Gamers!

Volume 7, Chapter 3 Chapter 3 – Gamers and Trip Preparation

Translator: your_pingas

I have a girlfriend, a handsome friend, and sometimes I’ll talk about relationships with my friend’s girlfriend. I was even confessed by another girl recently.

Do you know who this refined man that stood above all normies is?

Eh, you don’t? Right, it’s because you guys are loners, after all. Even if you browse all the online news, there are no sources for you to receive information in the normie world. In a sense, you guys have insufficient data. It can’t be helped.

Well, let me introduce myself to everyone.

Hello, I’m the king of the normie world, abbreviated as Normie King – Keita Amano.

Man, to be honest, I’m way too popular recently. What a pain, …I’m swamped. There’s no time for me to relax. I can’t even sleep well.

Sigh, but this can’t be helped, this is the life of a heartthrob, right?

Think about it, even though loners like you may not understand, interpersonal relationships can be exhausting sometimes.

I have to play with my friends, go out with my girlfriend, and I have to listen to someone, right?

Sigh, my shoulder hurts. I’m spending way too much money on drinks and food. I can no longer only focus on games and anime like you guys. What a pain, this hurts my brain.

However, after my transformation, on the contrary, …and, I’m saying the word “contrary.” The lonely otakus that have a massive chunk of time for themselves by staying home. Oh, how impolite of me, but I’m really envious of free people like you that can live for their hobbies.

I really wanted to switch places with you guys. I’m already tired of girls. Instead, I just want to play games alone.

Although I should say, there’s not a lot of people that can take my position aside from me!

HAHAHAHA!

Think about it. After all, our most significant difference is, …while it’s impolite for me to say this, but our most significant difference is how we “conduct” ourselves, isn’t it?

Whether it’s my girlfriend, friends, or the girl that confessed to me. Sigh, how should I say this?

They’re getting closer because they’re attracted by the man, the myth, the legend – Keita Amano’s charm, right.

So, to be frank, this isn’t a spot that anyone can take. I’m sorry, it looks like I made you all hopeful. Not all lonely otaku can pass all of the challenges, except if you’re in a light novel. Otherwise, only a “real man” like me can do.

Alright, it’s time for me to go. I’m busy.

Eh? You’re asking me where I’m going?

Do I even need to say it?

It’s time for me to leave this fictional world where I’m a normie god by default, and back to reality.

In other words, this means the 2F classroom on a certain day of November, the time when we have to form groups for the school trip-

“Well, is anyone willing to take the ‘lonely’ Amano-kun? No? Then, the group that loses the rock, paper, scissors will take Amano-kun! Alright, shush!

-The hell is this world.

*

“I want to die…”

After school, when we finished the grouping assembly. I laid on the table and mumbled depressingly. Uehara-kun, who’s sitting in front of me, smiled bitterly and tried to comfort me.

“Hey, hey, hey, Amano. You can’t just say ‘I want to die’ casually.”

“…It’s okay, Uehara-kun. I…didn’t mean that in a casual way.”

“That’s a big problem! Eh, Amano, cheer up…”

“The cold-hearted traitor shouldn’t talk. Uehara-kun, you didn’t even invite me to your group.”

I slightly raised my head and stared at Uehara-kun. He looked away and scratched his head.

“I-It’s not like that, …I really wanted to let you in. However, there’re already too many people in my group. I can’t kick other members out just to add you, right…”

“You’re that kind of people…”

“Ugh. W-Well, what would you do if you were me then? …You have to kick Tendou or Mizumi away if I’m added to your group. Are you sure that you’ll invite me…?”

“Sorry, Uehara-kun. Stay safe.”

“You’re that kind of people too.”

Uehara-kun gave me a dumbfounded look. I let out a sigh. It’s time for me to stop whining depressingly, so I raised my head from the table.

Then, I smiled bitterly with “a sense of reality” and told Uehara-kun how I really feel right now.

“Weirdly, I feel like this is good in some ways.”

“What do you mean?”

“Ay, I should say, this is how I was always treated in the class.”

I looked at the classroom. Two guys are observing us while laughing at me for making a fool out of myself. This isn’t just my persecutory delusion. It’s actually quite severe, and it makes me sad.

So, Uehara-kun frowned explicitly and fiercely glared at them. Crap.

I quickly continued.

“Uh, you don’t need to do that, Uehara-kun. In reality, I’m a professional gag material.”

“But you…”

“Moreover, like what I’ve said before, I think this keeps me winded up. …Indeed, as long as I’m in this class.”

“Winded up?”

“Yep.”

I scratched my cheeks as I continued.

“Think about it, …recently, people like you’re willing to talk to me like this, and Tendou is willing to date me. …This way, I think I may get complacent from time to time. I thought I’ve become ‘some kind of figures’ finally.”

“Some kind of figures, …really.”

Although I put it in a very abstract way, I didn’t expect Uehara-kun to understand it instantly. …I guess he felt the same since he only became popular in high school.

“Keita Amano is Tendou-san’s boyfriend while also being a member of the Game Hobby Club. Just like that, I feel like I…got some kind of titles, characters, or a place that I belong to. …It’s because everyone is so nice to me.”

“Eh, that’s indeed what’s happening, right. You’re Tendou’s boyfriend, and Keita Amano from the Game Hobby Club.”

“You’re right. However, …that’s just something that Tendou-san, Chiaki, Aguri-san, and you have given me. This isn’t a title or a character that I earned for myself. I can acknowledge this, …as long as I’m in this class where none of you can protect me.”

In the end, I’m still not a popular guy. I can’t create as well as Chiaki does, nor can I lighten up the mood as Uehara-kun does.

I’m still just…the introvert that sits at the corner of the classroom, Keita Amano.

However, once I started chatting happily with Tendou-san or Uehara-kun, I’ll often accidentally forget about this. I thought I became someone amazing. Like when I was escaping from reality just then, …my arrogant side almost got the better of me. So…

I smiled at Uehara-kun.

“Just as I’m about to be proud of myself, this class will remind me. From this perspective, I really appreciated that.”

“Your temper is ridiculously twisted. I think you’ll appreciate everything sooner or later.”

“Sigh, …even so, this class is reminding me too much…”

Sigh, I let out a sad sigh. Even though…it’s all my fault.

In reality, I’m not familiar with my classmates, aside from Uehara-kun. I once beautifully imagined that I can get closer to Uehara-kun’s group. …Ay, we’re still on our own in the end.

Uehara-kun sighed as he moved on.

“In the end, you’re in Kaburagi’s group, right?”

“Yeah, you’re right.”

I glanced at the male trio at the corner of the classroom. So, it seems that those three are looking at us too, and we made eye contact. They smiled as if they’re despising me before looking at each other and burst into laughter rudely. Also, the guy in the middle that’s putting his legs on the table while shaking his chair. He’s the core member of that group, Sakon Kaburagi.

I guess they’re in the moderate delinquent group. …No, they should count as moderate and reasonable delinquents. Although they give other people a despising look and act all mighty, they’ll never pick a fight with someone else.

Those three boys always act together and are xenophobic. So, I don’t think they pair well with Uehara-kun, even though he’s a normie. As for the weaklings in class like me, …I guess I don’t even need to explain our relationship. To them, Keita Amano is an excellent source of entertainment.

Uehara-kun looks like he’s fed up with it and continued.

“Then, including you, and Murata’s group who was teasing you just then, there’re 6 people in the gang, right? …Although I feel like I shouldn’t say this, …it’s literally hell for you.”

“S-Stop it…”

Being together on a school trip with the classmates that especially like to pick on me, …or should I say, despise me. …My stomach’s already in pain when I’m merely thinking about it.

“…I would just not show up if I were you…”

“I-I told you to stop saying it.”

“But…”

“Moreover, if I ran away, those 5 people should laugh at me even more rudely.”

“The hell that you fell in is quite horrible. There’s nowhere to escape.”

“Yep. So, I have to go even if it meant costing my life.”

I talked about my determination and smiled. However, Uehara-kun backed down for a bit.

“…Y-You’re quite ‘manly’ inside…”

“Hmm? No, when my stomach hurts this much right now, I’m just a passerby no matter my performance.”

“I mean, …comparing people who jumped into hell without knowing how painful it is, and people who jumped despite knowing the pain, which one is crazier?”

I thought about his comparison. Then, I said something that came up in my mind. “Ah, come to think of it-“

“In reality, Tendou-san is the craziest weirdo, right. She feels good in hell.”

“I can’t believe you can casually say that your girlfriend is a weirdo.”

“Ah, actually, the person that can discuss the hellish and bloody scenes in a game happily as if it’s an attraction, she’s pretty crazy as well. …Also, I know a girl that can create a hell-like game…”

“Anyway, I can feel that you’re surrounded by weirdos.”

“Ay, but among all of them, you’re still my best friends.”

“But, I really want to return the friend title to you right now.”

“Why are you suddenly saying something so rude!”

My friend suddenly wanted to cut ties with me while we’re just chatting.

I freaked out and began to tremble. “I’m just joking, it’s a joke.” Uehara-kun answered with a smile.

During this time, the bell that signal the end of lessons rang across the school.

Uehara-kun stood up and returned to his seat. He even looked at me with a warm expression and asked me before leaving.

“However, in reality, …there’s another reason for you not wanting to be absent in the trip, right?”

“Oh, you saw me through?”

