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 Chapter 1: Suddenly, the harmony of
the Hikigaya household is destroyed.

I typed away at the keyboard on my laptop as I lay on the floor.

For the most part, I had finished the research project. Now its just a matter of
making it presentable and it was complete.

With that being said, this research project wasnt mine. My high schools assignment
was just a math workbook which I promptly got out of the way by copying down
answers. No big deal, I was set on a private university for liberal arts, so math wasnt
necessary.This research project wasnt mine, but Komachis, my little sister.

As for the aforementioned person in question, she was laying next to me

recovering from her exam studying fatigueand was raising our beloved cat
Kamakura high up while squeezing his paws.

This brat how could she be doing this when theres someone next to her slaving over
her work right now? Dont make me squeeze your paws![1]

Well, I did want her to concentrate on her exams, so I had to at least give her this
much service. The pervading idea that theres no meaning unless you did something
yourself was quite right, but common sense need not rear its head before my little
sister.Morality and logic were nothing but a triviality, for the meaning of little
sister was the combination of the meanings of woman and the end.

In other words, the beginning and the future of women were little sisters and
eventually, the end for all women. The Alpha and the Omega[2] as they say.

From origin to the end. It could very well be called the final form of evolution for all
women. To stand at the summit of all women meant standing above all of mankind;
theres no way I could go against an opponent like that. Henceforth, we established
the Theory of Ultimate Little Sisters.

Therefore, I ended up doing half of Komachis research project Therefore what?

Well, how about this then? Learning how to use people and culltivating personal

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connections thatd come to your aid was a form of studying as well.

As those thoughts swirled in my head, I hammered away at the keyboard and the
idiotic, but pleasant report was complete.

Now then, I just needed to add the name, Hikigaya Komachi to the report.

And lastly, ENTER KEY, BAM![3] and saved the document. I pushed the laptop
towards Komachi.

There, its done. Make sure to look it over.

Mmmm. Komachi rolled on the floor towards my side.

Komachi looked at the screen, nodding her head, and then stopped.

.Onii-chan. Komachi slowly opened her mouth. Her voice this time was the
deepest I had heard yet. It was deep, yet her smile was scary. What ever could this
be?

U-Um I figured Id write something very Komachi-like, so I frantically answered

when she questioned me.

Komachis shoulders trembled after hearing my answer. Komachi-like O-Onii-

chan, thats how youve been seeing me all this time? Im so shocked! Absolutely
shocked!

She held her head with her hands and rolled around on the floor while groaning. I
stayed there watching her for a moment due to how cute she was until she jumped
up to her feet and pointed her finger at me. How is this like me at all!? I mean,
those last two sentences were totally you, onii-chan!

Oh okay, I guess it was no good, after all No, actually, even I thought I was pushing
it. Wait, so the first half was relatively Komachi-like then, huh? Thats more
surprising to me.

Fine, fine, Ill fix it. I just gotta do it, right? Okay, okay. Its not even my
responsibility, but Ill just shut up and do it anyway.

Stop! Dont you take that sloven corporate underling attitude with me! Komachi
placed her hands on her hips in anger, but then sighed in resignation. She groaned as
if reflecting on the situation. Well, its my assignment in the first place, so Ill
finish the rest. Thanks for everything so far.

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When she showed me how admirable she was, even I was itching to get the report
done properly. It might be out of character for me, but maybe I shouldve done it
seriously from the start as soon as I accepted the job regardless of how lazy I was
feeling.

Well you know. It kind of got annoying in the latter half, so it just happened
Sorry, Ill help you as much as I can.

Komachis eyes shined the moment I said that. She looked like a yamapikaryaa[4].
That word meant Iriomote cat around here. Yamapikaryaa!

I knew youd say that, onii-chan! Thats why I love you, onii-chan!

Yeah, yeah, I love, love, love, I love you, too.[5]

She was exploding with her usual Komachi points again and albeit somewhat
annoying, I dealt with her nonchalantly. After all, I did do most of the research so
far, so I should at least conclude it myself.

As I typed explanations one after the other, our cat dragged himself over and
listlessly sat in front of the screen.

Just why did cats occupy themselves in front of TVs and sit on top of newspapers,
anyway?

Komachi.

Roger. Komachi saluted and enacted her strategy to remove Kamakura.

When she swiped him up, Kamakura floundered his legs and tried to escape. Just
like how some people had soft hair, a cats fur was just as soft and smooth.

Komachi was quick to take his guard down by tickling his neck and as soon as he
did, she began brushing him. She went from head to tail while humming in glee.

Fufufu. Youre a bad little kitty if you think you could get in our way .

Hes actually an old man if were talking about his age.

How old was Kamakura again? He was around 4 or 5 years old when he arrived at
our home. If we converted his age to human years, then hed be roughly around
Hiratsuka-senseis age. I want to introduce our cat to her.

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I handed over the research project material to Komachi and could finally start
dealing with my own affairs.

The clock was just about to point to 11. I needed to get ready to head to my summer
classes in the afternoon.

When I changed into the appropriate clothes, the intercom sounded.

Was it the redelivery I requested for from Amazon? To think you guys would aim for
the time period where I wasnt home, are you guys ninjas or something?

When I opened the door of the entrance while squeezing my seal stamp, there was
an unexpected individual there.

Y-Yahallo.

Sporting a chinese bun style with light-brown dyed hair, wearing summer-like
clothes, and supporting a carry bag with both hands, Yuigahama Yui was idly
standing while being cautious of her surroundings.

Y-Yeah

This unexpected sight caused me to freeze in place. We both stayed quiet as if

feeling each other out, trying to figure out what we should do.

Speaking of people who had come to our front door to this day, the only people who
I could think of was the express home delivery fellow and the old lady next door
who passed on the circular notice to us, so I found it difficult to accept the fact that
someone from my school had made their way into my private domain. An
appropriate analogy would be like having a gazelle at an aquarium. The only places
youd see a gazelle were the savannas, zoos, or the world of Ultimate Muscle 2.[6]

I squeezed the open door, retained my cool, and said, You need something?

This shouldve been the second time Yuigahama had visited my home. The first time
was when she came to express her gratitude after the recent car accident. However, I
didnt meet her directly at the time.

U-Um is Komachi-chan home?

She probably made some kind of promise with Komachi.

Komachiii, your friends hereeee. I called out to Komachi like a mother and she

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came down to the door. Before I noticed, she had changed her clothes. Werent you
just wearing a single shirt earlier?

Hey Yui-san, welcome. Come on in, come on in, dont be shy.

Okay, thanks. E-Excuse me for intruding said Yuigahama, but as if feeling

hesitant from going in our house, she took a small breath. She then took a step
through the entrance as if she had prepared herself. Our home wasnt a grand
dungeon or anything, though.

Upon entering our home, Yuigahama curiously looked around. Cmon, you really
dont need to touch that wooden bear.

Another persons home was not only mysterious, but an outer zone. Im sure theres
some kind of culture shock when you entered a different cultural sphere. Yuigahama
looked at the most ordinary of things like the stairs, windows, and walls. Every time,
shed go ohh or woooow which kind of got on my nerves

Even after we made it into the living room on the second floor, Yuigahama still felt
anxious with her eyes swimming around, but stopped them after seeing the shelf of
books. She slid her fingers on the shelf and frighteningly opened her mouth, Whoa,
there sure are a lot of books.

Both my dad and onii-chan loves books, so its going to keep increasing and
increasing. Komachi answered from the kitchen counter.

I dont think there were that many books, but she doesnt look like the type to read
either

Its extremely rare for someone to come to our house.

We were a prominent modern day family; both our parents worked and didnt
socialize very often with our neighbors. In the event we did meet with them, wed at
most exchange greetings and the only things we really knew about each other were
our names.

Thanks to that, I had no idea how to receive our visitors. Theres not much I could
do about being called an uncivil fool. I might just even throw ashes at the mortuary
tablet of my dads funeral.[7] Oh wow, its like Im some kind of famous figure. Just a
worthless thought, but the guys who could proudly claim, But hey, even Edison
wasnt very good at studying either! were not only bad at studying but everything
else as well. The more you know.

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Mm

I pulled the seat and suggested, Why dont you take a seat? to Yuigahama with a
groan.

It came out awkward since I wasnt used to this kind of hospitality. I was like a super
rural kid offering an umbrella to the city girl in the middle of the rain. Heck, I might
just blurt out to her afterwards, Haha! Your house is a haunted mansion![8]

Th-Thanks.

When Yuigahama quietly took her seat, Komachi came from the kitchen and placed
a cup on the table. The ice of the barley tea bumped into each other.

So, what are you here for? I asked her not knowing the actual reason for her visit.

Then, Yuigahama carefully showed the carry bag she was holding on her lap.

Um, I asked Komachi-chan for a favor about Sabure said Yuigahama, and opened
the bag.

Once it was open, an indescribable, blasphemous, and hairy creature jumped out
and crawled its way towards me. It had light brown fur with cute, round eyes, short
legs, and a waggy and fluttering tail. If the times hadnt changed, then this creature
would be the most noble of them all; it was a dog.

Yuigahamas dog, Sabure, aimed straight for me. What am I, Friskies MonPetit[9]? He
didnt stop at all, running with all his energy.

SABURE used TACKLE! Its super effective! Hachiman blacked out![10]

Sabure rammed me down with excessive energy, licking as much as he could going
Hachiman, lick, lick! and I peeled him off. I lifted him up and I could see his tail
wagging up and down.

Whats with this guy? Huh? Isnt his fur a lot shorter than before?

Compared to two months earlier, the length of his fur appeared much shorter. Did
he use the Beast Spear[11] last time or something?

Ahh, right. Sabure has a long coat, so we gave him a summer cut.

Oh ho

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I mean, its fine whatever it is, whether it be a Somersault, Uppercut, or a Spinning
Piledriver.[12]

So whyd you bring this mutt here?

I released Sabure from my grasp, but he continued to circle around my legs and
didnt seem to be leaving my side anytime soon. Hes being so persistent that I
wasnt sure what to do and just woof, woof, woofd.

I made a complaining look to Yuigahama asking her to do something about him and
Yuigahama called to him, Sabure, come here.

As soon as he reached her, she picked him up and as she gently stroked him, she
continued, My familys going on a trip after this.

Family trip, huh? Those words felt awfully nostalgic somehow.

I thought it wasnt a topic you talk about all that often once you became a high
school student, but then again, I didnt have anyone to talk to about it, indeed.

Your family seems pretty close. Unlike my family

Its just onii-chan decides to stay home, right? said Komachi, instantly answering.

Yuigahama murmured in astoundment, Thats Hikki for you

Its almost as if shes showing me some respect. Oh hey, maybe you did have a good
eye for people? Or so I thought, but it turned out she was just looking at someone
pitiful.

Thats not it. Its because I said I wouldnt go when I was in middle school. After
that, I just stopped going along with them, thats all.

I wasnt exactly in my rebellious age, but its oddly embarassing going on a trip with
my family. So thats why I rejected the offer to go along, but my damn pops was
totally happy about it

Well, who cares about my pops. Yuigahamas trip was the main focus right now.

So whats this about your trip?

Ah, yeah, so while were on our trip, we were hoping to keep Sabure here for a little
while or something.

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Yuigahama looked up at me asking, Is that okay?

Although I was a Japanese person who could say NO[13] to most requests, seeing
Komachi smiling from ear to ear as she rubbed Sabure made it difficult to turn her
down.

But I couldnt just tell her upfront, Okay, okay. Once she was given the first reply
already, then theres no way I could give her another one.

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Why bother leaving him at our place when were so far away?

Since its Yuigahama, Im sure she had plenty of close friends to ask and theres been
recent talk about how pet hotels had improved quite a bit.

The thing is, Yumiko and Hina have never owned a pet before. At first, I tried
asking Yukinon, but she said there was a lot going on at her home, so Yuigahama
mumbled hesitantly with an anxious look.

Well, Yukinoshita wasnt very good at dealing with dogs, so Im sure shed refuse
anyway even if she wasnt at home Ah, no, surprisingly, she might just say, Leave
it to me and accept, only to timidly try to give food to Sabure. As I imagined the
pleasant scenario, Komachi who noticed Yuigahamas silence asked further, Did
something happen with Yukino-san?

When asked, Yuigahama stuttered. She then turned towards me with uncertain eyes.
R-Right Hikki, do you keep in touch with Yukinon?

No, I dont even have her number.

I didnt own a carrier pidgeon and unless I tried stuffing a letter in a jar and have the
ocean carry it to her, I had no way of contacting her. I asked Komachi with a look,
What about you? and she shook her head.

Like, Ive been sending her a lot of mails and calling her a lot.

So whats the problem?

Whenever I call her, the answering machine would pick up and then shed send a
mail to me later. It takes a long time for her to respond back to my mails, too And
like, her mails seem a lot less energetic or dull than they usually are Whenever I
try to invite her to go out, for some reason, shes always busy

Haha

Shes clearly avoiding you. I mean, thats what all the girls did in middle school when I
sent them a mail, or so I wanted to say, but I stopped myself.

After all, Yuigahama wouldnt fail to recognize that someone was trying to push her
away. As an expert of reading the mood and adjusting herself to it, theres no way
she could miss seeing this basic of a basic step.

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I wonder if I did something wrong to her Yuigahama laughed weakly.

Dont let it bother you. Maybe she really is just having a lot of stuff to deal with at
her home. Once school starts again, things will just naturally go back to normal.

As out of character it was for me, I gave her some encouragement. Its my speciality
to state baseless things like these. So for the phrase full of lies which encompassed
800 lies, I wanted to make it represent 80,000 lies instead.

But it certainly wasnt a complete lie. Its true that she had a lot going on at her
home.

This was in the beginning of August, more than two weeks ago.

That time when we went our separate ways after the camp.

Ever since Yukinoshita was taken back home by her older sister, Haruno-san, we had
never met again.

But the car driven by their chauffeur that the Yukinoshita sisters rode in caused a
series of flashbacks in my head.

About a year ago, Yuigahama and I were involved in an accident. What triggered
that incident was a single chauffeur-driven car. I wasnt sure whether the car of the
accident was the same one on that day a few weeks earlier. Only my vague
memories related the two together.

There wasnt a single piece of evidence of it. Testimony, declaration, verdict, none at
all.

In that continuing, murky atmosphere, only time continued on.

Even after my dubious encouragement, Yuigahama still looked worried. Y-You

think so?

No, I have no idea.

What the heck? Thats too random. Yuigahama made a dumbfounded smile..

But I really didnt know anything.

I didnt know Yukinoshita Yukino.

Of course, I knew her on the surface; I knew her name, her face, how good her

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grades were, how she didnt get close to people, how she liked cats and Pan-san, how
she had a pretty foul mouth, and how she could be rather careless sometimes.

But thats all I knew.

Knowing that much was by no means knowing someone. In the same way people
didnt understand me, I didnt understand them either. Thats something I musnt
forget.

Exactly what was necessary so you could claim you knew someone?

When I was on the verge of falling into a labyrinth of thought, a small, noisy barking
noise could be heard.

Upon looking, there was a low, growling noise afterwards. It looked like Sabure and
Kamakura were engaged in a battle of intimidation, skittering around Komachi.

Kamakura threw up a barrier telling Sabure to not get any closer, but he tore it down
with beams of fondness and chased after him. Komachi watched them in glee
without putting a stop to their struggle.

Is this going to continue for a while? I had an annoyed look and Yuigahama said
apologetically, A-Ahaha, s-sorry. We thought about the pet hotels too, but theyre
really packed during this season.

And thats where we come in, onii-chan.

Komachi struck her chest with a ta-dah!and proudly chuckled. Why do you look so
reliable? Are you some kind of ship captain?

Hmph, well, since she mailed Yuigahama a lot, I imagine the suggestion came up at
some point.

I mean if we dont do this, there wont be any opportunities in the summer. Its your
chance! Komachi quietly murmured.

I had the feeling her eyes sparkled with a flash , but I was more occupied with her
usage of Zaimokuzas favorite phrase, Chance. I wonder if my influence had spread
even further? I really hope it didnt get popular Id be a total victim.

Well, if Komachis okay with it, then its fine with me.

This was my clever little sister were talking about here. She probably already made

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arrangements with mom. And once she conquered our mom, the only one left was
our daughter-doting father.

At the Hikigaya household, the oldest son had no say in the decision-making. The
hierarchy consisted of mom, followed by Komachi, pops, and lastly, me. Oh, the
highest position was occupied by the cats, okay? They only saw humans as
manservants.

Anyway, were fine with looking after him, but what should we do about his food?
Pita Woof? Frontline? Dont tell me, you want Pedigree for him? Were not wealthy
enough for that, you know.

How the heck do you know so much? Wait a minute, Frontline is for getting rid of
fleas! Now Im kinda worried Yuigahama quivered with a concerned expression.

Komachi smiled to relieve her of her concerns. Dont worry, we used to own a dog a
long time ago.

R-Really?

Pretty much, I said. Its a pretty old story, though. My memories were a little
fuzzy, but then again, I had the feeling either our parents or Komachi took care of
him most of the time.

Yuigahama then smiled warmly. Ohh, thats kinda surprising.

My brother likes both cats and dogs. Its just people that he hates

Am I the first underworld detective[14] or something?

But well, Komachi wasnt necessarily wrong. Its true that I didnt hate dogs or cats. If
anything, its certain breeds that I liked.

Its just cats in particular were what I liked.

Gentlemen, I liked cats. Gentlemen, I loved cats. I liked American shorthair cats. I
liked toroiseshell cats. I liked Sphinx cats. I liked ragdolls. I liked American curl cats.
I liked Scottish holder cats. I liked Persian cats. I liked Singapuras. I liked Russian
Blue cats.

Back alley, cat beds, cat tower, the top of a refrigerator, under the bed, on the rail of
the veranda, inside a cardboard box, in a paper bag, on a persons back, and in a
futon.

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I loved all the cats who were all over the place.

Actually, its the bastards who abused cats that I couldnt forgive. I wanted people
who didnt cherish life to die. I absolutely hated people who didnt cherish life!

As I enacted out a fervent speech internally, Yuigahama showed a relieved smile. I

guess I wont have to worry then. Sabure seems attached to Hikki, too.

Dont get your hopes up. Im the type of person much more suited to being watched
over than doing the watching. You can even call me a pro of being cultivated.
I had been raised for the past 17 years, so living any other way was out of the
question. Since my personality was cultivated with my molded adolescence, theres
no way I could fix it now.

When I answered while poking Sabure who lay next to me with his stomach exposed,
Komachi swiped him away. Anyway, just leave Sabure-chan to me! Ill make quick
work of him to the point he wont be able to go on without me!

Komachi was brimming with motivation to steal him away.

Oh, Im not sure Id like that, but Okay, please take care of him for me then.
Yuigahama had an an uneasy look, but she bowed her head. She then looked at her
inward-facing wristwatch to check the time.

Ah, I should get going. My familys waiting for me.

Sure, sure, Ill see you off.

I watched the two go by me and down the stairs with just my eyes while rummaging
through the carry bag that Yuigahama entrusted me with. Inside the bag, there was
dog food and other necessities needed for taking care of Sabure. By the way, the dog
food was Science Diet. The dog was living a healthier life than I was

As for Sabure, the dog in question, he was sniffing the room as he loitered around.
Ahh, perhaps hes reacting to the smell of a cat in here?

As for Kamakura, just when did he get away? He was plopped on top of the
refrigerator and looking down on Sabure and me with sleepy eyes.
Its not like he hated Sabure or had no interest in him. Since he didnt know how to
interact with him, he was acting weary and distant.

In his gaze that was as if he was retreating a step back, I remembered something.

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Its because it was Yuigahamas birthday that it was still vivid in my mind.

A momentary break of clear weather in the rainy season. A girl wearing a lonely
smile, the offensive red glow of the sunset raining down on her from behind.

At the time, she had undoubtedly drawn a line.

A line indicating that she was different from the two of us, the victims.

Exactly what was that boundary line?

Now I was finally beginning to understand what it was.

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 Chapter 2: As always, Kawasaki Sakis
name cant be remembered.

It was an early afternoon of summer vacation.

The number of people riding the train seemed less than the usual.

I rode the train past several stations and got off at Tsudanuma station. I went
through the ticket gates and turned right. From there, I entered the thin waves of
people and continued on.

At the Sasaki Seminar of Tsudanuma Institute, summer courses were being held that
targeted second years in high school. Students who were looking to buckle down on
their entrance exams were already well on their way towards preparing starting this
season.

But even so, we were still second years. A lax atmosphere pervaded the surroundings
indicating that there was still room to take it easy.

If we were third years, thered be sparks and electricity flying all over. There were
even times where youd get chased out of the lecture room for falling asleep in the
middle of the lecture.

Afterwards, youd be brought to some place resembling a drawing-room and get

yelled at by the lecturer, and be told by a tutor halfway through, Do you want to
change lectures? with an admonishing tone; At least, thats what they said on the
internet.

The classroom where a class of private-university difficulty targeting second year

high school students was near empty.

Lectures were five days a week. The curriculum was set to teach English and Modern
Japanese together for five days and optionally social studies.

A few days ago, I had finished up all the lectures for social studies, so today onwards,
my schedule would consist of English and Modern Japanese lectures.

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Due to no one noticing my entry into the room, I took a seat closest from the door
at the front.

Its standard for seats to be designated as VIP seats, so its an established fact that the
most prominent cliques would occupy them. Since getting involved with them would
only beget suffering, my seat was either one at the very front or somewhere in the
middle. The seats that loners should aim for were the ones on the side edges since
they were in good blind spots. Well, it might be difficult to see the blackboard, but
you could concentrate easily in class; actually, its because no one talked to you that
you had to concentrate. Then again, thats a plus.

I promptly took out my textbooks and notes. I rested my cheeks in my hands in a

daze until the lecture started.

I waited patiently for the scheduled time while watching groups of friends spend
their time engaging in seemingly enjoyable chats.

Next summer, this peaceful mood would probably disappear.

High school exams were the same way.

Those who managed to receive a recommendation were maliciously insulted while

those who passed were cursed from the shadows. I had a feeling which was almost
definite that the same things would happen even after we turned into third years.
And then four years later, the cycle would repeat when you were job hunting for
sure. The nature of people wouldnt change whether it was three years or seven.

But right now, what I should be focused on was not the past, but whats in front of
me. So for starters, I had to look towards university exams.

Those who started early would shift their attentions towards exams starting this
summer and get serious. The first pressing goal was the center exams. Put the goal at
the center and get serious Put the goal at the center and get serious Put the goal at
the center As I ran simulations with vacant eyes, someone appeared at the corner of
my vision. As if shouting angrily, Idiot! The explosions are obscuring my vision of
the enemy! I came to my senses in an instant.

Her dark blue hair tied into one bundle dangled down past her long back. Her tall
figure looked flexible and attracted peoples attention. She sported a long-T shirt
with sleeves covering three-fourths of her arm, denim short pants, and leggings and
had a sack lightly dangling over her shoulders. She walked apathetically in her
sandals that rubbed against the floor.

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When that girl walked past in front of me, she stopped. Finding her actions
unnatural, I directed my eyes at her.

So youre taking classes here, too.

A drowsy voice spoke to me along with a cold gaze. Under her grumpy looking eyes
was a mole.

She seems awfully familiar. Who was she again?

I might as well tell you now. Thanks.

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29
I had no idea why she was thanking me, but it didnt seem like she got the wrong
person. Its not a common occurrence for a loner to be spoken to. Unless its
something important, no one spoke to loners.

You know how you told me about that scholarship? I managed to get it. Things are
going okay with Taishi, too.

The name Taishi had a familiar, but unpleasant ring to it. After querying my I
definitely wont forgive list, I had a hit on the name Kawasaki Taishi. Hoho, isnt
that the poisonous insect that was trying to get close to Komachi?

So was this person related to him?

After I looked at her dark blue hair, I realized something.

Blood Type Blue![15] Kawa Kawagoe? Kawashima? Kawaragi? Okay, I guess

anything works. Its Kawasomething-san!

I thought she was GaGaGa Bunko[16] for a second there with how blue she was

Uh, yeah, sure. Youre the one that made the scholarship happen, though.

For now, I went along with her conversation and then her name popped up in my
mind. Her name was Kawasaki Saki.

