Chapter 68: A Proposal

Three months have passed since enrollment, and the new students have come to understand the ways of Advanced Nurturing High School. 

The first-year students, like the second-years before them, were in the midst of forming groups for the upcoming uninhabited island exam. Today, a discussion involving all first-year classes was scheduled. 

To avoid drawing unnecessary attention, Yakumo Yagami had proposed a simple gathering format. It was agreed that class leaders or those close to that role would attend. However, the only exception was Class D, which had not responded by the time afternoon arrived. 

The hallway lined with ordinary first-year classrooms remained quiet. The first to appear was Yagami from Class 1-B. Soon after, Riku Utsunomiya from Class 1-C arrived as well. 

"Looks like it's just you for now, Yagami." 

"Hey, Utsunomiya-kun. I had a feeling you'd be the one to show up." 

"I'm not exactly leader material. But no one else wanted to come, so here I am." 

Utsunomiya let out a sigh. Seeing this, Yagami gave a wry smile before his expression turned faintly melancholic, as if recalling something. 

"About Hatano-kun… that was unfortunate." 

"…Yeah." 

Hatano had been a male student from Class 1-C, one of the rare few with an Academic Ability of A. But he had violated a penalty that led to immediate expulsion—a fatal mistake. 

"Sounds like you two were close." 

"We even talked about joining the student council together." 

Utsunomiya nodded lightly before shifting his gaze toward Class 1-D's classroom. 

"You think Hōsen will show up?" 

He was referring to the only one who hadn't responded to the discussion invitation. 

"Fifty-fifty, I'd say." 

"Fifty-fifty? I'd bet he won't come." 

"If things stay like this, the three classes will definitely cooperate. Class D would be left behind with no chance of winning. But… Hōsen-kun doesn't follow common sense, so it's fifty-fifty." 

As the two debated Class D's stance, a third figure arrived— 

"Hey! Riku! Takumi! Knew it'd be you guys!" 

Waving energetically as he approached was Shu Takahashi from Class 1-A. Known for his ability to get along with anyone, Takahashi was often the one called upon for discussions like this. 

"If you're here, Takahashi-kun, does that mean you got saddled with troublesome work again?" 

"Our leader hates dealing with this stuff, so it's always me." 

"Well, having you here will make things go smoother." 

With about three minutes left until the meeting time, only Class D was missing. 

"Why don't we just team up now? Isolating Class D and crushing them early is my honest opinion." 

"That won't work, Utsunomiya-kun." 

Just as Utsunomiya grew impatient and suggested excluding Class D, Yagami stopped him. The door to Class D's room slid open, and the man himself appeared at a leisurely pace. 

"Perfect timing, Kazuomi!" 

Unfazed, Takahashi greeted Hōsen in his usual friendly manner. His stance was always about keeping things amicable. 

"Don't call me by my first name like we're buddies. I'll kill you." 

Hōsen intimidated Takahashi before turning his attention to Yagami and Utsunomiya. Satisfied, Takahashi tried to move things along. 

"Alright, now that everyone's here, let's get started. First, about the groups—" 

"Don't go deciding shit on your own." 

Hōsen shoved Takahashi hard, sending him tumbling onto his backside. Utsunomiya, displeased by the act, glared sharply at Hōsen. 

"Hōsen. Keep your violence out of this." 

"Hah? You plannin' to get in my way?" 

"If I have to." 

"Funny. Try it, then." 

As Hōsen raised his left hand, Takahashi, still on the ground, hastily intervened. 

"Whoa, whoa, whoa! Chill out, Riku! I just slipped and fell, no big deal." 

"That so?" 

"Too bad I'm not as nice as Takahashi." 

"Both of you, calm down. This isn't why we called this meeting." 

Yagami stepped in to mediate. Utsunomiya reluctantly backed off, and Hōsen did the same. 

"Now, let's get to the main topic. First, this uninhabited island exam is an absurd idea. Naturally, we first-years are at a disadvantage compared to the second and third-years who've already experienced it." 

"But we'll get some handicaps, right?" 

Takahashi remained optimistic, but Yagami quickly dismissed that. 

"True, there might be some advantages for us, but the gap with the upperclassmen won't close that easily. Having experience makes a huge difference." 

That was why Yagami stressed the need for the four first-year classes to unite. 

"You're spouting weak shit, Yagami. I'm confident I can crush the second and third-years, no problem." 

