"Talent hits a target no one else can hit; Genius hits a target no one else can see." - Arthur Schopenhauer
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ΨΨΨ🅄🄽🄵🄰🅃🄷🄾🄼🄰🄱🄻🄴 🄿🄾🅆🄴🅁ΨΨΨ
「May 8th︱Mourning︱Advanced Nurturing High School 1D's classroom
The week flew by, and before they knew it, everything was almost back to the way it was. Why 'almost'? It's because after the big revelation dropped on them by their homeroom teacher, Chabashira-sensei, a lot of changes happened within Class D.
Everyone started listening more attentively during discussions. There were times when one or two people would do the opposite and attempt to fall asleep or do something else, but they would get scolded or smacked in the head right away.
Of course, there are exceptions.
First of all, there is Koenji. The man was capable of doing whatever he wanted, and none of them would be able to scold or even speak out against him. That being said, he did seem to understand that for their class to not go any lower than they already are, he acted like an attentive student... somehow. Regardless, it was enough to calm his classmates' nerves and assure them that he knew how to hold himself back.
Another issue is the walking, raging red bull Sudou. Sudou had already started causing trouble in the days following the school's big reveal. Yamasaki had already heard rumours of him getting into verbal fights with students from other classes and even upperclassmen. Fortunately, a long holiday was coming up, which gave Sudou a cooling-off period before things got worse.
The break also gave Class D some breathing room. When school resumed, instead of falling apart completely, the class actually showed signs of improvement. Of course, that was thanks to Hirata's efforts. Using the frustration of having only less than half of the private points while watching other students enjoy their holidays, Hirata managed to convince most of the class with the promise, "If we work hard now, we might get even more points next month." By the end, his voice was hoarse by the time the break ended. But seeing the class slowly change, even if there was still a long way to go, made him genuinely happy.
What about Class D's angel, Kushida Kikyo? She helped a little, but her actions were insignificant compared to Hirata's. She wasn't the type to step in when things were tough. She was the type to interject when things were already going well.
Yamasaki observed his surroundings in silence. He respected Hirata's efforts, but at the same time, he couldn't help but feel a little sorry for him.
While the class was managing to prevent a further decrease in their points, they still had no idea how they could increase their points as a class. After Chabashira-sensei told them about the issue regarding the school and its class hierarchy and chewed them out for being failures, she went back to normal and acted as if nothing had happened. Every time someone would ask her how they could increase their points, their teacher would only apologise and say that the answer couldn't be disclosed to students.
Regardless, they were making good progress for a class that was on the verge of self-destruction a few days ago. That day, almost everyone got humbled by Chabashira-sensei and made them realised that this wasn't anything like your typical high school. It made them realise that their life here won't be one that's filled with luxury.
"An equal amount of challenge and comfort. It is an ideal environment to learn," as she puts it. Surprisingly, most students couldn't refute her statement.
Despite their efforts in becoming a better class so far, though, there is one remaining dilemma that they would still have to deal with when it arrives.
As lunch break began, Hirata quickly stood up in front of the podium and faced his classmates, about to announce some important news.
"Chabashira-sensei said that the midterm exams are coming up soon. Remember, if you fail even one subject, you'll be expelled. I don't want that to happen, so I think it would be a good idea to form study groups to prepare for it." Hirata addressed the class with the situation concerning all students.
Everyone had their attention directed towards him as they listened to his plan of action.
"Neglecting your studies will get you a failing grade and result in expulsion. I'm sure none of you want that to happen, right? Furthermore, studying won't just prevent expulsion; I have a feeling that it may also help us earn points. If we receive high marks in our midterms, our class's assessment should also improve. I've asked some of the students who scored high on the test to help in tutoring those who need it. So, I would like the people who are experiencing difficulties in any of our subjects to approach me or any of the tutors. Everyone is welcome to."
The class D representative walked up to the blackboard and wrote the names of the tutors for everyone to see. Yukimura, Horikita, Wang, Kushida, and Hirata himself were the designated people who would be helping their classmates. Hirata asked the other four earlier this morning if they would be willing to help out their classmates who need guidance when it came to their different subjects.
He was honestly surprised that Horikita actually accepted the task of being a tutor, because she blatantly refused to help out in the class discussion that happened a few days ago. He wondered if something had happened to her that caused her to change her stance about the class because, according to her, helping out would have been 'a waste of time'. Hirata wasn't going to waste time thinking about it, though. The more academically capable students who are willing to cooperate, the higher their chances of pulling this off without problems.
"Starting today at four o'clock, the other tutors will study for two hours a day either here, in the library, or in any other place your group decides. Those of you who'd like to join us, please approach one of the tutors. Of course, if you need to leave in the middle of the session, you can. That's all I have to say." - Right after Hirata had finished speaking, several of the failing students got up and went to their preferred tutors.
Ike and Yamauchi approached Kushida, no doubt taking the opportunity to be with the cute girl in the class under the guise of studying to impress her or simply spend time with her. Unfortunately for them, Hirata assigned them (including Sudou) to Horikita's study group, much to both parties' dismay.
According to Hirata, he didn't want to burden Kushida, as she already has many people to teach, and he thought that Horikita would be able to make these two behave themselves. Horikita accepted Hirata's reasoning, though Yamasaki didn't miss the annoyance in her gaze, and sighed.
Not that he could blame her. To teach those three isn't exactly a cake walk; their blatant refusal to study seriously and their behaviour in the classroom, especially with the girls, is far from pleasant for any normal person. Coupled with their abysmal academic ability, it is evident that this group will be more challenging than any other in the class.
However, there is a problem.
The idiot trio refuse to join Horikita's group.
They said that they will be able to manage on their own.
To Yamasaki, the true reason couldn't be more obvious.
They refuse to acknowledge their faults under the guise of "independence".
That's why the idiot trio are "friends", or rather, they are simply acquaintances out of convenience.
Ike, Yamauchi's, and Sudou's so-called friendship had never been built on anything solid. It is not a relationship based on trust, mutual understanding, or loyalty.
It's merely mutual avoidance.
Just three people intuitively ignored their own shortcomings as long as the other did the same. A shared delusion they kept alive so neither had to reflect on themselves.
Did these guys really think help was something they were entitled to? If it weren't for the negative consequences that would happen when one of your classmates was misbehaving, few would care what happened to them.
People who get sympathy usually have something pathetic about them, but sometimes, they also have something that makes them hard to pity.
This is gonna take a while...
Either way, the study groups began to form.
Hirata was approached by girls and boys who had failed the recent quiz immediately got up and gathered around him. They were genuinely grateful for his help. After all, students on the verge of failing were usually ignored and left to figure things out on their own. Many people believed that as long as they took care of themselves, there was no need to worry about others.
Naturally, some students had their doubts about Hirata's study group. After all, spending time helping others could take away from their own study time. Especially since many of the failing students had only themselves to blame, not many are as forgiving as Hirata. On the other hand, many students secretly appreciated having someone like Hirata around. After all, if they ever found themselves in trouble, they knew he would be willing to help them, too. For those barely hanging on a thread, Hirata's kindness was a blessing.
Hirata understands that his classmates are worried about being expelled. If it were a normal high school, many of them would pay half-heartedly at best or simply be absent from the classes altogether.
The difference is that, compared to normal high schools, students need points not just to survive, but to actually enjoy their time here. To maintain their comfortable lifestyle, they have to take their studies seriously. Even academically failing students had an incentive to study.
Kushida's students mostly consist of girls from Shinohara's group and her own clique. As someone who values her image above everything, she cannot refuse any request from her classmates. And it's only because of Hirata's arguments, she was able to walk the monkey duo, which every girl in the class found repulsive.
As far as Yukimura is concerned, he wasn't overjoyed to be a tutor, but he wasn't exactly bitter either. He simply accepted the circumstances and decided not to dwell on personal feelings and face the situation head-on.
