Vol. 4 Ch. 3

Chapter 3

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Saturday was splendidly clear. Much better than the rain.

The meeting point was in front of the station. Although Sakura-san’s house is within walking distance of the school, just like mine, and it would be more convenient to meet at the school gate, I decided to do it here because who knows what might happen.

Akane and I met at the bookstore across from the station. We were going to meet Shizuku from there. But first we had problems with Akane. It wouldn’t budge an inch from the library.

—I’m sorry… There’s a book that interests me…

She said apologetically from the back of the bookstore. Apparently, she found the paperback that I was looking for them. However, they only had volumes two and up, so I was undecided about whether to buy Or not. It seems like it’s wrong to start from the middle.

I don’t care, but it seems to be an important issue for her. I don’t understand what the lovers of the books.

After much thought, Akane decided not to buy them. It seems she’ll buy them all, starting with volume one. Again. Try harder. You can also buy it on Amazon.

She was carrying a convenience store bag. I thought maybe she’d bought a knife and asked her, -What is it?

—A Pocky.

She replied. Hahaha, so she likes that candy even if it’s not the version for wild dogs. We arrived in front of the fountain at the south exit, about ten minutes later than the time agreed with Shizuku. She was already waiting.

—They arrive so late!

That was the first thing he said when he saw us.

-I’m sorry.

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—As soon as I got here, three guys tried to pick me up. There are a lot of boring people in this world, aren’t theDo you think so?

—And those guys?

—It looks like they injured their nose, ear, and jaw.

Anyone who tries to pick up women so persistently should choose their targets more carefully. However, it’s understandable that men are curious about Shizuku. With her casual style of Denim and a black jacket suit him very well. Somehow, he looks like a celebrity, and that’s exciting. By the way, I also wear denim, mostly white. Shizuku is wearing a skirt.

I’ve transformed into a woman. If I stayed as Kämpfer, I could drag Shizuku and Akane along. transform involuntarily, but I suppose everything will be alright. Unlike me, they should be able to

manage on their own without any problem.

Shizuku stared intently at Akane.

—You like cute outfits, right?

Akane quickly hid behind me.

—No problem. You haven’t done anything, have you?

—…

I was in a weakened state because I hadn’t transformed yet. If I were to turn into a ferocious dog… The prey might be able to face Shizuku or Mikoto, but for now even a puppy would be scared. —You won’t be able to beat Kaede like that.

Don’t say things that might incite them. Seriously, their relationships are complicated. Shizuku seemed unwilling to prolong the conversation and said:

—What if we go?

“If we stay here, we’ll get hit on. Three girls together is a delicate matter, you know.”

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Shizuku, who knew the area well, guided us. A little way from the station was the building of apartments where Sakura-san lived. On the way, Shizuku told me that both of Sakura-san’s parents were They were diplomats and lived abroad. Although there are similarities between them and me, the scale is mucAt the entrance with the automatic lock, Shizuku pressed the button for the room number and waved her Hand toward the camera. Soon, the automatic door opened.

The room was on the twelfth floor. A good location. In the city, it’s better to live on higher floors. higher ground to receive more sunlight and, therefore, tend to be more expensive. The theory that the locals ofThe idea that “city are fools” doesn’t really apply.

Upon pressing the doorbell, Sakura-san opened the door.

—Welcome!

When she saw me, her face lit up.

—Natsuru-san, it’s great that you came. I’m happy.

-… Thank you.

Then he looked behind me.

—Has Mishima-san come too?

—…

—Please, come in. It doesn’t bother me at all.

Although I didn’t say why she came, among them were sparks floating vaguely, like fireworks. incense.

—Come in, please. There’s no need to hold back.

The three of us went in as instructed.

The layout is 3LDK. Too spacious to live alone. It appears to be in his father’s name. “I feel lonely when I’m alone,” Sakura-san said. A little embarrassed,

—Sometimes in winter it gets very quiet, so sometimes I sleep with all the lights on in the room.

lit.

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Oh, how adorable! If she had told me, I would have gone to comfort her immediately. Obviously, being a man. Then Sakura-san looked at me and said,

—Uhm… Natsuru-san hasn’t spoken to you or chased you, has he?

-… No not at all…

—It seems that man asked me everything in detail about today. It seemed like he wanted to come… It’s a good person, but somewhat insistent…

She seems a little upset. I’m sorry. She’s right.

My position worsened, so I tried to calm the situation.

—He hasn’t done anything to me…

-Oh really?

—Because he’s a decent person…

I never thought defending myself would be so embarrassing. It seems Sakura-san isn’t very… convinced.

Squinting slightly, he looks at me.

—Natsuru-san, do you like male Natsuru-san?

-Not so much…

I am not a narcissist.

—But today it’s just the two of us.

She suddenly changed position.

They took me to the living room. It’s quite spacious. It must have about 15 tatami mats. There were already glaprepared snacks.

—Please, start eating.

Sakura-san said.

—I’m making french fries right now.

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She went back to the kitchen. The sound of frying could certainly be heard. Of course, I wouldn’t eat or drink without the host, but I did serve juice in a glass. Akane looked around the room.

—There are many products containing animal parts.

I said with admiration. I thought the same thing.

In the living room, accessories related to visceral animals are placed everywhere, all of them unknown to me. To give an example, there’s a clock on the wall where a hedgehog’s liver has been It’s become a second hand and it’s spinning. Is this a nightmare?