"Of course, some of us individually outmatch them. But as a whole, we're undeniably weaker. Not everyone is as capable as you, Hōsen-kun." 

Maintaining his calm demeanor, Yagami continued to steer the discussion while subtly praising Hōsen to keep him engaged. 

"So—we need to form at least one strong group where all first-years work together." 

"In other words, we won't compete for class points in this special exam?" 

Utsunomiya sensed the difference in their stances, but after hearing Yagami's explanation of the benefits, only Hōsen remained uncommitted. 

"What do you say, Hōsen-kun? Even if you alone are strong enough to fight the upperclassmen, we'd still like your help." 

Yagami insisted that all four classes were necessary. 

"Fine. I'll cooperate." 

To everyone's surprise, Hōsen agreed easily. 

"…What's your game, Hōsen?" 

"My game? You asked for cooperation, so I'm just agreeing. Got a problem?" 

"Then let's hear your conditions." 

Recognizing Hōsen's sudden shift as a ploy, Yagami cut straight to the point. 

"Two spots in the group go to Class D students. Non-negotiable." 

"What?" 

Utsunomiya immediately bristled at the blatantly self-serving demand. 

"Don't screw with us, Hōsen." 

"I ain't screwin' around. Don't like it? Then get lost." 

"You—" 

Utsunomiya stepped forward, ready to confront Hōsen, but Yagami stopped him. 

"Calm down, Utsunomiya-kun. I'm fine with his condition." 

"You're just handing Class D an advantage?" 

"Our top priority is first-year unity. We can't afford to lose to the upperclassmen." 

Utsunomiya wanted to argue, but as someone who understood the importance of solidarity, he clicked his tongue in frustration and relented. 

"So, we have your agreement, then? Hōsen-kun." 

"Do what you want." 

Without another word, Hōsen turned and left. The first-year discussion ended on an uneasy note. 

"I'm heading back. Nothing left to discuss." 

"Sure. Thanks for coming today, Utsunomiya-kun." 

Utsunomiya was the next to leave, and Yagami made no attempt to stop him, simply smiling and waving as he walked away. 

"Guess we should wrap up too. See you later, Takahashi-kun." 

"Yep! Later!" 

Takahashi replied cheerfully. Once Yagami was out of sight, Takahashi glanced around, ensuring no one was nearby, before pulling out his phone. 

"—Hello? Hikigaya-senpai?"

....

"Regarding the first-year students, that's about it." 

"I see." 

It was 10 PM. I was on the phone with Ayanokouji, relaying the recent updates about the first-year students that Takahashi had reported to me. 

"Apparently, our names haven't been openly mentioned as bounties, but it's almost certain that Housen will come after either me or you." 

"I know. Still, you've managed to get yourself a pretty useful pawn. Having someone connected to the first-years makes things easier." 

I had already informed Ayanokouji about my cooperative relationship with Takahashi. Since he was aware of my connection with Karuizawa, it was better to let him know beforehand to avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings. 

"But I have to admit, I'm a little surprised, Hikigaya. I didn't expect you to be this cooperative." 

"In this exam, you're definitely the one being targeted. If you get expelled, it'll be a problem for me too. You'd be in trouble if I got expelled now, wouldn't you?" 

"True enough." 

This wasn't out of consideration for Ayanokouji. It was simply to avoid mutual disadvantage. 

"Ayanokouji, what are you planning to do about your group?" 

"For now, I think I'll act alone. It'll be easier for me to move that way." 

Alone, huh? Ayanokouji is being targeted by Tsukishiro and the first-years. Having no unnecessary baggage would make things easier for him. 

"And what about you, Hikigaya? You must have some idea about who to form a group with, right?" 

"Well, it's not like I don't have options." 

Fortunately, I've received offers from various students. But whether or not I'll actually team up with them is another matter. 

"I'd guess you've been approached by some pretty notable people. Who exactly has reached out to you?" 

"Ryūen, Hiyori, Albert, Ishizaki and his group. From other classes, there's Arisu, Hashimoto, and even Kitou." 

"...What kind of connections do you even have? You've been approached by all the key players from Class B and Class A." 

"For now, I've put them all on hold." 

Part of the reason I've delayed giving an answer is that I wanted to see how Ayanokouji would move. 

"For the uninhabited island exam, I'm willing to actively cooperate. In that case, wouldn't it be better for you and me to just form a group together?" 