I guess, but Taishi just keeps talking about you Whatever. Anyway, I gave you my
thanks, said Kawasaki, telling me only that as if it was her obligation and left.

It was a curt exchange, but Kawasaki Saki was just that kind of girl. She chose to be
alone and not approach anyone and gave off a teeny aura of delinquency.

A girl like that spoke to me of her own accord. It felt like her attitude had gotten
rather soft. Intrigued by that change, I found myself following her with my eyes.

She took a seat three rows behind me, took out her cellphone, and moved her
fingers. Judging by her behavior, she was probably typing a mail.

And there, Kawasaki broke into a smile.

Huh, so she can make those kinds of expressions, too. I mean, usually shed look out
of it and look either really aggressive or overpowering. But anyway, thats a face you
couldnt see at school. Then again, I dont recall ever seeing her at school either. Its

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a basic for fellow loners not to interfere with each other.

As I watched her thinking how I saw something rare, our eyes met.

The completely flushed Kawasaki made an incredible glare at me. Oh dear, whats
with that person? So scary! I shook my head as if my shoulders were completely
frozen! and then made the effort to remove myself from Kawasakis gaze.

Nevermind, she didnt get softer at all. Youre at a prep school for crying out loud, at least
mellow out a bit. Round out that square head[17] of yours.

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 2-2
Once the English lecture ended, there was a short break. I went down the stairs and
bought a can of MAX COFFEE from a vending machine. I made my way back to the
classroom I was in earlier while sipping it.

As for everyone else who took the same lecture, each of them was minding their
own business; they were fiddling with their phones, reading a book, or staring at the
textbook for the upcoming modern Japanese lecture.

Most people generally tend to be by themselves and in this situation in particular,

loners were the majority as opposed to our regular schooling.

The situation was also different at the cram school I attended when i was in middle
school.

Cram schools back then were ultimately just an extension of your daytime schooling
and made it only more apparent that those who had no place to belong in middle
school had no place anywhere else. And since everyones relationships carried over
to the lectures, they were considerably irritable spaces to be in.

Because of that, you became desperate to rise to the more advanced classes. For
every tier you went up, the quietness of the classroom would increase as well as the
range of lectures and student learning levels.

Now that I think back on it, perhaps people only hung out with others so they could
justify their stay in the lower classes.

They halted all of their efforts using their friends as a reason and sought friendship
as an excuse to stay in lukewarm waters. This model inspired situations like couples
wanting to attend the same high school together or adjusting your level and bringing
down your standards when choosing schools to go to.

Back then, those conversations in class that found their way to my ears really gave
me the chills.

If you were really thinking of the other person, then you shouldnt be holding him
back nor should you be pampering him in the first place. You were really just opting
for the easy way out all so you could indulge in the continuity of your slovenly every
day life.

On top of that, if you got wind of the rumor that you broke up within two months

32
after getting into the same high school, you wouldnt be suffering from abdominal
pain on one side of your stomach, let alone the other; youd be well on your way
towards getting peritonitis. And thats where youd say you were young to try to
justify it, right?

Perhaps its because I was observant to all of this on the side. I didnt believe for a
second in friendships that were only in appearance or love like that. I had no faith in
the type of kindness that indulged in self-sacrifice used for excuses or the type of
kindness thats full of deception.

So regarding that point, the system of prep schools was good.

Theres moderate intervention with the students as well as indifference between

students. By eliminating all the processes that were unnecessary to studying, they
were able to design an optimized system of efficiency. The cram school I attended
back in middle school was considerably painful because of how buddy-buddy the
students were with the lecturers After all, most people were called by their first
names while I was the only one called by my last

Of course, lecturers and students could get along with each other just fine at prep
schools if they wanted to. Like the system of tutorsbasically university students
working part-timewho acted as student support staff. Apparently, they didnt help
with just your studies, but also served as personal and career consultants. Its like
openly welcoming anyone who wanted to act in an emotionally, moving teacher-
pupil movie on exams.

Fundamentally, preparatory schools had cool and solid atmospheres. You were also
liable to feeling even the cold sometimes. That atmosphere was comfortable for me.

People like normalfags (lol) could be found anywhere. If I drew a map of how their
habitats were distributed, itd be on the level of pill bugs and wharf roaches. I just
dont understand whyd they want to be something the world was so full of already.

Good grief, swarms of them Its because its summer that they became so active.
Thats what made them like insects, too. And since I hated insects, its a painful
season.

33
 2-3
I was assaulted by a peculiar feeling of despondency when the lecture finished,
possibly proof that I had concentrated for the past 90 minutes.

Unlike the good feeling of exhaustion you get from sports, exhaustion from studying
felt like your spirit was gradually hanging over your head. All the glucose in my head
had all been consumed and if it wasnt for the MAX COFFEE I had earlier, I wouldve
been in a much worse condition. TONE Coca-Cola Bottling Company should
definitely produce some products as a collaboration with test taking students; theyd
probably sell.

Now that my lectures for the day were over, I began preparing to head home.

Loners were the most energetic when its time to head home.

Fortunately, Tsudanuma was considerably advanced for an entertainment district.

There was an abundance of book stores and arcades. Its a district that wouldnt
leave any high school boy bored.

As I pondered over where to stop by on my way back home, there were taps at the
edge of the table.

I looked in the direction of the taps and Kawasaki Saki was standing with a grumpy
look. What? If you need something, say something. Do you have woodpeckers for
parents?

Do you need something?

Since she was giving off a Hear me out, damn it! aura, I decided to obediently ask
her for her business. When I did, Kawasaki hesitantly let out a small sigh. Jeez, if you
have a problem with me, then dont talk to me. Which is it?

Hey, are you free?

Uh, I actually have some stuff to do.

I automatically spat out a clich phrase I used when refusing something. This act of
preserving equilibrium by rejecting an invitation was more or less an instinct at this
point. Its a sensible act in today societys on the same vein as dont pick up
unknown phone numbers.

Most of the time, people would simply back off going, Ohhh, right, uh huh. Thats

34
what theyd do, but the fact they gave up so easily meant their invitation was just a
common courtesy. Heck, they looked totally relieved when they were refused. Good
grief, be more careful, would you? I feel there were times where itd be better to not
invite someone out of kindness.

But it didnt look like Kawasaki had invited me as a common gesture. Actually, I
wasnt even sure if this woman knew how to be that polite. Shes pretty outspoken
especially since she didnt cower away from Yukinoshita or Hiratsuka-sensei.

Kawasakis listless eyes narrowed. Like what?

Uh, well, you know, stuff Like, with my little sister.

I brought out Komachis name as an act of desperation. Kawasaki slightly nodded.

Oh really. Good. Mind coming with me for a bit?

Huh? I responded briefly for an explanation.

Kawasaki tiredly answered, I dont really have any business with you, but Taishi
does. Hes here at Tsudanuma right now.

Huh, I see. So that meant she was mailing her little brother earlier. She mustve had
some kind of brother complex if she made a smile like that in the middle of her
mail. Oh, but she did seem like shed have a complex about her bras, too. If theyre
too big, they had little to offer in terms of cuteness. Thats what my flat sister said!

Sorry, but I dont have any reason to spare your little brother any of my ti.

Your little sisters with him though.

What, okay, where should we go? Are they close? Can we get to them by feet within
five minutes? Should we run?

Say that first.

You know

She made a disgusted face for an instant, but I didnt pay Kawasaki any attention and
promptly got to my feet. I left the classroom with Kawasaki following behind me.

Its the Saizeriya right outside of this place. Know where it is?

Dont look down on me. I know every single thing about the Saizeriya, especially
the one next to the Sobu Line.

35
Heck, I even knew where the very first Saizeriya store was located. Saizeriyas
origins started in Motoyawata. Although they werent running any businesses over
there, they had signs set up there.

It totally made me want to write on the signs that the Tora no Ana office and its
distribution centers were actually in Motoyawata.

I exited through the entrance of the institute into the oppressively hot street. There
wasnt even a slightest breeze as the sunrays that were as though they were distorted
by the heat poured down on me.

The time between lectures. With people heading back and coming from the station,
the density of people in this neighborhood skyrocketed.

Kawasaki and I barely made any conversation as we maneuvered our way through
openings of the waves of people. I typically acted independently, so I had become
rather skilled at choosing empty paths to walk through. From here on was Stealth
Hikkis time to shine![18]

Apparently, Komachi and the poisonous insect were at the nearby Saizeriya.

How convenient. There were knives, forks, and an abundance of lethal weapons at
my disposal. Even better, I could rub his face with a hot, hot Milano Doria after
smashing it into him like a pie. I just needed to superimpose, *The staff deliciously
accepted the food and everything should be fine. They should forgive me for
everything with that. And afterwards, I could finish him off by rubbing tar sauce on
his open wounds.

I could feel my Soul Gem turning completely black.[19] Whoa, not good. At this rate,
Ill become a magical girl. Lets think about fun things instead So whens Magical
Girl Totsuka Saika gonna start?

My feelings reached an explosive point as I waited for the traffic signals and
Kawasaki who had been a step behind me opened her mouth. By the way,
Yukinoshita was taking the summer courses, too.

Ohh, that so.

Hearing her name caused me to react late.

As I recall, Yukinoshita was supposedly aiming to go to a national school for the

sciences. Kawasaki seemed to be taking those lectures as well. Well, in this season,
its natural if you still hadnt figured out what schools you wanted to go to. The only

36
reason I was aiming for a private school for the liberal arts was because I was a
complete wreck in mathematics. While were at it, my only choice in the future was
to be a full-time house husband.

I thought so before, but it really is hard to approach her.

Youre one to talk You do realize that youre always emitting that scary aura that girls
and even guys were afraid of, right?

Why are you looking at me?

Its nothing

She narrowed her uninterested eyes and gave me a piercing stare. I frantically
looked away. I just found it easy to imagine how Yukinoshita and Kawasaki would
act in a classroom. While they attracted everyones attention, there wasnt a single
person whod approach them.

That behavior was very representative of them, but I felt the things that were at their
roots were completely different.
Kawasakis aggressiveness came from her poor ability to communicate, but I felt
there was more underneath it. Its the stereotypical pattern where shed say too little.
I think shes just a bad speaker. If you saw her love for her little brother, you could
tell at least that much.

On the other hand, Yukinoshita was never really trying to be aggressive. Its just she
herself was a form of aggression. People who were superior were dazzling. They
evoked inferiority complexes and jealousy from others. Its those things that caused
her to be barred away from her surroundings and be subjected to spite. But even
worse, Yukinoshita was the type to completely confront that maliciousness and crush
it into a pulp.

If Kawasakis actions were a means to guard herself through intimidation, then

Yukinoshitas actions were always aimed for retribution.

The traffic signals turned green.

When I walked out, Kawasaki raised her voice in restraint. Hey. Could you thank
her for me? I never really managed to find the right time to tell her in the end.

Tell her yourself.

Well, Id like to, but its like, kinda awkward.

37
Finding it peculiar that Kawasakis voice was somewhat timid, I looked at her. She
dropped her eyes and walked on while looking at the ground. Theres always
someone you cant get along with even if its not their fault, right?

Yeah.

Yes. Thats certainly true.

Thats why the biggest compromise you could make was not to interfere with each
other. The decision to not involve yourself was also a way to be on mutual terms.

Getting close and friendly, chatting with a smile, going out and having fun together;
they werent just ways to get involved with others. They did those things to establish
an appropriate distance with others so they wouldnt be detested, an act which I
think deserved praise.

This was probably how Kawasaki saw Yukinoshita.

You had no choice but to accept it, but you still couldnt approach that person. Its
because you understood that nothing good would come from the both of you taking
that step for each other, that you were confident that youd just hurt each other.
Thats why you kept your distance. This wasnt running away or trying to be evasive,
but a realistic way to handle the situation; a display of respect.

Also, I dont think well be meeting for a while. If I dont see her in the lectures,
then the next time would be the start of school, right? Our classes are different, too.
But you can meet her for club or something, right?

No, I dont think Ill be seeing her until school either.

At the very least, we wouldnt see each other voluntarily. When I think about it, my
relationship with Yukinoshita was exactly that. Unless we were compelled to, we
wouldnt approach each other. Its not like I knew her number anyway.

Once we made it past the crosswalk, we descended down a flight of stairs that led
underneath a building. Footsteps weakly echoed.

And even if we do meet, its not like well actually talk about anything.

True. Its not like we talk about anything either.

Exactly.

38
Actually, if you talked to me, Id respond back properly, you know? As a matter of
fact, I was incredibly courteous to the point that itd be creepy. But if I knew the
person I was talking to was a loner like Kawasaki, we were like birds of a feather
which made it easier for me to act as I wanted.

As we continued climbing down, we were on the first floor of the underground.

After entering the store through the automatic door, Komachi was sitting at the table
immediately next to the drink bar. When she saw me, she waved her hand. Ohh,
onii-chan.

Ohh. I briefly responded and sat next to her. Ahead of me was a middle school
student with a name resembling Sano Yakuyoke Daishi[20]. When our eyes met, he
bowed his head.

Hey onii-san, sorry for bothering you.

Dont call me onii-san. Ill kill you.

Hey, you picking a fight with my little brother?

Kawasaki had silently taken a seat in front of me and was radiating with wrath.

Holy, shes staring daggers at me! People with brother complexes were seriously
creepy. Doting on a blood relative was totally creepy. Like totally creepy.

While Taishi soothed Kawasaki who was growling with intimidation, I sounded the
bell and promptly made my order.

I asked for a drink bar for two people. Since Kawasaki was frightening, I gave up on
face smashing with the Milano Doria.

As they would in the business world, I took my coffee and sipped it before getting
down to business.

So, didnt you need me for something?

Yes. The thing is, I wanted to ask you stuff about Sobu High.

Uh, ask your sister right there.

Kawasaki went to my school and she was even in my class. I had to make sure of
that, otherwise, I had the feeling Id forget her.

39
I really want to hear what another guy thought about it!

For some reason, Taishi was gripping his fist. Why does he look so into it?

But he could fire all sorts of questions at me, but the answers I could give werent
really anything that great.

Theres nothing particularly special about our school. I imagine its not all that
different from other high schools. I guess our school events might differ just a little
though, like how flashy our Cultural Festival could be or the levels of our clubs.

I didnt really know for sure since I had never seen other high schools before, but
thats my impression of them. At the very least, if we limited the schools to the ones
with the standard, full curriculum, then it shouldnt be a problem putting many
schools under a typical category. Ignoring the schools with special curriculums, most
schools werent all that distinct. In fact, my image of high school before and after
was mostly the same.

My one miscalculation was having to join the Service Club.

Mm? But if the schools standard test score averages are different, wouldnt the
school atmosphere be different? Komachi curiously tilted her head.

Well, I think having a higher average leads to less delinquents. Thats not going to
change those who admire delinquents though.

I shifted my gaze diagonally from me. When Kawasaki noticed that, she glared back.
And why are you looking at me? I dont admire them.

Oh, was I wrong? Its just, I couldnt help but get the feeling youd say something
like, Not the face, go for the body, the body[21] so

I cleared my throat as if hiding the fact I was pressured by Kawasakis glare and
started over. Right, so the gist is, the only thing that changes is the ratio of people
from your middle school to the people in high school. And so, everyone tries to act
like a high schooler and it gets really annoying.

Oh, act like a high schooler, huh? Taishi tilted his head not understanding what I
was getting at.

I dont know what youre hoping for, but when it comes down to it, everyones just
acting as if theyre getting closer to their ideal of a high school student often see in
fiction. Its superficial stuff like that for the most part.

40
Im sure an unwritten law like, One must act like a high school student existed
somewhere.

High School Student Ordinance

One. A high school student shall have a boyfriend or girlfriend.
Two. A high school student shall be surrounded by many a friend and be stupidly
loud.
Three. A high school student shall be like a high school student in dramas and
movies.
Those who defy the aforementioned clauses shalt disembowel themselves.

Or something like that.

If I had to say, its similar to how people would admire the ShinsengumiHijikata
Toshizous samurai code in particularfor their samurai-likeness instead of actually
being one.

If you wanted to combine ideals with reality, then you had to do the impossible
somewhere.

For example, boys went out of their way to become popular by humoring a girl
through mails, treat them whenever the chance came up, and appeal to them by
being as loud as possible. But truthfully, they were really just docile people.

Or maybe even the girls who wanted to get along with others by taking up fashion
thats all the rage (lol), attend mixers just so the numbers were even, and listen to
the latest hit J-POP songs. But truthfully, they had hobbies that were more proper
and more in line with maidens.

But even so, theyd strive to do all that. All so they didnt veer off from being
normal. They didnt want to be excluded out of the value of being everyone.

Ooph I think I heard stuff I didnt want to hear Taishi made a gloomy
expression after listening to what I said.

Well, this is just the point of view from someone twisted. If you really do want to
get along with someone, then you better be prepared to sacrifice something.

Its a lot of trouble living differently from others, but living the same as others was

41
just as hard. Livings hard.

Oh oops. Looks like everyones almost done with their drinks.

Komachi hummed a tune to loosen up the heavy atmosphere and collected

everyones cups. It looks like she was going to get more drinks. Seeing that,
Kawasaki stood up. Ill go too. I dont think youll be able to carry everything.

Komachi thankfully accepted her proposal and the two headed for the drink bar.

I vaguely watched them leave.

After that, Taishi shot up his face as if remembering something. He made curious
glances in the direction of Kawasaki and Komachi and then inched his body closer to
me.

A-Ahem It might be kind of weird asking this, said Taishi, leaning forward with a
whispering voice. But how are the girls? Are they cute? Like Yukinoshita-san, shes
super beautiful, right?

Hoho, so he wanted to talk about this all along. So his energy from the start was
because he wanted to ask about this.

When he posed me the question, I gave it some thought. Well, if I had to say, it
certainly did seem like there were a lot of girls at our school

Actually, in my school life, the only impressions I had were cute girls and funny
faces that left an impact. Thats why I didnt remember much about any normal
girls.

Youre right, there certainly are a lot of cute girls. Theres this International Liberal
Arts class and its comprised of 90% girls. So that basically means there are a lot of
girls. Therefore, the percentage of beautiful girls increases.

Ohh! Thats a Dreamy Situation[22]!

Whats with that catch phrase that only Bandai would say? Thats like, a Dreamy
Creation. But still, I had to tell him straight.

But look here, Taishi I continued my words in a slow, but understandable

manner. You know what mom says all the time. You might like a cute girl, but that
doesnt mean shell like you back.

42
M-My eyes have been opened! Taishi shot open his eyes as if he had been struck by
lightning and had gone through an epiphany his initial intensity disappearing off
somewhere.

The important thing is to know when to give up. If push doesnt come to shove,
then give up. A journey of a thousand miles begins by giving up[23] is an important
mentality to have.

Nowadays, Id like to also suggest, Know your enemy, know thyself, and you shall
give up on hundreds of battles.[24]

Besides, do you think you can get along with someone like Yukinoshita?

Thats true At least, I dont think I can! That persons kinda scary!

An exceedingly honest opinion. Id love to present him several types of axes. Rather
than an unattainable flower, she was a flower that bloomed in the Guiana Highlands.

To people who didnt know Yukinoshita Yukino very well, she was somehow scary,
needlessly overbearing, and might even appear arrogant.

Thats how I saw her at first That is, um, only if our first chance encounter had
been at the club, though.

Kuh, Sobu High A frightening place, I say Taishi shuddered for some reason and
spoke differently.

Since it irritated me a bit, I decided to finish him off. Your environment might
change, but that doesnt mean you will. Thinking something will change once you get
into high school is nothing but an illusion. Youd better stop dreaming now.

First, Ill destroy that screwed up illusion of yours![25] Haha, okay, well, I used to
have those expectations at some point before, too. But that kind of high school life
was just a distant Utopia. Informing him of reality now was a form of kindness.

Hey, stop bullying him so much, said Komachi, just returning from the drink bar.
She placed the glasses on the table and poked me in the head.

Wroooong! I wasnt bullying him. I was just teasing him, thats all. I did a little
grumbling internally like how elementary students would make excuses. Then again,
I could really imagine those guys saying stuff like that.

You dont need to take him seriously, Taishi. Anyway just think about passing

43
first. Kawasaki sat next to Taishi, sipped her cup, and stated.

Taishis body shook for an instant and he groaned. Urgh

Is he having trouble?

Honestly, hes cutting it close with his level. Thats why Im always telling him to
study Kawasaki answered my question in place of Taishi. The added lecture
caused Taishi to lower his head.

Uuuugh

To make him feel better, Komachi encouraged him. Itll be fine, Taishi-kun. Even if
you dont end up at Sobu High but at an entirely different school from me, Ill still be
your friend! No matter what happens, well always be friends!

N-No matter what happens, well always be friends S-Sure

Yep, absolute friends. Well be primatal friends!

That was the final nail in the coffin I was perfectly fine with it as her older brother,
but as a fellow male, I could sympathize. Its pitiful seeing him driven into the corner
like that.

Well, you know, how about a goal? If you have something you can work hard for,
then youll be able to try harder, I said.
Taishi lifted his face. A goal?

Yeah. This isnt something I can boast about, but in my case, I tried pretty damn
hard when I thought about how Id go to a school those guys in middle school
wouldnt definitely go to. Every year, theres only one person from my middle school
who goes to Sobu High.

You really cant boast about that at all Kawasaki made a bitter smile. Thats only
because you were drinking coffee, right?

For me, its because onii-chan goes there!

Yes, yes, we know, we know.

I ignored her opportunistic appeal and Taishi made a serious look and faced
Kawasaki. Nee-chan, did you have one, too? He asked.

She placed the cup down. I forget about me, okay? She thought briefly, but then

44
turned her face away.

But I had an idea of what her reason was. If that got across to Taishi, Im sure itd
help with his motivation, too

Well, if youre looking to aim for a national or public school with cheap tuition,
our high schools pretty amazing in that regard.

Hey, dont say more than you need to! Kawasaki frantically gave me a glare. But
her face that turned red from embarrassment had no impact at all. Fool. The feeble
eyes of a brocon were not worth fearing.

Taishi looked like he heeded my words and nodded. Oh okay

Im sure there were all kinds of reasons.

Not just for Kawasaki Saki, but even for others.

Just as there were people who chose arbitrarily, there were people who could only
decide on one thing.

Not all answers were refreshing and positive. If someone decided on something
regardless of what cowardly and pessimistic method they used, I think thats fine.

Ive decided. Im gonna go to Sobu High! Taishiki informed me with a reassured

expression.

Well, give it your best shot, I told him with my true feelings But after giving it
more thought, Komachi was aiming for my high school, too.

If you make it, Ill show you a good time. And by good time, I mean a good time
in a Sumo match.

You look ready to kill me, you know!?

Kawasaki sent me a harsh stare in defense of the frightened Taishi. After that, I
looked over the bill.

So are you guys done? Its almost time for us to go home.

I looked at the clock and it was nearing the time for dinner. I took out a 1,000 yen
bill from my wallet, placed it on the table, and stood up from my seat.

Taishi answered with a yes and stood up and bowed to me.

45
Onii-san! Thank you very much.

Oh, stop it Because your chances of ever calling me onii-san completely went out
the window earlier.

Thats what you meant!?

Watching our exchange from the side, Komachi tapped her chin with her index
finger and tilted her head.

Hmm? But if Saki-san gets married with onii-chan, it wouldnt be weird for him to
call you onii-san, right? said Komachi, bluntly.

Kawasaki stood up in a frantic. A-Are you an idiot!? Whats with your little sister!?
L-Like hell thatll ever happen!

I could hear voice coming from her back as she left the store. Making sure she
couldnt hear me, I murmured with a bitter smile. Damn straight. I wont be
marrying anyone unless its someone wholl take care of me.

46
47
There he goes again! Onii-chans scumbag defense!

Hey stop it, dont call it defense.

Its anything but that. Have someone raise me was called an absolute front.

Today as well.

All quiet on the absolute front.[26]

48
49
 Chapter 3: Surprisingly, Totsuka
Saikas election is tasteful.

Exactly for how long could you be called a boy?

Lets take a moment to discuss this boundary line called puberty that differentiated a
child from an adult.

Was it up until middle school? High school? Or perhaps, university?

