Melancholy, unmotivated Kiyotaka Ayanokouji attends his first day at Tokyo Metropoiltan Advanced Nurturing High School, a government-established institution for training a generation of Japan's best and brightest. In this school, it is said, everything is decided based on merit, which includes the generous monthly "point" allowance students can spend at local shops. As Ayanokouji begins navigating this system, he also nurtures curious relationships with aloof fellow outsider Suzune Horikita and the terminally gregarious Kikyou Kushida.

Classrooms analyze their and others test results. Points distribution is late. Three students from 1-C reported Sudo for attacking them.

Even during summer vacation, lone wolf Horikita would rather remain locked in her room studying than interacting with others. One day, Ayanokouji invites her to visit the pool with some of the others.

Class D has achieved a degree of unity in facing the special test, so Ayanokouji and Horikita head out to see how the other classes are getting along. Class B is working together to make a comfortable life for themselves, while Class A remains secretive.

Ayanokoji's class embarks on their first trial as the ascended Class C, the mixed training camp.

While Class C are discussing Karuizawa and Hirata's break up Yamauchi is approached by Sakayanagi from Class A. Horikita warns that it's a trap, but Yamauchi pays it no heed. Meanwhile, Horikita tells Ayanokoji that rumors are swirling around Ichinose.

After conversing with her brother Manabu, Horikita offers Yamauchi name as the one who should be expelled. Not only has he made few contributions to the class, but he also worked with Sakayanagi in Class A to expel Ayanokoji.

Class C considers various strategies for the special exam, but they all lack a decisive factor. Hirata remains disappointed in the class vote result. Ayanokoji calls out to Hirata, who acts coldly towards Mii-chan who is worried about him.