Similar to Horikita, Yukimura is an honour student who puts their distance from their classmates out of pride. A silent type of student who stays out of trouble, with a neutral mindset. People like Yukimura didn't really go against the group's atmosphere as long as they could avoid trouble or any unnecessary social interactions.
Though he didn't acknowledge it openly, deep down, he was relieved that the group had to tutor was the least annoying one.
He can't stand Karuizawa's group. He can't keep up with their lively, outgoing, gossip-like interactions. Shinohara's group was even worse. Kushida's group, other than Kushida, are too meek to cope with Yukimura's sincere yet strict and high-expectations type of teaching.
Even though Yukimura's relationship with the other class D boys wasn't that bad, both parties kept their distance from each other due to their differences. One side prioritised studies, productivity, and business-like interactions. The other side favours fun, comfort, and gossiping.
After all, even though human beings are social creatures, they are also picky about whom they allow to be a part of their group.
The idiot trio is not even worth discussing. These two were like oil and water. Simply being next to each other was enough to create tension. Hence, the only group left is Hasebe's group.
Yukimura wasn't familiar with the other members. He only had a vague impression of them, as all of them were members of the "keeping to ourselves" cliche. However, his impression of Yamasaki was relatively positive.
From the times he has witnessed his behaviour in the classroom, he seemed like a polite, approachable, and, while not a top-tier honour student, like Horikita or Hirata, he is not by any means stupid.
Besides, Yukimura remembers that he is the one who put an end to the guys' attempt to secretly record the girls in the changing room. Hence, in his eyes, he was the only reliable guy besides Hirata. That event gave Yukimura enough reason to ask for his help to tutor Hasebe's group members. Yamasaki accepted Yukimura's request to be his "right-hand man".
Yamasaki didn't miss the amusement in their expression, especially from Hasebe and Miyake...
There was a mix of boys and girls who went with self-conscious Wang Mei-Yu, or as everyone calls her, "Mii-chan", who was doing her best to adapt to her position as a tutor. She was excellent at academics, only slightly below the likes of Yukimura and Horikita. Even though Mii-chan was a timid girl by nature, she wanted to help her classmates.
Even her friends within her group, like Kushida and Inogashir, were surprised by Mii-chan's proactive attitude towards tutoring. They knew that, besides her introverted demeanour, their friend didn't really have major faults in her personality. It was simply that, unlike Kushida, she didn't revel in being in the spotlight.
One might wonder why a person who prefers to be within their friend circle would take a proactive stance in teaching not just the girls, but also the boys?
Yamasaki didn't miss the moments of glances Mii-chan showed towards Hirata.
Ah, so that's what's going on.
Love really changes people, huh?
Right now, Class D is holding on thanks to Hirata's persistence, the promise of points, and hope for a higher ranking in the near future.
But what if next month came, and nothing changed?
The fragile sense of hope Hirata that had built would come crashing down.
After all, the midterm exams at the end of the month are the biggest hurdle.
-"Horikita-san." - A Class D prince charming walked towards Horikita's desk right at the end of the classroom.
-"What is it, Hirata-kun?" - Horikita was curious what Hirata was about to ask her.
-"As you already know, I asked you to tutor Sudou-kun and the others." - Hirata got straight to the problem. He knew that with a no-nonsense type of person like Horikit, any topic that did not relate to her goals or interests would make the conversation exceedingly difficult, if not impossible.
-"I know. What about it?" - Horikita didn't understand what Hirata's angle was. She knows that Hirata requested her to tutor the idiot trio, but she doesn't know why he is mentioning this again.
-"Well..." - Hirata scratched his right cheek, feeling embarrassed to discuss this matter with Horikita. - "When I asked Sudou-kun and the others to join your group, they refused."
-"And what does that have anything to do with me?" - Horikita returned the question to Hirata.
-"Well, that's true but..." - Hirata was little taken aback by her bluntness, and also little confused. He can't understand why she asked such a question when she agreed to tutor them.
-"That's what I would have said if you hadn't told the class about the situation." - Horikita understood where Hirata is coming from and addressed the core problem directly. "I understand the precariousness of our situation. If we don't get all the students to learn the material, we might be penalised. To reach Class A, we can't allow anyone to be expelled. Horikita played out logical reasons for agreeing with her proposal.
Initially, she didn't really care whether the idiot trio got expelled. From her perspective, these guys have nothing to offer. But she is also logical enough to understand that to reach Class A, she can't take any chances. If the school alone can deduct points just from disciplinary conduct, one can only imagine how many class points they will lose if even 1 student is expelled.
100 class points?
500 class points?
1000 class points?
In addition, no guarantee that reaching Class A has no other criteria. For example, for all we know, right before graduation, students could be told that only those with zero expulsions would reach Class A.
To retain the remaining 370 class points and increase their monthly "salary" through midterms, they can't take any chances, especially the ambitious students.
Horikita is a very prideful person, but she is not oblivious. She understands that for her to reach Class A, she needs to put aside her pride, at least a little bit.
-"The problem is, I can't persuade them to join your group. For some reason, Sudou-kun and the others dislike me. They don't listen to me and refuse to join any other group." - Hirata conveyed his feelings towards Horikita, feeling hopeless for being unable to do anything to help them.
It wasn't an exaggeration to say that, despite his popularity, Hirata struggled to make male friends. Outside, the members of the football club, guys both inside and outside of Class D, displayed jealousy towards his good looks and/or social status. Some even used their jealousy of him as a catalyst to make friends with others. However, he never complained or seemed displeased with their attitude towards him. No matter somebody's disposition toward him, he wouldn't hesitate a second to help them out. He was, at his core, a pacifist.
Horikita sighed. "I can't understand their reasoning. They knew their place in this school was on the line, and yet they still proceeded with such childish reasoning. This is beyond my comprehension." - Horikita's assessment was blunt but not inaccurate.
Hirata only smiled wryly.
He had nothing against Horikita's words.
-"How about Kushida-san? She is friends with them and will surely be able to convince Sudou-kun and the others?" - Hirata proposed an alternative solution to Horikita's dilemma. From Hirata's perspective, she is the perfect candidate to convince the idiot trio to participate in Horikita's study group seriously.
However...
-"Rejected. Kushida-san is not suitable to bring them." - Horikita rejected the suggestion instantly. Her tone left room for dialogue.
-"Huh? Why? Her grades are in the upper range within the class, and she is cheerful and approachable. I don't understand why that would not work." - Hirata expressed a legitimate question about Horikita's response towards his solution to the trouble.
Logically speaking, there is no objective reason not to employ Kushida.
However, unbeknownst to Hirata, there are personal reasons involved that have nothing to do with the midterms, personality characteristics, or lack of ability.
-"Regardless, Kushida-san is not the right choice. Anyone with eyes can tell their true intentions. Even if Kushida-san convinces them to participate in the study session, they will simply try to make a good impression on her, instead of studying and taking the midterms seriously." - Horikita bypassed Hirata's question and conceived a reasonable explanation for her choice.
Eventually, the discussion reached a stalemate.
Hirata couldn't convince Horikita, nor could he think of another answer to this dilemma.
Horikita couldn't imagine any other means as to how to get the idiot trio on board without Kushida's involvement.
"Alright, I understand." - Eventually, Hirata begrudgingly accepted Horikita's reasoning. - "Even so, I will still try to persuade them to join Horikita-san's group. If you ever come up with an idea, please don't hesitate to notify me. I will give you my contact information just in case, is that alright?" - Hirata continued on his quest to convince the idiot trio to take their studies seriously while silently hoping Horikita would change her mind or come up with another method to get the idiot trio to cooperate.
