Chương 4: Chapter 4 : Growth and Contact with Sakayanagi
There was a new discovery called Ayanokoji, but it didn't affect daily life much.
I went to school as usual.
When I arrived at the classroom, there was a tense atmosphere in some parts, perhaps because of what happened with Ryuuen yesterday.
However, around Shina, rather than in other parts, the atmosphere was relaxed, and Shina herself was blushing intensely as she fidgeted.
The guys talking around Shina turned curious gazes toward me as I entered the classroom, and when Shiina noticed me, she blushed even more and turned away.
I was curious about what they were talking about, but my crisis management instincts kicked in, so despite being shocked by Shina's reaction, I acted as if I hadn't noticed anything and took my seat.
As I sat down, Ibuki, who was in the next seat, gave me a meaningful glance.
"What's with that look?"
"...Are you dating Shiina?"
"...Huh?"
What's this girl talking about? I was bewildered because I hadn't expected Ibuki to say something like that.
"There were people listening to your conversation with Shina yesterday, and now there are rumors that you two are dating."
If they're referring to yesterday's conversation, it must be about the promise to go out with Shina.
"No, we just made plans to go out. Besides, Shiina and I wouldn't make a good match."
"I don't think that's what they mean."
I wanted to ask Ibuki what she meant by that, but the entire class suddenly quieted down.
When I looked towards the door, I saw Ryuuen, looking battered, with Albert Yamada standing behind him like a bodyguard.
Ryuuen stood in front of the platform, and Albert positioned himself to Ryuuen's right rear.
"Albert has joined my side. What about the rest of you?"
The class was shocked by the statement that Albert had joined him. The class murmured, and Ryuuen banged his fist on the podium to quiet them down and focused their attention on himself.
"Leave the class under my care for a while. Those who achieve results will receive rewards; those who harm the class will be punished. That's my policy. Follow me, and I will ensure you rise higher. If the class declines because of me, I will accept all of your fists and curses."
Ryuuen's bold speech captivated the class. Even I was slightly surprised by Ryuuen's change in demeanor from yesterday.
The class didn't seem fully convinced by Ryuuen's speech yet, as there were no voices of support. However, Kaneda, who had expressed willingness to leave things to Ryuuen yesterday, started applauding, which gradually encouraged the class and led to applause echoing through the room.
"Alright. Let me briefly explain our future plans while Sakagami isn't here."
"First, Komiya, Kondo, there's something I want you two to do."
They were surprised to be called out and hesitated as they walked to Ryuuen's desk.
"Um, what... what do you want us to do?"
"Don't be timid. If you do what I ask, I'll reward you. There's nothing to lose."
They seemed relieved by Ryuuen's response and nodded.
"Sakagami will be here soon. We'll discuss the details at noon, so relax until then."
Ryuuen said this as he left the podium and sat at his desk. At that moment, he looked at me with a fierce smile. Thankfully, the teacher arrived soon after, and the atmosphere returned to normal, and the usual day began.
What an incredible growth rate. I never expected such rapid progress in just one day.
He understands what I say, even taking it as a challenge.
And to think he managed to get even Albert, the crucial figure in dominating the class, to follow him in such a short time.
With the Ryuuen from earlier, it would have taken several more days to get Albert to follow. Though not straightforward, he managed to gain Albert's obedience this morning to dominate the class.
He hasn't changed his approach but has refined his methods.
Such astonishing growth rate. Such remarkable talent.
Truly fascinating.
If this continues, Ryuuen will become an undeniable presence, not only for me but also for Ayanokoji.
I'm looking forward to it, Ryuuen.
…..
The morning after Ryuuen became the leader:
I was chatting with Shina when Ryuuen, who usually arrives last, came to school earlier than usual. As he stood in front of the platform as usual, simultaneously, Albert and Ishizaki stood behind him on his left and right.
Ishizaki, though battered, expressed admiration for Ryuuen and said he now strongly supports him.
"I have something to distribute to you all."
With that, Ryuuen began handing something to each of us, including Ishizaki and Albert.
"It looks like past exam questions."
"Yeah, seems like it."
Shiina, who was next to me, seemed to notice as well and leaned in a bit to say while peeking at my face. Shina is naturally like this, so it's unavoidable, but such actions make me very nervous, so please spare me.
