Chapter 1
Here is the translation for chapter 1 of Okita’s route! Common route translation is by yuugs, and the Okita-specific scenes translations are by shizuumi. Proofreading by shizuumi, kuririn and dei-hime.
―― June ――
As the calendar turned to the next page, our uniforms turned to summer ones as well.
In April and May, I was so desperate to get used to high school life that the months just flew by….
‘Lately, I think I’ve finally made a place for myself in my life at Hakuo Academy.’
Of course, it was still an environment meant for boys, so I still felt a little out of place. But thanks to my reliable friends and teachers, I was living a fulfilling life at school——
Two months have passed since I began high school. It was a clear and sunny morning in June. When I came to school, immediately after entering the building, the first thing I felt was an odd atmosphere.
As I climbed the stairs, just as I turned onto the landing——
Chizuru Yukimura: “Wah!?”
???: “Ah!”
I collided with the student rushing around the corner, and ended up falling on my butt.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Ow…"
Susumu Yamazaki: “Yukimura-kun? Sorry…”
Hajime Saitou: “I told you not to rush, Yamazaki. Are you alright, Yukimura?”
I looked up into two faces I recognized. Saitou-senpai was holding a textbook under one arm. He held out his hand to me.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah… yes, I’m alright."
Trying not to overthink it, I grabbed his hand and he pulled me upright.
Chizuru Yukimura: ”…Thank you for that.“
Chizuru Yukimura:: "I’m sorry, Yamazaki-senpai. I wasn’t being careful.”
As I bowed deeply to the two of them, I noticed a second year textbook had fallen to the floor.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Isn’t this your textbook, Yamazaki-senpai?”
Susumu Yamazaki: “O-Oh, did I drop it? …I didn’t notice. Thanks.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
Something was off. Yamazaki’-senpai’s eyes had kind of a glazed look, and there were dark circles underneath them. Saitou-senpai also looked tired.
This seems…
[Are you alright?]
[Are you not getting enough sleep?]
Chizuru Yukimura: “Are you getting enough sleep?”
Susumu Yamazaki: “Well, um, that’s just how it is right now… It’s no big deal.”
Hajime Saitou: “Right. The real pain will begin next week or so."
Chizuru Yukimura: “…?”
They smiled bitterly, and then turned away. As they did…their gait seemed uneven. They said it wasn’t a big deal, but it didn’t look that way.
Chizuru Yukimura: "I wonder if they’re okay…”
I was getting more and more worried, but I didn’t have much time left before homeroom. Without another word, I hurried off to my classroom.
All morning, the school had been filled with chattering students. The hallway before the classrooms was especially lively. Maybe it was because classes hadn’t started yet. Having gotten to know them over the last two months, I exchanged greetings with my classmates in the hall as I headed to my classroom. On the way, I saw familiar faces in the distance and suddenly stopped in my tracks.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai?"
I thought that was a freshman classroom. Why would two sophomores be there? It would be time for Homeroom soon…
[Call out to them]
[Leave them alone]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Heisuke-kun, Okita-senpai!”
I called out to them, waving. Both of them noticed me and immediately came over.
Heisuke Toudou: “Yo, Chizuru. G’morning!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Morning, Heisuke-kun. Did you guys just come back from practice?"
Souji Okita: "Yep. Been working like dogs all morning.”
They were part of the kendo club, which often met in the morning. On days when there was morning training, Heisuke and I couldn’t walk to school together. I got a bit lonely those days… But seeing him trying his hardest made me happy.
Chizuru Yukimura: “But why are you guys here? This is a first year classroom…”
Heisuke Toudou: “That’s… well, the thing is… We were just passing by…”
Souji Okita: “Why not be honest? This guy came by ‘cause he was worried about you.”
Heisuke Toudou: “Ah! Hey, Souji!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Worried…about me?” I blinked in surprise. Heisuke rubbed his head and mumbled.
Heisuke Toudou: “I mean, you’re surrounded by a bunch of guys, right? I’m worried they might pick on you or something.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “No, no, I’m alright. I’ve made a lot of friends in my class these past new months.”
Souji Okita: “There you go. Yet here he comes anyway, worrying his little head off about you. Pretty stalker-ish vibes, don’t you think?"
Heisuke Toudou: "W-Who you calling a stalker! I’m not anything like one!”
I smiled at Okita-senpai’s and Heisuke-kun’s bickering.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Anyway, guys, I think the bell’s about to ring.”
Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, crap! You’re right!”
Souji Okita: “Well, we’ll probably see you at lunch later.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Yup!”
After seeing them off, I went back to enter the classroom…
When I did, I took out my textbook and notebook to get ready for class. The bell rang as soon as I’d finished, and I heard the sound of the door opening.
