Chabashira Sae POV
The day of the closing ceremonies for the end of the first semester.
I was in a state of anticipation. Not only for the special exam that would come, but also because what I was going to do.
Immediately after homeroom ended, I called to Ayanokouji.
"Ayanokouji. I have to talk to you before you leave. Come to the faculty room," after pronouncing those words, I left the classroom and made my way towards the faculty room.
After making sure none of the other teachers were on their desks, I opened the door of the guidance room, to confirm everything was in order.
"—perspective, Karma-kun," Chie's voice resonated loud and clear through the room. Both, she, and her student looked at my direction.
"Oh, Sae-chan, hello! Didn't know you were coming! Do you need the room perhaps?"
"No. I just wanted to go to the kitchenette. I need a coffee," I responded. "I'm sorry, am I intruding?"
"Oh, I was just giving a little guidance to Karma-kun here."
"Yes, thank you for everything Chie-sensei," he addressed a kind smile to both Chie and me and left.
"Well, I'll leave you the room Sae-chan. Enjoy your coffee," she said with a wink.
Once she left, I confirmed that she wasn't on the faculty office and stayed on the doorway waiting for Ayanokouji to arrive.
When he finally did, I made him enter immediately, it would be problematic if another teacher showed up and saw Ayanokouji here. Specially Chie.
"Come in," I told him.
"I don't understand why you called me over."
"We'll talk inside."
"You might expect bad things when you're asked to come to the faculty room, but contrary to your expectations, it's a fine place. There aren't eyes all around in here. Many things are better said with some personal privacy."
The security camera of the room was missing. It was supposed to be a precaution, as to not leave any record of this meeting, but seeing Chie and that student of hers coming out of the room a moment ago made me think that my decision to take the camera off had been a mistake.
"So, what did you want to talk about? I'm busy planning my summer vacation right now."
"That's funny. I thought you would stay in your room all summer," I replied why a sly smile.
"That's a cruel comment, sensei. I have friends."
I was well aware of that; it was simply an attempt to get a reaction from him. Besides, it's not like my comment affected him.
"You've done great, Ayanokouji. I thought you would retire after the trial, I'm sure you're help during the finals was appreciated."
"I just thought I'd help my friends."
I nodded. It was time to aboard the main topic, the sooner we did it, the better.
"I called you here today because I wanted to tell you my personal story."
I doubted my story would interest him, but it was necessary for me to talk about it if I wanted to make him understand my motivation.
"It's something I haven't talked to anyone about since I had become a homeroom teacher. It's silly, but please listen."
"Before that, should we have tea? You must be thirsty," he said.
He stood up from his pipe chair and opened the kitchenette's door. Obviously enough, no one was inside. It seems like he doesn't trust me.
"Don't tell this story to anyone else. If you can do that, please return to your seat."
"Okay."
He closed the door and returned to his chair.
"How do I appear to you as Class D's homeroom teacher?" I asked him.
"Another abstract question, I see. Is it okay if I say I think you're beautiful?"
I didn't react. That was a ridiculous joke. If anything, it enraged me, I was trying to have a serious and productive conversation.
"Umm... Well, if you don't mind being compared to other teachers, I think you don't care at all about Class D's future, and that you're a cold teacher with no interest in her students. That's my answer."
I could understand his point. I didn't pretend to be all friendly like Chie, nor was I willing to break all the school rules for my student's sake like Kazuma. And I wasn't a teacher who deeply cared for its students like Tomonari. That was the image I displayed, at least.
"Am I wrong?"
"No, it's as you say. I won't deny it. However, the truth is different."
I paused and looked at up at the ceiling, remembering my time as a student here.
"I was once a student at this school. I was in Class D, just like you."
"I must say that's surprising. I would've thought you were more capable, Chabashira-sensei."
I tried my best to not see that as an insult.
"Huh... Well, in my time, the class difference wasn't as extreme. You could say that we were in a four-way battle, not a three or two-way one. Up until we approached graduation in the third semester of our third year, the difference between A and D wasn't even 100 points. It was a close battle, where even one trivial mistake could knock you off balance."
I paused for a moment, almost lost in those memories. I really screwed up, huh?
"I'm guessing someone made a trivial mistake, right?"
I nodded slowly.
"Yes. It happened rather unexpectedly. Class C went to hell because of my mistake. In the end, my goal of reaching Class A and my dreams were shattered."
Under normal circumstances the person sitting in front of me would be uncomfortable. Yet, I couldn't grasp anything from Ayanokouji. He's really a master of his emotions.
"I'm not catching your drift. What does this have to do with me?"
"I feel that your presence will be vital to reach Class A."
He stayed silent and I raised my eyebrow.
"You don't have anything to say?" I asked him.
"I don't know how to respond to that."