"Those past exam questions were from the previous test. It's confirmed they'll be used again in the upcoming midterm. Study with these."
Ryuuen said this, and voices of joy erupted. For some reason, Ishizaki and Albert, standing beside Ryuuen, looked pleased.
"Komiya, Kondo. This is your reward. Take it."
Ryuuen said this and operated his phone for the next batch. Immediately, notifications sounded on Komiyama's and Kondo's phones.
"Eh!? 30,000 yen as a reward!?"
"That's your reward for the job done. I'll punish failure, but those who work get rewarded. So take it."
Despite the fear the word "punish" instilled in the class, the talk of rewards and past exam questions lifted the mood. In this school, failing a test is as serious as expulsion, and Ryuuen found a surefire way to avoid it. It's only natural that he receives praise.
"By the way, just so you know, anyone who scores below 70 on the next test will face consequences."
With Ryuuen's final words, the classmates shivered but started looking through the past exam questions.
...
"How about this book?"
Currently, Shina and I are at the library, spending a peaceful time discussing our impressions and recommending books, trying to forget about today's events.
"I've seen this before, but the way emotions are depicted... huh?"
"Is something the matter?"
"No, I was just surprised to find chess in the library."
We're in the section with mystery novels, where I usually sit and read. Today, due to upcoming tests, it's very crowded, so we're reading on the opposite side.
There are several chessboards set up there, and as I glance over, I spot someone.
No, I've been spotted.
"Hey, Shina, shall we head home now?"
"Huh? What's wrong all of a sudden?"
"Well, you see..."
"Oh my, what a coincidence to meet you here, Hikigaya-kun."
–––––Ah, I've been caught.
As I ponder how to leave, a clear voice comes from behind me. When I turn around, I see someone with short hair, translucent silver strands, and a cane for support. There's only one person I know who fits this description.
"I've missed seeing you lately."
She says teasingly with a chuckle. I've seen this carefree expression before.
"Sorry, Sakayanagi, but if you think I'll be moved by those words, you're mistaken."
"Oh? Then why is your face turning red?"
"Hah, obviously because I'm excited."
"You confessed quite refreshingly."
Despite telling her to shut up, I can't help but feel nostalgic seeing Sakayanagi laugh so happily.
Arisu Sakayanagi.
The daughter of the chairman of this school and someone affiliated with the White Room who took me in.
A year ago, when I was being sheltered by Sakayanagi, she kept me company and played chess with me. I've become used to her playful banter.
"But anyway, couldn't you have come to see me earlier? You knew I was in Class A, right?"
I've seen her potential when playing chess and such, and it's incredibly high. Even if she can't participate in sports, her intellect exceeds expectations. It's no wonder she's in Class A.
"Well, I did know, but I wanted to experience being a high schooler on my own for a bit."
"Hehe, I see. But I've been lonely, you know. What will you do about that?"
"...I'll make it up to you."
"Hehe, alright. Looking forward to it, Hachiman."
She continues to tease me whenever something happens. Even so, she's a genius for teasing me in my vulnerable moments, and I'm reminded of that once again.
"...Oh."
I was engrossed in conversation with Sakayanagi, but Shina interrupts.
"You're Shina Hiyori, right? I'm Arisu Sakayanagi."
"Yes, nice to meet you. By the way, what's your relationship with Hikigaya-kun?"
"My relationship with Hachiman... well."
Sakayanagi hesitates for a moment, then decides.
"We're... engaged, I suppose."
"What are you talking about?"
"Oh, don't you know? My father mentioned it."
"That must have been when he was drinking. I remember it vividly too."
"Let's not ask why you remember it so vividly."
She continues to tease me with a chuckle.
Glancing at Shina beside me, her face turns bright red at the mention of "engaged."
"I have something to do today, so I'll excuse myself here. Hachiman, if you're going to propose, make sure to do it properly."
"Yeah, yeah."
She waves elegantly until the end, teasing me all the while, then leaves.
Meanwhile, Shina pouts at me with a glare.
"S-Shiina?"
"Hmm... Hachiman. Do you remember our last promise?"
She's started using my name without me realizing, but I find Shina's current demeanor so terrifying that I forget about it.
"Oh, yeah. The promise to go out."
It's the first time I've found Shina scary.
"Please invite me out as soon as possible."
"Y-Yeah."
With a smile that seems different from usual, I can only reply to her.
=================================
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