Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 10 Chapter 3

After the Election

The twelfth day of the election period.

After arriving at school, I picked up the election bulletin and checked the change in support ratings. As expected, Joutou's support rating had pulled away from ours. With 45% support, Joutou's camp had secured nearly half of the entire student body.

However—.

(...I don't need to worry.)

What needs to be done is already set. Besides, such a significant shift so close to the end shows that the students' hearts are still wavering. Even though many votes flowed to Joutou after yesterday's debate, plenty of students still hadn't fully thrown their support behind him. A gap that appears in one day can be closed in one day.

"Good morning, Tomonari-kun!"

As I was heading to the field with today's flyers, I ran into Asahi-san on her way to school.

"Good morning, Asahi-san."

"Today's the last flyer handout, isn't it? Can I have my stack?"

"Yeah, thank you so much for helping."

Ever since her issue with Rintaro was resolved, Asahi-san had been helping us every day. Taisho would probably be here soon, too.

Asahi-san took the flyer and looked at it without a word.

"...This is amazing! I can't wait for after school!"

"Thanks."

I was satisfied to get the exact reaction I'd hoped for.

But I immediately wondered if that was enough. After she'd helped us all this time, how could I let it go with such a simple "thanks"? Feeling a bit awkward, I looked at Asahi-san again.

"Asahi-san, thank you so much for all your help. Your cheerfulness has saved me more than once during this election."

"Ahaha... When you thank me so directly, it's kind of embarrassing."

Asahi-san scratched her cheek, looking embarrassed.

"But you're the one who got me fired up, Tomonari-kun, right?"

"My part in that was only half of it."

I was happy she felt indebted, but...

"Asahi-san, you were the one who suffered most in Rintaro's case, and you were the one who fought the hardest."

This wasn't a problem that could be solved just with an outsider's help. Because Asahi-san herself had fought so hard, I just needed to give her a push from behind for everything to work out.

"The student council election is almost over, but your fight is just beginning, Asahi-san. So, now it's my turn to help."

Asahi-san, who had decided to run her mobile electronics sales business in the real world, would definitely face difficulties after the election. I had a responsibility to support her. If she struggled, I had to help.

...I feel like I've had this conversation before.

It was the day after Rintaro's problem was solved. Back then, our positions were reversed, and Asahi-san had promised to help me. It felt like a cycle of mutual help, but if it's a cycle like this, I'm all for it.

If I remember correctly, what did Asahi-san say back then?

...Ah, I remember.

"Please tell me anything. Next time, I'll be your hands and feet, Asahi-san."

"...Ah."

Asahi-san's face suddenly turned red, and she covered her cheeks with both hands as if to hide them.

"Uuuggghhhhh... this is bad."

"Eh?"

"Wait a second, okay? Please just... back up a little."

She looked panicked, stumbling back and putting distance between us.

"Ahahaha... any more of this, and I'll start to feel bad for Tennouji-san and the others..."

With bright red cheeks, Asahi-san looked at me, her eyes sparkling.

Why was she suddenly bringing up Tennouji-san?

I started to worry about Asahi-san, who was talking nervously as if she were flushed with a fever.

"Asahi-san, are you feeling unwell—"

"Wah!?!"

When I moved closer to check on her, she quickly jumped away.

Eh...?

"T-Tomonari-kun!!"

"Yes!?!"

Startled by her loud voice, I reflexively yelled back.

"Y-You should save that kind of stuff for Tennouji-san and the others!!"

"Right!! …Huh?"

After replying on reflex, I tilted my head, confused.

"Eh, what do you mean by 'that stuff'...?"

"Figure it out yourself!!"

Asahi-san pointed at me as she spoke.

As I stood there confused, a male student approached.

"...What are you two doing, out in public?"

Rintaro appeared, looking dumbfounded.

"Good morning, Tomonari-senpai."

"Morning, Rintaro. ...Sorry, I doubted you yesterday."

"It's fine. Really, I'm the one who shouldn't have done something to make you suspicious in the first place."

I wasn't calm at the time, but it was wrong of me to just assume the worst. I should have known Rintaro felt bad about the negative campaign.

But Rintaro seemed unfazed and casually accepted my apology. Then, he looked at Asahi-san's red face.

"Sis, if it's with Tomonari-senpai, I'll support you!"

"Fuehhh!?!"

"If you two get together, it'll be easier for me to pull Tomonari-senpai into the company. So, go on, show him what you've got. You're pretty skilled, Sis, so I'm sure you can do a lot. Aside from the whole 'seduction' part."

"Ri-Rintaro~~~~~!!"

Rintaro took off running, with Asahi-san chasing him.

I couldn't tell if they got along or not, but from the outside, they seemed close.

In the meantime, I should start handing out flyers. ...Just as I thought that, Rintaro turned and came back.

"Can I have a flyer?"

"Ah, yeah."

He could have just gotten one from Asahi-san... I saw her in the distance, hands on her knees, catching her breath. It seemed Rintaro had the upper hand in stamina.

