Cote: Elite in Action

The Awakening of Truths

"Surprises are the spice of life. Without them, life would be too dull." – Anonymous

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Osawa: "Wow, the weather up here is really pleasant," I said while enjoying the fresh breeze.

This week has been full of interesting events. To start with, Class C has been trying to bother my classmates with insults, intimidation, and spreading rumors—just the basics of bullying. It seems that the leader of Class C, Ryuuen Kakeru, is a guy who employs pretty aggressive tactics and isn't afraid to get into trouble.

Of course, I advised my classmates not to fall for their provocations and to avoid going to secluded places or places without cameras if summoned.

The second incident occurred recently, and Ichinose-san told me about it. The conversation went like this:

(Flashback)

Osawa: "What? Sudo from Class D beat up some guys from Class C?" I repeated, absorbing the information Ichinose-san had just shared.

Ichinose: "Yes, it happened recently. Class C filed a complaint with the school about the damages Sudo-kun caused."

Osawa: "Well, I'd say I'm surprised, but knowing Sudo's attitude, it's something entirely expected."

Ichinose: "Well, Sudo-kun claims he didn't hit them on purpose but was defending himself. Class D is looking for evidence to support their argument."

Osawa: "If they're looking for evidence, is it because the incident happened in a place without cameras, right?"

Ichinose: "Exactly. The situation took place in the special building, you know, that place has no cameras and poor ventilation."

Osawa: "Then it's clear that everything was completely planned."

Ichinose: "I think so too. Sudo-kun said they called him to discuss something related to the basketball club, that's why he went."

Osawa: "I see. By the way, you seem well-informed, who told you all this?"

Ichinose: "I ran into Kushida-san earlier, and she told me the whole situation."

Osawa: "I understand. Given that the situation involved physical harm, there could be serious consequences for the culprit, in this case, Sudo."

Ichinose: "Yes, that's true. Osawa-kun, I'd like to help Class D with this problem," she said determinedly.

Osawa: "I don't understand why you seem to be asking for permission, but if that's what you want, you can help them."

Ichinose: "It's true that I'll help them on my own, but I want to offer help on behalf of our class."

Osawa: "Why do you want to help them this time?"

Ichinose: "If what Sudo-kun says is true, it doesn't seem fair to incriminate him. Also, I want to offer Class D an alliance with our class."

Osawa: "An alliance?"

Ichinose: "Yes. Given that the point difference between their class and ours is quite large, I think there's room for an alliance. Also, both classes have problems with Class C."

Osawa: "And do you think they'll accept the alliance? If you tell them you want an alliance because of the point gap, they might think you're underestimating them and generate animosity."

Ichinose: "It's possible, but I'd like to propose it anyway. I believe the alliance would benefit both of us, as our classes could focus on Class B and Class C. Class B is only 1 point away from our Class A, and since Class D doesn't have many points, an alliance with us would eliminate unnecessary competition between the two parties. Of course, the alliance would only last while this point difference exists; if it decreases, the alliance would disappear."