Chapter 2
Here is the translation for Chapter 2 of Saitou’s route! Translation done by dei-hime/iolite_jay, yuugs, and shizuumi. Proofreading by dei-hime/iolite_jay, shizuumi, maerz, kuririn, yuugs, and kittensparkles.
The days passed in the blink of an eye; our first term had ended, and it was already August. In other words… It was the long-awaited summer vacation!
One day, in the height of summer, while the cicadas were vigorously droning― I had been invited to go shopping with friends, and I arrived at the square in front of the station.
Chizuru Yukimura: "...Though I might've gotten here a little too early."
I looked around while waiting where we said we'd meet, but I didn't see my friends anywhere. It was only me and the shimmering heat haze rising from the asphalt under the afternoon sun.
Chizuru Yukimura: "What should I do..."
As I murmured to myself and reached for my phone in my pocket―
???: "Hey, wait up there, lil lady. Why don't we find ourselves a cafe to hang in if you're free?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "What...?"
I suddenly heard someone, and felt a tap on my shoulder.
Kyou Shiranui: " ...Just messin' with ya. I thought your face looked familiar. I guess it was you after all."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Sh-Shiranui-senpai?!"
Kyou Shiranui: "What're you up to in a place like this? I thought you must’ve been waiting for someone to hit on you, so I went ahead and called out to you."
Chizuru Yukimura: "H-...Hit on..."
I did feel my heart skip a beat when his voice had rung out… But when I realized it was someone I knew, I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding.
Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm just waiting for my friends. Are you by yourself today, Shiranui-senpai?"
Kyou Shiranui: "I thought I'd go clothes shopping for a little bit. Can't take my time with it if Kazama's around, after all… Plus, Amagiri's fashion sense is too...well, you know… so it's no use asking him for an opinion. Going alone is just easier."
Chizuru Yukimura: "The three of you certainly have different tastes when it comes to things like clothes."
Kyou Shiranui: "Yeah, well. I like leather and silver accessories and stuff, but they just don't really get it."
Seeing him give an over-the-top shrug, I found myself smiling naturally. ...Now that I think of it, this might've actually been the first time I'd ever talked one-on-one with Shiranui-senpai like this. After we chatted for a while, he happened to glance at the time.
Kyou Shiranui: "Uh-oh. That's right, you said you were waiting on your friends, weren't you?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, right..."
[They'll be here soon]
[There's still some time]
Chizuru Yukimura: "They should be arriving around now, but..."
I checked my phone again as I told him that. And just then—
???: "Hold it right there, you skirt-chaser! Why don't you step away from my friend?"
A cutting voice echoed out in the square.
Chizuru Yukimura: "You're here!"
Kyou Shiranui: "Huh? Skirt-chaser? You wouldn't be talkin' about me, now, would you?"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Do you see anyone else around here?"
Sen Suzuka: "With your flashy clothes and vibe, you have to be some kind of pick-up artist."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wh― Hang on a moment, you two...!"
Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan, the friends who I'd been waiting for, rushed to stand between me and Shiranui-senpai in my defense. Despite being on the receiving end of their icy glares, Shiranui-senpai grinned my way, looking for all the world like he was enjoying himself.
Kyou Shiranui: "...Yeah, I guess so. I suppose that's what it'd look like that from afar, huh?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Osen-chan, Kozusu-chan. He's not really a skirt-chaser—"
Kyou Shiranui: "—What would you do if I were, though? Should I invite all three of you out on a date?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "What?!"
His expression was playful and teasing. He was clearly just trying to rile them up. But if he went and said something like that, Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan wouldn't take it quietly...
Sen Suzuka: "Terribly sorry to disappoint you, but we three are having a girls' day out today."
Kyou Shiranui: "Whoa, now, you're lookin' real scary. I get it. No need to glare at me like that. Right, then, this nuisance'll will see himself out. See ya, girls. Enjoy yourselves, now!"
Waving lazily with a smirk still on his face, Shiranui-senpai left us just like that.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "You okay, Chizuru-chan?"
Sen Suzuka: "You’re really too nice sometimes. You ought to assert yourself more… With those types, you need to clearly and firmly turn them down, you hear?"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "They'll take advantage of you if you show them your soft side."
Chizuru Yukimura: "...Uh... Well..."
In any case, I had to explain to them that he wasn't actually some pick-up artist, but someone that I know from school...
I sighed before I tried to tell them, but it took a long time for them to accept my explanation.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Still, it's been a long time! I’m so glad to see you~!"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Both Osen-neesan and myself had extra-curricular activities, so it was really hard to make plans..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s easier now thanks to the summer holidays."
Sen Suzuka: "Yeah. Now that we're finally on vacation, I want to meet up as much as we can. Even every day, if possible."
Chizuru Yukimura: "E-Every day!?"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "If you'd just come to Shimabara Girl’s High School with us in the first place, we could've seen each other every day, you know."
This girl is Suzuka Sen. She is my friend, and a sophomore at Shimabara's Girl’s Academy, next to Hakuo Academy. I called her Osen-chan. She’s about one year older than me, and very reliable. She also seems to really care about me… Even though she's the daughter of an important family, she isn't pretentious at all. She’s a lovely person.
And this girl is Suzuka Kosuzu. She’s a freshman at Shimabara Girl’s High School, and I always call her Kosuzu-chan. Due to various circumstances, she lives with Osen-chan’s family. I guess she's her sister-in-law. I want to be more like her...She has good looks and a wonderful, straightforward personality.
Sen Suzuka: "True, true. I told you to come to the same school as us so many times, too! Then you went and enrolled in Hakuo Academy, which is full of boys...!"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Well, she did choose to go there herself, so there’s not much we can do about it… Why don't we make the most of today, at least? We don't usually get to hang out, after all."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah. Let’s have as much fun as possible!"
I nodded in agreement, and the two of them smiled happily.
Sen Suzuka: "Then, first up is shopping!"
We walked down the street as a group with Osen-chan leading us. We looked around various clothing stores. Though I chose my own clothes quickly, the other two took a long time… Somehow, I ended up getting caught up in their incredible momentum, and tried on a bunch of clothes. It was a little tough, but...
Even so, spending time with girl friends was fun and different than usual.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "All the stores just have autumn things. We’re still in the middle of summer..."
Sen Suzuka: "That's fine; it means summer items are on sale. Look, this is even 30% off!"
Both Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan bought a bunch of clothing; both look perfectly satisfied, laughing with matching grins. As for me, after trying on item after item, I felt a little tired...
Kosuzu Suzuka: "I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but it's already noon. I'm a little hungry, too. How about we take a break?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "That’s true. I'd like to sit down and take a little break..."
Sen Suzuka: "Let's rest here, then..."
Our regular fast food joint was packed with students taking shelter from the heat. We finished placing our orders, and each took our respective trays and hurried to our seats. As I bit into my hamburger, we started chatting.
‘What type of shoes would match the dress I bought earlier?'
‘How was the ball game tournament at Shimabara Girl’s High School?'
But, soon enough...
Sen Suzuka: "Summer is the season of love, right?"
I noticed that Osen-chan aimed the question straight at me. Her eyes glittered with intense curiosity as she stared at me.
Sen Suzuka: "Hey, hey, Chizuru-chan. You’ve been surrounded by men at Hakuo Academy since the spring, so… Do you have someone you like?"
Chizuru Yukimura: !?
The question was so sudden, I almost spit out my orange juice.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "What a reaction… Could it be you have a boyfriend?"