"I want to know if you're going to keep helping Class D climb up."
"... I'd rather go back to my peaceful life."
That was the answer I didn't want to hear. I would have liked it if he just said yes. Now, I would have to use that card.
"I see... You know, I didn't want to tell you this, but a few days ago, a certain man contacted the school directly. He said 'expel Ayanokouji Kiyotaka.'"
This was the main issue I wanted to discuss. I was bluffing of course. No one had called the school, but from what the Chairman had told me and from the recommendation letter, I understood Ayanokouji's father was someone with enough power to make such a call and pronounce such words.
"He asked for my expulsion? Well, that's nonsense. I don't know who it was, but you ignored his request and won't have me expelled. Right?"
"Of course. We can't just expel someone on a third party's whim. As long as you are a student at this school, you are protected by the rules. However... if you cause any problems, that's a different story. There are many reasons that can cause an expulsion."
"I'm sorry, but I don't intend to do anything."
"It has to do nothing with your intentions. If I determine that something seems like an issue, it will become reality."
"Are you threatening me?"
"Here's the deal, Ayanokouji. You are going to aim for Class A for me. I will follow up as extensively as I can in order to protect you. Don't you think that sounds like a good offer?"
Blackmailing him wasn't my first option, that's precisely why I wanted him to just agree to help the class. If my suspicions were right and he was even the slightest similar to the other three, then the chances of Class D climbing the ranks skyrocketed.
Even now, directly, or indirectly, the hundred points Class D had, were thanks to him.
He laughed.
It took me a second to process it, but he really laughed. It wasn't an amused laughed but more like a snort. Was he mocking my offer?
"Can I go now? I won't listen to any more of this."
He stood up to leave but I wouldn't let him go like that. Even if the call was a bluff, he doesn't know that. Therefore, even if he doubted my words, he couldn't be completely sure of the veracity of said words. It was that little piece of doubt I was aiming for.
"That's too bad, Ayanokouji. You will be expelled, and once again, Class D won't reach Class A."
I just couldn't make such a threat for show. If he refused to listen to me, then I would have to go through with it.
"Do you know what you're doing?' he asked.
I found his question weird. I would have expected some kind of infuriated reaction, like grabbing me by my collar or the like. Since there was no camera, this would have been a good opportunity to do so.
I looked at him determined. This wasn't just any game or gamble. I was placing my shattered dreams in his shoulders.
"All that's happened in these past few months made me realize I still haven't given up on reaching Class A. This realization came as a surprise to me. I would have liked it if you had accepted to lead Class D willingly, but I have no time to lose. You have to make a decision now, Ayanokouji."
His eyes never left mine. I thought I finally had him, but he came up with another astonishing question.
"Why the hurry? We still have three years here."
An "Huh?" escaped my lips before I could react. How was I supposed to answer? Summer vacation was supposed to start now, and I couldn't just tell him about the special exams.
Before I could come up with an answer he spoke again.
"It's okay if you can't answer. It's not like you tell us much anyway."
"You're being insolent."
"Not at all. It was just an honest comment. Earlier you asked me to be honest."
He paused for a second before speaking again.
"Are you certain you want to use me? You might regret it later down the line."
"It's okay. My life is already full of regrets."
"I see. I'll roll with it for now. I have some things to take care of this summer anyway."
"Ayanokouji."
He turned to me as he was about to open the door.
"Delete the recording."
Taking out his phone without a word, he did as ask and left the room. He really thought I hadn't noticed?
That didn't go as I expected but I would have to content myself. He would help for the moment and after that well... Whatever happens, happens...
Hoshinomiya Chie POV
"That'll be all for today. Enjoy your summer vacation and please remember the buses for Tokyo Bay leave at 5 AM, be sure to be there on time, 'kay? The schedule has been carefully planned," I said to everyone ending the last homeroom of the first semester.
I grabbed my things and was going to leave but paused when I saw Karma-kun approaching me.
"Sensei, do you have a minute? I would like to talk to you about something."
"Why, of course, Karma-kun. Anything for my students. Is it okay if we talk here, or would you rather we do it in the guidance room?" I finished my sentence leaning closer to him and speaking a little seductively.
Karma-kun grinned.
"The guidance room would be ideal, yes."
"Let's go then, we don't want anyone interrupting us, now, do we?"
With those words we went towards the faculty office. There was no one there, we were quite early, so it was to be expected. Entering the guidance room, I immediately noticed the absence of the security camera. It seems someone has been rather busy lately.
"I like what you did with the décor."
Karma-kun was probably referring to the missing camera since the rest of the room was exactly the same as during his last visit.
I sat on the armchair while Karma-kun went over the kitchenette.
"Would you like something, sensei?"
"A chocolate would be nice."
"Chocolate it is then."
