Gamers!

Volume 8 Konoha Hoshinomori and Reversal Back Attack, Chapter 1 – Keita Amano and Total Loss

Translator: your_pingas

Nothing is harder to get a 10/10 than a sequel to a famous dating sim.

It’s not just for games. The bar for releasing a sequel for all renowned media is astronomically high. However, the dark side that dating sims contain is far deeper and more influential than other types.

After all, for players like us, even though that was just fictional and the time is short, the undeniable fact is that-

-We still had a relationship with those female protagonists.

Of course, I also hope the characters that I deeply loved can be blessed in the sequels or after stories. All I wished for is for them to live happily ever after. I’m already satisfied to see the loving interactions between them and the main character. Basically, that’s what players like us think.

-At least, that’s what a part of us thinks.

Indeed, on the other side, there’s a wish that severely contradicts this in our hearts.

To be precise, we fell in love with them- Why are we so shocked to the point that we hope the female characters to live happily ever after?

Which part of the main story has successfully grasped our hearts?

When thinking about this part, the typical scenes that come to people’s mind for most titles are-

-It’s the scene where they overcame a challenge or difficulty with the protagonist.

Naturally, there are exceptions. I’m not saying that all famous games emphasize on that.

However, the reason for most masterpieces that lived up to their reputation is because of an intensely impressive “overcome hardship plot.” That’s why they’re called masterpieces.

So, on the surface, the first requirement of “sequels” or “fan disc” for dating sims lovers like us is indeed a “happy ending.”

At the same time, there’s an entirely conflicting thought in our hearts.

“Give us ‘something’ that’s enough to surpass that throbbing plot once more.” …We hoped.

That’s a no-no wish. Since if you want to see a “conquering challenges” plot, it means that you want them to “suffer” once again.

So, fans will usually split into two camps here.

The “Character-loving Camp” that’s satisfied as long as there’s a happy after story.

Also, there are the ones who realized that the thing that they loved is the “plot.” If it can touch their hearts once again, they’re more or less willing to accept the “ups and downs,” …which is the “Plot Camp.”

These two wishes aren’t better than the other. Both sides are important.

At least, for me, both camps exist in my heart.

Of course, I feel upset when an after story just trashes the effort that the characters have given in the main plot for the sake of a sequel.

Even so, some sequels gave up “telling a story” completely while releasing at full price. These are the ones that think they can satisfy the customers with an unfinished plot plus some new illustrations. If the company is that crappy, I’ll feel something different too.

Anyway, both camps really exist in my heart.

It’s just that if you need to put me, Keita Amano, into one side-

Well…

“The fan disc for <Single Love Octet> is basically trash.”

I, Keita Amano, is cursing the game in the food court of the supermarket as I’m staring at the snow piling up like a smoothie in the car park from the window.

“Hiya, senpai is giving an unusually bitter review. This is interesting.”

As for the girl that’s sitting in front of me, …Konoha Hoshinomori-san, she shook her iconic double ponytail as she answered me with a somewhat excited expression. Honestly, this is not a useful hobby for her. However, I shouldn’t bring this up since I’m about to go off a brutal rant. Basically, since I’m really into this genre, sometimes I just can’t tolerate the issues with it.

I chugged the newly-released energy drink as I slammed the can onto the table. Then, I continued angrily.

“What the hell. That latest fan disc ‘bent its knees to new challenges’ entirely! No, it’s not even right to call it a fan disc anymore! That’s just a disc to satisfy people’s darkest desires!”

“I’ve never seen you this irritated before, senpai. However, I guess I agree with you, that fan disc is way too unusual…”

“Right!”

My ally in the hentai game realm really understands me. I was so excited that I can’t help but raise from my seat and lean forward. Our faces were pretty close. So, Konoha-san let out an adorable “ah” gasp before hastily looking away. She bit the straw from her carton of milk tea directly and took a big sip as if she’s trying to calm down.

I snapped out of it and apologized to her.

“Ah, sorry, I couldn’t hold myself back…”

I guess I scared her- I thought about this as I sat back down. Then, Konoha-san laughed a bit stiffly. “I-It’s fine.” After that, she cleared her throat and continued the discussion.

“For a fan disc, that’s a 4/10 maximum. The plot is plain, and I don’t feel the love for the characters, even the erotic elements are rare. It’s literally a game that can’t pique anyone’s interest. Even so, …it’s just a ‘mediocre game’ in my eyes. I don’t think I will complain about it viciously…”

Konoha-san’s bland response is pissing me off again.

“What are you talking about, Konoha-san! That’s like the worst thing they could do! It’s weird, after all! Out of the 8 female characters, I can’t believe 6 of them decided to break up with the main character in the fan disc!”

“Ay, …but think about it, some of the break-up plots also created a positive atmosphere…”

After I heard that, I…can’t help but slam my hand onto the table and retorted!

“How ‘positive’ can a break up be! That’s just something to deceive you!”

“Hiya!”

Swept by my anger, Konoha-san was startled as her shoulders started to tremble. After I saw her like that, I finally calmed down and quickly lowered my head and apologized to her.

“S-Sorry, I’m being way too rash. I can’t believe I’m getting angry like that…”

“I-It’s nothing. I’m quite happy to see senpai’s unexpected side…”

While she said that, I can feel Konoha-san’s smile is still a bit stiff. I deeply reflected on myself as I spoke up once again. …This time, I made sure I suppressed my emotion as I talked about my thoughts.

“…Parting ways because they want each other to be happy, …that doesn’t make any sense. Shouldn’t you feel happy when you’re with your most beloved person? …I don’t understand.”

“Senpai…”

Konoha-san gave me a sympathetic look. I also noticed it from her expression.