Chizuru Yukimura: !!?
Sen Suzuka: "Eh!? You really have one!?"
This conversation was going way too fast, but I was still choking on my juice...!
Sen Suzuka: "If you really have one, you absolutely have to introduce him to me. I’ll scope him out for you!"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Same here. I'll deal with him if he turns out to be a strange one, Chizuru-chan!"
Chizuru Yukimura: "N-No need to get so worked up! I don't have one!"
Sen Suzuka: "But it's your summer vacation. Don’t you like the sound of having a summer date?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "...That’s, um..."
I did like the sound of that, but...
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Let’s go find some swimsuits later, so we can wear them to the pool during vacation."
Sen Suzuka: "Ah, good idea! That'll be a prime opportunity to snatch up a good man."
Chizuru Yukimura: "W-What...!?"
The conversation progressed steadily without me, leaving me very confused, but… The grin of enjoyment on Osen-chan's face since earlier only intensified.
Sen Suzuka: "You know, I’d like to see you in a daring bikini… "
Chizuru Yukimura: "I-I couldn't wear anything that exposing!" ‘I couldn't even...!’
I flushed bright red and refused. Then Kosuzu chimed in.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "I’m against it. I think a one-piece swimsuit would suit Chizuru-chan better."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-You think so...?"
I didn’t really know if that’d suit me or not, but… I felt really grateful she suggested something more in my comfort zone.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "The feeling of boldly exposing your back makes you feel more like a beautiful lady—"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wait, please wait."
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Still a no? I think it's necessary to be adventurous at least some of the time..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "It's still too early for me to go on such an adventure!"
Sen Suzuka: "Hehe… Well, why don’t we go shopping for swimsuits anyway?"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Everyone will wanna go to the pool. It is summertime, after all."
Chizuru Yukimura:: "......"
I got the feeling that an impending crisis loomed behind their smiles, but I firmly pushed that feeling aside.
Chizuru Yukimura: "I’ll choose a swimsuit by myself!"
Sen Suzuka: "......"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "......"
Upon hearing that, the two of them smiled cryptically for some reason. I felt very uneasy...
After that, we left the store and went shopping for swimsuits, but… How could I put it? All the designs recommended for me were the kind an older, more adult woman would wear. In the end, I chose my swimsuit myself like I said I would, but...
‘...That was really rough…’
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Today was a lot of fun, wasn’t it? Thanks for hanging out with us, Chizuru-chan. Now that we’ve bought some cute swimsuits, we definitely have to go to the pool."
Sen Suzuka: "Yeah! Let's strike while the iron's hot. Now’s when you say ‘How about next Sunday?’"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Hehe... Sure. Sunday is fine."
Sen Suzuka: "Great, then we'll see you next Sunday!"
I said goodbye to them there, since my house was in the other direction. I was still looking forward to hanging out with them again, even though I know she got me to say that.
The next day—
Chizuru Yukimura: "I’m off..."
I went out while announcing that as always, even though there was no one else at home. It was a summer day like any other outside; almost too hot, and not a single cloud in the sky.
Chizuru Yukimura: "I’ll go return the book that I finished, and then… Oh, that’s right. I should do my homework after that..."
I planned to head to the school library. It stayed open even during summer vacation. I hadn't worn my school uniform in a long time, and the fabric made me feel itchy...
The moment I passed through the school gate, I could hear cheerful, energetic voices from somewhere. I figured it was probably students shouting encouragement during some school activity.
Chizuru Yukimura: "That reminds me, did Heisuke-kun and the others say they also had club activities during the summer...?"
Before the summer vacation began, I remember Heisuke-kun telling me how I should go see him if I was free.
Chizuru Yukimura: "......"
I felt like seeing Heisuke-kun and the others doing their best at kendo, but… ‘I wonder if I'd be bothering them if I went to visit all of a sudden...?’
[Go straight to the library.]
[Stop by the kendo hall.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "...Yeah.I’ll pay a visit to the kendo club next time."
I felt like I’d trouble them if I went and visited unannounced… I wondered if I should let someone know before I went.
I decided to follow my original plan and go to the library after all, and set off in that direction. On my way there, I heard some familiar voices from the end of the corridor. As I got closer, it turned out to be the two I thought it was after all―
Chizuru Yukimura: "Harada-sensei, Sannan-sensei!"
Sanosuke Harada: "Yo, Yukimura. It’s been a while. Having a good summer break?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes. How about you two...?"
Sanosuke Harada: "Well, it's pretty much how it looks. This heat is kind of annoying, honestly, but it's not enough to get to me physically."
Keisuke Sannan: "And how is your health, Yukimura-kun? The summer heat is quite harsh this year, no? Summer vacation only comes once a year. Take this opportunity to recharge and de-stress from all the fatigue you've piled up."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you so much. Likewise, thank you both for working so hard during the summer vacation."
Sanosuke Harada: "Well, that's just how it is for us teachers. Even if you’re an advisor for club activities, you still need to show up for work..."
Keisuke Sannan: "Injuries are part and parcel of sports clubs. I'm also concerned about students becoming dehydrated or getting heat stroke. Many accidents happen during the summer vacation too, which is why I am keeping the infirmary open."
Chizuru Yukimura: "It seems you're very busy..."
It definitely seemed like being a teacher was a very difficult job.
Sanosuke Harada: "It might be none of my business, but… You must have a reason for coming to school during your break, right?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "I came to return a book. I also feel like I’m able to study better at the library than at home..."
Sanosuke Harada:"......"
Keisuke Sannan: "......"
When I explained my reasons for coming to school, Harada-sensei and Sannan-sensei exchanged glances and fell silent for some reason.
Keisuke Sannan: "I am surprised. Even though it is summer vacation, you came to school in order to study?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yes..."
Sanosuke Harada: "Yukimura... Being in charge of a student as splendid as you is enough to move me to tears."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-You’re exaggerating..."
As I feverishly denied the sudden praise I’d received, Sannan-sensei smiled gently.
Keisuke Sannan: "By the way, Yukimura-kun."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yes...!?"
Keisuke Sannan: "Since Harada-sensei has been pressed with work, I thought we might take a little rest. I was just planning to prepare some tea in the infirmary. If you wouldn't mind..." As Sannan-sensei continued to smile, he stared at my face patiently. "Would you like to come too?"
At Sannan-sensei’s invitation, I said...
[If it’s not any trouble.]
[I’ll pass, thank you.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm happy you asked, but… I’ll have to decline this time. I might end up slacking off later if I take a break before doing any work."
Keisuke Sannan: "You have a point… Mustering the resolve to work after relaxing is extremely difficult."
Sanosuke Harada: "That’s a bit of a shame, but I guess you're right. ...Do your best, Yukimura."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Will do. Thank you so much!"
I felt guilty for refusing, but… As I headed to the library, I felt really grateful for my teachers' kindness and encouragement. I entered the deserted library, and went to return my books before anything else. After that, as I was looking around to see where I could sit...
Chizuru Yukimura: "Isn't that..."
I recognized a couple of familiar figures from behind, who were sitting next to each other.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Hello, Saitou-senpai, Yamazaki-senpai."
The two of them turned around upon hearing my voice. They looked surprised to see me.
Susumu Yamazaki: "It feels like it's been ages since I've last seen you, for some reason..."
Hajime Saitou: "Why are you here, Yukimura? It's still some time before the new term starts."
