COTE - The Devilish Conqueror

The Opening of the First Act

The endless summer sea. The infinite blue skies. The perfectly clear air. Here, in the midst of the Pacific Ocean, we didn’t feel the intense midsummer heat, and the gentle sea breeze kissed our bodies. Yes, this really was an oceanic paradise.

“Whoa! This is the beeeeeeesssssst!” shouted Ike Kenji, both hands raised high in the air. His voice echoed across the deck of the luxury liner.

Normally, someone would have grumbled or shouted “shut up” in response. But just for today, no one minded, instead enjoying this moment of bliss. The view from the “special seats” on the deck was exceptionally gorgeous.

“This view is incredible! I’m honestly super moved right now!”

A group of girls led by Karuizawa came out from the ship’s cabin. Karuizawa pointed out to the expansive ocean, wearing a radiant smile. I guess it was a good contrast to her usually grumpy face.

Even Horikita herself wasn't looking at the awestruck students with with irritated gaze from our place. She simply leaned on the railing like me and watches the sea with peaceful expression.

After overcoming numerous hardships, midterms, and the final exam, we had welcomed summer vacation with open arms. The Advanced Nurturing High School had arranged for an extravagant two-week trip—a cruise on a luxury liner.

“Wow, Sudou, you must be happy you didn’t get expelled. I mean, if this were a normal trip, it would’ve been impossible for us to go. Hey, how did it feel to be on the verge of expulsion, since you had the lowest score on the final? Come on, tell me. How did it feel?”

Even though Yamauchi Haruki was basically insulting him, Sudou was far from being in a foul mood. I guess the amazing atmosphere and his unexpected maturity helped him to control his temper.

“Well, I was just happy I guess. I mean I never thought I would have the time to spent in luxurious vacation with my girlfriend this soon.”

“O-oh, yeah...”

The boys' mood instantly went somber, remembering the mind-blowing news of Sudou dating Sakura from a few days ago. Their gaze become quite stinky when Sudou wasn't looking while some curses were being mumbled under their breath.

Can't wait to see their face when they knew that I was frequently banging two of the most beautiful girls from our class...

“Ayanokouji-kun, something is up, don't you think?” Horikita suddenly asked, brushing the strand of hair to the back of her ear.

“Hmm.” I hummed, eyes watching a lone island at the horizon becoming even closer to this ship.

At our government-sponsored school, there was absolutely no need for us to pay for tuition or other miscellaneous expense, which of course, included this trip. We received the best of special treatment. The cruise liner and its facilities were of the highest possible quality. This ship was fully equipped with everything from prestigious restaurants to a theater, and even an upscale spa.

Our trip, which promised the pinnacle of luxury, had finally started today. According to the schedule, we would spend our first week staying at a fancy summer lodge on a deserted island. After that, we would enjoy the cruise ship for another week.

For those like us who had suffered every single day due to the lack of points, this ship was heaven-sent.

“Come to think of it, I wonder where Kushida-san is. People like her would usually enjoy this kind of experience to the fullest, no?”

“Hm? What with the sudden interest in Kushida?” I asked, genuinely curious at her unexpected question.

Horikita simply sighed in exasperation, “It's not like that. I'm just thinking about getting Kushida-san into our group.”