It looks like Konoha-san already knew…the “incident” that happened to us a few days ago.

…Which is-

On the 4th day of the school trip, we got a- sudden and terrible ending.

…………

However, even so, I continued as if my experience was just a “dating sim.”

“…In that fan disc, …among the female protagonists that broke up, almost half of them parted ways because they dreamed a different future than the MC. …However, isn’t it unfair for love to get such a low priority?”

“Well, …I think you’re generalizing it too much. However, it’s like what senpai mentioned. Perhaps in stories like this, most girls prioritize ‘chasing after their dreams’ over love.”

During this time, Konoha-san put her finger on her chin. Then, as if this aroused her interests as a hentai game lover, she started mumbling while verifying.

“I guess your question is unexpectedly profound, senpai. Even though love was the theme of this genre of entertainment, most concluded by putting relationships aside. This is quite compelling-“

After she said that, Konoha-san looked at me before coming to her realization. She quickly apologized to me.

“I-I’m sorry, I can’t believe I just said that this is compelling…”

“I-It’s okay, don’t mind it. We’re just talking about the game, anyway. …We’ve always been talking about the game…”

…A depressing silence fell onto the two of us. Then, Konoha-san reluctantly smiled and tried to continue the topic.

“B-But, the worst part about <Single Love Octet> is why the other two protagonists decided to break up, right! They said they love other guys…”

“Yes, that’s the problem!”

My emotions are getting high again. This is different than before. Although I did more or less try to calm myself down to avoid causing trouble for Konoha-san, I still expressed my thoughts angrily.

“What even was that! Well, actually, in a sense, I think that described a natural part of love! However, …however, isn’t this too weird! This is supposed for entertainment!”

“The director can’t do that even if he wanted to quit. Seriously, even for a girl like me, I also mumbled in the middle part. ‘This doesn’t make any sense.’ It’s so ridiculous that you can’t explain it with NTR alone. The story has its own issues.”

“Exactly! …Ay, but…”

During this time, I looked outside at the not-so-snowy scene as I sighed and mumbled.

“…From another perspective, it’s a hundred times more convincing than breaking up because they want each other to be happy.”

“…………”

“…Loving another person. If things are really like that, I won’t be this…I won’t be this…”

“S-Senpai? W-We’re talking about the game, right? Hey?”

Just as I’m staring afar, Konoha-san waved at me. I apologized. “S-Sory.” Then, Konoah-san sighed…before speaking as if she gave something up.

“I’m sorry, I tried my best to switch up the mood for senpai until now. …However, I don’t think I can cleverly avoid talking about ‘that’ anymore, even for a girl like me.”

“You…you’re right. …I’m sorry…”

I felt upset. So, Konoha-san sipped her milk tea and changed to a gentle tone before continuing.

“If senpai doesn’t hate it, I can hear you out for a bit. Your relationship issues.”

“Y-You’re right. …Even though it’s just a random Konoha-san, it’s good to find people to talk to when it comes to relationship issues.”

“Hiya, I suddenly don’t want to talk to senpai anymore! Well, I’ll be leaving…”

Konoha-san said that as she stood up.

“I’m sorry, Konoha-san! Please listen to me! Even though you’re just a hentai game lover that emphasizes sexual desires and has nothing to do with sad, innocent love, I’m saved if someone can stay with me!”

“That’s not an attitude for requesting someone to talk to you! Senpai!”

“It means that my heart is fragile right now! I’m so weak that I’m saying everything honestly!”

“Senpai tried to stab me while pretending to be smoothing things over. Can you please stop doing that!”

“K-Konoha-san, …as a loner, there’s already no one I can talk to…about things like this….”

I plopped my head down depressingly. So, this Konoha-san’s maternity seems to be awakened. She came back with a blush.

“Ugh, …i-it can’t be helped. If senpai said that, …this means that I’m the only one you can rely on, I guess I can more or less put up with you-“

“Aside from Aguri-san, Uehara-kun, Chiaki, Mizumi-kun, and my little brother, you’re the one that I can talk about relationship issues to, Konoha-san!”

“Aren’t you prioritizing me too lowly! If that’s the case, why don’t you just find another person to talk to! Stupid senpai!”

“Uh, everyone has been troubled by their own problems recently, I really don’t want to bother them…”

“Uwah, I didn’t know senpai is this considerate, ?how attractive?- If you think that’s what I’ll say, then you’re dead wrong, devil senpai. Do I look like I don’t have any trouble bothering me!”

“Eh, you do?”

“That’s cold! T-There is! That’s enough, stop looking down on me-“

“Well, how about you ignore those troubles that include sex, you got how many left?”

“That will be zero.”

She answered immediately. I rolled my eyes at her, and Konoha-san began to sweat a lot. …So, finally, she gave up on herself and said, “Ah, …jeez, I got it!” Then, she took a seat.

After seeing her like that, …I can’t help but laugh.

“Haha, thank you, Konoha-san. For some reason, when I’m talking to you, I’ll feel relaxed somehow! I should say chatting with you makes me forget reality for a while…”

“Yes, yes, yes, thanks for that, senpai. Jeez, I can’t believe you’re making fun out of your partner…”

Konoha-san pouted as she stared at the snowy scene sulkily. As for me, …I politely lowered my head to her.

“I sincerely appreciated that. …Seriously, I’ve always wanted to thank you.”

“…Hmph, hmph.”

Konoha-san hmphed as she looked away embarrassingly. She urged me to continue as if she’s trying to hide something.

“So? What actually happened? A few days ago, …on the 4th day of senpai’s school trip.”

This is Konoha-san’s question.

I…first took a deep breath as I remembered what happened on that day.

