After collecting the textbooks and printing the contract in the homeroom teacher's office, Hoshinomiya announced the election for Class B's leader.
Unsurprisingly, all eyes immediately turned to Hashima—the one who had taken the initiative to propose a plan for the class.
But when they looked over, they saw him whispering something to Ichinose Honami before standing up and declaring:
"Classmates, I propose Ichinose as our leader."
"She possesses qualities I lack. I'm confident she can guide us toward success and achieve our shared goal: graduating together from Class A."
"I'll support her as an assistant, contributing fully to our class."
He had prepared this speech on the way. He didn't want the leader role—it would complicate his future interactions with potential new "stocks." Being an assistant was far more flexible.
Among Class B's students, many who were impressed by his plan had hoped he would lead. But faced with his firm refusal, they reluctantly accepted it.
"If Hashima recommends her, then I trust his judgment."
"Yes, Ichinose will be perfect for uniting our class."
"We support Ichinose as leader!"
Thus, what could have been a heated election turned into a swift consensus.
Under everyone's encouragement, Ichinose reluctantly accepted.
In truth, his whispers had been simple: he emphasized that unity would be crucial in the inter-class competition.
"I believe in you. This is the best solution for Class B."
That final line had convinced her.
---
Now holding the contract and a notebook containing the rules, Hashima and Ichinose stood in the hallway outside Class A, where an election was underway.
On the podium stood a boy with a shaved head—the ultimate competitive hairstyle. His name, written on the board: Katsuragi Kōhei.
Next to it, elegant handwriting indicated another candidate: Sakayanagi Arisu.
"We caught them right in the middle of their election," Hashima murmured, peering through the window.
"But where's their teacher?" Ichinose wondered.
Yet the class operated with perfect discipline despite the absence of any adult supervision.
"The school clearly gave them full autonomy," Hashima noted, eyes narrowing. The perfect opportunity to observe their main rival.
When Katsuragi finished his speech, enthusiastic applause followed.
"Next candidate: Sakayanagi-san."
This announcement triggered an even more passionate ovation.
A petite figure stood up—silver-haired like an elf, leaning on a black cane as she moved forward.
"A physical disability?" Hashima muttered.
Yet the rule was that Class A gathered the most elite students. If Sakayanagi was admitted despite her obvious handicap—worse than his own measly 3 points in endurance—then her intellect must be extraordinary.
As he analyzed the situation, a crystal-clear voice rang out:
"Visitors in the hallway, would you mind telling us what brings you here?"
Sakayanagi had spotted them, her sharp gaze locking onto Hashima's.
---
"Apologies for intruding," Ichinose quickly said upon entering, stepping into her new role. "We're here regarding an important matter about the school's hidden rules."
She presented the contract, but Katsuragi was interrupted by Sakayanagi:
"One moment, Katsuragi-kun. Allow me to finish my speech first. Wouldn't it be more appropriate for the future leader to handle this matter?"
Beneath her fragile appearance, the girl was surprisingly sharp.
Hashima exchanged a glance with Ichinose. Clearly, the two candidates had a fierce rivalry.
"What should we do?" Ichinose whispered.
"Let's observe. As the saying goes, 'It's easier to fish in troubled waters.'"
"...What saying? I've never heard that."
"Uh... Let's just say I made it up."