Chapter 3Who Decided That Everyone Would Reach Out If They Wanted Something in Front of Them?
The sound of the Brass Band Club practice echoed throughout the school building after class. I walked down the corridor of the North Building, half listening to the background music.
—Today is Monday. There are only five more days until the nomination deadline. I enjoyed the "event" the day before yesterday... ...I need to get serious again starting today.
"I wonder how the others besides Nagasaka-kun are doing?" Kiyosato-san's parting words suddenly flashed through my mind as I thought about that.
—After that, the bus soon came, and I parted ways with Kiyosato-san. I was worried that I would make Kiyosato-san angry like Katsunuma, but when she got on the bus, she was like her usual self, and the dark impression I had of her had vanished in the blink of an eye.
Now that I think about it... ...Kiyosato-san sometimes acts in a meaningful way. The first time I realized it was when I was guiding her through a path filled with cherry blossoms. Suddenly she asked me to take a detour, and then she threw a mysterious question at me.
It was also an unusual response that could not be predicted from the information data, and the underlying reason for Kiyosato-san's behavior was still unclear.
I did think about the meaning of Kiyosato-san's words, but... ...was she trying to tell me that 'people who aren't me can enjoy an ideal school life'?
That doesn't make sense, I thought.
First of all, the reason I had to work so hard to turn my real world into an idealized rom-com was because my situation was far from ideal. People with better conditions — Kiyosato-san, for example, was much closer to that ideal than I was.
Similar to Katsunuma, I felt that Kiyosato-san was looking at me strangely. As if Kiyosato-san was overestimating me or misunderstanding me.
...Perhaps, Kiyosato-san too...
...Just like Katsunuma, Kiyosato-san might have hidden feelings that can't be seen from my data.
—Tantara! Tantara!
Suddenly, the sound of a trumpet playing outside the window snapped me back to reality.
...This is not the time to think about that.
The matter with Hinoharu-senpai is an urgent matter, and I cannot be complacent about it. I must focus all my attention on it.
I slapped my cheek to change my mindset.
Now, according to the information from Uenohara, it was confirmed that Shiozaki-senpai had some sort of special feelings for Hinoharu-senpai.
I think this information can also be used as a bargaining tool, so Uenohara is currently digging deeper into that matter.
I plan to continue interacting with Hinoharu-senpai to see if I can get any leads. I don't have a specific strategy, but doing nothing is not an option.
Currently, Hinoharu-senpai is in the Student Council Office. For now, I'll use the usual cafeteria report as an excuse to make contact.
—Hmm, what is this?
As I was thinking about this, I saw Hinoharu-senpai coming out of the Arts Building through the window at the end of the corridor. She was carrying her schoolbag on her shoulder, and it seemed like she wasn't going out for a temporary break. Wait, has she gone home? This is an irregular pattern...
I looked up at the nearby clock tower and found that it was just past 4 p.m. It was still too early for Hinoharu-senpai to go home.
Hinoharu-senpai was heading towards the school building via the pedestrian bridge. She was probably going to the entrance to get her shoes, so if I stayed here, we might run into each other.
I could have talked to Hinoharu-senpai and tried to find out what was going on...
However, my plans fell apart as soon as I saw Hinoharu-senpai put her smartphone to her ear.
Damn, Hinoharu-senpai is on the phone. If I go to her now, I won't be able to say anything, and she'll probably just nod at me.
—I think I should wait until Hinoharu-senpai finishes and then call out to her.
With that decision, I hid behind the nearest pillar.
As Hinoharu-senpai's footsteps got closer, I could also hear her voice.
"Yeah, yeah, I'm coming now. This is Umemachi Street, right? The place that's usually in front of Saegusa-san's stall."
Umemachi Street... ...Where is it?
"Looking forward to Tanabata's dango! Oh, isn't Grandpa Yoshikawa there? Is Grandpa having back problems again? Oh, that's difficult. Okay, I'll be there soon, so see you later,—"
[TL Note: 団子 = dango. Dango is a sweet dumpling made from rice flour mixed with uruchi rice flour and glutinous rice flour. It is made differently from mochi, which is made after steaming glutinous rice. Dango are usually round in shape, and three to five dango are usually served on skewers (called kushidango)].
Oh, could it be...
I had a hunch and opened the browser on my smartphone to search for something.
—Oh, I knew it.
There's currently a Tanabata Festival in the Shopping District.
The Shopping District where Hinoharu-senpai grew up — Kyougoku City's Central Shopping District, treats the week before and after the Tanabata Festival as the Festival period.
I did check it out because it was technically a Festival event, but the timing was awkward, and this was a small-scale Festival with only a few stalls in the arcade...
I intend to ignore it. It's not like there will be fireworks or anything.
But, hmm...
I looked at Hinoharu-senpai with my eyes as she walked away, thinking.
From the way Hinoharu-senpai was talking, it seemed like she was planning to go to the Festival now. I also found a street on the map called "Umemachi Street."
This was indeed a completely unexpected situation, but it might be a chance to see Hinoharu-senpai outside of school.
Especially now that I'm stuck, this might trigger something.
Okay, let's go. I'll explain it to Uenohara later.
After I made up my mind, I rushed to the classroom to get my things.
*
I parked my bike at Kyougoku Station and walked for about 10 minutes.
"Wow..."
The usually quiet shopping district is now bustling with activity.
What was once a pedestrian's paradise is now filled with people, and the sounds of taiko drums and Festival music fill the air.
On both sides of the street are stalls selling a variety of foods, from classic yakisoba and takoyaki to more unique local specialties like sake manju, kurodama, and abalone boiled in soy sauce.
[TL Note: くろ玉 = kurodama. A ball-shaped seasonal sweet representing Yamanashi prefecture. The birth of the original "Kurodama" was in 1929. The bright green uguisu-an (mung bean paste) is made from mung beans, and additional mung beans, which are boiled separately to preserve their texture, are added to bring out the delicate flavor inherent in mung beans. The paste is shaped into a round and wrapped in yokan (sweet bean jelly) rich in black sugar, creating a flavorful confection.]
The ancient arcades are decorated with colorful ornaments. Kusudama and colorful ribbons are hung from the ceiling, swaying in the wind and reflecting the light of paper lanterns.
[TL Note: 薬玉 = kusudama. Kusudama is a modular origami model consisting of several units that are put together to form a spherical kayak shape. It can form different patterns like flowers or stars.]
Wow... ...this is much more luxurious than I expected. I thought the Shopping District Festival would be simpler, but I guess I underestimated it. I opened the map on my smartphone once more to check my destination before stepping into the crowd.
From what Hinoharu-senpai said, 'in front of Saegusa-san's stall' probably refers to the Japanese cake stall in front. There was one place along Umemachi Street that seemed to fit that description.
I had seen Hinoharu-senpai leaving school on her moped, so if that was her destination, she should have arrived by now.
I put away my smartphone after checking for any signs that could be landmarks. In a crowd like this, there was no way I could walk around while looking at a map.
I threw myself into the crowded atmosphere and started walking towards the destination.
─Clatter, clatter, vroom vroom.
The sound of the crowd and the noise of the food stall machines filled the air constantly.
Sounds that would normally annoy me, strangely enough, actually excite me in this kind of atmosphere. And the sweet and savory aroma that wafted from all directions made me even hungrier.
─But there are a lot of people wearing yukata, huh?
When I noticed the crowd of people passing by, I thought that it was a pretty big percentage for a festival at a time like this, especially on a weekday night.
And most of the people wearing yukata seemed to be young people in their early twenties. They were probably students from the nearby Kyougoku University or Kyougoku Academy. I think their age group is lower than what you usually find at local festivals.
There are no fireworks or anything like that, so I guess there's no need to wear a yukata...
Or maybe the kimono stalls in the shopping district rent them out? If they advertise it properly, they might be able to attract a lot of customers.
Wait a minute... ...if that's the case, then maybe...
Hinoharu-senpai might... ...wearing a yukata too!?
Could this be the "Yukata Chapter" at such a crucial time!?
"Hngh!"
I couldn't help but feel excited at this miraculous thought, and I ended up gasping for air. The people around me were looking at me with strange looks, so I quickly pretended to cough to cover it up.
N-No, no, calm down. It's not like this kind of delicious "event" happens easily.
It was certain that my expectations would be betrayed, so I shouldn't get my hopes up.