The things that happened on the 4th day of the school trip where we separated into two couples to watch the parade.

Aguri-san and I planned to give the high-class present to each of our lovers, …the paired Loverbears. We spent a lot of time and effort into getting them.

-In conclusion, the Loverbears are still with us.

Also, it’s not because our partner said, “you should keep that?” lovingly.

Simply, it’s because we can’t give them out.

In other words, Tendou-san and Uehara-kun didn’t even know that we want to give this high-class present out, which symbolized the two couples. The reason for that is-

-Just as I’m explaining this part, “Also-“ Konoha-san asked me.

“Senpai kept saying high-class just then, but how much did that thing actually cost?”

“…Uh, well, …it’s 20,000 yen.”

“Pfft! Hehehehe!”

“Why are you laughing at me that terribly!”

“Normies spending their money like a normie, yet it all turned into waste. How refreshing!”

“Even though I want to scold you for being so vicious, I think I will laugh in the same way if this happened to other normies! I really deserved it! I feel the same!”

Ay, forget about that, let’s continue.

Anyway, our Loverbears plan busted. Why? That’s because…

“Haha! Just as the normies are about to give out their 20,000 yen present chicly, their partners broke up with them…! I-I want to watch that scene even if I have to pay!”

When I’m about to describe the climax with a serious look, Konoha-san revealed the ending first as she laughed her butt off.

I can’t help but stood up angrily and smacked the chair.

“I talked to the wrong person! I’m going home!”

“Alright, alright, don’t say that, senpai! Please be considerate of the person listening to your relationship problems. It’s not like I have to be struck by lightning just by making a little fun out of this, right? Haha…”

“I…I guess you’re right. However, you should get a hold of yourself…”

“You want me to ‘get a hold of myself’ at this point?”

“I-I guess it makes sense.”

I somehow agreed with her, so I adjusted my breaths as I sat back down. Then, I started talking once again. …Sigh, even though I explained everything already.

In reality, it’s just like what Konoha-san mentioned, our lovers suddenly broke up with us that night.

Also, …coincidentally, it’s just the moment before we can give out the Loverbears.

From my perspective, it’s literally a bolt from the blue.

Also, …I didn’t mention this to Konoha-san, but, actually, at the moment before the break-up, Aguri-san and I were going, uh, …hmm, we were going “well” with our lovers. …As for…the meaning of going well, …it means, …how should I put it…

…I-I should say, …we kissed right there…

I can’t help but slightly touch my lips with my finger.

I can still remember everything clearly. Tendou-san’s beautiful face, her faint fragrance, and…how soft and warm her lips were, I can remember all that.

However, that’s why…what followed that replayed clearly too. Perhaps it’s because I have a low performance, I can’t pause this video. Once it started playing, …I can’t stop it even if I want to forever remain at the kissing scene.

I think Aguri-san must feel the same. Of course, I didn’t actually hear what happened to her. However, when we’re reporting to each other, I can feel the same embarrassed atmosphere coming from her. So, I guess that’s what happened to her.

To me, that’s like the most blessed scene of my life.

But that’s why the nightmare that followed immediately is all that more terrifying.

It’s literally like a free fall of love. The first kiss suddenly dropped into a break-up.

Naturally, Aguri-san and I didn’t understand what happened for a second there. All we could do is to stand there with a shocked expression a few seconds after our lovers brought it onto us.

They said something wrong; I heard something wrong; It’s just a joke; They’re just trying to scare us. These are the possibilities that came up to our mind first. Although we let out a forced laugh that didn’t match the mood of the scene, …the opposite side’s serious emotions still haven’t improved by the least bit.

At this point, when we finally got a hold of the situation, …we mumbled a reasonable question out of our mouths.

“…Why…”

This sentence.

“So, why?”

Konoha-san sipped her milk tea as she repeated me in a relaxed manner.

I was quite dumbfounded at her flippant attitude, but I feel like I’m saved at the same time, so I answered her question.

“…Honestly, this is still troubling Aguri-san and me.”

“Why? They don’t want to explain it clearly to you two?”

“No, they did explain it, of course. It’s just that, …I should say I can’t accept their explanation at all…”

“I got it. Those two revealed their crazy sexual fetishes to you two.”

“Uh, Konoha-san, they’re not the same as you.”

I calmly concluded. Konoha-san then replied sulkily.

“That’s impolite. I will never hide any ridiculous fetishes that scare senpai away. …A-Alright, please continue, senpai.”

“This is the first time that I’ve experienced a silence that can arouse a perverted imagination! What is this! Konoha-san, you’re already being too ridiculous now. Did you hide something else!”

“Well, …you can look forward to it once you selected my route, senpai.”

“No, no, no, it’s not about looking forward or not, that’s a secret enough to scare me away, right!”

“That’s hard to say. I’ll give you a hint: ‘canned mackerel’ plays an essential role if you want to flirt with me.”

“That’s crazy! Since I can’t imagine the content at all, your pervert atmosphere is especially shocking!”

“How’s that? Is senpai interested, the Konoha Hoshinomori route?”

“Ugh, I’m actually ‘interested!’ But are you willing to be treated as a weirdo like that!”

…I can even accept ‘canned mackerel’ just to seduce senpai!”

“Why are you saying that like ‘canned mackerel’ is my fetish! It’s more like, what the hell is ‘canned mackerel’ actually! How are you going to use canned mackerel-“

“S-Senpai! You can’t keep saying the word ‘canned mackerel’ in public, right!”

“Ah, sorry for that, I- …No, wait, this isn’t right! ‘Canned mackerel’ isn’t something that arouses people, right!”

