《After breaking up, my ex asked me to win her back》


 Chapter 1 The Mind-Reading Boy Meets After a Long Time

    Winter in Tokyo brought snow and cold winds together.


    A male student stepped out of the train station onto the snow-covered ground, wearing a thick school uniform overcoat, carrying a guitar case and a shoulder bag, his face slightly red from the cold and expressionless.


    "Hey, isn''t Yui-chan going to strike up a conversation?"


    "Eh~ Why don''t you go."


    Two high school girls huddled together, secretly observing Kagura Hikaru walking ahead, whispering from time to time, their eyes glued to the boy''s profile, which made them forget to watch their step, leading to a slippery fall.


    Attracted by the girls'' screams, Kagura Hikaru turned his head to look back, saw that both were unharmed, and then continued walking towards the school without further concern.


    Kagura Hikaru, 16 years old, a first-year high school student, a crosser.


    He had no lover, no friends, no club, and no hobbies.


    His specialty was mind reading.


    "Good morning!"


    In front of the school gate, members of the Discipline Committee stood with their hands behind their backs, loudly greeting the arriving students.


    As Kagura Hikaru passed by, he noticed the Vice Chairman of the Discipline Committee, who resembled a gori, staring at him.


    So, he casually tossed a Mind Reading Technique his way.


    [This guy, called Kagura, right? Damn, don''t let me catch you breaking the rules!]


    He had somehow attracted attention for no reason... Well, it wasmon with a face like his.


    Kagura Hikaru shifted his gaze away.


    [You have gained by looking into the mind: Sword Dao +1]


    [Sword Dao lv4 (12/100)]


    This was his Golden Finger, which could be used not only to read minds but also to acquire the skills possessed by others. The longer he read, the more proficiency in the skill he gained.


    Once the proficiency reached 100 points, the skill level would increase, with a limit of lv5.


    The appearance of this Golden Finger meant that Kagura Hikaru''s future was destined to be an all-capable superhuman.


    However, he was even restraining himself from using his abilities now.


    When he was younger and unwise, he read everyone''s minds indiscriminately, greedily absorbing skills, but he did not realize the consequences of prying into people''s minds.


    Everyone has a dark side, which they usually keep hidden, but it was fully exposed in front of Kagura Hikaru.


    Because of this Golden Finger, he had lost many opportunities to make friends and had hurt many people, causing his personality to gradually be twisted and indifferent, disregarding human warmth.


    Now, he was no longer pursuing such things.


    Neither abilities nor friendships.


    "What should we do this weekend?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Karaoke, maybe?"


    "Oh~! Yui has a boyfriend now, huh."


    "Shush!"


    "Hahaha, it''s not like it''s something shameful."


    As he entered the noisy ssroom 1-A, Kagura Hikaru tried to keep a low profile as he sat at his own seat, ced down his shoulder bag and guitar case, and began to study his books.


    They weren''t profound books like "Nuson" or "Snow Country," just ordinary light novels.


    Reading soul-crushing books at a young age wasn''t suitable; content that could rx the brain and make oneugh was more fitting for high school students.


    Though Kagura Hikaru hadn''tughed for almost half a year now.


    Perhaps, he should consider seeing a psychologist?


    While his eyes were on the book, Kagura Hikaru''s mind wandered, suddenly feeling a stabbing pain behind his head, his hair standing on end as if a fierce beast was targeting him.


    He gradually became aware that the noisy voices around him had lowered by at least three times.


    Slowly turning his head, he saw a high school girl, colder than himself, almost like an iceberg radiating chill, holding a folder and staring at him with her refined and dignified face.


    "ssmate Kagura, why didn''t you report yesterday?"


    "...I have said before, I won''t join any clubs, including the Discipline Committee."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, a first-year student, the current President of the Discipline Committee at Yuqiu Private High School.


    Excellent in both academics and martial arts, from a wealthy family, greatly vited the rules with her idol-level beauty, gaining her a huge poprity.


    Since she joined the Discipline Committee, she swiftly leveraged her influence, leading her subordinates around to enforce discipline, feared by everyone, and even attempted to modify the school rules, practically turning the school into a military academy.


    Incredibly, even as the Discipline Committee reached further and gained more power, even nearing a rivalry with the Student Council, they faced little criticism.


    This experience had fed Ayakoji Chiyoko''s arrogance. Even though she was expressionless, the dangerous sharpness of her aura, like a samurai sword, was palpable.


    She was a true lioness, and Kagura Hikaru even doubted she considered any other students human. Her expression was chilling.


    And now, the lion had set its sights on him.


    .....So?


    They gazed at each other with indifferent eyes.


    "Instead of convincing me, why not find someone else?"


    "No need, I want you."


    "You''re too domineering."


    "That is exactly one of the qualities needed by the Discipline Committee member."


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko faced each other expressionlessly, seemingly determined to drag it out until the bell for ss rang.


    The Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee wasn''t in the same ss as him, and she would have to return once the teacher arrived no matter how reluctant she was.


    A few minutester, the bell rang.


    "I wille back." Ayakoji Chiyoko nced at him and walked straight out of the ssroom.


    Kagura Hikaru silently cast a mind-reading technique at her retreating figure.


    [...]


    [You have gained through peeping into the heart: Kado +1]


    [Kado lv3 (8/100)]


    Kagura Hikaru''s expression remained calm, the expected result indeed; the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee surprisingly had a simple mind.


    Or should it be said, what you see is what you get?


    Truly troublesome.


    He could still clearly recall, a few months ago just after the Student Council elections had ended, how Ayakoji Chiyoko, who was originally unconnected to him, suddenly stopped him in the corridor¡ª


    "I heard you have a grudge against her."


    "Who?"


    "Kiryu Hina, the new Student Council President."


    "Oh."


    "Join forces with me, and we can bring her down together."


    "I refuse."


    To others, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s actions might have seemed like persistent infatuation, but only Kagura Hikaru knew that she wasn''t interested in him at all; what she coveted was the dirt Kagura Hikaru held on the Student Council President.


    However, she was destined to be disappointed because it wasn''t something that could be leaked.


    After Ayakoji Chiyoko had left, the oppressive atmosphere finally dissipated from the ssroom, and the volume of everyone''s voices increased.


    Some stealthily cast admiring nces at Kagura Hikaru, yet no one approached him to speak.


    If Ayakoji Chiyoko was a true lion, then Kagura Hikaru was an immovable rock, impervious to whatever was said or done.


    It was impossible to befriend such a person; he had refused everyone.


    Kagura Hikaru seemedpletely oblivious to the gazes around him, he put away his light novel and opened the textbook for the first lesson.


    The teacher arrived, and the ss began.


    At 3:30 in the afternoon, school was dismissed.


    If there was one thing Kagura Hikaru appreciated about schools in the Ind Nation, it was that they dismissed particrly early.


    Most schools ended between four and five o''clock, but Yuqiu High School valued club activities and, being a private school with lenient rules, drastically set dismissal time at three in the afternoon. Probably many students chose this school just for this reason.


    Oddly enough, even in such a lenient educational environment, Yuqiu High School''s university admission rate still ranked among the top five in the city.


    After most of his ssmates had left, Kagura Hikaru finally packed up and stood up.


    As he descended the stairs, he was still thinking about the part-time job he was heading to next.


    But suddenly, unexpectedly, without any psychological preparation,


    In the stairwell, he saw someone who should not have been there.


    ck hair and ck pupils, neatly cut long ck hair, an elf-like beautiful face, slender legs d in white thigh-high stockings, a figure both dainty and wless.


    Perhaps the legendary Yamato Nadeshiko was modeled after her¡ªseeing her, one couldn''t help but think this.


    A first-year student representative, the current Student Council President of Yuqiu High School, Kiryu Hina.


    She was talking to two male students, expressions of respect and adoration on their faces.


    Seeing this, Kagura Hikaru''s feet halted on the stairs, unmoving, like a penguin lost in a snowstorm.


    Shortly after, those two students left, and Kiryu Hina looked up, her right hand gently sweeping her hair behind her ear, revealing a smile and softly saying,


    "Long time no see, Mister Hikaru."

 Chapter 2 Remember, This is What You Owe Me

    Kagura Hikaru silently stared at her, his footsteps inexplicably heavy as he slowly descended the stairs.


    "You refuse to tell me anything, unlike before."


    The voice of Kiryu Hina was like a lover''s whisper in his ear, teasing out the softest part of Kagura Hikaru''s heart, "To you, am I just a woman of the past now?"


    "...Don''t be like this."


    "Hehe, just kidding."


    Kiryu Hina, without ncing elsewhere, wore a wless smile, "Have you told ssmate Ayakoji about our past rtionship?"


    "No."


    Kagura Hikaru lowered his head.


    "Eh~" Kiryu Hinaughed, "You could have told her, after all, it''s all in the past."


    "..."


    "Oh my, perhaps you are considering my feelings? How tender, I''m truly touched."


    "....I still need to hurry...."


    "Eh, is that so, then I''ll keep it short."


    While smiling and nodding to students passing by nearby, Kiryu Hina spoke without turning back, "Next time Chiyoko Ayakoji approaches you, just tell her, whether it''s about our past rtionship or what happened afterward."


    Kagura Hikaru shuddered, shocked, he raised his head, "Why? You aren''t....."


    "Only by sharing secrets can we form a united front. Mister Hikaru, go and befriend Chiyoko Ayakoji."


    Kiryu Hina continued with a smile, but the darkness behind that smile was unbearable, "Gain her trust, attract her, make her fall just like I did in the past. You''ve always been good at this, right?"


    Gloomy fog, quicksand, whirlpools at sea, death.


    None of these instilled more fear in him than these words; it was as though his heart was being gripped by a giant hand.


    Suffocating, gasping for breath.


    Kagura Hikaru strained his neck, unable to utter a word, silently clenched his fists.


    Without receiving an answer, Kiryu Hina slowly turned her head forty degrees, her empty eyes looking sideways at him, word by word she said, "You will help me, won''t you?"


    He opened his mouth nkly, as cold, dry air rushed into his throat.


    "President~! I''ve been looking for you for a long time, you are here."


    A sunny sports club female student suddenly ran up from below, curiously nced at Kagura Hikaru, then affectionately grabbed Kiryu Hina''s hand.


    The darkness in Kiryu Hina''s eyes disappeared in an instant, revealing a gentle smile.


    "What''s up?"


    "Hehe, it''s about our club''s budget...."


    "Really can''t do anything with you, let''s go talk slowly at the Student Council."


    "Okay!"


    Kiryu Hina was led away by the girl''s hand.


    As they passed Kagura Hikaru, Kiryu Hina slightly tilted her head and said in a voice only the two of them could hear, "Remember, you owe me this."


    Kagura Hikaru silently watched her disappear around the corner.


    Painful memories tumbled through his mind.


    For a moment, he wanted to peer into Kiryu Hina''s heart, but he withdrew his hand in time.


    If what he saw was something even more despairing, he might never have the courage to face her again.


    Thus, Kagura Hikaru could only let his heart fall continuously, falling, finally plummeting into the sea called ''regret''.


    That sea must be ice blue, for it was that cold.


    After a long time, he turned to go downstairs.


    "Uka~"


    "Fight! Fight!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Sport club athletes running past chanted their slogan, their sweat glistening in the sunlight.


    Youthful individuals gather together during adolescence to waste their prime years, or to waste them in not so wasteful ways, which to adults evidentlycks efficiency.


    But when they step into society and look back suddenly, if they could say "I lived my youth to the fullest," then those were indeed the best times.


    Seeing dazzling things only intensified the dark clouds in Kagura Hikaru''s heart.


    There was a time when he was just like them...


    Unfortunately, that time is now in the past.


    All of this is your fault, you caused it, Kagura Hikaru.


    Kagura Hikaru was tormenting himself, and just like that, he walked out of the school.


    ............


    Not joining any clubs and leaving school immediately after sses, that was Kagura Hikaru, the so-called "go-home club" member.


    Someone might ask, since Kagura Hikaru was part of the go-home club, why did he carry a guitar to school?


    Simply because he needed it immediately after leaving school.


    Tokyo is scattered with hundreds of live houses, small torge, venues for indoor concerts with audiences ranging from thirty to three hundred, depending on the size and poprity of the live house.


    The one Kagura Hikaru arrived at was underground, medium-sized, and moderately popr. Even though it was already time for the live show to start, there was a trio band performing energetically on stage, yet the audience was sparse, probably only about forty people, which was on the lower side.


    But he was not shaken and nodded to the staff before entering the backstage preparation room.


    Several bands were already waiting in the dressing room to perform.


    The live house shows were performed by multiple bands in turn, each taking the stage in order and performing their set. How many audience members they attracted depended solely on their skills.


    Many active professional bands also began from live houses; one could say this underground world is where many musicians from the Ind Nation start their careers.


    Many bands hoped to catch the eye of a music agent who might happen toe by and sign them as musicians.


    Upon entering, Kagura Hikaru could already sense the oppressive atmosphere.


    He looked around, found his target, and approached a band of four girls dressed like spicy girls.


    They all seemed to be high school students, barely concealing their nervousness, but their faces brightened when they saw Kagura Hikaru arrive.


    "Mr. Kagura, please take care of us today!"


    "Yes, please take care of us."


    Kagura Hikaru, not one for many words, sat next to them and took out ake blue Fender electric guitar to tune.


    The calm aura he emanated subtly influenced the spicy girls; they no longer trembled and instead huddled together whispering about Kagura Hikaru''s handsomeness and aloofness.


    "No wonder he''s the mercenary guitarist introduced by the manager, so cool!"


    "Hehe, Karen you better be careful not to get too distracted by the handsome guy and forget to sing."


    "Stop teasing me."


    The band''s neers joked and yed with each other, easing their internal pressure. Today was their first live stage performance, and to avoid a flop, they had spent money to hire a "mercenary," though they still wondered if it was worth it.


    Thest time they rehearsed, the other party hadn''t shown up, and they were going on stage without having yed together even once, which felt almost like a death sentence.


    When it came down to it, having many doubts was useless.


    "Red Pepper Band, get ready to go on stage," a staff member in ck clothing entered to remind them.


    The spicy girls picked up their instruments and effect processors, cheered each other on, bowed to the band that had just finished performing, and then rushed onto the stage to set up their equipment.


    Kagura Hikaru lingered at the back, skillfully and calmly putting on a ck mask, and straightened his cor¡ªhe had changed his top on the way there and didn''t look like a student at all.


    When he went on stage, he noticed the audience had somehow increased; seeing him appear even elicited a low murmur from below the stage, clearly from regrs who knew him.


    A brief test of the equipment ended, and the drummer lifted his drumsticks to signal the control booth staff that they were ready to begin.


    Everything was set.


    As the drummer struck the first drumbeat, the stage lights lit up, and the lead singer Karen identally hit her teeth against the microphone upon opening her mouth, quickly grabbing the stand to correct it. When she finally started to sing, her voice was husky with nerves.


    The bassist and drummer were immediately affected by the mishap, missing the rhythm, which in turn disrupted the guitarist''s ying.


    The band members looked desperate.


    Their first live show was heading towards a dismal end.

 Chapter 3 The So-Called Guitar Hero

    Indeed, as a neer,ck of experience would lead toplications.


    When the lead singer''s voice cracked, Kagura Hikaru knew he had to y the role of the savior today.


    Silently, he turned the volume knob up about 25% and then forcefully strummed the strings!


    "Bang¡ª¡ª"


    The distorted noise exploded within the cramped space of the livehouse, violently grabbing everyone''s attention.


    Kagura Hikaru abandoned his teammates'' poor performance and yed an overwhelmingly loud, passionately charged, high-speed guitar solo.


    In an instant, he became the center of the stage.


    Everyone gaped at him, including the band members, who didn''t even realize they had unconsciously stopped ying.


    Innovative melodies, borate plucking, rapid strumming, and emotive ying all showcased a master-level live performance.


    ¡ª¡ª[Guitar lv4 (98/100)]


    As Kagura Hikaru''s highest level skill to date, he was absolutely clear-cut in this area.


    His nearly maximum-level guitar skills were sufficient to ce him among the world''s top guitarists, and such a master performing in a small livehouse was an undeniably electrifying scene.


    As the solo neared its end, Kagura Hikaru spontaneously twisted the melody back to the beginning of the Red Pepper Band''s cover song they were set to perform tonight.


    The girls quickly caught on, following suit; their private practice turned into muscle memory on stage, seamlessly merging into the performance.


    This time, there was absolutely no room for error!


    Lead singer Ai Cheng Hua Lian began with a determined look, "Lost and bewildered, we walk ~"


    The audience, previously overwhelmed by Kagura Hikaru''s performance, finally got a break to breathe and erupted with intense cheers, startling the girls on stage.


    But they did not stop their movements; they exchanged nces that shared a sigh of relief, and yed even harder.


    By the end of the song, the girls were drenched in sweat.


    "Thank you, everyone!"


    The four band members bowed to the audience, then cheerfully ran off the stage.


    Upon entering the dressing room and seeing Kagura Hikaru already packing up to leave, they hurriedly called out to him.


    "Mr. Kagura, thank you so much for today!"


    The girls bowed deeply at 90 degrees to Kagura Hikaru, inadvertently revealing a glimpse of their youthful cleavage from their cors.


    He shifted his gaze away and slung his guitar case over his shoulder, "If you want to hire me again, have the owner of this venue contact me, that''s all."


    "Ah, wait a moment!"


    The lead singer, called ''Karen'', shouted, "Mr. Kagura, won''t you join us for a celebration dinner? It''s our treat!"


    The others chimed in.


    Not to mention he was a handsome man standing in front of them, even if he were a greasy old man, his lifesaving efforts today meant that Kagura Hikaru''s dinner was on them!


    Before the live began, they had their doubts about whether hiring Kagura Hikaru was worth the money, but now, they harbored no such thoughts.


    If today Kagura Hikaru wanted to dine at a western restaurant, the high school girls would scrape together their money, gritting their teeth if they had to.


    Yet, Kagura Hikaru, expressionless, shook his head, "I have other ces to be, maybe next time."


    With that, he no longer paid attention to the girls'' reactions, briskly walked away, as if they were gues.


    His figure quickly disappeared from view, leaving only the slowly closing door behind.


    "He''s so coldhearted...." the bassist muttered.


    "Don''t say that, Mr. Kagura has other work, it can''t be helped."


    "Woo woo woo, I thought we could finally have a meal with a handsome guy, it''s all ruined now."


    "We''ll meet him another day!"


    Lead singer Ai Cheng Hua Lian wiped her face with the back of her hand, smearing part of her sweat-soaked makeup, revealing her clean and fresh face underneath, and said with a smile.


    "You''re right. As long as the Red Pepper Band is active, we will have another chance to work together!"


    "Enough talk, let''s take off this makeup and go eat."


    "I''m starving~"


    "You little glutton, let''s go!"


    ...........


    At a little past six in the evening, after running five lives, Kagura Hikaru returned home, having finished all his work for the day.


    "I''m home."


    "Wee back. How did the live go today?"


    A mature woman greeted him at the entrance, reaching out to take his guitar case.


    He instinctively dodged it.


    The woman showed an embarrassed smile and withdrew her hand, "Your dad is back already, we''ll be eating soon."


    "Hmm... Thank you, Auntie."


    Kagura Hikaru responded and went upstairs to enter his room.


    He dropped his guitar and backpack, and copsed on his bed, curling up in the darkness by himself.


    A few years ago, Kagura Hikaru''s family was just a typical family of three, living a in but happy life.


    Until the emergence of the mind-reading ability, he had glimpsed the lies behind theughter.


    In front of him, his affectionate parents each had their own affair partners in secret, the seemingly perfect happy family was, in fact, already shattered.


    At that time, he had not exposed them; he chose to endure, butter, the parents discovered the truth themselves.


    Then what followed naturally was divorce and remarriage.


    Kagura Hikaru was granted custody to his father, and the woman who had just greeted him at the entrance was his father''s affair partner during his marriage, now his official wife.


    A woman who was not his biological mother was iming to be his mother in their home.


    How was he supposed to face her?


    This year''s winter was colder than before, and even within the closed room, he could feel the cold drafts hitting him, making him curl up even tighter.


    It wasn''t until the stepmother came upstairs to knock on his door that he got up to eat dinner.


    The next morning, Kagura Hikaru left the train station as usual and walked toward school.


    The snow had stopped today.


    But after the snow melted, the weather grew colder, as if it would freeze the marrow in the bones.


    Even the high school girls, who usually braved the cold with bare legs, wore warm stockings today.


    On such a cold day, the members of the Disciplinary Committee were as dedicated as ever, standing in front of the school gate with their hands behind their backs, inspecting each student''s appearance and greeting them loudly.


    The Gori Vice President, whom he had seen the day before, was also there, but today his attention was entirely focused on the legitimate President, Chiyoko Ayakoji, beside him.


    "President Chiyoko, you should go back to the ssroom and rest, it''s too cold out here, we can handle it," the bulky Vice President bent down obsequiously, with a fawning expression toward the shorter woman, a sight that was undeniablyical.


    "As President of the Disciplinary Committee, it is my duty to take on more responsibilities. There''s no reason for me to stay back and enjoy myself."


    Chiyoko Ayakoji stood upright, facing the cold wind without flinching; her unwavering stance inspired the other Discipline Committee members.


    "If I hear such words from you again, step down from your position as Vice President."


    "Yes! I''m very sorry!!!"


    What energy in the early morning.


    Kagura Hikaru lowered his eyelids and walked through the school gate.


    Then he was caught by Chiyoko Ayakoji with a cold face.


    "As a member of the Disciplinary Committee, why are youte!"


    "I am not a Disciplinary Committee member," Kagura Hikaru protested expressionlessly.


    "Even if you aren''t now, you will be sooner orter; go and think it over."


    Chiyoko Ayakoji looked at him intently, with her slightly uplifted eyes giving her gaze an imposing authority.


    He was merely a tool used by her to hinder her opponents; Kagura Hikaru was well aware of this fact.


    But for the esteemed President of the Discipline Committee to persistently pester a high school boy in front of her members was still difficult toprehend.


    Chiyoko Ayakoji was not supposed to be a personcking in self-respect.


    Kagura Hikaru frowned, "..... What is your obsession with President Kiriyu that makes you willing to go to such lengths?"


    "That is my own matter. You should be thinking about when you will join the Disciplinary Committee," Chiyoko Ayakoji said with a cold expression, unmoved.


    That was fine; Kagura Hikaru hadn''t intended to get a direct answer from her anyway.


    There''s a theory called ''the White Bear Effect,'' stemming from an experiment by Daniel Wegner, a social psychologist from Harvard University. He asked participants to try not to imagine a white bear; as a result, the thought rebounded strongly, and quickly, a white bear formed in people''s minds.


    Simrly, the harder Chiyoko Ayakoji tried to conceal her true motives, the more likely Kagura Hikaru was to pry into them.


    It was only after Hina Kiryu approached him the day before that Kagura Hikaru truly became curious about their affair.


    He had not engaged in exploring other people''s secrets for a long time, but he was clearly still proficient as ever.


    Almost simultaneously with Chiyoko Ayakoji''s speech, he initiated mind-reading.


    [If I could just obtain the man Kagura Hikaru, it''s like holding leverage over you.]


    [Hina Kiryu, the grudge of you and dad snatching him away from me, this time, I must...]


    [You have gained from peering into the heart: Tea Ceremony +2]


    [Tea Ceremony lv4 (50/100)]


    That man? Who was that man, and what was his rtionship to Ayakoji''s father?


    And leverage, why did Chiyoko Ayakoji think she was leverage over Hina?


    Could it be that she already knew about his rtionship with Hina.....


    If that was the case, he couldn''t wait for her to lose patience and use the matter as ckmail; it was better toe clean earlier, perhaps leveraging this bit of information for some favor.


    Facing the displeased scrutiny of the several Discipline Committee members, Kagura Hikaru pondered as he walked toward the school building, blending into the crowd.


    Just before he reached the door, he suddenly stopped, turned his head, and looked back at Chiyoko Ayakoji standing upright at the school gate.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Although a woman, her posture was strangely reminiscent of an ancient samurai, an amalgamation of nobility and a warrior''s poise, quite charismatic.


    Looking at her, Kagura Hikaru''s mind pictured Hina Kiryu''s face.


    [Gain her trust, attract her, let her fall, just as the old me would have done. You''re quite skilled at that, aren''t you?]


    To make him do this kind of thing, Hina, what is your purpose?


    Bing like this, and the me who would obey you,


    how was he to face that.....

 Chapter 4 Kagura Hikaru has always been good at such things

    Noon, the bell rang for the end of ss.


    Like beasts receiving the signal to be released from their cages, the stifling air in the ssroom swept away.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Hey, hey, wanna go to the club room for practice?"


    "What about lunch, should we get some bread?"


    "I want pineapple buns!"


    "Eat in the club room? We''ll get scolded by the seniors, let''s go to the rooftop instead."


    "Eh~ There are too many people there, it''s better to eat in the ssroom."


    "I''ll go move the tables!"


    The youths in their adolescence happily discussed their ns for the lunch break. Some pushed tables together to sit around with friends and eat, others left the ssroom to buy lunch, and some continued to stare at the ckboard taking notes¡ªeveryone had something different to do.


    If a student didn''t live particrly close to home, they generally wouldn''t leave school during the lunch break.


    Most people chose to have their lunch on campus, then either headed to their club activities or caught some sleep on their desks¡ªthis was not umon.


    This habit was why many families prepared lunch boxes for their children.


    Those too busy to cook simply gave their kids money to buy bread or something to fill their stomachs¡ªit was amon practice.


    The school didn''t have a cafeteria, but it had a small shop simr to a kiosk that only opened during the lunch break. It sold items like milk, fruits, and bread at reasonable prices. There would always be a long queue at lunchtime, and getting the tastier options wasn''t always easy.


    But Kagura Hikaru had never been there, as his stepmother prepared boxed lunches for him, one for him and one for his father, without fail every day.


    Carrying the lunchbox, he left the ssroom through the back door and headed to the courtyard outside the teaching building.


    Yuqiu High School had excellent greenery, the courtyard was groomed like a small park. On good weather days, students would spread out a pic nket on thewn to sit and chat while eating, as if on an actual pic.


    Kagura Hikaru deftly found a secluded spot, a bench under a maple tree, back facing the courtyard''s walkway. It was unobtrusive and allowed him to enjoy his lunch in a quiet environment¡ªit was his most satisfying secret ce.


    Because of the season, the maple tree near the bench wasn''t very lush, appearing quite bare, bute autumn, it would grow golden-yellow leaves again.


    The scenery then would be extremely beautiful.


    He brushed off a few dry leaves from the bench, sat down, opened up the lunchbox on his thighs, and took out prepared chopsticks to pick up a piece of tamagoyaki and put it into his mouth.


    Even though it had cooled, it was still delicious.


    "Eating alone in such a ce, you haven''t been bullied, have you?"


    A cool voice came through, followed by footsteps.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, as always with a cold look on her face, strode up beside Kagura Hikaru and stood, arms folded, looking down at him, "Do you mind if I sit down."


    It should have been a question, but she said it with the tone of a statement.


    It was difficult to refuse.


    "...Please do."


    Kagura Hikaru shifted a bit to make space as she sat down, leaving an empty seat between them.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s sitting posture wasn''tdylike, with her right leg propped up over her left, leaning back, and her crossed fists resting on her thigh.


    This made her lose some of the student air and added a touch of theposure of a mature adult. She looked like someone who often frequented brand shops.


    After meeting Kiryu Hina yesterday, Kagura Hikaru had done everything he could to look into Ayakoji Chiyoko''s background.


    He''d thought it would take a few days, but it went surprisingly smoothly because Ayakoji Chiyoko herself was quite well-known.


    She was the only daughter of a famous actor from the Ind Nation, had debuted as a child star in TV dramas, and it was said that her ancestors were of Chinese ethnicity, with a family fortune of nearly ten billion yen.


    No wonder she had such an air of aloofness.


    She was the epitome of a rich youngdy.


    At the mention of this term, the vivid image of another person involuntary surfaced in Kagura Hikaru''s mind. He quickly cast that inauspicious thought aside.


    Thinking of that person at this time wasn''t a good sign.


    "You haven''t answered my question. Have you been bullied?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko asked with an icy tone.


    Kagura Hikaru snapped back to reality and slowly shook his head, "No."


    "Is that so."


    Upon receiving the answer, Ayakoji Chiyoko no longer spoke, staring into the distance, perhaps thinking about something.


    Kagura Hikaru noticed her mood was off and subconsciously sent out a mind-read.


    [If he hasn''t been bullied, that''s good. The feelings of a bullying victim are best left unexperienced by ordinary people.]


    [Through mind-reading, you have gained: Brazilian jiu-jitsu +1]


    [Brazilian jiu-jitsu lv3 (5/100)]


    This kind of statement, it''s as if she excluded herself from the category of ''ordinary people.''


    Kagura Hikaru''s eyes flickered slightly.


    Could it be, had Ayakoji Chiyoko experienced bullying?


    Impossible. With her personality and family background, who would dare to touch her...


    Thinking it over and getting no answer, she simply focused on eating.


    The two of them sat on opposite sides of the bench, silent, with only the sound of chopsticks moving.


    The food in the lunchbox slowly diminished.


    After Kagura Hikaru finished thest bite of rice and closed his lunchbox, Ayakoji Chiyoko finally spoke, "I''ve already filled out your club application for you."


    "I''ll say it again, I''m not going to join the Disciplinary Committee."


    "You still haven''t figured it out after all this time?"


    Kagura Hikaru frowned, "You''re really troubling me, can you stop."


    "I see... I understand."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko gave him a nce, a look of disappointment in her eyes, and stood up, "This is thest time I''ll recruit you. After this, I won''t bother you again, but the door to the Disciplinary Committee is always open for you. That''s that."


    "Wait."


    Just as she was about to step away, Kagura Hikaru suddenly called out to her.


    A slight smile yed on the face of Ayakoji Chiyoko as she turned back around, "Changed your mind?"


    "No, my position on the club remains unchanged," Kagura Hikaru said expressionlessly, but just as Ayakoji Chiyoko looked puzzled, his next words immediately perked her up.


    "What you really want is President Kiryu''s private information, right? I can tell you that."


    "Oh?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes narrowed, fox-like, as she sat back down, "What kind of change in your feelings made you change your mind?"


    She wasn''t a fool. Previously, Kagura Hikaru had been so resolute in his refusal; suddenly he had a change of heart, something was off.


    "Did Kiryu Hina say something to you?"


    The words that she blurted out almost caused Kagura Hikaru to change his expression.


    This woman... such sharp intuition.


    A feeling of wariness bubbled up within him, but he kept hisposure, not even shifting his eyes.


    "There''s nothing left for her and me to talk about," he said.


    "I see, it seems there''s a story between you two," said Ayakoji with a half-smile, an expression that suggested she''d sensed something.


    But regardless of what she knew, this was what Kagura Hikaru wanted her to see.


    "That doesn''t matter," Kagura Hikaru deliberately lightened the conversation, changing the subject, "I can tell you some things you want to know, but there are conditions."


    "Speak," she said.


    "I want to know what exactly happened between you and President Kiryu."


    This caught her off guard, and Ayakoji Chiyoko frowned.


    "Why, it doesn''t concern you."


    "Simply out of curiosity."


    Who would believe such an excuse?


    But since he was finally opening up, she couldn''t very well upset him again.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko frowned, looking distressed. After pondering for a while, she finally nodded, "Fine, I can tell you, as long as you keep it a secret."


    "Then, it''s a deal," Kagura Hikaru nodded silently. The fish was hooked.


    Sharing gossip, secrets, in fact, is an efficient form of social intercourse.


    It is human nature to exchange information; bring any two people together, and even if they are unrted strangers, given enough time, they''ll begin tomunicate. If they don''t speak the samenguage, they''ll use bodynguage to express their feelings.


    Strangers exchange superficial information, such as the weather, age, or upation.


    Friends will exchange more in-depth information, such as career, health issues, or family conflicts.


    But only the most inner circle of one''s socialwork gets ess to an individual''s ''secrets''.


    The unspeakable, the embarrassing, the angering, or the potentially damaging revtions are what constitute secrets.


    Kagura Hikaru used Kiryu Hina''s past as a bargaining chip to get Ayakoji Chiyoko to reveal her own secret, effectively ying the role of an ''insider'' for a brief moment.


    The sharing of secrets could create a sense of identification in Ayakoji Chiyoko towards him, increasing the extent of her concern for him.


    The fewer people who knew the secret, the more special he became.


    Kagura Hikaru''s disy of poor rtions with Kiryu Hina, along with his willingness to share information, allowed him to get closer to her heart, fostering a natural idea that ''He and I are aplices; I can trust him.''


    This was the first step to friendship¡ª mutual understanding.


    If Kagura Hikaru was a fisherman angling for a catch, then Ayakoji Chiyoko, the fish, had unwittingly bitten both the bait and the hook.


    This was what Kiryu Hina had said about Kagura Hikaru; what he excelled at:


    Deceiving someone''s feelings.

 Chapter 6 The Darkness of Yuqiu High School

    "Hina...?"


    Kagura Hikaru unintentionally called out her name.


    It was only when he saw Kiryu Hina''s expression cool down that he snapped out of it, straightening up and correcting himself, "Sorry, President Kiriyu."


    Silence fell behind him.


    The air remained mute for a good ten seconds before a voice carrying a feignedugh broke it, "ssmate Kagura really, suddenly calling someone by their name, you''re not trying to make me blush on purpose, are you? So naughty."


    "..."


    Kagura Hikaru was certain, there was a hidden message in her words.


    Unlike Ayakoji Chiyoko''s expressionless aloofness, Kiryu Hina, though often smiling, was even more frightening¡ªher thoughtspletely inscrutable.


    "Ah, you''re not mentally cursing me, are you?"


    Kiryu Hina popped her head over Kagura Hikaru''s left shoulder, her innocent and cute profile appearing before him, eyes fixed straight on him.


    At a loss for how to handle such proximity, Kagura Hikaru could only look away, "Why are you here... Did you hear everything?"


    "You mean your whispering with President Ayakoji?" Kiryu Hina straightened up, tapping her lips with her index finger, "Hmm, how should I put this, did I hear, or did I not? Oh dear, such a tough choice."


    "..."


    "Don''t stay quiet, well, alright, I''ll be honest¡ªI didn''t hear. But I can guess, you just made a deal, right?"


    "..."


    "Ah, that reaction, I guessed right."


    Kiryu Hina chuckled and poked Kagura Hikaru''s shoulder with her finger, forcefully enough to make him wince.


    "So, how''s it going?"


    "...Ayakoji Chiyoko is already aware of our situation, and a bit of your information has leaked. As an exchange, she revealed her reasons for being hostile towards you."


    "Hmm~"


    Kagura Hikaru ryed the conversation he had with Ayakoji Chiyoko faithfully.


    Of course, he omitted the content about mind-reading.


    This sort of espionage,cking any spirit of confidentiality, caused him some difort, but it wasn''t of any importance.


    After listening to Kagura Hikaru''s report, Kiryu Hina continued to smile nonchntly, "Interesting, so you think she''s jealous that I stole her stepmother, and that''s why she''s targeting me?"


    "It appears so, for now."


    "Liar, you know that''s not the whole reason, right?"


    Kiryu Hina ran her hand through Kagura Hikaru''s hair as if he were a pet, her gesture suggesting his thoughts werepletely transparent to her.


    Kagura Hikaru remained still, allowing her to do as she wished, "The real reason, she won''t tell me. We''re not that close."


    "Then just get closer to her, that could serve as your motivation to approach her, right? Teehee."


    Vague insinuations that she knew something yet would definitely not speak of it.


    President Kiryu.


    To call it a mere caprice seemed too shallow, yet to say it was profound surely mixed with caprice.


    Even though he couldn''t see her expression now, it must be one of disdain, as if looking at a chess piece.


    Feeling toyed with, Kagura Hikaru tentativelyunched a small counter, "What about you, then? Your purpose for having me approach Ayakoji Chiyoko¡ªwhat is it? Could it be you also fancy your stepmother and want topete with Ayakoji Chiyoko for her?"


    "How funny, Ayakoji Chiyoko is such a childish spirit, surely you don''t think I am too?" Kiryu Hina let out a cute, pleasantugh, "It''s not an Oedipusplex, who would fancy an old woman? That''s just my father''s taste."


    Kagura Hikaru thought to himself that this was indeed the case.


    Even if he understood Ayakoji Chiyoko''s reasons, Hina''s conflict with the former might not stem from the same source.


    No wonder he had always felt a sense of unease.


    In his memory, Kiryu Hina was not someone interested in such childish power struggles.


    If it had been her in the past, she might have patiently talked to Ayakoji Chiyoko to inquire about the issue and would have made amends if possible.


    As for now, she would probably see the other party as an enemy from the get-go and seek to destroy Ayakoji Chiyoko''s foothold, forcing her to lose her position as the President of the Disciplinary Committee, thuspletely removing her ability to threaten herself.


    Yet, Kiryu Hina had chosen to have him approach Ayakoji Chiyoko, a move of extremely low efficiency.


    "What exactly is your purpose?" Kagura Hikaru could not help but question for the second time, "Or do you simply find pleasure in toying with me and Ayakoji Chiyoko?"


    As long as he couldn''t figure out what Kiryu Hina was thinking, he would not have peace of mind.


    He always felt that her thoughts couldn''t be that simple.


    The deeper he sank, the more he wondered what kind of ending was waiting for him¡­


    "My purpose, you really want to know? Ehh~ what to do~~~" Kiryu Hina teased with a smile, creating an atmosphere as though she might agree at any moment, deliberately waited two to three seconds, then said, "But I really can''t tell you! Sorry~ For now, you just need to focus on how to get along with her, that''s all you need to know. It''s really for your own good."


    Kagura Hikaru couldn''t help but turn his head to look at her, only to see a mask called ''smile.''


    Her face was one of soulless deceit, like that of a high-end android, using programmed settings to lift her lips at a standard angle, creating a warm voice with a fixed frequency.


    The her from before, she used to be so beautiful when she smiled, and never spoke with that kind of tone.


    What turned you into this?


    Right, what else could it be.


    Kagura Hikaru painfully closed his eyes and turned his head away, unable to bear the sight.


    "I understand, I will continue to close the distance with Ayakoji Chiyoko, until you tell me your real n."


    "Haha, that''s a good boy."


    Kiryu Hina, standing behind him, ruffled Kagura Hikaru''s hair as if petting a dog.


    Suddenly, his scalp tightened fiercely.


    Hina pulled his hair upward, forcing Kagura Hikaru''s chin to lift involuntarily, the rough strength causing his scalp to ache.


    The voice mixed withughter turned cold abruptly.


    "But remember, never betray me. I''ll be watching you closely."


    "..."


    "Ah, sorry sorry~ I didn''t mean to make the atmosphere such tense."


    Kiryu Hina''s tone returned to one of mirth, released her grip, and patted Kagura Hikaru''s shoulder in constion, "It''s just that you have a history, so I have to be careful, don''t want to be betrayed by you again, right?"


    "..."


    "Hey! Silent again, you really have be less fun," Kiryu Hina pouted, hands on her hips, "Anyway, back to business. I need you to gain Ayakoji Chiyoko''s trust as quickly as possible, be her friend, and for that, we need to put on a little performance."


    Kagura Hikaru steadied his emotions and tilted his head slightly, "What do I need to do?"


    "Do this¡ª"


    Kiryu Hina leisurely took out a bottle of drink from behind her back, opened it, and poured it over Kagura Hikaru''s head, bottle pointed downwards.


    It flowed down his hair to his neck, his shoulders.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 7 Eyewitness Scene

    The wet, viscous liquid slid through his hair, across his cheeks, and over his neck, the cool touch invigorating his spirit.


    Kagura Hikaru instinctively touched the dampness on his face, held it to his nose, and smelled a sweetness.


    It was yogurt.


    Not orange juice, not c, but yogurt.


    The sweetness of yogurt in drinks isparatively stronger, with a color that is more prominent and easily noticed.


    Being seen by others would surely be very conspicuous.


    "A scene of rupture could deepen Ayakoji Chiyoko''s impression of a hostile rtionship with us. Having amon enemy can bridge distance more easily than having amon friend,"


    "This is what I specifically went to the vending machine to buy, it cost me 500 yen~"


    There wasn''t a trace of emotion in Kiryu Hina''s smile, "Don''t let me down, okay?"


    Don''t let me down... huh.


    That is to say, he hadn''t considered my feelings from the start.


    Kagura Hikaru''s eyes dimmed for a moment as he silently stood up and left.


    Next, in full view of everyone, he would parade the traces of ''bullying'' on himself for all the ssmates to see, and ultimately, the incident would reach Ayakoji Chiyoko''s ears.


    ''Bullying'' that took ce during the lunch break¡ªshe would surely know what this implies.


    Kagura Hikaru already knew how to use this to his advantage.


    Undoubtedly, Kiryu Hina harbored the same thought.


    Kiryu Hina watched with a smile as Kagura Hikaru walked away, then turned and departed in another direction.


    This should have been a n without any solid proof, taking ce in darkness behind the scenes.


    The only unexpected factor was the appearance of an eyewitness at the scene, who went unnoticed by everyone.


    In a corner, a beautiful girl in a volleyball uniform happened to pass by carrying a box of sweat towels and saw the entire ordeal.


    The Student Council President pouring milk on a male student''s head and the bullied party leaving without a word.


    She couldn''t help but stop in her tracks, furrowing her brows tightly.


    "That person... Mr. Kagura?"


    ............


    Having left the courtyard, Kagura Hikaru, with strange looks from passing students, went to wash his face in the men''s restroom, wiped his hair with paper towels, then headed straight home early.


    The next day at school, rumors were spread everywhere about the Student Council President bullying a student.


    "President Kiriyu? Impossible... She''s such a kind person."


    "So that''s her true character, disgusting!"


    "Who is the student that got bullied? It must be a misunderstanding, right?"


    "I don''t believe President Kiriyu is that kind of person!"


    "...."


    Walking from the ssroom corridor, such voices were incessant.


    Everyone looked serious as if the matter truly concerned them.


    The spread of the incident was unnaturally fast.


    It was unclear whether Kiryu Hina was spreading it herself, or if Ayakoji Chiyoko''s side was helping it along, or perhaps there were actions from both sides.


    In any case, the atmosphere at school had turned into what both parties had expected.


    As a result, Kiryu Hina''s reputation was bound to be damaged, but with no evidence, it would most likely end up unresolved.


    This didn''t mean Kiryu Hina didn''t care about her reputation, it simply signified that what she was plotting was far more significant than her own fame.


    As for whether Ayakoji Chiyoko would take this opportunity to act, that was certain, but Kagura Hikaru thought there was no need to worry, since Hina must have had a contingency n.


    More pressing than this was that he was about to face a test himself.


    When Kagura Hikaru opened the ssroom door, he distinctly felt the ssroom''s noise level drop by two notches.


    Boys and girls alike cast their nces his way, whispering in volumes they thought he couldn''t hear but that were perfectly clear.


    "Hey, do you think the reason Kagura ssmate left early yesterday was because..."


    "It can''t be mistaken, I heard that a senior from the second year saw him with the Student Council President."


    "Ah, how could this happen? Kagura doesn''t seem like a bad person, does it mean that President Kiriyu really is..."


    "You can''t judge a book by its cover, who knows what their rtionship is."


    "Shh, keep it down!"


    "..."


    In the epicenter of the minormotion, Kagura Hikaru hung her backpack on the side of her desk without expression, set down her guitar case, and, as always, took out a light novel to immerse herself in her own world.


    ng!


    Suddenly, the ssroom''s back door was forcefully swung open, and a graceful figure strode in, followed by several high school students wearing red ''Disciplinary'' armbands.


    The neer, amidst the astonished gazes of the students, came to the side of Kagura Hikaru''s desk and tapped on it, "First-year student Kagura Hikaru, we are from the Disciplinary Committee. There''s something we''d like to understand, pleasee with us."


    Kagura Hikaru lifted her head and, as expected, saw Ayakoji Chiyoko with an emotionless face, nked by several Discipline Committee members.


    It seemed that she had visited today in her capacity as the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.


    He nodded, closed his book, stood up, and followed Ayakoji Chiyoko out of the ssroom.


    Whispers from behind instantly grew louder.


    They left the main teaching building and headed toward the old schoolhouse on the campus.


    This ce was specially designated by the school for student group activities, and most rooms were under the jurisdiction of student clubs.


    The third floor here had been upied by the Disciplinary Committee, where Ayakoji Chiyoko had established an office.


    An interesting bit of trivia: before Ayakoji Chiyoko enrolled, Haneoka Private High School actually didn''t have a ''Discipline Committee''¡ªmaintaining discipline was by default the responsibility of the Student Council members.


    This was actually a tiring job, not a cushy one.


    If someone volunteered to take over this duty, the Student Council was naturally happy to see it happen, since nobody liked getting up early to stand in the cold at the school gate every day.


    Where there''s a will, there''s a way, and thus the Disciplinary Committee was established with great fanfare by Ayakoji Chiyoko, and the Discipline Committee members running around wearing red armbands became a new sight on campus.


    Probably because the Disciplinary Committee had never existed since the school was founded, neither the school authorities nor the Student Council had a firm grasp on the specifics of its jurisdiction, allowing Ayakoji Chiyoko to exploit the loophole and expand quickly.


    Today, the membership of the Disciplinary Committee alone had reached sixty, with a fifty-fifty ratio of males to females, including students from all grade levels.


    The majority joined because of Chiyoko''s personal charm. The abundantly ethical Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee charmed both men and women alike.


    The Disciplinary Committee, which had started in a single old ssroom, quickly became overcrowded. So they simply took over the entire floor of old ssrooms, and even cleared out thergest one to use as a regr practice space, primarily focused on Grappling Technique and Sword Dao.


    Discipline Committee members who could manage the students'' behavior had to be stronger than the average student; that was Ayakoji Chiyoko''s consistent stance.


    Today, the Disciplinary Committee existed as a club with a campus influence that could rival that of the Student Council, and most students didn''t dare cross them. Even teachers took them seriously.


    Because as a quasi-violent authority, the image of the Discipline Committee members was anything but mild-mannered.


    When Kagura Hikaru stepped onto the hallway where the Disciplinary Committee was located, he nearly jumped at the sight of a bunch of fierce-looking Discipline Committee members rushing by, some even carrying bamboo swords as their hastened to their destination.


    It was almost time for morning sses, they were probably off to ss... right?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Hey, Ishida, Murakami! Drag this guy in!"


    "Yes, sir!"


    Shouts came from behind, and three more Discipline Committee members rushed past, energetically greeting the very spirited Ayakoji Chiyoko with a "Good morning, President!"


    Silently, Kagura Hikaru witnessed the three Discipline Committee members dragging a golden-haired unfortunate delinquent upstairs. The guy, who was as pale as a ghost, was listlessly dragged into a ssroom with closed curtains. As the door shut behind them, the pleas for mercy and screams from within could no longer be heard.


    ...This was definitely a den of evil.


    Kagura Hikaru looked towards Ayakoji Chiyoko''s retreating figure with a strange gleam in his eyes.


    To keep such arge group of dangerous elements on campus, she couldn''t possibly be nning a coup by force, could she?!


    Inparison, Hina''s bookish Student Council... indeed seemed far too weak.


    "This is the ce, go in."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko stopped and pointed to a ssroom ahead.


    Immediately, a Discipline Committee member pushed Kagura Hikaru through the door.


    He was initially annoyed by their rough manners until he saw Ayakoji Chiyoko wave her hand, prompting several people to briskly arrange tables and chairs, quickly wipe them down with cloths, and even considerately ce a small vase with flowers on the side for decoration. Then, all his emotions dissipated.


    Quarreling with bootlickers was as meaningless as giving your ex-girlfriend a cucumber.


    The two sat opposite each other, separated by a desk, looking into each other''s eyes.


    "You guys, get out."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko said, tilting her head to the side.


    The generic-faced Discipline Committee members standing to the side obeyed without hesitation, leaving the ssroom in an orderly fashion and even thoughtfully closing the door behind them.


    Soon, only Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru remained in the Disciplinary Committee''s office.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko crossed her legs, folded her arms across her chest, and propped up her enormous breasts, "Tell me, what exactly is going on between you and Kiryu Hina."

 Chapter 8 2nd year Class C, Ai Cheng Hua Lian!

    "Spill it, when did Kiryu Hina bully you?"


    "She didn''t bully anyone," Kagura Hikaru said.


    "If I say she did it, then she did," Ayakoji Chiyoko said with a cold smile, tilting her chin up. "This is a golden opportunity, you understand, right?"


    He certainly understood.


    If he now imed that the rumors of Kiryu Hina''s bullying were true, then Ayakoji Chiyoko could immediately solidify it as a fact with her authority as the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.


    With Kagura Hikaru''s testimony as a victim, Hina would undoubtedly be ousted from the position of Student Council President and have a stain on her record.


    Campus bullying wasmon in the Ind Nation, but it had not yet reached the point of numbness, and most people were extremely resentful of it.


    If the bullying by Kiryu Hina became an established fact, she would face widespread condemnation, and might even be bullied by others in return.


    The prerequisite was that Kagura Hikaru would stand on the opposing side.


    "President Kiryu did not engage in any bullying, those outside are purely rumors," Kagura Hikaru maintained his stance resolutely, utterly unwilling to give ground.


    That stern expression reminded one of rock.


    The reluctance of the witness made Ayakoji Chiyoko feel helplessly frustrated, and she clucked her tongue softly.


    Honestly, she had anticipated this oue; it was clear that Kagura Hikaru would not agree to a n that would cause significant harm to Kiryu Hina. She hadid out her boundaries with him just yesterday.


    He clearly still had feelings for his ex-girlfriend.


    Now, the only person who couldplicate matters for Kiryu Hina on this issue was Kagura Hikaru, the party involved and the sole witness, so she had to try.


    No one had witnessed Kiryu Hina''s bullying firsthand; without eyewitness testimony, rumors would ultimately remain just rumors.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    No choice but to let her off the hook like this...


    However, it couldn''t be said there were no gains.


    The underlying implications of this matter were indeed worth pondering. When Ayakoji Chiyoko had just left yesterday at noon, Kagura Hikaru was still unscathed, yet shortly after her departure, he was seen walking into the restroom covered in yogurt.


    Was that a coincidence?


    Nobody would believe that.


    What really happened, Ayakoji Chiyoko did not want to expend brain cells on that, she could just ask the person involved directly.


    "Yesterday, Kiryu Hina found you after I did, didn''t she?" Ayakoji Chiyoko asked, arms crossed.


    Kagura Hikaru hesitated for a moment, then nodded.


    "Did she know we had met?"


    "She warned me not to contact you."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko understood.


    That so-called sign of bullying was probably the result of the warning.


    No, in her view, it seemed more like a threat than a warning.


    [Interesting, did that woman ever lose herposure like this in the past?]


    [Just a private meeting and she''s this sensitive, it''s either jealousy or fear. So, Kagura Hikaru is really important to her? Indeed, I didn''t choose the wrong person!]


    [Now, how should I use him next...]


    [You have gained insight into the mind: Piano +3]


    [Piano lv4 (59/100)]


    Ayakoji Chiyoko found Kiryu Hina''s stress reaction quite interesting.


    Compared with Kagura Hikaru, who clearly harbored no thoughts for him and appearedpletely ruthless.


    From this perspective, Kagura Hikaru and she were indeed on opposing sides.


    If they were friends, Kiryu Hina would definitely not let her suffer embarrassment; that was the kind of person she was. Witnessing her losing control was a rare experience.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s mood was quite good as she slightly curled up the corners of her mouth.


    "After school today,e to the Disciplinary Committee room, I have something to tell you."


    "Can''t it be now?"


    "ss is about to start, we don''t have enough time, and I''ll be leading a patrol during the lunch break, so I won''t be avable," Ayakoji Chiyoko said.


    Kagura Hikaru frowned slightly, "I have ns after school."


    "What ns? I cane with you," Ayakoji Chiyoko interrupted, saying so unapologetically.


    "It could be alright...."


    Kagura Hikaru pretended to be somewhat troubled, but his heart was very calm, as if anticipating the other''s response.


    Luring Ayakoji Chiyoko out of the school, away from herfort zone, and using the time spent alone together to further close the distance between them was Kagura Hikaru''s n.


    Simple, unsophisticated, but effective.


    He mentioned the address of a livehouse and arranged a meeting time with her.


    Although the purpose was to deceive Ayakoji Chiyoko into a date, he indeed had a live performance to attend that day.


    As a model student in the eyes of parents and a top caste in the eyes of ssmates, Ayakoji Chiyoko obviously was not aware of what a so-called ''livehouse'' was, had never been to such a ce, and did not care.


    She even thought that avoiding her ssmates'' eyes and meeting Kagura Hikaru outside the school was a good strategy, to prevent Kiryu Hina from being overly sensitive and causing a secondary bullying incident that might hurt her informants.


    The two reached a consensus, agreed to meet at the store''s entrance when the time came, and then left separately.


    They were both first-year students and actually had ssrooms on the same floor, so they should have gone back together, but Ayakoji Chiyoko was stopped midway by a Discipline Committee member who seemed to have something to say.


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t think much of it and went back first.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko watched his figure disappear at the stairwell, then turned to her subordinate and spoke in an indifferent tone, "What is it?"


    "President, our team members in the second grade heard some news that you might be interested in."


    "Stop beating around the bush, get to the point!"


    "Yes!" The Discipline Committee member immediately stood straight, his face showing a look of reverence, "A second-grade girl imed she witnessed the scene of the Student Council President''s bullying, but the authenticity of the message is not confirmed!"


    "Oh....?"


    Upon hearing this, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes lit up like she had spotted prey, causing the Discipline Committee member beside her to tremble.


    But he seemed to somewhat enjoy it.


    "Name, ss."


    "Second-year C ss, Ai Cheng Hua Lian! President!"


    "I understand, you''ve worked hard, well done."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko casually patted the shoulder of the Discipline Committee member, who was so moved that he trembled all over, nearly wetting himself.


    "No, where, it is my honor...."


    However, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s attention was no longer on him as she strode toward the stairwell, intending to immediately go to the second grade''s floor to have a good talk with Student Ai Cheng.


    She had thought that without Kagura Hikaru as an eyewitness, dealing with Kiryu Hina would be impossible, but unexpectedly, another potential witness had emerged.


    She needed to protect her before the cunning Student Council discovered her.


    In time, Ai Cheng Hua Lian would be the secret weapon of the Disciplinary Committee to defeat the Student Council!


    As Ayakoji Chiyoko walked, the smile on her face gradually widened.


    But just then, the ss bell ringing interrupted her thoughts.


    ...Almost forgot about the morning ss, looks like I can only go during the break.


    That''s fine, it won''t make much difference; she''s not going anywhere.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko calmed down and headed downstairs to the ssroom.

 Chapter 9 The Person Ran Away

    Ding ding ding ding...


    After the first period ended, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s figure appeared on the second-year''s floor.


    ording to what that Discipline Committee member had said earlier, a second-year student named ''Ai Cheng Hua Lian'' had witnessed the Student Council President bullying Kagura Hikaru. In other words, she could verify the authenticity of the bullying incident.


    This would be a powerful strike that the Disciplinary Committee could wield against Kiryu Hina!


    Even if Kagura Hikaru, as the party involved, wouldn''t admit to it, as long as they say she was threatened by Kiryu Hina, others would agree.


    Hmph, you''ve made a miscalction, Kiryu Hina.


    Although I don''t know how you managed to control Kagura Hikaru and ensure his silence, now that there''s a second witness, don''t me me for not showing any mercy!


    Soon, Ayakoji Chiyoko arrived at ss 2-C''s ssroom.


    She casually stopped a girl who had just walked out: "I''m looking for Ai Cheng Hua Lian, where is she?"


    "Who are you... you, you, President Ayakoji?!"


    The girl initially didn''t think much of it, but her expression changed immediately after seeing the visitor''s face clearly.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, within just half a year and relying on the reputation she had built up through the Disciplinary Committee, had be notorious across the school, and those who had personally experienced her dealings with them held her in awe.


    After all, the person before them was known for beating the Kendo Club captain with a bamboo sword as punishment for leading others to smoke, subduing five people in the Judo Club with her bare hands, including the captain, and sending them all to the Disciplinary Committee for rectification on the grounds of distributing pirated discs¡ªan ultimate tough one.