—President, isn’t she a childhood friend? Did you know Sakura-san is such a fan of accessories?

visceral animals?

—I didn’t know until I received a stuffed animal.

I see. Well, this preference in itself is probably unusual throughout Japan. —I apologize for the wait.

Sakura-san brought me fries. I thought they’d just be fries like at fast food, but they also… There were cupcakes of various kinds. Definitely made by Sakura-san. —Each one has a different flavor.

Sakura-san said.

—Enjoy it as you like.

Of course, I will enjoy it to the fullest.

Then we toasted. We all drank juice. I don’t drink alcohol; I’m underage. —I’m really happy you came.

Sakura-san repeated the phrase she said when she greeted me.

—Because Natsuru-san was coming, I’ve been cleaning since yesterday. I’ve left everything sparkling clean.

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I understand. There literally wasn’t a single pimple that bothered me. I’m sure it will turn into a Good wife. Elegant, she likes to clean and she’s a good cook. What will my partner think about a guy like that? I?

—Shizuku-chan, you’ve come after so long, haven’t you?

—Yes, that’s true.

Shizuku was drinking cola. Black suits her, but she’s not bad either.

—Since elementary school, perhaps?

—I remember you used to travel abroad a lot in those days, right? For violin competitions and things like that. the style.

—You remember well.

—When you came home, you only listened to tapes of traditional stories, remember? —I still listen to them from time to time. Shinosuke is still amazing. I like Enka too, but Lately, he has lost his vocal strength.

This girl is a real enthusiast of traditional tales. It’s true that she aspired to be a manga artist. —Kaede, you used to collect weird things since elementary school, right? Bent nails, broken plates, and stuff li—For me, they are very valuable objects.

—When I saw a spinning top cut in half, I wondered what you would use it for.

It’s certainly a peculiar hobby. The current trend of collecting visceral animals is also a continuation of this. About that. Is he gradually becoming cuter from Sakura-san’s perspective?

Sakura-san looked at the convenience bag she had left on the table.

—Ara… is that Pocky?

—I-… I bought them.

—Can I have one?

-Yeah…

Kaede took one out of the bag and opened it. The most normal flavor, chocolate.

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Sakura-san smiled.

—Hey, why don’t we play Pocky?

“What the hell…?” I thought. Shizuku was expressionless. Kaede looked confused.

—Uh… what’s that?

—We play a game of pick a straw or rock-paper-scissors, and the two chosen people eat a Pocky from both sisides.

—Uh-… Eeehhh!?

Whatever she imagined, Kaede blushed immediately.

—W-Wait… in the end…

—What will happen?

—That’s inappropriate!

—Everyone does it.

Where is that “everyone”?

Sakura-san had paper and a pen with her, and she was enthusiastically holding a lottery. It was an amidakuji. (Japanese lottery game). By folding and concealing the path, only the start and finish lines were visible. At the The letters “A” and “B” were found.

—Please write your name at the top… and before that…

Sakura-san took out a Pocky.

—I’ll show you an example. Natsuru-san, please help me.

-Help…?

Instead of answering, Sakura-san bit one end of the Pocky.

—Wh-… What?

It wasn’t me who raised the blood pressure, it was Akane.

—Why does Natsuru-san have to do it…?

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—It’s an example.

—Sakura-san should do it alone…!

“It’s impossible on my own. I need Natsuru-san’s help.”

She, still with the Pocky in her mouth, approached on all fours.

—Natsuru-san, aaaahhn!

—It’s not “aaaahhn”…

Akane was visibly exasperated. She strongly advocated for invalidating the Pocky game, or at least

insist that there be no example.

—I won’t accept that it’s just Natsuru-san and Sakura-san…!

—We participated together in the beauty pageant.

—I participated too. What’s more, I bought this Pocky myself!

—Yes, but…

—If it’s wrong, it’s wrong…!

She couldn’t even deal with their demands about the sweets. Sakura-san backed down from her request to maFor example. Meanwhile, I was still stunned. What a shame.

Despite the commotion, the game began without an example.

First, Sakura-san wrote “Kaede” at the top of the lottery ticket. She handed me the pen. —Here, Natsuru-san, please write.

—Hm…

—It seems like the second one from the right would be good.

—… Let me write.

Akane took the pen from my hand, wrote: “Akane” second from the right and added many horizontal lines between the sticks.

—Is this okay?

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—Hm…

Sakura-san’s expression said: “Well done.”

Shizuku typed quickly and I finally typed: “Natsuru”.

—Okay, let’s start the draw.

Sakura-san drew a line down from each name with a red pen.

—Uh, I… ah, what a shame.

It was a mistake. She looked genuinely disappointed. Then it was my turn.

—Natsuru-san… ah, you failed.

Suddenly, the two turned out to be the wrong pair. And then…?

—Oh, me, with the president?

Akane looked like she was about to fall backwards.

Now, an explanation for those unfamiliar with the game. In the Pocky game, two people eat a Pocky from the extremes, and whoever moves away first loses. In other words, Akane faces Shizuku while they stare each othfixedly. Naturally, as there is less Pocky left, things get complicated.

—Oh no, no, it’s okay if I lose…!

—Retirement is not allowed. There are no wins or losses by forfeit.

Sakura-san wouldn’t allow it. She placed a new Pocky in front of the two of them.

—Here you go, please.

—Ugh…

Akane groaned.

—Is the president alright?

-Especially.