After I gave him the flyer, Rintaro read it with a serious face.

"...Just as I thought. I really wish you had come to our side, Tomonari-senpai."

Rintaro smiled, looking a little sad.

◆

After school.

I stood in front of the self-study room we'd used before, taking a deep, calm breath.

Aside from the final speech, this was the last moment for us, the candidates, to fight.

I thought back on all the battles we'd had. Since the election period started, there was a time when we just debated with speeches. Flyers, posters, and then the "A Peek into the Candidates' Daily Lives" corner created by Minato-senpai. At first, these elements were what influenced the polls.

Then, Rintaro started his negative campaign. After talking with Asahi-san, we resolved it, but two new problems appeared in its place. One was that our campaigning stalled because we were so busy trying to clear up the rumors.

The other problem was that Joutou got serious.

Joutou's first serious move was bringing Minato-senpai onto his team. We countered this by getting endorsements from Asahi-san, Taisho, Suminoe-san, Kita, and Hinako. The battle of endorsements and attacks ended in what could be called a draw.

After that, we launched our guerrilla marketing.

Although it was generally successful, we couldn't pull far ahead of Joutou. Thinking back, I should have finished it there and left a few days for safe campaigning. But Joutou didn't let that happen.

In the subsequent debate, we were set up by Minato-senpai and put at a disadvantage.

We were facing today still lagging behind.

In hindsight, starting with the guerrilla marketing, we'd been grabbing student interest with events, not speeches. In this new flow, if we just gave speeches now, a drastic change in the polls would be impossible. I'd discussed this with Tennouji-san and the others last night.

As a result, what we decided for our final move was—.

"Um..."

As I took yet another deep breath, a female student called out to me.

"In here, for Tennouji-san..."

"Yes, this is the right room. Please, come in."

I guided the student into the self-study room.

The state of the self-study room was now completely different from when I'd used it before. Where there used to be rows of computers, all that equipment had been moved to another room.

In its place, various booths were set up in the middle of the room. This setup was Tennouji-san's idea.

"Welcome—to the Promise Experience Event."

A Promise Experience Event. That was the final move we'd chosen.

Literally, it was an event where you could experience the future where our campaign promises had come true. For example, in Tennouji-san's event, there were booths for one-on-one consultations with etiquette instructors, booths for learning etiquette in a lecture, and booths for practical table manners.

Tennouji-san had designed the concept for every booth, from start to finish. Right now, she was also acting as an instructor, teaching etiquette to the students.

"When drinking soup, the spoon should move from front to back."

Tennouji-san's voice came from the table manners booth by the window.

A round table was surrounded by four chairs, each filled by a student. Various utensils were on the table, and plates of soup were served.

"What should we do when there's only a little left?"

"You can tilt the plate like this and scoop the soup without making a sound."

Tennouji-san demonstrated, tilting the plate away from herself and scooping.

(...It's nostalgic.)

If I remember right, front-to-back is the English style.

When I first became a caretaker, Shizune-san taught me the same thing. After that, Tennouji-san also taught me, and my table manners became more refined. My etiquette was a mix of influences from both of them.

"If we're too worried about etiquette and manners, doesn't it seem stiff?"

"That depends on the situation. If you're dining with an elder, it's unwise to be overly casual. If it's a work relationship, there will probably be a second or third dinner, so there's no need to rush to get close."

This kind of experience was probably the most useful information.

Knowledge and practice are different. Even if you can get a perfect score on a test, things often don't go well in practice. In that respect, Tennouji-san's battle-tested experience with etiquette was captivating many students.

Next, a noodle dish was served.

A student across from Tennouji-san slurped his noodles.

"Eating like that certainly looks delicious, but slurping noodles is considered bad manners."

"Eh, is that not allowed in China, either?"

"Correct. Slurping is only permitted in Japan."

"...I never knew. Most of the people I've eaten with so far have been from Mediterranean countries."

That was news to me, too.

Come to think of it, I was taught English and French table manners, but I don't think I learned much about Asian etiquette. Maybe I should learn from Tennouji-san or Shizune-san later.

Some students clapped, admiring the taste of the food. First-class cuisine that required table manners managed to charm even the discerning palates of this honorable academy. All the dishes were made by a first-class chef. Tennouji-san and I had discussed this at length. There was a suggestion to use food samples to save costs, but we ultimately decided against it because we are the "conservative" faction.

We value the traditions of Kiou Academy, which means we want to preserve the authenticity of the academy itself. So, what is Kiou Academy's authenticity?

It's about being authentic. If we compromised on this, what we value would be lost. Therefore, we decided not to use samples at all and made sure every dish was real.

We're allowed to spend money. We're allowed to use connections. We're allowed to ask our families for help. Educating the best people in the best environment—that is the ideal of Kiou Academy.

I glanced over and saw the student I'd guided earlier entering the one-on-one consultation booth.

"I have an important dinner next week, but I'm still not confident in my etiquette..."

"Alright, in that case, I can teach you. Has the restaurant been decided?"

"I heard it's a ristorante."