But, gosh, that yukata is really nice... ...Hinoharu-senpai has a traditional Japanese beauty, so she will definitely look beautiful in a yukata...
No, that's a bad idea! It's definitely a flag of death! Shut up, me!
I threw away all my thoughts and just focused on finding my hearing.
Oh! That sign! There it is!
I quickened my pace towards the location, my heart pounding with excitement... ...No, I mean, contemplating the pottery age.
In front of the Japanese sweets stall, the noren curtain of the stall read "Yakisoba and Kushidango".
[TL Note: 暖簾 = noren. Noren curtains are traditional Japanese cloth divider curtains made of rectangular pieces. Exterior noren are traditionally used by shops and restaurants as a means of protection from the sun, wind, and dust, and to display the name or logo of the stall.]
And when I looked inside—
"─Like that, really?!"
"Eh?"
─There stood Hinoharu-senpai.
Wearing the Happi Festival's signature coat, Hinoharu-senpai was cooking yakisoba.
"Wow, Nagasaka-kun!? You're here too!"
Hinoharu-senpai's face lit up.
In her hand, Hinoharu-senpai held a metal spatula for yakisoba. Her long black hair was in a bun on top of her head, with a hachimaki headband that read 'Kyougoku Central Shopping District'.
[TL Note: 鉢巻 = hachimaki. This is a Japanese headband, usually made of red or white cloth, which usually features a kanji design on the front. This headband is worn as a symbol of the wearer's effort or bravery, especially for those in the military, or simply to keep sweat off the face. Cheer up, Hinoharu-senpai!]
Underneath the happi coat, which had a blue and white wave pattern with a large 'Matsuri' kanji on the back, Hinoharu-senpai was wearing a standard school sports uniform. Hinoharu-senpai's clothes were completely customized for the Festival.
[TL Note: 祭り = matsuri. Meaning Festival.]
Oh, I see. It's natural to dress like that when helping out at the stall... ...D*mn it, stop it! At least wrap a sarashi cloth around your waist if you're going to wear a happi coat! Pay more attention to 'reader service'!
[TL Note: 晒し = sarashi. "Bleached cloth", a light and soft white cloth, usually made of cotton. A sarashi can be wrapped around the body under a kimono as a haramaki (cloth to cover the stomach). It is a fashion accessory for practical or aesthetic purposes.]
"—Nagasaka-kun? Hey, can you hear me?"
"Oh, sorry, I was too focused on the pottery."
"Huh?"
Hinoharu-senpai chuckled while furrowing her eyebrows at my strange behavior.
...Ahem. Um, whatever.
"Well, Hinoharu-senpai, what a surprise to see you here. Are you helping to look after the stall?"
"Yeah! Actually, I've known many of the stallholders around here for a long time! They've always taken good care of me, so I help out during events like this!"
While speaking, Hinoharu-senpai skillfully stir-fried the yakisoba, making a 'sreng sreng' sound with the spatula. Hinoharu-senpai seemed quite experienced; Hinoharu-senpai must be telling the truth.
"Oh, I see. So, you're making yakisoba."
"Yup. Oh, do you want some?"
"Yeah, I really want some. The smell alone makes me hungry."
"It'll be ready soon!"
Hinoharu-senpai answered cheerfully and skillfully scooped the yakisoba into the transparent package using a spatula.
But gosh, Hinoharu-senpai was so excited from earlier. Perhaps because of the noisy environment, her voice sounded louder than usual. A festival coat that fits her perfectly.
"Here you go! I made it a little bigger because you're a boy. The pickled ginger and seaweed are optional!"
"Oh, thank you very much."
I took the plastic bag and placed the change I had prepared in Hinoharu-senpai's palm. The brief touch of her hand felt rather warm and slightly sweaty.
"Thank you for your groceries! Oh, I made it to take home, but do you want to eat it here?"
"Eh, is it okay?"
That was an offer I couldn't refuse. I can also observe Hinoharu-senpai's behavior more closely this way.
"Of course! Please use the empty space behind the stall."
Hinoharu-senpai replied with a smile and picked up a large beerbox bottles placed nearby, and placed it with a 'don'. I think Hinoharu-senpai suggested using it as a seat.
"Thank you very much. Then, I won't hold back."
"Please, go ahead!"
I picked up the beerbox and walked away from the crowd of people to the back of the stall.
The open space behind the stall looks like a coin-operated parking lot. It was probably temporarily closed during the Festival and used as a warehouse area.
Gas cylinders, baskets from the noodle factory, and cardboard boxes containing groceries were stacked around it. It was dimly lit due to the lack of lighting, but it felt quieter than the front.
I found a comfortable spot among the empty boxes of cabbage and bean sprouts, and sat down. From here, I could observe Hinoharu-senpai's back at work.
Phew, I can finally relax a bit. Walking in the crowd was really tiring.
While replenishing my energy with hot yakisoba, I decided to observe Hinoharu-senpai's behavior.
—After a while.
"Sacchan, Sacchan, come here for a moment!"
A hoarse voice echoed from the tent next to Hinoharu-senpai's stall, which had a signboard that read 'Tanabata Festival Organizing Committee'. When I looked over, I saw a gray-haired old man gesturing to her.
"Hmm, what's going on?"
Hinoharu-senpai checked if there were no customers around, put down the spatula, and headed over.
"Didn't you say Aonuma-san's stall ran out of Tanabata decorating paper? How's that going?"
"If that's the case, we have some spare paper at the Community Center, so you can use it. You have the key, right?"
"The Community Center, huh... ...I think I should go there."
"What are you talking about? It's only a 10-minute walk. Go for a walk! It's good for your health!"
Saying this, Hinoharu-senpai patted the old man on the back.
Then, another old man appeared.
"Sacchan! What audio song should we play at the arcade?"
"I've prepared a 'Yochabare Rock' CD inside, so please use that."
"Oh, I see. But if possible, I'd prefer something more mainstream..."
"That one will be more popular with young people! Besides, we're doing public relations for the renewal, so we should try something new!"
Then, a hunched-over old man appeared.
"Sacchan, this is the receipt for the prize that will be given out in tomorrow's lottery."
"Yeah, yeah... ...Hmm, isn't this different from what I ordered? I thought we agreed to order unique crystal crafts."
"Yeah... ...that one is a bit expensive."
"No, no, that should be the highlight of the event. What's the point of making uploading photos to social media a condition of participation if we're not doing anything special? It's a cheap thing if you think of it as extra advertising."
Amidst the constant flow of visitors, Hinoharu-senpai efficiently responded to every request, and it was as if the entire operation centered around her.
Despite the sweat pouring down her forehead, Hinoharu-senpai gave instructions without a hint of displeasure, and even took the initiative to do things personally, never stopping for a moment.
However, Hinoharu-senpai's face was full of life - and, more than anything, she seemed genuinely happy from the bottom of her heart.
"Hey, weren't you the one yesterday?"
As I turned my head to the side, I saw an old lady standing there, in a kimono.
"You're one of Sacchan's friends back then, aren't you?"
"Oh... ...Thank you for that time."
I lowered my head as I suddenly realized who she was.
It was already dark, so I didn't recognize her, but she was the landowner of the kimono stall we talked to earlier. It made sense that the people from the stall I had visited while investigating Hinoharu-senpai would also be around.
The landlady burst out laughing when she saw Hinoharu-senpai.
"When Sacchan was around, everyone worked very hard. She was always a lively child."
"What... ...Is Hinoharu-senpai always like that here?"
"Yeah, Sacchan is like that. When she was little, she was even more reckless, but she hasn't changed a bit when it comes to leading everyone."
The landlady then turned toward the street and signaled me to come closer by waving her hand.
As I approached, she pointed at the young people around us.
"Look at all these yukatas, all rented from our stall. Sacchan brought all these young customers over the internet."
The landlady smiled gently, expressing her gratitude.
Oh, so that's how it worked. That's what Hinoharu-senpai did too... ...just as I suspected.
"Old people like us don't understand new ways of doing things. I've never expected such an increase in customers."
"...But isn't it challenging to try new things like this?"
I asked out of curiosity.
The landlady replied with a wry smile.
"Of course, it's tiring for us old people."
...Perhaps she thought that it was a nuisance deep down in her heart.
When I felt a little disappointed, she continued, "But since it's tiring, we won't do anything if we're left alone. Sometimes, it's good to be dragged around and forced to work like this."
—Oh, I see.
There are times when it is necessary to be forcibly pulled, even if it is troublesome.
