Vol. 3 Ch. 5

Chapter 5

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Chapter 5

And the day of the cultural festival arrived. The day of the star festival. It was a sunny day and the fireworks weThey fired at the same time as it began. It was a sign of openness that hadn’t been there last year. It must have been very difficult to get permits from the police and fire department, but Shizuku managed to to achieve it.

As the gates opened, visitors rushed into the Seitetsu Academy grounds. Until ten years ago, It was a girls’ school for well-to-do families. It’s said that many mysterious and intellectual elites frequent the plAlthough I personally don’t believe it, it enjoys popularity outside of academia.

Naturally, the women’s section is very popular. Although boys can also join.

section, it’s inevitable that there will be a difference. Many visitors followed the practice of “visiting the section fi

“The women’s section and, if there’s time, the men’s section.”

Class 2-4 followed the plan and provided a “rest area.” An easy task. Later I heard that the parents Even though they were tired, they loved the tatami space. There were even people sleeping all day. Of course, the Beauty Research Club was distributing its papers behind the scenes. It seems that too They were scarce.

And about the women’s section.

—Welcome back, master!

—Welcome back!

—Welcome back!

The girls bowed in unison. The “maid-style cafe” set up in classroom 2-4 was teeming with people from the beginning.

Since there are few places to eat and drink, demand is high. But this place was authentic and, Frankly, cruel. Photos of “modern-day maids” were displayed in the hallways for customers to see.

They could choose and request them. There was a fee for the selection, but even so, customers kept coming barrive.

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After all, there are many pretty girls in class 2-4. Even the most discreet girls stood out. A little makeup and elegant clothes. As long as they didn’t talk too much, the customers would return again anAgain. Of course, by “not talking too much” I mean about money.

And I, of course, was being forced to work too.

—Senou, table three, please.

I answered “yes” and carried the tray with the towel and the glass to the customer.

This establishment was the type where you buy tickets for the meal and choose a maid at the same time. time. I had been running back and forth across the table for a while.

The photo in the hallway was the biggest, and besides, my profile said: “Contestant in the beauty pageant.” It was natural that clients wanted to see me in person.

It was the class president who made those decisions. She said that if Senou-san won the beauty contest, We would attract more clients on the second day. Should I work as a political secretary after this? —Excuse the wait, master.

I placed the towel and the glass on the table. A boy who looked like he was in high school was sitting there. HeHe had a shaved head and seemed to be the simple, athletic type.

I tore the ticket in half. Although the high school boy didn’t say anything, he stared at me. Well, that’s understandable. My clothes showed my shoulders and emphasized my chest. The skirt part was veShort, and her back was bare. Instead of boots, she wore stockings with heels. The treasurer brought that clothing from somewhere saying, “Let’s go for impact.”

My opinion is that the person who designed this outfit should die. I was being watched the whole time. from different parts of the store.

—O-Onee-san.

The high school boy spoke awkwardly.

—You’re going to… You’re going to participate in the beauty pageant, right? -Yeah…

I answered, trying to smile somehow.

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—I’m going to… cheer you up… because I saw you in the photo and you looked very pretty… Since he wasn’t used to talking to girls, his face was completely red.

-… Thank you…

—I’ll come see you. Good luck!

He said that and ran out of the store.

She’d probably never talked to girls her age. I understand, since I used to be like that. But my

My current feelings are complicated. Is this how I’ll deceive younger people?

I had to pick up the towel and the glass that I had just left on the table.

—Natsuru-san, that’s fine, please take this.

I was pressured by the vice president with a tray. She was also wearing a maid uniform, but with a An apron and a long skirt are appropriate. It suits her well; she looks really cute. I’m not entirely sure. convinced.

—Go to that table.

I was shown where to go.

—Excuse the wait, sir… or master.

I said the usual phrase, but I couldn’t get to the next one. The seated customers were from class 2-4 of the The male section consisted of Higashida and the others.

They were looking at me with really happy faces.

—You are Senou Natsuru!

Someone asked as they leaned forward. It was Hanazawa.

-… Yeah.

—Wow. We also have a Senou in our class, but they’re completely different! She’s pretty! -… Thank you.

They’re the same person. I don’t know why it’s so hard to understand.

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Hanazawa seemed to have lost a screw somewhere and kept repeating “Great, great!” On the other hand, Higashida was explaining proudly, “I knew this girl before.”

I tried to stay calm at all costs.

—Have you decided on your order yet?

—Don’t you want to go out with me?

Higashida persisted. How far would his audacity go?

—I-I’m so sorry. That’s…

—But you said yes before!

I didn’t say that.

Inside I was cursing, but I kept smiling. That’s part of the training.

—Could we take a picture together? To have a memory.

—That type of service…

I haven’t done it; it would definitely affect customer turnover.

—Thank you. We offer photo sessions with Senou-san right here.

The president was standing to one side; I don’t know where she came from. And behind me, the treasurer wascalculator.

—The price for the photo session is 500 yen per person. We handle both the session and the developing. Here, it will be 1000 yen.

A price menu that’s offered quickly. When did they do that?

“…It’s a good price,” Hanzawa complains.

“That’s a very reasonable fee to get a photo with the mysterious beauty, Natsuru Senou.” “I suppose so,” concede. But don’t settle for that, okay?

As they were members of the Beauty Research Club, they all had a camera. They quickly… They lined up with me in the center. The president pressed the shutter.

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—Please come a little closer… yes. It doesn’t matter if you get a little closer to Senou-san. I don’t care. Don’t come near me.

—Let’s begin… Cheese!

Click. And just like that, my picture in a maid outfit was captured on the digital camera’s memory card. Higashida seemed very pleased.