With those words Karma-kun began preparing the drinks.
"We should start talking, the other teachers might show up."
"Yes, we probably should."
"What do you wanted to talk about, Karma-kun?"
"The exam of course."
"Hmm, I see... We aren't supposed to talk about that."
That was my official statement of course. I couldn't talk with any student about the special exams. Exams that hadn't even been revealed, Karma-kun only knew about them because he was a member of the student council.
"Oh, but I didn't precise which type of exam. As far as I'm concern, we're discussing a simple written exam over two cups of chocolate," he stated handing me my chocolate and taken a seat, his in his hand.
If I was honest for a second, I loved having Karma-kun in my class. With him at the head and the other four at his back, I knew I had my ticket to Class A. It thrilled me. To finally have Class A at my reach, ten years later. This was the opportunity to show Sae-chan her real place. And I wasn't going to waste it.
"You're certainly right, Karma-kun. So, tell me. I'm all ears."
"I'm curious about your motivations."
"My motivations?" I questioned tilting my head feigning confusion.
Why would Karma-kun want to know my motivation? Had he understood my desire to reach Class A? I have been leaving hints about it since April to my class, had he noticed them?
"That's what I said, yes. What makes your desire to reach Class A so strong?"
"Now, Karma-kun, why would you ask that? Are you perhaps hinting that you won't try to climb if I don't answer?"
"Not in the least. I'm just curious. You see, sensei. Understanding Shinobu's allowing me to understand you as well... You're exactly the same, after all."
"Exactly the same? I'm sorry Karma-kun but I fear I'm at a loss here."
"Then allow me to elaborate further," he leaned closer to me, resting on the edge of his chair he took a sip of his chocolate to add some drama and then said in a whisper that I could barely hear. "You, sensei, just like Shinobu, hide your hate."
My eyes widened a bit. I was surprised and not surprised at the same time. On the one hand, it was impressive that Karma-kun had managed to notice such subtle signs. On the other hand, it was true that Shinobu-chan's demeanour and mine were really similar.
"And what do you plan to do with that information, Karma-kun?"
"Nothing really. As I said, I'm just curious. What drives your desire to reach Class A? Who do you hate so badly? Why do you hate that person? —"
"Those are all interesting questions Karma-kun," I interrupted him. "However, I don't see why I would answer them."
It was true. He could ask himself all the questions he wanted I had no reason to answer them nor to enter in a personal matter with him.
"I see. Then I assume it has to do with what happened ten years ago~" he said a grin forming in his lips.
I flinched. That had to be a simple guess, right? Because of my age. There was no way he could know about what happened back then.
"So, I'm right—"
"I don't know what you're talking about Karma-kun."
His grin turned into a wide smirk. I held my cup to reassure me.
"Allow me to enlighten you then. You see, some time ago I learned about this story, the how I learned about it it's irrelevant," he motioned with his hands after leaving his cup on the table. "The important thing, the interesting thing is the story;
You see, it all happened ten years ago. There was this great competition between four parties. The fight was breath-taking, barely any distance between them. For three years the competition carried out, the first three parties changing positions almost every month. Yet, behind them coming in fourth there was the last party. A presence that hadn't been able to rise but that everyone else feared. They were the threatening presence, that could easily destroy you if you took, your attention off them even for a second! But then... No, no, no, sensei the best part is coming. Now, as I was saying, on the last year, on the last month, the last of the examinations came. Everyone expected the fourth party to come out on top and crown themselves as the elite of the country!"
He paused for a moment to take a sip of his chocolate. He was obviously trying to create a tense atmosphere, but I hated it, he was just narrating my time as a student here like it was some kind of legend that took place far back in time, or in a whole different world.
"Okay, let's continue... Everything was going according to the script. That shadowy presence worked better than a clock. They looked unstoppable! Unbeatable! But then it happened!"
Karma-kun stood up, opening his arms dramatically. I sighed. This was ridiculous, why couldn't we get done with it? Couldn't he just accept that I didn't want to talk to him about my past? He could carry Class B to the top and be done with it, everyone would be happy and end of story.
"Can we get done with---"
"The mistake!" Karma-kun exclaimed ignoring me completely. "Ahhh..." he let himself fall on his armchair with a heavy sigh. "The mistake... Caused by that thing which takes down kings and destroys kingdoms! Love~ At first, it seemed to be a forbidden love, just like Paris and Helena's, Romeo and Juliette's... But that was just an illusion, the truth was much harsher, it had all been a trick! A malicious and cruel trick! All to provoke the downfall of that unstoppable force. And despite the servant's warnings, the princess fell right into the trap! A single, simple mistake that caused the fourth party everyone dreaded so much to break and fall as easily as a house of cards...