"Hey, Auntie Satoyoshi! There's a request for a kimono here! Hurry up!"
"There you are. Come on, come on~"
Called by Hinoharu-senpai, the landlady sighed and shrugged her shoulders while walking backwards.
As Hinoharu-senpai returned, she removed the headband from her forehead with one hand and exhaled, "Huh..."
In the other hand, Hinoharu-senpai held a dango skewers.
"I'm tired. Time to rest."
Hinoharu-senpai sat on another beerbox that she placed beside me. She stuffed himself with dango skewers, her cheeks puffed up.
"...Hinoharu-senpai,"
I called out to Hinoharu-senpai.
"Yeah?"
"It's really crowded here. I didn't expect the Festival in the Shopping District to be like this."
"Oh, I know right!? This place gets crowded every year during the Festival! It's been going on for over half a century and has become a real tradition, and on the last day, they even had a portable shrine with a big drum!"
"And it feels simpler than I expected. There's a handmade feel, which is somehow comforting."
"Right!? We all gather at the Community Center to make the festival decorations together. And for the big bamboo tree in the center, the landowners in the nearby mountains cut and bring in a good bamboo tree every year!"
"Wow, that's great. If only I knew this kind of atmosphere existed here, I might come more often. Sometimes the old Shopping District can give the impression of 'we don't accept foreigners'."
"Yeah, that's true! I was hoping that more young people would come here regularly, but when I searched for information about it, not much came up, and it felt hard to approach. And I don't think there are many stalls that target young people, but I think we should really sell that old-school feel as a strength!"
Hinoharu-senpai eloquently shared her thoughts, speaking fluently and passionately.
"Why not capitalize on this retro feel of the Showa Era, or rather, embrace it? Modern Japanese style is trending these days, and I like that kind of thing. So, I think we should use social media and other platforms to change the direction of our PR and attract a younger audience!"
"Oh, that sounds interesting! If this goes viral, I think it'll be a hit."
"Really!? Well, yeah! I'm so happy that someone understands me!"
"But... ...Hinoharu-senpai, you yourself are really enjoying this, aren't you?"
"Yeah! I'm having so much fun!" Hinoharu-senpai's laughter, beaming with childlike joy.
─Oh.
I realized for the first time that Hinoharu-senpai has ─ cracked teeth.
Seeing Hinoharu-senpai's sincere and sparkling smile made me realize — This is her true self.
─A smile that blooms like fireworks in the night sky.
Hinoharu-senpai's clear eyes, like the sky on a clear day, reflected the colorful lights of the festival, and the radiance of the seven colors captivated my heart.
The Hinoharu-senpai in front of me now ─ is very charming.
Hinoharu-senpai looked so much like a "heroine."
And I─.
"Because of that ─ please do that at school too."
─Before I knew it, I had blurted out the truth.
"I really think that the way you are right now is amazing. You're so lively and really enjoying yourself. It's very much like 'you'."
"Eh...?"
Hinoharu-senpai looked at me, surprised.
"Do you really think so?"
"Of course. Do I look like the type of person who's good at giving compliments?"
"...No, you don't."
Hinoharu-senpai shook her head. "Then, show me that side of yourself at school too. Show me the best school life you can offer."
"..."
"Isn't the Student Council a place where you can do that? Isn't the position of Student Council President the most suitable position to achieve that...?"
Hinoharu-senpai remained silent, looking down.
The wind blew gently, causing the lantern light to flicker and illuminate Hinoharu-senpai's face with a soft red light.
After a while, Hinoharu-senpai spoke.
"...Thank you. I'm honestly happy to hear you say that, Nagasaka-kun."
Hinoharu-senpai smiled shyly, her eyes sparkling.
I immediately spoke up.
"Then─"
"But..."
─However.
"But... ...the thing is, everyone doesn't want me to do that."
Hinoharu-senpai said, flashing an inappropriate and mature smile ─ and rejecting the idea.
"Everyone doesn't want that..."
So, that was ─ the problem that Hinoharu-senpai had been trying to avoid.
"Yeah. The people in my class and the Student Council don't want me to be the Student Council President... ...no, they don't want me to do anything."
"Is that what they told you?"
"No, not really. But things started working out when I stopped trying."
...It's like what Uenohara said.
Reading the atmosphere and holding back was the optimal solution that Hinoharu-senpai had found for herself.
While looking at the bustling crowd at the Festival, Hinoharu-senpai began to speak in a low voice, little by little.
"I just did what I thought was best. I've always done that since I was a child."
From time to time, the laughter of people having fun could be heard in the distance.
"The stall owners, my elementary school friends, the Student Council officials in middle school... ...they all recognize and need me."
Hinoharu-senpai lowered her gaze and clasped her hands together on her knees.
"But when I entered Kyou-Nishi High School, I realized that it didn't just happen. Just because they had known me since I was young, they accepted me."
...Oh, I see. Now that I think about it, there is no one from Higashi Middle School in the same class as Hinoharu-senpai.
Higashi Middle School is an ordinary private middle school, and many students continue from elementary schools of the same foundation. It must have been her first time in an environment where she didn't know anyone yet.
"But... ...you weren't explicitly rejected, were you?"
And then, with a tired expression, Hinoharu-senpai smiled faintly.
"No matter what I say, everyone just brushes it off with a vague 'That, I guess it's fine then' and laughs."
...Oh.
What a mature way of dealing with things. "But, if I try to do things the way I want to, they all seem annoyed."
"..."
The things Hinoharu-senpai tries to do are often strange and difficult to achieve, requiring a lot of effort from everyone involved. However, her ideas often hit the mark, so people were hesitant to complain directly.
Thus, they implicitly showed their disapproval through their demeanor, expecting Hinoharu-senpai to understand their dissatisfaction — Perhaps that was how the people around her expressed their wishes.
"In the end, I felt that things weren't going to work out, no matter what I did. So, I decided to go with the flow..."
"And that's when things started going smoothly?"
Hinoharu-senpai nodded silently.
"If I say something and the reaction is bad, I will immediately compromise. I'll say, 'Maybe we should forget about it,' and just let the rest happen."
"..."
"After a while, a friend close to me told me, 'You're so pretty when you're quiet.'"
Saying this, Hinoharu-senpai showed her usual gentle smile, but it did not seem sincere.
Looking at Hinoharu-senpai's face, I, who had thought something similar, secretly felt guilty.
No matter how you look at it, the cheerful Hinoharu-henpai was better... ...Do those people know that and still reject her...?
"In other words, that's the image they want from me, right? Then I must fulfill their expectations."
...Fulfill everyone's expectations.
What Hinoharu-senpai said is understandable, and sounds reasonable... ...but I felt something was off. "That's why it's fine. No need to worry, I did what I wanted secretly! And it went well, so that's enough."
And with that, Hinoharu-senpai stood up energetically.
"Break time is over! I'll go cook yakisoba!"
Hinoharu-senpai's face brightened as she tied his headband and walked towards the food stall.
"Hinoharu-senpai!"
Looking at Hinoharu-senpai's back, which seemed to be in pain, I couldn't help but call out to her.
"Are you really okay with it?"
"..."
It was true that the people around Hinoharu-senpai probably did not mind that.
It was probably the best way to get through school life without any problems.
But for Hinoharu-senpai...
Hinoharu-senpai must continue to give up.
Hinoharu-senpai must continue to leave the choice that she thinks is best.
As a result, Hinoharu-senpai will only achieve a "normal ending". If we keep making the wrong choices, we will never reach a "happy ending."
That's not what a rom-com is about.
"Is that really the best method for you, Hinoharu-senpai!?"
My question, asked in a raised voice, was answered with...
Hinoharu-senpai, with her mature expression, smiled as if she had given up.
"That is unavoidable. That's just the way it is, it's natural to adjust to the people around you."
*
The train rattled, its rhythmic clanking filling the air as I stared at the passing night scenery, lost in thought. What's the best thing to do for Hinoharu-senpai?
At the Festival, Hinoharu-senpai seemed more lively and cheerful than I had ever seen her before. I believe that her strong and decisive personality, the way she leads and guides others, is her greatest strength.
However, this was not something that was accepted at school. The people around Hinoharu-senpai did not want that kind of her.
"...Everyone doesn't want that, huh?"
I can understand wanting to be accepted by others. No one wants to be left out or ostracized, and I know very well how difficult it is to be the one who accepts everyone's coldness.
