Horikita looked at Amane-san in confusion. Why would Amane-san choose Karuizawa-san? Logically, Yukimura's argument was correct. By giving up enjoyment, they could get closer to Class A. This time, they were given so many class points; if they wasted it all on enjoyment, they would undoubtedly fall behind the other classes.
"Because her b... I mean, because Karuizawa-san didn't forget the theme of the exam."
"The theme of the exam?"
"A vacation. A vacation of endurance is a vacation, and naturally, a vacation of enjoyment is also a vacation. There's no right or wrong from the start. Saving points might be beneficial for the future, but what if someone throws a tantrum and refuses to participate in the exam because of it? Thirty points would be lost. What if someone gets sick due to unhygienic conditions? Even more seriously, what if overly harsh living conditions make some people resentful and they leak the key card holder and the infiltrator? Who would lose out then? So, you can't calculate the cost based purely on point changes."
After Amane-san finished speaking, she was about to secretly get a little touch from Horikita.
Then she saw Chabashira-sensei walking towards her with a dark expression.
One might have thought Chabashira-sensei was coming to collect a debt.
"Miyako-san, you have been chosen by Class C to be an exchange student."
This news was like a bolt from the blue, startling the Class D students so much that they even stopped arguing.
"What a joke! Class C actually requested Amane-san for an exchange..."
Hirata's expression was filled with deep unease.
In his view, internal class disputes could be overcome simply by mediation. However, facing the endless tricks from other classes, Hirata had no confidence in seeing through them. Amane-san was currently like a spiritual pillar to him.
"Tsk, didn't I say Ryuuen would choose me? What's the big deal? If he wants to play the 'capture the king' game, then let's give him a'shoot the horse,' and it's over, isn't it?"
Amane-san stood up and stretched.
"Class D designates Ryuuen Kakeru from Class C to be exchanged to Class D."
Chabashira was somewhat displeased with Amane-san's strategy. In her opinion, Ryuuen was a very dangerous guy, and if he was allowed to stay in Class D, he might quickly figure out Class D's personnel arrangements.
But seeing that Hirata, Horikita, and others also didn't object, Chabashira-sensei could only record it.
"Hirata, could I trouble you to come with me for a moment?"
Amane-san waved at Hirata, then smiled at Karuizawa-san.
Karuizawa-san immediately understood Amane-san's meaning but didn't say anything, just waved her hand, indicating that Amane-san didn't need to worry about her opinion. She also knew Amane-san's capabilities; Amane-san wouldn't call Hirata out at such a crucial moment to say strange things.
When the two walked near the woods, Hirata's face immediately showed an uneasy expression.
"If it's about academics, I don't mind Ryuuen, but when it comes to schemes and tricks, I'm afraid... I'm no match for Ryuuen."
Hirata was very clear about his role. What he needed to do was to fill gaps, unite classmates, and act as a supporting role in the class, assisting capable classmates.
But now Amane-san was leaving the class, which made Hirata somewhat unsure of whom to rely on.
"Don't worry, we have Suzune, Ayanokoji, and Kouenji in the class. Even Ryuuen won't be able to stir up much trouble."
Amane-san's reassurance didn't make Hirata feel at ease, because the three people she mentioned were all problematic students.
Horikita rarely interacted with others, Kouenji always did as he pleased, and Ayanokoji was a bit better, but Hirata had never seen him in action. Although he was willing to trust Ayanokoji, this was a crucial battle that would determine whether Class D could turn things around, and Hirata didn't dare to trust him rashly.
"If something happens in class, who should I trust?"
Hirata asked somewhat indirectly.
Amane-san naturally understood Hirata's true intention.
"If you encounter any difficulties, just ask Suzune and Ayanokoji for help."
With Horikita and Ayanokoji there, even if Ryuuen wanted to do something, it would probably be discovered.
Furthermore, Horikita and Ayanokoji had the same goal, both working towards getting into Class A, and they wouldn't hinder each other.
"What if their opinions don't align?"
After asking, Hirata felt it was a bit inappropriate, because no matter how Amane-san answered, the question seemed a bit off. This only showed that his angle of questioning was problematic.
Just as Hirata was about to rephrase his words, Amane-san spoke up and gave him the answer.
"If Ayanokoji and Suzune clash, please choose Ayanokoji without reservation. He has abilities no less than mine—no, he should be said to have stronger abilities than me. Just seek him out for things, and I can slack off... relax a bit."
Upon hearing this, Hirata's eyes widened.
Amane-san actually told him to prioritize Ayanokoji's opinion.
And she said his abilities were no worse than Amane-san's... Could Class D really have someone with abilities as terrifying as Amane-san's?
Although Hirata still had some doubts, he nodded seriously.
"I'll remember that."
"Oh, right. Actually, sometimes, Hirata, you can choose to believe in yourself. You're not that bad. Ryuuen isn't a god, so what's there to be afraid of?"
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