"So what does Hashima think about Katsuragi's purpose in seeking us out?" Ichinose Honami seemed to understand something, her delicate eyebrows furrowing with concern.
"I can only think of two possibilities," Hashima Hikaru placed his hand on the table, explaining his thoughts to the girl. "First, Sakayanagi is currently putting a lot of pressure on Katsuragi. He's the first person to serve as leader under this rotation system, so he needs to show results or risk losing the confidence of his faction members."
"Second, he definitely held back some information in what he just told us. Whether it's about forming an alliance or mutual assistance, even though he immediately disclosed Class A's current situation to show his sincerity."
The boy spoke at a measured pace, thinking as he talked.
"But judging from Sakayanagi's attitude when I asked about her, there must be many hidden complexities we don't know about," Hashima smiled and asked Ichinose, "If Sakayanagi agreed to this, why didn't she come along? Even if she's physically unable, she could have easily sent a representative."
"We clearly saw them fighting for power in their classroom on the first day of school when we went to sell the rules. That's the most untrustworthy aspect."
"So does Hashima mean we should reject their alliance proposal?"
"Not necessarily," the boy shook his head, looking into Ichinose's eyes. "Forming an alliance, if you find reliable partners, definitely has more benefits than drawbacks."
"But for our Class B, we don't need to rush into alliances with other classes. We can advance upward through everyone's collective efforts."
"Then what should we do about Katsuragi's proposal?"
"Hehe, that depends on what Class A is really thinking, like Sakayanagi's attitude." Hashima rubbed his chin thoughtfully. As the leader of another faction, Sakayanagi had significant influence in Class A. Only by understanding her stance could they make better decisions.
"Does Hashima have a plan again?" Ichinose's face brightened as she asked.
"No, now it's Ichinose's turn to take action," Hashima looked at the pink-haired girl before him, his tone gentle. "Has Ichinose forgotten our previous agreement? Now that the point collection plan has been settled, isn't it time for you to contribute to the class?"
The girl was momentarily taken aback, then her face flushed, her eyes becoming captivating like water.
She recalled how she had embarrassed herself in front of Hashima before, when they had reached an important agreement about the future of their class and proof of her abilities.
It was also since then that Ichinose found herself increasingly aware of the boy's presence, with his every action affecting her emotions without her realizing it.
"I understand."
Ichinose Honami nodded firmly and stated, "Then I'll go find Sakayanagi. I'll probe her attitude."
Hashima looked at the enthusiastic girl with some satisfaction, but couldn't help asking, "Does Ichinose know anyone from Class A?"
"Hmm, not yet, but I believe Ando might have friends in Class A. I can ask her."
Ichinose thought for a moment. She had been executing plans with Hashima these past few days and hadn't had time for socializing. In contrast, Ando Sayo, who organized the get-together on the first day of school, had been quite active socially, making acquaintances in various classes, and was now known as Class B's social butterfly.
"That's perfect. Having a mutual acquaintance will make approaching Sakayanagi in Class A much easier," Hashima pondered briefly before solemnly instructing, "Remember one thing: if Sakayanagi asks about information from our class, don't tell her anything, including the reward from the school administration last time."
"I know," Ichinose listened to the boy's advice, feeling a warmth in her heart. "Don't worry, Hashima. I'll handle this. I won't let you down."
"Good."
Hashima nodded. He understood Ichinose's feelings clearly from their previous conversation, so he needed to let her step up and prove herself to dispel her doubts about her own abilities.
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. Regardless of whether she would face setbacks, this was an experience Ichinose Honami needed to go through. The real class competition hadn't even started yet, and she needed to quickly familiarize herself with these matters to achieve better growth.
His first encounter with Sakayanagi had left a strong impression on Hashima. That silver-haired girl was definitely not a simple character, and engaging with her would undoubtedly be challenging.
This was an excellent training opportunity, perfectly suited for Ichinose Honami.
"Oh my, everyone has already arrived at the reward party venue and they're urging us to join in the group chat."
The girl across from him held her phone, her eyes sparkling with joy.
"Is that so?"
"Let's hurry over. Everyone's waiting."
Ichinose Honami's face radiated happiness. Although she had just accepted an important intelligence-gathering mission, upon hearing about the gathering, she immediately shifted her attention to it.
"Alright."
Hashima nodded slightly. It was already after school, and it would be good for everyone to celebrate. Class B students had been through a lot with him recently, and they indeed needed a moment to relax.
When the two arrived at the address shared in the class group chat, they found it was a spacious restaurant that had been reserved exclusively for Class B students. The place was filled with familiar faces.
As the two entered the venue, their classmates applauded in welcome, elevating the atmosphere even more.
"Hashima, Ichinose, thank you both!"
"You're the absolute stars of today's reward party. Please, have a seat."
Shibata called out from his seat, having already unbuttoned his school uniform, looking quite relaxed.
Hashima and Ichinose were seated at the central table, surrounded by the more active students in the class, including Shibata So, Kanzaki Ryuji, and several girls led by Ando.
After they took their seats, Class B's reward party officially began.
With delicious food and friends gathered around, the restaurant's atmosphere grew increasingly lively under the influence of Class B students.
Just then, a new message popped up on Hashima's phone.
Kushida Kikyō: Hashima, are you free lately? I've been waiting to treat you to a meal. Please reply when you see this.
The boy thought for a moment and immediately sent a reply.
Hashima Hikaru: Tomorrow works. Is afternoon okay?
To his surprise, the response came immediately after his message was sent. Was she glued to her phone?
Kushida Kikyō: Great! Let's meet at the family restaurant in the Keyaki Shopping Center. See you then!
Hashima Hikaru: Sounds good.
After putting down his phone, the boy felt the timing was perfect.
Since the task of investigating Sakayanagi's attitude had been assigned to Ichinose Honami, and the point collection plan was complete.
Now he needed to focus on raising the stock value of his investment targets, including the newly listed "Hiyori stock," which had an initial price of 30 and 3000 shares issued—another good target.
"I'm looking forward to our meeting tomorrow, Kushida."