LNCrawler

Vol. 8.5 Ch. 2

Kämpfer — www.asianhobbyist.com · All chapters

Vol. 8.5 Ch. 2

Chapter 2

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—Ugh, I feel sick!

I was lying in my room, arms outstretched. I felt the curry was about to return. through my esophagus.

The hour had already passed seven. It was summer, but outside it was surprisingly dark. The cicadas, Confused, they were still singing, but I didn’t care at all.

This morning, Mikoto had taken me to Gunma. There they made me eat curry, and you know what I mean.

It happened next. My body was full of curry, and there wasn’t a single space left for a drop of water.

—I’m going to die. It smells like curry. I can’t take it anymore. If I’m reborn, I’ll probably be Indian.

—What’s all this commotion about?

From the desk, I heard someone’s voice.

It was a talking tiger plushie with an eye patch. It’s Harakiritora from the plushie series.

of visceral animals.

The visceral animals series is a merchandising product that some toy company developed. hoping to succeed. In fact, I don’t think anyone in the company itself considers them “fancy”.

(Elegant or beautiful). After all, they have internal organs protruding from their abdomen. Apparently, not even They are not even mentioned on famous websites about the history of toys.

So, Harakiritora speaks. It doesn’t have a voice function; it simply is. No further explanation is necessary. because it’s a bit cumbersome.

I was still lying on my back, I moved my head.

—I’m suffering, help me.

—Don’t expect much from a stuffed animal. It smells like curry.

—I’ve eaten for the rest of my life, you know?

I explain it briefly to Harakiritora. These kinds of disasters, after all, must be expelled like…

Complaints. It’s also to maintain mental well-being.

—That was quite a tough experience, to be honest.

—Don’t say “hard”.

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—But it’s curry. You can’t exactly call it ostentatious, can you?

Well, that’s true.

However, putting the curry aside, I was called “being in a relationship” by Mikoto, and furthermore, I even

Things like that. It’s a great experience, really.

—I will never eat curry again.

—But you have plenty in the refrigerator, don’t you?

—It’s frozen. It’ll keep for a good while. I don’t feel like defrosting it. I’m fine the way it is.

—You’re like a curry collector, aren’t you?

—I don’t need a collection like that.

I say it often, but I don’t like curry that much. If I have to say, I like it, but it’s already surpassed that. category.

—Speaking of which, I received a call during the day.

—You didn’t answer the phone, did you?

—No, I didn’t. But I saw the number.

I have a mobile phone, but since the battery is dead, I often turn it off. So I usually use The home landline. I place the handset downstairs and, recently, I’ve also started putting it

in this room.

—Whose was it?

—It was Akane-san’s.

-Hey?

Akane refers to Mishima Akane. She is a Kämpfer, just like me, and becomes violent when she is

transforms.

—What did he want it for?

-Don’t know.

That makes sense.

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—If I really had something to worry about, I wouldn’t call again, would I?

-That’s how it is.

—Even so, she recently invited you to a theme park. Akane-san calls Natsuru-san a lot.

—He likes talking on the phone, I suppose.

People around the world, especially women, like to talk on the phone. There are many people

who call and talk endlessly without really having a reason. If they like him so much, he should marry her. the phone.

—I don’t think he likes phone calls.

—So what does he like? The phone bill? Who likes being charged? What What kind of masochist is that?

—I think he’s on the other end of the phone, isn’t he?

On the other side? Perhaps from another world. Is Akane contemplating peering into the abyss of death? She is

terrifying conversation.

Harakiritora is smiling. Actually, she’s not laughing, but that’s how it looks. I too have developed the

ability to read their emotions completely.

Beep beep beep. While we were talking about that, the phone rang. Looking at the screen… it was Akane. —You see, there it is.

-Be quiet!

There’s nothing more frustrating than accepting the opinion of a stuffed animal. I picked up the phone.

-Yeah?

(Ah, Natsuru-san.)

On the other end of the phone, you could sense that Akane was relieved.

-What happened?

(What happened? Well… you weren’t here during the day.) —Ah, I was away.

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(I see. Uhm… how far…?)

—Gunma. With Mikoto.

I told him the truth, just in case. Because I’m not doing anything wrong. Let’s leave aside the fact that It will end like this.

(What-…? With Kondou-san…?)

Her voice lowered. Oh, she looks like she’s going to faint.

-Hello?

(Why were they both…?)

—Why? Because he invited me.

(That wasn’t the meaning…)

Akane’s voice seemed to break. It seemed as if the flame of life was fading. Is she alright?

—Hey, are you okay?

(N-… Natsuru-san! I’m coming over now.)

—Huh?

(I’m going there!)

Akane said that and hung up the phone. I, not understanding the situation, squeezed the receiver with disdain.

—Ahahahaha!

The only sound in the room was Harakiritora’s laughter.

—Just as I thought, right?

—Shut up. Why do you think that?