    Not only was her physical strength off the charts, but it was said her academic and political capabilities could rival those of the Student Council President Kiryu Hina, and she had evene close to surpassing thetter to be the Student Council President at one point.


    No matter how one considered it, she was not someone a mere ordinary second-year student could afford to provoke.


    "Ye-yes, I''m sorry, President Ayakoji! I didn''t realize it was you just now..." The second-year girl whom Ayakoji Chiyoko had stopped quickly cowered and apologized in a low voice.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko emotionless: "I''m looking for Ai Cheng Hua Lian; are you from ss C? Call her out for me."


    "Ai, Ai Cheng? She seems to have left, I haven''t seen her now..."


    "Hmm?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s gaze sharpened, and the girl''s legs immediately grew weak from fear.


    "Tha-that''s right, Ruzaki! Ruzaki is friends with Ai Cheng, she must know where she went!"


    "Call her out. And be quick about it," Ayakoji Chiyoko said with folded arms.


    I thought she would be right there, and she wouldn''t run away, but she actually did, tch.


    Sensing her displeasure, the girl said nothing and immediately turned around to go back, and after a while, she pushed out a small-framed girl who appeared as jittery as a rabbit.


    "Um..." The rabbit-like girl bowed deeply to Ayakoji Chiyoko: "Hello, my name is Ruzaki Mami."


    "Spare me the pleasantries," Ayakoji Chiyoko spoke briskly, "tell me, where did Ai Cheng Hua Lian go."


    "I''m sorry, I don''t know..."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s gaze darkened, and the dense atmosphere around her exploded, releasing a captain-level spiritual pressure on the spot.


    The two young girls, terrified, let out a "Yikes!" and huddled together, trembling as they looked at her.


    "I see... then I''ll just wait for her here. That shouldn''t disturb you all, should it?" said Ayakoji Chiyoko softly.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The subdued tone was akin to a luby from hell, of course, the kind that lulls one to eternal rest.


    "Yes, of course you can!"


    "It won''t be a disturbance, how could it be a disturbance!"


    "When Student Ai Chenges back, we will immediately inform you!!"


    The two girls nodded with a vigor that made one suspect their heads might snap off, even conjuring afterimages with their movements.


    Meanwhile, they were internally sobbing with tearful eyes and praying, "Hua Lian-chan/Ai Cheng Student, pleasee back soon!!"


    Seeing them so frightened, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s anger somewhat subsided. She turned her head to rest her hand on the windowsill, gazing out at the scenery.


    No matter what, Ai Cheng Hua Lian was bound to return before ss started, and there would naturally be a chance to speak to her, unless she nned to skip ss.


    In just ten short minutes between sses, she didn''t believe any mishap could happen!


    .........


    Meanwhile, in ss 1-A.


    A girl named Ai Cheng Hua Lian tread hesitantly in the lower-grade corridor.


    Should she really go? Would she be a bother to someone?


    What if she upset Mr. Kagura...


    She was the kind of girl whose heart couldn''t hide a thing, her thoughts clearly reflected on her face.


    Her hesitant look made you want to step forward and help her.


    Just as the freshman boys in the hallway could no longer resist the temptation of a cute and pretty girl in need of help, Ai Cheng Hua Lian suddenly stopped in her tracks, her eyes brightened, and she then elerated and quickly walked away.


    Her smooth, shoulder-length hair bobbed up and down, and her tight, fair thighs swung under the skirt, exuding youthful vitality.


    The male high school students looked toward the end of the direction she was heading and saw the back of a handsome boy.


    The eager expressions on their faces suddenly drooped.


    What, so she was going to find their grade''s ''Rock-Solid Prince''. Girls who are after that kind of guy, they don''t stand a chance at all.


    The subject of their grumbling, Kagura Hikaru, was currently nning to step outside to avoid the buzzing atmosphere in the ssroom,pletely unaware that someone was looking for him.


    "Mr., Mr. Kagura!"


    Feeling a slight tugging at his clothes from behind, Kagura Hikaru turned around sharply, finding an unfamiliar girl.


    "You are?"


    "Ah, I''m sorry..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian shrank her neck, bing even more timid.


    Kagura Hikaru turned around, looking at her with curiosity.


    She seemed somewhat familiar.


    "Have we met before?"


    "Yes!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian lifted her head, looking at him happily, "I''m the lead singer of the Red Pepper Band, Ai Cheng Hua Lian! Do you remember me, Mr. Kagura?"


    "Red Pepper Band..."


    Kagura Hikaru shed through memories of a live performance from the day before yesterday with a rookie band whose members all wore heavy tanned-girl makeup,paring them to the fair-skinned beauty before him.


    He had a faint impression, she was the skinniest one in the band, right?


    "Ah!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian scratched her head embarrassedly, "It''s true, our makeup was too thick before. Mr. Kagura, you couldn''t recognize me, hehe."


    "I didn''t expect you to be a student at Yuqiu High School too."


    "Yes, ss 2-C, Ai Cheng Hua Lian, reporting to you!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian said with a cheerful smile, giving a somewhat awkward military salute.


    She was certainly cute enough.


    "Hello, Senior Ai Cheng," Kagura Hikaru nodded in response.


    "Eh? Eh, no! You don''t have to call me senior, Mr. Kagura!"


    "I''m a freshman, of course I should refer to a sophomore as senior."


    "That''s not right, Mr. Kagura is someone I respect... If it''s okay with you, please call me Ai Cheng! And, and of course, calling me Hua Lian is not out of the question..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was a step too slow to realize what she had said, her face turned red as she looked down and fidgeted with her fingers, the little person in her heart covering its face and rolling around frantically, screaming bold.


    When boys and girls of the same age call each other by their first names, what it implies goes without saying.


    If Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s friend got called by his first name by a boy, she would definitely think the two of them had a close rtionship!


    As expected, Kagura Hikaru did not take the bait, calmly changing the subject, "So, Senior Ai Cheng, did youe to see me today for a live performance opportunity?"


    "No, although we did indeed think about hiring Mr. Kagura again, today is not about that..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian looked around, then tugging on Kagura Hikaru''s sleeve, she pulled him to the window and whispered, "I''m sorry, Mr. Kagura, but I saw it."


    "Saw what?"


    "Yesterday at noon, you and President Kiriyu..."

 Chapter 10 Our Secret Between Us!

    "Alright, don''t say any more."


    The moment the other party uttered the words ''yesterday noon,'' Kagura Hikaru had already understood what she wanted to say, and just how thorny the issue was.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian had witnessed the scene where Hina was ''bullying'' him.


    In other words, she was the third witness apart from the two of them involved!


    This information absolutely could not reach Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    "Senior, besides me, have you told anyone else about this?"


    Kagura Hikaru stared intently at her.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian shrank her neck, guiltily shifting her gaze: "I, I only told one of my friends...."


    "Senior... a secret is only a secret when kept by one person."


    Kagura Hikaru''s gaze carried reproach and a touch of helplessness.


    "I''m sorry! Did I cause trouble for Mr. Kagura?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s face turned pale as she repeatedly bowed in apology.


    "...Things aren''t as you saw them, there''s a lot of hidden info here." Kagura Hikaru rubbed his temples with a headache.


    "Did I really trouble you that much, I''m terribly sorry! I''ll try my best to rify it!!"


    "Rumors have already started, it''s not something you can stop on your own."


    "This, I..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, at a loss, lowered her head: "I''m sorry, Mr. Kagura. I originally wanted to discuss it with you first, but I couldn''t help myself and mentioned it to a friend, which led to this situation... I''m really very sorry."


    It seemed she thought all the school rumors were her fault for talking too much.


    But Kagura Hikaru knew it wasn''t so; behind it all were the shadows of Kiryu Hina and Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    "What''s done is done, it''s meaningless to pursue whose fault it is."


    Kagura Hikaru looked at her earnestly: "Senior Ai Cheng, can you promise me something?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian nodded eagerly: "Yes, please tell me!"


    "If someone asks you about this matterter on, make sure you don''t admit you were a witness, especially to Ayakoji Chiyoko."


    "Eh? President Ayakoji? Is she investigating this matter?"


    "That''s right, and I don''t want her to know the truth, do you understand?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian looked at Kagura Hikaru with a deeply puzzled gaze, not understanding why he, the victim of bullying, would want to protect the Student Council President like this.


    It seemed just as he said, there was much more hidden in this affair.


    "The break between sses is about to end; you should head back now," said Kagura Hikaru. "Also, pleasee to the Student Council room during lunch break. I''ll be waiting for you there."


    "Eh?"


    The Student Council, that was President Kiriyu''s territory...


    "I, I understand..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian replied cautiously.


    "Then it''s settled."


    Kagura Hikaru nodded and turned towards the ssroom.


    As he walked, he pulled out his phone from his pocket, slowly typing an email address he knew by heart, and sent a message.


    [This is Kagura Hikaru. Someone witnessed yesterday''s noon incident, second-year Ai Cheng Hua Lian. I''ll bring her to the Student Council during lunch break. You should talk to her personally, I can''t exin it all by myself.]


    After sitting in his seat, the bell for the start of ss rang a little whileter, and he received a reply.


    [Understood.]


    [Also, reciting your ex-girlfriend''s email address is really gross, ssmate Kagura.]


    Kagura Hikaru read the message and immediately deleted the conversation, put away his phone, and took out the textbook for the next ss as he prepared for the lesson.


    Elsewhere,


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was hurrying back to ss 2-C.


    She could already hear the bell halfway there and had to hurry or else she would beter than the teacher to the ssroom.


    However, just as she was about to reach the ssroom door, she suddenly noticed a person who should not have been there, standing in the corridor, gazing out the window as if waiting for someone.


    Because the bell had rung, most students had already gone into their ssrooms, leaving her still and conspicuous, and it highlighted her remarkably untouchable air even more.


    It was a beautiful girl, tall and dignified, looking like a frigid Princess from the Snow Country¡ªso beautiful and cold that she made others feel inferior.


    Seeming to notice the gaze upon her, the Princess turned around, her eyes instantly locking onto Ai Cheng Hua Lian.


    Then, she strode over.


    "You''re Ai Cheng Hua Lian?"


    ".....Yes, that''s my name."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was feeling panicked.


    If this were an anime, she would be sweating buckets by now.


    Just minutes ago, she had been warned by Kagura Hikaru, and now she was already facing the person in question!


    Was sheying a trap for herself?


    So indeed, it was about the incident from yesterday....


    "You know who I am, don''t you?" Ayakoji Chiyoko said.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian hesitantly nodded.


    "I am here because of the case where the Student Council President is suspected of bullying a student. I heard you witnessed the scene?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko adopted the demeanor of a police officer dealing with a witness, her expression serious, stern, meticulous¡ªit was only missing a notebook for her to take notes.


    Overwhelmed by her imposing manner, Ai Cheng Hua Lian felt even guiltier, her voice getting softer and softer, "I''m sorry, about that... I lied. I didn''t see the Student Council President bullying anyone!"


    Remembering Kagura Hikaru''s request, she finally mustered the courage and sincerely bowed to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, who had not expected to hear this, was stunned on the spot.


    ".....Why would you tell such a lie?"


    "I believed the rumors outside and bragged to a friend, never thinking it would inadvertently spread.... I''m truly sorry, President Ayakoji!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian bowed her head the entire time like a child who had done something wrong.


    Even the head of the academic affairs department, seeing a female student admit her mistake with such sincerity, couldn''t help but show leniency.


    But Ayakoji Chiyoko was different.


    The killing intent emanating from her had filled the entire hallway; teachers just stepping out of the office would retreat silently upon seeing her.


    She suspected someone had gotten to her first, and that person might be Kiryu Hina.


    "Did you really not see anything, or did someone tell you to say so?"


    Under the intense focus of the killing intent, Ai Cheng Hua Lian trembled, tears in the corners of her eyes, "I''m sorry, I''m sorry, I didn''t mean to..."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko remained unmoved, staring at her sharply, as if she might swallow her whole the next moment.


    The heavy atmosphere continued, the air growing thinner, making it hard to breathe.


    Just when Ai Cheng Hua Lian thought she wouldn''t hold up and was about to spill the truth, Ayakoji Chiyoko looked away and walked past her without a word.


    After a stunned two or three seconds, Ai Cheng Hua Lian dared to look back and confirm that Ayakoji Chiyoko was out of sight; she exhaled with relief and almost copsed to the ground, her legs giving way.


    Surviving the ordeal, Ai Cheng Hua Lian was so moved she was close to tears.


    Thank goodness.


    Mr. Kagura, I didn''t let you down, I sessfully kept our secret!


    The office door opened again, and a male teacher holding textbooks coughed twice, "ssmate Ai Cheng, the bell has already rung, why are you still in the hallway? Get back to the ssroom."


    "Teacher, were you scared by the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee just now, too scared toe out?"


    "Stop talking nonsense, how could a teacher be afraid of a student, now get going!"


    "Aye, aye~"


    Amidst the teacher''s embarrassed urging, Ai Cheng Hua Lian giggled and sprinted into the ssroom.


    In the stairwell.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko walked downstairs, frowning as she recalled Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s words.


    She said she lied, but was that really true? Perhaps the lie itself was the real lie?


    She had a feeling there was more to dig into with that girl.....


    But regardless, the witness n had fallen through.


    If she were a bit more unscrupulous, maybe she could have found someone to bear false witness. Who can say exactly how many witnesses were there at the scene? A little maniption could have easily tangled Kiryu Hina in a mess.


    But Ayakoji Chiyoko didn''t want to, nor was she willing to stoop that low.


    What she wanted was to defeat her opponent fair and square, to get satisfaction only when her adversary silently conceded defeat from the bottom of their heart.


    It seemed that she would have to save that moment forter.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko shook her head and disappeared around the corner in the stairwell.

 Chapter 11 Is This What You Call Cold Violence?

    Lunch break.


    Kagura Hikaru left the ssroom without even having time to eat his lunch, heading directly to the Student Council.


    The Student Council office was located on the top floor of the main academic building, not in the old school building crowded with clubs, which truly highlighted its extraordinary status.


    The power of the Student Council at Ind Nation High School was substantial.


    They were in charge of organizing events, purchasing equipment, reviewing and distributing club funds, crafting promotional slogans, receiving external guests, and exchanging learning experiences with other schools, among other responsibilities.


    Whether for the purpose of honing skills, enhancing a social resume, or the superficial desire to be respected and admired, joining the Student Council was the quickest path.


    The most challenging position was undoubtedly that of the Student Council President.


    The one who stood out among more than seven hundred students was the current Student Council President, Kiryu Hina, who had catapulted to leadership as a first-year student in the elections.


    In the elections that concluded two months ago, she had repeatedly defeated all the senior students, including the previous president, capturing the hearts of the entire student body with her beauty and public speaking skills.


    Even Kagura Hikaru, who knew her well, had to admit that she was a formidable woman.


    Which first-year student at any school would run for Student Council President, and actually seed?


    Her methods had undoubtedly improved significantly since their dating days.


    By the way, Ayakoji Chiyoko had also participated in the Student Council election and only managed to ce third in the voting results.


    Before he knew it, he had arrived at the Student Council''s door.


    Kagura Hikaru was just about to knock when the figure of Kiryu Hina appeared from the other end of the corridor.


    Like the rain in spring, her steps were quiet, making no sound whatsoever.


    Her ck, smooth hair hung over her shoulders, gently swaying as she walked. Her blouse tucked into her skirt, highlighting her slender waist. Her skirt, following the school rules, covered her knees by ten centimeters, and beneath the hem, white tights clung to her delicate legs, amazingly cute.


    "Ah, ssmate Kagura, you''ve arrived a bit too hurriedly, even knocking now wouldn''t get you any attention,


    Today, Kiryu Hina''s words carried a subtle sting.


    Is she upset about something with Ai Cheng Hua Lian? Kagura Hikaru wondered.


    "Don''t stand there like a fool. Come in and sit down."


    Kiryu Hina walked past Kagura Hikaru, leaving behind a faint fragrance, took out her keys, and opened therge door of the Student Council office.


    The office of the Student Council wasn''t too big, with a row of bookshelves against the left wall filled with folders and document holders. On the right side, there was a long table with six chairs, and near the edge, a standing whiteboard was ced.


    In the corner, there were some decorations and personal items, such as a cactus, an electric kettle, and teacups.


    This was Kagura Hikaru''s first visit to the Student Council''s office, and he couldn''t help but take a few extra nces around.


    Kiryu Hina told him to sit wherever he liked. She then took the electric kettle out, and soon came back, plugged it in, and started heating water.


    After that, no one spoke again, and the silence was profound.


    Kiryu Hina sat at the main seat at the inner end of the long table, holding a copy of Yasunari Kawabata''s "The Dancing Girl of Izu," immersed in her reading with a tranquil expression, as if she was the only person in the office.


    This, perhaps, could be called passive-aggressive?


    Feeling resigned internally, Kagura Hikaru also took out his phone to pass the time, guessing that the room would regain its voice only upon Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s arrival.


    However, he didn''t notice that, after his gaze shifted to his phone screen, a pair of eyes lifted from the pages of the book and stared directly at him.


    About half a minuteter, the sound of a rotating doorknob clicking could be heard, and the office door was pushed open.


    Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina both looked up, only to find that the visitor was not the second-year girl they had anticipated but a delicate-looking male student with sses.


    As the visitor entered and noticed Kagura Hikaru sitting at the far end of the long table, his expression faltered, then turned to Kiryu Hina.


    "President, this is..."


    "A ssmate Kagura seeking help. We''re waiting for someone else," replied Kiryu Hina, her face suddenly adorned with a wless, courteous smile as she kindly introduced to Kagura Hikaru, "This is the Vice President of the Student Council, Senior Ando Naoto, a third-year student."


    "Hello," nodded Kagura Hikaru.


    He knew the other party;st year''s Student Council President, and also the runner-up in this year''s election, who was defeated by Kiryu Hina.


    It was unexpected that he would be willing to serve under a first-year president as the Vice President. Truly surprising.


    Ando Naoto showed a friendly smile and patted Kagura Hikaru on the shoulder: "Hello, ssmate Kagura. Wee to the Student Council. Do you need any help?"


    "Senior Ando."


    "Yes."


    Upon being called by Kiryu Hina, Ando Naoto looked up immediately.


    "The water''s ready over there, can you help me pour a cup of tea for the guest?"


    "Of course, no problem."


    The vice president efficiently went to prepare the teacups and tea leaves.


    When he had washed the cups and poured the tea, and was about to serve it, he suddenly realized that there had been no sound from the table while he was busy.


    Upon closer inspection, although Kiryu Hina was still smiling, her brightness seemed a few shades dimmer than usual.


    And that handsome junior, although he was looking at his cellphone, was clearly not focusing.


    Ando Naoto sharply sensed the unusual atmosphere in the air.


    Could there be something between ssmate Kagura and President Kiryu...


    His smile stiffened for a moment; then he came over and ced the pen-holder-shaped teacup beside Kagura Hikaru.


    "ssmate, here''s your tea."


    "Thank you."


    Kagura Hikaru took the teacup, but frowned as the outer wall scalded him, and pushed the cup slightly away.


    Turning his head, he saw Ando Naoto sitting beside Kiryu Hina on the right, dividing the remaining two cups of tea with her, then naturally began talking about work.


    The smiles of Ando Naoto and the forced smile on Kiryu Hina''s face, at least superficially, seemed quite harmonious.


    Knock knock knock.


    At this moment, a knock came from outside the door.


    "Come in."


    "Excuse me...."


    A girl timidly pushed the door open¡ªit was Ai Cheng Hua Lian.


    The moment she entered, she first looked at Kiryu Hina with a fearful and hesitant gaze, then turned toward Kagura Hikaru, and slightly rxed.


    Seeing this subtle change clearly, the fake smile on Kiryu Hina''s face grew a bit wider.


    "Ai Cheng student, right? ssmate Kagura has already told me about the matter. Please have a seat."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian cautiously nodded, pulled out the chair next to Kagura Hikaru, and sat down beside him.


    Then she squeezed her legs together, bowed her head, and ced her hands on her thighs¡ªa perfect portrayal of social anxiety.


    Seeing her so nervous, Vice President Ando Naoto stood up and said, "Let me get you a cup of tea."


    "No need, Senior Ando," Kiryu Hina said with a smile, "Could you and ssmate Kagura step out for a moment? I''d like to speak with Ai Cheng student privately."


    At these words, all three present were stunned.


    Regardless of Kagura Hikaru and Ando Naoto, Ai Cheng Hua Lian simply wanted to flee right then.


    Frankly, if not for Kagura Hikaru''s endorsement, she wouldn''t have wanted to interact with Kiryu Hina, especially after witnessing her violence towards Kagura Hikaru.


    In Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes, the Student Council President could now be associated with phrases like "smiling tiger" and "twisted psyche."


    In such circumstances, her sudden request for a private meeting?


    ...Would she be bullied just like Mr. Kagura...?


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s fear was evident on her face, even the uninformed Ando Naoto felt something was amiss.


    "President, what is this...?"


    "There are some things you boys shouldn''t hear, senior," Kiryu Hina said gently, with emphasis in her tone.


    Could it be a discussion about love? Concerning ssmate Kagura, is she asking me to leave because I''m watching him?


    Smart senior student Ando Naoto''s brain quickly jumped to conclusions, nodding in understanding as he walked to the door, also patting Kagura Hikaru on the shoulder, signaling him toe along.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Kagura Hikaru narrowed his eyes and also pushed himself up from his seat.


    "Mr. Kagura...!"


    Seeing the person beside her leaving, Ai Cheng Hua Lian quickly grabbed his sleeve, pleading with a distressed expression.


    "It''s okay, she won''t do anything to you," Kagura Hikaru whispered.


    He then gently freed his sleeve from Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s grasp and left the office.


    "No eavesdropping, okay~?" Kiryu Hina''s voice floated through the nearly closed door gap.


    Ando Naoto and Kagura Hikaru both thought the remark was directed at the other, exchanged a look, and in tacit agreement moved away from the door to speak elsewhere.

 Chapter 12 The Secret Among the Three of Us!

    Click.


    The door closed behind her like the dropping de of a guillotine, severing Ai Cheng Hua Lian''sst sliver of safety.


    The air in the Student Council room was deadly quiet.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian entwined her fingers under the table, her head down as she watched Kiryu Hina''s movements at the other end of the long table out of the corner of her eye.


    But the other party was just propping up her chin, staring at her with a cat-ying-with-a-mouse look in her eyes.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes darted around, not daring to look in that direction, while all sorts of schemes popped into her mind.


    Ever since she had witnessed Kiryu Hina''s bullying scene, Ai Cheng Hua Lian had be disillusioned with her.


    If one were to reconsider everything in the past with the premise that the Student Council President had an ulterior motive, it all started to feel tainted and quite terrifying.


    The fear of President Kiriyu was a different kind from that of President Ayakoji.


    The fear of the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee was like facing a fierce beast, someone who was severe with people and seemed like they could snap at any moment.


    Student Council President''s was the kind of fear one experiences in the face of the unknown, warm like spring on the outside but with their true nature hidden in the shadows.


    Up until yesterday, she could still talk to Kiryu Hina about club expenses in a coquettish tone.


    Now, she wouldn''t dare to do it again if you killed her!


    This bad woman would act all proper in front of others, yet she bullied Mr. Kagura, who had been kind to her, behind his back.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, who was soft on the outside but tough on the inside, couldn''t just stand by and do nothing.


    If the Student Council President was nning to use her authority to threaten her into silence, then Ai Cheng Hua Lian would neverpromise. She''d pretend to agree for now and as soon as she left the Student Council, she''d immediately go to the Disciplinary Committee to report her!


    Yes, that was the n.


    "You''re thinking of reporting me to the Disciplinary Committee, aren''t you?" Kiryu Hina suddenly spoke."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian jumped up in shock.


    "Mind-reading technique?!"


    "Ahahaha, silly, how can there be such a thing as mind-reading techniques in this world?" Kiryu Hina chuckled with her hand covering her mouth, "You are so easy to read, everything you think is written all over your face."


    "...Is it that obvious?"


    "Mhm."


    "Hmph..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian sat back down, cing her hands on the table, and met Kiryu Hina''s gaze fiercely like a tiny animal, "Even if you guess it, what can you do? I won''t be stopped by you¡ªI''m in the sports department, I can run faster than you!"


    "Is that the important part¡­" Kiryu Hina held back herughter with her hand covering her mouth, "Well well, don''t worry, no one is trying to catch you. Also, could you not think so badly of me? We were just chatting together a few days ago."


    "Back then I didn''t know you were that kind of person, President Kiriyu!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian clenched her fists, her head slightly lowered, "I saw it all, you pouring milk over Mr. Kagura''s head... Although I don''t know why Mr. Kagura is protecting you, that''s bullying, right? Bullying is wrong!"


    "Hmhm... So that''s how you see it," Kiryu Hina said with a nomittal expression, smirking with one hand propping up her chin.


    Her indifferent demeanorpletely infuriated Ai Cheng Hua Lian.


    "I had so much trust in you as our president... Why would you do such a thing? If there''s a legitimate reason, just tell me!"


    "You can still trust me now," Kiryu Hina pouted cutely, "It''s all Mister Hikaru''s fault, he made me do it."


    "Eh? Mister... Hikaru?"


    "Oh, that''s Kagura Hikaru. I call him that in private; I''ve been calling him that for several years now."


    ...What?... What''s going on?


    The overload of information in an instant made Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s head spin.


    "Wait, are you saying that you and Mr. Kagura knew each other from before and had a good rtionship?"


    Kiryu Hina propped her cheeks with both hands, making a reminiscent face, "Well, we used to be pretty close, but now it''s just average. Which couple is still on good terms after breaking up in this world?"


    "Couple?!?!?!?!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian ssmates'' brain had already exploded, and her eyes turned into mosquito coil eyes.


    What what what is happening?!?


    Couple? Mr. Kagura, and the Student Council President?!?


    It must be a joke, right, it''s got to be a joke!!


    "Yeah, we got together in middle school and broke up after graduating." Kiryu Hina confirmed, shattering Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s mind with a decisive blow, "I didn''t expect to end up in the same high school, fate really likes to y tricks on people, huh~"


    "No no no no, wait a second!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian waved her hands in panic, "President, are you serious? Mr. Kagura is your ex-boyfriend? And the acting you mentioned before is..."


    "Of course it''s true, I wouldn''t joke about my own reputation." Kiryu Hina seemed embarrassed as she twirled a strand of hair with her finger, making circles, "The acting bit is also true. When he asked me like that, I could onlyply."


    "So your purpose in doing this is..."


    "Topletely sever ties, to prove to Ayakoji Chiyoko that our rtionship is bad, that we''re no longer a couple, and that there''s no chance of getting back together."


    "Eh?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian clearly hadn''t expected that the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee would be involved, "Sorry President, I don''t understand."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "It''s a simple matter. Ayakoji Chiyoko and I aren''t on good terms, she thinks that Mister Hikaru, who is rted to me, is on good terms with me, but Mister Hikaru wants to be on good terms with Ayakoji Chiyoko, so we had to pretend to be on bad terms¡ª"


    Kiryu Hina tilted her head adorably, "Do you understand now?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian felt dizzy, "I kind of get it, but also don''t fully understand... In the end, why does Mr. Kagura want to be on good terms with the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee?"


    "Because Mister Hikaru is pursuing her."


    "You, you..."


    With too many shocks received today, way beyond her limit, Ai Cheng Hua Lian no longer knew how to react.


    However, what President Kiryu had said could indeed exin the series of events that had urred since the bullying incident.


    Mr. Kagura wanted to protect President Kiryu because they were on the same side, and they couldn''t let an eyewitness send their act to the Discipline Committee to turn a staged act into reality, otherwise the Student Council President would be left with an indelible blemish.


    And President Ayakoji, keen to find a witness because her rtionship with the Student Council President was very bad, would probably take the opportunity to attack relentlessly, so the evidence couldn''t be given to her.


    Afterward, if things went smoothly, Mr. Kagura would be able to sessfully disassociate himself from President Kiryu.


    Everything made sense, but there was an inexplicable sense of disharmony, as if she had overlooked a crucial point.....


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian looked dumbfounded, feeling that something was not quite right, but seeing Kiryu Hina''s smiling face, she still believed this exnation.


    Someone who looks as lovely as this, smiles so gently, how could they deceive her?


    Kiryu Hina said, "Right now, Mister Hikaru is using this incident to get close to Ayakoji Chiyoko, and he is working very hard. If you can help him when he needs it, try to lend a hand."


    "President, why are you being so good to your ex-boyfriend?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian asked the final question, "You said it yourself earlier, right, your rtionship isn''t that close anymore, yet you''d rather sully your own name to help him pursue President Ayakoji, why is that....."


    "Because he asked me to."


    Kiryu Hina smiled like a saint, with a halo of light behind her, "You see, I''m not really good at refusing others."


    "President, you''re such a good person....."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes sparkled with admiration.


    "Ahaha, I often hear that, the more peoplepliment me, the harder it is to say no, it''s really a predicament."


    "That''s not true! People like the President who give of themselves should be praised more!"


    "If you keep praising me, I''m going to get carried away." Kiryu Hina said, "Oh, and the content of our conversation here, don''t let others know, okay? It would cause a lot of trouble."


    As she spoke, she propped her hands under her chin and yfully winked her left eye at Ai Cheng Hua Lian, "This is our secret, right?"


    "Yes! It''s a secret between the three of us!"

 Chapter 13 Something funny occurred to me

    After several twists and turns by Kiryu Hina, the intense atmosphere lightened with gossip flying left and right.


    What started as eating in prison had upgraded to a tea party among besties.


    Kiryu Hina even physically closed the distance, suggesting to Ai Cheng Karen to change seats and sit next to her on the left, to which thetter did not even think of refusing.


    ".....Speaking of which, you weren''t like this before, were you, President?" Ai Cheng Karen chuckled as she sipped tea from Kagura Hikaru''s cup and took a bite of the senbei that Kiryu Hina fed her, "Hmm... You''ve suddenly be so much more lively, it''s a bit surprising."


    "Ah, you mean the whole Asase Yamato Nadeshiko thing? That was just to fool outsiders. Now that you know my secret, Karen-chan, you''re one of us~"


    "Karen-chan?"


    "Don''t like it? How about just Karen? Ai Cheng Tan? Madam Ai Cheng? Lord Ai Cheng?"


    "That''s going overboard! Karen-chan is fine, my friends usually call me that....."


    "Then it''s settled, Karen-chan! You can call me Hina too."


    "Got it, Hina!" Ai Cheng Karen said with a goofy smile.


    "Hmm, I''m so d you coulde. Actually, I''ve been holding onto this secret for so long, with no one to share it with!"


    Kiryu Hina, with tearful eyes, sped the hands of her new friend, seekingfort: "My dear sister, can you understand? Thinking I would never see my ex again after graduation, and then he suddenly shows up at the same high school, I almost thought he was a stalker!"


    "Pfft, Mr. Kagura a stalker? He seems more like the one who would be stalked."


    "That''s what I''m saying, look at how he is, an ascetic herbivore man, serves him right to be eating grass!"


    "Hina... That pun is brilliant!"


    "Right? But once we leave this room, I won''t acknowledge it!"


    "Heehee, President is so funny, I used to think you were so scary, now I''m relieved."


    "Really? Just a misunderstanding then~"


    The Student Council office was full ofughter.


    Outside, however, the atmosphere was far from harmonious.


    Approaching the hallway window, Kagura Hikaru opened it.


    The weather was cold, but as long as one dressed warmly, a gust of cold wind on the face was merely ''a bit refreshing.''


    It was like drinking cold beverages in winter, or eating hot pot in summer ¨C a kind of rebellion.


    Next to him, Ando Naoto clearly did not have the same sturdy build as Kagura Hikaru; he started shivering as soon as the cold wind hit him and promptly closed the window opened by Kagura Hikaru.


    "ssmate Kagura, you should take care of your health. It''s easy to catch a cold in this season from the wind."


    Kagura Hikaru nced at him, did not argue, and just calmly acknowledged.


    Afterward, the air fell into a prolonged silence.


    The two of them didn''t have any topics inmon. No, to be exact, they weren''t familiar at all, having known each other for less than ten minutes.


    In such a situation, it was Ando Naoto, the older of the two, who took the initiative to break the silence with conversation.


    "ssmate Kagura, do you know the Student Council President?"


    "....." Kagura Hikaru gave him a strange look, "She is the Student Council President, she has given speeches in the hall; is it strange that I know her?"


    "That''s not what I mean." Ando Naoto chuckled, "You and President Kiriyu have known each other from long before, right?"


    So he had been seen through.


    To continue ying dumb at this point would risk insulting his intelligence. Kagura Hikaru shook his head and began to make up a half-truth, half-lie: "The President and I went to the same middle school, met a few times, and that''s about the extent of our acquaintance."


    "Oh....."


    Ando Naoto didn''t show whether he believed it or not, merely nodding with an indifferent expression.


    "But how did you figure it out, Senior Ando?"


    "Because President Kiriyu''s attitude towards you is quite special. I''ve been working with her for a few months now, and I can see these things," Ando Naoto said with a smile, "If you weren''t an acquaintance, she wouldn''t have been so cold. To be honest, I''ve never seen her show anything other than a ''smile'' to other students.


    Just on that point, President Kiriyu never disappoints; she''s the most perfect superhuman I''ve ever seen."


    Superhuman, an entity that appears human yet surpasses ordinary people.


    Kagura Hikaru and the vice president held different opinions.


    In his view, Kiryu Hina was not only imperfection but also bing increasingly vulnerable.


    Bubbles shimmering with rainbow hues are beautiful but are ultimately bound to burst one day.


    No one can remain perfect, not even a superhuman has no weaknesses.


    Should he be Kiryu Hina''s ''Wall Breaker''?


    But what right did he now have to interfere in her life again?


    Seeing Kagura Hikaru not joining the conversation, but instead getting lost in thought, Ando Naoto''s eyes flickered, and he mused to himself with a chuckle, "Honestly, I''m a bit surprised. I didn''t expect President Kiriyu to show such an attitude towards a ssmate. It''s like unlocking a new side of her, at least in my mind, haha."


    "..."


    Kagura Hikaru looked up at him briefly, expressionless, his heart sinking.


    With such equivocalnguage, he provoked him for no reason.


    In other words, that''s what it meant.


    "So you just said it outright, I can tell, your rtionship is definitely not ordinary."


    "You are wrong, our rtionship is bad."


    Ando Naoto, you are like the past me¡ª


    "Eh, is that so?" Ando Naoto exaggeratedly sighed with relief, "I thought you two were in some kind of ambiguous rtionship. It''s good to know you''re not; it''s great that you''re not an enemy."


    ¡ªwas a moth that plunged into the me that is Kiryu Hina.


    Kagura Hikaru sighed.


    He was already out of the game.


    Hecked the ability to express his feelings to Kiryu Hina, and he had no right to obstruct her happiness.


    Yet for some reason, this restlessness inside him, he just couldn''t shake it off.


    Knowing it was all in the past, he still couldn''t let go or severed ties. In the end, that was the kind of man he was.


    Click.


    At that moment, the door of the Student Council office suddenly opened.


    Karen Ai Cheng came out with a smile on her face, but when she turned her head and saw Kagura Hikaru after closing the door, her expression turned awkward, and she turned around and quickly walked away with her head down.


    This reaction was unexpected for Kagura Hikaru.


    What did Hina tell her?


    "Your friend is leaving, aren''t you going to follow?" Ando Naoto reminded.


    Kagura Hikaru nced at him and hurried after her.


    Watching him walk away until his figure disappeared into the stairwell, Ando Naoto was about to return to the office.


    Unexpectedly, Kagura Hikaru suddenly turned back around, looking serious, walked up to Ando Naoto, and said earnestly, "I like her too, so yes, we are enemies indeed."


    Ando Naoto was stunned for a while, then smiled in understanding, "I get it now, then let''spete. Let''s see who can win her heart first."


    "If that''s thepetition, then you have already lost."


    "Hey, what do you mean by that....."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Kagura Hikaru left after speaking, without paying attention to Ando Naoto''s confusion.


    Could he really say that President Kiriyu and he were in a romantic rtionship? Of course not, the President had clearly stated that she had no history of romance; how could such a perfect person tell a lie.


    Ando Naoto stood in ce, pondering for a long time without figuring it out, finally pressing the question to the back of his mind, turning his hand to the doorknob, but then he suddenly remembered something.


    The rumors that had been circting around the school about President Kiriyutely, that person who was being bullied, theirst name seemed to be ''Kagura''.


    No wonder the surname ''Kagura'' sounded so familiar.


    Ando Naoto pushed the door and walked into the office, only to see Kiryu Hina ying with a teacup expressionlessly, her gaze pondering something.


    She sat there like a plum blossom growing on a snowy mountain, beautiful, still, and admiring herself in solitude.


    But the moment she saw someone, that aura of aloofness melted away like ice and snow, and Kiryu Hina effortlessly switched to the perfect image of an honor student, revealing a gentle smile, "The secretaries are really slow, aren''t they? We have a meeting at noon, and if they don''te soon, it will be toote."


    Ando Naoto, utterly unaware of anything amiss, took out his phone, "I''ll hurry them up right now."


    "Yes, please do."


    Kiryu Hina calmly opened "The Dancing Girl of Izu." Her favorite chapter in there was ''Asayun,'' which described the ever-changing secret admirations of a schoolgirl with intricate detail and realism. She greatly admired Kawabata Yasunari''s ability to convey the emotions of a female high school student.


    Whether it was the protagonist in the short story or the real Karen Ai Cheng, they were strikingly simr, both using other feelings to cover their true inner thoughts, stubbornly reluctant to reveal their true intentions.


    However, even worse than the story''s protagonist was Karen Ai Cheng''s terrible lying skills.


    When she talked about her rtionship with Kagura Hikaru, that second year''s expression was almostical enough to enjoy as a light snack with tea.


    That expression was one of envy and jealousy.


    There was no mistake; that girl was like her past self¡ªa moth that plunged toward the me that was Kagura Hikaru.


    But unlike her, Karen Ai Cheng was timid, only seemingly strong on the outside, but frail both inside and out,cking the courage to move forward in the face of difficulties.


    The more she knew, the more she stagnated; if she continued to be delusional, her wounds would only deepen.


    Kiryu Hina was already looking forward to seeing what she would be after thinking she knew everything and being betrayed yet again.


    She did not intend to create another version of herself; however, if it was for entertainment, it might be worth watching.


    "Hmm."


    Kiryu Hina suddenly let out a light chuckle.


    "What is it, President?" Ando Naoto asked, surprised as he looked up.


    "Nothing, just thought of something funny."

 Chapter 14 A Date with Ayakoji Chiyoko

    Kagura Hikaru quickly caught up with Ai Cheng Hua Lian in the stairwell, and the two descended side by side, each immersed in their own thoughts.


    For a moment, the stairwell seemed to have turned into a secret chamber.


    Outside the chamber, the sounds of students ying around could be heard.


    Inside, only the echo of their footsteps resonated.


    In a shoujo manga, this would be the benefit time the author gifts to the male and female protagonists after their crisis drama, wouldn''t it?


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian thought so.


    Her steps gradually slowed until she stopped on the stairs.


    "Mr. Kagura." Ai Cheng Hua Lian muttered, her expression somewhat downcast, even carrying a hint of questioning, "So you and President Hina used to date?"


    Kagura Hikaru froze.


    A momentary shake almost caused him to miss a step.


    With his hand on the stair railing, Kagura Hikaru felt his heartbeat elerating.


    Did she notice it herself?


    Or did Hina tell her?


    "I really am an idiot, thinking something serious happened, but I almost messed up your ns." Ai Cheng Hua Lian feigned ease with a silly smile, her hand supporting the back of her head, "Sorry, ha."


    "..... No, it''s nothing....."


    "Oh my, to think that even our Student Council President has been won over by you."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian cheered up and started walking again, speaking as she walked: "And now your target is President Ayakoji, Mr. Kagura, you sure set your sights high, both targets are quite challenging, huh!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "..."


    Did Hina tell her everything about Chiyoko as well, what exactly is she nning.....


    Kagura Hikaru remained silent, adopting an attitude of tacit agreement.


    "I''ll cheer for you, Mr. Kagura!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian eximed, patting her chest, "If you need any advice or strategies, juste to me! Don''t be fooled by my appearance, I was actually called a ''Love Advisor'' in junior high."


    "Can you be an advisor without having been in love?"


    To lighten the mood, Kagura Hikaru made a joke without a trace of expression on his face.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was taken aback, stepping back, "Ah? Mr. Kagura, how did you know I''ve never been in a rtionship??"


    "I know now." Kagura Hikaru gave her a sidelong nce.


    "Uh... It''s not that I... Ei, I want a boyfriend too..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian mumbled something to herself in the back.


    "By the way." Suddenly, Ai Cheng Hua Lian raised her head, "Mr. Kagura, do you want to go to the live house with me after school today? The other members of our band want to see you again."


    "Sorry, I have an appointment after school," said Kagura Hikaru.


    "Oh, is that so... By the way, I ran into President Ayakoji this morning, and she asked me about the bullying situation. I didn''t confess."


    "Is that so, thanks."


    "Not at all, I already know President Kiryu isn''t a bad person, I won''t let her face nder."


    The two chatted sporadically, quickly reaching the second-year floor, where they parted ways.


    However, Kagura Hikaru and Ai Cheng Hua Lian did not notice that, as they waved goodbye to each other by the corridor windows, a gaze was fixed on them from a higher position.


    On a higher floor by the window, a tall figure stood motionless, looking down through the ss.


    Her head was adorned with a smooth single ponytail that reached her waist, and she wore a red ''Discipline'' armband on her right arm, her presence sharp and her face expressionless like eternal ice.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko watched intently as her informer, Kagura Hikaru, waved goodbye to Ai Cheng Hua Lian, the second-year student whom she had visited not long ago.


    Her eyes narrowed involuntarily.


    Have these two ever had any interaction until now?


    Suddenly, she recalled a sentence Ai Cheng Hua Lian had said to her.


    ["I took the rumors outside seriously and boasted to a friend about witnessing the incident, not realizing it would carelessly spread.... I''m truly sorry, President Ayakoji!"]


    ''I took the rumors outside seriously.''


    This sentence could be understood to mean that Ai Cheng Hua Lian believed the bullying incident was real, so she could fabricate a lie about being a witness without any reservations.


    But there might be another interpretation as well.


    When ''I'' say I took the rumors outside seriously, it could also mean that ''I'' already knew the rumors outside were fake, ''I'' knew the truth.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko narrowed her eyes, filled with suspicion.


    But what was the truth? The traces of bullying on Kagura Hikaru were real, so if it was an act, what would be Kiryu Hina''s reason to go along with it, and what would their motive be for doing this?


    It was not clear, perhaps she was overthinking it.


    "President, regarding the patrol after school, should we include those two new members who joined this week? If so, I can take them to familiarize themselves with the route," the Gori Vice President of the Discipline Committee approached from behind, wearing a sycophantic expression, but his coarse face, resembling that of a flying brute, made such an expression seem only more bizarre.


    "Hmm, let them join," Ayakoji Chiyoko said indifferently, "I''ll be leaving school early today, the patrol is under your care."


    "Eh? Does the President have something at home?"


    the Gori Vice President asked in surprise.


    It was quite rare for Ayakoji Chiyoko to leave school directly after sses. Usually, she would either patrol the school or practice Sword Dao in the club''s practice room.


    Driven by curiosity, the Vice President even blurted out the question involuntarily.


    He had already prepared himself for his question to be ignored, but unexpectedly, Ayakoji Chiyoko revealed an intriguing smile and said:


    "I have an appointment today."


    "An, an appointment?! Could it be with a man..."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s expression grew cold again: "You ask too many questions, is it because you''re not training enough?"


    "Yes!! I''ll go do two hundred push-ups right now!!!"


    "Five hundred, get lost."


    .............


    At four-thirty in the afternoon, Tokyo''s Shibuya District.


    Kagura Hikaru arrived at the livehouse door dressed in ck casual clothes, frowning as he looked around.


    He didn''t see Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Was shete?


    The livehouse was located underground in a pedestrian street in Shibuya, in a good location surrounded by a busy shopping area with a high flow of people, where trendy and fashionable stores could be seen everywhere.


    With a guitar bag on his back and hands in his pockets, Kagura Hikaru stood at the entrance, his demeanor and attirepletely that of a young artist.


    With his good looks naturally attracting a lot of attention, even two bold female college students ran over to ask him for his contact information.


    Kagura Hikaru tactfully told them he was underage, which only excited them more...


    At that moment, from the corner of his eye, he suddenly saw Ayakoji Chiyokoing out of an elegant little coffee shop diagonally across, approaching leisurely, even carrying a school shoulder bag, wearing Yuqiu High School''s long-sleeved uniform.


    She totally ignored the two female college students'' hostile nces and said to Kagura Hikaru, "I''ve arrived, where to now?"


    "This way, follow me."


    Kagura Hikaru led her down a staircase, which led to the entrance of the livehouse.


    The female college students watched them in astonishment. Seeing the two enter the livehouse, a ce that required tickets, they hesitated for a moment before deciding not to follow.


    The appearance of that livehouse was probably one of the reasons they stayed away.


    A sign with a ck background and white letters, adorned with purple patterns and a swallowtail guitar inserted into a skull, boldly wrote the word ''Makyo'' in nted letters across the middle.


    Noises and screams could faintly be heard behind the basement door.


    At first nce, it was a particrly hardcore ce, where the average person wouldn''t even think of trying to enter.


    However, Ayakoji Chiyoko was clearly not an average person, and as Kagura Hikaru held the door open for her, she walked in unflinchingly, leading the way.

 Chapter 15 Heat Field

    The lighting inside was very dim, making it nearly impossible to make out people''s faces.


    The roars and noise that had been faintly heard outside the door were traced back to a visual kei band performing on stage. Each member had long hair, wore mboyant outfits, and had their faces painted white, ying their instruments with excessive force and exaggeration.


    The roaring came from the lead singer in the center of the stage, who was using a unique vocal technique to produce a sound like that of a devil from hell.


    The dim, asionally flickering lights also created a dark and terrifying atmosphere.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko didn''t see what was so interesting about such a mboyant and crazy performance, yet, upon closer inspection, there were unexpectedly many spectators in the venue¡ªat least over a hundred people, packed tightly together, wildly headbanging and screaming to the rhythm of the music to the extent one might wonder if they would break their necks.


    This was clearly not a ce for ordinary high school students.


    "Here''s your drink!"


    Kagura Hikaru came over with a Coke and handed it to the mesmerized Ayakoji Chiyoko, having to shout in her ear to be heard over the music.


    She quickly snapped back to reality, shook her head, and quickly typed on her phone before turning it around for Kagura Hikaru to see.


    It read ¡ª "I''m not thirsty. You drink the Coke."


    Understanding this was a makeshift way tomunicate amid the noise, Kagura Hikaru also took out his phone, typed a message, and showed it to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Kagura Hikaru: "The ticket here is actually a drink voucher. Just think of it asing with the purchase."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko: "Okay, how much?"


    Kagura Hikaru: "Five thousand yen."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko took out the money and paid Kagura Hikaru in cash. Then she felt entitled to drink her beverage as she scanned her surroundings, roughly understanding the kind of ce this was.


    ¡ªThe band was still performing on stage, visible to anyone not blind.


    So the so-called live house was simply a venue for indoor concerts.


    It was just noisy.


    After watching for a while, she felt Kagura Hikaru tap her shoulder. Ayakoji Chiyoko turned her head, and he pointed to his phone screen.


    Kagura Hikaru: "I''m going on stage soon. Find a ce to stay put."


    Going on stage?


    So the supposed after-school activity was a live show; no wonder he had brought his guitar.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko was somewhat interested.


    She hadn''t known Kagura Hikaru had such a talent.


    She watched him move through the crowd and leave. Turning, Ayakoji Chiyoko found a rtively less crowded corner, leaned against the wall, bit her straw, and selectively tuned out the noise from the stage while patiently waiting.


    Her arrival drew some attention.


    Here, a beautiful girl in a school uniform undoubtedly stood out because whether true students or adults, few wore school uniforms to a live house unless it was a costume.


    In such a ce, everyone wanted to appear a bit more mature.


    Kagura Hikaru could have warned her but chose not to.


    This was the unease he intended to create for Ayakoji Chiyoko; in such an unstable environment, he was the only familiar element, leveraging a psychological illusion simr to the ''suspension bridge effect'' to quickly close the distance.


    In the case of Ayakoji Chiyoko, whose emotional barriers were as strong as city walls, establishing a friendship in a short time could only rely on such sneaky tactics, although the chances of them working were extremely low.


    But trying didn''t cost anything.


    And sure enough, Ayakoji Chiyoko had long been used to being stared at wherever she went and didn''t mind at all, even casually checking her phone amidst the sting music,pletely ignoring the performance onstage.


    The band on stage concluded their performance by shing rock hand signs, sticking their tongues out at the audience, and spitting fake blood.


    Fortunately, they didn''t spit on the floor, otherwise the staff here would definitely teach them a lesson.


    Not long after they left the stage, another band came on to take their ce, setting up their equipment and tuning their instruments with the help of the staff.


    This interval served as an intermission, during which the audience took the opportunity to rx and began chatting andughing with theirpanions.


    It was then that Ayakoji Chiyoko lifted her head. She immediately recognized the man on stage with theke-blue electric guitar, tuning his pedals while wearing a mask, as Kagura Hikaru.


    With his ck mask on, only his eyes were visible, hidden under slightly long bangs, which significantly reduced his presence.


    However, the calm aura he emitted was not something easily imitated.


    Standing silently adjusting the equipment on stage, appearing focused yet indifferent, he was strikingly simr to Ayakoji Chiyoko who had been ignoring everyone else while ying with her phone just moments before.


    Soon, the other members of the band gradually joined him on stage.


    They were dressed simrly to Kagura Hikaru, all in dark ndmine-style" outfits, though not as hardcore as the previous band.


    About five minutester, after all the equipment and tuning had been tested, the performance officially began.


    Thest to take the stage, the band''s lead singer, a man in his twenties, stepped forward to adjust the microphone and spoke softly, "Please enjoy our original song ''one fourth''."


    After briefly announcing the song title, a restless melody immediately followed, with thundering drum beats raining down on the audience''s faces. The rapid strumming that instantly urred made hairs stand on end and hearts beat faster,pelling the audience to nod and tap their feet involuntarily to the rhythm.


    Then, the lead singer began to sing.


    White backlight instantly illuminated all the members, with the music behind them suddenly turning up the volume, fiercely and unexpectedly intense, like a train racing ahead, plunging into the climactic section of the tune right after the intro.


    "Oh oh oh oh!!!"


    The audience''s suppressed excitement also erupted, transforming into gasps and screams.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    This was also the reason this band didn''t waste time chatting before starting their set,monly known as "warming up the crowd."


    Ensuring that the atmosphere heats up within one song is not an easy task and seriously tests the lead singer''s stage presence and the quality of the song.


    Although Ayakoji Chiyoko was an amateur from her perspective, it was clear that the band on stage was very impressive, far superior to the visual kei band that had performed earlier.


    The intense yet organized ying, beautiful melodies and lyrics, the lead singer''s unique and clean high notes, and the seamless cooperation of the five-member band kept lifting the atmosphere to the ceiling without any sign of dropping.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko even thought they possessed professional-level skills.


    Indeed, shecked professional musical taste, but being able to give that impression was enough to attest to the high level of the band.


    And for Kagura Hikaru, a high school student, to blend in without falling behind¡ªno, to say he was almost the second lead of the band besides the lead singer!


    There were two guitarists on stage, but the mostplex guitar parts were all performed by Kagura Hikaru.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko knew that in rock music there are ''rhythm guitar'' and ''lead guitar'' sounds, thetter being more difficult andplex, so it is typically yed by the band''s best guitarist.


    Kagura Hikaru must have been the lead guitarist.


    In other words, he was considered the best guitarist in the band.


    If this band possessed professional-level skills, then Kagura Hikaru''s skills were probably not far off either.


    Heh, such a strong ability to y, yet he had never been heard to join any music clubs. Was it because he didn''t want to y with those kids, or did he simply prefer the outside atmosphere?


    Experiencing a different side of Kagura Hikaru on stage, Ayakoji Chiyoko found herself increasingly intrigued by him, with a slight change in the color of her gaze.


    The band''s vibrant performance enthralled the audience.


    In the deafening metal music, Ayakoji Chiyoko incidentally caught some interesting noise from two spectators.

 Chapter 16 Use Psychology on Her!

    "Speaking of which, did this band change their guitarist? This isn''t the same person as before, right?"


    "Yeah, I think not, but he ys really well!"


    "Right!"


    Those two audience members whispered loudly by each other''s ears, oblivious that their conversation had already reached the ears of the beautiful girl next to them.


    After a song ended, the audience erupted in excited cheers and apuse.


    "Hello everyone, we are the ''Corpse Band''!" the lead singer yelled with a smile, and the audience responded with cheers.


    The name ''Corpse'' in Japanese actually means a dead body, and using such a name for a band can only be described as very rock and roll.


    Contrary to the grim band name, the lead singer was very humorous, throwing several self-deprecating jokes to the crowd. Each time, the band members would chime in to tease him, making the audience burst intoughter and admire their great rapport.


    However, Chiyoko could see clearly that the lead singer had no interaction with Kagura Hikaru, their exchanges limited to nces.


    Their rtionship didn''t seem bad, but they seemed distant, like friends who had just met by chance, clearly a temperature differencepared to other band members.


    He introduced Kagura Hikarust.


    "Thisst guitarist is our special guest today¡ªMr. Kagura! He was roped in as a substitute for the poor fool who got food poisoning, so let''s give him a round of apuse!"


    The lead singer spoke with a stifledugh, making the audience less serious, with pping, cheering, and whistling all around.


    Kagura Hikaru, holding his guitar, calmly bowed slightly to the audience, neither aloof nor warm, resembling a statue.


    Chiyoko was sure that even if his mask were pulled down now, there would still be an expressionless face beneath it, his indifferent demeanor seemingly unshakable by anything.


    In the art of maintaining a poker face, Kagura Hikaru was evidently a match for Chiyoko, perhaps even surpassing her.


    After a shortedic interlude, the band quickly moved into their second song, maintaining the high standard of the first.


    After the performance ended, they waved and exited the stage amidst apuse.


    About three minutester, Chiyoko saw Kagura Hikaru walking towards her, guitar case on his back, removing his mask.


    "Have you been waiting long?"


    "Not really."


    The third band was now setting up on the stage,paratively quietpared to during performances, making it possible to speak without leaning too close to each other.


    "Congrattions, the show went really well." Chiyoko looked at him and said, her eyes showing a bit more equal respect than before, "Being a hired guitarist, is this why you refused to join the Disciplinary Committee, are you making money with this?"


    "Well, you could say that."


    Kagura Hikaru''s tone was ambiguous, as if confirming yet not quite.


    Looking at him, he seemed to be wrestling with himself, whether to admit this was a side job.


    In truth, he didn''t particrly enjoy being on stage; he just liked ying the guitar, and taking it as a part-time job just happened naturally.


    "Does doing this pay well?" Chiyoko asked again.


    "Are you very curious?"


    Kagura Hikaru nced at her, the Chiyoko now more talkative than the one inside the school.


    So, did the ''Suspension Bridge Effect'' work after all?


    In a strange, unsettling environment, Chiyoko''s only familiar person was Kagura Hikaru, naturally leading to dependency, thus increasing her fondness for him.


    No matter how difficult Chiyoko might be, as long as she was human, she could never escape psychology.


    "Asking about someone''s ie is quite rude, Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee." he nced at Chiyoko, but eventually told her, "It''s about a bit over 20,000 yen per show."


    Reliable frence guitarists weren''t many to begin with, and the better the skills, the higher the price, which made Kagura Hikaru a real bargain, so even a high school band like Red Pepper Band could afford to hire him.


    But with the likes of Kagura Hikaru, who had great skills but chose not to join a band or dive deep into music, roaming around, it was less about making money and more about experiencing life.


    If money had genuinely been the goal, he could have easily signed with a musicpany and debuted. With Kagura Hikaru''s looks and skill level, it would be hard not to be famous.


    In the end, owning an almost omnipotent "Golden Finger," most things he wanted to do were bound to seed, and money was rather secondary.