“I won’t be too sure of that. After all, some can grow up to 180 cm…”

“Seriously, what are you going off about with a straight face. Sigh, …anyways, back to the topic.”

“Alright, where were we? Your lover just said something that meant a lot, and it’s so spicy that you can’t digest it. What should we do? That’s what we were talking about, right?”

“Mostly correct, but your phrasing is wrong! I was saying that I can’t accept the reason for breaking up!”

“Really. Well, although I want senpai to continue…”

During this time, Konoha-san checked her phone and continued with an apologetic look.

“But it’s time for me to go home.”

“Ah, r-right. You’re still a girl, of course, your family don’t want you-“

“No, my favorite hentai game studio released a mysterious countdown message on their official website. It’s going to end in an hour.”

“That’s nothing, right! Anyway, that’s just a simple notice that tells you they’re releasing a new game, or it’s just a mobile game release notice! By the way, why don’t you confirm that later!”

“I know it too! While I do, …however, you’ll have to pay attention to those tantalizing countdown notice at first hand, and then get disappointed at first hand!”

“Look, you knew you’re going to be disappointed! If that’s the case, please just talk about my relationship problems!”

“But senpai, there’s roughly a 2% chance that it’s something exciting!”

“I guess that’s right! But is talking about my relationship issues less important than that 2% possibility!”

“Indeed, honestly, this is why I can’t decide.”

“Is it that hard to decide…”

“So, …senpai?”

Suddenly, Konoha-san leaned forward from the table and forced me to see her plumpy chest in full view. She even looked up to me, …is she…

“…I’ll be thrilled if you can chat with me as you walk me home.”

“Hmm, uh, but, walking a girl home is too much for a guy that has a girlfriend-“

“No, senpai, aren’t you ‘single’ right now?”

“OUCH…!”

Keita Amano’s chest took severe damage. What is this? I’m not upset about being alone in my loner phase, but when I had Tendou-san as my attractive girlfriend before, the word ‘single’ hurts way harder. What’s wrong with me? This hurts.

So, I decided to accept Konoha-san’s request since I’m so defeated.

“…I understand. I’ll…walk you home.”

“Yay.”

Konoha-san gave me a victory pose as she smiled innocently. …Sometimes, an innocent and realistic reaction like this will make me feel that this person is adorable in a way that matches her age.

“Well, you need to hear my relationship issues out too.”

“Alright, alright, you can rely on me, senpai.”

So, we finished our beverages and walked out of the store.

*

In conclusion, this is a simple summary of the ‘reason for breaking up’ that Uehara-kun and Tendou-san mentioned to Aguri-san and me, respectively.

1. They didn’t hate or give up on us.

2. It’s also not because I’ve done anything out of bounds with Aguri-san (I think they kept emphasizing that).

3. It’s more like, they still “love” us.

4. Moreover, they fell in love with us even more on the school trip.

5. However, that’s why they can’t continue dating us.

“What, I feel like I just skipped a chapter.”

After Konoha-san heard what I said, she pretended that she’s flipping a manga with her hand in walnut-colored gloves.

First, I replied with a bitter smile as I looked around meaninglessly. We’re on the way to the residential area where Hoshinomori’s home resides. The snow is drifting with the breeze that came from nowhere.

I put my hands into the pockets of my jacket, and then I hid my chins inside my scarf before continuing.

“No, there’s nothing wrong, Konoha-san. I didn’t miss anything. Moreover, your reaction is exactly how Aguri-san and I feel.”

“Really, I understand. This is quite puzzling…”

Konoha-san said that as she stared at the evening sky, I guess she’s not that interested. Her breaths turned into white fumes right away before disappearing directly in mid-air.

So, she thought about this silently for 5 seconds. “Ay…” Then, she spoke up with a slightly serious tone.

“Honestly, this is a quite common plot in hentai games and dating sims. A mysterious break-up declaration from couples that are hotly in love.”

“Yeah, I know that too. Then, the reason for most of that is…”

“Yep, they want to be considerate to their loved ones. Staying as a couple will endanger the partner’s life due to numerous political factors. …This ‘there’s a price for free love’ plot is really common. Also, personally, I don’t like it. It’s cheap plot writing, don’t you think it’s a joke after watching it?”

“Don’t pretend that you’re hearing my relationship issues out while suddenly complaining about all romantic shows, alright? Anyway, we thought about that too. …However, will that actually happen in real life?”

Konoha-san shook at her and replied with a “no” after she heard me.

“To be honest, it’s hard to wrap your head around it. I should say it feels unrealistic…”

“Yeah. In reality, I don’t hear that from Tendou-san’s tone as well.”

“If that’s the case, from the other plots of hentai games, …it should be that one, right? The ‘when you’re up against the female protagonist, the side character decided to quit’ plot-“

At this point, Konoha-san became alerted to something and stopped. Just as she’s putting her finger on her lips and mumbling “don’t tell me…” while thinking, I rejected her theory at first hand.

“No, no, no, that’s unreasonable. Who’s Uehara-kun and Tendou-san trying to give Aguri-san and me to when they said that? No one in this world matches better than Uehara-kun to Aguri-san and Tendou-san to me, right?”

“This is the first time that I know normies can still show off their love after breaking up. This is annoying.”

Konoha-san gave a dumbfounded sigh as she squinted and glared at me for some reason.

She started walking again and continued next to me.

“But senpai, you kept saying that you’re a ‘loner.’ Actually, there are other girls that you’re pretty close to other than Tendou-senpai, right?”

“Girls that I’m close to? Ah, you mean Aguri-san?”

I answered without thinking. Suddenly, Konoha-san lowered her head a bit depressingly.