—I was able to anticipate it. I think anyone other than Natsuru-san could have guessed it. That can’t be. Ask Higashida. That guy will start talking about “a beautiful girl he saw

recently” instead.

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However, Harakiritora just smiled and didn’t seem to want to hear my opinion. Damn it, one day I’ll throw it away

as inorganic waste.

After a while, the sound of the doorbell was heard at the entrance.

I knew immediately it was Akane. If it were Mikoto, she would have opened the door herself. The same goes for I rubbed my stomach, swollen from the curry, and went downstairs. I’m tired of all this. Why does it have to be li I need something for my stomach.

Then, a knock. Quite impatient.

—Yes, yes. I’ll open it now.

I unlocked the door and opened it. Suddenly, something hard pressed against my forehead.

—Me, you wretch. It smells like curry.

Akane was certainly there, but she was a rabid dog in disguise.

Akane dragged me to the second floor. This is my home, but why does she have control?

She threw me into the room. All the while, Akane was still firmly holding the gun.

—I’m not kidding you, you know?

She didn’t have a trace of her usual timidity; madness danced in her eyes. It’s truly terrifying.

How can someone develop such a personality?

—H-Hey, when did you transform?

At least I said something in protest. If I stop talking, he’s going to shoot.

—Right when I got here. I got angry and became a Kämpfer. It’s easier to talk like that.

I’m terrified.

After her transformation, I mentally refer to Akane as “the rabid dog woman.” This is because both her

His attitude and actions are akin to those of a rabid dog. And not only that, he also turns out to be quite Aggressive. It doesn’t matter if there’s a crowd or whatever, whenever she finds an opportunity, she aims for

shoot with his weapon.

—I don’t care about the transformation at all. Let’s talk about what happened earlier.

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-What are you taking about?

—About this afternoon. Can’t you even understand that, you piece of trash?

—Don’t call me trash! Why do you have to say something like that—…?

I had no choice but to stay silent. Suddenly, he began pressing the barrel of his gun against my cheek.

Akane’s eyes burned with fury.

—Why did you go out with Mikoto?

—…Huh?

—Why did you go out with her?

—Well… because he invited me to go eat curry.

—Idiot! Who goes all the way to Gunma just to eat curry?

Honestly, I agree with that, but that’s how it happened, so there’s nothing I can do.

I am not satisfied with the situation either.

—But we really did go to eat curry.

—Where did they eat it? If it’s true, you should be able to say the name of the place.

—Izumiya.

—That sounds more like a Japanese candy store!

—It’s a Japanese candy store.

Akane pursed her lips and lifted the hammer.

—You understood perfectly. It seems you want to die. You have the nerve to mock me.

—Wait, wait, wait!

If I keep this up, she’ll shoot me with a lead bullet and I’ll be gone. This girl is always serious.

—It’s true, there’s curry!

—Don’t be ridiculous. In what world does someone eat curry in a Japanese candy store?

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—It really was a Japanese candy store. The treasurer’s relative lives there…

I rushed to explain the situation. I don’t want to die here. The reason for death is curry!

Although Akane didn’t seem convinced, she moved the cannon away.

—Hmph. Fine. I’m not interested in curry. Rather, Mikoto, why did he invite you?

—Because it’s curry, I suppose.

“There must be another reason. I don’t think Mikoto would invite you just for curry.” —No, just for curry.

—Don’t lie.

-It’s true!

I feel like he’ll kill me no matter what I say. Actually, the curry thing is true, so I’m not lying. However, this desperate explanation was interrupted by the chemical fibers that appeared on the

table.

—It looked like a date, didn’t it?

-You!

Once again, the gun’s muzzle was pointed at me. Wow, I can feel the pressure on her finger. This girl almost ne

the trigger finger.

For now, it’s just an excuse.

—It wasn’t a date!

—If a man and a woman go out together, unless it’s for a funeral, that’s a date!

—What kind of logic is that? No, seriously, I just went to Gunma and came back.

—Who’s going to believe that?

There’s no way. Akane doesn’t believe anything I say. She intends to move forward with her own plan.

interpretation. If I don’t correct it, in the future it will fall into a new religion.

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—That damned guy… daring to take a trip before marriage. He was also suspicious with the

student council president, but now it’s Mikoto, huh?

—It wasn’t a premarital trip!

—You’re not going to insist that you didn’t do anything, are you?

“I didn’t do anything! It was a forced kiss…”

I realized I had made a mistake, but it was too late.

I felt an incredible, murderous presence and jumped sideways. It was a quick movement, maybe a once-in-a-life The bullet fired from Akane’s gun passed right through where my head was.

—I see, this bastard.

The ferocious dog woman is furious. On second thought, there’s no reason for her to be angry.

But now is not the time for that.

—A piece of trash like you cannot continue to live.

—Wait, listen to me!

—Shut up! First apologize! Apologize to me!

Why do I have to bow my head to you?

