After completing his replication, Hashima wiped off and mentally reviewed his performance. He'd captured Kiryūin's essence but remained far from mastery.
"How was that, Kiryūin-senpai?"
He swam over, looking up at her.
"Better than expected. Your retention exceeds most."
She nodded slightly. "What time do you usually leave?"
"Around 9:30."
"Consistency is key. Since you've absorbed today's lesson, spend the remaining time practicing."
"Tomorrow, I'll correct your form further."
"Understood."
Hashima studied her face. Once committed, Kiryūin's demeanor never wavered—revealing her disciplined nature.
"Begin. I'll resume my laps."
Though intrigued, Kiryūin didn't press. There'd be other chances.
Before diving back in, she cast a final glance at Hashima, anticipation flickering within.
I've been bored too long.
Let's see what waves you'll make here.
By 9:30, Hashima climbed out, marveling at Kiryūin's technique. Her form had revolutionized his approach in just one session.
If only I'd met her sooner...
Drying his hair, he approached her.
"Kiryūin-senpai, my time's up."
"Mm. Same time tomorrow?"
"Yes."
"Then till then."
With that, she submerged, vanishing into the water like a streak of light.
"See you... tomorrow..."
Hashima chuckled at her abrupt exit before heading to the locker room. Rules were rules—he couldn't overstay.
Back in his dorm, he reopened his system.
A new stock—and an upperclassman at that.
[Kiryūin Fūka Stock]
[Current Price: 20]
[Total Shares: 4000]
"Full investment would cost 80,000 points." Hashima pondered. "But beyond swimming, interaction opportunities are scarce."
"Plus, her role in Class 2-B is unclear. Not necessarily an ideal target."
He thought of Nanase Tsubasa—the blond student council VP. Both were second-years, and Horikita-senpai had labeled Nanase a future threat.
What's her relationship with Kiryūin?
With her insane athleticism, Kiryūin was no background character. She likely held influence among second-years.
Better table this for now. For now, she's just a swimming coach.
Shifting focus, he revisited Kushida's intel—the reused exams.
This needs testing. Wasting it would be criminal.
Opening Class A's group chat (renamed Star's Children by Ichinose), he scanned the messages—mostly study updates.
Not wanting to disrupt Ichinose's rest, he decided to wait till morning.
---
The next morning (Friday), Hashima planned to execute the exam purchase that afternoon.
Milk in hand, he entered the classroom, where Ichinose greeted him cheerfully.
"Morning, Hashima-kun."
"Morning."
Setting down his bag, he tore open the milk carton. "Ichinose-san, I've got critical intel. We need to act on it today."
"Eh?"
Her eyes sharpened at the words intel and plan.
"It's about the midterms—vital for our class."
After a sip, he met her gaze. "Any plans this afternoon?"
"None. Even if there were, class priorities come first." She smiled. "Just the two of us?"
"Yes. With luck, it'll be quick. The real work comes after."
Though confident in Class A, having the exam answers would be an unbeatable safety net.
He didn't know if midterm results affected class points, but guaranteeing high scores couldn't hurt.
"I see." Ichinose nodded. "What's the intel?"
"About the exams."
Hashima relayed Kushida's revelation. Ichinose's eyes widened.
"Reused exams?!"
She'd never imagined the school would cut corners here. Weren't rigorous tests essential for筛选 elites?
A conflicted emotion stirred within her.
"Regardless, this is huge for us."
Hashima softened his tone. "Everyone's efforts aren't wasted—we still need confirmation. Until then, studying continues."
"After school, we'll find a suitable upperclassman and buy what we need."
"Mm!"
Ichinose brightened at the prospect of solo time with him.
But as she processed the intel, a question surfaced.
She hesitated before voicing it.
"Hashima-kun... where did this intel come from?"
"?"
His pulse spiked. Forcing a grin, he deflected, "Just some channels I have."
"I promised not to hide things from you anymore. You're leading this class now." He smoothly pivoted. "That's why I'll need you to take charge when negotiating with the upperclassman."
"Okay."
Though brushed off, Ichinose simply studied his smile before letting it go.
Since confessing to Chihiro-chan, my resolve has only hardened.
I won't give up until I get what I want.