Chizuru Yukimura: "I came to return my books. I thought I could get on with my summer homework after that. How about you two? Why are you at school?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "Oh, I came here for committee work. Injuries are bound to happen during club activities. The healthcare committee's the organization in charge of that, so I’m here in case we’re needed."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, I see. I didn't know that..."
Susumu Yamazaki: "I just changed shifts with another guy on duty, so I thought I might as well do some
studying in the library."
Hajime Saitou: "My situation's much the same. Along with having disciplinary committee work to tally strikes, I also thought I would do some homework. I happened to come across Yamazaki by chance, and we decided to sit together."
Chizuru Yukimura: "It sounds like you two have been busy."
They looked like a couple of best friends, with their chairs next to each other facing the desk. I wondered if they happened to get along well, since they were both such sticklers for the rules… As my thoughts ran away with me, Saitou-senpai pointed at a seat for me.
Hajime Saitou: "Since you came here to study, why don’t you join us? If there are any parts you don't understand, I think Yamazaki or I will be able to help you where appropriate."
Chizuru Yukimura: "But, won't that be distracting for you two...?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "No, not at all. It's part of a senior's job to lend a hand to their junior."
Chizuru Yukimura: "...I appreciate it! I suppose, seeing as we're all here, let's buckle down together."
Taking them up on their kind offer, I sat in a seat that faced the two of them, and took my textbooks out...
Silence filled the library more than usual during the summer holiday. With the sensation of the curtains swaying in the breeze, it was a much better studying environment than my home was. I worked on translating English passages, Yamazaki-senpai worked on chemistry, and Saitou-senpai did his committee work. For a while, only the scratch of my mechanical pencil disturbed the silence. I took a breath before glancing up.
Chizuru Yukimura: "...It seems tough, having to tally all those strikes."
Hajime Saitou: "There are a lot of more for this term in particular. It's twice the amount we had last year."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Twice as...!?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "Are you saying that's just from students breaking the rules alone?"
Hajime Saitou: "No, the strikes have increased mainly since Nagumo joined the disciplinary committee. He has a habit of misusing strikes against people to do with you, making it impossible to correctly tally them..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh? What was that just now...?"
Hajime Saitou: "...No, it's nothing. Don't worry about it. Anyway, even though there's a large number of them, I estimate this can be finished by tomorrow."
But Saitou-senpai also had kendo on top of that, and Yamazaki-senpai's healthcare committee work looked tough, too. Would these two be able to have a real summer vacation like this...? Maybe I was just poking my nose where it didn't belong, but timid as I was, I tried asking them about it anyway.
Chizuru Yukimura: "That reminds me, have you guys done anything fun for the summer holiday?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "...Summer holiday...?"
Hajime Saitou: "...Anything fun...?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Like, going to the beach, or the mountains..."
Hajime Saitou: "...The beach...?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "...The mountains...?"
Their heads tilted aside in unison, almost as if it was the first time they'd heard such words. There was really no rest for the weary, was there? Since I was one to relax a lot of the time, I felt guilty having asked.
Hajime Saitou: "...Well, we're doing fine. More importantly, how about you, Yukimura?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Me?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "Yeah. It's a given that you'd study. Every student has to. But beyond that, isn't there anything else you'd like to do for the summer holiday?"
To his question, I said...
[Hang out with my friends.]
[Tidy up my house.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "I'll go hang out with some friends soon. I usually can't make time to go see them, so..."
For some reason, when I gave that answer, Saitou-senpai and Yamazaki-senpai's expressions hardened.
Hajime Saitou: "Friends, you say...?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yeah. My friends at Shimabara High. I just went shopping with them yesterday..."
Susumu Yamazaki: "Right... Your girl friends."
Hajime Saitou: "...Seems like I worried for no reason."
Looking much more reassured, he cleared his throat and went on, "...Well, in any case. Having fun is good, but people can get unruly in summertime. You make sure to be careful as well. I hear that there are many unhinged groups of people in town who pick on girls as well."
When he said that, I suddenly remembered. There was Shiranui-senpai yesterday. 'I wonder if he was trying to pick on people...'
Chizuru Yukimura: "......"
Susumu Yamazaki: "W-What's wrong? Did something come to mind?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, no, it's nothing like that..."
Hajime Saitou: "...If anything happens, contact me. Doesn't matter when; I'll come running."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wh— Huh? Th-That's—"
Surely that'd be too much to ask...? Just as I opened my mouth to decline, Yamazaki-senpai interrupted me.
Susumu Yamazaki: "Saitou-kun's right."
Chizuru Yukimura: "!? You too, Yamazaki-senpai...?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "It'll be too late if there's an emergency. You have to make doubly sure you've taken all the countermeasures you need." He continued, "If you ever get into trouble, don't just call Saitou-kun. I'd be happy if you called me, too. In fact... make sure you call, no matter what."
Chizuru Yukimura: "W-Wait, no, but—"
Saitou ＆ Yamazaki: "No matter what."
Chizuru Yukimura: "...W-Will do... Thank you, guys..."
I nodded awkwardly as they shook with a strange yet impressive intensity. After that, we started studying again...
Saitou-senpai, in particular, in light of his earlier offer, asked me if there was anything I didn't understand countless times. Since I found it hard to willingfully ask him questions myself, I was really grateful for his offer. I made a lot of progress on my studies: thanks to Saitou-senpai, no doubt. A part of me still felt guilty that I might've made him worry without needing to, though…
By the time I finished studying and left the library, it was already sunset. The library had been nice and cool, so I guess coming to school during the summer break wasn't a bad idea...
As I left the school and approached the school gate, my cell phone rang. It was an email from Osen-chan.
Sub: Looking forward to the pool!
It was hot again today, wasn’t it!
I want to hurry up and jump into the pool!
Chizuru Yukimura: "Hehe…"
I briefly stopped walking, and replied that I was looking forward to Sunday. When I checked my phone again, I suddenly felt a presence behind me. Could it be—
Chizuru Yukimura: !
I spun around in fear, and saw it was Okita-senpai peering at me.
Souji Okita: "So we meet again, Chizuru-chan."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yeah…...Good job at your kendo practice today."
As I stared at him wearing his kendo uniform, I said the first thing that came to mind.
Souji Okita: "Are you going home after this? Be careful."
It was just a standard farewell, but for some reason it made me feel uneasy...
Chizuru Yukimura: "R-Right… Thank you."
Okita-senpai grinned, and waved lightly as he saw me off. Ultimately, we parted ways and I returned home without any problems, but… Something about his smile made me uneasy.
After that...
By the time I arrived home and took care of my chores, the sun had set completely.
Chizuru Yukimura: "I guess it’s about time I got started on dinner….." ‘What should I do tonight?’
To decide tonight’s menu from what ingredients I had, I thought about what I had in the fridge—
Just then, Okita Souji, heading home from kendo club—
Souji Okita: "Using this info on my own to get a head start wouldn't be bad, but..."
While fiddling with his smartphone, the fun of it tugged at the corner of his lips.
Souji Okita: "It'd be a waste to pass up such an interesting opportunity. ...Alright, done."
When he finished preparing the contents of each email, he sent them out one after another.
Souji Okita: "Hopefully this'll shake things up a bit..."
_____________
Chizuru-chan is going to the pool this Sunday.
Let’s go with her.
_____________
Heisuke Toudou: "Chizuru's going to the pool!? I've got no choice but to go...!"
_____________
Chizuru-chan is going to the pool this Sunday.
I'm going with her.