Or could it be up until you turned twenty and started working? If so, that meant Id
be a boy for all of eternity

In any case, I didnt have a simple answer to that conundrum, but I at least feel that I
should be classified as a boy since I was laying on the sofa watching anime.

But calling someone a child for watching anime wasnt either since there were plenty
of fine adults in the world who watched it or even had jobs related to it. Thats why
unless people bought the DVDs, anime couldnt be created. That of course applied to
second seasons and the smaller the industry became, the more difficult itd be to
create new works. So by all means, everyone, please buy the Blu-rays and DVDs.

I digress.

Basically, I felt that trying to distinguish between an adult male and a boy based on
hobbies was impossible.

In that case, what did we need to be considered as a boy?

And here, I wanted to say I had a breakthrough to this mind-boggling problem.

The reason was just a mail with a single line.

[Hello. Are you free tomorrow??]

50
Never in my life had I been witness to a mail so heartwarming, in just one line to
boot. It was a mail I wanted to read aloud. I was even willing to make a song out of
it. I was well on my way towards winning an award for it.

Last night, Totsuka Saika had sent me this mail which brought me to this internal
conundrum of boys.

To what extent were you a boy? Its too difficult to solve this conundrum of
distinction by things like titles, age, and hobbies, and now, I had arrived at the
conclusion that using even gender was too complicated. The laws of the universe
meant nothing.[27]

I was painfully lacking in samples that would allow me to uncover the truth.

And in order to secure material as reference, I exerted myself.

I sent back a reply with about five hundred characters long using emoticons Id
never, ever use in a normal situation. I made sure not to forget a question mark at
the end as well, of course.

In the brief moment we exchanged mails, I was euphoric. With how utterly happy I
was, it wouldnt be weird to classify this as some kind of drug.

As such, I had made a promise to hang out with Totsuka.

The mind-boggling, conundrum, or whatever doesnt even matter anymore, right!?

51
 3-2
It was just about time for our appointment.

The August sun came down brilliantly with hot-blooded power[28] while a lukewarm
wind blew by in a clean-cut match.[29]

My discomfort index was on the verge of rising.

But in despite of all of that, I spotted someone who was radiating, sparkling and
glittering[30]. He jogged my way upon noticing me and as I watched him, his noble
heart was snowing, falling, and gathering[31]

With the twinkling, shining, light of the future, I found Totsuka and was ultra happy!
[32]

Totsukas coming!

Hey Hachiman! Sorry for being late! In a boyish attire, Totsuka rested his hands on
his knees, making deep breaths having ran to me.

Dont worry about it. I actually got here pretty early.

Yeah, I got here exactly three hours earlier, so you dont have to worry. At all.

You werent really late either, so you didnt have to run over here in a hurry.

Oh, right. But I might as well since I saw you. Totsuka laughed as if trying to hide
his embarrassment.

It couldve been the sunlight at fault or maybe not, but his excessive radiance caused
me to frantically avert my eyes.

Ahh. So, what should we do?

Through our exchange of mails, Totsuka and I only promised to hang out
somewhere.

At the very end, we decided wed figure out what to do after we met today which
meant our situation was overflowing with entertainment factors. But thanks to that, I
spent the entire night thinking and was lacking sleep.

As high schools would so aptly state, hang out meant what exactly? I didnt know

52
the specifics behind that kind of conduct.

This made me unsure of what to suggest.

But if its around Kaihin Makuhari Station, the station we chose to rendezvous, then
mostly everything was there.

Arcades, karaoke pubs, movie theaters, and RC race tracks. There were plenty of
places to shop as well. Entertainment here was not lacking in the least.

Hmm, I had a lot of things in mind

When I asked Totsuka, he took a moment to think, unable to give an immediate

answer.

But I wasnt really sure what you like, Hachiman, said Totsuka, still in the middle
of thought he nodded his head. He was earnestly worrying over my interests.
Because its so rare for someone to actually give me any consideration, I found
myself staring at him.

To begin with, the people I knew were all selfish Yukinoshitas a no-brainer, but
Yuigahama, Zaimokuza, and even Komachi were all pretty blunt when it came to
what they wanted. Look at Hiratsuka-sensei, her desires were the only things
occupying her head, right? Shes well on her way towards getting serialized into a
series of frustrated female teachers.

But even so, as a person who had lacked interests and hobbies, any consideration
towards me was moot since itd be difficult to actually come up with something.
Even I didnt fully understand everything about myself.

My vacation was mostly just me sitting around doing nothing, tooI mean, all I did
was laze around, seriously. Id sleep in until noon and once I woke up, Id either just
go to a bookstore or a library.

Feeling sorry for making Totsuka work on my behalf, I hastily suggested a

compromise. Why dont we just take a look around for now?

Oh okay, sure. I guess itd be faster if we both decide on something.

I felt something when he said that wed both decide on something. To this day,
most of the time, I had to choose things for myself, so this was a fresh experience for
me. Totsukas just so nice of a person that we might just end up naming our child
together.

53
We accompanied each other as we restlessly walked in front of the early afternoon
station.

But with how blistering hot it was outside, we were probably better off entering a
building and going from there. So we needed to decide on what to do first.

Shopping I didnt have anything in particular to buy, so Ill pass on that. The
arcade Well, that could work. Totsuka having interest in games was questionable,
but he didnt seem like a serious gamer. I could see him being more interested in
medal or crane games instead though

So that leaves that place, maybe?

I decided to head towards Cineplex Makuhari, the building which housed the arcade
I had in mind. The Cineplex name was similar to Aniplex, but its actually owned by
the Kadokawa group. Aside from the Screen 10 movie theater, they had an arcade
and all kinds of restaurants.

After we entered the building and went straight ahead, we arrived in an area that
was lavish with decorative illuminations and filled with poppy sound effects.

They had game attractions meant for physical activity instead of video game cabinets
and they had a focus on shoot em ups, rhythm games, medal games, and crane
games; there were photo booths and even darts. This arcade could be said to be
targeting active youths. There were numerous high schools and universities in the
area, so their target demographic had to be them. As for other things, restaurants
and movie theaters were situated side by side giving the impression that they were
expecting lots of family demand.

As we walked around inside, Totsuka made a sudden stop.

Whats up? I asked, my eyes directed in the same direction as Totsuka. Posted on
the wall was a poster advertising a currently showing movie.

Theyre already showing this movie, huh? Totsuka stared at the poster in interest.

So movie?

Ah, Im okay with doing whatever youd like Hachiman! Totsuka shook his hands
in distraught.

Nah, lets watch the movie. Come to think of it, this will be my first time watching a
movie with someone thats not my family. It shouldnt hurt every now and then.

54
The time I actually watched a movie with someone else was when I was younger. It
was at the Marinpia movie theater which was long gone now, but the only reason I
went was because Komachi forced me to go with her while mom was out shopping.

After becoming a middle school student, I went to watch movies by myself. Since it
was near my home, I could just stop by there whenever I felt like going out.
Totsuka went silent for a moment before giving me a modest look. You sure?

He asked me, but I had only one answer.

Yeah.
I decided; my very first partner was going to be Totsuka!

55
 3-3
Surprisingly, Totsuka chose a horror movie.

We selected our seats at the service counter and bought our tickets.

25E and 25F. Totsuka and I were fellow neighbors in the back.

After we bought some popcorn, cola, and had our ticket stubs ripped, we went
straight into the auditorium.

Although its summer vacation, the only ones actually on break were students;
normal working adults were still going about their week as always. So the
auditorium wasnt very packed.

But in light of that, the main customers were the students. As a matter of fact,
scummy couples and garbage lovers were gleefully frolicking at empty areas in the
room.

I thought I saw someone like Miura mixed in those groups of trash, but I apparently
just imagined it. Why did people like them tend to sport similar faces and
appearances, anyway? Because I couldnt tell them apart at all. Were they all clones?

The more incessant they were about personality, the less they had of it. The more
you know.

As for others, sometimes youd get that oddball whod misunderstand the meaning
of personality and wear a coat during the peak of summer. An exemplary model of
this kind of person was sitting in a seat at the very front breathing out like a grizzly
bear.

My instincts fired off warning alarms telling me that I shouldnt look at him, so I did
as I was warned and decided to search for our seats.

I checked each row one by one for our numbers while walking in the auditorium that
was submerged in a unique silence before the start of a movie and slight feeling of
nervousness. Totsuka had entered the room before I did and when he found our
seats, he waved to me. He mustve been holding his voice back since we were inside
the auditorium.

I leaned back into my seat and placed my hand on the armrest. It was a magnificent
act on my part that resembled some imperturbable great demon kin.

56
But the armrest felt so soft and light.

Oh, sorry

Upon hearing that apology, I realized I had touched something. It was Totsukas
arm. I just touched an angel![33]

O-Oh, nah! That was my fault there! I said, and we both withdrew our hands in a
hurry.

We both had looked away and there was an awkward silence.

I made a checking glance at Totsuka and he was facing downwards in

embarrassment with his shoulders tucked in. *However, he was a man.

The auditorium was air-conditioned, so the miniscule warmth I could feel coming
from him made me feel itchy. *However, he was a man.

We exchanged looks at each other trying to find the right timing to speak up and
Totsuka whispered in a small voice, H-Hachiman, you can use it if you want.

Uh, Im right-handed, so Ill just relax my body on my right hand. Dont mind me!
You know what they say about your left hand is used just to guide things or
whatever![34]

For some reason, pointless excuses came out of my mouth.

Listening to that, Totsuka chuckled with a youre so weird.

Okay, lets share half of it then, said Totsuka, and he placed his elbow on a third of
the armrest.

R-Right I nervously and slowly rested my left hand on there as well.

Ahh! My left hand! My left hand was completely happy!

Hurray. For. World. Peace.[35]

If the world was a place with a hundred Totsukas, thered never be any wars. Arm
dealers would be out of business, for sure. All the things that caused stress would

57
disappear. Its like some kind of lavender effect or something.

Because of that, the movie robber that slimily danced on the big screen that usually
irritated me didnt today.

58
 3-4
The movie was reaching its climax.

I think I wasnt very sure. The story was one thing, but I didnt even know how
much time had passed either. An hour, two hours? Or maybe ten minutes?

This fun period of time had gone by too fast. The actual time I was able to
experience it wasnt any longer than an hour.

The notion of time changed depending on the observer.

Whoa wow!

59
60
A spirit clothed in a white one piece dress popped out at us in 3D causing Totsuka to
lightly shake and grip my clothes.

Whoa, that was scary. Really, even I felt like my heart was going to shut down there. He
was just so cute

A surprised Totsuka was cute. Totsukacute.

After that, the white one piece clothed spirit would completely crawl out from the
screen. Every time, Totsuka would swallow his breath and let out a small shriek.

But I had to say, this movie was pretty scary. At this rate, I had the feeling Id be
jumping straight into Totsukas route instead of just veering off the path and its
frightening. If he ended up clinging onto me all of a sudden, my waist was definitely
going to give in. Id be leaning over even.

My heart ran amok while my blood violently acted up like the muddy streams in a
tempest. In the worst case scenario, I had to prepare the ATM. Huh? Wasnt it ETC?
EVA? Well, whatever. The movies almost finished anyway.

To get my mind out of the gutter about Totsuka, I surveyed the interior of the
auditorium. I honestly wanted to just count prime numbers to calm down, but since I
was aiming for a private school for liberal arts, I wasnt sure if zero was included, so
I gave up.

The air-conditioned auditorium was chilly to the bone and also considerably dark.
Its the most optimal environment for watching a horror movie.

In the end, I was completely confused as to what the movie was by the time the
ending credits played.

We watched the playing projector all the way until the very and Totsuka and I stood
up.

With lingering thoughts of the movie, we leisurely walked out of the movie theater.

That was pretty fun! I was screaming the entire time, so my threats really dry.

Yeah, same here.

There was this weird tension that caused me to get a parched throat, but locked

61
shoulders as well.

We walked with the crowd that flowed out of the building towards the stairs outside.

The sun that had finally came down was obstructed by the buildings and a refreshing
wind blew by in the shade.

Want to take a quick break?

I pointed at the cafe we were descending down towards and Totsuka nodded.

Although plenty of the people who had exited the movie together with us also
entered the cafe, there were still enough seats for the two of us. We went right to the
counter and quickly made our orders.

Um, ice coffee.

Oh, Ill take one, too.

Indeed, I, too, shall take an ice coffee.

The three of us didnt have to wait for very long since we all ordered ice coffees and
occupied the nearby seats after we received our drinks.

First, I kept my coffee black so I could enjoy its original aroma and taste. Its sharp
bitterness made me wide awake. After that, I added a portion of milk and gum
syrup. Combining these two created a Black RX. Yep, the sweeter the better!

Once we moistened our throats, the three of us breathed out.

The three of us?

Wait a second.

Eh?

Mm?

Dont mm? me. Im talking about you.

An intruder resembling a bear gowned in a coat was present as if its a natural thing
to do. Right. Thats what he felt like.

Uh, who were you again? Shinkiba-kun?

62
Its Zaimokuza-kun, Hachiman.

Totsuka seriously responded to me

Okay, Zaimoku, Zaimokuya, whatever, where the heck did you come from? Are
you like one of those bugs, you know, the bugs called maize weevil or something?

How about carpet beetles, then?

Zaimokuza intently sucked at his straw and then lifted his face. Fumu. I thought I
would name myself after seeing the both of you at the theater, but upon following
you two, I had arrived here.

Indeed, it seems my optical camouflage is in perfect shape today as well.

Im pretty sure everyones just pretending not to see you.

At the very least, I couldnt see him because Totsuka was the only one I was focused
on.

Hey Zaimokuza-kun, long time no see.

I-Indeed. Mohahaha! said Zaimokuza, laughing nervously when Totsuka spoke to

him. Then again, Totsukas really something to just take everything so naturally
Well, if he could talk to someone like me, I suppose he could with Zaimokuza.

Were you watching the movie?

Indeed. But it was quite the blunder, I would say. Not a single trace that makes
Japanese horrors unique. It seemed oddly Americanized. It also lost its appeal and
was just a pitiful and garbage movie, a result of dumbing it down for the masses.
Ooph! But in my case, although I stated that I watch horror movies, I did not mean
the movies that were given the Hollywood treatment for the enjoyment of the
masses, but movies that adapted literary pieces as strange that may make me. I
suppose its the influence of Lafcadio Hearn. Dooph! I went a bit far there with the
deep knowledge. How pompous of me, fokanupo! It is as if I look like an otaku. But
I certainly am not, kopo!![36]

And there he goes The thing about these chunibyos was that they always seemed to
be strangely knowledgeable about occult stuff, so its a real pain. Literary works
from Koizumi Yakumo and Izumi Kyouoka or folklore pieces from Yanagida Kunio

63
and Orikuchi were things they had barely understood, yet they had the sad habit of
flaunting their limited knowledge of them.

I stopped listening to Zaimokuza halfway through his speech, but Totsuka was
properly listening to him. It wouldnt be weird if that kindness started charging
people.

You think so? I actually kinda liked it.

Indeed, as do I.

Ehh!?

He flipped sides within a moments notice. His change was so fast that he looked like
he was glowing. Wow, youre amazing. You were like one of those self-important
politicians just now

Quiet you. Hachiman, what are you thoughts on the movie?

Pretty flash and easy to understand, I guess. Its another story if were talking about
how interesting it was though.

Although I was looking only at Totsuka part way into the movie, I still had a general
gist of what it was about.

Uh huh. You know how like the ghost would just pop out of the scream like BAM!?
That was really crazy and it totally scared me! I thought I was going to have a heart
attack.

Exactly my thoughts on how I was feeling right now. As I watched Totsuka flail his
hands around and try his best to reenact the scenes of the movie, it felt like my heart
was going to overwork itself and stop.

Well, as one who can no longer feel fear, it was nothing. Compared to that person
who must not be named[37], that person is much more frightenfoy! Zaimokuza
trembled midway into his sentence. Youre acting like Malfoy when he remembered
the fears of Voldemort, you know. For him to be frightened this much, I could only
think of one person; Yukinoshita.

Yeah, thats true. Yukinoshitas definitely scarier compared to the movie.

Hachiman, thats not very nice. I mean, sure, at first, um, shes a little scary, but
Totsuka warned me with an initial indignant look, but his voice grew weaker.

64
Maybe because shes always so serious and earnest that she seems scary.

Brutal honesty can be frightening, too. You wont know kind of things theyll say to
you.

Well, whether it was a movie or something else, seeing the same things didnt mean
having the same impressions.

At most, theyd be similar.

But to be similar meant there was something definitely different.

We always looked at the things we only wanted to see.

Interpretations was defined only by the numbers of people, whether if it was for the
impressions of a movie or of a person.

Thats why its ridiculous to understand them, or even try to. Its a sin and an evil to
think you had understood.

But unless we acted as if we understood something, we wouldnt be able to live.

Understanding and being understood by someone would cause the both of you two
have a mutual, vague realization of each other; either that, youd be unable to live
on unless you redefined that person every time and talked about it.

Otherwise, your self would disappear like thin air.

That self was vague and uncertain. Just like the phenomenon of gestaltzerfall, the
more you thought about something, the less you understood it.

Every time you stopped understanding, youd gather all sorts of information again
and construct an image of yourself and the other person. It resembled simulacrum;
no matter what you constructed, the only images youd have were child and
primitive ones.

Thats what Id call horror.

I felt sudden chills in the air-conditioned store. I buckled my shoulders in and held
back my shivering.

I carried my glass to my mouth and it turned out I had emptied it out at some point.
I placed it back down in resignation and Zaimokuza opened his mouth. However, it
was a good breather. Now I can concentrate on my manuscript. Ah, yes, Hachiman.

65
D-Do you want to read it?

He glanced at me while blushing slightly. Thats not cute.

Only if its completed. You actually have it with you right now?

Fumu, of course. An author is one who can write wherever and whenever. At all
times, I have my laptop loaded with Pomera, tablet, smartphone, and my writing
utensils on my person.

Oh yeah, you totally get people like that, by just having equipment on them, they
get motivated.

Totsuka admirably looked at Zaimokuza who was acting needlessly conceited. Oh,
so that means Zaimokuza-kuns always working hard, huh?

Who knows if he actually is.

Zaimokuza could say he was, but he definitely wasnt. Hes basically someone whod
act like an author and argue over literary pieces, but never actually write a
manuscript himself. I had to warn Totsuka that he wasnt a target of admiration.
While were at it, it might be better to stab him with a kitchen knife, too.

Perceiving my disrespectful attitude, Zaimokuza turned upset. Hapon. Pompous

fool. I dont need the likes of you to say that. Have a look at yourself Hachiman, I
wager you are not doing anything yourself.

Mm, you got that right. The only thing Im doing is taking summer courses. Im also
doing a research project, too.

Huh? Did we have an assignment like that? said Totsuka with a flustered tone.
Judging by his reaction, he mustve been taking it easy after finishing all his
assignments.

No, its for my little sister.

For Komachi-chan? Oh, okay. Youre such a nice older brother, Hachiman.

Not really. Actual nice older brothers would leave their little sisters to fend for
themselves.

So, what are you researching?

Im just collecting stuff from the internet and compiling them together.

66
Huh? Is that all she needs?

Fumu. Since it is merely a research project, that should suffice for her needs. As a
matter of fact, pouring all your tears and effort into it would only cause your
surroundings to incriminate you.

Right, right. Komachis a girl, too. Supposedly youre better off if you dont take
seriously.

Komachis one and only request was that it didnt stand out from everyone else.
Hey, hey, what kind of cruel order were you giving me when I stood out more than
Dhalsim who was floating? I could even float more than him to the point Id be
called a Space Brother

But now that I think about it, when I got really into my own research project, I recall
a bunch of snickering from my surroundings. I really wish theyd stop doing that
near the lockers at the back of class.

But doing stuff like that is pretty hard. I cant think of things off the top of my head
so easily, said Totsuka, feeling a little nostalgic.

When youre told that anythings fine, its a tall order to actually think of something
on the spot. Who do you think we are, Inventor Boy Kanipan?

I suppose those are the times where they put your IQ to the test. They are not
simply asking about your scholastic ability, but your ability to invent.

That sounds like something youd be good at, Zaimokuza-kun. I mean, youre
aiming to be a writer, after all.

He doesnt seem like he has a high IQ, though.

Homun, indeed, if anything, I am the type to have a higher EQ. I am rich in

sensitivities.

EQ, or as they called it, was your emotional intelligence quotient.

This was my personal opinion, but whenever someone brought up EQ in a

conversation about IQ, without exception, they had a low IQ. If the person brought
up ET, then hes Spielberg. By the way, if its ED, then that person was Pele.

Oh yeah, there were people with Mini 4WDs, too. They were saying they were
going to build them.

67
The moment I mentioned that, Zaimokuzas body jumped. For some reason, he was
beginning to sweat. What the, is he some kind of Japanese toad?

Eh. Ehh!? Um, H-H-H-Hachiman, did we go to the same elementary school?

Am I really hearing that from you? Actually, dont start acting normal from
something that trivial.

Though if I had to choose, Id prefer he go back to his nest.

I used to play with Mini 4WDs, too.

Thats surprising

Ehh? Whys that? Im a boy too, you know. Totsuka chuckled.

I tried to imagine what Totsuka had looked like when he was younger, but for some
reason, only an image of him wearing a hat with a T-shirt and spats came to mind.
Im sure he was cute in the past. Whoa, lets correct that. Hes also cute now. If he
was cute in the past and cute now, we should enter him in the Tales of Times Now
Past and teach that in the school curriculum.

Hamon. But none can match my Broken G. After all, I had equipped him with an
authentic iron hammer. Any opponent who faces it head on will be destroyed
without fail.

That sounds like a completely idiotic thing to do Tch, I-I guess Im not one to talk
since I attached a cutter on my Beak Spider

I also attached a marking pin from a sewing set on my Ray Stinger.

Thats dangerous you two. Totsuka rebuked us and Zaimokuza and I exchanged
looks.

Its okay, I only fiddle and play with it by myself.

Indeed. Loners hurt no one, only themselves.

No hurting yourself either.

Okay

With him staring at us so intently, we earnestly reflected on our actions.

68
I-Indeed B-But I can do maintenance as well! Against others, it can go as fast as
the wind!

I snorted at his declaration. Hah. You really think you can win against me? Against
my Beak Spider? Outfitted with one-way wheels that are small in diameter, reston
sponge tires, torque tuned super rapid gears, an opened body that combines air
cooling and lightness, and for the times its cornered, its equipped with a stabilizer
ball so it can react with high speed as well as a convertible aluminum down-thrust
roller! Its speed goes beyond theory!

I never actually tried it though. I mean, they wouldnt let me buy a track I tried
making a track out of cardboard instead, but the car would get stuck on the packing
tape and wouldnt run right.

Zaimokuza made an unrivaled smile after listening to me. Ku, ku, ku, an aluminum
convertible is the height of ignorance That extra mass will be fatal.

Talk more. My Beak Spider shows its strength by having a stable lower center of
gravity.

Hoh Shall we duel to see who comes out on top?

Zaimokuza and I sent each other aggressive glares. I was on the verge of going, Go
get him! Magnuuuuum! while thrusting out my fish. Wait, thats the Galactia
Magnum, wasnt it?

We both glared at each other in silence, but an unthinkable voice destroyed the
silence.

Oh, that sounds fun! Its been a while for me, but I want to try too. My Avante was
pretty fast, you know?

Avante!?

Whats with the difference in our generations!? His choice was really tasteful on top
of that! He didnt belong to the Boomerang or the Emperor factions!

But I suppose having different generations was possible.

Its been quite a few years since I had played with my mini 4WDs when I was
younger, but I still had that fiery passion in me today. I even swung my umbrella like
a sword whenever the rain stopped, the world of fiction having been saved numerous
times.

69
And thats why, even when I became an adult, Id remember it all.

Even if our generations were different, deep down, there were things that wouldnt
change.

And so, my time as a boy would never end.

70
71
72
 Chapter 4: Regrettably, no one knows
where Hiratsuka Shizukas red thread
leads to.

What was the greatest food of them all?

Curry, shabu shabu, sushi, soba, sukiyaki, tempura, yakiniku, or sweets?

The answer: none of them.

Why? Because ramen was the greatest of them all.

Ramen.

Its one of the many delicacies that any high school boy would find to be their
greatest companion.