If Ayanokouji and I teamed up, we could crush all our enemies—Tsukishiro, Nanase, and the first-years. Defeat would be impossible. 

"That would be the safest option, but I'll pass. We'd cover more ground if we acted separately." 

If Ayanokouji, the primary target, says so, then I'll go along with it. 

"It's getting late. Sorry, but Kei's about to come over. I'll hang up now." 

"Got it. But before you go, there's one more thing I wanted to ask." 

"What is it?" 

"Well, the thing is... I got a message from Kouenji today. The content was—"

......

About five days had passed since the announcement of the summer special exam. 

In Class D, led by Horikita, group formations were finally starting to take shape. Around half the class had already formed their groups, and after school, many students could be seen discussing the exam. 

Amidst this, Kouenji—Class D's eccentric—stood up from his seat and approached Horikita, who had been deep in thought about the exam. 

"Mind if I have a word, Horikita girl?" 

His unusual behavior drew the attention of the entire class, including Ayanokouji, who was nearby. 

"How rare for you to voluntarily approach me." 

Like everyone else, Horikita was surprised by his initiative. 

"I have something I'd like to discuss regarding the upcoming special exam." 

"Oh? Have you finally decided to actively cooperate with the class?" 

"Half correct, I'd say." 

Horikita narrowed her eyes slightly at Kouenji's unexpected words. Given his history as a free spirit, she found it hard to believe he would suddenly offer cooperation. 

"And what's the other half of your intention? Care to enlighten me?" 

"Hmm. First, let me confirm something. You're desperate for the class points awarded to the top three groups, correct? That much is undeniable, yes?" 

"Of course. Depending on how many points we earn, our class ranking could change dramatically." 

"Then allow me to make a proposal. If I were to achieve outstanding results in the uninhabited island survival exam, I'd like you to guarantee me complete freedom until graduation." 

The class fell silent at Kouenji's unbelievable statement. Though conditional, he had just declared his willingness to seriously participate in the special exam. 

"Complete freedom… That's quite the bold proposal. You're asking me to let you do as you please indefinitely, just like before?" 

"Precisely. Of course, it wouldn't just be permission—you'd also ensure that no disadvantages come my way." 

His words implied that, even in future exams like last year's class vote, he expected unconditional protection. 

"This isn't something I can agree to so easily. Any of our classmates would say the same." 

"Fufufu. Are you misunderstanding something? Think of this as an advance payment until graduation." 

His proposal was simple: Let me contribute in this exam, and then leave me alone afterward. 

"I'm sorry, but I'd much prefer if you cooperated like everyone else, rather than making such an extreme demand." 

Horikita moved to reject Kouenji's offer—a natural reaction. 

"I do acknowledge your abilities. But if you only put in just enough effort for this exam and then go back to doing nothing, it's hardly a fair trade." 

"I see. So negotiations have broken down, then?" 

"—No. If we add certain conditions, I might be willing to accept your proposal." 

Horikita initially refused but then backtracked, signaling she was open to compromise. 

"'Outstanding results' is too vague. If you manage to take first place all by yourself—with the highest reward—that would be a convincing enough reason for me." 

"Fufufufu. I see. Yes, solo first place would indeed be something you couldn't ignore." 

Kouenji laughed heartily, as if amused by the challenge. 

"Very well, let's proceed under those terms." 

"No. That's not enough." 

Just as Kouenji seemed ready to accept what sounded like an impossible demand, Horikita immediately added another condition. 

"I haven't finished listing my terms yet. If I'm forced to indulge your grand claims, I can't let this end with a simple 'I couldn't get first place.'" 

"Meaning?" 

"If you fail to take first place, you'll have to promise to contribute to the class in the next special exam as well." 

If Kouenji won first place, great. If he failed, he'd still be obligated to help in the following exam. Either way, Class D wouldn't lose. The only question was whether Kouenji would accept. 

"My, my, Horikita girl. You drive quite the hard bargain." 

"If you agree to these conditions, I'll accept your terms." 

Horikita still strongly suspected Kouenji would refuse. But contrary to her expectations, he remained unfazed. 

"Then it's settled. Do try not to forget our agreement." 

"...Are you serious about taking first place?" 

"Naturally. There's nothing impossible for me, after all. ...Oh, and there's one more thing I'd like to add." 

Just as the class assumed the conversation was over, Kouenji raised a hand to stop them. 

"...What now?" 

"I did promise to take first place alone—and while that would be trivial for me, I do despise unnecessary exertion." 