_____________
Kaoru Nagumo: "Okita's going with her!? Like hell I'll let him see Chizuru in a swimsuit...!"
_____________
Chizuru-chan is going to the pool this Sunday.
_____________
Chikage Kazama: "What is the meaning of this...! Why does Okita have such information...!"
_____________
Everyone’s going to the pool this Sunday.
How about you, sensei?
_____________
Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oh? The pool sounds pretty good. It's been way too hot lately!"
_____________
We're all going to the pool this Sunday.
Won't you chaperone for us?
_____________
Sanosuke Harada: "Do high school students even need a chaperone...? Well, not that I mind, though."
_____________
Chizuru-chan and everyone else are going to the pool this Sunday.
Hijikata-san is coming too.
_____________
Hajime Saitou: "I'm worried they'll be out of line, but if Hijikata-sensei is going, too..."
_____________
An interesting incident will occur at the pool this Sunday.
_____________
Keisuke Sannan: "Well, then. If I’m told it will be interesting, I simply have to go see for myself."
_____________
I plan to cause an incident this Sunday at the pool.
Feel free to try and stop me.
_____________
Toshizou Hijikata "Hah!? What kind of crap is that punk Souji trying to pull...!"
_____________
If you'd like to prevent Hijikata-san from dying of overwork,
you must come to the pool this Sunday.
_____________
Susumu Yamazaki: "The pool...? But if he says death from overworking might be involved, I can't just ignore it..."
_____________
Duel. The pool, this Sunday.
_____________
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Huh? What’s this...? Some sort of letter of challenge...?"
It was the day we promised to hang out together: the eagerly-awaited Sunday!
I had arranged to meet with Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan at the pool. I came early, changed into my swimsuit, and went out to the pool-side.
[scene change: pool– honestly more like a water park!]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan….. It looks like they’re not here yet."
When I glanced around, I saw many people having fun in the water. But, with everyone around me in swimwear… Seeing everyone with their skin exposed like that made me feel awkward after all.
As I thought that—
???: "—Ah. So you were over here, were you?"
???(2): "Even though it’s the long-awaited pool visit, why are you wearing such a face?"
As voices called out from behind me, I looked over my shoulder in that direction.
[Sen and Kosuzu appear, wearing swimsuits. They look very cute, but you still can’t date them. (￣︿￣)]
Sen Suzuka: "Today, let's play to our hearts’ content, until we can’t play anymore!"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Since we specifically bought swimsuits, we should at least wear them as much as possible."
Osen-chan was all smiles, and Kosuzu-chan had a mischievous-looking smile as well.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wow… The two of you are so cute…!"
Sen Suzuka: "Thank you. But, I don’t think I’m as cute as you, Chizuru-chan."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh? T-that’s not true…."
Kosuzu Suzuka: "It’s not a lie or flattery. That look really suits you."
Chizuru Yukimura: "…thanks."
Maybe the two of them really did think so, but…. Even if it were true, it was incredibly embarrassing.
Sen Suzuka: "…but, it really is a shame. A bolder one would have been better, after all."
Chizuru Yukimura: "That’s impossible! Absolutely impossible!"
As I vigorously shook my head, suddenly a voice carried over to us from somewhere.
???: "I swear. Exposing my wife’s soft, fair skin to the eyes of the public more than is absolutely necessary…. It truly is an unforgivable act of recklessness."
???(2): "I truly couldn't care less about what you two wear, but… Aren't you ashamed of yourselves? Leading someone's younger sister astray like this."
I turned my face towards the voices, and there—-
[Kazama and Kaoru appear. Kaoru looks normal, Kazama is wearing leopard-pattern swim trunks.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Kazama-senpai and Kaoru….!? Why are you here? Did the two of you come to hang out together?"
No matter how you look at it, the two of them had awful chemistry, so I really didn’t think they would arrange to go to the pool together, but… When I blinked at them, sure enough, the two of them turned their faces away, looking disgruntled.
Chikage Kazama: "We happened to meet by coincidence. To imply that I would engage in any activities with such a child on purpose is completely unspeakable."
Kaoru Nagumo: "I agree with that, and that alone. Which is why you should go somewhere else. Don’t you get that I don’t want any annoying outsiders intruding on our harmonious sibling time?"
Chikage Kazama: "Idiot. The one who should go somewhere else is you, not me. It is only natural that a wife should be near her husband. Otherwise, won’t men with the wrong idea come and crowd around?"
???: "‘Men with the wrong idea,’ hmm? Have you tried looking in a mirror?"
???(2): "You don’t have a wife in the first place."
Chizuru Yukimura: "!"
The voices that interrupted the situation were familiar ones, after all.
[Okita, Saitou, and Heisuke appear]
"Okita-senpai, Saitou-senpai…..! And even Heisuke-kun….!"
Why were the three of them here, too? While I was still stunned by the unexpected encounter, Heisuke-kun smiled brightly at me.
Heisuke Toudou: "Chizuru, you look amazing in that swimsuit!"
In contrast, Saitou-senpai seemed a little bit bashful, and he spoke with some reserve:
Hajime Saitou:: "If I were to express my personal opinion, I think no further exposure is necessary. You are fine just as you are."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you…….?"
Souji Okita: "Still, this is an amazing coincidence. To meet in such a place."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-yes... "
Souji Okita: "Maybe this is what they call fate."
Kaoru Nagumo: "Hmph. It’s quite an artificial sort of fate."
Chikage Kazama: "Don’t get the wrong idea, Okita… The one who is bound together with my wife by the red thread of fate is no one other than myself."
Hajime Saitou:: "Wouldn't you say that you're the last person who should be accusing others of being mistaken...?"
As Kazama-senpai and the others kept interrupting one another, they began to glare at each other once again. We girls didn’t know what to do, and for a little while we were at a loss for words.
Sen Suzuka: "Um... What kind of situation is this?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "It’s not like everyone could normally gather like this, one after another, by sheer coincidence..."
Heisuke Toudou: "It’d be an amazing coincidence, yeah…"
Hajime Saitou: (lying, poorly): "...I agree. I am surprised."
I glanced around in wonderment at the strange situation, but Heisuke-kun and Saitou-senpai were both blatantly avoiding meeting my eyes.
Chizuru Yukimura: "......"
Heisuke Toudou: "W-well, don’t worry about that! Since we all went to the trouble of coming here, let’s go swimming!"
Hajime Saitou:: "I suppose. The obvious first choice is the rapidsーno, the waterfall pool is also difficult to cast aside."
Chikage Kazama: "Hmph. For you bastards, the kiddie pool would be much more suitable."
Kaoru Nagumo: "I think it would suit you even more, considering your mental age."
Did they actually get along, or not...? With everyone talking at once about different things, we walked towards the pool.
Okita-senpai gave a cheerful smile to those of us still standing around in a daze at the sudden situation.
Souji Okita: "Here, Chizuru-chan, let’s go. You two over there, too."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh, ah, y-yes... Osen-chan, Kosuzu-chan, is this ok...?"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Hah... In truth, I wanted to take my time hanging out with Chizuru-chan, though."
Sen Suzuka: "Well, we can’t just tell them to go somewhere else, so there’s nothing we can do but play along. Let’s pull ourselves together, and play as much as we can!"
Because it was summer vacation, the pool was overflowing with people. In addition to people here with their families and couples, there were a lot of people who looked to be students like us. Everyone was full of boisterous energy, jumping and frolicking in the water; seeing that was almost enough to make me forget about the heat.
