Chapter 88: An Accidental Leader
After Katsuragi and Yahiko left, a few minutes passed before Hikigaya Hachiman stood up. Sakura and Horikita, who had been by his side, also rose and followed closely behind.
The group carefully observed their surroundings, and after confirming it was safe, they entered the cave Katsuragi and Yahiko had been in.
At that moment, the panel at the base displayed the time: 7:55.
Hikigaya Hachiman glanced at his watch. From the moment he saw the green card in Katsuragi's hand, he had noted the time, and now, just over six minutes had passed.
This confirmed that Class A's leader was likely one of these two.
Sakura said, "Those were Katsuragi and Yahiko from Class A, right? The ones we met at the restaurant."
Horikita nodded and said, "Exactly. It seems one of them is the class leader. This exploration has brought an unexpected gain. Not bad."
Hikigaya Hachiman nodded in agreement.
Horikita's thoughts aligned with his. Although the green card was in Katsuragi's hand, it was unclear who the real leader was. It could be Katsuragi's misdirection, affecting their judgment to some extent.
This outcome stemmed from two reasons. First, it was a high-risk, high-reward task, as guessing wrong would cost 50 class points. Second, neither Hikigaya Hachiman nor Horikita knew Katsuragi well, having had little interaction with him over the past semester.
Sakura, however, seemed to recall something and said, "Um, Katsuragi… I think I've seen him before."
Hikigaya Hachiman and Horikita shifted their gazes from the panel to her, waiting for her to continue.
Sakura placed her hands on her chest and said, "I've been helping out under Tachibana-senpai, and I often see Katsuragi at the student council room. I couldn't hear what he was saying to others, but I could sense the suppressed anger he had every time he left."
Hikigaya Hachiman quickly asked, "What was he doing at the student council?"
Horikita seemed to have a clue. Though she had no intention of joining the student council, her brother was its president, so she occasionally paid attention to its affairs.
She said, "It seems he wanted to join the student council, but their selection process is strict, so he was rejected."
Hearing Horikita's words, Hikigaya Hachiman could only sigh inwardly.
He thought, 'So the student council has such a strict process? How did Sakura and I get dragged into it so easily?!'
'Now I understand why Katsuragi has a grudge against me. Though he seems polite on the surface, that anger can't be hidden.'
'It's all because of this troublesome student council… The more places you get involved in, the more trouble you attract…'
Hikigaya Hachiman's expression changed like shifting clouds before he calmly said, "That guy is really persistent."
Horikita and Sakura nodded. As a Class A student, Katsuragi clearly had his pride, yet despite repeated rejections, he still aimed to join the student council. Who knew what he was thinking?
However, this was not an opponent to underestimate. A cautious and meticulous leader who could rival Sakayanagi in Class A—Hikigaya Hachiman dared not take him lightly.
In any case, this exploration had yielded significant results, so they decided to return to the main group for now. Besides, Koenji was still out there, and his efficiency alone likely surpassed that of their three teams combined.
Before heading back, Hikigaya Hachiman told the two girls not to share this information with anyone in the class for now. After brief consideration, Horikita and Sakura nodded in agreement.
Until a conclusion was reached, it was not suitable to inform the class. If word got out, Class A might use loopholes to switch leaders, and Class D had more urgent matters to address.
Perhaps they returned a few minutes late, as the entire class was waiting for them—though only three returned.
Hirata asked, "Hikigaya-kun, where's Koenji?"
Hikigaya Hachiman replied, "He's doing something more important than exploring."
If he told the class that he had sent Koenji to sabotage other classes, he would likely face plenty of disapproving looks.
Hirata did not press further, whether out of trust in Hikigaya Hachiman or confidence in Koenji's abilities.
He turned to the group and said, "Everyone, Ike and the others found a water source base. Let's go meet up with them."
Apparently, during Hirata's exploration, he had encountered Sudo's advance team. With Hirata's rallying, the class quickly set off to find Ike's group.
Soon, they ventured deep into the forest, where a ray of white sunlight pierced through, and the sound of a stream grew deafening. The air carried a fresh scent.
Perhaps due to the proximity to the water source, the air felt surprisingly comfortable. Though surrounded by trees, it provided natural cover for Class D.
The group looked around, visibly satisfied. The clear water and ample space were suitable for living, making Sudo's advance team's exploration a great success.
Sato could not help but exclaim, "The water is so clear!"
Everyone gathered around the stream, chatting. It was the first pleasant atmosphere since the exam began.
Hirata said, "Nice work, Ike. You found a great spot."
Ike grinned proudly and said, "Right, right?"
Hikigaya Hachiman did not join in the excitement. Perhaps his mood was not high, so he felt no thrill. He found a spot to sit quietly, waiting for Hirata, the class's backbone, to give orders.
However, he noticed something significant. Beside the stream, another base was hidden. Having seen Katsuragi and Yahiko's base, Hikigaya Hachiman was certain he was not mistaken.
While the others were caught up in joy, he approached Hirata and quietly said that the base was near where he sat, urging him to occupy it quickly since Classes A, B, and C were already acting.