"I see. In that case, let's go over the dress code as well."

A ristorante is a high-end Italian restaurant. There's usually a dress code, and you order in courses. However, more casual places have been using the name recently, so it's best to check the restaurant's atmosphere before deciding on an outfit.

When I looked back at the table manners booth, the lesson had just ended, and students were filing out. But new students immediately filed in. Tennouji-san didn't seem to have any time to rest, but she looked completely satisfied.

As students entered the booth, Tennouji-san greeted them.

"Oh, it's been a while, hasn't it?"

"Oh, you remember me. I was in your class last year..."

"Of course I do. Please, have a seat."

The student looked happy to sit down opposite Tennouji-san. It was probably her charisma. Tennouji-san's booths were the most crowded.

(I guess I should check on Narika's Promise Experience Event, too.)

I wanted to see how the other event was doing. As I was about to leave the room, I suddenly ran into Fukushima-sensei.

"Fukushima-sensei."

"Tomonari-kun, thank you for your hard work."

"You too. ...Thank you for giving us permission for this event."

"Don't worry about it. Using an empty classroom for an election campaign was already approved in the context of guerrilla marketing, so I was able to grant permission easily this time."

Just like with the guerrilla marketing, I had consulted with various teachers for this event. I was grateful they'd made time for me when they were so busy.

"That said... You've planned a fine event."

Fukushima-sensei said, peeking into the room from the hallway.

Hearing praise from a teacher's perspective made me feel more confident.

"This is a scene that couldn't be created without the vision of a manager."

It seemed she'd instantly grasped our intent. She wasn't a teacher at Kiou Academy for nothing.

"Yes, that's what we were planning for."

We smiled at each other for a moment.

Of course, this event wasn't just for fun. I—we—saw two chances for victory in it.

Fukushima-sensei had probably already seen both of them.

"...During this election period, several candidates have visited the staff room."

Fukushima-sensei mentioned suddenly.

Just like me, there must have been other students who wanted to consult with the teachers.

"Among them, the one who visited the staff room the most was... you, Tomonari-kun."

I was vaguely aware of that.

"Sorry. I've troubled you so many times."

"No, no, I'm praising you."

I tilted my head, confused.

It really didn't sound like praise. ...But Fukushima-sensei seemed to genuinely mean it, her expression gentle.

"Actually, every year when the election period starts, there's a rumor among the teachers. ...The student who gets elected is the one who shows up in the staff room the most."

A rumor like that existed...?

"In fact, it's been true for the last two years. But it makes sense. Showing up in the staff room more often means that person is trying to take on different challenges. I think it's that courage that attracts the students."

Fukushima-sensei explained the factors that turned this rumor into reality.

"This year's student council election is livelier than any before. Because of my position, I can't favor any student, but... I believe the reason for that is you, Tomonari-kun."

"...Thank you."

She was probably praising me indirectly, given her position. Hearing that from someone who'd seen the previous elections... was really nice.

"You should probably prepare yourself mentally. If all goes well, I imagine you'll be the vice president."

"If all goes well, yes..."

When I let out an anxious sound, Fukushima-sensei tilted her head in surprise.

I understood what she was getting at. Rintaro had been quiet ever since the negative campaign incident. Maybe it was his way of atoning. So, if things went smoothly, it wasn't surprising he'd expect me to be elected...

"Is something worrying you?"

"Well... I probably won't be elected vice president."

Fukushima-sensei looked shocked.

"Why?"

"Umm... sorry, it's a long story, so I'll have to put it off for now. It's possible Tennouji-san or Narika will mention it in the final speech."

I also wanted to check on Narika, so sorry, I'll explain later.

"But, even if I'm not elected, I won't have any regrets. So please don't worry, Sensei."

"...Alright."

Fukushima-sensei looked reluctant but turned to leave.

I'd made her worry... After once again apologizing to her in my head, I headed for Narika's Promise Experience Event.

◆

Tennouji-san's Promise Experience Event was held as etiquette training in the study room.

Narika's Promise Experience Event was held by opening a "salon" in the auditorium.

I'd originally thought about using the school cafe, but that would bother people who actually wanted to use it. So, I decided to use a facility that wasn't being used after school, just like with Tennouji-san. The auditorium is normally just for all-school assemblies, so like the study room, it's often empty. We're only borrowing it for now, but if Narika is elected president, we might be able to keep using it. Just showing that possibility was enough to make the students feel that Narika's promise was tangible.

The salon, which made full use of the auditorium, looked like a large cafe, but while there were round tables, no chairs were provided.

We intentionally made this a standing-only salon. If students sat, they'd stay in one place, and the interaction—the very purpose of the salon—would be limited. The standing format created an atmosphere where it was easier to move around. With chairs, the number of people at one table would be limited, but standing, anyone could join any conversation.

However, some people might get tired, so we also set up chairs near the walls. Anyone who was tired could rest for a bit, and after a while, they could return to the central tables to rejoin the discussion... Narika and I had thought this through together.

That idea seemed to have been realized perfectly.

