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Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume9 The First Question

2012-04-21T00:19:26Z

128.189.154.252: Fixed image, spelling etc

“…Yuuji.”

“What is it?”

“…We were living together last night, but it doesn’t feel like we’re living together.”

“Of course that’s the case. Think about it, it’s not once or twice that I was bound up and gagged and kidnapped to your house. There’s no refreshing feeling here.”

“…So from tonight onwards, I’ll go over to stay at Yuuji’s house.”

“Got it. I’ll go over to your house then.”

“…Yuuji, will you wear my clothes when you’re at my house?”

“Hold on. Let me bring a clean set of clothing.”

“???...My house has a lot of socks.”

“WHY MUST IT ONLY BE SOCKS!? THERE WOULD AT LEAST BE PANTS AND BOXERS INVOLVED, RIGHT?”

“…I won’t mind wearing Yuuji’s panties and bras.”

“I’LL MIND ABOUT THAT! DON’T SAY IT LIKE I HAVE A BRA!”

“…Don’t you wear underwear, Yuuji?”

“I DON’T WEAR IT ON TOP! BUT I DEFINITELY MUST WEAR THE PART AT THE BOTTOM!”

“…Where?”

“THIS ISN’T THE TIME TO ASK ME WHERE! DON’T UNDRESS ME LIKE IT’S NATURAL!”

“…As a childhood friend, I have a duty to check your growth status, Yuuji.”

“THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS CHECKING GROWTH STATUS, IS THERE! IF YOU DON’T STRIP ME REGULARLY AND RECORD, IT WILL BE POINT—”

“…”

“Oi, hold on a sec. Why aren’t you talking?”

“…Will F class continue with the summoning war?”

“Why did you change the topic out of a sudden.”

“…Can you beat C class?”

“Ku…! Pretending not to hear things that are disadvantageous to you…”

“…Even amongst husband and wife, there are some things we can’t talk about.”

“WE’RE NOT HUSBAND AND WIFE I’m too tired to even snark back…”

“…So, how about it?”

“Hm? The summoning war?”

“…Un.”

“It’s not whether we can win or not, it’s that we have to win. We can’t fail here.”

“…Do you best. If it’s you people, Yuuji, you will definitely win.”

“Oh, thanks—speaking of which, even if you’re honestly cheering for us, you know what’s our final goal, don’t you?”

“…You’re aiming for A class this time, right? Yuuji?”

“Of course, we’ll definitely win this time.”

“…Is that so?”

“Wait patiently. We won’t hold back.”

“…That’s fine, but—”

“But what?”

“—Yuuji, you know what will happen the next time you lose, right?”

“…….Haha, my feet are starting to tremble…is this the so-called samurai waver [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]?”

“…When you lose twice, you better get ready.”

“Gu…! I, I won’t lose!”

“…So you must work hard when fighting against C class.”

“My heart just feels complicated now…well, I’ll do my best. It’s our wish to win in the summoning war.”

“…I’ll support your battle with C class.”

“Oh, thanks.”

“—Speaking of which, Shouko, about that checking of growth.”

“…I have to do duty today.”

“OOOIIIII!! DID YOU REALLY CHECK REGULARLY!!??”

==The First Question==

Please read the following passage and answer the question:

''Andy“I’m sorry about being late.”''

''Mary“Was there anything?”''

''Andy“I guided the man.”''

''Mary“Was there a stray child.”''

''Andy“No. There was an old man who had come to this town for the first time.”''

''Mary“I see.”'' [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]

Please explain why Andy was late.

'''Himeji Mizuki’s answer:'''

“Because he went to guide a lost old old man.”

'''Teacher’s comment:'''

Correct answer. Andy did say that he was late because he helped an old man who came to this city for the first time. Everyone must remember to help out those in need.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta’s answer:'''

“Because he helped a pregnant lady who was about to give birth.”

'''Teacher’s comment:'''

Unfortunately, there’s no mention of the term pregnant lady.

'''Yoshii Akihisa’s answer:'''

“Because he helped an old man who was about to give birth.”

''''Teacher’s comment:'''

Sensei’s really bothered that you forced out terms that didn’t exist at all.

“Morning Yuuji.”

After splitting up from Shouko at the new school building, I was working down the corridor of the old school building when a familiar voice rang.

“Oh, Hideyoshi, morning.”

I turned around, and saw that it was one of my classmates — Kinoshita Hideyoshi.

“The weather’s great today.”

Hideyoshi narrowed his eyes and looked outside. To be honest, that face looks like a girl no matter what, but he’s a real man. But even if I say so, I’ve been wondering recently whether Hideyoshi was a real guy or not.

“…I suddenly had a feeling that my last wall of defense collapsed for a moment there…”

“You must be mistaken. You’re probably tired, right?”

“Muu…is that so?”

Being so sharp at such a small thing; that’s definitely a trait a girl will have.

“Even so, that was a disaster yesterday, Yuuji.”

Hideyoshi gave a wry smile as he said that. Was he referring to that when he mentioned disaster? A ridiculous confession caused those guys in F class to go jealous and lose all sanity and even triggered a horrifying chase sequence.

“Well, a disaster’s a disaster, but I’m used to being chased all over the place.”

“That’s so…”

Even if I say so, it can’t be helped that I’m used to it.

“Instead of worrying about whether we will be chased, I’m more worried about the summoning battle later on today. Our fighting ability was grossly worn out.”

“That’s because our class started it.”

It’s because of this that the fighting ability we had so little of became even more lacking. The opponent’s C class, and we ended up losing a lot here. Obviously, everyone knows that this is disadvantageous to us.

“We have to endure today for the sake of winning today.”

“Endure? What do you mean?”

“My estimation is that we have to continue to endure during the first half, so we’ll be in a tough battle where we have to replenish our points and fight.”

“Continuing to replenish our points and fast…that really requires lots of willpower and concentration.”

To put it nicely, it’s replenishing, but in the end, they’re exams, so this would be draining to the body and mind. I can only think of a way to motivate everyone and make them bring their best.

“Oh yeah, Hideyoshi. Your classics literature grades are rather high.”

“Yeah, ah. The next drama I’d acting in is the tale of Genji[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]—”

We continued to talk as we walked up the stairs, and as we saw the classroom.

“Mu? Isn’t that Muttsurini?”

“Oh, yeah.”

We saw our classmate, Tsuchiya Kouta, a.k.a. Muttsurini, about to enter F class classroom.

He is a guy who has an insatiable desire for sexual stuff, and is a powerhouse in health education that no one can match. Even though his combine scores are relatively low, he’s a reliable ally who has the breakthrough ability with his focus on one subject.

“We’ll need him to fight hard today.”

“Nobody can match Muttsurini in health education anyway.”

“Yeah. He’s a precious rare fighting ability of ours.”

Hideyoshi said as he walked over to Muttsurini.”

“Morning, Muttsurini.”

And then, he tapped him on the shoulder.

“…”

But Muttsurini didn’t respond at all…un?

“What is it? Did something—”

Happen? Just when I was about to continue,

“……(FLUSSSHHH)!!!”

Muttsurini spurted out lots of nosebleed and fainted.

“THE IMPORTANT FIGHTING FORCE IS—!?”

WHAT? WHAT’S GOING ON!? DID HE GET POISONED!? IS IT A TRAP!?

“DAMN IT! WHO KILLED MUTTSURINI!?”

I stepped over Muttsurini’s corpse “…There’s no need…to step over me…” and entered the classroom.

“We, well, Minami-chan, you should.”

“(Pinch pinch pinch) They’re really big~. What did you eat to make them so big?”

“Just normal rice.”

I saw Shimada rubbing Himeji on her breasts.

“………You two, what are you doing so early in the morning……”

“Ah, morning, Sakamoto.”

“Good morning, Sakamoto-kun.”

Shimada and Himeji finally noticed us and greeted me. …Is this the reason why Muttsurini collapsed…

“What are we doing? Just interacting around a little, you know?”

“Your little interaction caused an ally of us to be on the brink of death…”

“And I’d say, it doesn’t seem right when you stepped over your friend like that after that.”

Really, it’s thoroughly forbidden to give Muttsurini such stimulation.

“Then, why do you need to have such a weird way of interaction?”

“Nn~…no particular reason.”

As she said that, Shimada turned to look at Himeji’s table.

“Mizuki’s been studying hard ever since she got to school, so I want to help her relax.”

“I’m happy that you’re concerned, but it’ll be great if you can use some other way to help…”

Looking over, I saw that Himeji’s table was filled with reference books and revision test questions. I see, so she’s been working hard with such will so early in the morning. I’m really encouraged as the class rep of the summoning way when I see this.

“Sorry, Himeji. It’s great that you are helping out like this.”

From the previous study group, I knew that Himeji was more of a prodigy who gained her talent through hard work rather than being an outright prodigy. This hard-working attitude will always bring about motivation with the people around her. And with that pretty face of hers, the other people (though most of them are bastards) will work hard without grumbling.

“I’ll work extremely hard today.”

And also, I don’t know if it’s thanks to Shimada’s worry or she didn’t think too much, but Himeji wasn’t forcing herself, but being full of enthusiasm. Being tense without forcing herself can be said to be the best condition to fight.

“Sorry, Himeji. —Look, you guys. If you have the time, get ready to take replenishing tests like Himeji. The points we have here aren’t enough to win.”

“““Understood—!!!”””

I can use Himeji to inspire everyone.

However, I never ever dreamt the day where I would actually end up saying something like ‘go study’ to my classmates…

<center>☆</center>

It’s been about 20 minutes since the conversation just now, and there’s still 10 minutes till the morning homeroom period.

Just when I was checking the attendance of our class, I suddenly noticed something.

“Speaking of which, Akihisa isn’t here yet.”

“Akihisa? Looks like he didn’t come here.”

Sitting beside me and studying was Hideyoshi, who heard me mutter and lifted his head before answering back.

Almost everyone in our class is here except for that idiot. Let alone normal days, he should be here earlier on the day of a summoning war to get ready and fight.

“Aki may have overslept.”

Shimada joined in the conversation as she may have heard Akihisa’s name.

“Overslept…is that true, Himeji?”

I asked Himeji, who was studying nearby. On hearing that, Shimada immediately gulped.

“No, it’s not that he overslept—”

“…In that case, you’re really living with Aki, right, Mizuki? Hey, Mizuki, tell us the specifics.”

“Well well, calm down, Shimada. Akihisa’s sister at home too, and it’s that Akihisa we’re talking about. Nothing can possibly happen.”

“Well, that’s true…”

Hideyoshi coaxed a jealous Shimada. Nice going, Hideyoshi. If we mention that troublesome topic and start off another commotion like yesterday, things will be tough to handle.

“Ermm…Akihisa-kun seemed to have a cold…so he’s taking a break today.”

“Eh? Aki got a cold? Really?”

“Yes.”

Immediately, Shimada and I asked back. Akihisa will miss a summoning war because of a cold?

“I don’t think that idiot will miss a summoning war because of a cold.”

“…I agree.”

Muttsurini came over to us and nodded his head in agreement.

That guy’s body is rather strong since he normally eats coarse grain, and today’s the important summoning war day. I can’t imagine that the idiot will take a break from school when it’s an important day for him to take a step forward.

“I’d feel that he would at least send a message over to Yuuji either way.”

Like what Hideyoshi said, if he can’t take part, he would at least make a call to tell me something like ‘win even if you must die’. Has he lost consciousness if he didn’t even send one? But since Himeji, who’s staying with him, came to school, it shouldn’t be that serious. If it’s already critical, Himeji will definitely take leave and stay with Akihisa.

In that case, there’s only one possibility to be considered.

“That idiot bastard…I told him time and time again to watch what he eat…”

“He couldn’t refuse at all…how pitiful…”

“…Let’s clap our hands together and pray.”

So the reason is Himeji’s cooking. That’s more convincing than a cold.

“But Akihisa’s strength is that ‘there won’t be a decrease in fighting ability even if he’s not around’. No problems.”

“I’d just feel that it’s the same thing as ‘even if he’s around, he can’t be a part of our fighting force’…”

That’s what I intend to say.

To be honest, even if we don’t talk about that guy’s offensive ability, his summoned beast’s dodging skills are something worth looking forward to. Even if it’s that idiot, if he’s not around, our chances of succeeding will be affected too…but there’s no need to talk about such stuff now and create restlessness amongst everyone.

I scanned around the class, and everyone sans Akihisa is here. There’s still time, and we’re about to begin.

I look around the classroom, and went up the podium.

“Alright, we’re going to start our strategy meeting!”

Everyone let out a loud noise on hearing this.

The summoning war starts at 9. There’s not much time, so I’ll simply explain a bit.

“The important point in today’s strategy is the replenishment tests. We must try to regain the points we lost during the commotion yesterday quick.”

The trap C class’ Koyama set caused F class to have inner turmoil, weakening our forces here greatly as a result. F class was already overwhelmingly weak as compared to C class, and yet we lost points because of infighting. Right now, the difference in fighting ability is really big.

“But wouldn’t our difference with C class be larger if we continue to replenish?”

Shimada raised her hand and asked. It’s true that if everyone ended up being worn out like what she said, the difference between both sides will increase, and the simple reason is that the enemy’s maximum value in points are different from us…however,

“That’s not the case. The enemy has finished the replenishing.”

While F class had the infighting going on, C class temporarily went back to regroup. This is a cautious decision made in the midst of the chaos. Even though we had some replenishing done too, we had infighting amongst our side, and they, who had the advantage all the time, have a difference in how much they were worn out as compared to us. But they were basically done. In other words, the replenishing tests will decrease the difference instead of increase.

“Then, what’s the basic plan?”

Hideyoshi asked. The other people in the class looked like they wanted to hear about the specifics rather than the overall plan.

“The enemy will most likely start swarming here, and we won’t have a chance of winning with our points worn down by a lot. Therefore, we have to solidify F classroom. We’ll defend the two entrances of F class, set them as the fighting area, and wait for the replenishing inside the classroom to be complete.”

With their replenishing done, C class will go for the decisive before we can take action—it’s not to that extent yet, but they will keep us in our classroom while making us unable to do anything else. Looking at how the enemy rep Koyama took action, it seemed that the enemy is being wary of us. It’s not hard to imagine that they will decrease our movement range.

“We lost out on a lot of points, and we already a lot of people. We won’t have a chance of winning if the enemy uses the ‘retreat once worn out’ strategy, we won’t have a chance of winning.”

In terms of numbers, we still have around 30 people (on a side note, the number of people in a class is 50), but the enemy has more than 40 people, and the difference in numbers is already about 30%. Also, there’s the difference in personal abilities between C class and F class, and this is already a self-explanatory situation.

“Therefore, we’re going to use up our points as much as possible.”

“Use up, as in fighting until we can’t fight?”

“That’s one, but that won’t be enough. We won’t be going to replenish our points before we’ll down, but that we’ll switch the deciding subject. In that case, the same people can still continue to fight.”

“Change subjects, how?”

Shimada tossed out the question. That’s a good question.

The rules state that we can’t switch subjects when fighting the enemy. If we want to switch subjects, we have to fight until the battle’s decided. In other words, a certain side of students taking part in the battle of this subject has to be defeated first. Then, if we lose out, the enemy will rush in through both front and back entrances, and things will get worse.

“At that moment, we’ll need Himeji’s attacking ability and immediately ask the teacher for a change in subjects once the enemies in the field are defeated. Can you do it?”

“Yes! Please leave it to me!”

Himeji said enthusiastically.

Himeji, who has the ability as the second-ranked student in our year, has constantly high marks in all subjects. This is a very important point for this fight. All the subjects may require a decisive fight, so we need to sweep the enemy while changing subjects. Shimada’s maths and Muttsurini’s health education are rather strong if we talk about how specialized they area, but the enemy will think of changing the subjects, and if we have such a defensive battle, their strength can’t be used. Thus we need Himeji’s power as an add on.

“So we’d need Himeji to appear when changing subjects. The main forces of the defense will be taken by other people, is it?”

“Ahh, that’s the case. Once we start, we’ll be grouped with Muttsurini and Shimada at the center.”

The front entrance will be defended by Muttsurini’s health education, and the back will be defended by Shimada’s maths. On a side note, these two are highly specialized, so we have to call them back when switching subjects.

“According to the current situation, I’ll be able to hang on for about 20, 30 minutes.”

“…I have no confidence in fighting an endurance battle.”

We’ll ignore Shimada for now, but it’ll be a different case for Muttsurini, peerless in health education, to fight a battle of attrition. The ability of the ‘golden bracelet’ is powerful, but will eat up points when used, and will have a side effect when facing lots of enemies. The only one in our entire year who can get away from many enemies is that idiot. It’s because of this that it’s a huge loss for that guy not to be here…

“I’ll work hard for Akihisa-kun’s sake. We promised.”

Himeji’s eyes seemed to show a glow of strong will. It seemed that she’s more active than before when Akihisa’s not around. In a certain sense, perhaps it’s good that Akihisa isn’t here.

“Alright. Then, please take note of the area you’re in charge of.”

As we continued on, the strategy meeting ended. And so…how will the battle today end up like?

[[Image:BTS_vol_09_036-037.jpg|1100px]]

<center>☆</center>

“Are you done, Yoshii? —Are you listening to me, Yoshii?”

“Eh? Ah, yes, sorry.”

Ironman’s coarse voice brought me back to reality. Damn it. I seemed to have spaced out again.