Sanosuke Harada: “Take your seats, guys. Homeroom’s starting.”
As Harada-sensei came in, everyone rushed to their seats.
Classmate A: “Stand! Bow!”
Sanosuke Harada: “All right, morning!”
Everyone in class: “Good morning!”
Sanosuke Harada: “Time for attendance…is what I was going to say, but it seems like everyone’s here. Raise a hand if not.”
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “You can’t do that if you’re not here…”
Ibuki-kun startled me by suddenly speaking up. A laugh escaped me before I could stop myself. Harada-sensei did make jokes like this at times. He really was a friendly, kind teacher.
Sanosuke Harada: “Now then, you all started school two months ago, and now it’s June. With that being the case…Though you might already know this, our school’s midterm exams start in two weeks! Make sure to study diligently, you guys. Put your feet up and slack off, and who knows what horrors you might be tempting?” Harada-sensei smirked as if he knew something we didn’t.
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Horrors…?”
Sanosuke Harada: “If you think this’ll be the same as tests back in middle school, you’ll be in for a bad time. As you all know, Hakuo Academy has a teacher that’s much more passionate about educating its students than other schools do.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Passionate about educating, meaning–”
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “…It’s Hijikata-sensei, isn’t it?”
Sanosuke Harada: “Well, so it goes. Following a certain teacher’s suggestion, there’ll be penalties for students with lower scores. Those scoring less than 50% in a subject will receive a special homework assignment, and must clean all the school’s windows.“
Everyone in class: ”……“
As Harada-sensei with his explanation, everyone in class got paler and paler.
Sanosuke Harada: “Below 30% gets you cleaning corridors on top of the additional homework… And below that, the punishments get extra special.”
Chizuru Yukimura: ”'Special,’ he says…“
Sanosuke Harada: "Below 20% means doing a problem set, weeding the school yard, and a week of additional classes!”
Classmate A: “Whaaaaat?!”
Sanosuke Harada: “Sorry, but it’s already set in stone. Don’t like it? Then study like there’s no tomorrow. I don’t think anyone should get lower than 50%. If you study then you’ll be in the clear, right?”
While listening to Harada-sensei, I recalled what happened this morning. The reason why Saitou-senpai and Yamazaki-senpai seemed so off was probably this.
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
While I didn’t mind studying, there was no way I’d want extra homework.
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “What would that guy do to me if I got myself stuck in supplemental classes…?!” Ibuki’s face drained of all color, and he hung his head.
This was going to be difficult. I would have to brace myself… The midterm exams would begin the week after next. Although I thought June’s hardships were over, the real battle was just around the corner.
After morning classes had finished, it was finally time for lunch. ‘Am I worrying too much about the tests? I feel kind of weird today,’ I thought.
Chizuru Yukimura: “I should go to the cafeteria for the time being.”
Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai were probably waiting for me…After quickly putting my school supplies away, I headed for the cafeteria.
For Hakuo Academy students, there were essentially three ways to get lunch. Some students brought a bento from home, and some bought their lunches at the school store. But the most popular lunch choice was to buy a meal from the cafeteria.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Wow…”
The school lunches were all delicious and affordable. It was no wonder they were so popular. I usually brought a bento, but sometimes I didn’t feel like having one. Since it was so popular, it was jam-packed by the time I got there.
Genzaburou Inoue: “Hey, you there! Line up properly! There are plenty of meals to go around…Hey now…! Don’t argue over the rice! Remember your manners and share!”
The beloved school chef, Inoue-san, was also managing the cafeteria. It looked like he was doing a good job sorting the students out, as usual.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Heisuke-kun isn’t here yet, huh…?” ‘I’ll get in the way if I stand and wait here. What should I do?’ the moment the thought passed through my mind…
???: “You’re in the way. Move.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh…?”
A voice rang out from the other side of the crowd. Immediately afterwards, the masses parted, splitting into two. Imperious as ever, the figure which emerged between them was…
Chizuru Yukimura: “K-Kazama-senpai…”
Amagiri-senpai and Shiranui-senpai pushed away annoyed students left and right, creating an empty clearing in the otherwise crowded cafeteria.
Chikage Kazama: “Chizuru…? For us to meet here of all places… How serendipitous. As I thought, there is a strong bond of fate between us. Don’t you agree?”
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wha–”
Kyou Shiranui: “Is it? You go to the same school with the same cafeteria. Wouldn’t it be weirder if you didn’t see each other?”
Kyuuju Amagiri: “It is strange, now that you mention it… That you have never encountered each other here until today is rather more mysterious.”
Chikage Kazama: “……”
Kyou Shiranui: “Don’t sound like much of a bond to me.”