In the middle of the salon, one group was much larger than the others. A female student somewhat hesitantly spoke to Narika, who was at the center.

"The truth is, I'm not good at martial arts, and my parents often scold me for it..."

"In that case, I'll teach you."

"R-Really?"

"Yes. In exchange, you're good at academics, right? I think that person over there is having trouble with history. If you don't mind, I'd like you to teach him."

Narika was successfully connecting students with each other.

The male student who'd admitted he was bad at studying gave a small bow to the female student who was bad at martial arts.

"I'd appreciate the help."

"Leave it to me. History is my best subject."

It might be better if Narika joined them to study too... but that could wait.

This Promise Experience Event also seemed to be going smoothly.

Narika's promise to establish a salon allowed any student to easily take on the role of "teacher," unlike Tennouji-san's etiquette training. In other words, everyone was a teacher, and everyone was a student. As a result, similar conversations were happening at other tables, even without Narika.

"My parents expect me to take over the family business, but I want to start a company overseas..."

"Oh, what a coincidence. I'm also thinking about working abroad, and I just talked about it with my parents a few days ago."

"How did you convince your parents?"

"Well, in my case, first—"

The students were engaged in active conversation.

A conversation to change themselves...

Seeing this, I was reminded of the Management Tournament. Everyone had tried to grow their own "company" by actively interacting with others. Maybe what Narika envisioned for Kiou Academy was maintaining this exact atmosphere, all the time.

(...This is going well.)

Narika's promise—to create a salon to foster student interaction—might have sounded flat as just words, but it was producing incredibly meaningful results now that it was in motion.

I had Shizune-san as my teacher. I had Asahi-san and Taisho who would talk to me.

But that was just luck. Most students didn't have a Shizune-san, an Asahi-san, or a Taisho. I only got this help because of my special position as a caretaker.

Officially, I'm the heir to a mid-sized IT company. If that were really true—would I have had the courage to pursue the path of a consultant?

I'm not sure. That's why I deeply appreciate the importance of these encounters.

To change yourself, who you meet is essential.

"You've pulled off something big again, haven't you."

As I was calmly observing the salon, someone called out to me.

When I turned, Joutou—the opponent we had to defeat—was approaching. He stood next to me and looked out at the salon, just as I was.

"Thanks to you, I'm feeling cornered."

After saying that, Joutou made a face like he'd bitten into something bitter.

"...I was prepared for a word or two of hate, but you're not going to say anything?"

"Of course I want to. 'You coward, didn't you learn anything from Rintaro's mess?'... That's what I want to say."

"Hahaha, I'm glad you're keeping it to yourself."

Right, right. I'm a true man. Of course I wouldn't say it.

"You've designed a great stage for the final moments. This is a move a politician couldn't make."

Joutou said, watching the students chat animatedly.

"Politicians deliver ideology. Managers, on the other hand, promise solutions. Only a Manager can execute their words. If the materials are there, a manager will make it happen immediately."

Exactly. That was what Fukushima-sensei had also understood as our path to victory.

While Joutou was relying on the idea of commonizing Kiou Academy, we were presenting solutions that—while their scale or goals might have changed—were not difficult to implement.

We're the conservative faction. Therefore, we are also practitioners.

The ability to bring our ideals into reality is our strength.

"But, even so..."

Joutou trailed off.

But, even so... I could understand what he wanted to say. Even so... the atmosphere is just too lively.

Joutou's understanding of our win condition was generally correct. But he still looked unsatisfied, a trace of doubt on his face. It was true this scene could only be created by a manager-type. But even so, the sight before us was just... too appealing.

He was missing something. But he didn't know what.

Feeling like I could see his state of mind, I asked,

"Have you figured out the other target?"

"...The other target?"

It seemed he hadn't.

In that case, let's check the answer.

"Take a look at this scene."

This was our second path to victory—.

"It feels like a cultural festival... and looks fun, doesn't it?"

I must have looked very confident when I said it. Joutou seemed stunned for a moment, then smiled uncertainly.

"Ah, I see. ...You really got me."

It seemed Joutou was starting to understand.

Our second path to victory.

"Every year, the student council's first job is managing the cultural festival. So, all the students are actually looking ahead, quietly wondering... 'If this person becomes president, what kind of festival will they create?'"

Every event at Kiou Academy is grand and festive. The cultural festival is no exception. Even though it's invitation-only, it's known as a massive event that brings in many guests.

There must be tons of students looking forward to it.

That's why—.

"After seeing this, everyone is definitely thinking... 'I want to entrust the cultural festival to this person.'"

That was the victory we were aiming for.

To make people want to entrust the festival to them, this "experience" was intentionally designed to feel like a cultural festival.

This wasn't just a simple showcase.

This was a perfectly and thoroughly calculated event, designed to connect to the council's next job: the school festival.

"So, it was a move aimed after the election. ...I have a long-term vision, too, but I guess I forgot about the festival right in front of us."

I understood how he felt. The fiercer the election, the more we could only focus on the enemy right in front of us. There was no time to look ahead.