    At this stage, he hadn''t truly decided on his future yet.


    Having too many choices actually made it difficult to choose, a luxury problem that was now Kagura Hikaru''s.


    "Twenty thousand a gig, isn''t that a lot?"


    On hearing this, Ayakoji Chiyoko gave a smile that wasn''t quite a smile, her eyes seeming to say how thick his face was, "You''re just a high school student, right?"


    Twenty thousand a gig, even if it were two gigs a day.


    At that rate, it''d be forty thousand a day, one hundred and twenty thousand a month; he could buy a new car after just two months.


    Even in the high-priced Ind Nation, a monthly sry of a million yen certainly wasn''t low, far exceeding the national average monthly sry, and probably on par with some bigpany executives.


    At least Ayakoji Chiyoko acknowledged that finding an equivalent paying job in a short period, without relying on her family''s connections, would indeed take a lot of effort.


    "Not really," Chiyoko replied.


    Kagura Hikaru calmly looked back at her, "At least, I think it''s probably nothingpared to what the President gets for pocket money."


    "That''s not money I earned myself, nothing to be proud of."


    "..."


    So she really does have that much.


    "You''re done working for now, right?"


    "Yeah."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko threw her empty c cup into the trashcan, "Then let''s go, it''s too noisy here; not a ce to talk."


    Today Ayakoji Chiyoko had met him outside school, not to enjoy a concert by Kagura Hikaru.


    She obviously had something to say.


    And it was a topic not suitable for discussing at school.


    Kagura Hikaru followed Ayakoji Chiyoko out of the livehouse, and at the entrance they ran into members of Corpse Band who had just yed with him; they were also leaving.


    They originally wanted to invite Kagura Hikaru for a meal or something, but seeing the stunningly beautiful and even more intimidating Ayakoji Chiyoko by his side, they suddenly found themselves speechless.


    "Uh, looks like you and your girlfriend are busy with something else then, so we''ll be heading off first, hope to coborate again soon."


    The lead singer of Corpse Band sheepishly said goodbye, leading his teammates and their equipment away, leaving Kagura Hikaru disheveled in the wind.


    ''Your girlfriend''? What''s with saying such things?


    I might be fine, but you could really get killed for that.


    Kagura Hikaru slowly turned his head and as expected, saw Ayakoji Chiyoko''s face, cold as the Arctic Ocean, her eyes dark, seemingly contemting some terrifying murder plot.


    "..."


    "..."


    "They have a solo concert the day after tomorrow, let him be happy for a few days, kill himter."


    "?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 17 Battle Against the Ex-Front

    Ayakoji Chiyoko nced at him sideways, then turned and walked away, "I didn''t expect someone like you to joke."


    "A person without a sense of humor can''t live long, he will be killed by his own boredom," Kagura Hikaru stepped and followed.


    "Philosophy, huh? I don''t like it."


    "Why?"


    "I think it''s a study with no practical use."


    "Science belongs to the universe, religion to the deities, only philosophy is truly the power of man."


    "Only those with weak hearts need such a thing."


    "That''s quite arrogant."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko admitted to herself that she had misjudged Kagura Hikaru.


    This person wasn''t just a rock, on the contrary, there was also a fierce side to his heart, otherwise, he wouldn''t be ying metal music.


    And he had guts, daring to talk back to her face-to-face.


    "...Let''s end the small talk here," Ayakoji Chiyoko''s voice turned colder by several degrees, "The reason I sought you out today is for one thing, I want you to take charge of the public opinion campaign against Kiryu Hina."


    "You mean the campus rumors?"


    "Not just that."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko turned to look at him.


    "The News Department at school is controlled by the Student Council, and I am forming a club that can counter it, tentatively named ''Society Discussion Meeting.'' This club will publish a school newspaper like the News Department, and when the timees, it willpete with the News Department to shake Kiryu Hina''s prestige."


    "You want me to take charge of this ''Society Discussion Meeting''?"


    "That''s right. This department will pass the review and be established tomorrow. Afterwards, submit an application to join. Officially, you''ll be a member, but if you have any ideas, speak to the club president; she will listen to you. Your main task is to provide Kiryu Hina''s private interpersonal rtionships and her past deeds.


    The Society Discussion Meeting will use these as material to fabricate rumors and taint her."


    Whether to call it openness or arrogance, these words that seemed like they might only be spoken by a viin came out of Ayakoji Chiyoko''s mouth with no sense of dissonance at all.


    However, to have him take charge of a club right off the bat like that, it seemed that Kiryu Hina''s previous drastic measures to distance herself from him had an effect, and Ayakoji Chiyoko started treating him like a subordinate.


    Unfortunately for her, he had no intention to agree, for the same reasons he had refused to join the Disciplinary Committee.


    Being Ayakoji Chiyoko''s subordinate might seem to bring them closer, but in Kagura Hikaru''s view, it actually put more distance between them because their rtionship changed from equals to superiors and subordinates.


    He couldn''t ept terms where the costs and benefits were not equitably distributed.


    Let alone the fact that he was expected to participate personally in ckening Kiryu Hina''s name.


    Therefore, Kagura Hikaru decisively shook his head and said, "Sorry, such actions of plotting against others behind their backs are against my principles."


    The subtext, of course, was a refusal.


    Regardless of how tactfully it was put, a refusal was still a refusal. Ayakoji Chiyoko might have anticipated this oue, as she did not seem overly surprised, but her mood could not possibly brighten.


    Her expression darkened, she said coldly, "If you can''t create value for me, then what use are you?"


    "That''s quite harsh."


    Even when attacked so directly, Kagura Hikaru didn''t seem to get angry, instead he considerately reminded her, "I understand Kiryu Hina more than you do, if she lets such rumors spread within the school, she must have countermeasures in ce. Be careful not to y with fire and get burned."


    Let alone the fact that she was the one who had initiated the campus rumors in the first ce, so it wasn''t the impulsive act Ayakoji Chiyoko thought it was.


    However, Ayakoji Chiyoko clearly wasn''t someone easily swayed, her expression unshaken, with no ns to change her mind.


    "You have your moral standards; I have my methods of doing things. Don''t try to lecture me."


    Then she abruptly brought up a second matter, "Ai Cheng Hua Lian, do you know this person well?"


    Huh?


    Kagura Hikaru was taken aback, not expecting to hear that name at this moment.


    Was he suspected because he had hit a wall with Ai Cheng Hua Lian and they thought he was the informant who had silenced her?


    Even though that was indeed the case.


    So, should he deny it?... No, it felt like a trap...


    If handled poorly, the trust that had been built couldpletely copse.


    When uncertain, Kagura Hikaru habitually chose to read minds.


    [I saw you walking together with my own eyes, don''t lie to me, or our cooperation is over.]


    [A person who can betray me at any time is too dangerous.]


    [You have gained from mind-reading: Acting +2]


    [Acting lv4 (78/100)]


    So, she had seen us, huh...


    She hoped she hadn''t discovered that they had gone to the Student Council together, otherwise the privatemunication with Kiryu Hina would be exposed.


    "Acquainted."


    Kagura Hikaru faced forward calmly, nodding slightly, "She came to look for me during the break after the first ss today."


    "What did you two talk about," Ayakoji Chiyoko''s gaze sharpened.


    During the break after the first ss, she went to look for Ai Cheng Hua Lian in the second year ssroom but didn''t find her.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    It seemed that it was during that time some slip-up urred.


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t avoid the question and frankly admitted: "She is the second eyewitness besides myself, she came to seek my opinion, and I asked her to help keep it a secret."


    Even Ayakoji Chiyoko hadn''t expected him to be so honest, to admit it outright.


    Was it trust... huh, what an ironic situation.


    "Indeed, she did not admit it," Ayakoji Chiyoko''s mood soured, staring intently at Kagura Hikaru like a she-wolf, "There probably aren''t many who can keep a secret for you, are you friends?"


    "Not really."


    "Then is she belongs to Kiryu Hina?"


    "No."


    "Good."


    The rage in Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes subsided slightly, "Let''s leave it at that, but there won''t be a next time."


    "If the same situation arises next time, I would do the same," Kagura Hikaru cut her off.


    The atmosphere became tense once again.


    Both stopped in unison, standing at the center of the bustling street, locking eyes with each other.


    Both were expressionless, their eyes filled with coldness and resolve, neither backing down half a step.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko let out a coldugh: "Ex-boyfriend, realize your ce."


    "Wasn''t it you who came to me first," Kagura Hikaru said coldly.


    "Heh, so I should amodate you?"


    "There''s no amodating anybody, our rtionship is purely based on mutual use."


    Hearing this wolf-and-tiger talk, passersby thought ''what the hell'', are the young people of this new generation all so sophisticated?


    Ayakoji Chiyoko,pletely unaware that they were being seen as a couple in the middle of a Shura Field, furrowed her brows deeply, "Mutual use, what do you want to gain from me?"


    If it was about use, there must be a price to pay.


    Last time, Ayakoji Chiyoko had traded the grudge between herself and Kiryu Hina for information, it seemed Kagura Hikaru was notpletely satisfied.


    Indeed, such a small offer wouldn''t even satisfy a mouse.


    If it was to crush that person and obtain the truth she sought, paying a little price was eptable.


    "Do you want money? Or do you want me to use the power of the Disciplinary Committee to benefit you," Ayakoji Chiyoko spat sharply.


    If Kagura Hikaru really proposed such terms, she would probably ept them too, as she wasn''t exactly a paragon of virtue.


    But for some reason, Ayakoji Chiyoko did not want to hear such an answer from Kagura Hikaru.


    Was she harboring some kind of expectation for him?


    Ridiculous.


    "A mere student''s authority and possessions hold no attraction for me."


    Before Ayakoji Chiyoko had time to analyze her own feelings, Kagura Hikaru spoke out, "I know you''re not just after revenge on Kiryu Hina, there must be deeper reasons."


    "...Oh?"


    "I can help you achieve your goals, in return, you''ll need to agree to a condition of mine."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko was surprised by his insight.


    She found that this man always managed to do things beyond her expectations.


    Truly... it''s bing more and more interesting.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko showed interest: "What do you want?"


    She had thought that she could guess his condition, probably something like helping him reunite with Kiryu Hina.


    However, she could never have expected that Kagura Hikaru would say something like this¡ª


    "What I want is simple," his gaze flickered, "in the next Student Council election, ensure that Kiryu Hina loses!"

 Chapter 18 Mr. Kagura, What a Coincidence!

    Ding-ling~


    "Wee to Kafka Cafe. What would you like to order?"


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko walked into a vintage and elegantly decorated cafe and sat facing each other at a small table for two by the window.


    "A cup of Blue Mountain Coffee."


    "Maruyama Coffee."


    Waitress: "Would you like some dessert with that?"


    "No, thank you."


    Waitress: "Alright, please wait a moment~"


    Kagura Hikaru stared out the window for a few seconds, then turned to Ayakoji Chiyoko, "I saw youing out of a coffee shop earlier, and you had a c at the live house. Can you still drink more?"


    "No problem," said Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Kagura Hikaru nodded.


    Once again, the air was filled with silence.


    Five minutes passed, and the waitress came with a tray, cing two cups of coffee and milk in front of them, with sugar cubes at the center of the table.


    Waitress: "Enjoy~"


    Even among those who love coffee, everyone''s preferences are different.


    Some people like it with milk, some enjoy it ck, and some like it with just sugar, no milk.


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t drink coffee often, but he had his own routine.


    He preferred it sweet, with a smooth, tea-like texture, so he would pour in the entire small cup of prepared milk right away, add two sugar cubes, and slowly stir. The spoon would clink crisply against the cup.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, on the other hand, preferred the opposite¡ªshe wouldn''t add anything, savoring the pure taste of the coffee.


    It must be very bitter, but her expression didn''t show it at all. She was obviously well ustomed to this way of drinking it.


    Kagura Hikaru couldn''t help but admire her silently.


    "Why?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko put down her coffee cup and suddenly asked.


    "What are you referring to?"


    "What you said earlier, about making Kiryu Hina lose the election. Was that true?"


    "It was true."


    Kagura Hikaru stopped stirring, tapped the side of his cup, set the spoon aside on the saucer, and took a sip.


    It was a bit too sweet.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko tapped her fingers on the table: "The reason?"


    "Noment."


    Kagura Hikaru avoided Ayakoji Chiyoko''s gaze, not intending to exin his reasons.


    He didn''t mind being seen as the viin.


    After all, regardless of whether Ayakoji Chiyoko agreed or not, he was going to do it anyway.


    This was a decision made after leaving the Student Council at noon.


    Ever since Kiryu Hina became the Student Council President and put on a perfect mask, Kagura Hikaru increasingly felt the distance between her and his memories of the past.


    It was the same person, yet not quite.


    Rather than calling it ''growth'', it was more like a disguise, concealment.


    The current Kiryu Hina was like ying a role only she knew, with her own script in this world, being a perfect individual, a perfect honors student, a perfect Student Council President.


    She appeared strong but, in reality, she was like a castle made of sand, likely to copse at any moment.


    Intuition and knowledge told Kagura Hikaru that if Kiryu Hina continued living behind a mask, one day she would lose her sense of self and be lost in the lies.


    In the worst-case scenario, she could be emotionally numb, unable to properly recognize her feelings, lose empathy for others, and her sense of self would gradually fade away, as would her social nature, potentially developing into more severe mental disorders.


    This wasn''t just rmist talk; It could be reality.


    Every person in this world has some degree of mental illness, and the more experiences they have, the more pronounced it is.


    With the Skill "Psychological Counseling lv3 (27/100)," Kagura Hikaru had seen some unsettling possibilities in Kiryu Hina.


    If things continued this way, maybe...


    He was the least qualified person to interfere; he was well aware of that fact.


    But it was much better than standing idly by.


    He didn''t care about the means, even if everyone saw him as the viin, and even if he truly was doing wicked things,pared to the goal he wanted to achieve, such a price was eptable.


    As for ensuring the correctness of his actions... The numerous skills he acquired through his mysterious mind-reading ability allowed Kagura Hikaru to examine problems from various professional angles. He was the least worried about this aspect.


    The position of Student Council President was probably one of the masks binding her.


    By breaking this outermost mask and shattering her perfection, Kiryu Hina would be forced to face her true self.


    As long as there were people who cared about her, she would eventually find her way back on her own.


    That was all he could do.


    Watching Kagura Hikaru''s stern face, Ayakoji Chiyoko slowly curled the corners of her mouth.


    It was as if she could see a splendid drama unfold through Kagura Hikaru''s eyes, and she lifted her coffee cup with pleasure, "You know what you''re saying, right? To me, the purpose of your actions seems utterly contradictory."


    She had specifically silenced Ai Cheng Hua Lian to protect Kiryu Hina from attacks, even if it meant shing with herself.


    But now, he had spoken words with a clear intent to harm Kiryu Hina.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko found Kagura Hikaru, this man, increasingly elusive.


    She thought she had understood his remaining affection for Kiryu Hina, yet he consistently acted beyond her expectations.


    Undoubtedly, he had his secrets, his considerations, his ns.


    They might intersect on some matter, but in the end, they might still find themselves on opposite sides.


    What''s more, Ayakoji Chiyoko could not guarantee that she would be able to defeat him in the future.


    The "Rock-Solid Prince" of the first years... indeed, there were only mistaken names, not mistaken nicknames.


    This was someone without weaknesses, as solid as a rock.


    ...No, there should still be a weakness.


    Thedy by the names of Kiryu and Hina.


    However, her intuition told her that the existence of a weakness only made the rock harder, more formidable.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    She couldn''t control such a person.


    But this was also good¡ªit made him a worthy ally.


    Click.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko set her coffee cup back on the saucer, making a light noise.


    After mutual honesty, Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru could already be consideredrades on the ''front against Kiryu Hina''.


    Even though neither of them had uttered it, they both regarded each other as allies of sorts.


    Despite each harboring their own ulterior motives and mysterious goals, as long as they shared the same target, there was room for cooperation.


    After finishing the coffee and paying the bill, which was, of course, split between them.


    When they stepped out of the caf¨¦, dusk had set in, and the sky was a beautiful shade of red and orange.


    They walked toward the train station, nning to take the train home.


    The Ind Nation''s utilization rate of rail transit was astonishing; since extensivelyying tracks in thest century, it remains one of Tokyoites'' most frequently used modes of transport to this day.


    Whether for students or srymenmuting, or going out for travel, Inders prefer taking the train.


    The sight of trains packed with passengers like sardines during peak hours even became a representative image of the Ind Nation.


    Normally, Kagura Hikaru had little chance to experience this, as their school had early arrivals andte dismissals, missing the peak times for both journeys.


    But at this time, it was smack in the middle of the peak period for sardine-packed trains.


    Just the thought of that crowded scene and the air filled with various odors... he really felt the urge to call a taxi service, if only the price wasn''t so high.


    Just as Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru were about to use their IC cards to enter the station, the former''s phone rang. She took it out, nced at it, and her face immediately darkened.


    "Kagura Hikaru, go ahead on your own, someone''sing to pick me up."


    "Oh."


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t say much, swiped his IC card at the gate, but it didn''t open, with the screen showing insufficient bnce.


    He went over to the recharge machine to add five thousand yen to his IC card.


    When he returned to the gate, he found that Ayakoji Chiyoko had already moved to stand under amppost at the corner, conversing with a man seated in a ck Mercedes.


    It seemed her ride had arrived.


    The man must have been over thirty, wearing a mask, somewhat familiar-looking, smiling with his eyes as he chatted with Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Thetter appeared disgusted, yet she didn''t distance herself.


    From their interaction, the man didn''t seem to be a driver from the Ayakoji family, nor could he easily be imagined as Ayakoji Chiyoko''s boyfriend, considering the age difference and theirck of intimate behavior.


    Familiar-looking, and yet close to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Kagura Hikaru almost immediately thought of one person.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s father, the well-known actor¡ªRyoma Ayakoji!


    This man truly was a celebrity; Kagura Hikaru could see advertisements featuring him on the streets nearly every day. Seeing him in person all of a suddencked a sense of reality.


    He had no intention of greeting him, and after watching Ayakoji Chiyoko get in the car, he turned and entered the station.


    Checking the time for the next train''s arrival, it looked like he had a few minutes to wait, so he decided to stand by the tform to wait.


    Because it was peak hour, the tform was crowded, mostly with students and office workers¡ªschool uniforms and suits filled his view.


    The thought of having topete with so many people to squeeze through those few small train doors made Kagura Hikaru''s heart sink.


    He hated such crowded situations, especially when forced toe into bodily contact with others.


    Just as he began to hesitate, wondering whether to go out and wander around to pass the time, someone suddenly tapped him on the back.


    Kagura Hikaru turned around to see a smiling face known as Ai Cheng Hua Lian.


    "Mr. Kagura, what a coincidence!"

 Chapter 19 Kabedon Inside the Tram

    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, a sophomore at the same school, was secretly the lead singer of a girls'' band.


    If ced in a galgame, she would probably be the childhood friend type of character that yers could woo.


    She wasn''t like Kiryu Hina or Ayakoji Chiyoko, who were dazzlingly distinctive and stood out from the rest.


    But if one took the time to observe carefully, they could discover the attractive qualities hidden within her.


    "Mr. Kagura, you are getting home sote. Where have you been?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian asked curiously with a smile.


    "I had a performance today."


    "Eh~ Where, where?"


    "It was at a livehouse called ''Makyo''."


    "Ah, I know that ce!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian eximed with surprise, covering her mouth slightly, "But I heard that the bands performing there are really scary, and everyone is afraid to go there... "


    "All the bands are made up of very gentle people," Kagura Hikaru defended them.


    "Is that so... It''s true, there are fewer bad people who seriously y in bands. Whenever they have time, they''re practicing."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian nodded convincingly.


    "I get it now - band people are stay-at-homes!"


    ...How did shee to that conclusion?


    "Oh, just look." Seeing the puzzled expression on Kagura Hikaru''s face, Ai Cheng Hua Lian exined exuberantly, "These days, the music scene is sopetitive that musicians need to practice a lot at home to improve and be recognized, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "And even when they''re rehearsing with the band, they''re holed up in a closed practice room, right?"


    "Yeah."


    "See, that''s being a stay-at-home!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian excitedly pped her hands together as if imitating the ''apple~pencil~'' uncle in the yellow shirt, then spread them apart, smiling at him.


    "Staying at home to practice, and even going out is just to practice; so, the conclusion is simple - band people are indoor types who stay at home!"


    "...You actually make some sense."


    Kagura Hikaru pondered seriously, and it was almost terrifying to think further.


    Indeed, thinking about it, the people he knew who were seriously into the bands were hardly ever seen wasting time. They practiced so much daily that it was intimidating, making Kagura Hikaru, who relied on the system to get better, ashamed.


    Those real practice demons were often taciturn. When with talkative people, they would only give a sheepish smile, never initiating conversation.


    Even a significant number of them were so into anime that they spent their free time studying Touhou music arrangements, tricking band members into listening to anime songs.


    ...This definitely describes a nerd!


    Kagura Hikaru looked at Ai Cheng Hua Lian in astonishment.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Could she truly be a genius?


    "Hehe."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian arrogantly tilted her chin up, and her white neck was as beautiful as that of a swan.


    Talking with the girls around her, she unconsciously waited until the subway train arrived.


    The train screeched to a halt, and the station attendant blocked the exit to make the crowd step back.


    However, as soon as the doors opened, people who needed to exit immediately started heading out, and those entering did the same; shouting was useless, for who could guarantee they''d be able to get on the train on time?


    The massive flow of people inside and outside the train converged, exchanging ces painfully and slowly.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ai Cheng Hua Lian were caught in the mix, seemingly afraid of being separated by the crowd, with Ai Cheng Hua Lian gripping his shoulder bag strap for dear life.


    In the nick of time before the doors closed, they managed to squeeze into the train, standing in a shaken state next to the door.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian cautiously checked her hair and clothes to ensure they weren''t caught by the doors, while Kagura Hikaru used his profile to watch the movement of the crowd at the back, feeling the intense pressure on his back. Without a sound, he ced a hand on the door, struggling to maintain a small space.


    "Eh?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, totally unprepared, looked up to see Kagura Hikaru''s face less than a foot away, his right hand reaching over her shoulder to the train door behind her.


    Is this what they call a "wall m"?!?!


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s heart pounded furiously, her ears beginning to heat up and turn red.


    She subconsciously swung her shoulder bag in front of her chest to serve as a cushion in case Kagura Hikaru leaned forward.


    "The space is really tight, bear with it for a while," noticing her difort, Kagura Hikaru tilted his head andforted her.


    "...Okay."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian replied softly, her cheeks beginning to turn red as well.


    The air grew heavier.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ai Cheng Hua Lian each looked in different directions, lost in their own thoughts.


    The train moved on the rails at a speed of 120 kilometers per hour, the scenery outside slowly moving backwards.


    Whenever certain tracks were passed, the carriage would sway slightly, causing passengers inside to sway left and right. identally bumping heads or stepping on someone''s foot wasmon, and apologies could be heard from corners of the carriage now and then.


    Once it quieted down, many things became unavoidable.


    The humid and hot air in the carriage, the smell of smoke, alcohol, even body odor, as well as the arms and thighs of strangers pressed against one.


    It was truly an ufortable space, Kagura Hikaru had decided he would avoid riding the train at this time at all costs in the future, it was like paying to be insulted.


    He looked at Ai Cheng Hua Lian, who was looking down, and couldn''t help but ask, "Senior, do you usually take the train home at this time?"


    "Eh?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian looked up in surprise and responded, "Not every day. After the school club activities are over, I have band practice and then head home. Usually, it''s muchter and not so crowded."


    "That''s good." Kagura Hikaru whispered to her, "In such chaotic carriages, there might be perverts on the prowl, you''re a girl, Senior, you must be careful."


    "Ah... uh... "


    Probably not expecting Kagura Hikaru to bring up the topic of perverts, Ai Cheng Hua Lian nodded somewhat foolishly.


    Then, a beat toote, she realized he was showing concern for her, and blushing, she said, "Thank you, Mr. Kagura, I''ll be careful from now on."


    "Yes, if someone could apany you like today... uh..."


    "? Mr. Kagura?"


    "...Never mind."


    Kagura Hikaru felt the odd sensation of hands kneading his waist and hips.


    Just as he was cautioning others to be wary of perverts, he found himself a victim.


    He turned his head slightly and discovered that the person pressed against his back was a petite young girl, dressed in a sailor uniform, looking to be about middle school age, with her hands mischievously moving on him.


    ...So bold at such a young age to make a move on an older man, truly audacious.


    He frowned, nning to resist, but Ai Cheng Hua Lian seemed to notice his difort and acted first.


    She almost embraced Kagura Hikaru as she leaned over to look behind him, immediately spotting the misbehaving middle school girl behind him and ring daggers at her.


    Feeling the gaze, the middle school girl withdrew her hands like she had touched an electric fence, turned sideways, and dared not move again.


    Kagura Hikaru breathed a sigh of relief, looked down at Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s hair whorl, and said, "Thank you, Senior."


    "No, it''s nothing..."


    Feeling Kagura Hikaru''s breath on her hair, Ai Cheng Hua Lian suddenly realized she was leaning too close, almost lying on him.


    The masculine scenting from him, like a fresh lemon-scented shower gel, was warm.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian resisted the urge to scream, blushing as she backed away and quietly chatted with Kagura Hikaru to divert her attention.


    Apart from casually asking about the brand of shower gel he used at home, everything else was within the bounds of propriety.


    Kagura Hikaru answered honestly.


    Ironically, the shower gel at his home was endorsed by Ryoma Ayakoji, Chiyoko Ayakoji''s father, with his half-body portrait printed on the casing, and every night the family had to bare themselves and meet his gaze.


    Usually, it didn''t matter, but today it felt like he had encountered the man himself...


    Next time he would advise his aunt to buy a different brand.

 Chapter 20 Always, Always Watching You

    After about twenty minutes of torment, he finally reached the station near Kagura Hikaru''s house and told Ai Cheng Hua Lian in advance, "I''m getting off here, take care of yourself."


    "Wait, Mr. Kagura.....I''m getting off at this stop too."


    "Really?" Kagura Hikaru was somewhat surprised, "Alright then, I''ll lead the way out."


    Just like when they boarded, Kagura Hikaru led the way, and Ai Cheng Hua Lian clung desperately to the straps of his backpack, struggling through the crowd, feeling like a tube of toothpaste being squeezed out.


    Once they reached a more open space, they both took deep breaths of fresh air as if on cue.


    The train had really been suffocating.


    Seeing each other make the same gesture, they couldn''t help but exchange nces.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian suddenly broke into a smile, and Kagura Hikaru''s expression softened a bit.


    He still couldn''t bring himself to smile, although he tried hard¡ªsurely this was some kind of psychological barrier?


    "So, Mr. Kagura, about where do you live? If it''s on the way, we could walk together for a bit," Ai Cheng Hua Lian suggested at that moment.


    "I live in... (omitting)"


    "Oh, my house is nearby too!"


    They shared their approximate addresses and were surprised to find that they lived quite close to each other, within walking distance.


    It was odd that despite living so close and taking the same train to school, they had never encountered each other on their way to school.


    "Could there be such a coincidence?" Kagura Hikaru expressed his doubt.


    "Yeah, it really is a coincidence~"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian said, smiling brightly.


    This was a lie.


    Quantum theory tells all humanity that the world is a world of random numbers; coincidences can happen, but they can''t happen every day.


    In fact, Ai Cheng Hua Lian had been watching him for a long time.


    Every day, she could see Kagura Hikaru on this train.


    He liked to sit in a corner and read on the train; if it was too crowded he preferred standing, holding onto the handrail, always giving up his seat to the elderly and pregnant women, neverte¡ªshe knew all his habits.


    But Ai Cheng Hua Lian just watched, never approaching.


    Someone as insignificant as she, once touched by sunlight, would probably quickly turn to dust, and no one would sympathize with her.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Those who dream of achieving ideals like Icarus will eventually end up like the mythological figure¡ªwings melted, plummeting into the sea from the high skies.


    So, she wouldn''t approach; it was enough to watch from a distance.


    As for why Kagura Hikaru hadn''t recognized her, he probably saw her as just one of the other female high school students on the same train, which is why he hadn''t noticed her.


    After all, she didn''t possess the beauty of President Kiriyu or President Ayakoji, nor did she have any noticeable feminine allure, so it was normal for her to be treated this way.


    She had always believed that there would never be a day when her life would intersect with his.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, firm in this belief, was however fooled by fate.


    The Red Pepper Band, formed outside of school, decided for the first time to perform on stage at a livehouse and urgently needed a person to stabilize the morale.


    Therefore, the livehouse manager rmended to them a most excellent hire guitar yer, the price very tempting.


    The four members of the Red Pepper Band each chipped in a little money, enough to cover the hiring fee.


    When the guitar yer arrived, Ai Cheng Hua Lian, pushed to the forefront by her team members, momentarily doubted her own eyes.


    Because the person, looked exactly like Kagura Hikaru!


    Of course, at that time, she was too shocked to think clearly¡ªthat was Kagura Hikaru, the guitar yer they hired to anchor the show.


    That moment was the first time Ai Cheng Hua Lian believed there was such a thing as ''fate'' in this world.


    The once untouchable sun had approached her on its own.


    Afterwards, thanks to Kagura Hikaru''s help, the performance sessfully concluded, andter on campus, she learned more about Kagura Hikaru from the Student Council President.


    Now, riding the same train and walking home on the same route, they were talking as normally as friends do.


    It was too dazzling; she felt she might turn to ash at any moment.


    Is this life really okay, something she could ept with peace of mind?


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was infatuated with such times, yet she was terrified.


    Were her wings really well secured?


    Would they, while she was immersed in happiness, unaware, suddenly fall apart, causing her to crash utterly?


    "Hey Mr. Kagura, look, someone is selling candy floss over there!"


    Excited, Ai Cheng Hua Lian tugged on Kagura Hikaru''s sleeve, pulling him along.


    A minuteter, each of them was holding a stick of candy floss, nibbling as they walked.


    It had been years since they had eaten this stuff.


    Kagura Hikaru thought.


    Ever since they had grown out of childhood, everyone seemed consciously to shun childish things, but once they went to university, their interests would suddenly surge back, bing passionate once more.


    Then, after a while, as they entered society and careers kept them busy, they stopped caring. Once their work stabilized or they grew weary in body and mind, they would begin to indulge again.


    He called this the "Childlike Reincarnation Rule."


    "Senior Ai Cheng."


    "Hmm?"


    Kagura Hikaru suddenly wanted to ask her, "How old do you think you''ll be when youpletely lose interest in candy floss?"


    "Eh~? What a strange question."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian stuck out her pink tongue to catch some candy floss that had stuck to the corner of her mouth, prompting Kagura Hikaru to pull a small pack of tissues from his pocket and hand her one.


    "Here."


    "Ah, thank you," Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s cheeks flushed momentarily as she took the tissue and wiped the corner of her mouth, then held it in her palm, and naturallyined, "It''s my first time seeing someone carry around tissues like that. Shouldn''t it usually be a handkerchief?"


    "I don''t have the habit of carrying a handkerchief," Kagura Hikaru shook his head, "And besides, don''t you think guys who carry handkerchiefs seem a bit effeminate?"


    "Ah... is that so?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian tilted her head, then shook it, "No, no, the conversation''s gotten a bit too serious! What did Mr. Kagura ask me again?"


    "How old you would be to lose all interest in candy floss."


    "Right, that! Hmm... I think I''ll always be interested no matter my age! Even if I''m an old granny with no teeth, candy floss is still something you can eat, right?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian happily took a big bite of the pink candy floss, mumbling as she chewed, "But... if it''s... high blood sugar... that''d be troublesome... hehe."


    "Is that so?" Kagura Hikaru pondered and nodded.


    It seemed that his ''Childlike Reincarnation Rule'' couldn''t go on indefinitely.


    "Mmm, mmm, candy floss is so yummy~!"


    "Remember to brush your teeth when you get back," Kagura Hikaru nced at her sideways.


    "Mr. Kagura!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian stamped her foot in embarrassment, "Don''t just say things like that. It makes girls flustered!"


    "But you responded just fine, didn''t you?"


    Kagura Hikaru looked at her calmly.


    His emotionless pupils were like ck holes, deep and bottomless.


    "Mr. Kagura, you''re so cunning..."


    "What do you mean?"


    "I won''t tell you!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian swiftly walked a few steps ahead, joyfully running toward the next snack stall.


    Despite being the top elite of the Haneoka Volleyball Club, why was she spending all day eating?


    Even if seeking an excuse to cover up her shyness, it shouldn''t always revolve around food, right? People would think she''s a glutton!


    "Look at this, Mr. Kagura, there are grilled fish over here, it smells so good!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian found another excuse to look back, calling his name as Kagura Hikaru, with a hint of helplessness in his eyes, walked over leisurely, the massive pink candy floss in his hand stark against his calm demeanor.


    The contrast made it hard not to chuckle.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian silently curled up a smile.


    Mr. Kagura, you really are cunning, indulging a girl''s whims like this, willingly at her beck and call.


    This kind of amodating gentleness, for Icarus, was no different from the sun.


    That''s why I like Mr. Kagura so much.


    ''How old will you be topletely lose interest in candy floss?'' That''s what you asked, right? Actually, I''ve already found the answer.


    No matter how many years pass, I will always, always, keep liking Kagura Hikaru.

 Chapter 21 Justice did not occur on the way to school

    After parting ways with Ai Cheng Hua Lian at the intersection, Kagura Hikaru walked home, dealing with the grilled fish and cotton candy in his hands.


    Before he reached home, he had sessfully finished them off.


    Kagura Hikaru''s father was quite strict. Had he found out that his son had eaten snacks before dinner, a lecture would have been guaranteed.


    Yet, he still miscalcted. Since there were no trash cans along the way, he was left with a small packaging bag and a wooden stick in his hand. As soon as he arrived home, he was exposed and ended up getting scolded.


    After dinner, in his room.


    Kagura Hikaru turned on the deskmp,y in bed, and stared at his phone screen, which disyed the text message interface, and even the email had to be entered manually.


    He had informed Kiryu Hina about the Society Discussion Meeting and warned her to be wary of Ayakoji Chiyoko''s retaliation.


    The Society Discussion Meeting, formed tobat the News Department, was not a bad idea if the timing hadn''t been off.


    After all, controlling public opinion was critical when it came to disrupting future student elections.


    But stirring trouble when Kiryu Hina was already prepared was not a wise move.


    After sending the message, he saw no reply from Kiryu Hina for a long time.


    Kagura Hikaru had to put down his phone and do his own thing.


    ........


    The next morning, the rm rang.


    A pair of tired eyes slowly opened, with dark circles faintly visible under them.


    Struggling to turn off the rm, Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes closed again.


    After what seemed like five minutes under the mental urging of ''must get up for school,'' she slowly turned over the nkets. Startled by the temperature difference outside the cocoon of her bed, she almost shrank back in.


    Her pale little feet quickly slipped into the warm plush slippers, and she got up, yawning profusely. While descending the stairs, her head still felt heavy, and she almost missed a step.


    Because she had run into Kagura Hikaru yesterday and chatted for a long time, she was so excited that she couldn''t sleep and kept tossing and turning in bed, which resulted in her current state.


    Perhaps it was karma that just as Ai Cheng Hua Lian made it downstairs, her mother, who was tidying up the dishes in the dining room, scolded, "What are you dallying for, do you even know what time it is? Hurry or you''ll miss the train!"


    "What?!"


    This snapped her fully awake. She nced at the clock, felt panic surge through her, and rushed into the bathroom to use the toilet and brush her teeth in two minutes, not even bothering to wash her face, grabbed her backpack, and dashed out the door.


    Seeing her rush, Ai Cheng''s mother couldn''t help but shout, "Aren''t you going to eat?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian turned back, quickly grabbed a piece of bread and a box of milk, and stuffed them into her backpack.


    "I''ll eat on the way!"


    "Watch the road carefully!"


    "I know~!"


    Checking both sides of the road, Ai Cheng Hua Lian started running.


    The teachers who initiated girls''ics once said, a female lead running to school with a piece of bread in her mouth and bumping into a boy at the corner, then identally getting her panties seen, is justice!


    The teachers who initiated BLics once said, a male lead running to school with a piece of bread in his mouth and bumping into a boy at the corner, then identally kissing mouth to mouth, is justice!


    The teachers who initiated actionics once said, a male lead running to school with a piece of bread in his mouth and bumping into his archrival at the corner, then identally starting a fierce battle leading to the destruction of a city block, is justice!


    None of these scenarios happened to Ai Cheng Hua Lian. She just ran to the station quite ordinarily and caught the train just before the doors closed.


    "Well, that was close...!"


    She panted heavily, holding onto the handrail.


    Already dealing with low blood pressure in the morning, and not having eaten, even as the ace of the Haneoka Volleyball Club, her body struggled with the intense physical activity.


    It was still earlypared to the peak hours. Although the carriage wasn''t empty, it wasn''t as crowded as yesterday, and if one looked carefully, one might even find a few seats.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian scanned around, looking for a spot and searching for that boy''s silhouette.


    There!


    At the end of the carriage, sitting in a corner, was indeed Kagura Hikaru, his head slightly bowed, holding and reading a book.


    From this distance, the title was not visible, only the ck cover was.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian didn''t go up to greet him but found a standing spot from which she could clearly see Kagura Hikaru and decided to stay put.


    Staring at a beautiful boy every morning, on reflection, was really kind of a perverted hobby, almost like a nymphomaniac.


    Although it was a sinful thing, she couldn''t stop herself¡ªperhaps this was what they called an addiction.


    She took out a carton of milk from her backpack, tore open the straw, and stuck it in.


    She had just taken a sip when she looked up and realized she had lost sight of the beautiful young boy, Kagura Hikaru was no longer at that seat!


    "Senior Ai Cheng, good morning."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    A calm voice came from behind her, prompting Ai Cheng Hua Lian to stiffly turn around.


    It wasn''t an illusion, Kagura Hikaru was indeed standing behind her.


    "You, you''re greeting me...?"


    "Is there a second Senior Ai Cheng in this car?"


    "No... um... good morning, Mr. Kagura."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian took a big gulp of milk and then, as expected, choked, covering her mouth as she coughed.


    She had assumed that Kagura Hikaru would ignore her as usual, why did he have to... today of all days?


    Is it my fault, was it my fault for not holding back and hitting on him yesterday?!


    Wait? Wait, did I really do something wrong? My favorite idol is treating me differently!


    Win, win, win!


    Wuhu~!!


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s heart leaped with joy, she took another fierce gulp of milk, and then choked again.


    "Cough, cough, cough..."


    "Are you okay?"


    "Cough, cough...No, no problem..."


    They chatted intermittently, mostly about trivial topics,rgely initiated by Ai Cheng Hua Lian with Kagura Hikaru responding.


    Although thetter spoke less, he always reciprocated, ensuring the conversation flowed without making the speaker feel awkward.


    In consideration of each other''s feelings, he even refrained from lifting his book again.


    In the past, Ai Cheng Hua Lian thought Kagura Hikaru was a cold person who was hard to approach, but now she realized that was not the case.


    He just seemed distant on the surface, but was inherently kind-hearted.


    Once regarded as a friend, he would reveal a tender and amodating side.


    Exactly the type Ai Cheng Hua Lian adored.


    ...please stop increasing my fondness for you, what am I going to do if I can''t hold back and confess to you?!


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was internally panicking.


    Before they knew it, the train had passed several stops and it was time to get off.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ai Cheng Hua Lian moved towards the door in advance, and after the train stopped, they disembarked with the crowd, still walking side by side.


    But as they neared the school, Ai Cheng Hua Lian deliberately created distance between them.


    "I''m sorry Mr. Kagura, it''s better if we stay apart for now. If President Ayakoji misunderstands our rtionship, it would trouble you too..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian apologetically scratched her face.


    In reality, Kagura Hikaru didn''t care about these things, but he also knew that when a girl is considering his feelings, it''s best not to ignore her intentions.


    "Mr. Kagura, I support you and President Ayakoji! Go for it!"


    "Oh..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian winked and then dashed ahead to greet her ssmates, entering the school in groups.


    Kagura Hikaru, slightly confused, watched her back, deliberately slowing down to cross the school gate after everyone else.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s worries were justified, today was Ayakoji Chiyoko''s turn to lead the gate duty, a group of Discipline Committee members enthusiastically greeted the students.


    As he passed the school gate, Kagura Hikaru could distinctly feel Ayakoji Chiyoko''s sharp gaze on him, he pretended not to notice and turned his head, blending into the crowd.


    On the right side of the courtyard in front of the teaching building, several ckboards were set up, featuring posters for club recruitment, one particrlyrge poster caught Kagura Hikaru''s attention.


    [Focus on current hot topics, asionally delve into gossip, convey thetest fashion news!]


    [A society and newspaper serving only students.]


    [The Society Discussion Meeting is eagerly recruiting members, we wee you to join ~~!]


    [Location: old schoolhouse second floor, ssroom on the far right of the corridor]


    [PS: Our daily newspaper is set to be released soon, stay tuned!]

 Chapter 22 Start of the War

    ```


    The recruitment poster before her eyes was not only the size of three A4 papers put together, but also every aspect of it¡ªthe background image, the fonts, and theyout¡ªwas exceptionally pleasing to the eye, far exceeding what one would expect from a student effort. It was ced in the most conspicuous location.


    Almost every student who passed by couldn''t help but be drawn to it, and Kagura Hikaru had already seen two or three students stopping in front of the poster to discuss it.


    It seemed that Ayakoji Chiyoko''s ''News Department'' wouldn''t becking members.


    The orthodox News Department of Yuqiu High School was heavily tinged with an official vibe, with a school newspaper issued weekly mostly about studies, politics, university selection, school interaction¡ªold and stodgy and clearly at odds with the interests of contemporary youth.


    No wonder those newspapers, even when distributed freely, attracted no takers.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s Society Discussion Meeting, by contrast, was clearly taking a different route, one that the gossip tabloids, desperate for traffic, would use every tool at their disposal to follow.


    This was indeed a more realistic choice and one likely to quickly attract attention and gain influence.


    Yet,st night, he had already informed Hina about the existence and true intentions of the Society Discussion Meeting. It probably wouldn''t be long before it caused trouble for the Student Council and then get shut down.


    Kagura Hikaru was ultimately a person from Kiryu Hina''s camp. Even if she had be an ally of Ayakoji Chiyoko, at this point in time, she wouldn''t stand by her side, both emotionally and logically.


    Then, three days passed.


    The Society Discussion Meeting posters had be even more prevalent within the school, and the first edition of their news daily had been printed¡ª50 copies that were snapped up by mid-morning. Word was they were already rushing to print more.


    Not only did they feature topics of interest to girls, like zodiac divination, fashion trends, celebrity gossip, TV dramas, and addresses of boutique stores, but also topics appealing to boys, such as the situation of wars, game information and strategies from major global manufacturers.


    It even touched lightly on otaku culture, dedicating a section to discuss several hit animations of the season and predicting which original series would be a dark horse.


    It was as if all the topics that currently interested young people were gathered together¡ªnot being popr would''ve been strange.


    The Society Discussion Meeting was bustling with activity.


    And the Student Council... made no move at all, as ifpletely unaware of what was going on, letting their expansion go unchecked.


    This was entirely beyond Kagura Hikaru''s expectations. He didn''t understand why Kiryu Hina was doing nothing. Could it be that she didn''t receive his text message that night?


    Could it be that Hina was deliberately ignoring the information to cooperate with him, to prevent this spy from being exposed?


    No, that couldn''t be the case. Even if he hadn''t said anything, with Hina''s own intelligence, she should have been aware of the potential danger, yet up to this point, the Society Discussion Meeting hadn''t encountered any hindrance.


    This was indeed a bizarre urrence.


    After much thought, Kagura Hikaru decided to let it be. Hina was no fool; if the situation continued to develop, it was probably within her ns.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    So he decided not to add to the chaos, and to just be an observer.


    Several more days passed.


    The Society Discussion Meeting''s daily paper was now in such demand that Kagura Hikaru saw students holding the newspaper every day, gathering in groups to chuckle and chatter.


    Girls discussed the cake shop featured in the paper, excitedly waiting to visit after school.


    Boys debated in the sports section about which high school teams would make it to Koshien this year.


    The daily paper from the Society Discussion Meeting spread through the school like a virus.


    In the face of the enemy''s rapid offensive, both the Student Council and the News Department remained inactive, contentedly sitting back and waiting, as if for the right moment.


    Today was the turning point.


    Kagura Hikaru spread out the daily newspaper he had borrowed from a female ssmate. At the bottom section, the Society Discussion Meeting touched on campus news for the first time, discussing the recent rumor that had been circting about Student Council President Kiryu Hina bullying a student.


    ```


    [.....For this reason, our magazine took the initiative to interview Miss Ayakoji Chiyoko, Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.]


    [Reporter: "President Ayakoji, what is your view on this matter?"]


    [Ayakoji Chiyoko: "If this is true, then the Disciplinary Committee will not tolerate it, even if she is the Student Council President."]


    [Reporter: "But so far, there has been no evidence found for this matter, could it really just be a rumor?"]


    [Ayakoji Chiyoko: "As long as there is this possibility, we cannot ignore it. If anyone has relevant information, pleasee forward to the Disciplinary Committee, and we will fully protect your rights and demands."]


    Kagura Hikaru believed there was no need to read the rest after seeing this part.


    He closed the daily paper, returned it to his ssmate, and knew in his heart that Ayakoji Chiyoko had already started to act.


    With several days of fermenting, the Society Discussion Meeting daily paper had already attained enough influence and trust among the students, which is why they chose this moment to touch upon the topic of campus gossip.


    Regarding the previous rumors about Kiryu Hina bullying a student, actually, few people are discussing it now, after all, no evidence has been found and no one hase forward to report, naturally it would blow over, with most just murmuring about it in their hearts.


    However, today''s Society Discussion Meeting daily paper directly published this matter as news, an act akin to throwing a torch into the woods. A forest fire seems unavoidable.


    As for the extent of the fire, that depends on the response of the Student Council next.


    A rumor that was about to fade away; why did it turn into a ''forest fire''? The answer is quite simple.


    It''s not that it would turn into a forest fire, but rather that Ayakoji Chiyoko believed it should be a forest fire, a spark to start a war.


    The truth no longer matters, what''s important is the stance of the Disciplinary Committee, and that of the Society Discussion Meeting.


    Having control of the narrative and means of public opinion implies that such things¡ªsmearing others¡ªbe exceedingly easy.


    Kagura Hikaru''s worries eventually became reality.


    The following day, the content on the Society Discussion Meeting daily paper was about interviewing a sophomore girl who ''allegedly witnessed the Student Council President bullying at the scene''].


    [Reporter: "Student Ai Cheng, I heard you witnessed the Student Council President pouring milk on a freshman''s head, is this true?"]


    [Student Ai Cheng: "False, it''s false! I never said such a thing!"]


    [Reporter: "Are you sure? Are you not speaking the truth because you fear the authority of the Student Council President?"]


    [Student Ai Cheng: ".....No such thing!"]


    [Reporter: "Then may I ask if you are acquainted with that freshman?"]


    [Student Ai Cheng: "I don''t know, I don''t recognize.....no, I don''t understand what you''re saying!"]


    [Our reporter noticed that during the interview, the interviewee''s gaze flickered and seemingly deliberately avoided certain key questions. There might be more to the story here.]


    [For further details, please wait for follow-up reports.]


    It''s over.


    Kagura Hikaru felt a sinking feeling in his heart.


    It looked like Ayakoji Chiyoko had no intention of concocting false testimony, but merely casting doubts on this suspicious atmosphere was enough to drag down Kiryu Hina''s credibility.


    Isn''t the Student Council going to do anything yet?


    During the lunch break, when he saw several unfamiliar students blocking his path at the ssroom door under the pretense of conducting a Society Discussion Meeting interview, Kagura Hikaru realized he could not remain untouched by this matter.

 Chapter 23 Did You Really Betray Us, Mr. Kagura!

    "Hello, I would like to interview..."


    "I refuse."


    "But..."


    "I refuse."


    Facing the aggressive Society Discussion Meeting, Chiyoko Ayakoji wasted no time mourning her social demise and immediately rushed to the battlefield ¡ª the "No interviews" free pass!


    Kagura Hikaru definitely didn''t want to make the same mistake as Ai Cheng Hua Lian of talking too much and getting it wrong, and decided he wouldn''t give them any material to work with.


    "If there''s nothing else, I''m leaving."


    "We..."


    With a demeanor that showed he wasn''t listening, Kagura Hikaru coldly pushed past those so-called reporters and quickly left the ssroom.


    "President, this..."


    "What are you waiting for, chase him!"


    The members of the Society Discussion Meeting hurriedly followed him but soon lost sight of him in the corridor downstairs.


    The members split up to search but regrouped shortly after without any sess.


    One member asked confusingly, "President, Kagura Hikaru isn''t cooperating, what do we do?"


    The girl, referred to as the president and a senior, was biting her nails as she muttered darkly, "He won''t say anything... Fine, there are ways to write about non-cooperation too."


    She revealed a confident smile.


    Did they really think they couldn''t fabricate news just because he didn''t say anything? Naive.


    Journalists are not so easily defeated!


    The next day, in the Society Discussion Meeting Daily:


    [Reporter A: "Today our target is Kagura, a first-year student. Reliable sources indicate that he is very likely the bullying victim of Kiryu, the Student Council President."]


    [Reporter B: "I heard he''s quite a handsome guy."]


    [During lunch break, our reporters rushed to Kagura''s ss with a sincere desire to interview him but faced a firm refusal. His attitude was very strong, showing a great aversion to being interviewed. He even ran away in the midst of speaking, disappearing after rushing down the stairs.]


    [Afterward, we learned from his ssmates that on the day the bullying incident urred, Kagura left early after lunch break for unknown reasons.]


    [Other multiple witnesses imed they saw a male student resembling Kagura covered in yogurt on his head and body, entering the restroom to wash his hair, possibly a victim of bullying.]


    [This inevitably leads our reporters to suspect.]


    [After three days of following the story, we can briefly disengage the entire process.]n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    [About seven days ago, Kiryu, the Student Council President, was suspected of bullying a fellow student.]


    [On the day of the incident, Kagura, a first-year student, left early during lunch break, with yogurt poured all over him.]


    [ssmate Ai Cheng, a sophomore, vigorously denied the rumors, but his expression flickered, suggesting something hidden.]


    [The suspected bullying victim, first-year student Kagura, refused interviews and even fled the scene.]


    [The truth bes increasingly elusive, but our reporters will continue to provide follow-up coverage.]


    This isn''t ''elusive''; it''s clearly insinuating!


    When this issue of the Society Discussion Meeting Daily came out, it immediately caused a huge uproar, much more severe than when it was merely rumored.


    Bullying, bullying, bullying!


    This is a sensitive topic that should not be mentioned in schools, yet it keeps getting linked with the outwardly perfect image of the Student Council President.


    The corruption of a clean politician, the criminal tax evasion by a charity star, and the moral monk''s affair¡ªjust like how good people do dirty deeds behind closed doors, the contrast between hypocrisy and the dark truth is the topic that the public is most enthusiastic about.


    Therefore, Hina Kiryu was once again thrust into the crucible of public scrutiny.


    "No matter what you do, it seems it''s wrong."


    Back in the usual Kafka Cafe, Kagura Hikaru sipped his coffee, "The Society Discussion Meeting group are indeed very skilled."


    Sitting across from him, Ai Cheng Hua Lian fiercely stirred her coffee cup, "That reporter from the Society Discussion Meeting, constantly making up stuff about me, taking things out of context¡ªit''s infuriating!"


    The two being seen together outside school, having what seemed like a date in a cafe, of course, was due to only one reason¡ª


    Society Discussion Meeting daily.


    The recent edition of the Society Discussion Meeting daily on the ''Student Council President bullying incident'' not only put Kiryu Hina through the wringer but also left Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru, the two rted parties, with no peace.


    Since the interview report was published, they had been looked at with unusual eyes by their ssmates every day.


    Although the newspaper used pseudonyms like ''the second-year student Ai Cheng'' and ''the first-year student Kagura'', it had narrowed it down to the grade level, which was almost the same as naming them!


    Kagura Hikaru even received pity snacks from the girls in his ss, a testament to how severe the incident was.


    These peoplepletely regarded him as a victim.


    And Ayakoji Chiyoko was automatically recognized as ''a poor and frail high school girl threatened by the Student Council President'', being advised daily by those around her to make an official report to the Disciplinary Committee to clear the air.


    To outsiders, the current situation seemed extremely bizarre.


    The school generally believed the bullying rumors were highly credible.


    And the public opinion led by the Society Discussion Meeting was indeed correct; the bullying incident had indeed urred. Kagura Hikaru was sshed with yogurt, and Ayakoji Chiyoko was personally persuaded by the Student Council President to refrain from reporting it.


    However, whether it was Kagura Hikaru or Ayakoji Chiyoko, both knew the ''true story'' behind it all, so they did not feel like victims at all, but rather, they considered Kiryu Hina to be the most persecuted party.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s anger towards the Society Discussion Meeting could clearly be seen spilling over from her face.


    Now, the Society Discussion Meeting, or rather, President Ayakoji, nned to bring down the prestige of Kiryu Hina to themon dust, their schemes making a loud tter, even counting them into the equation and turning it into a part of the public opinion battle.


    If things continued this way, Kiryu Hina might truly...


    Kagura Hikaru: "This ce''s coffee really has a pure taste."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko: "Mr. Kagura, could you please be a little nervous!"


    Looking at someone whose eyes revealed no understanding, she lowered her head in defeat, "Can we only obediently wait for this to pass."


    "Perhaps."


    "Hmm, but if so, President Hina is really pitiful....."


    Click.


    Kagura Hikaru put down his coffee cup.


    "Just by our words, it''s indeed impossible to turn public opinion. But if this road is blocked, another might open; perhaps there''s another way."


    "Mr. Kagura~~"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes lit up with hope.


    Indeed, although she felt powerless, Kagura Hikaru''s intelligence was evident, and once he took action, he might definitely turn the tide!


    "Mr. Kagura said that the Society Discussion Meeting is controlled by President Ayakoji behind the scenes, right?" Ayakoji Chiyoko adorably clenched her fists, "I will also help, we must stop her evil n, Mr. Kagura!"


    Ring~


    "Wee to Kafka Cafe, what would you like to order?"


    "A cup of Maruyama Coffee."


    A somewhat familiar voice came from behind.


    Then the sound of footsteps approached.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s face showed a horrified expression, she froze for a second, her neck creaked stiffly, and then, she watched as President Ayakoji walked past her, pulled out a chair, and sat next to Kagura Hikaru.


    With an air of ease, she crossed her legs and folded her arms across her chest, like a queen descending into themon area, the kind that would torment themoners.


    Even in a school uniform, that cruel nobility could still be felt through her gaze, movements, and tone, shing with the surrounding environment.


    "I thought I just heard something about an ''evil n''."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko sat upright, sweating profusely, obediently still: "You must have heard wrong."


    "Is that so..." President Ayakoji appeared indifferent, "So, what exactly did you call me here to talk about?"


    Creak, creak, Ayakoji Chiyoko moved her neck, looking nkly towards Kagura Hikaru.


    Then she saw her supposedrade in arms, who put his elbows on the table, folded his arms, and turned to President Ayakoji to speak:


    "Let''s take down Kiryu Hina together, I look forward to working with you."


    Is this your way of fighting evil, Mr. Kagura?!?!!

 Chapter 24 Add a Line

    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was shocked and bewildered. Originally, she thought it was ludicrous enough that Kagura Hikaru dumped milk on her head just to hit on girls.


    What was even more outrageous was that this guy seemed to be nning to burn bridges after crossing them, aiming at his ex just to curry favor with President Ayakoji.


    Mr. Kagura, you''re actually this kind of person!


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian was heartbroken.


    [Hint: Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s favorability has decreased ¨‹]n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "You...," Ayakoji Chiyoko said, giving Kagura Hikaru a sidelong nce with a hint of resignation, "After all that grand-sounding talk before, now you suddenly change your tune. Do you think I''ll believe you? You must be nning to infiltrate the Society Discussion Meeting and cause trouble."


    Kagura Hikaru clicked his tongue, expressionless: "Tch, not fooled, huh."


    "..."


    "Eh? Is that so?!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian eximed in surprise.