“What is it? You haven’t written down yet? Hurry up.”

With Ironman prompting me, I looked down at the latecoming slip.

—Yes, the latecoming slip.

Right now, the time is 10am, and I’m in the office. As for why I’m here at such a time, the simple answer is that I was late, and sensei asked me to write a latecoming slip.

“It’s rare that you weren’t late just by a bit. Did you oversleep?”

“No, that’s not it…”

I woke up slightly earlier than usual. Even so, it was 9.30am the moment I noticed it. Looks like I spaced out on the bed for more than 2 hours. It’s really suitable if I say that time was taken away without warning.

“Whatever. Just hurry up and write. I have to go back to the remedial room earlier.”

“Okay~”

Under the ‘class’ column of the latecoming slip, I wrote ‘2-F’, ‘Yoshii Akihisa’ under the ‘name’ column, and the reason why I was late—

“…”

“What is it, Yoshii? Why are you blushing?”

I wanted to write the reason why I was late, but stopped again.

To be honest, the reason why I was late this morning was because of Himeji-san…well, ki—no! Erm, act that’s like nee-san. But I can’t use that as an excuse. That will create lots of problems if I write that, and will bring trouble to Himeji-san. But (even if Himeji-san was mistaken) my cold’s better now, so I can’t write that I’m sick…

I pondered for a while, and my hand holding the hand started to write again. Can’t be helped. I’ll write this then.

“Sensei, I’m done.”

“Alright, you can leave.”

“Yes.”

I handed over the latecoming slip and got ready to leave the staff room.

“I’ll take back what I said. Come back, Yoshii.”

“What is it?”

I got called back by Ironman. What now?

“Rewrite it.”

“Rewrite? Is there a problem?”

“Writing ‘youth’ as the latecoming reason can’t possibly be accepted!”

“THEN WHAT OTHER REASON CAN I WRITE!?”

“I SHOULD BE THE ONE YELLING HERE!!”

How unreasonable. I definitely thought through and finally wrote a big fat truth here!

“Yare yare…never mind. Since it’s Yoshii…you probably picked up some ero-book on the way to school.”

It seemed that my youth here is being grossly misunderstood.

Even so, I can’t say the real reason, and I have no idea what was that significance. Is she trying to imitate nee-san? Was Himeji-san dazed from her sleep? Was it some kind of spell? No, it’s really too weird even if it’s like that.

If I think about it, don’t tell me, actually, Himeji-san—

“…”

“Why are you blushing out of a sudden? How dangerous is that ero-book you picked up!?”

Damn it, I got even more misunderstood.

“Really, can you really take part in the summoning war? Let me say this first. Our class’ is in a state where we can’t think about anything else, you know?”

Ironman sighed and muttered.

Now that he mentioned it, I focused my attention back here. F class’ situation…

The summoning war begun while I’m writing the latecoming slip here. I didn’t get any conclusion after spacing out for more than 2 hours, so there’s no time to worry about this.

“…Yeah. I should be focusing on the summoning war.”

“Yeah. I don’t want to say that studies are your top priority, but the summoning war is important for you and Sakamoto, right? Forget about everything else and just focus on what’s in front of you.”

As an elder, Ironman gave this advice, and it’s true that the summoning war is important to me. It’s not something that I can play around with, yeah…un, well said!

“Yes, I got it!”

“Good answer. No problems, right?”

“None! I’m good at forgetting things!”

“Don’t puff your chest and say such a thing, idiot.”

I’m not good at thinking about so many things in the first place. I can’t check on what happened with Himeji-san, so I should first focus on the important summoning war!

“I’ll be off to the remedial room then. I’ll give you a good lesson if you die in battle.”

Ironman took the latecoming slip and went back to the office. Now, I should start thinking. I have to meet up with F class and take part in the summoning war!

<center>☆</center>

“—But even if I say so, what’s going on…”

After handing my latecoming slip over to Ironman, I just stared over at F class blankly.

''“Charge right in! The enemy’s just F class!”''

''“Those who’re done with replenishing are to come back! Replace those worn out!”''

''“Got it! Those at the back are to take over!”''

I came to the entrance of F class, and what I saw was a battle with swarm of C class students attacking ferociously and F class defending till death at the entrance.

The time now is 10+, and the battlefield of the summoning war that restarted is now at the entrance of F class in the old school building. Right now, there’s an intense battle going on, and as I could see, it feels like C class is trying to surround F class and keep them in the classroom.

C class Koyama-san leaked false information to crush F class, causing F class to have infighting. Even though we managed to resolve this, and both sides went through replenishing tests — there’s still a huge difference between C class and F class. There’s already a difference in ability, and with the commotion yesterday, the damage caused was great. Of course, F class had overwhelmingly more casualties than C class.

The so-called replenishing test is to let those with their points worn out to regain their points. In other words, it is meaningless to those who died in battle. During yesterday’s commotion, those C class people who were worn down retreated, but F class was different. The raging F class members attacked over and over again even if they’re worn out, and so, naturally, a lot of them died. In this situation, both sides had to go through replenishing tests, and it’s to be expected that there’s a huge difference in the amount of recovery in the fighting strength. This huge difference created the current situation.

“That Yuuji already foresaw something like this, didn’t he…”

Even though we managed to overcome the commotion yesterday, the war hasn’t ended. Rather, it had just begun, and it’s disadvantageous on our side.

Looking over, I can see that F class is being held down. It’s really amazing how the defensive line hasn’t collapsed.

''“SA, SAVE ME, FUKUMURA! I HAVE ONLY 12 POINTS LEFT! I DON’T WANT TO GO TO THE REMEDIAL ROOM!”''

''“I’M IN THE SAME BOAT HERE! JUST USE THOSE POINTS TO HELP!”''

''“SPEAKING OF WHICH, DON’T YOU HAVE ONLY 20 POINTS!?”''

I could only hear screams from F class, and from where I’m standing, I could only see the backs of C class surrounding F class.

“No, but if I can see the backs of C class, doesn’t that mean that I can ambush them?”

To be honest, I haven’t regained my points completely. It couldn’t be helped. I ran around all over the place yesterday, being chased by almost everyone from F class and C class, so it wasn’t enough to use one or two subjects to fight then. There’s a limit to how much points I can get back after half a day of remedial. If I fight in such a situation, I’ll be sent over to the remedial room without being able to do anything.

“No no. For the sake of my allies, it would be helpful somewhat if I rush in suicidally…”

Should I help everyone and fight by rushing in? Better check the current situation. This is troublesome.

Just when I’m thinking about this, I can see the faces of my F class classmates from the gaps between the C class people. They all seemed to notice me and gave me glances.

(You’re here, Yoshii?)

(You can’t rest on such an important day!)

(Let’s fight together, Yoshii!)

Their eyes were telling me this.

Is that so…so they were waiting for me…in that case, I should reciprocate their trust and join in the fight for everyone’s sake.

…Yeah. Fight for everyone and give my life up. If I am going to save everyone, I have to rush in with the realization that I have to go to Ironman’s hellish remedials.

“…”

I looked at the faces of my pleading allies.

(Yoshii…)

(Yoshii…!)

(Yoshii…!!)

“Fmm…I see.”

I took a deep breath and thought calmly.

……There’s no obligation for me to go to such an extent!

If I think about it carefully, the reason why we ended up like this was because everyone went jealous and started attacking. Also, I’ve been badly treated everyday too.

“Alright. Time to watch them die.”

Yuuji can definitely think of something! I should think about how to get past this perimeter and gather with the class—

''“YOSHII! F CLASS’ YOSHII AKIHISA! HURRY UP AND SAVE US! WE’RE HERE!”''

''“OI, C CLASS! LEAVE US ALONE AND ATTACK YOSHII OVER THERE!”''

''“YEAH! THAT GUY MUST HAVE BEEN ORDERED BY SAKAMOTO SECRETLY! HE SHOULD BE SOMEONE IMPORTANT!”''

“Cheh! As expected of my classmates!”

The moment those guys spoke up, I immediately turned my back around and started to run off.

It seemed that my decision to abandon those guys and their decision to sacrifice me was made at the same time. It can be said that the thinking of sacrificing other people’s lives to protect our own lives is the creed of our class.

“Eh? Yoshii? No sign of him.”

“Don’t be fooled by them! These guys are from F class! D class ended up in turmoil because of this! We should first focus on the enemy in front of us!”

“IT’S TRUE! TRUST ME! OH YEAH, IF YOU LET ME RUN AWAY, I’LL TIE YOSHII UP AND BRING HIM OVER—”

I heard some lousy words over there. Isn’t selling other people out to survive the worst idea! Really, these guys.

“I’ll just ignore them for now.”

If I think about it carefully, the situation is rather bad. If I’m revealed to have come here, I won’t be able to secretly meet up with F class.

“Let’s see if there’s any other path to meet up…”

First I have to leave the battlefield to ensure my own safety and check the situation out. Un…sneak in through the window of that empty classroom beside F class — it’s tough. The empty classroom’s right beside the battlefield, so the enemy will quickly discover me…anyway, let’s go to the other empty classrooms to check it out and find a way to sneak in.

I went from the third level of the old school building that was the battlefield to the area near the empty classroom on the second level. If I can climb up to the window from there…

I remain vigilant and check to see if there’s any enemies nearby and put my hand on the door of the empty classroom. I then heard some people talking from inside. Un? Who could it be?

''“…Sorry to look for you at such a time. The class representative shouldn’t be taking action independently in the middle of a summoning war.”''

''“It’s alright if it’s like this. F class is being walled up inside their own classroom.”''

''“That’s good. If they’re stuck inside the classroom, the enemy can’t pull any tricks.”''

There were two girls’ talking to each other, and they just seem so familiar…they also mentioned about things like ‘F class’ and ‘summoning war’. Don’t tell me…?

I was wondering about it, and put my ear on the door to listen carefully.

''“Well, sempai. About what I asked this morning…”''

''“Un, the strategy against F class, right? I’ve asked for you.”''

''“Sorry to bother you at such a busy time.”''

''“It’s alright. The third years are doing self-study during this period.”''

It's definitely them! It’s C class’ representative Koyama-san! Is this ‘sempai’ she called that bewitching looking—Kogure-sempai?

''“What’s the situation now?”''

''“The enemy’s stuck in their own class…”''

''“But we can’t get over to the rep, right?”''

''“Yeah. Also, that second-ranked girl in our year is working really hard to me, and we couldn’t win according how I think we would. I’m also uneasy over what Sakamoto will come up with…”''

''“The second-ranked girl in your year? She doesn’t have much physical ability, so wouldn’t be easy if you make her tired?”''

''“Well…for some reason, she just seemed really motivated today.”''

''“She has become one huge obstacle, is it?”''

''“Yeah…from the way things stand, we can’t do anything if we don’t find some way to deal with her.”''

As I heard this, I suddenly noticed something. Just now, (I think) Kogure-sempai said something like ‘I asked for you’. So that means the suggestion given to Koyama wasn’t thought up by her…?

''“Is that so? We’ll ignore the enemy’s strategy for now. Let’s first talk about the rest. The basic plan.”''

''“Yes.”''

''“How about you get the other classes to help out?”''

''“The other classes?”''

''“Yup. A common frontline. Is there any other classes you can get to help?”''

''“…I think, B class’ representative is a little…”''

''“Isn’t this B class representative your ex-boyfriend?”''

The ex-boyfriend, B class rep. On hearing that, a guy’s man appeared in my mind. Uu…I do feel somewhat guilty here. What Nemoto-kun did to Himeji-san was unforgivable, but there’s a guilt over whether I went overboard on hearing the word ‘split up’.

''“I heard that you split up from him because he tried to kiss you forcefully and you gave him a tight slap to the face.”''

''“…Please don’t remind me of that.”''

I take that back. Looks like there’s nothing to pity him about.

''“But it’s not that you broke up with him completely, right?”''

''“Ehh. Sort of.”''

''“That can do. Please ask B class for assistance.”''

''“Erm…how?”''

''“Let B class fight with other classes. Then, designate the subjects they’re to use.”''

''“Designate the classes we should use?”''

''“Yeah. There’s a limit to the number of teachers, so make all the teachers who have replenished the enemy’s points go over to the summoning battle on that side. In that case, no matter much momentum the enemy has, they have to fight with low points.”''

''“I see…then we can also use the teachers who replenished the marks of B class’ opponents to fight, is that correct?”''

''“Yes.”''

I heard this sly plan. Un? Make the enemy fight with the subjects without being allowed to replenish points? Won’t that be disadvantageous to us?

''“If we are to get B class into a summoning war, the only opponent left will likely be A class. How about it? Does 2-B have the thought of challenging A class?”''

''“They do have that sort of motive…but no matter what, it’s too reckless for B class to challenge A class.”''

''“Perhaps B class’ rep still wants you to change your mind, right? You once said that you liked brainy guys, right?”''

''“Eh? No way?”''

''“Aren’t you very cute there? Then,”''

''“We, well, it’s not like I hated him…”''

B class declaring war on A class. I don’t think A class will lose, but if B, C classes limit the subjects, it won’t be easy to win easily. Besides, the class rep of B class is that infamously sneaky Nemoto-kun. He will come up with some dirty trick and do something to attack A class’ rep Kirishima-san’s weakness, Yuuji and make her surrender. Kirishima-san’s smart, but can’t make decisions calmly whenever it comes to Yuuji. That will be troublesome.

''“In that case, if you beat F class, and the gap between B class and A class will be reduced. Both classes won’t lose out. Won’t that be an ideal deal?''

''“That’s true…”''

The meeting on the other side of the door seemed to be progressing smoothly.

This isn’t a joke. B class and C class won’t lose out, but us F class and A class that get involved will be in trouble. I’m worried about A class, but our F class will be in even more trouble. It’s already a disadvantageous situation to us, and our chances of winning will decrease greatly if we’re forced to use only certain classes? We’re aiming for A class, so how can allow this to happen? We must stop this plan no matter what.

''“Then if B class beat A class, you can attack whichever side you want. If they lose, you can consider attacking A class after checking that they’re worn out.”''

''“That’s true…I can’t say that the deal we had earlier is fake then.”''

The deal before would refer to the information Koyama-san and Yuuji exchanged, where they will attack after that. I thought they were just lying, but it seemed that they intended to follow their promise. I don’t know what’s their true intentions though.

Damn it, there’s no time to think randomly! F class and A class will be in a bad situation if this keeps up!

My mind’s thinking about doing something, but I can’t think of some specific plan. I’m really envious of Yuuji’s thinking speed at this moment.

Just when I’m being puzzled, time slowly ticked away.

''“Nn…? Isn’t that—F CLASS YOSHII!? OII! YOSHII’S HERE!’''

''“WHAT!? IS THE NEWS THAT HE TOOK LEAVE FALSE!?”''

And then, voices could be heard from behind.

Damn it! I focused too much on what’s inside the classroom and didn’t pay attention to my surroundings!

I looked over at where the voices came from, and it seemed that the C class students who were intending to attack F class from another direction brought the teacher down from the third level.

I left the door to get away quickly. The door to the empty classroom opened, and the people who walked out from inside were C class’ rep Koyama-san and the third year bewitching looking sempai I met before—Kogure-sempai.

“Yoshii!? That guy heard our conversation just now—”

“…Unfortunately, I didn’t expect someone to come here at such a time and take part in the summoning war…he’s really a child with lots of irregular factors around him.”

“Anyway, hurry up and get rid of him! He won’t be able to contact the rest if he’s sent to the remedial room through a summoning battle—everyone, crush Yoshii!”

“““Got it!!”””

On Koyama-san’s command, the people of C class immediately came over.

“Sensei! C class’ Enokida Katsuhiko challenges with Japanese history! —summon!”

The floor immediately reacted to the keyword as an array appeared. Then, the summoned beast that was a miniature version of the person appeared in the middle. Ku…I can only fight back…1

“Summon!”

I summoned my summoned beast to fight with the opponent, and it still had a poor look with a school uniform and a wooden sword. We finally got a change of equipment, and I only got a dragon drawn on the cloth of my clothes. How pathetic.

C Class, Enokida Katsuhiko, Japanese History, 115 points.

Vs

F class, Yoshii Akihisa, Japanese History, 121 points

Our scores appeared in the air. Luckily, the deciding topic was Japanese history, one of the subjects tested during the replenishing yesterday and my only specialty. What luck!

“C class’ Koube Shin will fight too! Summon!”

“Same class, Niinuma Kyouko’s going too. Summon!”

Another 2 summoned beasts appeared on the opposing side. 3 vs 1, and my enemies are from C class. Even if I am good at controlling my summoned beast here, it’s a tough situation for me.

“GO TO HELL, YOSHII!”

The enemy raised his weapon, a spear and rushed over. I use my wooden sword to parry the spear and let my summoned beast rush at the enemy.

“Another one here!”

An axe came swinging in from the side, and my summoned beast took a step back to dodge. I lost my chance to attack, but it couldn’t be helped. There’s too many enemies, so I can’t win if I fight so many at one go.

“Yaa!”

Another girl joined in the battle, and the naginata swung over at the wooden sword horizontally, chipping it off. It’s okay if there’s a difference in strength, but with our marks on similar levels, it’ll be disadvantageous to use a wooden sword to fight back. I can’t take the strikes of the enemies’ blades now, I have to dodge them…!

I managed to take on the three people’s individual attacks. I have to take care of where I’m standing so that I won’t be surrounded…!