Chikage Kazama: “……No matter. Whatever the peanut gallery says, rest assured that our meeting today was destiny. As such, I will have your lunch prepared. Order whatever you wish.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?!”
Chikage Kazama: “What’s wrong? There’s no need to hold back. Even if you want everything on the menu, I won’t mind.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “That’s not what I’m worried about…! At any rate, treating me to so much is unfair to you!”
Chikage Kazama: “That modesty is a virtue of yours, but I insist that it’s fine. ….Or is it something else? Does the cafeteria food not suit your palate?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “T-That’s not the case at all! It’s delicious! It’s just that……”
As I shook my head, the number of people waiting for food was increasing. Maybe because of how we stood out in the middle, other students couldn’t get in line…The people who were stuck around us were getting angry. ‘W-What should I do…?’ I was so conflicted that I could feel tears starting to form in my eyes. Then–
???: “You again, Kazama!!”
An ear-splitting yell descended upon us.
Toshizou Hijikata: “Just what do you think you’re doing, harassing the female student in the middle of the cafeteria? Can’t you see she’s about to cry!?”
Chikage Kazama: “Ha. How ludicrous… You say that as if I were the one who made her cry.”
Kyou Shiranui: “…You say it, Amagiri.”
Kyuuju Amagiri: “Well, I can say we never intended in the slightest to make her cry…”
Toshizou Hijikata: “Then why is she holding back tears? …And why is everyone packed like sardines in here? Out with it.”
Chikage Kazama: “My wife’s eyes are full of tears due to her gratitude for my superb generosity. As to the cafeteria, it just happens to be crowded today. To falsely accuse a single student of being responsible is unbefitting of a teacher such as yourself.”
Toshizou Hijikata: “There’s a suspicious clearing around you and you only! Put two and two together, and it can only be your fault!”
Hijikata-sensei and Kazama-senpai always fought like cats and dogs, and their terrible relationship was infamous at school. Sparks flew the moment they met, and it only ever grew more and more extreme.
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
When I saw Hijikata-sensei coming earlier, I thought everything would be sorted. It relieved me from the bottom of my heart… But far from improving anything, the situation seemed like it was only going to get worse.
Chizuru Yukimura: “…W-What do I do…?”
[Stand and watch]
[Forcibly break them up]
‘Trying to interfere from the sidelines may make things even more complicated.’ Thinking that, I decided to keep my mouth shut for the time being. But in the end…
Toshizou Hijikata: “Looks like I was right! It doesn’t seem like she asked for your ‘superb generosity’!”
Chikage Kazama: “That is due to a difference in values. It seems that a lowlife like you has yet to be able to understand my excellent resourcefulness…”
…There was no sign of the dispute stopping anytime soon. While I squirmed on the sidelines, someone called out to me from the side.
Heisuke Toudou: “Chizuru! Sorry we’re late! Class went on longer than normal."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Heisuke-kun, Okita-senpai…!”
Souji Okita: “What the? What’s all the fuss about? Why’s it so crowded here?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Right, actually—”
After I briefly explained the situation, Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai looked amazed. While Hijikata-sensei and Kazama-senpai glared at each other with murderous intent, Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai looked at the pair and sighed.
Souji Okita: “How about we leave them to it and head off? If you don’t hurry, you won’t get to eat.”
Heisuke Toudou: “Right, right. Our lunch break’s gonna end! I’m already hungry too…”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh? …O-Okay…” ‘Would that be alright…?’
Genzaburou Inoue: “Hey, Toshi-san and Kazama-kun, what’re you doing!? You’re holding up the line for everyone!!”
The teachers’ confrontation weighed on my mind, but…Inoue-san shouted to rein in the situation. Hearing his booming voice, I turned around and left the pair.
Souji Okita: “Chizuru, over here.”
With our meal sets on our trays, we found Okita-senpai sitting at an empty table. I’d chosen meal set 'A’. Drinking a cup of warm miso soup always relaxed me.
Heisuke Toudou: “Ahh, it’s so good…! I worked out so much this morning, I couldn’t wait for lunch!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Good work with training this morning, you guys!”
Heisuke Toudou: “I’m sorry I couldn’t walk with you to school because of that…But in the end, morning’s the best time of day to be working up a sweat.”
Souji Okita: “Well, it gets hot during the day this time of year, so I get sluggish when school ends.”
Heisuke Toudou: “You said it… But lately we got club members who study in the middle of morning practice. You can’t focus on training if you do that.”
Souji Okita: “The entire school’s been on edge. I don’t know whether it’s the tests or the punishments, but it’s a real pain.”