I scratched the back of my head as I answered his question.

“Well, …even though 90% of the trip is torturing for me, however…if I did go, there’s the slightest possibility that I can enjoy it with Tendou-san. I’ll be there if she calls.”

I answered as my face flared up in embarrassment.

Uehara-kun laughed out. Then, for some reason, he repeated that sentence again.

“Amano, you’re indeed ‘manly’ inside.”

Karen Tendou

Hoshinomori-san is trembling with tears in her eyes.

“Is anyone willing to add Hoshinomori-san in? I hope everyone can volunteer if it’s possible. Think about it, you can just decide it with rock, paper, scissors. It’ll be pitful if Hoshinomori-san is treated like an ‘extra,’ right? I hope everyone can take Hoshinomori-san back to your own group.”

Mori-san, the serious, capable, yet a bit thick-lined class president, is nagging at every group to voluntarily take Hoshinomori-san. Thanks to that, Hoshinomori-san is shaking with a blush during this 5 minutes. …Honestly, she’s being displayed in public right now.

(To her, it’s easier to just decide with rock, paper, scissors if it turned out like this…)

“Hey…” I can’t take it anymore, so I spoke politely, and I stood up. Then, I tried to suggest to Mori-san seamlessly that we can solve this with rock, paper, scissors, or drawing lots. However, she picked the right opportunity, the lens on her sharp glasses flashed for a second as she rejected my suggestion.

“Hey, is Tendou-san trying to treat her own classmate as an extra?”

“N-No, I didn’t mean that…”

Mori-san gave a snort of contempt to my vague bitter smile.

“Then, can you please don’t give us a half-baked suggestion? This will interrupt the discussion.”

“…I’m sorry.”

I feel like it’ll only cause Hoshinomori-san more pain if I pressed on. So, I can only sit back down. The classmate next to me looked at Mori-san dumbfoundedly. “What’s wrong with her?”

“She’s always treating Tendou-san like a thorn in her flesh. Is she mad with the fact that she’s not the center of the class?”

“Ay, Mori-san is the class president, after all…”

“That’s still terrible even if that’s true. Sigh, …although it’s not convenient for us to take Hoshinomori as well.”

“…You’re right…”

I can’t help but start pondering it after I heard my groupmate’s opinion. I looked at Hoshinomori-san.

“…………”

Speaking of her, she’s still blushing really hard with her head plopped down. She’s even quietly apologizing to the class president and everyone around. “I-I’m sorry…” …I feel really sorry for her.

(Honestly, I really want to help…)

Everything’s okay if I said I’m taking her. The problem is that I can’t deal with it that simply.

That’s because, …although I feel like I shouldn’t be the one to say this, in reality, my group is both “popular” and in “fierce competition” because Karen Tendou is here. In other words, there’re a lot of students that are thinking, “I want to be in the same group as Tendou-san, but I can’t” in this class.

In this situation, …it’s going to be awkward for me to take Hoshinomori-san casually. It feels like you’re hired by a renowned company based on relationships. It’s okay if I’m the one that’s taking the anger, but it’s not good if people are mad at Hoshinomori-san too.

(Moreover, …currently, I don’t want to interact with her too much…)

In reality, the case of her becoming couples with Amano-kun remains unsolved. I want to avoid staying next to Hoshinomori-san for a long time if it’s possible.

Anyway, although Hoshinomori-san and I are partners in the Game Hobby Club, I still haven’t helped her yet.

Also, another problem is that a “group” can only have 5-6 people. Actually, not everyone in this class is cold-hearted. If it’s a two people activity, someone should be willing to form up with Hoshinomori-san. However, this is a problem that relates to the entire group. I can’t add a subtly-distanced member based on my personal feelings.

So, I would hope that I can leave for a second in times like this and let the members discuss it.

“Uh, I’m sorry, …can I have a word?”

“…What’s wrong, Tendou-san?”

The class president is looking at me with a clearly annoyed look. Honestly, I’m a little bit irritated. Still, I managed to give a smile and suggest to her politely that we should let the groups discuss this. However…

“Here you go again, Tendou-san. I can’t believe you’re trying to ignore a person with no groups. You’re trying to make people settle down into groups so that close friends can talk to each other. Isn’t that a bit too insensitive?”

“N-No, but, instead of wasting time like this…”

“So, it’s over as long as a group takes Hoshinomori-san! Tendou-san, seriously, can you shut up for a second and stop dragging the discussion?”

“…I’m sorry.”

…I can only back down and take a seat. …I’m getting impatient at Mori-san. Still, basically, …people once wished me to become the class president, yet I refused them since I want to be in the Game Club. I can’t get too angry at her.

Mori-san urged everyone in the class to exercise their “kindness” straightforwardly.

“Alright, is anyone willing to take Hoshinomori-san!”

“…………”

Everyone looked away from her. …Of course.

So, Mori-san finally began to knock on the teacher’s desk impatiently.

“Eh, no one wants to take Hoshinomori-san? Isn’t this a bit too cold? Hoshinomori-san is one of us, after all.”

Hoshinomori-san plopped her head down even further as if she can’t take it anymore.

“…………”

“…Tendou-san? What’s wrong with you?”

“Eh? Ah…”

Once I snapped out of it, I realized I’ve been unconsciously scratching the table with my nails. The classmate glanced at me, worriedly from the other seat. I quickly tried to cover it.

“Nothing, I’m fine.”

I answered calmly, yet I’m confused with this unknown wave of emotions.

(What was I thinking? …While Hoshinomori is actually a partner in the Hobby Club, but more importantly, she’s my ‘rival’ right now. There’s no reason for me to be that considerate towards her…)

Just as I’m thinking about all that, a boy suddenly raised his hand with a “yes.”

After Mori-san asked him what, he suggested lazily.

“If the class president is that determined, why don’t you just take Hoshinomori under your group?”

“Eh?”

The class president, who’s seeming unaware of the idea, bulged her eyes. Perhaps it’s the inappropriate reaction, everyone in the class start yelling as if they’re adding insult to injury.

“Yeah, everyone can be solved if the class president took her.”

“Yes, yes, yes, don’t you think it’s way too cunning for you to act irrelevantly?”

“I think a class president’s job is to solve problems.”

Everyone in the class expressed their dissatisfaction with the class president.

Eventually, she admitted defeat and shrugged helplessly. The class president mumbled with a sigh.

“…Jeez, there’s no way.”

“…………”

My shoulders suddenly started shivering. Although someone from the other seat gave a worried “Tendou-san” voice again, …I can’t even react anymore.

Mori-san pushed her glasses and turned her body towards Hoshinomori-san as if she’s thoroughly annoyed by it.

“Well, Hoshinomori-san, just ‘follow’ my group, alright?”

After she heard that, Hoshinomori-san immediately blushed once more. However, she still tried to squeeze a stiff smile and answered Mori-san’s suggestion-

“A-Alright, t-thanks-“

“Wait!”

-At the moment that she’s about to accept that, I stood up abruptly, which knocked the chair away along with a loud noise.

It made everyone in the classroom fell silent.

When the classmates are holding their breaths, …I immediately gave my usual polite smile. Then, I directly went through the classroom and walked next to Hoshinomori, who’s shivering in her seat.

“…T-Tendou-san?”

Still sitting, …Chiaki Hoshinomori raised her head and looked at me with a shocked expression. How hateful, my rival in love. The little devil that’s trying to take Amano-kun away, my biggest source of frustration. However…

“Eh, Tendou-san? Although this counts as an assembly, we’re still in the lesson, please restrain yourself-“

Mori-san seems to be advising me in a displeased tone.

…However, that’s none of my business.

I smiled before wrapping my arms around Hoshinomori-san’s shoulders, who’s still seated, and hugged her tightly.

“Eh!”

Hoshinomori-san gasped in confusion. Everyone in the class is shocked as well

But I’m unmoved by everyone’s reaction at all, and even announced to them calmly.

“Who will give Hoshinomori-san to groups that don’t even know her worth? Listen, no matter who’s saying what, from now on, Chiaki Hoshinomori Chiaki belongs to me – Karen Tendou. No objection, get it?”

“…………”

Everyone froze, and they can’t say anything. …Really.

I gave a brighter smile. …In comparison, I asked fiercely.

“GET IT!?”

Suddenly, including Mori-san, everyone in the class, …no, even the teacher, who’s getting drowsy at the corner is-

“Y-Yes, madam!”

-Everyone straightened their backs and stood up before saluting at me.

Tasuku Uehara

“Well, in the end, only Tendou and Hoshinomori is in the same group?”

After school, on the day that we formed groups for the trip, 2F classroom.

Although the Game Hobby Club is always talking about gaming, just like its name, it’s hard for us to not talk about the school trip today.

Hoshinomori nodded excitedly to what I’ve said.

“Yeah, I guess so! Man, I’m indeed blessed! Tendou-san was like a ‘prince’ to me jus then! I really appreciated that!”

“P-Please stop bringing that up, Hoshinomori-san.”

Tendou-san blushed in embarrassment and stopped Hoshinomori. However, Hoshinomori still can’t suppress her excitement. All she’s thinking about right now is to express her gratitude. She waved her hands around and continued.

“I already feel like ‘Tendou-san’ isn’t polite enough! It’s not going to work if I don’t call Tendou-san with something like ‘my lady’ from now on!”

“Who are you trying to be? Please just call me in the old way.”