“This guy’s from F class, but isn’t he on the same level as us with those grades?”

“I remember that Japanese History is the only subject Yoshii’s good at.”

“We’re really unlucky to use this subject to fight him.”

Even when grumbling, they never slowed down. It’s really tough to take this. the way they’re attacking is a lot more restrained as compared to those guys from F class yesterday, but the summoned beasts’ strength can’t be compared.

The enemies’ attacks didn’t hit me, but my attacks didn’t hit them. We continued our battle back and forth, and then,

“Why must you take so much time fighting an idiot!? It’s frustrating!”

Koyama-san said anxiously and faced the teacher standing nearby,

“Sensei, C class’ Koyama wants to fight. Summon!”

The summoned beast appeared on Koyama-san’s command. It’s a 4 vs 1 situation now, and it’ll be tougher if I want to beat everyone and try to get away.

However—

“I’ve been waiting for this!”

At that moment, my summoned beast sped up. I've been waiting for this moment. It’ll be even harder if I want to win in a 4 vs 1 situation, but if I beat the enemy’s rep, the summoning war will be over. I’ll beat the summoned beast Koyama-san summoned and win this war…!

“““!?”””

The trio standing in front of me flailed their weapons. I didn’t bother to dodge, raised the tip of my blade and rushed at the enemy’s commander.

“Gu…uu…!”

Sharp pain can be felt on my arms, shoulders and thighs. The feedback of the summoned beast that was being hacked at went to me, and a lot of points disappeared.

…However…it’s not like I’m immobilized now!

“GOOOOO!!!”

I was attacked after I leapt forward. In other words, the attack this time will be based on the points just now. I got ready to be bounced back as I attack.

“Da—!”

Koyama-san’s anxious voice reached my ears. Got her! With a full-powered attack of more than 100, even the opposing C class’ rep can’t take this!

The wooden sword was stabbed at the enemy’s throat —

“You can’t do that, Koyama-san.”

At this moment, the enemy’s summoned beast vanished. Wha…?

“Ko, Kogure-sempai…”

“The class rep can’t carelessly summon the summoned beast. Even if you have a bigger advantage, it’ll be over if you lose.”

Kogure-sempai pulled Koyama-san on the sleeve and dragged her out of the summoning field. Ku…is it because of this that the enemy’s summoned beast disappeared…!?

F class, Yoshii Akihisa, Japanese History, 13 points

The result of the attacks just now is shown. Damn it! I wanted to settle this once and for all! Ain’t I dying here now!? It’ll be tough fighting against three people from C class with such points…

“Sorry sempai. You really helped me there.”

“It’s fine. This is for my cute kouhai after all.”

“Thank you. I’ll act cautiously from now on.”

Koyama-san lowered her head in front of Kogure-sempai.

My desperation attack missed, and I have no way out. And I’ll be treated as running away from battle if nobody comes up to sub me, and I’ll be disqualified. Before that happens, I have to at least let my side know the enemy’s plans…”

“In that case, we can catch him now.”

Kogure-sempai smiled meaningfully as she said that. Did she see through what I wanted to do…!? Use Koyama-san as bait to break this deadlock!?

Right now, the situation is such that I’m in a disadvantage no matter whether it’s the battle situation or my points, and I’m not allowed to run away. To be honest, I have no other way now, but—

“At least I might pass the message…!”

I have to continue dodging to buy time even when my points are few. How can I just give up like this? Don’t, don’t tell me there’s no other way…!

“…You just won’t give up, huh?”

Kogure-sempai muttered as she saw me like this. Of course I won’t give up. Our wish is to win the summoning war, so I have to struggle until I die!

I’ll immediately be unable to battle if I get even a graze, and this thin ice-like battle continued under such a state. I continued to look around to see if there’s any way out.

At this moment, I saw something flying out from the window. Is that — a soccer ball? I may be able to use that!

I immediately adjusted my position. Then,

“BUBAHH!?”

The soccer ball that broke through the glass window hit my face and sent me flying.

“Ahh! No way!?”

“Just one more would do!”

My body rolled out of the summoning field, and my summoned beast disappeared.

“Sensei! Isn’t that disqualification when the enemy runs away!?”

“No, that probably couldn’t be helped…”

The C class girl went to ask the teacher. Alright, now!

“Sensei! I’m nosebleeding! I need to go to the infirmary!”

“Ah! Oi! Yoshii! Stop running away!”

“Sensei! Isn’t this running away from battle!?”

“Ermm…what happened just now was an accident, and Yoshii-kun can’t be deemed as running away from battle when he’s injured…”

This debate continued to echo behind me. I got a pair of fast legs that can run away because of my training in my everyday life, so since I managed to run away, nobody can catch up to me!

I darted down the stairs and ran towards the new school building that wasn’t a battlefield.

<center>☆</center>

“Un…I managed to get out from there, but what should I do?”

I reached the new school building, checked that no one was following me from behind, and stopped to think of what I should do.

“It’ll be best if I can meet up with everyone from F class…”

From the way things looked just now, I will have to break through if I want to meet up with them. Their backs were facing me just now, and now they have discovered me, so they will be wary. I’ve also lost a lot of points, and if I force my way through, I’ll be the one being surrounded instead.

In that case, there’s only one thing I can do to help our class win.

“Prevent C class from working with B class, I guess.”

As of now, I don’t know whether F class can win. However, the commander’s Yuuji. That guy will definitely think of something when F class is in a war.

Therefore, I shouldn’t be worrying about that.

“That guy’s really not used to fighting against the opposite sex.”

From what Koyama-san said just now, it seem that it’ll be fine if I stop their plans to make use of Nemoto-kun’s feelings. Really.

“It’s really tiring when I have a class rep who’s so slow to react to a woman’s heart.”

“…Yoshii’s the last person he want saying such a thing.”

“!!??”

I suddenly heard this voice, and immediately backed away. Who, who is it?”

“…??”

Tilting her head and giving a puzzled look is,

“Ki, Kirishima-san?”

“…Un.”

The beautiful long-haired 2-A class rep and the valedictorian, Kirishima Shouko-san.

“That scared me. I thought it was C class there.”

“…C class?”

“Your opponent in the summoning war that appeared at F class, correct, Yoshii-kun?”

The one standing behind Kirishima-san was Kudou Aiko-san, also of A class. She’s a girl with boyish charm.

“Since that’s the case, why are you here when there’s a summoning war, Yoshii-kun?”

“…Is there some special mission?”

“Ah…un, it’s really different from the rest.”

Of course, they won’t naturally think that I was late and couldn’t meet up with everyone.

“Anyway, why are you two here? Aren’t you having class now?”

“…Self-study period.”

“Well, to put it simply, sensei’s busy with the staff meeting and couldn’t come out, and we had enough progress with the lessons, so she gave us a day off today for self-study.”

Our F class had to offer our holidays for supplementary lessons. What’s with this difference in treatment? Is this the so-called difference in society?

“…So we’re going to the office to get new worksheets.”

“Ah, so that’s why…”

So they didn’t come out of class to play truant just because it’s self-study…as expected of the best class in our year. It’s no wonder why they would have such different treatment from us when we’re always thinking of running away from class.

“I say, just leave this for now!”

What the heck am I chit-chatting away with Kirishima-san! I have something important I have to do!

“…What is it?”

“Ah, is it about the special mission?”

“Un, yeah. Because of the trap C class and B class set, F class and A class will be in danger. Got to tell the people at A class.”

“Danger?”

“Yoshii-kun, what’s going—”

“Then, Kirishima-san, Kudou-san, I’ll be going first.”

“…We’re A class here, you know?”

“Un, it’s lesson time now, so there’s a teacher watching.”

“No, I say, Yoshii-kun!”

“Can’t be helped. In that case, I can only open the back door slightly and inform the person near there.”

“Just calm down first (flap)!”

“If I can’t pass the message, it’ll be bad (DABDABADABA)”

Damn it! When did I nosebleed so much! Is this C class’ trap or something? I can’t do anything if I can’t stop the bleeding!

But, but…

“But maybe it’s not so bad to die like this…”

“Oh my my…I thought Yoshii-kun could calm down like this, but he’s still freaking out.”

It’s a completely different feeling from being hit by the soccer ball. It’s a nosebleed that felt really good. This…isn’t so bad.

“…Aiko, stop teasing Yoshii.”

“Yes~. The guys from F class are especially bad at this.”

“…Yoshii. Tell me about A class…I’m the class rep here after all.”

I recovered and found Kirishima-san staring at me. Ah, I see. I was too anxious and forgot the fact that I could have just told her.

“Perfect! I have something to say to you, Kirishima-san.”

“…Un.”

“Well, about that, actually!”

My momentum cause me to lean over at Kirishima-san, and Kudou-san saw me like this,

“Ahaha, I just feel that this is like a confession.’

She joked. No no no. Kirishima-san’s cute and pretty, but she belonged to someone already.

''“You can’t do that, Aki-cha—Yoshii-kun. Don’t you already have a perfect man that you love?”''

“AN EVIL PRESENCE HAS COMETH!”

''“…(Hides)”''

For a moment, I just felt that there was some evil presence and looked over. However, I just couldn’t see the owner of this presence as this person is hiding behind the wall. On first glance, it looked like there’s a girl’s braid. Was that, Tamano-sa—no, definitely not. She can’t possibly be here since she’s in D class.

“…Yoshii?”

“Sorry. I’m fine here, Kirishima-san.”

“…I see.”

“Speaking of which, what do you want to talk about, Yoshii-kun?”

“Un, actually—huh? Kubo-kun? When did you appear?”

“I was going to the washroom and heard a conversation. Is there anything I can help with? It may be rude of me though.”

“Thank you, Kubo-kun. Always being able to help us out.”

“No, don’t worry about it. I just like to do this.”

“Really? You’re really kind, Kubo-kun.”

For a moment, I just thought that there’s something weird about his ‘I just like to do this’, but my instincts immediately told me in unison that ‘this is just my imagination’ and denied it. It may really be just my imagination here. How can such a nice guy have ulterior motives?

“…Anyway, let’s go to the ranch in our class if we don’t want to be overheard.”

“Yeah. There’s some secrets with regards to this summoning war, right? Yoshii-kun?”

“Seems like you’re being pursued here. It may be good for you to hide for a while.”

Kirishima-san and the rest gave me such suggestions.

“Thank you, everyone.”

“““No problems.”””

And so, I followed Kirishima-san and went over to A class to explain what’s going on and ensure my own safety.

<center>☆</center>

“Then, what exactly is going on, Yoshii-kun?”

“Un, and then, I heard from Koyama-san of C class that—”

“Okay, Yoshii-kun. This is nice, you know♪?”

Mgu mgu mgu mgu

“(Gulp) It seems that B class is going to declare war on A class—”

“…Yoshii. Do you want to eat this?”

Kari kari kari kari.

“(Gulp) and their plan is to call the teachers out and make the subject—”

“This is rather good too, Yoshii-kun. Also, I personally recommend the sweets here.”

“Wait a sec, Aiko, prez, Kubo-kun! We can’t proceed with the conversation like this! Feed him later if you want to! Stop eating too, Yoshii-kun. Say what you want to say!”

The one who spoke as she sat at the sofa in A class in front of me is Hi—Kinoshita Yuuko-san, and she’s angry now.

“Ahaha, sorry, Yuuko. Yoshii-kun’s been enjoying himself with the food.”

“…Just like a little critter.”

“Sorry, he looked really hungry, so I accidentally…”

“Really. You should be more alert when it comes to the summoning war…”

Kinoshita-san seemed to be unhappy as she was grumbling about something. She looks exactly like her little brother Hideyoshi as they’re twins. It seemed that Yuuko is a lot fiercer. Her traits are her eyes, which are more of pretty than cute. The sisters are really bishoujo when gathered together. I suppose the Kinoshitas must be living a fantasy…

“in other words, B class is going to attack us, is it? Coming up with such a despicable tactic too.”

“Un, that’s the case.”

Kinoshita-san was able to understand even with such a disjointed explanation, and the other three showed looks of comprehension. As expected of A class; all of them are smart people who think fast.

“To be honest, we can’t possibly lose to this strategy, so there’s no real…”

“Even so, Kinoshita-san, Yoshii-kun is troubled right now. Don’t you think we should offer some assistance?”

“Don’t feel the need to. It’s against the rules to get involved in other classes’ summoning wars anyway.”

“…Yuuko, don’t say that.”

“Nope. It’s self-study period now, but we’re still having lessons. I won’t allow such a thing to happen.”

It’s just like what Kinoshita-san said. It’s lesson time now. If everyone in A class help out, they’ll be skipping lessons.

“…But I want to help them.”

“No matter what you say, it’s impossible. I’ve been closing an eye to Yoshii-kun coming here, so just endure this.”

“…Yuuko…”

“U…that’s not fair, prez, using such an expression…”

“…Please.”

“…Tha, that’s why I said, no.”

“…I’ll do whatever you ask me to do next time, Yuuko.”

Kirishima-san gave such a final blow. Kinoshita-san seemed to finally relent after hearing this, and used her hand to cover her face.

Since Kirishima-san said so, I’ll definitely remember to bring a gift for her next time.

“Ahh, really. I got it, I got it. I’ll help with defeating that strategy. But we are not going to get involved with the summoning war with F class. Is that alright?”

“…Thank you, Yuuko.”

“Well, I don’t really like what C class is doing. And C class rep still owe me lot.”

“Thank you, Kinoshita. You’ve been a great help.”

“…”

After I thanked Kinoshita-san, she stared for my face for some reason. What’s going on?

“???”

“…Okay.”

And then, she took out a box of pocky. Erm, can I eat it?

Kari kari kari kari kari.

“……We, well…this is this is[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]…”

[[Image:BTS_vol_09_073.jpg|thumb]]

Un, it’s delicious.

“I can’t really treat him as someone of the opposite gender, but if it’s a pet, I think…”

“???”

Kinoshita-san’s eyes were already looking into the future as she muttered to herself. Wait, a pet?

Either way, A class is really nice. There’s a lot of sweets and juice that they can get whenever they want, and the sofa just feels so comfy.

“Speaking of which, we’re going to break up that plan, but how do we go about doing it?”

Kudou-san seemed to be enjoying herself as she said this. Specifics, well…

“…Break up communication between C class and B class.”

Kirishima-san then spoke up. Break up their contact link, is it? I see. I remember we once used a similar method to send D class’ messenger to hell, didn’t we?

“Well, something like that.”

“The most important thing is whether they can link up or not. Everyone has the right to carry out a summoning battle, so it’s impossible to stop them, and we can’t talk through to them.”

“We can prevent them from contacting each other. Phones aren’t allowed to be used in a summoning war.”

Just like what Kudou-san said, Fumitzuki Gakuen, which already disallows handphones, will become stricter when it comes to summoning wars. Normally, if people don’t follow the rules, the most if one’s careless would be confiscation. However, during a summoning war, the treatment will be like an exam—simply put, it’s the same way as to how they deal with people who use handphones in the middle of an exam—cheating. It won’t be just confiscation, as suspension or repetition of year is also possible. Either way, I don’t think there’ll be people who’ll take such a large risk just for the sake of the class.

“In other words, we have to stop C class and B class messengers, right?”

“More than messengers, I think it’s like we’re stopping their love.”

“Ahaha, I say, will we be stamped to death by horses[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]?”

“…It’s alright. It’s not true love anyway.”

“Kirishima-san’s right. True love isn’t the interaction between man and woman, but the binds in the feelings.”

In that case, get in the way of their love (looks like a conversation), right? Hm…

“In other words, what should we do?”

“I said it. we’ll prevent their love.”

“Any details?”

“““…”””

There was immediately silence. We have no idea exactly what to do to obstruct love.

“Let’s listen to everyone then. Un, prez, what do you think we should do?”

“…Prevent love?”

“Un.”

“…What’s the minimum number of drugs I can use?”

“Sorry, Kirishima-san, but that’s for Yuuji, so it’s not suitable here.”

It’s not just a violation of the rules of the summoning war. It’s obviously against the rights of a Japanese citizen. I’m somewhat wondering about what kind of treatment Yuuji’s been having.

“…Then, Aiko?”

“Un~, let me see~. So I guess we should still use seduction or something, right?”

“Seduction, huh…will that really be effective?”

“I’ll show it for real then. Eh~ (Flap)”

“KYAAAHHHH!!? WHY DID YOU FLIP UP MY SKIRT!?”

“Yoshii-kun will occasionally want to see someone else’s once in a while, I guess.”

“THERE’S NO NEED TO SHOW SUCH SERVICE!”

“…Don’t worry, Yuuko. You’re wearing it properly today.”

“NOT ‘JUST’ TODAY! I DID PUT THEM ON ‘AGAIN’! DON’T SAY IT LIKE I’M SOMEONE WHO GOES WITH NO PANTIES!”

“Look, Yuuko, Yoshii-kun’s blushing red now. It’s effective, isn’t it?”

“THIS IDEA DEFINITELY WON’T WORK!”

“Ehhh~ I think he’ll be happy.”

“THAT’S NOT THE PROBLEM HERE!”

I lowered my head as I stood beside Kudou-san and Kinoshita-san.

Well, to put it, I’m troubled that I would have a reaction. I did nearly see them, but I’m envious that Kubo-kun is still able to remain calm.

“Then, do you have any other good ideas, Yuuko?”

“Eh? M, me!? Well, un…”

“…Can’t think of anything?”

