In the End, I Hate It

The door to the Service Club creaked open, and I stepped inside with a lazy wave. "Yo."

Yukinoshita didn't even glance at me, but the slight tilt of her head and the subtle curve of her lips told me she was already gearing up for a remark. "Did you get lost on the way again, Hikigaya-kun? Or were you wandering aimlessly, as usual?"

"Ha, ha. Very funny," I replied, slouching slightly to mask how drained I felt. "But no, I didn't get lost. Unlike you, I know how to follow the most efficient route. Straight through minimal effort."

She raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed, but didn't push further. Small victories.

Yuigahama, sitting on her usual chair, waved enthusiastically. "Hikki! You're late! We were starting to think you weren't coming."

"I didn't know my presence was so eagerly anticipated," I said, letting my sarcasm do the heavy lifting. My eyes wandered over to Hirata, who stood awkwardly in the middle of the room like a transfer student unsure of where to sit in this empty room.

Seriously, they couldn't have offered him a chair? I sighed and walked over to one of the unused ones by the wall. Without a word, I dragged it over and plopped it down before him. "Here. Unless standing awkwardly is part of your plan."

Hirata looked genuinely relieved, flashing a polite smile. "Thank you, Hikigaya-kun."

Seriously, what happened to this guy?

"No problem," I said, retreating to my own chair—the throne of the rational one.

"Well," Yukinoshita said, closing her book with a soft thud. Her tone was sharp but lacked venom, a subtle jab rather than a full strike. "Since you were so fashionably late, we've already begun discussing the matter without you."

I leaned back in my chair, resting my elbow on the armrest. "I was busy getting a MAX COFFEE. You know, priorities."

Yukinoshita sighed, her gaze sharp but faintly amused. "As expected of you, Hikigaya-kun. Your dedication to poor time management remains unmatched."

Yuigahama smiled, covering her mouth with her hand.

I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. It wasn't like MAX COFFEE was a bad choice; it was just misunderstood.

I turned my gaze toward Yukinoshita, who had already resumed her serene, ice queen-like posture, hands folded neatly on the table. "So, what's the idea?" I asked, letting my tone drip with just enough disinterest to make it clear I wasn't exactly thrilled to be here.

Hirata blinked, looking mildly surprised at the question being directed at her instead of him. Yukinoshita didn't seem fazed, though, if anything she looked a little amused. "As expected of you to remain oblivious to your role, Hikigaya-kun," she said smoothly. "I thought I made it clear when I asked you to bring Hirata-kun here."

"Yeah, you made it clear," I glared back. My energy reserves were already running low so please stop.

Yukinoshita ignored my sardonic mutterings with the precision of someone who had long since mastered the art of selective hearing. Instead, she turned her attention to Hirata. "We received a request to assist Class D with a rather… delicate matter."

Hirata looked taken aback, his polite smile faltering slightly. "A request? From who?"

Yukinoshita hesitated for a brief moment, as though considering her words carefully. "Under normal circumstances, I'd prefer to keep such information confidential," she began, her voice calm but firm. "However, since this matter concerns your class directly, I see no reason to withhold it from you."

She folded her arms, her gaze steady as she delivered the revelation. "The request came from Horikita Manabu-san."

For a split second, the room felt heavier, like everyone had collectively stopped breathing. Hirata's eyes widened in genuine surprise. "Horikita… Manabu-san? The Student Council President?"

Of course, it's him. Everything that reeks of calculated manipulation always traces back to that guy.

Hirata recovered quickly, his brows knitting together in thought. "Could this have something to do with Horikita-san in my class? They're siblings, right?"

Yuigahama's jaw dropped. "Wait, what?! Horikita-san has an older brother? And he's, like, the Student Council President? That's so unfair!"

"It's not that crazy," I muttered, more to myself than anyone else. If you think about it, she's got the same I'm smarter than you and I know it vibe. Must run in the family.

Yukinoshita cast me a sharp glance but didn't comment. Hirata, meanwhile, nodded slowly, the gears in his head clearly turning. "I've never seen the two of them interact, but… it makes sense. If they're siblings, maybe he's worried about her or the class."