Horikita reluctantly agreed to share her contact information with Hirata under the condition that he would absolutely not share her contact information without her approval. Hirata understood that Horikita is someone who values her personal space a lot. Besides, this is the first time he has made any progress in interacting with Horikita, even if it was only for pragmatic reasons. Hence, Hirata accepted the terms with no complaints.
-"Though Horikita-san is doing this for her own sake, it doesn't change the fact that this is the first time she has ever got involved in class matters. I understand that I left Horikit-san to deal with Sudou-kun, Ike-kun, and Yamauchi-kin. I don't want to speak badly of my classmates, but their behaviour in the class, especially the girls, is... less than appropriate. I just hope Horikita-san won't find them too overbearing." - Even if Hirata didn't show it in his face, he harboured doubts about the well-being of his class, especially Horikita's study group, but he quickly pushed them aside. This was the first challenge they faced as a class. Hirata was determined to face any challenge head-on alongside his classmates.
This was Hirata Yousuke's resolve.
ΨΨΨ🅄🄽🄵🄰🅃🄷🄾🄼🄰🄱🄻🄴 🄿🄾🅆🄴🅁ΨΨΨ
「May 8th︱Afternoon︱Advanced Nurturing High School Cafe "Blue Note"
With Hasebe's insistence, Hasebe group members decided to have their study session in the cafe, under the condition that she would not fool around during the study session.
Yukimura sat in front of Yamasaki, Hasebe was next to my left, Miyake was next to Yukimura's left side, and Sakura was on Yukimura's right side.
-"Looking forward to working with you, I guess" - Hasebe uttered with a tone filled with an odd mix of disinterest, quiet wariness, and a bit of curiosity.
-"Don't mind her, Yukimura. Haruka doesn't mean anything bad. She is simply too blunt about her likes and dislikes." - Miyake apologised in Hasebe's place.
Sakura showed an expression filled with embarrassment and quiet resignation. She knew better than anyone that her grades were at the bottom of the class and that if she didn't take it seriously, she would undoubtedly be expelled. Fortunately, the group she was assigned had her close friends and a reliable tutor. Sakura was determined not to let her high school life end so soon.
Miyake knew that Hasebe's unyielding attitude, coupled with her beauty, could easily get on other people's bad side, especially the girls. While he himself didn't really understand the reason behind the dynamic with girls, he knew that many Class D girls were opinionated towards Hasebe. In their eyes, she is at the same level as Horikita, someone who thinks they are above everyone.
The funny thing is that neither Horikita nor Hasebe have such thoughts. They simply couldn't be bothered with others, though for completely different reasons.
Yamasaki, on the other hand, was as calm as usual. Unlike his friends, he didn't need to worry about being expelled. Simply maintaining his usual routine is enough to pass his examinations.
To him, the logic to excel in academics is simple.
Math is merely a number game to him. All it takes is to memorise the formulas, understand the rules, and comprehend the reasoning behind them. Practice a few problems, understand the patterns, and the rest comes naturally, at least in Yamasaki's case.
The same can be said for science. Similar to math, but unlike in mathematics, you simply have to spend more time memorising the technical terms. As long as you understand the fundamental principle of why things are the way they are, with repetition over time, things come naturally.
Language is merely a more sophisticated version of communication skills.
And literature is mostly about books and cultures. As long as you can read attentively and understand the nuances of the story, the rest comes naturally.
-"See, Miyachi gets it. As expected of the loner alliance formed under my guidance," Hasebe proudly declared her words.
-"Haruka-chan, Akito-kun is just trying to be considerate towards Yukimura-kun. Don't be mean to him." - Sakura's voice, but her tone was surprisingly firm. It seems that at least in the group, Sakura can express herself without worries.
-"Alright, alright, I got it." - Hasebe casually shrugged. Though she wasn't actually being apologetic for her words, she didn't reprimand Sakura either. That's probably the closest thing to acceptance a classmate could ever receive from an overly easy-going student, like Hasebe.
Sakura only smiled softly, being grateful that her dear friend allowed Yukimura to save face even if she didn't particularly care about the reactions her actions may cause to others, especially for those Hasebe considers as outsiders.
Yamasaki simply observed the dynamics amongst the group without saying anything throughout the bantering. As the utterly meaningless banter continued amongst the trio, Yukimura listened without saying a word.
Without caring about his reaction, Hasebe shifted the topic to Miyake.
-"Miyacchi, you're in the archery club, right? Is it fun to shoot a bow every day?" - Hasebe wanted to continue the conversation, so she changed the topic, though she herself wasn't really much invested.
-"I wouldn't do it if it wasn't fun. And by the way, you shoot arrows, not bows." - Miyake corrected Hasebe's statement, which clearly shows she doesn't understand a thing about archery.
-"I'm not interested in clubs. As long as I can have fun every day, that's enough for me." - Hasebe was the representation of the run-of-the-hill high school student. Doing just enough to avoid expulsion, and when speeding, the rest of her time relaxing in her room or talking with her close friends within her circle.
To get the atmosphere back on track, Yukimura cleared his throat and started talking.
-"Sorry to interrupt, but let's begin. Did everyone bring their test paper from the short test we did a few weeks ago, as I requested?" - Yukimura's unyielding gaze left no room for discussion. After all, this is the test where they have to not only pass, but earn high grades, not just to remain at this school, but also earn points.
-"We did, yeah." Hasebe replied. Miyake and Sakura nodded. Hasebe determined that teasing Yukimura would only make the situation worse and decided to take him seriously. She, too, doesn't want to be expelled, either. Miyake shared Hasebe's sentiments. Sakura was embarrassed and a bit guilty for having Yukimura go through the trouble to tutor her, but there was also a small wish in her heart to improve her grades, not to hold back her classmates, especially her close friends.
Everyone except for took the papers from their respective bags and handed them to Yukimura to evaluate them.
15 minutes later...
-"Alright." Suddenly, Yukimura looked up with a lot of energy. It seems he had finished checking everything.
-"I have a rough idea of your weak points. But I want to get into the details from here on out." He said that and turned the notebook he had been writing in over toward Miyake. - "I made a few humanities problems. I'll have Hasebe do them later, so don't write the answers directly in my notebook, write them in your own." - In this short amount of time, Yukimura had not only grasped the two's tendencies but also created his own problems. As expected of someone whose academic ability even surpasses Horikita's.
After grading the two problems, Yukimura sighed, looking exasperated.
-"You two are something else..." - The number of problems they both got right was 3. The number of wrong answers was 6. And there was one with a triangle. It would be the same score on a test, but what was surprising was that they had the same correct and incorrect answers.
-"It's not just that you have similar strong subjects, but your ways of memorising and your tendencies to solve problems in science sections are the same." - Yukimura was flabbergasted. He never expected this anomaly to emerge.
-"Wow. It must be fate, Miyacchi." - Even during such a moment, Hasebe couldn't resist the temptation to poke fun at Miyake.
-"That's stupid." - Miyake showed no interest in responding to Hasebe's teasing whatsoever.
-"Boo, you're no fun. But is this a bad thing for us, Yukimura-sensei?"- Hasebe was playful initially to ease the mood; however, the lingering doubt has been planted in Hasebe's mind. She knew full well that she wasn't an honour student nor particularly good at anything that is school-related.
-"In this case, it's probably a good thing. The effort will be cut in half." -With Hasebe's and Miyake's memorisation and learning tendencies being the same, one could effectively teach just one person. And unlike science problems that require a fundamental understanding, subjects like world history don't require going back to the beginning.
-"So it'll be easy?" - Hasebe understood that Yukimura would have less trouble than expected, but will it be enough?
-"That depends on your efforts. Counting back from the day of the final exam, we'll need to meet up about every other day. It's better to study with breaks in between than to cram all at once. Is that okay with you three? Miyake, you have your club to worry about, don't you?" - Yukimura objectively evaluated each persons's situation.