"I realized it after seeing the questionnaires. The students at Kiou Academy are all serious people, which is exactly why they look forward to a chance to relax. ...I was surprised too, but when we collected the surveys, more people wrote about events after the election than about the election itself."

"...I didn't realize."

One of the pleasant surprises was the low barrier of an anonymous survey. There's no way someone would confidently tell a candidate to their face that they're more interested in the after-party than the election. But because it was anonymous, those opinions came out freely.

"Unlike your camp, I'm not going to use cowardly methods."

I said this to the baffled-looking Joutou. What I was about to say... was the resolve I'd formed last night.

"But I've started to realize my own weakness. ...I think I respected you too much as an enemy. Maybe because I was scared. When you get better results than me, I want to respect you, not envy you. It hurts less. ...It's easier to bounce back from 'respect' than from 'envy'."

It's different from just being a good person. I respect everyone because I'm afraid of being broken. By placing myself in a lower position, when someone gets better results, I can genuinely respect them and end the conflict. I can accept it and move on before I get hurt.

But there's no pride in that. It's like I'm pretending to be weak just so I can stay calm even when I lose.

This is true cowardice.

This tendency to easily respect others must have been ingrained in me after I transferred to Kiou Academy. Everyone around me was superior, and while struggling to survive in that environment, I developed this... survival skill.

This trait has also saved me many times. In fact, Kagen-san once praised me for it. Because I could show respect to anyone, I learned more and grew faster.

But when I heard those words, I unconsciously ignored my own thoughts. This survival skill just became a habit.

Respect became the seed of carelessness. I'm paying the price for that now.

And this payment involves not just me, but Tennouji-san and Narika too.

I will not... make the same mistake again.

"If I become vice president, I have to get rid of this habit of self-deprecation. The person who becomes president will be the one who suffers, because I'll be busy respecting everyone, including our enemies."

I don't want to drag others down like this again. I don't want to tarnish the reputations of those I respect.

"That's why I intend to get stronger. ...I'm also planning to change the way I talk, eventually."

Joutou's eyebrows twitched. He must have been surprised by my sudden change in tone.

Sorry to confuse you. But this is the real me. I have to start revealing my true self, little by little.

"This is as far as I go. From here on, I'll leave it to Tennouji-san and Narika."

All that's left is the final speech at the beginning of next week. The one who will defeat Joutou isn't me; it's Tennouji-san or Narika. But there's still time before that. I'll use these next few days to the fullest for their sake.

"Joutou! ...We will definitely create a better academy than you."

I respect Joutou and feel there are things I can't achieve. But even so, I am declaring you my enemy.

I will defeat you. Directing such strong resolve at someone was a first for me, but I felt refreshed and relieved.

◆

After parting with Joutou, I went back to observing Narika's promise experience.

But I couldn't just switch gears.

To calm my nerves, I grabbed a glass from a table and wet my throat. The water had a slight citrus taste. Why was even the water so fancy? My "commoner" sensibilities dampened my excitement.

"Miyakojima-san!"

An unfamiliar male student called out to Narika, sounding cheerful.

"Thanks for setting up such an amazing place! By coming here and hearing everyone's stories, I finally figured out a problem that's been bugging me for ages!"

"I'm glad to hear that. In that case, I hope you'll help someone else with their problem next."

"Yeah!"

The student smiled brightly.

"You've gotta be president! I'm rooting for you!"

He'd said something nice. Narika must be happy. Or so I thought, but...

"...Ah. Thank you."

Narika gave a slightly awkward smile.

The student didn't seem to notice and left. But I sensed something different in Narika's attitude.

(...Narika?)

What's wrong?

Why did she look so guilty when someone supported her for president?

The old Narika would have been genuinely happy.

What had changed...?

"...Ah."

Only one thing came to mind.

That genuine smile she should have had... When was the last time I saw it?

I remembered.

It was the day before the guerrilla marketing.

When I was heading to the staff room, Narika also had business there, and we walked together. I saw her genuine smile then.

(............I see.)

Come to think of it, maybe she's been burdened ever since then.

When we lost the debate, when we were planning this event... she must have been suffering in secret.

And now, she had reached a conclusion.

That's why she couldn't be happy.

"Narika."

I approached her and called her name.

"Itsuki..."

She turned, an anxious look on her face. But then, as if she'd firmed her resolve, she opened her mouth.

"Itsuki, the truth is..."

"I know. But am I the only one you need to talk to?"

I cut her off and looked behind me. A first-year girl was there, wondering which table to approach.

"Perfect timing. She's here."

Narika's declaration would have to involve her, too.

Narika, understanding my meaning, nodded tensely and walked over to the student.

"Nishi-san."

"Ah, Miyakojima-senpai. Thank you for your hard work."

Nishi-san bowed politely. They must have spoken several times recently, as they seemed almost like friends.

"I just got here, and it's so lively. ...It seems like everyone was waiting for this. You're perfectly suited to be president, Miyakojima-senpai."