Hirata nodded in agreement and moved swiftly, rallying everyone and saying, "I believe everyone has no issue setting up camp here, right? The question is whether to occupy this base."
Ike said, "Occupy it! We can use this stream, and every eight hours, we'll earn points."
Hirata replied, "But that means the leader has to swipe the card every eight hours."
Karuizawa seemed troubled, as only the leader could swipe the card. If another class saw, they would instantly know Class D's leader, rendering their frugality meaningless.
She said, "Exactly, and we need to ensure no one sees."
Yamauchi seemed to have a strange idea. He slowly extended his hand, forming a ring shape, and said, "We can form a human wall to block the view, so other classes won't see."
Hirata was struck by this sudden idea and scanned the classmates, saying, "That's a good method, Yamauchi. Shall we do it, everyone?"
Since Hirata approved, the outcome was predictable.
"Yeah, just block it off," one said.
"That should work," another agreed.
"Just surround it like that," someone else added.
With no objections, Hirata nodded in satisfaction and moved to the next topic.
"Now, let's decide who will be the leader," he said.
The class erupted into discussion.
"Hirata should do it," one suggested.
"No, no, I'll do it," another countered.
"You? A dog could steal your card at night," someone teased.
"Where would a dog come from in this wilderness?" another retorted.
Kushida, as if recalling something, softly said, "Everyone, can you gather around? I have something to say."
At Kushida's call, the class quickly formed a circle. Horikita, with her usual sweet smile, said softly, "I've thought about it. This exam requires keeping our leader hidden from other classes. Hirata and Karuizawa, you're too conspicuous. If you're the leader, you'll be suspected immediately."
Sudo asked, "So, you mean we need someone with a low presence?"
Kushida nodded and continued, "But since it's the leader, I think they need some presence, not just anyone."
Hirata nodded, agreeing with her point.
Seeing no objections, Kushida continued, "I think there aren't many who meet both criteria, but we have two right now."
"Who?" someone asked.
"Hikigaya and Horikita," Kushida replied.
Horikita's contributions to the class were evident, despite her aloofness, and everyone acknowledged her efforts.
As for Hikigaya Hachiman, it was not that he had not contributed, but much of it was done discreetly, so the class did not fully trust him.
Hearing his name, Hikigaya Hachiman felt a pang of guilt. Honestly, since arriving on this island, he had been suppressing himself. Becoming the leader would add more pressure, which he did not want.
If possible, he would rather fly around like Koenji.
Kushida asked, "What do you all think?"
Sakura, perhaps eager to give Hikigaya Hachiman a chance, was the first to say, "I think… it's pretty good."
Hirata, Sudo, Ike, and Yamauchi nodded.
Perhaps due to Hirata's influence, the boys seemed to agree it should be one of these two. Though most were not close to Hikigaya Hachiman, they had no grudges either.
The girls, however, were less trusting of him.
Perhaps it was because of those dead-fish eyes that stood out so much, making them feel nauseated.
Hikigaya Hachiman could only comfort himself with such a lie.
Surprisingly, Karuizawa chose to stand by his side and said, "Not bad!"
With the support of both Karuizawa and Kushida, the two key figures in the class, Horikita and Hikigaya Hachiman were confirmed as candidates for the class leader.
Hikigaya Hachiman wanted to speak, but Horikita beat him to it.
She said, "I am not suited to be the class leader. Besides, I'm too stubborn. This role is better left to Hikigaya-kun."
Hikigaya Hachiman thought, 'What nonsense! Now you're acting humble? Where's that usual arrogant attitude of yours?'
He glared at Horikita with resentment, but she maintained a serious expression. Hikigaya Hachiman knew it was an act. For her to admit her shortcomings was completely out of character.
Perhaps she was secretly laughing inside, or maybe she was retaliating because he had hugged her without permission earlier, thrusting him into a role he disliked.
Women are terrifying, and a woman seeking revenge is even more so.
Horikita clearly knew this was not the time for tantrums, but her pride still drove her to say those words.
It wasn't that she was upset about Hikigaya Hachiman hugging her without permission, but that he held her for so long without even a comment, as if she was a doll.
Moreover, Horikita trusted Hikigaya Hachiman's meticulousness and intellect. If he became the class leader, he would likely go further than she could. This was the basis for her tantrum. If it were someone like Yamauchi, she would have fought for the position herself.
Of course, if Yamauchi had hugged her, even at the risk of being discovered, she would have given him a slap he'd never forget.
With everyone's approval, Hikigaya Hachiman had no chance to resist. Hirata's voice finalized his role as the class leader from that moment on.
Hirata said, "Hikigaya, if you have no objections, then it's settled, alright?"
Hikigaya Hachiman thought, 'Even if I had ten thousand objections, those expectant looks would make it hard for me to refuse…'
He sighed helplessly and nodded lightly.
"Alright," he said.
With his agreement, the matter was decided.
Soon, a green card bearing Hikigaya Hachiman's name appeared in his possession. He stood still for a second or two, then walked into the human wall and placed the card on the base.
Once everything was done, Ike, full of enthusiasm, said excitedly, "Great, now we've solved the bathing and drinking water issues."
