After using the restroom and changing into my gym clothes, I leaned against the deck railing and waited. Then I heard footsteps behind me. When I turned around, I saw Ichinose leading the Class B students this way.
"Ichinose? Did you need something?"
"Mm~ It's nothing major. I just heard Hikigaya-kun got beaten up by Class A students in the restaurant earlier... That swelling looks pretty bad."
"Yeah, but those punches earned me 2.56 million. It was a worthwhile deal." The moment I finished speaking, a commotion broke out among the Class B students. Even Ichinose's eyes widened in surprise.
"2.56 million... You really made quite a profit."
"I should thank the Katsuragi Faction. As a return gift, I'm planning to give them a proper welcome in the next special exam."
"That's just revenge, isn't it?"
"I admit it. Will your Class B be joining us, Ichinose? Frankly, the Sakanayanagi Faction will be surrounding and suppressing the Katsuragi Faction depending on the nature of the exam."
"Your factional conflict is as intense as ever~ But are you going to take part too, Hikigaya-kun?"
"Of course. The people who insulted Hiyori belong to the Katsuragi Faction, which makes the entire faction my enemy." I spoke decisively. At the very least, Totsuka had to be expelled.
"Hmm... I do want to close the gap with Class A, but we should remain neutral until the situation becomes clearer. I can't put my classmates at risk." Ichinose's response was exactly as expected. Accepting my invitation now would indeed be unwise. If she had actually agreed, I would have cut ties with her immediately.
"This is fine for now. If you ever want to strike at Class A, come find me anytime."
"Okay. But, Hikigaya-kun!" Ichinose suddenly raised a finger and leaned closer. "Even if