Classroom of the Elite: Stalemate

Vol.1 : Chapter 3.3-Studying Efforts.

A Day After the Library Encounter:

As I sat at my desk, lazily jotting down notes on the history of Japan, I found my mind wandering.

'Who's this girl I met in the library?'

Though I'd never encountered her in person, a peculiar sensation lingered—a feeling of familiarity with her manners and behavior, as if I knew someone with similar habits...

"Ayanokoji-Kun, can you hear me?"

My seatmate's voice snapped me out of my musings.

"Sorry, I just got carried away. Though I did hear you."

"If you did, then you should've heard that we have to go to the library right now."

While I didn't doubt Horikita's statement, I glanced around the class, ensuring the lesson was indeed over.

"You're right. Let's head out then."

Swiftly packing our belongings, we exited the classroom.However, when we started walking I noticed some students peeking from the corner.

"Did you notice...?"

"Yes, I did. It's not the first time, though. I noticed some other guys following me to the dormitory yesterday."

'Arisu's work?'

"I see. Are you sure they weren't just walking to the dorms?"

A short nod.

"I understand. Okay, I'll try to figure it out when I have some time."

"Okay. However, while I understand you have the studying groups affair to control, is there anything else in particular that takes your time to this extent?"

Yesterday, I debated whether to inform Horikita about Arisu, but curiosity led me to see how the situation would unfold on its own.

"Not really, just some minor things. Nothing too important."

"If you say so."

As we continued walking, we engaged in conversation on random topics. Soon, another interesting topic arose.

"Horikita, while it won't be soon, I need to warn you about something."

She visibly tensed, focusing on my words.

"I'm all ears."

"While I can't reveal specifics yet as I'm uncertain myself, we're not the only ones who've discovered the rooftop loophole."

"Do you refer to the fact that they have no cameras?"

"Yes, and apparently, this person is from our grade. Moreover, I'm sure whoever this person is, they're exploiting it quite frequently."

"I see. I do believe you. However, how in the world did you acquire this knowledge?"

"I have my own methods. To progress, you have to find your unique way of gathering necessary information."

While I could've divulged all the details, I opted to see if she could deduce everything on her own.

"And again, you're hiding your methods. Ah, forget it."

With the information planted in Horikita's mind, I continued talking with her until we reached our destination.

"So, let's go now, shall we?"

"Sure."

Entering the library, we promptly proceeded to our reserved table. Arriving second to last, we only awaited Kushida.