"This selection project exam, as the final special exam of the year, will test the overall capabilities of each class—including intelligence, physical ability, teamwork, and perhaps… even luck."
Chabashira-sensei's tone carried an indescribable seriousness.
Perhaps sensing this, everyone remained silent, attentively listening to her explanation.
"This exam, like the Paper Shuffle, requires deciding on an opponent class first, followed by the competition itself. To make it easier for you all to understand, I will use ten white cards and a set of yellow cards matching the number of students in the class to explain the next steps."
Saying this, Chabashira-sensei spread out the ten blank white cards on the blackboard in a row, each about the size of a playing card.
She then placed thirty-seven yellow cards beneath them.
However, it seemed that each of these yellow cards had a student's name written on it.
But according to what she had just said, the number of yellow cards should match the number of students in the class—so why was one missing?
Ayanokōji didn't believe this was a mere oversight. He quickly scanned through the yellow cards and found that the only name missing was Hikigaya's.
Why Hikigaya? Could it be because of the protection point?
Based on the available information, that seemed to be the most plausible explanation.
During the last voting exam, Hikigaya had received the highest number of praise votes, earning a protection point. The function of the protection point was to exempt a student from one expulsion penalty.
If this was indeed Chabashira-sensei's hint, then this exam might involve a situation where that protection point would come into play.
But since this was just speculation for now, it was best to wait and see.
"First, let me explain the purpose of these ten white cards. You will need to discuss among yourselves and decide on ten competition events that you prefer. These events will then be written on the cards. Additionally, you will also determine the rules for victory in each event."
Decide the events ourselves?
Upon hearing this, many students immediately looked puzzled.
Although Paper Shuffle also required students to come up with questions, that time, only Horikita and a few others were responsible for it, while the rest focused on studying.
This time, however, the situation was clearly different.
"Most events will be accepted, such as written tests, shogi, running races, or soccer—these common events are fine. However, if you propose obscure competitions or games that few people know, then only the proposer will have an advantage, making it unwinnable for others. Because of this, the school will evaluate and decide whether to accept each submitted event."
In other words, trying to be overly clever wouldn't work.
The school ultimately had the final say, so they would surely prevent such loopholes.
At this moment, Horikita raised her hand.
"Chabashira-sensei, what happens if there's a tie?"
"This exam does not allow for draws. To avoid such situations, you must establish rules in advance. Let's take chess as an example."
As she spoke, Chabashira-sensei wrote on a blank white card.
"In chess, White moves first. If a stalemate situation occurs where no legal moves remain, it will be ruled as a win for Black. You can also modify the draw rules. These decisions are up to you, but in the end, a winner must be determined. Otherwise, the event will not be accepted."
Below the chess card, she wrote:"In the event of a stalemate, the side unable to make a legal move loses."
Stalemate is an essential aspect of chess. When a player is not in check but has no legal moves left, the game is declared a draw.
Thus, the advantaged side should avoid a stalemate, while the disadvantaged side should aim to create one.
Draws occur frequently in high—level matches—over 70% of professional games end in a draw. As a result, chess matches rarely have a single decisive game and often last several days.
But for a student competition, there was no need to be so meticulous.
"The selection of each class's ten events and their rules will be finalized and announced next week. The official exam will take place two weeks from now, and all matches will be completed on the same day."
This meant there was about a week to practice and develop strategies.
"But, sensei… if twenty events are played, wouldn't that take too much time?" a student asked.
Chabashira-sensei nodded and explained:
"That's true. Because of this, on the exam day, each class will further select five main events from their ten. This means that the total number of events will be limited to ten across both competing classes. Then, the school will randomly choose seven of those ten for the final matches. That's the basic structure of the exam."
I see. Half of the events served as decoys to mislead the opponent and spread false information.
At the same time, they had to analyze and predict which events the opposing class would select.
The decision to use seven events was likely to ensure a clear winner.
After all, securing four wins would be enough to determine victory.
"Even if the overall outcome is decided early, all matches will proceed until the final event," Chabashira-sensei continued.
"This is because the results will affect class points. Even if you've already lost, you must give your all until the end."
She then picked up a piece of chalk and wrote the current class points on the blackboard:
Class A: 1154 points
Class B: 783 points
Class C: 626 points
Class D: 225 points
Looking at the numbers, the gap was quite significant.
"Feeling overwhelmed by the difference?"
"Ugh… Sensei, did you have to point that out?"
Even though they were already aware, hearing their homeroom teacher say it aloud made most students feel dejected.
"Heh, I'm telling you this for a good reason," Chabashira-sensei smirked.
"In this exam, each event will be worth 30 class points. If you win five and lose two, you'll gain 90 points from the opposing class. But if you achieve a seven-win streak, you'll gain 210 points. Additionally, the school will award a bonus of 100 points to the winning class. That means the maximum possible gain is 310 points."
She paused and asked, "How does that sound? Doesn't it make you feel fired up?"
"Not at all!"
The students weren't fooled by her attempt at motivation and instead groaned.
Winning seven in a row sounded great, but it was far from realistic.