    [Hint: Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s favorability has increased ¡ø]


    Perhaps because she was at a loss for words, Ayakoji Chiyoko let out an overt sigh, then stood up with a cold expression: "Calling me here just for this, utterly boring."


    "Hey, you''re leaving before your coffee even arrives?"


    "Drink it yourselves; I''ll pay for the coffee."


    Seeing that she really intended to leave, Kagura Hikaru could only try to keep her there: "Wait a moment, I have something else to say."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko gave him a nce and sat down again with her arms folded, her face, already icy, now disyed an added touch of impatience.


    If one could see an emotional value, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s patience had decreased by at least fifty percentage points since she entered the door.


    Sensing the murderous aura drifting about, Ai Cheng Hua Lian sat up straight, trembling, and stared down at her coffee cup as if there was a Smurf dancing inside.


    She truly admired Kagura Hikaru, who was actually able to speak calmly in such an atmosphere.


    "President Ayakoji, you must see the situation isn''t right," Kagura Hikaru said slowly, picking up his coffee cup, his eyelids lowered, "Your Society Discussion Meeting is beating Kiryu Hina ck and blue, yet she is unwilling even to fight back. This is not a good sign."


    "Hmph, maybe she''s just scared," Ayakoji Chiyoko sneered coldly.


    Kagura Hikaru sighed: "If you really think so, then I have nothing else to say."


    Of course, that wasn''t the case. Ayakoji Chiyoko knew better than anyone else how troublesome Kiryu Hina was.


    That person couldn''t possibly passively take a beating and not fight back in the end. She wasn''t a punching bag¡ªno, even a punching bag would hurt if you hit it. She would be betterpared to cotton.


    It wasn''t just her; any person with a normal IQ could feel the atmosphere tense up like a storm was about to break.


    There was undoubtedly a pitfall ahead waiting for Ayakoji Chiyoko to jump in.


    The problem was, she had no idea when this pit would appear, how wide it would be, or how deep.


    Walking a night path, fully aware of the traps ahead, was precisely the situation Ayakoji Chiyoko faced now.


    It seemed she hade far, yet peril lurked at every step.


    "What are your thoughts," Ayakoji Chiyoko fixed her gaze on Kagura Hikaru.


    But he just shook his head: "I''d advise you to stop now, it might not be toote."


    "The moment I made my move on that guy, retaliation was already en route. She''s that kind of woman," Ayakoji Chiyoko said with a coldugh.


    Kagura Hikaru fell silent for a moment, feeling she had a point. So, he raised his cup symbolically.


    "Alright then, here''s to you getting what you deserve."


    "You... You have been getting more and more presumptuous with your words recently," she said.


    "If you dislike it, I can be more respectful, Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee," he replied.


    "Tch."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian carefully looked up, nced around from side to side, and suddenly felt that Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru really looked like a married couple.


    Both liked to keep a straight face, expressionlessly dropping some frightening statements.


    Watching this pair of ''happy foes,'' Ai Cheng Hana felt that she shouldn''t be here, but rather under the table.


    "Ahaha... well then, I''ve got something else to attend to, so I''ll be heading out first, see you tomorrow..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian said with an awkwardugh as she put down the money for her coffee and then stood up with her backpack slung over her shoulder.


    "See you tomorrow." Kagura Hikaru didn''t stop her, just watched her leave the Kafka Cafe.


    It wasn''t until Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s figure waspletely out of sight that Ayakoji Chiyoko spoke up: "What exactly was that girl here for?"


    "She was the one who asked to meet me to discuss the Society Discussion Meeting, since we''re both ''victims,''" Kagura Hikaru sipped his coffee, "and also, don''t call her a little girl, she''s at least a senior in the second grade."


    "Is that so? I had almost forgotten."


    "The strategy for the Society Discussion Meeting has already troubled her, can you not disturb her anymore? She''s just an ordinary student."


    "She only got involved in this mess because she brought it upon herself. She saw something she shouldn''t have and then couldn''t keep her mouth shut," Ayakoji Chiyoko remained unmoved.


    "Protecting students is supposed to be the job of the Discipline Committee members," Kagura Hikaru''s gaze toward her was inexplicable, "as the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, is it really okay for you to turn a blind eye like this?"


    "I''ve told you before, you have your moral principles, and I have my way of doing things."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had thought she could be more self-righteous, since defeating Kiryu Hina was the main reason she established the Disciplinary Committee, not for any so-called discipline.


    But looking into Kagura Hikaru''s eyes, she inexplicably felt a twinge of guilt.


    That fleeting sense of weakness was swiftly quashed by Ayakoji Chiyoko, her heart returning to its icy resolve.


    "There''s no room for discussion anymore?" Kagura Hikaru let out a sigh.


    "If you''re willing to join the Society Discussion Meeting sincerely, it wouldn''t hurt to lessen her presence," she stated.


    "That''s probably going to be difficult."


    "Is that so, it seems it''s true what you''ve said about not being friends," Ayakoji Chiyoko revealed a mocking smile that was barely there as she swallowed thest of her coffee with a clink against the saucer.


    "I''ll leave the money here, I''m off," Ayakoji Chiyoko said as she stood up, "next time you contact me, I hope you can bring me some useful information, not like the time-waster we had today."


    "Even if I had the news, it''d be impossible to contact you immediately," Hikaru replied.


    Upon hearing this, Ayakoji Chiyoko hesitated for a moment, then took out her phone: "Let''s add each other on LINE."


    "..."


    A minuteter, Ayakoji Chiyoko left the Kafka Cafe.


    Kagura Hikaru remained seated, fiddling with his phone.


    Securing Ayakoji Chiyoko''s contact information could be considered a task well exceeded.


    The coffee in front of him had been finished, but Kagura Hikaru didn''t stand up to leave; he sat there looking bored to death, as though he was waiting for someone.


    About half an hourter, a girl in a school uniform with long, straight ck hair pushed open the door of the cafe.


    "Wee to the Kafka Cafe, what would you like to order?"


    "A cappino, thank you."


    The girl, with a smile on her face, came to the table and sat down opposite Kagura Hikaru, tucking her long hair behind her ear with her left hand.


    Pure, delicate¡ªthese words were insufficient to describe her beauty.


    Her name was Kiryu Hina.

 Chapter 25 Ominous Premonition

    ```


    ck strands of hair, silky as satin, draped over one shoulder, and her fair little face bore a look of pure innocence. With just a slight curve of her lips, she could soften hearts. Herrge, clear eyes, transparent as a secretke hidden deep in the mountains, exuded a mysterious allure that invited spection.


    Everyone in the world has different aesthetic preferences; some like round faces, others prefer oval faces, some like a bit of plumpness, others favor thinness.


    Kagura Hikaru''s sense of beauty was simr to that of themon East Asian, and from his perspective, Kiryu Hina''s appearance could be described as the closest to ''perfect'' that he had ever seen, in both reality and cyberspace.


    Even though he knew that a truly perfect person did not exist in this world.


    Based on Kagura Hikaru''s past understanding of Kiryu Hina, she was far from perfect, simply a little girl haunted by mundane troubles, and her personality used to be more aggressive than it was now.


    However, now, each time he saw her, she seemed to be distancing herself further from humanity, radiating an endless brilliance to the outside world.


    Ever since she had entered, whether it was the customers or the waitstaff in the cafe, everyone couldn''t help but fixate on her, to the extent that someone, mesmerized, even poured coffee onto theirp and yelped in pain from the scalding.


    This kind of scene, which one would normally only see inicalics, was actually ying out in real life, leaving one at a loss for words.


    Despite Ayakoji Chiyoko''s looks being no less attractive, they didn''t elicit such an exaggerated reaction; this must be a difference in temperament.


    It wasn''t hard to imagine the extent of the students'' fervor for her, seeing her every day.


    "President Kiryu, good afternoon."


    "Good afternoon, ssmate Kagura."


    After exchanging greetings, they simply stared at each other in silence.


    One wore an expressionless face, while the other wore a smile.


    They seemed quite estranged.


    "You know," Kiryu Hina said, smiling as she broke the silence, "you''ve met here before, right? Where did Ayakoji Chiyoko sit?"


    Kagura Hikaru said nothing, but gestured to the seat beside him with his hand.


    "Hmph... it seems there really has been some progress in your rtionship with her, which is a good thing," Kiryu Hina''s eyes twinkled with an inscrutable light.


    "By the way, the seat you''re sitting in now used to belong to Senior Ai Cheng."


    "Senior Ai Cheng? Oh, that second-year student." Although Kiryu Hina was smiling, her smile seemed somehow colder, "You had a date and brought a third wheel, how generous of Ayakoji Chiyoko."


    "It was just a meet-up to chat, and it was Senior Ai Cheng who arrived first."


    "..."


    "I don''t wish to delve into the issue of your lifestyle any further; rather than that¡ª" her smile hadpletely lost any trace of sunlight, turning as cold as a fox mask: "Has Ayakoji Chiyoko asked you to join the Society Discussion Meeting yet?"


    A day earlier, Kiryu Hina had met privately with Kagura Hikaru.


    Kagura Hikaru thought she wanted him to put a stop to the rumors being spread by the Society Discussion Meeting, but Kiryu Hina clearly had bigger ns than he had imagined.


    "You''re to join the Society Discussion Meeting, do your utmost to help Ayakoji Chiyoko attack me. Whether it''s spreading rumors, smearing my name, or personal attacks, anything goes. If you can pressure me to step down from the Student Council, I''d be even happier~"


    Seeing the sincere, benevolent, fake smile on her face, Kagura Hikaru could guess at Kiryu Hina''s follow-up n.


    Daring to say such things, she most likely had a contingency in ce for reversing public opinion.


    And it was something that, once revealed, could turn the entire situation on its head.


    The more intensely the Society Discussion Meeting targeted her, the greater the students'' outrage upon realizing they had been fooled would be. Kiryu Hina could harness this volcanic fury to retaliate and annihte the Society Discussion Meeting in one fell swoop.


    ```


    If it were revealed that Ayakoji Chiyoko was the one pulling the strings behind the scenes, she wouldn''t even be able to hold onto her position as Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee.


    As the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, leading the charge in breaking the rules, neither the students nor the school authorities could ignore such behavior.


    Viting thew while knowing it is far worse than simple dereliction of duty.


    Therefore, Kagura Hikaru, who had no intention of joining the Society Discussion Meeting and bing the victim of self-inflicted damage from public opinion, merely went through the motions with Ayakoji Chiyoko, getting her to reject him on her own ord.


    At the same time, he prevented her from continuing to set the pace and provoke the Student Council by making her aware of the risks involved.


    This way, it would be easier to exin things to Hina, and when the tide of public opinion turned, the Society Discussion Meeting wouldn''t be dealt too severe a blow.


    So rather than saying he hadpleted Kiryu Hina''s request today, it would be more urate to say he had skated by on the task.


    Those who frequently y RPG games should understand, right? While ying, you suddenly receive a lengthy and bothersome side quest, which unfortunately is a prerequisite for the main quest. You can''t advance the main story without it, and you have no choice but to reluctantly take on the quest while holding your nose.


    And Kagura Hikaru''s approach was to ''skip ss'' and bypass the side quest using a clever workaround.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko and the Society Discussion Meeting both needed to be protected by any means. They couldn''t be allowed to fall to ruin; otherwise, the school would truly be subject to Kiryu Hina''s dictatorship, and naturally, the position of the Student Council President would remain unshaken.


    So, in response to Kiryu Hina''s probe, Kagura Hikaru lied with an expressionless face, "She refused. She must have noticed something amiss. She''s very concerned about your actions."


    "Oh? Her senses are quite sharp, aren''t they?" Kiryu Hina feigned distress as she frowned, "I thought with her character, even if she realized something was off, she''d still keep pressing forward."


    Even knowing it to be false, that smile and frown could easily sway one''s emotions.


    If she were an actress, she''d probably have won numerous awards by now.


    "Nevermind, it doesn''t matter," Kiryu Hina said with a smile, "Even without this step, I can still send her to hell."


    Kagura Hikaru smiled bitterly in his heart.


    He was mistaken in his thinking; to speak of ''sending someone to hell'' so lightly, she truly was more suited to being a banker than an actress.


    He just didn''t know if he could sessfully y the part of ''Hanzawa Naoki.''n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "What do you n to do next?" Kagura Hikaru asked.


    "Eh~~ Are you asking for my thoughts again? Howzy. Can''t you show a bit of initiative?"


    Kiryu Hina let out a helplessugh, her voice tender and unsettling, as though talking about a troublesome child, "Alright, alright. Given the circumstances, it''s no wonder you''re at a loss. Let me give you a little insight, but don''t let it slip out, okay~"


    As she spoke, she pulled out her phone.


    Kagura Hikaru suddenly had a very bad premonition.


    And then that premonition came true.


    "If there''s anything else you want to ask me about, you can''t refuse... Then, the deal is set... President Kiriyu likes painting and romance fiction, her idol is Kawabata Yasunari, her weakness is..."


    From the other''s phone came his own voice and that of Ayakoji Chiyoko, recorded during the lunch break when they confirmed their cooperation.


    So that''s how it was, no wonder Hina appeared right after Ayakoji Chiyoko had left ¨C she had been eavesdropping the whole time and even recorded their conversation!


    The moment he realized this, Kagura Hikaru understood everything.


    He sighed.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, now I''m going to have to go down with you.

 Chapter 26 Even the Best Coffee Turns Bitter When Im with You

    All the mysteries had been undoubtedly exposed in front of Kagura Hikaru.


    Or rather, they were deliberately exposed for him to see.


    Why had Hina deliberately created bullying rumors, why had she allowed the Society Discussion Meeting to manipte public opinion without fighting back, and why she showed no fear up until now?


    The moment Hina obtained the recording, she had predicted everything that would happen afterwards.


    She intentionally used rumors to make Ayakoji Chiyoko realize the importance of public opinion, thereby facilitating the birth of the Society Discussion Meeting and ultimately bing the victim.


    When Ayakoji Chiyoko was gearing up for a real fight, she didn''t realize that the other side had, from the beginning, held the nuclear button that could reverse everything.


    She bided her time, plotted slowly, and struck a fatal blow at the end, using Ayakoji Chiyoko''s pride to walk her into the trap.


    Allowing herself to approach the target using the identity of an ex-boyfriend was a strategy to rx them.


    Even the only potential variable, Ai Cheng Hua Lian, had been turned into one of her own.


    Looking back now, all her actions were indeed foreshadowing, a terrifying plot.


    "Just the recording might still be insufficient evidence, don''t you think, huh?"


    Kiryu Hina blinked her left eye, pulled up a photo from her phone''s gallery¡ªa photo of Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko sitting on a bench talking, clearly taken surreptitiously.


    "But with this, there''ll be no problem, rest assured~"


    Can''t be reassured at all...


    Kagura Hikaru couldn''t help but retort in his mind.


    If Hina released this recording and photo, in the blink of an eye, he and Ayakoji Chiyoko would be like rats crossing the street, and the Society Discussion Meeting would also be aplices.


    Everything was doomed.


    "Are you really okay with doing this?"


    "Ah, are you worried about your own safety? Sorry, the n is this, and it''s toote to change it~~"


    Kiryu Hina said with a smile, "Did you really expect me to continue to be bullied and not fight back? Now, the looks I get from the girls in ss are a bit off, I suspect if the Society Discussion Meeting continues to spread that fake news, I''ll be bullied."


    "I wouldn''t want to see that happen."


    "Ah don''t, don''t suddenly act all caring, it''s creepy, stay away from me."


    Though she spoke chilling words, Kiryu Hina''s face cracked a smile and leaned back a bit, as if physically expressing her disdain for him.


    Even though Kagura Hikaru could now remain unaffected by her performance, he couldn''t help feeling a bit sad inside.


    Looking at them now, they were like sworn enemies.


    "...Anything else, or shall I go now?"


    "Is it work again?"


    "Yes."


    At that moment, the waiter brought Kiryu Hina''s cappino.


    The two of them instinctively paused their conversation.


    Kiryu Hina thanked the waiter, then lifted the coffee cup and took a sip, her expression one of surprise.


    "This ce''s coffee isn''t bad."


    "Yes."


    "Really, you''re as clueless as before." Kiryu Hina nced at Kagura Hikaru, "When a girl says that, you should reply that the evening atmosphere is even better and smoothly set up a second date."


    "Would youe if I invited you?"


    "No way," Kiryu Hinaughed, taking another sip, "Even the tastiest coffee goes sour when I''m with you."


    "..."


    Kagura Hikaru picked up his briefcase and stood up, "I''m leaving."


    "Take care~" Kiryu Hina tucked her phone back into her bag without looking up and said, "You''ll see that evidence on the News Department''s campus forum tomorrow, okay?"


    "If it''s already decided, stop asking me."


    "Oh, are you annoyed?"


    Raising her head, Kiryu Hina chuckled, "Come on, don''t be so tense, I''m doing this for you. Look, even after all this time you haven''t broken through Ayakoji Chiyoko''s defenses. If nothing major brings you two together, you might not see any progress for another year."


    Why was she so concerned about his rtionship with Ayakoji Chiyoko? Did it rte to her true intention?


    Kagura Hikaru''s expression turned puzzled as he asked the question that had been there from the beginning, "What exactly do you want my rtionship with Ayakoji Chiyoko to be? Friends? Lovers?"


    "Hmm... a rtionship where you can visit her home, perhaps?" Kiryu Hina said with augh, her tone seemingly meaningful.


    Upon hearing this, Kagura Hikaru nodded thoughtfully.


    So, Hina''s target wasn''t Ayakoji Chiyoko herself but something in the Ayakoji family home...


    Indeed, given their rtionship, it was unlikely that Hina would be invited into the Ayakoji family home, unless it was him, then there might be a slight possibility.


    From another perspective, if Ayakoji Chiyoko had other peers she could consider friends, Hina wouldn''t havee to him for trouble.


    Poor fellow, though he wasn''t one to speak of others either.


    "I''ll find an opportunity," he said.


    "Yes, if you truly manage it, I''ll tell you what I need then," she replied.


    At that moment, Kiryu Hina''s smile suddenly turnedplex, even evasive, as she averted her gaze and said with a fleeting tone, "Don''t worry, it''s nothing conspicuous, nor of much value. You just need to visit once, and you''ll likely get your hands on it."


    ".....I understand," he responded.


    Kagura Hikaru frowned, looked at her twice, but eventually decided against using his mind-reading and left the cafe.


    Since their breakup, he had never used mind-reading on Kiryu Hina, just as a normal person wouldn''t reach into a bag full of venomous snakes.


    Kagura Hikaru feared the girl smiling and talking to him, and her truth.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Exiting Kafka Cafe, Kagura Hikaru stood at the door, took out his phone, and almost instinctively wanted to contact Ayakoji Chiyoko to inform her about the recording and photos.


    But he quickly stopped, as he realized he couldn''t exin the source of the information.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko still thought that he had fallen out with Kiryu Hina and that their rtionship was extremely poor... which was indeed true in reality.


    From Ayakoji Chiyoko''s perspective, there was no way Kagura Hikaru could know such secrets from Kiryu Hina now.


    Therefore, he could not only not reveal it, but he also had to help Hina keep it a secret.


    Otherwise, he was likely to lose the trust of both of them at the same time.


    Perhaps this was so-called ''the fate of a double agent,'' caught in the middle, unable to move forward or back.


    Kagura Hikaru put away his phone and walked away.


    They say life is built upon one lie after another.


    Telling oneself that the next business venture will seed after a failure, telling a young child at a deceased husband''s funeral that "daddy has gone to a faraway ce," reassuring frontline soldiers of abundant logistics to maintain morale when resources are depleted in the rear.


    Now, Kagura Hikaru was doing the same.


    As Kiryu Hina''s spy, he had to help the former achieve her goals; it was a debt he owed.


    As an ally and traitor to Ayakoji Chiyoko, he had to fulfill themission while also pursuing his own goals, which momentarily involved cooperating with the victim, effectively betraying Hina as well.


    So, who exactly was Kagura Hikaru working for? Himself? Kiryu Hina? Ayakoji Chiyoko?


    One lie after another, like a snowstorm, filled his life.


    Without lies, the world could not function.


    But was the reality obtained through lies truly stable?


    ..............


    The next morning, Kagura Hikaru met Ai Cheng Hua Lian on the tram.


    Ever since the day he learned they rode the same tram to school, they often walked together.


    If it had been a normal day, Ai Cheng Hua Lian would havee over smiling, but today, for some reason, herplexion seemed vague and she spoke less.


    "What''s wrong?" Seeing her distracted, Kagura Hikaru closed his book and asked.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian sat next to him, handbag on herp, looking straight ahead as if afraid to meet his eyes.


    "Well, this morning, a ssmate sent me a lot of messages, asking me to look at a post on the school forum..."


    Forum, post.


    These two keywords instantly triggered memories of his meeting with Hina from the day before, and, already knowing the cause, Kagura Hikaru nodded, looking forward: "I already know about that."


    "I see....."


    "Stay away from me for the next few days. This is an issue between us and the Student Council President, and you shouldn''t get involved."


    "Eh? I¡ª"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian opened her mouth to say something, but was interrupted by the tram''s braking noise.


    The tram stopped at the tform and opened its doors.


    "That''s it, goodbye," said Kagura Hikaru, not looking at her again as he got off.


    "Wait, just a minute!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian hurriedly lifted her handbag and squeezed off the tram, but she was a step toote and was blocked by others alighting.


    When she got out, Kagura Hikaru''s figure was nowhere to be seen.


    She drooped her shoulders dejectedly.


    "Taking everything upon yourself is wrong, Mr. Kagura..."

 Chapter 27 The Pope of Ugao High

    "Hey, is that the guy?"


    "Yeah, that''s the one who''s always with President Ayakoji..."


    "So it''s that jerk who''s framing President Kiryu, what a lowlife! I''m going to go give him a piece of my mind!"


    "Idiot, have you forgotten that he''s a friend of President Ayakoji? Be careful not to get on the wrong side of the Disciplinary Committee!"


    "But..."


    Walking to school, Kagura Hikaru was already surrounded by all sorts of gazes.


    ssmates were pointing and talking about him, and those who didn''t know what was going on got a quick lesson from their friends and soon joined the indignation.


    Justice shines bright and karma circles back; this must be the fruit of his wrongdoing.


    This time, the intensity of public opinion was much worse than when Kiryu Hina was used of bullying, and it involved innocent people.


    The Discipline Committee members, who would usually greet him loudly at the school gates, were nowhere to be seen today, reced by an embarrassed physical education teacher standing there awkwardly.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s prestige had taken a hit, and the Disciplinary Committee she represented couldn''t escape unscathed.


    If they couldn''t quell the students'' anger, the Disciplinary Committee''s power was unlikely to return to what it had been before.


    When Kagura Hikaru got to the shoe lockers to switch into his indoor shoes, he opened his locker only to find no shoes inside, but a bunch of rusty thumbtacks, along with several threatening letters.


    [I will never forgive you!!]


    [Die die die die]


    [I will kill you]


    High school students, theirnguage was so simplistically cute.


    He tossed the letters and thumbtacks together into a trash can and found his indoor shoes in it too, but they had been cut up so badly with scissors that he had no intention of taking them back.


    With just his socks on, he found a teacher and got a pair of spare indoor shoes to wear, then tread carefully back to ss.


    Fortunately, his desk was still in the ssroom, not thrown out, and nobody had doodled on it. At most, the atmosphere in the ssroom was a bit colder, which didn''t affect him much.


    Before the teacher arrived, he took out his phone to check the school forum.


    The Yuqiu High School internal forum is operated by the News Department. Usually, it features news articles, study materials for reference, rmended reading lists and the like¡ªit''s considered a rather serious forum, not frequented by many people.


    But today, when Kagura Hikaru logged on, the number of posts had exploded to over a thousand. He clicked on the top post pinned by the administrators and saw that it was the stuff Hina had shown him the day before.


    Recordings, photographs, everything included.


    Kagura Hikaru patiently listened to the recording and discovered it had been edited; the part where he and Ayakoji Chiyoko were bargaining, as well as thetter''s grievances with Kiryu Hina, were missing.


    However, the remaining part, the conspiratorial part, clearly proved there was collusion between Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Above the recording was a low-resolution photo.


    The photo, taken from behind and somewhat blurry, showed their profiles clearly enough, and whether it was the lighting or edited, Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko looked very sinister with their cold expressions.


    Besides that, an anonymous poster imed that the recently popr Society Discussion Meeting was being controlled behind the scenes by Ayakoji Chiyoko to smear the Student Council President.


    Although there was no evidence presented regarding this, with Ayakoji Chiyoko''s credibility in decline, the audience would believe any conspiracy theory.


    As expected, thements below were full of anger, with scornful and vulgar words about the Society Discussion Meeting and Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Kagura Hikaru himself was rarely mentioned; probably because he wasn''t very famous.


    But his locker had already been vandalized, indicating the situation was hardly optimistic. Kiryu Hina''s supporters had set their sights on him, so it was best not to harbor any false hopes.


    That''s also why Kagura Hikaru had kept his distance from Ai Cheng Hua Lian these past few days; no one knew what those high school students, thinking they knew the truth and fired up with zeal, might do.


    He had even prepared himself for the possibility of a violent incident.


    As for Ayakoji Chiyoko, with the backing of the Disciplinary Committee and her usual authority, her situation was probably much better than his, but she definitely wasn''t under any less pressure.


    Under current circumstances, unless Ayakoji Chiyoko had some kind of trump card to turn the tables in a hopeless situation, she would have no choice but to bite the bullet and admit defeat.


    The evidence provided by Hina was too clear and impactful; a significant counterattack was virtually impossible, as she had no such leverage over others.


    sses started, and sses ended.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    During lunch break, Kagura Hikaru was stopped by a Discipline Committee member wearing a red armband, who said Ayakoji Chiyoko was waiting for him at the Disciplinary Committee.


    Going downstairs, nning to bypass the courtyard to the old school building, he was surprised to run into Kiryu Hina at the bottom of the stairs.


    She was followed by members of the Student Council, apparently on an inspection tour, with a string of students surrounding her, looking as if they were walking on a pilgrimage with the Pope¡ªsome excited, some infatuated, a never-ending stream ofughter and chatter.


    Kagura Hikaru watched this bizarre scene from a distance.


    The winter sun was always wee, bright and warm, making one drowsy, wishing to curl up like a cat on a sunny patch of floor for a nap.


    But Kagura Hikaru was not in a bright mood standing in the sunlight.


    Especially upon realizing that the Student Council and others were headed for the old school building where the clubs were clustered.


    He certainly didn''t think Hina''s ''club inspections'' at this time were a coincidence; they were clearly targeting the Discipline Committee on the third floor.


    Their purpose, perhaps, was to show off their power.


    After all, the Society Discussion Meeting had recently been smeared so badly by Ayakoji Chiyoko, and today''s Kiryu Hina appeared to have a look of triumph about her.


    Of course, looking at her smiling face, one could never tell she was feeling proud; all outsiders could see was an extremely amiable gentleness and purity that instinctively drew them to her side.


    The Student Council members were the most seriously affected, with most of their gaze fixed on Kiryu Hina, and the remainder of their attention on the students crowding around, ready to intervene at any moment, ying the role of gant protectors.


    The crowd surged into the old school building, and Kagura Hikaru discreetly followed them, watching the Student Council members visit each club''s room on the first floor, and then inconspicuously avoiding the crowd to go upstairs.


    Right now, to Hina''s followers, he was like a stinking rat in the gutter¡ªit was better not to meet face to face.


    The entire third floor of the old school building was the territory of the Discipline Committee.


    There was always a tense atmosphere in the air.


    Asking a passing Discipline Committee member, Kagura Hikaru found out which old ssroom Ayakoji Chiyoko was in and headed there.


    Even though she definitely didn''t know he''d met with Kiryu Hina yesterday and learned about the post''s content in advance, approaching her now made him feel quite conflicted.


    He really didn''t know what Ayakoji Chiyoko would look like now. Would she be thunderously angry? That didn''t seem like her style.


    Most likely, she was plotting her next move for revenge.


    When he opened the door to the old ssroom, there were surprisingly many people inside, including Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    She looked no different than the day before, as calm as ever, her expressionless face concealing pride, arms crossed, legs crossed, sitting there. When Kagura Hikaru entered, she just lifted her eyes to nod, then turned her head to continue speaking to the Discipline Committee members around her:


    "...In the next three days, patrol frequency will be reduced to once a day, to be carried out at four in the afternoon. The morning routine duties at the school gate are to be handed over to Teacher Yamazaki. If you encounter insults while performing your duties, you may detain one or two representatives to the Discipline Committee for the usual processing. Understood?"


    "Understood!!"


    Like well-trained soldiers, the Discipline Committee members stood at attention with their hands behind their backs and responded in unison.


    "President, should we investigate who posted that article?" Gori Vice President asked from the side.


    "No need, I have a rough idea of who it was," Ayakoji Chiyoko sneered, then waved her hand, "If there''s no problem, then everyone go back to work. Dismissed."


    "Yes!!"


    The Discipline Committee members in the room straightened their backs, acknowledged in unison, and left one by one through the main door.


    As they passed by him, apart from the Gori Vice President whose expression was stern, the other Discipline Committee members didn''t cast a single doubtful or wavering nce at him as they left, as if everything was normal.


    How Ayakoji Chiyoko had managed to train such unswervingly loyal subordinates was a mystery.


    As thest Discipline Committee member left the ssroom and closed the door, only Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko remained in the room.


    Kagura Hikaru moved a chair expertly, sitting directly opposite her.


    He had barely sat down when he heard her speak, "This round we lost. Kiryu Hina yed a card we couldn''t refute."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s expression andplexion were cold, but her eyes revealed a hint of unwillingness.


    The scene that Kiryu Hina orchestrated destroyed all of her subsequent ns.


    She knew the opponent would counterattack, but she did not expect it to be so swift and deadly, not only dismantling her offensive but also using her own tactics against her, effectively branding Ayakoji Chiyoko''s reputation as a ''Petty woman who throws dirt behind others.''


    A tarnished reputation meant the loss of her voice, turning all the preparedness and countermeasures she had taken from ''bullets'' to ''fireworks,'' incapable of threatening Kiryu Hina.


    Instead, it was she who was in big trouble.


    "Is the Society Discussion Meeting going to be shut down?" asked Kagura Hikaru.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko thought for a moment and decisively shook her head, "It will never happen. Even the defeated have their honor. I will ensure its continuation, to stand against the Student Council."


    "What about the Discipline Committee?"


    "It won''t be affected either," said Ayakoji Chiyoko calmly. "As long as I step down, that will suffice."

 Chapter 28 Facing the Line

    "Resign...?" Kagura Hikaru was a secondte in reacting before he eximed in surprise, "You mean the Disciplinary Committee? You''re quitting?!"


    Three consecutive interrogative sentences represented the shock in Kagura Hikaru''s heart.


    The Disciplinary Committee was, after all, established by Ayakoji Chiyoko herself; one could say she and themittee were inseparable, fused into a single entity.


    Before today, even if someone had told him this, Kagura Hikaru would never have believed that Ayakoji Chiyoko would willingly leave the Disciplinary Committee.


    The surreal event unfolding before him was proof of how significant the troubles Ayakoji Chiyoko was currently facing must be.


    "It''s necessary, otherwise, as long as I remain in this position for even a day, the Disciplinary Committee will be unable to rebuild its credibility," said Ayakoji Chiyoko in a self-deprecating tone, "That must be that person''s aim, to force me to step down, to undermine my influence. It''s both a covert and overt strategy, and I must admit, it''s been executed beautifully."


    "..."


    Even when discussing her own failure, Ayakoji Chiyoko remained remarkablyposed, and Kagura Hikaru greatly admired her serene demeanor.


    Not everyone can let go so decisively when they are in a high position.


    But she had to do it.


    Because quite clearly, resigning from the Disciplinary Committee was the invisible bargaining chip Kiryu Hina hadid out for Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Resign and I''ll let you off¡ªKagura Hikaru could almost hear Hina saying it.


    In his eyes, both Ayakoji Chiyoko and Hina had yed out all their cards, and the oue had been determined. Continuing the relentless pursuit would benefit no one.


    Those who have studied modern history know that victors of a war should not corner the defeated country. The right approach is to negotiate peace, sign treaties to restrict their development, and gradually erode their power.


    Though Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kiryu Hina had never sat at the negotiation table, thetter''s actions had already to some extent demonstrated her intent, which was for Ayakoji Chiyoko to step down.


    By crossing the line and doing what a Discipline Committee member must never do¡ªto take the initiative in falsely using a student¡ªAyakoji Chiyoko could no longer possibly continue her activities within the school under the identity of a Discipline Committee member.


    Otherwise, the term ''Discipline Committee'' would be a joke among Yuqiu High School students.


    If she did not wish to destroy the entirety of the Disciplinary Committee, then Ayakoji Chiyoko''s only option was clear¡ªresignation and withdrawal!


    "Indeed, it is a pernicious and incisive scheme," said Kagura Hikaru.


    "Yes, as an enemy, she is the type I despise," Chiyoko said, her eyes slightly downcast, "Given the situation, I have no choice but to let her have her way."


    "Even if you lose the Disciplinary Committee, you still have Club Redemption Department. The fight isn''tpletely over yet,"


    Seeing as they were temporary allies, Kagura Hikaru offered a measure of constion.


    But this only elicited a strange look from Ayakoji Chiyoko, "Lose? You seem to have misunderstood something. I won''t lose the Disciplinary Committee, nor have I ever intended to give it up."


    "Huh?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Quitting doesn''t mean I can''t influence the club. It''s just a shift from being an overt leader to one behind the scenes. Nothing will change."


    "...I see."


    Kagura Hikaru suddenly understood.


    It was a rogue move, but perfectly natural.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko was giving up the title of Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee to preserve themittee''s existence, satisfying the entire student body without losing the actual power. Even the Student Council probably couldn''t point out much; overreacting might make them seem like they were making a mountain out of a molehill.


    It seems he was mistaken¡ªbetween Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kiryu Hina, the oue of their struggle was far from over.


    While they were talking, the ssroom door was knocked on, a female Discipline Committee member pushed the door open and walked briskly in, whispering something into Ayakoji Chiyoko''s ear.


    ".....I understand," Ayakoji Chiyoko nodded. "Block the irrelevant people; let no one in except for her."


    "Yes, President."


    As the Discipline Committee member left, Kagura Hikaru asked, "Is it someone from the Student Counciling over?"


    "That''s right, maybe here to humiliate me," Ayakoji Chiyoko said with a sneer. "Every time I''m about to respect her, that woman starts to show off her belly''s worth, getting carried away with herself."


    After a little while, the ssroom door was knocked on again.


    A Discipline Committee member opened the door and then stepped aside, letting Kiryu Hina walk in with a smile gracing her face.


    "Oh~ you''re here too, ssmate Kagura Hikaru. What a coincidence," Kiryu Hina said with her standard charming expression, widening her eyes in a mock surprise and covering her mouth, "Wait a minute, I remember you haven''t joined the Disciplinary Committee. Could it be that you and Ayakoji, are you that sort of rtionship?"


    Kagura Hikaru: "..."


    ".....Having not seen you for a few days, your verbal skills have improved again."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko stood up with a forced smile and walked up to Kiryu Hina, her aura fierce as a tiger.


    "Not at all,pared to President Ayakoji, I still need more practice," Kiryu Hina dropped her hand and, maintaining herposure, bowed slightly in greeting. Her smile was reminiscent of a shrine maiden or a devotee¡ªpure, devoted, and impable.


    "Did you know? I attended middle school in the Capital City. Your current expression is exactly the same as the Kyoto People I''ve seen before."


    "Ah, is that apliment? I''m truly grateful."


    The two women faced each other, smiles on their faces, but their eyes told different stories. The atmosphere was tense and frozen.


    In ces outside of Capital City, the term ''Kyoto People'' is used derogatorily.


    Arrogant, vain, sarcastic, and prejudiced¡ªthese are the stereotypes of the Kyoto People.


    To say someone is like a person from Kyoto is essentially this implication.


    The meeting between Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kiryu Hina was like a collision of stars. Kagura could almost feel their almost overt anger and contempt; a burst seemed imminent.


    It was a veritable Shura Field.


    Aside from them, only Kagura Hikaru remained in the ssroom. By rights, he should have intervened as a peacemaker. But his lips stayed still, and he watched the standoff between the two women with serenity.


    This was his first time witnessing Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kiryu Hina sh face to face, and he found the experience rather novel.


    Previously, their confrontations had been remote, indirect conflicts. It was the first face-to-face encounter Kagura had witnessed between the two.


    Kagura Hikaru had always wanted to know what feelings Kiryu Hina truly harbored towards Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Was it genuine hatred?


    For Ayakoji Chiyoko, perhaps it was; after all, the other party not only took away a stepmother she was close to but also deliberately concealed some information, truly despicable behavior.


    But for Hina, Kagura had the notion that she might not be motivated by the same feelings when tormenting Ayakoji Chiyoko, that there could be another reason behind it.


    However, as Kagura''s gaze settled on Hina''s face, all he could see was the same wless mask as before, revealing no genuine emotions.


    It was either that his Cold Reading Technique wascking, or Hina''s disguise was too perfect.


    Kagura had thought he could just be an unconcerned spectator, but it turned out that Kiryu Hina''s melon was not so easy to enjoy; she directed the first me at Kagura the moment she opened her mouth.


    "Mister Hikaru, even if you feel lonely after we''ve parted ways, you shouldn''t choose such a woman," Kiryu Hina said, turning to Kagura Hikaru with a coquettish smile. With her tender right hand raised subtly pointing at Ayakoji Chiyoko, she added, "This type, you know, is what they call a Domestic Abuser Woman, a Control Freak, certainly a miserablepany in married life."


    Kagura Hikaru: "..."

 Chapter 29 Is this the Shura Field? Exciting

    ''Domestic Abuser Woman,'' ''Control Freak,'' Ayakoji Chiyoko turned pale with anger. Her face darkened as she hugged her chest and sarcastically said, "Mister Hikaru? That''s quite an intimate way to address someone. I didn''t realize you two were this close behind the scenes... The Student Council President having a secret romance, hiding from all the teachers and students¡ªthat is a major issue."


    "Oh my, that''s no problem at all, because we had already broken up after I started high school."


    "Oh, so it was a middle school romance? That''s pretty mature of you. I wonder how everyone would react if this news were to be made public."


    "There won''t be any reaction, and unlike President Ayakoji, I normally engage in charitable deeds. The neighbors all think highly of me; why would they nder me?"


    Kiryu Hina smiled happily.


    Meanwhile, Ayakoji Chiyoko kept a cold face, her eyes brimming with murderous intent, and it seemed as if sparks could be seen where their gazes met.


    Is this what they call a Shura Field? Exciting.


    Kagura Hikaru was inwardly enjoying the spectacle.


    It didn''t matter how fiercely these two fought, as long as they didn''t resort to physical violence and the focus wasn''t on him.


    He had thought that was the case, but unexpectedly, Kiryu Hina suddenly turned her guns back around, her expression stern as she shot back, "Kagura Hikaru, I''m warning you formally not to hang around this person anymore."


    Upon hearing this, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes lit up, as if she''d caught hold of some leverage, and eagerly said, "Trying to win back your ex-boyfriend? Toote, Kagura Hikaru is already mine now!"


    "Oh?" Kiryu Hina raised an eyebrow, "As far as I know, you have never sessfully convinced him to join the Disciplinary Committee."


    "Unlike someone, I deeply respect individual rights and freedoms."


    Between the lines, she emphasized that Kagura Hikaru had allied with her by his own free will, also subtly mocking Kiryu Hina''s earlier warning as if saying she''s ''not a wise leader.''


    Kagura Hikaru remained silent, seemingly conceding.


    But in reality, he internally sighed. Hina''s acting was too good. It was as if there had never been any contact between the two of them; Ayakoji Chiyoko waspletely outyed by her.


    No, it might be said that in the face of Hina, Ayakoji Chiyoko simply couldn''t keep herposure.


    Her tone and her expressions were more agitated than usual.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    In Ayakoji Chiyoko''s heart, Hina might be an unprecedented rival.


    "Is that so..." Kiryu Hina''s expression did not drop. She regained her smile, even more beautifully and dangerously, "You would definitely regret it when you find out the true nature of this guy."


    "You don''t need to worry about that," Ayakoji Chiyoko said with a coldugh, "I will make him y his role."


    "Hmm, you still don''t understand what I''m saying. No matter, you will find out eventually," Kiryu Hina murmured mysteriously, hinting at something.


    Kagura Hikaru was speechless.


    What a wicked taste.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko hesitated, nced his way twice, then turned back, "A crude strategy of alienation, do you think I would fall for it?"


    "True or false, time will prove it."


    "Ridiculous," Ayakoji Chiyoko said icily, "Kiryu Hina, no matter what you are nning, you will never achieve your wish. And I will definitely reach my goal, whatever it takes!"


    "Oh dear, that''s quite the spirit. If your performance were half as good as your talk, maybe I would actually be scared?"


    Kiryu Hina covered her mouth as sheughed, her eyes squinting, beneath herposed smile was deeply hidden malice.


    At this point, Kiryu Hina and Ayakoji Chiyoko had thoroughly torn off their masks of pretense.


    Both wanted something from the other, yet neither wanted to bow down to the other.


    This was probably a woman''s pride.


    The atmosphere was silent and tense, interwoven with disgust and hostility, like fire and water.


    The prolonged confrontation gradually made Ayakoji Chiyoko intolerant. She broke the silence, "Enough! If you came here just to say this, then stop wasting time and please leave."


    But Kiryu Hina just showed a deeper smile, she stroked her hair and slowly said, "The Student Council is conducting a sudden inspection of clubs. Could President Ayakoji cooperate with us in our efforts?"


    "A sudden inspection?" Ayakoji Chiyoko said warily, "There''s nothing indecent here, look if you want to. But I hope the Student Council President is mindful of the time and does not disrupt the work of the Discipline Committee."


    "Ah, of course, I will follow the rules," she said.


    Kiryu Hina suddenly actingpliant made one uneasy.


    Hearing her say this, Ayakoji Chiyoko felt her hair stand on end. Her mind rapidly went through recent decisions and cases handled by the Discipline Committee, secretly pondering if she had unknowingly fallen into another trap.


    But this time, Kiryu Hina seemed to be truly following procedures. She had the Discipline Committee present some documents, then symbolically inspected all the offices of the Discipline Committee before bidding farewell and leaving.


    Until the end, Ayakoji Chiyoko did not understand what her purpose was¡ªwas it simply to unt her power?


    Only the observing Kagura Hikaru might have guessed a bit of it.


    This was most likely another of Hina''s psychological tactics.


    Seeing Ayakoji Chiyoko furrowing her brows and pondering on the spot only confirmed his guess.


    A simple visit had made her tense, and clearly, after a major reversal, Ayakoji Chiyoko had developed a psychological shadow about Hina, not daring to ignore any of her actions.


    By now, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s mind was likely fully focused on uncovering the real intent behind Hina''s visit to the Discipline Committee.


    While it might not have a significant impact, on the other hand, Hina had not paid a high price either, as she mentioned, it was just an ordinary club inspection.


    The underlying motives remained unknown for the moment.


    But one could guess that for Ayakoji Chiyoko, it definitely wasn''t anything good.


    It is worth mentioning that during the inspection, there were several ''unintentional'' moments of eye contact between Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina.


    Although not explicitly stated, Kagura Hikaru felt that she was urging him.


    Now, with Ayakoji Chiyoko''s n failing, resulting in faces being mocked and experiencing disappointment and setbacks, Ayakoji Chiyoko would likely value him, a ''tool'', more than before, making it an ideal opportunity for them to deepen their connection.


    Having amon enemy often unifies people more easily than having amon goal.


    If he didn''t seize every opportunity, given Ayakoji Chiyoko''s aloof nature, it was hard to know when she would invite someone into her home of her own ord.


    Thus, getting the signal, Kagura Hikaru, after Kiryu Hina had left, started to casually mention to Ayakoji Chiyoko about the tacks and threatening letters he had found in his locker that morning.

 Chapter 30 Mr. Kagura, Dont Underestimate Me Too Much

    Bullying is precisely the kind of thing that most stirs thepassionate heart of a Discipline Committee member and it''s also the way Kagura Hikaru emphasizes his own stance.


    Especially after Hina just made some thought-provoking remarks a moment ago.


    Look, I already paid a price for you, we''re clearly on the same side, so how about a bit more trust?


    Although Ayakoji Chiyoko now regards him as an ally, she has not yet reached the point of considering him one of her own, she even brought up the Society Discussion Meeting only after it was established; before that, Kagura Hikaru hadn''t heard a whisper about it.


    His mention of this matter was intended merely to ''demonstrate loyalty'', and not really with the expectation that Ayakoji Chiyoko would render him justice.


    But unexpectedly, just as he brought it up, Ayakoji Chiyoko waved her hand and said, "I already know about that matter."


    After finishing her words, she opened the door and said something to the Discipline Committee member outside.


    A whileter, several Discipline Committee members dragged in three male students with bruised faces, forcing them to kneel before Kagura Hikaru with rough movements.


    "I''m sorry, I won''t dare to do it again!"


    "I''m sorry, it''s all my fault, I''m sorry!"


    "Please, let me go!"


    The three male students cried and sobbed, kneeling on the ground and bowing repeatedly.


    Kagura Hikaru was astonished, "What is this about...?"


    "These guys are the ones who yed that prank in your locker this morning." Ayakoji Chiyoko crossed her arms and looked disdainfully at the three, "Each one of them is a ''loyal fan'' of Kiryu Hina, how ridiculous."


    Just as he thought, once the post was made, Hina''s supporters came knocking on his door.


    But Kagura Hikaru was also well aware that the Disciplinary Committee wasn''t usually so efficient, solving morning''s incidents by noon; it was obviously Ayakoji Chiyoko showing him special care.


    "...Thank you."


    "Don''t mention it for such a trifle." Ayakoji Chiyoko appeared unconcerned.


    If he didn''t consider what she had done, Kagura Hikaru might actually have been touched.


    "Um... can we let them go now?"


    He said helplessly.


    "Are you thinking of making an example out of them?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko looked at Kagura Hikaru approvingly and praised, "Great minds think alike." and then ordered her subordinates to release them.


    Watching the three male students scrambling out of the ssroom, tripping over themselves in their rush to get away, Kagura Hikaru shook his head, not bothering to argue.


    "If anyone else gives you trouble, let me know anytime, or tell any Discipline Committee member, we''ll take care of it for you," Ayakoji Chiyoko instructed, "Until those guys give up, the Disciplinary Committee will be your solid backing."


    Finally, Kagura Hikaru could understand why Ayakoji Chiyoko had such a strong control over the Disciplinary Committee.


    He realized she possessed a special kind of personal charisma, like a mafia princess from aic or novel, with power and capability, a chivalrous character, and even an attractive appearance.


    No wonder so many people were willing to follow her, Ayakoji Chiyoko was undoubtedly the leader many dreamed of.


    This ''big sister'' was someone he could count on, someone who would really step up when needed.


    Turns out, the reason Ayakoji Chiyoko called Kagura Hikaru over was just for this matter.


    After she finished giving him a few words of instruction, Kagura Hikaru left the Disciplinary Committee.


    He went downstairs, exited the old school building.


    Walking on the courtyard corridor, some students recognized him, whispering behind his back, but Kagura Hikaru was indifferent.


    He deeply understood that there were many things in this world that he could not control, such as the Earth''s rotation, such as the thoughts of others.


    Learning to ignore the prejudices of others is something one muste to understand from birth.


    But if one could really manage topletely ignore them, then they wouldn''t seem human anymore, they would be like a machine or a rock.


    Kagura Hikaru was neither a machine nor a rock, so he couldn''t do it.


    To put it inly, he was a little upset.


    As the whispers behind his back grew louder, Kagura Hikaru''s footsteps also became somewhat heavier.


    He didn''t think his heart was fragile, but no one could be happy when betrayed by an ally, causing trouble in their life.


    Was this retribution?


    Punishment for what he had done to Hina before and for what he was nning to do in the future.


    Passing by a maple tree, a beam of sunlight shot through the gaps in the leaves, dazzling Kagura Hikaru, who in a daze seemed to see a girl running toward him from the light.


    Kagura Hikaru looked on nkly as she ran closer.


    "Ah, Mr. Kagura! I finally found you!"


    "...Senior Ai Cheng?"


    Kagura Hikaru was surprised to see Ai Cheng Hua Lian in front of him, catching her breath with hands on knees, "How did you know I was here?"


    "Just, just now I ran into President Hina over there, she told me," Ai Cheng Hua Lian took a breath and lifted her head with a bright smile.


    "Mr. Kagura, have you had lunch yet, would you like to join me?"


    "I remember telling you this morning to stay away from me for the next few days."


    "I know, but I won''t listen!"


    "...?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian straightened up, staring into Kagura Hikaru''s eyes: "Mr. Kagura, are we friends?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Kagura Hikaru hesitated for a moment: "Probably, yeah."


    "Then, is it right for a friend to abandon another in their time of need, in the name of self-preservation?!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian said indignantly, "Mr. Kagura, don''t underestimate me!"


    Kagura Hikaru was rendered speechless, at a loss for words.


    Could it be that he was being cared for?


    "I''m sorry, Senior, I overlooked your feelings."


    "Eh? No, you''re overreacting..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian blushed at thement, nervously running her fingers through her hair along her cheek, "Also, could you not call me ''Senior''? It sounds too distant."


    "Not even ''Senior'' is okay?"


    "Not okay!"


    "I see, Ai Cheng. You can also call me Kagura."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian giggled, "Then, let''s have lunch together, Kagura!"


    "Alright." Kagura Hikaru nodded.


    He went back to the ssroom to grab his lunchbox, while Ai Cheng Hua Lian bought two sandwiches from the snack shop. About fifteen minutester, the two met up again in the courtyard, sitting quietly under the maple tree on a bench to eat.


    "Kagura, here''s some hot soup." Ai Cheng Hua Lian opened her thermos, pouring out the warm, fragrant miso soup into the lid and handed it to Kagura Hikaru with both hands.


    "Thank you." Without refusing, Kagura Hikaru took the soup and drank it in one go, then started on the white rice in his lunchbox while the taste lingered.


    Looking down at the cup she got back, Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes locked onto the spot where Kagura Hikaru''s lips had touched, her mind racing through a brainstorm about the nature of the universe and the philosophy of life.


    After much internal struggle, she finally turned the cup to the opposite side, took a sip of soup, and tears of either relief or regret flowed down her face.


    The chance for an indirect kiss had been wasted just like that...


    Little did she know, Kagura Hikaru was secretly observing her under the guise of eating.


    Meals eaten alone tastepletely different from those shared with another person.


    Is this what it feels like to have friends?


    Funnily enough, before entering school he had nned his high school life as follows: be a ghost-like student unnoticed by others, study quietly, graduate quietly, hoping not even a single person would talk to him until the graduation ceremony.


    The ideal quiet life he envisioned was now going in apletely different direction.


    But the way it is now... seems pretty good, actually.

 Chapter 31 I Hate You Intuitive Brats the Most

    What happened next was as expected.


    The ''anonymous'' expos¨¦ on the News Department forum instantly shifted the public pressure onto Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru, painting them as the viins and Kiryu Hina as the victim, naturally making the so-called bullying rumors unbelievable to anyone.


    The Society Discussion Meeting''s credibility plummeted, but that did not prevent everyone from reading its daily newspaper. After all, aside from the distorted school news, there were still many trendy topics worth reading about.


    It was like when pork with swine fever appeared in the market; it wouldn''t be possible to ban everyone from buying beef.


    Some sticklers believed that reading the Society Discussion Meeting''s daily release was equivalent to supporting Ayakoji Chiyoko, so they resolutely boycotted it and even persuaded those around them not to read it.


    But the vast majority of students simply didn''t care about these stance issues; they were more interested in having fun.


    At the same time, the News Department quietly began its campaign to promote its own online forum.


    Using the gossip news about Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kiryu Hina as a stepping stone, theyunched manymunity events, continually posting interesting new threads, with some people writing stories and even creating sections reminiscent of confession walls, attracting arge number of Uka High students.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had been busy investigating the previous ''surprise inspection'' by Kiryu Hina and was brooding over it without paying any attention to these developments. By the time she realized it, the News Department forum had already be the second center of opinion within the school.


    Kagura Hikaru was surprised by Hina''s ruthlessness when he found out about this.


    No wonder she released the most crucial expos¨¦ on the school forum; it was all part of this scheme.


    Attacking the Society Discussion Meeting and Ayakoji Chiyoko, suppressing rumors, and revitalizing the News Department''s influence in public opinion¡ªit was killing three birds with one stone.


    Clearly, she had premeditated all of it.


    With this, the Society Discussion Meeting could no longer hold ground in Yuqiu High School''s public opinion battlefield. In ces like online forums, the efficiency of setting the tone far exceeds that of newspapers.


    In her irritation, Ayakoji Chiyoko ordered the Society Discussion Meeting to continuepeting with the News Department for readers, but the issue was they focused on the daily paper and forums respectively, and simply couldn''t sh head-on.


    The Society Discussion Meeting tried to set up its own forum, but it went unnoticed, and even after a week the visit count hadn''t broken a hundred.


    The Society Discussion Meeting failed to achieve its initial target and instead, the News Department managed to make a fortune out of someone else''s misfortune, gaining influenceparable to the Society Discussion Meeting, and dering aplete defeat in the battle for public opinion.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s personal authority suffered a severe blow.


    Although she was prepared, no one could produce direct evidence to prove her involvement in the actions against Kiryu Hina, and she hadn''t actively ndered thetter even in interviews for her own daily news.


    But public opinion is such a thing; it can sentence someone to death without evidence.


    If it incites widespread resentment, one can be guilty even without guilt.


    In order not to affect the Disciplinary Committee, Ayakoji Chiyoko announced her resignation the day after the post appeared, ostensibly stepping down from the Disciplinary Committee, with the former vice-chair taking over as Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee, but in reality, she shifted to controlling things behind the scenes, and from top to bottom, the Disciplinary Committee was still her people.


    But from the perspective of ordinary students, Ayakoji Chiyoko had suffered a crushing defeat this time.


    Her attempt to smear the Student Council President was unsessful, and instead, she was ''expelled'' by the Discipline Committee, stripped of her rank, it was a total loss.


    Out of respect for the attitude of the Discipline Committee, nobody dared to ridicule her openly, but behind closed doors, Chiyoko didn''t know how many cold stares she received.


    It was said that a few hot-headed youths who had previous grudges with the Discipline Committee blocked Ayakoji Chiyoko''s ssroom door to give her trouble; she beat them single-handedly, and then dragged their ''corpses'' herself to surrender to the Discipline Committee.


    Whether those spiritedds were okay or not, nobody knew, but when Ayakoji Chiyoko walked out of the Discipline Committee, not even the wrinkles on her clothes had changed.


    Having had a rough time herself, Kagura Hikaru''s situation was naturally worse.


    For a whole week, every day, his locker was crammed with stuff.


    Of course, they weren''t pink love letters, but rather razor des, threatening letters, insect carcasses, weird photos, and the like.


    His indoor shoes would disappear daily only to show up torn and tattered in the trash can, forcing Kagura to take his shoes home.


    On his way to and from school, he''d be picked on¡ªnothing would happen on campus though, as there were always some Discipline Committee members watching over him. If someone caused trouble, within three seconds, a student wearing a red armband would show up for ''justice execution,'' which was tant protection.


    But no one could really say they were in the wrong, as preventing disputes within the school was indeed the job of the Discipline Committee members.


    Those annoyed with Kagura thought that once off school grounds, where the Discipline Committee couldn''t intervene, they could teach him a lesson, only to learn what is meant by ''being skilled in many things.''


    Over the years, the Golden Finger had copied many martial arts skills for him, which normally weren''t of much use, but came in especially handy at times like this.


    Strangely, even though Kagura encountered malice everywhere in the school, such things never happened in his own ssroom, where, despite some awkwardness, everyone still interacted with him as before.


    This silent support touched him deeply.


    Kagura had always been the least talkative and most aloof in his ss, yet somehow he had been epted into the group, which was both surprising and moving.


    After about a week like this, the bullying began to subside.


    There were factors causing the enthusiasm of the bullies to decline, as well as reasons rted to Kagura Hikaru being too impable, giving them no opportunity to start any trouble; in any case, life had returned to the usual school days.