-"My club will probably take a break when the finals get closer, but let's talk about the time." - Miyake reassured that he will not allow his club activities to hinder his studies. After all, you won't be able to stay at this school if you fail the midterms.
Yukimura nodded at Miyake's request and continued his explanation. "This might sound like a threat, but the reality is that taking the exam with your current academic ability is quite bad. Fortunately, since this is only a midterm, it is manageable." - Yukimura's words were straightforward but filled not with criticisms, but advice and silent determination.
To put it bluntly, they were both complete science and math types. The math scores were around 70 points, which was high compared to the average, but their scores in Japanese and world history were around 40 points, a very delicate line. No wonder they were worried.
-"I understand your tendencies. I'll take some time to think about a study method." - Yukimura evaluated the loner duo grades in all 5 subjects, and made sure to conceive a study method to match these two strengths, weaknesses, learning tendencies and so on.
As the group tutor laid the groundwork for Hasebe and Miyake to work through, Yukimura glanced towards Sakura.
-"As for you, Sakura, your basics are somewhat lacking, especially in mathematics. For you, I will have to study the fundamentals for each subject, and then we will focus more on mathematics to solidify your understanding of the basics, alright?"
- "Y-Yes, I understand, Yukimura-kun." - Sakura's gaze was filled with doubt, yet quiet resolution. Sakura gratefully accepted Yukimura's guidance to study under him. She was determined not to be expelled, especially after she believed that she would spend her high school life isolated in her own little world. With her own effort, plus the support of others, she can even amount to something. That was Sakura's Airi's small wish. A small one, yet no less special.
-"No need to worry, Ai-chan!" - Hasebe muttered these words with utmost seriousness, yet her face was filled with beaming confidence and an easy-going smile. "With Yukimu as our teacher, and with us supporting you, there is no way you can't fail. We are all in this together."
-"Thank you, Haruka-chan. It means a lot to me." - Sakura smiled warmly at Hasebe. Once again, she is reminded of how fortunate she is to be a part of this group. She can simply be herself without being judged for being different, without being stared at inappropriate way, and people who are willing to help her with her troubles, school-related or not.
That alone gave her the motivation to face her problems earnestly.
The dynamic between Sakura and Hasebe made Miyake and Yamasaki show a small smile.
Yukimura felt a ting of guilt about ruining the moment, but he turned to face the remaining member of the Hasebe group.
-"As for you, Yamasaki, you don't have any gaps in your fundamentals. Your basics in math and science are solid. The only problem is a lack of experience in solving complex problems. For math, I recommend going through some problems with increasing difficulty until you hit a deadlock. For science, just take your time to familiarise yourself with the terms. Everything after that will come naturally. Even though your knowledge is a bit lacking in Japanese, English, and social studies, that won't be a problem. You can self-study in your dorm if you want. If you ever encounter a problem you can't solve, don't hesitate to contact me or come to our sessions, okay?" - Yukimura's analysis on Yamasaki was by far the longest. Unlike the rest of the Hasebe group members, Yamasaki wasn't in danger of expulsion. He simply needed to devote more time to his studies, and everything would be fine.
-"Understood." - Yamasaki nodded. Out of everyone in the Hasebe group, he was the least worried about the midterms. With self-study and some help from a tutor with high academic ability, everything will be fine.
-"Also..." - Yukimura continued the conversation, - "Since you don't really face a danger of expulsion, I will ask you to teach others who will have questions about the questions or material when I can't. You won't have to do much. Simply manage their progress, and if necessary, explain them, alright?" - Yukimura's request was relatively small. Since the group number was relatively small, compared to other groups, and who are taking their studies seriously, coupled with the fact that their grades are not horrible, Yukimura is willing to give Yamasaki some leeway.
-"Alright." - Yamasaki politely accepted Yukimura's compromise. He knew that Yukimura's suggestion was his idea to make studying more effective without being overly imposing on him. Yamasaki knows that Yukimura was being considerate towards him while still making use of him. He didn't mind it, though. Yamasaki didn't mind sparing some effort to help his friends with their studies.
-"Got it. I guess we'll just have some coffee and wait?" - Hasebe, as usual, the first one to initiate the conversation, asked the principal question ringing in her mind. She couldn't wait but get another cup of coffee. Studying was the last thing she wanted to do if she could avoid it.
Yukimura nodded as if he was conceiving the study methods for everyone in the Hasebe group (except Yamasaki), leaving Hasebe to her own devices. Miyake proceeded to read a comic book he brought from earlier. Sakura ordered a strawberry cake and conversed with Yamasaki about her hobby, with Miyake occasionally intercepting, asking a question to clarify an answer he didn't understand, or simply being a part of the conversation.
45 minutes later...
-"Alright, I have compiled a list of problems, the step-by-step solutions for each respective problem and recommendations for everyone to go through thoroughly so that everyone not only would pass their exams, but also score highly." - Yukimura interrupted the rupture coming from the others.
-"Wow, you didn't hold back at all, Yukimu." - A day hasn't even passed, and Hasebe has already conceived a nickname for Yukimura. A contrast between the upright, honour student and the nickname was funny.
-"Why the nickname? Just the last name is fine." - Yukimura was confused and a little uncomfortable that Hasebe, a girl whom he didn't know for less than a day, was already addressing him in such an informal manner as if they were close friends.
-"Why not? It's not a big deal." Hasebe replied with a confused expression, seeing no problem with her approach to close the distance between them.
-"Hasebe likes to use nicknames for people she likes. Don't bother to reprimand her, Yukimura. She won't change her mind. She already conceived nicknames for everyone in the group."- Miyake, once again, acted as Hasebe's personal interpreter, as her close friend, he knew Hasebe's quirks better than anyone in the class.
-"Glad to know you understand, Miyachi. Ai-chan and Yama-kun are not complaining. So, there is no problem with that." - Hasebe waved her right hand casually, seeing no problem with her attitude towards social interactions.
-"Anyway, make sure to go through the exercises. It will help you to solidify what you learn during the study sessions. We more prepared we are during the session, we less we will have to fear during the midterms." - Yukimura reminded Hasebe that if they want to pass the midterms without a constant threat of expulsion on their mind, they should take the study session as seriously as they can.
Though if you observed closely, it was evident who Yukimura was referring to.
-"Hai, hai, Yukimu-sensei. I, Miss Hasebe Haruka, will be your most willing disciple under your teaching." - Hasebe, instead of responding to Yukimura's instruction, teased Yukimura in return. This was her way of saying she will take it earnestly.
Yukimura was a little sceptical of her response, but decided not to linger on doubts.
-"Anyway..." - Hasebe continued the conversation. "Only one hour passed, and you already let us go. I didn't expect you to go easy on us, even if it's only the first day, Yukimu." - Hasebe was curious why Yukimura was letting them go after only 1 hour of studying. Not that she was complaining. If anything, she was overjoyed. She was simply curious.
Yukimura explained his reasoning. "The midterms won't happen until the next 3 weeks. It is better for you to get used to the habit of consistent studying rather than cramming all at once. Besides, with Yamasaki helping me, it won't be long enough for everyone to be good enough to pass the midterms." - While Yukimura has high expectations from others, he was by no means oblivious. He understood that some people learn at a slower rate. Normally, he would be stricter, but with 3 weeks, he is willing to cut some slack for others.
-"I see. As expected of Yukimu. When it comes to studying, you know your stuff." - Hasebe approved Yukimura's approach. To be fair, she would approve of anything that increases her free time.
Miyake nodded. "Yeah. It's reassuring to have you and Isao in the group. With you guys, I have confidence that everyone in the group will be able to pass the midterms."
Sakura nodded, "I feel the same way as Akito-kun. With Yukimura-kun's help and everyone's support, I feel like I can not only improve my grades, but also pass. I won't allow everyone's efforts to go to waste." - This is probably the longest time Sakura has ever responded. The right people really do wonder at the people, don't they?
