and Mako names were mentioned when Kei name dropped the former. Kei began to be more light-hearted. Lastly, Ichinose and Kiyotaka had an alignment of interest. It served his class well if a weaker class like Ichinose defeated and pulled down Ryuen’s class. She said this to address their concerns when they couldn’t comprehend why Kiyotaka wanted to help.

Ichinose took responsibility for the cause of the couple’s rift and offered to help mend them if so desired. Kei thanked her, completely agreeing to everything she said as she left with Satou. As they walked away, Ichinose muttered softly to their backs that there was currently nothing between Kiyotaka and herself, not yet anyway. She walked away confidently, leaving her perfume scent behind.

Ichinose waited for Ryuen who was 10 minutes late from their appointed time. They stood at earshot distance from one another as it downpour heavily on their umbrellas. She said she didn’t care that Ryuen was late when he asked her, and would have left if he didn’t appear after 30 minutes. She was unbothered by him and cared more about the weather. Her attitude and way of answering was different as Ryuen inquired why his plan failed. She replied that it was annoying for them when he used the same ruse but he had no way of winning even if it was the smartest and most efficient way.

He praised her for growing so much since year 1, and was confident this would have broken her class, yet she somehow pulled them through. In the past, she would have forbid any study sessions for health and safety concerns, yet this time, she took the effort to trick him into thinking his strategy was working. If it was Kiyotaka or Arisu, it would be unsurprising, but for Ichinose, he wonders if it was a desperate counterattack that worked, or if someone had helped her. She simply answers that no one gave her wisdom as her class just ignored the noise around them.

She told him that he should have made his class study since it may have worked like how Horikita’s class did. Ryuen felt she was rather haughty for winning one battle and attaining Class C again, but swears he would never change and will take her down outside the exams. She accepted all his vitriolic words and didn’t deny that this exam helped them. However, Ryuen couldn’t sense a single crack in her that was obvious in the past. He tells her that Kiyotaka’s class is more of a nuisance than Arisu. All of them are seeing who is the first to take her down since she was the weakest and that was her fate. He couldn’t believe how lucky Kiyotaka was to take on “small fries” instead of the bigger fishes. She agrees that if they lose in the finals, it would be over for her class.

He advises her to save up money and transfer to Class A. For someone like her, getting 20 million through trust is easy. The school would support her unlike him or Arisu if they used the same means. Ichinose hearing enough turns to leave. Ryuen tells her that when expulsion is on the line, he will do everything he can to erase the friends she’s desperately protecting for almost 2 years. He wasn’t taking her seriously nor as an obstacle, but merely using this threat as a check. Smiling, she returns the favour, saying she’ll expel him before he even has the chance. For lying so boldly, Ryuen was already surprised at the good natured girl. She tells him that like he said, she doesn’t have a future and shouldn’t be thought of. Ryuen smile disappears as the rain pours heavier.

He had been trying to convince himself that Ichinose was no threat, yet this entire ordeal only showed how insistent he was. She declares that she won’t show mercy for anyone anymore and will use any means to win. There was no more time for her to worry of extraneous things. Ryuen wasn’t sure if she was bluffing and says that if she’s serious, she should get rid of Kei to get close to Kiyotaka. He even offers to help her as they get rid of Kei together. Ryuen was fishing for an emotion yet all he got was the same unreadable smile. She won’t expel Kei because of her personal emotion, but she’s selfish enough on other matters. Ryuen only got back a “who knows” when he inquired her meaning. Something unpleasant clung to his entire body as all the analysis of Ichinose he had was negated.

Ironically, it was Ichinose that had no interest in Ryuen the entire time. As she walked past him, he took his words back. He had a premonition and looked to her back, saying his class was the lucky one after all, to not run into her in the final exam. It was a remark to respect for that moment, where he felt more danger from Ichinose than Arisu. Something Arisu, Kiyotaka and now Ryuen learnt first-hand well, where she became completely new and unpredictable.