Nishi-san showed Narika genuine respect.

Come to think of it, Narika had this talent back in the Management Tournament, too. She unconsciously finds and provides what people secretly need. ...Maybe that's her talent.

But despite the praise, Narika didn't smile. With a stiff expression, she spoke.

"I need to consult with you, Nishi-san. Could you come to that table?"

"...? Yes, that's fine."

Seeing Narika's serious tone, Nishi-san nodded, a little confused.

The three of us—me, Narika, and Nishi-san—gathered around an empty table.

"Um, what did you want to talk about...?"

Nishi-san must have realized this wasn't a casual chat. Without touching the glass on the table, she got straight to the point.

"...The truth is, I originally wanted to change myself, so I decided to run for president."

Narika began to speak quietly.

"Specifically, I wanted the courage to connect with people. That's why I aimed for president, which seemed to have the most opportunities for that..."

She paused, perhaps remembering the days that had passed.

"But as I kept campaigning, I started to doubt if this was the right path."

"...What do you mean?"

"I started to think that... maybe the student council president doesn't actually have many chances to connect with people."

After much doubt, Narika revealed her conclusion.

"When I spoke with you, Nishi-san, and with Abeno-san and Yodogawa-kun, my doubt turned into certainty. The president, while active in council meetings, often delegates interaction with ordinary students to others. ...The president stands in a place slightly separate from everyone. That position... isn't all that different from when I was feared by everyone before."

She wanted the courage to connect. Narika was fixated on the physical distance.

She probably felt that just a mental connection wasn't enough. It was understandable. "Mental distance" is based on impressions. In the past, she was known only for her "frightening" impression, so she was judged even by people she'd never spoken to. That experience was a lesson. Mental distance is more fragile than physical. Sometimes, people just form a strange image of you.

If she became president, everyone would have a positive image. But that's not what Narika wanted. She wanted a strong connection, forged through one-on-one, direct conversation. That's what she was really after.

"Even if I become president, nothing will change. That's how I feel,"

Narika said, staring at the table.

"That's why... I thought about which position does have the most chances to connect with people."

With that, Narika looked at Nishi-san.

Of all the student council positions, the one with the most opportunities to connect with people is...

"Maybe... it's the general affair."

Nishi-san, receiving Narika's gaze, gave a small nod.

"...Yes, I don't think that's wrong. The general affair at Kiou Academy also handles outside parties, so they interact with many people, not just inside the school."

As she said it, Nishi-san must have anticipated what was coming. Her face showed a trace of shock, but the fact that she remained composed was impressive.

What Narika was about to say was an unprecedented request.

It would surely confuse many people, including Nishi-san.

But Narika wouldn't stop.

The Narika who desperately wanted to change would not back down.

"Nishi-san. I know this is an unreasonable request, but I have a favor to ask."

Narika looked at Nishi-san, her gaze serious.

"Could you... let me have the position of general affair?"

Narika bowed her head deeply.

The movement was beautiful. It's just a simple bow, but I think it's where a person's true nature shows. It was a posture of courtesy that could only come from years of martial arts. Even though she was the one bowing, I almost felt like I was the one who had lost.

But Nishi-san wouldn't just accept this.

She had a resolve equal to Narika's.

"Please, raise your head."

Narika slowly raised her head.

"My older sister left behind many achievements as general affairs."

Nishi-san began to speak of her own resolve.

"For example, by inviting famous baristas and siphonists to the school cafe, she improved the product quality. When renovating the garden, she invited a famous landscape designer to update the scenery. The ability to invite a government minister to the Management Tournament opening ceremony also started in my sister's era."

"That's... incredible."

"Yes. She is a sister I'm very proud of."

Nishi-san smiled proudly.

"I've explained this before, but I'm aiming for general affairs because I want to follow in her footsteps. But I'm different from my amazing sister, so I thought I had to at least start acting from my first year."

So, she was trying to join the council even as a first-year...

I could understand, as a transfer student. It must be hard enough just keeping up with classes when you first enter Kiou Academy. But she chose an even harder path. That awareness deserves respect.

"Are you prepared to bear all of my hopes?"

Nishi-san asked, pinning Narika with her gaze.

She was deliberately putting her on the spot.

Narika said, "Hmm..." before opening her mouth.

"I will do my very best."

She said it with a firm expression.

...Hmm.

I think she really should have just said "yes" here...

"...So you can't say it with certainty."

As expected, Nishi-san gave Narika a flat look.

"I'm sorry. But from what I've heard, your sister is very talented. Honestly, I can't guarantee I can do the same, as I am now."

It sounded unconfident, but Nishi-san smiled slightly. She seemed happy to have her sister's achievements acknowledged.

"So... if I'm having trouble, would it be okay for me to consult with you, like I am now?"

Nishi-san looked stunned.

"...Eh?"

"...Eh? I can't?"

For some reason, Narika looked even more confused.

Seeing them, I couldn't help but laugh.

Ah, yeah, that's right. This is who Narika has always been.