I don’t understand anything anymore. I can’t believe a high school student is being threatened with death by…

A ferocious dog woman, it seems like a joke.

—If you don’t apologize, I’ll shoot.

—You’d shoot anyway, even if he didn’t apologize.

—So you understand. Goodbye.

Gyahh! This girl is serious. I’m going to die.

I desperately searched for a way to survive. At this point, there was only one option.

I focused my power into my right arm. The moment I felt my body enveloped in light, I ran.

—Whoa!

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Akane screamed. I reduced my strength and launched a fireball. Just as I planned, the gun barrel…

He tilted upwards. The bullet made a hole in the ceiling.

-Idiot!

I screamed. I guess “idiot” applies to a woman too. I feel like I’ve been worried about this before.

—What are you thinking? I almost died!

—It’s obvious! I tried to kill you!

Doesn’t he feel a little remorse? That’s a declaration of murder in broad daylight.

—You did something that makes you deserve to die. So die. Die right now.

—Where is there anyone who would die just because they were told that? How selfish…

-Be quiet!

He pointed the gun at me again. One problem was gone, and another one arrived.

The gun’s muzzle is trembling. She’s angry. I understand, but why do I have to be the one to anger her?

—You went on a date without telling me and… a kiss?

—We just went out for curry. And the kiss…

—Are you trying to say it was an accident?

—…

—I’ll kill you!

—I’m telling you to stop!

I tried my best to calm her down. I don’t want to die from this either.

After holding her from behind for a while, Akane finally calmed down. Others might not be able to…

It seemed that way, but her breathing had become slower. Why have I been able to discern this?

Suddenly, only Akane’s head moves.

—Why did you go on a date? Huh?

—Like I told you before…

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—Both the president and Mikoto were able to go on a date with you, why can’t I!?

That’s right, but I don’t know. Wouldn’t that be putting up a barrier or something?

—It’s not that I have a reason…

—This useless guy. If you don’t have a reason, you can’t live in this information society.

—Don’t make the conversation so long.

—If you don’t have a reason, does that mean you have no convictions?

—It seems so.

—So, can I go out with you on a date?

—Okay… huh?

Surprisingly, I was taken aback. Those words didn’t seem to come from a woman like a

hunting dog that doesn’t see its surroundings.

I let go of her hands and stepped back. Although she seemed to have calmed down a little, she still exuded ang

atmosphere for a date invitation.

Akane’s mouth fell open.

—It’s a date. Didn’t you hear it?

—No… I heard it.

—Okay. Where are we going?

—Wait, wait. I didn’t say anything.

—Do you think you have the right to choose?

A gun was pointed at me. I’m sorry, I don’t believe it. Since I’m scared, could you put that black object away and Bright, please?

—Okay. Decide where we’re going.

—But you’re telling me this out of the blue.

—Hurry up and decide. We’re going now.

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-Now!?

It’s already night. Like Mikoto, what are women thinking these days? We have to see…

They are impatient.

—From now on, go out and decide where you’re going to entertain me. Hurry up!

—How am I supposed to think about that?

Even if I had a week’s leeway, I’m not confident I could make a good choice. I don’t have much Dating experience. That should be left to some college student who’s already used to it.

—Can’t you? I’m going to kill you.

Again, the pressure on the trigger increases.

—Okay! Uh…

What am I supposed to do? It’s already night. It’s not going to get any brighter; it’s only going to get darker. There are no cinemas in the area. There was one at the station, but it closed just two days ago. Even if I wanted

My stomach is full of curry. Only karaoke is left. But is it safe to lock her up in one place? I don’t want to.

that he starts yelling that “it’s too narrow” and starts shooting.

—Have you decided yet, trash?

-Wait!

Try as I might, I can’t think of a good idea. Just like with exams, if you haven’t accumulated enough material…

If you’re not doing enough on a daily basis, you end up in this situation.

—Ugh…!

—Uhm.

A voice from another direction. It was Harakiritora.

-What’s happening?

—If you’re so worried, why don’t you resolve it closer to home?

—I don’t want to go to the station. I don’t have good memories of that spa there.

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—They’re probably doing the Bon Odori festival (a traditional Japanese dance performed during the festival)

of Obon) in the neighborhood.

Ah, now that I think about it, that was written in the neighborhood newsletter. When summer comes, the

Bon Odori in parking lots and parks, and that’s a tradition that has been passed down in this city since

A long time ago. When I was little, I went several times. Since I don’t usually look at the newsletter, I skipped it. to the neighbor and I forgot about it.

—Bon Odori, eh…

I’ve been thinking. Even though I’m a high school student, is it appropriate to be doing that at this age? I unders A primary school boy invites a girl he likes out, but…

—That’s all there is to it. The festival will be later.

Although it’s called a festival, it’s nothing special; just a mikoshi (portable shrine used in Japanese festivals). poor thing wandering around.

—Then that’ll be fine. Akane, let’s go.

—Huh? What did you say?

The ferocious girl pressed the barrel against my side.

