Vol. 8.5 Ch. 4
Vol. 8.5 Ch. 4
Chapter 4
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The worst feeling usually comes from being hugged by the shoulders, and I was no exception. Well, in this case it was more a question of situation than feeling, like escaping from a bear in the
deep in the mountains only to find yourself facing a cliff, or being chased by Tsutomu
Yamazaki from “Yatsuhakamura” (a Japanese mystery novel), and Tsutomu Yamazaki is an actor who (played a character in the film adaptation.) only to end up in a minefield. No I understand perfectly.
First of all, Sakura-san turned evil. It was a complete 180-degree turn in my life, leading me to Sub-zero temperatures. It was like a nightmare, or perhaps some kind of hallucination that still hasn’t gone awa Sakura-san is definitely being deceived. Something like that.
Furthermore, I was attacked by Shizuku. They told me to stay the night, and they dragged me to the bed.
What happened next is something I’d rather not remember.
My safety was at risk, but instead I lost something important: my wallet. All my money was in there.
So I really can’t live without her.
The electricity, gas, and water are paid from my father’s account, so that’s fine. But that too That means I can’t withdraw money from there.
There was still some money left from the allowance. I’m supposed to manage it well, but if I don’t, I’ll end up starving. Or covered in curry. I don’t want either of those.
So, I can’t just stay home and be bedridden. During the summer holidays, it’s great to be at home, But school is about to start. There’s no way a high school student can stay.
Without a single yen, right? Are there no temporary jobs available? But I don’t have the money to buy one Temporary jobs magazine. Just when I was starting to feel desperate, the phone rang.
I picked up the phone. Suddenly, I heard a voice shouting.
(Natsuru!!)
I got scared and pulled the phone away from my ear. It was Mikoto’s voice.
-What’s happening?
(Are you mocking me?! Did you think you could get away with it?)
—What are you talking about? What’s the point of making fun of you?
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After responding that way, I thought there might be something, but I didn’t have the chance to say it. out loud.
(About last time. Did I hear you knocked down the president? You kissed me and then you did that!) —I was manipulated. It was against my will.
Or rather, how long does this girl plan to stay angry? After the fight with Sakura-san, I thought that I could escape and forget about the matter.
(Trying to bring down the president at the theme park. There’s no room for error.) —It’s not like it’s my fault… well, that it’s…
(There are no valid excuses for you, apart from force majeure and accidents!)
Well, that’s true, but I can’t do anything about it because it’s all true. I also want to take more action.
According to my own desire. How to take down Sakura-san.
—Why are you bringing that up now?
(How many days have passed since then? It makes me angry just thinking about it!) So you called on the phone? You’re like a ticking time bomb.
(Do you think I’m a woman who will simply resign herself to crying in silence?)
—The conversation is over. What kind of childhood friend resigns herself to silence?
(It was my first kiss. And yet… I’m already fed up! I’m going there right now!) It was then that I said hastily:
—No, wait. I’ll go.
(What, are you going to escape!?)
—That’s not how it is. I’ll come to meet you.
Perhaps due to my sudden change of plans, the person on the other end of the phone was clearly
bewildered.
(Are you coming to my…? O-Okay, but…)
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—I’ll go soon.
(But… my place isn’t very tidy…)
—It’s okay. I’ll help you tidy it up.
(O-Okay!)
—You don’t need to hold back. But I’m asking you a favor.
(That?)
I said in a serious tone.
—Can you lend me some money?
(…)
—Due to certain circumstances, I’ve lost my wallet. Please.
(…You’re a real mess, aren’t you?)
—Don’t praise me so much. Seriously, I don’t have a penny.
(Okay. I’ll lend it to you.)
—Thank you. Can I come to your house, to the same place as when we were little?
(It’s a little different. The direction is-…)
I didn’t take notes, I just remembered. It hasn’t changed much since last time, so I’ll manage. Does he live in a What apartment is it now? It was built on what used to be a vacant lot.
—I’ll go right away.
With that, I hung up the phone and got ready.
It was a good moment. Although I was surprised when they suddenly yelled at me, I’ll accept it if they lend me m Having Mikoto cook is also helpful, but if it’s going to be curry or, even better, ramen, I don’t want it. I hurried to put on my shoes and leave the house. Of course, I was only wearing my watch. I get nervous. when I don’t have my wallet.
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I’m walking briskly. I’ll sweat if I run. I had enough exercise when I became a Kämpfer. I turn around in the
corner of the intersection.