Her grades are a little below Tennouji-san's and Joutou's. She's good at sports, but in almost every other field, she's outmatched.

And yet, her support in this election was competing with theirs. The reason was her potential. The Narika who desperately wants to change will definitely keep growing. She might not be at Nishi-san's sister's level now, but she has the resolve to get there.

But she doesn't have to do it alone. The Narika who had to change was finally breaking out of her shell. She realized she couldn't change by herself and was starting to actively ask for help.

Narika grows by cooperating with others. She'll develop those bonds into her strength. This is a talent Tennouji-san doesn't have. Her willingness to rely on people is refreshing, pure, and draws people in. And because she's so earnest, it makes you want to watch over her.

"Hehehe... you really are something else, Miyakojima-senpai."

Nishi-san, after a short delay, started laughing too.

Only Narika was confused.

Don't worry, we're not shocked. We're relieved.

Narika is someone who can carry others' hopes. In her own way...

After laughing for a while, Nishi-san bowed her head.

"I will concede the position of secretary. ...I've always been chasing my sister's back, but chasing yours seems like it could be fun, too, Miyakojima-senpai."

"...Thank you."

Narika's thanks were brief.

After a gentle smile, Nishi-san looked at me.

"Tomonari-senpai."

Called on so suddenly, I—who had just been standing there like a statue—was a bit surprised.

"You're someone Miyakojima-senpai truly needs, aren't you?"

"Eh?"

"When she's with you, Senpai, she seems more straightforward and cooler than usual."

It seems Nishi-san saw the current Narika as "straightforward and cool." She's a good judge of character. I thought so too... though I don't know if I'm the reason.

"...Please."

Nishi-san bowed to me, too.

Please...? Was that about Narika? Or the student council?

Either way—.

"Yeah."

I nodded confidently.

Nishi-san looked satisfied, but she left the table without another word. Even if she'd agreed to concede, she must have had complicated feelings. She probably needed time to sort them out.

At this point, Narika's wish to become secretary was, by the rules, possible. When Joutou had asked Hinako to run, I'd researched it. In that process, I learned that this case was also not a problem.

"...Is this really okay?"

Narika murmured, just as Nishi-san disappeared from view.

"I think it's fine."

Narika turned to me, and I continued.

"From the start, you wanted to change yourself, and that's why you ran, right?"

"...Yeah."

If that's the case, there's no problem.

"You've already changed a lot, Narika. I've been watching you, so I can guarantee it. ...So, from here on, I think you can live more freely."

There are things you can only get by being president.

But there's no need to think that's the only right path.

"If you can do something you want more than being president... and if the people around you are okay with it, I don't think you need to hold back anymore, Narika."

Before the guerrilla marketing, Narika had told me with a genuine smile that the secretary's work seemed interesting. Her desire to do that job was real.

This sudden change of course, right before the final speech... she must have realized it. But she hadn't wasted her time. On the contrary, she'd fought with all her heart in this fierce election.

Because she'd fought so hard, she'd realized there was another path.

If she hadn't tried, she never would have reached this conclusion.

Just then, tears began to stream from Narika's eyes.

"These tears... what are they..."

Narika said, not understanding why she was crying.

"I'm not sad... but for some reason, they just keep..."

The tears became big drops, falling to the floor even as she tried to wipe them. The students around her noticed and started to approach, worried, but I shook my head to stop them. No need to worry. She's not sad.

"Isn't it because you tried your absolute hardest?"

I asked, looking out at the salon.

"You fought so well, all this way. The Narika who used to get tense just talking to a stranger can now charm this many people. ...There isn't a single person left who misunderstands you."

Who could have predicted this?

She fought a fierce battle with Tennouji-san.

Even when a sudden enemy like Joutou appeared, she didn't flinch and stood firm against him.

"Thank you for your hard work. You can rest well."

"Uwaaa... Itsukiiiiii~~~!!"

Narika cried, hugging me tightly.

I wanted to say, "Everyone's watching," but I felt her arms trembling and just let out a small sigh.

I gently patted her head, and Narika just pressed in closer.

Good job.

I once again praised her in my heart.

◆

The Promise Experience Event ended without a hitch.

While I was helping clean the auditorium, I heard footsteps approaching from behind. When I turned, three people were standing there.

Joutou, Rintaro, and the last person...

"Hello, Tomonari-kun."

"...Minato-senpai."

I scowled, seeing Minato-senpai greet me so cheerfully.

I thought I'd put it all behind me. Honestly, I wasn't that angry at Joutou anymore. But toward Minato-senpai... it seemed my feelings lingered.

"Don't glare at me like that. I'm just gathering the candidates to explain the procedure for the final speech. Do you want to join?"

"...Yes."

After nodding, my eyes met Joutou's, who was standing beside her.

I'd just made my declaration to him. There was nothing left to say. Joutou seemed to realize that, too. He just gave a small nod and looked away.

"Miyakojima-san seems to be withdrawing, so once we find Tennouji-san, we can get started."

After saying that, Minato-senpai started to leave the auditorium without approaching Narika.