“In times like this, senpai will always think of Agu-senpai’s name first…”

“Hmm? W-Well, …Konoha-san. Did I do something impolite to you?”

Although I got more friends, my communication skills are just as terrible. Just as I’m worrying whether I’m acting too arrogantly by saying something impolite to a girl, Konoha-san comforted me with a smile.

“It’s okay. Also, speaking of girls that you’re close to, who else would senpai think of?”

“Eh? Of course, it’ll be your sister Chiaki.”

After I answered confidently, Konoha-san smiled a bit cheerfully.

“Oh, ‘of course’ it’s my sister? Of course, …hoho, I’m getting a bit jealous.”

“Ah, you’re just the same, Konoha-san. …Y-You’re a nice acquaintance to me.”

“Why don’t you just be honest and use the word ‘friend!’ I-I can’t believe you said I’m your acquaintance!”

“Uh, since I’m a guy with a girlfriend, I don’t think my brain allows me to say that I have a close relationship with you…”

“Why! Also, as I’ve said before, senpai is ‘single’ right now, is that true!”

“Ugh, …e-even if that’s true, I’m doing something that causes Tendou-san to hate me…”

“Why senpai’s big premise is that Tendou-senpai will hate you just because you’re close to me!”

“N-No. Well, …uh, I should say that I’ll feel like it will affect my impression score of the person that I’m dating…”

“This guy is finally saying something similar to what Kousei would say!”

“Similar to Kousei? Eh, Konoha-san, Kousei said something similar to you? Why?”

I tilted my head shockingly. So, sweat appeared on Konoha-san’s forehead as she started mumbling something.

(…Right, this person doesn’t know who his little brother really is. …Logically, there’s no need for me to, …even so, …if he found out, …my life would be in danger…)

The stuttering sounds really surprising. However, I don’t get what she meant at all.

Then, Konoha-san seems to want to bring a conclusion to something, so she cleared her throat and looked away from me as she explained.

“N-No, uh, Kousei…-san and I bumped into each other a while ago. So, how should I say this, since we liked each other at the time, he just randomly insulted me. …O-Of course, we’re really just joking. It’s a joke!”

Konoha-san freaked out as she explained.

(This looks like…)

I can see a lot of things already. So, I rolled my eyes at Konoha-san before giving her an utterly gloomy look.

“…Konoha-san, …I didn’t know that you’re…that close to Kousei…”

“…Eh…?”

Suddenly, for some reason, Konoha-san blushed. Then, she started mumbling to herself loudly.

(W-What’s this? Don’t tell me, …don’t tell me senpai is…j-jealous? Really! Eh, wait, what’s happening? If that’s the case, I feel super excited-)

Konoha-san said something that no one can understand excitedly.

Facing her like that, -I explained everything clearly.

“Konoha-san, …please don’t get too close with my proud little brother!”

“Although there’s a difference, I didn’t know that senpai is also a brocon too! What’s wrong with you two? How annoying!”

I’m a brocon too? What’s she going off about? While I’m proud of Kousei, but Kousei doesn’t feel the same, right. However, that’s not important right now. Back to the topic.

“Uh, Konoha-san, let’s put the jokes aside here. Even though it’s impolite for me to say this, …but if my perfect little brother started hanging out with you, it’s too…you get it, right? Don’t you think you two don’t match?”

“That’s mean! Senpai, I didn’t know you’re like an evil hag!”

“No, you’re wrong. From the experience I’ve had with Tendou-san, I’m actually a guy that hates to talk about the disparity between couples. However, even so, …even though I’ll be scolded, I still need to say this clearly for my family. You don’t match my little brother!”

“What, why are you suddenly acting so manly! This impresses me for some reason! But I’m even more pissed!”

“It’s nothing, Konoha-san. You’re beautiful, well-mannered, and I like how you talk. You’re a top-tier girl in my eyes.”

“Eh? Ah, well, …thanks for that, senpai…”

“But you’re nothing compared to my little brother. I can’t believe an exhibitionist is wishing to eat swan meat.”

“Exhibitionist?”

“Moreover, …think about it, …there’s a difference in family history too. From what I’ve heard, your…your sister seems to have her origin linked to seafood.”

“My sister is seafood?”

“So, if you can, …uh, refrain yourself from being a friend of Kousei, I would love that.”

“This older brother doesn’t even want his little brother to have a friend! Uh, even though I don’t want to befriend Kousei at all! I’ll never wish to hang out with a person like him!”

“Ugh. I-I can’t believe you said you don’t want to be friends with my little brother. Konoha-san, what are you trying to say!”

“How annoying! What’s wrong with this pair of brothers? What a pain in the butt!”

Konoha-san put her hand onto her forehead before sighing loudly. Then, she said “anyway” impatiently before going back to the topic.

“Currently, what happened between Kousei and me wasn’t important, right. Moreover, in reality, our relationship isn’t that good.”

“R-Really? That’s great, …I’m sorry.”

I scratched my head. I think blood just rushes up to my brain whenever things involve my little brother, and I said something really impolite to Konoha-san. I need to apologize.

The street lights are firing up on the street in preparation for dusk. Konoha-san looked at that scene carelessly as she continued.

“Let me get this straight, senpai. You want to ‘pry’ on the reason of breaking up, that’s why you came to see me, right? It’s because I’m quite close to Tendou-senpai recently.”

“Ugh…”

She got me. I dropped my shoulders and sincerely apologized to her.

“Uh, …Konoha-san, I’ve heard from Tendou-san that ‘you’re quite close to her’ on the school trip. That’s why I, …I’m sorry.”

“It’s okay. I think it’s bound to happen for a person in love. At least, I love this kind of enthusiasm that ignores one’s reputation.”