"I wouldn't jump to conclusions about his motivations," Yukinoshita said coldly. "Whatever his reasons, the task at hand is to determine how to assist your class within the constraints of this Special Exam. Hirata-kun, you've expressed concerns about Class D's internal dynamics. Can you elaborate?"

Hirata's expression grew serious. "The situation in Class D is… difficult. There's no trust, and many of my classmates seem to have given up entirely. Some even seem to enjoy causing trouble for others, and it's hard to find common ground. I've tried to encourage teamwork, but… it's not enough."

Yukinoshita nodded, her gaze icy and analytical. "I see. The lack of cohesion stems from deeper issues—apathy, distrust, and a fractured sense of identity as a class. If we're to address this, we'll need a structured approach. Hikigaya-kun, what are your thoughts?"

I sighed, slouching further into my chair. "Why do I feel like this is going to involve a lot of unnecessary effort on my part? Fine. Let's break this down."

Plan no.1: Leverage Hirata's Influence - Planned by Yukinoshita.

Yukinoshita: "You're the closest thing Class D has to a leader, Hirata-kun. Even if some students are resistant, your influence could serve as a catalyst for change. By focusing on smaller groups of students who already respect you, you can gradually create a ripple effect."

Hirata: "I understand, but… I've tried to reach out before, and the results have been mixed. Some of my classmates respond well, but others…"

Hachiman: "That's because you're trying to save everyone at once. You don't need to. Focus on the ones who are salvageable. Let the rest figure things out on their own or not. It's their problem."

Yuigahama: "Hikki, that's so harsh! You can't just give up on people like that!"

Yukinoshita: "Hirata-kun, whether or not you realize it, your classmates look to you for guidance. They may not openly admit it, but you're their anchor. Start with the ones who respect you; their support could inspire others."

Hirata: "As I said before. Some of them are just so indifferent. I don't want to force anyone."

Hachiman: "That's your first mistake. Trying to get everyone on board is like herding cats. Focus on the ones who care enough to listen. The rest will either follow or stay in their bubble."

Yuigahama: "But what if the ones who don't listen feel left out? That could make things worse."

Hachiman: "Then they'll feel exactly how they've made the rest of the class feel—irrelevant."

Yukinoshita: "It's not about alienating anyone. The point is to create momentum. Once some students see results, the rest will be forced to reevaluate their apathy."

Hachiman: "That's just an optimistic way to say they'll just feel peer pressure."

Yuigahama: "Well, peer pressure can work sometimes, right? Like… when everyone starts eating at that one ramen place because it's trending."

Hachiman: "Yes, because ramen solves all societal issues. Brilliant insight, Yuigahama."

Plan no.2: Divide and Conquer (Small Wins First) - Planned by Yukinoshita.

Yukinoshita: "Instead of tackling the entire class, focus on resolving smaller, isolated conflicts. Addressing these issues individually might make the overall situation more manageable."

Hachiman: "Small wins, huh? So, like a whack-a-mole strategy but without the satisfaction of hitting anything."

Yuigahama: "Hikki, you don't always have to make everything sound miserable!"

Yukinoshita: "It's more effective than allowing the entire forest to go up in flames because you refuse to act."

Hachiman: "Debatable."

Yuigahama: "Maybe if you start with the people who are easiest to talk to, it won't feel so overwhelming. Like a chain reaction?"

Hirata: "That… might work. If I can resolve smaller problems first, it might build momentum. But how do we decide which issues to address first? There are so many…"

Yukinoshita: "Start with the most disruptive ones. Students who cause unrest affect the morale of others. Resolving their problems will create the greatest immediate impact."

Hachiman: "Hah, I will translate for you. Basically, target the loudest whiners first. Classic customer service strategy."

Yuigahama: "Or maybe start with the people who seem the most open to change? Like the nice ones! They might help convince others."

Hachiman: "Optimism again. How refreshing."

Yukinoshita: "Hirata-kun, focus on measurable results. If a small group starts functioning better, it will be harder for the rest to justify their own indifference."

Plan no.3: Control the Narrative (Change the Perception). - Planned by Yukinoshita.

Yukinoshita: "Class D views itself as inferior, and that mentality is self-reinforcing. If we can engineer a situation where they succeed, even in a minor way, it might shift their perspective."

Hachiman: "And if it backfires, it just confirms they're losers. Inspirational. You want to feed their delusions with a fake victory. Sounds about right."