—Thank you. Will you be participating in the beauty pageant? I’ll be supporting you. “…Thank you,” he extended his right hand, but I declined the handshake with a smile. —… Well, see you at the event venue.

Higashida looked disappointed. Who wants to see you?

I said goodbye to those who were leaving, saying, “Goodbye, come back soon.” Love, please don’t come back.”This is going to be a good business,” the accountant murmurs.

—Setting simple prices of 500 and 1000 yen seems to be yielding positive results. We’re not having any probleof complications.

—What serialization of people…?

“It’s all for the beauty pageant,” she said, silencing my complaint. Really?

The president looked at the wall clock. It was a pendulum clock brought from an antique shop to add ambiance—Don’t you think it’s time to start preparing for the beauty pageant?

—Yes… do you think it’s the right time?

—Leave this to us, and Senou-san, go to the event venue. —But… my suit?

—Here it is.

The treasurer pressed a paper bag toward me.

—Everything is complete. With this, it’s perfect. There’s no doubt you’ll win.

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-I see.

—The venue is very impressed.

When I tried to take a look inside, I was abruptly stopped by the treasurer. —You can’t do it here.

—…Huh?

—Don’t change until the last minute. You can look at it after that.

-… Because?

—Because. Now, hurry up.

I was pushed out by both of them, leaving “Maid-type Cafe” as if I were being expelled. ■

The beauty pageant dressing room was in a corner of the schoolyard, which was built with prefabricated materiIt appears they didn’t use existing buildings to avoid the possibility of unauthorized recordings. Apparently, theThey had deliberately built it to avoid problems if someone installed cameras beforehand. From here to the event venue in the women’s gymnasium, a curtained corridor had been set up along the lengtto prevent it from being seen.

First, I completed the registration procedures at the competition’s main office. The staff handed me A plaque with a number on it said, “You’re Senou, right?” It seemed my face was familiar to some. way. Perhaps because of the stir in the newspapers about the incident with the girls.

Wearing the suit the treasurer gave me, I went to the changing room. The door had two layers to ensure that No one could see through them while they were changing.

Inside, most of the contestants were already present. They were all beautiful, as expected of who had been recommended. I had never seen so many beautiful women together before, so I felt somewhat nervous.

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I thought about changing in a secluded corner.

—Ah, Natsuru-san. Come here.

It was Sakura-san who called me.

—Don’t stay in a corner, come to the center.

—No… in a corner…

—That’s not right. Beautiful people should be in visible places.

I was forced to leave my luggage on the central table.

Somehow, she’s definitely prominent here, whether she’s pretty or not. Several girls around me have… I’ve been glancing at it for a while now.

Next to my luggage, there was a large paper bag. Whose could it be?

—This is mine. These are gifts for all of you.

What’s that?

She began rummaging through the bag. She pulled out something wrapped in plastic. —They are my beloved children.

It was a visceral animal plushie. Even I know its name. It’s a common boar. It tried to collaborate with a transnational criminal organization and ended in disgrace.

—I’m giving them away to people I know. I hope a lot of people like the stuffed animals. visceral.

Sakura-san said. She tried to give me one too, but I politely declined. I already have one.

However, this confirms Shizuku’s assumption. Sakura-san with the visceral animal plushies. And The female students. It has an impact in several ways.

Should I be on my guard too? Hmm. I feel bad for being manipulated by Shizuku. -What’s happening?

—No… I have a change of clothes.

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-Yeah…

These are the clothes that the members of class 2-4 of the female section gave me. —What kind of clothes is it? I’m excited.

—You too, Sakura-san…

I stared at her as she said that. She had already changed.

-That?

-You are beautiful…

Sakura-san blushed and replied, “Thank you.”

This isn’t flattery. I can say with certainty that all of Sakura-san’s clothes are wonderful, but it’s in The particular one was special. It was a wedding dress.

A completely white dress. Although it’s said that many of the girls participating wear leotards to stand out. the lines of their bodies, this was an opposing idea.

It’s an unexpected look, but it looks incredibly good because of its solid foundation. It was transcending. slightly deviate from usual conventions.

—It’s so nice to be flattered… I’m happy…

—It’s truly impressive…

It’s a shame she’s not participating in a beauty pageant. It might be because there are no dress code rules, anSakura-san’s class was able to figure it out skillfully. It seems she had a shrewd advisor.

—What is Natsuru-san like?

—…I don’t know yet…

Although the luggage isn’t that heavy, there seem to be a lot of accessories. I looked inside.

—…!?

I tried to stifle my scream.

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—Natsuru-san, did something happen?

—N-No…

—Didn’t you have your clothes?

—I had it, but…

—Please show it to me.

—…No…not yet…

I hid the bag behind me. Sakura-san frowned.

—Ah! I’ll help you change, Natsuru-san.

—Please, let me do it myself.

Sakura-san approached. And at that moment.

—Please, the bride is waiting on the other side.

A figure stepped between us. He spoke to Sakura-san.

“This isn’t a place to play games. You’ll bother the other participants…” —…Mishima-san.

It was Akane. She was staring intently at Sakura-san from behind her glasses.

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—Why are you interfering? What is the relationship between Mishima-san and Natsuru-san? —We… are classmates. Friends.

—We’re friends too. We’ve gone out together.

—Sakura-san only dragged her out by force, right? Even taking her to the movies with Natsuru-san… —You know that well. We’re very close in that sense.

—That’s not the case. I’m much closer than that.

Neither of them backed down an inch. Although they spoke in hushed tones, the atmosphere was unsettling anattracting everyone’s attention. Ah, Minagawa-san is looking at us!

—Please step aside, Mishima-san.

—I will not step aside… I have decided that I will protect Natsuru-san.

—What do you mean by “protect”?

