Part 2
"Wow... this is bigger than I imagined," I murmured to myself, my eyes scanning the gym as the lights illuminated the large space.
Almost all the first-year students were there, though no more than about 80 people; enough to feel the constant murmur, but not so many that it was impossible to observe movements and reactions. Sayuri, Kaori, and I stood at the back, waiting for the club fair to begin.
Upon entering, we were given informational guides with details about the clubs. I took mine and held it carefully, quickly reviewing the names and activities while most of the others seemed more interested in chatting with friends.
"I wonder if there will be any outstanding clubs... maybe one for martial arts or shooting," I thought to myself.
Kaori remained by my side, observing everything with her usual seriousness. She didn't comment; it wasn't necessary. Her silence spoke louder than any words.
The facilities were impressive: immaculate tatami mats, high-end training areas, even equipment that looked like it came from a professional gym. Any club that wanted to excel had the perfect ground here.
"Even though it's impressive, beginners will have a hard time," I thought to myself. "I don't think someone with no experience can join and excel right away."
"I see you're overthinking it," Kaori whispered. "Remember that many here rely more on luck than skill."
I didn't respond. I didn't need to. The fair was about to begin.
"Thank you for attending, freshmen. I am Mina Yukishiro, council assistant and organizer of this fair. Each club representative will explain their activities and how to join," she announced in a firm voice as the students lined up on stage.
The clubs began to introduce themselves, one by one. Some had elegant uniforms, others sophisticated sportswear; all showed enthusiasm and pride.
"Even if they seem to welcome beginners, some of these clubs are more concerned with increasing their budget than actually teaching," I thought, reviewing the list of clubs and watching how the students reacted.
One by one, the representatives stepped off the stage and created a reception area, ready to talk directly with interested students. I remained in my place, calculating moves and possibilities: who would approach first, who was waiting to be invited, who could serve as a bridge to future alliances.
Finally, only one person remained on stage. All eyes were on him, and Kaori couldn't look away. Her expression was intense, which was unusual for her.
The student stood firm, elegant, with a calculating gaze and impeccable posture. Silence fell over the gym as the others tried to guess what he would do.
"My name is Akihiko Sato, and I am the president of the student council," he finally said, his voice firm and clear. "We are also looking for first-year students who wish to take on responsibilities within the council. There are no strict requirements, but those who are interested should not join other clubs.
An aura of authority filled the space, not only because of his position, but also because of his presence. The entire gym seemed to hold its breath.
"In addition, we are looking for students who think strategically. Naivety has no place here. Those who understand the expectations can become potential candidates," he continued, calmly but with a power that commanded respect.
When Akihiko left the stage, silence remained for a few moments. No one dared to speak, and the tension slowly dissipated thanks to Mina, who explained the rules for approaching the representatives of each club.
As most of the students dispersed, three boys approached me: Toshiro Hayama, Renji Kurei, and Daichi Kuroda.
"Did you come too?" asked Toshiro.
"I was just watching," I thought to myself. Keeping my distance is more useful than rushing in.
Renji showed me his phone, inviting me to join a Class F group chat. It was an opportunity to interact, albeit in a calculated way. I decided to accept, thinking about the possible advantages of maintaining certain contacts.
Kaori remained on the sidelines, silent as always, assessing everything around her. The club fair continued, but for me, every move was a calculation: every greeting, every laugh, every glance could be translated into points, alliances, or useful information.
"Even an event as trivial as this fair can become a strategic board," I muttered to myself, mentally adjusting my priorities and goals as I watched everyone around me.