Yuigahama: "Hikki! It's not fake if it helps them believe in themselves!"

Hachiman: "Sure, let's hand them a participation trophy while we're at it."

Yukinoshita: "Even a minor achievement can plant the seed of confidence. If they start seeing themselves as capable, their attitude might follow."

Hirata: "But how do we set something like that up? We don't have much time left..."

Yukinoshita: "We'll need to think carefully. It doesn't have to be elaborate—just something achievable and visible. After the first part of the Special Exam, the other two are still to be seen."

Hachiman: "Essentially, give them a win so they'll stop sulking for five minutes. Fine, but don't expect miracles."

Yukinoshita: "Your cynicism aside, instilling confidence could be pivotal. A minor success could have a disproportionate impact on morale. Still, let's think of another plan."

Plan no.4: Force a Common Enemy - Planned by Yukinoshita.

Yukinoshita: "Sometimes, unity is born from adversity. If we create a situation where Class D must compete against another class, the shared challenge might foster teamwork."

Hachiman: "And if they fail, it'll just confirm their inferiority complex. Great plan. Besides, this Special Exam isn't really one when we can force something like this."

Yuigahama: "Come on, Hikki, don't be like that! It could work if the stakes aren't too high."

Hirata: "If we frame it as a chance to prove themselves, it might motivate some of my classmates!"

Yukinoshita: "The risk is significant, but it depends on the framing. If we emphasize effort and improvement over results, it might still have a positive effect."

Hachiman: "Yes, because 'effort' always makes up for losing. Nothing says teamwork like a collective failure."

Yuigahama: "Hikki! At least pretend to be supportive!"

Hachiman: "Fine. Go team. Yay."

Plan no.5: Silent Sabotage - Planned by Hachiman.

Hachiman: "Or we could just let the class implode and see who survives. We let them crash and burn. Sometimes people only change when they hit rock bottom. Then the ones who actually care will pick up the pieces. Survival of the fittest and all that."

Yuigahama: "Hikki, that's terrible! You can't just let them fail on purpose! And your smile is disgusting!"

Hachiman: "Stop insluting me. It's terrible but effective. Sometimes people only change when they have no choice."

Yukinoshita: "Your utilitarianism is appalling, but I suppose there's some truth in it. This would be a last resort, however. Allowing complete failure could have irreparable consequences."

Hirata: "I don't think I could stand by and watch my classmates fall apart…"

Hachiman: "Then don't. Step in at the last second and be the hero. Everyone loves a comeback story."

Yuigahama: "Hikki! Stop giving advice that sounds so… evil!"

Hachiman: "I prefer to think of it as realistic. And stop talking bullshit, you never met a true evil."

Yuigahama: What's that supposed to mean, jerk!?

Conclusion:

Yuigahama: "So, which plan do we go with? Or maybe… a mix of them? Yukinon?"

Yukinoshita: "A hybrid approach might be best. Hirata-kun should focus on small victories first while subtly leveraging his influence. Meanwhile, we consider ways to shift the class's perception through a manageable success in morale."

Hachiman: "And if all else fails, let them crash and see who crawls out of the rubble."

Yuigahama: "No! No crashing!"

Hirata: "H-Ha ha... I'll do my best to help my classmates… without letting anyone crash."

...

Hirata stood up, straightening his posture with a smile that radiated gratitude.

"Thank you all for your help. I feel like I have a much clearer picture of what I need to do now."

His voice carried the warmth of someone who acknowledged the power of words, even if their weight alone wasn't enough to change reality.

"I'll give it everything I've got," he added, glancing at Yukinoshita and Yuigahama. "You've all been incredibly supportive, and I won't let it go to waste."

He bowed slightly—a gesture that somehow managed to convey both humility and resolve—then turned toward the door. Just before he left, he gave one last nod, his smile soft but determined. It was the look of someone ready to dive headfirst into the battlefield of Class D's dysfunction.

The door clicked shut behind him.

"Do you think this will really work?" Yuigahama asked, breaking the quiet. Her expression was a mix of optimism and doubt. "Hirata-kun seems so confident, but… can Class D really change in time?"

