So when it came to major matters like this, matters that might even require someone to take responsibility, he felt it was better for the upperclassmen to bear the burden themselves.
Besides.
Kanzaki seemed to cast a subtle glance at Teita from Third-year Class A before refocusing his attention.
In other words, he was also worried that the second-years might have been bought off by Sakayanagi, which was why he wanted upperclassmen—even students from his own class—to get involved.
There were five students from Ichinose's class in Hachiman's group.
Exactly enough for all of them to participate.
"Wouldn't that be a bad idea?" A student from Second-year Class C seemed to object.
"What do you think, Hachiman?"
However, Kanzaki-senpai, who usually seemed rather easygoing, ignored that student and looked toward Hachiman Hikigaya.
"..." Hachiman.
Hachiman turned his attention to Ryuji Kanzaki.
"Can we place our hopes on you?" Hachiman asked.
Kanzaki nodded with a serious expression.
"Old Maid may be related to luck, but it is also related to a student's abilities."
"Besides," Kanzaki added, "this is the only event in this exam that group leaders can participate in."
According to the rules of Old Maid, it was a one-on-one match.
However, the group leader could take the field and stand behind the opposing player. They could see the opponent's hand.
In other words.
The group leader could pass information to their members.
Thus, the contestant's skill and luck were one matter, while whether the group leader could make use of that information and let their own player know was another.
Meanwhile.
"So we've run into Group 5 already."
With Sakayanagi at the helm, Group 1's members had been fairly steady. After several consecutive exams, Sakayanagi Arisu had also given everyone peace of mind.
After Sakayanagi became group leader,