“Tha, that’s not the problem here. I’m very good at this. I do read lots of romance novels.”

Kinoshita-san puffed her chest as she said that. Ohh, I’m looking forward to it.

“Yeah. For example, I’ll call someone I like to a certain romantic and legendary tree and hide behind the tree. How about that?”

Fmm, I see. As expected of Kinoshita-san. She’s really an outstanding student at such a problem. Calling out someone she likes and hide somewhere.

“—Carrying a blunt weapon.”

“Alright, next.”

“Wha, what? What’s wrong with my knowledge?”

Kinoshita-san said with a very indignant tone. Why do I feel that hearing things like ‘strike back’ and ‘narcotics’ are all rather familiar terms?

“Then, I’ll say my idea.”

This time, Kubo-kun moved his glasses and said that. Kubo-kun gives the impression that he’s not good at something like this, but this doesn’t seem to be the case.

“I think that love itself is an instinct. So how about we rile people up subconsciously?”

“Rile people up subconsciously?”

“yeah. Have you heard of ‘dangling bridge’ effect or ‘subconscious effect’?”

“Ah, I seemed to have seen it on TV before.”

The dangling bridge effect should be like some confession in a dangerous place like a dangling bridge, confusing fear for love and making it easier to succeed. The subconscious effect is to insert some images in between several seconds to leave a deep impression on people subconsciously.

“We’ll use this effect to get the other side over.”

“Um um.”

“To be specific, I feel that the person secretly saying ‘I love you’ at a cliff with bullets flying everywhere every 40 seconds will be a more effective mean, or something like that.”

“Only Hollywood can create such a stage, isn’t it?”

Such a romance definitely can work if it’s in a movie!

“Not good…only Kudou-san’s seduction can work?”

“I see. A seduction using Yoshii-kun. This trick will most likely work.”

“Wait a sec, what are you saying, Kubo-kun. Stop joking around and think seriously.”

“Eh, I’m serious here.”

Playing such a joke to hide things. Kubo-kun’s really not good at romance. Even so, he gave his view; he’s really a good guy.

Can they really prevent that from happening? I’m feeling uneasy about this. Better check with everyone first.

“I say, do you know what’s the meaning of ‘friendship’? Does everyone know?”

“““Chorus contest.”””[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]

“Thanks, I got it.”

This group of people are useless. They’re even worse at the concept of love than F class.

I couldn’t help but want to hug my head in a depressed manner, but at this moment,

“…Yoshii. Hide.”

“Waa!”

Kirishima-san suddenly pushed me under the chair. What’s going on?

“…C class is looking for Yoshii.”

Kirishima-san glanced at the door, and I looked through the gap between the chairs. There’s someone scanning through the small window of the classroom at the corridor, and the reason why nobody rushed in was because it’s lesson time now.

Then, I heard knocking on the door. The door’s opened.

“Sorry, do you have time?’

An unfamiliar girl was standing at the door. Most likely someone from C class.

“Yes, what is it?”

Kinoshita-san showed a smile to that girl. Speaking of which, Kinoshita-san’s normally one with such a presence. A natural smile and an elegant attitude.

“Well, has F class’s Yoshii-kun came here? I’m looking for him.”

“Yoshii-kun? Un…I didn’t see him…we’re having lessons here, so how can Yoshii-kun possibly come in here?”

“That’s what I thought too, but you don’t look like you’re having lessons, so,”

“Ahaha, it’s still lessons, sorta. Self-study.”

Kinoshita-san smiled and answered.

It’s just like what that girl said. If I didn’t meet Kirishima-san and company in the corridor, I wouldn’t have been able to escape to A class. It’s an emergency in the middle of a summoning war, but I can’t possibly enter other people’s classes in the middle of lessons. It’s because of this that C class couldn’t contact Nemoto-kun from B class at all.

“Speaking of which, why are you looking for Yoshii-kun?”

Kinoshita-san tried to ask in a probing manner. That’s a tactic to divert the topic, is it? Un, that’s a good idea.

“Did he go peep inside the girls’ changing room or something?”

But isn’t this change of topic way too weird?”

“Un, something like that.”

THAT’S NOT TRUE!

“Then, thank you. Please tell us if you see him.”

“Got it. I’ll contact you if I see that peeping tom.”

With a word of thanks, the girl from C class left.

Kinoshita-san turned around and said to me while I’m hiding.

“Yoshii-kun, are you really hiding around because of the summoning war?”

“IT’S TRUE! I’VE NEVER DONE ANYTHING LIKE PEEPING EVER SINCE I WAS BORN!”

“Yoshii-kun…you just made one huge lie down there…”

“Speaking of which, I think I saw Yoshii-kun once in the girls’ changing room before.”

“No, that’s not it. That’s because Yuuji was in there.”

“..Yoshii, tell me the specifics later.”

This is bad. Yuuji’s lifespan is about to shorten again.[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume9_Translation_Notes_and_References]

“Well, nevermind. I’ll trust you for now. But if you said a lie, I’ll really send you over to C class.”

“Go, got it.”

When Kinoshita-san said ‘I’ll contact you if I see that peeping tom’, that wasn’t a lie at all.

“Then, what should we do next? Yoshii-kun?”

At this moment, everyone calmed down. Kubo-kun continued off with where we left off. Erm…

“Yeah, we have to have intel before we can identify how they’re going to contact each other. If we don’t know how Koyama-san and Nemoto-kun are going to contact each other, we won’t be able to go for the decisive.

“I understand. In that case, I’ll be in charge of collecting information on Koyama-san’s movements. I do have my personal network of acquaintances after all.”

“…We’ll be in charge of checking the situation of the war between F class and C class.”

“Okay, leave it to us.”

“Well, it can’t be helped. I’ll just help out since I agreed to.”

Everyone found what they could do. What should I do?

“I’ll help Kubo-kun out then.”

“No, it’s better for you to stay here, Yoshii-kun.”

“..It’s dangerous to go outside.”

“Yeah~ someone just went past here to check.”

“It’s better to hide until things end. Don’t worry too much, we’ll check your class’ status for you.”

“I see. Sorry. Thanks, everyone.”

The four of them and seemed to say ‘don’t mind’ as they walked out of the classroom. Seriously, I need to prepare gifts next time.

{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume9 Novel Illustrations|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume9 The Second Question}}

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume8 The Fourth Question

2012-04-19T08:43:08Z

128.189.154.252:

===The Fourth Question===

Question: Please fill in a suitable English word in the blank.

''Bread is made from ____.''

'''Kirishima Shouko's answer:'''

'Flour'.

'''Teacher's Comment'''

Correct answer. The meaning is 'Bread is made from ___'. 'Be made from' would be a passive way of saying 'make A from B', which means that 'A is made from this thing B'. Thus, if you answer 'toaster' it would be an equipment instead of ingredient, which wouldn't be correct. Please take note of this.

'''Yoshii Akihisa's answer'''

'Happy White Powder'

'''Teacher's comment'''

[[image:BTS vol 08 155.jpg|thumb]]
Happy White Powder. This won't do, not at all.

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer'''

'Potassium Carbonate'''

'''Teacher's comment'''

To think that Himeji-san would know of such a difficult term called potassium carbonate. But this is a raw material for making glass, not for making bread. Did you mistake bread for bead? Though they are similar looking white powder, it'll be a huge disaster to use potassium carbonate to make bread.

But nobody will use such a thing to make bread anyway (laughs)

“I suppose everyone should understand this well, but from today onwards, you can start your summoning battles. This is a good chance to test out your progress in the first term, and I hope every student will take part enthusiastically.

Grrrrrrrrrr...

“Also, there will be pipe lying in between the first and second level in the old campus, so—”

Guuuuuu...

“And I'll have to talk to you about the student exchange module—”

“““Yoshii, Sakamoto...we'll kill you!”””

Ane-san's punishment yesterday (in the end, broken fingers weren't enough to appease her anger) made me lose consciousness in pain, and I finally managed to reach the classroom before I was late, during the homeroom period. While Ironman stood on the podium and reported a few things as usual, Yuuji and I were exposed under the killing intent and curses of our classmates.

It wasn't just Yuuji and me as everyone in class were in position, ready to rush out from their seats. As to why it is so, it's obviously so that we can all take action the moment Ironman leaves. At this moment, it's because of this powerful force Ironman controlling things that everyone could at least remain calm. If not, this classroom would become a dangerous and terrifying execution ground like yesterday. Is this the so-called imminent situation? To Yuuji and me, if everyone goes crazy while Ironman's around, Ironman can step in to exterminate a few enemies...

“That's all I have to report today. I hope that everyone can study hard and improve themselves.”

He used the same words to end again. Once Ironman leaves, our escape game will begin, and the bloody death match will start--

DOK DOK DOK.

“Sorry, please excuse me.”

At this moment, someone knocked on the classroom door and slowly walked in. Eh...

“Koyama from C class. What is it?”

“Sorry, Nishimura-sensei, I have some things I want to say to the students of F class.”

After saying that to Ironman, Koyama-san turned around to face every one of us in F class.

She took a little breath.

“We, C class, will start a summoning battle against F class.”

““WHAT!?””

We couldn't help but call out in shock. What? How did this happen?

“Koyama, is this really good? You won't get any benefit from declaring war on a weaker class.”

“No, Nishimura-sensei, that's not the case. Of course we do benefit! Like irreplaceable experience and...”

Koyama-san answered Ironman's doubts honestly.

“And—three months worth of peace.”

One of the rules of the summoning war is that 'the defeated class can't take the initiative and declare war for the next three months. In other words, C class' aim is to take away our right to declare war. Since they had the experience of defeat in the previous summoning battle, C class wouldn't let go of the opportunity when we're fighting amongst ourselves. Perhaps they might be thinking of getting rid of any worries.

“You're rather good, Koyama, reading the meaning in my words like that...”

Yuuji muttered in a bothered manner. Reading his words...what did that mean?

“What's going on, Yuuji?”

“It's simple. Once we sorted out the situation of the classes, our F class today was supposed to declare war on C class. But it's because of this thing that they were able to make the first move.”

Yuuji said.

If our class was completely prepared, we would surely ask for the enemy to declare war on us first. But in the current state, our class is really in a bad shape and can't even fight against other classes anyway!

The reason why we ended up in such a disadvantageous situation isn't a coincidence no matter how we think.

“Using the tactic of heterosexual relationship...and declaring war on us once you understood our current situation...I never thought that Koyama would be such a manipulative person...someone helped to plan that out, right?”

Yuuji grumbled and muttered to himself.

Perhaps Koyama-san heard what Yuuji muttered as she looked at him and responded with a mocking smile,

“Oh my, don't you know? Don't look at me like this—I'm from the Tea Ceremony Club.”

The moment she mentioned the tea ceremony club, my mind immediately remembered a certain sempai.

“Tea Ceremony Club—that 3rd year sexy looking sempai guided you.”

The 3rd year sempai from the tea ceremony club who looked really sexy...isn't that Kogure Aoi-sempai who wore the kimono and the leotard during the test of courage tournament? That person did look like she had lots of plans, and she belonged to A class, so she should be rather smart. The impression she gave was that she really knew how to use relationship between different genders in her strategies.

“That's all I have to say, please excuse me.”

After bowing lightly, Koyama-san turned around and walked to F class' door.

Just when she was about to leave,

“Sakamoto-kun, what I told you wasn't a lie.”

Finally, she left these words behind. What she said before...what was it?

“Oi, did you hear what she said?”

“She should be talking about that rumor yesterday, right? So that's true...”

“Unforgivable...we're about to start the summoning battle. I thought that we just needed to catch that damned Yoshii we're so jealous of and execute him...”

'''“““LOOKS LIKE THERE'S NO ROOM FOR COMPASSION!”””'''

The killing intent in the class just got stronger. I just felt that I missed something...but even in such a critical situation, I still can't escape my fate?

“Isn’t this good? You can take part in the summoning battle immediately. Get ready to battle then.”

Ironman followed behind Koyama-san and left the classroom.

The moment Ironman's front foot stepped out, angry growls that would make hairs stand rang throughout the classroom.

'''“““THE INQUISITION ON THE HERETICS SHALL NOW BEGIN!!!”””'''

““YAAAAAA!!!””

Those are primitive roars full of hatred, not for the summoning battle—but at Yuuji and me!

<center>☆</center>

C class declared war on F class!

But we're ignoring the important event we just established.

“GO TO HELLL! YOSHII!!”

“FALL! SAKAMOTO!”

Our classmates who were supposed to be fighting with us had intense hate for us as they viciously attacked us.

“CALM DOWN, ALL OF YOU! C CLASS WILL BE ATTACKING!”

Sprinting down the hall, Yuuji roared at our pursuers behind us.

“WHAT NONSENSE ARE YOU SAYING!? WHO CARES ABOUT SUMMONING BATTLES IN THIS SITUATION?!”

“I'LL BE FULL OF HATE IF I LET YOU REMAIN ALIVE IN THIS WORLD! IT'S NOT ABOUT SUMMONING BATTLES NOW!”

But Yuuji's growls couldn't enter their hearts as our pursuers behind us showed no sign of stopping.

“Damn it, those idiots! Akihisa, let's hide first and talk!”

“Understood!”

Yuuji and I nodded our heads at each other and jumped 3 steps down the stairs at a time as we hurriedly moved downstairs. The pursuers from F class were chasing with tremendous momentum behind us, but our escape was a lot easier than yesterday as they lack a commander like Yuuji.

“Alright, let's kill some time here first.”

We hid in the boys changing room beside the swimming pool, held our breaths and whispered to each other. Nobody's using this changing room now, and we can remain undetected here for quite some time.

“Though we're killing time, we can only hide for about 10 minutes.”

Yuuji grimaced.

“Only ten minutes? Why? It's not like someone will come over to the change and swim.”

“It's not like that. It's to follow the rules of the summoning battle.”

“Eh? What's that?”

“During a summoning battle, each class rep has a duty to reveal his/her location. Besides, if the class rep hides in a place too secretive, it's likely that the entire battle outcome will become unpredictable.”

A class rep has to bear such responsibility, and this seems to be one of the rules of the summoning battle. Like what Yuuji said, if we don't know the position of the class rep, we can't have a decisive battle. During this time, everyone else could take retests, and the outcome of the battle would be in doubt. Thus it's an important rule to declare the location of the class rep.

Even so,

“In this current situation, this rule's really a hassle.”

“Yeah. To think that they declared war in such a bad situation...”

Yuuji and I sighed inside the guys' changing room. This is really bad...

“Oh yeah, Yuuji. What was Koyama-san referring to when she said 'what I told you wasn't a lie'?”

“About that...”

If that guy really got confessed to, it'll be a serious betrayal! Maybe I'll execute this guy here first and drag him back to the FFF for a reduction in penalty.

“What she said should be that 'our aim is to beat B class' two days ago.”

“Aim...ah yes, you two did mention this.”

I remember it was an exchange of information or something. At that time, we did declare our targets.

“Koyama-san said that they're aiming for B class, and to think she lied to us...”

“No, she wasn't lying.”

Eh?

But didn't C class really take action on F class?

“Basically, their ultimate goal is to beat B class—basically, that's how it is. Thus, even if they're to face against us F class in the process, she wasn't lying at all.

“But Yuuji...”

“And I said it to her in the exact same manner.”

Now that he mentioned it, Yuuji did mention just now that he intended to attack C class. In other words, Yuuji's final aim is to beat A class, but he intended to take down C class too.

“That's why you said that you wanted to attack A class 1, 2 weeks after the ban's lifted...”

“That's right. I think these words made Koyama—no, that Kogure-sempai at least see through the intention I didn't say out.”

“But that alone can't mean that we'll definitely attack C class, right?”

Even before declaring war on A class, we would attack other classes, but that didn't necessarily mean that we have to attack C class.

“There's no need to confirm. Since it's an enemy that may attack anytime, and that they already had plans to deal with us, and that C class wanted some battle experience before facing B class, these many reasons would be enough for them to declare war without hesitation. Besides that, Koyama has the strategist from the 3rd years who hated us. Thus, these things are to be expected.”

Yuuji explained to me. Having heard him say so much, I thought about it, and it was really likely...

“It's troubling, but they did take the step on us. In fact, to a certain level, even if the enemy came up with a plan, we should still be able to win this battle. However...we were too frivolous.”

Yuuji muttered.

For someone like Yuuji, even if our enemy's C class and we're in a disadvantage, he should have the confidence to win. Besides, the enemy's a higher-ranked class, and we're the lowest ranked class. In this battle, both of us already had such a huge difference, but unexpectedly, the enemy would go to this extent.

“To think that she would use that tactic to split our class up.”

In fact, there's a strategist guiding Koyama-san who caused us to be in a far more unimaginable situation. In this case, Yuuji's being toyed with by the opponent.

Even so, this really isn't like Yuuji. If it's a strategy, how could that unmatchable Yuuji allow such a thing to happen?

“I say, Yuuji, are you actually...”

“What?”

“Are you bad against traps set by the other gender?”

“Ha? You're saying something really stupid...”

“But think about it. Aren't you always being overwhelmed by Kirishima-san? And you can't fight your mother, right?

“Uu...”

Yuuji opened his mouth, but couldn't say anything. It's a little weird calling a mother someone of the opposite gender, but I'll leave it as that for now. Either way, the gender's different, and Yuuji's mother is still young and beautiful-looking.

“Anyway, stop yapping about and adjust your breathing. Soon, we won't be able to hide. We'll have to start running for our lives soon.”