"What are you saying? Don't tell me you're trying to back out of the deal now." 

"Not at all. ...I'd like to continue this discussion with him present." 

With that, Kouenji turned toward the classroom door. 

"Do come in. ————Monster Boy." 

As if responding to Kouenji's call, the door slowly creaked open.

.......

"Tomorrow, I plan to make a proposal to Horikita girl. I also have an offer for you, Monster Boy—would you mind eavesdropping outside the classroom? When I give the signal, make your entrance. It'll be to your benefit as well."

That was the message I received from Kouenji yesterday.

At first, I considered refusing, but curiosity about what he meant by "to my benefit" got the better of me. So, as instructed, I stood outside the classroom, listening in.

"Do come in. Monster Boy."

That unmistakable, high-pitched voice paired with an unflattering nickname—there was no doubt it was Kouenji. I opened the door and stepped into Class D's classroom.

Under the stunned gazes of every student inside, Kouenji—the one who'd summoned me—approached first.

"Apologies for keeping you waiting."

Surprisingly, he started with an apology.

"...What is the meaning of this? More importantly, Kouenji-kun, stop dragging Hikigaya-kun into things whenever you feel like it. You're causing trouble for him and the rest of us."

She was absolutely right. Given my past experiences with Kouenji, Horikita seemed to have deduced this was his doing again.

Kouenji barely glanced at her before running a hand through his hair and turning to me.

"Monster Boy. You heard our earlier discussion, yes?"

"I did... but what does that have to do with me?"

Kouenji taking first place alone—what did that have to do with me?

"You see, I despise unnecessary effort. I only made this proposal to Horikita girl reluctantly."

No surprise there. If Kouenji didn't hate hassle, he would've contributed to the class from the start.

"Securing first place in this exam would be trivial for me. But I'd prefer not to expend unnecessary energy."

He paused, then firmly gripped my shoulders.

"Which is where you come in."

"...Meaning?"

"Exactly as it sounds. You and I will form a group and take first place."

Gasps spread through the class as students who'd been silently watching erupted in shock. Even I hadn't seen this coming—I never expected Kouenji to propose teaming up.

"Hold on. Why me? You just said taking first place alone would be easy for you."

"As I said—to make things easier for myself. You possess the capability to keep up with me."

"Then what about the 'benefit' you mentioned in your message?"

"That would be—"

"Wait. The original condition was for you to take first place alone."

Horikita cut in, glaring slightly.

"Indeed. But Horikita girl, what you truly desire isn't just the 300 class points for first place—it's guaranteed class points, correct?"

Unable to deny it, Horikita nodded reluctantly.

"If Monster Boy and I team up, first place is guaranteed—though the reward would be halved to 150 points. But if we also use Ayanokouji boy's challenge card, that becomes 225 points."

True enough—the difference between Kouenji going solo and teaming with me would only be about 75 points.

"That may be so. But it would also mean Ryuuen-kun's class earns more points as well."

Right. Even if Kouenji and I took first place, the gap with the upper classes wouldn't shrink. In fact, it might push my class up to Class A.

"Hmm. So you refuse to accept me teaming with Monster Boy?"

"Exactly. If you insist on working with Hikigaya-kun, I'll have to withdraw my earlier proposal."

Faced with Horikita's uncompromising stance, Kouenji stroked his chin thoughtfully for a few seconds before picking up his bag.

"Very well. I'll participate in the exam alone after all."

...I truly can't predict Kouenji's actions. If he wasn't going to team up, why summon me at all?

"So the original terms still stand?"

"Naturally. While it's disappointing I can't cooperate with Monster Boy, competing against each other will have to suffice."

"I have no intention of competing with you, Kouenji. And what about that 'benefit' for me you mentioned?"

As Kouenji moved swiftly toward the exit, I called out. He turned back with a triumphant smile.

"The honor of being able to form a group with me. What greater benefit could there be?"

"Eh..."

So there was no reason for me to be here after all. After making such a conspicuous entrance, I gained absolutely nothing... This is bad. I might actually cry.

"You... are pitiful to the point of being tragic."

"Hikigaya, it's best not to take Kouenji's words seriously. There's never any meaning behind them."

Horikita looked at me with eyes full of pity, while Ayanokouji gave me a sympathetic pat on the shoulder.

I vowed then and there to never again arrogantly assume I could understand Kouenji's thought process.

=================================

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