Hmm, absolutely.

—Just like you heard. It’s not good to let bad bugs get close…

“Who’s the bug here? Natsuru-san understands my feelings. Protecting her is the right thing to do.” —I… will protect both Natsurus.

He said it clearly. What does “both” mean?

Without answering my humble question, the two continued their confrontation. It was as if they were in a boxinthe K-1 Grand Prix final.

—Sakura-san, please go.

“If anyone has to leave, it should be Mishima-san. Aren’t you a stranger here?”

—I’m not a stranger.

—The assistants aren’t supposed to come this far.

—Right now I’m not just an assistant.

Akane showed her registration number.

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—Me too… I’m going to participate in the beauty pageant, so I can stay here.

Both Sakura-san and I were amazed.

Akane, at that time, was a mass of discretion, difficult to discern her characteristics. You could say that She was known for wearing glasses and being a member of the library committee, but she was more of a maniThe mere fact that she participated in the beauty pageant meant that she had a determination Incredible, whether someone had incited her or she had decided it herself.

Before continuing, I must clarify that at that moment I did not know that it was Mikoto who was manipulating thibackstage.

—…So, we’re rivals, right?

Sakura said.

-Yeah…

—Alright. I’ll take my leave for now. But remember this. On stage, I’ll confess my love to Natsuru-san. In that outfit?

He was serious. His gaze was sincere. Sakura-san, although that makes me very happy, could you ask that of Like me? If you do it in the competition, there’s no way out.

I couldn’t say what I wanted. It seemed unlikely he would listen. I was completely determined. Akane, who promised to protect me, was also surprised. So that’s how it is.

Sakura-san turned around and went towards the changing room.

—… What a surprise.

I murmured as quietly as possible.

—… A confession…

Akane was still surprised too.

—Sakura-san is serious… What are we going to do?

—No matter what you do, protect me?

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—… I’m serious too.

Oh dear. Now I have more headaches along the way.

The problem is Sakura-san. A confession on stage? And in a wedding dress? If that happens, the next day Next, we could become complete strangers. Besides, with so many Sakura-san fans, I will live in fear of extortion every day.

—…Should I give up on qualifying?

—It seems… they’ve changed the rules. It looks like there won’t be a qualifying round… -That…?

Are they somehow forcing me to move forward? That Chizuku, she’s taken away my only way out!

—Natsuru-san, your change of clothes…?

—Ah… right…

I don’t want to change. I showed Akane the contents of the bag.

-… What is this?

—I think it’s the treasurer’s hobby…

Inside, there were leather pants, suspenders, and a Nazi SS cap.

Shirts are not optional. In other words, you must cover the most exposed part of your body with just the two suThe most important thing about your chest, and, no matter how you look at it, it’s Charlotte Rampling. What, yosexy woman who danced wildly in the movie “The Storm of Love”.

It also includes a whip and a short machine gun. It looks like something out of an Italian SM movie. —Are you going to wear it…?

—I won’t wear them… the seams on the pants come undone so easily. If I go on stage, won’t I… Will it dismember?

It’s a terrible attention-seeking scheme. She’s a human time bomb.

If you don’t wear this, it would be my current maid uniform. With just the slightest movement, my… Pants. What do I do?

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“…I’m going to find some other clothes,” Akane said.

“There should be some spare maid uniforms in the classroom. Although Natsuru-san might not like it…” —Okay. I can’t be picky.

She ran out of the changing room.

I sighed with relief. Why has my surroundings become so noisy? It would be so much quieter without Akane anSakura-san.

However, now I have to rethink my plan to “support Sakura-san.” Although I wanted her to win, It seems like he’s headed straight for a marriage proposal.

The exchange room was already deserted. It’s all about to begin.

—You look pale.

I jumped when I heard it. Shizuku was standing there.

—I’ve been watching you the whole time.

—…How long have you been here?

—Don’t pay attention to the details.

I’m worried. If you’ve been watching this whole time, you must know about the conflict between Sakura-san. and Akane. Despite that, there were no signs at all.

-What do you need?

—I am also a participant.

Ah, that’s right.

—I came to change. But I have other things to take care of…

—Is the animal visceral?

—Yes, that’s true. Kaede has been handing them out a lot. Almost all the girls who participated had them. —Stop.

—What are you saying?

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Certainly, there’s no reason to prohibit it. But I thought it would be better to have a logical reason, considering the possibility of becoming a messenger.

—It’s fine for someone to become a new Kämpfer. There wouldn’t be a problem if I were supervising that persoI also have some questions to ask you.

I felt Shizuku was smiling somehow. Ah, it seems she really is planning to torture me. —…Then do what you want.

—Okay. If you see a Kämpfer, let me know.

—Actually, you’re originally my enemy.

—But I did you a favor. With interest, of course.

—… Okay, I understand.

Damn it. What a loan shark.

Since there are few things that can be done, let’s assume we’re paying attention to the girls. participants. It wouldn’t be too late to report after they’ve made the transformation or when the Let the visceral animals begin to speak. The rest is Shizuku’s job.

I nodded my hand and prepared to leave the locker room.

—Ara, have you changed yet?

—Someone went to get my clothes.

—I’m not referring to that, it seems you’re not interested in my change of clothes. —No way.

It looks like I’m going to be devoured.

Shizuku muttered that I was a “boring man” to her. And it’s okay to be boring.

Now that I think about it, there was a similar conversation at home. Somehow, Shizuku and Akane… They presented themselves as if they were the same person.

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■

Just as I finished changing, the beauty pageant began.

The girls’ section gymnasium was packed. High school students from Seitetsu Academy They filled the place, with no room to move. Rumors are circulating that counterfeit tickets have been distributeMany more spectators have gathered than the permitted capacity.