Chikage Kazama: "Still, what is with this crowd of filth? Don’t they have any reservations at all?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Please stop saying things like that..."
Hajime Saitou:: "Indeed. You are an annoyance to people, and should show more consideration towards others."
As far as the eye could see, there were diverse rides and features for people to try. There was a diving board into the wave pool, a poolside rest area, and even a bar... In the competitive swimming pool, there were a number of 25-meter lanes, too.
Hajime Saitou:: "Yukimura. Is there someplace you want to go?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Hm, let’s see..."
With so many options it was difficult to choose.
At that moment, Heisuke-kun’s eyes began to sparkle.
Heisuke Toudou: "There’s a water slide! Let’s all slide down from the top!"
Kaoru Nagumo: "A water slide…..?"
Chikage Kazama: "How foolish. You expect me to associate myself with something so childish?"
Souji Okita: "Yeah, yeah. Well, I'm leaving behind the crowd that can’t read the mood. I’ll go with you."
While saying that, for some reason, Okita-senpai was grinning from ear to ear.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Okita-senpai. Why are you smiling like that...?"
Kaoru Nagumo: "You’re planning something, aren’t you?"
Souji Okita: "Not at all. I wasn’t even thinking about shoving Heisuke from behind when he slides at all."
Heisuke Toudou "Wait... Souji, you seriously need to stop! Definitely!"
Souji Okita: "Yes, yes."
While saying that, Okita-senpai ushered Heisuke-kun away with a firm shove on his back.
Hajime Saitou:: "Heisuke... I will see to your remains."
Kosuzu Suzuka: "If everyone is going, should we wait for them all to go down the slide?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "I suppose. Be careful, you two!"
While Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai were climbing the stairs, those of us who remained below decided just after to dive right into the pool.
Sen Suzuka: "Ah~! The water feels great! Chizuru-chan, hurry, hurry!"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-yeah!"
Kaoru Nagumo: "Wait. Before you just jump in, you need to warm up properly..."
Chikage Kazama: "Come here, my wife. I will grant you a lecture on swimming."
Kaoru Nagumo: "What do you mean, 'lecture?' Don’t touch my little sister...!"
Kaoru and Kazama-senpai were once again making jabs, glaring intensely at one another. As I watched the pair argue, flustered, Saitou-senpai tugged at my wrist.
Hajime Saitou:: "It’s fine, leave them alone. Let’s go, Yukimura."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-yes!"
Decisively jumping into the pool, my whole body was enveloped in the cool, refreshing water. While I was floating about in the water, it almost felt like I was drifting through the sky...
Before too long, a voice echoed from the top of the water slide.
Heisuke Toudou: "Alright then, Souji! I’m going on aheadーUwa, idiot, stop, stop you idiot! DON’T PUSH ME! DON’Tー"
Sen Suzuka: "...That sure was dramatic..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "A-are you ok, Heisuke-kun!?"
Heisuke Toudou: "S-Somehow..."
Chikage Kazama: "Bastard...! You dare splash water on me... you must have a death wish!"
Heisuke Toudou: "That's not my problem! It’s your bad for standing around spacing out, right!?"
Kazama-senpai, who was completely drenched, was pursuing Heisuke-kun with a furious expression on his face. They chased one another around the pool. Okita-senpai, who had slid down the slide successfully, was grinning while watching the pair.
Souji Okita: "Hehe... Photo op. Getting the waterproof feature was the right choice."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Don’t say such a thing, and please stop them!"
Souji Okita: "...."
(CG get!°˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°)
Okita-senpai's face made it clear he thought that was too much work, so I gave up on him and looked around for someone else who could help.
Chizuru Yukimura:"...Saitou-senpai should be able to stop this..."
Feeling hopeful, I cast my gaze around for him. But, what I saw was...
Hajime Saitou:: "...zzz..."
A pool float had been taken out when I wasn’t looking, and sleeping peacefully on top of it was Saitou-senpai.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "I-it looks like he’s sleeping, doesn't he…?"
Kaoru Nagumo: "He's enjoying himself so much it's annoying... Should I tip that float and capsize it...?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Don’t say such scary things, Kaoru!"
Everyone continued playing around like that, and the time flew by...
Chizuru Yukimura: "Well then, I’ll get out for a little bit. I’m going to look around at the other pools."
As one would expect, I was worn out from playing. I decided to take a break and got out of the water, walking along the pool-side.
Chizuru Yukimura: "I was worried about how things would turn out for a moment there, but..."
Realistically, things were horrible at first. Kaoru and Kazama-senpai were angry, and Heisuke-kun was complaining; Okita-senpai kept agitating things and Saitou-senpai had to stop him. At first, the atmosphere had been like that, but now things had calmed down considerably. Everyone had backed down for the moment, and it became like everyone was having fun with friends.
But, the moment I started to space outー
???: "UOOOORYAAAA!!!"
(screen flashes)
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wha!?"
As I was walking along the side of the diving pool, a sudden spray of water made me recoil. Covered in water from head to toe, I hurriedly looked around in a panic, and heard a voice:
???: "*Cough*ー! That was bad, I thought I was gonna miss the water."
???(2): "What do you think you're doing, Shinpachi? You went way overboard."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh..."
Those voices were...
[Harada and Nagakura appear…. Just guys being dudes.]
Chizuru Yukimura: "H-Harada-sensei?! Nagakura-sensei!?"
Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yo, Yukimura-kun! Today is the best kind of day for the pool!"
Sanosuke Harada: "You really did come too, huh? Just like they said."
Chizuru Yukimura: "'Just like they said...?'"
Harada-senseiーwho was wearing a wry smileー and Nagakura-senseiーwhose eyes sparkled happilyー were both wearing swimsuits, like everyone else around.
Tilting my head, I exclaimed:
Chizuru Yukimura: "Did you teachers come here because you also wanted to swim?!"
Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah. Not just us, either: others came too, right?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh!?"
Sanosuke Harada: "Here, look over there."
When I looked where he pointed, I saw two more people getting up from their lounge chairs, one of them looking annoyed.
[Hijikata and Sannan appear]
Toshizou Hijikata: "......"
Keisuke Sannan: "Good afternoon, Yukimura-kun. What a coincidence it is to meet here."
Chizuru Yukimura: "!!!"
I was so shocked, my voice wouldn’t come out.
Chizuru Yukimura: "S-Sannan-sensei and...Hijikata-sensei...?"
Toshizou Hijikata: "...Who else would we be?"
Seeing that irritated face, there was no mistaking that this was the genuine Hijikata-sensei. Even setting aside Harada-sensei and Nagakura-sensei, the fact that these other two were also here... something was definitely suspicious!
Keisuke Sannan: "Since it appears that the other students have also come, it seems we'll be able to have an especially lively day. Don’t you think so as well, Hijikata-sensei?"
Toshizou Hijikata: "...I don’t think so. I don’t want to think about it."
Keisuke Sannan: "Haah... good grief. Now that you’re here, there's nothing more to be done. Things would be simpler if you stopped being so defiant."
Chizuru Yukimura: "......"
I was far too tongue-tied to say anything, but... The main factor in my confusion was not this alone.
???: "Certainly, it seems... Looking at this situation, I agree there's a risk of dying from overwork...
???(2): "I don’t like this... No matter what happens, I’m not going near those guys. Yamazaki-senpai, I’m going to leave things to you from here on out. Because I’m already going to go home."