Yamasaki nodded as well.
Yukimura decided to conclude the conversation. "Anyway, that's all for today. Make sure to go through the exercises today. I will see you guys during the study session starting tomorrow at this cafe." - Yukimura was placing his belongings in the school bag, preparing to leave the group."
-"Why in such a hurry? The midterms are still weeks away." Hasebe was confused about Yukimura's decline towards social activities. To be fair, she wasn't a social butterfly either, but she would at least stick out with the group for a while, if she didn't dislike them, of course.
-"You guys may be satisfied with only having good enough grades, but I have no intention to settle for it. You guys may not know this, but I want to study at a renowned university in Japan. Hence, I have to maintain my high grades, and I can't waste any time." - Yukimura elaborated to the group that the main reason he chose to lend a group a hand is because of personal reasons.
Similar to Horikita, Yukimura's desire to reach Class A is high. Much less, everyone was shocked by the news Chabashira-sensei unveiled on May 1. Yukimura, in particular, was dumbfounded. Throughout the first week, he reflected on his situation and concluded that he couldn't reach Class A with individual merit alone. To realise his goal, he accepted that cooperating with the class is the only realistic option to climb the rankings in the class hierarchy.
Much like Horikita, Yukimura doesn't see his classmates as friends, but he does acknowledge that in this school, academics is merely one type of "strength". To survive in this cutthroat environment, Yukimura intuitively acknowledged that if he didn't want to be left behind, he had to show at least the willingness to participate in class matters, even if it was not in the most sociable way.
Not exactly growth, but it is a step in the right direction, regardless.
-"It's alright, Yukimura-kun. We understand. Everyone in this school for their own reasons." - Surprisingly, it was Sakura who emphasised with Yukimura's desire for achievement and security. While she can't empathise with the wish to accomplish big things in life, she can relate to the feeling of wanting not to change things. The desire to want for everything to stay as they are, to remain in their own little world without being involved with other people. She understood better than anyone the feeling of resistance of being pulled out of your comfort zone, whether out of personal choice or being forced by your surroundings.
Yukimura was surprised by Sakura's sincere words and serene smile directed towards him. If you asked Yukimura or any non-Hasebe Group member to describe Sakura, they would only be able to prescribe the red-haired girl in superficial words: "shy", "gloomy", "wallflower", and so on. Neither of them scratches the surface of the girl named Sakura Airi.
Well...the guys in the class have their own reasons for remembering Sakura, but they are not exactly in a way that would leave a good impression on a girl.
However, for members of Hasebe Group, especially for Yamasaki, her growth was visible. While she may still be unable to talk in a group of large groups, she is now comfortable talking with people in 1 on 1 interactions or even small groups.
Sakura's words left a strong impression on everyone, especially on Hasebe and Miyake, who they known this girl for over a month, and she was already having a normal conversation with another classmate, who is a boy no less. They can still remember the girl who would stick her head like an ostrich just from introducing herself.
Yukimura unexpectedly showed a small smile. "Thank you, Sakura."
-"You know..." - Hasebe surprisingly interjected in a conversation between the honour student and a red-haired girl. "This group is really comfortable. The people in this group are already more than I could ever ask, but I wouldn't mind if Yukimu also joined our group. What do you guys think?" - Hasebe inquired the the group, though it was obvious who she was referring to.
Yamasaki shrugged. "I am cool with that."
Miyake nodded. "Same here. I have no problem with Yukimura joining our group."
Sakura smiled warmly. "Of course. Yukimura-kun is more than welcome to join us."
-"Honestly..." Yukimura sighed, but he wasn't unhappy either." - "You guys are sometimes a bit too lively for me, especially you, Hasebe."
Hasebe only pouted at him for his blunt remark towards her.
Everyone else only chuckled at her reaction.
-"However, I don't dislike this group. If you are that insistent, I suppose I can join the group. Midterms won't be the only exams we will have. It will be more efficient if we don't have to come up with a compatible group." Yukimura was a little embarrassed, so he conceived a way to save face to hide his embarrassment, but ultimately accepted being a new member of the Hasebe Group.
-"Great! We have a new member of the Hasebe Group. As a rule of thumb, you have to call everyone by their first names. You can just call me Haruka. So, folks, introduce yourselves."
-"Miyake Akito. You can just call me Akito."
-"Yamasaki Isao. You are free to call me by my first name."
-"Sakura Airi. You are free to address me by my first name as well, Yukimura-kun."
-"If we are going to name each other by our first names, I would have everyone by me Keisei, not Teruhiko." - This is the strongest reaction he has shown throughout his entire high school life, except during May 1 when S-System was revealed to the first-year students.
-"Why not?" - Hasebe asked a reasonable question. Just from Yukimura's expression, she could tell that this was a sensitive topic, but she still decided to take a shot in the dark for Yukimura to respond to her question.
-"My mother gave it to me, but she left me and my sister alone. So I prefer the name my father to me." - Yukimura was a little uncomfortable with the topic, but still answered Hasebe's question.
-"Is that so? Then we will just call you Keisei." - Hasebe smiled cheekily while subtly changing the topic to their original intent.
-"Alright." - Yukimura met the eyes of every member of the Hasebe group to familiarise himself with his first friend group. - "Haruka, Akito, Isao, and Airi."
-"That's what I like to hear!" - Hasebe jumped out of pure joy, unintentionally revealing her more developed features.
Yukimura got flustered. Though he had rather an antagonistic relationship with the girls in the class, he was still a high school student who had little to no interactions with the girls. Though he had no interest in Hasebe, he was by no means oblivious to her as a member of the opposite sex.
Miyake sighed, yet he momentarily avoided eye contact with Hasebe. He knew that when Hasebe gets too overwhelmed by her emotions, she completely throws away all her mental barriers, making the situation awkward. Though he didn't experience Yukimura's awkwardness, he still felt a little embarrassed seeing Hasebe without some degree of self-restraint. Though they were close friends for years, she was still a girl.
Sakura got a second-hand embarrassment, becoming self-conscious of her figure. Though the red-haired girl came a long way from the way she was during the first day at school, she still had difficulties in embracing her feminine side to the outside world. But there is nothing wrong with that. Growth is not a linear thing, nor does it happen all at once. If it were very true, the world would be a much simpler place to live.
Yamasaki showed no reaction on his face, but in his mind, he showed appreciation for the female beauty Hasebe embodied. Though Yamasaki was much more mature than an average high school student, he was still a man who possessed the capacity to feel attraction towards the opposite sex, whether it was emotional or physical.
In Yamasaki's eyes, if Class D boys ever organised a secret popularity contest to rank Class D girls in the "beauty" category, Yamasaki was confident Hasebe would be in the TOP 3. His personal choice would be Horikita, Matsushita, and Hasebe. Though it's only his personal choice.
-"A-Alright, I have enough for today. I will go to my room to take a nap before continuing my studies. See you guys tomorrow." - Yukimura never anticipated that he would have to deal with such a situation. He wanted to leave as soon as possible. He said goodbye to his friends and headed straight to the first-year dormitory without waiting for a response.
-"Hehe, I guess I made things awkward." - Hasebe brushed her cheek with her right hand. She understood well why Yukimura reacted that way. As a girl, she was sensitive to other people's stares and was mature enough to understand what kind of movements and positions showcase her femininity.
-"Anyway..." - Yamasaki took the lead in the conversation before the atmosphere could get worse. "I will head towards the dorm as well. After today, I just want to relax in my room."
-"Same here." - Miyake followed Yamasaki's lead. - "I just want to chill in my room. I had enough studying for today."
-"Hehe, it was a long day for all of us. I think I should head to my room and take a long nap after today." - Even though Sakura is more than content with how the events turned out today, she was still feeling overwhelmed. She wanted to take a long nap and indulge in her secret hobby.