    During these days, Ayakoji Chiyoko, who hadn''t been in touch for a while, sought him out again.


    Lunchtime, on a bench in the corner of the courtyard.


    It was the same ce where they had first talked about coborating.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru sat on either side of the bench, each eating their own bento.


    "The next n against the Student Council is in preparation," Ayakoji Chiyoko suddenly said out of the blue, "For myself, I''m very keen to discuss the topic of Kiryu Hina''s love life. Do you have anything to add?"


    Kagura Hikaru put down his chopsticks, frowning deeply, "I''ve said long ago that I don''t want to talk more about this matter."


    "Is that so? That''s really a pity."


    Perhaps because she was bothered by this for a while, Ayakoji Chiyoko started asking around again about the love history between Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina, especially about the reasons behind their breakup.


    Seemingly out of a woman''s intuition, Ayakoji Chiyoko believed there should be big news buried within this matter.


    ¡ªThat''s why he disliked these sharp-witted brats.


    Kagura Hikaru''s expression darkened for a moment.


    Once close enough to be considered a model couple, now estranged, Kagura Hikaru was hated by Kiryu Hina,beled a traitor, and of course, there were convoluted and difficult internal details involved.


    It was Kagura Hikaru''s deepest secret, one he didn''t wish to share with anyone, let alone have it exposed as a piece of dark news.


    To ensure that Ayakoji Chiyoko wouldn''t continue to delve into the matter, he even resorted to using mind-reading.


    [Looking at it this way, there''s definitely something hidden.]


    [But continuing to pressure him might drive him away... Let it be, let''s see how it goes.]


    [You gained through the vision of the mind: guitar +2]


    [Guitar lv5 (not upgradable)]


    [Congrattions on obtaining your first maximum level skill, your Mind Reading Technique has been enhanced]


    Hmm?


    Kagura Hikaru, who had let his guard down upon realizing that Ayakoji Chiyoko had no intention of probing further, was startled once again.


    He was aware that his guitar skill was about to reach maximum level since it was already sufficient for his needs, so he hadn''t deliberately sought to increase experience points.


    Unexpectedly, a maximum level skill could upgrade mind-reading abilities.


    He wondered what the effects of the enhancement were.


    Out of curiosity, Kagura Hikaru used mind-reading again on Ayakoji Chiyoko sitting next to him.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    [Today''s bento has foie gras again; I''ve said several times not to put such expensive ingredients, that disobedient French chef, I''ll fire him sooner orter!]


    [You gained through the vision of the mind: Tea Ceremony +1]


    [Tea Ceremony lv4 (51/100)]


    In the sunlight, Ayakoji Chiyoko elegantly picked up a piece of foie gras and put it into her mouth, calm andposed without showing any expression,pletely unaware that her thoughts were now crystal clear to the person beside her.


    However, unlike before, this time, Kagura Hikaru not only read her thoughts but also saw an image of a white-haired old man in a chef''s uniform sh by¡ªa blurry image seemingly extracted from Ayakoji Chiyoko''s memory.


    So that''s it, this new ability allowed him to see the images the other person was thinking about during mind-reading.


    Now, his mind-reading wasn''t limited to text; it could even disy images, which was a major leap forward like evolving from a feature phone to a smartphone.


    Kagura Hikaru couldn''t help but wonder, with more maximum level skills, what would his mind-reading ability eventually be?


    Well, there would always be a chance to find out in the future.


    Kagura Hikaru ate a meatball, chewing while pondering these thoughts.


    So, that day, he and Ayakoji Chiyoko simply had lunch together and then went their separate ways.


    Neither of them realized that such behavior could easily lead to misunderstandings.

 Chapter 32 My Bestie Has Been Acting Strange Lately

    Around five in the afternoon.


    In a small livehouse somewhere in Tokyo, an underground concert was taking ce.


    On the small stage, four students dressed as spicy girls were performing their band''s original new song¡ª"Red Love".


    It was none other than the Red Pepper Band led by Ai Cheng Hua Lian.


    This was already their fifth time on stage, and Rinran had the air of an experienced performer, while the atmosphere among the audience was quite lively. After the song ended, they received rounds of apuse.


    "Thank you, thank you, everyone~~"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian bounced around the stage, waving her hands to bid farewell to the audience, and walked down with the rest of the band members.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Once back in the dressing room, she immediately grabbed a bottle of mineral water and started gulping it down, her throat bobbing.


    "Phew¡ª!"


    Having drained half the bottle of mineral water, sheughed and said to the band members around her, "The live performance was great today!"


    The bassist echoed, "Yeah, better than thest time."


    The guitarist: "The audience was really enthusiastic!"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian: "Exactly~!"


    Everyone chatted animatedly, but Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes kept darting towards the quiet drummer in the corner, Ruzaki Mami, looking at her phone with her head down.


    She was the only member of the Red Pepper Band who attended the same ss and school as Ai Cheng Hua Lian, and they had been good friends even before forming the band.


    Buttely, she seemed off,cking vigor, as if she were worrying about something.


    The problem seemed to be growing worse with time. At today''s live performance, although no one in the band had mentioned it, they could all tell that Ruzaki Mami''s drumming was slightly off-beat andcked strength.


    Could she have caught a cold?


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian wondered.


    She couldn''t stop thinking about it.


    While everyone went to the restroom to remove their makeup, Ai Cheng Hua Lian quietly approached her and asked in a low voice, "Zhen Chun, are you not feeling well? Why have you been zoning out all day?"


    "Eh?" Ruzaki Mami was startled for a few seconds, "I''m sorry, did I cause trouble for everyone?"


    "Not at all, no one is thinking that!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian said with caution, "It''s just that I feel like you''ve been somewhat listlesstely... you know."


    "Oh....."


    Ruzaki Mami lowered her head like a little rabbit and fell silent.


    After waiting a long time without a response, Ai Cheng Hua Lian felt uneasy.


    Is that it, just "oh...."?


    Even though she knew her best friend was like this, the silence was frustrating.


    In the end, when the band members said goodbye at the livehouse entrance, Ai Cheng Hua Lian was unable to get anything more out of her, but she could tell that something was definitely weighing on her friend''s mind.


    Watching the receding figure of Ruzaki Mami, she clenched her teeth and decided to tail her! Ah, no, to track her!


    Based on her experience with shoujo manga, when a male protagonist encounters a female character who has worries but doesn''t talk about them, tracking her would greatly increase the chance of discovering her secret!


    In the end, Ai Cheng Hua Lian followed her best friend to a small park sandwiched between residential houses, hiding behind a bush and watching her sit on the swing lost in thought.


    Besides confirming that Ruzaki Mami was indeed somewhat depressed, she didn''t find out anything else.


    Instead, she ended up with sore legs from squatting.


    Manga is all lies, after all.


    Meanwhile.


    Kagura Hikaru, with a guitar case on his back and a school bag in hand, was walking home against the sunset.


    Work had caused him to run a bitte that day, and if he took the train now, he would hit the rush hour and end up squished like a sardine, just like the previous time.


    He had decided that he didn''t want to experience that again at all costs, so he chose to walk home today.


    ```


    It was only a few miles away, and if he paced himself properly, he wouldn''t even break a sweat by the time he reached his front door.


    As he walked, he passed a small park and Kagura Hikaru suddenly stopped short.


    He saw a familiar-looking girl hiding behind a bush, her butt sticking out as if she were spying on something, her silhouette sneaky and untrustworthy.


    A middle-aged woman passing by gave her a strange look and whispered to herself.


    After thinking it over, he decided not to ignore her and calmly approached, asking, "What are you doing?"


    "Eek!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian jumped in surprise, her head whipping around, "Kagura? Why are you here..."


    "On my way home." Kagura Hikaru said matter-of-factly, and then looked toward the girl sitting alone on the worn-out swing in the park, "Do you know her?"


    "Yes, her name is Ruzaki Mami, she''s a ssmate of mine," Ai Cheng Hua Lian said sheepishly, "Uh, she''s also in the same band as me, she''s the drummer."


    Kagura Hikaru observed the girl in the park, her demeanor clearly showing that she must be facing some kind of problem.


    "Is she in trouble?"


    "I don''t know, she won''t tell me anything..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian shook her head.


    "Well, if she doesn''t want to talk about it, that''s the end of it. Pressing the issue will only make her more resistant."


    "That''s not eptable!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian said firmly, "Zhen Chun is my friend, her worries are my worries! How can I just ignore her?"


    Perhaps Ai Cheng Hua Lian spoke too loudly, because Ruzaki Mami in the park looked up in their direction and locked eyes with Kagura Hikaru.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, crouching behind the bush, hadn''t been noticed for the moment, but she read something in Kagura Hikaru''s gaze and nervously asked, "Did she see you?"


    "Yes, I''m leaving."


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t even lower his head, turned, and walked in the direction he had originally intended to go.


    This matter really had nothing to do with him. If he left now, at least Ai Cheng Hua Lian wouldn''t be exposed, she could continue her stalker game, and he could go home to eat dinner on time.


    A win-win situation.


    "Wait wait wait!" However, just as Kagura Hikaru took a step, Ai Cheng Hua Lian caught the hem of his pants with her hand, "Mr. Kagura!"


    "Let go, you''ll draw attention to us."


    "Please,e with me to ask Zhen Chun what happened! She might tell us something if you''re there."


    "Don''t be naive. Would you open up to a stranger?"


    "How can we know without trying..."


    Just then, they saw a petite figure rush out of the park entrance and head off into the distance without looking back, her backpack and the hem of her skirt swinging from side to side.


    It was Ruzaki Mami.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian, dumbfounded, watched her and stood up to shout, "Zhen Chun, wait for me!"


    But it was toote to catch up; the other girl had already vanished around the corner of the street.


    In the moment she turned, they did indeed see, flitting from the corner of Ruzaki Mami''s eye, a shimmering tear.


    There''s an ancient saying that tears are a pure substance, especially the tears of a beautiful girl, which can cleanse the soul.


    But the tears shed by the beautiful girl Ruzaki Mami cast a shadow over the hearts of those who saw them.


    The air was silent for a few seconds.


    "Talk to your friend about it tomorrow," Kagura Hikaru sighed softly, tugging on his guitar bag strap, "I''m going home now, see you tomorrow."


    "Oh, yeah..."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian watched Kagura Hikaru walk away, holding her head with both hands, her fingers tangling in her hair out of frustration.


    .........


    The next day, Kagura Hikaru eyed Ai Cheng Hua Lian as she appeared at the ssroom door, feeling an ominous premonition.


    "Please!"


    Outside the ssroom, in the corridor, Ai Cheng Hua Lian bowed deeply with hands sped above her head, "Help me, Mr. Kagura!"


    ```

 Chapter 33 I originally thought you were a good citizen, but I didnt expect you to be so malicious.

    "Help me, Mr. Kagura!"


    "...What happened?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian looked up, "Actually, ever since I arrived at school today, Zhen Chun has been avoiding me, and I just can''t catch her..."


    "Aren''t you part of the sports club?" Kagura Hikaru asked with a strange expression.


    "Yes, but Zhen Chun is also in the Track and Field Club!"


    "..."


    Is this band really a serious one? The average physical fitness here seems to surpass that of idol trainees by two and a half years.


    "Anyway!" Ai Cheng Huan Lian stared into Kagura Hikaru''s eyes and said loudly, "Zhen Chun has never avoided me like this before, something must have happened, and we need to help her!"


    Kagura Hikaru looked at her helplessly, "Okay, okay, I''ll help."


    "Really? That''s great!" Ai Cheng Huan Lian said excitedly, "Then during lunch break, I''ll follow her as much as possible and report her location to you using my phone!"


    "Alright, let''s add each other on Line," Kagura Hikaru took out his phone.


    Done!


    Ai Cheng Huan Lian clenched her fist in secret, single-push contact method acquired~!


    Sorry Zhen Chun, as your best friend, you''ll surely understand my actions!


    Jokes aside, the worry is real.


    Ruzaki Mami, her shy best friend, had avoided and hid, resistingmunication not for the first time. But to rather hide and cry without telling her anything was definitely not normal, considering they were close friends who shared everything.


    Unless, it was a problem too severe to even tell the family.


    This was exactly what Ai Cheng Huan Lian feared.


    Zhen Chun, with her vulnerable appearance, especially having recently gotten a secret boyfriend¡ªwho she didn''t even disclose¡ªcould be in trouble if that boyfriend made some unreasonable demands...


    Right, she''d definitely take care of him, absolutely, definitely starting with the least necessary ''extra wheel''.


    After adding each other on Line, Ai Cheng Huan Lian and Kagura Hikaru went back to their respective sses.


    Lunch break.


    When the bell rang and the teacher walked out of the ssroom, Kagura Hikaru also stood up with his phone, receiving a text from Ai Cheng Huan Lian while descending the stairs.


    Ai Cheng: [I''m in the courtyard! Tracking in progress~~]


    Ai Cheng: [Leave by the main gate and turn left!]


    Kagura: [Understood.]


    He chased out of the academic building, turning haphazardly following Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s directions. About ten minutester, he met up with her near the school''s garbage burning area.


    The school had a dedicated incinerator for burning trash, though only paper waste was supposed to be burnt. However, it was rumored some female students threw in their sanitary pads.


    In the afternoon, the duty students woulde here to dispose of the trash and burn it collectively; usually, no one came by because of the strong smell, naturally deterring anyone from approaching. Moreover, this was one of the most secluded spots in the school.


    Anyone here at this time likely had a special purpose.


    "Why would Zhen Chune to such a ce..." Ai Cheng Hua Lian peeped around the corner of a wall, looking inside.


    "Ai Cheng."


    Kagura Hikaru approached from behind.


    "Ah, Kagura, you''re here too," Ai Cheng Hua Lian cautiously pointed ahead, "She''s over there."


    Kagura Hikaru nced and saw the girl named Ruzaki Mami standing in front of the incinerator, looking uneasy as if waiting for someone.


    Suddenly, his eyes darted to the side, and he grabbed Ai Cheng Huan Lian''s arm, "Ai Cheng, let''s hide first."


    "Eh?"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Shush, this way."


    He pulled Ai Cheng Huan Lian behind a maple tree and hid her. Before she could ask what was happening, he saw three male studentsing from the direction they hade, and they met up with Ruzaki Mami.


    They chatted for a while, and then Ruzaki Mami took something out of her pocket and handed it to the three boys who tucked away the item and walked offughing.


    As the trio turned around, Kagura Hikaru saw what they had pocketed.


    It was money.


    Ai Cheng Huan Lian had sharp eyes and apparently saw it too; her expression soured in an instant.


    "Those guys, are they threatening Zhen Chun?!"


    She was about to rush out but was held back by Kagura Hikaru, "Wait, let''s understand the situation before acting."


    "But!"


    "I''ve memorized the faces of those three students, we can find them anytime. Before that, let''s hear your friend''s exnation," Kagura Hikaru said calmly, "If she''s been ckmailed, running out now won''t change anything, and might even worsen the situation."


    "...I understand," Ai Cheng Huan Lian rxed, though her face still showed her indignation.


    Meanwhile.


    Ruzaki Mami watched as the three boys walked away, dejectedly dropping her shoulders and head.


    Her pocket money had been taken away again today.


    Although she still had some savings, they couldn''t withstand such endless demands.


    Why had things turned out this way...


    The moment she thought about it, Ruzaki couldn''t help but well up with tears of injustice.


    She wiped the corners of her eyes with the back of her hand and walked toward the academic building.


    But just as she rounded the corner, she was stopped by a boy and a girl.


    "Mami!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian called out.


    "Why, why, why is Karen-chan here...?!"


    Ruzaki Mami, in a panic, instinctively wanted to run, but she turned to find that she was at a garbage-burning site, a dead end.


    "This time there are two of us, Mami, you can''t think about running away again."


    "Karen-chan..."


    "We saw everything, you gave those people money!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian hurriedly grabbed Ruzaki''s hands, "What exactly happened? Are they threatening you?"


    "This..." Ruzaki hesitated.


    "We''re friends, Mami, why do you have to keep things from me?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian said earnestly, "Mr. Kagura is also a trustworthy person, you''ve met him, right? He helped us a lot during the live event. I can guarantee he won''t spill the beans."


    "No, I can''t!" Ruzaki Mami shook her head with her eyes closed, "I''m sorry, Karen-chan, this is the one thing I really can''t tell..."


    "Mami!"


    "Then there''s no other way." Kagura Hikaru suddenly spoke up, picking up his phone, "Then I have no choice but to report to the Disciplinary Committee that a student is suspected of engaging in money transactions. I think given their style, they definitely won''t let it go."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami were suddenly shocked by his statement.


    They gave him a look that said ''I thought you were a good person, but you turned out to be so malicious.''


    "Wait!" Ruzaki Mami rushed to grab Kagura''s phone and, evading her, he looked over with a face about to cry, "Please, don''t do this, I can''t tell anyone about this..."


    "Why, what''s the reason?" Kagura asked emotionlessly, "What trouble will it cause if the Disciplinary Committee finds out?"


    "Because..."


    Ruzaki Mami hesitated on the spot, holding her head and turning around in circles, it took her a while before she said, "I got it, I''ll tell you... but it has to be a secret! Absolutely!"


    But Kagura Hikaru said, "I will judge based on the circumstances."


    "Wait, Kagura!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian gave him meaningful nces.


    She was just about to speak out, why create additional obstacles!


    "Ruzaki, if the trouble you''re facing goes beyond what we three can handle, then seeking outside help might also be an option."


    Kagura Hikaru looked at Ruzaki Mami, his expression calm, "If you think it can also go on like this, then I will also respect your decision."


    "I..."


    Clearly, Ruzaki Mami did not think ''it can go on like this''. Rather, she very much hoped that someone could break this vicious cycle and rescue her.


    But it wasn''t just about her, Ruzaki Mami wasn''t sure if it was the right choice.


    The anguish and the oue of that anguish¡ª


    At 12:30 PM, under the maple tree in the courtyard of Uka High School, on a long bench.


    Kagura Hikaru, Ruzaki Mami, Ai Cheng Hua Lian.


    The three of them sat down in this order.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ruzaki Mami had their lunch boxes on theirps, only Ai Cheng Hua Lian nibbled on a chocte bread.


    "Hmm... why do both of you have lunch boxes... mmm... sneaky!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian whined.


    "Wake up an hour early and you can make it yourself." Kagura Hikaru picked up a piece of octopus sausage, speaking indifferently.


    "Wake up an hour earlier? How can I manage that!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian held her head, "Our school already starts early. If I also had to wake up an hour earlier... 5:30 AM, no, at least 5:00 AM I''d have to get up! Ahhh!!"


    "That, that..." Ruzaki Mami shrank her neck, speaking cautiously, "If Karen-chan doesn''t mind, I could make it for you, a lunch box."


    "Really? That''s great, Mami!" Ai Cheng Hua Lian hugged her friend happily, "But, it will be tough on you, Mami, forget it, I''ll just eat bread."


    "You don''t need to be so polite."


    "But, I don''t want my beloved Mami to be troubled."


    "Karen-chan..."


    "Mami..."


    The two girls faced each other, their faces drew closer and their hands sped together, fingers intertwined, their gaze almost tangible.


    "Ahem."


    Kagura Hikaru mercilessly interrupted this blossoming scene, putting down his chopsticks: "It''s about time to get to the main point, Miss Ruzaki."

 Chapter 34 Secret Romance

    Under the maple tree in the courtyard, the rxed atmosphere of the lunch break vanished instantly.


    A serious conversation was underway.


    "Ruzaki Mami, it''s about time you told us the truth," Kagura Hikaru said calmly as he packed up his lunchbox and chopsticks. "Even if we want to help you, we at least need to know where to start."


    "I, I understand..."


    Ruzaki Mami also put down her chopsticks, "But, you must keep it a secret."


    "I''ve said before, I can''t guarantee that," Kagura Hikaru replied.


    "If you can''t keep it a secret, then I won''t tell you!" Ruzaki Mami mustered her courage and met his gaze.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian nced at the two of them, hesitated for a moment, then spoke up, "Mami, just tell us what happened. If it really is something that can''t be leaked, we''ll help cover it up."


    "...All right, since Karen-chan says so..."


    Ruzaki Mami pouted, "Karen-chan, you should remember, right? I told you before that I got a boyfriend."


    "Yes, of course, but you never wanted to tell me who he was," Ai Cheng Hua Lian nodded and then realized something, "Wait, are those hoodlums pestering you because of him? Damn it, so he really is a jerk!"


    "Not at all!!" Ruzaki Mami shouted, one-third louder than before, then her spirit shrank back, and she sulkily lowered her head to y with her fingers, "That, that person has a bit of a sensitive identity, he shouldn''t have gotten involved in a romantic rtionship with me... and then, those people just happened to see us."


    "So they ckmailed you?" Ai Cheng Hua Lian furrowed her brows.


    "...Yeah." Ruzaki Mami nodded uneasily.


    "Mami, you''re too careless."


    "This..."


    "And so what if they saw you? Why would you be ckmailed over something like this?"


    "Because her boyfriend is a teacher at the school," Kagura Hikaru suddenly interjected with a startling revtion.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian sharply turned to look at him, then at her best friend. Seeing her gaping at Kagura Hikaru as if she''d seen a ghost confirmed that he had guessed correctly.


    Ruzaki Mami visibly faltered, at a loss, "How, how, how did you know?!"


    "Simple deduction," Kagura Hikaru said calmly, "It''s not unusual for high school girls to fall for older men. Plus, you mentioned the man''s identity was sensitive, shouldn''t have been involved in a romantic rtionship with you, seen by fellow students - it''s easy to guess it''s a teacher."


    "How could this happen¡­" a whimpering Ruzaki Mami buried her face in her hands, herplexion flushed.


    It was indeed a simple deduction, not even requiring mind-reading.


    High school girls in the bloom of youth typically have only a few types of things on their minds.


    "Your insistence on keeping it a secret must be because you don''t want that teacher to be fired," Kagura Hikaru surmised, "Although in my view, a man who preys on the underage ismitting a crime and should be reported without hesitation."


    Seeing Ruzaki Mami''s dramatically changed expression, he sighed again, "But I''ll turn a blind eye just this once."


    "Thank you... no, thank you very much, Mr. Kagura!" Ruzaki Mami''s eyes brightened as she spoke sincerely.


    "Hehe, who would have thought, Mami, you''d quietly be dating a teacher."


    Making a deliberate attempt to ease the tension, Ai Cheng Hua Lian teased her with a giggling elbow nudge, "Is it Teacher Yamazaki, the P.E. teacher? Or Teacher Sato, who teaches nationalnguage? Hmm, knowing Mami''s taste, it must be¡­"


    "Karen-chan!"


    "Hahaha~"


    However, this was indeed aplex case.


    Kagura Hikaru watched the two girls joking around, his gaze slightly downcast in thought.


    ckmailed by fellow students over a teacher-student romance, afraid to seek help from others for fear of her boyfriend losing his job if exposed ¨C he understood the logic thatpelled Ruzaki Mami''s heart, he could understand her choice.


    If they chose not to pursue the teacher''s actions, in in terms, all they needed to do was to deal with those hoodlums ¨C teach them a lesson they would not forget, ensuring they would not dare toy a hand on Ruzaki Mami again. If they persisted, the matter could be escted to get them expelled.


    But the real trouble may still lie ahead.


    Kagura Hikaru sighed inwardly and asked Ruzaki Mami, "Those people, they have evidence, don''t they? Is it photos or something else?"


    ```


    If there were no evidence, she could simply say they were ndering her and deny everything.


    But since it had escted to extortion, the other party must have had direct evidence of Ruzaki Mami''s romantic rtionship with the teacher.


    "Yeah," Ruzaki Mami turned away, nodding her head and stuttering, "They sneakily took photos of me and the teacher in the ssroom, inside... "


    Ai Cheng Karen cocked her head, "Inside?"


    "...kissing."


    "You actually did such a thing at school?!"


    "...Yeah..." Ruzaki Mami covered her face with her hands, the skin that showed was as red as an apple.


    Ai Cheng Karen opened her mouth wide: "Mami... you''re unexpectedly bold."


    "..."


    "A photo, huh..." Kagura Hikaru''s eyes flickered, "It was taken with a cellphone, right?"


    Ruzaki Mami nodded: "Yes."


    "This is a bit troublesome, if it were just about getting their cellphones, that would be simple, but the key is we don''t know how many copies they''ve made."


    Digital photos are just a bunch of data after all; they can be copied endlessly, and if they''ve made backups and hidden them away,pletely deleting them is almost impossible.


    Hearing Kagura Hikaru say this, Ruzaki Mami immediately turned pale, and Ai Cheng Karen also scratched her head, looking troubled.


    "I''ll figure something out for this, let''s catch those people first," said Kagura Hikaru.


    "Really? Kagura, do you have a method?" Ai Cheng Karen asked curiously.


    Kagura Hikaru nodded.


    As long as no one has amnesia, it''s very difficult to hide anything from him, as he does, after all, have the cheating supernatural power of mind-reading.


    How many backups there are and where each one is ced¡ªwith mind-reading, he could interrogate it out.


    Secrets have no meaning in front of him.


    If the detectives knew about his ability, they might be bitterly envious.


    "Then I''m relying on you, Mr. Kagura!" Ruzaki Mami stood up, bowing deeply at ny degrees to Kagura Hikaru.


    "Thanks for your trouble, Kagura." Ai Cheng Karen also pleaded, blinking cutely, "I''ll give you a reward afterward."


    "I''ll pay the money!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Ruzaki Mami raised her right hand high, her face expressing ''finally into my familiar territory''.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ai Cheng Karen looked at her, exchanged a nce, and then sighed in unison.


    It''s because of that naive face that she was ckmailed in the first ce.


    "Forget about the money," Kagura Hikaru shook his head, "I''m helping you because you are Ai Cheng''s friend. If you want to thank someone, thank Ai Cheng."


    "Huh?"


    Ruzaki Mami covered her mouth in surprise, turned to look at Ai Cheng Karen, her gazeplicated, and whispered softly, "Karen-chan, could it be that you and Mr. Kagura... "


    "Wha-what are you talking about!" Ai Cheng Karen hurriedly covered her best friend''s mouth, blushing and saying hastily, "We''re just ordinary friends, just ordinary friends! And besides, Kagura already has someone he likes..."


    Seeing a flicker of sadness cross Ai Cheng Karen''s face, Ruzaki Mami immediately sensed something, pursed her lips, and dared not speak anymore.


    Karen-chan...


    The atmosphere became very weird after that; after finishing lunch, Ruzaki Mami and Ai Cheng Karen hurriedly left.


    Kagura Hikaru remained on the courtyard bench, watching them walk away, then took out his cellphone, opened LINE, and found the contact named ''Ayakoji Chiyoko''.


    Kagura: [I have a favor to ask of you.]


    Ayakoji: [Speak.]


    ```

 Chapter 35 Ayakoji Chiyokos Dangerous Switch

    Old school building, Disciplinary Committee office.


    Kagura Hikaru sat at the desk flipping through a photo album with a thick ck cover, next to which rested an empty lunchbox.


    At Yuqiu High School, portrait photos were taken for all students upon admission, entered into the system, andpiled into a photo album of student profiles for each year, bing part of the school''s history.


    Copies of these albums were kept in the Student Council room and the school library''s storage. What Kagura Hikaru was looking at was one such set, taken from this year''s freshmen to seniors, three volumes of Yuqiu High School student albums, which he had obtained through the help of the Discipline Committee member from the library storage.


    As for what he was doing, it was needless to say, he was clearly searching for the three male students who had extorted Ruzaki Mami.


    As long as they were students at Yuqiu High School, they would definitely be found in the album.


    Kagura Hikaru checked each page carefully, not missing a single photo of any male student.


    Although a bit troublesome, this approach was more efficient than wandering around the school looking for people.


    This was the advantage of seeking help from the Disciplinary Committee.


    "Did you find them?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had appeared behind him at some point, bringing over a chair to sit down with her back to the table, her right leg draped over her left, and one arm curved on the table, adopting a rxed posture, she turned her head to gaze at Kagura Hikaru beside her.


    Kagura Hikaru closed the album, "Yes, I found them."


    "So?" Ayakoji Chiyoko watched him with eyes like a cat''s.


    Those eyes seemed to say, "Don''t make too much noiseter when I''m choking you if you don''t tell me now."


    "Sorry, this time it''s a personal matter." Kagura Hikaru stacked the three albums neatly, pushed back his chair, and stood up, "Thank you for your assistance, President Ayakoji."


    "Sure, no big deal."


    Kagura Hikaru had expected her to press on and had already thought about what to say next. But Ayakoji Chiyoko did not do so; instead, she waved her hand casually, "Come to me whenever you need something."


    "...Thank you."


    Having said that, Kagura Hikaru left the Disciplinary Committee''s office.


    He didn''t expect Ayakoji Chiyoko to be so easy to talk to, which was beyond his expectations, but perhaps not so surprising.


    Not long after Kiryu Hina had made a stance on his behalf, Kagura Hikaru had been automatically ssified as an ally by the Disciplinary Committee, in the eyes of Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    As arade, looking up some information was a small matter which she naturally had no reason to refuse.


    The longer he knew her, the less he felt that Ayakoji Chiyoko was apathetic. To outsiders, she may appear that way, but to her own people, she proved to be empathetic and understanding¡ªof course, only to those she found useful.


    The initial impression of her as an ice queen had been blown away; now, in Kagura Hikaru''s mind, she was like a gang leader with a tattooed arm, leading a gang.


    A bit fierce, prone to stabbing people, but seemingly harmless once you learned what she liked.


    ¡ªThe above is Kagura Hikaru''s delusional arrogance.


    After he had left, Ayakoji Chiyoko gestured for a Disciplinary Committee member toe over.


    "President, what can I do for you?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko spoke with a tilt of her head, "Follow Kagura Hikaru and find out what he''s doing. Report back to me."


    "Yes, President."


    Dismissing her subordinate, Ayakoji Chiyoko casually picked up her phone to check the recent status of the Society Discussion Meeting and the News Department. Her beautiful thumb glided over the smooth and cold ss screen. She propped her cheek in her hand and squinted her eyes, pondering something.


    That look became increasingly simr to that of a Demon Fox wearing human skin¡ªchilling and insidious.


    The fact that Kagura Hikaru had something he wished to hide from her made her quite displeased.


    Despite the calm fa?ade, deep down she had already stripped Kagura Hikaru naked, tied up his hands and feet, stuffed an apple in his mouth, and was roasting him over a fire, like a suckling pig.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had always disliked it when those around her kept secrets from her, especially the closer they were.


    Call her paranoid or neurotic, but once she smelled a rat, she would stop at nothing to probe until she got to the bottom of it, somewhat like an obsessivepulsive disorder.


    This peculiar thirst for knowledge was what led her to her current aplishments and breadth of knowledge, but the downside was that she struggled to make friends.


    Everyone has one or two secrets absolutely meant to be kept from others, and most people tacitly agree not to probe too deeply, but Ayakoji Chiyoko would try every means to dig them all out.


    Even after uncovering secrets, she wouldn''t make them public or anything; she simply believed that knowing them made her feel more secure.


    However, for those on the receiving end of her excavation, it was exceedingly fucked up.


    The current Kagura Hikaru had unintentionally triggered someone''s danger switch and was soon to be the unfortunate victim...


    Blissfully unaware of what was about to befall him and mistakenly thinking Ayakoji Chiyoko was an easy-going boss, Kagura Hikaru headed straight for the third-grade ssroom after school at 3:30 PM.


    Takayama Kenta, third-grade ss A; Tachibana Kanichi, third-grade ss C; Koyama Rikiya, third-grade ss C¡ªthe threesome involved in extorting Ruzaki Mami were these three individuals.


    He didn''t know in whose hands the photo was, but no matter, with "mind-reading," it would be an open book.


    Sometimes even Kagura Hikaru felt like a monster hidden among the crowd, arbitrarily peering into people''s hearts and picking his prey.


    Fortunately, he had enough self-control to use this power for good.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    When he arrived at the floor where the third-grade ssrooms were located, Kagura Hikaru already had a n in mind.


    He would pretend to be Ruzaki Mami''s cousin, entrusted by her to negotiate with the extortionist trio; they, relying on their greater numbers and feeling fearless, would unquestionably agree and lead him to a secluded ce.


    At that point, they would no longer have the freedom to act wild.


    Kagura Hikaru would use both force and mind-reading to make them reveal the hiding ces of the photo evidence and delete them one by one, then through abination of beating and psychological torment, provide a forceful deterrence to make them think twice beforeing into contact with Ruzaki Mami again.


    This was not the form ofw enforcement society advocated, but he was convinced that some bastards just can''t understand reason until they have felt pain.


    Kagura Hikaru had thought through his n meticulously, but before he could initiate the first step, something went wrong.


    He hadn''t arrivedte since the third-grade ssrooms were located right above the first grade, and he sessfully intercepted the targets before they left school.


    Yet, when their eyes met, the expected exchange of "What are you looking at?" "What''s it to you?" did not happen.


    Instead, it was: "Shit, it''s that guy!" "Run!"


    Seeing Kagura Hikaru, the three third-grade delinquents¡ªTakayama Kenta, Tachibana Kanichi, and Koyama Rikiya¡ªshowed expressions of shock and without a word, pushed through the crowd and fled.


    Watching their figures about to disappear, Kagura Hikaru could only momentarily set aside the questions in his mind and chase after them.


    He didn''t even have time to use mind-reading at this moment because his ability had a weakness: it was difficult to focus in noisy crowds, let alone when the targets were far away.


    With stairwells located on both sides of the ssroom corridors, this meant that one could also descend from the other side.


    Kagura Hikaru subconsciously felt that they might slip away.


    As he was chasing after them, thinking hurriedly, just as he rushed past one student, another male student stepped in front of him, and Kagura Hikaru, caught unaware, collided with him.


    Both took a step back and halted in their tracks.


    The male student he bumped into raised his head; it was Ando Naoto, the vice president of the Student Council, whom he had seen before. Ando looked at him in surprise and said, "You are, ssmate Kagura? Why are you in the third-grade corridor?"


    However, Kagura did not respond to him and instead looked over his shoulder towards the distance.


    The three target individuals had by now rushed down the stairs without looking back, vanishingpletely.

 Chapter 36 Parting on Bad Terms

    Did you lose them?


    Kagura Hikaru thought it was a pity.


    But no matter, if not today, there''s always tomorrow; they will eventually have to go to school, otherwise, they couldn''t continue to contact Ruzaki Mami and ckmail her.


    As for any possible contacts outside school, Kagura Hikaru had decided to ask Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami to go home together after returning, until they thoroughly resolved this ckmail case.


    Compared to this, the reaction of those three thugs upon seeing him was indeed worth pondering.


    Why did they run upon seeing him?


    Kagura Hikaru was quite sure he had never interacted with them before; they shouldn''t recognize him, and even if they did, there was no reason for such a big reaction.


    Could it be that his objective was exposed in advance?


    If so, who told them...


    "I''m talking to you, can you not pretend you didn''t hear me, ssmate Kagura?"


    Ando Naoto frowned and woke Kagura Hikaru, who seemed lost in thought. He believed the other was avoiding the conversation and his tone grew more severe, "About you and the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee falsely using the Student Council President, what''s your exnation? And the rumors that the President bullied you, you guys spread those too, right!"


    ? It''s been such a long time, why is someone still bringing this up?


    Kagura Hikaru was stunned, inexplicably at his wit''s end.


    Though upon reflection, this had only happened just over a week ago, for him, it already felt like a distant memory.


    Like an old photograph tucked between the pages of a book, he couldn''t recall where he put it momentarily.


    "The Student Council was busy dealing with affairs when the rumors emerged, so they didn''te to find you immediately. But since we met today, you have to give me an exnation."


    Ando Naoto earnestly asked, "We all know that Ayakoji Chiyoko is targeting the President, why did you be her aplice? You clearly told me before that you liked¡ª"


    "Senior Ando."


    Before he could finish saying that name, Kagura Hikaru couldn''t help but interrupt.


    Why must he discuss these emotional entanglements with this person in front of him? They weren''t even friends, let alone this person being qualified as a rival.


    Irritation welled up inside.


    "I''m sorry, but right now I have other important matters to deal with. Please pretend you didn''t see me today."


    "Wait!"


    Seeing Kagura Hikaru finish speaking and about to leave, Ando Naoto instinctively reached out to stop him, but he easily dodged it.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Kagura Hikaru looked back at him, "If you really want to know the reason, why not go ask President Kiriyu himself?"


    "Are you saying there''s something undisclosed here?"


    "Who knows? After all, it''s all in the past now."


    Having said that, Kagura Hikaru left Ando Naoto standing there to ponder alone and walked away from the third-grade corridor.


    As he walked downstairs, he realized there was an issue with his attitude.


    As an outsider, Ando Naoto''s reaction was nothing but normal, simr to those ssmates whose opinions were influenced by the rumors.


    But why was he blind to their reactions, yet unable to stay calm in front of Ando Naoto?


    ...Could he be jealous? Jealous of someone who could stay by her side, yet allowed to know nothing.


    Kagura Hikaru walked out silently from the school building, out of the school gates.


    It was only when he encountered Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami at the gate that he came back to his senses.


    "What are you doing here?"


    "Mr. Kagura!"


    The two girls hurried up to him, and Ai Cheng Hua Lian asked, "How did it go? What''s the situation?"


    "It failed," Kagura Hikaru said calmly, "They recognized me and ran away."


    "Ah? How could that be..."


    "Yeah, why indeed."


    His eyes, thoughtful, slowly shifted to the puzzled Ruzaki Mami.


    Ruzaki Mami blinked like a rabbit, and oddly asked, "Mr. Kagura?"


    "Ruzaki, I must ask you a question, please answer me truthfully."


    "Alright!"


    Perhaps it was because his tone was too earnest that Ruzaki Mami couldn''t help but stand straight.


    Kagura Hikaru asked, "Regarding my involvement in solving the extortion issue, who else have you told, besides Ai Cheng?"


    "Eh?" Ruzaki Mami was momentarily stunned. "Aside from Karen-chan, I''ve only told my boyfriend; no one else knows."


    He fell silent for a moment, then turned away.


    "Ai Cheng, how about you?"


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian immediately shook her head: "I haven''t told anyone."


    "Good." Kagura Hikaru''s eyes shifted back to Ruzaki Mami, his expression serious, "Now, tell me your boyfriend''s identity."


    "...You mean to say he leaked it?" Ruzaki Mami was frozen for three seconds before catching on, her head snapped up emotionally, her eyes reddened, her voice slightly raised, "No, he couldn''t possibly betray us; there is absolutely no reason for him to do so! This is a matter that concerns his career; he wouldn''t create trouble on purpose, he''s too busy helping!"


    Discussing this loudly at the school entrance clearly wasn''t a good idea, as many people''s gaze was drawn by Ruzaki Mami''s voice.


    They had no choice but to move to a more secluded area in the school''s courtyard.


    Perhaps by coincidence, this was the exact spot where Ai Cheng Hua Lian had seen Kagura Hikaru being ''bullied''.


    The three exchanged looks in silence, a subtle tension hanging in the air.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami were no fools; they could certainly pick up the ''subtext'' in Kagura Hikaru''s words.


    He was suspecting that Ruzaki Mami''s boyfriend intentionally leaked information, leading to today''s failed encounter with the extortionists.


    Yet Ruzaki Mami''s reasoning was quite valid; her boyfriend had no reason to impede Kagura Hikaru.


    The whole matter suddenly became even more confusing.


    In such a short time, how did those three extortionists learn of Kagura Hikaru''s involvement?


    The idea that this was a simple case had already been dismissed by Kagura Hikaru, his intuition telling him that there was an enemy within them.


    "Which teacher is it?" Kagura Hikaru bluntly inquired.


    At this point, it was no longer a situation Ruzaki Mami could whimsically keep confidential.


    Clearly resistant, Ruzaki Mami was beating around the bush, attempting to gloss over the matter, but this time Ai Cheng Hua Lian did not take her side and immediately disclosed the suspect.


    "It must be Teacher Sato, the one who teaches the nationalnguage. I''ve seen him talking to Mami alone several times, and he''s also handsome¡ªthe type of teacher Mami would like in the school," she said.


    "Karen-chan...?"


    "Sorry, Mami. I trust you, but I cannot trust your boyfriend," Ai Cheng Hua Lian said, her face a mix of apology and difficulty.


    Her thoughts aligned with Kagura Hikaru''s, harboring doubts about the teacher who was close to her best friend.


    Given the already low level of trust, they were even less likely to keep secrets for him.


    However, to Ruzaki Mami, the girlfriend, the situation did not appear the same. To a girl with budding feelings, the person she loved was always innocent and untainted.


    "This doesn''t make any sense, you have to believe him¡­" Ruzaki Mami pleaded.


    "ssmate Ruzaki, I can assure you, I won''t judge him with malice in mind," Kagura Hikaru stood up, "but at this point, we must seek help from the Disciplinary Committee."


    "If this ends up involving Teacher Sato¡ª"


    "If it turns out he''s not involved, I will plead with President Ayakoji to turn a blind eye," he said.


    "But, but will President Ayakoji really listen to you? I heard she''s quite ruthless."


    "She will."


    Kagura Hikaru''s firm stance made Ruzaki Mami''s face go slightly pale as she lowered her head, "I understand¡­"


    She was naturally passive, too scared even to resist when extorted. Even if Kagura Hikaru didn''t exin any further, and took a firmer stance, she would ultimately ept it.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian hugged her, offeringfort and support.


    "If there''s any development in the future, apart from the three of us, please don''t tell anyone else, even your boyfriend. Can you promise me that?" Kagura Hikaru said to Ruzaki Mami.


    After receiving a positive response, he stood up and left.


    This could be considered an unhappy departure, since before leaving, Kagura Hikaru saw discontent and disagreement on Ruzaki Mami''s face.


    Apparently, it''s hard to persuade a teenage girl with reason.


    After today, they might never again hear that crisp ''Mr. Kagura'' from her.


    Kagura Hikaru walked on without caring about these matters.

 Chapter 37 The Friend Plan

    Kagura Hikaru could understand people''s hearts, yet he wasn''t good at handling interpersonal rtionships¡ªas one could see from his interactions with Kiryu Hina.


    But the good news was that he was sufficiently introverted and knew how to enjoy solitude; even without friends, even if no one spoke to him, he still managed to live contentedly.


    This was also why, although he could have deceived Ruzaki Mami and secretly handled the matter, he chose to remain ''honest,'' the core reason being that he wasn''t afraid of being disliked.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Indeed, he hade to solve a problem, not to make enemies.


    So his promise to Ruzaki Mami was genuine; Kagura Hikaru would ensure that when the truth came out, the innocent wouldn''t get hurt.


    Ironically, this ''Teacher Sato,'' despite being the central figure in the entire ckmail incident, had yet to be seen.


    Previously, he hadn''t cared, but now he couldn''t help but want to know more about him.


    Kagura Hikaru thanked the member who had shown him the way and opened the door of the Disciplinary Committee office without surprise to see Ayakoji Chiyoko flipping through documents.


    He knew Ayakoji Chiyoko wouldn''t return home that early; after school, she would handle official duties at the Disciplinary Committee until the patrols were finished to ensure nothing went wrong at school in the absence of an authority.


    Being diligent and conscientious was one of the reasons she was respected.


    Upon hearing the ssroom door open, Ayakoji Chiyoko looked up and, slightly surprised, raised her eyebrows, "Is there something?"


    "Yes."


    Kagura Hikaru sat opposite her and got straight to the point, "At noon, I came here to check on student records, remember?"


    "Of course." Ayakoji Chiyoko set down the file in her hands and met Kagura''s gaze, "Before, you said it was a personal matter and asked me not to intervene."


    "Sorry, I was arrogant before. Now, there''s been a mishap, and before it gets worse, I need the help of the Disciplinary Committee."


    "Oh? Let''s hear it."


    Kagura Hikaruid out the entire issue: the ckmail Ruzaki Mami faced, the involvednguage teacher, and the ckmailers he saw choosing to flee.


    "Those three people hold apromising photo of Ruzaki Mami and are using it to extort money," Kagura Hikaru said, "There might be copies of the photo."


    "Photos, huh..." Ayakoji Chiyoko''s gaze grew colder, then she nodded, "I will make those people spill everything they know."


    "It would be good if the money taken from Ruzaki Mami could also be returned."


    "I''ll do my best."


    "Thank you for that."


    Given Ayakoji Chiyoko''s character, even Kagura Hikaru couldn''t predict how she would react to knowing a teacher was crossing the line within the school.


    But fortunately, after he suggested keeping things confidential, Ayakoji Chiyoko agreed.


    It wasn''t that Kagura Hikaru had no opinion about the one who targeted the underage, but it was a matter of priorities and considering Ruzaki Mami''s feelings.


    After all, the main reason Ruzaki Mami was ckmailed was fear of her boyfriend''s expulsion; it was best not to put the cart before the horse.


    "Thatnguage teacher, Teacher Sato." Ayakoji Chiyoko sped her hands on the table, thoughtful, "I have some impression of him, a young teacher who''s fairly popr among the female students."


    "Is there a problem with him?"


    "No, on the contrary, he has an excellent reputation. Handsome, gentle and patient, high-quality teaching, and has solved a few problems for students in his ss. From what he''s shown, he doesn''t seem like someone who wouldmit evil."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko stood up, pulled out a rather thick file from a file cab beside her, and handed it to Kagura Hikaru.


    Thetter opened it to find that it indeed registered all the school teachers'' details, even those who had left.


    The first teacher on the first page, named ''Sato Seiji,'' was a handsome, bespectacled man, fitting the current trendy intellectual male image.


    It noted that he had joined as a newnguage teacherst year, recing a retired staff member, and he was presently responsible for teaching second-year students.


    Kagura Hikaru firmly memorized this person.


    He must be Ruzaki Mami''s boyfriend, and he too had suffered from extortion because of him.


    Ruzaki Mami had said that she only told her boyfriend about seeking help.


    Therefore, aside from random factors, looking from the existing clues, the person who leaked Kagura Hikaru''s information to the third-year students allowing them to sessfully escape, was very likely this Teacher Sato.


    If this spection were true, one could imagine, he definitely participated in extorting his own girlfriend, thus is also one of the criminals.


    "Public opinion can''t represent everything, right?" Kagura Hikaru raised his head and said.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko smiled, a cold smile, her mood had been bad since she heard about the extortion in the school.


    "If public opinion could represent a person''s true quality, then the President of America would be both senile and a master strategist, both a warmonger and a savior of the world¡ªothers'' opinions are just that, others'' opinions, they represent nothing.


    Including Ruzaki Mami, the Sato Seiji she sees, and the one we see are definitely not the same person."


    "But whether Teacher Sato is innocent or a perpetrator in this extortion case hasn''t been concluded yet, has it?"


    "That''s what we need to confirm next."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko called the Discipline Committee member, instructing him to investigate the second-year nationalnguage teacher.


    "Yes, President."


    The Discipline Committee member promptly left.


    After the person left, Kagura Hikaru tried to tease, "You''re not the president anymore."


    "Mouths are on their own bodies; I can''t control them," Ayakoji Chiyoko hummed, saying this.


    But by her appearance, she didn''t seem displeased.


    "So now there are two presidents in the Discipline Committee?"


    "That''s only in the clubroom. Outside, they won''t talk too much."


    Being able to chat leisurely like this was also proof of the improvement in their rtionship.


    Kagura Hikaru came to find the Discipline Committee this time not just for efficiency''s sake, but also to deepen his connection with Ayakoji Chiyoko, which was also part of the reason.


    He hadn''t forgotten the task entrusted to him by Hina.


    Task content: Befriend Ayakoji Chiyoko, then go to her house and retrieve something.


    Anyone who had ever interacted with Ayakoji Chiyoko would be deeply impressed by her aloofness; it was hard to imagine who could be her friend, let alone enter her house.


    Kagura Hikaru was aware of the difficulty of this task, yet he was undaunted.


    Even the hardest iceberg would eventually melt if one was willing to spend time chipping away at it.


    Indeed, Kagura Hikaru''s ''friendship n'' had been underway for two years.


    To conquer Ayakoji Chiyoko, the alpine flower upon this iceberg, it wouldn''t be enough without this level of effort.


    He believed that before graduation, he would definitely have a chance to fulfill Hina''s purpose.


    However, this time, increasing Ayakoji Chiyoko''s affinity was just incidental, helping Ruzaki Mami solve her problem was the most urgent.


    Lunch break was almost over without him realizing; Kagura Hikaru bid farewell to Ayakoji Chiyoko and rushed back to the ssroom.


    Before he left, Ayakoji Chiyoko told him that they would carry out the extortionist''s arrest after school the next day if Kagura Hikaru was interested, he coulde to watch.


    Having the entire Disciplinary Committee as a backup was indeed reassuring; with their capabilities, this matter should be resolved quickly.


    The next day, Kagura Hikaru was informed that the third-year students involved in the extortion were already under surveince.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko contacted him, and they arranged to act after school.

 Chapter 38 Teacher Sato

    When Kagura Hikaru informed Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami about the "Criminal Roundup Operation", both women simultaneously requested to apany him.


    He naturally agreed.


    Since it was a roundup, having one or two more people wouldn''t change anything, he simply instructed them not to show themselves before the sess of the n, to prevent the target from noticing.


    Previously, when Kagura Hikaru and those three ckmailers first met, he was recognized, so he couldn''t guarantee that the appearance of the two women wouldn''t make them overthink.


    But there are always unexpected events, and at noon, Ruzaki Mami suddenly reported that the ckmailers had contacted her again demanding money.


    After discussing with Ayakoji Chiyoko, Kagura Hikaru decided to change the n temporarily, using Ruzaki Mami as bait to proceed with the arrest earlier than nned.


    At 12:50 PM, Ruzaki Mami waited at the secluded garbage incineration nt and met the target three men.


    "Hey,dy, hand over the money, and then you can leave!" said the leader in a harsh tone.


    Ruzaki Mami showed a fearful expression and, as usual, took out the prepared banknotes and handed them over to them.


    Just as they were taking the money, several burly men suddenly rushed out from behind nearby obstacles, effectively blocking the path.


    The ckmailing trio, seeing Ayakoji Chiyoko walk out from behind and Ruzaki Mami, who took the opportunity to run into the crowd of Discipline Committee members, suddenly changed their expression.


    "You little brat! You actually snitched to the Disciplinary Committee!!"


    "We''re in trouble, big brother, this is a dead end."


    "Let''s see if we can fight our way out!"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko coldly said, "Takayama Kenta, Tachibana Kanichi, Koyama Rikiya, I advise you not to get any funny ideas. Return the photos and the money you took from Ruzaki Mami, and I might consider being lenient."


    "Ptui!" Takayama Kenta spat, ring fiercely at Ruzaki Mami hiding among the crowd, "Even if we get caught today, that photo will be released, you just wait!"


    "Oh? So you have aplices." Ayakoji Chiyoko''s gaze flickered.


    Since all three involved in the ckmail were here, and they believed there was still a chance for retaliation despite knowing they would be restrained, there must be an aplice helping from the outside.


    Takayama Kenta, realizing he had misspoken, stammered in his retort: "I, I mean, we set up a timed send! If it''s not canceled within 24 hours, that photo will be posted online for everyone to see!"


    "It''s toote to fix this now."


    Kagura Hikaru, also among the Discipline Committee members, spoke up.


    [Damn, nowhere to run now....]


    [You''ve gained through mind-reading: Motorcycling +1]


    [Motorcycling lv4 (3/100)]


    Suddenly cornered by the Discipline Committee members, Takayama Kenta and the others were tense, their minds exceptionally active.


    Kagura Hikaru took the opportunity to read their minds, confirming the location of the photo backup, as well as the identity of that aplice.


    The rest was to find the evidence.....


    "What are you all doing here?"


    Suddenly, a voice came from the rear.


    Everyone turned to look and saw a man in a suit and sses, a teacher, standing there with a surprised expression.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko involuntarily widened their eyes, while Ruzaki Mami, standing next to Ai Cheng Hua Lian, eximed in surprise, "Teacher Sato, what are you doing here?!"


    "That''s my line, Student Ruzaki...."


    Thenguage teacher named Sato Seiji looked puzzled as he surveyed them: "With so many of you gathered at the garbage nt, you wouldn''t be fighting, would you?"


    "We....." Ayakoji Chiyoko began, then, sensing something, abruptly turned to look back, his eyes wide with anger.


    Just then, Takayama Kenta and the other two, previously trapped in the dead-end, were climbing the incinerator, attempting to scale the back wall of the garbage nt.


    "Hey, what are you doing, get down!!" bellowed the vice-president, a giant of a man, charging forward with the force of a wall-breaking momentum.


    Unfortunately, it was a step toote, and thest person also scaled the wall and disappeared from view.


    Kagura Hikaru made a great effort to read their direction with his ability, vaguely saw an unclear image, and after a moment''s thought, turned to ask, "Where does the area behind the wall lead?"


    "It should be outside the school." Ayakoji Chiyoko directed the other Discipline Committee members to follow and said with an ugly expression.


    The school''s garbage nt was built in the most secluded spot, which is also the edge of the school.


    From this point, one would naturally end up outside the school.


    Knowing it was beyond retrieval, Kagura Hikaru turned around and walked back.


    "Where are you going?" Ayakoji Chiyoko asked, tilting her head.


    "I''m going to investigate something on my own. Let me know if there''s any progress on your end."


    With that, Kagura Hikaru left alone.


    Before leaving, he nced at Teacher Sato, who looked puzzled as he tried to understand the situation from Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami, perplexed by the current state of affairs with even a hint of guilt for having done something wrong.


    Reality is not a detective novel; there aren''t that many twists and mysteries.


    In a situation where the truth was already confirmed, the only thing left to do was evidence, evidence, evidence.


    In a modern legal society, you couldn''t use anyone without evidence.


    This evidence could now only be obtained from those escapee seniors, but first, they needed to be found.


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t look back; he quickly returned to the ssroom and took out paper and pencil, precisely sketching the image he had seen through mind-reading onto the draft paper¡ªit was a building, an old factory.


    Ignoring his ssmates'' astonishment, Kagura Hikaru grabbed his backpack and guitar and left school early that day.


    Meanwhile, the Japanesenguage teacher, Sato Seiji, also learned the full story from Ruzaki Mami.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    At this point, there seemed no need for secrecy anymore.


    "Why didn''t you tell me about the photos?" Sato Seiji whispered, "I understand as a student you can''t handle this situation, but why not even give me a chance to help? Don''t you trust me?"


    "Of course not!" said Ruzaki Mami guiltily, "I just didn''t want to worry you, Teacher Sato....."


    "You..... eh."


    Sato Seiji shook his head and turned to Ai Cheng Hua Lian with a rueful smile, "I''m sorry, Student Ai Cheng, for making you see such a spectacle."


    "No, it''s okay, I understand." Ai Cheng Hua Lian waved her hand, her expression unsure.


    Seeing Ayakoji Chiyoko approaching them, Sato Seiji also turned to her and apologized, "I''m sorry, my timing was not good when I arrived, perhaps I intruded."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko did not respond, her gaze deep as she stared at him.


    Standing where Sato Seiji had been, one could clearly see the process of those three students escaping, yet he never spoke up to alert anyone.


    Was this because his attention wasn''t on them at the time, or was it because.....


    Tsk, dealing with students might have been manageable, but targeting a teacher became immediately problematic.


    The Disciplinary Committee was ultimately just an organization that limited students; it had no authority over adults.


    Now, all they could hope for was that the Discipline Committee member who had just chased after them would catch someone and extract some information from their mouths.


    Unfortunately, thisst wish too was unfulfilled, as the returning Discipline Committee members shook their heads at Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    "Is that so....."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko nodded pensively, her gaze following Teacher Sato, who was walking away with Ruzaki Mami, and said to her subordinates, "Check into Sato Seiji''s background, but keep it subtle."


    "Understood, President."


    In the end, Ayakoji Chiyoko still suspected Sato Seiji had issues.


    Even though he appeared oblivious, and even took the initiative to apologize and thank her and Ai Cheng Hua Lian for not spreading the secret rtionship between the two, something felt off.


    As the daughter of an actress, Ayakoji Chiyoko noticed some deliberate traces, which made her more cautious.


    And Ai Cheng Hua Lian obviously didn''t understand anything and began to waver uncertainly.