First thing that came to mind when you worried about what to eat? Ramen.

Looking to stop by a ramen shop after school? Acceptable.

Looking to find a new store after a little shopping? Acceptable.

Looking to make some ramen and slurp the soup late at night out of hunger?
Acceptable.

But going to a ramen shop for a date as a couple?

Unacceptable.

Quit running your mouths at the counter. You guys do realize there are going to be
people using those afterwards, right? Go do mushy stuff like that at your favorite
Starbucks. Stop blabbering about your love stories at the counter of a ramen shop.
Please, please think of the people who have to stand behind you and listen to that.

You know what ramen was originally? It was something meant to be eaten alone.

73
The soup would get cold and the noodles would get soggy if all you did was chat.

That explained why Ichirans Taste Focus Systema system where every seat is
partitioned into its own section and your front was covered with a banner that
obscured your view of the inner kitchenwas a huge invention in the ramen world.
Long ago, they had Currently applying for a patent written down, but I wonder if
they managed get that patent.

I digress.

Basically, ramen was befitting for someone of my stature.

One supreme bowl that cured my noble soul that abides by isolation.

They called it, ramen.

74
 4-2
I missed my lunch time because I woke up later than I should have, a situation I
often found myself in during this summer vacation.

Since I was aiming to become a full-time house husband, this was where I should be
making my own food.

People who thought that were naive.

Real housewives would hand their husbands five hundred yen for their lunch and
spend the rest of their husbands money for a luxurious meal of their own. This may
be prejudice on my part. But thats the kind of house husband I wanted to become. I
also wanted to take the settlement money after a divorce.

With aspirations to become a full-time house husband, I emulated the

aforementioned housewives and decided to go out for a luxurious lunch. Recently, I
was wealthy due to my alchemy which utilized my prep school scholarship money. I
was the Small Money Alchemist.

Lets get ramen for lunch today. Now that I had decided on my choice of food, my
stomach wasnt in the mood for anything but said choice.

Chiba was home to a competitive marketplace for ramen.

The contested marketplace existed at the stations of Matsudo, Chiba, Tsudanuma,

and Motoyawata. Recently, B-grade gourmet ramen shops such as Takeoka-styled
Ramen and Katsuura Tantan Men had joined the fray, making it a nationally known
hot spot.

Such stores that people knew were exceptionally stable, but once you became used
to them, you had to go out and search for a store of your own.

Whenever you ate out with someone, you had to match your preferences with theirs,
making you say pretentious stuff like, Hey man, I know this good place, awesome
eh? Fuhihi. This made you unable to embark on adventures like an adventurer.

But alone, you could enter a store without having to be mindful of those courtesies.
That adventurous spirit was what led you to new discoveries and the development of
your own culinary finesse.

In other words, a loner was always surging with the frontier spirit and was a modern-

75
day adventurer with the vigor and spirit of a challenger.

As such, for today, I had settled for a ramen shop in the neighborhood which I had
barely embarked to. Just like what they say about how the hardest thing to see was
right under your nose, striking at your reachable blind spots was a marvelous
strategy. Its reverse psychology against the logic of people from Tokyo who didnt
go to Tokyo Tower.

For some moments, the bus shook back and forth.

After arriving at my destination, Kaihin Makuhari, I walked. Nothing but walking.

Since this area was somewhere Id wander around aimlessly on my way home from
school, there was a store I had set my eyes on for a while now, a new store that I had
wanted to explore.
I trudgingly walked to the store while being baked by the rays of the summer sun.

The damp humidity was irritating, but as if blowing it away, a refreshing timbre
filled the area.

Originating from the bell of a church were high-pitched rings.

This area was populated with lines of expensive hotels with many wedding halls. At
one of those halls, a wedding ceremony was being held.

A florid atmosphere dominated the surroundings and coming from past the fences
were voices screaming their blessings.

This was actually my first time seeing a wedding, so I decided to take a peek.

In doing so, I saw happiness as though it was physically visualized onto a picture.
But, hmm, I could see some kind of black smudge at the corner of my vision

I rubbed my eyelids and strained my eyes for a better look. Pay no heed to a single
point, view everything without looking, and that is what it means to see I obeyed
the teachings of Takuwan Oshou[38] and gazed closer at the black smudge.

That silhouette was coated in black and was the only one exuding the aura of a loser.
And right now, those black colors were absorbing the light from its surroundings,
warping even the rays of the sun. Within that sphere of happiness, just a single area
was enwrapped with a conviction that resembled a grudge. Not to mention, it was
murmuring in a low voice, Go to hell, aaaamen[39]

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Yeah, thats definitely someone I knew

Now if only you could hurry up and get married already.

Im sure itll be Shizuka-chans turn next!

Hey Shizuka-chan, I managed to find another good person. Im sure itll go well this
time, so do you want to try meeting him?

Shizuka. You see, dads already putting money aside for our grandchildren

For every comment she was given, that blot of blackness would shake. Her spiritual
pressure[40] disappeared?

I think I mightve witnessed something I wasnt supposed to. I promptly removed my

gaze and started walking off as though I hadnt seen anything.

But one mustnt forget.

When you gaze long into the abyss, the abyss also gazes into you

Hi-Hikigaya!

Suddenly, the black blot screamed out my name.

The older married couple near its voice gave me inspecting looks. I instinctively
bowed back. And then they returned it with their own. What the heck, does this count
as meeting the parents, too? Is my only choice here to take responsibility and get
married?

The black blot turned around to the married couple and rapidly said,, O-Oh, thats a
problem child over there! I-I have my job to get to, s-so Ill be leaving now!

The blot ran towards me with her kneels hitting the ground.

Hikigaya! You came at a good time! Youre a life saver! said the black blot. On
closer inspection, the blot was a beautiful older lady clad in a black dress. She
grabbed my hand and we left the area.

Huh? wait a second, excuse me

When a beautiful older lady grabbed your hand, what other choice could you take
except to obediently go along with her?

77
For a short period, we continued to walk. As soon as we made the turn at a corner
into a park, we finally stopped.

Phew Looks like we got away for now

The lady massaged her chest as she breathed out a sigh of relief.

Her black party dressed formed an elegant arc with the lines of her body and a fur
neck wrap was wrapped around her pale nape. Her tied up hair was glossy black as if
it was arranged with her dress. The hand that grabbed me wore a black glove that
matched her dress was surprisingly soft.

Um

Hm? Ahh, my apologies. Caught you off guard, didnt I?

The stylish looking beauty smiled and brought me to the bench. She then took out a
cigarette from her bag and began tapping it to tighten it.

It was the gesture of an old man contrary to her appearance.

She ignited her hundred yen lighter and slowly lit up her cigarette.

I was completely flabbergasted from how completely different she looked moments
earlier, but theres no way I could mistake her now.

Hiratsuka Shizuka, the advisor of the Service Club.

Ohh, shes actually really beautiful if she took the time to dress up

Um, is it okay for you to leave like that? Wasnt it a wedding ceremony?

Im sure they wont mind. I left my congratulations gift with them.

Wont there be an after-party or something?

Whats with you? Being awfully considerate, arent we?

No, its an important occasion, isnt it?

Phew. Its my cousins ceremony, so they wont need me. Hiratsuka-sensei sadly
averted her gaze and with the cigarette in her mouth, she mumbled further. Its not
like I wanted to go in the first place. I have to deal with my younger cousins acting
considerate, my aunts always talking about marriage, and my noisy parents It just

78
isnt worth giving a congratulations gift if I have to hear my relatives complaining

She spat out her cigarette with a long, long sigh and crushed it in her hand.

Theres not much I can say now

When it got strangely quiet, Hiratsuka-sensei turned the mood around and asked,
So, what were you doing around there?

I was on my way to get some ramen.

Ramen, huh? Why didnt I think of that? said Hiratsuka-sensei with a sudden burst
in energy. The eyes which were dead earlier were now brimming with life.

Speak of the devil, with all that reception I had to deal with, I ended up missing my
lunch Great timing, Ill go with you.

Right, I guess I dont mind.

Mmkay, here Id do the leading, so I started walking. Hiratsuka-sensei followed

behind me, her heels noisily tapping the floor. Then again, this persons appearance is
really flashy! Just look at how much attention shes getting!

When we got out into the street that was moderately congested, gazes from the
people there were directed at us. With how gaudy she looked, well, also being
beautiful and all, you just couldnt help but look.

The person in question , however, didnt seem to mind as she spoke to me like
normal. I heard you gave some advice to a future underclassmen. I didnt think
youd actually continue your regular Service Club duties over the break, Im
impressed.

Youve got it wrong. Howd you know that anyway?

Now thats just frightening how you found out

I was informed by your younger sister.

Just when did you two get so close?

Komachis encirclement that involved my acquaintances wasnt anything to laugh at.

Wasnt this the ABCD encirclement now? Should I be worried? A for a dumb girl
Yuigahama, B for the berserker Hiratsuka-sensei, C for the cute Komachi!, and D

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for dont know, who was that again? Kawa-something-san If were getting
economically sanctioned, wed better resist back with a sanctioned mentality.

Shes a nice sister. Sometimes, I think itd be nice to have a sister like that. Oh, I
didnt mean anything deeper by that.

Considering your age difference, if things go wrong, youd end up more like a mom
and daughter, blah, blah

Hikigaya

Crap, shes going to smack me I reflexively closed my eyes and readied my body.

But a fist didnt come at me. I opened my eyes in curiosity and Hiratsuka-sensei was
depressed.

That kind of joke hurts right now

I-Im sorry!

Someone hurry! Someone hurry and take her! If no one takes her, Ill end up taking her!
Someone please do something about her.

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 4-3
Its nearing the end of August, but its still a bit hot to be walking outside, what with
my frying skin under the sun.

But with the wind blowing through this area that faced the street along the coast, I
felt somewhat cool.

That made standing outside the store more comfortable than it couldve been.

Its going to take a little longer until we could enter the store, but since I was good at
killing time, It wasnt a problem. I was also good at shaming others as well as
popping bubble wrap. Based on the aforementioned, I anticipate that once I entered
society, Id be a skillful newbie crusher, but since theyd be too pitiful, I will
definitely not work.

I did some human observation and I could see a guy at the front desperately
speaking in a loud voice, two apparently male college students giving off the mood
of a male and female couple dating, and so forth. After giving up on that, this time, I
tried imagining a situation like so: If I managed to start up a ramen business and TV
stations come to me for interviews, how should I answer them?

For now, I planned on introducing my technique as a secret skill passed down,

through a line of ancestry, dubbing it the Tsubame Gaeshi where Id fiercely shake
the noodles dry, horizontally and vertically. And after my store became popular, Id
open a ramen cram school, wring money out of the people aiming to get away from
the salarymen life to start up a business.

As I thought about those worthless things, I could hear a soft sigh that resembled a
laugh.

What is it?

I gave the owner of the sigh, Hiratsuka-sensei, a reproachful look and she opened
her mouth with a wry smile. Its nothing, I was just a little surprised. I was under the
impression you hated crowds and lines.

I do. Chaotic crowds, that is. As for lines, well, Im lining up properly, see? Im not
some line-cutting idiot.

In reality, I wasnt all that bad with lines. I think the reason why most people disliked
lines was because it either felt like a waste of time, they werent getting much done

81
by standing around, or that they couldnt hold a proper conversation when they were
with someone. If we considered the urban legend of how couples would break up
when going to Destinyland, werent these kinds of lines the cause of their different
sense of values and irritation coming to light?

So in regards to that, I was blessed with stupid amounts of time and would never get
bored because of my excessive ability to think; I basically moved independently. My
heart of steel wouldnt waver from something insignificant as a line.

As for chaotic crowds, they were full of lawless and uncivilized beasts and I just
couldnt stand watching them nearby or even have them come near me.

Youre a surprisingly clean individual, arent you? said Hiratsuka-sensei, surprised

after my remark.

Thats not true. Im not very good when it comes to cleaning.

My room was in fact dirty. If you titled my room with Urbanization or The Future
of Earth, itd be grounds for a posthumous evaluation.

Im not talking about your cleanliness or your hygiene, but your ethics. Of course,
those ethics are simply just what you have internally.

Isnt that technically calling me a selfish and egocentric chump?

Im actually praising you. Its good that youve developed the proper sense to
evaluate things.

She put me on the spot when she gave me a charming look. I mean, I never really
had that intention in the first place. I looked away and mumbled, I really just dont
like noisy people

Lets have fun, this is the moment were shining the most! Exactly who were they
saying that to and who were they trying to promote themselves to?

Those who knew the joys of peace like quietly reading a book alone or playing
games at home could somehow see the futility of their self-promotion for fun was.

I hated the people who mistakenly believed they could measure enjoyment based on
the loudness of their voice and the number of people they were grouped with despite
how wrong that was. And as if huge crowds and events were the best times to show
off, theyd become even more active. Its unbearable watching people deceive and lie
to themselves.

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Why couldnt they validate their own enjoyment and correctness by themselves?

The reason why you couldnt stand proud was because you werent confident.
Somewhere inside of you, your collected self would pose you the question, Is this
really enjoyable? To push that question away, youd put these things into words like,
Theyre fun, Things are getting exciting, Right nows the best, and so forth.
Youd say it aloud. And then, youd raise your voice and scream it out.

People like them werent people I wanted to get involved with. I didnt want to turn
into a self-deceiving hypocrite.

It sounds like you wont be attending the fireworks festival then.

Hiratsuka-senseis words cut my train of thought.

Fireworks festival?

Yeah. You know about it, right? Its the one being held at the port tower. Arent you
going?

When she brought it up, it made me realize. If its the fireworks festival by the port
tower, then its Chibas summer tradition. Ive gone to it before when I was younger.
But at the time, my attention was more focused on the night stands than the
fireworks themselves.

But living in this area meant you could already see fireworks shot from the stadium,
heck, Destinyland was shooting fireworks all year round, so it wasnt all that much of
a blessing.

I dont have any particular plans on going, but what about you, sensei? I asked.

She let out a long sigh. I suppose you can call it my job over summer vacation. But
its more accurate to say Im going to watch people instead of the fireworks

I gave her a look requesting an explanation as to what in the world she was talking
about.

Ive been put in charge of watching over students. That includes during festivals and
the sort. But actual jobs like these tend to be left to the young folk. Gosh, there
wasnt much I can do about that, hahaha. After all, see, Im young.

Why do you look so happy?

83
Hiratsuka-sensei was in a good mood and continued as if she didnt hear my
mumble. If any of our students happen to get out of hand, that would be a problem.
Since the festival is a municipal event, therell be quite a few VIPs present as well.

VIPs, huh?

Thats right, families like the Yukinoshita should be attending.

Indeed, the Yukinoshitas were essentially local celebrities and were a family of a
high pedigree. They had a seat in the prefectural assembly as well as owned a local
business. So its possible they had provided assistance with the event. In that case, it
wouldnt be out of the question if they were invited.

Speaking of them, was Haruno-san a former student?

Hm? Ahh. Thats correct. I believe she was on her way out when you enrolled. Shes
a graduate of our Sobu High. I remember her quite well.

If she graduated when I entered the school, that meant we were three years apart. So
Haruno-san was either nineteen or twenty years old. She graduated two years ago,
huh?

Generally speaking, her grades were at the top and she was able to finish anything
that was thrown at her. And considering her appearance, she was more or less
treated as a goddess by the boys.

It sounded like the story of an entirely different person. If anything, shes more of a
witch than a goddess. A goddess and a witch. Perhaps they were once equal entities,
but by way of religion, they were divided between right and wrong. It was the
epitome of those twos image.

But, said Hiratsuka-sensei, pausing. With an unpleasant face, she continued. She
wasnt an exceptional student.

It sounds like she was though?

Shes exceptional. But thats only in regards to her grades. She was noisy in class,
her uniform was a mess, and youd always find her at festivals like the upcoming
one. You could say she was gallivanting around. But thats also why she had many
friends.

Ahh, I could easily imagine seeing her like that. As someone colorful and selfish as
her, her free nature was what caused people to be attracted to her.

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Of course, thats also She stopped abruptly.

I continued her sentence. Thats also just a front, right?

Hoh, so you noticed? Hiratsuka-sensei looked impressed, or rather, she had a

smile that shed make when she shared a negative feeling about something.

I can tell just by looking.

Impressive observation skills.

Pretty much. Its my gifted education for scumbags I received from my pops.

However, that front of hers is one of Harunos charming points. Those who notice
that front start to think fondly of her conniving and determined nature.

Is that what you call being charismatic? I said.

Hiratsuka-sensei nodded. When she served as the Planning Commmittee

Chairperson for the Cultural Festival, we had the biggest student turnout. Not just
students, but even the faculty got involved She also got me to play the bass for
her.

Sensei grimaced, remembering something unpleasant. Upon mentioning it, her hair
style did resemble a certain bassists hair. I thought we were talking about Some-On
Club[41] or something

But the sisters sure seem awfully different from each other though.

If Yukinoshita resembled a graduate student that was devoted to her research,

Haruno-san was like a university student that was overly aware (lol) about a lot of
things.

By the way, I loathed phrases like overly aware, get excited, involve everyone,
and the like the most. The normalfags (lol) totally loved to spout stuff like that.
They really need to stop using those packed phrases so much because it made them
look weak.

Hiratsuka-sensei nodded, crossing her arms to think. Thats true But I wont say
she should become like Haruno. She should just be herself and work on her good
points.

Good points

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I told you before, how shes kind and correct.

In the past, Hiratsuka-sensei certainly did evaluate Yukinoshita Yukino as such. On

top of that, she stated that it was difficult for her to live like that because the world
wasnt kind or correct.

Yukinoshita was by and large correct. As for whether she was kind or not, I still had
my doubts, but you couldnt say she wasnt kind just because she wasnt soft.

Its fine not to be nice to me since Id rather you just spoil me. The idea that being
strict was a form of kindness? No thank you

Oh right, this person thinks like this too I thought, and when I glanced at Hiratsuka-
sensei, she was looking at me with a warm gaze. Youre the same as well.

She smiled at me, but I asked her for the meaning of that.

Whats the same?

Youre also kind and correct except that your kindness and correctness is
incompatible with Yukinoshitas.

Its my first time being told something like that. But I wasnt happy at all. After all, I
had always believed in my own kindness and correctness. Th-Thats why, i-its not
like I was happy or anything!

Isnt incompatible correctness just a contradiction? You know what Conan-kun says
all the time, that theres always only one truth.

Unfortunately for you, I m more of the Future Boy one, not the famous detective,
said Hiratsuka-sensei, making a grin while warding off my attempt to hide my
embarrassment.

Just how old is this person really?

86
 4-4
Once we were finally able to enter the store, we purchased meal tickets from the
ticket machine.

I demonstrated my mentality of ladies first and allowed Hiratsuka-sensei to go

ahead. When going somewhere dangerous or somewhere you didnt know for the
first time, you had to ensure its safe by letting the women go first!

Hiratsuka-sensei pressed a button without a second thought. She was so manly that I
thought I was going to fall in love. After buying the ticket, she turned around to me
with her wallet still gripped in her hand. Um, could you move already?

What would you like?

Dont tell me she wants to treat me? Now I wanted to call her big bro. As much as I
was grateful for her gesture, it didnt seem proper to accept it.

N-No, I can pay for myself.

Dont be modest.

No, I mean, there isnt a reason for you treat me , I said.

Hiratsuka-sensei tilted her head curiously. Hm? I was under the impression you
were the kind of trash rotten enough to think its natural for women to pay for
you

What a horrible thing to say.

Thats just being a leech What I want to be is a full-time house husband!

I-I dont get the difference

Hiratsuka-sensei looked confused, but I didnt know the difference very well either.
But hey, being a full-time house husband sounded a lot better than being a leech,
right? Anyway, a teacher paying for a specific students meal didnt sound like a good
thing to me. Refusing her offer here would be good luck.

Similarly to Hiratsuka-sensei, I selected tonkatsu, went to the counter and sat.

Hiratsuka-sensei handed out her meal ticket and stated the firmness of her noodles.

Kona-otoshi please.

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Ah, Ill take hari-gane then, I said, following her. But you know Do women really
order so smoothly like this at a ramen shop?

But theres just something charming about seeing a stylish beauty at a ramen shop.

We were getting an unusual amount of attention, but Hiratsuka-sensei didnt look

particularly concerned about it as she prepared the provided paper apron with an
excited look and confirmed the positions of the pepper, sesame seeds, leaf mustard,
and red ginger. Hey, seriously? This womans getting way too into this

They quickly got our orders of ramen to us since it seemed like it didnt take long to
boil our noodles.

Hiratsuka-sensei took the wooden chopsticks and placed her hands together. Thank
you for the food.

Thank you for the food.

First, the soup. A film of oil covered the ramens surface and appeared as smooth as
white porcelain, showing you how creamy it was. The pot herbs canceled out the
smell and the tonkatsu soup was thick and rich.

Next, the noodles. For how thick the soup was, the noodles were thin and straight.
The balance between the texture of the firm noodles and their chewiness was good.

Yep, delicious.

We both expressed our simplistic impressions and then slurped our noodles in
silence, savoring the soup. The crisp texture of the wood ear mushrooms and the
green onions made the taste all the more wonderful.

When Hiratsuka-sensei asked for another serving of noodles with only a fourth of it
left, she spoke to me. About our talk earlier

88
89
Yes?

The talk about your cleanliness.

When the noodle serving came, she added the leaf mustard. Feeling excited as she
customized the taste to her liking, Hiratsuka-sensei had a smile. I believe therell be
a day when it can be accepted.

Right I responded reluctantly as I tossed the raw garlic.

Its like this ramen. Hiratsuka-sensei proudly showed her completed Shizuka
special ramen and continued. When youre young, you think tonkatsu ramen is the
best and the fat is delicious. You cant accept anything except for kotteri soup, but
once you grow up, you start to slowly allow for salt ramen and soy sauce ramen.

I-Isnt that just becoming old

What was that?

Nothing

She gave me a nasty glare

Hiratsuka-sensei looked upset for a moment, but suddenly relaxed. Well, thats
fine Its fine if youre not accepted now. If some day you are, then thats good
enough.

Perhaps, she had understood my problems and my misgivings. But even so, she
wasnt spelling out the answer for me. Although for my current self, there wasnt
anything I could answer.

Of course, its not like everything will be accepted. I hate tomatoes, so I still cant
accept tomato noodles today.

So you hate tomatoes

Indeed, I just cant get used to that mushy sensation and that unique smell.

Is she a child? But I could understand what shes trying to say. That stickiness in
those kinds of fruits were probably equal to torture for people who hated it. Its kind
of grotesque and all.

I also hate cucumbers for a similar reason.

90
I dont like cucumbers either

I liked Bannanchiten Kiryu[42], though. I also liked Pepsi Cucumber.

But the thing with cucumbers is that when you sprinkle them all over potato salads
or sandwiches, it gives them that cucumber taste

Its okay to add cucumber to miso soup. But raw cucumber should be avoided. Its
the moment when they were cut into round slices that they bared their fangs
Theyd dye all the flavors with the taste of cucumbers. On top of that, the nutritional
values werent all that much, so they were like predators of the vegetable world.

I like pickled vegetables, however Hiratsuka-sensei expressed a drunk-like

opinion. I was also of the same opinion.

I like them like you, too.

Yep, thats true. Pickled vegetables were good. They were very refreshing delicacies.
And the fact you could just gobble them up with pure white rice was bliss.

The conversation halted for some reason and there was silence. I looked at
Hiratsuka-sensei out of curiosity and she was spacing out. When our eyes met, she
gulped her water in a fluster.

Ah, y-you mean the pickled vegetables. R-Right. I-I also like them.

Um, its kind of embarrassing when you say it so awkwardly like that, please
stop.

J-Just what are you talking about !? Then again what the heck did I even want to
talk about?

Is this person okay? Maybe you should exercise your brain by filling out a ten by ten
multiplication table. Lets anti-age! I couldnt remember what we were talking about
except for cucumbers myself though.

Hiratsuka-senseis mood turned better and she casually lifted her chopsticks. Here,
have a pork fillet.

Thank you. Ill give you my bamboo shoots then.

91
Fufu, thank you.

Considering your age and all, you should take your dietary fibers.

Dont say more than you need to.

Ouch. I rubbed my head after she hit me as I ate my ramen.