“I got it, my lady.”

Hoshinomori straightened her back and answered. …Tendou smiled in an increasingly creepy way and approached her.

“…Hoshinomori-san?”

“…I-I’m sorry, Tendou-san. …B-B-But if I keep calling you that way, I can’t suppress the ‘sense of love and respect’ in my heart that’s going haywire right now…”

“No, no, no, your ‘sense of love and respect’ should never go haywire…”

“Ughh, …ughh, …miss, …my lady, uwah…!”

“You’re really going crazy! I-I understand! How about we just call each other directly, with the name. Uh, Hoshinomor- N-No, Chiaki-san.”

“Huh! C-Can I? I got it, K-K-K-K-Kar…Karen-sama!”

“Ehhh, Chiaki-san?”

“…Ughh, K…Karen…-san.”

“Yes, very good.”

“Ughhh…”

Hoshinomori became deflated and greeted her usually. Even so, her eyes are still filled with hazeless admiration towards Tendou, … wholly convinced. If Hoshinomori is a puppy, the respect and fondness in her eyes are perhaps enough to break her tails by twisting too much.

Just as Aguri and I are still enjoying this unexpected outcome, someone…Keita Amano is spectating the two girls sulkily.

“Tch, …I’m supposed to be the only loyal dog that follows around Tendou-san…!”

What kind of repulsion is that? Even though I can feel that he’s filled with love, but is that right for a boyfriend? I’m seriously baffled, Amano. The name-calling part should be the troublesome one, right. Why are you trying to be a loyal dog?

The two annoying loyal dogs stuck themselves on Tendou. So, she sighed as if it’s seriously frustrating her before turning to me.

“But I didn’t expect Uehara-kun and Amano-kun to be in different groups. I thought you two will end up together, no matter what…”

I answered Tendou-san with a bitter smile.

“Yeah. However, even if Amano’s in my group, this still feels pretty awkward. I should say he will probably feel that he doesn’t belong. While it’s weird for me to say this, but a close friend having a good time with others should make you feel somewhat…l-lonely?”

Although I put it a bit too vaguely, Amano, who’s ears are still as sharp as always, immediately corrected me.

“Yep, I think I’ll be ‘jealous’ if Uehara-kun played happily with other guys when I’m next to him!”

“Phrasing! I can’t believe you’re saying that in front of your girlfriend!”

“It’s because this is a fact, I can’t help it! I don’t, nor I want to hide this feeling!”

“You’re still just as manly! But you’re showing it at the absolutely worst time possible!”

“Ay, forget about the grouping thing… But, Uehara-kun, w-we’re entering the bath together.”

“Don’t give me that girly look! Why are you pretending to be cute and blushing while trying to invite me! Don’t act like a female character in my story, please!”

“Ah, if Mizumi-kun is in the bath as well, I’ll feel even happier.”

“I already feel like you’re meaning something else!”

“Eh, what meaning?”

“…That’s enough…”

I think I’ll only suffer irreversible damage if this continues, so I decided to back down.

Amano took my spot, who’s temporarily resting due to mental tiredness, and explained to Tendou.

“Ay, it’s actually just like what Uehara-kun has said. Even if we’re in the same group, I bet there will be other troubles as well. From this perspective, I don’t think my group is so bad.”

Amano laughed. Tendou smiled in relief and said. “Really?” Once I snapped out of it, Aguri and Hoshinomori are showing a relieved look as well. However, …I’m the only guy that’s frowning.

(No, it’s actually not good, right. To Amano, he’s almost in the worst group possible from my imagination.)

They despise, hate, and are jealous of Amano, to the point that they’re not even trying to hide it. A group that’s entirely formed by that kind of people. …It’s hard to estimate how much pressure Amano would handle mentally.

However, Amano didn’t look like that at all. Instead, he laughed while teasing himself. “Ay, I’m a loner wherever I go, anyways.” …I don’t know whether he’s trying to act cool, or he doesn’t want the girls to worry.

“…………”

I glanced at Tendou and Hoshinomori…before sighing deeply alone.

(…Tendou already helped Hoshinomori, who’s her rival in love, yet I…)

One of my reason is that I do mind my friends aside from Amano. Even so, I still shouldn’t just hand Amano, …a friend of mine to groups like that.

(Damn, …what am I even doing?)

Wave after wave of regret hit my chest. …After I entered high school, I’ve always been like this. I try my best to be kind to everyone and act all smooth and slick. I wanted to find a better answer, and then…

…and then I realized what my “sincere thoughts” really is before getting shocked by it.

Just as I’m being tormented by regret alone, Aguri seems to have noticed it and tried to prank with Amano innocently and lighten the mood.

“Ahaha, Amanocchi is always in hell as long as he’s with people.”

“You’re saying that like I’m a cockroach! A-Actually, the hell is fine as long as you weren’t there!”

“I don’t want to go on a trip with a pathetic gaming otaku too…”

“I don’t want to walk around the old capital with a flippant gal as well!”

“What was that!”

“Then what do you want!”

Amano and Aguri are still bickering with each other relentlessly like they’re family.

I can’t help but look at them with an envious look.

(…I…can never convey my thoughts into words as these guys do…)

This is my bad habit after I changed myself in high school. For these two years, I’ve always lived on “an observant answer” rather than my own thoughts. Perhaps this is why logic dictates my action way faster than feelings.

When a decision has to be made, I’ll always think, “What would everyone (he/she) think?” “What should I do to keep everyone happy?” This isn’t a bad thing. Instead, this ability is irreplaceable to survive in our society. …However, whenever I look at Amano, I’m always ashamed of myself like this.

(I’m sure that’s why Kousei hates me…)

In reality, after I considered the “surrounding” mood, I cut ties with Amano in the end. While this is bad for Amano, …from the entire class’s perspective, this is guaranteed to be the correct choice. Logically, this is the answer with the lowest risk to everybody.

However, to Amano personally, it’s the worst scenario possible. Even so, …Amano…

“Anyway, I’m perfectly fine with my group! You’re not there, anyways!”

“That pisses me off. …Amanocchi, …you should go to the back of the toilet later- and press the switch with a skull face on it. Then, after the hidden stairs appeared, come to the gloomy basement. You can find me there.”

“What kind of meeting place is that! What are you going to do to me!”

“…Hoho, …I’ll let you see the real ‘chicken cabbage hotpot’ there.”

“It’s an Oishinbo invitation! However, that’s why I’m getting even less idea of what I will encounter! S-Save me, Uehara-kun!” [Note: Oishinbo (The Gourmet), a cooking manga written by Tetsu Kariya.]

Amano suddenly started relying on me. His eyes…wasn’t filled with anger or mistrust towards me at all, that just…makes me even more upset.

“A-Alright. Hey, Aguri, you shouldn’t bully Amano too much.”

“J-Jeez, Tasuku, I’ll never bully a stranger.”

Aguri pretended to be adorable once I talked to her. In comparison, Amano hid behind me and answered.

“L-Liar! Aguri-san will never be gentle on a stranger like me…”

“Huh, Amanocchi doesn’t count as a stranger to me anymore.”

Her tone made me freak out for a second. However, …Aguri continued with her crazy pranks, obviously.

“Amanocchi is…my ‘dependent’ already.”

“Dependent! Eh, I didn’t know that I’m your dependent?”

“Yep, you’re right. …By the way, Amanocchi, I’m not that familiar with gaming jargon. I want to ask you…the word dependent means devil servants, pawns, or slave, right? That’s the meaning, right?”

“Let’s forget whether it’s right or not, I can already feel what’re you trying to mean by using that word!

“That’s great.”

Aguri beamed a devilish smile at Amano. At the next moment, she requested to me with an angelic smile.”

“Anyway, Tasuku, you should know by now. I’m always a warm and gentle girl, …unless I’m with that disgusting otaku. Give him back. Bone broths take a long time to make.”

“This person is trying to cook me into a chicken cabbage pot!”

Amano is shivering with tears in his eyes. He’s even trying to rely on me from the bottom of his heart. In contrast, Aguri approached me with a mischievous smile. …Jeez, these two, just as I’m troubled by something important…

I comforted these two people by saying, “Alright, alright, I know you two are really close to each other.” …Then, I moved the topic away from the groups as if nothing happened.

“But, 4 nights in Osaka, Kyoto, and Tokyo, …I don’t know whether I should say that this is a cliché schedule or a packed one.”

Hoshinomori agreed with me and said, “Yeah.”

“Well, if I remembered correctly, it’s one night in Osaka, one in Kyoto, and two in Tokyo, right. …This feels kind of explicit. I think they’re trying to make us travel through the entire Honshu with this chance…”

“However, to me, I’m already relieved that we don’t need to stay in Kyoto and Nara for 3 days. If it’s a metropolis, we can fulfill our wishes and go buy and eat whatever we want, right? I especially want to use this opportunity to do a café tour.”

“Ah, that’s true.”

Unexpectedly, Tendou is the one that agreed with Aguri. She’s reading the travel guide that she took from somewhere and reviewed it.

“I want to do a tour with this chance as well.”

“Oh? Really, there are some shops that Tendou-san is interested in? I can go with you depends on the situation-“

“-The unlicensed arcades that are filled with tough opponents.”

“Bye, Tendou-san. We’ll play ‘on our own’ during the school trip!”

