Shimizu Akira understood Sakayanagi Arisu all too well—this self-proclaimed genius who saw herself above the masses could never tolerate anyone standing over her. This pathological arrogance was perhaps the curse of all prodigies.
As for Katsuragi Kōhei...
From the way he forcefully interjected into the conversation, it was clear he had no intention of playing second fiddle to Sakayanagi.
His tight jawline and deliberately straightened posture screamed a man of equal dominance.
Two alphas in one pack?
Only one would remain standing.
Shimizu could already foresee the storm brewing in Class A.
That said... he was low-key rooting for Katsuragi.
Why?
"Bald supremacy." Shimizu snorted, eyeing the glossy dome on-screen.
Katsuragi had alopecia, so it wasn't like he'd gone bald naturally.
Otherwise, Shimizu might've suspected he was the real-life Saitama.
"Seems like extorting Class A won't be an issue."
After confirming the key details, he switched off Class A's feed.
Classes B and D were already empty, save for a few stragglers—no emergency meetings like in C and A.
"...Does Class B have other talents?"
Observing Class B, he noticed Ichihōse Honami wasn't the only star—a group surrounded Kanzaki, while others flocked to a handsome guy whose name he couldn't catch.
"...Wait, isn't this straight-up stalking?"
The ability to openly surveil all first-year classes in 4K resolution, rewind at will, and zoom in on micro-expressions was...
Kinda thrilling.
Like that old saying—"I'll be watching you."
But soon, eye strain killed the novelty.
"Guess I'm not cut out for long-term surveillance."
"Focus on leasing the rights first." He massaged his temples. "Classes B and D need notifications."
Having already contacted ClassbC, he swiftly switched accounts, sending nearly identical messages to:
Ichihōse Honami (B)
Kushida Kikyō (D)
Hirata Yōsuke (D)
The only difference? Their names.
Even as a Class D member, he never planned to work for free—want surveillance? Pay up.
"Ah, almost forgot..." A smirk curled his lips. "That chairman's daughter and her bald rival need a heads-up too."
Switching back to his main account, he copied Sakayanagi's contact and pasted the same spiel.
Class A.
"We must maintain this discipline."Katsuragi's steady voice filled the room. "I predict a special exam soon. Everyone, be ready to showcase your strengths."
His gaze swept the class. "Additionally, we'll implement a reward system using class funds. Top performers—like in the upcoming finals—will be compensated."
Sakayanagi rested her chin on her palm, bored out of her mind as she stared at Katsuragi's back.
(What a... dreadfully dull man.)
To be fair, Katsuragi was competent—top grades, reliable demeanor—traits that cemented his place in Class A.
His policies would indeed boost morale.
But the problem was... he was rigid.
Rigid to the point of tedium.
Every decision felt plucked from a textbook—safe, but uninspired.
On a scale of 1 to 100? Consistently 70-80, never breaking 90.
In short... a so-called 'genius' in name only.
The pinnacle of mediocrity.
Sakayanagi didn't despise mediocrity—in fact, she occasionally admired the struggles of ordinary people.
But...
For someone barely scraping the ceiling of average to challenge her throne?
That was unforgivable.
"Sakayanagi-san... your thoughts?"
Suddenly addressed, she turned gracefully, meeting Katsuragi's gaze.
The question was less a request for input, more a formality.
(How... irritating.)
Yet this time, she had no rebuttal.
His measures would strengthen Class A.
"What a splendid proposal. As expected of Katsuragi-san."
Her smile was flawless, her eyes ice-cold.
"...Is that so?" Katsuragi frowned slightly.
He had been vying for dominance, but his priority was Class A's stability.
They were already at the summit—the challenge wasn't climbing higher, but staying there.
History proved many conquerors fell swiftly after peaking—the same logic applied here.
Katsuragi knew Class A's position was precarious—their lead could breed complacency, while rival classes would only fight harder.
Under such conditions, leadership often devolved into infighting.
(She won't move against me until late Year 3.)
He'd hoped Sakayanagi would prioritize Class A, even if she loathed him.
But then—
Her phone lit up.
A friend request.
The message read:
*"To Sakayanagi Arisu of Class 1-A:"*
"I've leased your classroom's two cameras. From now on, Class A is under my surveillance."
"To reclaim the rights: 3 million points. P.S. I'm watching you now—smile for the camera."
"Discuss with Katsuragi. Payment due by 7 PM tomorrow. Price increases by 100,000 points hourly thereafter."
"Fufu..."
For once, Sakayanagi's eyes widened slightly—before she turned to the camera and beamed.
"Katsuragi-san." She beckoned him over. "It seems we have... a most entertaining problem."