-Oh!
—Uwooh!
I almost collided with someone. I’ve been in this situation before.
I thought it might be Sakura-san, but it turned out to be different.
—Ah… Natsuru-san.
—Akane-chan…?
I braced myself in case she was in beast mode. But no, she was the same old face with her glasses. and her hairband.
—Are you okay? Did you hurt yourself?
-I’m fine…
—Were you in a hurry?
—No, I was going to school. I had a library committee meeting.
Even though it’s summer, it seems there’s a committee meeting. It looks like the reform needs to be confirmed.
Because the chair of the library committee is strangely serious and we destroyed the library, I and
Mikoto. I’m sorry.
—And Natsuru-san…?
—I’m going to see Mikoto.
-Hey…?
His face quickly becomes anxious.
—Again… any promises…?
—She’s close. I have something I need to discuss with her.
I couldn’t find the words to ask for a loan. It would just be embarrassing.
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—So I…
—I’ll go too.
His decision was unexpectedly firm.
-Hey?
—I… I think it would be better if I went too. Natsuru-san, who knows what might happen to you…
—It’s not like we’re going to fight.
—It’s similar. I’ll go.
Her determination was firm. I wonder if the library committee is really okay.
There was no other option, so we went to Mikoto’s apartment together. It’s a strange feeling.
I can see the place. A tall building. He probably rents it, but it’s very new and elegant. He definitely lives off that
the sale of archaeological artifacts on the black market.
At the main door, I suddenly run into Mikoto.
—Oh, you were dating?
I spoke to Mikoto. She was carrying a plastic bag from the convenience store.
—W-What? You’re fast.
—I already told you I would come right away.
—I thought you’d be a little longer, so I went to buy drinks… Uh, Akane-chan?
Akane bowed her head.
-Because…?
—We met.
I pointed to the path I had just come by.
—Wasn’t it just for Natsuru?
—I-I did it myself. If it had only been Natsuru-san, I would have had my worries.
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What an insult! Does he think I’m going to steal Mikoto’s belongings with the intention of selling them?
Tempting, but I haven’t done it yet.
Mikoto’s gaze turned threatening.
—What worries you so much? It’s not like I’m going to do anything.
—You already did it. A kiss.
For a moment, Mikoto was speechless, but then she became defiant.
—There’s nothing wrong with that.
—It’s disgusting!
“If I’m disgusting, then what will become of the president!” —The president is even more disgusting. She’s filthy!
I completely agree with that. Shizuku has a dirty body and an even darker heart. Definitely.
He was a dictator in a past life.
Mikoto and Akane exchanged unfriendly glances. However, they are a very busy pair who sometimes We get along well sometimes, and sometimes we don’t.
-OK that’s fine.
It was Mikoto who tried to move the conversation forward.
—Anyway, Natsuru, please come in. Didn’t you come here for that?
I was going to say yes, but someone intervened.
—Natsuru-san is going to school now.
Mikoto and I asked, surprised. Akane seemed very serious for some reason.
—I’m on my way to school… It’s less dangerous that way…
—So why is being with me supposedly dangerous?
—Kondou-san is the most dangerous person after the president.
“You’re dangerous too, Akane-chan. What will you do at school?”
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—He will participate in the library committee, you can be sure of that.
Wait, don’t leave me behind.
Suddenly it seems I’m joining the school, but why? There’s no one I know there. library committee. Are there any advantages to being a part of that?
And yet, Akane is stubborn. She doesn’t back down from Mikoto. It seems she’s learned this tactic recently.
—Anyway, Natsuru-san is coming with me.
—That’s not a good enough reason. It would be better if you came to my house.
“It’s cooler at school. Don’t you think Mikoto’s house looks like a jungle with hippos or something?” The style?
—Are you underestimating the great nature of Africa!?
Hey. Are there any hippos?
Suddenly, the two of them started to get heated. Hey, it’s hot in here under the blazing sun.
—Natsuru was looking for me!
—But they’ve already met, isn’t that enough?
—He’s referring to what comes next!
Mikoto turned to me and said, “Don’t you think so?” Indeed, it is something that is yet to come.
Akane asked me.
—Natsuru-san… What kind of matter is this?
—I was thinking of borrowing money.
-That?
—Money. No beating around the bush.
I laughed shyly. I tried not to make it seem so embarrassing.
But Akane’s expression shifted from imminent excitement to being tinged with hopelessness.
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—Money… Natsuru-san, you’re the worst…
—Well, after listening to him again, it’s true that he’s useless.