“Please go out with me, that’s what I’m saying. That’s what a guy is supposed to do when he asks a girl out.” —Uh, but you me-…

—Are you going to contradict me?

Push the cannon in a little further.

—Uu-… P-Please.

—Say it properly.

—Please, go out with me. Please…

-Good.

Akane made a satisfied face and put away the weapon. From here on out, my will doesn’t matter at all. It’s a

A real shotgun wedding. Or not?

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—Come on. Get ready

—Are you really going?

—Of course. You were the one who asked me out on a date.

Suddenly, my memories have been falsified. I’ve lost the energy to argue.

After all, life is precious.

The Bon Odori dance was really taking place in the neighborhood. Actually, from my house, if If you pay attention, you can hear the musical accompaniment.

The location is the sanctuary grounds. There may be opinions about it, but apparently there was no other option The festival is also held here, so I don’t think there’s any need to do the Bon Odori dance. but the conditions of the place take priority over everything.

It’s called Hoshiyutaka Shrine. The grounds are quite large, so there’s plenty of space. However,

It seems it had been complicated to get here. The place that had been used previously is already

It could not be used for the construction of an apartment building, and after several attempts, this was finally ac

site. Although there was an apparent sense of relief about it, the sanctuary priest turned out to be greedy and

It seems he imposed exorbitant rates. I think it’s a terrible story, but it’s also said that the

The residents’ association falsified the quantity section in the contract, so both sides are guilty.

There is no fault in children dancing and playing, and the inside of the sanctuary was filled with young children. dressed in yukata (a kind of light cotton kimono, used in summer festivals).

—… It’s really a Bon Odori dance.

—I told you, didn’t I?

I argued with Akane, who seemed bored.

In the gravel-covered enclosure stood a yagura (an elevated structure used in festivals for the

dances). Around this, some women from the Bon Odori dance conservation class were dancing.

In addition, there were children and street vendors.

—Haven’t you ever been here? It doesn’t have to be here, but…

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—No. My parents were strict. They said children couldn’t go into places like this.

—Isn’t it something trivial, like a Bon Odori dance?

—Those serious bureaucrats don’t care about that.

She waves her hands weakly.

Her way of speaking is bad, but that’s also related to Akane before her transformation. Hmm, it seems This person had limitations regarding this type of entertainment. Could it be that their bad attitude Is it an expression of stress?

—Thanks to that, it’s strange, yes… but…

The ferocious woman only moves her eyes.

—What are you thinking?

—What’s wrong with that? I brought you here as promised.

—That’s not it. It’s the appearance, the appearance! Why are you still a woman?!

Upon hearing that, I realized it too. Now that I think about it, I was still transformed.

It seems I’m finding it difficult lately to distinguish between my masculine and feminine selves. I’ve gotten used t So much so that I no longer feel so strange being a woman. It’s not that it’s not convenient, but honestly, it’s

problematic.

—You can’t go on a date in this! Is your head made of freeze-dried tofu (a type of dried tofu and (firm, used here humorously to criticize the interlocutor’s lack of sense or clumsiness)?

—Well, women often say it’s a date even when they’re going out with other women, right?

—But you’re not a woman!

Yes, you’re absolutely right. I’m originally a man.

—I understand. I’ll be a man again, so wait a moment.

—Do it quickly.

I looked around. I needed somewhere I could hide from at least one person. Just for a For a moment, even a tree would do.

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That’s what I thought, but I couldn’t find a good spot. There were too many people, and it seemed like no matter If I hid, they would find me. Even if I found a place that seemed suitable, someone was using it. his mobile phone over there.

—Hurry up already!

Akane’s mood was getting worse again. I had to find somewhere before she shot me.

Then I saw the shrine. Well, I guess it’ll do.

—Wait here. I’ll be back in a moment.

Saying that, I ran towards the back of the shrine. If I remember correctly, there was no lighting there, so It would be perfect for hiding.

As expected from a “back” (or “hidden”) area, there was nobody around. Very well.

This won’t take long. I’ll be able to return right away.

I began to concentrate strength in my right arm when, suddenly,

—Huh~?

I jumped in fright. There was someone there!

I turn around. He’s a tall man with a goofy face. Not that I know him at all, it’s Higashida. There Other men too, but I remember those ones. They’re members of the Beauty Research Club. I saw them

when I did an imitation of a maid.

—It’s been a while, hasn’t it?

I thought he would leave, but Higashida approached.

—Ah… thank you.

I answered, trying not to let him realize. I’ve spoken with this guy many times in his manner. male, so I could find out if I’m not careful.

—What’s up? Did you come to the Bon Odori festival? Are you having fun?

-More or less…

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What am I saying? This is all Higashida’s fault. He asked me a stupid question, so I ended up

responding like this.

—So you don’t want to join us? Being alone is sad, isn’t it?

—That’s not…

Is he trying to flirt? I admire the boldness of not being scared off no matter who the other person is, but he shou

think a little more about when to use that behavior.

