COTE: The Best Version of Me

Chapter 19 - Obsolete ideals

                                                           

                                                                    *** 𝕿𝖍𝖊 𝕭𝖊𝖘𝖙 𝖁𝖊𝖗𝖘𝖎𝖔𝖓 𝖔𝖋 𝕸𝖊 ***

Katsuragi POV

"Once again, Sakayanagi. I can't agree with this."

As Sakayanagi finished explaining, I couldn't help but disagree with every word I read. It was a bold move that had its advantages. But the risks were clear. 

She was insisting on an attack, on seeking a quick, sweeping victory that, if misguided, could jeopardize our elite position. Such an aggressive approach was a waste of effort and, worse still, an invitation to avoidable trouble. Not that Sakayanagi cared about the long term. In my opinion, she wanted to take the others head on.

The sharp look she gave me indicated that I was challenging her again, but I continued with the calm conviction that characterizes me. 

"Sakayanagi, I understand the idea of ​​pressuring the other classes to secure our advantage. But it seems unwise to risk our current stability. I insist that you stop that idea."

She studied me for a moment, that appraising look she always uses when she wants to make it clear that, to her, caution sounds like fear. "Katsuragi-kun, we've had this conversation before, haven't we? You always see the glass as half empty. This cautious approach of yours is, in fact, boring. Passivity is the first step to stagnation, and you know what happens to those who stagnate."

She laughed, a light sound that rang with sarcasm. "Do you really believe we should just stay like this? My movements are calculated, Katsuragi. I'm not naive enough to attack without preparing the ground. And to me, the biggest threat is letting any other class get comfortable. Ryuen-kun and Ayanokoji-kun... one false step and those two will crush you."

But that goes for you too, though...

I didn't underestimate them, but Sakayanagi's obsession with him was something that could cost us dearly if left unchecked. I can't let her lead the class to failure just because her ego was crushed by Ayanokoji in that meeting she organized herself. 

"Sakayanagi, I won't accept this. I ask that you let me guide Class A during this exam. I can't allow you to lead Class A right now."

A brief silence fell. I glanced around, noticing the divided gazes between us. My supporters fell silent while those on Sakayanagi's side smiled, sharing her air of superiority, as if my prudence was a waste of time. Sakayanagi leaned forward, her eyes shining brightly. 

"That's true, Katsuragi. I could simply ignore you, focus on our internal achievements, and maintain our position as you propose. But then again, if we don't aim high, what's the point of calling ourselves Class A? I won't tolerate such pragmatic behavior, Katsuragi-kun."

I knew I wouldn't convince her with logic. To Sakayanagi, caution would always seem inferior to boldness. "You just want to have fun while using others just for your own entertainment."

"I don't think this conversation will lead anywhere, Katsuragi-kun."

Looking at her face, I could tell that no matter what I said, Sakayanagi wouldn't change her mind. She was fascinated by risk, and nothing would make her give it up. The class was still somewhat divided, but most of the students were on her side. Even if I expressed my ideas, there wouldn't be much I could do if things continued like this.

As the others began to get up from their seats, I also got up and headed towards the door. Walking out of the room with firm steps, I felt frustration growing inside me. It was an unusual and even uncomfortable feeling.