What does “especially” mean? It cannot be deduced from his impassive expression, but, in any case, no He remains unmoved. Whether it’s comforting or not, it’s hard to say.

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Akane fearfully held one end with her lips, and Shizuku quickly bit it.

—Ready, set, go!

With Sakura-san’s call, they begin to eat.

It’s not limited to just playing Pocky, but when two people share something to eat, their posture becomes Completely unstable. If they don’t support each other, they could fall over or break the food. Akane and Shizuku intertwined their arms and gradually held each other as if embracing.

—Mmm, mmm!

Akane was causing the commotion. Shizuku was calmly biting. —Funh, kaihyohh!

-… Be quiet.

Crunch crunch crunch crunch…

Their lips drew closer. Without realizing it, Sakura-san and I were holding back. breathing.

—Kaiyooh, crunch, my breath, mmm!

-Some more…

Suddenly, Shizuku lifted Akane up and turned towards me.

-Hmm!

I couldn’t see what was happening. I could only hear Akane’s muffled scream. Turmoil. Akane’s legs moved violently. Gradually, everything calmed down.

Finally, they separated and sat back down on the sofa.

—I win.

Where exactly is the victory? Akane’s face is so red and she’s so embarrassed that it must be definitely the winner.

—Shizuku-chan… bold…

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Sakura-san said it as if she were in awe.

—Is that so?

-That’s how it is…

—I prefer kissing boys, but…

—Shizuku-chan… Have you kissed boys?

The person asked replied, “I don’t know,” avoiding the question. But for a moment, their eyes turned

towards me and my heart leaped.

Still shaken by the impact, Akane tried to stand up and then sat down.

-Are you OK?

In response to my question,

—Yes… but… it feels… strange…

It was a strange answer. What could be so strange?

To calm her nerves, Akane was drinking juice quickly. Meanwhile, Sakura-san opened a new plastic bottle, he said:

—So, it’s the second round, right?

Are they still going to continue?

—Well, before it was Shizuku-chan and Mishima-san, so this time it will be me and Natsuru-san. -Because…!?

Akane was the one who protested. She looked like she was about to spit out the juice.

—What’s happening with the lottery…?

—I’m not doing it because the role is a waste.

—Doesn’t it work on the back of a calendar?

—My calendar is for visceral animals. I won’t break it.

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From a collector’s perspective, it clearly shouldn’t be torn. Despite Akane’s continued protests, Sakura-san hurried to prepare the Pocky.

—Here you go, Natsuru-san.

With a smile, he tried to get her to take it.

-Can’t…!

Akane looked like she was about to release steam.

—Mishima-san, didn’t you do it with Shizuku-chan?

—It was because of the lottery result.

—Even after doing something like that?

—What—… What do you mean by “something like that”…? Anyway, I won’t allow anything without a draw. She quickly turned over the lottery paper they had used at the beginning and drew four vertical lines and one horizontal.

—We will do it that way.

She brought it up. Sakura-san, perhaps impressed by her determination, replied:

-… Alright.

We continued writing the names randomly. Once all four of us had written them down, we began. —…Ah, he didn’t play again!

—I wasn’t lucky either.

That’s what Sakura-san and Shizuku said. So…

Akane blushed quickly.

—It’s between Natsuru-san and me.

Hey?

-… What’s that!?

As expected, Sakura-san began to scream.

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—It’s too much. It’s unfair.

—… It’s not unfair. It’s the fair result of an impartial draw.

Akane counterattacked. The roles were reversed. This time, Akane was on the receiving end of the complaints.—There is no option…

—Mishima-san, it’s the Pocky game with Natsuru-san, right?

—I understand. Ah, I’m not that interested in that sort of thing, but there’s no other option. It was decided by lot

He kept insisting that it was decided by lottery.

Meanwhile, the other party involved—me—remained stunned. I mean, am I supposed to play Pocky with AkanLike this? It’s much better than doing it with Shizuku, but I’d never considered it.

She says, “It’s inevitable. It’s inevitable,” as she prepares the Pocky. She seems to be enjoying herself, thoughShe silently nibbles on the Pocky stick.

—Natsuru-san…

Although he said it in a confusing way, I understood clearly. I tried to say something while receiving his gaze fuSakura-san’s jealousy.

Akane’s face is right in front of me. However, I don’t feel much about it. She’s cute, but I feel like something’s mBut why is he squinting like that?

I bite into the chocolate part.

—Here I go…

Crunch, crunch…! I almost fell, so they grabbed my hand. Akane squeezed it tightly.

—Mishima-san, don’t hold it like that!

I ignore Sakura-san’s protest. In fact, she even starts to tangle herself with my arm. The faces slowly draw closer.

—A-… Akane-chan…

—That’s fine…

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What does she mean by “that’s fine”? It’s a completely different kind of boldness with Shizuku. It’s just that her Lips are getting closer!

Although her sweetness lacks something, as she gets so close, my blood pressure starts to rise. Akane doesn’

Not a move at all. Hey, aren’t you going to stop? Huh?

Sakura-san was nervous. Shizuku was silent. My heart was racing.

—Natsuru-san…

The moment we approached the limit, I instinctively turned my face.

A soft cracking sound was heard as the Pocky broke. I quickly bit into what was left. —… I… lost…

Sakura-san brazenly stroked her chest. Akane seemed a little dissatisfied.

—Why… did you stop?

—No… Because I thought Akane-chan deserves someone more suitable.

I responded quickly.

