Despite the win being only for the second round and not the whole competition, its inevitable for the festive mood to set in for everyone from our school. Especially so for the classmates and friends of the seniors who played today.

And because theyre the older ones, once the dust settled down and the gloating Kitarai High students, more or less, left the venue already, some of those third years called our attention, thanking us for supporting their friends.

Then, those who had some influence tried to take the reins, encouraging us to wait for them to come out and congratulate them.

Obviously, not everyone was in favor of that suggestion. I mean, theres no reason for them to set aside their time for a fleeting moment like that. They already cheered and congratulated them when they were still in the court. Furthermore, its not like they already took home the trophy.

And so, it didnt take long for that suggestion to fall through, resulting in more than half of them standing up and leaving, either in groups or pairs.

Obviously, the ones who were left behind were either those friends of the seniors as well as a few who either didnt want to leave yet or they had other plans.

Among those, Ichihara Jun, his and Marikas followers remained in their seats. A lot of them were looking in our direction, perhaps waiting for Marika to return.

Unfortunately for them, the golden ringlet girl didnt have any plans to do so. And since shes still engaged in a rather lively conversation with Shizu and the other girls, shes not even paying attention to them.

When they noticed that, the faces of the followers appeared troubled. Some turned to Ichihara Jun while Tanaka and a few of Marikas followers approached our location.

Uhm, Kujou-sama. Are you not planning to leave yet?

That was Tanaka. Somehow, even though she's a second year, she seemed to take up the role of being the voice of the other followers. Or if not that, shes acting to be one of the few more vocal followers. Much like those two followers who blocked and warned me outside of that convenience store.

But considering shes like a triple agent that juggled herself between Marika, Jun, and Takashima, her approach this time was probably to sound out how much my relationship with Marika has progressed.

Shes definitely going to report her findings to Takashima or Ichihara Jun. Whichever the case, its not really going to affect us too much. Besides, the girl could make use of her ability to act.

Hmm? No. I will be accompanying Junior-kun and Shizu-san for a little longer. I implore you not to wait for me.

While acting like she was surprised at their appearance, Marika waved them off just like that.

Tanaka and the other followers all wore bitter smiles upon hearing that.

Even if they somewhat expected that answer, its strange for them to see Marika prioritizing someone other than Ichihara Jun.

Nonetheless, thats not enough to send them away. After a few seconds of deliberating what to say, Tanaka opened her mouth again.

W-what do you mean by that, Kujou-sama? Your classmates are also waiting for you. They are wondering if you can join them.

She then pointed behind her and sure enough, the people who probably invited her here were looking at her. Theyre not necessarily her followers. Just normal classmates.

Ignoring them would be inconsequential, to be honest. However, it still depends on what Marika will choose to do.

While the golden ringlet girl was contemplating her answer, I caught Tanakas gaze landing on me. It's intentional, of course.

From what I could guess, she was checking out whether I would do something like stop Marika.

Apart from that, I also picked up something from her. She seemed guarded. Shes possibly worried that I have caught onto her trickery.

To test that theory, I established eye contact with her and let my lips curve into a subtle smirk.

Almost instantly, Tanakas face dimmed. She immediately averted her gaze, not daring to look at me anymore. Her bodily movements became uneasy but at the same time, she was trying her hardest to appear normal.

Too bad, shes being too obvious to someone like me.

One of these days, Ill corner her for a talk. Given that shes still sticking close to Marika, I could get her on my side. Using her as a bridge to see that Takashima was also viable.

That guy was seeking revenge on Ichihara Jun. We could get along, right? The enemy of my enemy is my friend.

As for their attempt to use me, Id consider putting that aside. I might be petty but I have my priorities straight. I benefited from their machinations anyway.

After deliberating for a while, Marika soon answered, she put on her graceful smile and waved at her classmates. I suppose I should tell them that I will not be accompanying them anymore. Can I trouble you to relay it to them?

Tanaka reluctantly nodded, I understand. But what about Ichihara-sama? Hes also waiting.

Ah. Of course, shes going to bring him up. Even at this moment, that guy was observing us from his seat. His frown was gradually becoming his default face.

Marika only looked at him for a moment before saying, Jun-kun will understand. You dont need to concern yourself over it.

The guy probably got an idea that hes being discussed. His expression darkened and he clenched his fist.

At the next moment, he stood up from his seat to approach us as well.

When Tanaka noticed that, she stepped back along with the followers. Having understood that its impossible to persuade Marika to go back with them, theyre giving the floor to the guy.

Or so, thats how its going to happen.

But it was at this point that I sprang up into action. With my girls also waiting on what my next move will be, I should wrap this up soon.

Senpai, shall I talk to Ichihara-senpai? I believe he wont refuse if I tell him that youre going to accompany us.

Shizu shook her head upon hearing that. Furthermore, I heard my girls snickering behind me, especially Nami. My intention was too clear, after all.

She pinched my side and sneaked in a whisper.

Ruu, dont start a fight, alright? Your fist hasnt healed yet.

Well, I wasnt even planning to. Theres no point. Nonetheless, I get where shes coming from.

I wont. Trust me. I replied to that before standing up.

Then, without waiting for Marika to respond, I already stood up to block Ichihara Juns path.

Tanaka was flabbergasted and so were the followers that came with her when I walked past them.

And obviously, upon seeing me moving, the crease of Ichihara Juns forehead crumpled even further.

He reflexively stopped in his steps, his arms moving to his stomach.

Ah. Hes probably having a recollection of what I let him taste before.

W-what? Im not here to talk to you. Step aside. He said with a shaky voice. Hes clearly trying his hardest to appear composed but his body wasnt cooperating with him.

I know that, senpai. However, do you really want to go through this? Is what happened earlier not enough? Dont worry, Marika-senpai is in good hands.

It sounded like a simple reminder but layered beneath it was a threat. If he wants to be made a fool once again, hes welcome to try it.

With Marika also keen on protecting me from him, its quite a certainty that he will just get humiliated.