Mikoto agreed. Despite everything, are you still my childhood friend?
—Mikoto-san, are you going to lend it to her?
—There is no other option.
—If you give him too much, he’ll take advantage of you…
—Akane-chan also says some pretty cruel things.
I think the same, but Mikoto seemed to agree rather than completely.
Somehow, the feud between these two has calmed down. Could it be said that all their toxicity has been draine —Perhaps it’s better not to lend it to him after all.
Mikoto crossed her arms. Akane nodded.
Wouldn’t it be better not to let him into the house…
—Yes, I’d be in trouble if I sold something anywhere.
—On the Internet, for example…
—Ah, I wouldn’t like them to sell underwear.
What are you all saying on your own? However, I never thought about selling underwear. The society of The internet is amazing. Is it okay if I sell mine too?
The two of them are still talking in low voices. What are they doing? Mikoto has looked this way.
—Natsuru, I’ve decided to go to school.
—And the money?
—You’re truly despicable. I’ll give it to you properly. After school.
-Because?
—I’ve decided to lend it to you with some witnesses. It will be split between me and Akane-chan.
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—Hey, it’s getting kind of complicated.
—Hang on. Now that there are two lenders, I’ll increase the amount too.
—That helps, but…
There’s really no need to go this far. What’s going on here?
Mikoto sighed deeply.
—Neither Akane-chan nor I can refuse it.
Mikoto also nodded,
—… Eventually, it seems we might commit embezzlement for Natsuru-san.
These were the words that came out of his mouth.
In the end, the three of us ended up going to Seitetsu Academy. Just because I forgot my wallet, why did anyth
So?
The school is quiet. What will I do if Sakura-san is there? I don’t feel confident enough to protect myself if some
Such a violent woman. Besides, what am I supposed to do about my broken heart?
Afterwards, Akane checked my locker, but thankfully Sakura-san wasn’t there. What a relief. Come to think of it It’s summer vacation, so it’s no surprise that he hasn’t come to school.
Then, when I get back to school, I turn into a complete idiot. Even Higashida isn’t that bad.
—So, Akane-chan is going to join the library committee, right?
Mikoto asked near the school gate.
—What should we do?
—Well, lending money, right? I’ll ask the girls on the library committee who I get along well if you can witness it.
—Then we’ll be waiting for you. Is the library okay? Is it still under repair?
—Only part of the first floor is available.
The total ban on use is really inconvenient, so it seems they hired a company to…
He was only supposed to take care of that. It seems someone had the foresight.
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For that reason, we went to the library, and Mikoto and I sat on a makeshift bench. Although
High school is usually attentive to relationships between boys and girls; it seems that during the Summer holidays loosen security. In sports clubs, relationships seem to be starting between
boys and girls in moments like this.
We had nothing in particular to do. We could only stare at a vinyl banner that was hanging there.
-… Hey.
Mikoto was the first to speak.
-What’s happening?
—It’s just the two of us, so I’ll ask you… about Gunma.
A curry trip, like on a TV Tokyo cooking show? That seems odd for this person. What’s wrong with them? happens?
—Don’t you have anything to say?
—Hm? What’s wrong?
—Because… you know… what happened. I-Actually, I was embarrassed to run into you, but…
She was looking down. When I looked, the back of her neck turned red.
How innocent! Before feeling ashamed, I admired her courage. Although it left me cold afterward. Although Thanks to that, my sensitivity has also become dulled.
Is this a normal reaction? Is it difficult to communicate with someone your own age after so long?
Living in remote areas? That can’t be.
Mikoto shut her mouth. So I had to speak.
—After that, we all went to school together, right?
—Yes, but…
—After fighting with Sakura-san, I don’t care about that kind of thing anymore.
—How terrible! What are you talking about?
—Don’t get angry. There’s nothing you can do about it.
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Mikoto suddenly turned towards me.
—No, I don’t care. I invited you without thinking about that.
-Curry…?
—That day, the date was the main thing and the curry was secondary.
—I only remember eating curry on the hill.
—You ate too much.
—You planned it!
—There is no other option, if I didn’t do it this way, you wouldn’t do anything for me.
I feel like I’ve been assigned a sales job. Why do they expect so much from me? Of course, if it was
Fighting Sakura-san would have been nice, but now it seems impossible. Mikoto was saying something unusually in a low voice.
-But…
—What do you mean by “but”?
