Haruka's Promise, Echoes of the Old World

Ever since they had moved their exam-prep base entirely to the library and soothed the trio on the verge of failing, Class 1-D's study sessions had continued steadily for several days.

To be honest, not that many people genuinely liked studying, but in order to avoid expulsion, everyone in Class 1-D had not given up on it.

Even the failing trio had been studying seriously, though there was no shortage of complaining.

As evening fell, the library's self-study bell rang softly, signaling the end of the day's group review session.

"Phew... I finally made it through today. My brain's about to burn out."

"I'm going to use my last remaining points to have a proper meal. No more fruit-and-vegetable sets for me today."

Ike Kanji let out a long breath and groaned as he slumped across the table.

Although it was not a particularly elegant sight, it still entered Tatsuya Sakuya's field of vision.

He really wished someone else had been the one complaining right then—perhaps Horikita Suzune, perhaps someone else. He tried to imagine it that way. Though it was not very realistic for the current Horikita Suzune, he still wished it had not been Ike.

"Thank you all for your support and cooperation. This can also be considered recognition of our class committee's work."

Hirata Yousuke smiled as he helped Horikita Suzune wrap up the final details.

To him, class matters were his matters. It had nothing to do with whether he was a class representative or not. Even if he might not enjoy it, he could not simply ignore conflicts. Perhaps he was also bound by the shackles of his past.

He could do anything for the harmony of the class, taking on matters both large and small and serving as the class's safety net.

People rose