My New Life As Suzune Horikita (COMPLETED)

Chapter 52: Exam Preparation and Discovering the Traitor

After the announcements, Chabashira-sensei gathered us to explain the rules for the upcoming final exam. Standing at the front of the classroom with her usual intensity, she addressed us with a firm voice.

"For this exam, each class will need to select two representatives," she began, scanning the room. "The representatives will compete against those from other classes, with the rest of the class members supporting them in various ways. Here's the catch: the winning class will earn a large amount of class points and gain the ability to expel any student in their year. So, think carefully about who you choose."

A murmur of excitement and tension spread across the room as everyone absorbed her words. The stakes were higher than ever, and everyone knew that picking the right representatives was crucial.

After class, I found Ayanokoji and pulled him aside. "This exam could be the perfect opportunity to expose the traitor in our class," I suggested quietly, glancing around to ensure no one could overhear.

Ayanokoji nodded, his expression calm but focused. "It's possible. With this exam format, anyone trying to undermine us might reveal themselves."

As we continued discussing the exam and our plans, the class held a vote, and we were chosen as representatives for Class B. The format of the exam was soon finalized, setting up the matchups:

Class A: Sakayanagi and Hashimoto VS Class B: Horikita and Ayanokoji
And
Class C: Ichinose and Kanzaki VS Class D: Ryuen and Katsuragi

The pressure weighed heavily on us as we began our preparations. We knew that facing Class A, especially with Sakayanagi and Hashimoto as opponents, would require all our strategy and focus.

That evening, as Ayanokoji and I walked down the hallway, we heard faint voices coming from an empty classroom. Pausing, we glanced at each other, then quietly approached to see what was happening. Inside, we saw Hashimoto speaking to a girl from our class-someone I'd suspected might be the traitor.

They were standing close, talking in hushed tones. The girl looked a little nervous but was explaining our strategies in detail, while Hashimoto listened attentively. The conversation was casual, almost flirtatious, and they seemed comfortable with each other, as if they were close.

My suspicions solidified. This was the traitor of our class.

I quickly took out my phone and recorded their conversation, capturing the crucial evidence we needed.

Once we were out of earshot, I stopped and looked at Ayanokoji. "We finally have proof."

He gave a slight nod. "Now we know who to keep an eye on. Let's focus on the exam and stay cautious."

With our minds set on the upcoming challenge, we extended our hands and shook firmly. No words were needed-we understood each other perfectly.

"Let's give it everything," I said, meeting his steady gaze.

He nodded. "Agreed."

And with that, we parted ways, each preparing for what lay ahead. The weight of the exam, the traitor's betrayal, and our silent promise to come out on top set the stage for a final, decisive showdown.

--Chapter 52 ends--