Because of the heat, the skylight is open and the fan is running at full speed. Even so, it seemed that the The temperature had risen.

—Ladies and gentlemen. And Dad, Mom.

The presenter with the microphone tells an old joke.

—It’s finally here, the Seitetsu Academy beauty pageant. The most select beauties of the The academy will appear before you. Everyone, keep your eyes wide open, and those who have slept Just a little, please, apply eye drops and watch. I’m Masumi Nishino, your presenter. Thank you very much. Enthusiastic applause. Masumi, I thought I’d never see her again, so she was doing this job? —In this contest, all of you, the spectators, will also be judges. Please check the buttons on your screens. arrangement. By pressing them with my signal, the votes will be displayed instantly on this board. Behind Masumi was a large illuminated panel. It looked like they rented it from somewhere. Apparently, there arental companies that handle this type of thing.

—Please don’t press the buttons yet. The contestants aren’t on stage yet; they’re busy. Preparing behind the scenes. Those eager to know more, please confirm the names in your brochures.

He does it easily. It’s not his usual way of speaking, with the last syllables drawn out. He must also have

an advertising section, although it is responsible for more than twenty sections.

I watched Masumi from offstage. From this dressing room, you could see the entire stage. Also The audience looked good. Or is it just my imagination that more than half of them have notebooks made by thBeauty Research?

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Meanwhile, in the dressing room, things were quite elegant, and the pre-battle tension wasn’t as high. Intense. If the class president were here, she’d definitely have given me some kind of stimulant. However, my two neighbors were having a different conversation. Sakura-san on the right, Akane on the left. Both of them launched cold hostilities towards me.

—… Mishima-san has quite a peculiar style, doesn’t he?

Sakura-san’s blow. Akane was wearing jeans, a plain shirt, and a worn jacket; she didn’t just look outdated

not as fashionable but as used clothing.

—And with that, he manages to win over the hearts of the audience?

—Please… leave me alone. I’m just protecting Natsuru-san, so the results of the contest… Beauty doesn’t matter… As for Sakura-san… Do you really plan on mopping the stage in that skirt? long?

Typically, in a wedding dress, a part called the “train” trails behind, and is held by the bridesmaid. to be carried. Of course, currently no one has that role.

—I said it, didn’t I?

—S-Sakura-san said so.

—Let’s decide in this beauty contest who is most suitable for Natsuru-san.

—Th-That’s exactly what I want.

What kind of confrontation is this? Akane shouldn’t respond like that either.

By the way, my outfit is the maid uniform that was worn at the “Maid Cafe.” It was a long skirt. Akane

He brought it to me secretly.

The intimidating words have stopped; only sparks are flying. In the center, I was just praying. fervently “may it end soon”.

—It’s almost time to begin. Please prepare yourselves.

The manager speaks to us. “Yes!” the girls reply.

The music is playing on stage. They’re also using spotlights.

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—Now, let’s begin with the first participant. Mokue Ueda from class 1-5, please come forward! A pretty girl walks towards the stage. She’s wearing a rather unusual sailor uniform, but as the rumor goes She says she passed an idol audition, her face is small and her facial features are well-defined. —I am Mokue Ueda. I will sing a song.

He bows and begins to sing along to the accompaniment.

The song was an anime theme song that had been popular in its time. It’s about pretty girls with names of planets that fight. Ah, I see, is that outfit cosplay?

Being a bit old, it seems most of the customers in the room don’t know it. I didn’t either. But Akane whispered it in my ear. She’s a real late-night anime otaku. She’s setting the pace. moving the legs slightly.

Some of the spectators seemed similar to Akane, standing up and singing passionately. There were Boys and girls, showing the penetration of anime culture.

Mokue Ueda continued singing four more songs with enthusiasm and finally finished. She left between applause, and Masumi appeared in her place.

—Thank you for everything! It was Mokue Ueda. Perhaps the song’s genre was a bit retro? Now, dear ones Viewers, please have your switches ready. Are you ready? … Then, switches on!

Papappa. The digital light panel rotated. A “Jan” sound played and it stopped.

—Well… One hundred and eighty-four points! That’s amazing! Even though he didn’t sing with anyone, it seem

many hidden fans.

Why does he say unnecessary things? Also, what does the punctuation mean? —Now let’s move on to the next contestant. Please, Minami Minagawa from class 3-3, come forward. It’s not in alphabetical order. The numbers were assigned randomly.

Minami Minagawa was wearing a leotard. Since she practices athletics, she has limbs magnificent. From the spectator section, the men exclaimed “ooohh!” with enthusiasm. —I’m Minagawa. My specialty is the 400-meter dash… but it’s impossible here, so I’ll do stretches.

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She moved her body in a wave-like motion. Well, let’s avoid “wave-like.” She did forward bends and… Who knows what, bending its body in different directions. It looks like it’s drinking vinegar or something.

The yoga teacher posed like a rhythmic gymnast. She also performed a water wave pose. Every time he leaned back, his chest puffed out, causing the men to raise their voices. Even though photography was prohibited, someone was definitely hiding and taking pictures. It could be Hanazawa.

After sweating slightly, she announced, “That’s enough.” Mostly, enthusiastic applause followed. Men’s.

—Yes, thank you! It was the dazzling Minami Minagawa in a leotard. Now, it’s time to evaluate. Power on… activated!

Papapapapa, Jan.

—Score… 196-… 696 points! Minagawa surpasses the previous Ueda-san and takes first place! The place was filled with excitement. Although only two participants had left so far, the system of The voting process involved the public and generated enthusiasm.

The competition continued. On stage, there were not only musical performances, such as singing or playing a

instrument, but there were also comedy sketches, mental calculations, and a girl who made a fly dove with a magic trick.