—Not between girls, it should be with her boyfriend…

Although it sounded like an excuse, it was also my true feeling. It should be with someone she loves instead. From a girl like me. That would be better for Akane.

She turned around. “You don’t realize at all…” she seemed to be murmuring, but it was surely just me imagination.

Akane gulped down her juice. Could this be her way of relieving stress?

Her glass ran out of juice. When she went to pour, Sakura-san said, “I’ll do it,” and poured orange juice. Oh, thHas the conflictive relationship disappeared?

I had some freshly made fries. They weren’t very salty. Although I like salty food.

The Pocky game ended in just two turns, in an ambiguous way.

Somehow the topic ran its course.

—… There are a lot of visceral animals, aren’t there?

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Akane looked around the room. Sakura-san smiled, forgetting any conflict.

-Probably.

—There are a lot…

—I put up the living room decorations today. I especially wanted Natsuru-san to see them. She emphasized my name especially. Well, it seems there’s still a strained relationship. Akane tensed up. But hey, they really are impressive, visceral animals. It’s like some kind of zoo.

—What do you think, Natsuru-san?

-… Incredible…

There’s no other way to put it. A calendar of visceral animals hangs on the wall, and every time The month changes, the visceral animal rots. A pencil holder where you stick a pen into your guts! —I’m glad you liked it.

—… Well… more or less…

-I understand.

She clasped her hands together.

—There are more items in the next room. Please come and see.

She got up without waiting for our reply. It’s not good when the owner disappears, so we followed her. He led us to a Western-style room with about six tatami mats. He opened the door with a radiant smile. —This is my children’s room.

—Wow…

Although I restrained myself from seeming impolite, every corner was filled with the series of visceral animals oteddy.

It was far more impressive than the living room. From stuffed animals to tableware, books, stationery, From novels to DVDs. There were even scale models! Who makes all this stuff?

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The detailed model of Sepkurousagi was impeccable. Behind him, a samurai brandished a katana; he looked To depict an act of seppuku. Is this a model?

—They are Garage Kits.

Sakura-san answered my question.

—They’re made by individuals. Look, you can see it here. The part of the intestine is really realistic. Sakura-san jumped up and pointed excitedly. Both Akane and I were puzzled. Shizuku didn’t say anything. Nothing, but she seemed surprised instead. As is typical of the eager, it seems that even when speaking Sakura-san and I wanted to talk about our favorite genre. She was explaining things about me without caring. She pointed to a stuffed cat inside a display case.

—This plush toy is an exclusive product. You can change its insides! As it was only available in Mail order sales, I thought I’d get it at an online auction if I couldn’t buy it here!

Even I knew about this. I think only about six people in all of Japan bought it. And it turns out that one of The 44 is here.

Then he took out a large book.

—This is a pop-up book.

—Pop-up…?

—Natsuru-san, focus on this image, unfocus your eyes and stare at it intently.

He showed me a book with a Japanese warthog drawn on it. It might be for children, but it’s terrible for educatiemotional.

After looking at it closely, his insides suddenly jumped out.

—Wow…!

Think of it like a gory image that gets zoomed in. Plus, it’s three-dimensional, in 3D. Isn’t it a mistake to use the technology for this kind of thing?

Sakura-san laughs softly.

—It’s interesting, isn’t it? I never get tired of watching it all day.

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Before I got bored, I felt like my heart was going to stop.

Anyway, there are really a lot of them. That toy company has really expanded that much. That huggable pillow they have there… I wouldn’t normally think of doing something like that. It’s like sleeping. with a corpse.

Just in case, I asked.

—Do you use the huggable pillow?

—No, I don’t use it.

Sakura-san denied it in passing.

—That’s a shame. That huggable pillow is a limited edition. I’m just displaying it.

I think it wasn’t produced because it wasn’t selling, not because it was a limited edition. Even so, Sakura-san’s hobby of collecting is like a man’s. Although I think the pillows Huggable toys with character illustrations are not for women, buy them with complete confidence. Akane was fidgeting with an eraser shaped like internal organs. Shizuku didn’t move in front of her. A Harakiritora t-shirt. It says something like “HARAKIRITORA Yes! UCHIKUBI No!” I don’t understand.

Just by looking at this place, it’s clear how much Sakura-san loves visceral animal plushies. From the bottom of his heart. Ordinary people wouldn’t understand it. Especially here in this company, it’s Rumors suggest the shareholders’ meeting was total chaos and that riot police were even deployed. So those who invest in stocks probably wouldn’t want to see it.

She spoke in a state of ecstasy.

—I’ve already gathered most of the products…

Yes, it’s understandable when you see them.

—All the stuffed animals don’t fit in this room, so I put them next door too. Please come and see them. The next room was also Western-style. And there, too, they were crammed with stuffed animals. Visceral animals. Although they encompass all types, there are always several of each species. Could it be beManic collecting behavior, or perhaps for display purposes? It is said that in the warehouses of

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The wealthy merchants of the Edo period, their confiscated swords groaned each night as punishment for debtAnd this room also seems quite noisy.

—I’ve also given some to friends.

And she said that. Surrounded by visceral animal plushies on display, she seemed very happy. Truly, Sakuras”By the way, I have a very special treasure,” she said as she rummaged in the back of the wardrobe. —Here it is!

What he produced was a lion whose entire body was made of detached pieces. It probably belongs to the seriof visceral animals, but wow, I’ve never seen one like this.