—You’re so clumsy…
What? Are you underestimating my hazard-detection skills, which are said to be sharper than those of… of a Persian cat? That was a phrase I just made up.
—I even took pictures…
—Are you trying to blackmail me with that?
—That’s not my intention. I don’t intend to show them to anyone… uh…
It’s an oddly serious tone. Despite that, it’s unclear. Do you have something stuck in your throat?
-What’s happening?
-With me…
Mikoto stares at me. Strangely serious. Something is about to begin. World War III?
Suddenly, a shadow falls across my field of vision.
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—Are you referring to this photo?
Suddenly, they handed me photographic paper for a digital camera. Mikoto and I jumped. In the photo was…
The kiss from before was perfectly captured.
However, the most surprising thing is that Shizuku was the one who had it.
—President…
The student council president was looking down at me and Mikoto from above, wearing her uniform.
“You two should be wearing your school uniforms. It’s not appropriate to be here inside the school.” The counci The student residence is in the main building.
—No, but…
—I heard their voices.
We weren’t talking that loudly! How good are your ears?
I was stunned, but Mikoto was furious.
“Why does the president have that? I got it from a sophomore!” Oh, right.
—He agreed somehow, but perhaps you were planning to use it to blackmail Senou-kun?
—I even added rare archaeological artifacts…!
Their way of getting angry has changed, but that’s just how the members of that committee are. Always inclined
things.
Shizuku flutters the photo.
—You took a good photo.
—Y-Yes. I also kissed Natsuru, so I dedicated my first kiss to him.
Could you stop saying things as if they were offerings at a shrine? I won’t get any blessing.
—That’s a little frustrating.
—Yes, that’s why the president surrendered…
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—Yes, yes. Natsuru, this.
I thought he was suddenly calling me by my name, but he took something out of his pocket.
Whoa, it’s my wallet!
—You’re a bit careless.
—Why does the president have your wallet!?
Mikoto is surprised. Well, because she was trying to lend me money.
—She forgot it. At my house.
-At home!?
—Yes. I was at home. Until night.
Emphasizing that it was in her house, Shizuku was clearly angry.
—Hey, Natsuru! Why were you at the president’s house!?
—No, it’s just that…
—You ate at my house. Not curry.
—Are you being sarcastic? Curry is delicious!
It’s not that I don’t like it, but it’s true that Shizuku’s culinary skills are superior.
Mikoto seems to be in a bad mood at first glance. On the other hand, Shizuku maintains her composure, but he Inner feelings are unknown.
—Hmph. What about feeding him? Natsuru kissed someone like me…
—She showered at my house.
-Hey?
I was surprised too.
—That way she wouldn’t forget her wallet. She wouldn’t let go of it until she took off her clothes.
—But that’s like borrowing a bathroom.
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—Natsuru shared the bed with me.
Mikoto jumped up abruptly. If there were a “chair jumping championship,” it would be a world record.
I couldn’t help but laugh. I stood up just as tall as her. And even taller. New world record.
—B-B-Bed…
—We sleep together, it’s clear.
How can she say that so calmly? I’m in shock.
—We’re dating, so it’s not weird to do that. Saying it’s wrong because we’re teenagers is just… prejudice.
—Na-Natsuru finally…
Mikoto almost fainted. Is she suppressing her survival instinct, having fought against gangs of Poachers in the jungle?
My childhood friend was staring at me with bloodshot eyes.
—What were you thinking?! After kissing me, how could you…?
—Idiot, calm down.
—You even forgot your wallet, how can I calm down!?
—I have my reasons. That was…
—What have you done, Natsuru-san!?
From behind me, a voice as loud as the sound of water came out. When I turned around, Akane was I found myself there.
Her glasses were fogged up and she was trembling. Again, why is it always girls like this?
—I-I heard you were in bed with the president!
—That’s why you should listen. Besides, why is Akane-chan here?
“She was in a meeting, but I was the one who called her,” Shizuku explained.
—I thought you wanted to listen. We can’t keep hiding our relationship, can we?
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He smiled defiantly. Damn it, he’s up to something.
—No, keep it a secret.
—Ara, so you’re acknowledging our relationship?
—That’s not how it is.
—Natsuru! This traitor!
Mikoto reached out. She was about to wrap her hand around my neck.
—After giving me such a passionate kiss…
Did he mean a passion for curry? It was spicy, but far from passionate.
No, this isn’t the time to say that kind of thing. If I keep this up, they’ll kill me.
—So he really kissed you!
Akane shouted. Oh no, this is getting complicated.
