Chương 15: Diamonds in the Sewage

"Horikita Suzune… is the extreme self-centred student who has completely abandoned interpersonal relationships, right?"

Chabashira's mind conjured up an image of Horikita, indicating that she wasn't paying close attention to every student but was focused more on promoting Class D to Class A, driven by her utilitarian approach.

And such opportunistic behaviour was precisely what Hikigaya disliked the most.

Why did he end up in this meritocratic school?!

It was terrible!

Feeling increasingly pessimistic about his future, Hikigaya sighed and slowly spoke:

"Yes, Horikita Suzune is currently detached from the class group and has no friends. This means she's not influenced by any small factions within the class and can make the most rational and objective decisions for the class."

"Moreover, the most important thing is that Horikita Suzune has the potential to lead Class D to greatness. She may currently lack some of the necessary skills, but three years is enough time for her to develop into someone who could even challenge Ayanokouji or Kouenji."

"Additionally, the main reason I recommend Horikita Suzune is that she has the conviction to do so. She is the most aligned with the school's rules and, I believe, the one most suited to the concept of meritocracy!"

Hikigaya presented his analysis clearly and calmly, looking directly at Chabashira.

The latter didn't respond immediately but nodded slightly after a moment's consideration. "What you said is correct; she is indeed the most suitable candidate. However, there is one major issue regarding Horikita Suzune that I wonder if you've noticed."

"What issue?"

"Does Horikita Suzune want to become the leader of the class?"

With a calm voice, Chabashira Sae began, "Regarding the idea of elevating Class D to Class A, does Horikita Suzune have any desire for that?"

"Well..."

For the first time Hikigaya Hachiman hesitated, unable to answer Chabashira Sae's question.

He didn't know Horikita Suzune well enough yet.

With only basic conversations and observations, he couldn't grasp such deeper aspects of her personality, so naturally, he didn't understand whether she had any aspirations related to moving up to Class A.

Or perhaps, from the indifferent attitude she typically displays toward interpersonal relationships, it seemed she was most averse to class conflicts.

Sensing Hikigaya's hesitation, Chabashira Sae smiled.

Though this student was sharp-tongued and perceptive, he wasn't all-knowing—something that suited her well as a teacher.

This would make it easier to manage him...

"In other words, what you should do now is to understand Horikita Suzune as thoroughly as possible and find a way to spark her interest in participating in class conflicts," Chabashira Sae continued, "For this task, I can recommend someone who might be helpful."

"Who?"

"The current student council president, Horikita Manabu."

"…?"

As soon as Hikigaya heard Chabashira Sae's words, he realized the entire truth.

He was momentarily surprised but then slowly nodded, "I understand."

"Good."

The conversation seemed to be drawing to a close as Hikigaya noticed Chabashira Sae preparing to return to her work, realizing it was time for him to leave.

"Oh, and one last thing," Chabashira Sae suddenly said, "On the first of next month, points will be distributed. Before then, try to learn as much as you can about the students in Class D. When the first of next month arrives, the situation in the class will undergo a significant change, causing many negative reactions. But if you prepare properly, you can turn the crisis into an opportunity."

"Really...?"

Hikigaya was surprised by Chabashira Sae's unexpected reminder and found himself feeling that perhaps she was genuinely a good person.

It was unavoidable—these inexplicable emotions were beyond his control.

Even though Hikigaya understood deep down that Chabashira Sae was looking out for him because she wanted Class D to advance to Class A, it didn't change how he felt.

Sometimes, people just can't fully control their thoughts.

"Alright," Hikigaya said, nodding before turning to leave.

"Oh, and one more thing," Chabashira called out.

What is this, a role reversal with you playing the wise mentor?

Hikigaya turned back, exasperation clear on his face.

He was met with Chabashira's cold, smirking profile.

"Hikigaya, to be honest, your performance today was quite unexpected. When I read your admission report, I instinctively thought someone like you would be quickly eliminated by this school's meritocratic standards. After all, you're fundamentally opposed to these rules. You're simply not suited to this meritocratic world…"

"Yeah," Hikigaya admitted, his feelings mirroring hers. He felt he couldn't adapt to anything at this school; every day was a struggle.

His deep-seated dislike for everything related to this school was the root of his suffering. He detested the concept of meritocracy, a notion he found wholly unreasonable, and rejected everything associated with it.

"However, it's precisely in such an environment that people like you can truly shine."

Understanding Hikigaya's frustration, Chabashira continued, "After all, gold only shines brightly when thrown into a pile of coal, and the lotus only reveals its purity by blooming from the mud. You're like that, Hikigaya. Even though you have those dreadful, lifeless eyes, it doesn't change the fact that you're a diamond in a drain. So, Hikigaya Hachiman, sooner or later, you'll find your own brilliance in this world ruled by strength."

Hikigaya fell into a long silence, caught off guard by her unexpected praise.

In the end, he masked his emotions with a forced smile, his lifeless eyes dimming as usual.

"Uh, is this some new-age self-help nonsense? And by the way, did you just insult my dead fish eyes? Apologize to all the dead fish eyes in the world!"

"Be sure to close the door on your way out."

With that, Chabashira completely turned away, showing no further interest in Hikigaya.

Seeing her dismissive attitude, Hikigaya shrugged and walked out.

As he stepped out of the office, looking at the seemingly beautiful but treacherous campus, he couldn't help but feel a deep sense of frustration at the conversation that had just taken place.

Indeed, I really hate this so-called meritocracy!