That said, the rule was certainly tempting. The opportunity to reduce an upper class's points wasn't common, and the potential gain was massive.
With the right lineup and results, this was a chance to climb up to Class C.
Most students had probably realized this by now, as they were already gearing up for battle.
While a seven-win streak might be a pipe dream, defeating Class C wasn't.
During the Paper Shuffle, Class D had crushed Class B and Class C, making them the only class to earn 100 points.
Then, in the mixed training camp, they successfully passed again, securing more points.
These achievements had significantly boosted morale.
Ayanokōji had mostly grasped the structure of the exam.
But he still felt that Chabashira-sensei was withholding something crucial.
Otherwise, there was no explanation for the missing yellow card.
As if responding to his thoughts, Chabashira-sensei suddenly spoke.
"There is one more important point—this special exam requires one student to take on the role of the 'Commander'."
"The Commander?"
"Just as the name implies, the Commander can intervene in all matches and assist in various ways—such as substituting students or solving difficult problems. The method of intervention is up to you."
Chabashira-sensei then revealed the most critical detail.
"If your class wins, the Commander will receive a personal point reward. However, if your class loses… the Commander will bear responsibility and be expelled."
So that's why Hikigaya's name was missing.
Without a doubt, all four classes would choose the student with a protection point as their Commander.
So that's how it is.
Ayanokoji wasn't particularly surprised—this explained why Hikigaya's name was the only one missing.
As expected, all four classes would likely choose a student with a protection point to act as the commander.
"Remember, in this special exam, the commander is absolutely essential," Chabashira-sensei emphasized. "If there is no commander, the exam will not begin. If you fail to decide on one, the school will assign one at random."
In order to prevent any expulsions, most people would probably expect Hikigaya to take on this responsibility.
Of course, if another outstanding student voluntarily stepped up to act as the commander, it's unlikely anyone would object.
But the chances of that happening were slim—after all, no one could guarantee victory.
And then there was the concern about Hikigaya's current state.
However, that wasn't something Ayanokoji needed to worry about. This time, it had nothing to do with him. At most, he'd just participate in one of the events, which meant he could take it easy.
At that moment, Horikita raised her hand to ask a question. "Chabashira-sensei, how will the matchups between classes be determined?"
"After school today, the students acting as the commanders for each class will gather in the multipurpose room. The matchups will be decided by drawing lots, giving one person the right to choose their opponent. So, you should discuss in advance which class you want to pick if you get the chance."
The class that gets selected first will then choose its opponent, and the remaining two classes will automatically be matched against each other.
Upon hearing this, the students immediately began discussing their options.
"C Class is the best choice, right? That way, we have a higher chance of winning."
"I think B Class is also a good option. I heard Sakayanagi has stopped managing her class and even joined the chess club."
Each side had its reasoning, but no one mentioned A-Class.
In their eyes, the Class was invincible. Not only were their academic results far ahead, but their unity as a class made them appear flawless.
For D Class, they were undoubtedly the last opponent they wanted to face.
"Indeed, going up against a weaker class would increase our chances of winning. However, such a choice might not necessarily be the most beneficial. The most important aspect of this exam is synergy—bringing out the strengths of each class is the key."
Chabashira-sensei rarely offered advice, but most students probably didn't grasp her point.
They continued debating whether C Class or B Class was the better choice, with the majority leaning toward C Class.
Even Horikita seemed hesitant, likely weighing whether D Class had the strength to challenge an upper-class opponent.
"Alright, most of the rules have been explained. Some parts may be difficult to understand, so the school has prepared a document detailing everything. You can review it and discuss it on your own."
Since everyone was behaving, Chabashira-sensei finished the briefing in just half of the homeroom period, leaving the rest for the students to deliberate.
Many students rushed forward to examine the sheet of paper on the podium that contained the exam rules. Some quick-witted ones took pictures instead.
Horikita, however, remained seated, simply checking her phone.
Not long after, Ayanokoji's phone buzzed with two photos—one of the exam selection rules and another of the decision-making guidelines.
"Matsushita sent these to me. I figured I'd share them with you as well."
"Oh? Impressive, you've got subordinates now?"
"It's just a friend helping out."
In the past, Horikita would never have used the word "friend."
Now, however, there was no doubt that her grip on the class had strengthened. Not only was she gaining the support of competent students like Matsushita, but her relationship with Kushida also seemed to have improved.
This was all thanks to—
Ayanokoji shifted his gaze toward Hikigaya.
Unfortunately, the latter still looked lifeless.
He probably hadn't heard a single word of the explanation just now.
…What exactly happened to him?
"By the way, Horikita, do you know what's going on with Hikigaya?" Ayanokoji couldn't help but ask.
"No idea. He seemed fine when I saw him yesterday."
Hearing this, Horikita frowned and let out a frustrated sigh.
"I hope he pulls himself together soon. This is a crucial moment, after all."
"If that's the case, why don't you ask him yourself?"
"No thanks." Horikita shot Ayanokoji a sharp look. "Do you think Hikigaya-kun would just tell me? Besides, I have a feeling this isn't a trivial matter… Otherwise, he wouldn't be acting like this."
