Dormitory 501.
Akiyama Shin's voice broke the brief silence.
"The class is unstable right now. We need tangible benefits and a harmonious atmosphere to calm everyone down first."
He raised his eyes toward Kushida Kikyo, the meaning in his gaze perfectly clear: he was giving her an instruction.
"Kikyo, this is a good opportunity. You can consolidate your position in the class while winning over more neutral people—maybe even bringing some over to our side."
Kushida Kikyo's eyes lit up. She immediately got what he meant, and the gravity on her face instantly melted away, replaced by her usual warm, approachable smile.
"I understand, Shin-kun. You want me to suggest holding a celebration banquet, right?"
She added with a smile.
"We can celebrate everyone getting through the Midterm Exam safely, with nobody expelled. It'll also help dispel that unpleasant atmosphere in the group chat."
"Exactly."
Akiyama Shin nodded lightly.
"Most people in Class D don't have strong opinions to begin with. They're easily led around by their emotions and small immediate gains."
"Quite a few support us now, but there are also plenty who are dissatisfied, like Yamauchi and Ike."
He paused before continuing.
"If you take the lead in organizing a lavish dinner, people will see our generosity on one hand. On the other, it'll shift everyone's attention away from their jealousy over the points and toward the joy of celebrating together. You know what Hirata is like—he only tries to smooth things over. He can't truly take control of the situation."
"Now, you need to become the central figure who can gather most of the class around her and hold real influence."
Horikita Suzune listened quietly nearby, her arms folded across her chest. A trace of barely perceptible approval flickered in her cool eyes before she spoke.
"That