-"Alright. See you guys tomorrow," - Hasebe said farewell to the boys, as she and Sakura headed towards the floor which belonged to the girls, whereas Yamasaki and Miyake stayed in an elevator.
-"It never gets boring with you guys." - Yamasaki teased Miyake with a smirk on his face, to liven up the mood.
-"I know, right? I will see you tomorrow at school, Isao." - Miyake reciprocated the teasing and headed towards his room, leaving Yamasaki alone in the elevator with his thoughts.
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「May 9th︱Afternoon︱Advanced Nurturing High School Class 1-D Classroom
Things are progressing smoothly with the study groups.
Yukimura's study group has progressed the most compared to other study groups. With Yukimura's guidance and Yamasaki assistance, everyone quickly understood the gaps in their knowledge and how to learn it. In addition, with Hasebe consistent teasing and joking, it provided an inclusive environment for everyone not to be stressed out or bored. Surprisingly, Yukimura was not against it. Perhaps he acknowledge as friends more than he admitted or maybe he realised that Hasebe's antics has a positive effect on everyone to take their studies seriously yet not be overwhelmed? Either way, the results speak for themselves.
Hirata's study group, consisting of a mixture of girls lingering for his attention, and more socially ousted boys who can't fit in with girls who have strong personalities like Horikita or girls who make them self-conscious like Kushida. Hirata being Hirata, taugh everyone with kindness and patience befitting of Class D prince. Of course, there are some minor conflicts, mostly about girls complaning about boys' "stealing away" their opportunity to be with Hirata, but things went relatively peacefully.
Kushida's group consists mostly of girls in her friend group and a few other girls from Shinohara's clique. As the group only has girls as members, and with Kushida as their tutor, there were no problems with studying. Self-explanatory.
Mii-chan's study group is heading in a positive direction. While Mii-chan does not have Kushida's support since the latter has the study of her own study in her own group, she has her close friend Inogashira to maintain her confidence in herself. Sometimes, all it takes is one person to believe in you to make a difference.
The only problem is Horikita's group.
Yamasaki learned from Hirata that Horikita refused to "lower" herself to ask the idiot trio to join her study group.
Only 2 weeks are left until midterms. For student with at least somewhat decent academic ability, they will be able to pass if they put even some effort into their studies.
But for the idiot trio to study seriously?
You might as well ask a monkey to write a Shakespearean poem, and there would be no difference.
And you might wonder, what happened next?
Well...
-"Yamasaki-kun, I have a request. Would you convince Sudou-kun and the others to study under Horikita-san?" - A male voice voiced out a sincere request to his male counterpart.
Of course.
Class D wouldn't be Class D if they didn't face a problem or two, don't they?
-"I know it sounds shameless, but I, no matter how hard I think, I can't think of the way to convince Sudou-kun and the others to study willingly without Kushida-san's help. I tried to convince them yesterday but they refused even to listen to me. I was wondering if you could help us, Yamasaki-kun." - Hirata elaborated on why he wants Yamasaki's advice, and if possible, to help Horikita to convince the idiot trio to study in her group.
"You know it's shameless and yet you still do it? Whose side you are?" - Yamasaki asked a rhetorical question in his mind.
-"I don't follow, Hirata." - Yamasaki directed his question to Hirata, wanting to learn more about the situation.
-"Horikita-san said that despite agreeing to tutor those guys, she refused to ask Sudou-kun and the others to study, and the guys refuse to acknowledge Horikita-san, mine or anyone else request to take the midterms seriously. They said they will cram during the last day. At this rate, I am afraid that they might be expelled." - Hirata countered Yamasaki's statements by revealing that idiot trio not only refuse to be a part of Horikita's study group, essentially receiving guidance from one of the most academically gifted student in Class D for free, but they outright deny any help from Hirata or anyone else.
Yamasaki couldn't decide whether he should feel pity towards Hirata or laugh at the idiot trio.
-"And what do you want me to do about it?" - Yamasaki shifted the topic towards the core problem at this matter. Hirata wouldn't have approached Yamasaki if he didn't at least have an idea how to solve this dilemma.
-"That's why I am asking you Yamasaki-kun. You are the only who can solve this problem. It's thanks to you intervention during the swimming class the other day that girls were able to enjoy themselves in the pool. The girls in the class think quite highly of you, you know? Not to mention, after that day, many guys in the class started to behave more appropriately in the class, especially towards the girls in the class. While they still cause trouble to the class, it isn't as bad as it was before. There is no better person than you Yamasaki-kun." - Hirata expanded on his reasons to request Yamasaki's cooperation to gather the idiot trio to study.
Hirata's plea was sincere, and he was by no means stingy with the praise. Hirata Yousuke is someone who speak from the heart, the type of sincerity that would resonate with many others. The words Hirata uttered, especially coming from a man at the top of social hierarchy would give the feeling of validation or self-importance for many people, especially the high school students.
However...
-"Sorry, I have no idea what to do either, Hirata." - Yamasaki declined Hirata's appeal with no hesitation. Even if Yamasaki wasn't the egocentric type, he wasn't a doormat either.
-"Why? Isn't it a bit too soon to give up? Maybe you could try at least once to convince Sudou-kun and the others to take the midterms seriously. This is not just about the points, class competition, or even the future prospects. Their entire high school life is on the line. This is not something we should handle casually, Yamasaki-kun." - one week has passed and there is zero progress in Horikita's study group. Every other group already studying seriously, facing no problems either with the material or interpersonal relationships.
No wonder Hirata is concerned. He didn't want to leave anything up to change, especially when it concerns the fate of his classmates. He wanted to do everything he can to help them. But what can you do against people who outright refuse a helping hand?
-"The same reason as Horikita. I have no idea how to get those three to take studying, nor do I know why Horikita refuses to collaborate with Kushida. Besides, even if somehow managed to to get them on board, they would half-baked effort at best." - Yamasaki elucidated to Hirata that to expect from people with low academic ability and high stubborness to agree readily is a naive idea at best or foolish at worst.
-"I understand." Hirata sighed. He wasn't disappointed towards Yamasaki. If anything, he was disappointed towards himself or his lack of ability to convince the idiot trio to take midterms seriously. "Even so, I refuse to leave them behind. I will ask for Kushida-san help one more time. I will try to convince Horikita-san to include Kushida-san one more time. If you formulate any idea, please don't hesitate to contact me, okay?" - Hirata smiled as if the earlier conversation never happened.
-"Alright, I guess I will try later. Just don't expect anything." - Yamasaki reminded to Hirata that he may try to contrive a plan for the midterms just don't have high expectations.
-"That's all I ask. Let's not lose hope. As long as we do our best, I will make we will graduate together." - Hirata nodded and he left Yamasaki and headed towards Karuizawa group, leaving Yamasaki alone with his thoughts.
"There he goes again, being the hero. He has the aura of the shounen manga protagonist. He just needs a cape and a theme song." - Yamasaki couldn't help but think but if this world was a manga, Hirata would be an ideal main character in the series.
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May 9th︱Afternoon︱Advanced Nurturing High School Second Floor
-"Hey Ike." - a male student called out a brown-haired student during the hallway.
-"What is it, Yamasaki? Don't tell me Horikita or Hirata send you here to join her study group?" - Ike asked the first thing that came to his mind. Surprisingly, he was spot on.
"I guess even a broken watch is correct twice a day." - Yamasaki commented on his remark but did not uttered outloud.
-"What makes you say that?" - Yamasaki, instead of answering Ike's question, reciprocated the question of his own towards Ike.
-"There is no way Horikita would willingly ask us to study. She is cute but her personality is god awful." - Ike's made a valid point. This guy can be surprisingly reliable when he is in a right state of mind.
"That's ironic coming from a guy like him." - Yamasaki found Ike's remark amusing, and little bit hypocrytical for Ike, of all people, to comment on other people's moral character.