My turn is gradually approaching.

Somehow, I start to feel nervous.

Thinking about it, I realize that facing a crowd is something I’ve only done once before. When I was in elementary school, and I was praised in front of all the students for helping a girl cross the street. older person, but it wasn’t about showing off a special skill.

Since then, I haven’t had experience with more than thirty people in my class. It seems I’ll be out of luck. Words. In that sense, the candidates who give speeches in elections are truly amazing. Sakura-san next to me was also restless. Perhaps she’s nervous too.

—…He’s not coming, is he…?

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-Hey?

—Ah, sorry, it’s just that… Shizuku-chan isn’t here…

And Sakura-san said. By the way, Shizuku isn’t in the locker room. Even though she’s the student council presiShe will participate in the beauty pageant.

—Is she busy…?

—But… I’ve never seen her arrive late…

She got up still wearing her wedding dress.

—I’ll go look for her… Natsuru-san.

What’s happening?

—Aren’t you coming with me?

—…It’s almost your turn, Sakura-san…

—Please. It would be a problem if something happened to Shizuku-chan.

Whatever happens, I think that girl can manage on her own. However, Sakura-san seems

worried, probably because they are childhood friends.

I agreed. The girl next to me, Akane, seemed really annoyed, but there was no other option. I left the dressing room and went backstage. I couldn’t just walk into the audience area. I arrived at a room where the stage props and costumes for the play were stored.

Sakura-san looked at me.

—…Is this okay?

-Hey…?

Sakura-san seemed serious. It’s understandable that she’s serious after losing a friend, but something doesn’t to be well.

—Natsuru-san… I… I…

—Uh-… Huh!?

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Suddenly she hugged me. Sakura-san wrapped both arms around me, grabbed me tightly from behind, and dihe was letting go.

—S-Sakura-san… what…?

—I’m sorry, I brought you to a place like this without telling you…

—The president…

“That was a lie. Shizuku-chan doesn’t have any problems. She just wanted to be alone with you, Natsuru-san.” Her eyes were moist. She was too beautiful. Beautiful, but what’s going on here?

The room was dark. In that space, the girl, dressed as a bride, hugged me.

—I… I’m nervous, full of anxiety. Here… I want everyone to acknowledge my relationship with Natsuru-san, but…

In a way, I’m anxious too.

—I know this isn’t right, I know, but I can’t stop the trembling… Maybe it’s already too late…

Perhaps it’s too late for me.

If I were a man, I would hug Sakura-san back, whispering words of love to her. Then, I would dress in a A white dress, and we would look for the happy ending together as sweethearts. But now I’m in woman’s form. If the relationship became public, I could never show my face in public again. My determination to support the The woman fades away easily, leaving only the question “What should I do?” swirling in my mind. —Natsuru-san…

—Y-Yes…

—Could you give me… courage… please?

What is courage?

Looking at her again, I feel like I’m on the moon. She glanced up slightly and closed her eyes. —U-Uhm…

-Please…

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What’s with this “please” nonsense? It’s just like Shizuku used to be. The only difference is that now I’m a womIf I were a man, I’d get her out of here and we’d settle somewhere quiet. But now is not the time to To escape reality. There’s no government office, but there’s Sakura-san. And she’s making a request. desperate to me.

From afar, Masumi says, “Thank you very much! Next up, the long-awaited… Kaede Sakura!” But Sakura-san won’t leave. She won’t budge until she gets what she wants. Is she like a debt collector? loans?

—Your… turn…

—I understand… Don’t rush…

That’s what I can’t do.

—Uhm… actually…

—You don’t have to be so careful… please…

—If I give you some lead bullets, will you accept them?

A voice like Hiiragi Yui’s, full of thorns, offers me the barrel of a gun.

Akane transformed, pushing her way between me and Sakura-san. To be precise, what was pushing her way gun; the ferocious woman had bloodshot eyes.

—If you thought you’d escape and never return, you’re sorely mistaken in such a dimly lit place! I caught them jDie. They’re not as good as the actors in Pink Flamingo. Who are you, dogs in heat? You’re the dog here.

Of course, he couldn’t say something like that. If he said anything rash, he’d shoot without hesitation. That was-Who are you?

Sakura-san asked bravely.

—I’m this idiot’s partner.

—…Did we bump into each other earlier at the library?

—Hoo, you remember well. I’ll congratulate you on that.

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—What do you plan to do with us?

—What…? Hey, damn it, don’t you understand what you see? Huh?

Akane pointed the cannon towards Sakura-san.

“It takes courage to mess with this one. I came to put in a .45 ACP as a thank you. It’s not enough on its own.” To protect. You have to find the enemy and kill him, that’s “identify and attack”.

—You and Natsuru-san…?

—I am Kämpfer.

Ah, this girl, she’s revealed everything. What a silly thing to do.

On stage, since Sakura-san hadn’t appeared, Masumi was giving a talk. “It seems she’s taking a More time to prepare. Please wait a moment. Did you know that in the basement of Tokiwadai, in addition

“Of the letters A and F in Fujiko Fujio, all the other letters of the alphabet are filled?” They don’t know, but that’vibe.

—That’s right. Say an “Amen” or a prayer if you prefer.

He had a finger on the trigger. Sakura-san remained rigid. This is bad.

—Idiot, stop…

My body moved suddenly. I grabbed the cannon with one hand and pressed against Akane’s stomach with theI couldn’t use magic at this time. Since it’s something more than just a gun, I can’t do tricks to… To deceive her. It was a lie, but it seemed to have convinced Akane.

—Natsuru, you…

—Sakura-san.

I ignored the ferocious dog woman.

—Y-Yes.

She responded reflexively.