Looking satisfied from the taste of this store, Hiratsuka-sensei smiled. Since you
showed me a delicious store like this, I feel like I need to take you along somewhere
myself.

Do you have a recommendation?

I certainly do. Back when I was a student, I was out on a conquest for all the ramen
shops in the Chiba neighborhood. But it may be a bit strange for a student and
teacher to be going out together so often. So once you graduate, Ill take you
somewhere.

Oh no, thats okay, I dont really need you sensei, so if you could just tell me the
place

Crack.

Although the store was so noisy, I could hear that sound distinctly.

Oops, the chopsticks broke.

By all means, please take me along

Im pretty sure chopsticks dont break when you hold it, normally

Indeed. Look forward to it.

Hiratsuka-sensei looked like she was the one enjoying herself.

Its not too bad eating ramen with someone. Whether youre alone or with someone,
ramen was still delicious.

Without a shadow of doubt, the greatest food of them all was ramen. No objections
are allowed.

92
93
94
 Chapter 5: Suddenly, Hikigaya
Komachi thinks of the day her brother
leaves.

Now that we were into the second half of August, the feeling of summer vacation
was beginning to fade.

When I counted the remaining days of the month, I was assaulted by a feeling of
melancholy which caused me to let out an eerie voice like the one from The Dish
Mansion at Bancho. One daaaay, two daaaaaays two moooonths wasnt
enoooooough. If I could ask for more, Id want three months.

Thinking, The end of the Earth is in just x number of days!, I marked an X on the
calendar that was posted on the refrigerator. If I added a circle[43] on there, it
wouldve been the Takoyaki Manto Man.

Theres about a little over two weeks left of summer vacation. Hey wait, did you make
a time leap?[44]

Oh, you must be joking. Did I count the days wrong? I checked over the calendar
again and something had crawled around at my feet.

What is it?

When I looked down, our house cat Kamakura was looking at me with a displeased
face.

Our staring showdown lasted for a few seconds. Then, Kamakura snorted his nose
and rolled over on top of my feet. Totally getting in my way.

It looked like he wanted me to give him some attention.

Speaking of the past few days, Komachi had been really attached to Sabure I
suppose he was disgruntled from that and unfortunately, had to come to me instead.

I sluggishly sat on the floor and patted Kamakuras body.

95
At first, I followed the direction of his fur, slowly rubbing him from his head down to
his tail. I did that for a bit until he groaned to which I gave him a light massage,
moving my fingers around to his vital points.

Kamakura closed his eyes as he let out nasal breaths. He seemed considerably
exhausted.

I imagined that he would be, what with Sabure chasing him around whenever they
were in the same room.

Sabure demonstrated the agitation common to small breeds of dogs within our
home and ran all over the place. On top of that, hed charge at Kamakura with a
strong curiosity asking him, Lets play~! as if this was his first time encountering a
cat. Every time Sabure chased after him, Kamakura would find refuge at places
Sabure couldnt reach like the top of the refrigerator or behind drawers.

And now that Komachi who would spoil him with whatever had been taken away
from him, Kamakura had no choice but to come to me as a compromise. Well, sorry
you had to be stuck with me.

Well, you know. Just put up with it and let him have her for today Youre the
older brother here, after all, I said to Kamakura, regurgitating the same thing I was
told when I was younger. I didnt know Sabures age, but in the history of the
Hikigaya household, Kamakura was here longer and systematically, hes the older
brother.

After my explanation, Kamakuras tail struck the floor and he responded back
reluctantly. Sorry about that.

I continued brushing him, squishing his paws and patting his stomach and the door
of the living room opened.

Onii-chan Oh? Its rare to see you two together.

I raised my head to the voice and Komachi was holding Sabure in her arms. Wait,
whats so rare about his owner being with his cat?

My affinity with cats is pretty high, you know.

Onii-chan resembles a feline, after all.

I had no idea what she was getting at, but maybe she was talking about how
overprotective Id become over my turf. But I could turn that into something

96
positive.

Pretty much. Im quite the king of beasts if I say so myself.

Uh huh Sure, why not.

Whats with the pause? Stop looking at me with gentle eyes like that. Dont you
know? Lions dont work at all.

Wow onii-chan, you totally are the king of beasts!

Right? I said, smiling proudly. As if responding to that, Sabure who was in

Komachis arms barked back.

When he did, Kamakura who was laying at my feet snorted and got up. He made a
fueeh yawn like a cat bus and quickly skittered off somewhere.

On his way out, his tail wagged like the waving of a hand. I watched him leave with a
bitter smile.

So, did you need something? I asked, standing up.

Komachi then answered after her realization. Ohh, right, right. Onii-chan, lemme
borrow your smartphone.

Sure Whatre you going to use it for?

Yeah, so like, theres this app called Dog Lingo or something. If a dog barks into it,
well get to know what hes feeling!

Oh, you dont say. They have things like that, huh?

How convenient. I wonder if theyre going to release a Human Lingo, too? People
dont always say what they were feeling, after all.

Komachi rushed me going Hurry, hurry! and I went to grab my phone I threw on
top of the table.

I tapped the screen with my fingers so I could download the app. On the overview
page of the apps, there was the Dog Lingo app and also a Cat Lingo one.

Oh, can you get the Cat Lingo one, too?

Yep.

97
As I was told, I downloaded the aforementioned Dog Lingo app along with the Cat
Lingo app.

Here.

Once the Dog Lingo app finished, I handed Komachi my phone. Komachi let down
Sabure so she could quickly test the app.

Here, here, Sabure. Try saying something.

Woof! (Play with me!)

Well, I expected as much.

The message displayed on the Dog Lingo app didnt go beyond what I had imagined
and was actually in line with what dogs typically wanted.

We tried facing the Dog Lingo app towards Sabure for a while longer. Similarly to
his owner in reading the mood, Sabure turned towards the cellphone and barked.

Woof! (Play with me!)

Woof! (Play with me!)

Woof! (Play with me!)

Woof! (Play with me!)

Huh? Is this just getting copied and pasted?

Onii-chan. Are you sure your phone isnt broken?

No, it shouldnt be since I dont use it that much

Ill try barking and use it on myself. If the words changed, then the Dog Lingo app was
working as intended.

I promptly howled into the future.

BOWBOW! (I wish not to work!)

How frighteningly accurate. I dont think the Excite Translator was as accurate as
this.

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Doesnt look broken, after all.

Thats true. Seems like the broken one is you, onii-chan Komachi had given up
on me at this point and made an expression resembling an enlightened monk. Even I
was a little hurt having a blood relative look at me so pitifully that I wanted to
inform everyone in the family.

Anyway, he wants you to play with him.

Mm. Okay, I guess Ill walk him then.

Yeah, you go do that.

Now I wouldnt have to deal with his whimpering for a while. Cute things were cute,
but its a little problematic when hes running around all day and night.

Okay, go get the leash for me !

Yeah, yeah.

As I was told by Komachi, I grabbed the leash to walk Sabure from Yuigahamas set
of tools she gave us.

Thanks. Can you put it around Sabure? Ill keep him in place.

Komachi restrained Sabure, leaving the job to me. In that opening, I quickly put on
the leash around Sabure.

There, is this good enough? I asked, shaking the end of the leash.

Komachi nodded in satisfaction. Yep, so lets go! She pointed towards the entrance.

Youre making me walk him?

If anything, Im the one walking you, onii-chan. I mean, if I dont do this, youll
never leave the house.

Well, youre right about that I wasnt called Hikki for nothing.

I let out a deep sigh and tried to indicate with the my entire body that I didnt want
to go, but Komachi didnt care and pushed me from behind.

Cmon, cmon. Ill be going with you, okay?

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 5-2
The sun was already setting with the moon forming a crescent shape in the sky
blanketed with an inkish indigo blue.

I lived in a quiet cityan area that spanned one generation and could be found in
any other cityand running along the large road was a single river and along the
river were fields of crop as well as numerous estates of people running an
agricultural business.

According to the stories of my mom when she was younger, long time ago, there
used to be swarms of fireflies at the rivers and fields. So that meant theyre no longer
here anymore. An-chan, why do fireflies die so fast?[45]

As I recalled those memories, I looked at the paddy fields thinking that we probably
wouldnt see them even now.

Whoosh.

The rice stalks were pressed downwards by the passing wind.

The wind continued on, whizzing between the wonderfully ripened rice plants that
absorbed water and nutrients throughout the day as they bathed in the sun.

When I was a child, I had always thought that was the work of an invisible yokai.

But now, I could no longer see fireflies or yokai.

Why did people become nostalgic? By saying things like, It was good long time
ago, The good old days, Its nothing like back then, and so on, they became
prone to looking positively on the days that were long gone.

Perhaps they wanted to reflect back on those days, nostalgically and affectionately.
Or they could merely be just lamenting over the things that changed and how they
had changed.

In that case, didnt that mean natural change was something we should be sad about?

Was going through growth, progress, and change a happy, correct, and wonderful
thing?

Even if you didnt change, your world and your surroundings would. People who
didnt want to be left behind desperately gave chase to keep up.

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If you didnt change, there wouldnt be any grief. Even if nothing happens, I feel its a
large merit that there wasnt anything negative to come out of it. When you
compared your finances and came out with no red marks, your management policies
were by no means wrong.

Thats why I wouldnt reject the fact that I hadnt changed. I had no intentions of
rejecting myself from the past nor myself in the present.

Because when all is said and done, changing was nothing more than running from
the status quo. If your choice was to not run, thats where you should stand firm
without changing.

There were even things that could be gained by not changing. Its similar in concept
when youre mashing the B button to cancel an evolution because you could learn
new skills faster.

One day or even, some day? While it felt rather far into the future, I had gone
through that question with an answer before.

Komachi squeezed the leash, enjoying the resistance from pulling Sabure. Hey, hey,
thats dangerous with the cars around.

A car drove right past our flank as if grazing us.

Sabure sniffed at the air and then smelled the grass and started chomping down on
them. Dogs and cats had the tendency to eat grass and then spit out a hairball with
them, so when taking them out on walks, this was an important process. As such,
Komachi and I stood there and waited for him. Sabure was literally eating the grass.

After looking between Sabure and me, Komachi made a happy smile. Wooow, it
sure feels like a long time since Ive gone out on a walk with onii-chan.

Thats true.

She was certainly right. Its been a considerably long time since I went out on aimless
walks. I had always preferred spending time at home, so if I was going to go out, I
needed a clear purpose like going shopping or going to a pet show. Thats why its
been a while since I had gone out with Komachi.

Sabure tugged at the leash and Komachi smiled at him. Good boy, good boy. Lets
get going.

Answering with a single yelp, Sabure started trotting in a similar style as miniature

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dachshunds wouuld.

I walked after them.

The afterglow of the sun in the western sky. The lighting from all of the street lights
placed in intervals. The varied illuminations from one house to the next. All the
different lights blended together.

In the city that slowly darkened, there were streams of people in every direction.

Salarymen heading home, housewives going out to buy groceries for dinner,
elementary students riding their bikes with their friends, middle school students
chatting heartily at a convenience store on their way back from club, and high school
students who were going out to have fun this very moment. And lastly, the mothers
who went to pick up their children.

There was something nostalgic and warm about this commonplace scenery.

Quietly, Komachi whispered, Its a blessing to have someone welcome you at home,
huh?

Well, I guess. I wouldnt say that applies to every situation though.

Woow, this guys a total pain in the butt, said Komachi, looking gloomy.

I mean, look, theres always an exception to the rule for everything No matter how
much theyd say, Theres no one to welcome me back[46], having some weird
cover mascot greet me and recommend me to rinse my mouth wouldnt make me
happy at all

But that pain-in-the-butt onii-chan welcoming me home still makes me happy.

Komachi removed her gaze from me and faced Sabure.

I overtook Komachi who had lowered her pace. With my back facing her, she
wouldnt be able to see me loosen my mouth, after all.

Its not like Im doing it for you or anything. Youre just a supplement. A
supplement.

After I answered her bluntly from embarassment, there was a small silence.

Even so, it still makes me happy.

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I found myself turning back to her when she spoke with a warm voice.

Komachi placed her hand to her chest with closed eyes as if to check the gradually
accumulating warmth. One by one, she uttered her words slowly, That was your
admirable and heroic little sister making a cute appeal to you just now.

Her smile was the most fishy this summer.

Okay, sure

Annoying

I brought up my dropped shoulders and walked off ahead, leaving Komachi and
Sabure behind. Jeez, shes never cute when she needs to be. Normally, shes cute, like
super cute.

Komachi kicked a pebble with the tip of her sandal and looked up at the stars that
were faintly beginning to glitter. When onii-chan was stuck in the hospital, Kaa-kun
was there for me. He even welcomed me back at the door, too.

He doesnt do that for me. He looks down on me from the veranda instead.

Kaa-kuns a twisted sweetie, thats why, said Komachi, jokingly with a laugh. Being
surrounded by twisted sweeties sure is tough.

That again? Im not acting sweet at all

I wasnt twisted at all, either. As a matter of fact, there probably wasnt a single
person who lived life as straightforward as me. Its because the world was warped
that someone like me who lived an honest life looked twisted.

But hey, having a twisted sweetie like you welcome me back makes me happy.

This time I showed her a nihilistic smile. Ha. Im not always going to be there for
you. You better become independent from your brother eventually.

Huh? Onii-chan, dont tell me youre going to leave the house? Komachi stopped
immediately and turned my way. Unlike her teasing smile earlier, she looked like
she had the sails knocked out of her.

Of course not. Im not leaving the house when I dont have a reason to.

Thank goodness.

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Besides, its so comfortable being at home, its the best. Im going to avoid working
as much as possible. That is my justice.

Or maybe not Now Im super worried about your future Komachi made a
perplexed look.

I poked her head as if putting my hands on hers. I can already commute to school
from home and I plan to attend university in the same way. So unless theres a big
reason, I wont be leaving any time soon.

The universities in the city of Chiba took roughly an hour to get to, so those ones
were good enough. Of course, for the schools in Kanagawa or Tama, I might need to
give it some more thought If its somewhere like Tokorozawa, Id have to prepare
my heavy equipment beforehand due to how rural the place is

It seems a bit weird for a boy your age to be thinking like that Isnt it normal to
want to leave the house?

Mmph, not really. Our family adopts the principle of laissez-faire and since both of
our parents work, I can save my time. Theres nothing inconvenient at all, either.

Or so he says with all his reasons, but it turns out that leaving Komachi would make
him super lonely

Whats with that weird narration?

Hahaha, what a dumb thing to say, hahaha.

Theres really no benefit in living alone. It costs money and I have to use my time to
do chores. And Im not doing any chores unless I get rewarded for them. You ever
heard of equivalent exchange before?

The Hikigaya family wasnt on bad terms at all. Pops was, well, quite the scumbag,
but that really only applied to how he spoke and his thought process; everything else
wasnt an issue. Since I never really thought about leaving the house, I didnt have
any desire to be independent.

Of course, unless I had a reason to be. Well, I guess people who did live alone had
some kind of reason or something

Oh cmon, youd totally feel lonely without me.

Huh? Did you say somethings lonely? Like, the thing that can help you check and

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find something in your neighborhood Akihabara?

I had no such sentiment. Since I was someone who cherished my time alone, my
wonderful something[47] was isolation itself.

Id be lonely though.

She completely ignored me. Tch, I guess lonely and something just didnt correlate
all that clearly.

It felt like I was allowed to pass through like a pro soccer athlete and scored a goal,
so I went along with Komachis conversation. Well, I guess you would be, but I

Im not just talking about you, onii-chan. Like say, Yukino-san, shes living alone
too, right? I wonder how Yukino-san feels about it Is she okay?

It sounded like she was implicitly saying that even Yukinoshita Yukino felt some
kind of loneliness in her life. Always conducting herself flawlessly, occasionally shed
look fragile, or perhaps ephemeral, but they were certainly things I felt from her.
But exactly what that really meant, I still had yet to understand.

Also, said Komachi, continuing. I think even the side that gets left behind feels
lonely, too.

Yeah, thats for sure.

Just why did I think the ones leaving were the only ones who felt lonely? Its obvious
that the ones being left behind were going to feel the same way. Im pretty confident
Id break down into tears if Komachi ever got married and left the house.

Komachi pulled at Sabures leash as if instructing him. I took the leash from her as if
accepting a baton from her hand.

Onii-chan?

Youre tired, right? Ill hold it for you.

Of course, theres no way shed get tired from walking a small-sized dog like Sabure.
Only girls with no physical strength would get exhausted.

Komachi looked at me strangely, but then broadly smiled. Okay, you can handle
him then. In which case, Ill make sure onii-chan doesnt run off anywhere, said
Komachi. She then gripped my hand.

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Im not going anywhere. Ill be at the house until I become a bride.

Is that something you should be saying as a full-time house husband?

Then, until I become a husband.

Okay, sure. I kinda feel like it doesnt really matter anymore

A walk on the streets after a considerably long time.

After a detour of the town that had changed from how it used to be, lets head home.

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 5-3
When we were just about done with preparing for dinner, a buzz came from the
intercom. In place of Komachi who was occupied with the saucepans, I went to check
on the intercom.

On the intercoms monitor, Yuigahama was restlessly adjusting her hair. It looks like
she came to pick up Sabure. After checking, I went to the front entrance.

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108
When I opened the door, she waved her hands at me.

Ah, yahallo.

Hey.

Here you go, its a souvenir. She noisly handed me a paper bag.

Judging by the size and the weight of the bag, it probably wasnt a wooden sword.
Darn If it was some kind of key holder with the shape of a sword entwined by
some bizarre dragon or a skeleton key holder that glowed in the dark, I wouldve
been kind of happy.

Theyre local specialties!

Ohh

I glanced inside the paper bag and there were local sweets as Yuigahama had told
me. Well, its pretty common for these local specialty candies to be for sale.

She went with a safe choice, taking into consideration that while it told people where
she went, its more likely for people to like it than hate it. The sweets were also
wrapped into small portions, so sharing it with others at work or at school was easy.
Its a souvenir that kept others in mind.

But upon looking at it, I was hit with a past memory.

This, huh?

Huh? You dont like it? Yuigahama peeked inside the paper bag in my hands with a
look of concern.

No, I didnt mean that Dont girls always buy these kinds of souvenirs? Heck, all
the girls in class do.

Oh, I guess thats true. There are some girls who dont, though. Like Yumiko.

Miura, huh? Thats the Queen for you. I had to respect the fact that she saw it as her
natural-born right to be given things.

Once upon a time, people used to throw wrappers of local specialty sweets like
these in my shoe box I mean, the perp was clearly one of the girls from my class
and the fact that they wouldnt even try to hide their criminal conduct made it hurt

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even more

A dry laugh welled up from inside me.

When Yuighama saw that, she frantically tried to make me feel better. I-Its okay
now, dont worry! That wont happen to you anymore!

I sure hope so.

Itll be fine! No one even knows you enough to do that, Hikki!

True.

Yuigahama clenched her fist in an attempt to persuade me.

But she was really terrible at cheering me up that it ended up working, so I decided
to let it slide. Im glad I decided to develop my stealth ability. At this level, I could
probably sneak by the Chimera Ant King[48].

As I felt relieved knowing Id be able to spend the second semester of school in

peace, Yuigahama looked into our house, curious about our situation. So, hows
Sabure?

Yeah, hes doing fine. Komachi. I called inside the house and Komachi came to the
entrance holding Sabure.

Sabure yelped in her arms. Seeing that, Yuigahama smiled. Thanks a bunch,
Komachi-chan!

Oh no, not at all, said Komachi.

Yuigahama petted Sabure and asked, Was he a handful?

Nope, not in the least. We played around with the Dog Lingo app and stuff, so we
had a blast.

Dog Lingo? Ahh, that thing. They had that a long time ago, didnt they?

They made an app for it.

Since itd be faster to show it to her, I started up the app and Yuigahama looked at
my cellphone to see what its about. To test it, Yuigahama called to Sabure. Here,
Sabure. Onee-chans here for you!

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Sabure tilted his head with a puzzled look.

Arf? (Whos this person?)

Sabure!? Yuigahama let out a voice of despair. As if scared by that, Sabure welped
and ran around my feet. I grabbed ahold of him and then held him up.

I carefully placed him inside the carry bag that Komachi brought to the entrance.
After zipping the bag up, I handed it over to Yuigahama. Here. Im sure hell
remember you in a couple of days or so.

Uuurgh I really wish he didnt forget me in the first place Yuigahama said with a
voice on the verge of tears and accepted the bag.

Sabure placed the tip of his nose against the mesh of the bag and whimpered.

Alright, see you later.

Although I didnt play with him very much, now that we were separating, I felt a
little emotional, even more so when he was looking so reluctant.

Yui-san, feel free to bring Sabure over again.

Komachi had moist eyes, being the one who had taken care of Sabure in the past
three days, as she held Yuigahamas hands.

I will, I will! Ill definitely stop by again~!

Yes, please do. So please come by with a box of cakes when our parents are around
so you can meet them.

Oh, right, I should greet your pareneh, ehhh!? Im not coming for that! Just
kidding, Im not coming!

Komachi eyes glittered suspiciously for a moment, but after clicking her tongue, her
expression went back to normal.

Anyway, please come over again. Ill be waiting for you.

Okay, thanks, said Yuigahama, expressing her gratitude. She then picked up her
other luggage with Sabure.

It was probably about time for her to head home. There, I remembered something.

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Oh yeah, about Yukinoshita. She might be at the fireworks festival. Hiratsuka-sensei
said its a locally sponsored event, so a lot of big wigs are attending with their
families or something.

Oh I see Okay. Ill try go Yuigahama paused for short moment as if something
had come to mind. She then let out a small breath and quietly turned her gaze
towards me. U-Um Hey, do you wanna go to the fireworks festival together? Like,
itll be my thanks for taking care of Sabure, my treat.

So she says, Komachi. Lets go.

Go with just the two of us was a choice I immediately eliminated from the start.
And since its her way of thanking us, I think its only proper that Komachi tagged
along since she did most of the work.

Komachi placed her hands on her waist seeing through my intentions and sighed in
resignation. It sounded like she mumbled, Good grief, whats wrong with my
trashynii-chan?, but I ignored it.

She then turned her face towards Yuigahama with an apologetic look. Ahh, Im
really happy for your invitation, but see, Im actually stilll in the middle of my
exams. Id love to take you up on your offer, but I cant exactly go out anywhere
right now

Oh okay Not much you can do there.

Yes. Im sorry. Oh! But see! But see, there are a lot of things Id like to buy, but
Argh, I just dont have the time! There are things I want, but theres no time to go
out and buy them at all! What ever am i going to do, huh? Theres a lot of stuff too,
so it might be too much for Yui-san by herself, you know?

After she said all of that in monotone, she totally glanced at me

Realizing the meaning behind her gesture, Yuigahama leaned forward. Oh! No
kidding! Hikki! Why dont we buy some of Komachis stuff then!? I mean, I do owe
you two a lot for the help!

Ah, ahh no, uh I tried to finish my words, but Yuigahama gave me a direct
stare.

Its a little concerning if a girl goes to a fireworks festival by herself After all, the
world is a dangerous place to be in nowadays Oh gosh, if only there was a boy
around who has nothing better to do

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I could hear Komachis whisper from behind me.

U-Um I mean, if Hikkis busy or has plans to go with someone else, then i-its
fine Yuigahama looked at me while fidgeting.

I didnt have a set schedule. Which meant that on the day of the fireworks festival, I
was available.

Not to mention, the way she was asking me like that made it hard to refuse her, if
ever. With the inner and outer moats completely overrun, its like the summer
campaign of the Siege of Osaka.

Well, its for Komachi, so just give me a call whenever, I said, and went back to
the living room.

Okay, Ill send you a mail later!

Before I closed the door, that energetic voice reached me from behind.

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 5-4
Now that Sabure was gone, the house was peaceful.

It was so quiet that the around-the-clock barking seemed like a lie. The clattering of
the dishes being washed filled the room quite audibly. When I turned off the water
faucet near my hand, I could hear the insects from far away.

Until our parents came back home, the tranquil and typical time of the Hikigaya
household would go on.

Komachi, who I could see from the kitchen, looked lifeless as she sank into the sofa.
I took out a cup of barley tea and poured a cup as I listened to her long sigh and
handed it to her.