However, Tendou-san laughed out as if she didn’t notice it

“This is a rare chance for me to meet those unusual players that you can’t see ‘on the surface’ like national competitions or online matches. I have to thoroughly enjoy this. …Ho ho ho…”

“Yep, what is Tendou-san even trying to learn from the trip…?”

The gal that’s focusing on shopping and gourmet food is dumbfounded at the goal of this blonde girl.

Tendou cleared her throat and continued.

“O-Of course, I’m a girl as well. There’re other important goals on this trip too.”

“Right. Our school idol can’t be that feminine-lacking-“

“I’m going to eat up Amano-kun clean.”

“What is this blonde girl going off about?”

All the Hobby Club members fell speechless. Tendou-san told everyone on her own.

“This is a trip, everyone. There’s a lot of chance for me to see the sides of Amano-kun that I usually can’t, right? The Amano-kun that just woke up, the Amano-kun that’s getting drowsy, the Amano-kun that finished bathing, the Amano-kun that’s getting airsick, the Amano-kun that’s getting carried away on a stretcher, and the Amano-kun that received new powers after signing a contract with the devil.”

“That last Amanocchi is way too rare! Also, what are you even looking for on the trip!”

“What am I looking for? …Of course, it’s the loving time that I’ll have with Amano-kun. Isn’t that right, Amano-kun?”

Amano was appointed by Tendou. I thought he would be embarrassed. …Instead, that’s not the case at all, he’s just as excited as Tendou.

“Of course, Tendou-san! I-I also want to see all sides of you too, that’s why I’m going! The Tendou-san that just woke up, the Tendou-san that’s getting drowsy, the Tendou-san that finished bathing, the Tendou-san that’s standing in a CLAMP pose on the Tokyo Tower, and the Tendou-san that’s defeating enemies with the power of songs. Also, the old-fashioned gal that’s making a fool of herself in the Omotesandō cafés. I’m going on the trip so that I can see all of them!”

“Hey, that disgusting otaku there, did you just insult me while praising Tendou-san? Huh?”

Aguri complained. However, Amano and Tendou are already looking at each other lovingly. They entered a world of their own.

Hoshinomori smiled bitterly and concluded.

“Ay, well, a-anyway, I’m looking forward to the trip. Moreover, on the 4th day, you can visit Tokyo’s…or should I say, Chiba’s Disneyland and play for the entire day.”

“Yeah. Also, you don’t need to go by groups on that day. The couples can stay together…”

I quickly shut up in the middle of my sentence.

…H-Hoshinomori is looking at us with an empty and helpless smile.

Crap. Honestly, this Game Hobby Club consists of two pairs of couples and an unrequited lover. It’s not really a friendly group for Hoshinomori. At this point, it only became even more apparent.

Amano, Tendou, and Aguri seem to have noticed the mood too. An awkward silence took hold of the scene.

So, …unexpectedly, Amano was the one to break the silence first.

“Ah, come to think of it, there’s a new ride in Disneyland, Tendou-san.”

“Eh? Uh, y-yeah, y-you’re right. If I remembered correctly, …is that the impressive railcar-based shooting entertainment facility created by the combination of VR and projection mapping?”

“Yeah, exactly, that’s right. Then, I remembered that will display everyone’s final scores, right.”

“Perhaps, …you’re right.”

Tendou tilted her head since she doesn’t understand what is this about. Just as Aguri, Hoshinomori, and I were confused, Amano cleared his throat, …then, at the next moment, he pointed his finger at Hoshinomori suddenly.

“Well, we’ll have a match there to see who’s better at gaming, Chiaki!”

“…Eh?”

Hoshinomori froze. Amano’s acting like he’s trying to cover up his embarrassment, so he faced Hoshinomori with an even more provocative attitude and continued.

“Aside from our viewpoints on ‘moe,’ it’s been a couple months since we’re regarded as having the same stats for a couple months. I feel like it’s time for Chiaki and me to differentiate ourselves and see who’s better at gaming! Yes!”

“R-Really, that’s what you want? …I-If so, even if we aren’t going to Disneyland, we can still fight each other in an arcade or handheld consoles…”

“No, you’re wrong, Chiaki! It’s only meaningful if we’re competing with each other with the latest rides in Disneyland, which we don’t often visit! We can’t train beforehand this way! In other words, this means that we’re testing our ‘gaming power’ purely!”

“Ah, …I guess you’re right…”

“Then, this means that you’re willing to fight me, okay?”

“W-Well, …I guess so…”

Amano’s momentum overwhelmed Hoshinomori, so she accepted his suggestion. However, it’s not just Hoshinomori, just as everyone is confused as to what he is talking about…

Amano smiled and said, “it can’t be helped” before concluding.

“To ensure fair and serious competition, Chiaki must stay next to me on the day. After all, it would be a headache if she trained when I’m not noticing.”

“Ah…”

It was not until now that we understand what Amano is trying to say.

Aguri, Tendou, and I looked at each other, …before we agreed to Amano’s suggestion respectively.

“If that’s the case, as your protector, I’ll have to witness this match as well.”

“If Tasuku decided that, I’m following too. Moreover, I want to see Amanocchi losing.”

“You guys are comparing your scores with the latest entertainment facilities? As the president of the Game Club, I can’t miss this activity. Please let me accompany you.”

“E-Everyone…”

Hoshinomori’s tears are forming in her eyes, yet she immediately waved and rejected us.

“No, no, no, you all don’t really need to mind me, the couples can just go…”

However, Amano answered angrily.

“Oh, this means that you’re admitting defeat before the fight.”

“Ugh. K-Keita, I didn’t say that! I will never lose to you!”

“Then accept the invitation. We’re taking the fast pass together, …I’m afraid that we’ll wait until dusk, so you have to stay with us before then.”

“B-B-But, …that way…”

Hoshinomori glanced at Tendou. To that, I guess Amano knows what’s she thinking, so he proposed something that’s a bit more considerate to his girlfriend.

“…Uh, how about this. We need to give some time for couples to watch the parade at night after the battle. So, before then, …I’m sorry, you’ll have to stick with me, Chiaki.”

Amano smiled at her.

As for Hoshinomori, …although her head remains plopped down, at the next second, she gave her usual provocative smile to Amano and answered.

“Jeez, it can’t be helped. I got it. …Keita, I accept your challenge!”

“That’s right.”

Amano and Hoshinomori shook each other’s hands like they’re in a sports event. Aguri and I watched with a smile.

The entire Game Hobby Club is filled with a warm atmosphere.

…However, there’s only one person within all of us.

“…………”

Only Karen Tendou is showing a tinge of darkness in her blessing smile.

*

“You’re saying that Amano and Hoshinomori secretly started dating!”

My shout is echoing throughout the quiet reference book area of the large book store.

“Eh, you’re too loud, Uehara-kun.”

As for the girl that’s blaming me with a frown, she’s the blonde idol of our school.

“Uh, but, you…”

My mouth keeps opening and closing, and I can’t muster any coherent words out. It’s because the information I received from Tendou is way too unexpected, I can’t make up my mind right now. However, from her serious look, I don’t think she’s joking with me.

I took a deep breath. At the same time, I looked around to give me some time to answer this. …Even though it’s a usual evening, this rural but spacious book store doesn’t have many customers around. In reality, this is one of the largest book stores with the most abundant catalog here. Regrettably, it’s far away from downtown, so there’s not a lot of business around. However, since it has a lot of books that you can’t buy from the small stores in downtown, the locals still loved it.

So, when the Game Hobby Club meeting is over, I came here after bidding farewell to Aguri to try and find the latest manga, which was sold out in other stores…

Coincidentally, during this time, Tendou suddenly texted me and said, “There’s something that I really want to talk about.”

Honestly, in the beginning, I’m aware of “the risk of meeting another girl other than my girlfriend,” so I almost tried to reject it. However, Tendou said it’s not going to take me long. Anyway, I decided to meet her since this urgency doesn’t really fit her style.

Tendou seems to be around the book store as well, she came 5 minutes after we messaged each other. We decided to head to the reference book where no one’s around and just discuss there. It’s not something to praise about when you’re chatting in the book store. However, like what I’ve said, this is a classical rural “spacious but not a lot of people around” bookstore. I feel like we won’t get any interruptions here. Moreover, Tendou is basically a celebrity here. I’m afraid that people will get the wrong idea if I went into a café with her alone. From this perspective, even if someone saw us in the reference book area, I can wrap everything up with an “Oh, it’s just a coincidence.”

So, we stood together and stared at the reference bookshelf dazedly before greeting each other. …But the “topic” that Tendou brought up is way too shocking. It made me fell speechless until this moment.

During this time, Tendou suddenly apologized to someone by lowering her head. Once I took a look, I think I might have caught a woman’s attention, who looked like she’s a housewife. So, I quickly bowed as well. Then, that woman smiled before going back to her business again. Thank god that she’s well-mannered. We pressed our chests in relief.

“S-Sorry, but why are you getting that suspicious…”

“Alright, I’ll tell you. It happened on the night after we played GOM…”

Then, Tendou briefly summarized on why she’s getting suspicious.

However, once I listened to the details, my first impression is…

“…I think you’re indeed annoyed by this. So, I feel like I shouldn’t say this, …however, objectively, I think I’m getting that usual ‘misunderstanding’ feeling.”

“Ah, really?”