“It’s fine here, so go on stage. You can escape. I’ll convince this woman.”

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Wow, he talked a lot. Even though I tried to stay quiet, because my voice was the same as a… man.

I don’t know how Sakura-san felt, but,

—Understood. I’ll go on stage. After all, Natsuru-san saved me.

-… Hurry up.

She ran away. She can’t run that fast because she’s wearing a wedding dress. I sighed with relief and withdrew my hand. At that moment,

Bam!

-… That…?

I was struck firmly with the grip of a pistol. In front of me, the ferocious dog-woman danced with colors of

madness and tango.

—Why do you do unnecessary things?

I could almost hear the sound of her chewing her teeth.

—Yes, I’d shoot him. So what? Rumor has it that Kaede’s brain smells like pig. I wanted to check it out. —What are you thinking?

What books do you read to learn swear words like that? Is there a dictionary of them at the library? abuse?

—I don’t like you, Natsuru.

Akane pointed the gun at my head and rubbed it in an exaggerated way. My brain was ringing with a harsh sound.

—What don’t you like? You’re too impatient about everything.

—I want to tell you many things, but especially your attitude towards that damn bitch. —Don’t call her a slut. Insults directed at Sakura-san…

—She who…

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The ferocious dog woman had her finger on the trigger. Ah, this doesn’t look good! —What angers me is your damn “saintly” attitude towards that bitch. What’s so great about that woman? —There aren’t many good things. First, a beautiful woman, right? Also, her attitude… —I’m not interested in your reasons.

Akane squeezed the trigger harder. Stop being stupid! I’m going to die.

—That’s why I’m so angry. I want you to understand.

—And what do you gain by letting me know?

Again, they pressed the gun barrel.

—Do you understand? That’s why I’m angry. Do you have the brains to be worried?

He thought for a moment.

-… I don’t understand anything.

I answered honestly. Why is this wild dog barking so much?

Akane’s expression changed.

—Wow, this is way better than any exam answer I’ve ever seen. It’s the worst. You seem more Useless than a cactus in the desert.

What the hell is that? Why do I have to listen to that stuff even when I answer honestly? But no matter what I say, it seems he’s not going to listen.

—Are you ready, husband Natsuru? If you don’t mind being Kaede’s fool, I’d be delighted to send you bullets olead as many as you want.

—Cancel that order.

—No, payment can be later, that’s fine.

The place erupted in applause. Shouts of “beautiful” and “wonderful” could be heard all the way here. Sakura-She appeared in a wedding dress. Masumi is also excited.

—This is incredible! Sakura-san Kaede from class 2-2 appears in a wedding dress.

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Applause and cheers. As they peered through the filtered light, the entire auditorium was on its feet. “It’s urgent, but we want to interview Sakura-san. Why are you wearing that outfit?!” —I-It’s just that… There’s someone I want to show it to…

A roar echoed like an earthquake.

—Who is that person!?

—It’s still a secret. But you’ve already seen it.

Whistles, applause, the explosion of firecrackers. For some reason, the atmosphere had turned into a carnival. —Does that mean it’s something happy?

—I don’t know that yet. But this is haunting me in this way.

—Ooh, that’s amazing. Who’s the lucky one?… Hey, do you have a bouquet?

—Yes. To give to everyone in the audience and share some happiness.

—Ooohh.

Once again, the audience erupted in excitement. “This way!”, “Give it your all!” could be heard from the crowd. The enthusiasm was palpable up to this point. And just like the voices, Akane’s irritability. was increasing.

—She’s acting all high and mighty, that vixen…!

—Calm down.

Sakura-san on stage turned towards the audience with the bouquet in both hands.

—So, here we go. One, two, three!

Bam.

The bouquet hadn’t been torn; the veins of the woman who had pointed a gun at me were severed. I am Sure. I heard it clearly.

—…That bitch!

Akane ran out of the room.

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The atmosphere in the hall erupted when the unknown woman, Akane, appeared on stage. The performance oSakura-san in her wedding dress and bouquet was so stunning.

A fierce woman appeared there, brandishing a weapon.

—Hey, Kaede!

Akane was pointing the gun directly at Sakura-san. It was at that moment that the audience realized. —Doing ridiculous juggling? Will the confession come next? Are you doing it in the wrong order? —… Do you intend to interrupt again?

—More than interrupting, I feel like shooting you. With that serene expression you have.

Backstage, Masumi was desperately searching through a list.

—Eer, this is Mishima Akane from class 2-4… no, wait… Ah, correction! Due to Mishimasan’s resignation, the What the hell? It’s convenient, but…

On stage, the tension in the air continued with intense interaction.

—Shooting the bride at her wedding, that’s a “Shotgun Wedding,” isn’t it?

—You’re interrupting a confession.

—I’ll say it like this, but I saw it out of the corner of my eye earlier… What did you put inside the bouquet? It’s nSakura-san was perplexed.

—What are you talking about?

—… You have no intention of answering.

Akane’s eyes narrowed. The audience was impressed by the tense exchange. It seemed It felt like something out of a movie, but I couldn’t just stand by passively. I took to the stage. I went up on stage. Akane wouldn’t let go of Sakura-san’s gun. She looked like she was about to shoot. TakingKämpfer’s power, I jumped and landed between them.

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I positioned myself in front of Sakura-san as a protective measure. Akane was surprised. —You’re in the way, move!

—Stop, don’t shoot!

It felt like she was playing a role. “Oops, here comes the defender of justice who protects…” “The bride! She’s from class 2-4, Natsuru Senou!” Masumi announced with a shout. The crowd was excited, thinking it was part of the performance. However, some shouted, “That clothing!” “That’s not the right one!” “How disastrous!” Were they from the organizing committee? Akane paid no attention to the public.