But... ...giving up is simply not an option.
I can't give up on being who I am. I've already wasted a year because of that mistake. Whoosh. As the train entered the tunnel, the sound of the track interrupted my reverie.
There was no point. No matter how much I thought about it now, I felt like I wouldn't find the answer. For now, I decided to write down my thoughts and observations for the day while they were still fresh in my mind. Then, I would discuss it with Uenohara and make plans for the future.
As I made that decision and picked up my smartphone, I saw an unread message on RINE.
─Torisawa?
The name that appeared was an unusual name. When I opened it, I saw the text, 'Are you free after school tomorrow? Time and place below,' followed by a URL with a map that seems to be the meeting time and location.
...Is this a family restaurant?
Also, this restaurant is in the next town over from Kyougoku Station, even further east from the town library. It takes at least 30 minutes by bicycle from Kyou-Nishi High School.
Why did we gather at such a distant location? What could possibly be the reason...?
I reread the message but found no explanation for the circumstances. However, I knew that Torisawa wouldn't call me to a place like that for no reason... ...Logically, it must have something to do with Hinoharu-senpai.
Since I didn't have any special plans, I answered straightforwardly.
*
─The train exited the tunnel, and we entered the rural area, darkness enveloping the surroundings. The lights of the houses in the distance twinkled in the pitch-black night.
─Four days left until the deadline for registration of nomination for the Student Council President Election.
*
The next day, with some free time before my meeting with Torisawa, I decided to complete my daily investigation. The weather had cleared up again, and just walking made me sweat.
"I'm thirsty. I think I'll have a drink before I leave school."
With that decision, I headed to the first floor hallway.
And there—
"Hey, Katsunuma."
"Huh? Oh, it's Senpai."
I met Katsunuma who was leaning against a vending machine, looking exhausted as she drank a strawberry milk drink.
Katsunuma must have been glued to her desk again today. Maybe it was Katsunuma's break time to drink sweets.
"You work hard every day, huh? I'm impressed."
"Shut up. I don't need a suspicious person, hanging around school instead of studying, to tell me."
Katsunuma snorted.
I have no free time at all... ...With Hinoharu-senpai's persuasion being harder than expected, my study time is very limited. Honestly, I'm a bit scared of the upcoming exams.
But telling Katsunuma about it felt like admitting defeat, so I put on a brave face.
"Don't worry, I'm still studying. I have other things to do at school too."
"Is it possible that you're stalking someone again, like you did with me?"
"Stop using that embarrassing term."
I bought an iced coffee from the vending machine next to Katsunuma and inserted a few coins. Bending down to pick up the can that fell with a clatter, I leaned against the wall next to her.
Katsunuma wrinkled her forehead for a moment as if annoyed, but she didn't say anything else, quietly putting one hand into her skirt pocket and bringing her drink closer to her mouth.
There were only a few people around the vending machine, and only the sounds of a few club activities echoed from the gymnasium and schoolyard.
"So, what's up? Everything going well?"
"..."
Katsunuma turned her face away, remaining silent.
That didn't sound too good...
"Yeah, if it were that easy, no one would struggle. The important thing is to keep at it and practice over and over again, especially in areas you're not good at."
"I know that, that's why I'm doing this."
Katsunuma took a sip from her straw.
...I think so. Katsunuma will not give up just because of a small setback like this. She is the type of person who never gives up, no matter how many times things don't go her way.
"Hey, Katsunuma..."
I opened my coffee lid with a snap and started talking.
"What would you do if everyone around you expected you to act a certain way, but it didn't match your true self?"
"Huh? What are you talking about all of a sudden?"
Katsunuma looked at me with a confused look.
"I told you that I've tried various things. This is related to that."
"...Oh."
"If I were to put it in your terms, let's say that everyone in our class puts unreasonable demands on you to become a 'delicate and graceful Young Lady character'. And if you don't, you'll be expelled."
"I'll hit them."
Katsunuma looked at me out of the corner of her eyes and replied without hesitation.
"I'll ignore something like that, of course. There's no way I can do that."
"Yeah, I guess so..."
I already knew that Katsunuma would say something like that.
"And besides, it's strange that you act the way others want you to."
"...Hmm?"
Katsunuma shook the drink cans in front of her and continued.
"I can only be what I think. It's up to others to accept that or not, right?"
Whether others want to accept it or not─
Hearing those words, I felt that something matched.
"─I see. Yeah, you're right, that's the order."
I nodded vigorously and then downed the rest of my coffee.
"Thank you, that was very helpful."
"...I still don't understand what you're talking about."
Katsunuma played with the earrings in her ears and threw the empty milk box into the trash.
Then Katsunuma straightened up and turned back towards the school building.
"I'm going home. If I stay out too long, Hibiki will get mad at me."
"Okay. Good luck with your studies."
"...And, Senpai."
"Hmm?"
Katsunuma stopped after taking a few steps and turned towards me.
"Don't stalk me all the way to my house again."
"Come on, stop saying that. It's your fault for not showing up to school."
Katsunuma snorted while turning her face away from me.
"That kind of treatment... ...You're only forgiven because I have a big heart. Don't misunderstand me."
Katsunuma said with a hint of sarcasm, stuck out her tongue, then turned to face forward and started walking again.
*
After parting ways with Katsunuma, I headed to the family restaurant that Torisawa had promised.
As soon as the 'welcome' bell rang, a staff member approached me, and I told them that I was meeting someone.
The restaurant was quite crowded in the afternoon, but it was still too early for dinner, so the atmosphere was relatively calm.
"Torisawa."
"Hey."
I saw Torisawa at a table inside the entrance and called out to him.
And the one sitting across from Torisawa was─
A girl?!
"...Um?"
"Oh, hello!"
As soon as the girl saw me, she greeted me with a cute, high-pitched voice, and stood up while lowering her head slightly.
The girl's hair was cut short with cute ends, and she had a cute flower-shaped hairpin on one side. She was quite short, looking smaller compared to Torisawa. She was wearing a uniform, but it was a sailor-style school uniform, different from ours.
Huh, who is that girl... ...Wait, wait, I've seen that girl somewhere before, right?
"Sorry for dragging you all the way here. It's because of this one circumstance."
"I'm really sorry! It's just that I can't go too far, so I asked Torisawa-senpai to pick a place near the school!"
...Oh, that's right, I remember now!
"You were at the live performance the other day, weren't you...?"
"Eh? Oh, yeah, I was!"
The girl replied, raising her face with a surprised expression.
Oh, I knew it! That girl was a middle school student who was at Torisawa's live performance!
"Nice to meet you, Nagasaka-senpai! I'm Otsuki Miki, a third-year student and the Student Council President of Higashi Middle School!"
Otsuki-san spoke earnestly, with a serious expression.
Otsuki-san's eyes are round and big, and her nose is small and cute. If I had to categorize her as the 'heroine type', she would definitely be the 'puppy-like kouhai' type. After a brief introduction, I sat down beside Torisawa.
"In that case, I still don't understand the situation..."
I ordered a drink from the drink bar and turned to Torisawa.
Leaning his arm on the back of the sofa, Torisawa began to explain casually.
"I was approached during a live performance a few days ago. It seemed interesting, so I decided to keep in touch."
Yeah, interesting? What do you mean by that...?
"Come on, that explanation doesn't explain anything! Torisawa-senpai, you're too vague!"
As I tilted my head in confusion, Otsuki-san furrowed her eyebrows and glared at Torisawa.
Oh...?
"You're going to explain it anyway, aren't you? Then, there's no need for me to say unnecessary things, right?"
"That's not the point. You're really bad at communicating..."
"Huh, I'm sorry, I'm sorry."
Otsuki-san looked exasperated while holding her forehead, while Torisawa seemed to enjoy being criticized.
Wow, to be able to behave like this to a senpai, and Torisawa too... ...This girl is impressive. Otsuki-san is really great.
As I silently admired her, Otsuki-san cleared her throat and straightened her posture, facing me directly.
"Anyway, thank you for coming here today. I have a favor for you, Nagasaka-senpai, but first, thank you for coming."
"A favor?"
"Yeah. Actually... ...I want you to deliver a message to Hinoharu-senpai."
Hmm, so that name came up here. Otsuki-san continued her explanation, maintaining her posture.
"You see, we're planning to do something new for our school's upcoming Music Festival... ...We're considering inviting senpai alumni to perform on a special stage, and that's where the discussion is right now."