Yamasaki nodded. "Fair enough, but that's not why I am here." Yamasaki made it clear. His presence today has nothing to do with Horikita or Hirata.
-"Okay? So why you are here? Horikita asked me the same thing, I am not joining her stupid study session! I am gonna be fine with cramming!" he angrily proclaimed. The classes are finally over. Ike wanted to get this over with to head towards his dorm room, and just chill in his room: play video games, read manga, and so on.
"Cram with what notes? Do you even have any? You haven't bothered to learn anything in the class, you doze off during classes, and now you expect me to believe you will study seriously? I don't think so." Yamasaki bluntly cut off all Ike's escape routes. Ike stammered a little due to Yamasaki's straighforward words, perhaps feeling ashamed that he was caught "red-handed".
"W-well I can certainly manage, I am a highschooler! Studying isn't my main concern! it's getting the girls!" he exclaimed, refusing to admit that the position he is at the moment is all his undoing.
Ike goals were simple: live a carefree high school life, graduate from school, find a girlfriend. A walking embodiment of an average high school boy.
"If Horikita heard this, she would give a look of disgust towards Ike. Girls may differ in their preferences, but the one common characteristic all girls share one trait - they don't bother with someone they consider beneathe them. The moment you considered as inferior, your chances of any positive relationship, much less romantic are practically zero." - Yamasaki commented on Ike's mistake towards interpersonal relationships among boys and girls. This guy has no undertanding of power dynamics in romance at all.
"And what girl would like a guy who can't even get good marks?" Yamasaki shifted the direction of conversation towards what would catch Ike's attention. He looked confused. He didn't understand what this has anything to do with the midterms.
"What do you mean?" he asked. Ike couldn't comprehend Yamasaki's question that came out of nowhere.
Yamasaki simply shrugged. - "I don't know. As far as I know girls like super smart guys who are reliable. I know that Kushida does at least." I said as his eyes bulged outwards at the revelation. He was shocked that his dream girl has such a preference. For him, this information was a goldmine.
"Sorry, Kushida. For the class D future, I will have you play along with this small white lie." - Yamasaki apologised for Kushida for his small lie. Then again, it was technically the true. While Yamasaki doesn't know Kushida's type, but he does know she wouldn't be against if she ever had boyfriend, she would want to be her boyfriend to be smart.
-"S-she does!?" Ike said being suprisingly about learning this new information about his crush. For an average high school boy, learning about your crush preferences is a major stepping stone to be noticed by their crush.
Yamasaki nodded. - "Yeah. but if you don't want any help with the midterms, that's fine. You and Yamauchi can manage right even if you grades are at the bottom, even if you can't study for even 5 minutes without being sidetracked." Yamasaki continued to lay out every reason why he believes ike and the others don't have what it takes to pass the midterms.
Ike simply shook his head vigorously. - "No! Let me join! I'll get Haruki to join too! When do we start!?" Ike was so excited to learn about a possible path to earn Kushida's affection so much to the point he didn't even ask if what Yamasaki said was true or false.
"When Yamauchi learns about this, he will no doubt be eager to be a part of Horikita's study group. Neither boys would allow either of them or anyone else get in the way of becoming the centre of attention from Class D angel. For guys like them, even a simple smile, a compliment is enough to be in a cloud nine. The only one left is Sudou." - Yamasaki was content with success he achieved with Ike.
Yamasaki informed Ike that he will tell him the time and place later.
Ike left with a grinning smile on his smile, as if he already claimed his prize.
Whether or not his efforts will be rewarded or disregarded, it remains to be seen.
25 minutes later...
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May 9th︱Afternoon︱Advanced Nurturing High School Outdoors
-"Hey Sudou." - a male voice called to the red-haired male student.
-"Hey Yamasaki. Don't tell me you will ask me to join Horikita's study session? I don't have time for that snobby girl, who thinks she is some kind of almighty princess. I have basketball practice." - Sudou was visible annoyed. Rigid body language, a fierce gaze, a stance prepared to take a fight, whether verbal or physical. Practically screaming the aura "I dare you to disagree with me."
-"Of course not. You should do what you want to do." - Yamasaki stance was clear. Sudou's choices are his own. Yamasaki will respect Sudou's decision regardless of personal opinions or societal expectations.
-"Huh?" - Sudou didn't expect for someone to agree. He probably expected to be reprimanded, complained, begged, or insulted. - "When why you are here?" Sudou was confused. If Yamasaki is not here to convince to join the study group for the midterms, then why is he here?
-"I am a little curious about the basketball club. Since, you are basketball club member aiming to become a professional, I wanted to see the man in action in person, Is that problem?" - Yamasaki disclosed to Sudou that he was a little curious to see a fellow classmate of his in pursuit of career in a professional leagues.
-"No. If you are just here to watch, then you are free to come, I guess." - Sudou was confused but ultimately allowed Yamasaki to accompany him to the club. Sudou has a relatively positive impression of Yamasaki. He remembers that it was him to helped him to introduce himself to the class. It was also thanks to him that he didn't feel ousted during the outing with Hirata's group a few weeks ago. He had no reason to be hostile towards him.
The male duo arrived at the gym area Nr 1., where students have training almost every day starting from 16:00 and finished at least 17:30. Sometimes, even 18:30 if the club is preparing for national competition.
Yamasaki observed the entire basketball club members from the sidelines.
Surprisingly, Sudou, who is a solo-type of person, was surpsingly cooperative during basketball. In addition, he may voiced out few complaints throughout the game session to his comrades, it wasn't anything serious. This is sports, and among high schoolers. Some trash talk is to be expected.
After the practice, Yamasaki approached Sudou.
-"You were great out there, Sudou." Yamasaki smiled offering him a bottle of water and a towel. - "I see you have both a talent and the determination to be a pro." - Yamasaki spared no effort to compliment Sudou's talents in his basketball skillset, physical ability and proactive attitude towards adversity.
-"Thanks dude." - Sudou was surprised yet genuinely grateful for his words and small gestures, as he took the water after the intense physical activity, and to wipe of the sweat from his face.
A small act of kindness can go a long way.
-"With this school's program, you will get a step closer towards your dream, huh?" - Yamasaki asked an open question towards Sudou, indirectly asking to prolong the conversation.
-"Yeah. The reason I came to this because I heard if you can graduate from this school, you can get any job you want, or apply to any university. Since this school is all about this fancy stuff, I figured they would be able to help with my dream in basketball." - Sudou shared the reason why he enrolled to this school. To Sudou, ANHS was a first-way ticket to his dream.
Yamasaki nodded. - "A smart choice. You would have both the skill and the recommendation from prestigious high school. You" - Yamasaki smirked a little, teasing Sudou, not wanting to make the conversation too much in depth, and ruin the mood in the process.
"Haha, guess so." - Sudou was a little embarassed from Yamasaki's sincere compliments. He was not accustomed to be treated as a equal. Others simply ignore him or look down on him. He was by no means dislike the atmosphere. He was simply not used to it.
-"By the way, do you know that not only you need a high school diploma and even high score in English to even qualify to a professional league?" - Yamasaki brought up an unexpected question towards Sudou.
-"Huh? Is that so? I had no idea." - Sudou was flabbergasted by the sudden flux of information Yamasaki layed out in front of him. Though Sudou pursued his dream earnestly, he doesn't know the ins and outs of his dream. He only has a general direction in mind. In his mind, as long as his skills are the real deal, everything will be fine.
"Yeah. That's why everyone studies take these midterms. Some study to reach top university, some study for points, others learn to stay at this school with their friends." - Yamasaki continued the conversation towards more neutral topic For Sudou to understand that he may pursue his goals, but he should not disregard others only to maintain his own self-esteem.
"I get it, pal. Everyone has their own stuff going on, but what that has anything to do with me? I am here for my own dream. I won't cater to others." - Sudou's stance towards him dream was everything to him. This was non-negotiable.