“Konoha-san…”

Somehow, I respected this young high school girl that sounds a bit light, which is something that I haven’t felt in a long time.

“Right now, I want to find a dark corner and drag senpai in as well.”

However, it lasted for less than 2 seconds.

“Please return my admiration.”

I complained dumbfoundedly. Konoha-san then told me this with a sad expression.

“Phew, …love…is surely sinful.”

“Yeah, as for the thing that you wanted to do just then, that’s legally sinful too.”

“Eh, you’re lying, really? A beautiful girl banging a boy is against the law?”

“I don’t want to say this, but your mind is seriously poisoned by hentai games!”

“Hey, I can’t just ignore that, senpai, please apologize.”

“Eh? Ah, sorry, I’m getting angry over a girl-“

“Senpai, please apologize to all hentai games! No hentai game will literally describe that twisted view as justice! Please don’t act like that just because you think hentai games are subcultures!”

“If that’s the case, where did you get your crazy thoughts from! Anyway, I’ll apologize to hentai games! I’m sorry! Actually, I really love hentai games too!”

“Excellent. Moreover, about my concepts, especially on the sexual stuff, I admit that I’m pretty crazy on my own. I wasn’t really influenced by anything. …I’m just a pure molester freak at the start.”

“What kind of incredible title is that.”

This is the first time that I’ve heard such a word, molester freak. Also, I don’t think I’ll ever hear it again in the future, molester freak.

We stepped onto the snow as we continued making our way towards the residential area. At this point, I slightly remembered where Hoshinomori’s house is. It’s around 3 minutes from here.

(…In the end, I still don’t understand anything despite talking to Konoha-san…)

In reality, I didn’t really expect that I can know what’s on Tendou-san’s mind from her. However, ..even if I understand, I still can’t just sit there and do nothing.

To a gamer, nothing is more irritating than not understanding how to get through a level that you’ve stuck on for a long time.

For example, if you lose to a boss in RPGs, you can train if your level is too low. If your gear or team is too poor, just train harder and try it next time.

However, if a message like “a mysterious shockwave has invaded your body!” suddenly appeared and your HP suddenly went to zero, people won’t know what to do. Perhaps you need some kind of essential item to go through, or you need to trigger the plot somewhere else. Although you can predict all that, …if there’s no hint in the game, you can’t expect anything.

In the end, you need to try every possible way inefficiently. This is…how I feel right now.

Although Konoha-san praised me with the word “enthusiastic,” there should be an actual difference.

Right now, I’m not even sure whether I’m going forward already. However, if I just stop without doing anything. …A weakling like me will just keep torturing my heart while accomplishing nothing.

To prevent me from free-falling like that, I’m wrapping my hands around my head as I tried to escape. I’m just struggling uselessly. …Are you sure that people can describe me with positive words like enthusiastic?

“…………”

Once I snapped out of it, I realized I fell silent for nearly a minute. Then, Konoha-san glanced at me gently and warmly like she’s my mother.

I was impressed as I attempted to muster words out of my mouth.

“W-What’s wrong?”

“It’s nothing, everything’s fine. Ah, by the way, senpai, let’s go to that park over there, shall we?”

“Eh?”

After she said that, I looked over at where she’s pointing, and then I realized that there’s a park. A common one that you can see all over the residential area. There’s a swing, a sandpit, gymnastic bars, drinking fountains, and a toilet. It’s a really simple playground. Currently, not a single housewife or kid is around. Perhaps it’s because of the snow.

I said, “But…” as a response.

“Konoha-san, don’t you need to go home quickly?”

“Yep, there’s still some time, so it’s okay. Moreover, senpai, just go there with me for 5 minutes.”

“Really, if that’s the case…! N-No, I think I’ll pass. It’s because no one is there, and it’s pretty dark.”

“You were just imagining me raping you, right, senpai! That’s impolite!”

“S-Sorry, I did it naturally…”

“Do you think the sexual desires that I’ve suppressed for so long can be satisfied with merely 5 minutes, senpai!”

“Hiya, this is not the reason that I’ve expected you to be angry.”

“Anyway, this isn’t why we’re going there!”

“R-Really? Well, …then I guess I can go with you.”

“Thank you, senpai!”

After Konoha-san gave me an energetic smile, she ran into the park like an innocent child. …From her perspective, that’s just an ordinary park near her home. Why is she getting so excited? …Just as I’m following her while feeling a bit confused, she stopped by the swing and turned back to me. Then, she put her tongue out a little bit embarrassingly.

“Actually, I wouldn’t dare to come here and play if there are people around.”

“Ah, I really understand how you feel since I’m the same type of person. However, I didn’t expect this. Konoha-san, I feel like you’re the extrovert type that loves to hang out with others.”

Konoha-san smiled bitterly at what I said.

“Well, although I’m way more flexible than my loner senpai, it’s two separate things with whether you’re a flexible person and whether you’re willing to be one.”

“Uwah, that sounds deep.”

“It’s not deep. I’m just saying that whether I like being stopped by housewives from next door. They keep asking, ‘how are you doing at school’ or ‘Konoha, did you get a boyfriend’ every time.”

“Ah, …I get it. It’s not uncomfortable or frustrating, it’s just…”

“Yep. Honestly, it’s better to spend time like that on gaming.”

“You just said that out loud, but I guess it’s true.”

“Of course, if I said something sincere like, they’ll think I’m a ‘modern, cold-hearted teenager.’ So, I usually won’t say that.”

“I feel you. They wouldn’t even consider that I want to play games.”

“Exactly! Ay, well, I guess they’re right in a sense…”

Konoha-san and I can’t help but smile bitterly at each other. It’s moments like this that can make me acknowledge this girl in front of me is indeed my “partner.”