"It depends," Yukinoshita replied, her tone sharp as ever. "Hirata-kun's determination is commendable, but a leader is only as effective as the people willing to follow. And frankly, Class D lacks cohesion. His challenge isn't just inspiring but overcoming their deeply ingrained mindset of inferiority."

"Wow, that sounds super complicated…" Yuigahama muttered, scratching her head.

"It's human nature," Yukinoshita continued. "Groups often mirror the dynamics of their strongest voices. If those voices are apathetic or antagonistic, even the best leader will struggle to bring about change."

"But maybe if Hirata-kun tries really hard, it'll work?" Yuigahama said, a faint smile tugging at her lips. "Like, effort counts for something, right?"

"Effort is necessary, but sometimes insufficient," Yukinoshita countered. "The problem is systemic, not individual. However, if he manages to create even a minor shift, it could act as a catalyst for broader change."

Their conversation continued, but my mind was already elsewhere. The way they dissected the situation was almost admirable. Their sincerity was undeniable, but sincerity alone didn't win battles.

Yukinoshita's methods were sharp and logical, with her plans precise to a fault. She approached the problem as though it were a puzzle to be solved with careful strategy and flawless execution. It was impressive—disturbingly so. But beneath her methods lay a fragile idealism. She believed in order, in the idea that structure and determination could overcome chaos.

Yuigahama, on the other hand, was the heart of the group. Her faith in people was unshakable, almost childlike. To her, effort and positivity could pave the way forward. She didn't see the cracks in her own logic, the places where blind hope would falter.

Then there was Hirata. The eternal knight now, always ready to charge into the fray for the sake of others. He revealed his true courage and escaped the claws of self-inflicted despair. His strength was open-mindedness and charisma. He started to believe that Class D could be saved. And that belief was his greatest weakness. Because not everyone wanted to be saved. He forced this illusion upon himself to stop the pain from spreading so he could finally sleep well. That's the reason for his sudden transformation.

They were all so earnest and determined to help. For a moment, I felt something stir. It was a faint appreciation for their sincerity.

But that feeling was fleeting.

Naive.

Their efforts were beautiful in their own way, but also naive. This wasn't a storybook where hard work and goodwill conquered all. No matter how much Hirata smiled, no matter how meticulously Yukinoshita planned, no matter how much Yuigahama believed… Class D wasn't going to magically transform.

The Special Exam wasn't about morals or effort. It was about survival as said by Horikita Manabu who created it. About understanding the game being played and adapting accordingly. And the truth was, neither Yukinoshita, Yuigahama, nor Hirata saw the full picture. They couldn't. They were too focused on ideals to notice the cracks forming beneath their feet.

I, on the other hand, could see it all too clearly. The rankings were already taking shape in my mind. I could almost predict the outcomes, the winners and losers. I just missed the position Class A claimed.

The results were there if you knew where to look.

Effort and hope weren't enough to win this game. And as much as I admired their determination, I couldn't help but feel… angry at this system. Because in the end, the world wasn't kind enough to reward sincerity. The ones who won were the ones who understood the truth, no matter how bitter it was.

I loathed it.

I absolutely loathed it.

But I have no choice but to accept it.

The goal here wasn't to make Class D win. That was a fantasy. Yukinoshita could strategize until her pen ran dry, and Yuigahama could cheer from the sidelines until her voice gave out and it wouldn't matter. Class D wasn't going to rise to the top because it was impossible with their current capabilities.

No, the real objective was far simpler: to ensure that Class D didn't lose. So they didn't collapse under their own dysfunction and sink so far into failure that recovery became impossible. This wasn't about winning the war. It was about surviving the battle, even if it meant limping across the finish line.

Hirata didn't need to inspire a revolution. Yukinoshita didn't need to engineer the perfect plan. Yuigahama didn't need to keep believing in miracles. All they had to do was keep Class D from falling apart long enough to scrape by.

That was the truth of the Special Exam. For Class D it wasn't a test of morality or unity. It was a brutal, calculated game of attrition. And the only thing that mattered was staying afloat.

As much as I wanted to explain it to them, I didn't. What would be the point? They were better off with their optimism and their naive sense of purpose. At least that gave them something to fight for.

But I didn't have that luxury. My role was to see the reality of the situation and act accordingly.

Winning wasn't an option. But losing?

That was something I couldn't afford.