    The timing of Sato Seiji''s arrival was too coincidental to be mere chance, but his excuses left no loopholes for her to grasp.


    Yet as he was about to take Ruzaki Mami away, she still insisted on following them, determined not to leave after school.


    If Sato Seiji really was problematic, allowing her friend to be alone with him could be dangerous.


    Lately, those senior delinquents had stoppeding to school.


    The Discipline Committee followed up at their registered home addresses and found their families, who informed them they couldn''t find their children, saying they had called on the day they ran away to say they were going to stay at a friend''s house for a few days, and then they never saw them again nor disclosed where this so-called friend lived.


    Just when the Discipline Committee members were at a loss, Ruzaki Mami received another ckmail message.

 Chapter 39 Today Is the Day to Wash Away the Disgrace!

    ```


    [Prepare four million yen in cash within a week! Mail it to Wada Coarse Snack Shop in Hirao Town, Yamaguchi Prefecture! Otherwise, we will send out the photos to your family, friends, ssmates, and you will lose all your dignity. Your Teacher Sato will also be dismissed from his job!]


    After school at 3:30 pm, when Ruzaki Mami showed the text message she had received to Ayakoji Chiyoko, this is what it said.


    Hirao Town, Yamaguchi Prefecture is a rural area far from Tokyo; presumably, it must be the hometown of one of the three extortionists.


    "Four million yen is not a small amount," Ayakoji Chiyoko said as she handed back Ruzaki Mami''s phone, suggesting, "If you are willing to report this to the police, they will take care of it."


    "I... I won''t report it to the police," Ruzaki Mami said, maturing a bit after several days of anxious toil, but still not daring to look Ayakoji Chiyoko in the eye, she looked down slightly, "I don''t want Teacher Sato to be fired!"


    "So you''re saying you''ll pay the money?"


    "..."


    "Good, it seems you haven''t been blinded by love."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko clenched her fists on the table, and said with the calm tone of a doctor, "Extortion is never-ending. Once youpromise, they will bleed you dry for the rest of your life. It''s four million now, but tomorrow it might be five, six million. Do you really want to use your parents'' hard-earned money to clean up after your boyfriend?"


    Ruzaki Mami, unable to argue, pressed her head even lower in embarrassment, ashamed of herself for having considered doing just that for a moment.


    Love cannot be measured in terms of money.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    But that''s just a tale for children; modern high school students are more realistic than ever and fully aware of the value of money.


    That''s four million yen we''re talking about. You could buy a nice car, travel to several countries, or with the right moves even get Teacher Sato a job that''s no worse than teaching. Why should you give that money to extortionists?


    As for that photo... Ruzaki Mami was still troubled by it, profoundly conflicted, yet not knowing what to do.


    If it were really exposed, it might be a mere embarrassment and scolding for her, but Sato would genuinely lose his job and might never be able to work in the educational field again.


    Thinking of this, Ruzaki Mami couldn''t help feeling sad, and she resolved that if she indeed caused Teacher Sato to lose his job, she would have to help him find a new one.


    For example, bing a manager at her father''s hotel.


    And then, naturally, bing her husband... Hehe, hehehe, heheheheheh.


    "Ah, lost in her own little world again," Ai Cheng Hua Lian, sitting beside her, sighed as she saw Ruzaki Mami blushing and daydreaming with a silly smile still on her lips.


    This silly girl.


    She turned her head to Ayakoji Chiyoko, "President Ayakoji, do you know where Mr. Kagura has beentely? He won''t tell me when I ask, and it''s quite concerning."


    As Ruzaki Mami had recently been in close contact with the Disciplinary Committee, her rtionship with Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ayakoji Chiyoko had improved a bit. Although she was still fearful, at least she no longer felt weak at the knees at the sight of Ayakoji''s stern face.


    Upon closer interaction, Ai Cheng Hua Lian realized that the Disciplinary Committee Chairman, who was rumored to be arrogantly cannibalistic, wasn''t as dismissive as she imagined.


    She may be cool, but that''s just because she''s too serious.


    Continuing their acquaintance, they might even be something like friends.


    At this thought, Ai Cheng Hua Lian felt aplicated mix of emotions.


    Ever since she learned from the Student Council President that Kagura Hikaru had a crush on Ayakoji Chiyoko, she had always felt inferior around her, guilty for no reason, and worried that something might be noticed.


    This frustration had nowhere to go, and made her feel like beating up a certain male high school student who, after being all over the ce and disappearing for three days, still managed to be the center of people''s talks.


    For the past three days, he had been missing after school, iming to be busy with something when contacted online and acting all mysterious.


    However, Ai Cheng Hua Lian guessed that he was probably investigating the whereabouts of the extortionists alone, and she couldn''t help worrying about his safety.


    ```


    After all, Kagura Hikaru did not seem to have the physique of someone who was good at fighting, delicate and fragile as he appeared; if he were to be attacked, he was likely to be covered in wounds.


    After asking Ayakoji Chiyoko, thetter also shook her head to indicate that she did not know.


    Their exchanges had been brief, with Chiyoko practically conveying new intelligence unterally these days, while there was no informationing back from Hikaru.


    Although they had not coordinated in advance, they tacitly chose different directions for their investigation and advanced separately.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had chosen the lead of Sato Seiji and had uncovered quite a few things; she was just waiting for the evidence to fall into ce.


    As for the line Hikaru had chosen, the missing extortionist, the progress was unknown.


    Securing direct evidence would likely depend on his performance.


    If it was toote, in a week''s time, that photograph would spread, causing irreversible damage to Ruzaki Mami.


    After discussing the matter, Ai Cheng Karen and Ruzaki Mami were ready to leave.


    It was then that Ayakoji Chiyoko''s phone rang.


    She nced at the caller ID and immediately answered the call; the voice of Kagura Hikaru came from the other end, "I''ve found them, but there are quite a few people."


    The smile at the corners of Ayakoji Chiyoko''s mouth faded, and her gaze sharpened; she looked like a lion intently eyeing its prey from afar, her iron-cold blood heating up with that non-human sensation returning to her.


    Sensing a shift in the atmosphere, Ai Cheng Karen and Ruzaki Mami stopped, pricking up their ears to eavesdrop.


    "Give me the location, can you provide a detailed address?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko pulled over an inconsequential document, flipped it over, and began writing down an address while listening.


    "Hmm... Hmm... Wait for me half an hour; don''t do anything rash before I get there."


    After saying that, she hung up the phone and stood up, only to meet two pairs of curious cat eyes staring at her.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko shook her head, "You cannot be involved; it could be dangerous."


    "Can''t we just watch from a distance?"


    "We''ll stay far away!"


    "No."


    Leaving no room for negotiation, Ayakoji Chiyoko had someone forcefully escort the two women away and then called the vice president, naming ten people to return to the club room and gather.


    Five minutester.


    In the ce where Sword Dao training was usually held, all ten Discipline Committee members stood.


    They were the strongest fighters within the Disciplinary Committee, ensuring the capture operation was foolproof.


    "The third-year extortionist who slipped away from us has been found," Chiyoko dered.


    As these words were spoken, the breathing of the Discipline Committee members in the old ssroom grew heavier, and their eyes changed.


    The fact that they had let the criminal escape due to carelessness a few days ago was regarded as a humiliation by the entire Disciplinary Committee.


    It seemed that the day to redeem themselves hade!


    "We''re going to settle this right now," Ayakoji Chiyoko said, hands behind her back and expressionless, "Take off your armbands and follow me!"

 Chapter 40 Breaking into the Scene

    Ayakoji Chiyoko walked out of the ssroom, followed by ten imposing burly men and strong women, like dark clouds pressing down, their ''Discipline'' red armbands uniformly torn off and ced on the table at the door.


    Discipline Committee members are not allowed to participate in off-campus disputes, which is a vition of school rules.


    But by taking off their armbands, they temporarily became free agents.


    To avoid drawing attention, Ayakoji Chiyoko had her subordinates disperse and leave the school in several groups, quickly heading to the scene.


    Half an hourter, near an abandoned factory.


    This ce is on the edge of Tokyo, once a well-known industrial development zone, but now it is deste, dpidated, and impoverished, seemingly stuck in the era when thest century''s bubble burst.


    Those who remain here are all from the lower strata of society, or those who have fallen into the valley waiting for a resurgence.


    Kagura Hikaru stood at the entrance of a small, old-fashioned grocery store, a cigarette-shaped mint candy hanging from his lips, listlessly as if waiting for someone.


    Suddenly, he seemed to hear a noise and turned his head toward the street corner.


    At the corner, the figure of a tall woman appeared, followed by one burly man and door-kicking strong women after another, striding forward with a formidable presence and disheveled, heavy footsteps.


    A dense group of people, all dressed in the same ck uniforms, followed behind Ayakoji Chiyoko, approaching with an aggressive air, anyone unaware might think they were Yakuza about to contest turf.


    Kagura Hikaru watched this group of menacing looking Discipline Committee members approaching, thinking to himself what high school drama are you all acting out here, he nodded as a greeting and was about to speak, but then saw Ayakoji Chiyoko''s expression change, she swiftly snatched the ''cigarette'' from his mouth.


    "Smoking vites the Discipline Code, write me a reflection for tomorrow."


    Kagura Hikaru, speechless, ".....this is candy, give it back."


    "?"


    Picking up the ''cigarette'' and smelling it, Ayakoji Chiyoko then confirmed it wasn''t the real thing.


    Unembarrassed, she tossed the candy cigarette back to him and looked towards the distant abandoned factory, casually starting a conversation.


    "So that''s where they''re hiding?"


    "Hmm."


    "How did you find them?"


    Tokyo is a vast metropolis, home to over ten million people, a true melting pot, yet remarkably, Kagura Hikaru had found the target in just three days.


    Kagura Hikaru chewed the candy cigarette in his mouth, briefly lost in memories.


    On the first day the ckmailers disappeared, Kagura Hikaru took a sketch of the factory from his memory and attempted to match it online without sess, then went around asking the locals in Tokyo.


    But he soon realized it was too slow until he passed by a private detective agency and had an epiphany about the right approach, hiring several detectives to distribute several copies of the factory image, along with sketches of the three ckmailers'' faces, and asking them to help look for the people.


    The private detective industry in the Ind Nation has a history and is still not prohibited to this day.


    Although they don''t have the credentials to participate in criminal cases like someics about grim reapers, and most of their jobs are minuscule, such as catching adulterers or following celebrities, these tasks are unmanageable without connections and familiarity with the local area; it was much easier than if Kagura Hikaru had done it alone, costing only some money.


    By the third day, Kagura Hikaru got the specific location from one of the detectives, found the abandoned factory he had seen in his mind-reading, quickly paid, scoped out the site briefly, and then called Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    "There are only three of them inside, along with two motorcycles; I saw no weapons."


    During his survey, he saw instant noodle tubs all over the floor, as well as sleeping bags and fire barrels.


    These people nned to hide here until they got the money.


    A bunch of idiots.


    Indeed, one had to be stupid to get involved in extortion.


    The group quickly reached the vicinity of the abandoned factory and split into two to block both the front and rear entrances. At Ayakoji Chiyoko''smand, they collectively stormed in.


    "Bang!"


    A loud noise as the factory door was kicked open. A band of burly men rushed forward, pinning down three extortionists, who were obliviously eating instant noodles, onto the floor. They skillfully tied their thumbs together with cable ties.


    There was no thrill; the target was captured smoothly.


    Until the end, Takayama Kenta and the others were bewildered, evidently clueless about how the Discipline Committee members had found them.


    Soon, someone collected their mobile phones and handed them to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    She opened the mobile gallery, which was filled with all sorts of obscene images. The photos of Ruzaki Mami and Sato Seiji were mixed in among them.


    In the photos, they were embracing and kissing in an empty ssroom. The photos were taken from outside, somewhat blurry, but the identities of the two individuals were clearly discernible.


    Then she opened the call log.


    In Takayama Kenta''s phone, she indeed found the number of a certain Chinesenguage teacher. Both the frequency and duration of the calls were abnormal.


    The evidence had been collected.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Ayakoji Chiyoko smiled satisfactorily. Her smile was beautiful but somehow cruel.


    Sato Seiji, as expected, this man was also a criminal.


    Deceiving an innocent girl, engaging in extortion, his crimes were unforgivable.


    He was about to meet a painful end at the hands of Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Just as they were victorious and about to escort the captives back to school, the sound of motorcycles approaching from afar suddenly filled the air.


    In a moment, more than ten modified cruiser motorcycles charged through the main gate into the factory.


    They were a group dressed in special attack uniforms, better known as a biker gang.


    The so-called biker gang, in fact a derogatory term for a motorcycle club, often involved in reckless riding and vandalism.


    Takayama Kenta, previously subdued by the burly men, suddenly cried out in surprise and delight upon seeing them, "Big brother, save me!"


    With these words, everyone immediately realized they were in big trouble.


    The leader of the Sha Ma Te biker gang, with long hair, got off his bike and pointed fiercely at them, shouting, "Who the hell are you guys, daring to mess with my brother? Don''t you believe I can kill you!"


    The other gang members also dismounted and stood behind Sha Ma Te to back him up, shaking their heads and cursing.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko sneered coldly and gestured with her fingers. The Discipline Committee members immediately lined up behind her, their presence menacing and silent, their gaze fixed on the neers, showing no fear.


    The leader of the Sha Ma Te biker gang hesitated for a moment upon seeing this but nced at his cousin bound and lying on the ground, gritted his teeth, and abruptly waved his hand, "Attack!"


    Over a dozen gang members charged at them.


    The Discipline Committee members immediately assigned two to protect Ayakoji Chiyoko at the back, while the others rushed forward to intercept the gang mid-way.


    A fierce brawl broke out.

 Chapter 41 Over-Shoulder Throw

    Discipline Committee members hadn''t expected that, the very group who usually upheld the school discipline, would actively break the rules today and engage in a brawl outside school grounds.


    Fortunately, the fight broke out unexpectedly and the opposing side hadn''t prepared any weapons, but the bad news was that neither had Kagura Hikaru and his team, leaving everyone with no choice but to go fist to fist in a physical collision match.


    Within just a scant ten seconds or so, the situation began to tilt in favor of the Discipline Committee members.


    Unlike the biker gang which relied solely on brute force, the grappling techniques that the Discipline Committee members practiced regrly in their club room came into y, coupled with their coordinated teamwork, they took down several people upon making contact.


    By the time Ayakoji Chiyoko joined the fray, the scales of victory tippedpletely one-sided.


    Thebat prowess of the other Discipline Committee members was already high from a high schooler''s standpoint, but Ayakoji Chiyoko was still above them all. Despite her physique being weaker than that of men''s, she could easily knock down an adult with a blow, incapacitating them from getting up for quite a while.


    Her movements were extremely fast, and she clearly knew the weak points of the human body, targeting the opponents'' vulnerabilities with every strike, and she took down several people within five to six seconds.


    Soon, the biker gang members were lying on the ground, while not a single Discipline Committee member had been lost, signaling their defeat as inevitable.


    It seems there''s no need for me to act now.


    That''s what Kagura Hikaru thought.


    Suddenly, his eyes narrowed; the Sha Ma Te biker gang leader, somehow unnoticed, had crept up behind Ayakoji Chiyoko. Something in his right hand, which he had pulled from his pocket, glinted with a sh of cold light.


    Kagura Hikaru was rmed and immediately rushed forward.


    "Motherfucker, take this¡ª"


    The Sha Ma Te biker gang member suddenly pulled out a switchde and stabbed it down toward Ayakoji Chiyoko''s shoulder.


    He had already figured out that Ayakoji Chiyoko was the leader of these people and nned to injure her first, then use her as a hostage to force the group to retreat.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko turned her head at the noise, her face showing surprise, but it was already toote to react.


    However, as the switchde came down, an iron hand unexpectedly appeared from the side, fiercely grabbing the wrist of the Sha Ma Te biker gang member holding the knife, followed by a punch to his ribs.


    Taking advantage of his loosened grip from the pain, Kagura Hikaru snatched away the switchde, and thennded another punch that knocked the Sha Ma Te biker gang member''s jaw askew. The man''s body shuddered, and he copsed into unconsciousness.


    Kagura Hikaru closed the switchde and put it away, then turned to look back at an astonished Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Hearing the whoosh of air, he turned his head and saw another biker gang member charging toward him with excellent form, so going with his momentum, Hikaru sidestepped, grabbed the assant''s hand, shouldered him, and executed a leg sweep¡ªa perfect Judo throw heard with a thud as the unfortunate thug was mmed heavily onto the ground, instantly rendered incapacitated.


    Seeing this, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s surprise deepened on her face, "That was a beautiful throw."


    "Thank you,"


    Kagura Hikaru remained unfazed, merely nodding, then reached out to assist a nearby Discipline Committee member in taking down another person.


    Since he had already intervened, he might as well help to the end; standing by idly didn''t seem right.


    He didn''t realize that Ayakoji Chiyoko was still discreetly observing him, surprised by hisbat skills.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko hadn''t expected much of Kagura Hikaru''s fighting ability because his build didn''t resemble that of someone who exercised regrly. But maybe she had indeed judged the book by its cover; he had remained unengaged until now, but his involvement let her see how superficial her understanding of him had been.


    That swift response, the grasp of timing, and the ease with which he handled himself during the encounter, were all qualities apparent in someone who had seen many battles.


    His fluid movements even reminded Ayakoji Chiyoko of her Judo master, an old fellow who had been immersed in martial arts for fifty years.


    To tell the truth, she had never been sopletely mistaken about someone.


    This intense feeling of misjudgment caused a strange current of warmth to surge through Ayakoji Chiyoko''s heart.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had a peculiar fascination with probing into others'' inner selves.


    She needed to unearth the things and emotions that others kept hidden, to satisfy her curiosity.


    Previously, Kagura Hikaru used personal matters as an excuse not to tell Ayakoji Chiyoko what she was doing, which had piqued her ''keen interest''. To her disappointment, he had voluntarily revealed the secret that afternoon, and it turned out to be nothing special.


    But this time, this time was different, she had found a ''secret'' even more significant than thest one!


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s heart raced, her blood boiling with uncontroble excitement.


    A smile spread across her face unwittingly, terrifying the gang member she was beating to the core.


    This woman, was she actually beating someone up while smiling? Was she some kind of sadist?!


    It took just over ten minutes for the Discipline Committee member to sessfully knock down all the gang members, with only minor injuries to their side, all of them light wounds.


    The Gori Vice President, having learned from others that Ayakoji Chiyoko had nearly been stabbed, was beside himself with rage. Since it wasn''t right to take it out on the unconscious, he directed his fury towards Takayama Kenta and the two others who had been pinned down.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Their thumbs were tied behind their backs, but their feet were not, which originally gave them a chance to escape amidst the chaos. However, Kagura Hikaru had been watching them the whole time. When Kagura Hikaru went in for the rescue, the three thought their opportunity hade, but other Discipline Committee members spotted themotion and came over to guard.


    Seeing that all the gang members had been defeated, their spirits sank, lying face up like useless fish on the beach, having lost all desire to flee.


    They thought the situation couldn''t get any worse, but reality proved them too naive.


    As soon as Takayama Kenta heard footsteps and opened his eyes, he saw a man as huge as a gori, mming his fist, as big as a sandpot, towards his face.


    "Wait¡ª¡ª"


    Takayama Kenta''s eyes widened in an attempt to say something, but the fist had already smashed into his nose, instantly dazing him.


    "That''s for trying to escape! That''s for extorting! That''s for calling yourself big brother! That''s for backstabbing the President!"


    "I... I didn''t backstab our President..." Takayama Kenta managed to say, nose bleeding.


    Another punch hit his eye socket.


    "Contrarian jerk, always contradicting, now contradict this!"


    "You... you..."


    Takayama Kenta''s breath caught in his throat, and he fainted on the spot.


    But to Tachibana Kanichi and Koyama Rikiya watching alongside, it was clear he was knocked out by the beating!


    Seeing the Gori''s eyes turn their way, they were struck with terror and shouted with all their strength, "Don''t hit me! I''ll confess!"


    "Yes, yes, we have something very important to tell!"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko walked over and looked down at them, her face expressionless as she said, "What you want to talk about is Sato Seiji, isn''t it."


    "Uh...."


    Tachibana Kanichi and Koyama Rikiya exchanged an awkward look.


    It seemed she had guessed right.


    "Vice President, take these three away for interrogation back at the headquarters."


    "Yes!"


    The Gori Vice President went behind the two, and like picking up chicks, lifted them with one hand each.


    The passed out Takayama Kenta was handed over to other Discipline Committee members for escort and surveince.


    As for those gang members lying on the ground, groaning... let them stay a little longer; young people need their sleep.

 Chapter 42 The Disillusionment of Love

    Half an hourter, everyone triumphantly returned.


    On the way back, they had gone to great lengths to hide signs of binding. They''d nearly been questioned by the police, but thankfully, with arge group, they formed a wall that hid everything from view.


    When they reached the school, they unexpectedly encountered Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami at the bottom of the old school building, who still hadn''t left.


    "What are you doing here?" Kagura Hikaru asked.


    "We were waiting for you guys toe back."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian and the two of them hurried over when they saw the third-year students who had ckmailed Ruzaki Mami being escorted by the Disciplinary Committee members into the old school building, and their faces lit up with joy.


    "You really caught them, that''s great!"


    "The interrogation is about to begin." Ayakoji Chiyoko walked over, giving Ruzaki Mami a deep look, ".... You two shoulde along as well, there are some things you''re better off hearing."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian and Ruzaki Mami exchanged puzzled nces, not understanding why.


    Kagura Hikaru knew what she was referring to and fell silent.


    For Ruzaki Mami, the truth that was about to be revealed might be too cruel.


    But to turn away from reality is the real tragedy.


    People are bound to face tragedies, sooner orter.


    It''s just that Ruzaki Mami''s love had shattered a little earlier than others.


    The group returned to the third floor of the old school building, the Disciplinary Committee''s room.


    The three ckmailers were locked in a ssroom previously used for detaining students who had broken the rules, their hands and feet bound to chairs with zip ties, merged with the chairs as if they were one, able to maintain only a seated position, instilling in them an intense feeling of confinement.


    Takayama Kenta had alsoe to his senses from his fainted state by now and looked fearfully at the Gori Vice President, who was staring intently at them, before turning his gaze to Ayakoji Chiyoko, Kagura Hikaru, and the others.


    "Whatever the President asks you, you answer. Spit out everything you know! If you don''t talk, we''ll beat it out of you! Lying, withholding, we beat you all the same!!"


    The Gori Vice President suddenly roared without warning, his voice echoing through the old ssroom, buzzing in everyone''s heads.


    The three of them hurriedly nodded, fearful of getting hit again for being slow.


    Just imagine, a hulking man as big and strong as Zhang Fei staring you down in a room, who wouldn''t be intimidated?N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "How did Sato Seiji coborate with you?" Ayakoji Chiyoko asked them.


    This question made Ruzaki Mami''s eyes widen suddenly.


    Just as she was about to say something, Kagura Hikaru put a hand on her shoulder, and Ai Cheng Hua Lian also grabbed her hand.


    Ruzaki Mami looked at her dear friend with a confused expression: "Karen-chan?"


    "I''m sorry, Zhen Chun, I''ve been hiding it from you...." Ai Cheng Hua Lian said with a look of guilt.


    In fact, she had learned of Teacher Sato''s suspicions from Ayakoji Chiyoko a few days ago and had prepared herself for the possibility that he was one of the ckmailers. But back then, without evidence to expose him, she hadn''t told Zhen Chun.


    Firstly, she was afraid Zhen Chun wouldn''t believe it, which could damage their friendship. Secondly, she was concerned that it might alert Sato Seiji, allowing him to escape or do something even more dangerous.


    Ruzaki Mami looked into Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s eyes, where she saw not a trace of mischief, only remorse.


    The looks from others were also full of sympathy, some even avoiding eye contact with her.


    This shook her firm stance, and she turned to Takayama Kenta and the others with hope that they would rify things, to clear her boyfriend of suspicion.


    Regrettably, she would be disappointed.


    How could those who had already been terrified by the fearless Discipline Committee members dare to lie in their territory?


    "I, I''ll talk!" Takayama Kenta gritted his teeth and said, "About a month ago, Teacher Sato approached us, wanting to hire us to take photos of him and his girlfriend, to use them to ckmail his girlfriend for money. He said his girlfriend was rich, and we''d split the money we got from her. We agreed."


    Ruzaki Mami''s legs gave way, and she clung to Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s waist for support, "This isn''t true, it''s not like that, Teacher Sato he....."


    Ruzaki Mami, this is reality," Ayakoji Chiyoko said without turning her head back, "You can only choose to ept it."


    Ruzaki Mami began to tremble even more violently, her hands gripping Ai Cheng Hua Lian''s waist painfully as tears streamed down onto the floor.


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian hugged her best friend, warming her with her body temperature to offer constion.


    Kagura Hikaru silently watched this scene.


    When hope is shattered, this is the expression people have.


    He had seen that expression three times before.


    The first was when his father learned of his mother''s betrayal, a pain and rage that burst forth in silence, sending shivers down one''s spine.


    The second time was with Kiryu Hina, who learned that he had done something as a boyfriend that one should never do, at the worst possible time, in the worst possible ce¡ªthe kind of scar that would never be forgotten, engraved deep into the marrow, the moment true love was crushed.


    The third time was now, urring to Ruzaki Mami, stirring the worst of his memories.


    Indeed, Kagura Hikaru, like his father, his mother, and Sato Seiji, had also experienced betrayal and concealment.


    His life ovepped with theirs in parts, a most heinous twist of fate.


    "When I saw Sato Seiji at the scene of the arrest of Takayama Kenta and the others, I knew he was likely involved in this extortion case, so I had my men look into his background."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, as if she were exining to Ruzaki Mami, folded her arms and talked unhurriedly about the Disciplinary Committee''s findings from their investigation into Sato Seiji in recent days.


    The realityid bare was startling.


    "Sato Seiji, 26 years old, from Osaka, came to Tokyo''s Haneoka Private High School two years ago, where he was popr and highly regarded by students.


    But who would have known that behind the scenes, he was actually a regr client haunting Kabukicho, and six months ago, he got hooked on gambling, losing his entire fortune at an underground casino, eventually owing the local gang a high-interest loan of 1.7 million yen."


    Ruzaki Mami dropped her head even lower.


    The time she had confirmed her rtionship with Sato Seiji was half a year ago.


    His purpose had always been money.


    "Recently, the debt-collectors have been knocking on his door every day, but even after draining his finances, Sato Seiji could only pay the interest. Probably feeling that this would never end, he started to entertain crooked thoughts and conspired with Takayama Kenta and the other two to extort Ruzaki Mami.


    After the matter came to light, he changed ns, hoping to pull off a big heist in one go, to clear his debts once and for all and make a small fortune on the side. Unfortunately, that idea haspletely failed."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko looked at Takayama Kenta, whose expression was nonchnt, "I''m very curious to know, if Ruzaki Mami had ultimately refused to pay, what would you have done?"


    Takayama Kenta clicked his tongue but, upon seeing the Gori Vice President ring fiercely at him, he shivered and confessed sheepishly with a shamefaced grin, "If we couldn''t get the money in the end, we nned to kidnap her and demand a ransom from her family."


    The room fell into silence.


    Nobody expected that a small school extortion would nearly escte into a kidnapping case.


    Gambling and high-interest loans indeed wreak serious harm...


    Ayakoji Chiyoko pulled out a voice recorder, gave them a deep look, and said, "We''ve recorded your words, extortion and attempted kidnapping, enough to teach you a lesson when it gets to the police."


    Upon hearing this, Takayama Kenta and the others immediately showed rm, but unable to resist, they could only slump weakly into their chairs.


    "The evidence of their crimes conspiring with Sato Seiji can be found in this mobile phone."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko crouched down and showed Ruzaki Mami, who was sitting on the ground with her head lowered like a duck, the photo stealthily taken on Takayama Kenta''s phone and the multiple calls with Sato Seiji, "I hope you can go to the police and let them receive the punishment they deserve."


    Ruzaki Mami stared at the phone, in pain and disbelief.


    She had never doubted her lover, yet he had betrayed her so thoroughly.


    After a long silence, she slowly reached out her hand, took the phone, and dialed the police.

 Chapter 43 Joining the Disciplinary Committee

    At this point, it seemed Ruzaki Mami''smission had still ended in failure.


    The surreptitiously taken photo had now be crucial criminal evidence, and even though Kagura Hikaru knew that Takayama Kenta and the others still had backups of the photos, they were irretrievable.


    Or rather, there was no need to retrieve them anymore.


    Because Ruzaki Mami hadpletely lost the reason to continue protecting Sato Seiji and was utterly disappointed in him.


    The morning after Takayama Kenta and the others were caught, as Sato Seiji came to work, he was arrested by the police on the spot in his office.


    It was said that he put up a fierce resistance during the arrest, attempting to jump from a window to escape, but in the end, he only managed to break his leg and changed nothing else.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko stood side by side on the floor of the first-year ssroom, watching as Sato Seiji was escorted away by two police officers with his hands secured, and ced into the police car at the school gate.


    From this moment on, the incident waspletely concluded.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko turned her head, "I owe you a favor."


    Kagura Hikaru knew she was referring to the incident the day before when he took a stab for her.


    If Kagura Hikaru hadn''t reacted then, Ayakoji Chiyoko might have been injured.


    "No need."


    "One must repay a kindness; that''s a principle of the Ayakoji family." Ayakoji Chiyoko gave him a deep look and turned to leave.


    However, before expressing her gratitude, she needed to know what else Kagura Hikaru was still hiding from her.


    After understanding everything about Kagura Hikaru, they would embark on a new rtionship.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko walked away slowly.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Despite being adept at mind-reading, at this moment, Kagura Hikaru waspletely oblivious to the emotional turbulence inside her; unaware, he returned to his ssroom following Ayakoji Chiyoko''s departure.


    On the day Sato Seiji was taken away, his crimes were publicly disclosed by the Society Discussion Meeting Daily News.


    Ruzaki Mami herself came forward to testify, not only admitting her past rtionship with the teacher but also revealing the entire process of her boyfriend impersonating a victim to extort money from her.


    This was not on the same level as the previous cases involving ''Student Council President bullying a student'' and ''Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee neglecting duty,'' causing a huge stir not just within the campus but also in society, making headline news in the region the following day.


    Eventually, Sato Seiji faced a substantial extortion charge, massive social pressure, was expelled from the school, and permanently barred from employment. It was heard that Ruzaki Mami''s family even nned to take him to court, effectively ruining his life.


    Takayama Kenta and the other three participants were also expelled from the school due to suspected involvement in extortion crimes, which was a cause for celebration.


    Several dayster, as the incident cooled down, Ruzaki Mami, having some free time, invited Kagura Hikaru to meet her alone in the school courtyard to express her thanks formally.


    "I really can''t thank you enough this time, Mr. Kagura. Without your help, I have no idea how this matter would have ended," Ruzaki Mami bowed deeply at 90 degrees to Kagura Hikaru, presenting a high-end packaged gift box with both hands, "This is a token of my father''s gratitude; please do ept it."


    Kagura Hikaru took the gift box, which had the gleaming English brand name ''Vacheron Constantin'' inscribed on it.


    He was silent for a second, then handed the gift box back: "It''s too valuable, I can''t ept it."


    "ording to my father, the value you have saved is far greater than the watch inside," Ruzaki Mami said with a smile, "And besides, we have so many of these things at home we have no ce to keep them anymore, just consider it a favor."


    Kagura Hikaru was silent even longer.


    At that moment, he even felt a bit sorry for Sato Seiji.


    The box in his hand and its contents were worth more than the high-interest loans he owed.


    It could only be said that when some people are unlucky, they''re truly unlucky.


    But ultimately, Kagura Hikaru still did not ept it and left on his own.


    Grasping the gift box, Ruzaki Mami watched Kagura Hikaru''s retreating figure from a distance, until he vanished from sight. She then suddenly snapped back to reality, touching her slightly warm face.


    "Really, Mr. Kagura, if you won''t ept a thank-you gift, then I''ll have to use something even more precious to thank you..."


    Ruzaki Mami murmured softly.


    "Zhen Chun~~" Ai Cheng Hua Lian ran over from a distance and arrived beside her close friend. She nced at the gift box in her hands and asked curiously, "He didn''t ept it?"


    "Mm."


    "Speaking of which, what''s actually inside? Is it expensive?"


    "...Not really." Ruzaki Mami said with smiley eyes, handing the thing to Ai Cheng Hua Lian, "Karen-chan, why don''t you ept it? I''ll just tell my dad that I''ve already given the thank-you gift."


    "Eh~~ Isn''t that a problem?"


    "It''s fine, it won''t blow our cover."


    Ruzaki Mami seemed to hold some kind of expectation in her eyes.


    In the end, Ai Cheng Hua Lian couldn''t resist her best friend''s encouragement and opened the gift box. Inside was a mechanical watch with a silver body and a blue face, intricately assembled and modest in design.


    She took the watch off and examined it curiously for a few moments, then she picked up Ruzaki Mami''s left hand and put it on her wrist, sizing it up from different angles.


    "Hmm... it seems a bit too mature, probably more suitable for a boy," Ai Cheng Hua Lian said yfully, sticking out her tongue, "It doesn''t suit you, Mami."


    "Karen-chan?"


    "Hehe, you don''t think I''d be fooled that easily, do you? If Kagura is too scared to ept it, it must be expensive. How could I possibly take it?"


    Ruzaki Mami feigned shock as she looked at her, "Karen-chan has suddenly be so smart!"


    "When have I ever been dumb?!"


    "Eh? During exams?"


    "Ugh! I can''t argue with that..."


    Meanwhile, Kagura Hikaru, having said goodbye to Ruzaki Mami, hade to the Disciplinary Committee.


    "Instructor."


    "Hmm."


    "Instructor."


    "Good afternoon."


    Walking along the corridor on the third floor of the old school building, every time he passed a Discipline Committee member, Kagura Hikaru would nod and respond.


    He didn''t know how Ayakoji Chiyoko managed all the time, but he found his neck getting sore.


    The cause could be traced back to his agreeing to join the Disciplinary Committee at the insistence of Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    In a recent crackdown operation, Kagura Hikaru''sbat skills caught the eye of Ayakoji Chiyoko, who then invited him to be an instructor, training the Disciplinary Committee members in hand-to-handbat.


    To tempt him, Ayakoji Chiyoko even made an exception allowing Kagura Hikaru to skip the Disciplinary Committee''s club activities and onlye for guidance three times a week.


    But Kagura didn''t care about any of that, really. He''d agreed because Ayakoji Chiyoko had done them a huge favor, using the power of sixty Disciplinary Committee members to help out, nearly getting injured in the process. It was both emotionally and rationally hard to refuse.


    So now, Kagura Hikaru was also a member of the Disciplinary Committee, though more like an auxiliary member whom nobody could really manage.


    At first, he thought that being part of the Disciplinary Committee and bing subordinate to Ayakoji Chiyoko would hinder the development of their personal rtionship, which is why no matter how she persuaded, he wouldn''t agree.


    But now, as the only member of the club besides the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee to have special privileges, not one of Ayakoji Chiyoko''s subordinates, and gaining opportunities to get close to her, things were different.


    This move was a win-win situation, repaying the favor while significantly advancing his n to be friends.


    However, Kagura Hikaru had never expected that to establish his authority, Ayakoji Chiyoko would specially organize a ''Martial Arts Tournament'', allowing all members of the Disciplinary Committee to fight him in session.


    ...It''s not that he wanted toin, but wasn''t Ayakoji Chiyoko being a little too confident in him?


    Although, as it turned out, Kagura Hikaru indeed disyed overwhelming strength against everyone. Even the Gori Vice President, with his exaggerated physique, lost at his feet, with Kagura single-handedly overpowering fifty-nine members of the Disciplinary Committee.


    The defeated Gori Vice President even offered to give up his position as the vice president, but Kagura refused.


    This wasn''t some primitive tribe where the rule of might was everything.


    Perhaps feeling the Disciplinary Committee had lost face, Ayakoji Chiyoko personally stepped forward to challenge him in Sword Dao.


    She was indeed very strong, possibly at a lv3 level in Sword Dao.


    That might sound average, but lv3 denotes professional level skills, and it''s quite impressive for someone her age. Kagura admitted to himself that without his ''Golden Finger'', he wouldn''t have been able to achieve this.


    But there were no ''buts'' - his Sword Dao was at a lv4 level, so the oue was a given, with him as the winner.


    Afterward, Ayakoji Chiyoko announced that Kagura Hikaru would be the instructor for the Disciplinary Committee, guiding the members in their daily training. Initially, he was only meant to teach hand-to-handbat, but now Sword Dao was added to his responsibilities as well.


    "Excuse me."


    Kagura Hikaru pushed open the door to the training room.


    Both the Discipline Committee members and Ayakoji Chiyoko were already dressed in Kendo Uniforms, waiting for Kagura Hikaru.


    "You''rete."


    "Sorry."


    Kagura Hikaru removed his indoor shoes at the entrance, stepped onto the tatami mats, and with the help of two Disciplinary Committee members, he quickly donned a Kendo Uniform and protective gear, then picked up a Bamboo Sword and walked to the center of the room, expertly assuming the mid-level ready stance.


    "President Ayakoji, please teach me."

 Chapter 44 The Tsukinomori that Leads to the Truth

    What did Kagura Hikaru mean to Ayakoji Chiyoko?


    A tool? An ally? A fellow victim of sympathy?


    In the past, Ayakoji Chiyoko could have easily provided an answer, but after that person took a knife for her, the question suddenly became blurred.


    Previously, when Ayakoji Chiyoko looked at Kagura Hikaru, she saw the value behind him, his identity as Kiryu Hina''s ex-boyfriend.


    However, recently, she had seen more of Kagura Hikaru himself.


    She suddenly discovered that the other had many shining points.


    First was his appearance; unexpectedly, a mere tool had outstanding looks, something she had never paid attention to before.


    Then there were his academic achievements; because of the uing final exams, the school held a preliminary test, and Kagura Hikaru came first in the grade, knocking the perennial top ranker Kiryu Hina off her throne, much to her delight.


    Moreover, he had recently be a trainer in the Disciplinary Committee and had earned everyone''s respect. His prowess in martial skills had also been certified.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko btedly realized that this person could indeed be considered talented both in letters and in arms.


    It was just a pity that he was a ssmate and not an iing freshman; otherwise, making him the sessor and entrusting the Disciplinary Committee to Kagura Hikaru after graduation was a possibility worth considering.


    A dangerous person like him, everything about him must be known to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    All shadows must be illuminated, all mysteries must be unraveled; to stand by Ayakoji Chiyoko''s side, this was a necessary condition.


    As of now, Kagura Hikaru did not bring her a sense of security.


    He had many secrets, such as his past with Kiryu Hina.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko did not believe in the so-called ''ipatibility'' excuse. What they experienced must have been a story that was far more rugged than that.


    They say women are like cats, and being a cat, how could one stop in front of a puzzle?


    There was another reason that convinced her to start an investigation.


    Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina''s past may be thetter''s weak spot.


    This secret could destroy a person and even more ¡ª wreak severe consequences. Perhaps it is because he is well aware of this that Kagura Hikaru has remained tight-lipped about it.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had no interest in destroying Kagura Hikaru, but she was very interested in destroying Kiryu Hina.


    Hence, she came here today ¡ª to Tsukinomori Private Girls'' School.


    Standing at the gate of the girls'' school, Ayakoji Chiyoko stood straight like a green pine, one hand clutching a shoulder bag, her eyes gazing at the distant twilight, lost in thought.


    The female students passing by cast curious nces at her, all of which were ignored.


    Tsukinomori, that so-called prestigious high school, every student who came and went was from a rich or noble family; it was said that even their greetings started with a genteel ''how do you do''.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko would have also attended this school, but she transferred to Uka following her stepmother''s rmendation.


    The management of Tsukinomori was much stricter than that of Uka, especially towards outsiders; even a female student wearing the uniform of another school who stood at the gate for too long would receive wary looks.


    But perhaps it was Ayakoji Chiyoko''s aura of being not easily provoked, or maybe it was her identity as a well-known actress''s daughter being recognized, that the teachers and guards at the gate did not approach her.


    However, this atmosphere of mutual non-interference was soon broken when a short-haired female student walked out of the school, heading straight towards Ayakoji Chiyoko with a clear aim.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The students passing by addressed her as ''Student Council President,'' to which the short-haired female student politely responded.


    It was only when she reached next to Ayakoji Chiyoko that she stopped, smiled, and said, "Long time no see, Chiyoko, hope I didn''t keep you waiting."


    "It was just a waste of my fifteen minutes," Ayakoji Chiyoko turned around, her face expressionless, showing no sign of happiness or anger.


    The short-haired female student was not at all frightened; instead, she covered her mouth and chuckled, "You''re so fierce."


    "Cut the small talk, where''s the person I''m looking for? Take me to them now."


    "Hey, really, you''ve be so unlovable since you''ve grown up." The short-haired female student gestured for Ayakoji Chiyoko to follow and muttered, "You used to be so easy to bully when you were younger."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s face darkened.


    Sensing killing intent from behind, the short-haired female student quickly changed the subject: "Right, right, you were always looking for that boy who helped you, weren''t you? Have you found him?"


    "...No."


    "Is that so... sorry, I can''t help with that either." The short-haired female student scratched her head, "Not long after we graduated, the elementary school closed. It would be difficult to look for old records now."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko calmly said, "I have a lead now."


    "Really?"


    "There''s someone who knows, and she happens to be at the same school as me." An annoying figure shed through Ayakoji Chiyoko''s mind, "I''ll find a way to pry open her mouth."


    "Don''t gomitting any crimes~"


    She had been searching for so many years without giving up; she truly was persistent.


    Thinking this, the short-haired girl then blurted out with abandon, "Speaking of which, I heard that Hina is at the same high school as you, right? Are you two still as close as you were in elementary school?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko took a deep breath.


    "Are you trying to step on every singlendmine today to feel satisfied?"


    "Huh?"


    "Shut up, and lead the way!"


    "Okay, okay, I won''t talk anymore, what''s with the anger."


    As they spoke, they had unconsciously arrived in front of the Moon Forest Student Council room. The short-haired girl opened the door, and inside sat a female student.


    "Bang bang ka-bang~~ Thanks for waiting, this is Ayakoji Chiyoko, Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee at Uka High School, who said she wanted to meet you."


    The girl was very ordinary in every aspect, and she hesitantly stood up to nod at Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    The three sat down around the table.


    The short-haired girl sat with the other girl, while Ayakoji Chiyoko sat across from them.


    "Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina, are you familiar with these two?" Ayakoji Chiyoko asked as soon as she sat down.


    The girl hesitated, then nodded: "They were quite famous in middle school."


    "This kid used to be ssmates with Hina," interjected the short-haired girl.


    "Then I''ll get straight to the point," Ayakoji Chiyoko said with an inquisitive look. "Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina, what happened when they broke up? Or rather, what was the reason for their breakup?"


    "...Eh?"


    The girl was bbergasted.


    Initially, when the Student Council President called her in to talk about some middle school matters, she thought it was because the President''s junior wanted to attend that school and wanted a reference. She didn''t expect the real question to be a million times more outrageous than she imagined.


    How could she possibly know why another couple broke up!


    The girl, looking wronged, honestly said, "I''m sorry, I don''t know."


    "Is that so..." Ayakoji Chiyoko appeared slightly disappointed, then continued to probe, "Can you think of any leads, anything that could possibly be rted?"


    "Uh..."


    The girl was about to say no, but then suddenly remembered something, and, after musing over it, she provided Ayakoji Chiyoko with a very significant piece of information.


    "At that time, ssmate Kagura and ssmate Kiriyu both joined the Drama Club. There was a girl named ''Kohinata Suse'' who was very close with them. But right before graduation, ssmate Kiriyu left the club, and so did ssmate Kagura, and after that, I never saw the three of them together again.


    There were rumors that they had a falling out over something."


    It was quitemon for graduating students to stop participating in club activities because they needed to prepare for exams, but if nothing had happened, no one would quit a club right before graduation, giving the impression they couldn''t wait to escape.


    This was the first abnormal point.


    The second was the stranger named Kohinata Suse.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes slowly brightened.


    Her intuition told her, this was it!


    "This Kohinata Suse, what kind of person is she? Tell me in detail."


    "I don''t know much..." said the girl in a faint voice, "She was a ssmate of Kagura, joined the Drama Club in the first year, andter became the club president. Everyone said she was pretty, had a good personality, and her family was very rich, with luxury cars to take her to and from school.


    But I hardly ever heard any bad talk about her, and there was a time when everyone wanted to elect her as the Student Council President, which she declined."


    "Anything else?"


    "...I''m sorry, that''s all I know," the girl said apologetically. "For more details, you can ask President Asahi, she was a friend of Kohinata."


    "Who is that? Where is she?" Ayakoji Chiyoko turned to the short-haired girl.


    Thetter smiled and said, "She also attended the same middle school as Hina, was in the same club, and I originally nned to tell you about herter."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko stood up: "Take me to her now."


    "You''ve already met her."


    "...?"


    The short-haired girl looked at her, suddenlyughed with a snort, leaned her elbow on the table, winked with one eye, and made a gun gesture with her hand at Ayakoji Chiyoko: "I say, do you need a reminder of my name? Sakata Asahi, the current President of the Moon Forest Student Council, and the President Asahi you''re talking about is none other than me."

 Chapter 45 Kohinata Motoyo

    Ayakoji Chiyoko took a full three seconds to react.


    "You''re messing with me."


    "It was you who forgot my name first, okay? I even wanted toin. Do you even consider me a friend?" Sakata Asahi retorted mercilessly.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "We''re not friends, just acquaintances."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko huffed and sat down.


    The girl next to her said carefully, "President Asahi, I''ll be leaving now."


    "Ah, sure, thank you for this time."


    "Not at all."


    After seeing the girl off, Sakata Asahi then asked, "Why are you investigating Hina and the others?"


    "It''s just a precaution."


    "Ah, I see, I see, it''s that obsessivepulsive disorder of yours to get to the bottom of things, right?"


    "Rather than that, you''ve never mentioned to me that you, Kiryu Hina, and Kagura Hikaru were middle school ssmates." Ayakoji Chiyoko crossed her arms and inspected her with searching gaze, as if suspecting something.


    Sakata Asahi snorted, "I indeed didn''t say, but you never asked."


    "...Alright, I believe you."


    "What''s with that? I kindly brought you into the school and this is the attitude you show."


    "Stop bbering, tell me, who exactly is Kohinata Motoyo, and what is her rtionship with Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina."


    "Motoyo, huh..." Sakata Asahi supported her chin with her hand, her eyes gazing up at the ceiling as if lost in thought, "Beautiful, quiet, gentle, diligent and studious, knowledgeable and reasonable, from a well-off family, served as the president of the Drama Club, the idol in the eyes of the girls, and the moonlight in the boys'' eyes.


    Apart from not being good at sports, she was probably the perfect girl, just like the legendary Yamato Nadeshiko."


    The perfect girl?


    Ayakoji Chiyoko fell into contemtion.


    When this person was previously mentioned, she had already felt something, but now the d¨¦j¨¤ vu was bing stronger as the impression deepened.


    Gentle, knowledgeable and reasonable, Yamato Nadeshiko, the perfect idol...


    Wasn''t this exactly Kiryu Hina in the eyes of Uka students?


    "Motoyo herself said that her best friends during middle school were me, Hina, and Kagura Hikaru. But since I had joined the Student Council and was quite busy, it was mostly just the three of them."


    Sakata Asahi spoke, "Even after Hina and Kagura Hikaru became a couple, the three of them still hung out together often. Probably because of this, that rtionship eventually turned into a tragedy..."


    "Tragedy?" Ayakoji Chiyoko frowned sharply.


    "I don''t really know the details, Motoyo and Hina wouldn''t tell me."


    Sakata Asahiy back in her chair, hands behind her head.


    "But there''s one thing, I''ve never told anyone. One day, when I went to the cram school, I saw Motoyo dating Kagura Hikaru on the street, arm in arm, even though he was already Hina''s boyfriend.


    I really didn''t expect him with such a personality to be two-timing, and the other girl was Motoyo. It scared me so much that for a long time I couldn''t face them nor dare to tell Hina."


    "..."


    "After that, I began to really dislike Kagura Hikaru and never spoke to him again. Motoyo is definitely not the kind of girl who would interfere in someone else''s rtionship. She''s very traditional, a truly good woman. It must have been Kagura Hikaru who did something to make her like this!


    This is not me talking nonsense; even if it is said to everyone who knows Motoyo, they would surely agree!"


    When she became emotional, Sakata Asahi couldn''t help but pound her thigh and let out a deep sigh.


    "Not long after that, I heard that Kagura Hikaru and Hina broke up, and they both left the Drama Club. Hina must have discovered something, and their rtionship turned sour.


    After graduation, Motoyo went to study abroad in Europe, probably determined to get away from that jerk."


    Having heard so much, Ayakoji Chiyoko now had sufficient information to piece together the truth.


    She concluded: Kagura Hikaru cheated with Kohinata Motoyo, and Kiryu Hina was cuckolded.


    All the clues were pointing to this fact, almost causing her tough out loud, taking pleasure in the misfortune of her nemesis.


    But for some reason, there was also a fire of anger burning within her.


    This feeling of anger didn''te out of nowhere but spread rapidly through her body with Sakata Asahi''s narration.


    She was surprised to find herself angry. Was she upset to realize Kagura Hikaru was not the person she had imagined, feeling deceived?


    No, she would not have any emotion for someone unconnected and irrelevant to her heart.


    If that''s the case, what is this feeling all about?


    Ridiculous, ridiculous.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, you actually considered him a friend!


    "Uh, Chiyoko, what''s wrong? You look very pale," Sakata Asahi cautiously said.


    "...I''m fine." Ayakoji Chiyoko stood up, "I''m going back first."


    "Eh? Is that all right?"


    "Yes, thank you for today."


    After saying farewell to Sakata Asahi, Ayakoji Chiyoko left Tsukinomori Girls'' School.


    On her way, she passed by a river. The surface was calm, but not very clear¡ªit seemed as if sludge was stirring beneath.


    She paused for a moment, picked up a stone from the ground, and threw it with force, causing ripples to spread across the river''s surface.


    Everyone is born alone, and apart from oneself, there is nothing in this world that can be trusted.


    She realized this once again.


    Kagura Hikaru, you bastard.


    .........


    In the 1700-year history of the Ind Nation, there is an inconspicuous story that urs in modern times.


    It is the story of an actor''s daughter.


    From birth, she was burdened with high expectations.


    Everyone was waiting for her to replicate her father''s sess, and her father thought the same.


    She received an elite education and debuted as a child star at a young age, leaving her mark in movies, TV dramas,mercials, album MVs, and more.


    The girl did not neglect her studies; no matter how much she worked, she would still asionally attend school.


    The school was called ''Yosho'', a primary school that wasn''t the best, but it was the only one that allowed students to skip school.


    Her time there wasn''t very pleasant.


    Due to her long absences from school, she was ostracized by well-established groups and, because of her high-profile work, bullied by those who were bored.


    Even after the girl gave up acting, the behavior continued unabated and even worsened.


    It was during this time that another girl appeared.


    Her name was Kiryu Hina, the only child in the ss willing to be her friend, and she became the girl''s light.


    Ever since she appeared, those who bullied the girl never did so again.


    But they didn''t disappear; they simply switched targets, causing a boy in the same ss to stay in the hospital for two years.


    It wasn''t until graduation that the girl learned the boy who was pushed down the stairs had done so trying to help her, to confront the bullies.


    Perhaps it wasn''t Kiryu Hina who truly saved her; it should have been him.


    The girl regretted forgetting the boy''s name, and with that feeling, she went to study in Capital City.


    But she never forgot him, not for a moment. He taught her something important¡ªthat is, the courage to face malice alone.


    He protected the girl all by himself from the shadows, his justice and courage deeply moved and influenced her.


    She, too, wanted to gain that power, to be strong like that.


    Thus, the girl became the unyielding Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee at Yuqiu High School.


    Through this journey, she encountered her former light, faced betrayal, had important people taken from her, and failed to recover a forgotten name.


    To oppose her, the girl made acquaintances, allies, and subordinates.


    But friends, she did not need.


    Because humans are creatures that betray on their own, that disappoint on their own. Once given the opportunity, they begin to hurt others.


    Like Kiryu Hina, and like Kagura Hikaru.


    Today''s experiences only reinforced her belief.


    Everyone is born alone, and apart from oneself, there is nothing in this world that can be trusted.


    She, Ayakoji Chiyoko, doesn''t need friends.

 Chapter 46 The Friends Plan, Grand Finale!

    Ayakoji Chiyoko returned to Yuqiu High School as if nothing had happened.


    She still had unfinished business here, having sneaked out under the guise of running a personal errand.


    Even if she outright announced her visit to Tsukinomori Girls'' School, no one would have thought much of it.


    ...No, that idea was probably wrong.


    Even if everyone else hadn''t noticed, Kiryu Hina would definitely have realized something.


    After all,pared to Ayakoji Chiyoko, Sakata Asahi, and Kiryu Hina had a better rtionship and had known each other longer.


    If Sakata Asahi had known that Ayakoji Chiyoko''s visit was with the intention ofying a trap for her friend, she likely wouldn''t have helped her.


    Originally, Ayakoji Chiyoko had thought that even if Kiryu Hinater found out from others about her visit to Tsukinomori and inquired about her past, she would have already fulfilled her purpose.


    But her initial thought was mistaken.


    She indeed had obtained a critical secret.


    However, this secret could only destroy Kagura Hikaru, not Kiryu Hina. Once exposed, thetter would receive far more sympathy and support than malice, and it would fail as a bargaining condition.


    However, it wasn''t entirely in vain.


    At least she discovered the true face of Kagura Hikaru, quelling her dangerous impulse to make friends.


    From now on, Ayakoji Chiyoko would continue to trust him, but only as a tool.


    In the beginning, she once spected that Kagura Hikaru was a spy sent by Kiryu Hina.


    But now she was utterly convinced that it was impossible for Kagura Hikaru and Kiryu Hina to be in collusion, the only thing she waspletely certain about.


    Arriving at the Disciplinary Committee, voices shouting and the shing of bamboo swords repeatedly echoed from the old ssroom used as a training field.


    Today happened to be the day Kagura Hikaru was ''on duty''.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko didn''t want to see that man''s face for the time being.


    Unfortunately, just as she was passing by the doorway, a male student dressed in a Kendo uniform happened to push the door open and step out from the ssroom.


    It was Kagura Hikaru.


    "President Ayakoji," Kagura Hikaru greeted her as usual.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko gave him a deep look and simply nodded, passing by without a word.


    It was that very look that made Kagura Hikaru feel something was off, and he subconsciously let out a mind-reading attempt.


    [Looking at this seemingly innocent face, who would imagine this is a treacherous man who has cheated.]


    [Better not mess around on my turf, or else...]


    [You have gained through peering into the mind: Sword Dao +2]


    [Sword Dao lv4 (14/100)]


    What is this...?


    Kagura Hikaru stood frozen on the spot for a moment, his thoughts inplete disarray.


    Apanying the mind-reading, an image of a short-haired girl shed by.


    Kagura Hikaru recognized her, Sakata Asahi, his ssmate from junior high, also¡­ a friend of Kohinata Motoyo.


    Mere mention of that name cast a gloom over Kagura Hikaru''s heart, as if a pair of icy hands covered his eyes.


    Kohinata Motoyo, Kohinata Motoyo.


    Bangs showing under her long hair, slightly curled ends, gentle eyes, skin white as jade, fingers like scallions, skilled in singing and dancing, perfectly pure.


    The best friend, the best club president, the ideal idol, dazzlingly kind, beautiful, natural, selfless, quiet, cheerful, virtuous, wless, upright, noble, pure, intelligent, kind¡ª


    Kagura Hikaru once thought she would remain untainted by human vices, eternally wless, a perfectly refined human.


    He felt honored to be friends with such a perfect person.


    But since that day, when Motoyo confessed to him like any ordinary girl, their friendship shattered, morphing into something even more twisted.


    Who could have imagined, a person like that would, for her selfish desires, ruthlessly ruin the youth of two people without a second thought.


    Beautiful memories were poisoned, festering into nothing but pain and scars scattered on the ground.


    Now, the very existence of that name, everything about it, was merely meant to punish him, to demonstrate how ignorant and foolish Kagura Hikaru had been in the past.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "...Wait."