Then, Konoha-san faced me with her back and slowly bowed down, and then she carefully swept the snow piled on the swing away as she continued.

“Because of that, I hate being stopped by my chatty neighbors. However, I still love a park like this. Even though there’s not a specific reason. How should I put it, perhaps it’s because of the experience when I was little. The concept of ‘this is a happy place’ has been funneled into my brain.”

“…I think I get that too.”

As I’m saying that, I also swept away the snow on the swing next to Konoha-san and sat down. Just as we took a couple light swings, …we can’t help but laugh out.

“If you think about this calmly, even though swings are impractical rides, it’s super fun.”

Konoha-san agreed with what I’ve said.

“Yes, that’s it. So, sometimes, when there’s no one around, I’ll come to the swings secretly. Ah, but if the kids are afraid of coming because I’m here, I do mind that. So, I’ll always leave before someone shows up.”

Konoha-san told me this embarrassingly as she started swinging again. …For some reason, I finally feel that this junior is a bit adorable-

“After all, it’s sexually arousing to feel the Gs with my lower abdomen secretly.”

-I was wrong. That was close. The ultra pervert is still operational today.

I completely ignored what Konoha-san said and just sat there swinging silently. So, she slightly lowered her tone and spoke up.

“…Senpai, at which point do you think a couple’s relationship will end?”

“…What do you mean by at which point?”

“For example, it ends after there’s no response for a month, or It ends after you realized she’s cheating.”

“Hmm, .well, …no matter the reason. …Anyway, the relationship should end when both sides want to break up, right?”

“…Really, …what a slow way of thinking.”

After Konoha-san heard my answer, she couldn’t hold her smile anymore and laughed a little as if she’s looking down on me. I was a bit pissed. As for Konoha-san, …she looked at the sky from afar and continued.

“I think- as long as one side decided to break up, the relationship is already completely over.”

“!”

Her extremely brutal…yet logical sentence shocked me. I can’t help but touch the ground with my foot and stopped the swing.

I was still frozen from her words. Then, Konoha-san continued swinging as she spoke up calmly.

“No one will suffer if a relationship can be built on one-sided love.”

“B-But, …think about it. Actually, Tendou-san must want to continue dating me-“

“Senpai-“

Suddenly, Konoha-san stopped her swing and came next to me. Then, …she glared at me with an unprecedentedly sharp look.

“Did you know that you just proposed something really dangerous?”

“…!”

I can’t help but look away from her after she said that, and then I lowered my head. …She’s right. …The nice way to put what I’ve just said is that “I trust Tendou-san,” …However, …on the other hand, I’m twisting the meaning of what she said, what she believed, and what she did base on my own convenience. This is the worst thing I could do. The most terrible scenario is that my mindset is comparable to that of a stalker.

I was so defeated that my face went pale. Konoha-san then changed her expression and continued.

“It’s okay, as long as senpai understands. Look, I always thought that senpai wants to ‘roll on the bed excitedly’ with a junior girl from another school. That’s why I’m doing a lot of stuff to senpai with that premise.”

Konoha-san smiled as she pinched her skirt and showed me her white thighs under for a bit. Usually, I would feel dumbfounded or start complaining. …However, this time, I really want to appreciate her for being so “warm” to me.

Konoha-san started swinging gently again.

“I get it, senpai feels really weak right now. It’s already depressing that Tendou-senpai broke up with you. Moreover, since things went this way, you can’t call Uehara-senpai, Agu-senpai, …or my sister for help, not even Kousei. You can’t sincerely rely on them. In other words, senpai, …you’ve never been this lonely before. This is unusual.”

“…………”

She got me.

I stared at the dusky sky. …Since the 4th day of the trip, …I rarely messaged people online, not to mention in real life. I…

I’m really lonely.

…I thought I was used to being “alone” already. Although I really treasure everyone, however, even if they left me, it just ended up from “positive” back to “zero.” …I’m returning to my normal state from a blissful and beloved life. …I thought that was true.

However, I’m wrong. Totally wrong.

I…I…

“…You’re really lonely, right, senpai?”

“…………”

How can this junior always see me right through? …So, it seems that she saw my question as well and spoke up with a bitter smile.

“It’s because someone in my family is really similar to senpai, …including that weak emotion.”

“…………”

I don’t know what to say. After that, …after the school trip, I didn’t even talk properly to Chiaki. Honestly, I don’t know how I should speak to her. I used that I was dating Tendou-san as a reason and rejected her feelings. …Then, I kept requesting her help, …yet it all turned into dust. I’m not sure whether I can still call myself a friend of her anymore.

However, from what Konoha-san mentioned, Chiaki seems to be really “fragile” right now for some reason too…

(…If it was because I rejected her, I don’t think I should ask this right here.)

Sigh, what’s wrong with me right now. I can’t rely on nor help anyone.

Konoha-san spoke gently to comfort me.

“Senpai, you must be, …I get it. If we’re in a game, you’re at a ‘lost’ state.”

“Lost…”

“The shining gears you got from this adventure were all gone, and your level went back to 1. All of your journeys returned to the beginning, and all the teammates you got temporarily disbanded. Well, if there’s something left, …yep, perhaps it’s an irrelevant NPC like me that are still affectionate towards senpai, right.”

“Don’t say that. You’re not irrelevant…”

I planned to retort, but Konoha-san said, “it’s fine” and smiled.

“Thanks to that, I can act as a weak senpai’s only companion right now and comfort you.”

“Konoha-san…”

So, it seems that Konoha-san wanted to calm me down, so she smiled confidently at me.