“Haiz, this is bad...it's really irritating that a class rep has to reveal his location. Why do I, who's not a class rep, end up like this—hm?”

At this moment, I suddenly noticed something. That's strange? Don't tell me...

“Yuuji, you're the only one who has to reveal your location. This has nothing to do with me, right?”

It's true that a class rep can't hide, but I'm not bound by such a rule. In fact, if everyone's going after Yuuji, it'll be much easier for me.

Just as I was thinking about this.

“Oi, Akihisa!”

“Hm? What is it, Yuuji?”

“Don't you think we should stop betraying each other from now on?”

“Eh? What are you saying? Who are you? Get away from me. You should get ready to escape now—”

Clak!

“Eh?”

A mysterious sound came from my hand...what's going on? That metallic sound just now is—OI! HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! WHY IS THERE A STRANGE METAL RING ON MY WRIST!?

“Alright Akihisa! Now we'll live and die together and have the same fate! There won't be any problems even if we're cuffed to each other! Let's do our best and break through this trouble~☆”

“WHAT DID YOU JUST DO TO ME!? LET ME GO! RELEASE THIS HANDCUFF THAT'S CHAINING YOU AND ME TOGETHHHEEERRR!!!”

It seemed that the metal handcuffs chained together by the rather long and sturdy chain are holding Yuuji and me together. That damned bastard...he dragged me down so that he wouldn't be the only one being hunted! Damned devil! Garbage! Scum! F class!

“Where's the key!? I won't get mad. Take it out before the summoning battle starts, you damned bastard!”

“Key? What's that? Can it be eaten?”

“Damn it...in that case, you should think of a way to break this chain!”

“Oi oi oi, Akihisa, think about it. You should know that Shouko wouldn't use those handcuffs that would easily break on me, right?”

“Are these Kirishima-san's handcuffs?”

“I saw that she was acting strangely before and checked on her belongings. To think that she would have such things hidden with her...”

Damn it! If this is something Kirishima-san prepared, pliers won't be enough to break through. It seems that we have to plead Kirishima-san and get the key from her...

Just when I was really angry and wanted to beat Yuuji up,

“Oi! I just heard something from the changing room!”

“It must be those two! Hiding in such a place!”

The familiar voices of those guys from our class reached us. Cheh! They found us?

“Oi, Akihisa! We got to run with all we got! You'll die badly if you don't work with me!”

“You damned bastard! You're going to die if we can get through this safely! Remember that!”

We'll talk about the handcuffs later. I'm really unwilling, but I have to work with this scumbag now. It's really disgusting...I'm not a man if I don't take revenge!

Before Yuuji and I were thoroughly surrounded, we dashed out of the changing room. As we arrived on the corridor, we found the hooded gang with whips in their hands. Very good. Anyway, let's,

“Let's go Yuuji!”

“Jump out from the window, Akihisa!”

SWOOSH!

““WAAAAAAHHHH!!””

Yuuji and I ran in completely different directions, and we were pulled back by that metal chain. Ugh! Without that thing, we would be more mobile...

“Idiot Akihisa! People will normally run outside where there're more escape routes!”

“Moron Yuuji! People will normally head to the classroom where there're lots of hiding spots!”

Unexpectedly, we didn't agree with each other so quickly. The handcuff that's chaining us together is altogether detrimental to us!

“Found them! It's those two!”

““Ugh...!””

Just when we were messing around, our enemies started to close in on us.

“Let's counter, Akihisa!”

“Let's run away, Yuuji!”

SWOOSH!

““GET A GRIP, YOU BIG IDIOT!””

The chain that linked us was obstructing our movements like just now. Ahh, this thing's really troublesome!

“Yoshii, you dare to break my desire of living a happy life with the Kinoshita sisters...compensate for your sin with your life!”

“Sakamoto! I won't hand Kirishima and Koyama! Kuuderes are the treasures of this world!”

“That's right! They're really correct! Hold on a minute, I'm going to get this guy to bear responsibility and pay for this with seppuku!”

“What dumb words are you saying? If we have to trace all this, aren't you the one behind all this mess!? Hold it, you guys! I'm going to make this guy bear responsibility and apologize to everyone with his death!”

Yuuji and I continued to beat each other and tried to hold each other down. I have to find a way to trample this bastard's life and end this!

“Relax, you two can still be good friends once you reach that world.”

“Isn't it good that you're handcuffed together? You two can live on each other and die together, you stupid couple!”

““WAAHH!!””

The bats that had nails on them swung over hard from the top, and I hurriedly curled back and dodged aside to avoid a bloody disaster. Then, a real katana was swung over from the side, and I managed to jump back to dodge it. The chain's really annoying, but I was able to dodge the attacks at the last moment.

“Ahh, damn it! Yuuji, at least follow my movements!”

“Couldn't you have done so!?”

We continued to grab each other on the collars as we blasted at each other right in front of the enemy. Seeing this, our classmates stared at us and said something ridiculous.

“Humph, you two look more like suitable men than cute girls.”

“That's how it is. You two can just remain together.”

More suited to be men...us together...

These, these bastard!!!

““STOP SAYING SUCH SCARY NONSENSE!!!””

The moment we heard the ridiculous words those guys spouted, Yuuji and I pulled the metal chain that dodge the metal bat that was swinging at us before sending a punch at the two people who were standing there blankly.

“STOP JOKING AROUND! WHAT DISGUSTING THING DID THOSE TWO GUYS SAY!?”

“YEAH! WHO WANTS TO BE A COUPLE WITH YUUJI!? IF IT REALLY BECOMES LIKE THAT, I'LL DEFINITELY CHOOSE TO BE WITH HIDEYOSHI!!!”

Even if it's a taunt, there are things to be said and things that should not be said.

Just when I was infuriated by those two idiots dumb words, someone asked,

“Oh...so amongst the rumored targets, Aki likes Kinoshita most?”

“Akihisa-kun, was what you said just now true?”

Since they asked, let me think through this first.

Uu...who do I like amongst those rumored? Let me see. If I have to choose between Hideyoshi, Yuuji and Tamano-san, I'll definitely like—

“I guess...Hideyoshi? He merely had a mistaken gender in his personal particulars. He himself is a really cute girl, and I understand him more—WAHHH!!!”

“Aki...can you please explain more about this?”

“I want to know more about this too, Akihisa-kun!”

ROOOOOMMMMMM!!! It seemed that Minami had this sound effect behind her as she and Himeji-san widened their eyes and looked at me. Damn it. Are those two's names amongst the list? In that case, what I said just now must have hurt their pride. I don't think a broken bone or two will be able to cool them off!

“Okay, Yuuji! Go distract Minami and Himeji-san! I'll find an escape route—HOLD ON A MINUTE! WHY ARE YOU UNDOING THE HANDCUFFS!? YOU'RE GOING TO BETRAY ME AND RUN AWAY ONCE YOU KNOW THAT I'M BEING TARGETED!? YOU SCUM!”

Once he knew that the duo were aiming at me, Yuuji lowered his head and tried his best to undo the lock. It's useless though! Actual results showed that this handcuff can't be undone easily!

“Aki, you've become more and more popular now recently and got things over your head. In this situation, it looks like I have a need to educate you again.”

“Nononononono, calm down first, Minami. Both of you—UOOOHHHH!!”

I dodged with the difference of millimeters as Minami silently attacked with her fist. And wasn't there a burnt smell or something? Did sparks fly when the fist flew by the air?

“MI, MIIIINAMI! DON'T JUST ATTACK ME SUDDENLY!”

“I'm going to use my fist to beat your nose, swing my elbow to knock into your collarbone and kick your kneecap to bits.”

“That shouldn't be it, right? Those words aren't just to tell me what you're going to do next and make me grit my teeth before I die, right!?”

Speaking of which, what's with girls in their youth saying their actual plans before they kill someone...

“Akihisa-kun, please explain what do you like about guys? What's so bad about girls? Are you and Sakamoto-kun chained together to show everyone your determination?”

On the other side, Himeji-san demanded for my explanation as she made her own conclusion. Is it a given fact that I have no interest in girls?

“Got it! It's the key! Wait first, Akihisa! I'm going to undo the handcuffs now!”

“Forget about it, Yuuji! It's not too late to undo the handcuffs once we safely get past this!”

“I don't want to! You can just die alone!”

“Ahhh, forget about it! Stop yapping and hand me the key!”

“Don't get near me! A dying person's presence is infectious, do you know that!?”

As Minami and Himeji-san continued to approach us, Yuuji and I were fighting for the key. If this guy betrays me again, my chances of escaping will decrease by a lot. So, no matter what, I have to snatch the key away from him!

“Ugh...just...a little more...”

“Who would...hand it to you!?”

Is this an abnormal amount of concentration that's exerted in a fire? It's unbelievable that I can win Yuuji in terms of strength at this moment.

But just when I'm about to get the key in Yuuji's hand,

“...Yuuji, over here.”

“Alright! Shouko! Nice timing. I'll leave it to you!”

Once Kirishima-san asked Yuuji for the key, Yuuji threw it to her hands without hesitation. Oh no! I was just about to get the key!

“Damn it...we're done!”

“It's too late no matter how anxious you are! Shouko, you can hand the key over to me!”

Having been released from this burden, Yuuji jumped away from me and got to a safe distance before asking Kirishima-san to return the key back to him.

“...Return to you? What?”

Seeing her show an emotionless face, we just realized the reality we accidentally forgot.

“...Yuuji, you bastard...what did you just do...”

“...Sorry, I accidentally....”

It's already tough having to deal with Minami, and the key to the handcuffs that's chaining us together is in Kirishima-san's hands. In that case...aren't we at a dead end?

“Akihisa! We'll talk about the key later! Let's work together and escape first!”

“I think it's because of you, things became worse! But I can only agree with you for now. It's more important to protect our own lives than to get the key back!”

Yuuji and I looked at where Kirishima-san, Himeji-san and Minami were at as we bent down and got ready to take action.

“Do you think you can run away, Aki?”

“I won't let you leave before you explain clearly, Akihisa-kun.”

“...Yuuji, you're not getting...never!”

The trio continued to approach us easily. If they get us in such a close distance, Yuuji and I will definitely be unable to live. In that case...we can only do this!

I took a deep breath and aimed for the perfect moment. Very good...now!

“Kirishima-san!”

“Himeji, Shimada!”

““WATCH THIS!””

The next moment, we undid each other's pants...hm? Each other?

“Damn it, you bastard! Betraying me even at this moment!? What did you do now, you scum?

“What nonsense, you scum!? I'll return these words right back at you!”

The moment we undid the belts, our pants buckle were undone, and our pants slid down onto the floor. Of course, right now, everyone's seeing Yuuji and me in boxers.

“Wa, wait a second! What's with that, Aki?”

“A, Akihisa-kun? We, well...you, your boxers are rather cute!”

Minami frantically looked away from me, and Himeji-san started to mumble some strange words as she started mumbling. Damn it...I'm angry, but I have to say that Yuuji's plan worked rather well. Because of that, we successfully diverted their attention (but Himeji-san still seemed as if she's looking at me).

“...Wah.”

Kirishima-san responded at a much slower rate and (sort of) screamed.

Kirishima-san shouted but didn't look away from Yuuji who's in his boxers. In other words, she's already used to seeing Yuuji in boxers...I won't forgive you, Sakamoto Yuuji!

“Damn it...in that case, I'll just take off Yuuji's boxers too!”

“Stop it! If that happens, even the cops will come after me!”

Since Yuuji already is chased by those guys in class and Kirishima-san, I don't think there will be a lot of difference if we add the cops in.

And just when we were arguing,

“...Hold on a moment. I'll need to borrow a camera.”

Kirishima-san said that and left...that's weird?

“Eh, about that...”

“Oi, Akihisa! What are you spacing out for? Hurry up and get away!”

“Oh, un...”

How should I put it? Kirishima-san's smart, but sometimes, she will really show her weirdness...like Himeji-san.

Pulling up our pants that were pulled down and holding the buckles with our hands, Yuuji and I turned around to run.

“Ahh...da, damn it! Wait, Aki! I'm not done with punishing you yet!”

“Pl, please wait, Akihisa-kun! I haven't heard the explanation from you yet!”

Himeji-san and Minami called out from afar as they tried to stop us, but having run so far away, the two girls couldn't catch up to us. It seems that we finally managed to get away from that shocking situation. That was close...

“The summoning battle's about to start...this is really bad...”

“If my location wasn't revealed, it'll be easier to escape...”

We ran back into a certain empty classroom and took time to catch our breath. Really, whether it's yesterday or today, why are you always involved in all sorts of trouble...

Anyway, the fact that Tamano-san confessed (to my cross-dressed attire) seemed to have spread wide, but things didn't end there. Looking at the situation just now, it seemed that Himeji-san and Minami were involved somehow. It's like the rumors were spreading in ways I didn't know of. Looks like I have to check my situation out.

“Oi, Yuuji. Do you know what the situation we’re in now is?”

“Welll...I haven't heard of all the rumors, but from what I know—from the moment you rejected Tamano, Hideyoshi, Kudou Aikou, Kinoshita Yuuko, Shimizu Miharu, Shimada, Himeji, Toshimitsu Kubo, Muttsurini and even B class rep Nemoto liked you.”

“I, I'm really that popular...”

“Yeah, and half of them were real, so the reliability increased a lot.”

“Haha, you're rather relaxed to be able to joke at such a moment.”

“...Oh well. Let's leave that aside for now.”

Those guys never even consider the gender! After hearing such baseless stuff, everyone should know that it's just some empty news...

“And about my rumors, it seemed that I was living with Shouko, ditched C class rep Koyama and accepted your confession...”

“Now that's a really huge misunderstanding...”

Just when the misunderstanding's brewing wildly outside, Yuuji and I were handcuffed to each other, so it's nothing strange even if someone believes the rumors as fact.

“Got to shake off this misunderstanding first.”

“I don't really want to admit it, but this would be hard...if so many people believe in this, the lies will become reality. That's the so called group mentality.”

After explaining, Yuuji said,

“Besides, the more important thing is that—”

“Hm?”

“These guys aren't listening.”

“Yeah, that's the biggest problem...”

What's most troubling is that we're surrounded by guys who just won't listen, or rather, they'll believe in rumors too easily and would make their own conclusions. In that case, it's meaningless for us to do anything.

“Yuuji, do you have any plan?”

At this moment, we're being hunted, and the summoning battle with our class equipment on the line will soon start. Is there any plan to improve this backstabbing situation?

“It's useless at this point no matter what we do. We can only drag on and wait for those guys to calm down before explaining things to them.”

“So it's not that good. There are no good ideas we can think of in this situation...”

To be precise, the battle this time should be 'C class and F class alliance' vs 'Yuuji and me'. This amount of difference in battle ability can only be described with the word 'despair'. Forget about winning or losing, it's almost impossible to drag the time on. The summoning battle ban has been lifted, so why are we in such a disadvantageous situation?

“Without that rule limiting us, there are many ways to save our lives, whether it's hiding or running away from school...”

“But the class rep can't hide once the summoning battle situations.”

Really, things aren't really good for us...

“Haa...if possible, I really wanted to leave you alone and hide somewhere, Yuuji.”

“I won't allow you to do so! Don't think of surviving alone! Stop dreaming!”

CLANK! The sound of metal could be heard as our handcuffs rang.

That's right, Yuuji and I are chained together by these handcuffs, and the key to these handcuffs are in Kirishima-san's hand. If we're unable to get rid of this, Yuuji and I will have to share the same fate of living and dying together.

“If you're really insistent, we can hide to protect our own lives. In other words, we'll give up on the summoning battle.”

Eh? Give up on the summoning battle? Yuuji?

“What are you saying? You don't have any intention of that, right?”

“Aren't you the same too?”

Kukuku. Yuuji laughed from deep within his throat. That's obvious. It's our greatest wish to win this summoning battle, but it's a joke to admit defeat on seeing such a disadvantageous situation.

“Ugh. In that case, it can't be helped...Yuuji, I'll try my best to help you out.”

“Don't be stupid. It's your job as soldiers to serve the king.”

DANG DANG DANG DANG...

At this moment, the bell that was like the signal to the start of the battle rang throughout the school campus. The summoning battle started at this moment.

“Let's go, Akihisa! Do your best if you don't want to be defeated!”

“Humph, you don't have to say it! I'll definitely do my best to get past this, and I'll get my revenge on you, just remember that!”

Yuuji and I ran out of the classroom we were hiding. What disadvantageous situation? It's just normal to us. What's the point of complaining? Better fight with all we’ve got!

[[image:BTS vol 08 183.jpg|200px]]

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8 The Third Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume8 The Fifth Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume8 The Third Question

2012-04-19T08:26:38Z

128.189.154.252:

'''The Third Question'''

[[image:BTS vol 08 102b.jpg|200px]]

[[image:BTS vol 08 102a.jpg|thumb|150px]]
From the picture on the right, state from 1-4 the identities of the Indian Caste System.

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer:'''

① Brahmin
② Kshatriya
③ Vaishyas
④ Shudras

'''Teacher's comment'''

Correct answer. When translated down, they are separately known as 'priests', 'nobility or warriors', 'citizens' and slaves' It's best to remember their meaning.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's answer:'''

① Brahmin King
② Brahmin Knight
③ Brahmin people
④ Brahmin.