—Move from there, he looks like he knows something!

—Not now, put the weapon away.

I didn’t know what Akane was thinking, but this wasn’t the right place or time. There was trouble. —Do you really want to hear Kaede’s words?

—That’s not it. It’s not the time or the place…

I felt the tension on the trigger. This was getting dangerous.

Akane fired. I jumped, holding Sakura-san. Kämpfer’s power is useful in situations like this. The bullet It pierced the opposite wall. I hope the audience thinks it’s part of the performance. I landed and rolled. holding Sakura-san’s head. The bullets kept hitting. Akane kicked the ground, getting closer. Her His gaze was serious.

She is determined to spare no effort.

—It looks like they’re going to die together!

—That… ah!

I’m sorry, but I have to save Sakura-san. I picked her up again and jumped to the side. Akane fired as I was running. Luckily, we managed to dodge the shots. The scene was rumbled with gunfire, increasing the

emotion.

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—An incredible performance! Two girls fighting for a girlfriend! The climax of the cultural festival! How Can you miss this?

Masumi has taken on the role of presenter. The audience cheered like Zulu warriors intoxicated with alcohol. battle.

—Don’t run away!

—If I don’t escape, you’ll shoot!

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Anyway, who are they shooting at?

“If you stay still, I’ll easily kill you!”

—That’s it… Ahh!

I tripped and stepped on Sakura-san’s wedding dress. I fell, but tried to get up. I saw the black cannon in my hAkane’s.

—… I caught you.

The fierce woman’s hair was truly standing on end.

—Stop protecting her.

—… You’re going to shoot me.

—I’ll shoot. But there’s something I want to know. I felt something during her previous performance. This girl He definitely knows something.

Was it because of throwing the bouquet?

—Something… What is it?

—Something happened. I can’t put it into words. But I felt it. That Kämpfer intuition. This girl introduces herself as Kämpfer and talks nonstop. It seems she didn’t quite reach the audience, but Sakura-san noticed.

—You… you say things like Shizuku.

—Hmph, just like that president. Oh well, never mind. I’m going to kill that woman.

What should I do? Sakura-san is in my arms. Should I hand her over or not? I’m also worried about what AkanHe says, “But if I follow his orders, I’ll really lose my life.”

I remained silent. Akane, impatient, approached. And then,

From above, a shadow descended.

A black-haired schoolgirl in a uniform. No, that was platinum blonde. It’s Shizuku. She landed between Akane

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—Ah, my, another intruder! Student council president Shizuku Sangou has appeared! It’s How exciting that he has a dagger!

Masumi kept waving the microphone.

Advertisement:

—Stop.

—Don’t get in the way!

The fierce woman fired. Shizuku deflected it with her dagger. Cheers erupted from various points within the en—Hang on, Madam President!

—Strangers shouldn’t lose either!

The crowd was rowdy. Added to the fact that they were on stage, it had become a

perfect performance.

A chained dagger was pointed at the enraged Akane.

—I commend you for your attention to detail. But it’s not the right time yet.

—You know something?! Are you going to follow me?!

—I’m not asking you. Stop.

Shizuku’s eyes also showed genuine determination.

Faced with this unusual presence, Akane swallowed her words. Then she smiled maliciously. —Interesting. What if we decide to resolve it here?

—It won’t be like that.

—Don’t joke around. I’ll make you pay for this!

—…If that’s the case, then you’ll all have to sleep. All of you.

Shizuku moved.

That was exactly like a wind. The dagger danced at such a speed that it couldn’t even be followed with the eyeeven reaching the abs of me, Akane and Sakura-san.

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Although it did not pass through us, the impact stirred our internal organs.

—The culmination of the beauty pageant. Good night.

In the fading of my consciousness, the last thing I heard was Masumi’s shout: “Uhmm, and the winner is the Student council president!

■

—Ah!

I sat up abruptly. I was lying on white sheets. Above my head, a low ceiling.

It wasn’t the women’s gym stage, but the locker room.

-Are you OK?

Mikoto sat to one side. She seemed to have been there the whole time and looked rather sleepy. —I was worried because you fainted without realizing it.

—Yes, it’s probably fine… Oh, wow!

I was surprised to notice my body. I had become a man again.

-What’s happening?

—No, it’s just that… I’m a man.

—Did you hit your head? But you’re a man.

—Yes, but…

Fortunately, it was just Mikoto and me. Since I was already changed and didn’t have any other belongings, I assumed they had brought me here. I wasn’t wearing a maid’s outfit, but a boy’s uniform. Who… Will she have dressed like that?

—Hey, were you the one who brought me here?

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—No. It was the president of the council. She said you fainted at the beauty pageant hearing. She was It was very exciting, so you probably got dizzy.

Ah, so Shizuku was the one who changed my clothes too? Did she see me naked?

I’m getting out of bed. I don’t feel dizzy at all.

—Put on your shoes.

—Who won the beauty pageant?

“The student council president,” Mikoto said.

—That’s clear. There were 456 votes, right? She looked the most elegant in that performance. She brought thedirectly. Sakura-san was also great, although she only went so far.

In any case, it is said that her presence was overwhelming. Of course, with that kind of appeal, it’s natural that That’s how it was, right?

—Everyone acted seriously, I was so tense. Even female Natsuru-chan didn’t do badly. Well, I think so. I’ll take that as a compliment.

The locker room door opens. The rumored Shizuku enters. —Have you woken up?

Thanks to you.

Mikoto bowed slightly in greeting.

—I’m sorry, Kondou-san. I was a little pushy.

-No problem.

—I’ve prepared some treats for the student council. Please, take them. —Yes. So, without ceremony.

She left happily.

—… It’s a shame you didn’t win, isn’t it?

