Studying Early is a Good Thing

"Guys, I'd like to hear your thoughts on something."

Finally, I decide to interrupt their conversation.

They stop and look at me, as if to say they're all ears.

"I'm thinking of proposing to the class to form study groups starting tomorrow. What do you think?"

Knowing the plot, this point is imperative for my plans.

"Um... Don't you think it's a bit... too soon? I mean, we've barely started classes."

Hasebe replied.

She's not wrong.

'It is indeed quite early. However, if it's not done now, the class might...'

I then turn my gaze to Sudō, who doesn't seem eager to participate.

"And what about you, Sudō-kun? What do you think?"

Seeing that he's been singled out, he starts scratching his head, feeling a bit embarrassed.

"As for me, Kōenji-kun, you described me pretty well earlier in class. Me and studying... It's a bit complicated. To be honest, I'm not really interested."

"But you did pass the entrance exam for this school, right?"

Hasebe asks.

"To tell the truth, I have no idea how I did that. I messed up all my other exams except for this one."

After listening to their viewpoints, it's time for me to express mine as well.

"I agree with you, Hasebe-chan, it's really early. However, I like to believe in the saying 'the early bird catches the worm.' The earlier we prepare, the better, don't you think?"

In the face of my argument, Hasebe seems hesitant, partly convinced.

"For you, Sudō, I know your only goal is to become a professional basketball player. But think about it for a second. According to this school, graduates are guaranteed 100% acceptance into any profession. And last I heard, being a basketball player is a profession, isn't it?"

"Wait... So you're saying that if I graduate from here, then I could join any club in the future?"

I didn't even need to finish, Sudō caught onto my thought.

'Personally, I'm not sure if that's true, but if we go by this school's advertising, then it should be possible to some extent, right?'

"I don't know if really all clubs will be open to you, but don't you think that's an opportunity?"

Sudō took a moment to reflect, pondering for a while. Then, looking at me with an intense, determined gaze, he placed his right hand on my left hand, me being on his right and Hasebe on his left.

"Kōenji-kun, I'm with you on this. For the love of studying!"

"Do you really think we'll buy that? It's obvious there's something else motivating you."

Hasebe fired at Sudō energetically.

"No matter what you say, Hasebe-chan, you'll never be a hindrance to my studies."

"That's really the pot calling the kettle black. Anyway, I'm also on board, but convincing the class..."

"It's okay. I'll make sure to convince them like I did with you."

The truth is, I'm sure to convince the class after being able to do it with them.

Hasebe represents the group of lazy students and Sudō the group of idiots. If both groups accept my proposal, the other groups who have no problems with studying will follow suit. At least, that's what should happen.

Afterwards, we talked about more pleasant and mundane topics.

Around 5 p.m., we left the Keyaki Center to head back to the dormitories.

Upon arrival, we exchanged a few final words before finally saying goodbye.

Students are required to reside in one of the four construction units used for dormitory purposes. Each unit is a 15-story building composed of at least 140 rooms, which are individually divided among the students. The first seven floors above ground level are dedicated to male students, while the upper seven floors are intended for female students.

While Hasebe and I occupy the same building 2, this is not the case for Sudō, who occupies building 3.

Since his room is on the upper floors, Hasebe and I parted ways on the third floor where my room is located, room 306.

Using the key card given to us at reception, I open my room.

It's a fairly large space with a living room, bedroom, shower, and kitchen. Basic amenities are already there such as a bed, refrigerator, and oven.

I put down my things and then lie down on my already made bed.

"What a day."

Just a few hours ago, I was on a bus back from work, and now here I am in this world.

"Up until now, I haven't woken up. Is this really my new reality?"

I still can't fully grasp what has happened to me.

It must be said that it's really crazy. But I'm living it. There's no point in dwelling on it.

Yes, that's true, there's no point. In the world I came from, I screwed up my life, having no friends and no family.

"I have nothing there waiting for me, so I might as well start over from scratch here. I could start over entirely. A new life."

I'm so excited that I can't calm down. My eyes remained wide open, staring at the ceiling...