-"And what's wrong with that?" - Yamasaki shifted the topic of conversation towards unexpected angle.
-"Huh?" - Sudou was perplexed. He expected Yamasaki to disagree with him. To tell him that he is wrong to disregard others all for favour for his own goal. He probably expected to reminded of things like collective responsibility or being considered to do the "right" thing for his classmates.
Instead of answering his question, Yamasaki handed his personal notes to Sudou.
-"These are the notes from the material we have learned through the classes, explained in an easy-to-understand. You should study not for others, but for your own sake, for your own dream, for your own future. That's all there is to it." - Yamasaki pointed out to Sudou that he has no obligation to respond to people who can't see anything beyond a trouble student.
Sudou Ken is his own person with his own feelings, goals, and values.
And if they can't or don't want to understand?
That's their problem.
After a while, Sudou nodded and took the notes from Yamasaki's left hand. -"Alright. If you go that far, I guess I will accept it. When do the study sessions start?" - Sudou was still reluctant to be in the same room with Horikita, but what he didn't want even more was to disrespect Yamasaki's efforts and sincerity he showed today towards him.
Sudou Ken might be a blunt person but he is not that insensitive towards others, especially those who do not deserve his wrath.
"Sudou is a type of person who thinks in black in white. He likes simplicity. If you are good to him, he will good to you. If you are bad to him, he will repay to tenfold. Unfortunately, he is considered an somewhat of an outlier in a class due to his short-temper and lack of tact in the class interpersonal dynamics."
"In a way, Sudou is similar to Karuizawa in a sense that they both make themselves bigger than they actually are to protect themselves due to their low self-worth. Sudou tries to earn to respect from others through external factors. In his case, accomplishments (through sports, especially basketball). Kei, on the other hand, attempts to sustain her already abysmal self-worth through security by attaching herself to the most capable man in the social hierarachy (in this case, myself)."
"The only difference Sudou has the strength Karuizawa lacks but Sudou didn't possess Karuizawa's self-preservation instincts. He doesn't know when to fight and when to retreat, both verbally and physically. With guys like Sudou, you need to be firm yet understanding. You have to meet him on 1 on 1 without anyone else judging him. You have to be straighforward with their shortcomings but with non-judgemental attitude. As long you show you understand where he is coming from, he will come around on his own initiative." -
-"I will give you details through text message." - Yamasaki reminded to Sudou that he doesn't need to concern himself with trivial matters. He will be informed the important details later.
-"Alright. See you tomorrow, Yamasaki." - Sudou nodded as he went towards his dorm room. After the long training session, all he wanted to do to fall to his bed and sleep without a care in a world.
Yamasaki send a notification to Hirata in a group chat called [Class D Tutors] (excluding Horikita).
Hirata:
[Yamasaki-kun, how did the things went?]
Yamasaki:
[I convinced them to join Horikita's study group.]
Hirata:
[That's great! Thank you so much Yamasaki-kun! I wil inform Horikita-san to let her handle the rest.]
Kushida:
[That's so kind of you, Yamasaki-kun. I always knew you are a good person.]
Mii-chan:
[That's really nice of you, Yamasaki-kun. Horikita-san is a bit intimidating for us to approach her.]
Yukimura:
[That's good news, Isao. Horikita's is the only who can those three to study without being distracted.]
Yamasaki:
[True. I can't imagine those guys fooling around in front of Horikita, lol]
Kushida:
[Now now, don't be mean Yamasaki-kun. I am sure Horikita-san means well. She is simply misunderstood.]
Hirata:
[That's right, Yamasaki-kun. Horikita has good intentions. She is sometimes a bit too honest.]
Yamasaki:
[How are the things from your side?]
Mii-chan:
[Everything is going well so far. I was a little nervous at first but everyone is taking studies seriously, and making progress.]
Kushida:
[Me too! My friends are really kind. Not only we learn, but we are also having fun together, not just during studies but sometimes even after studies!]
Hirata:
[I agree with Kushida-san. Everyone in the group take the midterms earnestly. We have nothing to fear.]
Yukimura:
[Same here. Our group is steadily preparing for the midterms. If they continue this pace, they have nothing to worry about.]
Hirata:
[Yamasaki-kun, if it is not too much to ask, can you keep an eye on Horikita-san's group. You don't have to teach them. Just keep an eye on them.]
Yamasaki:
[Why? Horikita is enough to handle these three by herself.]
Hirata:
[You are right, but I am not worried about studying. I am concerned that if Horikita-san is left alone with Sudou-kun and the others, the conflict might escalate.]
Kushida:
[I think you worry too much, Hirata-kun. Horikita-san would never do something like that.]
Mii-chan:
[That's right, Hirata-kun. Horikita-san might be a bit cold and distant from others, but she is not that cold-hearted.]
Yukimura:
[Normally, I would agree with you two, but I think Hirata has a point. Both Horikita and Sudou have strong personalities. I think letting Isao to manage them would be a right decision.]
Yamasaki:
[Is that what you are supposed to say to the person you are tutoring? I may not as much help as the others but if I join Horikita group, my study time will be cut.
Yukimura:
[You have nothing to worry Isao. With your grades, you will be able to pass the exams even if you only put minimum degree of effort. If due to time shortage you won't understand some problems, don't hesitate to contact me.]
Hirata:
[Yukimura-kun is right, Yamasaki-kun. I am ashamed to say this, but you are the only whom Horikita-san woud listen to. Everybody else would either lack academic ability or simply wouldn't withstand Horikita-san's presence.]
Yamasaki:
[Alright, alright, I get it. I agree to help Horikita with her study group. You own me big time Hirata.]
Hirata:
[Thank you so much Yamasaki-kun! I will relay the message to Horikita-san right away!]
Kushida:
[Hehe, in the end, Yamasaki-kun agreed to help Horikita-san. Maybe behind that cool exterior, you are quite a softie, or maybe you are pursuing Horikita-san?]
Mii-chan:
[Hmm, it seems even the mature Yamasaki-kun succumb to Horikita-san's charm. Maybe he is just playing coy to impress Horikita-san? Maybe he is into solitary, indepedent type of girls.]
Yukimura:
[I am confident Isao is mature enough to not about things like that. Though, if we tries his luck with Horikita-san, I doubt things will go well for him.]
"Even you are joining in their teasing, Keisei?" - Yamasaki commented in his thoughs, as he scrooled through the messages his classmates send to the group chat.
Hirata:
[Great news Yamasaki-kun. Horikita-san has allowed you to be in her study group. Let's do our best!]
Yamasaki:
[Alright.]
"Everything is in place. With Keisei taking care of Haruka and the others, all that's left to do is to be make sure those guys study properly under Horikita's guidance."
"Of course, I haven't forgotten about your sleazy attempt to ruin your own students' futures, Chabashira-sensei. Even during the first week when the midterm was announced, I learned from my friends from Class B that the material you provided us was false. I won't let you get away with this without consequences, you sorry excuse for a teacher. If you already gave up on yourself, you might as well give up all the way, not sending your students to the ruin alongside you, just because you can't face your inner demons. You barely even qualify as a supervisor, let alone as a teacher. What gives you the right to make their situation worse, when you already know their abilities and attitudes, yet still expecting a miracle? Forgive me my language, but are you an incorrigible imbecile with shallow opportunist mindset?"
"Moving on, you better pull your own weight as well Horikita. As of right now, your desire to reach class A is no different from self-imposed delusion to give you comfort in this meaningless journey to recompensate for your non-existant self-worth. In this school, individual ability is indispensable but it's not the end of end all. It's merely a means to an end towards a greater goal."
ΨΨΨ🅄🄽🄵🄰🅃🄷🄾🄼🄰🄱🄻🄴 🄿🄾🅆🄴🅁ΨΨΨ