…It might just be a trivial matter, though.
That was what Ayanokoji thought, but he didn't say it aloud.
Since he didn't know the full story either, he could only speculate.
But knowing Hikigaya, it was entirely possible that instead of dealing with a problem, he had chosen to wallow in self-pity—meaning the real reason behind his behavior might turn out to be something absurd.
"In any case, we need to decide on the commander first."
Horikita stood up, her clear voice echoing through the classroom.
"Everyone, please settle down. Before we discuss the rules, I believe we should first determine who will act as the commander."
"Forget the rules for now. Isn't it obvious that Hikigaya should take the role?" someone suggested.
That was the natural assumption. After all, Hikigaya was the only one who wouldn't face expulsion.
Even if they lost, there would be no real consequences for him.
And considering his capabilities, there was no disputing that he was the best candidate.
Or rather, no one dared to question him any more.
"Right… Hikigaya-kun, would you be willing to take on this role?"
At Horikita's words, all eyes turned to Hikigaya.
In response…
There was no reaction at all.
To be able to ignore the entire class in this situation—Ayanokoji had to admit, it was impressive in its way.
"H-Hikigaya-kun?"
Horikita had already sensed that Hikigaya wasn't himself today, but she hadn't expected it to be this bad.
He was outright ignoring them.
"Oi, Hachiman-kun, Hachiman-kun!"
"…Huh?"
Matsushita shook him vigorously, and only then did his gaze slowly refocus.
"…What is it?"
"What do you mean 'what is it'?" Matsushita said, exasperated. "We're discussing the exam. Specifically, the commander. Uh, in short, would you be willing to take on the risk of expulsion from the class?"
It seemed she had summarized the entire situation in one sentence, probably realizing that Hikigaya hadn't listened to any of the explanations.
"Oh… No."
After a brief daze, Hikigaya uttered those three words and, to everyone's shock, turned his head away toward the wall.
His entire demeanor radiated a strong "don't talk to me" aura.
Even worse…
No one dared to try and persuade him.
That's right—they were afraid.
In the past, someone from D Class might have tried to guilt-trip him into accepting.
But after that ridiculous voting exam, no one dared anymore. Or rather, those who would have done so were no longer around.
Those eighty-eight praise votes had terrified everyone.
If he had received that many from just one class, it could be seen as collusion.
But from all three other classes?
Even the students of D Class understood what that implied.
Normally, Hikigaya's sense of duty would have compelled him to step up. No persuasion would have been necessary.
But now, he had shut himself down…
This was going to be a problem.
Ayanokoji had initially assumed that even if Hikigaya was feeling down, at worst, he'd struggle to focus during the exam.
He never imagined he'd reach the point of completely disregarding the risk of his classmates being expelled.
He looked as if he had completely lost interest in humanity.
If this continued, things would get messy.
However, it wasn't a dead end just yet.
At least, there was still Hirata.
Just as Ayanokoji expected, the savior of D Class stepped forward.
"Everyone, if Hikigaya-kun is unwilling, we should respect his choice. How to use a protection point is a personal decision… Instead, may I volunteer to be the commander?"
Hirata's words were unlikely to face any opposition.
Most students preferred Hikigaya as the commander, but as long as it wasn't themselves, they didn't care. Besides, Hirata was competent enough to be trusted.
However, this time, Ayanokoji's prediction was off.
"No, no way! I object to Hirata-kun being the commander right now."
An unexpected voice spoke up—Wang Meiyu, who had been watching Hirata closely.
"Yeah, I'm against it too!" Shinohara chimed in. "Since Hirata-kun can't perform at his best, choosing him would be like giving up from the start. It feels like we're preparing to lose on purpose. Besides, the commander role seems pretty important—if we let Hirata-kun do it in his current state and we end up facing Class A or Class B, we'll have no chance of winning. We should pick someone else."
The moment she finished speaking, a significant number of the girls voiced their agreement.
It wasn't that they cared the most about winning or losing—they just didn't want Hirata to get expelled.
This was essentially the ultimate first-year exam. Based on overall strength, aside from Class C, the odds of victory against either of the other two classes were slim.
"I think it would be better to first gather candidates for the commander role."
Yet, despite the suggestion, not a single person raised their hand.
After a brief silence, everyone turned to look at Horikita.
"Sorry, but I don't want to take the risk of expulsion either," Horikita replied. "As Shinohara said, if we have to fight against Class A or Class B, honestly, there's no way to guarantee victory at this stage."
While speaking, she subtly glanced at Hikigaya—but unfortunately, he was still staring at the wall, completely ignoring the situation.
At that moment, Chabashira-sensei, who had been quietly observing from near the podium, spoke up.
"Let me remind you again—if you fail to select a commander by the end of the day, one will be randomly assigned. Additionally, the chosen student must give their consent."
"Uh…"
Hearing that, Ayanokoji felt an ominous premonition growing stronger in his heart.
If things played out as expected, this so-called 'random selection'…
Yeah, it's probably going to be me, isn't it?