Music Festival... ...Oh, that's the one that Hinoharu-senpai changed, right? Come to think of it, it's held after the summer vacation, right? They must be in the preparation stage right now.
"So, I asked Torisawa-senpai to participate on that special stage when I talked to him at the live show the other day."
Then, Otsuki-san turned her gaze towards Torisawa and pouted.
"And this boy said, 'I'll participate, but make the event more flashy.'"
Torisawa casually sipped his iced coffee, ignoring Otsuki-san's reproachful gaze.
As expected of Torisawa, he doesn't care about anything.
It's true, Torisawa has skills and star power. So, his request might make sense.
"But we don't have that kind of budget, and there are limitations with the gym equipment... ...I thought of some clever ideas. We decided to hold a joint Student Council training to test it out."
Otsuki-san turned to me again.
"And... ...I want Hinoharu-senpai to observe the pre-training and give some comments. After all, she was the one who laid the foundation for the current Music Festival, and she might have some good ideas."
Oh, I see, so that's the connection.
"Torisawa-senpai suggested that if I wanted to ask Hinoharu-senpai for something, it would be better if I spoke to you first, Nagasaka-senpai. So, I decided to make this request, even though I know that it might be rude."
After saying this, Otsuki-san bowed her head once more and said, "I apologize for the sudden request."
—Hmm, I see. I think I understand now.
Torisawa must have thought that this girl's story could be used to persuade Hinoharu-senpai.
Hence, Torisawa went out of his way to include me in situations that normally wouldn't allow me to get involved. Naturally, Torisawa is a "competent handsome boy" type of character.
"How was it? Can you ask Hinoharu-senpai for me?"
Otsuki-san looked up and looked at me with worried eyes.
But this girl also had quite a lot of encouragement. Otsuki-san's attitude of being willing to use whatever she could, even from strangers, and her boldness in making requests... ...somehow, she reminds me of Hinoharu-senpai.
"By the way... ...when will this be held?"
"Oh, well. This Sunday!"
Sunday... ...but that's after the nomination registration deadline. That wouldn't help in persuading Hinoharu-senpai, would it?
I glanced at Torisawa, who continued to fiddle with his smartphone without looking up, indicating that he had nothing to add.
Wasn't the plan to use the pre-training...? I don't think Torisawa knew the schedule yet...
Or maybe there was another reason for this?
"...May I ask you some questions?"
"Yeah! Ask me anything!"
Otsuki-san straightened her posture again and waited for my question.
"Do you know Hinoharu-senpai?"
"Oh, no. I joined the Student Council after Hinoharu-senpai retired."
That makes sense. If they had known each other, Otsuki-san would have immediately made the request.
"But I got to talk to Hinoharu-senpai when she was Student Council President! Hinoharu-senpai was so cool and amazing when she was the Student Council President!"
Otsuki-san's eyes sparkled as she spoke enthusiastically.
Oh, Otsuki-san is like a fan chasing an idol. So, is she one of the members of the fan group mentioned in the investigation data? It's mostly made up of kouhai girls, anyway.
But Otsuki-san seems to overlap with the other characters...
"Actually, I wanted to be like Hinoharu-senpai, so I thought about how I could get closer to that. Then I thought, let's start by doing the same things as her, so I decided to join the Student Council."
Oh, I see. So, Otsuki-san admires Hinoharu-senpai and tries to imitate her behavior...
No wonder Otsuki-san's demeanor is very similar to Hinoharu-senpai...
"...Hmm? You want to be like Hinoharu-senpai when she was the Student Council President?"
"Yeah!"
—That's right. If Otsuki-san did admire Hinoharu-senpai from the past, then...
Otsuki-san is someone who recognizes Hinoharu-senpai's true personality.
"...By the way, why do you think like that? Was there a reason or something that triggered it?"
I continued my question.
If there was a clear reason...
This might be the key to persuading Hinoharu-senpai.
"Oh, yeah! Yeah, actually, I was bullied until my first-year of middle school days..."
"Huh?"
Wow, that's quite a casual disclosure...
Ignoring my surprise, Otsuki-san continued without looking worried.
"I'm always like this, saying whatever comes to my mind or doing something out of the blue. Because of that, I've always been ostracized and people say that I'm annoying."
"Y-Yeah."
"So, I always thought that I should be more calm and restrain myself. I tried to read the atmosphere and not say anything that would get me into trouble..."
That was indeed — the same conclusion Hinoharu-senpai was coming to now.
"When I tried to stand my ground and not feel left out, the bullying stopped, but... ...I always felt this wasn't right. Even though the bad things stopped, I'm not satisfied yet."
Otsuki-san touched her hair ornament.
"Then, one day, I found Sachi-senpai being scolded by a teacher in the teacher's lounge."
I listened to Otsuki-san's story quietly.
"I think it was about the Music Festival plan. The teacher in charge of the Student Council at the time was a scary PE teacher, and he was yelling so loud that it could be heard outside the room, saying things like 'Get over it!" and 'Don't you care about your grades?!'"
"My hands were shaking even though it had nothing to do with me," Otsuki-san said with an embarrassed smile.
"My hands are shaking even though it has nothing to do with me," Otsuki-san said with an embarrassed smile.
"But Sachi-senpai didn't back down at all. She kept saying things like 'We followed the correct procedure' and 'It's only natural that we try to make a better plan'. She even replied to the teacher by saying, 'You're not giving a reasonable argument, you're just lazy.'"
"..."
"I didn't understand why Sachi-senpai was so determined to get her plan approved, so I asked her after she left the room. 'Is it worth nagging like that?'"
A reasonable question. When a teacher opposes something so vehemently, it's natural to think that there must be a good reason to persist.
At this point, Otsuki-san chuckled as if remembering something funny.
"And Sachi-senpai replied, 'Because it's obviously more fun that way,' with a confused look on his face."
It's more fun...?
"When I asked Sachi-senpai, 'Is that all?' she replied, 'Huh? Do you need another reason?' with an expression on her face that was like, 'What don't you understand?'"
Otsuki-san continued, her eyes twinkling.
"I think Sachi-senpai is just thinking of how to make things more fun. But now that I think about it, it's really amazing, I think."
Then, Otsuki-san said, while facing me directly—
"There's no one who doesn't like fun. So, if you keep pursuing it — that's the shortest path to happiness for everyone, including yourself, right?"
—Oh, I see.
Yeah.
That was the key to persuading Hinoharu-senpai.
"So, I guess I'll try it like Sachi-senpai. I decided to be honest about what I think is fun, thinking about what everyone would enjoy — Not just reading their expressions, but sticking to what I want to do without compromise."
So, that's the mindset I'm running with now, Otsuki-san said, clenching her fists and speaking in a steady voice.
Feeling the strength radiating from Otsuki-san's small body, I continued my questioning.
"...By the way, this might be hard to say, but—"
—And then I asked a few more questions.
Otsuki-san answered, sometimes with sadness, sometimes with embarrassment.
But in the end, Otsuki-san smiled and answered.
"Yeah, thank you. I understand the situation now."
I nodded deeply.
—Otsuki-san's words will definitely help.
Help Hinoharu-senpai to regain what was lost? — No.
It will be the power to get something new.
I'm sure of that.
"Okay, then...?"
"Yeah, I will talk to Hinoharu-senpai. I don't know if she has any plans, but if it's just a small task, I'll ask her to cancel it."
"Wh-Whoa! Really? Thank you very much!"
Otsuki-san cupped her hands in front of her chest and her face brightened.
While thinking of the plot of the next "event" in my head, I continued.
"In return, I might ask you to help me with a small task of my own. I don't think it's anything difficult, but can I count on your cooperation?"
"Of course!"
With Otsuki-san's quick approval, I nodded deeply.
—Torisawa must have known about this, that's why he called me. If that's the case, he is too capable. This is a good game on par with Uenohara's.
If I were a heroine, I would have been caught by Torisawa.
As I sent a conceptual and pulsating look my way.
"As expected of someone dating Hinoharu-senpai! I'm counting on you so much!"
—
—...
"Sorry, come again?"
Otsuki-san looked confused and said, "Huh? But aren't you Hinohara-senpai's boyfriend..., am I right?"
"Torisawa?"
"Ugh."
Torisawa turned around with a laugh.
Oh, I see, so that's why Torisawa accepted me so easily.