???: "I’ll be in trouble if you leave it all up to me! This isn't a trial that I can shoulder alone...!"
Shinpachi Nagakura: "Hey! You two over there!"
??? ＆ ???: "!"
Sanosuke Harada: "What are you sneaking around for? Hurry up and come here!"
Harada-sensei seemed to have noticed something, and made a gesture to beckon forth something from its hiding place.
The figures that revealed themselves after a hesitant pause were once again faces that I knew.
[Ibuki and Yamazaki appear]
Susumu Yamazaki: "........."
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "........."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Yamazaki-senpai and Ibuki-kun...?"
For some reason, the two of them looked like they had very mixed feelings about being here.
I was dumbfounded: I could only stare at the two of them.
Susumu Yamazaki: "Um, before you get the wrong idea, let me just say that we are... victims, so to speak."
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Yeah, more precisely, I really didn’t feel like coming here at all..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "...?"
What in the world was going on? I only planned to come to meet at the pool with Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan, but people kept ‘coincidentally’ coming. Heisuke-kun, Okita-senpai, Saitou-senpai and the others showed up, and we ended up playing together... And it wasn’t just them. People who should never have shown up, like Harada-sensei and Hijikata-sensei, kept appearing.
...something was definitely strange. I thought that and tried to open my mouth, but a party was approaching from the distance.
Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, there she is! Heey, Chizuru!"
Hajime Saitou:: "So you were in a place like this. When you did not return, everyone was worriedー"
Toshizou Hijikata: "...Saitou, so you came too."
Hajime Saitou:: "...My sincerest apologies."
Chikage Kazama: "Tch. So another troublesome group is here."
The group of students looked at Hijikata-sensei’s group of teachers at a loss for words. After both parties stood in silence for a while, Heisuke-kun was the first to open his mouth.
Heisuke Toudou: "E-Even you teachers are here, what a strange coincidenceー"
Sanosuke Harada: "It’s not a coincidence. Souji sent everyone those emails, right?"
Keisuke Sannan: "Indeed. He said that Yukimura-kun was going to the pool, and to come as well."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh!?"
Myself, Osen-chan, and Kosuzu-chan cast accusatory glares at him. However, Okita-senpai didn’t look even a little bit ashamed, and was smiling cheerfully.
Souji Okita: "At times like this, the more people there are, the more interesting things become."
Chizuru Yukimura: "But, don’t tell me, you emailed even the teachers...?"
Hijikata-sensei in particular looked as though his irritation had already reached its zenith, and his glare was incredibly severe.
Even though we were at the poolside in the summer, I felt that it was as if the air had gone cold.
Even so, when it came to Okita-senpai...
Souji Okita: "Hijikata-san, that’s an incredibly scary face you have there. It really contrasts too much with this situation. Since you came all the way to the pool, you should make a more cheerful expreー"
Toshizou Hijikata: "Shut up! Shit, I knew you were this kind of guy, and yet...!"
Hajime Saitou:: "It wasn’t just us, Hijikata-sensei was also tricked..."
Susumu Yamazaki: "Okita-kun! Your behavior really is completely intolerable, after all!"
Even though he was being criticized from all sides, Okita-senpai blithely ignored them all.
Chizuru Yukimura: "For the time being, what should I do about this chaos...?"
As I tried to escape the uproar, I turned my gaze towards Osen-chan and Kosuzu-chan...
Kosuzu Suzuka: "...!"
For some reason, Kosuzu-chan was staring fixedly at Ibuki-kun.
Sen Suzuka: "...Kosuzu?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "By any chance, do you know Ibuki-kun?"
Seeming to notice the gazes upon him, Ibuki-kun began to approach. Upon seeing his faceー which had an odd expressionー Kosuzu-chan let out a small breath.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "It’s not like it’s a big deal, but... When I dropped my commuter pass before, he returned it to me."
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "...Aha! I thought I had seen your face somewhere before, but you’re the girl from that one time, right?"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "Thank you for that time. Thanks to you, I was able to get home."
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Not really. It was just a commuter pass, and all I did was pick it up right after it dropped. Not to brag, but if it had been cash, I definitely would have been more conflicted!"
Sanosuke Harada: "That certainly isn't something to brag about..."
Harada-sensei, who had arrived without my noticing, said with a wry smile.
Kosuzu-chan looked at Ibuki-kun after he had made such a blunt declaration, and she smiled, too.
Kosuzu Suzuka: "How do I say this? You’re so...straight-forward..."
Then, by the time Ibuki-kun and Kosuzu-chan 's conversation had reached a stopping point, the situation around us had completely changed.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Hmm...?"
I felt the gazes and heard the murmurs of other pool visitors, and I turned over my shoulder to lookー
(CG get!°˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°)
At some point, an intense stand-off had formed. What was more, the tension seemed to have reached a critical point.
Kaoru Nagumo: "Hey, all you guys with their ulterior motives on full display, why don’t you stay away from my cute younger sister? The person a younger sister should spend time with is her older brother: me! Isn’t that obvious?"
Chikage Kazama: "Honestly... The fact that you came to this place at all makes your motives crystal clear. Especially you, Hijikata. You came here despite the fact you're a teacher. You're beyond saving."
Toshizou Hijikata: "Shut it! You know, unlike you, I didn’t want to come here!"
Heisuke Toudou: "I mean, the one who clearly has an ulterior motive is Kazama-senpai, right? I just wanted to see Chizuru in a swimsuit, so I wasn’t thinking of anything too weird..."
Hajime Saitou:: "True, I don’t think such an overt feeling qualifies as an ulterior motive... But is that really the issue here?"
Susumu Yamazaki: "Okita-kun is the cause of this whole situation in the first place! Anyone would have gotten concerned after receiving emails like that..."
Souji Okita: "Eh? Even if you try to pin the blame on me, everyone else joined in and is equally guilty, right?"
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Wrong! At least, it’s wrong in my case! By the time I realized what was going on, I'd already been dragged into this mess!"
Sanosuke Harada: "Haah... Well then, it’s exactly as Souji says: maybe he set the bait, but everyone else chose to take it. Not even an elementary school field trip is this bad. Don’t you think so, Shinpachi?"
Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oh! According to this directory there’s a water slide, isn’t there?!"
Sanosuke Harada: "...He's not even listening..."
With this many people gathered, things were quickly spiraling out of control. Glancing at the disturbance, without thinking I unintentionally held my head in my hands.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Is this situation...my fault...?"
Sen Suzuka: "Since we have what looks like a group of handsome menー personalities asideー noisily assembled, of course we'd draw attention."
Kosuzu Suzuka: "But, this will be annoying for the other customers..."
‘What should I do...’
I knew I had to do something quickly, but as I squeezed my head tighter and tighterー Sannan-sensei clapped his hands twice, loudly.
Keisuke Sannan: "Now then, everyone. Why don’t we stop this argument here? To cause such a ruckus without reflecting on your circumstances, and to cause an inconvenience for the other guests, is incredibly disgraceful behavior for a man. Don’t you think so as well, Yukimura-kun?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "Eh...ah, yes..."
Toshizou Hijikata: "Hmph..."
Chikage Kazama: "Tch..."
When I exchanged looks with Sannan-sensei and nodded, everyone fell silent all at once.
Keisuke Sannan: "However, I wish to request that, from here on out, everyone should play together peacefully, but that doesn’t seem very likely to happen... That being the case, let us play a game in order to deepen our friendship."
Toshizou Hijikata: "A game...?"
