COTE : Is Talent Everything? (Rewrite)-Chapter 106 - 103: Vengeance Intervation

The week began with one fewer student in the classroom, and during morning homeroom, the details of the sports festival were explained.

Sports Festival Overview and Rules

Overview

A sports event involving all grades, consisting of various competitions.

Time: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (with a break from noon to 1:00 PM).

Students freely choose events to participate in and earn points, competing for total class scores.

Rules

- Each student starts with 5 points.

- Participants must compete in 5 different events.

- 1 point is awarded for participation in each event.

- Additional points are given based on placement (varies by event).

- Up to 6 events can be entered by spending 1 point per extra entry.

- If a student participates in fewer than 5 events, all earned points are forfeited.

- Skipping a registered event without a valid reason costs 2 points.

- After completing events, students must cheer in designated areas.

The overview and rules displayed on the monitor made it clear this was completely different from last year's festival.

"Aiming for top placements is the priority, but precise scheduling is necessary. Some students might compete in multiple events to maximize points. There are two main types of events: individual events (fixed rewards—1st: 5 pts, 2nd: 3 pts, 3rd: 1 pt, participation: 1 pt) and team events (higher rewards but requiring coordination)."

The rewards for class rankings were also displayed:

Class Ranking Rewards

1st: +150 class points

2nd: +50 class points

3rd: 0

4th: -150 class points

Given that all grades were participating, the point fluctuations were significant.

"Next, the individual rewards."

Since the festival emphasized personal ability, individual prizes were expected. The athletic students in our class stared intently as the screen changed.

Individual Event Rewards (by grade & gender)

1st: 2 million private points or class transfer ticket (limited-time)

2nd: 1 million private points

3rd: 500,000 private points

The high private point rewards weren't surprising, but the mention of a class transfer ticket sent murmurs through the room.

"The school has been cautious about this new system, but it's only natural for capable students to rise."

In this school, the only true winners were those who graduated from Class A. If someone proved themselves the best in a physical competition like this, they deserved the right to move up.

"The 'limited-time' aspect means the ticket must be used before the third term starts—otherwise, it expires."

So, even if someone transferred, the final class rankings would still be uncertain. Unless they could predict the winning class.

"Event registration opens tonight at 10 PM via the dedicated app. It's first-come, first-served across all grades, so don't fall behind."

There were many differences from last year, but Ryūen would handle class strategy. I had no plans to take action this time.

---

At lunch, I took out my phone—unlike usual—planning to invite Arisu to eat together. Though a crowded cafeteria wasn't ideal for the conversation we needed to have.

Just as I was about to send a message, Hiyori appeared beside me, holding two lunchboxes.

"Hachiman-kun, I made lunch. Want to eat together?"

It was a tempting offer, but today, I had to decline.

Before I could speak, the classroom door opened, and an unexpected voice called my name.

"Um, is Hikigaya-kun here?"

It was Ichihōse, holding a plastic bag. Every remaining student's eyes turned to me—especially Hiyori's, which stung.

I wanted to tell Hiyori it was a misunderstanding, but since I'd been called, I couldn't ignore it.

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"You needed me for something?"

"Nanase-senpai asked me to call you. He wants to have lunch together."

"Why me?"

"He said he wants to eat with you?"

He could've just come himself, but now that I thought about it, I might've missed a message from Nanase.

Ichihōse showed me the contents of the bag—four lunchboxes.

"Four? You, Nanase-senpai, me... who's the fourth?"

"I don't know either. Nanase-senpai just asked for four."

Nanase wouldn't invite someone randomly. Maybe Nanase's girlfriend? Or... Ayanokōji?

"So, what do you think? Do you have plans?"

Ichihōse's gaze flicked toward Hiyori, who was glaring bitterly.

Honestly, there was no benefit in going. I'd much rather eat with Hiyori—or Arisu, though it was too late to invite her now.

But refusing the student council president's invitation could cause issues later...

"Fine. Give me a sec."

"Okay."

I ended up accepting. I could talk to Arisu another time.

Back at my seat, Hiyori wasn't even trying to hide her displeasure.

"What were you talking about with Ichihōse-san...?"

"Sorry, but something came up."

"Are you eating with her?"

"No, the student council president called me. No idea why."

I thought she'd relax if she knew it was a guy, but her expression only darkened.

"The student council president..."

"So don't worry."

"...I'd be more relieved if it wasn't him."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

She muttered something I didn't catch. Did she not trust Nanase?

"You made lunch, right? Can I have it?"

"Huh? But you already have food, right?"

She must've guessed what was in Ichihōse's bag. Hiyori's observational skills were scary.

"High school boys are always hungry. I can handle two lunches, and I'd rather eat yours—it's way better than store-bought."

"! Hehe, smooth talker."

It'd be a waste not to eat what she made.

Now in a better mood, Hiyori handed me one of the lunchboxes.

"Next time, we eat together, okay?"

"Yeah, promise."

After saying goodbye, I left with Ichihōse, heading for the student council room.

"So... what do you think of Nanase-senpai?"

Ichihōse suddenly asked as we walked in silence.

"What do I think...?"

"I-I mean, last time you said you were just senpai and kōhai, but is that really true?!"

Her sudden intensity surprised me.

"Nanase-senpai is... a respectable upperclassman, I guess?"

She looked down, mumbling something under her breath, then sped up.

When we reached the student council room, Ichihōse knocked softly before opening the door.