Heisuke Toudou: “Well, the one who’s most on edge would be Hijikata-sensei.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Speaking of which… You’re both in Class 2-1, so isn’t Hijikata-sensei your homeroom teacher?”
Souji Okita: “Yep. He’s all busy ruining the mood at school and being pissy about it, what with embodying the root of all evil and all, and causing a good amount of trouble."
Chizuru Yukimura: "The… The root of all evil…?”
Heisuke Toudou: "I mean, earlier, the reactions from everyone felt different than usual.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “…Now that you mention it…”
You could call it a kind of insecurity hanging over everyone… There was no mistaking that the air felt heavier than usual, at least to me. Midterms were about to begin, after all. ‘I wonder if the tension is spreading…’
Heisuke Toudou: “Oops, we ended up talking about the tests even though I wanted to forget about it for lunch.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah… Sorry about that, Heisuke-kun.”
Souji Okita: “No, there’s no reason for you to apologize. This is his fault.”
Heisuke Toudou: “That’s right—wait, no, it’s not! You’re the one who brought up the tests, right!?”
Even though Heisuke-kun shot a disgruntled look at Okita-senpai, he heaved a deep sigh right after.
Heisuke Toudou: “Anyway, it’d be better if the tests just, like, disappeared…”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Don’t say that. We should study hard anyway.”
Heisuke Toudou: “N-No, that… Well, I know that, but…”
Souji Okita: “……”
While Heisuke faltered in his mumbling, Okita-senpai looked at him and grinned. At some point, he snapped a picture before I’d even realized he’d taken out his phone.
Heisuke Toudou: “Whoa!? Souji, what’re you taking pictures of!?”
Souji Okita: “You’re not photogenic at all, are you?”
Heisuke-kun slumped his shoulders, and Okita-senpai grinned at him, eyes full of laughter.
I said to them…
[Is it that hard?]
[The rules may be too strict…]
[Studying daily is important.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Maybe the penalties are too strict…”
I murmured to myself without really meaning to, and Okita-senpai cracked a smile.
Souji Okita: “I think so, too. Don’t you think it’s strange they’re not even based on reviewing the class content?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Strange, you say?”
Souji Okita: “Yep. I get the reason for the homework and all, because it still means you have to study. But cleaning’s just completely unrelated to that. That’s more like punishment for losing a bet or a match.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Well, that does make sense…”
Heisuke Toudou: “Yeah, but Souji here’ll be fine. He’s got good grades in everything but Classical Lit.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Really? Okita-senpai, are you not good at classical literature?”
Souji Okita: “It’s not like I’m bad at it. It’s more like I just don’t like the teacher for it.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “The classical literature teacher being…” ‘…O-h. Hijikata-sensei.’
Heisuke Toudou: "That’s how it is. Souji’s always goofing off and it makes Hijikata-sensei mad. If only he’d take class more seriously sometimes.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……” I had a number of concerns about what he said just now…
Chizuru Yukimura: “Um, Okita-senpai? Why don’t you take classical literature more seriously…?”
Souji Okita: “……”
Instead of answering my question, Okita-senpai just smiled at me enigmatically.
Souji Okita: “Well, the real wild card here is Heisuke, right? I hope you can weather these tests.”
Heisuke Toudou: “Y-Yeah, man… I don’t think I’ll make it..!”
As Heisuke-kun started getting impatient again, Okita-senpai grinned and continued to tease him… But I didn’t understand what Okita-senpai really meant, and started feeling uncertain about it. In the end, our lunch break ended without me ever finding the answer to my question.
As the days went by, the older students, who already knew how severe the penalties were, grew more and more desperate. Seeing them also made us grow more anxious as well, as freshmen. The strange tension that enveloped Hakuo Academy just kept growing stronger.
And then…
―― 7 days until the tests ――
While we studied for our tests day after day, Harada-sensei looked around at our exhausted faces and grinned from his podium.
Sanosuke Harada: “Looking good, guys. It looks like you lot finally understand how serious we are about our tests.”
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “What does he mean, 'looking good’? This is just agony…”
Sanosuke Harada: “Hey, don’t say that. It’s not like I don’t get what you’re going through. Just think of this as a rite of passage. This is what you signed up for enrolling into Hakuo Academy. There’s no turning back now. Anyway, just do your best.”
Everyone in class: “……”
What he said was irrefutably correct. Everyone lost the will to argue, and went silent.
―― 6 days until the tests ――
That day, I ran into Kazama-senpai in the corridor without expecting to. Naturally, Amagiri-senpai
and Shiranui-senpai were shadowing him, as usual.