—I have company…

—What? A girl?

-Yeah.

—Then why don’t you bring her too? More people are welcome.

Oh, really? Then I’ll guide you, but I’m not responsible for what happens.

I decided to give up on becoming a man again and left the back of the sanctuary. The men I met Before, led by Higashida, they followed me closely.

Akane was still in the original spot. However, there were several men lying at her feet.

—You’re late… Hm?

His eyes, which already had an unpleasant look, narrowed and seemed to become even more so. threatening.

—Hey, why are you still the same as before?

—Well… there were certain circumstances…

—And what about those guys you’re riding with? Where did you buy them? At a Jusco (a chain of

supermarkets in Japan? Return them.

—They want to play with me, that’s what they said.

I explained honestly. The men behind me seemed intimidated. Well, encountering a “dog” “Raging” as she would have that effect.

—E-Ehm. It’s been a while since we last saw each other.

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Higashida stepped forward. Even in a situation like this, he doesn’t forget to talk to a woman. That We have to give him credit for that.

—…

Akane didn’t answer, she just glared at him. He’s scary.

—Don’t you remember me? I’m Higashida…

-I know you.

—That’s great. If you don’t mind, you could join us and…

—…

-… That…

Akane’s irritation was visibly increasing. Being someone who prefers quick decisions and

She detests weak guys who try to pick up women; her patience was wearing thin. Before her transformation, sh He had controlled himself, but in this state, he could even shoot him directly in the heart.

—Uhm… and those people lying here?

“They’re idiots who tried to hit on me. With those heads that look like chicken heads, but they do things that eve Not even a bird would do that.

Did she hit them? As always, she’s quick about these things.

Higashida’s face twisted into a grimace of discomfort. It’s a normal reaction.

—Is the Bon Odori festival fun?

—It isn’t.

—We’re not having much fun either. But if we’re together, it could be fun, don’t you think?

However, Higashida doesn’t give up. Now that I think about it, this guy is a masochist. Is he enjoying this? situation?

—What do you think? Don’t you want to come and play with us?

—Not a chance.

—…?

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Why on earth would I play with you? I’m waiting for someone. Disappear!

Akane roared. She’s reached her limit. If things continue like this, it’ll end in bloodshed.

—Don’t say that. Who are you waiting for?

-Obviously…

Akane was about to say something, but she closed her mouth for a moment. Then, she smiled maliciously.

—Okay. If you grant my wish, I’ll play with you.

Higashida’s face lit up.

-Really?

—Yes. Not only me, this girl will be with us too. Right, Natsuru?

Hey, what’s happening all of a sudden?

—Hey, right?

—Me too?

-Of course.

Akane didn’t care about my answer. She just said it on her own. Higashida and the others seemed

happy.

—Okay, it’s a deal. So, what’s your wish?

—I’m waiting for the boy Senou Natsuru. Bring him here.

—Is Natsuru here?

—Yes. Even though we came together, he disappeared somewhere. Could you look for him?

-Clear!

Suddenly, Higashida and the other idiots became incredibly enthusiastic. There was even one who was doing

a victory gesture with the fist.

I, however, wasn’t up for that.

-What the devil-…?

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When I tried to ask her what she was up to, Akane covered my mouth. Mmmf!

Higashida was already like an excited child in front of a sweet treat.

—If we bring Natsuru, will you play with us?

—Of course. I’ll go wherever, whether it’s a hotel or whatever.

-Yeah!

While I was still stunned, the idiots had already run away.

—Ahahaha!

Akane, upon seeing them, laughed out loud.

—Look, those guys are desperate. You don’t even see this in the final round of a quiz show. high school students.

—Hey you!

I let go of his hand.

—What are you doing? They can’t find me no matter what!

I protested in the quietest voice possible. It would be a disaster if Higashida happened to overhear this.

Akane looked at me with an expression of astonishment.

—Nothing’s wrong, right?

—Of course it happens. There’s no way they can find me.

—When humans are desperate, they can achieve anything. They could even bring Natsuru back.

—I’m telling you, I’m Natsuru!

“So, if you insist so much, why don’t you become a man again?” Akane said.

—And then you go face to face with Higashida. Everything will be resolved.

—But then my female version will disappear.

—That’s where your ingenuity comes in to solve it.

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What kind of ingenuity would that be? Making the impossible possible isn’t a matter of talent, but something clos to a miracle.

—What will you do if Higashida finds out about me? We can’t both be in the same place!

—Solve it on your own.

—Don’t you intend to help?

—Okay, you got yourself into a date.

Akane sounded quite calm.

—If you don’t do something about it, I’ll never calm down.

Apparently, his grudge was deeper than the Mariana Trench.

What to do? It would be easier to just leave, but I feel sorry for Higashida and the others. Although I doubt they

evil.