—Wait. There are circumstances that justify that.
—The evidence is here.
Shizuku shows the photo once more. Tears welled up in Akane’s eyes.
—That’s awful… Not only the president, but Kondou-san too…
—It’s not like I’ve done much.
—S-So, I’m just an outcast?
What is an outcast? Even though I try to make Shizuku an outcast, she doesn’t disappear.
—No, listen carefully. It’s true that I went to the president’s house, but I didn’t do anything. —You took a bath! Maybe… together…
—None of that happened! I swear to the gods! I didn’t even touch a finger!
Listening to it calmly, my words sound quite pathetic, but it was the only way to demonstrate my
innocence.
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—But the bed…
—It was risky, but I escaped! I forgot my wallet at that moment!
Shizuku made a slight, bitter grimace. Mikoto and Akane seemed only half relieved.
—Natsuru, is it true?
-It’s true…?
—I’m not lying.
Mikoto finally felt relieved and breathed a sigh of relief. I, too, felt relieved to see that my life was no longer
was in danger.
And Akane seemed to have decided something.
—S-So, Kondou-san and the president only kissed, right?
—Well, yes.
—Me and you, there’s not that much difference, is there?
-Hey…?
What do you mean by “difference”? Just as I was about to ask, my eyes were filled with the face of Akane.
Our lips sealed. My trembling skin betrayed my nervousness.
It took me a while to realize that Akane had kissed me. Finally, when I managed to process it, She separated from me.
Although she used to be a girl who transformed into a ferocious dog, now her whole body was flushed.
—… EE-This makes our conditions the same.
She wasn’t looking directly at me, but rather down at me.
—A-Am I… my first kiss was also for you. I gave it to Natsuru.
-Hey…?
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It was an awkward response on my part, but I couldn’t think of anything else to say. Mikoto was just as surprise
a carp opening its mouth to receive food, and Shizuku didn’t move at all.
—Wh-What are you doing, Akane-chan!? Don’t do things like that on your own!
—I’m not doing anything. I—I already had this planned!
—Since when are you Nostradamus?! You couldn’t have planned that!
—But we made a promise in the pool!
What a stupid idea! There was something about a confession in the pool, but it was probably some kind of puni Higashida. Akane-chan is cute, but suddenly she’s a girlfriend?
Despite the fact that Akane with glasses should be shy, today she was surprisingly confident.
—We already kissed. Kisses are written all over them. So Natsuru-san is now dating me!
—Ara, I see.
Suddenly, Shizuku spoke and grabbed my chin.
-… Hmm!
Once again, my lips were taken. Shizuku kissed me. Ahh, her tongue, her tongue!
After being petted and thoroughly rubbed, he finally walked away.
—Then it has been overwritten.
This woman said something terrifyingly calm. Look, Akane looks like she’s about to faint. Mikoto has the
eyes wide open.
—I am yours now.
—Even the president… so me too!
-Hang on a minute!
What the hell do they think of me? I tried to escape, but the moment I stood up to run, Mikoto He hugged me.
—I’m going to overwrite it!
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Mikoto kissed me. I didn’t taste like curry.
As she thought, “What the hell is this?”, her tongue timidly made its way in. Not as skillfully as Shizuku, she lick My teeth. Hyaahh! Mikoto hugged me while pulling her face away.
—What do you think? So I’m the last one he kissed.
—Not necessarily.
Shizuku extended her hand, abruptly turned my face, and kissed me again.
—Okay, now I’m the last one.
—… I’m here too, you know?
This time Akane’s hand reached out from the opposite direction. Because of her shyness, she did it too far. abruptly and twisted my neck more than necessary.
—Ouch, mmm…
—Natsuru-san…
Chu. Less shy than before, but it was still a trembling kiss.
—Now you’re only mine…
—Don’t say selfish things!
Mikoto screamed again, pulled Akane away, and pressed her lips to mine. “It hurts, hey!”
Something like this has happened several times. The three of them don’t back down an inch. From my point of v
a kissing contest, but my body can’t take it.
Once again I felt it; Mikoto’s kiss is passionate, or rather violent. Something passionate. Shizuku too.
She’s violent, but she understands the moment and the way. She’s quite nice, actually. Akane is trembling.
With an innocence. You could say it’s fresh. Like me, who has no experience, perhaps they think
that I am “scared”.
Those explanations don’t matter. If this keeps happening, my neck will break.
—Phew.
I’m really panting hard.
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—What are you doing now!?