Inside, Nanase and Ayanokōji sat facing each other.

"Eh—"

A faint sound escaped Ichihōse the moment she saw Ayanokōji. Right... she had history with him. No wonder she was tense.

But she quickly averted her gaze, focusing on Nanase.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, Nanase-senpai."

"My bad, Honami. Making you run errands. And Hikigaya, thanks for coming."

"It's fine..."

"Sure."

Ichihōse responded politely, while I was more casual.

"Oh, Ayanokōji? Just had some things to discuss. Since you're here, might as well eat with us."

So that's why there were four lunches. Ayanokōji seemed resigned, staying put for the meal.

"Hikigaya, sit here."

"...Sure."

Nanase patted the seat beside him. I sat without protest.

"Hm? That lunchbox—did you make it?"

He eyed the one Hiyori gave me.

"No, someone gave it to me."

"Don't tell me... a girlfriend?"

"Why are you glaring? No, it's not."

"Good."

What's good about that? Look at Ayanokōji—he's making a "what's happening" face. Ichihōse was covering her mouth for some reason.

After some small talk and eating, Ayanokōji finished first and stood.

"Leaving already? Just leave the trash."

"Thanks."

He must've finished his business before we arrived because Nanase immediately turned to me.

"Excuse me."

As Ayanokōji left, Ichihōse sighed in relief. It must've been awkward for her.

"What were you talking about with Ayanokōji?"

Seizing the moment, I asked. Nanase smirked.

"I'll tell you and Honami... for a price."

"What do I have to pay?"

"Gimme a bite of that fried shrimp."

"Again...?"

It was just fried shrimp, so I didn't mind, but why did I have to feed him?

"Guh...!! I-I'm okay, I held it in...!!"

Ichihōse was getting weirdly excited again, like last time—though at least she wasn't nosebleeding.

"So, what did you talk about with Ayanokōji?"

Nanase swallowed the shrimp, then grinned like he was savoring the future.

"I challenged him. To a direct showdown at the sports festival."

"That's fast, even for you."

Ichihōse was surprised, but I wasn't.

"Not finalized yet. He said he needs time to think. Now we wait for his answer."

Nanase, who had taken control of the third years immediately, had set his sights on Ayanokōji next. He stared into the distance, savoring the thought.

"You seem excited. Do you really think that highly of Ayanokōji?"

"Jealous? Here, have some shrimp."

"Don't give me back what I just gave you."

I reluctantly ate the shrimp, and Ichihōse finally hit her limit—nosebleeding before collapsing onto the desk.

---

A few days after the sports festival announcement, P.E. classes increased for training. The motivated students, like Ishizaki, practiced even after school, but I had business at a café.

Sipping my coffee, I enjoyed the rare solo time.

But reality interrupted.

"My best friend was sacrificed for Horikita's selfish decision. Do you understand that?"

A sharp voice came from the next table—Hasebe, her eyes hollow. Seated with her were Ayanokōji, Horikita, and Miyake, an unusual group.

The three (excluding Horikita) had been close, but Sakura's expulsion had split them. Now, they resented Ayanokōji and Horikita for the decision.

"What a great leader. Willing to do anything to win."

"I'm still learning."

"You know that's sarcasm, right?"

The tension was palpable. The Unanimous Vote Exam had clearly fractured Horikita's class.

After more back-and-forth, Hasebe finally said:

"I'll make you regret expelling Airi. Mark my words."

Without touching her drink, she stood and left, Miyake following.

Horikita watched them go.

I called for the bill.

---

"Got a minute?"

Hasebe and Miyake, sitting on a bench, looked up in surprise.

"Hikigaya-kun...?"

"Why are you—"

Neither understood why I'd approached. I stepped closer.

"I heard Sakura was expelled."

"Tch!"

"If you're just here to mock us, piss off."

Miyake glared, but Hasebe stopped him, her eyes burning.

"What's it to you? Not your business."

"It's not. But I'm curious."

"Hah? Curious?"

"At the café earlier—were you serious?"

"...So you were eavesdropping."

She averted her gaze.

"Are you serious about getting revenge on Horikita and Ayanokōji?"

"I said it's none of your—"

"If you can't even say it out loud, then your feelings for Sakura must've been weak."

"You—!!"

Hasebe's palm struck my cheek with a sharp crack.

"What's your problem!? Here to make fun of me!?"

"I never said that."

"Ugh...! You sound just like Kiyopon, it's so annoying!"

Interesting. She thought I was like Ayanokōji?

"I'll make them pay... for expelling Airi! That's all I care about!!"

"And? How?"

"That's—!"

"You haven't thought that far, have you?"

Her expression betrayed her.

"I said it's none of your—"

I caught her wrist before she could slap me again, locking eyes.

"—I'll help you."

"...Huh?"

Her anger faltered, replaced by confusion.

"I'll help you get your revenge."

"...What? Why would you...?"

"Personal reasons. But if you're serious, I'm useful."

To them, I was Ryūen's right-hand man—someone with influence.

Hasebe's eyes wavered.

"...What's your goal? My body?"

"Don't need it. I have my own motives."

"Just so you know, I won't betray my class."

"Don't care."

Her resolve shook further.

"You know it's impossible alone. Your revenge will be hollow."

"Tch..."

"But if you're serious—if you really want to make them pay—then take my hand."

I offered it, but she hesitated.

"H-Haruka..."

"—Sorry, Miyacchi."

Ignoring Miyake, Hasebe took my hand.

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