—It’s the “Hyapuri Lion”. This is the first in the series of visceral animals.

Well, I’m sure I haven’t seen it. It first appeared in a manga called “THE Harawata,” and the animals Visceral seems to be a spin-off of that. That’s why Hyapuri Lion still had the name of the series “THE Harawata.” Incidentally, that manga was so boring that bookstores returned it without even a second glance.

I unpacked it, and in the end, the publishing house disappeared along with it. Yum! —The company quickly switched to visceral animals, so there are very few Hyapuri Lions in reality.

—…Why do you have it?

—I bought it by chance.

Sakura-san remembered as she spoke.

—When I was in high school, I saw it in a shop window and thought, “This is great.” I spent I used my pocket money and bought it.

—Hee…

—Then I realized it instantly. Because it looks so much like it. The lion I used to imagine. At that moment, Shizuku, who had been silent the whole time, asked. —Kaede, what did you mean by imagining something in the past?

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Sakura-san seemed surprised.

—Did I say something like that?

-Yeah.

—Um, well…

Sakura-san shrugged in embarrassment.

—When I was in elementary school, I only read manga, you know?

—You still read them, right?

—Don’t be kidding me. Back then I already wanted to become a manga artist, so I created my own own stories.

—Hee…

—Within those stories, the same character appeared as the Hyapuri Lion.

Shizuku’s eyebrow twitched slightly.

I was disturbed too. Knowing that Sakura-san had been thinking the same joke as Hyapuri Lion.

A complex feeling arises when I ask myself if he liked gore back then, but that’s a story. that I cannot ignore.

There definitely seems to be some kind of relationship between her and the moderator. Could they be the samNo. He doesn’t have bad intentions. Although he’s certainly recruiting more humans like us. Suddenly, AkANE was gripping my shirt sleeve tightly. Apparently, she had reached the same point. conclusion.

Only Shizuku’s expression remained unchanged. Although she seems detached from humanity, she is now sowho to trust.

—I suppose it’s an old story, isn’t it?

—Yes. But when I bought the Hyapuri Lion, I remembered it.

—Did you also collect other products from that era?

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—That’s right. I’ve been collecting them since my first year of high school.

—Me… during the third year of school?

Shizuku seemed to be thinking about something.

From what I heard before, it seems that Shizuku was already a Kämpfer since her first year of high school, Two years ago. It wouldn’t be surprising if there were other Kämpfers before that, so it seems he’s ordering. the timeline regarding that. Now that I think about it, he said that his [unclear] had taught him many things older colleagues. Oh, were they just made-up stories?

—Do you frequently give your stuffed animals to other people?

—Yes. I try to give them as gifts whenever I get along well with someone. I want them to appreciate how beautivisceral, even if only a little.

It’s certainly a complicated story, but with so many stuffed animals, no matter how many I give away, it never ewill be left without them.

—I also give a lot to people from Seitetsu. I even gave one to Shizuku-chan’s older classmate… No?

—Kaede came to play during the cultural festival and the sports festival, right?

—When I handed out stuffed animals to the first-place finishers in the relay race, I got scolded, but… ehehe. If they do so much for you, it’s not too much to ask that you give Sakura-san about 100,000 free shares, don’t Shizuku was looking intently at the plush toy in her hands.

—Hey, Kaede, I can’t just take this Hyapuri Lion, can I?

—It’s not right. Not even Shizuku-chan.

—Do you like it that much?

—That child is truly a treasure.

Sakura-san was talking and laughing while looking at the clock in the room.

—Ara, it’s time. I’ll have to prepare dinner.

—Okay, Kaede, let’s eat outside.

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—Since Natsuru-san went to the trouble of coming, I’ll cook. Right, Natsuru-san? Please enjoy! of the food.

—Okay, but…

There’s nothing more exciting than trying Sakura-san’s homemade food. Even though I’m a woman now, my My dream is to be able to try it too when I’m a man.

—Yay!

Sakura-san walked towards the kitchen in a cheerful spirit. She must be really looking forward to cooking. Therborrowed books from the library.

Apparently, the ingredients had already been purchased. In the blink of an eye, the sound of a

knife and something boiling.

—Is it okay if it’s Italian style? Are there any foods you don’t like?

—I’m fine. Don’t worry.

Shizuku answered. And lowered her voice.

—What did you think?

—…About the previous conversation?

Staring aimlessly at the ceiling, I say:

-Of course.

—… It’s the same thought as the president.

I didn’t want to answer in the usual way, so I answered like this.

It’s definitely Sakura-san is involved with Kämpfer. I’m not sure if she’s the moderator. But everything It starts with Hyapuri Lion, that’s for sure.

—Is the moderator watching Kaede, or is it the other way around?

—Hey hey, what does “upside down” mean?

Shouldn’t we consider all possibilities?

—I don’t want to suspect Sakura-san more than necessary.

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Even if she were some kind of moderator, my faithful heart would not change. The angelic appearance of Sakura-san looks exactly the same as always. I can almost see that she’s grown angel wings. —It’s incredible, isn’t it?

Shizuku speaks in a tone that doesn’t reveal her surprise, and Akane seems a little annoyed. Tsk. After all, don’t women understand this intense love?

—It is true that there are things we will not understand if we do not investigate a little more. Shizuku serves the remaining orange juice.

—Will we still be here…?

Akane asks.

—Yes. It would be better to ask Kaede more.