Even adding a follow-up attack like a rom-com like that is amazing, are you kidding me!
I bet Torisawa did that just for fun!
*
"—That's the situation for the past few days and my plan to persuade Hinoharu-senpai. What do you think?"
After returning home, I had a phone conference. After explaining everything to Uenohara, I asked for her opinion.
"...I think things have progressed quite a lot. And for once, it's a good plan,"
Uenohara muttered in a surprised tone.
Oh, I'm glad that the plan I made independently, based on my intuitive insights, was praised. I might level up a bit?
"If we can get the cooperation of that kouhai of yours and Shiozaki-senpai, the possibility of persuasion will increase even more."
"So, you're also getting a positive response from your side?"
"...Yeah, something like that."
For some reason, Uenohara hesitated for a moment before continuing.
"Let me explain the situation step by step. First, regarding the relationship between the two senpai-s... ...It seems that Shiozaki-senpai was once influenced by Hinoharu-senpai and changed his own views."
"Shiozaki-senpai changed his views...?"
"Yeah. Shiozaki-senpai used to be a complete traditionalist, believing that Kyou-Nishi High School should stick to the traditions of its past and continue to do things the way they have always been done."
So, Shiozaki-senpai was against unnecessary reforms and advocated for maintaining the status quo — a hardline conservative. In other words, he was just like the other Student Council Officials who preferred to avoid change.
"However, as Shiozaki-senpai listened to Hinoharu-senpai's ideas, he realized that that approach was not working, and he shifted towards changing the things he thought were wrong. However, he has never publicly revealed these changes."
"Hmm, why not?"
"Perhaps Shiozaki-senpai intends to make gradual changes from within. That he is not the type to make flashy changes like Hinoharu-senpai."
That approach is also more in line with Shiozaki-senpai's character, Uenohara added. I understand... ...but still.
"So, Shiozaki-senpai never intended to run for Student Council President, right? What made him suddenly decide to run for Student Council President?"
"In Shiozaki-senpai's own words, it was to 'restore Hinoharu-senpai's sense of righteousness'."
"Sense of righteousness...?"
"I think Shiozaki-senpai wants to convey that it's not wrong to voice your own opinion strongly."
—Oh, I see.
In other words...
"Shiozaki-senpai wants to tell Hinoharu-senpai not to hold back, right?"
"Perhaps."
...Shiozaki-senpai is really bad at expressing himself, seriously.
Shiozaki-senpai probably thought that his words would not reach Hinoharu-senpai, so he took this approach... ...But it was too roundabout. At the very least, with the current plan, it would not reach Hinoharu-senpai.
To accurately convey Shiozaki-senpai's intentions, we need a simpler "arena".
"However, it is clear that Shiozaki-senpai is not satisfied with the current Hinoharu-senpai, and depending on our approach, he might be willing to cooperate."
"Okay, then tomorrow, I'll contact Shiozaki-senpai myself. Depending on how it goes, we'll make a concrete 'Hinoharu Sachi-senpai Persuasion Event'."
"Okay, understood."
Now... ...the rest is just...
"And also, when we try to persuade Hinoharu-senpai from now on. Since it will basically be a face-to-face interaction, I want you to come with me, Uenohara. I'll feel a little anxious if I go alone."
No matter how much we prepare the "script" in advance, there might be unexpected developments, and I would feel more confident with Uenohara there. But then...
"-Sorry. For the part where we talk directly to Hinoharu-senpai, I'd like to opt out."
"Huh...?"
I never expected that Uenohara would refuse the request for cooperation regarding the "Plan", and I fell silent with my mouth open.
"...Eh, why?"
Immediately after I rebooted, I asked Uenohara over the phone.
It's rare for Uenohara to refuse to help with something related to the "Plan". In fact, I think this might be the first time...
Uenohara seemed hesitant to give a direct answer, and simply said, "That..."
"Somehow, I felt that this time, it might be better if I wasn't there. I wanted to minimize the risks."
Risks...? I feel like having Uenohara there will reduce the risks even more...
"Of course, I'll cooperate in other ways. Don't hesitate to ask if you need anything."
"Oh, okay..."
Feeling that the conversation could not go any deeper, I replied noncommittally.
"By the way, about that kouhai..."
Uenohara quickly changed the subject, and the agenda continued.
─Student Council President Election, three days left until the deadline for nomination registration.
*
'─Thank you for your concern.'
After hearing those words for the umpteenth time, I approached my target, Shiozaki-senpai.
"Good job today, Shiozaki-senpai."
"Oh, you again. Thank you."
Shiozaki-senpai responded with the same stoic expression as always and started packing up the equipment.
Yeah, time is running out. Let's just get to the point.
"Um, today I have a proposal for you, Shiozaki-senpai."
"A proposal?"
"Yeah, can you take a look at this?"
I said while handing over the A4 printed booklet that I had prepared in a hurry after the incident.
Shiozaki-senpai looked at me with a puzzled expression and then silently read the title of the printout.
Soon after, Shiozaki-senpai seemed to realize something and picked it up, flipping through the contents.
"What does this mean?"
After a while, Shiozaki-senpai looked up and asked.
"Are you interested in this 'Guide to Convincing Hinoharu-senpai'?"
"—"
Without a word, Shiozaki-senpai tucked the printout under his arm, picked up the bag containing the equipment, and stood up.
"Can't we talk while packing?"
"Yeah, of course."
I nodded and followed as Shiozaki-senpai started walking.
*
The sound of the Student Council Office door closing echoed behind us.
It was nearing the end of the lunch break, and the room was empty, with no sign of the Student Council Officials on duty.
Shiozaki-senpai began speaking while placing the megaphone case on the steel rack at the back of the room. "There are many things I'm curious about... ...But let's confirm the necessary points briefly."
"Yeah, go ahead."
"You want Hinoharu-san to run for Student Council President, right?"
"Yeah."
"And you know that Hinoharu-san is holding back her true intentions."
"Yeah."
"You want Hinoharu-san to change, don't you?"
"Yeah."
"Then, I'll help if I can."
Shiozaki-senpai turned around and nodded.
Wow, that was a quick decision. I had prepared a persuasion scenario just in case, but I don't think I need it.
"Thank you. I appreciate your quick response."
"A few days ago, I happened to run into your childhood friend, and we had a little chat... ...Is that what prompted this?"
Oh, I see. Uenohara had laid the foundation by planting a "foreshadowing" beforehand... ...as expected of my brilliant "Accomplice". I nodded and continued.
"Yeah, that's true. I heard that you are also dissatisfied with Hinoharu-senpai's current situation, so I thought perhaps we could work together."
"Oh, I see..."
Shiozaki-senpai slowly walked back to the center of the room and stopped at what looked like his usual spot.
"I never thought there would be others who also find Hinoharu-san's current identity undesirable..."
"...So we're really a minority, huh?"
"Just like I said."
So, it's just the two of us, huh?
I shrugged.
"Despite the Kyou-Nishi High School's Student Council's reputation for being active, I don't think it's so internally..."
"It's not just recently. Being an established school also means it's harder to make changes. Many people worry that they'll break tradition if they do something unnecessary."
"I used to be like that too," Shiozaki-senpai said seriously.
"Hinoharu-senpai always had her own ideals and was dedicated to realizing them. And her goals are always reasonable and fair."
However, Shiozaki-senpai continued.
"There's no denying that Hinoharu-san's overly aggressive approach has made her stand out in a bad way. Eventually, she had to adapt to the pace of the people around her."
As Shiozaki-senpai spoke, he suddenly opened his desk drawer.
"If Hinoharu-senpai is satisfied with her current self, then that's fine. But—"
Shiozaki-senpai took out a piece of paper and held it out to me.
"What is this?"
"It was thrown in the trash. The entire document was supposed to be destroyed, but I took it back when I realized it."
I took the paper Shiozaki-senpai gave me and stared at it.
There, it was written—
'Student Council President Election: Application for Student Council President Candidate, Hinoharu Sachi, Class 2-A.'
—A clear indication of Hinoharu-senpai's true intentions.
"It's impossible that Hinoharu-san doesn't know about the disposal rules. So I guess she wanted someone to notice this, and that's why she didn't tear it up," said Shiozaki-senpai.
"...Is that so?"
Hinoharu-senpai... ...So, Hinoharu-senpai really wants to run for Student Council President, huh.
When I saw the original application form, I gritted my teeth.