—A kiss. Are you crazy that you don’t understand?
Mikoto speaks as if it were something natural.
—No, what do you think I am?
—That’s why I’m kissing you.
—Spinning in circles, the three of us, my will-…
—… Well, maybe it’s boring. You never know who will win.
—Is it a competition…?
—Well, how about this?
Shizuku was still clinging to me. She took my hand and placed it on her hip. She even moved it down.
—Hey, huh!?
A gentle curve touched my hand.
—Ah…
Shizuku’s face, although blushing, was that of a mischievous girl.
—He touched my butt. I’ve never been groped like that before!
—Y-You…!
—What’s this called? But maybe it’s the first time for Natsuru too.
What are you doing? Besides, that’s right. I’m completely innocent. That’s how it should be.
high school students.
Shizuku had a triumphant expression. Despite being rude and having a bad attitude, she was prepared with
unparalleled audacity.
—So I’ve taken the lead. Regardless of whether I’m the president…
Before I could finish speaking, Shizuku approached me.
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She pulled my arm and pressed it against her chest. Whoa, her breasts! Shizuku’s breasts. What’s more, even He grabbed my hand with his and forced me to massage them.
—Is this okay?
She seemed completely calm. But I’m the one who’s blushing.
—Just in case, I should mention that this isn’t Natsuru’s first time. He’s touched my breasts several times before Mikoto’s mouth dropped open in surprise. Akane was doing the same. Two goldfish. And me, well, I’m about to
of dying from lack of oxygen.
—This is inappropriate!
Mikoto shouted.
—I don’t want Kondou-san to tell me.
“There can be mistakes about the buttocks, but you can’t do it unintentionally about the chest.” —Kondou-san made me touch his butt on purpose, didn’t he?
—It’s my first time doing this, so it’s fine!
—Even for me, it’s the first time a man has touched me.
An argument started over something absurd.
That’s enough. Why are you arguing about something like this? To those who say this is heaven, I say it as my The experience. It’s nothing short of hell. It’s practically a defenseless farming village that has been attacked. by barbarians.
—President, leave once and for all!
—No, what if Kondou-san gives up?
—We’re childhood friends!
—I’m the one who gave Natsuru his first kiss.
—Why are you treating me so informally?
—But Kondou-san does it too.
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—We’re childhood friends…
What is this, a circular argument?
I no longer understand why they continue arguing like this. It has escaped my comprehension and has reached
the outer atmosphere. Eventually, I will land in lunar orbit.
Shizuku and Mikoto continue arguing nonstop. Akane seems to have been left out, but she has a
A serious expression on his face, as if he had made a decision.
—Natsuru-san…
-What’s happening?
—Please, help me.
They told me, so I unconsciously took out my left hand.
—I-I… I have no shame!
As she shouted this, she tried to put my hand directly under her skirt.
I screamed and pulled it away.
—Akane-chan, th-that’s not right!
—It doesn’t matter. I’m not ashamed!
—This is too dangerous!
Shizuku and Mikoto also stopped their argument and looked at us. It was to be expected. We could have called
The police could arrive at any moment. It was truly fortunate that there were no other people in the gallery.
Mikoto tried to calm the situation:
—Akane-chan, this is a school.
Akane frowned.
—Both Kondou-san and the president did it too, right?
—Well, that was… but, let’s take better care of ourselves.
—I don’t understand. Am I not being treated unfairly?
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She was still frowning and looked sad. I felt a little bad for her, but I couldn’t help feeling uncomfortable with wha
from under the skirt.
—Akane-chan, there are limits too, you know?
—Kondou-san was the first to do it.
—Even me, although there are no limits…
—I don’t mind crossing whatever lines are necessary.
—President, don’t say unnecessary things!
Mikoto was trying to cover Shizuku’s mouth.
—In a fight… mmm, the president has the advantage, right?
—You’ll have to ask Natsuru about that.
—If you have good style and are beautiful, he would surrender to the president.
—I-… I’m the one who’s clearly at a disadvantage…
Akane sank deeper and deeper into her depression. I remained silent, unable to say anything during the fight be
women.
Shizuku, on the other hand, remained unperturbed. Despite veering off onto slightly higher ground… tone, why doesn’t his facial expression change one bit?
“I don’t care what they do to Natsuru, but…”
With a shocking statement, Mikoto began to argue, albeit reluctantly.
—I-… I have kept my body pure, so I wouldn’t mind giving it to Natsuru.