—But didn’t the president say that it’s not just Sakura-san, but that new Kämpfer could appear? —That’s also a possibility, but…

—Are we talking about Mikoto?

I asked.

—Yes. It wouldn’t be surprising if Kondou-san had a role other than just fighting. The closer I get to the That’s true, I suppose it will displease the moderator even more.

—That doesn’t mean Mikoto is a puppet of the moderator…

—He attacked you, didn’t he?

—That girl was wearing red.

—I think it’s due to the deep relationship between me and Senou-kun.

You’ve simply deepened that relationship in your own way!

Somehow, thanks to Shizuku, I’m sinking deeper and deeper. Maybe it would have been better not to speak. Now I find myself unilaterally bound by Shizuku’s weaknesses.

—Senou-kun?

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—…Hmm?

—What’s wrong? You seemed like you wanted to say something.

—N-No. It’s nothing.

That’s wrong. Shizuku has a killer instinct. I’ll have to be more careful with what I think. —I apologize for the delay, again.

Sakura-san brought a large plate. Steam rose from the pasta.

—I’ll bring the serving platter right away. Mishima-san, please clear the table.

—Y-Yes.

The conversation was interrupted because it was dinnertime.

Sakura-san prepared Italian food. It was Neapolitan style, but frankly, I didn’t quite understand it. It was pasta with clams as the main ingredient. There was also fried calamari, salad, and garlic bread. The main course was grilled beef with herbs.

The taste was impeccable. As expected from Sakura-san, the cuisine was top-notch. Shizuku ate in silence. Even though she didn’t usually give opinions, it must be delicious if she didn’t have Criticisms. Akane murmured, “Delicious…” That’s fine, but why does she seem so upset? After eating for a while, Sakura-san said:

—Oh, right! I bought a weird video the other day. Let’s watch it together.

He pulled something out from under the TV cabinet. It was a VHS tape of a visceral animal video. Huh? Will it be different from the one I saw in the cinema?

—It’s an OVA made at the beginning. It’s a masterpiece.

We saw it because he said so, and it truly was a masterpiece. In a different sense.

The era is that of the Warring States period (this setting is strange from the start). The story begins with Gokumon Ookami, a child, being captured by the Nanban beast, Yatsuzaki Indozou (monster fictional character that combines elements of Japanese culture with characteristics of an elephant (Indian), whHe removed all his organs. Despite thinking he would die when his organs were removed (an unusual subtitle

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who said “If you have doubts, you will die tomorrow”), Gokumon Ookami cried with rage for three days and thrbefore embarking on a journey of revenge to defeat Yatsuzaki Indozou. Thus, he travels the country recoverinone by one its organs, in a story that mixes elements of “Mito Komon” (classic Japanese series) with “Dororo” (manga and anime).

It is said to be an anime created in collaboration with a medical university, notable for the

A very realistic description of the organs. Commendable in that respect, but otherwise, a succession of stories strange. The plot about recovering the organs is immediately forgotten, with pointless scenes like costumes Bath time (because they’re animals?) followed by games of tennis and chess. Collaborating with a wandering dArriving from Scotland, they summon a UFO and reach the lunar base “Moonbase Alpha”, leaving everyone speechless. Right after, the moon moves away from Earth’s orbit and embarks on a journey through space, buWhat will happen to Gokumon Ookami? Isn’t this “Space: 1999” (a British science fiction television series)? that aired in the 1970s?

—From here the exciting development begins.

Sakura-san explained diligently.

—At the lunar base, the “Grilled Horumon Army” is attacking. Look, here.

Short question: What was the anime mentioned earlier?

On the screen, the entrails of a cow with a banner that read: “fresh sale on a large scale” were Attacking the lunar base. Of course, they weren’t wearing spacesuits—how disrespectful. Firing rifles of Spark, the visceral animals climb the hill and cling to the stone wall.

—Apparently they are faithfully recreating a castle siege from the Sengoku period. Is it really necessary to do this on the Moon?

As I was watching patiently, a group of pale blue organs called “Empire” appeared “Visceral de Garman” and began attacking indiscriminately. They resemble the Gamilas Empire from “Space “Battleship Yamato” (a Japanese anime and manga series that premiered in the 1970s), but are they okay? with copyright?

Although the battle lasted for hours, it ended ambiguously and peace was signed. As a sign As a sign of reconciliation, they inhaled LSD. Oh, there was a similar scene in a movie. Here comes Sakura-san’s comment again.

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—Among fans, it is said that this scene was a failure, so they remade it for the movie.

It’s a scene where you take drugs and have psychedelic dreams, but does it have anything to do with quality orCoherence? It just feels like primary-colored paints are being moved around clumsily. —…And the protagonist?

Since Gokumon Ookami wasn’t present, I decided to ask.

-Yeah?

—Has the protagonist left…?

—No, Natsuru-san. Gokumon Ookami has been dead for a while now.

Sakura-san laughed and rewound. Scene where the moon moves away from Earth’s orbit. In space, somethinIt resembled grains of rice and was being expelled.

—This is Gokumon Ookami. Die here and you will not return.

-… I see.

Sakura-san said it was useless.

—If you can’t watch something like this, you can’t call yourself a fan of Visceral Animals.

I’m sorry. I don’t want to call myself a fan.

The video continued, but I barely watched it. Akane couldn’t eat pasta because of the realistic visceral violenceInstead, he didn’t even try to watch it, just passing the time eating.