Perhaps it’s best if I pretend to be a man again. But why do I have to go through this? Akane glares at me as if she can read my thoughts. Yes, yes, it’s all my fault for having We went on a date. We even kissed.

So Akane won’t notice, I gently brush my lips against hers. There’s no sensation left… Besides, I always

It’s always been like that, in forced or sudden situations. It’s not exciting at all. It’s like a car accident.

I’ve only had problems lately. Well, not that this is a problem, except for Sakura.

—… Wow, how sarcastic you are.

Akane challenges me with her gaze.

—What, are you a narcissist for touching my lips? Did you enjoy the kiss with Mikoto that much?

Surprise! They were watching me. Wow, that’s quite the attention. They say good shots also have good aim. view.

—It wasn’t exactly fun.

—So what is it? I can’t think of anything other than that you’re showing it to me.

—I’m telling you that’s not the case. Why do you have to make such serious accusations against me?

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—These aren’t accusations. It’s because my anger won’t subside.

—What is anger?

“I’m going to kill you. Are you really not clear enough in your head to understand that?”

I think it’s a problem that you speak ambiguously. Not just with this girl, but with both Mikoto and…

Shizuku, they always insinuate too much. I’m not a spy. I don’t even know what time I’ll wake up tomorrow.

Akane was scratching her head hard. Why was she moving so abruptly?

Thinking it wasn’t sexy at all, I snapped out of it. What will Higashida and the others do?

—Are you going to leave them like that?

—If you say it so much, you should do something about it!

—They’re looking for me! What am I supposed to do?

—It’s your fault for not becoming a man again.

I can’t. I don’t feel I could win against her logically. Even if I did win, the bullets would come flying.

I was overcome with a sense of absurdity. Damn it, I want to respond to him somehow.

Suddenly, the lightbulb went on above my head.

—Then I’ll go look for them.

-Hey?

—To Higashida and the others. Rather than seeking them out, they will find me.

—You’re a woman now, aren’t you?

—So what about that?

Without waiting for another word, I walked quickly away from that place.

Pretending to search, I went to a different place than Higashida and the others. Specifically, behind that place.

From before. This time there’s no one here. Just in case, I’ll check one more time. Good.

Enveloped in white light, I returned to normal.

The problem is this outfit. Dressed like this, I’ll definitely look suspicious.

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I jump over the bushes and reach the back of the sanctuary. There should be a clothing store. here.

There it is. It’s still open because the lights are on. It would usually have closed by now, but it seems

They left it open thinking of festival attendees. Although there don’t seem to be any customers buying tickets.

clothes, maybe someone like me will show up.

I choose something at random, put it in a large bag, and head back to the rear of the sanctuary to change.

How busy.

And then, I keep running.

—Hey, Higashida!

I called him from afar, and he answered.

—Senou, I’ve been looking for you.

She comes running towards me with the other members of the Beauty Research Club.

—Were you looking for me?

—Yes, someone was looking for you.

Higashida does not question my lack of clarity.

—Oh. Anyone? Where are they?

-Here.

I obediently followed Higashida.

Akane was in the same place, with her arms crossed. She was surprised to see me.

—Y-You…!

—I brought it here.

Following Higashida’s orders, I acted as if it was the first time we had met.

—Huh? What are you doing here?

Akane frowned.

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-Because…?

—I didn’t know you were coming to the Bon Odori festival.

—…

Everyone looked like they didn’t understand anything. I just kept going, no matter what.

—There isn’t a single boy… you certainly wouldn’t say that you were bragging and that he was with you, would y Emphasizing the boast, Akane made an expression of “Ah!” —Y-You-…

—Ah, you asked Higashida to look for me! You have a cute side, haha.

I tapped her on the shoulder. Akane’s face turned very dark with anger.

-Bastard!

—You don’t need to find me, but if you really want to…

Take that. Higashida and the others probably think the girl in front of them is quite troublesome.

And Akane can’t answer. It’s a fact that she asked them to look for me.

Akane’s right hand moves. She doesn’t seem to care about the location and is ready to draw a weapon, but It won’t be that easy.

—Speaking of which, I saw Akane-chan a little while ago.

-… That-?

—Akane-chan. Akane Mishima. Higashida, you know her, right?

Suddenly, Higashida, upon being mentioned, feels confused and says:

—She’s the girl from the library, isn’t she?

—Exactly! If that’s the case, let’s play together. I think it’s close.

I say, smiling foolishly. They might see me as an idiot, but I don’t care at all.

Suddenly, the ferocious woman grabs me.

—What the hell… what do you have in mind?

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It’s a whisper, but it’s firm.

-What do you mean?

—I am Akane! Can I find myself?! I can’t!

—Why don’t you look for her? Maybe you’ll find her.

—This bastard, do you intend to take revenge?

—No, it’s not that big of a deal.

I told him, “Then let’s all look together.”

A few boys and a girl walked in a line. All the while, Akane was bullying me.

—Listen, if you don’t stop, I’m going to reveal that you’re the same person as the Natsuru girl.