Sanosuke Harada: "What, we should all play something like beach volleyball?"
Keisuke Sannan: "No, no; since we came to this specific pool, there are more appropriate things to do."
Heisuke Toudou: "...Don’t tell me you mean ‘SSS’!?"
Hajime Saitou:: "Do you know what he means, Heisuke?"
Heisuke Toudou: "It’s this park’s special feature! It was just released this summer, and it’s a super popular attraction! The name of it is Summer・Survival・Shooting: ‘SSS’ for short!"
Shinpachi Nagakura: "Oh, I’ve also heard of that! It’s a survival game where you fight using water guns, working together as pairs!"
Keisuke Sannan: "Indeed. This is our precious summer vacation, and moreover, since we all came to the pool, if we enjoy ourselves, the trip may be considered a success. Rather than continue this futile argument in this manner, don’t you think it would be more fun and fruitful to settle it with a game?"
Heisuke Toudou: "I agree! I totally agree!"
Chizuru Yukimura: "It sounds like an interesting game."
I smiled and nodded back to Heisuke-kun, who had an enthusiastic smile on his face.
Sanosuke Harada: "Well, if you consider where the situation was headed, I agree it'd be best to settle things with an easy-to-understand competition."
Souji Okita: "Sounds interesting. Let's try it."
The four people who expressed their support were smiling, but... There were those who had looks of bewilderment on their faces, as if to say 'Why would you play such a game?'...
[Saitou, Yamazaki, Ibuki flash on screen]
And there were also those with looks of blatant disgust on their faces…
[Kazama, Hijikata, Kaoru flash on screen]
However, Sannan-sensei was composed, and smiled broadly and fully.
Keisuke Sannan: "By the way, I will present the pair who comes in first with a prize."
Chikage Kazama: "How foolish. If you think you can entice me with such a thingー"
Keisuke Sannan: "The prize is a pair coupon for the poolside bar. With such a thing, don’t you think one could spend some lovely time alone with the companion they like best...?"
At that moment, the expression on Kazama-senpai’s and the others' faces changed completely.
Chikage Kazama: "...Very well. I will accept this challenge."
Kaoru Nagumo: "...of all the underhanded..."
Keisuke Sannan: "Well then, won’t you participate?"
Kaoru Nagumo: "...Fine. Even though I know it’s a trap, I will play along."
Kaoru looked incredibly annoyed, but declared this clearly nonetheless.
Hajime Saitou:: "Um, I think a break at the poolside bar after moving your body is logical. Sannan-sensei’s plan is superb. ...However, the pair ticket is not in any way my goal."
Keisuke Sannan: "Thank you very much, Saitou-kun."
Saitou-senpai blushed for some reason, and Sannan-sensei smiled as he responded to him.
In contrast, Ibuki-kun was making a face as though he were thinking things over, and was troubled by such thoughts.
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Even if you mention a 'companion,' I don’t really haveー"
Keisuke Sannan: "Ibuki-kun. A coupon means you can eat as much of what you like until your stomach is full."
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "......"
Susumu Yamazaki: "Ibuki... Suddenly, the look in your eyes has changed...?"
Keisuke Sannan: "Yamazaki-kun."
Susumu Yamazaki: "...N-no. I’m sick, so I’ll just watch..."
Keisuke Sannan: "Ah, that won’t do at all. Fortunately, I happen to have some medicine with me, soー"
Susumu Yamazaki: "I suddenly feel better, so I will participate normally!"
Keisuke Sannan: "Is that so? What a shame."
And then, the still-smiling Sannan-sensei turned his gaze towards Hijikata-sensei.
Hijikata-sensei had a sour, discontented look on his face, and didn’t look as though he had any desire to participate.
Toshizou Hijikata: "I’m not joining. If I fight in the same ring as these guys, I’ll just look like an idiot..."
Keisuke Sannan "Hmmm, even though we went through the trouble of finding a peaceful solution…It seems that Hijikata-sensei still insists on childishly spreading discord? I see..."
Toshizou Hijikata: "...ugh...I'll let you have your way this time, Sannan-san...!"
Keisuke Sannan: "Thank you very much."
In this way, it was decided that we would all play this gameー
Heisuke Toudou: "By the way, who are you going to team up with, Chizuru?"
At that question, in an instant the area was enveloped in a feeling of tension. For some reason, everyone exchanged glances with one another, and it was as if sparks flew at the intensity of it.
Keisuke Sannan: "Now, now, everyone. Please do not resume fighting before the game even begins. Because she will be one of the pair to use the ticket, wouldn’t allowing her to decide be the most fair?"
At Sannan-sensei’s words, everyone’s gazes converged on me in the span of a single breath.
Chizuru Yukimura: "U-um…"
Chizuru Yukimura: "I..."
It didn't matter who I chose; I'd still feel nervous no matter what.
'No matter what?' I felt frustrated thinking that. Suddenly, I felt someone's eyes on me, and looked up.
Hajime Saitou: "......"
I locked eyes with Saitou-senpai, who seemed to be watching me with some concern.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, Saitou-senpai... Would it be alright with you if we went together...?"
Hajime Saitou: "Sure, I'll assist you. If you're alright with it.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Great...!"
Saitou-senpai was level-headed, and seemed very reliable. The tension I'd felt was turning into relief, but his face seemed a little red for some reason.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Saitou-senpai? You look a little unwell—"
Hajime Saitou: "...No, no need to worry. More importantly, it looks like the SSS has just started. Brace yourself."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Right!"
We were on the other side of the game area, setting up our water guns.
[Minigame Victory]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Well then, Saitou-senpai...!"
Hajime Saitou: "Yeah... Cheers."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Cheers!"
Our glasses of ice tea sounded lovely as they clinked together. The SSS competition had a pair ticket as prize, and it turned out to be a fiercer battle than I'd expected… Following the end of our furious struggle, we raised a toast at the poolside bar to celebrate our victory.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Phew... I don't know if it's because I moved around so much, but this tastes amazing."
Hajime Saitou: "Victory tastes like fine wine, or so they say. ...Though, obviously, students aren't allowed to drink."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Hehe... I'm really happy we won, though."
Hajime Saitou: "Yeah..."
Saitou-senpai nodded deeply, looking like he was filled with some kind of emotion.
Hajime Saitou: "I was thinking how bad I'd feel if I hadn't worked hard enough to meet your expectations, since you were the one who reached out to me..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Far from it, Saitou-senpai. We were able to win because of you."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Really, thank you so much."
Hajime Saitou: "......"
He was being humble, but in reality, he was quick on his feet, and did really well in the competition. I gave him a wide grin, and he seemed bashful, averting his gaze.
Hajime Saitou: "Although, um... It's nice being at the poolside bar, but are you really alright being here with me, of all people...?"
Hajime Saitou: "I can think of a mountain of others who'd like to spend time with you..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "No, I wanted to share this prize with the teammate who fought alongside me."
Chizuru Yukimura: "And it's really a lovely place,"
I looked around my surroundings as I spoke.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Really lovely..."
The majority of the customers I could see around us were pairs of men and women: couples.
Chizuru Yukimura: "......"
Hajime Saitou: "......"
It was indescribable. We descended into silence. Saitou's cheeks were dyed red. He looked restless, his eyes darting all over the place.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Uh... Saitou-senpai?"
Hajime Saitou: "N-No, you're right. It has a very nice atmosphere to it."
Hajime Saitou: "......"