Finally, it ended. It was such a bizarre climax with the moon flying and the entrails dancing together in a meadof black holes, which was driving me crazy.

Sakura-san was very pleased to be able to enjoy her favorite video with everyone.

—It was so much fun!

-… Yeah.

I have no choice but to nod.

I was feeling dizzy. Shizuku glanced at me for a moment and then looked at her watch.

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—… You’re quite late, aren’t you?

Calculating the moment with such care, she must be considerate. I just prayed I wouldn’t have to see it. new.

—It’s time to leave soon.

—Aren’t you going to stay overnight?

With a surprised expression, Sakura-san said.

—That was my intention, but…

-I’m sorry.

—Don’t worry, I’m always alone at home, so I feel very lonely.

—You won’t be alone tonight.

—Ah, Shizuku-chan, you’re so cold. Then I’ll stay overnight with Natsuru-san.

Hey, hey, with me?

Sakura-san got up on purpose and tried to sit next to me.

—Natsuru-san is going to stay, right?

—…

-TRUE?

I don’t mind staying, but you always have to be mentally prepared for anything.

But it seems Sakura-san’s heart has already made up her mind, saying things like, “I have pajamas ready.” and futons.”

—Natsuru-san, is it okay to stay overnight?

Well, I live alone too, so one night is nothing, even half a year would be fine.

—Eer…

—Yes. Please be clear. I’ll also prepare breakfast.

Just as she was about to sit down, Akane-san suddenly intervened.

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—…W-Wait a moment. Why would Natsuru-san stay…?

Although Sakura-san seemed puzzled for a moment, she responded immediately. —Because we’re friends. It’s decided.

“It’s not decided. It’s strange that Natsuru-san is staying overnight.”

—It’s not strange.

—But… that’s… dirty…

Sakura-san got angry.

—Wh-What do you mean by dirty?! What’s dirty about two girls sleeping together? —… Sakura-san… you’re definitely planning something dirty with Natsuru-san…!

“It wasn’t Mishima-san who did dirty things with Natsuru-san! During the change of clothes, she… touched…” Her chest! Why such enviable things…!

—I did it to protect Natsuru-san…!

That’s weird anyway.

But the story is getting complicated again. Akane has an excessive sense of rivalry towards Sakura-san. It seems she doesn’t like what she’s doing at all. Sakura-san is like that, she doesn’t even pay attention to me She is madly in love with me as a woman, which is why I find it confusing.

Sakura and Akane were arguing. They were both desperate. Why were they getting so worked up? desperate?

—It’s getting late, can’t we leave Natsuru-san alone and go back?

—I will accompany him…!

—Aren’t you coming back, Akane-san? I’ll lend you money for a taxi.

“If we go back, I don’t know what you’ll do to Natsuru-san…!”

—Don’t call me a beast!

—They are very similar things…!

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Now they’re both angry. They don’t actually grab each other, but neither is willing to give in. Based on their Their own feelings are being used to attack them with their own logic. I find it incomprehensible to be listening. Women are terrifying.

Suddenly, they both turn towards me.

—Natsuru-san will be staying overnight, right!

—He’s not going to stay overnight, is he…!

I couldn’t answer. Of course, although it’s fine for me to stay out of it when it comes to feelings, if I get involved.She’s too happy; it seems Akane is about to do something strange. Specifically, transform and shoot or sometSo.

What should I do?, I thought at that moment when Shizuku began to speak.

—We’re going to spend the night.

-Hey…?

I said something stupid.

“Not just Senou-san, why don’t the three of us stay? Mishima-san will feel at ease too. Kaede,” We can stay, right?

—I have clothes ready, but…

—No problem. Let them know at home, Mishima-san. If we’re missing any ingredients for breakfast, we can goShopping later. Senou-san, come with us too.

—I-… I…?

I unconsciously pointed to myself.

—It’s obvious.

Shizuku was implicitly saying that it was a pointless conversation.

—You are the reason.

Well, yes, that’s true.

In the end, we decided that the three of us would stay together. Sakura-san will lend us pajamas and futons.

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Even though it’s just pajamas, it’s exciting to put on Sakura-san’s clothes. Actually, it’s even more exciting. Because it’s pajamas. After all, it’s clothing that touches the skin directly. Besides, it’s the blanket she uses. Sakura-san. Oh, no, is it for guests? It doesn’t matter which one it is.

Shizuku looked at me in surprise, while Akane looked at me with hostility, but without saying anything. “Despite”That I didn’t want to stay…”, was Akane’s phrase, but why is she telling me like this? When should I go to sleep? Right away, or is it too early? It’s not good to rush things, they say. Those who rush in without a home or job receive little, right?

—Is there a room available?

When Shizuku asked, Sakura-san answered immediately.

“There’s a room that’s not being used. Please sleep there. I always sleep in the collection room.” Apparently, she can sleep soundly surrounded by visceral animals. I think I’d have nightmares.

—So, shall we go shopping?

Shizuku suggested it, which relieved me for no reason.

—Ah, instead of going shopping…

Sakura-san clasped her hands together as if it were a good idea.

—Why don’t we go to the bathroom together?

Huh!?

I almost said it out loud, thinking they’d figure me out as a man. I was surprised inside. Bathroom, that… bathroom!?

Sa-Sa-Sakura-san, going into the bathroom… How is that possible? Not in the boys’ section of Seitetsu AcadeThroughout Japan, no, throughout the world! How lucky I am to have the opportunity that all men They wish! It’s as if the summer, New Year, spring, and autumn festival season has arrived! at the same time. That is, it’s like the season when the Jumbo lottery is launched.