To Tendou’s opinion, I explicitly gave a puzzled response, but Tendou seems to be agreeing with me too.

She put her hand on her cheeks and continued with a sigh.

“Currently, in my heart, I think there’s a 90% chance that I ‘misunderstood’ the whole thing.”

“Hey, hey, hey, what the hell. You just freaked me out for no reason.”

I shrugged helplessly. …It’s because Tendou went out of her way and called me to discuss something with a serious tone. I thought something went wrong…

I felt pretty dumb and tired of seriously listening to her, so I randomly took a reference book from the shelf and started reading it.

“If you’re 90% certain that it’s a misunderstanding, why don’t you just confirm it from the guy. …Eh, by the way, I didn’t know that the public exam will be this hard, isn’t that crazy?”

I think this is the maths public exam questions from the past, …but that’s all I can read. It’s not just that I can’t calculate the answer, I can’t even read the questions. …I don’t think I’m that incapable of studying in Otobuki…

Just as I’m feeling a sense of fear for my future career, Tendou glanced at the question bank that I opened and mumbled.

“…Well, I don’t really like multiple-choice questions.”

“Eh, why? I do love it, multiple-choice. Even if I don’t know the question, there’s a chance for me to luckily guess the correct answer, right?”

“You’re right. However, it’s because there are more choices, so…”

Tendou looked down slightly and mumbled as she’s saying that.

“It’ll make people unsure whether the answer that they chose is correct.”

“…Really, …perhaps you’re right.”

I nodded calmly and closed the question bank before putting it back onto the shelf. …Then, I answered Tendou again.

“Sorry, I was answering too imprudently. …Even though the possibility is lower than 10%, you would still fear that theory is true, right.”

“…Yes.”

Tendou looked down and appeared to be biting her lips.

“…Actually, I have talked about this with Konoha-san beforehand.”

“Konoha-san?”

“Yes. Uh, I ran into her in the game store. …Initially, I understand that I shouldn’t let people know this, …the thing is, I can’t handle it on my own anymore.”

“Yep…”

Witnessing Amano and Aguri started dating -if I was the one that saw a scene prone to misunderstanding like this, perhaps I’ll react in the same way as Tendou. While I’m insecure about it, …I can never muster up my courage and confirm with the two. Even so, I’m not strong enough to take this all on my own.

From this perspective, perhaps Konoha-san is distant enough for her to talk to.

I urged Tendou to continue.

“Then? What did Konoha-san say?”

“Yep, …she said I misunderstood everything and even said that Amano-kun should love me. She really cheered me up.”

“Oh, …after everything, she’s indeed a nice girl.”

“Yeah.”

Tendou smiled faintly. In reality, what Konoha-san said probably saved her from getting crushed by her insecurities. However…

“However, …with that alone, it’s still not enough to completely ‘heal’ this sense of insecurity.”

“Yep, …perhaps you’re right.”

It’s like only filling up the surface of a gunshot wound. After the pain disappeared and the appearance returned to normal, …the bullet is still in the body. Even though it’s possible to live in your daily lives, there’s still a scar inside.

However, there’s only one way to thoroughly heal this.

“…If that’s the case, I think you have to directly ask them.”

You have to open the wound again to take the bullet out.

“You’re right…”

Tendou smiled helplessly as if she’s saying, “I understand.” …Ay, I guess so.

She fell silent. To lighten up the mood, I grabbed another question bank again. This time it’s Japanese literature. Once I flipped over the page, I can clearly see a paragraph quoted from a famous text.

<Consider how the protagonist feels from the underlined paragraph D, then proceed to choose an appropriate answer from 1 -4 below.>

…I’m not good at this type of question. Although I know the answer that it wants, I feel like it’s kind of unacceptable. I think no one knows how the protagonist feels aside from the person. No one can decide what the correct answer is. Strictly speaking, even the author of that text is not allowed to decide on that.

During this time, Tendou looked at the question bank that I flipped over and mumbled.

“…That kind of thing, no one will know aside from the protagonist…”

“…Yeah.”

Is she referring to this reading exam? Or…

I flipped over the pages as I mumbled.

“However, the annoying part is that it’s not guaranteed that what the protagonist said is the truth.”

“…Hoho, you’re right. It’s like you claiming to be ‘dedicated to your girlfriend,’ that’s a good example.”

“No.”

What’s wrong with these people’s impressions of me? Am I defined as a player now? …I feel like this turned into a joke around, so it’s not like I’m genuinely pissed off.

I turned over to the kanji question page and asked Tendou.

“So? What do you want me to do by talking to me? You want me to confirm this with Amano without a trace?”

“No, that’s unnecessary. I don’t like relying on other people that much.”

Tendou quickly rejected my offer, …she’s still a staunch girl. “If that’s the case, why did you call me…” I asked, and Tendou said, “Well…” She gave me a slightly frustrated look.

“For some reason, before I decide to ask Amano-kun and Hoshi…Chiaki-san, how should I put it, …I hope that someone can give me a small push.”

“Well, you don’t need to find me for that…”

“No, Uehara-kun, …last time when we were playing the Game of Life at Hoshinomori’s home, didn’t you ask your girlfriend? You asked her how did she think about Amano-kun.”

“Ah, …that time, right? I didn’t know you saw everything, Tendou?”

“Instead of saying that I saw everything, I merely heard your questions. I can’t hear Aguri-san’s reply clearly, though.”

Tendou continued after she explained.

“However, …right now, I’m in the same situation, so I kind of admire you. You dare to ask that kind of thing directly, …that worths some respect.”

“Uh, …it’s really not that much…”

To cover up my embarrassment, I started reading the questions from page 1 again without meaning anything else.

So, Tendou sighed deeply.

“I can never do that. Once Amano-kun is involved, …it’ll make me…incredibly weak.”

“In other words, …this proves how much you love him, right? I do feel like that’s amazing.”

“Really, …or it could be that I still don’t fully trust Amano-kun yet.”

“If you have to say that, …I guess it’s true…”

I can’t think of anything to say at the moment. It’s because I used to be like her, …there are some parts which I can’t trust Aguri yet. …No, I’m wrong. I think I feel the same right now.

Just as I’m calming down, Tendou said, “but-“ and continued the topic again.

“At that time, you mustered up your courage and asked. Also, even though I don’t know the details, you got a good answer, right?”

“Yeah, I guess.”

“So, I hope I can be just like you too.”

“I got it.”

I finally understand why Tendou is finding me to discuss with her, …why did she choose me to “push” her.

I closed the book and put it back onto the shelf. …Then, I looked at Tendou once again and faced her with a smile.

“Relax, Tendou. From what I’ve heard, the thing that you just talked about, it’s very likely that you’re just freaking yourself out.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. So, …just go and find Amano and Hoshinomori to talk everything out, the result must be good.”

“…Thank you.”

Tendou’s tears formed in her eyes for a second. Then, she quickly bowed to me as if she’s trying to cover it up.

Although I freaked out for a second, I realized why she’s doing this, so I accepted her gratitude silently.

Tendou kept her head down for 3 seconds before facing me again.

Then, the usual, refreshing “Karen Tendou” smile is already back onto her face.

“Uehara-kun, you’re a good person.”

“Yeah, yeah, see? If you got that, it’s time for you to stop misunderstanding me-“

“Yes. …That’s why I’m increasingly suspecting that you’re a player.”

“Why!”

“Meeting with a girl other than your girlfriend in a quiet place secretly, and even cheer her up. …I feel like it’s a bit too much for a guy. Honestly, I can’t deal with you.”

“That’s too unreasonable! I just made a big mistake, what is this? I’m not benefiting at all!”

“Benefits? Well, …ah, uh, how about I pay cash?”

“That’s just making it worse! What kind of guy will charge a fee for discussing with a friend’s girlfriend!”

“…I feel like it sounded way worse now that you’ve said it.”

“Really! I don’t need your money! However, please more or less respect or like me!”

“Oh, this means that, even though you have a girlfriend, yet you still wish your friend’s girlfriend to like you. Is this what you’re trying to say. …You’re literally the worst douchebag on the planet.”

“I guess you’re right! Sigh, …that’s enough, whatever. I’m tired.”

I feel like I’m already resistant to being called a player or a prick in recent times. Sigh, do whatever you what, how troublesome.

I decided to conclude this discussion as soon as possible and leave.

“Anyway, you can’t distance yourself from your partner just because of a dull misunderstanding. Moreover, the school trip is here soon.”

I said that as I left the reference book area. “Yeah.” Tendou followed behind and answered.

“By the way, Uehara-kun, how are you doing? Are you on good terms with Aguri-san?”

“Ughh…”

The boomerang hits me. Yep, …I’m the one that’s distancing myself away from my partner.

Tendou is glancing at the suspense novel area as she asked me with a face full of sorry.

“Don’t tell me you still mind the incident between Amano-kun and Aguri-san?”

“Uh, …well, it’s not like I can pretend nothing happened.”

Honestly, …perhaps Tendou feels the same way. That attempted kissing scene still flashes over in my mind from time to time. Also, it’s because of this, …I want to push my relationship with Aguri further to eradicate that memory…

In the end, the more I think about it, the harder it is for me to break away from this relaxed and friendly state.

After I explained to Tendou, she answered deflatedly. “I can feel that…”

Then, we went through the cashier and the automatic doors, and the bitter chills suddenly started attacking us.