Hajime Saitou: "...The only thing would be… The fact I'm sitting across from you doesn't feel right to me..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-You think so?"
Hajime Saitou: "It's like, I don't know where to look, or..."
Certainly, now that he mentioned it, he was constantly keeping his gaze away, as if he couldn't look me in the eye.
Chizuru Yukimura: "Should we sit next to each other, then...?"
Hajime Saitou: !?
Hajime Saitou: "B-But that means there'd be some chance that our arms would touch, or—"
He hastily shook his head. However, just then...
Someone cried out from a nearby seat.
Woman: "Please stop it!"
Skirt Chaser: "Aw, come on! Just for a lil' bit—"
It looked like a man was hitting on a woman, who wasn't having it. He was pulling on her arm pretty forcefully, and the woman looked like she was about to cry. What should I do? The moment I thought that...
Hajime Saitou: "Yukimura. Wait here for a bit."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Wha...?"
With a skid of his chair, Saitou-senpai stood up and went towards the two people arguing without hesitation. On the way, he picked up an oar from a rubber raft close by.
Chizuru Yukimura: "......"
I watched closely, feeling nervous, and wondering what he was planning on doing. And then—
(CG get!°˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°)
Saitou-senpai wielded the oar like a katana, and struck the man with the paddle without warning, knocking him to the ground. It all happened in an instant. I had no idea what was going to happen next, and my breath caught in my throat in surprise.
Skirt Chaser: "Wha... What the hell was that for, you dick!"
Hajime Saitou: "Forcing a woman to yield to you is the most despicable thing a man can do. No, resorting to violence just so someone grants your selfish desires—" Saitou-senpai pierced the man with his level-headed gaze. "...It makes you the most despicable human being."
Skirt Chaser: "Ngh..."
Hajime Saitou: "Did the summer heat get to your brain? Is that why you couldn't hear a rejection as clear as that? Or perhaps you couldn't comprehend it?"
Skirt Chaser "Th-That's..."
Hajime Saitou: "If so, then back down graciously."
Saitou-senpai had turned the whole nerve-wracking situation on its head, and struck a remarkably gallant figure.
Hajime Saitou: "But if you keep following her around... And you think you can get away with being that callous, then I will teach you a lesson."
Skirt Chaser: "......"
Saitou-senpai looked down at him coldly. The man turned pale, gulping.
Hajime Saitou: "Come at me all you want. I won't hold back, either."
Skirt Chaser: "...L-Like I give a crap about this chick!"
The man spat out that last remark as he trembled violently, and ran away, just like that.
Woman: "Th-Thank you so much...!"
Hajime Saitou: "It's no trouble. You've had it much worse yourself."
Saitou-senpai's bravery had wowed the people around us, and they burst out into applause. I also joined in the applause as I was waiting for him to come back.
Hajime Saitou: "I'm sorry for making you wait. We were in the middle of talking, but I just stood up out of nowhere..." He looked apologetic.
I shook my head.
Chizuru Yukimura: "You're really strong, Saitou-senpai..."
Seriously, with just one strike, he had sapped his opponent's will to fight completely. I gave him a look of unabashed respect, and Saitou-senpai smiled shyly.
Hajime Saitou: "...Not at all. I'm still inexperienced. There's much I've yet to learn." He then let out a somewhat weary sigh. "But I just couldn't overlook a man like that."
I felt...
[In awe of him]
[Worried for him]
Chizuru Yukimura: "Even so, Saitou-senpai, I thought you were wonderful."
Hajime Saitou: "! W-Wonderful..." His eyes widened in surprise.
Chizuru Yukimura: "That woman was having such a hard time, I also wanted to do something to help her. ...But in the end, I just stood by and watched, and couldn't really do anything..."
Hajime Saitou: "...You shouldn't feel guilty about that."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh...?"
Hajime Saitou: "It wouldn't have been good for you to face him. He may have been a mess, but he was still a man," a kind smile spread across Saitou-senpai's face as he spoke gently to me. "Even if you reproached him with good reason, he might've dodged the issue by lashing out at you instead. That's why intervening in situations like these is something a man like myself should do. When I'm by your side, I'd like you to leave such matters to me without having to worry."
Chizuru Yukimura: "...Okay," I agreed. If I left it to him, it would definitely be alright. He could handle himself.
After that, any tension that remained came apart, and we spent the rest of our time harmoniously.
Hajime Saitou: "......"
As we chatted to pass the time, Saitou-senpai peered at what little ice tea he had left.
Hajime Saitou: "We should get back to the others after we've finished drinking these."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah. It'd be a good time to as well."
Hajime Saitou: "...I do wish we could stay a little longer..."
Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, if you're still thirsty, you could order something else—"
Hajime Saitou: "...Right, yes. Ordering, um, a little more wouldn't be greedy of me, would it...?"
Chizuru Yukimura: "No, of course it wouldn't! Please, drink whatever you'd like. Take your time."
With his eyes wandering slightly, Saitou-senpai ordered another ice tea. I thought of how gallant he was before, and how he was now. Both times were simply Saitou-senpai being himself. It made me kind of happy that I was able to see so many sides to him today.
Before long, we'd finished our tea, and left the poolside bar.
After joining up with everyone else once, in order to fully enjoy the time we had left, everyone began to split up.
Saitou-senpai and Harada-sensei were competing for the best time in the competitive pool.
Heisuke-kun and Nagakura-sensei tried to challenge the water slide 10 times in a row, and by the end they were unsteady on their feet…
In retaliation for losing at SSS, Kaoru pretended that his hand had slipped at the poolside, pushing Yamazaki-senpai into the water.
Okita-senpai took a photo of the scene. Sannan-sensei chided him…
Hijikata-sensei and Kazama-senpai were competing for the highest dive on the diving boards, taking it too seriously.
I felt that everyone had a fun time, in their own different ways. But, as the sun set, the end of that fun time was drawing nearer…
Somewhat reluctantly, we all left the water park behind.
Toshizou Hijikata: "Geez. Because of Souji, I had a completely miserable experience today…"
Souji Okita: "Even though you enjoyed yourself plenty, you’re still saying things like that. That’s not very honest of you."
Hajime Saitou:: "Although it’s true that it was rather enjoyable, I think it was anxiety-inducing as well."
Heisuke Toudou: "Right? Today, people kept showing up and causing problems one after another."
Shinpachi Nagakura: "It looks like Hijikata-sensei really had a rough time… I can’t help but feel sympathetic…"
Sanosuke Harada: "Shinpachi. You’re also part of the problem."
Kaoru Nagumo: "I swear… What do both the teachers and students of Hakuo Academy think they’re doing?"
Chikage Kazama: "With this, the fact that there are no decent people at Hakuo Academy beyond myself and my wife has been thrown into stark relief."
Keisuke Sannan: "Now, now, please have more humility. There are no other problem children quite like you."
Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "The person who suddenly sent a vague email and lured this many people here is enough of a problem child in his own right."
Susumu Yakmazaki: "…On the other hand, I think it could also be said that he has a talent for networking."
Sen Suzuka: "Either way is fine, but what I don’t think is fine is interrupting and intruding on girls’ plans without permission…"
Kosuzu Suzuka: "It’s just as Osen-neesan says. Thanks to you, I’m totally worn out…"
Chizuru Yukimura: "But…It was kind of fun."
It was a really rough day, but thanks to that I think I was able to make a wonderful memory of summer vacation. Everyone talked and laughed together as we all headed home…
‘This may well be a new precious page in my book of memories…’