Shizuku sat on the bed.

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-No problem.

—You looked pretty good too.

—My colleague was impatient. By the way, how is this one?

—He’s in the infirmary. There were no injuries. Kaede is also fine.

—How easy it is for you to hit your friends.

—I simply made the best decision.

That may be so, but perhaps it’s not that simple.

Shizuku was suggesting that Sakura-san had something to do with the moderator. Akane also said, “You know “Something.” To believe that nothing is happening would be too naive.

Things are probably in motion somewhere we don’t know about.

—By the way, you said something about being a visceral animal or something like that. Wasn’t something goinbeauty?

—Yes, that’s true.

Did something happen?

—Not especially. It seems Kaede was very happy.

—So, Sakura-san has nothing to do with this?

—Do you really believe that?

He looked me in the eyes. I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking. —That’s right. It was just a coincidence that it was quiet today. Calm down, okay? I remember what happened on stage. —The storm is fully present.

—He’s grateful for that too. I was the one who resolved that situation. —Yes, yes. I understand.

—It’s not enough.

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Huh? What are you saying?

—If the debts keep piling up, you’ll have to pay a little, won’t you?

-Debts-…

Suddenly, they grabbed my uniform tie.

I was yanked roughly. In an instant, Shizuku’s face was right in front of me. I couldn’t scream. My lips were sealed by Shizuku’s.

—… This should be enough.

Her lips parted. I couldn’t move at all.

—This is what matters. The rest will come later.

—Wh-… Wh-…

Shizuku quickly walked away toward the door. She may be leaving, but I can’t follow her in this moment. My whole body was numb.

—By the way, it would be best not to tell Mishima-san about this. -… Because?

I was finally able to speak, and Shizuku answered me calmly.

—Do you want to be killed?

There was a knock at the door, and she left.

I was left alone, abandoned in the locker room. I could still feel Shizuku’s lips on mine. Uhm… it was the first time something like that had happened to me. ■

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Mikoto was drinking her juice. After having been everywhere since morning, her body I needed fluids.

She drank grapefruit juice three times before feeling calm.

—Ahh…

Her throat was satisfied, but her mind was not entirely at peace.

(Why is the president so involved?)

After the contest ended, I was shoved up to a stiff Natsuru. They asked me to take him to the I helped him in the changing rooms, but he didn’t seem dizzy. I’ve seen the same symptoms in the desert and tSomething’s different. Was it a near-fainting event? It smells like a conspiracy.

-Hmm…

Lost in thought, I was suddenly struck on the shoulder.

—Mikoto!

It was Masumi. She was euphoric, holding a juice in her hand.

—Ara Masumi, good job.

—No problem. How was my presentation?

—Very well. But I wonder, what do you think about Fujiko F. Fujio?

-Oh really?

Laughing loudly. She looks drunk, even though she didn’t drink.

—By the way, Mikoto, did you take Sakura-san’s bouquet?

-This?

I show the bag I have in my hand.

—It was a coincidence. It just happened.

—Coincidences are important! You’re sure to be happy!

—It’s too soon to get married.

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Opening it with a wry smile, I find the bouquet Kaede threw. As a woman, she can’t throw it away. —…Huh?

Without realizing it, something was hidden among the artificial flowers. I put my hand in. -Something…

Mikoto takes out a plush toy.

—Is it a visceral stuffed animal…?

The new model of visceral animal plushies that Sakura Kaede launched together was “Chissokunoinu”, a hanged dog.

Masumi seemed intrigued.

—Hee. Is this a hobby of Sakura-san’s?

—It seems so. It’s strange… huh?

Mikoto puts her ear close to the Chissokunoinu.

-What’s happening?

—…Didn’t you hear anything?

-What happened?

—I think he spoke.

Masumi laughed.

—That can’t be. Stuffed animals don’t talk, do they? Mikoto stared at Chissokunoinu. No change. —… Yes, that’s right. It can’t be.

She put the stuffed animal back in the paper bag.

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Author’s Words

It’s Tsukiji. It’s also my third Kämpfer book. This time it’s about a cultural festival and a competition. Beauty. Natsuru will also participate. Because she’s a girl. Although it’s not common to have a beauty pageant. At the high school level, at my old school we used to do something like “taking pictures of the whole class Making funny faces, sticking them up, and voting.” I don’t remember who won. Were they happy? So it’s the cultural festival. As I mentioned in the text, the cultural festival is a good opportunity to that the class unites. Even somewhat reserved people can’t help but integrate into this atmosphere A unique kind of emotion. I think it has a kind of magic. From the preparations, those days were an experience exciting that left you numb. Although there are also some who, like some teacher in some Some say, “I couldn’t integrate into my class even during the cultural festival when I was a student.” In this story, a cultural festival project called “Rest Area” will be mentioned, which in fact It existed. Although only as a proposal. There was a class at my old school that, tired of thinking too much, he decided, “Let’s rest and sleep.” The surprising thing was that, instead of putting the The visitors decided to sleep on their own, and I didn’t understand at all what the purpose was. The intense anThe teachers were remarkable. This didn’t happen in my class.

My group started with a rather sloppy plan to sell masks that we had acquired from some place. Since it had no impact, in the second year, we became “wizards” and achieved success. It was overwhelming to have a giant of the class running around in shorts. We received Assessments like “they’re not right in the head.” It’s also a good memory when U-san, considered the The prettiest girl of the year told us straight up: “That class, they’re all idiots, aren’t they?” The giant in trousers He was in love with U-san, so he felt a little depressed.

Incidentally, we were reprimanded by that giant, who argued intensely with us about whether U-san Did he really have experience or not? That’s not true!

See you again.

February 2007

Toshihiko Tsukiji