'''Teacher's comment'''

[[image:BTS vol 08 103.jpg|thumb|150px]]
Can you please remember something more than just Brahmin?

'''Yoshii Akihisa's answer:'''

① Brahmin (Mother)
② Brahmin (Older Sister)
③ Brahmin (Others)
④ Brahmin (Younger brother)
⑤ Brahmin (Father)

'''Teacher's comment'''

How in the world is your father being treated?

Nothing bad happened after that, and the day ended like that. The next, Himeji-san and I pretended to meet together on the way and went to school.

It seemed that Himeji-san was the person on duty for today, and had to head to the staff room. So I went alone to the classroom and saw the frail Yuuji lying at his seat.

“Morning Yuuji—wah, what happened to your face?”

As I walked near him and wanted to say hello to him, I found that his face was all covered in bruises of all sizes, which really shocked me. That's right. His face was entirely covered with wounds and bruises. What happened?

“Ahh, morning Akihisa. I just fell down from the stairs due to lack of sleep.”

“Lack of sleep... were you playing computer games all night long?”

“Yeah...that was a very realistic game. Once I'm caught, I would be locked up inside a room that's no different from a prison.”

“Heh~ I don't know such a game existed.”

Did such a game come out in the market?

I never remembered seeing this kind of game. Maybe it's because I hardly touched games ever since ane-san was living with me?

“But for Yuuji to be unable to sleep like that, I guess it's a rather interesting game, right?”

“No, it's not about whether it's interesting or not. Well...it's more like a survival game where I have to continue even if I want to stop.”

“Un...I see. I'll try that game next time then.”

“Leave it to me. Even if you're not willing, I'll make you play it until the end. We'll start playing after school!”

Yuuji's tone had a mysterious determination in it. It's rare for Yuuji to recommend it so strongly. Is that game really that interesting? Even I'm looking forward to it.

“Ah, speaking of which...”

“Hm? What is it?”

Yuuji's eyes were sparkling strangely, probably thinking about the contents of that game just now. To be safe, I deliberately kept my voice low to ask something I had been wondering the entire time.

(Yuuji, you haven't told anyone about that, right?)

Of course, that thing I was talking about was the fact that I was living with Himeji-san. If this is revealed, I'll be pursued by everyone in class, so I have to keep this secret no matter what.

(I never said it to anyone. That's to be expected, right?)

After saying that, Yuuji's scarred and bruised face gave a radiant smile.

Un, as expected of the most trustworthy person when we're on the same boat. Once this guy can be used, my safety's assured.

(Thanks, that was a great help.)

After thanking him, I returned back to my seat.

I couldn't help but ask Yuuji just now just to be safe, but there's no need to worry that he would reveal my secret in the first place.

As the classroom's quieter than usual, it didn't feel like anything big will happen. Besides, once these guys know that Himeji-san and I are living together, their nature wouldn't allow them to sit back. These guys will immediately leap at me once they see me, and they didn’t do so, which would be the biggest proof that my secret's not revealed.

“Eh? What's wrong? Today's rather quiet compared to yesterday.”

“Ah, morning Hideyoshi.”

“Ohh, Hideyoshi, so you came.”

“Morning, Akihisa, Yuuji.”

Maybe it was because of morning practice that Hideyoshi came into the classroom slightly later. He looked around and said that. It's true that yesterday was really noisy...

“If it happened every day, it'll be really bad for our health. Right, Yuuji?”

“Yeah, that's how it is.”
“Unn…”

Perhaps Hideyoshi sensed something strange as he gave a strange look.

“Is this ‘the calm before the storm’…”

Hideyoshi muttered to himself, and for some reason, his words remained in my ears.

<center>☆</center>

The premonition never came true, and nothing special happened as things went on until school dismissal.

“Class dismissed. Don’t hang out on the streets. Hurry up and head home.”

With these words ending things, homeroom ended. Ironman didn’t stay for long and turned to leave the classroom.

“All right, then I’ll head for club activities.”

As if trying to follow Ironman and get away, Hideyoshi carried his bag and walked towards the gym.

“Sorry, I was called to help in the staff room. Please go home first, everyone.”

And then, Himeji-san said so as she packed her stuff and left the classroom. I’ll definitely make her feel bad if I wait for her here, so I decided to go home like she said.

“Then let’s go home, Yuuji?”

“Hm? Ahh, wait a sec.”

Yuuji said ‘wait’ and didn’t take his bag. What’s going on?

“Is it alright now, Muttsurini?”

“…There’s no presence of people nearby who will stop us. No problems.”

Yuuji closed his eyes and nodded his head slightly at Muttsurini? People who will stop us? What are they talking about?

“Everyone, sorry to keep you waiting.”

“No, I wasn’t really waiting for long…”

Hm? Yuuji’s eyes seem to look past me, right behind me—

“—Let the festival begin.”

'''''“““YEAH! LET’S PARTY!!!”””'''''

Killing intent!

Before I could even think too much, my body reacted instinctively and jumped aside. The next moment, there was an extra table at where I was standing. What? What’s the meaning of throwing the table onto the tatami!

“Yuuji! What’s going on!?”

“Akihisa! Today’s the day of your death! Return quietly to Hell and regret being born in this world!”

“Ever since Sakamoto brought it up in the morning, we have been waiting for this moment for a long time, Yoshii!”

“We waited until after school so that nobody would disturb us. We’ll make you see Hell clearly! DIE! YOSHII AKIHISSSSSAAAAAA!!”

“YOU HAVE GUTS TO EVEN STAY TOGETHER WITH HIMEJI! WE’LL DEFINITELY CRUSH THAT HAPPINESS OF YOURS!!”

Unknowingly, my classmates built several layers of human walls around me.

How did this happen! These simple-minded yet quick-footed straightforward guys would be able to endure until now after knowing my secret just to punish me!

“If we attacked you right from the beginning, there will still be lessons midway through, and the execution will be forced to stop for the time being. But I won’t let you off that easily. Akihisa, enjoy the happy after-school time with everyone!”

Yuuji’s eyes were giving an uncomfortable evil glint. He didn’t take action on me yesterday when he found out the truth, and even said that he would try to hide this for me. Was that all a lie!?

“Yuuji! Why did you betray me!? Didn’t you promise?”

“What a pity, that’s only useful to me when it’s effective. When it’s not helpful to me and even causes disaster to me, what’s left is my rage on you! I can’t get back anything by killing you, but I can’t get rid of my rage if I don’t do this…”

I have no idea what Yuuji was talking about at all, but the killing intent he was showing was definitely—and I’m absolutely certain about this. This guy’s…really is intending to send me to Hell!

“Everyone! Calm down! Yuuji’s obviously lying! How can Himeji-san be staying at my house? That’s a trap Yuuji set!”

To escape from this crisis in front of me, I desperately mentioned this baseless thing.

At this moment—

“Yeah. Everyone, please wait.”

At this moment, the only girl who stayed behind in the classroom—Minami suddenly spoke.

“Mi, Minami, are you willing to save me?”

“Didn’t you help me take care of Hazuki yesterday? I have to thank you properly for that.”

Minami said and smiled to me. That’s great! I’m finally saved! Thinking about it, I’m often in danger, but this may be the first time someone’s willing to stand up for me.

“Aki, thank you for yesterday. Because of you, Hazuki didn’t get a cold due to rain.”

Seeing this delighted me, Minami shook her ponytail slightly and bowed slightly to me.

“Nonono, that’s nothing much.”

In fact, that’s really nothing much. Hazuki-chan’s just Minami’s little sister and my friend, so we should help each other out.

“No, you really helped us. Because of this, I…”

“Because of this…so?”

“—So I could tell that Mizuki was really staying at your house!”

“EVERYONE SAVE ME! MINAMI’S IRISES HAVE LOST THEIR SHINE!”

“WAIT…! DON’T COME OVER, YOSHII! WE’LL GET HURT TOO!”

“SHI, SHIMADA! YOU ONLY WANT TO MASSACRE YOSHII, RIGHT? WE DIDN’T DO ANYTHING AT ALL!”

The killing intent Minami released caused the classmates that were surrounding me to take a few steps back. Is this how we should thank when necessary and punish when necessary? Did Minami intend to thank me and execute me when she said ‘please wait’ while I’m still conscious?

“I thought that Hazuki mixed up Akira-san with Mizuki, but after hearing what Sakamoto said, it seemed that Hazuki wasn’t mistaken. Aki, you really know how to anger me.”

That Yuuji…why did he reveal my secret! If he didn’t say too much, Minami would have thought that Hazuki-chan was wrong, and things wouldn’t get worse…ah, I can’t let things go on let this! Got to find a way to escape! While everyone’s backing away in fear of Minami, it’ll be the best chance for me to escape!

“I can’t die here!”

“Ah! Yoshii! Hold it right there!”

“Damned bastard! You dare to run away!? Sakamoto, what should we do?”

“There’s no need to panic. Send 5 guys to hunt him down. Everyone else is to stay guard at each of the school’s entrances, and shrink the perimeter down. We have a lot of time to catch him. There’s no need to panic!”

“““UNDERSTOOD!”””

The conversation could be heard from behind me. I may be able to escape if they searched for me frantically. That damned Yuuji…maybe it’s because he had to escape so many times that he knew all the scenarios a fugitive doesn’t want to meet most! I feel that he’s a very disgusting person when we’re on the same side, but he’s really irritating when he’s my enemy.

“Yuuji…I’ll make you pay for what happens today!”

The rage of being hunted down…I’LL MAKE YOU PAY WITH YOUR LIFE!

I’m not a man if I don’t take revenge. I swore solemnly to myself and quickly ran to the new school compound to avoid Yuuji’s perimeter.

<center>☆</center>

“Damn it! Someone’s keeping guard here too…?”

After having finally shaken off the 5 guys, I came to the first level and looked around where I was, but I could see F class members everywhere.

“Damn it…I can’t get away like this.”

I was so anxious that I felt like biting my fingernails.

Yuuji’s normally an idiot, but no matter how rotten he is inside, I can’t underestimate the fact that he was once called ‘genius’. The tactics Yuuji ordered were so precise it was irritating, and all the exits that could lead others (even the windows) were guarded. They weren’t just guarded, but showing signs of shrinking the perimeter. Even if I deliberately show myself to mess their movements up, these guys wouldn’t just follow, and the contact with each other didn’t collapse as they closed in on me, slowly but surely. They had such efficient movement as they closed in, and I couldn’t hide my whereabouts at all and break through their perimeter. This is bad, this is really bad!

“In that case, I can only think of getting to the second level window and jump up…”

I don’t really want to do this, but it couldn’t be helped. Better go to the first years classrooms and jump out from the windows…

Once I had this thought, I looked around to check the situation and moved to the second level. At this moment—

“How about your side? Did you see him?”

“Yeah, we just spotted him. We have definitely surrounded him.”

“Okay, continue with Sakamoto’s plan.”

I could see F class people chasing me on the second level. So they have shrank the perimeter to that small…to even think about my hesitation to jump out from the window and shrink the perimeter slowly like that…that damned Yuuji!

It’s now dangerous to escape from the second level. Right now, I can only head to the third or fourth level, or even the roof. Without any preparations at all, it’s impossible to jump off from the window and hope to survive.

“Damn it. My actions are being controlled by him.”

There’s a powerless feeling like I’m being forced into a dead end. If this keeps up, I’ll be completely trapped. If I really have to do something before I die, the best way is to kill that Yuuji…but unfortunately, there’s no such chance.

Thus, I could only grit my teeth and move to the third level. I had no way back.

“In that case, I can only use the escape device for fire escape—no, if I use that slow thing to get them, they’ll be waiting for me to land there, and it’ll all be over.”

Anyway, I better get to the third level and find some way to escape. Maybe there’s something I can use…

“Yoshii, what are you doing?”

A voice suddenly came from behind me and nearly caused me to scream out.

Damn it! Was I found out?

I timidly looked around to see the person who spoke—the one who called my name. It was a girl with neat short hair and sharp eyes.

“Eh? Aren’t you C class’ rep…Koyama-san?”

“That’s right, that’s me.”

Koyama-san showed me a rather unenthusiastic expression as she responded. What should I say? She look like she’s reserved against calling me, but why did she call me in the first place?

No, now’s not the time to think too much about this. Right now, the most important thing is to escape from this current crisis.

“I’m escaping to save my life because a lot of things happened. If there’s nothing, I’m on my way!”

Just when I got ready to turn around and leave—

“Please wait. Are you being chased by F class?”

“Nn, that’s right.”

Koyama-san started asking for some reason.

“Why?”

Reason…because the fact that Himeji-san’s living with me was revealed, so—

“Eh…basically, it’s because of jealousy.”

"Jealousy? Un…I see.”

I seemed to see a glint flash in Koyama-san’s eyes for some reason.

“To take action faster than me. As expected of F class…”

Koyama-san started muttering something to herself. What’s going on?

“I understand. In that case, I’ll help you get away from here.”

“Eh?”

It’s unexpected that she would say that, which made me suspicious. She’s going to help me escape? Koyama-san? She’s willing to help me?

“Please don’t be mistaken. Besides, if F class creates trouble again in this situation, our second year batch which already had a bad reputation will be even lowered. I’m not doing this to help you.”

Koyama-san coldly answered my question.

Ahh, I see, so it’s because of that reason. It’s true that the 3rd year sempais were giving us sterner looks. As a fellow peer, she couldn’t just sit back and watch.

Well, no matter what reason it is, anyway,

“Koyama-san, are you willing to help me out?”

“Yes, I’ll make an exception only this time.”

That’s great! Someone was actually willing to help me! And I never even expected this person. This should be something Yuuji didn’t expect, so I may really be able to break through and survive!

“Basically, you’re being hunted down by your classmates, right?”

“Un, that’s how it is. And they’re strategically hunting me down slowly. Right now, I can only escape to the fourth level and the roof.”

“Fuun…in that case…”

Goso goso, Koyama-san rummaged something out.

“Put this clothing on, wear a wig and dress up as a girl. Wouldn’t that do? I guess you should be able to avoid being hunted.”

Koyama-san took out a girls uniform and a wig, the so-called female attire set. Eh…why does Koyama-san have such things?

“Koyama-san, are you…”

“What? Is there anything you’re unhappy with?”

“Are you…actually a guy?”

“What’s with your thinking!?”

She’s angry.

“My situation has nothing to do with you, right? Are you wearing or not?”

Koyama-san said that with an unhappy look. Uu…another girl’s outfit…emotionally, I’m really unwilling. I don’t want to dress up as a girl at all.

However,

“Really, that Aki, where did he go? I’ll only be willing to forgive him if I push him down the roof. If he scampers off again, once I catch him, I’ll push him down without questioning him! I can’t get rid of my own anger!”

However, the voice that came with the wind was muttering ‘take the lesser evil of the two’. Comparing between my pride and my life, my life would be more important! Right now, I have nothing to hesitate about even if I have to wear it once or twice.”

“Koyama-san, please lend me this then. Thank you.”

“Shouldn’t you have said it right from the beginning? You’re really troublesome. Here, take it.”

Though she muttered this, Koyama-san handed me my disguise. Right now, I have no right to complain.

“Speaking of which, is it really alright to lend me this outfit?”

“It’s alright. That was specially prepared for you anyway.”

“Eh? For me?”

“Ah! It’s nothing, nothing at all! Don’t worry.”

Koyama-san looked a little panicky as she waved her hands. Un…I don’ t really understand…

“Anyway, thank you very much, Koyama-san.”

“I thank the pursuers from F class haven’t gone near the empty classroom that’s unlocked in the old building. You can change there.”

“Un! I’ll go there to change then.”

After taking the uniform and wig from Koyama-san, I turned around and head towards the empty classroom. The perimeter that was meant to capture me was becoming smaller and smaller, and now I have no time to hesitate.

“Then do your best…in more ways than me.”

Koyama-san said with some special meaning behind it.

“Girls’ uniform…guys normally wouldn’t be associated with such a thing…”

I ran through the corridor linking towards the old school building as I muttered to myself. Luckily, like what Koyama-san said, those pursuers look like they haven’t surrounded the classroom.

“Saa…it’s pointless to sigh. Better change first…”

I rushed into the empty classroom, closed the door tight and started to take off my clothes.

“Eerm…how do I wear this?”

It’s really complicated to wear a girl’s uniform, and I really don’t know, but if I waste too much them and they rush in, it’ll be bad. Anyway, I better put my wig on.

Thinking about this, I stripped myself until I had my boxers on and wore the wig in my hands.

“Ah, Aki-cha—Yoshii-kun!”

“What!”

A seemingly familiar female student rushed into the room. No way! The pursuers!

"Like what Koyama-san said! Aki-cha…Yoshii-kun’s really here!”

A seemingly quiet and well-behaved girl with 3 braids was blushing hard as she stared at me. Was she Yuuji’s assassin…no, this person couldn’t be a pursuer. How could an ordinary girl join that horrifying FFF?

But…if that’s the case, why would this girl follow me and enter this classroom? From the words she spoke, I can tell that she was looking for me.

“As expected…so cute…”

“Ha?”

What’s going on? This girl’s stare is making me feel hot.

“Well…I’m Tamamo Miki from D class.”

“Ah, un. I’m Yoshii Akihisa from F class.”

We lowered our heads in the empty classroom and introduced ourselves. My own life and death’s pressing right down between my forehead. What am I doing…

“Well…can I talk to you for a while?”

“Sorry, I’m being hunted now, and I only have boxers on. If possible, can we talk next time?”