Good work.

She took the glass I handed to her and she gulped it down. After letting out a
satisfied gasp, she handed back the glass with a groan.

You better believe Im tired It feels like I sent my child away.

Really

Komachi looked like she had grown old, resembling an old lady sitting
absentmindedly at a porch and was making a peaceful expression.

But if its Yui-san, I can be at peace and leave everything to her

He was never yours in the first place Just how cheeky are you?

I found myself sighing to which Komachi looked up at me and tilted her head.
Huh? Ohh, you mean Sabure.

Huh? We werent talking about Sabure? What were you talking about then?

Nooooothing at all, said Komachi, looking discouraged and she lay down on the
sofa. She stretched out her hand to the cushion to bring it closer, but Kamakura was
sleeping there.

Kamakura didnt look as alert as he usually was because he was stretching out his
body in a pose like holy cow, curled and sleeping. With Sabure gone, it looks like
he could finally relax.

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He exposed his entire hairy stomach and was completely defenseless. His no-guard
behavior would shame even the Southern Black Panther, Ray Sefo.

Seeing that, Komachi eyes glittered. Kaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa-kun!

She flew at him and buried her face in his stomach, squishing his paws, and when
they were together, he started purring.

Oh! Maybe well be able to hear what Kaa-kun is saying now! Onii-chan, the Cat
Lingo! Quick with the Cat Lingo! Hurry, hurry!

R-Right

As she instructed, I hurriedly took out my cellphone. After I booted up the Cat Lingo
app, I handed it over to Komachi. She then placed the phone to Kamakuras neck.

Grgrgrgr. (It hurts, help Itchy. Tasty.)[49]

Kaa-kun!?

Hey, is this cat okay? Actually, is the person who made this Cat Lingo app okay? Hes
clearly infected, isnt he?

After that, as if to distract herself from the loneliness, Komachi mercilessly and
thoughtlessly poked at Kamakura. Although it was only for a brief amount of time,
she was rather fond of Sabure.

As I watched Komachi and Kamakura pleasantly poke at each other, she looked at
the screen of my cellphone and rose her voice. Ah, onii-chan. Your phones gonna
die.

Mm, okay.

I took the phone when she held it out.

The battery display showed it at a few percent left over. It could die at any moment.
The clock at the top of the screen also entered my vision. It was about a good time
as any.

Good timing. Hurry up and go back to studying.

Okaaay.

After rubbing Kamakura one last time, Komachi got up from the sofa and left the

115
living room. She was probably going to do her studying in her room.

Now that he was finally released from Komachi, Kamakura looked as tired as he was
when Sabure was around and walked towards me. Good work, little guy.

As I dug around for my charger to charge my phone, Kamakura purred.

The Cat Lingo app that was still running on my phone reacted and displayed a
response.

When I read it, I broke into a smile. Yeah, you got that right.

Kamakura responded to me once again, but by the time he did, the screen of my
cellphone had already turned off.

116
117
118
 Chapter 6: And so, Yuigahama Yui
disappears into the crowd.

Out in the world, youd often hear remarks like, Were no longer connected with
the local community anymore or Our relationship with the neighbors has gotten
weaker.

Well yes, they seemed accurate. If we take into consideration that Imy
relationship with my neighbors and school being practically nonexistentwas the
one saying them, theres no doubt about them.

Long agothough I wouldnt say I knew it as long agoI had never really felt close
to something like the local community. That might be because whenever someone
mentioned it, I had no idea who or what they were referring to. If they said it was
the president of the neighborhood association or the mayor, I couldnt think of a
single face. In middle school, theyd make you participate in afternoon, clean-up
efforts chanting some slogan, Lets pick up the trash for the local community. But
it ultimately turned into nothing more than my own personal time to go on a stroll
because really, I couldnt muster any kind of motivation for people I didnt even
know.

However, there would come a time when wed finally feel the existence of this local
community.

And such a day was like today.

Throughout the day, I could hear a lot of popping sounds in the distance. And the
city was afflicted with small oscillations back and forth as if waking up from a deep
slumber.

After I left the house, I could directly feel the commotion and restlessness in the air
as if they were acting in conjunction with the fierce rays of the summer sun.

In making my way to the station, there were numerous people heading in the same
direction. Women dressed in yukatas stuck out like a sore thumb in the crowd.

119
On the train, I was encircled by groups with men and women on friendly terms and
families carrying coolers. I inserted my earphones into my ears and stood there
absentmindedly, only to be pushed further and further into the corner by the
pressure. Its only a matter of time until my spiritual pressure[50] had vanished.

For a few minutes, I breathed in and out quietly enough so that no one could notice
me. The train passed several stations and the next station was finally my stop.

I was the only one to leave through the opened doors. The people who entered
through the door, however, were far greater in number. After watching the doors
close with the doors-closin-quick[51], I laboriously walked to the ticket gate.

Jeez it feels completely like I walked all this way for nothing. I cant help but be
depressed when the thought of having to go in another crowded train like that one

As I thought about how Id unload all of my dissatisfaction on her with complains

when we met, I walked against the current of people past the ticket gate.

Our appointment was one minute past its scheduled time.

I think she should be here by now I made a look around, but I didnt see any signs of
her anywhere. I didnt see a Bulbasaur or Squirtle, either.

I leaned against a pillar of the concourse and familiar people from my school passed
by. Of course, I didnt call out to them nor did they call out to me since we werent
acquaintances.

Both the boys and girls were wearing yukatas and jinbeis. As I followed those high
school students with my eyes, I spotted a girl walking towards me from the north
entrance with her sandals noisily clapping the floor.

Small blooming flowers were irregularly decorated on her peach yukata and her
vermillion sash looked attractively vivid. Her hair was tied up instead of the usual
chinese bun style.

She didnt look used to wearing her sandals, so when she came trotting over here
looking dangerous close to falling over, I found myself taking a few steps closer to
her out of reflex.

Oh, Hikki. There was some stuff going on so I ended up kinda late She smiled,
looking embarrassed and apologetic.

Nah, dont worry about it.

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Somehow it was quiet even though we were both facing each other. Yuigahama was
looking down and fiddling with her hair. Are you Hamtaro or something?

Well, uh that yukata looks pretty good.

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122
Why the hell am I complimenting the yukata? Youre supposed to praise the person. But
it looked like I didnt need to correct myself since Yuigahama realized what I wanted
to say and with her eyes darting all over the place, she answered, Th-Th-Th-
Thanks.

And its quiet again. What the heck? The only things I could think of with all this
silence were all the Seagal[52] movies

I opened my mouth to do something about the stiff mood. I guess we should get
going.

Okay.

Once I started walking, the sound of footsteps followed right behind me.

We passed through the ticket gates and waited for the descending train. Yuigahama
was facing downwards the entire time and didnt say anything.

I was the type of person that wasnt bothered by the silence.

But it did bother me that Yuigahama was so quiet. Considering how shed be a little
annoying about the dumbest things, I was kind of worried that she was angry at me
or something. For the time

being, I brought up something random to ignite a conversation. Hey, why did we

meet up midway to the festival instead of at the actual place?

Well It might be hard for us to meet up there since theres so many people.

We have cellphones, you know.

Its really hard to get through, okay?

Ahh, now that she mentioned it, I recall hearing about how making calls in crowded
areas was difficult. I never actually used my phone in those situations, so I was under
the impression it was just an urban legend, though, its not like I used my phone in
empty areas, either.

Besides itd be kinda boring meeting at the festival, too

Who cares if its boring? Were not getting edible seaweed or something

G-Gosh, whys it matter!? Do you want to complain about anything else?

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Nope

I got her mad

Now we were silent again. But when I realized how close we were, I started walking
as if groping around in the darkness despite it still being broad daylight.

Do you

Have you

We both simultaneously spoke.

Yuigahama frantically motioned me to go first.

Do you usually go to the fireworks festival?

Ah, I do. I usually go every year with my friends.

Ohh

The moment I answered, the train had arrived.

The train was packed with people seemingly heading to the fireworks festival and
amongst them were, of course, people wearing yutakas, people carrying vinyl sheets,
and parasols.

But its just one station away. We both stood near the door. Once the door closed
with a racket, the trained started off.

So, what were you trying to say earlier?

Oh, right Have you been to the fireworks festival before? Thats what I wanted to
ask.

She told me, We thought the same thing, huh? which was so pointless that I
wanted to die. Um, can you stop with that embarrassing smile? Because its going to
infect me, too. Like a real pandemic.

I removed my gaze and checked the time. Still four in the afternoon, huh?

I went with my family once when I was in elementary.

Oh, okay..

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The conversation then died again.

Our conversation that got chopped into pieces like a tuna continued as the train
continued running.

As soon as the port tower came into view in the distance, the train stepped on its
breaks.

Hyah!

There was a brief shriek, the sound of the clapping wooden sandals, and a faint,
sweet aroma. I could feel something soft weighing down on my shoulders.

I imagine its because she wasnt used to those sandals. She lost her balance and fell
towards me. Naturally, I caught her.

Our faces were incredibly close. Yuigahamas cheeks turned red and she hurriedly
took some distance. S-Sorry

Mm, well, its pretty packed in here, after all

I turned my face away, pretending to look at the outside scenery. From a position
that Yuigahama couldnt see, I let out a long sigh. Only now did I start to sweat.

Th-That made me nervous Phew, close one. If I was any other guy, I probably wouldve
started liking her.

But that wouldnt ever happen. After all, I wouldnt ever misunderstand, mistake, or
assume something anymore. Unpopular boys had the bad habit of trying to make
plain coincidences and phenomena seem more meaningful than they really are.

Its common sense to be greeted in the morning, the only reason they dropped their
handkerchief in front of you was because of a careless mistake, and they really only
wanted your mail address at your part-time job, so they could contact you for shift
changes.

I didnt believe in coincidences, fate, or destiny. I believed only in company orders. I

dont think becoming an adult like that was very good. Yeah, I really dont want to
work

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The station we got off on was overflowing with people and noise.

The looming Chiba Port Tower illuminated the lower world with its mirror-like
walls, intensifying the brilliance of the setting sun several times over that served to
liven up the expectations of those who waited for the start of the festival.

Everyone laughed and exchanged looks of animated joy.

On the streets, there were food stalls with the standard takoyaki and okonomiyaki,
neighborhood convenient stores and liquor shops placing their products out on
display, and restaurants fervently advertising to potential customers that they could
view the fireworks from their place.

This was a summer in Japan.

Perhaps it was carved in my genes as well because even I was starting to feel excited.

The curtains to the fireworks festival for the denizens of Chiba were about to be
raised at this very moment.

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 6-2
It was a short distance away to the fireworks festival venue from the front of the
station. The public park was practically adjacent to the station. But with this many
people, we couldnt move ahead as we had hoped.

The plaza of the park was normally sparse with people and only gave me the
impression that it was wide, but I could tell from afar that it was blotted with people.

The wind that blew from the sea through the gaps between all these people felt
pleasant.

I looked at time and it was still only six in the evening. The fireworks were supposed
to start at seven thirty.

Until then, what should we do? I turned to Yuigahama at my side to check with her.
It looks like we still have some time left. What we should do? Go home?

Were not going home! How can you suggest that so naturally!?

Oops, my bad habit kicked in where Id immediately think of going straight home
whenever I went out. No matter the time, no matter the situation, my biggest
priority was to make it back home in one piece. The fact I was so suited to being a
spy or ninja was a little problematic, I had to say.

So what then?

Just when I was going to add with Go home, after all?, Yuigahama took out her
cellphone from her purse.

Um, so Komachi sent me a mail listing out the things she wants as thanks.
Yuigahama operated her phone and then showed me. The bothersome decorated
and sparkling rhinestones on her phone were incredibly annoying, but I decided to
focus on the screen.

Komachis Shopping List:

Yakisoba 400 yen

Cotton candy 500 yen

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Ramune 300 yen

Takoyaki 500 yen

The memory of watching fireworks Priceless[53]

Whats with that last one?

When I visualized how she mightve typed this with a triumphant look, onii-chan felt
a little embarrassed

Yuigahama took my expression as if I was annoyed and let out an awkward ahaha.
So embarassing! Onii-chan is SO embarrassed right now!

But still, there she goes again with her meddlesome tactics I thought for a bit, but
well, I could see that Komachi was trying to be considerate in her own way. I wasnt
that dense that Id be missing the obvious planning she had in mind.

Rather, I was sensitive. So sensitive and perceptive that I was prone to overreacting.

After all, eighty percent of the boys in the world were always living their lives with
the thought, Could it be this girl likes me?

And thats exactly its necessary to reprimand yourself. You needed to be calm and
collected, so you could look at yourself with an indifferent attitude and say, Fat
chance.

I didnt believe in others all that much, but I absolutely didnt believe in myself at all.

I let out a sigh and adjusted my mood. Alright, I guess we should just buy them as
we go

Okay.

Yuigahama trotted along in her sandals cheerfully, either due to Komachis mail
relieving the tension in the mood or due to the passion of the festival affecting her.

I could hear her humming along with her every footstep very clearly in this crowd.

Streams of people continued towards the plaza.

Numerous stalls were situated side by side, many of them booming with business.

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I thought I knew how tasty the food was, but now that I was in front of the food
stalls, the way the food was highlighted by the naked light bulbs whtted my appetite.
Case in point, the sauce and the oil on the yakisoba made it look wonderfully juicy. I
thought I was looking at Kabaya[54] for a second there.

Yuigahama pulled at my sleeve, her eyes sparkling. Hey, hey, what should we eat
fiirst? Apple candy? Apple candy first, right?

Thats not even on the list

It looked like her objective wasnt to buy things anymore; now, its to eat

Yuigahama stared at the apple candy and reluctantly groaned, but then faced her
cellphone to me with her hand. Well, what should we get first then?

First, we should get the stuff thats okay at normal temperature. So that means we

Oh wow! You can win a PS3 here!

Just as I tried to move, she pulled my sleeve. Yuigahama had her attention stolen by
the treasure angling stall. Beside the PS3, there were other gorgeous goods piled with
it.

No, I doubt it Anyway, listen to what Im saying.

Huh? But there are strings connected to it.

Yeah, they probably are connected. But we dont know which ones are connected to
which.

The strings for the treasure angling stall were connected to every prize in which all
the strings were joined at a single point and then extended out again in various
directions. Exactly what kind of mechanism they had prepared in the middle of all
that, we didnt know.

Just remember, the way they set up all these good looking items for display is the
first trap. Theres always a flipside when somethings convenient for you. Common
sense much?

Uh, common sense from where exactly? People from the underworld?

While we were having that conversation, the old man of the treasure angling stall

129
glared at me.

I made a discrete getaway from the stall and hurried to a different one.

I guess we should start with the cotton candy.

At the cotton candy stall, a machine was puffing while releasing a sweet smell in the
air, spinning white, fluffy strings and pressing them together.

They were then packed into a bag and sealed at the end. These kind of resembled
the Toei bags that had anime characters and heroes printed on them with money
inside.

Nothing had changed regardless of the generation; I think this was how it felt when I
was a child. Similar in age to me, Yuigahama looked apparently nostalgic and looked
at the cotton candy with sweet eyes. Oh wow, isnt this like totally nostalgic!? Hey,
which one should we get?

Theyre all the same inside. Ill go with this. Ill take this please.

I pointed at the pink bag in front of me and handed over five hundred yen.

Yeah, well, I had absolutely no interest in anime catered towards little girls nor did I
watch them. But Komachis a girl and all, so you know, itd be better to give her
something from that P-P-Precure thing or whatever, right? Yep, I had zero interest it.
I was apathetic to it that I couldnt tell the difference between Jewel Pets and Pretty
Rhythm.

After we bought the cotton candy, we purchased the ramune and takoyaki.

So, next is yakisoba?

Right. I think I saw it around over there earlier

The moment I turned around, I noticed there were people looking at us. They waved
their hands and approached us.

Oh hey, its Yui-chan.

Oh, Sagamin. Yuigahama answered back along with a small wave and walked a few
steps towards them. Both parties took similar actions.

Oh ho, so this was what they called mirroring. By copying the actions of the other
party, it made it easier to connect to each other; this was a technique I saw in

130
Mission Research[55].

So who?

At times like these, itd be better to blend into the background so diminish my
presence. Ill become a tree![56]

But you know? When girls called out to each other, theres this bizarre difference in
their attitudes towards each other. Yuigahama was more or less friendly. On the
other hand, it felt like Sagamin or whatever her name wasnt as intimate and looked
a little distant.

So, who the heck is this?

They apparently had the same thoughts as me when they looked at Yuigahama for
an explanation.

Um

Ah, right. Hes Hikigaya-kun in the same class. And this is Sagami Minami-chan in
our class.

Ohh, so shes in our class. Now that she mentioned it, I vaguely recall her. I thought,
giving her a small bow.

In that instant, our eyes met.

Pfft.

For a moment, Sagamis expression had a smirk.

Oh, so thats how it is! So you both came together, huh? Jeez, just look at us, its just
a fireworks festival of girls for us[57]! Thats so nice, I wanna live my youth, too!

Ahaha! What are you even saying, were not at a swim meet or anything! Were
really not doing anything like that~ Yuigahama hesitated for a moment, but quickly
went along and laughed.

But I wasnt in the slightest mood to laugh.

Just seconds earlier, that smile Sagami had. It was something I was all too familiar
with.

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It wasnt a smile nor was it a laugh.

It was a commanding laugh of scorn.

This girl, after seeing the boy that Yuigahama Yui brought, was undoubtedly
sneering at her.

Ehh, oh cmon, whats the big deal? Its summer and all, so thats totally cool.

Her smile retained its shape, her gaze taking that moment to evaluate me. That was
enough to make me understand that her earlier warmth was a lie, a coldness that
made my heart congeal over.

The more my heart froze over, the more clear my head became.

My thoughts gradually became more vivid as if liquid nitrogen was poured down my
spine. My reasoning, my logic, and my experience all assimilated and bumped heads
with my emotions. My emotions were quick to surrender, not bothering to wait for a
proper outcome.

Once again, I was on the verge of misunderstanding.

Sagami Minami and I wouldnt get along. We didnt know a thing about each other.

So whats the fastest way to understand people you didnt know very well?

Thats to label them.

The material she needed to understand a person like me was my affiliated caste.
Obviously, that wasnt limited to just Sagami; it applied to anyone else.

Before even trying to know someone personally, theyd start first with their affiliated
group, their locations, their positions, and their titles. In school and society, its
commonplace to have your human qualities be judged based on those things alone. I
stopped hearing about this recently, but when you were out job hunting, you were
wrung through a filter regarding rumors about the plausibility of your academic
record.

It had completely slipped my mind that Yuigahama was someone that could handle
inter-group communication, but she was originally someone who had belonged to
the top caste in class, in school even.

Then you had me; I belonged to the bottom of the barrel. Putting aside Yukinoshita

132
who was outside of those castes, a simple look from the sidelines would tell you that
unless theres some kind of charity, Yuigahama would never interact with someone
like me.

Crap At a prominent fireworks festival like this, students from nearby high schools
would definitely gather here. I wasnt being attentive enough.

The current situation was something like a social exchange between ladies. The man
they brought along would likely serve as their status symbol. At the same time, the
bag they carried and the brand of clothes they wore would be used to measure their
value.

Suppose if I were Hayama instead, its likely their reactions wouldve been
completely different. Its possible they might even call Yuigahama onto a heroine
interview[58] tonight. But with me, Id be treated as defaulting at a court-martial
trial.

I wont think that the worlds we lived in were different. Imagine how comfortable
itd be if we did. This worlds a pain because were living in it so half-heartedly.

I could be all smiles, but with me still here, only Yuigahama would look pitiful
smiling.

Looks like theres people lining up for yakisoba, so Ill be going over there.

Ah, okay. Ill be right there. Yuigahama answered with a seemingly apologetic
smile. I left the area and quickly went on my way.
The faster I could eliminate any possible factors that could lead to Yuigahama being
laughed at, the better. While I could still hear Yuigahama and Sagami talking behind
me, I paid them no attention and continued to move my legs.

Using my second-hand memory and the source of the smell, I arrived at the front of
the yakisoba stand.

When the naked light bulbs illuminated the yakisoba in a plastic pack fastened by a
rubber band, it somehow got my appetite going.

After paying for the yakisoba, Yuigahama came over.

Sorry said Yuigahama, looking a little awkward. She had no reason to apologize
to me, however. Because of that, I wasnt sure how to respond.

Candy apple.

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Huh? Yuigahama eyes blinked with an absent murmur.

I pressed further in emphasis. You wanted to buy some, right?

Y-Yeah! I totally do! Ill give you half, Hikki!

I dont want any.

Yes, well, Ill gladly take the other half of the apple if it gets cut cleanly in half with a
knife or something, otherwise, sharing it any other would be a bit, you know

Anyway, that shouldve been everything on the list.

Its just about time for the fireworks to go off. I didnt need to bother checking the
time because I could tell from the growing commotion from everyone around us.

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 6-3
When the sun finally dipped past the Bay of Tokyo, the zenith of the sky was bathed
in an indigo blue darkness. The moon climbed as high as it could if excitedly waiting
for the fireworks to be shot up.

The plaza, from the street lined with rows of stalls, served as the main venue and
was teeming with people.

When I thought about how vinyl sheets were placed all over leaving no extra room,
there were people who had been here form the start and were exchanging sake cups,
and the children crying in the distance, there were loud voices going back and forth
nearby.

As such, there was no available space for us to occupy.

If I was alone, I couldve managed to find some place to take a seat to watch the
fireworks from afar, but since I was with someone, its a different story.

We decided to search around for open space where the both of us could sit since
standing the entire time wasnt an option.

With that being said, we didnt have vinyl sheets, let alone newspaper. I couldnt let
Yuigahama sit down on the floor since she was wearing a yukata. I considered sitting
at nearby benches, but

they were all occupied as if the same thought crossed everyones mind.

Theres nowhere to go. Isnt this exactly like a school event for me?

Yikes, sure is crowded, huh? said Yuigahama, making a problematic laugh. You got
that right.

Had I known how ridiculous this would be beforehand, I wouldve prepared a vinyl
sheet.

J-Jeez. You make it sound like it Im at fault here Sorry, I shouldve told you,
huh?

Thats not it. Im not used to this, so I didnt think that far ahead. My bad.

If only I gave it some more thought, I shouldve been able to anticipate this. I was a
bit depressed at my own incompetence.

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Im sure the so-called popular men were the guys who could be perfectly considerate
of others and be thoroughly prepared in a situation like this. Management of these
little details was far more important than how good their face looked and so forth.

For example, sending sincere mails, looking things up prior to going out, or being
able to hold a tasteful conversation while waiting in line.

Ehh, whats with that? Sounds like a total pain.

If you had to do all that just so you could be popular, Id rather just stay unpopular.
Seriously. Also, why was it the guy who always had to do the courting? Where did
gender equality go?

Wait! Was it because they did the courting that they were popular!? Wow, talk
about worthless. But I loved myself for being able to say stuff like this.

Well, you know. Wouldnt it just be a lie if I forced myself to be someone Im

normally not when Im by myself?

Could you really call the affection you earned from all your efforts actual affection
towards your self as well as towards who you really are?

Whether it was okay to say you were still you after changing so you could be liked
and loved or not, I wasnt sure. If thats something you created by lying and
pretending, it was likely to crash and burn eventually. If something essential changed
in you, you certainly couldnt really call that your true self.

These worthless thoughts ran by in my head and I let out an exhausted sigh. I came
back to my senses not knowing when I had dropped my gaze, and looked up.

My eyes met with Yuigahama who had a dumb look with her mouth open.

What?

You know Hikki, you can be pretty considerate, huh?

Huh? You some kinda idiot? Im super considerate. Im so considerate to the point I
dont bother anyone by standing quietly in the corner.

Id speak to no one, Id walk behind everyone instead of next to them, and Id avoid
inviting people, so I didnt get in the way of their plans. I was such a master of
consideration that I could easily shoot a Spirit Ball[59] right now.

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Ahaha, thats not what I mean I mean, like, youre nice or something?

Oh yeah? Good on you to notice. Youre right, I am nice. Ive been through all kinds
of things in my life, but I havent gone out for revenge on a single person at all. If I
was any other normal person, this world wouldve ended already. You could even
call me the savior of the world.