"...How did you know Narika was withdrawing?"

"Because you two just made quite a scene. Even if I didn't want to, I was bound to hear about it."

A scene...?

"It seems you had quite the dramatic hug in public. Were you two pledging your future together?"

"No... but, sorry for causing a disturbance..."

What am I going to do? I'm starting to worry about the fallout from this.

No, now's not the time for that. I shook my head, pushing the anxiety away.

I told her Tennouji-san was probably still in the study room, so we all headed there. Coincidentally, her event had also just finished, so we passed many students on their way out of the academy.

Seeing the cheerful smiles of the students we passed, Joutou quietly lowered his gaze.

What he was thinking... I had no idea.

"Excuse me, is Tennouji-san here?"

Minato-senpai asked, poking her head through the open door.

It seemed the event here had also wrapped up, and cleanup was underway. The partitions used for the booths were being carried out a side door.

"Oh my, what brings all of you here?"

Tennouji-san said as she noticed us.

"I need to explain the final speech procedure. Can you come to the student council room right now...?"

"Minato-senpai."

I cut her off.

"Since we're all here, why not just explain it in this room?"

"I don't mind, but you're cleaning up, aren't you? Won't this get in the way...?"

"I want to hear it where other people are present."

That way, if we're "accidentally" taught the wrong procedure, there will be witnesses.

In this room, besides the etiquette instructors Tennouji-san had invited, there were nearly ten students volunteering to clean. That should be enough witnesses.

Understanding my intent, Minato-senpai's lips curled.

"A good change."

It's not.

I hate having to think this way.

"Very well, we'll borrow this space."

There was still one booth left intact, so we used that. We quickly gathered chairs for everyone and sat around the table.

"By the way, where is Miyakojima-san...?"

Tennouji-san asked, looking around.

I explained it to her. "Narika..."

I told her Narika had withdrawn from the race.

Tennouji-san's eyes widened. But as I explained the situation, she seemed to understand.

"...A positive reason, I see."

She said quietly after I finished.

"In that case, I have no worries. Miyakojima-san has her own path."

Because she trusted Narika, she wasn't worried.

But she must have felt lonely. Perhaps because of that insecurity, Tennouji-san lowered her gaze slightly.

I'm still here. —I wanted to say it, but that would just add to her worries.

Tennouji-san closed her eyes for about three seconds. When she opened them again, her gaze was steady. It wasn't an act. To overcome one's own weakness and strive to remain strong. That is what people call dignity.

Now, just leave the rest to me.

I felt as if I could hear her thoughts.

"Alright, I'll explain the procedure."

Minato-senpai explained the steps for the final speech.

On election day, after first period, students will receive their ballots and gather in the auditorium. After the candidates give their speeches, voting will begin, followed immediately by the vote tally. It seems all the teachers handle the counting. Once voting is finished, students will return to their classrooms, and the results will be announced over the broadcast. Like usual, it should be announced in less than twenty minutes. After the announcement, the elected members will head to the student council room for their first meeting. By the time they return to class, third period will be starting.

"That's the procedure for the day. Any questions?"

No one raised their hand. Minato-senpai nodded, satisfied.

"In that case, let's decide the speaking order."

The speaking order. ...This was a critical factor.

Personally, I felt going second was better than first. At the very beginning, the students wouldn't be mentally warmed up. It would be easier to go second, after they'd settled in and understood the format.

"I will go first."

Tennouji-san said it without a hint of hesitation.

I was stunned, my eyes wide.

"...Are you sure?"

"Yes. I've always preferred to be first."

Tennouji-san said, her face full of pride.

Looking at her, I forgot all my earlier anxieties. The important thing was for Tennouji-san to be herself. For that, the order didn't matter.

"How ridiculous."

Joutou said it dismissively.

As all eyes turned to him, Joutou looked at Tennouji-san and continued.

"You always talk about such pretty ideals. That sentiment just now... in my opinion, it's just a failure of thought. But so many people are fooled by the words of the 'chosen.' They misunderstand and think they have to be the same. ...When in reality, most people can't."

We all fell silent at Joutou's complaint.

The irresponsible actions of the elite confuse the masses. Joutou was showing his anger at that very thing.

"I've been wanting to say this for a long time,"

Tennouji-san said, meeting Joutou's gaze.

"Joutou-kun, there is merit to your opinion."

"...Hah?"

Joutou stared at her, stunned.

He probably never expected to be validated here. ...I didn't expect it either.

"However... you lack brilliance."

Tennouji-san stated.

"That brilliance, that bright impression, that confident bearing... you are lacking in all of it."

"...And if I lack it, what of it?"

"It is not the capacity of a President."

Tennouji-san said unequivocally.

"As the leader who stands at the pinnacle of Kiou Academy, I believe I must be a light for the students."

"A light...?"

Joutou furrowed his brow.

It was an abstract expression. But strangely, it made sense. I felt like I understood, just a little, what Tennouji-san was trying to say.

"Watch my final speech closely. —I will burn the sight of that light into your memory."

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