Chikage Kazama: “Chizuru. Less than a week remains until testing begins. Are you studying properly?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “I am. I’m working at my own pace, and it’s going fairly well, I think…”
'How about you, Kazama-senpai?’ …I felt like I didn’t even need to ask. Why? Because he seemed plenty calm, a smug smile spreading across his face.
Chikage Kazama: “These students growing so flustered over mere high school tests is truly unsightly. Don’t you think so?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Uh… T-That’s…”
Kyou Shiranui: "Uh, no, 'cause high school students are bound to freak out over high school tests. Rather than unsightly, it’s just normal.
Kyuuju Amagiri: ”…Kazama-sama. If we do not depart soon, you will be late for your next lesson.“
Chikage Kazama: “Hmph. Whether or not I attend any classes, there’s not a single thing the test will cover that I won’t understand… But very well. Let us show our faces in class for today. Well then, I bid you farewell.”
I was left standing alone in the hallway, overwhelmed as Kazama-senpai swaggered off with an arrogant look on his face.
―― 5 days until the tests ――
Chizuru Yukimura: “Good morning, Saitou-senpai.”
Hajime Saitou: “Is that you, Yukimura? Morning.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “You still have disciplinary committee work in the mornings even though we only have five days until the tests. That must be hard…”
Hajime Saitou: “No, it’s important to accumulate knowledge on a regular basis in order to study properly. So there’s no point in panicking just before a test.”
Just what you’d expect from Saitou-senpai…
Hajime Saitou: “However, all sports and culture clubs have suspended their activities for the tests. So since Heisuke’s not with you, he must be late. One strike for him.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “N-No, he’s on class duty today, so he should’ve arrived before me!”
Hajime Saitou: “Come to think of it, he might’ve passed by a short while ago…”
Looking at him more closely, I could see the dark bags under Saitou-senpai’s eyes. On the surface, he looked as dignified as ever, but his grip on his pen looked a little shaky, too. Perhaps Saitou-senpai was staying up late studying too…
―― 4 days until the tests ――
On Saturday, I was studying in my room, when suddenly my cell phone rang.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita-senpai…?”
‘A message with a picture attached, as usual. Let’s have a look…’
He’s making a peace sign at the camera, with an odd-looking plushie hanging from his hand.
“I won a toy that I thought you’d like. I’ll give it to you at school. I’ll bring it up to your classroom for you.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
‘What kind of tastes does he think I have? Moreover…’
Chizuru Yukimura: “Even though it’s a Saturday with tests right around the corner, he still finds time to fool around!”
―― 3 days until the tests ――
It was Sunday morning.
I decided to do a little sweeping by the front door for a change of pace. At that moment, Heisuke-kun appeared, staggering.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Heisuke-kun?! Are you okay…!?”
Heisuke Toudou: “Chizuru… Mornin’…”
He had terrible, dark bags under his eyes and his eyes were hollow. He was so exhausted that he couldn’t even walk straight.
Heisuke Toudou: “I-I’m on the verge of falling asleep… So I’m running a lap around the block. Must…stay…awake…”
Chizuru Yukimura: “But if you don’t sleep a little, you won’t last until the test!"
Heisuke Toudou: "No way! I’m not done studying yet! I’ll totally flunk it!! Don’t stop me, Chizuru! Don’t stop me! I’m not ready to die yet!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Wait, Heisuke-kun! A whole lap around the block is too much no matter how you look at it—”
I tried to stop him, but he’d already run off… While watching his disappearing figure staggering in zigzags down the road, I could only pray for his safety.
―― 2 days until the tests ――
During recess.
I gathered my class’s printouts and brought them to the staff room…
Toshizou Hijikata: “……”
Hijikata-sensei, looking particularly annoyed, was sighing deeply. He looked no better than the students, just as exhausted by pre-test frenzy.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Is something wrong, Hijikata-sensei?”
Toshizou Hijikata: “Those guys are so tired from cramming that they sleep through my classes. Because of them, I’m screaming my lungs out every morning. Classes are a key part of test preparations. Their priorities are all backwards!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “…You’ve been working really hard…”
‘I think they just stay up all night studying out of fear of punishment…’ Even though I understood Hijikata-sensei’s concerns, I couldn’t help but smile wryly.
―― At last, the day before the test ――
Chizuru Yukimura: “Finally, it’s tomorrow…”
At the end of the school day, while I was putting away my textbooks, I glanced to the desk beside mine…
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “……”
Ibuki-kun sat here, engrossed in his studies, showing no signs of getting up to go home.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Ibuki-kun, aren’t you going home?”
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “Ah… I wouldn’t be able to study even if I did. Since Serizawa-san’s there…”
Ibuki-kun often mentions him when we talk. It seems like he doesn’t get along with this ‘Serizawa-san’. With him looking so cornered, I could only bring a forced smile to my lips.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Do your best.”