“Well, actually I—”

“Hello, are you listening to me? I did say that ‘I’m being hunted’ and ‘I only have a pair of boxers on me’. Either way, now’s not a situation where I can talk carefreely! Why can you still continue to talk?”

She really looks well-behaved, but she’s just someone who’ll do anything according to her own whims. That’s really hard to get along…

“Actually, I have someone I like.”

“I, I see. That’s good. Anyway, can you please turn around?”

“That person’s really, really cute~”

“Someone cute. That’s great. Anyway, can you please turn back?”

“And he’s a little stupid.”

“I got it! I know you have someone you like! But can you at least let me change?”

I’m now embarrassed and in an awkward position here, but she never had any intention of looking away from me. What! What kind of prank is this!

“But, that person, that person looks so happy everyday~”

“Ahh, I see. Unnn.”

Can’t be helped then. I don’t understand what’s the situation at all, but it seems that she’s not concentrating on me, so I can only use my clothing to block and change secretly.

“I feel that I can get happiness by being with him. That’s the impression the boy gives me.”

That boy? The term sounds a little weird, but now, the most important thing is to hurry up and change before talking. It’s so embarrassing to wear girls’ clothing in front of a girl, so much that I wanna die…but, if I don’t wear it, I’ll really die…

“Oh, so he’s such a boy.”

I responded nonchalantly, and as I took the shirt, I suddenly thought. If it’s the shirt, guys and girls shouldn’t be too different, right? In that case, I might as well wear my own shirt.

Just when I took that shirt I just took off,

“That’s right! He’s really really cute! He’s the best!”

My hand that was about to get the clothing was suddenly grabbed. Ehhh!? Did she just hear that response I made just now!?

“Wa, wait a second, Tamano-san! Calm down and let me go first—”

“He’s so cute he’s so cute! He’s so cute that I really want to eat him up!”

I know that person’s cute already! So please hurry up and hand me my shirt!

Maybe she was overly excited as Tamano-san continued to grab my hand and my shirt. Wait…what’s the situation now? Why am I wearing boxers and tussling over a shirt with a girl in an empty classroom?

“He’s so cute that I nearly forget his gender!”

In comparison to her forceful tone, the force Tamano-san used to pull was even harder, and my shirt landed in her hands mercilessly. I, I actually lost to a girl in strength…

[[Image:BTS vol 08 123.jpg|thumb]]

As a boy, I’m really devastated by this fact, but looking at the current situation, it’s hard to get my shirt back from her. I can only reach out for the girl’s shirt Koyama-san lent. This is really bad…I never intended to dirty a borrowed shirt!!!

“And that boy has a lot of fans in school, both male and female!!”

“WAIWAIWAIT A MOMENT! WHY MUST YOU TAKE THE OTHER SHIRT AWAY FROM ME!? PLEASE, I BEG OF YOU, HURRY AND RETURN THE SHIRT TO ME! I’LL BE REALLY BOTHERED IF I DON’T HAVE THIS SHIRT!”

The girl in front of my snatched the girl’s shirt Koyama-san lent me with shocking force. This girl looks like she’s really in her own world, but she’s always looking at me! In this case, I can’t even appear in front of anyone, let alone those guys from F class!

“If I continue to drag on, other people will take the initiative…so, I, I decided to gather my courage and confess!”

“Ahh! Even the coat…Tamano-san, I beg of you! At least leave the pants to me!”

Tamano-san snatched my clothing one by one and laid them on her arms.

I don’t know what to do if I’m only left with a skirt, but if I can wear pants, I won’t be arrested by the cops. Now I have to cling on to this last line of defense…

“It’s my first time, but I’ll do my best!”

“I got it! I’ll help you! I don’t know what’s going on, but I’ll help you with all I’ve got, so please don’t be so forceful. You’re going to rip the waistline! Please return my pants, will you!?”

My pleas obviously became feeble, and unknowingly, all my clothing was in her hands. Maybe she’s really the assassin sent by Yuuji, right? Yuuji already knew that I would be stuck in such a situation, and actually snatched my clothing. That’s way too despicable!

“It’s okay, it’s okay…I practiced this many times at home…”

Tamano-san continued to breathe hard in front of me. The uniform that she snatched away was already thrown somewhere I couldn’t reach. Looks like I can’t get them back.

Anyway, since things ended up like this, I better settle this with her before moving on. Once she’s completely satisfied, she’ll definitely return the uniform.

Even if I only have boxers on myself, I better not think too much and listen to what she has to say first.

“Then…are you willing…to listen to me?”

“Un, tell me.”

Seeing such a serious girl, I nodded at her as one of my hands was holding onto the wig I took off. Don’t worry about such small things! Right now, I have to think of how to break through this tough situation!

“That’s great…well, Aki-cha—Yoshii-kun!”

“Tamano-san, I think I should tell you straight first. You must be calling me ‘Aki-chan’ secretly all the time, right?”

“I, I have someone I like!”

“No, you mentioned this before. Anyway, you should call me properly—”

“So, Aki-cha…Akiko-chan!”

“No! I don’t want such a worsened ending! My name’s Akihisa!”

What’s this person trying to say to me? Bullying? Or is it some gag show messing with me? Is everyone hiding somewhere and laughing at me while I’m all troubled?

I have no idea what her intentions were at all, but Tamano-san said in a really passionate tone.

“Please! Please go steady with me!”

“…………What?”

The conversation just now went into a vague direction, on hearing those words from her, my mind was left blank.

Going steady? What? What’s that?

“Erm…you’re talking about that…with you?”

“Tha, that’s me…tha…and Aki—Aki-chan…”

The Aki-chan she said should be referring to…me? Me, Tamano-san—dating? Isn’t this a so-called love confession!?

“Ehhh!? What’s going on!? Why does Tamano-san like someone like me…”

“Please don’t say ‘someone like me’! Yoshii-kun may not know it very well, but Aki-chan’s really an attractive person!”

She forcefully declared that. This is the first time since I was born that a girl confessed to me. Well…how should I describe this…

“Because Aki-chan’s so handsome and so cute! Whether it’s the thin and soft skin, the large eyes or the shyness when you are forced to wear girls’ clothing and blushing, they’re all so cute! Yoshii-kun should know the charm of that kid!”

The overly excited Tamano-san closed in on me with shocking momentum.

“Ah…so, sorry.”

Perhaps she noticed that she was being way too rash as Tamano-san recovered and back away from me before lowering her head.

“So, that…”

Thinking about it for a while, Tamano-san then continued.

“Please, please become…my one and only Aki-chan who belongs to me only!”

That’s way too strange. I should be even happier than someone of the opposite gender confessed to me, but why is it that I can’t really answer her when I really got confessed to?

Actually, there’s really nothing much to say. Since she’s really serious in asking me to go steady with her, I should be more cautious and think of how to answer her.

In my mind, I simulated what the situation will be like if I went out with her.

''“Yo, kept you waiting for long?”''

''“No, I just happened to arrive just now—hey, what’s with that attire of yours?”''

''“Eh? Just an ordinary T-shirt and jeans.”''

''“No wig and skirt? That’s too much! I wanted to bring you to an accessory shop that’s suited for Aki-chan!”''

''“No no no, Tamano-san, I have no interest in those things at all—ACK! Killing intent!?”''

''“Yoshii Akihisa…to even dare get a girlfriend. Have you forgotten about the pact of the FFF…”''

''“Wait a second! Our relationship as boyfriend and girlfriends are still in douuubbbbtttt!!!”''

''“Bury him!”''

''“““Yes!”””''

Shockingly, that’s not a heartening scene for me.

The problem’s not whether I liked or hated Tamano-san, but that we’re already fated not to be together. I can’t go out with her.

After saying that, I looked up and exchanged looks with Tamano-san.

“Sorry, Tamano-san. I’m really sorry, but I—”

Without waiting for me to finish, Tamano-san hurriedly said,

“I, I’ll definitely do my best! I’ll work hard to make lots of cute clothing for you to wear! Every week—no, every day! I’ll make lots of cute things that Aki-chan will like!”

Perhaps Tamano-san heard that ‘sorry’ part as she started to promote her good points. No…how should I put it. If someone says that ‘I’m willing to go out with you’ after hearing those words from her…willing Tamano-san be really happy about having such a boyfriend?

“I don’t mean that. I’m sorry. I can’t go out with you.”

I really can’t follow her to that world.

On hearing my answer, Tamano-san went silent, and half a beat later, she asked me,

“You can’t go out with me, don’t tell me…it’s because you have someone you like…”

No matter whether I have someone I like or not, it’s unlikely that I’ll change my answer.

Even so, now that she’s using such a serious expression to ask me, I really find it hard not to answer her properly. Uu…how should I explain this to her? I really have no experience in this…

“Well…if I really have to say it, I do have…”

It’s really hard to say it out. No…instead of saying that it’s hard to answer, it’s more like I really don’t know how to answer. Besides, I never really thought through this seriously.

“Then, the person Aki-chan likes is—”

“Tha, that’s…”

My voice was stuck in my voice. This is really tough. I really don’t know what to do now.

Speaking of which, why am I forced in such a ridiculous predicament?

Maybe in my life, there wouldn’t be such a memorable confession, yet I’m only wearing a pair of boxers, and I’m really scared of the imminent danger. Also, I’m not the one being confessed to, but me in my girl disguise. How is fate manipulating me now?

To escape from the trouble in front of me, to escape from this reality that’s hard to resist, I started to use all my brain cells to find the culprit behind all this mess.

Where did I go wrong? How did such a negative chain of reaction occur?

“That person is…”

After thinking about it, a person’s profile appeared in my mind. That’s right. It all started once this person betrayed me!

The rage continued to rise up from the bottom of my torso. It’s all that guy’s fault! I won’t let it rest the next time I see him!

I started to search to all sorts of ways to execute my enemy.

At this moment, that mastermind himself appeared on the corridor, perhaps to check things out as he appeared in my eyes. Found him! So he’s actually moving about this! Now that I find you here, you’re dead me! I’m going to kill you mercilessly and appease the rage inside me!

“YYUUUUUUUJJJJJIIIIIIII!!!!”

“EH…EEEHHHH!!!???”

I couldn’t help but curse as I roared out. As I roared out, the other pursuers may definitely find me. But~, who cares about that now!?”

“Yo, you’re saying Yuuji…Sakamoto Yuuji!? Yoshii-kun likes Sakamoto-kun?”

Tamano-san seemed to be really shocked by something, but I’ll talk about that later. I have to catch that scum and beat him up good!

I transformed into Asura and leaped on the corridor. Yuuji, it’s your death today!!

I used all my strength to run down the corridor, and on the way, I seemed to hear someone tremble and mutter softly,

“…I, I’d think I just heard something big…!”

<center>☆</center>

''I’d just wanted to head to the empty classroom to get some props, but such a thing actually happened…knowing this unexpected thing, I really don’t know what to do…''

''“…Hideyoshi, what’s wrong?”''

''“Muu, un…Muttsurini…actually, that...I just went to the empty classroom to get some props the drama club needed, but I heard something big.”''

''“…Something big?”''

''“This really isn’t something that should be said to others, but I really can’t calm down…Muttsurini, are you willing to listen to me?”''

''“...I understand. Muttsurini store will definitely keep this secret tightly.”''

''“That’ll really help me out. Actually…”''

''“…Un.”''

''That female student—if I remember correctly, she’s Tamano from D class, right?''

''That girl called Tamano,''

''“Likes him!”''

''“…Who?”''

''“Akihisa!”''

''“…”''

''To think that it wasn’t just Himeji and Shimada. That lad actually got confessions from other students…that fact really shocked me…''

''“…I, I just heard something really big…”''

<center>☆</center>

''While heading to my club, I went by a certain classroom, and heard Muttsurini-kun and others talking about such a thing…that unexpected thing’s really shocking…''

''“Aiko? What’s with you?”''

''“Ah…Yuuko. Actually…that…I just went by the old campus for club and heard something unbelievably big.”''

''“Something big?”''

''The way he talks, it’s definitely Yuuko’s little brother—Kinoshita Hideyoshi.''

''That Kinoshita Hideyoshi—''

''“Likes him!”''

''“Who?”''

''“Yoshii-kun!”''

''“…”''

''“…Mi, Miharu just heard something big…”''

<center>☆</center>

I went after Yuuji in hot pursuit, but I lost him the next moment. Damn it, I revealed my position while being pursued. Besides, even though she's a little weird, it doesn't feel right to leave a girl who confessed to me in the classroom.

“Better head back to the empty classroom and sort things out...”

Ah, after muttering for a while, I found that I'm wearing only boxers! More than her problem, I have to wear my own clothes first!

I frantically returned back to the empty classroom and intended to wear my own clothes. Tamano-san looked like she had left, and there's only a uniform of each gender in the classroom. It looked like I really did something bad to Tamano-san...

As I was just confessed to, I lost all motivation to wear a girl's uniform, so I casually took my boy's uniform and wore it. Got to return this girl's uniform to Koyama-san...

“Really...it's just like yesterday. Things just happen one after another...”

I sighed and tucked my borrowed uniform under my armpit. Is Koyama-san still in school?

Being wary of the situation around me, I cautiously moved to C class—

'''“““KILL YOSSSSSHHHHHIIIIIIIIIIIIII!!!”””'''

Howls of anger came from below. What's going on!?

“I CAN'T STAND HAVING TO SHRINK OUR PERIMETER AND CATCH HIM IN SUCH A SLOW MANNER! I'M GOING TO SLAUGHTER HIM ONCE I FIND HIM! I'M GOING TO INFLICT ALL THE PAIN IN THIS WORLD ON HIM!”

“THAT DAMNED BASTARD...LIVING WITH HIMEJI'S NOT ENOUGH FOR HIM! HE EVEN GOT TAMANO, KINOSHITA AND KUDOU TO FALL FOR HIM...STOP MESSING AROUND! IT'S BECAUSE OF SCUM LIKE HIM THAT I CAN'T GET GIRLFRIENDS!”

“MUST KILL HIM! KILL YOSHII AKIHISA WITH ALL HORRIFYING MEANS HUMANS CAN THINK OF!”

If killing intent can be materialized, Fumitzuki Gakuen would likely become rubble.

A horrifying atmosphere came from downstairs, and I don't even dare too look down at it...no, it's not downstairs. This vengeful and horrifying killing intent is obviously closing in on me!

“Yoshii-kun. Found you~I'm going to kill you~It's alright to kill you, right? I can fly, right?”

“■■■■■■■...■■■■■■■■■,■■■■■■■■■■!!!”

“SLICE HIM VINEGAR HIM KICK HIM BEAT HIM SLASH HIM HANG HIM SMASH HIM SUFFOCATE HIM!!”

My classmates were moving in an empty manner like ghosts as they swayed about in front of me. They ignored Yuuji's instructions completely, and now they're a gang of berserkers. What happened to them?

“What? What's going on?”

It seemed that they rage had reached the limit, and the situation now became so dangerous it couldn't be controlled. The bones in their necks look so soft it felt like their necks couldn't support their heads. My classmates were swaying and moving closer to me, looking just like the ghosts that came out from a nightmare, disgusting and scary.

“This, this can't continue on! I’ve got to run away first”

There's no time to predict their movements. I can only turn around and run quickly to escape this nightmare!

“FOUND HIM! IT'S YOSHII!

“CATCH HIM AND EXECUTE HIM! DON'T LET HIM GET AWAY!”

“ANYONE WHO CAN RUN 100M IN 11 SECONDS ARE TO CHASE HIM! EVERYONE ELSE IS TO THINK OF WHERE HE WILL ESCAPE TO AND AMBUSH HIM! WE'RE NOW BERSERKERS AND ARE UNABLE TO CONTROL OURSELVES! KILL EVERYONE AS AND WHEN YOU LIKE IT!”

A somewhat normal commanding roar came from behind him.

What's going on? These people are all shouting to kill, capture and execute or something, but after hearing those classmates behind me, I just felt relieved. So, not everyone became a berserker. That's great...

“OI, YOSHII, HOLD IT RIGHT THERE! DON'T RUN AWAY!”

“EXPLAIN CLEARLY! WHAT'S WITH THOSE RUMORS!”

“HOW DID YOU GET CONFESSED TO BY GIRRRRLLLLSSSS!!!”

“DAMN IIIIIIIITTTT!! WHY MUST I HAVE THIS KIND OF RIDICULOUS THING HAPPENING TO ME ALL THE TIME!”

I desperately tried to run away from my classmates who prided themselves in their leg power.

At this moment—

“DAMN IIIIIIIITTTT!! WHY MUST I HAVE THIS KIND OF RIDICULOUS THING HAPPENING TO ME ALL THE TIME!”

Unknowingly, my best worst friend looked like he was running away from something and dashing beside me.

“...Yuuji, what are you doing?”

“You can tell right? I'm running away!”

“Eh? What are you running away from?”

“The devil!”

“...Yuuji, I won't forgive you for cheating on me on the first day we're about to have our new life together.”

Looking closely, amongst the boys that are rather fast, there was a girl who had long black hair flying as she ran really fast. When did Kirishima-san...

“Cheating on her? What did you do this time?”

“How would I know?”

“And what's with you living together?”

“IT'S BECAUSE OF YOU THAT I'M FORCED TO LIVE WITH THAT PERSON!”

“GO TO HELL!”

“RIGHT BACK AT YOU! THINGS BECAME LIKE THIS BECAUSE OF YOU! GO TO HELL!”