Our bodies shiver as we walked forward. We planned to stay together before we have to go our separate ways.

Tendou is so cold that she hid her chin in her scarf. As for me, I think I’m trying to return what she said earlier and asked her to discuss something in depth with me.

“Uh, honestly, …compared to me, do you feel that Aguri is happier when she’s with Amano recently?”

“Yeah.”

She answered almost immediately, without any sense of consideration or hesitation. This just makes her reply all the more truthful and sincere.

Tendou is even adding insult to injury when I’m depressed already.

“It’s more like, I feel like Aguri-san’s most beautiful moment is when she is bullying Amano-kun. Honestly, …from what I’ve seen, I think she was pretty adorable at times like that.”

“Seriously?”

“I can’t be any more serious. As Amano-kun’s girlfriend, aside from feeling jealous, I’m even envying that Amano-kun can have family-like body contact with such a cute girl like her.”

Tendou mumbled with a sigh. So, I sheepishly tried to ask her.

“…On the contrary, when Aguri is talking to me lately…”

“…Sigh, to be honest, she’s as quiet as a cat that entered another person’s house.”

“What’s that, isn’t that hopeless?”

“Please relax, Uehara-kun.”

“Relax what?”

“…Amano-kun will give me the more or less same impression when he’s with me.”

“Ah, …perhaps you’re right…”

“…………”

“…………”

Walking shoulder to shoulder in the northern lands covered by chilly winds, …a boy and a girl are carrying a sense of desolateness.

We kept silently walking until we arrived at the point of divergence…

“…Bye.”

“K.”

We only bid farewell to each other.

Then, we walked on our respective homes while shivering from the sheer cold.

…………

…For some reason, I really want to eat a bowl of chicken cabbage pot right now.

Keita Amano

After I got home from the Game Hobby Club meeting, my mum, who should be at home first since she finished her part-time job earlier, isn’t here. It looks like she went to buy something as well.

“…Well, let’s play.”

There’s still some time before dinning, so I acted decisively. I quickly changed into my usual clothes and washed my face as I prepared for gaming. After pouring some tea into the cup and putting it on the table, I laid down on the sofa and turned on the handheld console. Thus, the most blessed moment of the day began.

-At this exact second, I felt unbelievably touched.

(Strange, I feel like it’s been a long time since I can play games this lazily.)

Of course, I’ve always immersed myself in gaming. However, perhaps it’s because I can only touch it a little recently, so I don’t have a “wow I’m having so much fun” feeling. …Uh, even though it’s still unbearable when you look at the skyrocketing total playtime. …Should I say that it’s an emotional problem? Think about it, it’s like sleeping. Taking a one-hour nap 8 times and sleeping 8 hours at once, the “I did sleep” feeling is very different, right? I think that’s the situation here.

I laid on the sofa and supported the console with the slop of the handle. Then, I hummed as I started playing the game.

Right now, I’m playing the latest series in Pokemon. By using an item called Poketickets, you can collect, train, and trade all kinds of Pokemon before sending them into battle. [Note: No idea what that is, perhaps it’s something from Pokemon Go. I just translated it literally.]

Honestly, I’m not really fond of RPGs that are centered around combat or trade. …To put it simply, it needs you to interact with other people. I don’t want to mention the reason. I don’t even need to say it, right. Don’t force me, …it’s because I’m a loner.

E-Even so, I often play with my little brother. I know some weird friends that play it back in middle school too, so I’ve played a lot of titles in the series. Anyway, to be honest, although I don’t like competing or cooperating with others, I still bought it just like usual.

“Sigh, after I actually played it, it’s quite unwilling for me to admit that it’s kind of fun.”

I can’t help but mumble.

The best part about this series is singleplayer. I think it’s pretty impressive. Due to the nature of the title, it was considered to be quite competitive and focused around battling and interacting with others. On the internet, these are usually the parts that will be mentioned. However, I think training the Pokemon bit by bit alone is just as compelling.

Catching wild Pokemons, train them, forming teams, fighting the enemies, conquering the obstacles, and move forward.

When you’re fighting with a robust Pokemon trainer, you need to consider the types of the enemy’s pokemon and their entering sequence. Then, you need to choose yours based on countering types and moves. If your strategy worked perfectly, it’s hard to not feel proud of yourself. Conversely, when you saw the opponent is starting with unexpected Pokemons or moves, naturally, you’ll be surprised. The back-and-forth battle is filled with joy and despair with the success or failure of your moves. One of my standards of rating a game is “whether it’s interesting to fight a tough opponent.” However, the Pokemon series is guaranteed to be enjoyable when you’re fighting others.

Also, the better part is that, basically, every Pokemon in this game is more or less balanced.

Uh, of course, if you go online, there’s a bunch of discussion about the meta. However, even if you forget about those and just train your Pokemons based on preferences, there wouldn’t be any problems in singleplayer, at least. Moreover, it kind of makes sense to think of a strategy based on your favorites when you’re battling the others.

Anyway, Pokemon is a game that’s full of love while being magically balanced at the same time.

“…Ay, even though I can’t find any opponents that match my skills.”

…When I encountered this situation, honestly, it’s hard for me to not hate it because the game is super exciting! Damn! All the opponents online are too powerful! If only there’s someone just as poorly skilled as me- Wait.

“Eh, right, I don’t know whether Chiaki played Pokemon too.”

Due to the confession and the school trip, I don’t really feel like talking about gaming with everyone. If Chiaki did play it, I think she would be an excellent opponent…

Just as I’m considering such a possibility dazedly, I can hear someone’s opening the door. Then, I can hear a guy saying, “I’m home.” It’s my little brother, who just finished his club activities. I spoke up when he opened the door to the living room.

“You’re back, Kousei.”

“I’m back, brother. …Eh, mom hasn’t got home yet?”

Kousei put down his bags as he asked. I answered while still focusing on my console.

“Yep, I think she’s buying something.”

“Oh, …brother, so you’re having fun while the demon is gone.”

Kousei is mischievously smiling as he looked at me, who’s still lying on the sofa. The screen is the battle against a girl that’s wearing a swimsuit, so it’s a bit embarrassing.

I leaned forward to block the screen and pouted.

“W-What’s wrong, why does it matter?”

“No one said anything’s wrong. That’s why I hate self-conscious otakus.”

“Ugh…”

I can’t feel any sense of respect or love from this little brother. I’m a bit envious of Chiaki, who’s little sister can chat with her all she wants. …Even though, sometimes I feel saved when Kousei gave his usual calm attitude to me…

Kousei quickly packed everything up and changed his clothes. Then, he pushed my legs away and squeezed onto the sofa. I don’t really mind and even put my legs on Kousei’s lap as I continued to play.

Kousei chugged the tea that I poured for myself, and then he grabbed the remote before starting to randomly switching the channels. I don’t think he wants to see anything specific. He switched in the middle of the evening news.

At last, the TV showed “Insane amount of shrimps appeared from the bowl…! A surprisingly filling meal!” This is one of those casual and mundane shows. Even so, it seems that he’s not into it as well. Kousei treated the ridiculous reaction of the female reporter as background music and started playing on his phone.

We brothers played on our own for a while. …Then, around 5 minutes later. Kousei mumbled when the news introduced the third restaurant that offers large meals.

“…I’m hungry.”

“Yeah, it’s getting late, and the shows are about gourmet food.”

“Right. But I don’t think no one in the family is interested in meals like this.”

“We don’t eat much, after all. It’s useless to give us an unmatching filling, anyways.”

Looking at the TV, I can see a bunch of salmon roe pouring from the bowl to the plate. The reporter is getting really excited. …Sigh, while salmon roe is tasty, but, honestly, I only need a moderate amount.

I paid attention to the game again. During this time, Kousei asked again.

“…Brother, let me ask you this. When you’re with Tendou-senpai, …are you happy?”

“Why are you suddenly bringing that up?”

I smiled bitterly and remained focused on the game as I answered.

“Of course I’m happy. I’m thrilled.”

“Really?”

Kousei answered like he’s not interested. You’re the one that asked me, though. What a plain response. I mean, I guess it’s just chitchat for killing time to him, anyway.

I don’t really mind since I’m focusing on the game. Unexpectedly, …Kousei continued asking.

“…Well, how about when you’re with Chiaki-senpai?”

“Chiaki?”

Although I don’t understand why he is suddenly bringing up Chiaki, I guess there’s no need for me to overthink this, so I answered sincerely.

“Yeah, I’m happy. A lot, actually. We like chatting with each other about gaming. Even though some parts cause us to fight, …recently, we’re enjoying yelling at each other too.”

Especially after that confession thing is over, it’s only becoming more apparent. I didn’t expect the “barrier” caused by rejecting and being rejected isn’t as severe as I’ve imagined. I guess we’re chatting even more happily because we expressed our sincere feelings.

“Oh, …it’s quite fun, isn’t it…”

Kousei is still answering as he looked at the extra-large meals episode on the TV. …He’s really talking to me just to kill time. This is the subtle distance that Kousei has between me.

So, we chatted with each other about TV shows. Then, around 15 minutes later, someone’s opening the door again. This time, it’s my mom with a bunch of shopping bags.

Mom yelled, “it’s cold” as she walked towards the kitchen. Then, after she put all the veggies and beverages into the fridge, she started talking to us brothers.

“Sorry. I’m standing in the book store reading magazines, that’s why I forgot the time.”