However, the problem is that I’m a girl. I’ve never hated my feminine self or my gay self so much before.

Kämpfer. If I were a boy, I probably wouldn’t have been invited.

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For those who say “just come in as a girl,” they still don’t understand my feelings. Just with Regarding the bathroom and the toilet, no matter what, I make sure to look like a man again. This It is the line I must not cross under any circumstances.

Sakura-san herself seems surprised.

—…What’s wrong, Natsuru-san?

—No… I was surprised…

—Have you never taken a bath with a girl?

-No…

Well, I’m a guy, so no.

Sakura-san gets excited again.

—So I’ll be Natsuru-san’s first girlfriend, right? Kyaahh!

Either way, let me hear it; it sounds like a misunderstanding. As evidence, Akane seems quite… disgusted.

Akane protests hesitantly.

—Sakura-san… if you want to take a bath, you can do it in this house too…

—It’s narrow. It’s difficult to get in with Natsuru-san.

Am I supposed to bathe with her?

—Where will you bathe…?

—There’s a public restroom nearby. They’ve renovated it and turned it into a spa. I’ve always wanted to go. It’slate at night.

Ah, that one I saw on TV. Sakura-san suggested we go shopping tomorrow and take advantage of the chance.

Akane was about to burst out laughing.

—But why bathe together…?

—You should come too, Mishima-san.

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—Well… I’ll go…

—Then there’s no problem, right?

—But with Natsuru-san…

—We can’t leave Natsuru-san alone, can we?

Sakura-san has the advantage in this. Although a fundamental question arises: “Why don’t we use the bathroo”From home in shifts?”, it seems they all want to bathe together.

Shizuku isn’t for or against. In situations like this, she doesn’t have a clear opinion. She lets everyone give theiropinion and, in case of confusion, intervenes to resolve it, typical of a student council president.

The problem, without a doubt, is me.

(Hey, you don’t object, do you?)

I whispered to Shizuku.

(I wonder why?)

This wicked woman rejects me so easily.

(Why do you say that? I don’t go into the bathroom with women!)

(Are you coming out of the closet like a loser?)

(That’s not it! I don’t go into the bathroom when I transform into a woman!)

(So, it’ll be your first time, right?)

(I don’t want to do it!)

(It doesn’t hurt, really.)

It’s like she doesn’t understand. It’s no use. This girl seems to enjoy watching me suffer. She’s a real sadist. Genuine. The red bracelet gives it a different touch.

To avoid misunderstandings, I want to clarify that it’s not that I don’t want to bathe with girls, but that I don’t likeSeeing my own body when I transform into a woman. Think about it calmly. I’ve lived my whole life as Man, suddenly my body turns into a woman’s. When you realize it, it’s impossible to observe your body undressed calmly.

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Even changing my clothes makes me nervous. If someone calls me useless, I can’t argue with them. Akane has been discredited, and she says something like, “Well, okay…” I can’t rely on her. Besides, He seems a little happy.

—Natsuru-san, let’s bathe together, okay?

Sakura-san has bright eyes like a kitten.

—Eeh…

—Let’s go in, okay?

—…

—Let’s go in, okay?

-Yeah…

Whoa!, I finally gave in.

Sakura-san was very excited. She looked like she was about to jump for joy, and I thought it would be adorablI was the one involved. If I had had my blog, I would have detailed the scene in the bathroom and received many comments and trackbacks.

—So, where is the spa?

Sakura-san pointed outside the window in response to my question.

—That way. It’s a bit far, but we can walk.

She smiled.

—Let’s all go together while we make the soap rattle.

It’s a whole world on the Kanda River.

Upon inquiring, I discovered that the former public bathhouse, now converted into an urban spa, provided everShampoo, towels, and bathrobes. We didn’t need to bring anything.

Sakura-san, excited, said, “Let’s go, let’s go!” and began to get ready. She wasn’t carrying anything special. Jubriefcase.

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I wasn’t doing anything and was just idly watching the others get ready. Sakura-san was looking at me. And she blinked.

—… Natsuru-san, didn’t you bring your bag or anything?

—No, but…

It really did seem strange. After thinking about it a bit more, it certainly was strange that, being a woman, She came with nothing. Even for a high school student, carrying a slightly expensive designer bag was someth

normal.

Furthermore, it’s inappropriate for a girl to come with nothing in her hands. It’s natural that it would raise suspiciIt’s a learning experience for me, since I’m a boy and I don’t understand the contents of the bag. Sakura-san rummaged in the closet.

—I’ll lend you my bag.

—Uh… there’s no need to go that far…

—Don’t say that, use it. Here, take it.

But I was surprised by what she handed me. It was a handbag shaped like a visceral animal. —Gee-…!

—Isn’t it adorable?

It’s not cute, it’s weird. I think it’s a Lexatsushika, with a zipper on its belly and intestines. It’s been converted into a shoulder bag. Am I supposed to carry it like this?

“It’s a limited edition, that’s why it’s valuable. It was a waste, but it’s fine if you wear it, Natsuru-san.”

—…

—Please use it.

They told me with an angelic smile. Seeing that face, I couldn’t help but ask, “What’s the punishment?” I left my wallet in Lexatsushika’s belly.

—Let’s go out then.

Sakura-san gave the signal.