    He suppressed his dizziness and confusion, turning to call out to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    She stopped in her tracks and turned around, her gaze cold, "Is there something?"


    Kagura Hikaru hesitated for a moment, "You went to see Sakata Asahi, right?"


    Sakata Asahi was a friend of Suse and also a friend of Hina.


    Kagura Hikaru had never thought that Ayakoji Chiyoko would approach her.


    Although it was also the most painful memory for Hina, something that absolutely must not be leaked, why!


    His racing heartbeat pounded like muffled thunder in his eardrums, sadness and anger mixed together.


    "...Did she tell you?" Ayakoji Chiyoko''s expression changed for a moment, but then remembering Sakata Asahi''s dislike for him, she denied it herself, "No, was it that girl you met only once? I didn''t expect she would contact you on her own."


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t know what she was talking about, but it must have been a misunderstanding.


    Indeed, at the time of graduation, he hadpletely severed ties with his middle school social circle, making a clean break with his former self.


    Neither past ssmates nor friends would be able to reach him again.


    "Things are not as you think." Kagura Hikaru tried to argue calmly.


    "So are you trying to say that you haven''t cheated?"


    "..."


    "That leaves nothing to be said."


    The light in Kagura Hikaru''s eyes dimmed.


    This matter was not so simple; the truth was different from what outsiders thought.


    But, is the truth really important?


    Could he simply say "I was threatened" and shirk the responsibility as if nothing had happened?


    Besides, the real reality was so vile; how could it be let out into the world?


    He did not know.


    Who exactly was at fault¡ªhimself, Suse, Hina...he could no longer tell.


    Secrets hidden within secrets, his choice was to forget, to take them to the grave after his death. He believed Suse would do the same.


    Whether it was Hina, Ayakoji Chiyoko, or anyone else, he wouldn''t tell.


    "Kagura Hikaru, don''t worry that this will affect our cooperation, nothing will change, everything will proceed as usual."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes held an unmistakable disappointment, "You helped me once before with the ckmail case, and in exchange, I promise that this matter will not leak from me."


    Everything will remain the same.


    Although she said so.


    But Kagura Hikaru understood that he probably had already lost the possibility of bing friends with her.


    The tone of disappointment said it all.


    He could understand Ayakoji Chiyoko''s feelings; because when he learned about his own mother''s affair, he also felt a simr betrayal and anger.


    His mother was a gentle, cheerful, and aplished woman, just the mention of her involvement with the word infidelity felt jarringly out of ce, and no one would believe it if it were spoken aloud.


    But she did it anyway; such is the fickleness of human nature.


    The intense disconnection he experienced at that time, even today, five yearster, still haunted Kagura Hikaru.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko probably felt the same.


    In front of her, Kagura Hikaru, the seemingly harmless ally, had such a dirty side behind his back, and if she didn''t still need him to confront Kiryu Hina, Ayakoji Chiyoko would definitely break off their friendship.


    Given her character that despised evil, she would undoubtedly do so.


    After all, she was also a woman.


    The attitude of all women in this world towards infidelity was uniform.


    "That''s it, you can go now," said Ayakoji Chiyoko before she left.


    Until the very end, Kagura Hikaru didn''t know what to say, he could only watch her walk away.


    Perhaps, from the very beginning when he chose to hide the issue from Ayakoji Chiyoko, the oue of the story had already been destined.

 Chapter 47 National Collegiate Sword Dao Conference, Come Over and Help Out

    After that, Ayakoji Chiyoko hadpletely severed private contact with Kagura Hikaru, bing merely a coborator.


    On usual days, Ayakoji Chiyoko acted as if she did not know him, cold and distant, and when she had to interact with him for official matters, she spoke sparingly and left as soon as it was over.


    "I probably failed."


    On a bench in a secluded corner of the courtyard, Kagura Hikaru said this to Kiryu Hina, sitting at the other end.


    He confessed the recent events and the rtionship with Ayakoji Chiyoko that had hit rock bottom.


    Since Ayakoji Chiyoko had learned about that incident, Kagura Hikaru hadpletely lost the right to freelymunicate with her.


    She didn''t avoid him, but her attitude towards him was just like that towards a stranger, with interactions only for official matters, making the situation where they casually chatted privately almost impossible to happen again.


    Therefore, Kagura Hikaru concluded that his friendship n had probablypletely copsed.


    At least, he could not think of any way to salvage it.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko was the most stubborn and sensitive person he had ever met, having walls around her heart as firm as iron, which would close immediately and be welded shut if she sensed even a slight oddity.


    After hearing everything, Kiryu Hina appeared very rxed instead, stretching her fingers and satisfactorily observing her newly painted pink nail polish, shezily said, "I told you from the start to tell Ayakoji Chiyoko about our affair and what happened afterwards. You didn''t listen to me, and this is the consequence."


    "..."


    Kiryu Hina''s thoughts had always been unpredictable, and Kagura Hikaru didn''t even know if this oue was within her expectations as well.


    "You messed up someone else''s n and you''re not even apologizing? That''s really too much."


    "I''m sorry."


    "Itcks sincerity, say it again." Kiryu Hina toyed with her fingers, her head still lowered.


    "...I am truly very sorry, President Kiryu, I messed up your n."


    "That''s more like it."


    She stood up, hands behind her back, and left just like that, leaving behind an ambiguous remark: "It''s too early to give up, the opportunity is there, you just can''t see it; go back and wait."


    "...Hina."


    Suddenly, Kagura Hikaru said.


    Kiryu Hina''s forward steps halted, she lowered her head, and fell into a long silence: "Don''t call me like that."


    "Hina, there is one thing I need to confirm with you." Find your next read on empire


    "I told you not to call me like that!!"


    A loud shout.


    The student council president who turned her head, had lost her usual smile, bing as fearsome as a demon.


    In her fury, Kagura Hikaru found a trace of her reality.


    She finally took off her mask.


    Kagura Hikaru looked into her eyes, and repeated once more: "Hina, there is one thing I need to confirm with you."


    "..."


    "After everything is over, we''re square, you and I needn''t see each other again, nor speak, right?"


    "Ha...?" Kiryu Hina''s eyes twitched, she let out a darkugh, "You think you can settle your debt by doing this, how funny."


    "Yes, I owe you a great debt," Kagura Hikaru said, "so before we part ways after graduation, I hope to do something for you in the end."


    "You....."


    "Hina, no, President Kiryu."


    Kagura Hikaru rose from the bench, standing in front of Kiryu Hina, "I''m very sorry for the past, and after I do this, you won''t see me anymore."


    He walked past Kiryu Hina, leaving just like that.


    She was left alone in silence.


    After a long while, Kiryu Hina suddenly burst up, kicked the bench heavily, stood panting heavily, and clenched her fists tightly.


    "It''s the same again, you''re trying to run away from me, what a joke... this secret, I''ll devour you for a lifetime!"


    ........


    Afterwards, Kagura Hikaru had a period of very tranquil time.


    He was simultaneously abandoned by those two women, and they no longer interfered with him.


    Neither the Ayakoji conquest n nor the student council president elimination n was mentioned to him ever again.


    This feeling of being forgotten by both parties felt unexpectedly... quite nice?n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    But such days did notst long.


    By the time the whole affair was over, when he had left from beside Hina and Ayakoji Chiyoko, perhaps these moments would be routine.


    But at least for now, Kagura Hikaru still could not afford such leisure.


    On a typical afternoon, Kagura Hikaru suddenly received a notification from the Disciplinary Committee''s LINE group, specifically asking him to gather at the Disciplinary Committee after school.


    After school, Kagura Hikaru arrived on time at the Disciplinary Committee.


    Entering Ayakoji Chiyoko''s private office, Kagura Hikaru found that there were also two others waiting inside, one was the Gori Vice President and the other, a t-headed burly man.


    "Coach."


    "Coach."


    Both men nodded and greeted Kagura Hikaru at the same time.


    Since Kagura Hikaru had started his position within the Disciplinary Committee, though he hadn''t deliberately sought it, his prestige had rapidly increased within the organization.


    Now, he was not only an insider in the Disciplinary Committee but had be a teacher to everyone here, and they all regarded him with respect.


    Kagura Hikaru nodded in response and, taking the opportunity before Ayakoji Chiyoko arrived, sat down to casually ask them, "Do you know what this is about?"


    The t-headed man did not know, but the Gori Vice President had guessed something.


    "The Nationwide High School Kendo Tournament ising up, that must be what this is about."


    Nationwide High School Kendo Tournament?


    Kagura Hikaru pondered, vaguely retrieving some traces from his fragmented memory.


    That must be the Kendopetition co-hosted by various regional high schools, selecting a representative from each region topete, with eliminatory rounds determining the winners.


    It was not a particrly nichepetition, with annual broadcasts of the events.


    But the problem was...


    "The Kendo Tournament, what does it have to do with the Disciplinary Committee, isn''t it supposed to be the Kendo Club participating?" Kagura Hikaru said, perplexed.


    "It''s precisely because we can''t rely on the people from the Kendo Club that we are needed."


    Ayakoji suddenly pushed the door open.


    "President, hello!" both the t-headed man and the Gori Vice President stood up and eximed at the same time.


    "Sit."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko pressed her hand down and walked behind the desk to sit, cing her fists on the table.


    "This year, the members of the Kendo Club are not up to par, so they formally requested that three members from the Disciplinary Committee and two from the Kendo Club fight together in the national tournament," she exined.


    Upon hearing this, Kagura Hikaru nced at the two next to him.


    One, two, plus him makes three.


    "Miyamoto Shi, Vice President Wada, and I will represent the Disciplinary Committee," Ayakoji Chiyoko looked towards Kagura Hikaru. "Kagura Hikaru, I want you toe along as the club manager."


    Okay, so he was just there to run errands.


    The so-called club manager was officially the logistics leader but, less tteringly, was just a menial worker serving drinks and performing chores, usually held by the least skilled at club activities.


    This felt somewhat insulting; even the t-headed Miyamoto Shi and the Gori Vice President widened their eyes.


    Everyone knew that Kagura Hikaru was the best at Kendo in the Disciplinary Committee.


    The legend of his one against sixty battle was still fresh in everyone''s memory¡ªit was really only a matter of days ago. Who could forget it?


    Subsequently, he assumed the role of a coach, instructing all the Disciplinary Committee members in hand-to-handbat and Kendo, far surpassing others in both knowledge and skill, earning everyone''s respect.


    Yet, Ayakoji Chiyoko did not let himpete but instead assigned Kagura Hikaru to y nanny; this...


    Miyamoto Shi and the Gori Vice President remained silent.


    Lately, everyone had more or less noticed something.


    The vibes between President Ayakoji and Kagura Hikaru were off.


    Although the rtionship between the two had never been very close, they used to at least make small talk, but now, even when staying in the same room, their eyes wouldn''t meet.


    Especially Ayakoji Chiyoko, it was as if she couldn''t see Kagura Hikaru at all, always looking in other directions when mentioning his name.


    Had the two of them had a fight?


    Disrespectful thoughts surfaced in the minds of Miyamoto Shi and the Gori Vice President.

 Chapter 48 Departing for the Capital City

    Had these two people quarreled?


    Miyamoto Shi and the Gori Vice President had some disrespectful thoughts spring up in their minds.


    The reason they were disrespectful was that both understood well that President Ayakoji was not one to quarrel with anyone except when facing the Student Council President. Other than that, she always maintained a calm and unflustered demeanor towards everything around her.


    All members of the Disciplinary Committee had not seen President Ayakoji lose her temper throughout the entire year.


    They felt that the only way to anger the President would be if someone she truly cared about provoked her.


    In Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes, people like them were probably just pawns or stepping stones.


    Yet she possessed such charm that everyone was willingly at her disposal.


    Seeing that the atmosphere in the room had solidified for some reason, Kagura Hikaru broke the awkward silence, asking, "How many days will the nationalpetitionst, and where is it being held?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, as if she had thought it through in advance, fluently rattled off, "The nationalpetition will be held in the Capital City. It starts in five days andsts for three days and two nights. Those attending, remember to bring your luggage. At 6 AM on Thursday, everyone is to wear school uniforms and gather at the Shinkansen Shinjuku Station.


    The school will reimburse the train tickets and lodging fees, so you just need to bring yourself and your luggage."


    In addition, members of the Kendo Club will be joining us, so mind your manners."


    "Yes!" Miyamoto Shi and the Gori Vice President responded in unison.


    Afterward, Ayakoji Chiyoko turned to Kagura Hikaru: "What about you? Have you decided whether toe or not?" Experience tales at empire


    Though he couldn''tpete, it was still a free trip to the Capital City, and he would be close to Ayakoji Chiyoko for three days.


    Kagura Hikaru thought there might be a chance to mend his rtionship with her and promptly agreed without hesitation.


    Perhaps this was the opportunity that Hina was talking about.


    Thus, Ayakoji Chiyoko immediately decided that for this national high school Kendopetition, the Disciplinary Committee wouldpete: Miyamoto Shi, Wada Gori, and the no-longer-affiliated Ayakoji Chiyoko as an ''external aide'', with another person, Kagura Hikaru, apanying as the club manager.


    Once the news was released, the Disciplinary Committee received a lot of supportive encouragement from the students, many of whom said they would attend the event.


    And also expressed their concern and sympathy to the Kendo Club.


    It was unprecedented that threepetition spots in the Kendo tournament had been taken by other clubs, leaving the official Kendo Club with merely two sad spots.


    The head of the Kendo Club was almost in tears; he too wanted to keep the positions within his own club, but who would dare say no to Ayakoji Chiyoko unless they were tired of living?


    Upon learning that Kagura Hikaru was also going to participate in the national Kendopetition, Ai Cheng Hua Lian cheered on Kagura on the way home from school: "Go, Kagura! Show President Ayakoji your manly spirit. With your skills, you are sure to win her favor!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "...But I''m just going to be doing misceneous jobs," Kagura Hikaru said helplessly.


    What is the manly spirit of a helper, does it mean the act of handing out water is very masculine?


    "Then be more diligent at work, let President Ayakoji take a fresh look at you."


    Ai Cheng Hua Lian said earnestly, "President Ayakoji surely likes diligent and aspiring men, take my word for it!"


    She wasn''t wrong, provided he got the chance to show it.


    Kagura Hikaru could only smile wryly to himself.


    Oh well, might as well make the best of a bad situation.


    Five dayster.


    At 5:30 in the morning, at the Shinkansen Station.


    Kagura Hikaru was thest one to arrive.


    It wasn''t that he waste; he had arrived half an hour early to ensure he was on time, but the others were just too early.


    The station at 5:30 AM was quite empty, adding to the sense of destion.


    So when Kagura Hikaru arrived, he quickly spotted Ayakoji Chiyoko and the others, and headed over with his luggage.


    Apart from a few members of the Discipline Committee, there were four unfamiliar people present.


    They were two boys, one tall and one short, a muscr adult male, and a small girl wearing sses.


    They were likely the members of the Kendo Club going topete, and the older one must be the advisor teacher of the Kendo Club.


    Such trips forpetitions would definitely have a teacher apanying them, as the school wouldn''t dare let a group of high schoolers go to the Capital City for three days without supervision, in case something happened midway and the school had to take responsibility.


    After introducing themselves, Kagura Hikaru learned that the short-statured boy was the club manager of the Kendo Club, with thest name ''Uchida''. Surprisingly, he was also a senior in the third grade, although Kagura Hikaru had initially thought he was in the same grade.


    And the mentioned teacher was indeed the advisor of the Kendo Club and also taught physical education. Everyone was asked to call him Teacher Yamazaki.


    Minister Uchida and the other boy were thepeting participants for the Kendo Club, while the small girl with sses, like Kagura Hikaru, was the club manager for this trip, responsible for logistical work.


    She was very petite, with fluffy, long, curly hair tied into a ponytail, had a slightly chubby and cute face,rge sses resting on her nose, and when she smiled, her eyes squinted, giving off a very special charm.


    "Hello, my name is Hosaka Yui!" the little girl said sweetly, "Please take care of me, Mr. Kagura."


    "Please take care of me."


    Moved by a feeling of fellowship due to traveling together, the two of them ended up chatting.


    "Mr. Kagura, what grade are you in?"


    "First grade."


    "Oh, then I''m your senior, I''m in the second grade, hehe."


    "Senior Hosaka."


    "Mm~~ Mr. Kagura, you''re so handsome, do you already have a girlfriend?"


    "No."


    "Really?"


    "Senior Hosaka, actually this is my first time being a club manager. Could I ask for some advice?"


    "Of course~ Let your senior teach you!"


    Hosaka Yui actively exined, and Kagura Hikaru earnestly sought advice, maintaining a harmonious atmosphere.


    They talked until six, when it was time to board.


    Everyone immediately handed over their tickets and boarded the Shinkansen train headed to the Capital City.


    Originally, Miyamoto Shi and Kagura Hikaru were supposed to sit together, but Hosaka Yui specifically switched ces with him, opting to sit in a double seat next to Kagura Hikaru.


    She imed she wanted to learn more about managing a club from him, but since she kept staring at his face, Kagura Hikaru found it hard to believe her reason.


    The res from behind grew sharper, as if trying to see through him from a distance.


    The two boys from the Kendo Club had been in this state ever since Hosaka Yui started talking to him.


    While it was understandable that the Kendo Club, as a sports club, had few female members and everyone was fiercely protective over them, it didn''t have to be like this.


    He wasn''t the one initiating!


    Kagura Hikaru felt somewhat exhausted addressing Hosaka Yui''s increasing number of personal questions and the physical distance that kept getting closer.


    The male members of the Kendo Club had their eyes turning red.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko nced in that direction from time to time, chose to ignore it, and closed her eyes to rest.


    About two hourster, the group arrived at the Capital City.

 Chapter 49 Ryusongan

    Indeed, as a millennium-old capital, once they got off the train, Kagura Hikaru and the others could feel the difference between the Capital City and Tokyo.


    Explore more stories at empire


    For example, Tokyo has lots of colorful and dense advertisements that can be quite annoying after a while.


    But the Capital City is different; it seems that their local government had passed aw to reduce the posting of advertisements.


    Those huge advertisements that you often see above the office buildings in Tokyo arepletely absent in the Capital City.


    Moreover, they do not use neon lights, and the shop signs by the door are styled like those from the early twentieth century - simple and substantial.


    After leaving the station, Kagura Hikaru and hispanions took a bus to the vicinity of the pre-arranged inn and walked to their destination.


    The inn was a traditional Japanese-style house called ''Ryusongan,'' not ideally located since it was quite far from the city center, but this made reservations easier to secure.


    Every year, a continuous stream of domestic and international tourists visit Capital City, and if it weren''t the off-season for tourism, even the more distant, modest inns would be hard to book.


    Walking on a cobblestone path through the main gate of the inn, to the right, they saw a small courtyard and a fish pond, but no fish could be seen - probably hiding because of the cold weather.


    Pulling open the sliding side door to enter the inn, a woman dressed in a dark blue kimono was already waiting for them, bowing deeply, "Wee to Ryusongan."


    "Wee!"


    A little girl in simple work clothes next to her also bowed deeply, her manners impable; she seemed to be the woman''s daughter.


    Advisor Teacher Yamazaki followed the innkeeper to the counter to pay and collect the room keys.


    Speaking of which, it seems that traditional inns in the Ind Nation are managed by women, and there''s a special term for them - Warrior Matriarch.


    Apparently, the kimono-d woman must be the Warrior Matriarch of this inn.


    Havingpleted the check-in procedures, the innkeeper''s daughter eagerly ran over to help with the luggage, and Kagura Hikaru and Hosaka Yui stepped forward to assist, carrying everyone''s luggage into the second-floor rooms.


    The guest rooms inside the inn were also in traditional Japanese style, with tatami floor mats, a low table and cushions in the center, and a small balcony facing the sun.


    No electrical appliances could be seen in the room, not even a television, but there were sockets, so charging should be ensured.


    The little girl pointed cutely towards a big wardrobe in the corner and said, "Inside is the bedding, there are four sets, please feel free to use them."


    She suggested that if Kagura Hikaru and the others needed, they could now take out the bedding toy it out, but everyone said they didn''t need to.


    After the girl left, Teacher Yamazaki handed a key to Ayakoji Chiyoko, "This is the key to the girls'' room, keep it safe and don''t lose it."N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Ayakogi Chiyoko took the key carefully, turned to the boys and said, "Sort out your luggage, take a rest, and meet downstairs in fifteen minutes."


    After that, she dragged her suitcase to the adjacent girls'' room, and Hosaka Yui also said goodbye and followed her.


    As soon as the two girls in the group left, the atmosphere in the room inexplicably became more rxed.


    Five boys and one teacher looked at each other, contemting who should be the first to speak to bridge the distance between them.


    That''s when Kagura Hikaru said, "Speaking of which, there are only four sets of bedding in the wardrobe, but there are six of us, what should we do?"


    Upon hearing this, the boys started to think...


    After a while, Kagura Hikaru came back from the girls'' room next door, carrying two sets of bedding.


    "Sorry, Kagura, for making you do this," Teacher Yamazaki said apologetically.


    Everyone recognized the problem, yet no one had the courage to knock on the girls'' door and ask for help.


    If it were only Hosaka Yui, it would have been fine, but the formidable Ayakoji Chiyoko, known to stop babies from crying, was also inside.


    Whether it was members of the Kendo Club or the Disciplinary Committee, facing her made everyone nervous.


    Even the advisor, Teacher Yamazaki, hesitated for a moment before Kagura Hikaru took the initiative to solve the issue.


    "Not at all, this is what I should do," the club manager Kagura Hikaru said.


    After this small episode, the atmosphere among the boys finally eased.


    The boys from the Kendo Club, who had been ring at Kagura Hikaru for two hours on the train, also started talking to him.


    It was just that during the conversation,ments like "If you darey a hand on Yui-chan, I''ll kill you," "Kill you!" were thrown in, making it hard for him to rx.


    After packing up their luggage, using the restroom, and charging their phones, the fifteen minutes of rest had barely passed before they went downstairs to meet up with the two girls.


    Unexpectedly, Hosaka Yui was a bitte. Upon asking, they learnt that she had gone to familiarize herself with the hotel''syout, so she could respond immediately in case of any emergencies.


    Kagura Hikaru acknowledged that he had learned something new, realizing that a club manager had to be so meticulous. Byparison, he thought his work was done after just finding a nket, but that clearly wasn''t enough.


    After everyone gathered, they rode off to their next destination.


    In theory, there was still a day before thepetition, and the national championship would not officially start until tomorrow. They should have taken the time to enjoy Capital City.


    Perhaps other schools'' teams might do so, considering it''s a rare opportunity for a trip funded by public money, so it made no sense to miss out.


    But with Ayakoji Chiyoko on the team, it was impossible to allow the participating members to show any formx behavior.


    So, after dropping their luggage at the hotel, the second ce they went to was the Kendo dojo!


    Sword Dao, as one of the Ind Nation''s mainstream sports, naturally has many dojos dedicated to its teaching.


    However, in recent years, as the era of fast-paced entertainment has risen, many Kendo dojos have begun to struggle to attract students, gradually bing more deste.


    The dojo Kagura Hikaru and the others were about to visit was one such dojo on the brink of bankruptcy.


    The old dojo master had passed away due to illness, and his children were not interested in taking over, nning to sell the dojo for a good price.


    If this was some other web novel, at this point, there would appear a granddaughter of the old dojo master who didn''t want the dojo to close. Her character would be a pony-tailed Kendo girl; a male protagonist who happened to visit would hear about the situation and decide to help the girl restore the dojo''s fame.


    The only path before them would be to win first ce at the national high school Kendo championship...


    None of this happened, they were simply there to rent the space.


    The children of the dojo master nned to offer a venue rental service before selling the dojo, to earn as much as they could.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko managed to rent the entire dojo for ten hours at a very reasonable price. Now, the space and the equipment in the dojo temporarily belonged to them.


    By the way, this expense was not paid out of pocket but was included in thepetition budget.


    Kagura Hikaru roughly understood why so many of them only got two rooms at the hotel¡ªthe money had all been spent here...


    Everyone changed into the Kendo uniforms provided by the dojo, picked up bamboo swords, and began their routine training before thepetition.

 Chapter 50 The Path of Service of Kagura Hikaru

    "Uchida, straighten up your waist a bit more!"


    "Miyamoto, raise your sword higher, strike with force."


    "Look at President Ayakoji, how standard his posture is. Just continue like that."


    Teacher Yamazaki, who was coaching, was instructing everyone to practice swings with a heavier wooden sword.


    The so-called swings refer to swinging the sword in empty air from top to bottom. While exerting force, one must keep the upper body still. It is the most basic exercise method aimed at increasing strength.


    If one were to swing a bamboo sword in empty air, it wouldn''t be very effective; however, using a heavier wooden sword for the swings would be quite painful.


    Imagine holding a barbell with both hands, lifting it upwards repeatedly, forcefully swinging it downwards, all while maintaining a standard posture each time.


    Among all the members, the tall male from the Kendo Club showed the worst performance; his movements deformed slightly after a short while, requiring frequent corrections by Teacher Yamazaki.


    The ranking from weakest to strongest in terms ofposure was as follows: Miyamoto Shi from the Disciplinary Committee, Minister Uchida from the Kendo Club, and the Gori Vice President.


    Among them, the best performer was undoubtedly Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    As the only female participant present, her movements were the most standard among everyone, and with each sword swing, one could vaguely see the beautiful muscle lines on her arms.


    She must have practiced a lot privately to control her body with such precision.


    Indeed, if one were to appraise her, Kagura Hikaru thought it was more appropriate to describe her ability as precision rather than strength.


    With each swing, her sword tip always stopped at the same position, neither veering upwards by half an inch nor downwards by half an inch, and it didn''t even wobble. It was as steady as if it had hit an air cushion.


    This wasn''t something just anyone could achieve, at least no one else there had that level of skill.


    In actualbat, it meant she could manage to stop her sword one centimeter above the opponent''s head each time without touching them, a degree of power control that was astonishing.


    Common feints and fake movements in sword Daopetitions required this ability to create opportunities and quickly execute a second strike targeting the opponent''s weaknesses, often determining the victor in an instant.


    As the club manager, Kagura Hikaru and Hosaka Yui weren''t participating in thepetition and thus didn''t need to train. They sat cross-legged at the edge of the arena in their school uniforms, watching everyone else train.


    The tall male from the Kendo Club, due to his increasingly unstable posture, was ordered by Teacher Yamazaki to rest for two minutes before continuing.


    He was the first among the fivepetitors to be ''sent off the field,'' his face full of frustration.


    "Here, a towel." Hosaka Yui said with a smile, handing him a towel to wipe his sweat.


    Kagura Hikaru also offered him a sports drink.


    Compared to mineral water, sports drinks are better at replenishing sugars and electrolytes, making them more suitable for those in training.


    This was something he and Hosaka Yui bought from the convenience store during everyone''s training¡ªa whole box. Although it was pricey, thinking about the reimbursement, they thought it was fine and bought generously.


    As others took turns resting, Kagura Hikaru methodically handed out water and towels. After learning that lunch would be served at the dojo, he immediately went out to order the meals, allowing everyone to enjoy hot, delicious food during the lunch period.


    Naturally, the meal didn''t include anything too oily or spicy that might affect their condition for the next day''spetition.


    Kagura Hikaru specially used his mind-reading ability to find out what the team members wanted to eat most at the moment, then searched online for the best-rated restaurants, personally went to scout and buy from these shops, and quickly returned before lunchtime.


    While everyone was eating, he cleaned up everyone''s sweaty Kendo uniforms, brought a new set, and organized the training equipment scattered around the floor.


    Only after doing all this did he start on his own meal. He exemplified a spirit of service with the team at the center, cing himselfst.


    The day wasn''t even half over, yet Kagura Hikaru had already performed his tasks wlessly, covering all bases and satisfying everyone.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Hosaka Yui could hardly be of any more help, and she couldn''t help but show a face that appeared to say ''the disciple starves the master,'' jokingly saying, "Kagura junior, you''ve started to catch on, huh?"


    In secret, Ayakoji Chiyoko silently observed Kagura Hikaru, making noment about his work, neither dissatisfied nor disappointed.


    However, in the afternoon, she took the initiative to call Kagura Hikaru to join the training.


    "He is a club manager, right? How can this be suitable?" Teacher Yamazaki questioned.


    The cause was Ayakoji Chiyoko proposing a training method unheard of before: allowing club manager Kagura Hikaru to feint for them, only defending without counterattacking, to train the yers'' offensive capabilities.


    Not to mention what level Kagura Hikaru''s Sword Dao skills were, the idea of having one person serve as a punching bag for five was bizarre and outrageous in itself.


    Even if Teacher Yamazaki himself went up, he would be overwhelmed, wouldn''t he?


    Could this be a new form of bullying?


    Teacher Yamazaki couldn''t help but regard Ayakoji Chiyoko with a skeptical look.


    But by then, Kagura Hikaru had already changed into his Kendo uniform and protective gear, taking the bamboo sword handed to him by Miyamoto Shi: "I am ready. Please start."


    Whatever Ayakoji Chiyoko wanted to do, he would apany her to keep her happy since a club manager''s job was to take care of the team and keep everyone happy.


    But to the eyes of Teacher Yamazaki and the members of the Kendo Club, he was clearly showing off.


    "This, isn''t quite appropriate, is it?" Minister Uchida of the Kendo Club said tactfully, "Can this really be effective for training?"


    Another taller male member of the Kendo Club shook his head outright: "Quickly take off the protective gear, stop joking."


    Seeing Kagura Hikaru surrounded, Hosaka Yui also ran over, suggesting in a low voice as if speaking to a child, "Mr. Kagura, you don''t have to agree to everything. Come down, you''ll get hurt."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko watched with a cold eye, while the Gori Vice President and Miyamoto Shi could not restrain themselves, and loudly interjected:


    "You guys, stop underestimating Instructor Kagura!"


    "Yeah, he is the strongest person here in Sword Dao. Even all of us together might not manage to beat him!"


    "Instructor, you say something too."


    One after the other, these two defended Kagura Hikaru, prompting surprised and questioning looks from some who were unaware of the truth.


    "What?" Hosaka Yui was utterly baffled.


    Minister Uchida remembered something, eximing in shock: "The other day, I heard that your Disciplinary Committee got a very impressive instructor. Is it him??"


    "Yes," Miyamoto Shi said proudly, as if he were talking about himself, "The instructor defeated everyone in our Disciplinary Committee to secure this position."


    "Including your President too?"


    "Yes!"


    Teacher Yamazaki looked at the fully equipped Kagura Hikaru, then at Ayakoji Chiyoko, with a strange expression: "If he''s that strong, why isn''t he on the list ofpetitors?"


    "Let''s start the training, teacher."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko did not seem interested in discussing the topic further, simply picking up a bamboo sword, looking towards Kagura Hikaru.


    After waiting two seconds, she suddenly charged forward, swinging her bamboo sword like a whip.

 Chapter 51 The Overly Strong Punching Bag

    "Ah!"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s sudden movement caught everyone off guard, and Hosaka Yui instinctively yelled out, quickly retreating to dodge.


    Smack!


    But someone in the venue had reacted, it was the attacked Kagura Hikaru himself, who intercepted the sword horizontally over his shoulder, tilting the de to let it slide off to the side with the momentum, easily neutralizing the attack.


    Teacher Yamazaki''s eyes lit up.


    His Sword Dao level wasn''t bad either, holding a fourth dan rank, otherwise, he wouldn''t be qualified to be the advisor for the Kendo Club.


    From just these few movements, Teacher Yamazaki could tell that Kagura Hikaru was no ordinary individual; his posture was crisp and sinct without any superfluous actions, simple and unadorned, seeking speed within stability¡ªthis was the embodiment of simplicity and efficiency.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko shook her sword''s tip, moved a few steps to the side, and with a strange cry, she suddenly dashed forward and swung her sword down in a chop.


    This in Sword Dao is called ''Spirit Focus,'' exhaling from the diaphragm, expelling old air from the lungs, then taking a deep breath to fill the lungs with oxygen, enabling the next strike to be with full power.


    When people toss some heavy object, like athletes in a shot put event, they often also yell out instinctively at the moment of release; this is actually ''Spirit Focus.''


    Indeed, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s strike was fierce, causing Kagura Hikaru to instinctively lift his Bamboo Sword horizontally across to try and block, to prevent her from hitting the scoring point on his faceguard, as that would be considered a loss in Sword Dao.


    But the next instant, Kagura Hikaru realized something was wrong. This move was indeed good for defending against top-to-bottom attacks, but it exposed his right hand to the opponent; it was a trap.


    Sure enough, the moment Ayakoji Chiyoko''s Bamboo Sword struck Kagura Hikaru''s, she immediately withdrew it, taking less than 0.2 seconds to perform a nimble second sh, a Cassock sh aiming for Kagura Hikaru''s right wrist.


    This series of feigned actions and feints was dazzling, and the speed was so fast that even the spectators outside the field were slightly dyed in realizing what happened.


    But even before that, Kagura Hikaru had made a move, quickly realigning his de while pushing down with both hands and stepping back, causing Ayakoji Chiyoko''s attack to hit the guard of his Bamboo Sword. He skillfully parried her de and regained his Lingering Spirit.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, following her momentum, passed by him, and both turned around to face each other again.


    Teacher Yamazaki couldn''t help but shout, "Good!"


    This exchange might seem ordinary, but only insiders could see how high Kagura Hikaru''s skill was; it was like a master fighting an apprentice,pletely foreseeing Ayakoji Chiyoko''s movements and strike zones, and responding like flowing water.


    If it had been a regr match, by now they would have seen Kagura Hikaruunch a series of fierce attacks after sessfully defending, with the thrown-off Ayakoji Chiyoko likely unable to handle it.


    By this point, they had realized that Kagura Hikaru''s Sword Dao level might not only be on par with Ayakoji Chiyoko''s but could even surpass hers.


    The members of the Kendo Club widened their eyes, looking towards Miyamoto Shi and the Gori Vice President.


    It turned out their words were true; Kagura Hikaru''s skill was indeed this strong.


    But since this was the case, why was he the club manager? Was this some new wave monk sweeping the floor?


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko were at a standoff for five minutes, and thetter finally scored a point after relentless attacks.


    "Switch," Teacher Yamazaki said after determining the winner, "Uchida, it''s your turn."


    "Yes!"


    After watching for so long, everyone was already itching to try.


    As soon as Teacher Yamazaki called his name, Minister Uchida from the Kendo Club immediately stood up, passing by Chiyoko Ayakoji as she made her way off the field, and with a distance in between, he bowed to Hikaru Kagura. Then, he carefully approached, picking up his bamboo sword from his waist.


    Chiyoko Ayakoji on the sidelines received a towel from Yui Hosaka, wiping sweat while watching the stage. She observed Hikaru Kagura''s movements from a third-person perspective, imagining how she would defend if she were in his ce, using this observation to learn byparison.


    Throughout the afternoon, Hikaru Kagura was treated like a punching bag by all the contestants, unable to counter and only able to block, continuously enduring a relentless group attack.


    However, since this punching bag was overwhelmingly strong, by the end, no one except Chiyoko Ayakoji could break through Hikaru Kagura''s defense circle, leaving everyone else feeling frustrated.


    These were the people who were going topete in the national tournament, yet they were frequently defeated by a club manager on their team¡ªwhat was that all about?


    In this way, under Hikaru Kagura''s guidance, everyone grew and their skills visibly improved. Coach Yamazaki was very pleased and promised that if anyone reached the top eight in the nationalpetition, he would treat everyone to barbecue.


    This promise fired everyone up, and they trained until dusk before stopping and returning to the hotel to rest.


    They had apetition early the next morning, and instead of going out, everyone took a bath and went straight to sleep.


    At five in the morning the next day, Hikaru Kagura was awoken on time by his phone rm.


    Quickly, he turned off the rm, nced around the room¡ªthe others were still sleeping.


    He quietly got out of bed, washed up, ordered breakfast for everyone at the hotel kitchen, and then went to wake everyone up.


    The boys collectively overslept, reluctantly getting up, whereas the girls got up early. When Hikaru Kagura knocked on their door, only Chiyoko Ayakoji, fully dressed, came to open the door. She mentioned that Yui Hosaka had gotten up even earlier, not knowing where she had gone.


    By the time Hikaru Kagura returned to the first floor, he saw Yui Hosaka''s figure below, talking andughing with the innkeeper''s young daughter.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    After everyone had washed up, breakfast was ready.


    They gathered around a table with a heater, eating while watching Coach Yamazaki study this year''s strongpetitors on his phone.


    They had apetition today, but everyone felt quite rxed.


    Perhaps it was because they were thoroughly trained by Hikaru Kagura the day before; now they felt a sense of superiority when thinking about theirpetitors.


    Kidding¡ªhaving sparred with a real Sword Dao expert, why should they fear these high school weaklings?


    Hikaru Kagura''s presence was like a stabilizing anchor, leaving them free from nervousness and filled only with strongbat desires, eager to test the skills they had learned from him the day before.


    Compared to the advisor Coach Yamazaki, Hikaru Kagura was a better teacher because everyone just needed to imitate him. After each match, he would proactively point out the opponent''s shorings, which greatly enhanced their practicalbat awareness.


    Of course, it was only awareness and overall perception that had changed. As for sword techniques, it was impossible to make significant progress in such a short time, as if it weren''t a martial arts novel where one learns a martial art, defeats their sworn enemy, and instantly bes powerful.


    But even this was a rare and invaluable opportunity.


    Brute strength could be trained, techniques could be honed slowly, but practicalbat awareness was the hardest to develop.


    You could say, as a punching bag, someone was just too strong, and had be a training tool.


    At seven in the morning, after breakfast and a short rest, everyone changed into school uniforms and rushed to the national high school Kendopetition held at an indoor sports arena in Nakagyo Ward, Kyoto Prefecture.

 Chapter 52 The Three Elites of Keihanshin

    The group arrived at the venue for thepetition by car.


    Even before the start of thepetition, spectators had already begun to enter the gymnasium or were standing outside,ughing and talking with friends while holding drinks.


    There were also quite a few high school students wearing their school uniforms, most likely locals from the Capital City,ing to support the representative teams from their region.


    The venue was only sorge; obviously, only one high school from each region would be selected to send representatives topete.


    And Tokyo City''s representative was Kagura Hikaru''s Haneoka Private High School. As a school that encouraged club activities, the strength of Ugao High''s Kendo Club was already quite formidable, yet the Disciplinary Committee was even stronger, restricting them to only two participants.


    Entering thepetition site, people bustled about, and the flooring had been transformed into a suitableyout for Sword Daopetitions, with shiny wooden floors marked off into sections that would soon be used for matches, while staff in suits moved about on them.


    In the corners, cameras could be seen, set up for television broadcasts once the matches began, a tradition from previous years that garnered reasonably high viewership ratings among sports channels.


    High school Kendo, lively and full of youthful energy, in a sense, captured more attention than adult matches, for the brilliance they disyed was momentary. In a few years, as adults, they would lose the light of this moment.


    Among all the high schools, the teams from Keihanshin were undoubtedly the center of attention.


    Keihanshin referred to the three major cities: Capital City, Osaka, and Kobe.


    Overall, the level of Sword Dao in Tokyo was quite good, but whenpared to the region with the strongest Sword Dao skills in the country, that was surely Keihanshin.


    Close to each other, known as one of the Ind Nation''s three major metropolitan areas, they frequently exchanged kendo techniques and consistently ranked at the top nationwide. In past high school Kendopetitions, these three were dominant, their strength overwhelming and their teams seen as the target for all.


    Kagura Hikaru and the others wove their way around the edges of the court, looking for their school''s spot.


    The gymnasium was somewhat crowded, and inevitable oversights urred. Like a little seal being jostled around, Hosaka Yui inadvertently bumped into several opposing yersing from the other direction, who then cast sidelong nces at her.


    "Watch where you''re walking, kid."


    "Middle schoolers shouldn''t be at ces like this."


    They were neatly dressed in Kendo Uniforms and spoke with a Capital City ent, clearly locals.


    "You''re the middle schooler. Are you blind?" Hosaka Yui couldn''t help but re back, her face red, whether from being pushed or being angry.


    The leader, a man with short eyebrows and squinted eyes, had long hair and hadn''t intended to interact with them, but hearing this, he turned his head and looked them over, paying special attention to Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko, whose good looks clearly stood out. A mocking smile appeared at the corner of his eyes:


    "Oh my, visiting young masters and mistresses from out of town are so tender. Look at them, like they''re here for sightseeing. Capital City is beautiful, isn''t it? Shall I rmend a few scenic spots to you?"


    The nearby Capital City folks quietly snickered, covering their mouths and looking at others sideways, reveling in amusement.


    The faces of Ayakoji Chiyoko and the others from Tokyo darkened.


    There''s a saying that Capital City people are petty and snide, and it seems it''s not just a rumor.


    "You lot... Keep a clean mouth!" the Gori Vice President stepped forward, tall and fierce, like a wrathful deity.


    The Capital City folks were nonchnt:


    "Our mouths are quite clean, thank you."


    "But you, with all those sharp teeth, have you cleaned them well?"


    "Oh dear, such a hefty build, must be perfect for physicalbor."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko sighed lightly, shaking her head and said without expression to those around her, "I went to middle school in the Capital City years ago. The reason I came back to Tokyo is this: people here talk tough, but they''re not so tough elsewhere."


    The remark, with a hint of a risqu¨¦ joke, left everyone with their mouths agape.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko, telling a suggestive joke!


    As expected of someone who had spent three years in the Capital City, Ayakoji Chiyoko managed to irritate the locals with just one sentence, their smiling faces bing somewhat strained.


    "Hahaha, thisdy nailed it, right on the money! People from the Capital City, well, they''re nothing but a bunch of soft-shelled shrimps who bully the weak but fear the strong."


    Suddenly, a loud voice rang out as a tall and robust young man with cropped hair, dressed in ck, approached, casting a mocking nce at the people from the Capital City. Heughed and grabbed the Gori Vice President''s arm, giving it a couple of squeezes: "Brother''s been training well, huh? Must be hitting the gym regrly."


    The Gori Vice President was caught off guard by the squeezing, and at this point, the squint-eyed leader from the Capital City spoke up, addressing the young man in ck: "Are you Kuroiwa from Osaka? I''ve heard a bit about your level."


    The young man in ck feigned thoughtfulness: "Hmm... sorry, who are you again?"


    The squint-eyed man replied: "Kusatsu Ikuta. Make sure you remember that."


    "Alright, I''m Kuroiwa Ryuuichi!"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko stepped in like a knight leaning on a sword, an aura about her thatmanded respect, "And you might as well remember my name too. This time, the Tokyo District team is here to win."


    "Winning? Can Tokyo really achieve that?" Kusatsu Ikuta chuckled, "Well, I wouldn''t want to be used of being all talk. See you on the field."


    "Oh! See you on the field!"


    Kuroiwa Ryuuichi also grinned, flexing his muscr arm as he waved it, watching as the other group left with their team.


    He then turned towards Ayakoji Chiyoko, admiration in his eyes: "What a spirited young woman, like an unsheathed de. In my opinion, you are the strongest person in the Tokyo team."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "I''d like to say so, but unfortunately, I''m not," she replied.


    After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Kuroiwa Ryuuichi realized Ayakoji Chiyoko didn''t seem keen on chatting and promptly shifted his focus to the Gori Vice President, pulling him aside to start discussing ''muscles over wine''.


    Meanwhile, Ayakoji Chiyoko nced at Kagura Hikaru, who was blending into the crowd, somewhat displeased with his zen-like calm, "Why don''t you say anything? Do you think it doesn''t matter that we''re being looked down upon?"


    "Me?" Kagura Hikaru seemed surprised, "Sorry, was I supposed to speak just now?"


    He wasn''t a yer, just a club manager.


    What business did a mere helper have butting in during the trash-talking phase?


    This sense of ''diligently sticking to his role'' conveyed a severe sense of dissonance to Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Even she had to admit, Kagura Hikaru was a talented individual, one of the best among his peers.


    But the problem was, why didn''t this guy have any pride?


    At the age of just sixteen, he possessed professional-level guitar skills, professional-level Sword Dao skills, and even his academic performance was top-notch.


    Yet, there was not the slightest hint of the arrogance typical of a genius about him.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko had deliberately included Kagura Hikaru in the team with the title of club manager, partly to see his reaction and judge his true character.


    The result was that he epted the role without hesitation; in fact, he seemed to do a better job than the official manager Hosaka Yui, never onceining andpleting his tasks with straightforward honesty.


    If he were in a workce setting, he would certainly be the kind of employee who didn''t talk back to his boss, the type that was easy to manage and obedient.


    Could such a person, who takes life as ites and seeks stability, really be someone to engage in infidelity?


    Or was he just ying the loyal dog to win her favor? But what for?


    Ayakoji Chiyoko watched him, pondering in silence.


    Just keep observing for now.

 Chapter 53 Ugao High in Tokyo no longer deserves respect!

    The yer Ryo Kuroiwa from Osaka had a brief chat about fitness with the Gori Vice President before he excused himself and returned to his team.


    Watching his retreating figure, Teacher Yamazaki said to everyone, "Currently, among the high school students in Osaka, it''s likely Ryo Kuroiwa who has the strongest Sword Dao. Be careful when you face him; he''s a formidable opponent."


    "What about that sneaky squinty-eyed guy?" the Gori Vice President immediately asked, shing his fist with his palm.


    "Don''t underestimate him," said Minister Uchida from the Kendo Club, his expression serious. "Kusatsu Ikuta is also a favorite to win this year''s championship, and he wasst year''s winner."


    "Him? He won before?"


    "The Capital City schools strong in Sword Dao are numerous. Kusatsu Ikuta emerged from among them. It''s best to not really think of him as just a smooth talker."


    "But he''s definitely not as good as President Ayakoji and Instructor Kagura!" Miyamoto Shi said confidently.


    The Gori Vice President regretfully expressed, "I think so too. The President and the Instructor could definitely beat him, it''s just unfortunate that the Instructor can''tpete."


    "Hmm... that''s also true," Miyamoto Shi said ambiguously.


    "It has been a long time since the Tokyo District advanced into the top eight at the national tournament,"mented Teacher Yamazaki who had led the Kendo Club to the national tournament in the previous years. "This generation of yours holds the most promise. Give it your best!"


    "For the barbecue!"


    The boys cheered and rallied.


    After a while, Kagura Hikaru and the others finally found the ce arranged for them by the organizers and settled down. They immediately began to undress and change into their Kendo Uniforms.


    As the weather was cold, everyone just took off their coats and was able to change directly, saving the trouble of going to the changing room.


    As club managers, Kagura Hikaru and Hosaka Yui took the opportunity to get the protective gear and Bamboo Swords from the organizers.


    Everyone tried them out to get a feel and stretched a bit, then sat down in their spots waiting for thepetition to start.


    Soon it was 8 AM, and the venue personnel had cleared the area, leaving a spacious field.


    The spectator stands quickly filled up, upying two-thirds of the seats¡ªabout three hundred people¡ªwhich was a highly impressive turnout.


    The majority of the audience consisted of students from various high schools, with many from the Capital City, holding support signs and banners.


    Today should be a school day on Friday; I wonder how they managed to get the time off. Perhaps the schools had given a break to facilitate the students attending thepetition.


    If that''s the case, that''s really enviable.


    Thepetition is about to begin.


    The organizers handed out the first batch of match schedules.


    Thepetition used an elimination system, where each participant randomly battled against students from other schools. The winner would move to the next round, and so forth.


    Since it was a random draw, the further one advanced, the more likely one would face a teammate, which was an unavoidable situation.


    After Hosaka Yui brought the list over, it quickly passed through everyone''s hands. Everyone, apart from Ayakoji Chiyoko and Miyamoto Shi, showed a shocked expression.


    The list eventually reached Kagura Hikaru, who scanned down until he saw their school''s name.


    Members from Tokyo District Haneoka Private High School participating ¡ª Ayakoji Chiyoko, Wada Ritarou, Uchida Hajime, Ooi Shuuyitsu, Kagura Hikaru.


    ...Kagura Hikaru?


    Why was his name on there?


    He looked up sharply at Ayakoji Chiyoko, who seemed to have anticipated this, and calmly said, "Kagura Hikaru, do not dishonor Ugao''s name. Fight with all your might to win the championship, understand?"


    Kagura Hikaru finally understood that he had been tricked by her.


    From the very beginning, Ayakoji Chiyoko had ced herself on the contestant list, but she deceived him into doing the club manager''s tasks.


    "Miyamoto, is this good enough for you?"


    Kagura Hikaru looked at Miyamoto Shi withplex emotions.


    The one who had been reced on the list was Miyamoto Shi.


    He had probably known about this before they set off, and had mentally prepared himself early. He met Kagura Hikaru''s gaze without any resentment, instead, he proudly smiled, "Instructor Kagura, let everyone know how formidable you are and fiercely p those people from the Capital City in the face!"


    After speaking, he handed over the kendo uniform he had received but never worn to Kagura Hikaru, the cloth identifying thepetitor''s role ringly inscribed with the word ''Kagura.''


    Kagura Hikaru nodded and solemnly epted it, "Thank you, I won''t let you down."


    "Now I feel relieved, hahaha." Miyamoto Shi scratched his head andughed.


    Upon closer inspection, one could still see a touch of regret deep within his eyes.


    As a lover of Sword Dao, he naturally wanted topete and measure himself against the best in the world.


    "Miyamoto Shi, you have great potential." Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes suddenly nced over as she spoke, "Consider this year as an observational learning experience, train well when you get back, and next year, I will secure a spot for you topete."


    Miyamoto Shi''s face instantly brightened, "Yes! Thank you, President!"


    By then, Kagura Hikaru had already changed into his kendo uniform with the help of Hosaka Yui.


    Donning the kendo uniform and hakama, the deliberately constrained sharpness finally revealed a corner.


    d in the kendo uniform, he had a special aura, as if he was the protagonist in a sword-fighting film, who appeared casual and rxed yet was deadly with a sword, dazzlingly handsome.


    Hispanion, Hosaka Yui, nearly glued her eyes to his face, unabashedly pulling out her phone and the continuous clicking of photos ensued, making her seem not just like the club manager, but also a part-time journalist.


    Only Ayakoji Chiyoko sensed the subtle sense of danger hidden beneath Kagura Hikaru''sposed face, her expression growing even more serious.


    Being proud of her Sword Dao skills, yet having never won against him in their spars, she wanted to forget her role as the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee and challenge Kagura Hikaru straightforwardly as a pure contender this time.


    Kagura Hikaru was sitting cross-legged on the ground, cing a bamboo sword across hisp as he closed his eyes to meditate, engaging in sword meditation.


    This was akin to a form of meditation; mystically speaking, it was about deepening his connection with the sword, achieving unity of man and sword.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Simply put, he was concentrating his mind.


    Switching from the club manager to apetitor, Kagura Hikaru was preparing himself mentally, gathering his fighting spirit and ferocity, determined to exert his full power and not disgrace Miyamoto Shi and Ugao High.


    As a whistle blew, the referee announced the official start of the match, andpetitors from all sides began to enter the arena.


    The first to enter the ring from the Ugao team was Ayakoji Chiyoko, and her opponent was a male student from Hokkaido.


    The opponent stood at the edge of the other end of the field, facing Ayakoji Chiyoko from a distance, nonchntly lifted his chin, and despite the faceguard, one could almost see the disdain behind it.


    He did not have a good impression of Ayakoji Chiyoko and unterally believed that this beautiful woman was a publicity tool brought in by Haneoka Private High School, a mere vase holding a sword, likely to be eliminated after one round.


    The National High School Kendo Competition did not distinguish between genders, but since its inception, no woman had ever ced, as Sword Dao was ultimately a man''s realm.


    When a woman appeared in thepetition, what it signified was self-evident.


    To market the school''s image by sacrificing a contest spot, Tokyo''s Ugao High no longer deserved respect!

 Chapter 54 Throat Stab

    ```


    "Hey, look over there, from the Tokyo District."


    "Such a beautiful person, is she a model?"


    "She''s apetitor. Didn''t you see her wearing protective gear?"


    "What''s her name?"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s appearance sparked a small wave of heated discussion.


    As an idol beauty, she was dressed in a Kendo uniform + a full set of protective gear, standing at the sidelines, a scene no less impactful than Hashimoto Kanna''s ssic ''millennial beauty'' candid shot.


    With bright eyes and white teeth, her beauty could shame the moon and flowers, yet her martial virtue was abundant.


    The broadcast director quickly noticed that the audience''s gaze was gradually gathering in one direction and immediately had the broadcast camera turn to capture Ayakoji Chiyoko''s face.


    Now, the entire nation could see the Chairman of the Disciplinary Committee''s valiant appearance.


    For a moment, the viewership skyrocketed, and even after Ayakoji Chiyoko had put on her faceguard, covering her face, there was no sign of it decreasing.


    Everyone was excited about a match involving such a beautiful girl.


    It was not hard to imagine that, once the match ended, photographs of Ayakoji Chiyoko from all angles would rapidly spread across the inte.


    In a way, the Hokkaido yer''s wish had indeede true, because after Ayakoji Chiyoko''s appearance on camera, many people began to look up her region and school.


    Although it was unintentional, the reputation of Haneoka Private High School did get promoted, with its poprity going up, up.


    The outside chatter didn''t affect the ongoing match.


    The two referees waved their red and white gs to signal, and both yers fastened their bamboo swords at their waists and entered the arena with almost the same tempo, stopping at the line. They raised their bamboo swords to the middle position, then slowly squatted down.


    This posture is called ''Sonkyo,'' a preparatory form before the match.


    Only when the referee gave a vocal signal did they both leap up, closing the distance slightly, bamboo sword tips crossing against each other, moving lightly, watching their opponent.


    A tense atmosphere was spreading.


    Suddenly, the yer from Hokkaido made a move, lunging forward in a big step, aiming for Ayakoji Chiyoko''s head.


    "Men!!"


    In Sword Dao rules, there are four valid scoring areas: head, hands, waist, throat. When striking a scoring area, one must shout the corresponding target and maintain ''Lingering Spirit''¡ªstaying alert after making the stroke¡ªto sessfully score.


    The yer from Hokkaido already looked down on his opponent, thinking he had seen Ayakoji Chiyoko''s weakness, and attempted to take her head with one risk-filled blow.


    However, the moment he struck, Ayakoji Chiyoko also shouted "Men!" and used her bamboo sword to swiftly parry his de. She then delivered a second strike to his head, smoothly passing by him while maintaining the raised de, took a few small leaps due to inertia, then turned around.


    The two referees raised the white gs, indicating that Ayakoji Chiyoko had sessfully scored.


    In Kendo matches, the yers have red and white ribbons hanging behind them, and the referees raise the g of the color that corresponds to the scoring yer.


    "Good!!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Seeing Ayakoji Chiyoko score, Kagura Hikaru and the others immediately apuded in approval, and the audience in the stands followed suit a beatter.


    The Hokkaido yer lost a point and swung his bamboo sword in frustration.


    The match was a three-point system, where the first to score two points would win. This meant he was now on the edge of the cliff, about to be eliminated.


    He had underestimated this woman.


    ```


    The Hokkaidopetitor shed their contempt, leveled their mentality, and stood earnestly once again at the starting line, holding their sword in wait.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko did the same.


    The next second, the match resumed.


    "Ha!"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko struck first, with a cry like a howling monkey and a stamping of foot, intimidating the Hokkaidopetitor into retreating half a step.


    This retreat evoked a sense of shame within them, as if to demonstrate bravery, they stepped forward again, raising their bamboo sword in an offensive upper-level starting pose.


    But they didn''t realize that this was exactly what Ayakoji Chiyoko was waiting for.


    The opponent waspletely oblivious to the fact that while Ayakoji Chiyoko had been stomping to intimidate, she had quietly moved forward a distance, and then suddenly took advantage of the opponent''s inattention to fiercely thrust forward in a single motion, striking like a venomous snake, and her thrust hit the opponent''s throat.


    "Throat!!"


    Scoring a hit, she swiftly retracted her bamboo sword and retreated, assuming Lingering Spirit stance with fluid grace, still having reserves of strength.


    Both referees simultaneously raised the white gs.


    The score was valid, Ayakoji Chiyoko won.


    "Ohhh!"


    The audience in the stands and those watching on screens let out exmations of amazement.