“Oh.”

I was the only one that reacted, barely. Kousei is paying attention to his phone. Of course, he’s not fighting with his family. I guess this is like the roles of the older and younger brother.

When mom’s walking towards here to put the car keys back to the cupboards in the living room, she suddenly looked at me as if she found something amazing to talk about.

“Right, right! Eh, Keita, mom saw it today.”

“You saw what?”

I urged mom to continue as I’m still focusing on the game. Then, mom said something unexpected.

“The one that’s famous in your school. …That blonde beauty that I forgot the name!”

“Ahem!”

I immediately choked. Kousei glanced at mom for a second.

He caught onto the conversation for me, who’s still freaking out and coughing.

“You mean Karen Tendou-senpai?”

“Yes, yes, yes, I’m quite sure it’s her. Hiya, what an adorable girl, she’s like a doll. Mom freaked out for a second there. What did she eat to have such a beautiful look?”

Mom stared at my short legs as she sighed. …Well, my mother didn’t know that Tendou-san and I are dating. Although it’s not like I’m trying to hide it, you can tell from her appearance that she’s a usual housewife. …So, I don’t really want to tell her everything, …unless Tendou-san’s visiting my home.

Kousei’s aware of this part too, so he didn’t bring this up as he talked.

“So, that Tendou-senpai is at the book store too?”

“Yeah, I think she’s with her handsome boyfriend too.”

“Eh?”

Kousei and I reacted shockingly at the same time. Mom slightly tilted her head out of confusion for a second. However, I think she wanted to talk more, so she waved and continued.

“I feel like there’s an unusual atmosphere between them. Ay, I thought, why would they call me at the start, so I can’t help but peek at their situation.”

“R-Really.”

Perhaps…that isn’t mom’s imagination. If she met Tendou-san, I guess it’s not weird to bring up the word “Amano” in the conversation.

But, more importantly, who’s the handsome guy next to Tendou-san…

I tried to seamlessly spy on my mother.

“Uh, …what does that handsome boyfriend look like?”

“Huh? Why are you asking that?”

“Why. …T-Think about it, perhaps it’s someone I know.”

“Don’t you have zero friends in high school?”

My mom’s horrible. She just stabbed her own son in the chest with a calm face.

I urged her to continue with a twisted smile.

“I-I met some f-friends recently.”

“Hiya, really? That’s great. What kind of people are they? Did you know any girls?”

Mom blasted me with question after question. I got a girlfriend already, not to mention knowing any girls. Also, my girlfriend is the one that we’re talking about …From my mother’s perspective, I think all this information would be overwhelming to her. …But I didn’t say it since it’s troublesome.

“Forget all that, what does Tendou-san’s handsome boyfriend look like?”

Is it Mizumi-kun, Uehara-kun, or someone I don’t know at all…?

Just as all kinds of possibilities are coming up in my brain, mom answered confusingly.

“I don’t remember that much, even if you asked…”

I guess so. It’s impossible to remember the features when you only took a look at someone on the streets. I can’t identify the person even if I got something-

“Ah, but if I remembered correctly, that boy got a ridiculous voice and reactions. In terms of a comedian, …he’s the kind of guy that will say ‘what kind of day is this’ as he choked?” [Note: This refers to the comedian Eiji Kotoge.]

“It’s Uehara-kun.”

I got it. Just as I’m smiling bitterly, mom continued with a stunned look.

“Hiya, it’s really someone you know?”

“I guess.”

“…Really?”

“Can you stop looking at the length of my legs suspiciously?”

You’re the one that gave birth to me.

I stared at mom bitterly as she continued.

“Alright, let’s forget about her boyfriend’s weirdness for now.”

“Weirdness.”

Uehara-kun’s reaction was casually referred to as being weird. …Really. …Uehara-kun looks weird when he’s met by people that don’t know him. …It’s hard to make a living.

“However, they look they’re destined for each other. A cute girl should stay with a handsome boy.”

“Ugh…!”

“Think about it, it’s like the disparity between celebrities. Although it’s worthy of discussion for a while, didn’t nearly all of them ended up failing?”

“R-Really? B-But, there’s true love like the one between Romeo and Juliet..”

My eyes are floating around as I told my family. Then, Kousei answered with an emotionless look.

“Didn’t the two die in the end? I don’t think I can take it from a family’s perspective.”

“Kousei…”

My little brother is still just as heartless to me. Does this guy not love his brother?

Just as I’m complaining quietly, mom seems to be bored by the topic and went away as she clapped her hands.

“Alright, it’s time for dinner. I’m cooking Keita’s favorite burger steaks tonight.”

“Ah, nice. …No!”

Mom went to cook dinner before I can even protest, …even though I’m really looking forward to burger steaks!

I was pissed as I looked at Kousei to try and look for comfort. So, …he mumbled while giving me the usual despising look.

“Sigh, get a hold of yourself, …the dumb Romeo that’s going to suicide due to a misunderstanding.”

“Phrasing! A-Also, I’m not Romeo!”

“Oh, that you’ll never get a happy ending with Juliet.”

“Ah.”

“Brother, you’re a typical guy, so you should learn to be one. Just find another normal girl and live happily ever after. That’s enough.”

Kousei said that as he looked at his phone. From the kitchen, I can hear mom’s humming excitedly as she started cooking. …N-None of you knows how I really felt…!

…………

Perhaps my family doesn’t love me.

*

“Loverbears?”

After school, 10 days before the school trip.

I took a sip of the diluted coke I grabbed from the drink bar as I listened to Aguri-san, mentioning a strange word in the family restaurant. Then, I tilted my head.

“Yes, Loverbears.”

The gal sitting in front of me is showing a satisfied smile again. The current mood seems to be testing my knowledge. Let see, …I guess this is a word that all normies know.

I put the cup onto the table as I crossed my arms and nodded repeatedly.

“L-Loverbears. Yep, I get it. Loverbears are famous.”

“Yeah. Amanocchi, even you knew it.”

“Of course. Come to think of it, …uh, …I heard it from my relatives’ kids, uh…”

“Yeah, even the little kids liked it.”

“I got it.”

“You got it?”

Aguri-san gave a puzzled look at my reaction. She took a sip of her hot lemon tea and continued.

“After all, it’s very soft and gentle, feels pretty nice…”

“Yeah. …Also, uh, right, it tastes pretty sweet-“

“Ah?”

“-Yep, it’s not that. Loverbears aren’t like that.”

“Yeah, I think it doesn’t taste sweet…”

“Yeah. It’s more like, it tastes bland, yet there’s a hidden saltiness-“

“Huh?”

“Of course, it’s not like that too…”

Just as I’m looking away with sweat forming on my forehead, Aguri-san let out a dumbfounded sigh. Then, she looked at me with a compassionate look as if she saw everything through.

“…Hey, Amanocchi.”

“Yes, what’s wrong, Aguri-san?”

“Loverbears…is a variant of teddy bears.”

“…Really, …yep, of course, I know that.”

“Eh, you can’t continue. That ‘I got it’ impression of yours is already over.”

We’re still chatting about useless things in the family restaurant just like usual, …then-

“…Haha!”

I think we laughed at the same time. It’s quite exciting.

Honestly, it’s been a long time since we’ve come to the family restaurant together. After the attempted kissing incident, although it reached a conclusion on the surface, we still have a lot of worries. So, we don’t meet each other that often anymore.

However, it’s actually okay for us to host a family restaurant meeting once in a while. We’re still us.

…I’m sincerely glad that we can still be “friends,” just like we were.

After we laughed for a while. Aguri-san started bringing out the topic of the day.

“Loverbears are the limited teddy bears that are only available in Disneyland each day. The unique thing about it is that it’s always in pairs. Whether it’s illustrations, key chains, or teddy bears, none of them are left alone.”

“Ah, …so, Loverbears is from the word lovers and bear?”

“Exactly! Eh, Amanocchi, what do you think?”

Aguri-san is asking me with sparkling eyes.

To her, I answered honestly with an innocent smile.

“I feel like all personnel that is involved in developing the bear should be exterminated.”

“Why!”

I sighed as I answered Aguri-san, who’s slapping the table.

“It’s a race that refuses to acknowledge the existence of loners, right? Naturally, I’m their enemy.”

“Don’t you have a famous girlfriend right now!”

“If you think ‘having a girlfriend = a higher-up species that have friends,’ then you’re dead wrong! Aguri-san, you don’t understand loners at all!”

“No, no, no! What’s wrong with you calling yourself a loner despite having a girlfriend! Normally, that’s pretty annoying!”

“You noticed it, Aguri-san. Yes, I’m this annoying. However, that’s why…for me, who has already lost his place in the loner’s industry, I should be called the true loner king, right!”

“I’ve never seen someone throwing a tantrum like this before! Amanocchi, you’re getting weirder. …Eh, no, you’re already a weirdo to start out with.”

“No, I’m not a weirdo. I’m a passerby. My inner passerby is so deep that I’m excited to be called a weirdo by someone else. So, I can’t believe you’re calling me a weirdo. …Please don’t randomly use such a fantastic word to praise me!”

“Uh, I feel like your way of throwing a tantrum has entered the ‘strange’ realm…”

“Ay, we’re off-topic. Let’s move back.”

“You’re right.”

“Then? Aguri-san, when are we declaring war on those pervert bears?”