Normal people cant destroy the world! They dont go through all sorts of things
either!

Wow, shes being totally reasonable.

Yeah, whatever. Anyway, it looks open over there, so lets go there.

Okay.

Although we started to proceed ahead, there was a last-minute rush of people

heading to the stalls and bathrooms before the start of the fireworks, so we ended up
having to go against traffic.

In the jumbled crowd of people, I walked as if weaving through the openings.

This had become a habit of mine; that is, I walked by killing any noise I make.

I was a fantasista with the ability to be Japans representative, so if its to look for
space, this measly crowd was childs play. Ha! If its going against what people would
expect, I was totally good at that! After all, I was always going against the trends of
the world that left me behind!

I handled the waves of people as if I was training with a wooden doll and when I
made it out to an area sparse of people, I realized that Yuigahama mightve not been
able to do the same things as I could.

Crap, I used my skill too much there. I thought and turned around, but my concern
wasnt necessary.

Yuigahama made way through the crowd while expressing her apologies like, Im
sorry, Sorry, Excuse mee.

Ohh, her restlessness skill is pretty amazing

Whats wrong?

When she managed to make it through and up to me, she tilted her head with a

137
confused look.

Nothing

On second thought, people used to these things were better at dealing with them.
This place wasnt an unchallenged sphere for Stealth Hikki.

So it looks like we managed to find a spot with little people.

Isnt this a pay area?

When she said that, I looked around and sure enough, there were taut yellow ropes
that clearly partitioned the area off.

The entirety of this plaza was confined by trees, so if you sat at a normal spot, it
might be a little difficult to see the fireworks. But this pay area was on a small hill,
so the view was spectacular.

The security seemed flawless as there were part-timers patrolling the area.

The typical scenario would be us being chased away for stopping so close to the pay
area.

Guess we should look somewhere else

The path along the rope seemed less crowded, so I nodded to Yuigahama and started
walking.

Huuuh? Its Hikigaya-kun.

An air of elegance hung in the air of the area that was conspicuously dark blue in the
darkness and there, a refreshing yukata sporting a design with lilies and autumn
foliage.

The one there was Yukinoshita Haruuno.

She was there in the area literally drawn by the rope.

Served by the people around her, the seat she was situated in was like that of a
throne as if occupied by an empress.

138
139
 6-4
At seven forty, there was an announcement that the scheduled start of the fireworks
festival would be delayed by ten minutes.

Applause erupted and easily-elated people whistled through their fingers from
somewhere. Had they been any closer, I mightve smacked them. Typically fifty
percent of guys whod whistle so arrogantly like that often had the image that theyre
usually docile, but only became noisy at times like these.

In this plaza, this pay area was situated on a small hill that directly faced the area
where the fireworks would be shot off, allowing you to see them their entirety
without the obstruction of the surrounding trees.

You could only enter this area if you purchased a ticket, but Haruno-sans guidance
allowed us entry.

Im here as a proxy for my father and I was getting bored with all the reception I
had to do. Im so glad you showed up, Hikigaya-kun.

Right. Proxy, huh? Thats amazing. I made restless looks around while mostly
ignoring what she said in the latter half.

Haruno smiled. Ufufu, I guess you could call these VIP seats. You wouldnt be able
to get in normally.

Haruno-san showed off with the innocence of a child. There were times where
openly bragging didnt give make you look like youre being arrogant.

Its that straightforwardness of hers that I thought correlated with her charisma. Just
moments earlier, when she told the people gathered around in the surroundings,
Im sorry, my friends were running late and seem to have arrived, that was enough
for them to back down.

On top of that, when she invited us in, the security part-timers unconditionally
accepted it and didnt bother to confirm with her. Actual VIPs are totally something
else.

Whoa, a celebrity said Yuigahama, expressing a sigh that bordered on a strange

line between being impressed or dumbfounded.

Haruno-san chuckled. Yep. You know what my father does, right? Hes rather

140
influential when it comes to these kinds of municipal events.

Does the prefectural assembly really have that much influence over the city like
this?

Oh, youre so sharp. You really are something, Hikigaya-kun. But if I had to say,
this has to do more with corporate than the assembly.

If I remember correctly, it shouldve been something like the construction industry.

If theres overlap with public utilities, of course theyd be influential. In an election
long time ago, they emphasized the importance of three themes such as foundation,
advertisement, and bags which I guess was all assembled here. By the way, the
themes actually meant cash; you could say real money, too. Also, the three things to
a wife was pay, cooking, and mom. Are we having a wedding ceremony speech
or something?

As the city mayor or whoever addressed every related party with words of
appreciation and congratulations, Haruno-san encouraged us to take a seat beside
her. Yuigahama and I decided to take her up on her offer with gratitude.

We bowed our heads to her and sat.

I wanted to sit comfortably, but with Haruno-san next to me, I couldnt calm down;
it had more to do with how frightening her more-than-perfect front than feeling
nervous from sitting next to a beautiful older woman. The way it felt like something
darker was swirling inside of her wasnt something I was good with.

Suddenly, Haruno-san whispered close to my ears. In any case Having an affair

isnt very admirable, you know.

No, its not even an affair I answered.

When I answered, the warmth of Haruno-sans expression froze over. So youre

serious? All the more reason why I cant forgive you even more.

O-O-Ow!

She pulled at my ears similarly to how Katsuo would be done in by Sazae. I managed
to avoid excessive damage by promptly making my escape from her, but if she had
pulled any harder, I mightve ended up inviting Nakajima to play some baseball.

Im not serious, either

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Gosh darn it, I really dont like pain, okay? How could I possibly be having an affair or
be serious? Motivation! Energy! Iwaki![60] wasnt my thing, really. I had no idea
what thats trying to tell me, but that aint happening, Iwaki![61]

After I warded off Haruno-sans attack, the important person or whoever finished his
greeting and they were finally going to start with the first round of fireworks.

Accompanied by music, the extra large star mine bloomed into a large flower in the
night sky. Numerous layers of red, yellow, and bitter orange expanded incessantly
while continuing to light up the darkness.

Hoh

The blossoming halo of light brilliantly reflected against the half-mirror glass of the
port tower, intensifying the halos radiance. With this as the start, it looks like they
planned to continue with eight thousand more multi-colored shots of fireworks.

Numerous thunderous sounds roared and roared. Its almost as if I was listening to
Tao Pai Pai[62].

As the explosive sounds resounded on, Haruno-san adjusted her seating.

U-Um!

As if she had been trying to find the timing to speak up the entire time, Yuigahama
spoke to Haruno-san with me in between them. Haruno-san blinked her large eyes
at her. Umm Youre Something-gahama-chan?

I-Its Yuigahama.

Ah, thats right. Sorry, sorry.

Haruno-san didnt seem like she meant any harm at all. But that definitely had to be
on purpose She wasnt the kind of person to forget a name after hearing it. After
all, her specs were equal to that of Yukinoshitas; rather, its likely she was beyond
her. I couldnt help but think that even this trivial slip of the tongue had some kind
of hidden intention.

I stared at Haruno-san to see if I could figure out what that was and she slipped out a
chuckle.

A chill ran down my spine. She smiled as if she knew exactly what I was thinking and
the fact that it was beautiful made it even scarier.

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Is Yukinon not here with you today?

If youre looking for Yukino-chan, I think she might be at home right now. Its
usually my job to handle these public appearances. Remember how I said I was my
fathers proxy? Its not like Im here to have fun. Haruno-san pointed to herself and
smiled in jest. Its my job as the oldest daughter to attend events like these. Its what
our mother decided on a long time ago.

I had the feeling Yukinoshita had said the same thing before, that it was the older
sisters job to take part in these events and that she was just a substitute.

So in other words, did that mean Haruno-san was the official successor to her father?
Well, it should be natural that the eldest daughter was taking over the family
business.

But with just that, theres still something missing.

Is that, like, something Yukinon cant attend?

Right, Haruno-san being the successor was fine. However, that didnt hold as a
reason as to why Yukinoshita couldnt come.

Haruno-san made a problematic smile. Mm. Well, its what my mother decided
Besides, its easier to understand this way, right?

Well you both do look similar, so if only one of you attends, then you wont be
mistaken for the other, but said Yuigahama, but that probably wasnt what the
issue was.
The idea was how theyd be perceived. Demonstrating that theres a single successor
meant less bothersome problems. Thered be more negatives to giving the people
the idea that they were having a family dispute over succession. Theyre like a
samurai household or something

Haruno-san placed her finger on her cheek and let out a difficult sigh. You see, our
mother is really forceful and scary.

Huh? Even more than Yukinoshita?

Yukino-chan? Scary?

After giving me an intent look, she laughed pleasantly, Ahahaha! Compared to her
cheerfulness all this time, she truly looked like she was laughing.

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Haruno-san wiped the tears at her eyes as she breathed out in satisfaction.
Apparently mindful of her surroundings, she cleared her throat. Gosh, youre so
rude, Hikigaya-kun. Is that what you think of a girl that cute?

She giggled for a moment, moved her face closer to mine, and whispered into my
ears, My mothers scarier than me.

Is that human?

Yukinoshitas one thing, but shes scarier than Haruno-san? Thats bad, right? Were
not talking about the level of a strengthened power suit here, thats totally a
gundam.

My mothers the type of person who decides on everything and forces people to
follow her, so we end up having to make compromises And Yukino-chans a little
poor at that.

Poors not the right word. Itd be better to emphasize it by saying, A little and little
and little poor.

Thats why it was a big shock to all of us when she said she wanted to live on her
own after she entered high school.

So Yukinon started living alone after getting into high school?

Yep, yep. She wasnt the type of child to say selfish things like that, but our father
was so happy he rented out an apartment for her.

Ahh, just why were fathers of the world so sweet to their daughters?

Our mother opposed it to the end and Im sure she still doesnt acknowledge it even
now

She must be on good terms with your father.

Oh, interested in your father-in-law perhaps?

Um, you say Gifu[63], but I honestly cant tell it apart from Shiga and Im not
interested either.

Mmhmm, twelve points.

Unlike her gentle appearance, her grading was strict.

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I dont think on good terms is the right way to put it. Our mothers really strong-
willed, so I think my father just goes along with her.

I wonder if its something like good cop, bad cop. Although, I think the carrot and
stick approach might be easier to understand.

Of course, Yukino-chan and I understand that, so were just keeping the peace.

Talk about unpleasant sisters

Haruno-san maintained her smile regardless of my dejected response, but then

spoke to Yuigahama. So, were you two on a date? If so, Im sorry for distrubing
you.

O-Oh no, its not like that

Haruno-sans gaze didnt miss the chance to carefully observe Yuigahama.

Ohh a little suspicious if youre getting that embarrassed. But if it really is a

date

A teasing tone.

The surrounding grew dark from being in the shadow of the fireworks. I wasnt able
to look at Haruno-sans eyes. However, theres no doubt that the shine in her eyes
were darker than the night sky.

Yukino-chan wasnt chosen again, huh?

A mutter.

The fireworks shot up, exploding as if to override Haruno-sans whisper.

The intermitten, but continual thunderous roars and the flickering sky.

The smell of gunpowder that floated along the wind and the imprints of the black
screens.

And occasionally, Haruno-sans illuminated smile.

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Um, just now

Yuigahama tried to speak up, but the fireworks were shot up at the same time.
Haruno-san cheerfully clapped to it. She then turned towards her.

Hm? Whats that? She asked, as if she had never noticed she was entranced with
the fireworks the entire time, and smiled.

Ah, no, um nevermind. Yuigahama swallowed her words and the conversation
ended there.

The brief sounds of gunshots continued and the lights expanded in the sky. Haruno-
san innocently clapped to them.

That kind of gesture was something Yukinoshita didnt do Well, I wasnt sure if
thats because how she appeared outside or that shew did it naturally and
intentionally.

Although they resembled each other on their surface, deep down, they were
different. But something about the two sisters felt as if they were both looking
somewhere in the same direction. I thought that was a little strange.

Ahh Yukinoshita-san, youre I mulled over how I should call Haruno-san, but
for the time being, I used her family name. We werent close enough that I could call
her by her first name.

When I called her, Haruno-san smiled. Hm? You can call me Haruno. Or onee-chan
even. In fact, I highly encourage it.

Ha, ha, ha I instictinctively let out a dry laugh. You swear Im going to call you by
that.

Yukinoshita-san, youre

Haha, oh youre so stubborn. How cute.

Damn it, this person is seriously hard to deal with

People who were barely older than you were the scariest. The age disparity with
someone like Hiratsuka-sensei was another matter entirely since I could see her as a
proper adult, but when its someone whos only about two to three years older, they
just seemed culturally different somehow.

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Yukinoshita-san, youre a graduate from our school, right?

Mmhmm, thats right. Im three years older than you Hikigaya-kun, said Haruno-
san with a casual tone.

Yuigahama nodded in interest. So does that make Yukinons onee-san twenty?

Almost. Im still nineteen. I have a late birthdayalso, you can call me Haruno.
Thats too long. Or if youd like, you can call me Harunon, too!

You sound like a clothing hand warmer, Harunon. Yuigahama made a wry smile to
that.

O-Okay, Haruno-san then

The fireworks had already transitioned to the next program in the schedule.

The fireworks that were shot up along with the played music formed some kind of
heart shape, apparently meaning something.

A classical piecea piece I didnt know at all and seemed to have topped the recent
hit chartsplayed energetically, sometimes playing quietly and solemnly.

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148
The balls of fireworks looked to be decreasing as if this relaxing period of time was
progressing forward and people here and there heading to the bathrooms or to shop
stood out.

Voices engaged in pleasantries in the pay area also began to be audible.

On the tables, there was small food prepared as youd expect of a seat for VIPs.

Yuigahama and Haruno-san were enjoying their conversation while I was stuck in the
middle.

So does that mean youre a university student, Haruno-san?

Yep. I go to a nearby national university for sciences and technology.

Wow So smart Thats Yukinons onee-san for you.

I really wanted to go somewhere better, but my parents told me otherwise, see.

While Yuigahama looked surprise out of admiration, Haruno-san wore a slightly,

complicated smile.

Indeed. If you were going to assume a position in a local corporate, going to a local
university seems to be the right fit.

But this sure was something. When a conversation involved more than three people,
this kinds of topic were usually brought up. As for me, unless its to stuff myself with
food, I dont think I was going to open my mouth like Ive been doing earlier. For
now, the best plan was to continue eating in silence. Mmm, yakisobas so yummy.
Yep, sauce was definitely the taste for boys[64].

Oh, but, but, both of you sisters are doing the sciences, huh?

The remark Yuigahama nonchalantly blurted out caused Haruno-san to slow her
movements. In the continuing commotion of bursting fireworks, it bothered me how
strangely silent she was beside me.

Ahh, so Yukino-chans aiming to go to a national or public university for the

sciences, huh?

Her smile, somehow, looked as if it was one of ridicule.

It mightve been due to looking at Yukinoshita Haruno with a perceptive view that I

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felt that. Haruno-san might in reality be fond of Yukinoshita.

Yuigahamas eyes were fixated on her smile.

Shes no different from back then, huh? Always trying to match with me, always
trying to take after me

Nostalgic, distant eyes and a gentle tone. But in her words, I could sense some kind
of eerie uncertainty.

I wonder if its a bad habit of mine to instinctively try to see whats underneath
things.

But in this brief moment, even if it wasnt me, there shouldve been something
perceivable.

Yuigahamas squeezed fists that were on her knees gently shook. Um

Mm?

While Yuigahama looked like she was brooding over her thoughts, Haruno-san tilted
her head in calm fashion.

Haruno-san do you not get along with Yukinon?

Oh, what are you saying? Of course not. I love Yukino-chan very much.

Not even a moment to think, she immediately answered. Upon finishing her
sentence, she showed a slightly warm smile.

Those words were spoken with a timing so perfect that didnt allow for interruptions
along with her gesture.

And thats exactly why it gave the impression she had foresaw the attack with her
own.

How could I not find my little sister cute when shes always chasing after me?

Always chasing after her. Did that mean Yukinoshita continued to lose to Haruno-
san?

It was a harshness akin to the absolute winner looking down on his foolish challenger
and scoffing at him, as if dealing with a child.

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With a beautiful face that was so perfect that showed no signs of cruelty, Haruno-san
smiled at Yuigahama. How about you, Yuigahama-chan? Do you like Yukino-chan?

Yuigahama made a confused look when she was asked directly. But trying her best,
she answered, I-I really like her! Shes so cool, so honest, and so reliable. Oh, but
she can be so weird and cute sometimes and like, when she gets sleepy, I get this
funny feeling. Also, shes kind of hard to understand, but shes really kind Umm,
and, and. Ahh, ahaha. Im kinda saying some weird stuff, arent I?

Yuigahama made an embarassed grin with the fireworks flashing her cheeks.

Oh Im glad to hear that.

For just an instant, Haruno-san showed an expression that could perhaps be called
affectionate. But for this person, it seemed oddly out of place.

Butor should I say, expectedlyin the next instant, her eyes changed into the eyes
of a yaksha[65].

Thats what everyone says at first. But they all end up doing the same thing. They
get jealous of Yukino-chan, hate her, reject her, and then start ostracizing her I
hope that youll be different from them.

Her smiling expression was so sweet that it was fierce, to the point frightening.

I, said Yuigahama, pressured, but continued. Wont do something like that.

She glared right back, not removing her gaze.

Haruno-san took it head on and shrugged her shoulders and then looked at me.
Hikigaya-kun, you understand what Im trying to say, right?

Yes, more or less.

Theres no way I wouldnt understand.

Ive been witness to it more than enough. Yukinoshita wasnt the only one; anyone
who was above the others was ostracized by groups. The protruding stake didnt get
smashed in. It would get

pulled out and tossed aside, only to be left in the rain and wind to rot.

Right, right. I really like those eyes, said Haruno-san.

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I turned towards Haruno-san and our eyes met. Her eyes were cold enough to send
chills down my spine. Suddenly, she smiled. Hehe, you really are something else,
Hikigaya-kun. I like how you look at things so curiously and give up.

It didnt feel like she was praising me at all.

Theres no second guessing here because anything this person said had something
hidden in them.

You shouldnt believe people whod take a positive part of you, compare it with
another, and say they liked it. I really like your senses~ and I like that. Your
senses, too were completely different. Source: my time in middle school. I
wouldnt fall for a trick description like that at this point.

So how about you, Hikigaya-kun? Do you like Yukino-chan?

Ive been taught by my mom to not discern between my likes and dislikes. I
answered and Haruno-san made an amiable laugh.

The time went later into the night with the slow progression of the fireworks festival.

A curtain of gold descended down in the sky.

The conclusion of the fireworks festival was a golden shower of fireworks and was
met with a grand round of applause.

Okay, it looks like the fireworks are over, said Haruno-san, standing up. Ill be
heading home before it gets hectic.

Her eyes asked us what we were going to do. Looking back at her, Yuigahama stood
up and turned to me. We should get going, too.

Right.

When I imagined how wed be unable to move surrounded by a crowd of people, the
strands of my hair stood on end. The correct choice here would be to follow Haruno-
san and promptly make our way home.

And somehow, the three of us together started walking.

We continued through the small path towards the parking lot from the side of the
pay area. It looks like wed be able to avoid crowding by taking this path away from
the venue.

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When we arrived at the parking lot, a limousine approached us.

Did Haruno-san call her in advance? Or was it a first-class driver who anticipated her
actions and moved in advance?

The limousine parked right alongside the sidewalk we walked on.

I can give you a ride home if youd like?

U-Um Yuigahama looked at my face while hesitating to decide.

I was staring at the limousine, not giving an answer. It was familiar and I probably
wasnt mistaken; it was that limousine.

You wont find any noticeable scratches regardless of how much you look, you
know.

Haruno-san smiled with a giggle.

However, Yuigahama and I didnt have the slightest hint of a smile. Confused by the
silence, Haruno-san held back her laugh. H-Huh? Yukino-chan didnt tell you? I
wonder if I did something bad to her.

An apologetic voice. She didnt seem like she was lying, but the mood was heavy
regardless.

Then so

I overheard Yuigahamas small whisper.

I could easily tell what she was going to say. So, Yukinoshita knew, after all.

Haruno-san didnt seem to have expected our reactions and tried to smooth it over,
adding, Ah, but dont get her wrong. Yukino-chan wasnt the one at fault.

I knew that. There wasnt a single thing Yukinoshita had done wrong to this day. Its
because Yukinoshita was always correct.

She was just in the car, so she didnt do a single thing wrong. Is that okay, Hikigaya-
kun? said Haruno-san as if confirming with me.

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Thats something I had heard for the first time, but it didnt change anything. No
matter Yukinoshitas level of involvement, the truth wouldnt budge.

I guess so. Its not like shes the one that caused the accident. Shes practically
unrelated.

My voice was sounded harsher than I had thought. The night was so hot and humid,
yet I could feel my body heat plunging.

There was the sound of clacking from wooden sandals and a single step towards me.
As if that footstep pushed me away, I forcibly raised the warmth of my voice.
Besides, its already a done deal anyway! My policy is to not dwell on the past and if
I did, my life would be completely dark, so really

H-Huh? Didnt my voice get even harsher at the end there!? Past traumas are to be
feared.

Oh okay. Since its a done deal, theres no problem now, right? Haruno-san looked
relieved, rubbing her chest in exaggeration. But thanks to that, the mood lightened
up.

Okay, well be on our way now, I said.

Sure.

She readily let us go, not bothering to stop us.

When the driver noticed the conversation was over, he came to open the door.
Haruno-san thanked him in a small voice and boarded the limousine. Okay,
Hikigaya-kun, Ill see you around.

She cheerfully waved at me, but she honestly wasnt someone I wanted to meet very
often.

After the driver closed the door and returned to his drivers seat, the limousine
slowly drove off.

Then, Yuigahama and I began walking in silence. We mightve wanted just a little
more time before we could actually say anything.

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 6-5
We had left the venue early, but many others seemed to have the same idea as us, so
the station was considerably packed.

Due to the fireworks festival, the train had arrived at the home platform somewhat
late. When we boarded the train, it had filled up just barely enough that we couldnt
sit, so Yuigahama and I stood in front of the doors.

The closest station to Yuigahamas home was just one station away. As for me, my
stop was about three stations away. It wasnt that significant of a distance.

Less than five minutes in, there was an announcement saying we were about to
arrive at the next station.

Hey.

Both of us had been quiet the entire time until Yuigahama opened her mouth. I
looked at her in response and after taking a moment, she said, Hikki Did you hear
from Yukinon?

Her question was the type that already knew the answer, but had to be asked
regardless.

No, I didnt hear a thing.

Oh, okay. U-Um Ah.

The train jerked to a sudden stop. The door slid open and the cool night air flowed
inside the train.

Yuigahama contemplated as she looked outside and at me. But a bell rang indicating
the immediate closing of the door.

There wasnt any time at all to think or worry about anything. I spat out a short sigh
and got off the train. Yuigahama followed me off and asked me with a slightly
surprised face, Are you sure you should be getting off here?

Its kind of awkward ending the conversation there Whats with that? Did you
time that on purpose?

O-Of course not! It was just hard to say something!

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It didnt look like it was intentional judging by her flustered excuse. How sly. Youre
so sly, Yuigahama-san.

Ill walk you home.

Thanks she slipped out a word of gratitude.

It looks like Yuigahamas home wasnt considerably far from the station. But since
she didnt seem used to wearing those wooden sandals, our walking pace had slowed
down.

We leisurely walked, two peoples worth of footstep sounds cutting through the still
city.

The night grew deeper, and though we were walking outsideperhaps due to the
windthe humidity and heat didnt feel excruciating.

Did you hear anything from her? I asked her, continuing from our conversation we
had earlier.

Yuigahama weakly shook her head. But you know? I think there are some things
you just cant say. And when you miss your chance to, it gets even harder to I
mean, it was like that for me, too

Certainly. Regarding the accident, Yuigahama had only confessed to it a year later,
but only when it was revealed to me.

When you try to prepare yourself or think about it more, you just end up pushing it
back farther and farther away.

Yeah, I could slightly relate with that. That happened much more easily when you
wanted to say something formally.

And for apologizing or repenting, its even more difficult. Not only was it already
hard to say, the more time you took, the more trouble you had trying to find the
right words. But there were also things you could say in the heat of the moment.