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “You too.”
He gave a little smile, and then, as if he were clinging onto his desk, dived back into his books for the test.
At that moment…
Chizuru Yukimura: “?”
I noticed my phone vibrating in my pocket and took it out. A message notification came up on my screen.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh, it’s from Osen-chan.”
Osen-chan is my friend who attends Shimabara Girls’ High School not too far away from my academy.
—–
Sub: Will you be okay for the test?
Chizuru-chan, are you going to be okay for the tests?
I can’t take it anymore~!
I just want to run away from it all~!
But, after we get through these midterms, we definitely need to hang out!
I will survive them on your moral support, Chizuru-chan!!
—–
Chizuru Yukimura: “I see. They have tests at the same time as us. Shimabara High is a sister school to Hakuo Academy, come to think of it…”
“Jeez, Osen-chan…”
Having read her message, I decided to reply right away. ‘But what should I write?’
[I’m looking forward to it!]
[Let’s concentrate on studying!]
Chizuru Yukimura: “'I’m looking forward to it!’ …and send.”
I think it’s easier to persevere when there’s a prize waiting for you after all the struggle.
A short while after I sent it, Osen-chan replied.
—–
RE: Will you be okay for the test?
Definitely!
Let’s both do our best!
—–
Chizuru Yukimura: “Hehe…”
I could feel my motivation grow with Osen-chan cheering for me.
“Well, I should go over my notes one last time before the test…”
I finished getting ready and took my bag, leaving the classroom.
Then…
After having studied for a while, I’d just left the entrance hall, intending to go home. Suddenly, something white wafted gently down from the sky.
Chizuru Yukimura: "A paper plane?”
When I bent down to pick up the plane that had gently landed on the ground nearby, that’s when I suddenly noticed. It was clearly a printout used for class, the page packed tight with printed text.
Chizuru Yukimura: “What is this doing here?”
Troubled by this mysterious phenomenon, I looked up at the sky…
Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah!”
The person who I think threw the paper plane was standing on the roof, beckoning to me. ‘What should I do…?’
I hesitated for a moment, but felt it was too awkward to just brush it off and pretend I hadn’t seen it. So I went back and headed upstairs.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita-senpai! What do you think you’re doing up here?”
Okita-senpai was all alone on the roof, and he welcomed me with a smile.
Chizuru Yukimura: “W-What are you grinning at?”
Souji Okita: “Your face is so scary. You gonna scold me now that you’re here or something?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “But it was you who…”
Souji Okita: “That’s no good. I’m your senior, after all. Show me some respect.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
He looked amused while watching me, and I sighed in frustration. I was already regretting coming up here. I tried to change the subject.
Chizuru Yukimura: “So… Why did you call me up there?"
Souji Okita: "No real reason. As for what I was doing here… I was just watching the sunset. The red sky was beautiful.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Even though the tests are just around the corner?”
I glanced around and sure enough, the rooftop was painted bright red by the setting sun. It was certainly pretty, but I couldn’t help but wonder why one would admire such an ordinary sunset.
Chizuru Yukimura: “There’s nothing wrong with watching the sunset… But are you going to be okay not studying for the test?”
Souji Okita: “Yeah. I don’t see the point in cramming the day before anyway.”
Seeing him so full of confidence, I remembered our conversation from before. Heisuke told me that, aside from Classical Lit, Okita-senpai’s grades were pretty good.
Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m a little jealous of how confident you are."
Souji Okita: "Heh, so you aren’t, then, Chizuru-chan?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Not as much as you.”
I fell silent, and Okita-senpai stared at me with great interest.
Souji Okita “C’mon.”
He made a vague gesture for me to come near.
Chizuru Yukimura: ”?“
Wondering what he wanted, I approached him.
All of sudden, he grasped my arm. Then, before I had the chance to say anything, he suddenly pulled me towards him.
(CG get!°˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°)
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wha—”
Souji Okita: “A commemorative photo.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Why, all of a sudden?!”
Overcome by embarrassment, I yelled in protest. He was way too close. Practically zero distance; our bodies were touching. I was surprised and flustered. My feelings were in disarray and I couldn’t think straight. I tried to move away from him right away, but his grip was surprisingly firm on my shoulders. There was no chance for escape.
Souji Okita: “Sorry, Chizuru-chan.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “If you feel the need to apologize…”
Souji Okita: “I sure startled you. Your eyes are half-closed in the picture. How about another take?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
I’d already felt that our conversation was like a game of cat and mouse since the start… But I’d gotten completely swept up in Okita-senpai’s pace.