—Then you too will spread the word that your true identity is Akane Mishima.

—Do you think I’ll be allowed to do something like that?

—I don’t think so. Do you?

The positions were equal. Until now he had only been scared by her gun, but there was also this

type of option. I felt like I’d gotten a new weapon.

—Hey, where were you, Natsuru?

Higashida, who knew nothing, asked. I pointed in a random direction.

—Wasn’t it that way?

—Now that you mention it, Natsuru should be there too, don’t you know anything about it?

—Maybe he went home.

He was here, but it would be convenient if he went home.

There’s no point in looking for it, so wandering around here is a waste of time and boring. I need something else Higashida looked around.

—… Akane-chan, she’s nowhere to be found.

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—It may be close, surprisingly.

Akane seemed startled, but I didn’t pay any attention to it.

—Is Senou close to her? I saw them together at the library.

—Yes, we’re quite close. We talk a lot.

—That girl… how to put it? She seems a little quiet. What were you talking about?

—From yakuza movies and stuff like that.

-What are you saying?

Higashida seemed to think it was a joke. Well, it was, but he spoke in a way that sounded a little… real.

—She has that look, but she’s quite violent. She’s always talking about dying or killing. I was thinking about

to get a tattoo like a yakuza.

—Come on, she’s a child.

—It’s not a tattoo of hearts or roses. It’s an ascending dragon. And also a peony (a flower that

It symbolizes wealth and good fortune in Japan). Either way, she’d be a yakuza sister, wouldn’t she? Akane was silent, but her body was trembling. She was surely experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. inside it. I continued without worrying.

“It can’t be that he has a tattoo. What would he be doing in the pool?”

—That’s what you don’t understand. It’s a tattoo that rises when the body heats up to a certain temperature. No No matter how summer it is, if she went into the pool, it would be cold. That’s why she wouldn’t be seen in the p —Ah, I see.

Higashida and the others were impressed. I was also impressed by what he had said. It was

a bluff (a form of boisterous selling).

—But would you really get a tattoo? That makes me wonder.

—Of course. Girls these days do that kind of thing. It’s the same as drawing flowers on the base of your fingers.

—But a dragon…

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-Wait!

She couldn’t contain herself, Akane screamed.

—What are you saying? Where’s a librarian with tattoos on his skin?!

—Hey, hey, stop it. I’m not talking about you, I’m talking about Akane Mishima.

I made a surprised tone.

—What’s your relationship with Akane-chan? You haven’t seen her true appearance, have you?

—Ah… that’s clear.

Akane spoke as if she were squeezing between her teeth. I laughed.

—Hee, what’s she like?

—She is more… calm, it doesn’t suit her to do such extreme things.

—It really looks like you’ve seen her before.

—It’s not like that…

—Perhaps it’s the same person.

Everyone laughed behind me. “That’s not true,” they all said. Akane’s cheeks grew increasingly tense.

—Perhaps it would be better not to speak ill of Mishima Akane.

“It’s not that I’m speaking ill of her. From the beginning, that girl wanted people to know her true self. This…”

violent part…

Akane forced a smile and approached me.

—Na-Natsuru… you should stop with that.

—What’s wrong? You look unwell.

—Do you really hate me that much?

—That’s not why, but I heard that if Natsuru is having a bad time, you’ll be going to a hotel.

—That’s a joke, you know?

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—Since we have the same name, I can’t ignore a Natsuru in trouble.

If I thought about it, I shouldn’t have known anything about the hotel, but it’s a matter of impetuosity.

It seemed the fierce woman didn’t know how to channel her anger. Her eyes darted nervously.

—I’m sorry… although it may seem otherwise, I am a woman. Don’t bully me.

—You seem to be quite weak.

—Maybe I’m weak… don’t you think?

—Oh, by the way, you also turned out to be a girl who gets scared just by seeing flowers swaying with the

windy, and that he loves Japanese desserts, right?

—How dare you compare me to that bitch…?

—Hey, Natsuru!

Higashida’s tense voice was heard. Huh? The tone changed after a short time.

I looked ahead. There were some men with an abnormal demeanor and appearance lined up.

They definitely didn’t look like ordinary people. Does spitting on the ground make them brave? Wow!

Is one of them missing a pinky finger?

A burly man approached. Higashida and the others took a step back.

—Hey, babe. Looks like those young guys have caused you trouble before.

-…? That?

—Didn’t they just approach you to talk for a bit, and you ended up humiliating them?

I see, I recognized them from when they were under Akane’s feet earlier. Looks like they brought along an acqu

skills in violence.

—Let me thank you. Come here.

I was calm. Although the direct aim wasn’t at me, it’s clear that if it’s a number like this,

Akane has it easy. Kämpfer isn’t like normal people. Even though it seemed like he wasn’t having much fun, I

She hit me and it was over. But Akane, with a small cry, pointed at me.

—I’m sorry! He told me to do it!

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-That-?