    The broadcasting cameras had long been focused here; they hadn''t expected Ayakoji Chiyoko to finish the match so swiftly, and the sports journalists at the sidelines couldn''t help feeling thrilled.


    A beauty with skillful moves¡ªwasn''t this live news material?


    They had already decided, the highlight of the first day of the high school Sword Dao tournament would be on the theme of ''The once-in-a-millennium Kendo beauty,'' paired with the photo of the femalepetitor, the viewer ratings were sure to skyrocket.


    Meanwhile, the otherpetitors watching from the sidelines measured the situation more seriously, with their attention on Ayakoji Chiyoko''s technique.


    "That first kick, was it to confuse the opponent, to create an opportunity to get close?" Kagura Hikaru from the Kyoto Ward team, squinted and stroked his chin with a smile full of interest.


    Whether it was on-the-spot strategy or reaction speed, both were clearly beyond those of an ordinarypetitor.


    This woman, she''s got talent.


    Tokyo District team.


    "President Ayakoji is so amazing," said Hosaka Yui, sitting beside Kagura Hikaru, watching Ayakoji Chiyoko approaching them after removing her faceguard, and spoke enviously, "Even though I also practice Sword Dao, I can''t do it like she does."


    "As long as you persevere and practice, anyone can be stronger," Kagura Hikaru stated calmly.


    "Eh, Mr. Kagura, are youforting me? I didn''t expect you to care about me that much," Hosaka Yui joked, her voice tinged withughter, but her eyes were not smiling, seeming more like a cover for her inner inferiority.


    "...Do you know, Mr. Kagura. When I first joined the Kendo Club, my goal was the national tournament," Hosaka Yui''s smile slowly faded, "But I can''t do it. Truly, I can''t. Whether it''s height, technique, or physical fitness, I fall far short, not as good as the males in the club. With no other choice, I became the club manager, attending the matches in that capacity, as if fulfilling a dream."


    Kendo is a man''s domain, with no ce for women¡ªthis notion indeed broadly circted within the circle.


    Women in high-grade Kendo were exceedingly rare, far fewer than men.


    While there might be more females studying Kendo in high schools, due to the innate physical differences, the true masters were still mostly men.


    "But seeing President Ayakoji, I think my way of thinking was wrong," Hosaka Yui said with a somber expression, "It''s not because I''m a woman that I can''t do it, but because of my own issues. I''m too weak, and that''s why I can''t carve out a ce for myself in the Kendo Club."


    "Hmm, you''re right," Kagura Hikaru said, looking forward without shifting his gaze, and nodded in response.

 Chapter 55 Overwhelming Victory

    Hosaka Yui looked at him sharply, her eyes widened in disbelief, and the corners of her mouth drooped, "Kagura junior, are you straight? When a girl shows her weaknesses in front of a guy, she is looking forfort, not for you to insult her!"


    "But you are indeed weak. Not physically, but emotionally," Kagura Hikaru said, "Everyone feels weak at times, but how you face your own vulnerability is the fundamental reason that creates differences between people."


    Unmoved by what he said, Hosaka Yui curled her lips and retorted, "You''re probably trying to encourage me to keep going, right? But if you know you can''t do it and still try, isn''t that a waste of time?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "I won''t deny that possibility, maybe at the end, it all turns out to be in vain."


    Kagura Hikaru nodded to Ayakoji Chiyoko as she came back, handed her a bottle of sports drink, then turned to look at Hosaka Yui, "But if you do nothing, that possibility will copse to zero."


    "That''s sophistry...."


    Muttering under her breath, Hosaka Yui looked down with aplicated expression.


    How nice it is to be troubled by youth.


    Watching her, Kagura Hikaru felt somewhat emotional.


    Compared to them, Kagura Hikaru was just a person who had lost his dreams, a grey dot amidst the vibrant colors of energetic students.


    Living without ideals, without goals, he spent his days dwelling on the past.


    Living like a dried-up old man.


    At the age of barely over ten, he was already full of scars and had lost the motivation to move forward.


    He always looked with envy at those who could still worry about their futures.


    "Kagura, it''s almost your turn."


    Teacher Yamazaki tapped Kagura Hikaru''s shoulder from behind.


    He nodded, picked up his head cloth to wrap it around his head, put on his faceguard, donned his hand protection, grabbed his bamboo sword, and walked toward his match area.


    "Mr. Kagura, good luck!" Hosaka Yui called out from behind.


    Kagura Hikaru turned his head and nodded slightly.


    He might no longer have a dream, but perhaps, he could still provide a bit of courage for someone lost to take a step forward.


    Maybe that''s why he was here.


    In his match area, thepetitors were still fighting, but the time was nearly over, he just had to wait a bit longer.


    At that moment, Kagura Hikaru''s opponent approached, it turned out to be someone from the Kyoto Ward team they had encountered earlier.


    The man passed by and nced at Kagura Hikaru, scoffing intentionally, "Look at how serious you are, must be your first time, huh? Want me to go easy on you?"


    "..." Kagura Hikaru looked at him without saying a word.


    "What''s up? Cat got your tongue? Looking all dumbfounded."


    "I''m just thinking, if you loseter and run into me again, will you feel embarrassed."


    "Ah? Me lose?" The Kyoto Competitorughed, showing his teeth, "You sure have guts to think that, who do you think I am?"


    "Oh."


    Kagura Hikaru ended the conversation with one word, not only because he felt talking to this man was a waste of time, but also because the match on the field had just ended, and it was their turn topete.


    The Kyoto Competitor shut his mouth, walked to the other side of the field, and stood in silence.


    During a Sword Dao match, apart from the Spirit Focus, one is not allowed to speak, otherwise it''s not just disrespectful to the opponent and the spectators, but the referee also has the right to deduct points for it as a foul.


    Kagura Hikaru thought that the provocation he had just experienced might be one of the opponent''s tactics, to distract him and affect his performance in the match.


    After all, once the match started, there could be no talking.


    Whether or not this was correct didn''t really matter, since Kagura Hikaru hadn''t been affected anyway.


    This level of malice was something he could scarcely be bothered to respond to unless he didn''t want to be seen as weak and ipetent.


    Arguing and bickering must be one of the most meaningless things in the world.


    Kagura Hikaru''s heart was calm, as if standing at the center of a mirror-likeke, his serene demeanor continuously drawing the attention of those around him.


    What he didn''t know was that before the match began, before Kagura Hikaru had put on his faceguard, the broadcast cameras had already been fixed on him.


    The cameras had originally intended to follow Ayakoji Chiyoko back and capture her drinking water and talking with teammates, but they hadn''t expected a handsome young man on Ayakoji Chiyoko''s level toe into the frame, boosting the viewership by several percentage points in an instant.


    People were surprised to find that this youth with a tranquil air was actually on the same team as Ayakoji Chiyoko, both from Tokyo Uka High School.


    Does Tokyo especially produce beautiful women and handsome men, or is it just this school?


    Uka High inadvertently received attention once again, with just the faces of Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko likely to raise the school''s application rate next year.


    The match began, and the two referees waved their gs to signal the start. Kagura Hikaru and the Kyoto Competitor, with bamboo swords tied to their waists, slowly entered the arena,ing to a halt at the starting line where they crouched down, sword tips facing each other.


    The next moment, both rose to their feet simultaneously.


    "Yaah!!" The Kyoto Competitor started with a roar to intimidate, violently swinging down his bamboo sword.


    However, Kagura Hikaru remained unmoved, as if on a different frequency, leisurely maintaining distance and footwork, holding a middle guard stance.


    The Kyoto Competitor''s several probing attacks all failed to make an impression, and several times when he wanted to truly strike, he seemed to lose his nerve, hesitating uncertainly.


    Facing Kagura Hikaru on the field ofpetition, he felt an immense pressure.


    The opponent did not use deception or probing approaches, merely waiting in silence, like an insurmountable mountain standing in front, with intuition telling him that even if he attacked, he would notnd a hit¡ªthere seemed to be no openings.


    In Sword Dao, there are four taboos: Surprise (panic), Fear (terror), Doubt, and Confusion.


    When these four emotions emerge in the opponent''s heart, that''s the best opportunity to strike.


    "Men!"


    Without any warning, Kagura Hikaru struck rapidly, hitting the top of the Kyoto Competitor''s head, moving past him with quick and steady steps, maintaining a Lingering Spirit posture.


    Thetter was stunned, taking a moment too long to realize what happened, and then quickly turning to look at the referees, only to find they had already raised the red g.


    The red g signified Kagura Hikaru¡ªhe had scored.


    The Kyoto Competitor hit his right hand in frustration, dissatisfied with his ownpse in concentration that had allowed the opponent to exploit an opening.


    The two returned to the line behind the starting point, swords facing each other, the Kyoto Competitor''s gaze fixed firmly on his opponent.


    The referee shouted to signal the start.


    This time, Kagura Hikaruunched the first attack, tapping the opponent''s sword and aiming for the wrist of his right hand with a second strike.


    The Kyoto Competitor narrowly sidestepped, maintaining movement, as the two circled with broken steps and swords engaged. Suddenly, both made their moves simultaneously.


    The Kyoto Competitor thought Kagura Hikaru was going to strike the faceguard again, and he shared the same intention¡ªto take advantage of the opponent''s attack with a faster strike to the faceguard.


    "Kote!"


    But he had misjudged. As soon as he raised his sword, Kagura Hikaru''s bamboo sword struck his nk, with Kagura swiftly bowing and slipping by, turning around to maintain Lingering Spirit.


    The referees quickly raised the red g.


    The score was valid, Kagura Hikaru won 2:0.


    The normally indomitable team from the Capital City suffered a sound defeat!


    The Kyoto Competitor dumbfoundedly lowered his bamboo sword, recalling Kagura Hikaru''s words before the match, asking whether it would be embarrassing to meet again after losing on the field.


    ...Damn it, isn''t that obvious!


    Eventually, without saying a word, he maintained a bowing position and left the arena, faceguard still on, and slunk away dejectedly.

 Chapter 56 Agreement

    Kagura Hikaru''s current Sword Dao level was lv4, which roughly equated to the seventh dan. In the professional Kenshi realm outside, this level was already considered top tier.


    It was easy to imagine what kind of ughter he would perform among high school students.


    Perhaps because of this, the process appeared too steady and simple, nothing as spectacr as Ayakoji Chiyoko''s matches; aside from the Kyoto Competitors he directly faced, basically no one could see Kagura Hikaru''s true skill level.


    When he took off his faceguard and returned to his team, the teammates took his effortless victory over the strong yer from Kyoto as expected.


    They were all well aware that Kagura Hikaru''s abilities were absolutely extraordinary, and they felt it was a disgrace to him to even participate in such apetition.


    Teacher Yamazaki had even privately suggested that he consider a professional career, but Kagura Hikaru had refused.


    His Sword Dao skills came from his mind-reading ability, and he was not truly passionate about the sport itself.


    Returning to his team, Kagura Hikaru sat down in his original spot.


    "Mr. Kagura is really strong, effortlessly defeating yers from powerful Kyoto schools like that. There seems to be no suspense in this year''s National Championship."


    Hosaka Yui looked at him admiringly and patted the protector around his waist. "I''ll entrust my dreams to you, you must win!"


    However, Kagura Hikaru nced at her, "Dreams should be pursued on your own, a dream achieved by someone else is ultimately someone else''s and has nothing to do with you."


    The club manager was stunned for a few seconds, "...Mr. Kagura, you can be very hurtful sometimes....."


    "I''m just speaking the truth."


    Hosaka Yui looked conflicted and shook her head, "Mr. Kagura, my dream is topete in the National Championship. And I''m already a second-year student, soon to be a third-year, with only one year left. How can I possibly achieve it?"


    "So, are you going to give up?" Kagura Hikaru asked in response.


    "Hmm....."


    Hosaka Yui pondered for a while then suddenly pped her hands, "How about this, Mr. Kagura, let''s make a promise."


    She smiled mischievously, "If you win at this National Championship, I will continue practicing Sword Dao. If you don''t, then I''ll give it up."


    "Isn''t that condition a bit too lenient?"


    "Eh~ Mr. Kagura, you''re so confident. You already think you''ve won, huh? I was just being polite when I said there was no suspense at the National Championship."


    "I understand," Kagura Hikaru nodded, "Then it''s a deal."


    "Yes, it''s a deal!"


    As she said this, Hosaka Yui''s smile took on a strange tinge, but Kagura Hikaru didn''t see it, having already turned his head back to watch the matches.


    The first day of the National High School Sword Dao Championship continued until nearly noon before finally finishing, eliminating half of thepetitors in the hall.


    Stepping out of the venue filled with a solemn atmosphere and into the sunlight, Kagura Hikaru and the others felt a warmth in their hearts.


    In the first round of the eliminations, all fivepetitors from the Tokyo District had remarkably not lost a single match, including Kagura Hikaru, who had faced off against the formidable Keihanshin-Kobe teams and caused them a severe defeat, allowing all members to advance smoothly.


    With such good news, their spirits were naturally uplifted.


    Especially right after exiting the venue, Kagura Hikaru and others were immediately surrounded by several TV and magazine reporters vying for interviews, while the neighbouring Kyoto team was ignored as they passed by, only able to stare resentfully at the scene, which was the most satisfying part.


    The Gori Vice President and Miyamoto Shi sneered at the Kyoto team with a sense of petty triumph until they could no longer see them, then looked at Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru who were being interviewed live on television.


    Reporter: "yer Kagura, yer Ayakoji, congrattions on advancing to the second round of the National Championship, it was an incredible match!"


    Ayakoji Chiyoko: "Thank you."


    Kagura Hikaru: "..."


    Reporter: "May I ask how you both feel at this moment?"


    Kagura Hikaru: "I will keep pushing hard."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko: "Hmm."


    Reporter: "Ah.....Okay. I would also like to ask, what is the rtionship like between the two of you outside of thepetitions?"


    Kagura Hikaru: "Neither good nor bad."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko: "..."


    Reporter: "Okay, thank you both~"


    After dealing with the reporters who had swooped in, Kagura Hikaru and the others finally got to ride back to the hotel to rest.


    Teacher Yamazaki drove a rented Toyota minivan, weaving through the streets of Capital City with a car full of students.


    Winter was about to end, the weather was gradually warming up, and flowers and trees started to revive sessively, a hint of spring could be smelled through the ss.


    When they had just left the meeting venue, everyone hadn''t felt tired, but the moment they sat on the leather seats in the car, sleepiness struck instantly, and they began yawning one after another, as if there was some kind of hypnotic gas in the car.


    Upon reaching the hotel, everyone, struggling to keep their energy up, finished their lunch and immediately went back to their rooms to fall asleep.


    Only Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko remained awake, sitting silently in the tea room, drinking tea and looking at each other without a word.


    "I have something to ask you," Kagura Hikaru suddenly said.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko leisurely took a sip of water, "What is it?"


    "Why did you make such arrangements behind my back?"


    He was referring to how Ayakoji Chiyoko had deceived him into participating in thepetition by pretending to be the club manager.


    "You surely weren''t just trying to y a prank on me."


    "I did deceive you, but not for such a trivial reason."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko calmly fiddled with the teacup in her hand, "If I had asked you normally, whether you wanted topete or not, you most likely would have refused, so I decided to act first and reportter."


    "How would you know without asking?" Kagura Hikaru expressed his iprehension.


    "Kagura Hikaru, don''t you realize, how much you avoid interacting with others?" Ayakoji Chiyoko nced at him, "Among the people who came to Capital City with us, have you initiated more than ten sentences of conversation with them outside of official business?"


    "It''s not really like that..."


    "You know what you are like; don''t make me, an outsider, remind you."


    "...You might be mistaken."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Oh?"


    Kagura Hikaru shook his head, "If it were someone else, I definitely wouldn''t have agreed, but the current me is seeking an opportunity to reconcile with you, so if you had asked, I would havee no matter what."


    "..."


    The air grew silent for a few minutes.


    It seemed to freeze, thick and icy cold.


    After a long time, just when Kagura Hikaru thought she wouldn''t talk to him anymore, Ayakoji Chiyoko spoke.


    "Kagura Hikaru, another reason I forced you into the nationalpetition was to directly settle our scores," she said.


    "Your Sword Dao is not sharp, but very steady, and I am exactly the opposite, sharp yet immature, we may be natural rivals."


    "...If that''s what you wish."


    Kagura Hikaru knew that the conflict they were discussing wasn''t actually about Sword Dao; they didn''t really care about that at all.


    The real issue between them was Kagura Hikaru''s inconsistency in his persona and his deliberately concealed dark history.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko was a person whocked a sense of security, he had noticed this the first time they met.


    She was exceedingly cautious around everyone, like someone carrying a treasure through a slum, always on guard against being secretly harmed.


    It was unclear where she had learned such a suspicious, hyper-sensitive nature akin to that of a monarch.


    The thing such a person could least tolerate was deception and concealment by those around her, and Kagura Hikaru had stepped right into this minefield.


    In the end, the so-called showdown was really just her looking for a chance to vent her frustration.


    Kagura Hikaru thought to himself.


    "I won''t hold back," Kagura Hikaru said.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko smiled, the first since she arrived in Capital City, though it disappeared quickly, "That''s exactly what I want."


    Thus, within one day, Kagura Hikaru had mademitments with two different girls.


    If one ignored the details, it would really give the impression that he was very popr.


    Butter events proved that both persons with whom he had mademitments today had their own cunning ns and ulterior motives.


    At this moment, Kagura Hikaru remained oblivious to this.

 Chapter 57 The Defeat of the Kyoto People

    The Sword Dao tournament arrived at its third day in the blink of an eye.


    In the fierce battles that ensued, only Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko from the Tokyo District''s Uka High School team remained, with the rest of the yers already eliminated.


    Except for the tall male students from the Kendo Club who were defeated by yers from other districts, everyone else, including Kendo Club President Uchida and the Gori Vice President, lost to teams from the Keihanshin area.


    Facing three high-caliber schools, there was little room for maneuver for both of them.


    However, looking at the remaining Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko, their strength was such that it could be described as a brutal domination of thepetition. The Keihanshin team''s yers only saw fear in their eyes when they encountered them and were swiftly defeated.


    Finally, on the third day, the semifinals arrived.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko entered the final four, with the other two opponents being Kusatsu Ikuta from Capital City and Ryo Kuroiwa from Osaka.


    After many years, yers from Tokyo High School had once again stepped into the finals circle of the national tournament, filling every Tokyoite who paid attention to Sword Dao with pride. The goodwill towards Kagura Hikaru and his partner surged to new levels!


    Simply put, they became stars.


    Especially Ayakoji Chiyoko, she was the female swordsman who had advanced the furthest in the history of the National High School Sword Dao Tournament. Even if she were to lose now, she had already made history.


    However, many Sword Dao experts felt that she definitely had the strength to win the championship, a dark horse even stronger than the two seeded yers, Kusatsu Ikuta and Ryo Kuroiwa.


    Exceptional Sword Dao skills,bined with looks that could match a top idol, had made her face wildly popr on short video websites without her knowledge.


    The impact was that the poprity of Sword Dao as a sport rose across the Ind Nation, the national tournament''s viewership climbed, and the number of spectators at the event increased.


    The stands, which could originally only be filled to one-third capacity, were now packed to the brim.


    Of course, it also helped that it was the weekend and students were off and coulde to show their support.


    Kagura Hikaru and his peers even spotted Uka High School uniforms in the crowd, but there were too few of them, and their voices were drowned out by other spectators.


    But just knowing that students had traveled all the way from Tokyo to support them was satisfaction enough.


    Compared to the first two days, the venue for thest day''spetition seemed much more sparse, reduced from four segments to just two. The final four yers left standing would decide the victor in front of hundreds of live spectators.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko knelt on the ground, methodically donning her protective gear, waiting for the match to start.


    She had already been informed that her next opponent would be Kusatsu Ikuta from the Capital City team, that short-browed and squint-eyed man who liked to speak in riddles.


    Even though Ayakoji Chiyoko had no intention of wavering no matter the opponent, since she had the good fortune to match against someone with past grievances, she certainly couldn''t waste the opportunity.


    Treating him like a hotel waiter taking care of all his needs was the appropriate attitude to deal with this kind of filth.


    She put on her faceguard and tied the straps, listening to Teacher Yamazaki beside her pointing out Kusatsu Ikuta''s weaknesses and vulnerabilities. Soon, the referee raised the g signaling the yers to enter the arena.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko and the seated Kusatsu Ikuta across from her stood up at the same time.


    Both donned full protective gear, their faces and figures obscured, eschewing any male or female distinction, looking like animated versions of the Eighteen Arhats or martial arts training dummies.


    "Ooohhh!!!"


    A roar of cheers erupted from the stands, with Capital City students shouting Kusatsu Ikuta''s name, apanied by the sound of drums and trumpets.


    The Capital City students brought musical instruments to bolster Kusatsu Ikuta''s morale.


    This way of creating a home-field advantage was effective.


    The shouts and music reached Ayakoji Chiyoko''s ears, irritating her and putting her at a moral disadvantage.


    She really wanted to shout out a Spirit Focus to expel this stifling feeling, but she couldn''t do that before the match started, which made Ayakoji Chiyoko feel suppressed.


    At that moment, however, came the support of her teammates from behind.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Gori Vice President: "President, go for it!!!"


    Miyamoto Shi: "President! Show him what you''re made of!"


    Hosaka Yui: "You can do it!"


    Teacher Yamazaki: "You''ve got this!"


    Kagura Hikaru didn''t make a sound, just picked up his faceguard from afar and waved it, indicating that the contest between them was not yet decided.


    Having someone support you can instill courage out of nowhere, as long as you know this fact.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko let out a gentle breath, her heart already tranquil.


    She looked at Kusatsu Ikuta, who stood across the field, with the sound of drums and cheers slowly fading in her ears. The referee signalled with a g, and bothpetitors, each with a bamboo sword at their waist, slowly walked to the center of the arena. They silently drew their bamboo swords, crouched behind the stop line, and pointed their sword tips at their opponent.


    The next moment, both stood up simultaneously, their sword tips quivering sharply as they probed their opponent.


    After a standoff of three seconds, Kusatsu Ikuta suddenly lunged in for an attack, striking Ayakoji Chiyoko''s bamboo sword first, then aiming for the point on her head¡ªnaturally, she blocked it.


    Their handguards shed, bamboo sword against bamboo sword, and they grappled tightly against each other, slowly sidestepping. After several seconds of not finding an opening, they both rxed their strength and slowly retreated, restoring a safe distance and assuming a middle-guard posture.


    A heavy atmosphere enveloped the entire venue.


    "Yahhh!"


    "Hah!"


    With a shout of Spirit Focus, Kusatsu Ikuta and Ayakoji Chiyoko both issued a challenge, like two wild beasts on the in intimidating each other. It might have seemedical, but face-to-face, one could easily be distracted and lose focus, resulting in a fatal strike through an exposed weakness.


    Unable to find a breakthrough in his opponent, Kusatsu Ikuta began to grow impatient, making several feint attacks along with stomping and swinging moves to divert attention, all of which Ayakoji Chiyoko ignored.


    It was clear she wanted to strike back, with her sword-hand frequently tensing, but in the end she held back for victory, silently building momentum.


    With little time left in the match, Kusatsu Ikuta thought of dragging it into a tie, where each yer would take a point and then decide the oue in the next round¡ªa not too disagreeable oue.


    However, it was this passive approach to the match that caused him to lose focus, leading to a moment''s dy in his movements.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko didn''t miss this fleeting opportunity and decisively struck out; a single sword blow skewed Kusatsu Ikuta''s bamboo sword, and in 0.2 seconds, her strikended on her opponent''s right wrist.


    "Hand!!"


    Afterpleting the strike, she immediately raised her sword and leaped back to a safe distance several meters away before lowering her hand and ncing at the referee.


    The referee raised the g of the color Ayakoji Chiyoko hoped to see¡ªit was the white g she represented.


    1:0 lead.


    The venue erupted with thunderous apuse, releasing the tension of the decisive moment just passed.


    Thepetitors returned to their positions behind the stop line.


    Under his faceguard, Kusatsu Ikuta wore an expression of frustration, knowing his opponent''s reaction speed surpassed his own.


    In thatst exchange, his mind had reacted, but it was toote to transmit to his hand, and his bamboo sword had already been knocked askew, leaving him defenseless.


    In both hand speed and strength, Ayakoji Chiyoko was the strongest he had encountered among his peers¡ªa true monster.


    Kusatsu Ikuta and Ayakoji Chiyoko stood once again behind the stop line, paused for a second, and the match resumed.


    In the second round, Ayakoji Chiyoko altered her previous style, making aggressive moves in quick session, swinging her sword forcefully with both hands, shouting Spirit Focus, and stomping her feet.


    Kusatsu Ikuta felt threatened by every small sound, startled each time.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko knew what to do now.


    Sheunched fierce attacks, shing head-on with her opponent continuously, not aiming to strike but looking to break his resolve.


    Under a barrage of assaults, Kusatsu Ikuta began to show signs of fatigue, while Ayakoji Chiyoko remained as vigorous as ever, showing no signs of energy depletion.


    In another sh, Kusatsu Ikuta''s bamboo sword was pressed down by Ayakoji Chiyoko''s. Seizing the moment, she executed a Rolling Sword Technique, the de spiraling around her opponent''s sword, flicking it so that Kusatsu Ikuta''s bamboo sword flew from his grasp, soared into the air and, after a second,nded with a p.


    "Ohh!!"


    A wave of gasps surged from the audience.


    Such scenes weren''t unheard of in Sword Daopetitions, but were extremely rare.


    After all, gripping the bamboo sword firmly is the first lesson in learning Sword Dao; it is fundamental, and having one''s weapon knocked out in a match is an embarrassing affair.


    Kusatsu Ikuta stared at his fallen bamboo sword, frozen in his grip stance for two seconds before realizing the situation, then dejectedly walked over to retrieve his sword, his will to fight already gone.


    When the match resumed, in less than ten seconds, Kusatsu Ikuta was hit cleanly on the waist by a sword strike from Ayakoji Chiyoko, ending hispetition for the national championship. Last year''s champion was defeated in the hands of a female swordsman, stopping short of the semifinals.

 Chapter 58 Noodles!

    After Ayakoji Chiyoko won, the whole arena burst into warm apuse.


    It wasn''t for any other reason than she had once again advanced the ranking record of female swordsmen at the unrestricted national tournament.


    Now, Ayakoji Chiyoko could proudly im herself to be the strongest female high school swordsman in the whole Ind Nation.


    If she also won her next match, she would be able to remove the word ''female'' and be the strongest high school swordsman in the whole Ind Nation.


    But a huge mountain still stood before this honor.


    As Ayakoji Chiyoko removed her faceguard and wiped the sweat as she walked back to her own team, she saw Kagura Hikaru putting on his protective gear, his movements meticulous and his expression as calm as still water.


    Just after Ayakoji Chiyoko''s match had ended, it was soon his turn.


    Yet from him, you couldn''t sense any tension, as if he were going to eat instead ofpeting.


    What Ayakoji Chiyoko disliked the most about him but also envied was this exact trait, a mind as clear as a polished mirror and stable as a boulder.


    This wasn''t something that just anyone could achieve.


    Having prepared, Kagura Hikaru received blessings from his teammates and walked onto the field.


    His opponent in the semi-finals was the contestant from Osaka¡ªRyo Kuroiwa.


    From what Teacher Yamazaki said, he was reputed to be the strongest among his peers in Osaka. This statement, viewing the current situation, needed quotes, but it was sufficient to signify that the opponent was no less than Kusatsu Ikuta.


    Although for Kagura Hikaru, it didn''t matter whether it was Kuroiwa Ikuta or Kusatsu Ryo.


    Thepetitors entered the arena, wearing their Bamboo Swords at their hips, approached the stop line, drew their swords, crouched, and looked at each other.


    Ryo Kuroiwa''s gaze was fiery, while Kagura Hikaru seemed emotionless.


    Without amand, both stood up.


    The match began, and Ryo Kuroiwa yelled like a monkey, stepping forward and raising his Bamboo Sword to strike down.


    His style was simple and rough, using force to suppress others. Kagura Hikaru, being weaker in brute strength, chose to retreat, using his Bamboo Sword to disrupt his opponent''s attacking rhythm.


    Slowly maintaining distance to probe, upon understanding Ryo Kuroiwa''s movements, Kagura Hikaru suddenly moved quickly to the side to strike at the waist.


    He missed... no, he hit, just a bit.


    One of the two referees raised the red g representing Kagura Hikaru, indicating he saw a score, while the other did not, causing the match to be temporarily halted for video review.


    The match had hardly begun and was unexpectedly paused after less than ten seconds, causing a stir in the spectator stands.


    While Kagura Hikaru intended to stand there and rest, Ryo Kuroiwa brazenly walked across the field towards him,ughing and saying, "What''s this? Is fighting with me that boring for you?"


    Not just Kagura Hikaru, but even the nearby spectators were shocked by his behavior.


    In Sword Daopetitions, talking betweenpetitors is not allowed. Once the match begins, this rule takes effect, and if caught by the referee, a half-point deduction urs; a repeated offense results in one point lost.


    "No worries, no worries, the match is paused; they won''t care about us," Ryo Kuroiwa said, guessing what Kagura Hikaru was thinking and waving his hand dismissively.


    Kagura Hikaru looked towards the referees and saw they were focused on the video review, indeed not caring about this side of the arena.


    He shook his head and responded, "I don''t find it boring."


    "Liar, you weren''t really trying just now, were you?" Ryo Kuroiwa pointed at his waist where he had just been hit. "They say in Lingering Spirit you should use seventy percent force and keep thirty percent, but you only used sixty percent."


    "...Leaving that aside, how could you tell how much strength I was using?"


    Ryo Kuroiwa casually rested the Bamboo Sword on his shoulder, "My eyes are good, that''s all I can say. Haven''t you heard that saying? In a swordsman''s duel, you can understand the other''s thoughts and feelings through shing des."


    "That''s from movies."


    "No, this is real, and I indeed felt, you didn''t enjoy the match fully."


    "Isn''t that a good thing for you, if your opponent isn''t giving it their all?"


    "On the contrary, I came here from Osaka, not to fight in such a match!" Kuroiwa Ryuuichi sighed, even somewhat disappointed.


    Kagura Hikaru saw that the referee had made a decision, signaling that the score was valid and the match was about to resume, then turned to Kuroiwa Ryuuichi: ".....Did you know? Before the match started, I didn''t even know I wouldpete; I was tricked intoing here."


    "Hmm?"


    "So, I might as well say I fell for your trick this time."


    "Do you mean...? Ha ha, you''re going to give it your all now, right!"


    The man from Osaka grinned crookedly, patting Kagura Hikaru''s shoulder vigorously, "That''s it, that''s it! Don''t hold back, defeat me thoroughly!"


    Kagura Hikaru helplessly said, "If you keep this up, you won''t need me to lose; the referee will penalize you."


    The referee, having just finished discussing, turned around only to see the Osaka contestant forcefully patting the Tokyo contestant and immediately red furiously, shouted angrily, and walked over.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Kuroiwa Ryuuichi quickly let go, dancing around as he was chased back to his side by the referee, while the audience, not understanding the context, was amused by the act.


    Eventually, he received a penalty, a half-point deduction as a lesson.


    The opposing team''s coach from Osaka wiped his face in frustration.


    The match resumed.


    At the starting confrontation, Kuroiwa Ryuuichi moved cautiously, his sword ready to spring into action.


    Kagura Hikaru moved even less, coordinating with Kuroiwa Ryuuichi''s slight movements, maintaining an intermediate ready stance with a subtle up and down sway that made it difficult to predict his attack pattern.


    Kagura Hikaru belonged to the universally acknowledged type of all-rounded swordsman, meaning he had no particr weaknesses. If a weakness had to be mentioned, it would be his physical conditioning, as he could not perform miracles with strength like Kuroiwa Ryuuichi could, but even so, he was stronger than the average person.


    An imprable rock, that was the impression he left on Kuroiwa Ryuuichi at that moment.


    This, in turn, excited thetter.


    Yes, this was the right feeling.


    Although Kagura Hikaru''s presence had been formidable in the previous round, it somehow felt nd and uninspiring.


    But now, Kuroiwa Ryuuichi felt the opponent''s gaze locked onto his entire body, as if any slight movement might create an opening, tension magnifying to the utmost, involuntarily tensing the muscles in his back.


    Wow, this oppressive feeling, just like that of his seventh-dan Sword Dao master.


    This monster is actually the same age as him??


    Kuroiwa Ryuuichi thought incredulously, all the while not letting his guard down and maintaining full readiness.


    They confronted each other for a full minute.


    Neither side made a move, just shifting their feet, not even feinting an attack.


    Kagura Hikaru naturally excelled at defensive counterattacks, which really meant he preferred to strike second.


    But Kuroiwa Ryuuichi, who had previouslyunched several aggressive offenses, now restrained himself to the extent he wouldn''t even attack, indicative of the formidable atmosphere.


    After concentrating for too long, Kuroiwa Ryuuichi''s eyes were sore from staring, and he inadvertently blinked.


    When he opened his eyes, the figure before him had disappeared, and the sensation on his head and the sound by his ear seemed to be transmitted a beat slow.


    "Men!!"

 Chapter 59 The Final Battle, King vs King

    The apuse from the audience had slowly ceased.


    Kagura Hikaru sat among the Tokyo District team, hands sped behind his head, he unfastened his straps and removed his faceguard and headband.


    Some sweat stains dampened his forehead and temples, making his hair stick to his skin.


    The semifinals and finals were separate, and now they had half an hour to rest.


    "To effortlessly win 2-0 against Ryo Kuroiwa, your skill truly is exceptional."


    Sitting behind him, Teacher Yamazaki spoke with emotion, patting his back, "Only you and Chiyoko left in the finals, no matter what, the championship has already fallen into the hands of Yuqiu High School. Well done, both of you!"


    After speaking, he let out an evilugh that only viins would emit.


    As the team coach, he too would receive praise from the leadership when his students seeded, and his year-end bonus would significantly rise, rise a lot indeed!


    Gahahaha....


    Kagura Hikaru''s body shook with each pat from Teacher Yamazaki''srge hand. Reluctantly, he looked back at him, wondering if he had been bought by Chiyoko Ayakoji to injure him internally before the finals.


    ncing to the side, Chiyoko Ayakoji satposed to his left, separated by several people.


    Like a samurai about to enter a duel, she ced her Bamboo Sword on her thighs in a meditative posture, eyes closed, utterly detached from herself and the surroundings.


    It was obvious she was taking the uing finals very seriously.


    Compared to her, Kagura Hikaru was not obsessed with winning or losing.


    Whether he lost to Chiyoko Ayakoji or won, it probably wouldn''t change anything.


    Initially, that''s what he thought.


    But during his confrontation with Ryo Kuroiwa, he realized something¡ªthat hecked respect for those who were trying hard.


    Without the "mind-reading Golden Finger," he''d just be an ordinary person with likely no chance to stand on such a stage.


    Yet, he happened to possess this cheat, acquiring top-notch Sword Dao skills andbat experience without even touching a sword.


    This unfair gap had inadvertently fueled his arrogance, sometimes causing him to view others from a condescending perspective.


    Kagura Hikaru was grateful to Ryo Kuroiwa for helping him see his true self.


    He decided not to treat the uing match as a mere duty towards Chiyoko Ayakoji, but to earnestly connect with her through the sword, conveying his true emotions through the de''s edge, as Ryo Kuroiwa had said.


    Crossing his legs, Kagura Hikaru mimicked Chiyoko Ayakoji by cing the Bamboo Sword on his thighs, closing his eyes in meditation, quickly entering the zone, maintaining inner peace amidst the noisy venue.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    What he didn''t know was that while he was deep in meditation, Chiyoko Ayakoji on the other side had opened her eyes, nced at him, pursed her lips slightly in approval, yet didn''t want to show it openly, and continued to meditate.


    Half an hourter, the finals began.


    "Mr. Kagura, good luck," Hosaka Yui came over to encourage him specifically, her eyes sparkling.


    Kagura Hikaru remembered their agreement and nodded.


    He and Chiyoko Ayakoji donned their faceguards, picked up their Bamboo Swords, and entered the arena.


    "Finally, I see a decent attitude from you," Chiyoko Ayakoji said as they walked towards the arena.


    "I said I would not hold back."


    "I''m looking forward to it."


    Her tone suppressed excitement, showing she had been eagerly awaiting this match for a long time.


    In the Discipline Committee, Kagura Hikaru had never gone all out against her, although Chiyoko Ayakoji had never won, she was sure of this.


    This guycked enthusiasm for this kind of thing, always treating their contests cavalierly.


    This time, on the national championship stage, in front of cameras and hundreds of spectators, Kagura Hikaru was still behaving with the same leisurely attitude that was frustrating yet irresistible.


    Because he was indeed powerful, a strong person had a surplus ofposure, and what could you use him of?


    Until just recently, in Kagura Hikaru''s match against Ryo Kuroiwa, no one knew what thetter had said to him, but during the second set Kagura Hikaru was noticeably more serious and finished the match with a breathtakingly swift Bamboo Sword strike.


    The Kagura Hikaru that Chiyoko Ayakoji wanted was in that state!


    Her Sword Dao had hit a bottleneck, and having such a formidable peer around, it would be a waste not to have a proper fight.


    Plus, she had to settle her emotional scores with him as well.


    Upon reaching the venue, Chiyoko Ayakoji and Kagura Hikaru stood on opposite ends of the field, gazing at each other from afar.


    The final match, just between the two of them, an internal duel at Yuqiu High School.


    That Tokyo people had monopolized the top two spots was unexpected, and students from the Keihanshin area outside the arena looked visibly disconcerted.


    Following the referee''s signal, Chiyoko Ayakoji and Kagura Hikaru approached each other slowly while maintaining eye contact and drew their swords as they squatted down at the stop line, vignt of each other.


    The next moment, both rose and swung their swords simultaneously.


    p!


    Their Bamboo Swords met forcefully mid-air, their strength seemingly matched, as neither of their sword''s paths was deflected.


    After a testing strike, both stepped back, circling sideways, looking for an opening in their opponent.


    Suddenly, Kagura Hikaru attacked twice in quick session, hitting Chiyoko Ayakoji''s left hand guard on the first strike and aiming for her right thigh on the second, which she evaded.


    This strike did not score, because the force of the hit was incorrect.


    Sword Dao is not a sport where scoring is merely about hitting; to score a point, one must meet standards of spirit, force, and lingering spirit.


    To put it inly, one must strike beautifully and finish cleanly.


    They continued to circle, facing off for over thirty seconds, during which various intimidating and disruptive actions urred. Finally, Chiyoko Ayakoji made her move.


    After two feint attacks, she thrust her sword straight at Kagura Hikaru''s head on her third strike. Believing it to be a real attack, he quickly defended, only to be duped as the real target was his waist!


    Kagura Hikaru made a split-second decision, holding the sword''s hilt with one hand while pressing on the de with the other, using both hands to parry the hit to the side, then releasing his left hand, his right hand whipping the sword out in a ssic fencing move, lunging rapidly forward.


    "Throat!"


    The strike hit Chiyoko Ayakoji''s unprotected throat with such force that she staggered back two steps, covering the guarded area of her throat, even dropping her sword.


    The referee raised the red g representing Kagura Hikaru, awarding a point, 1:0.


    The audience gasped, apuse breaking out btedly.


    Sword Dao allows the use of any sword technique style, but applying techniques from Western fencing foil inpetitions is very umon.


    One reason is that holding a sword with one hand usuallycks sufficient power, and hitting may not necessarily score a point.


    Yet, Kagura Hikaru''s strike was not only executed beautifully but also didn''t seem like ast-minute resort; the power was strong enough to make someone step back, perhaps he had even practiced one-handed sword techniques privately.


    Onlookers, enthusiasts of Sword Dao, marveled at his skill, puzzled by Mr. Kagura''s mind, so quick in reaction, he might have been a famous swordsman in ancient times.


    Having scored a point, Kagura Hikaru did not appear excited; he calmly returned to the line, facing Chiyoko Ayakoji again, sword in hand.

 Chapter 60 The result is predictable

    ```


    Tricky.


    This was the most immediate impression Ayakoji Chiyoko had of Kagura Hikaru.


    It was one thing for him to have good skills, but his y was also stable.


    She was forced to use that rather troublesome method and had barely managed to push out a w, only for her opponent to crush through and steal a point with hand speed.


    In a word, it could only be described as outrageous.


    It was like when you''re ying a game and you''ve just used up yourst Blood Bottle to get the boss down to low health, ready for the kill, only to find out the opponent has a hidden second phase that instantly defeats you, and you have to start over.


    If Ayakoji Chiyoko didn''t have a strong heart, her mentality would have exploded the instant she was countered.


    The second set began.


    Having lost a point not only did not make Ayakoji Chiyoko more cautious, she even became bolder in her approach, often trying oundish tactics, even using unusual techniques such as releasing one hand or frequently lifting her Bamboo Sword.


    The goal was still the same, to force Kagura Hikaru to expose his own weaknesses.


    However, Kagura Hikaru seemed to have seen through her npletely, remaining indifferent to every move Ayakoji Chiyoko made, maintaining a calm and steady defensive stance, as unmovable as a mountain.


    He made no unnecessary moves, and his movements were minimal, even graceful, in stark contrast to the frenzy of Ayakoji Chiyoko.


    Just in terms of style, they were like the difference between a spear and a shield.


    No wonder Ayakoji Chiyoko said they were natural rivals.


    Even the audience started to feel that it was only right for these two to meet on this stage; anything less would have been a pity.


    The decisive moment came unexpectedly.


    It was another feint from Ayakoji Chiyoko that failed as she retreated, thinking she could, like before, regroup and attack again, but Kagura Hikaru suddenly lunged.


    "Throat!"


    The blunt Bamboo Sword at that moment was like Zhao Yun''s Bright Silver Spear at Changban Slope, with a sh of cold light reaching first, followed by the sword thrusting out like a dragon, striking its target.


    It smacked right into Ayakoji Chiyoko''s chin.


    Although the momentum and force were enough, this was not a scoring point, and it shouldn''t have been a simple mistake of hitting the wrong spot for Kagura Hikaru.


    What happened was Ayakoji Chiyoko reacted at thest moment, slightly bowed her head, and narrowly used the Faceguard to block the sword that Kagura Hikaru aimed at her throat.


    She stepped back half a step to create some distance while still unsettled, sizing up Kagura Hikaru as he calmly regrouped.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko suddenly realized one of his characteristics, which was his fondness for thrusting.


    In thepetition so far, he had scored with Throat Stabs far more often than the otherpetitors, including her.


    A Throat Stab was indeed a difficult point to score, and the number of times sessful should have been low, yet Kagura Hikaru peculiarly increased its usage rate.


    Aside from practicality, the only other exnation was personal preference.


    The method to counter a Throat Stab was simple: guard the middle line strictly, and concentrate so as not to be taken by surprise.


    For Ayakoji Chiyoko, this was not difficult.


    In addition, knowing this information also gave her another strategic consideration, which was to deliberately expose a w that made it easy for a Throat Stab, to draw Kagura Hikaru into attacking, thus creating an opportunity for a counter.


    It was a risky n, but Ayakoji Chiyoko was undaunted and decisively implemented it.


    This was partly due to the pressure Kagura Hikaru put on her, and also because the time for the second set was about to end; continuing like this would result in bothpetitors scoring one point, dering Kagura Hikaru the 2:1 winner, which would not be to her advantage.


    Her goal was to win, not to just score one point against Kagura Hikaru, a rather modest wish.


    Ayakoji Chiyoko and Kagura Hikaru cautiously measured the distance between them, focusing on each other''s entire body.


    The sword''s edge, footwork, hand gestures, and the movement of the waist and elbows all had to be taken into consideration.


    The details of body movement can predict an opponent''s next move in advance, a Skill every high-level Sword Daopetitor must master.


    Bothpetitors on the field were experts in their craft, naturally not showing any ws, with all their offensives hidden behind calmness, hinting at an atmosphere before a storm.


    But gradually, Kagura Hikaru noticed that Ayakoji Chiyoko''s strength seemed to be rxing, and her sword lifting didn''t have the same precision as in the beginning.


    Perhaps it was because she had exerted herself too much earlier, depleting too much energy.


    Engaging in intense exercise while wearing armor is far more strenuous than one might imagine, and it doesn''t take long to work up a sweat.


    ```


    Moreover, Ayakoji Chiyoko was a woman, inherently at a disadvantage in terms of physical strength.


    Even so, Kagura Hikaru never let his guard down, maintaining a defensive posture on the premise that his opponent was intentionally revealing weaknesses, waiting for Ayakoji Chiyoko to attack.


    As time dragged on, a whistle suddenly blew, and the referee dered that time was up, instructing thepetitors to return to the start line and rmence.


    The duration of a Sword Dao match was five minutes. If a winner couldn''t be decided, a three-minute extension would be added. If it was still a tie after that, each yer would receive one point.


    Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko entered the three-minute tiebreaker.


    At this moment, both harbored a desire to attack.


    Neither Kagura Hikaru nor Ayakoji Chiyoko wished to end this match by stalling; such an oue would be too uninteresting for them.


    Thus, when the match resumed, they both disyed an exceptional offensive eagerness, constantly making probing moves, with the intensity of their psychological battle reaching its zenith during those three minutes, satisfying the connoisseurs in the audience.


    Including the Keihanshin team, who had already been eliminated and were now watching from the sidelines, as well aspetitors from other schools, all watched their exchange intensely, as if they were viewing a real wartime documentary¡ªso engrossed they didn''t notice their palms sweating, their eyes firmly fixed on the twopetitors on the field.


    Yuqiu High School''s Hosaka Yui and others dared not even breathe too heavily, waiting silently yet excitedly for the oue of the match.


    Finally, amidst the fierce exchange of swords, Ayakoji Chiyoko found herself at a disadvantage, her move to guard was a step too slow, her center wide open, revealing a straight path before Kagura Hikaru.


    It was the perfect opportunity for a Throat Stab, he instinctively felt.


    And then, he struck.


    Hidden beneath the faceguard, Ayakoji Chiyoko''s eyes shed cunningly for just a moment.


    He had finally taken the bait!


    She had strained to craft the illusion of being out of breath, all for this moment¡ªto lead Kagura Hikaru into believing she had a vulnerability in her center line so that he would strike directly at it.


    She was already prepared; as soon as Kagura Hikaru made his move, she would shift to attack below, aiming for his torso, almost certain to hit. Because when executing a Throat Stab, the tip of the sword would definitely be raised, making it difficult to defend against an attack from below.


    This was the only chance Ayakoji Chiyoko could find.


    In her eyes, the world seemed to slow down.


    She saw Kagura Hikaru lift his sword and thrust it forward, his body maintaining the ready-to-defend posture, but there was an inevitable small opening.


    Now was the moment!


    Ayakoji Chiyoko''s body leaned to the left, her waist lowered, as she swung her sword fiercely.


    "Torso!!"


    "Face!"


    Thwack, thwack.


    Two sounds of bamboo swords hitting their targets echoed simultaneously on the field.


    Hit!


    Ayakoji Chiyoko thought excitedly.


    However, that emotionsted less than a second before confusion took over.


    Why did Kagura Hikaru yell "Face!" instead of "Throat!" just now?


    Due to her extreme focus, she was slow to register the sensation of being struck on the head from the brief moment they passed each other.


    Kagura Hikaru''s attack wasn''t at the throat, but at the top of her head?!


    In the event that bothpetitors hit scoring points simultaneously during the match, neither would be effective!


    She turned in surprise, only to see Kagura Hikaru swooping in again, his bamboo sword whistling through the air as it bypassed Ayakoji Chiyoko''s hastily raised sword.


    "Throat!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Sessful in his strike, Kagura Hikaru retreated two steps, maintaining Lingering Spirit.


    The match was decided.


    Two referees raised red gs.


    Kagura Hikaru versus Ayakoji Chiyoko, 2:0, Kagura Hikaru won.

 Chapter 61 I Will Help You

    "Roarrrrrrr!!"


    As the oue of the match became clear, Yuqiu High School''s Teacher Yamazaki and the three members of the Kendo Club all stood up together, raising their hands and cheering loudly.


    Meanwhile, the Gori Vice President from the Disciplinary Committee and a sheepish Miyamoto Shi remained seated, seemingly wanting to p but not quite daring to do so.


    On the court, Ayakoji Chiyoko stood in ce for several seconds, pondering, before she shook her head in eptance and bowed to Kagura Hikaru as they returned to the starting line.


    Thunderous apuse erupted from the stands.


    After leaving the arena, when the two encountered each other again, Ayakoji Chiyoko removed her faceguard and hand protector, reaching out proactively to shake Kagura Hikaru''s hand.


    "That was a good match, I really enjoyed it."


    "Thank you."


    Kagura Hikaru also removed his hand protector to shake hands with her.


    The barriers between them seemed to fade away as well, in the exhaustion that followed the end of the match.


    "Did you figure out I was bluffing with the Throat Stab in advance?" Ayakoji Chiyoko asked as they released hands.


    After taking off his faceguard and headband, Kagura Hikaru ran a hand through his damp hair and nodded gently, "You had some small tells, plus your acting wasn''t very good."


    This exnation made Ayakoji Chiyokough.


    iming that someone who had systematically studied acting, been a child star, and had an actor for a father wasn''t very good at acting was quite blunt indeed.


    However, unexpectedly, she didn''t feel anger or any other emotion, but calmly epted it.


    "Okay, I will work hard to improve," she said.


    "Mm."


    Their short conversation ended, and both Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko were engulfed by their teammates who rushed up to celebrate excitedly.


    "Hahaha, well done! Such good kids, well done!" Teacher Yamazaki was jubnt,ughing heartily and vigorously patting Kagura Hikaru on the shoulder, "Our Uka High finally won a big tournament, and we even took the top two spots! Those Keihanshin guys must not be able tough now, haha..."


    Ryo Kuroiwa, who was about toe over to congratte, became visibly embarrassed as his own coach dragged him away with a dark face.


    "Congrattions, that was an amazing performance!" Minister Uchida from the Kendo Club approached Kagura Hikaru with unmistakable admiration and envy on his face.


    He was only good enough to make it to the top sixteen, but his insight was adequate to understand about seventy to eighty percent of the match''s level between Kagura Hikaru and Ayakoji Chiyoko, yet even just that much made him feel awe-struck.


    These two were living in entirely different worlds from their peers.


    So much so that he could not even feel jealousy, only aspiration.


    Once their conversation was over, Yui Hosaka also approached, pretending toment, "I can''t believe it actually happened. Now I have nowhere to turn, it''s all your fault, Mr. Kagura."


    "Will I see you in thepetition teams next year?" asked Kagura Hikaru.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Who knows if you don''t try?" said Yui Hosaka with a smile, her hands sped behind her back.


    "Then I wish you sess."


    "Thank you." Yui Hosaka suddenly became shy, fidgeting as she said, "Wait, when we get back to school, I have something important to tell you. Don''t you run off, Mr. Kagura."


    "Why can''t you tell me now?"


    "Oh, you''ll find out then. Don''t be so impatient."


    She ran off with her face flushed.


    Witnessing this scene, the burly members of the Kendo Club who had just been chatting merrily nced towards Kagura Hikaru with a profound look, as if they were trying to see through him.


    Kagura Hikaru: "??"


    He had a feeling that she did not mean that in the way they were thinking.


    Thepetition ended, awards were given, interviews conducted, and it wasn''t until noon that Kagura Hikaru and his team were finally able to leave the venue.


    The first thing upon stepping out was to head straight to the barbecue restaurant.


    Teacher Yamazaki had promised before that if they made it into the top eight, he would treat them to barbecue.


    Now that Kagura Hikaru and the others had not only made it into the top eight but also exceeded expectations by winning the championship and sweeping the first two ces, there was even less reason not to treat them.


    A five thousand yen barbecue buffet per person, they ate from twelve at noon until three in the afternoon beforeing out, filled with a sense of satisfaction.


    The n was originally to return to the hotel since they had to take the Shinkansen back to Tokyo at six in the evening, and ounting for the round trip, there wasn''t much time to spare.


    But Hosaka Yui suddenly proposed that it would be a shame to leave Capital City in such a hurry without properly exploring, considering they had made the rare trip.


    Since the others agreed, and unable to withstand the students'' persistent wheedling on top of the good mood from the sessfulpetition, Teacher Yamazaki relented, cancelled the six o''clock tickets, and switched to nine o''clock instead, and also contacted all the students'' families, promising to take responsibility for sending each of them home after returning to Tokyo.


    As Hosaka Yui and the others licked their matcha ice cream, they watched Teacher Yamazaki make phone calls until he gave a thumbs up to everyone after hanging up, and they all suddenly burst intoughter like chickens that had just been stolen.


    Having gotten permission from their parents, the night''s stay in Capital City was confirmed.


    A trip on the public dime, Wuhu~~


    The first stop, soaking in a hot spring!


    Things did not start off well, as there were simply too many people soaking in hot springs in winter, and reservations were necessary at any hot spring inn.


    Though they weren''t able to soak in the hot springs, they had an unexpected find; near the hot spring inn, they discovered a street specializing in Japanese confections, selling Capital City''s specialty sweets.


    They tasted along the way, as if they were on a group winter tour, all smiles and in high spirits.


    Making achievements on a business trip meant being able to splurge just like that.


    As the ancient capital and a tourist destination of the Ind Nation, Capital City retained many traditional style architectures, and asionally walking through certain streets, one could feel as if they had stepped back into the Edo Period.


    Although the temperature had be milder, it was still winter, yet asionally one could see youngdies walking on the streets in kimonos and yukatas.


    Most of these were tourists; the locals of the Ind Nation rarely dressed like this because wearing a kimono is truly troublesome, reserved for cosy or certain professions, and people wouldn''t wear it casually out on the streets.


    As for what these certain professions are, don''t overthink it, they are actually referring to Kabuki.


    When ites to Ind Nation culture, many people might conjure the image of a woman with her hair up, wearing a kimono and wooden clogs, and a heavily made-up, whitened face with an exposed nape, moving gracefully.


    This is the ssic image of Kabuki.


    Kabuki is not a prostitute; more urately, it is simr to the courtesans of ancient Huaxia, selling the art without selling the body, a tradition that has continued to this day without interruption.


    It gradually got dark.


    When Kagura Hikaru and the group eventually strolled near Gion, they saw five Kabuki, with small, delicate steps, walking elegantly on the cobblestone path, attracting eyes with their charisma and attire, with curious tourists, both from the Ind Nation and foreigners, following them around.


    Hosaka Yui was among the curious, almost choking on her barbecued meat at the sight of the Kabuki. She quickly swallowed, grabbed her phone, and rushed to snap pictures and tweet away.


    Kagura Hikaru couldn''t appreciate that sort of makeup, but the silhouette of the Kabuki was still very beautiful, especially at night on an illuminated street, which gave a sense of an intersection between the past and the present.


    "Did you know?" said Kagura Hikaru, holding a candied apple, "Most of the Kabuki nowadays aren''t even from Capital City, but they speak with an ent more standard than the locals."


    "The world is moving towards more diversity; such things will be moremon," Ayakoji Chiyoko nced at him and continued, "But I believe some things will not change with time... No, I''m overthinking it."


    At night, Ayakoji Chiyoko seemed to be affected by the atmosphere and spoke with the sentimental touch of an ordinary woman.


    This was an opportunity that Kagura Hikaru couldn''t pass up.


    [How could there be anything unchanging in this world, just look at the Ind Nation fifty years ago,pared to now, it''s like apletely different country.]


    [Honor, faith, spine, the things that shouldn''t change, yet we''vepletely discarded them.]


    [You have gained through peeking into the heart: Speech +2]


    [Speech lv3 (29/100)]


    "There are no constants in this world, I agree," said Kagura Hikaru, looking up at the full moon, "Under the power of time, even celestial bodies change and perish, let alone the tiny civilization on a single."


    "...That''s also true."


    "However, although we cannot pursue infinity, we can chase after finitude. Creating infinite value within a finite life, that''s the meaning of existence," Kagura Hikaru turned to look at her, "Sesses from action, failure from inaction. If you want to change something, I suggest you start preparing now. I can help."


    Ayakoji Chiyoko was stunned for the first time, feeling that Kagura Hikaru''s gaze had the power to see through her inner thoughts.


    Averting his gaze, she didn''t know how to react and just huffed, walking ahead. She pretended to watch the Kabuki with the others while eating her candied apple.


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