...Now, that's a quite interesting story, don't you think, sensei?" Karma-kun spoke with a grin coming back to his usual demeanour. "The end of all hope and everything because the princess ignored her servant's warnings. But I still fail to grasp the moral of the story... What do you think it is, Chie-sensei? The moral of the story."
He asked that staring directly into my eyes. I was unable to look away, it felt hypnotic, almost as if I was looking at a vivid fire that wouldn't extinguish, no matter how much water you threw at it.
"I-I would say that the moral is that it's important to learn to listen to those who are around you?"
"That's an interesting take. However, I don't think that's quite true. You see, I don't really think the story is over just yet. I actually believe there's a second part. Waiting to be told... There are several reasons to explain why the servant was ignored – the princess was perhaps madly in love, or maybe she didn't trust her servant. But then again, that's not the important thing here. The important thing is the incapability of the servant to reach the princess' common sense."
"Incapability?" I clenched my cup even harder.
He chuckled.
"You're gonna break that cup, sensei. Do you perhaps see yourself in one of the characters?"
"... Why would that be the case?" I asked with a forced smile. "It's just a fable, isn't it?"
"Yes, a fable. One that illustrates my point perfectly. You see, sensei, my theory is that you, like the servant grew to hate her mistress, with time they grew apart, without breaking their relationship, however. Just... their relationship became a façade and the servant found herself a goal in making the princess' life miserable."
When he finished, he left his empty cup upside down on the table and leaned closer to me to whisper on my ear.
"This is nothing personal Chie. You just started shooting not fully prepared to receive some of those bullets."
He went back and sat comfortably in his armchair. If a third person entered the room right now, they would think Karma-kun was the teacher and I a problematic student being scolded.
How could he get all that information? Only us teachers knew about it, and I was certain Sae-chan would never reveal that part of her life to anyone.
Nevertheless, I made a last attempt.
"And what can you do with that story, Karma-kun? Just tell the school that a teacher hates another? You would gain nothing. The story is actually worthless."
"Oh, I don't think that. There's a third-year student quite reputed for her veracity and a story like this one would certainly interest her. Adding a thing or two about the servant sabotaging the princess' party here and there... That could get the servant kicked out of her work in less than an hour, don't you think?"
"Those would be lies, you would just stain Sarutobi-san's reputation."
"Not really, even if I can't prove it, it's a safe call to say that you sabotaged the princess at least once since you became teachers here. Besides, the veracity is just a plus, it's not like people care about it," he laughed at the end, as if he found the situation funny.
I snorted, my bright smile long gone.
"What do you want, Karma-kun?" I left the cup in the table; I had barely touched my chocolate.
"Well, you already want to reach Class A, so that's good... I just want you to go my way whatever happens, whenever happens, however happens."
"So, I'm supposed to be the shield that protects you from things like expulsion?"
"That would be a part of it, yes. But it's much more than that."
"I am your minion then," I spoke with all the bitterness I could master.
"Yeah, something along those lines. Servant would be more appropriate, though. Of course, you will not forget that I'm just a call away from preventing you from ever finding a job again~"
"Yeah, I get it... I'll try my best to help you."
"No, that's no good. You won't try your best Chie. You'll go far beyond your best if needed. I will not be taken down because of your inability like those idiots from ten years ago."
"You're really putting the blame of what happened on me, huh? Well, I suppose that's an interesting perspective, Karma-kun."
Just as I finished my sentence the door opened to reveal Sae-chan. Speaking of the devil! Both Karma-kun and I looked at her direction.
Understanding that it was up to me to take the initiative I went back to my childish, cheerful attitude and greeted Sae-chan.
"Oh, Sae-chan, hello! Didn't know you were coming! Do you need the room perhaps?"
"No. I just wanted to go to the kitchenette. I need a coffee," she responded dismissing my comment. "I'm sorry, am I intruding?"
"Oh, I was just giving a little guidance to Karma-kun here," I responded. It's not like I was going to tell her I had just been blackmailed because, somehow Karma-kun had managed to discover what happened ten years ago.
"Yes, thank you for everything Chie-sensei," he addressed a kind smile to both Sae-chan and me. And seeming satisfied, Karma-kun left the room serenely.
Just who is this kid? I mean even if in my promotion there were people like Shogo-kun, I had never faced someone so twisted before.
Having nothing else to do here, I stood up and left the room addressing some final words and a wink to Sae-chan.
"Well, I'll leave you the room Sae-chan. Enjoy your coffee."
I then went to prepare for my next class not feeling happy at all. I had possibly the best student of the year in my class, and he just happened to be completely insane.
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I believe Karma's a little OOC here, but writing that scene was hilarious so I'm keeping it like this.
Remember Horikita Manabu gave Chabashira's file to Nao, and she gave it to Kiyo who in turn gave parts of it to Karma.
The teachers call each other by their first names?