—It’s rumored that your first time was with a Brazilian, wasn’t it?
“Where did that rumor come from?! When a handsome Italian was courting me, I didn’t even give him the time o Is what they’re saying true? It seems like I’ve been out of the loop for a long time.
Mikoto placed her hand on her chest.
—I am completely pure and a virgin!
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—I’m a virgin too.
Why do they say those things so easily? I’m a listening guy, you know? The concept of the traditional Yamato Nadeshiko (refers to a traditional ideal of Japanese woman: modest, elegant and with strong values)
morals.) is not so.
—How infuriating that a beauty like the president is a virgin! She should do something about it, like with a
vacuum cleaner.
—You say amazing things, you know?
—But it makes me angry. Akane-chan…
Mikoto shifted her gaze.
—… I understand it even without asking.
—What is that? An experience… that I don’t have…
I knew it too. Before transforming, Akane emitted an aura that made it clear at a glance what she was going to d
to happen.
—B-But, it would be nice if my first time was with Natsuru-san.
—For Akane, with Natsuru it was just a kiss, right?
—So, I…
He took my hand again. Guessing what he was going to do next, I backed away. Mikoto also intervened.
quickly.
—I understand. I’ve realized you’re serious.
—I’m the only one at a disadvantage…
Akane became depressed again. Mikoto exhaled as if to say, “Oh, well.” Shizuku spoke slowly.
—Natsuru, why don’t you touch her?
—…Huh?
After a long time, these were the words he said.
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—Play it. Mishima-san seems about to commit suicide if you don’t.
True. If he looked away, it looked like he was going to stab himself in the throat or jump from the top of the library.
—Well, but…
—I-Is it that… you really don’t like me…?
Akane asked with wet eyes.
—That’s not it, but…
She’s my type of girl.
—Then… touch me… please…
—Are you sure…?
—Y-Yes…
She closed her eyes slightly and leaned forward. Mikoto was watching with a bitter expression, but He said nothing.
I slowly reached out and cautiously touched his chest.
Hmm, they’re… modest in size. They’ll probably change when they transform, but they’re totally
Different from Shizuku’s. Hers were very stretchy, but Akane’s are… What the heck am I doing? thinking?
Since I didn’t want to overstep, I pulled away immediately. Akane was as red as a tomato.
—Then we would be on equal footing.
Yes, maybe, but what are you thinking?
Mikoto nodded with a serious expression.
—Well, we’ve all been kissed and touched, so yeah, we’re even. Finally, right?
—Hey, I’m about to die of shock.
—Shut up. If you hadn’t made a quick decision, we wouldn’t be in this situation.
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It’s not good to blame others. You’re grabbing my arm and shaking me like I’m the one.
Same. You can’t make a decision just by feeling dizzy, can you?
—Why don’t you decide who you want to go out with? It would be quicker and easier.
-Hey…?
—That won’t be necessary.
Shizuku said.
—Let’s make it a fair competition. Because I’ll be dating Natsuru.
—President! Are you cheating?
—I don’t recall agreeing to that.
—Put a restriction in place. The president has too much of an advantage!
“Why should I give up my advantage? Perhaps you should stop being my childhood friend, Kondousan.”
—I-… I…
The argument started again. This time there were three of them, so everything was a mess. I felt so
I was so trapped that if I had a shovel I’d want to dig a hole and escape. It was like the music from “The Great” “evasion” that I saw for rent the other day.
As I was thinking about why I got myself into this situation, I heard a sound like someone cutting through the air Is that it?
Shizuku was the first to react. She stopped talking and instantly transformed, drawing a weapon.
-Disperse!
—Okay, keep it up.
There was someone at the library entrance.
It was Sakura-san. She wasn’t the person I admired, but she had the same mysterious and terrifying aura as
when we cross swords.
—They’re friends, huh? I heard everything.
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-… What do you want?
—Ara, I’m not the student council assistant. So I thought I’d have a little fun.
She smiles slightly.
—You seem busy.
—If you’re going to fight, I’ll be your opponent.
Shizuku readied her dagger as she spoke cautiously. On the other hand, Sakura-san had no weapon.
—I don’t intend to do it here. Let’s do it later. I want to enjoy my
summer vacation.
—Kaede, what is your intention? Did you just want to get in our way?
—That’s right. Because…
Sakura-san stuck her tongue out a little.
—Natsuru-san, he did love me.
After saying just that, Sakura-san turned around.
I can’t chase after her. Her footsteps quickly faded away.
