My New Life As Suzune Horikita (COMPLETED)

Chapter 50: The Special Exam and the Suspicion of a Traitor

The tension was palpable in Class B as we prepared for the upcoming special exam. This wasn’t just another test; the stakes were higher, with the possibility of expulsion looming over any class that failed. The exam format was simple but strategic: each class would face off in two rounds, answering five questions per round. In the first half, we would compete against Class D, led by the cunning Ryuen, and in the second half, against the unpredictable Sakayanagi of Class A.

Before the exam, I had a quick word with Ichinose, who agreed that our classes would support each other in any way we could. We knew that Ryuen would bring his ruthlessness to the table, and Sakayanagi would rely on her intelligence and confidence. The plan was solid, but something felt off.

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The first half against Class D began. As expected, Ryuen’s questions were deceptive and aggressive, designed to trap us. Each question required careful analysis, forcing us to think multiple steps ahead. Ayanokoji and I were able to navigate through most of the traps with precise answers, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that Ryuen knew our tactics a bit too well. It was as if he had anticipated every answer we’d prepared.

After struggling through a few questions, I shared a quick look with Ayanokoji, who seemed to understand my concern without a word. We continued, barely managing to stay on track, and finally completed the first half with reasonable success.

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The Second Half Against Class A

In the second half, we faced Class A. Sakayanagi’s confidence showed in the complexity of the questions. They were designed not just to test our knowledge but to put psychological pressure on us. Once again, it felt like Sakayanagi could predict our answers before we even submitted them. Every strategy I’d discussed with the class seemed to be countered.

Despite the pressure, Ayanokoji remained calm, quickly analyzing each question. I leaned on his insight and Ichinose’s support from the sidelines to stay in the game. When it was over, I felt exhausted yet relieved that we had managed to push through, even if it felt too close for comfort.

The results were announced:

1. 1st Place: Class C (Ichinose’s Class)

2. 2nd Place: Class D (Ryuen’s Class)

3. 3rd Place: Class B (our class)

4. 4th Place: Class A (Sakayanagi’s Class)

The room fell silent as everyone registered the outcome. Sakayanagi’s class, which had always ranked high, had come in last place for the first time. I glanced over at her, catching a rare flicker of frustration on her face. Her overconfidence had backfired, leaving her in an unexpected position.

After the results, I pulled Ayanokoji and Ichinose aside. Their faces mirrored my own mix of relief and worry.

“Ayanokoji, Ichinose,” I began, lowering my voice. “I think there’s something we need to address. Both Ryuen and Sakayanagi anticipated almost every move we made.”

Ichinose looked at me, brows furrowed. “You think they had inside information?”

I nodded. “Yes. I suspect there’s a traitor within Class B, someone who’s been leaking our plans to the other classes.”

Ayanokoji considered this, his gaze steady. “It would explain why Ryuen and Sakayanagi were prepared for every strategy we discussed.”

Ichinose’s eyes widened, a determined look crossing her face. “If that’s the case, I’ll do everything I can to help you find out who it is. This affects all of us.”

I met her gaze, feeling a surge of gratitude. “Thank you, Ichinose. With you and Ayanokoji on our side, we have a good chance of figuring this out.”

As we walked away from the exam hall, I made a mental note to be vigilant. The integrity of our class—and the security of our plans—depended on finding the person responsible for the leaks. And with Ichinose and Ayanokoji by my side, I knew we would uncover the truth.

--Chapter 50 ends--