Souji Okita: “Hey, the camera’s over here. You looking?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Y-Yeah…”
Souji Okita: “Say 'cheese’! …Yup, nice one. I’ll send it to you later, okay?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
Souji Okita: “What’s wrong?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “I absolutely can’t understand the reasoning behind anything you do.”
Okita-senpai always did whatever he wanted, whenever he wanted. As I let out another sigh, Okita-senpai regarded me with an amused smile.
Souji Okita: “Hey. You only say that because I don’t do things the same way everyone else does. Is it that weird that not everyone goes around looking miserable the day before a test? There’s no law in the world that says you absolutely must burn your textbooks into your retinas before an exam.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
That was definitely not the direction I thought our conversation would go…
Chizuru Yukimura: “B-But tests are important. It’s better to study at least a little…”
Souji Okita: “Okay, let’s say that I do study the day before, just like everybody else. Don’t you think that anyone can spare a moment to look at the sky? Both me and you, too."
I replied to his smiling face.
[That’s just an excuse.]
[Well, you are not wrong.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Aren’t you just making excuses?" My shoulders stiffened unconsciously, and I stared right back at Okita-senpai. "I understand what you’re trying to say. You do have a point. But in this context, you’re just twisting things to suit you…”
At my slight glare, Okita-senpai laughed, shrugging his shoulders.
Souji Okita: “…The cat’s out of the bag. You’re right, I’m just not in the mood for studying in the least.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Honestly…!”
Souji Okita: “Oh. Look at you, you’re angry again. You’ve done nothing but chide me today. Well, Chizuru-chan, if you so insist, maybe I’ll make a more serious effort next time.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Really?”
Souji Okita: “I’ll keep this photo as a talisman. So that my motivation never runs out.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “……”
Okita’s eyes crinkled in a smile. Ever since I came up to the roof, he seemed just a bit different from usual… I was a little reluctant, but I couldn't just let him off the hook for giving me such a scare, earlier.
While looking at him, I decided to ask him about something that had been on my mind.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Um… There’s something I want to ask you.”
Souji Okita: “Be my guest.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Is the reason why you don’t like studying… something to do with Hijikata-sensei?”
He probably hadn’t expected this question, from the surprise that flashed across his face. But only for a moment. Before long, his lips sharpened into a lazy smile.
Souji Okita: “Heh… You saw right through me. You’re right. I can’t stand him. You know Kondou-san? He’s looked after me since I was a child. He’s truly like a big brother to me. Hijikata-san’s always been good friends with him. I got good at kendo, I’ve got grades apart from classical lit… If only Kondou-san counted on me more. But man… I guess I’m just still not good enough.”
I listened to what Okita-senpai was saying. But just as I was about to interject…
Souji Okita: “Just kidding. Did you fall for it?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “…Huh? Uh, were you lying?”
Souji Okita: “Hehe. I wonder. Well, I saw the sunset, and took a good picture. It’s about time we headed home. I shouldn’t waste your precious study time any more than I already have.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “R-Right…”
How should I answer him? I vaguely bowed to Okita-senpai, not knowing what to say.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Thank you for being considerate.”
Souji Okita: “No, no, it’s all good. Well then, shall we go?”
After parting ways, I idly pondered what Okita-senpai’s reasons could be for hating studying so much. Then, I got a message with the photo he took earlier.
I was sure he had taken another one, and yet the photo he’d attached was the one where I had my eyes half-closed.
‘…I suspect that he sent me the botched one on purpose… ‘ I couldn’t help but smile dryly at Okita-senpai’s mischief. I really didn’t understand him at all.
__
The day of the test had finally arrived. It was time for the real thing at last. I had studied as much as I possibly could, but still felt a bit anxious as I entered the school that day…
The tests finally started.
Chizuru Yukimura: “I hope Okita-senpai’s also doing well now…”
Subconsciously, I thought back to the curious incident yesterday.
Chizuru Yukimura: “…I have to focus on the tests today.”
I put my all into it and tried my absolute best.
[Minigame Victory]
Chizuru Yukimura: “Yeah. I think I’ll get a grade I can be proud of with this…”
Maybe the picture I got from Okita-senpai did its magic after all…
Chizuru Yukimura: “……" ‘…Right, as if.’
Then, several days later…
Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah! I got a good grade…!”
I read the posted test results, and when I smiled in relief…
Chizuru Yukimura: “!”
I heard a shutter sound from very close by. I spun around in a panic to see Okita-senpai smiling at me.
Souji Okita: “That was a pretty nice expression you had there. When I saw you making that face…Well, I figure I don’t need to ask how your tests went. Congrats, Chizuru-chan. All your hard work paid off.”
Chizuru Yukimura: "It has… Thank you so much.”