Hirata said, "Yes, this water looks like it's really drinkable!"
They approached the stream, but Karuizawa seemed skeptical and said, "Can we really drink it? Won't it make us sick?"
If it caused stomach issues, that would be a bigger problem than they currently faced.
Being cautious was fine, but she overlooked how much effort Ike had put into finding this place.
Shinohara also approached and said, "Can we really drink it?"
The boys gathered around the stream, looking at it with doubt.
Ike, visibly annoyed, said, "What's with you guys? We found this stream, so of course we should make good use of it."
If left unchecked, this could spark an argument. Hirata, aware of this, spread his hands and said casually, "We have plenty of time. No need to decide now."
Karuizawa said, "True."
Shinohara added, "Who would dare drink stream water directly…"
Hearing their distrust, Ike's mood visibly sank. Hikigaya Hachiman noticed this.
He approached Ike and hesitantly said, "Hey, Ike, do you know much about outdoor activities?"
Ike didn't turn around, responding softly, "Actually, I used to go camping with my family a lot when I was a kid, so I enjoy these activities. Maybe it's something I learned young, but I don't think drinking stream water is an issue."
Saying this, he scooped up some stream water and drank it.
"You can tell if a water source is clean just by looking," he said.
Hikigaya Hachiman squatted down, nearly slipping and falling, but Ike's quick reaction saved him from a tumble.
After glancing at the stream flowing from above, Hikigaya Hachiman mimicked Ike, scooping up water, inspecting it briefly, and drinking without hesitation.
Ike looked surprised and said, "Hikigaya, you…"
Hikigaya Hachiman gave an awkward smile and said, "It's pretty sweet… not as weird as I imagined."
Hearing his response, the gloom in Ike's heart began to lift, and he flashed his familiar, hearty smile.
"What's with you, man? You're pretty funny!" he said and added, "But thanks, you're not as twisted as I thought."
With that, he splashed a handful of water at Hikigaya Hachiman.
And so, Hikigaya Hachiman's hair was soaked, his spiky hair drooping.
He figured it was just wet hair and left it to air-dry naturally.
With Ike's mood lifted, under Hirata's task assignments, everyone busied themselves with their duties. Hikigaya Hachiman, while clearing weeds, was asked by Hirata to gather firewood for the evening fire.
Naturally, Hikigaya Hachiman wanted to take the chance to stretch his legs. Thus, Kushida, Horikita, and Hikigaya formed a trio and headed deeper into the forest.
With Kushida around, the journey was not dull. Hikigaya occasionally responded, while Horikita was completely occupied by Kushida's chatter.
As dusk fell, they planned to return, but under a tree, they spotted a familiar face from Class C.
If he remembered correctly, her name was Ibuki, as Ryuen had called her.
Her body was covered in wounds, which didn't seem fake. Upon seeing her, Kushida rushed over to check on her, only to be met with a cold response.
Hikigaya and Horikita, having experienced the incident with Sudo and Ishizaki, observed from a distance.
Hikigaya scanned the area. No other Class C members were around, but a bandage was tied to the tree, like a marker.
Kushida said, "Are you okay?"
Ibuki, looking dejected but still irritable, said, "Leave me alone. I'm fine!"
Kushida said, "It must hurt, with such serious injuries."
Ibuki replied, "It's none of your business."
Horikita said, "You're Ibuki from Class C, right? Did you have another fight with Ryuen?"
Ibuki stayed silent, sitting dejectedly under the tree.
Kushida extended her hand gently and said, "We're from Class D. If you don't mind, come to our camp."
Ibuki finally looked up and said calmly, "Didn't you hear? I'm from Class C, your enemy."
Kushida said, "We can't just leave you here alone, right?"
Horikita and Hikigaya remained silent, making Kushida feel awkward.
Kushida said, "Come on, Class D will welcome you."
Ibuki stood up slowly and said, "I can't understand it. You're all such goody-two-shoes. This would be unimaginable in our class."
Hikigaya finally spoke, "Wait."
Ibuki's heart skipped a beat, and she stopped.
She said, "As expected, you don't welcome someone like me in Class D. How strange, when it was your class who invited me."
Kushida gave a puzzled look, while Horikita remained calm, watching quietly.
Hikigaya Hachiman looked at where Ibuki had been sitting. The ground had clear signs of being dug up.
He walked to the spot and stomped on it twice.
As expected, that patch of soil was loose, clearly part of a plan to lure Class D.
He said, "Your plan has failed. Go back."
Seeing that infiltrating Class D was impossible, Ibuki dropped the act and said fiercely, "You didn't even check what's in there?"
Hikigaya Hachiman replied, "Your plan has too many flaws, whether it was the act on the deck or now."
"I see." Ibuki said.
Hikigaya Hachiman had sensed something off when he saw Ryuen and Ibuki on the deck, and now that feeling was stronger.
He pulled Kushida, who was squatting beside Ibuki, and said to Horikita, "Let's go…"
The sun had set, and Ibuki watched the three disappear into the forest, frozen under the tree.
She hadn't expected Ryuen's plan to fail before it even began.
This was unprecedented.
(End of this chapter)