"I could show the application form and encourage Hinoharu-san to run, but... ...I don't think it will make a difference," Shiozaki-senpai said. "Or rather, I only realized it at that moment."
"...? Why?"
"Because nothing will change. Hinoharu-san will remain isolated."
—Oh.
So that's why...
"What I learned from Hinoharu-san is how to maintain my believes. It's about having the strength to fight for the best without fear of change. And because no one else can do that, she doesn't bother to conform," Shiozaki-senpai continued.
Shiozaki-senpai's words were as expressionless as ever, but I could feel the passion behind them.
"For Hinoharu Sachi, what she really needs is someone who has strong ideals and can engage in equal debate. That's why I decided to step forward."
—Shiozaki-senpai.
You're standing on the same stage as Hinoharu-senpai, intending to be her equal "rival", right?
Although Shiozaki-senpai is laconic in his words, his actions, driven by his genuine concern for Hinoharu-senpai, make me respect him greatly.
—However.
Shiozaki-senpai lowered his head slightly and spoke with some regret.
"...Although I said that big things like that, it seems that Hinoharu-san didn't understand what I meant at all. From the beginning, she never expected anything from me. I took too long to make up my own mind."
Then, Shiozaki-senpai clenched his fists tightly.
—I won't let that happen.
"That's why I'm here, Shiozaki-senpai."
"Hmm...?"
I took a step forward while looking directly into Shiozaki-senpai's eyes.
"How about we use your story and the specific 'past chapters' related to it?"
"What do you mean?"
After considering the meaning of my words, Shiozaki-senpai asked, confused by my meaning. So, I told him the outline of the 'event' I had in mind.
After listening to me, Shiozaki-senpai said, "Hmm," and then spoke.
"Do you think it will work? It's a win-win situation for me, but..."
"I think that could be a key factor. Yeah, you do have to bear the embarrassment, but..."
"I don't mind. Once I decided to run for Student Council President, I was ready to face the embarrassment."
Shiozaki-senpai nodded firmly, and his strength was convincing.
"Besides, if Hinoharu-san trusts you enough to let you handle her duties, then you must be reliable. I believe in you."
"Thank you very much."
I scratched my cheek, feeling a little embarrassed by the compliment, and averted my eyes.
In any case, the negotiation was a success.
We made some adjustments for the future, and Shiozaki-senpai agreed.
—Okay, I think I should head back now.
As I was about to leave the Student Council Office after ending our conversation,
"By the way, what is your relationship with Hinoharu-san?"
Shiozaki-senpai suddenly asked with a stern face.
"Could it be a romantic relationship?"
Wh-What?
It was hard to know how to respond when Shiozaki-senpai said something like that, especially with a tone that could be either joking or serious.
I waved my hand to deny it.
"No, it's not like that."
"So, are you two old friends? You seem to care about each other a lot, so it's not just a normal senpai-kouhai relationship, right?"
"There, let me see..."
I thought for a moment before answering.
"...Honestly, when you say 'relationship', I don't really know. It's kind of in a state of limbo."
"Hmm...?"
"But, if you're asking about the kind of relationship I want to have with that person..."
Suddenly, Hinoharu-senpai's smile that she showed during the Festival flashed through my mind.
"The kind of relationship where we can laugh and have fun together — A 'couple-like relationship', I guess."
I replied with a slight smirk, lifting the corners of my mouth.
Hearing that, Shiozaki-senpai's normally stiff eyebrows furrowed dramatically.
"...You're quite charming, aren't you? It's embarrassing just listening to you."
"I think you're just as bad, Shiozaki-senpai... ...Besides, this is just the beginning. I can be a lot easier."
After all, isn't this the kind of cool, cheesy line that the protagonist of a romantic comedy casually throws out?
—Two days left before the deadline for registration of nomination for the Student Council President Election.
*
Creating "event scenarios", handling various administrative procedures, coordinating schedules, working behind the scenes to ensure a smooth process, and practicing for the main event...
We made full use of the remaining time to complete all the preparations.
And then, the deadline day for registration of nomination for the Student Council President Election arrived.
"Okay, let's do the final confirmation for the 'Hinoharu-senpai Persuasion Event'!"
In the morning, right before Homeroom Coaching started, Uenohara and I gathered at "Point B" to have a final discussion.
"For this event, we will use the 'two keys' necessary for persuasion: Shiozaki-senpai's 'Key of Rivals' and Otsuki-san's 'Key of Ideals'."
Due to various schedule conflicts, we had to ask for the cooperation of Shiozaki-senpai during lunch break and Otsuki-san after school. Ideally, we would have approached them simultaneously, but we had no choice in the matter.
"First, the 'Key of Rivals'. It will be used to destroy Hinoharu-senpai's belief that 'no one wants my true self'."
On the day of the Festival, Hinoharu-senpai had said, "No matter what I say, no one will think it's good or bad."
"No one wants me to do anything."
So, we will make Shiozaki-senpai refute that. We will show that there are people who have been influenced by Hinoharu-senpai's way of doing things, her existence, and who are currently competing and exchanging words with her as "rivals", who wants her to be.
"Next, the 'Key of Ideals'. This will give the answer to 'the ideal way to be realized' according to Hinoharu-senpai."
Hinoharu-senpai who used to seek only happiness.
Otsuki-san, who was impressed by Hinoharu-senpai's way of thinking, acted on her believes, and as a result, she is now recognized and accepted. We will demonstrate that here.
"By providing these two keys as a solution to Hinoharu-senpai's problem, we will once again encourage her to run for Student Council President. Is there any problem with this plan?"
"Nothing. It's fine."
Uenohara, who had been listening silently, nodded.
"Okay, then I'll leave the lunch break part to you. Just make sure the volume isn't too loud."
"Understood. Be careful of any deviation from your side."
After Uenohara made sure to emphasize that point more than usual, we left "Point B."
—Phew. I'm glad we managed to finish on time.
I didn't intend for it to be this short, but coordinating with the various parties involved, it turned out to be more difficult than expected. Honestly, I hoped they wouldn't try to reject everything without considering it, just because there was no predecessor.
As I thought about this and was about to enter the classroom—
"Hey, Nagasaka-kun."
"Oh, Kiyosato-san. Good morning."
At that moment, Kiyosato-san happened to come out of the room.
Kiyosato-san smiled and returned my greeting, but her face soon turned gloomy.
"Today is the deadline for registration of nomination for the Student Council President General Election, isn't it? Have you heard anything about what Sachi-senpai is planning?"
Hmm... ...So Kiyosato-san is also worried about this.
"The announcement hasn't changed yet... ...I wonder if Hinoharu-senpai won't run, though."
Kiyosato-san looked worried, so I decided to divulge a little inside information.
"It depends on today, I guess. There might be a small event during lunch too."
"Huh? What's gonna happen?"
"Something like a speech... ...I guess?"
I purposely made my explanation vague.
I don't think there would be a problem if I told you the details... ...I just felt like that.
Kiyosato-san turned her head, looking confused, and then suddenly muttered seriously,
"No matter what Hinoharu-senpai decides, I've done everything I can... ...I guess."
"Huh?"
Wait, did Kiyosato-san also make her own decision?
"Did you have a chance to talk to Hinoharu-senpai?"
"Oh, no. Sachi-senpai seems to be busy, so I haven't had a chance to talk to her directly."
Hmm, I was wrong.
"But you see, when I talk to people, I find it a bit annoying that no one is thinking about the Student Council or this Student Council President Election at all. So I've been telling people that they should think about it more seriously."
Kiyosato-san furrowed her eyebrows, a rare look of displeasure on her face.
Well, it's kind of expected from Kiyosato-san. Although it does not directly affect persuasion, it will be of great help to Hinoharu-senpai in the future.
"If Sachi-senpai decides to run for Student Council President. I want as many people as possible to listen, so I don't think it will be good if everyone is indifferent when that time comes."
"Yeah, I guess that's right."
I nodded deeply. A lunchtime gesture—.
This is a good opportunity, I hope the spirit reaches all the students well.
*
—And lunch time. In the Student Council Office.
"So, that's why I asked for your help on the day off."
Before this "event", I had conveyed Otsuki-san's request to Hinoharu-senpai. The Music Festival Pre-Training had nothing to do with this event, but it was a good excuse to call out to her.
By the way, there should have been someone else on duty, but I had bribed them for emergencies beforehand, so the room was empty except for Hinoharu-senpai. It's natural to keep outsiders away when you need to focus on this "event".