For some reason, Okita-senpai’s smile made me feel a little sheepish.
Souji Okita: “You did a great job overcoming your tests. I should give you some kind of reward as your senior, right?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “N-No need! Just your congratulations is enough."
Souji Okita: "You sure? I thought I could give you the plushie I won at the arcade, though."
The plushie he was talking about was probably the one he took a picture of that time. I think my mixed feelings showed on my face, and I tried to change the subject.
Chizuru Yukimura: "More importantly… How did you do on your test, Okita-senpai?"
Souji Okita: "That’s a secret. If you’re interested, why don’t you try taking a look at the sophomores’ results later? And anyway, the tests are over now. Let’s go and hang out after school to celebrate.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Wha—”
Souji Okita: “You don’t wanna?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “N-No, that’s not what I—”
Souji Okita: “Then we can hang out?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “…Yes.”
Souji Okita: “You good waiting at the student entrance? I’ll go there right after classes finish.”
Souji Okita: “Looking forward to it.”
With that, he walked off with a skip in his step.
Chizuru Yukimura: “…Maybe.”
Was his invitation just now that 'reward’ he said he’d give me for my efforts? It was a little difficult to get a grasp on Okita-senpai’s thought process… I was excited about how it would go, though, and very much looked forward to that evening.
At last, the tests were over, and the results had been announced…The tension gradually seeped out of the school, and everything slowly went back to normal.
After school, after the test results were announced…I was on my way out of the school building to return home when…
Isami Kondou: “……”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Just now…was that Kondou-sensei?”
Kondou-sensei went around to the back of the school. When I saw that, I paused. ‘There isn’t anything over there, so where is he going…?’ I thought it was kind of mysterious. And so, egged on by my curiosity, I jogged after Kondou-sensei. I went further behind the school… I’d never set foot back here before. After reaching his destination, Kondou-sensei suddenly stopped.
Isami Kondou: “……”
‘What is this place…?’ Towering in front of me was an old gate, and my eyes widened. ‘To think there was such a place here, right on academy campus…’
Isami Kondou: “……”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Um…”
Isami Kondou: “Hm… Yukimura-kun? Why are you here?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m sorry. I saw you heading this way, and curiosity got the better of me…”
Isami Kondou: “Ahh, so that’s what it was.”
Kondou-sensei smiled in understanding, and turned his gaze back towards the gate. The old wooden door was shut tightly, looking like it hadn’t been opened in a long time. It had been two months since I began studying at Hakuo Academy, but I never knew such a place existed until now.
Chizuru Yukimura: “Um, Kondou-sensei. What is this place…?”
Isami Kondou: “‘The Shieikan.’”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?”
Isami Kondou: “…That’s what it was called, at least. There used to be a swordplay dojo here by that name.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Used to be?”
Isami Kondou: “Yes. As you can see, it’s closed now. There are no students here; there’s no one at all. But the teachings of that dojo are certainly still being passed down… That’s what I believe.”
There was a look in his eyes; almost as if he were lost in a different time, far from the present. I got the feeling that this must’ve been a very important place to Kondou-sensei.
Isami Kondou: “I always come here whenever I want to return to my roots…This place, the Shieikan, is Hakuo Academy’s starting point.”
Kondou-sensei put his hand on the place where I expected the sign must have once hung, and his eyes shut, lost in nostalgia.
…'Shieikan.’ As if to confirm the word, I mouthed it to myself. That name… I felt as if I’d heard it before…
Chizuru Yukimura: ”……“
Looking at me as I thought about it, Kondou-sensei smiled and kept talking.
Isami Kondou: “Yukimura-kun, it looks like the sun is about to set. Don’t you think it’s time for you to head home?”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh, right. That’s true. It’s already so late…”
Isami Kondou: “By the way, I heard from Toshi. It looks like you got some magnificent test results this time around.”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Hijikata-sensei said that?”
Isami Kondou: “Yes, you’re the most talented woman in the history of Hakuo Academy! It truly is magnificent!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “…Thank you very much.”
There was no hint of lies or flattery in Kondou-sensei’s cheerful words… I remembered how he delivered them while walking away, and I felt a little embarrassed.
Isami Kondou: “A student has a duty to study, so I want you to continue trying your hardest! But of course, it’s not just your studies. If you also have fun living your everyday life at Hakuo Academy… As this school’s principal, I’d be very happy!”
Chizuru Yukimura: “Yes!”
Returning his nod as he smiled, I looked back at ‘Shieikan’ only once. He had called it the ‘starting point’ for the school. I wonder what that meant…? Questions along those lines came to mind, and I couldn’t help but wonder at such a mystery…
Anyway, I would do my best from here forward. I smiled, in high spirits.