“What was that? …Eh, Amanocchi, please just forget your racist views towards Loverbears for a second.”

“I can’t. Those guys will never be my friends, no matter what happens.”

Just as I’m pissed off, Aguri-san quietly provided an additional piece of information to me.

“…Even if a lot of people believed the limited version of Loverbears will make the couples that bought it stay together forever?”

“Aguri-san, why are you still drinking lemon tea! We have to go and buy the Master Loverbears now! Hey, let’s go!”

The go-with-the-flow boy that immediately stood up and urged the gal.

Aguri-san is staring at me with a unique half dumbfounded, half respected look.

“Amanocchi, although you’re genuinely a little peasant, you’ve reached a refreshing level…”

“I’ve never heard such subtle praise before.”

“It’s okay, I’m not just praising you. Sigh, just sit down first.”

I sat back down unwillingly after Aguri-san advised me.

“So, Amanocchi, even though I don’t think I need to ask now, …you wanted the limited Loverbears, right?”

“I want it, even if it meant sacrificing your communication skills to the devil.”

“Don’t just sacrifice me on your own, alright? However, while I say that, I want to get it even if it meant sacrificing your hair growth.”

“Can you stop sacrificing my future as well?”

“In a sense, isn’t that a ‘bright’ and reflective future?”

“Shut up, …alright, let’s put the jokes aside. The one that you’re talking about, …the limited Loverbears? Is it that hard to buy?”

Aguri-san answered my question with a vague expression.

“Hmm, it’s not that bad. …While it’s limited, the numbers aren’t that extreme…”

“Huh? If that’s the case, it’s not hard to buy it, right? If we can only get it there, we have to go to Disneyland as soon as possible.

I guess that’s why Aguri-san brought up the Loverbears here.

She nodded and continued.

“Yep, so, the problem isn’t with whether you can buy it or not. Although people believed the spell, I don’t think it’s hot enough for people to line up for hours just to get it. That’s why as long as we charge towards the store after entering the park, it’s almost certain that we can get it. However, the real issue is…”

“The real issue?”

There’s enough stock, and you have a chance to buy it. What’s the problem then? I chugged the not-so-iced coke down to my throat. Then, Aguri-san gulped as she spoke up.

“…The limited Loverbears cost 20,000 yen…”

“!”

I almost spat all of my coke out. After I reluctantly swallowed all of them, I started trembling as I responded.

“2-20,000…? Ehhhh! Uh, that’s a bit…”

“Exactly…”

Aguri-san said that as she passed me her phone.

The screen shows an adorable pair of teddy bears that’s the size of my palm, …but the numbers below the image aren’t adorable at all.

Aguri-san took her phone back as she sighed.

“Sigh, …can I sell a disgusting otaku’s hair growth to someone…”

“Please stop reviewing the possibility of that weird trade. However, it’s 20,000 yen…”

“20,000 yen…”

“…But, honestly, we really need that, right…”

“…Yeah, …exactly. …Amanocchi, you and I were thinking of the same way…”

Our sighs overlapped each other. The two of us didn’t go to the drink bar for a refill. We fell silent.

After a while, I managed to spoke up.

“…Our partners have been worrying over us for a while now…”

“…I understand.”

“Even so, …currently, we’re a bit too depressed to create an indisputable fact.”

“…I understand.”

“With this situation, if we gifted a limited teddy bear out with an incredible effect out to our partners on the last day of the school trip…”

After I said that, …I thought of Tendou-san’s face as I smiled warmly.

“…I feel like if we do that, …it’s really reassuring for the person we’re dating…”

“…I understand.”

Aguri-san must be thinking about Uehara-kun as well, she showed a pretty warm and gentle expression, which I rarely see.

Although we thought about our partners’ cheerful face for a moment elatedly, …after 10 seconds, the two of us laid onto the table once again.

“But it’s 20,000 yen…”

This is unaffordable for high school students.

Uh, our parents will cover some of our costs during the school trip. …Even so, I don’t feel good about using that money to buy expensive gifts for our boyfriend/girlfriend. I should say, I can’t face my parents and Tendou-san properly if I did that.

So, we have to acquire 20,000 yen on our own. …However, usually, Aguri-san and I don’t really have extra cash in our wallets. Also, we would often come to the family restaurant and drink. I didn’t even need to say this.

Moreover, aside from the monthly pocket money I get from my parents, I’ll also get them to put me into some part-time jobs during the summer and winter holidays, just to balance everything out-

When I thought about that, Aguri-san made eye contact with me. She…only gives me this look…whenever she has something hard to tell. This means that she’s trying to do that in the beginning….

“Amanocchi, let me ask you this…”

“W-What?”

I’m shivering from the bad feeling. …This feels, ...oh crap.

I quickly looked away from her and spoke up.

“Ah, t-time’s almost up, we should go-“

“Do you want to…work in retail with me?”

“Look, here it comes! A lethal idea for any otakus! It’s like asking a cockroach whether it wants to work in pharma, that’s what a devil would ask!”

“Uh, it’s not that severe…”

Aguri-san smiled bitterly, and I still maintained my staunch attitude.

“Retail is the only job that I’ll absolutely never do! Let’s take a hundred steps back, …even if I can cut the time for playing Pokemon to work, I’ll never do retail! I really appreciated you for inviting me, but is there anything else to work in? Other jobs!”

“Eh, Amanocchi, we’re not in a position to choose our jobs, right? We need short-term jobs, and we can’t do rough work. That’s what the search results gave me.

“N-No, I-I’m still a guy. I’m perfectly suited for rough work…”

“You can’t handle it at all. Even if you can, I can guarantee that you’ll mess up your body before the school trip, Amanocchi.”

“…………”

Although I’m unwilling to admit this, Aguri-san is right, I’m not suited for intense work, anyways. Sigh, while I can squeeze determination out, it’s not going to help. If I got sick, I can’t go or enjoy the school trip. It’ll be pointless.

Aguri-san continued.

“Uh, I got a text from my friend that said there are two spaces left. …Initially, I wanted to say that you’re the only one I can invite. …Amanocchi, but you hate retail, right?”

“Instead of saying I hate it, it’s more like I can’t do it…”

…Sweat began to appear on my forehead, …my stomach hurts.

Retail.

I tried to think about this once more, then I realized there’s nothing more terrifying than this word. Earning money by cleverly dealing with all kinds of people. …If I, who can’t even talk to others properly, took the offer, I think the manager will be very frustrated as well.

I’m trembling with just imagining it. My disappointment will not just hurt myself; it can even drag others down too. …This is literally hell for me.

Aguri-san noticed that my face turned pale, so she immediately tried to comfort me.

“Y-Yeah, yeah! Ay, I’m sorry, Amanocchi! I was just asking, really. Moreover, I completely didn’t expect you to accept the offer at all!”

“R-Really?”

I raised my head helplessly and looked at Aguri-san. She nodded hard. “Yes, yes!”

“I’m just asking as a last resort, really! Uh, …I just feel that if I can work with you, I think I’ll be more hardworking…”

“Eh…?”

I froze. Then, Aguri-san continued embarrassingly. “Ah, this doesn’t mean anything special. She’s shy.

“Perhaps you forgot about this. However, I’m not a girl that can chat with everyone happily as well. So, to be honest, although I’m not as repulsive as you do, I don’t really like retail either…”

“Really…”

“Yeah. However, …if I’m with you, I think I’ll feel better.”

“Yep, work is easier when there’s someone you know…”

“I guess so. However, it’s not just that. Uh, …it’s embarrassing for me to say this, Amanocchi. Sometimes, when I’m in front of you, I tried to subconsciously act like an old sister. How should I put it, …when you’re next to me, I-I think I’ll work harder than usual.”

“Aguri-san…”

I wanted to cry for a bit since I’m really throbbed right now. However, Aguri-san immediately continued with a “but.”

“Ay, if Tasuku’s here, I’ll be 3,000 times stronger than my max performance.”

“I guess so.”

But if she’s saying that, as long as I’m thinking about Tendou-san, I can do the same…

“…………”

When I lowered my head, Aguri-san seems to be freaking out as she tried to conclude.

“Anyways, Amanocchi, although I talked a lot just then, it’s okay for you to reject. After all, you don’t need to force yourself to buy the Loverbears with me-“

During this time, I suddenly remembered what mom had told me. It’s charming when people who’re meant for each other are together. …I also understand at the start that I don’t match Tendou-san at all. A guy that’s still not popular or famous, Keita Amano.

Neither am I a strong character nor do I have any special abilities. I’m not handsome nor adorable, just like an unpopular Pokemon.

However-

If someone still loves me and chose me despite all of that.

Also, at this moment, …if a talentless and incapable guy like me can rely on “hard work” to earn “relief” and “love.”

Then, …I’m definitely taking the opportunity, that chance-

“…I’m doing it.”

-I bet the determination of a passerby. I can never miss a chance like that.

“Eh?”

Aguri-san froze when I suddenly changed my mind. …Even I freaked out for a bit as well. Actually, my body is shivering. Retail is the least suitable field for me to work in.

However, even so…

“Please.”

I clenched my fists on my kneecaps that are already full of sweat.

Then, I slowly raised my face as I tried to muster up my courage and answered her.

“If you don’t mind a guy like me, please let me challenge it…and take that retail job.”

*

So, we’re preparing for the school trip…

…No.

The preparations for the final “collapse” are slowly being completed.