I said this without thinking, when I saw a guy who looked like a Yakuza. Akane was trembling like a puppy. “This man, if you don’t hit on someone who tries to pick you up, you know what will happen…? Besides, it wasn

from behind with a gun…

-It isn’t true!

I denied it outright. Don’t lie. You must have hit him without me noticing. I didn’t…

I wasn’t touched, not even with a finger. However, the “Yakuza” and company looked at me.

-It’s you!

—What have you done!

—That’s not true! Hey, explain yourself properly!

I am not a Kämpfer. I can’t beat someone whose job is violence. Besides, they have their honor.

It’s at stake, so apologizing isn’t going to change anything.

—I… I can’t do something like that.

The woman, who was supposed to be a ferocious dog, weakly attacked with a movement of her head. —It’s just that I get scared just watching flowers move in the wind, you know, she’s a girl who loves desserts Japanese.

I don’t know if this was a sign, but the yakuza and others began attacking me simultaneously.

—Ugh…

Behind a business, I took a deep breath. It really is summer. Despite it being night, it wasn’t He stopped sweating.

Thanks to Akane, the yakuza and others relentlessly pursued me. Since I hadn’t transformed, all I could do was

and finally I lost them.

—Ah, how tiring.

I felt like lying on my back on the floor. My clothes were dirty and washing them would be a hassle, so I didn’t.

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-I.

Someone emerged from the bushes. I was startled, but it was Akane.

You’re quite a character. You were angry just a moment ago, and now you seem so busy.

—It was a difficult situation.

—It was really terrifying, you know?

—Don’t act tough. I took care of them.

Akane showed the gun she was holding.

—Hey, did you really shoot?

—No, I showed it to them, I scared them, and I defeated them. I used some force, so they shouldn’t come near —Oh, I see. It’s the first time I’ve ever run that far in my life.

—So we’re tied, then? You lied to me. What would happen if rumors spread that librarian Mishima Is he burdened by a mountain of debt?

—I’ll deny it after the summer holidays.

That was my intention from the beginning. Although there’s still some time before the new school year.

—What happened to Higashida and the others?

—They were watching me defeat them. There was even applause.

They are surprisingly resilient people. If they keep this up, they’ll be fine.

—Damn. We went through something terrible. First of all, why did we come here?

—For a date, right?

Maybe. But is it okay to go on a date like that? In the end, being with a woman as ferocious as a rabid dog only

issues.

—There’s no other option. This will also be a memory of the summer.

What a bitter memory, damn it.

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The music at Bon Odori kept getting quieter. Was it over? In the end, we couldn’t dance or buy anything. in the positions.

—Let’s go home, Akane.

—What’s wrong? Aren’t we going to pick a fight with a couple more people?

—Who’s going to do it?! Stop complaining and let’s go. I’ll take you home.

Akane was surprised by my words.

—…Are you really going to take me home?

—For now. Since you’re stronger than me, I plan to back down at some point.

—You’re being unconvincing… oh, by the way.

Akane spoke coldly.

—If you’re leaving now, isn’t there something you should do?

What? Clean the premises? I’m not a member of the residents’ association and I don’t have to do that kind of th She began to get slightly irritated.

—You’re the kind of guy who doesn’t understand hints. Kiss, a kiss.

-Hey!?

A kiss in a place like this? Why? Are you the person I should be kissing? I’d rather do it. with Sakura-san.

—You’ve already kissed the president, Mikoto, haven’t you? Now it’s my turn.

—Is it a matter of order?

-That’s how it is.

-But…

—Shut up. You and all those lies about tattoos… at least let me do this.

Pushing a nonsensical logic with great force. Are you trying to sell me something?

—Close your eyes already!

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—Even that?

—Close them!

Scolded, I quickly closed my eyes.

Everything went completely dark. The night wind caressed my cheek. In the distance, the laughter of children.

They were returning home. I can get close and feel Akane’s presence.

—Natsuru…

A voice so sweet it doesn’t sound like ferocious dog mode. Then.

—Guboo!

I screamed involuntarily. A gun was in my mouth.

—How dare you! That’s enough for you!

I hurried to open my eyes, and there was Akane, furious.

Listen, the next time you dare challenge me, I’ll shoot for real. Even if I don’t mean it, I will shoot. This is your last warning. I’ve had enough patience.

—Mga, mga.

—The best thing you can do is kneel down and kiss the barrel of the gun.

—Mga-gaa.

The gun was withdrawn. I tripped and fell on my butt. Akane looked at me with disdain.

—I’m going home. It’s not like you’re going to give me a ride. It looks like I’m going to shoot you on the way.

Please do it this way. I’m so exhausted and shaken that I can’t stand for a while.

The fierce woman doesn’t seem to have any intention of helping. She’s cold.

Akane was about to turn around. Just then, she brought her lips to the gun and let out a small sound. sound.

—… Indirect kisses. Now, at this moment.

And he left quickly.

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