-Phew…
Shizuku transformed back into her original form.
—You let your guard down, didn’t you? I was so close…
—Why did he leave?
Mikoto made the Japanese sword disappear. Suddenly, she too had transformed.
“Perhaps it’s a warning. But that girl always surprises you when she wants to attack. If it had been in…” Seriously, he would have been in danger.
—It’s definitely their fault.
Akane said. She’s in rabid dog mode too. Am I the only one who doesn’t transform?
The gun barrel is poking my side.
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“You’re always indecisive with women, and that’s why you’re in this situation. You made me have a bad time.” That’s true. There’s no denying that the situation is changing around me. Instead of complaining all the time I guess I have time to do something for myself too.
Even deciding on a girl.
—… Hey, Akane.
-That?
—I still have feelings for Sakura-san.
Even if she becomes my enemy, she’s amazing.
Akane didn’t respond. She just silently hit me.
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It’s Tsukiji. I’m sending you the latest volume of Kämpfer. Although it follows volume 8, the main content
It’s on a short break, therefore, it’s volume 8 1/2. That’s not a typo. I’ve been told I am
I’m a headache for proofreaders because I make a lot of typos, but I’ve never gotten to the point of
designing a cover, so there’s no room for error.
This time it’s a collection of short stories as a break for the chopsticks (i.e., as an appetizer).
Regarding the flow of time, the first and second chapters take place right after returning from the park
thematic in volume 8. The third and fourth chapters take place right after the battle with Sakura in the
volume 8.
In fact, I didn’t write this book at home. Therefore, I can understand that it might seem unimportant to you.
But I’m writing it in a manga cafe.
Before, I couldn’t write anywhere other than my house, I didn’t even touch a keyboard when I left She did. But since my cat was just bothering me while I was writing, I decided to work outside.
There are many writers who go out to write, most of them going to cafes or fast food restaurants. Or maybe to a bar. Most of those people accomplish a lot. However, in my case, it’s impossible if there’s Humans are all around. Even though they’re not looking at me, I can’t help but worry.
Okay, so what should I do? There are ways to rent a workspace, but those places are rented.
It’s a monthly fee, so it’s a waste to pay for the days I don’t go. It’s better if it’s quiet, with some space.
Adequate staff and a reasonable price. It would be ideal if it were close to home. Although I had given up on the
After considering finding a place like that, I came to the conclusion that “a manga cafe is fine.”
The great thing about a manga café is that it’s not only quiet and has good personal space, but also It has free drinks. The place I usually go to offers unlimited ice cream, so in the summer it was like
to be in paradise. The progress on the manuscript has been astonishing. Each day, the number that counted fo The number of pages he had written suddenly increased.
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By the way, I usually express the number of originals as “so many pages of writing paper.” I thought that This was normal, but I discovered that there are many people who debuted later who count “so many pages”
from the paperback collection (of the publisher they write for).” In my case, since I have series in magazines an The publishing label uses a different format; I need it converted to writing paper to understand it.
intuitively, so at first I had difficulty understanding it. In the 1930s before me, many
People used to count on writing paper, but I suppose this also varies with the times.
End of the anecdotes section. Although just drinks and ice cream would be enough, the best thing about a coffe
Manga are manga, without a doubt. That’s their true identity. Between the pages of manuscripts, one can read
Sleeves. If you get sleepy, there are blankets to sleep on. Also, if there’s a shower, it’s like being in paradise. Al
To live a useless life, one must take advantage of everything that can be used. Thanks to that, the computer
The laptop I bought and hadn’t figured out what to use it for has been very useful. The only problem was that it It was difficult to type without a full keyboard, but I solved that by bringing a wired USB keyboard. There are no
a minute’s rest.
When the situation is truly desperate, I sometimes end up sleeping in a hotel. If you order food
With room service, you don’t need to leave at all. It’s very convenient. They even take care of everything.
to clean the room. However, at that moment they make you leave.
However, the hotel’s bottleneck is the price. Although it varies, it’s generally more expensive than a coffee. manga. In addition, the environment is often bad. It’s especially bad when the table is narrow and the chair is Uncomfortable. Manga cafes have this aspect sorted out; they’re a great work environment.
When I boasted about this to an acquaintance, he said, “Why don’t you buy your drink, you write while the cat “Are you asleep?” I hate people who say the right things.
And so, Kämpfer has been written in this kind of environment. In the next volume, we will reach the climax. I ho Enjoy!
September 2008
Toshihiko Tsukiji
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