"Oh, I see..."
Hinoharu-senpai nodded, staring blankly at the computer screen.
But Hinoharu-senpai only nodded, and the answer I wanted did not come.
"So, what do you think? Do you have any other plans?"
"Oh... ...no, I don't have any plans. Please let them know, I'll be happy to come."
Hinoharu-senpai sobered up and laughed as she agreed, but she still looked a little awkward. It was like her heart was not in it.
...I wonder if the hesitation arose because of the approaching nomination registration deadline. I checked the time while hoping that was the case.
It was exactly halfway through lunch time. It was almost time to start this "event".
I think I'll start getting ready.
"But it's so hot today. Very hot."
I appealed by flapping the front of my shirt.
"Can I open the window? The wind felt cool earlier."
"Oh, if you want, I can set the air conditioner—"
"No, no, let's save energy. Let's enjoy the natural breeze."
I quickly approached the window, unlocked it with a click, and threw it out.
As the dry wind blew into the room, the volume of the noise from the school building increased.
—Okay, perfect.
"Nagasaka-kun, you don't have to open it all the way—"
Hinoharu-senpai's confused voice was immediately drowned out by the loud volume.
'Check... ...Um, students of Kyou-Nishi High School, sorry for interrupting your lunch break. I'm Shiozaki Daiki, a student of Class 2-E, and I'm running for Student Council President.'
—The volume is good, no crackling.
Perfect! Perfect broadcast throughout the school!
"Huh? A speech on a street corner...? Through the school broadcast?"
In the corner of my eyes, Hinoharu-senpai raised her face in surprise.
There was no precursor to making a speech using the school's public address system, so it was understandable that Hinoharu-senpai was surprised.
"Today, I have something to tell you all, and I'm borrowing this opportunity to say it. I would be happy if you could accompany me for a while."
Shiozaki-senpai's pronunciation was smooth and his accent was easy to understand.
Shiozaki-senpai's normally calm voice slipped into their ears with a slight change in intonation.
"Yup, perfect. The results of our training are starting to show. 'Accomplice' Uenohara's guidance is really accurate."
I never thought that just because we had no place to practice, I'd end up going to karaoke with Shiozaki-senpai...
"The reason I'm running for Student Council President is solely for a bright future for everyone."
"Hinoharu-senpai, have you heard Shiozaki-senpai's speech before?"
During the pauses in Shiozaki-senpai's speech, I asked questions like that.
"Yeah, just a little."
Hinoharu-senpai turned away from me and muttered a complicated response. I think she had mixed feelings about that.
"Is that so? In that case, it's a good time."
I laughed.
"Today's speech is indeed the best one."
And then...
"Even so... that might be a bit much." The speech that had started like usual, turned out differently.
Then.
Let's start "Hinoharu Sachi-senpai's Persuasion Event" ─ Phase One.
"The main reason I'm running for Student Council President is... ...I want to be like someone who taught me how to imagine a bright future because I was taught how to imagine a bright future by someone."
That unexpected event seemed to change the color of the school crowd.
The speech on the street corner in the schoolyard every day.
It started with a cliché sentence that everyone would be tired of hearing, just to be quickly refuted and thus attract viewers' interest.
"I used to think that preserving the traditions of Kyougoku High School was a top priority. With a history of over 150 years since its founding, the highest advancement rate in the prefecture, and school events like the School Cultural Festival — it's a charming school with so much to offer. I think the most important thing is to preserve it as it is without changing it too much."
And the most important thing is Shiozaki-senpai's "past chapter".
To get to know a stranger, it would be impressive to share a story like that.
"Then I joined the Student Council and worked hard to implement the same policies, allocate the same budget, and hold the same events as before."
Shiozaki-senpai continued, carefully composing each word.
"But... ...at that time, someone told me, 'Preserving tradition and not changing it are two different things. It's just laziness.'"
"...Oh."
Hinoharu-senpai suddenly widened her eyes as if realizing something.
...Hinoharu-senpai knew exactly who that person was.
"I, who believed that I was dedicating myself to Student Council activities, got angry and argued, 'It's not like we have to change everything.' But that person replied, 'If you don't try to change, it will never get better.'"
Hinoharu-senpai averted her eyes and clasped her hands restlessly.
─Good job, Shiozaki-senpai.
Your words really hit us.
"Then I realized something. I had given my all to preserve tradition, but I never thought of creating something that would surpass it."
A gust of wind blew in, fluttering the curtains.
"And the way that person is always looking ahead and working towards a brighter future ─ so strong and charming. I envy and admire that person from the bottom of my heart. I want to be like that person."
Hearing those words, Hinoharu-senpai bit her lips and looked down.
"After that, I thought about what Kyougoku High School meant to me and what the tradition meant to me. And to make that tradition something I could be proud of... ...That's the answer I found, and that's my campaign promise."
The school broadcast continued.
"As you all know, I'm a boring person. I'm a boring, uninteresting person who doesn't even bother to listen to speeches."
"..."
"But I believe that my desire to make this school a better place and my determination to do whatever it takes to achieve that goal is the strongest among the 954 students in this school. Even stronger than the person who taught me how to envision a bright future."
"..."
"If there are people who disagree with my opinions or believe that they can create a better future, let's have a fair fight in the Student Council President Election. I will not run or hide, and I will never compromise by trying to deceive anyone. I will face them head on."
"...!"
"That's all I can say. Thank you for your attention."
After a moment of silence, as if bowing towards the microphone, the electricity was cut off with a 'click'.
The excitement in the school, which had died down for a moment, gradually returned.
"Nagasaka-kun, is all this... ...your doing?"
"No, no, I didn't do anything big. I was just helping to make sure Shiozaki-senpai's feelings were conveyed properly."
—This is the entirety of "Hinoharu-senpai's Persuasion Event," Phase One.
The content of this speech is based on the "past chapter" between Shiozaki-senpai and Hinoharu-senpai, with Uenohara creating the initial draft, which I then polished using my insights on rom-coms to make it more impactful.
While conveying Shiozaki-senpai's passionate feelings to the students who had previously ignored the Student Council President Election, it also conveyed the fact that there was someone who recognized and accepted the former Hinoharu-senpai.
I stepped forward towards Hinoharu-senpai.
Hinoharu-senpai looked at me, but quickly averted her eyes.
"You said it yourself before, Hinoharu-senpai. No one wants your true identity, right?"
"W-Well..."
"There is someone there who wants that. Can you still say the same thing now?"
"..."
Hinoharu-senpai continued to bow her head.
"Besides, Shiozaki-senpai... ...he even prepared a place for us to express our opinions freely. A place where we can compete without hesitation about what is most important to us. That's why Shiozaki-senpai is running for Student Council President, even though he says he's not charismatic or eloquent."
"..."
"It's within your reach. Do you still not intend to reach it?"
I put my hands in my pockets and tightly grasped the nomination form that Shiozaki-senpai had entrusted to me.
Hinoharu-senpai, who had been silent for a long time, finally spoke up.
"I'm sorry, but... ...I still don't want to make trouble for others."
—Hinoharu-senpai rejected me, using other people as the reason.
—I guess this isn't enough to reach Hinoharu-senpai.
I sighed softly so that Hinoharu-senpai wouldn't hear, then took my hands out of my pockets.
"Hinoharu-senpai, do you have time after school today?"
"..."
"I'm sure you'll understand later. What is the best course of action for you."
Hinoharu-senpai remained silent, her head still bowed.
Hinoharu-senpai's uncharacteristic hesitation frustrated me.
"At the very least, this isn't something you should decide based on what others think. Because, Hinoharu-senpai... ...are you really happy now?"
"Oh...!"
—No, wait. Calm down.
There was no point in saying more here.
I suppressed my impatience and turned back to the entrance.
"I'll come to the Student Council Office after school to pick you up. Please wait for me."
With those last words, I left the Student Council Office.
—Until here, everything went according to plan.
It's okay, the message has already reached Hinoharu-senpai.
All that was left was to show the solution to the remaining problems. Then, Hinoharu-senpai would no longer have any reason to stubbornly reject her nomination as Student Council President.
I took out my smartphone while sending a message to everyone involved: 'Proceed as planned.'
Then, step by step, I began to walk, as if planting my presence on the floor.
—However.
This "event" had a fatal flaw.
And I didn't realize it at all.
TL: Reeze27
ED: Reeze27
PR: Reeze27
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