Besides, maybe Yukinon couldnt say anything because of stuff with her family. Im
not really sure whats going on though. Haruno-san is kinda scary, too

She wasnt exactly defending her.

However, its certainly true that given Yukinoshitas enclosed environment, itd be

156
generally difficult to say anything. The high pedigree of her family, her older sister,
and surpassing even that older sister that she had alluded to, her mother.

I felt there had to be something going on.

Thats what I felt, but, well, it wasnt the business of an outsider to be concerned
about the affairs of another persons family.

I dont think we should be getting involved with other peoples domestic problems,
I said.

Yuigahama thought for a moment. D-Dome, stic Oh, you mean like DV.

Dont say something you have no clue about. Ill smack you.

So it is DV!?

Nope, not DV at all. This was just V, the visual kind.

Well, look. Shouldnt we just pretend we dont know anything about the accident or
her family?

That is, we shouldnt be open about it. If Yukinoshita didnt want to touch on those
things, then it should stay that way.

Its not like we could understand each other, and if we pretended to, that would just
be irritating. There were all kinds of situations where indifference was something to
be grateful for.

Just like how slipping in the rain with lots of luggage or being lectured in front of the
entire class, you really wanted everyone to not talk to you afterwards.

Everyone should realize already that calling out to people with kindness and
friendliness would only serve hurt them, let alone not save them.

There, too, were times where compassion and mercy could act as the finishing blow.

Should we really stay like this and pretend not to know? Yuigahama looked at
her feet, seemingly not convinced.

I stood still to stay in line with Yuigahama who had stopped walking.

I dont think things you dont know are bad. The more you know, the more
annoying things can get.

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To know was just carrying the burden of risk. There were many things you could be
happy about as long you didnt know about them. And the most obvious one of them
all was how people were actually feeling.

Everyone lived their lives cheating and deceiving others to some degree.

Thats why people were constantly hurt by the truth. Its only purpose was to destroy
someones peace.

A few seconds of silence.

Using only that time to think, Yuigahama gave her own answer. But I want to
know more I want us to know about each other more and I want us to get closer. If
were ever troubled, I want to be able to help.

Yuigahama walked ahead as if leading the way.

A step late, I walked after her.

Hikki. If Yukinons ever in trouble, help her, okay?

I couldnt find the words to answer that request.

A few seconds, double that, or even ten times that, I dont think I could ever come
up with the same answer as Yuigahama.

Its because I had no intention of stepping over my boundaries. I hadnt done so to

this day and I wouldnt from now on.

No, I dont think thats going to happen.

Whether it was Yukinoshita being in trouble, her asking for help, or me taking that
step over that line of my own accord.

When I stated my remark packed with numerous meanings, Yuigahama looked up at

the starry sky. Her wooden sandals clacked and she kicked a rock near her feet.
Even so, youll definitely help her, Hikki.

Theres no way youd know that.

Before I could question how she could be so sure of that, Yuigahama turned around
to me.

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I mean, you helped me, didnt you?

I said it before. That was just a coincidence. I wasnt doing knowing that itd be
helping you. Thats why, I didnt help you at all.

Thats why. That gratitude, that trust, or whatever beyond those.

They were all just illusional misunderstandings.

An assessment of something that anyone other than me could do wasnt something

to affirm myself. Evaluating someones actions and someones personality were
entirely different things. Just like how a good person wasnt judged as such on a
single good deed alone, basing my personality on a single act was a problem to me.
Therefore, Yuigahamas sentimental trust was wrong.

Dont expect things like that from me.

Because youd definitely be disappointed. Thats why you shouldnt expect things
from me from the very start.

Yuigahama and I continued walking with a fixed distance between us. The sounds of
our footsteps tapping the earth echoed alternatively in the night city.

The mismatched dissonance continued, that miniscule distance of a step never

getting smaller.

And suddenly, it shortened.

Yuigahama abruptly stopped in her tracks and I fell forward, our bodies inevitably
getting closer.

She turned around to me and was illuminated by the gentle light of the moon.

Even if the accident didnt happen, Hikki would still help me. And like, I think wed
still go see the fireworks together like this.

No it wouldnt In the first place, I have no reason to help you.

Theres no meaning to a supposition that didnt happen.

Theres no if in life.

Life was only then.

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Yet, Yuigahama gently shook her head. At the corners of her moist eyes, I could see
the reflection of the street lights.

No, thats not true. You said it yourself, Hikki. That even if the accident didnt
happen, youd still be alone And you know what Im like. Id start worrying about
something some day and then Id get taken to the Service Club and thats when Id
meet you, Hikki.

That pipe dream that could potentially happen was so oddly entertwined with reality
that I couldnt just plain reject it or argue against it. If Yukinoshita, Yuigahama, and I
had all met each other in another way, would we have been able to develop another
kind of relationship?

As I was thinking, Yuigahama continued, her voice filled with passion. After that,
Hikki would come up with a worthless and dumb solution again. Then youd help me
for sure. And then

An interrupting sound.

It couldve been from me or perhaps from her. The sound of swallowing or maybe
even the intensifying of palpitations.

For a moment of time, a vacuum of words.

Curious about her interrupted voice, I looked up and my eyes met with Yuigahamas.

And then, Im sure Id

Bzzzz.

I could hear the sound of rumbling. Her cellphone was vibrating.

Ah Yuigahama glanced at her purse in her hand. But she ignored it and tried to
continue. Im sure Id

Are you sure you shouldnt pick up? I said, stopping her from continuing.

Yuigahama casted her eyes downwards to her purse near her hands and squeezed it.
But she only did that for a moment before she took out her phone and let out an
embarrassed laugh as she raised her face.

Its from my mom.

She told me to wait for a moment, took a few steps away, and answered her phone.

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Uh huh. Uh huh. Im almost home already. Uh huh. Okay. Huh? Thats fine! I dont
need that! Ill be right home, jeez!

Yuigahama talked on the phone on and on about something and then one-sidedly
hung up. After glaring at her phone for a little, she placed it back in her purse.

My house is right over there, so Im fine here. Thanks for walking me back S-See
you later!

That so

Uh huh, bye. Good night.

She waved her hands with a bye bye and I answered back with the raise of my
hand.

Yeah, later.

Yuigahama briskly trotted into her home without hearing my response all the way to
the end. I was a little concerned that shed trip, but once she disappeared into her
apartment, I walked off.

I went through the shopping district on my way home and as if the fervor from the
festival hadnt died off yet, groups of young men and women in a drunken stupor
were frolicking around.

I avoided them and walked on the end of the street, indifferently moving ahead. For
every silent step I took, the commotion and congestion grew farther.

When there were less pedestrian traffic and tall buildings in the surroundings,
speeding cars came and went. The headlights of the cars that started accelerating in
the oncoming lane were so bright that I looked away and stopped.

However, that had been only for a moment.

My averted eyes needed to be looking forward eventually.

161
162
 Chapter 7: Then, what about Hikigaya
Hachiman?

Only the calendar was about to end its summer.

It was the final day of summer vacation and school would begin tomorrow. The
cicadas cried out hocky, hocky, hocky, but with the lingering hot weather, it was
going to take a little longer until the onset of fall.

The last sun of August settled. As the afterglow of the sinking sun pouring down on
me, I was preparing for school that would start tomorrow.

I placed my summer assignment which I had finished a long time ago into my bag.

Komachis research material was bundled with my assignment. It looks like it got
mixed with mine when she printed them out as hard copies to hand in.

I skimmed through the report on the subject of flame reactions.

Flame reactions were the cause of fireworks having color.

By throwing metals or salts into a fire, the fire would impart a color unique to those
chemical elements. Bluish-white flames would change how they appeared depending
on the chemical element they were exposed to.

Coincidentally, people were similar.

When a person interacted with someone else, there would be some kind of reaction.

The colors of those reactions would all vary. If a person changed from coming in
contact with a single individual, that reaction would change as well. And a
completely different color would be derived akin to the multicolored fireworks.

For example, Kawasaki Saki said that its difficult to approach her.

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The two who were similar in not approaching those around them couldnt see eye-to-
eye, so by both of them staying out of each others way, might actually be the most
ideal form of communication for them.

Or, Kawasaki Taishi, who after seeing her, evaluated her as beautiful, yet
frightening.

On the surface, there wasnt a more accurate description. An outsiders perspective

of her from afar was exactly like seeing her as someone who reigned over the
precipice of a frozen sea.

Also, Zaimokuza Yoshiteru, after facing her, judged that her excess honesty was why
she didnt hesitate from hurting someone.

That could very well be on the mark if you focused on only that part of her alone.
Nevertheless, I felt that the problem wasnt that shed hesitate or not hesitate, but
perhaps, she just didnt know any other way.

Then, Totsuka Saika praised her as earnest and diligent after making her
acquaintance.

She certainly was that kind of person. She was devoted to her rules and principles
which occasionally would go too far. Of course, thats just something that conformed
with her own justice inside.

On the other hand, Hikigaya Komachi interacted with her and felt she was lonely
somehow.

She had lived her life all this time with a hint of loneliness from living alone as well
as being on the side that left and was left behind. Of course, that was nothing more
than the sentiments of an observer. No one knew what the person in question felt
perhaps, not even the actual person herself.

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Conversely, Hiratsuka Shizuka who had watched over her believed that she was kind
and sometimes all too correct.

She stated that it had to be hard for her to live in this world because it wasnt kind or
correct. But thats certainly true, its possible that nearly all of her environments that
encapsulated her was a burden to her. Perhaps, her only saving grace was the
existence of a friend. Although those tens, no, several thousands of existences
called friends had only served to torment her.

Be that as it may, Yukinoshita Haruno who had lived with her to this day had an
apathetic smile.

She stated with a cruel smile just how pitiful and adorable her little sister was for
always continuing to chase after her and be defeated, for not being chosen. I dont
know what it was that she wasnt chosen for. By a friend, her family, her parents, or
perhaps fate? Whatever the case, the only one who could ever fancy the thought of
her being pitiful was the strongest, Yukinoshita Haruno. Not once did the thought
ever cross my mind.

But, Yuigahama Yui who had stayed with her thus far screamed that she liked her.

Her words had not the slightest hint of embellishment, although clumsy and weeping
of honesty, her confession was so beautiful that I knew nothing else like it. However,
Yuigahama perceived a wall from her. But even so, she wanted to become much
closer to her that shed go as far to borrow the help from the likes of me.

Then, what about Hikigaya Hachiman?

Did I come all this way without seeing anything?

There were certainly times where I could understand her actions and her mentality
behind them. But that wasnt equivalent to understanding her feelings.

Its just that because our circumstances and positions were so similar that I was able
to correlate something between the two of us, but it was nothing more than a

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coincidental convergence.

People always looked only at the things they wanted to see.

I think what I did was pick out something that I was similar to her in.

Adhering to isolation, sticking with ones own justice, and giving up on things that
couldnt be comprehended; those perfect, superhuman traits were something I
attempted to master, things that she certainly possessed.

I wont think that I want to know her more.

The Yukinoshita Yukino that Ive watched all this time.

Always beautiful, always sincere, uttering not a lie and even spitting out more than
she needed to, shes able to continue standing on her own two feet without the need
for support.

That appearance, the way shed stand so beautifully like a freezing blue flame, yet
look so sadly fleeting.

That Yukinoshita Yukino.

Im sure I had admired her.

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167
Chapter 8: For just a little, Yukinoshita
Yukino stops in place.

The thirty first of August and the first of September.

It was a continuous transition to the next day and at the same time, there wasnt a
clear moment when the day had turned into the other.

The boundary between the ordinary and the extraordinary.

When the weekdays and weekends collide, the story of Hikigaya Hachiman wants to
come to an end.[66]

Things like the end of vacation were so packed with bad energy[67] that the world
was well on its way towards the worst future.

With that being said, school would begin again starting today.

The street which I rode on with my bike for a while was as congested as it was two
months ago and the closer I approached school, the noisier it became. Now that
summer vacation was over, theres probably a lot to talk about. Everyone leisurely
walked to school accompanied by others.

Just by attending this high school for over a year now, I knew some faces. Well, I
really only knew their faces, thats all.

When I saw Tobe or came across Ebina-san, we didnt greet each other nor did we
talk to each other.

Whether it was a summer dream or not, the only time we had actually talked was
during the special occasion, the summer camp. Ways to associate in school and
outside of school to keep your distance existed.

Of course, I was well aware of those things.

Thats why, I stayed quiet like I always would whenever I came across anyone
including Kawasaki.

168
If I had to act like those transparent guys and think its normal to tap the shoulders
of people I wasnt even on friendly terms with and ask, Did you get a tan? when I
never knew what their skin color was in the first place, its probably more sincere to
just not meet their gaze.

There were numerous others commuting to school quietly at the front entrance,
though I wasnt sure if they had the same thoughts as I did.

But as soon as they met with someone they knew, their faces lit up and became
gleeful.

I think the biggest reason why people felt so happy from being talked to was because
it fulfilled their desire to be acknowledged.

Being recognized as a person, being allowed to exist, and possessing the value of
being talked to; theyd use these things to validate themselves and gloat with glee.

Thats why conversely, in the case where I approved of myself, I didnt have to waste
my time bothering with those things.

You could say that by being a loner and being isolated, you were establishing your
true self.

I love myself for thinking of these things. I, boku-chan-sama[68], am the best!

I fulfilled my own desire of acknowledgement by myself and tried self-producing my

love. Getting an excessive amount could also lead to autotoxemia. Wasnt I just the
side giving out love at this point? I see, so I was a god, after all.

As I thought about those worthless thoughts (they called it philosophy in the real
world), I walked down the hallway.

The school building in which I already spent half of my high school life.

A sight I became used to seeing and a sight that Id eventually forget.

But in that stained view, I discovered the standing figure of someone I surely
wouldnt forget.

In the space where the heat ascended with the rays of the sun pouring down on the
glass stairs, there was an awe-inspiring atmosphere being emitted where no one
from the surroundings could approach.

169
It was Yukinoshita Yukino.

When I took a step on the stairs, she noticed my presence and turned around. Oh,
its been a long time.

Yeah. Long time no see.

I was already used to hearing words being told to me from above.

Yukinoshita climbed the stairs with the same pace as as if she was adjusting hers to
mine. So our distance was maintained at two steps without changing.

Hikigaya-kun.

Beyond the back that didnt turn around, her voice called to me to which I answered
with just the movement of my head.

After taking a few seconds to realize that my silence was my response, Yukinoshita
continued. I heard you met nee-san.

Even with the hustling of students to and fro, Yukinoshitas voice still distinctly
reached me.

Yeah, by chance.

What did my voice sound like? Did it reach her alright?

Before I could confirm that, the stairs came to an end and we exited into the hallway
of the second year classes.

Turning left would lead to class J which Yukinoshita belonged to and turning right
would lead to classes H to A.

At the splitting point where our distances shrunk, Yukinoshita stopped.

Um

Is club starting up today?

I overtook Yukinoshita and turned half of my body around.

She looked bewildered, unusual of her to stumble over her words. Y-Yes Thats
the plan

170
Roger that. Ill see you later then.

I walked off before I finished.

I could feel Yukinoshitas stare on my back. I realized that she had swallowed her
breath after she was about to say something, but even so, I still couldnt stop.

In every class I passed by, it was full of joyful reunions.

Class-F was no exception and no one noticed my entry into the class.

I was relieved. Thats good, Im the same like always.

I like myself.

Not once did I ever think I hated myself.

My high basic specs, my decent face, and my pessimistic, but realistic thinking; I
dont hate them at all.

But for the first time, I was on the verge of hating myself.

I arbitrarily placed expectations, I arbitrarily forced my ideals, I arbitrarily acted as if

I understood, and I arbitrarily became disappointed. Over and over again, Id warn
myself, yet I just wouldnt learn.

Even Yukinoshita Yukino tells lies.

For not being able to allow that even though it shouldve been obvious, I hate
myself.

171
172
 Afterword

Hello, this is Wataru Watari.

Were finally into the peak of summer. By shutting myself in at home and lazily
watching anime and reading manga in my air-conditioned room, it turned out to be
a very optimal season.

That really isnt it. Youve got it wrong. Im really just a crazy health nut, so thats
why Im triyng to avoid being in direct contact with the sun so I dont increase the
chance of getting skin cancer by not going out. Trust me, its not me because I didnt
have any plans to go out or anything.

No, but really, be careful. They call it summer vacation after all, if you dont rest at
home, you might be treading a dangerous line of legality.

And speaking of dangerous, summers full of danger. Including the sea, theres the
mountains (yama), rivers, (kawa), and the rich (yutaka) That just the Enka singer,
isnt it?

Theres plenty of other dangers too. The pool, the arcade, the shopping malls, the
shopping district, the commuter trains, and companies. Theres also companies, and
companies. And maybe companies. While were at it, companies.

I just end up seeing them when I ride the train on my commute, you know? There
would be groups of youths heading straight to Tokyos Destinyland. And when I head
home while squeezing the train straps and dozing off, Id see couples wearing mouse
ears

Its when I see those things that I start to think. Just what was my life as a student
about? Just why was I working? For what reason was I working? Is there a reason
why I was working? Basically, I think about a lot of stuff.

These days, the amount of sleep I get averages to about three hours a day. Now that
volume five done, it looks like Ill finally be freed from that lifestyle Im totally
done living like this

Goodbye, lifestyle of three hours a day of sleep!

Hello, lifestyle of one and a half hours a day of sleep!

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Whats up with that?

Yes, well, um, thats actually just a scream of happiness from me for all the people
waiting excitedly for my work How should I say this? Um, I want to sleep just a
little more, so if anyone feels like it, please take me. Ill take you then! people
should send a letter to the editing department of Shogakukan GaGaGa Bunko. Ill be
waiting.

Im sure a lot of you are thinking it must be hard or are worried, but since I love
writing, Im doing well. This is like, I-Its not like I like working or anything, okay! I
really dont like it, okay! or something. I-Im doing fine, really

Ive still got a long way to go, but Ill try my best!

In any case, I believe its been announced on this books sash, but good gracious, this
Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come ha Machigatteiru is getting an anime! Yay!

Once upon a time, Id say things like, Why did it get first place when it cant even
sell enough to get out of last place? or How did it get first place when it doesnt
even sell, actually, what the heck is first place? or The conceptual weapon which
can destroy the concept called first place is the Logical Meltdowner (Wataru
Watari), but now its becoming an anime

With so much support from so many people, I was able to make it this far. The
reason I was able to make it to this magical world that I wouldnt have been able to
make on my own strength is thanks to everyone. Its because I had everyones
support. Thank you very much.

Using my appreciation and joy as my motivation, lets keep going forward going,
GaGaGa!

In this volume, we were given a small glimpse of various things. For only a little, his
heart had moved. For only a little, his world had moved forward and then back.
Hed stagger around and even though these things are things that happen just about
anywhere, this is his one and only story. Now then, how will his story unfold in
volume six, I wonder?

As for next time, Ill make sure to carry everyones power on my back! Ill take
advantage of everyones efforts as much as I can that even Shinran would cry in the
grass meadows!

The following is the patronage corner every book.

174
To God Ponkan8. You did so much work on things beside the original story like
special editions and other things! Im very thank for all of that. Finally, we got a
cover of Totsuka! Hurray! Thank you very much!

To editor Hoshino-sama. U-Um I-Im truly s-sorry No really, youve got it wrong,
this is Ah, but if I say anymore, itll just sound like an excuse A-Anyway, thank
you very much!

To Watari Wataru-sama. Thank you very much for the wonderful comment that I
thought wouldnt get written on the sash of the book that was suddenly suggested to
the people in charge of editing! What the heck is this!?

To the authors. I thank you very much for giving me an alibi over drinking sake with
you and talking about things just to my editor when the deadline galaxy was at its
brink.. Ill be counting on you next time as well.

And to all my readers. I thank you all for your continued support. Every time I read
a heartwarming comment, my sleepiness, the pain on my lower back, and my
fatigue just flies away. Its like a drug. There are still numerous things to happen in
this story, but Ill be happy if I can have your unchanging support and patronage.
Thank you very much. Ill be in your care from now on as well.

Now then, or with that kind of feeling, this is where I will stop.

On a certain day in June and at a certain place in Chiba, as I scold myself for having
thoughts sweeter than MAX COFFEE

Watari Wataru

175
Translation Notes
1. Dont make me squeeze your paws! Parody of a lyric in Seikima-IIs single
House of Wax.
2. The Alpha and The Omega A phrase in the New Testament.
3. ENTER KEY, BAM! Parody of a line from Jigoku Misawas manga.
4. Yamapikaryaa A word in the local dialect of the Yaeyama language which
can mean that which shines on the mountain.
5. Love, Love, Love, I Love You A novell by Maijou Outarou.
6. Ultimate Muscle 2 Refers to Gazelleman
7. Throw ashes Oda Nobunaga
8. Tonari no Totoro
9. Friskies Monpetit Cat food.
10. Pokemon
11. The Beast Spear Ushio to Tora
12. Street Fighter moves
13. A parody of the book The Japan That Can Say No.
14. Yu-Yu-Yu Hakusho
15. Blood Type Blue Evangelion
16. GaGaGa Bunko Publisher
17. The logo of a prep school, Nichinoken
18. A reference to Momoko Stealth Momo Touyoko who often says this line.
19. Madoka
20. Sano Yakuyoke Daishi Another name for Kawasaki Daishi which is a
temple.
21. A line said by Junko Mihara from Kinpachi-sensei 3-B, a television drama.
22. Dreamy Situation Bandai Catchphrase
23. Original phrase is A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step.
24. Original phrase is Know your enemy, know thyself, and you shall win
hundreds of battles.
25. Kamijou Toumas pet phrase in To Aru no Majutsu Index
26. Reference to the novel, All Quiet on the Western Front
27. Final Fantasy V Neo-Exdeaths quote.
28. Pretty Cure Cure Sunnys phrase
29. Pretty Cure Cure Marchs phrase
30. Pretty Cure Cure Peaces phrase
31. Pretty Cure Cure Beautys phrase
32. Pretty Cure Cure Happys phrase; ultra happy is the actual persons pet
phrase.
33. K-On! song

176
34. Slam Dunk When Sakamich gets taught how to shoot by the Akagi.
35. Jinrui Line by the fairies
36. Japanese copy pasta that has to deal with otaku speak that stemmed from The
Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi.
37. Harry Potter
38. A character from Vagabond based on Takuan Sougou.
39. Lyrics from a single by Sugar, Wedding Bell.
40. Bleach
41. K-Ons Akiyama Mio
42. Mamotte Shugogetten
43. Takoyaki Manto Mans theme song
44. Endless 8
45. Grave of the Fireflies
46. A commercial about Isodine
47. A commercial by an electronics company called Sato Musen that uses the
slogan Lets check it, lets find it, that wonderful something.
48. Hunter x Hunter
49. Resident Evil
50. Bleach
51. The original phrase is (doa shimarimasu) which means The
door is closing. This phrase gets slurred to (daa sheiresu) which
is what Hachiman says here.
52. For some reason, a lot of Seaguls movies in Japanese have the word
(chinmoku) which means silence in their titles.
53. Parody of the MasterCard commercial
54. Kabaya is a Japanese confectionary company.
55. Mission Research 200-X is a Japanese variety program where they go around
researching strange, interesting, and out-of-place phenomena and stuff.
56. Parody of Chitanda Erus catch phrase from Hyouka (ki ni
narimasu) which means Im curious!
57. Parody of a program in Japan called, A swim meet full of girls!
58. Heroine interviews are interviews held after a victory in a team sports match.
59. One of Yamchas technique from Dragonball
60. Nobuko Iwakis phrase. Hes a Japanese politician of the Liberal Democratic
Party in Japan.
61. Political ad
62. Dragonball
63. Gifu is a city, but can also mean father-in-law.
64. Kodoku no Gourmet
65. Yaksha
66. Parody of To Aru Indexs key phrase.

177
67. Smile Pretty Cure!
68. The Kunagisa from Zaregoto refer to themselves with boku-chan-sama
which really just means I with a bunch of honorifics.

178
Credits
Translator: Excorcism (aka Spyro) @Kyakka

ePub Version: johny_dmonic

This ePub was created using Sigil.

179