“But even if you ‘lost,’ it’s far from a ‘total loss’ yet, senpai. This is just like a game. As long as you look for them quickly, all the gears, experience, and teammates you lost can be recovered in no time! So, in the future, I, Konoha Hoshinomori, will provide my assistance and help senpai out as much as possible! Uh, …ah, it’s okay if you want sex too, you get it, right!”

Konoha-san even added that last sentence playfully. …I can’t do this. Crap, I’m about to cry.

So, right now, even if it’s just a casual encouragement from Konoha-san, when I heard that, …when I listened to that…

“…Thank you, Konoha-san. Thanks to you, I think…I can still fight on.”

I appreciated her, yet Konoha-san answered me with a serious look.

“Also, what does senpai mean when you said you want to ‘fight’ on? From my interpretation, are you so determined that you’re going to stalk your ex?”

…She’s indeed the renowned student council president of Hekiyou High School. She’s serious. That’s the determination and face of…a friend that wants to protect the girl Karen Tendou.

To her question, I also replied sincerely and honestly.

“Well, based on the situation, perhaps it’ll really turn into what you said.”

“Senpai, that’s too…”

“But please relax. Thanks to you, I’ll not act an uncertain motive that’s basically imagination. I will never think ‘Tendou-san must feel the same way’ before I act.”

“Hmm? If that’s the case, senpai, can I ask what you are you thinking now?”

“Of course, even if I’m in a total loss state right now, there’s still something that I can rely on.”

“There’s still something that you can rely on even in such a hopeless state? That is…”

This is Konoha-san’s question.

I…put my hand in front of my chest and answered her with a smile.

“That is the feeling that I, Keita Amano, have for Tendou-san.”

“…………”

“Even if everything around me is uncertain right now, even if Tendou-san and I…aren’t couples anymore. Even if that’s the case…”

I stared at the evening sky determinedly.

“I still love Tendou-san. It’s okay even if it’s just one-sided love. This is the only feeling…that even Tendou-san herself can’t limit or reject. Whether it’s the present or the future, I always love Tendou-san. I love her the most.”

I told her with my eyes sparkling. Then, Konoha-san sighed dumbfoundedly next to me.

“…Jeez, senpai, you’re going too far. I can’t believe you’re showing off your determination to a junior that’s interested in you…”

While she did complain, Konoha-san looks a bit happy, so I added.

“So, I’ll still act like I’m in love with her. I can’t help it if that counts as what a stalker will do. However, I’ll promise you that everything I do will be within my conscience.”

“Yes, yes, yes, I get it. Anyway, I’m not really worrying that senpai will turn into a stalker. By the way, I’m relieved that you got a nice conclusion.”

Konoha-san smiled at me, …what a nice girl.

Just as I’m throbbed on my own, Konoha-san kept her unchangeable attitude and added something unnecessary.”

“In other words, this means that the sexual desires I have for senpai also counts as ‘love.’ Hehehe!”

“No, that’s way over from what you’ll call conscience.”

“Really? I hate to be honest, but 90% of love is sexual desires, right?”

“You destroyed everything you just said a while ago, sigh…”

I let out a sigh. Then, Konoha-san chuckled and stood up with the help of a powerful swing. She didn’t even wait for me and started walking as she spoke.

“Alright, it’s time to go, senpai. It’s time for the disappointing notice that I waited so long for.”

“Ah, I almost forgot. Let’s go.”

I stood up from the swing as well, and then I ran next to her. After that, I smiled at Konoha-san, but she suddenly looked away embarrassingly. Then, she got slightly startled and told me this.

“Sigh, sigh, …if only I knew senpai was going to be this fragile. I could’ve actually comforted you in a more flirty way. Uwah, how regrettable.”

“You’re saying that again…”

I complained as usual. …However, I slightly changed my mind this time.

(Hmm, Konoha-san put so much effort into being a clown just to cheer me up. …I’ll be too inconsiderate if all I do is complaining. How about a route change…)

I cleared my throat and immediately went in front of Konoha-san after we’re out of the park. Then, I put my hands on her shoulders and faced her in the eyes.

“Ehh? U-Uh, senpai? L-Look there…”

Konoha-san was surprised. Yep, …this is a new reaction for me. This means that she’s enjoying it.

I’m getting confident at pranks like this, so I smiled smugly. Also, that’s why I didn’t notice Konoha-san is looking somewhere behind me-

-I posed a “handsome” look and told her with my serious attitude that I just acted out.

“Well, now that we have a chance, why don’t you comfort me with the flirty way that you just mentioned, Konoha-san?”

“Eh!” “Eh!”

I heard Konoha-san’s shocked reaction, so I got a bit too cheerfully. Hahaha, I was the one that was pranked all around, but this time I’m striking back.

The evidence is that I can hear Konoha-san’s shocked voice stereophonically as if it appeared in front and behind me. Look, like right now, I’m so immersed that I think I can feel someone behind me-

“…A-Amano…-kun?”

-Eh, weird, even though Konoha-san didn’t move her mouth, I can hear a speaker playing a sound effect behind. …Also, how should I say this? I can even feel that noise is exactly someone that dated me until a while ago. Also, Konoha-san seems to be staring the “person” that I imagined with a pale face.

…………

….I turned my neck stiffy and looked behind with a horrible feeling.

In the end, I saw-

“Amano-kun, …what…did you…just say to Konoha-san…”

-The incredibly beautiful and blonde high school girl, who’s shocked expression is just as charming. In other words…

“T-Tendou-san…?”

My “ex-girlfriend” is standing behind me with a twitching face.

…………

Well, it looks like my relationship is confirmed to be in “total loss” here. Well done, everyone. I appreciated your hard work.