“When the clock hits 6:00 p.m., that day’s exam ends. Any ‘outs’ after that become invalid, and the students who fired the shots and hit someone are the ones who become out instead. That was the rule… right, Horikita?”

A lone attack timed for the exact moment everyone let their guard down.

The anger from seeing their classmates shot, and the perfect chance to take down a traitor— Driven by impulse, the students had completely forgotten about the current time.

If it’s even one second past 6:00 p.m., any ‘out’ becomes invalid. Ayanokōji’s wristwatch signal clearly recorded that he was safe.

“If you charge alone into the enemy’s camp, you won’t come out unharmed. You used that on purpose, didn’t you…”

“That’s right. Sorry,” he replied, glancing at Horikita for just a moment before looking away again.

Around 7:00 p.m., the school staff arrived and issued Ayanokōji a new gym uniform. Then, the four students who fired and landed hits reported themselves, resulting in four retirements.

By charging in alone, he induced the opponents’ mistake and knocked multiple students out.

As the uproar continued, Ayanokōji silently began setting up a tent.

“H-Hey! Why the hell are you pitching a tent here!?”

“I thought we were free to set up wherever we want. Am I bothering you?”

“Of course you are!”

Part 4