“WHO WANTS TO DIE! FOR KIRISHIMA-SAN'S SAKE, I WON'T DIE BEFORE I KILL YOU!”

We attacked each other as we ran, and at this moment, a few people appeared in front of us. It's those lifeless faces. They're...

“You can't get away~how troublesome~should we kill those people together? It may be lonely for someone to die alone~”

“■■■■■■■...■■■■■■■■■,■■■■■■■■■■!!!”

“SLICE HIM VINEGAR HIM KICK HIM BEAT HIM SLASH HIM HANG HIM SMASH HIM SUFFOCATE HIM!!”

“Akihisa, I'll help you out. These guys really don't look good.”

“Okay, Yuuji! The most important thing right now is to keep my life safe!”

To get away from those berserkers, we immediately rushed down to the first level.

They're holding onto metal pipes and bats with nails that were obtained from someplace I don't know. If I'm not thinking too much...they just need to swing it about and the concrete walls beside them will show cracks!

“...Yuuji, is Yoshii really that good? Is that rumor true...”

“Wait, Yuuji! What's the rumor Kirishima-san said? Why did my name appear out of a sudden?”

“I'm not sure too! I heard that after Tamano Miki from D class confessed to you, you used some reason that's related to me to reject her, which caused this absurd rumor!”

“...”

I tried to recall what I just did up till now.

Let me see...my conversation with Tamano-san back then seemed to be like—

''“Then, the person Aki-chan likes is—”''

''“Tha, that’s…”''

''“That person is…”''

''“YYUUUUUUUJJJJJIIIIIIII!!!!”''

Oh, I see...

“It's a baseless rumor alright! Other people would misunderstand this because of Yuuji's bad nature!”

“You must know something about it!”

“Of course not! If someone asks me to be honest and say whether I like or hate Yuuji, I'll definitely say 'I hate him so much that I want to rip him to shreds'!”

“I have the same feeling about this too! If anyone asks me if I like or hate you, I'll definitely say 'I really want to mince him into pig feed'!”

“Really? Our hearts are really in sync.”

''“Oi, those two were already living with girls and confessed to, but they really seem like they like each other...”''

''“That's too dangerous! For the sake of all the humans in the world, it looks like we can only bury them deep inside the mountains.”''

''“...Yuuji, I won't ever forgive you.”''

I didn't mean that when I said that our hearts are in sync! But no matter how I explain it, they won't really listen seriously.

“Yuuji, we better hurry up and escape. To the right!”

“I got it!”

We're running to those berserkers with lifeless eyes! It's scary! These classmates of mine are really scary!

“Don't get away~don't run away~you're not running over~”

Seeing the metal bat they're holding about to swing down,

“Watch me!”

We suddenly dodged into the classroom. It was a short moment, but they'll lose sight of Yuuji and me, right?

“Alright, now let's hurry and see if there's any suitable weapon to use...”

They're not just scary berserkers, but also holding weapons, so we have to find weapons to fight against them!

Thinking about this, Yuuji and I desperately tried to look for weapons nearby we could use.

However, at this moment, a strong and sturdy body with immense fighting ability appeared right in front of me.

“...”

That's right. It's the teacher who's looking at us reluctantly, that teacher called 'Ironman'.

...Ironman?

Looking around the classroom, what appeared in my eyes was the spine of several books with the title 'Life Counselling Outlines'.

““Sorry, we're mistaken!””

Yuuji and I felt a chill down our backs as we bowed to Ironman and turned right.

Unfortunately,

“Well, you've been dragged into this classroom by me so many times, so I guess you should understand this well...”

The rough and heavy voice came from behind.

“—The door to the life counseling room can't be opened without the key.”

No matter how we tried to twist the handle, the metal door wouldn't budge at all.

“Open it! Hurry up and open! Get me away from this hell!”

“Da, damn it! Damned bastard! Open up!”

Crak crak crak. We tried our best to twist the handle, but what we got in response was the mercilessly cold touch from the metal handle.

“Alright, you two. I don't know what you two caused again, but to think that you two would automatically come over to accept counseling, it's really heartening.”

“No no no, you're mistaken! It's Yuuji—this idiot Sakamoto said that he wanted to have sensei's counseling, so I came over to accompany him!”

“Hold on a minute, you bastard! You have guts to betray me and run away! Ironman, don't be mistaken! This guy—”

“Don't say it. You two came over, and even though I'm busy, I can help you with extra remedial.”

““I DON'T WANT TO!””

Yuuji and I were grabbed by the strong and sturdy arms on our necks. Let go of me! Let me escape! Someone save me from here!

Perhaps our inner thoughts were passed out as the door that wouldn't budge at all let out a thud and is being pushed from the outside. This, don't tell me...a miracle's happening!

“...Sensei, I want to take this remedial as well!”

As Kirishima-san said that, the door slowly closed behind her just like how it opened before. In a poetic way of putting it, it's like that door leads us to our future,

“It's Kirishima. You have no need to take remedial, right?”

“...In that case, I'll teach Yuuji things like health education and common sense.”

“Is that so? That'll really help me out. Sensei can focus entirely on Yoshii then.”

That door that leads to our future closed in an icy and merciless fashion.

“Wait, Shouko! I don't need your help to teach me! Especially about common sense!”

“Sensei, this is too much! Why can Yuuji get a personal lesson from the beautiful Kirishima-san, and I'm stuck with a one-on-one personal teaching with Ironman? I strongly demand for a change!”

“What are you saying? Kirishima's the first in the cohort. You two have to learn from her.”

“...Sensei, we'll move to the sofa on the other side. I want to personally teach Yuuji the practical application of health education.”

“You heard that, Ironman? Didn't she just say something that people would question her sanity? I have no need for such remedial! Hurry up and let me go!”

“Who are you calling Ironman?”

“Oi! Why did you only hear the last part? Isn't what Shouko said before that more important!?”

“That's right, sensei! The most important thing is that this scum Yuuji tricked Kirishima-san! As a teacher, shouldn't you be guiding us to the right path!?”

“You're very noisy! Stop yapping and sit down!”

““I DON'T WANT TO!””

“““...”””

“...Seems like those two can't get out today.”

“We can only execute them tomorrow then.”

“That's really too bad. I really wanted to kill them today~!”

In the end, we were forced to take Ironman's special lesson until the school gates closed.

<center>☆</center>

“It’s raining again today…”

Once special remedial ended, I walked out of the school gate, and it started to drizzle.

I didn’t bring my umbrella again, but after yesterday’s experience, I decided not to look for a place to hide from the rain, but run quickly back home in the rain. However, it was different from yesterday in that the rain stopped before I got home. Really, this…I suddenly felt that I had lots of things I could spot from these small things…

“I’m back…”

As I raised my hands to shake off the water droplets on me, I opened the door to the corridor.

“We, well, welcome back, Akihisa-kun!”

“Ah, I’m back. Himeji-sa—NNNNNNN!?”

Himeji-san, who came home earlier than me, deliberately went to the door to invite me in. This is good…this is supposed to be good…

“Well, Himeji-san…”

“Ye, yes!”

“What’s with your attire?”

“I, I wear this normally! That’s my attire at home!”

She’s wearing a T-shirt that revealed much of the skin on her shoulders, a mini-skirt that would show lots of dangerous images once she bends down! No matter how I see it, it’s overly revealing! How should I put it? This really makes Himeji-san look too perverse…Himeji-san’s breasts were already so big, and this revealing outfit that exposed much of her shoulders, and they would show so much of her figure that ordinary people won’t be able to hang on. No matter whether her shirt would slide down her shoulders or not, it wouldn’t be surprising at all…

“Do you normally wear this at home? But it seemed that you never wore this before yesterday…”

Up till yesterday, Himeji-san was wearing shirts that didn’t show much skin, and the skirt was a little long. For her to come up with such a bold style, what caused a change in her mood?

“Yesterday…ye, yes, it was colder during the past few days! The temperature just went back up today, so I’m wearing what I normally wear!”

It’s true that it’s a little warmer than yesterday, but there’s no need for such change until she had to suddenly change her attire, right? And it rained today. Though it’s a little warmer, I can still feel a little cold today.

“What happened?”

“Nothing at all! This is how I am normally!”

Himeji-san raised her voice agitatedly. Seeing her like this, something definitely happened.

Speaking of which, I’m a guy, so of course I’ll be happy about seeing Himeji-san wearing such sensual and revealing clothes. However, that’s before I mention my personal safety. If I find that Himeji-san’s wearing such clothing and living with me, my ane-san will definitely break two or three finger bones. Also…seeing Himeji-san like this, I may even lose my sanity and do something unforgivable by accident!

“Let’s leave that aside first. Shall we eat first? Shall we have dinner first? Or…shall we have ''dinner''[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]?”

It sounded like a sweet conversation newlyweds would have, but it’s a little weird hearing Himeji-san say that. That sounds really similar to the ‘Death or Die. Choose one you like’ someone told me before.

“On a side note, I recommend—”

“I’ll take a shower then.”

“Sho, shower, is it?”

Upon hearing my answer, Himeji-san seemed like she squeezed out all the courage in her and had paused at this conversation.

“In, ininin that case—I’ll help you scrub your back!”

What is this Missy saying now?

“…Ha?”

I couldn’t help but let out this puzzled tone. Eh…what did Himeji-san just say?

“Nonono, Himeji-san, I’ll do the scrubbing myself.”

“Sorry. I know it’s against the rules to enter the bathroom with a towel wrapped around me, but I have no courage to go completely naked…”

“YOU’RE NOT LISTENING TO ME AT ALL! NO, DO YOU INTEND TO ENTER THE BATHROOM WITH ME?”

Did she really think that nothing will happen if she just scrubs my back…?

“You, you don’t have to be so irate!”

“No, I’m not irritated!”

“Do, don’t look at me like this. Actually, I…”

Himeji-san stuttered, but she seemed to be working really hard to tell me something as she forcefully squeezed her voice out and complained.

“My, my breasts…are rather…big, you know…”

Maybe it was too shameful as Himeji-san immediately blushed and lowered her head after saying that. What’s going on? What caused her to become like this? And even if she never mentioned that her breasts are big, I already know how big her breasts are!

“Waiwaiwait a sec, calm down, Himeji-san! What happened?”

“Nothing at all! It’s normal when girls meet guys! It’s a lot healthier than having two guys together!”

Himeji-san continued. Hm? Two guys together? Healthy? Did she…

“Himeji-san. Did you hear some strange rumor at school or something—”

“It, it seems to be a little hot, isn’t it, Akihisa-kun?”

I haven’t even finished, and Himeji-san went to the next topic.

Maybe she was really nervous as she continued to fan herself into her chest clumsily, and this may be to show more of her breasts to excite me. But Himeji-san really didn’t know how to tug her shirt and fan herself as she could only wave about wildly in the air.

[[Image:BTS vol 08 151.jpg|thumb]]

“Well, Himeji-san…you’re rather embarrassed, right? It’s better not to force yourself.”

“Embarrassed? What are you saying? I don’t understand at all!”

But she stubbornly leaned over to me. WAH! Himeji-san’s T-shirt collar is so wide that if she leans forward, I’ll see a lot of things I shouldn’t be seeing!

“That what is form is emptiness, that which is emptiness is form[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]…troubles quickly get away from me, don’t think of any perverted things!”

“?”

Seeing me try to chase those evil thoughts away from me, Himeji-san couldn’t help but widen her eyes. There’s no need for this girl to seduce me with such a clumsy method! The damage will be greater!

“Uu…Akihisa-kun’s not interested in me at all…do I have to do those things written in this book…”

Himeji-san turned around and muttered as she took out that secret reference book ane-san confiscated from me—OI, WAIT A SEC!

“Himeji-san, what are you reading? That’s not what a girl should be reading! Hurry up and return it?

“Ah…but, if he keeps this book, wouldn’t that mean that Akihisa-kun’s interested in girls too? But Akihisa-kun didn’t react to me at all, so that means Akihisa-kun feels that my presence is ignorable…uuu…”

“You’re crying now? I should be the one crying now!”

“That’s too much…Akihisa-kun’s too much…”

Himeji-san covered her face with both hands and sobbed in front of me.

“I’m back.”

At this moment, ane-san’s voice came from the corridor.

“Ahhh! Ane-san’s back! Anyway, please don’t cry and get something not that revealing, Himeji-san!”

“Calling me to wear something that doesn’t reveal skin. Akihisa-kun has no interest in me at all…that’s too much…”

“Da, damn it! In that case, at least return me that Ero-book—”

“No! I’ll be troubled if this book’s taken away! This is the guide to make Akihisa-kun interested in girls!”

“Don’t say something that’s so vague—Himeji-san, please give up and stop resisting!”

“NO!”

Himeji-san continued to hug the Ero-book in front of her chest. Can’t be helped. In that case, even if I have to be a little forceful, I have to…

Just when I grabbed Himeji-san’s wrist,

“…I can roughly understand what’s going on?”

The cruel thing was, time ran out on me.

“Ah, ane-san, welcome back.”

“Welcome back, Akira-san”

“Yes, I’m back.”

Ane-san gave me a somewhat kind smile.

“Aki-kun, please choose a finger you like.”

In this situation, it’s really great that a broken finger can solve this problem…should I really be saying this?

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8 The Second Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume8 The Fourth Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume8 The Second Question

2012-04-19T07:56:36Z

128.189.154.252:

===The Second Question===

Amongst the famous works of Shakespeare, please state the 4 great tragedies.

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer'''

“① Hamlet, ② King Lear, ③ Othello, ④ Macbeth.”

'''Teacher's comment.'''

Correct answer. Shakespeare had other famous works like 'Romeo and Juliet' and the 'Merchant of Venice', and these 4 are known as the '4 great tragedies'. Though Romeo and Juliet was the most widely known work, do remember that these are the 4 great tragedies.

'''Yoshii Akihisa's answer'''

“① Hamlet, ② King Lear, ③ Romeo and Juliet, ④ My dad's married life.”

[[image:BTS vol 08 031.jpg|thumb]]
'''Teacher's comment'''

How is your dad treated at home anyway!?

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's answer'''

“① Losing my wallet, ② Running out of film. ③ Dirt running into the eyes at the critical moment when a photo's about to be taken, ④ Broken Hard Disk.”

'''Teacher's comment.'''

If ④ really did happen, maybe sensei will be crying as well.

“Fuuwaa...why is it that I always feel like sleeping whenever it's morning...”

“You can't do that, Akihisa-kun. You have to sleep well at night or else you'll ruin your body.”

On Monday morning, Himeji-san and I were walking side by side with each other as we just so happened to talk about this.

“Even if you say that, that book was really too interesting, so I couldn't help but—fuuwaa~”

“Really...Akihisa-kun, your necktie's crooked.”

“Eh? Really?”

I moved my necktie a little bit. It should be alright now, right?”

“Ah, now the collar is undone...can you please turn around and face me?”

“Ahh, there's no real need to be concerned about it.”

“No. If you can't even wear your shirt properly, Nishimura-sensei's going to be angry with you.”

After saying that, Himeji-san turned around to face me and reached her hands out to adjust my necktie and shirt. Uu, uuu...why do I feel a little shy...

“...”

“Himeji-san?”

“...”

Erm...Himeji-san?”

“...”

“Himeji-san, do you hear me?”

“Eh? Ah, yes!”

“What's going on? You were stoned over there and blushing.”

“It, it's nothing. It's just...a little weird...”

Oh, so I'm not the only one shy about this. This action of adjusting the necktie looks no different from husband and wife...

“Tha, that's right, Akihisa-kun. Did you bring your handkerchief?”

To change the mood, Himeji-san changed the topic. Let’s see, handkerchief, handkerchief…

“Ah! Now that you said it, I forgot.”

I don’t remember putting my handkerchief into my bag. OR rather, I’ll normally forget about bringing it.

“In that case, please use mine.”

On hearing that I didn’t bring my handkerchief, Himeji-san immediately took out a handkerchief from her bag and passed it to me. Is she lending it to me?

“Ah, no need. It’s alright even if I don’t have it. Also, Himeji-san, if you lend it to me, you won’t have one to use, right?”

“It’s alright. I brought another handkerchief along too.”

Himeji-san said that as she took out the other handkerchief from her pocket. She’s really well-prepared.

“Uu, since Himeji-san says so…”

In that case, I’ll take this handkerchief according to her kind intentions. As I thought this, I reached my hand out for the handkerchief in her hand.

“Here, guys must not trivialize such minor things, or else you won’t be popular with girls—”

For some reason, Himeji-san went silent. She didn’t hand the handkerchief over to me, but held it tightly in her hands.

“Himeji-san?”

“…I guess…it’s alright not to have one!”

“?”

After saying that, Himeji-san hurriedly placed the handkerchief back into her pocket.

I really don’t understand what she meant by that, but on seeing that I can talk with Himeji-san in such a happy manner, I’m rather happy too.

—And up till now, these were all the only happy memories I had in the morning.

<center>☆</center>

“From now on, we’ll start with the interrogation of the heretic Yoshii Akihisa.”

About 5 minutes after that, I was arrested by the FFF.

I was forcefully taken away from the puzzled Himeji-san, and my limbs were all tied up as I was mercilessly pushed onto the hard tatami of class 2-F’s floor.

“Yoshii Akihisa, do you have any last words?”

“I only met Himeji-san on the way to school! It’s not like I’m completely innocent…but I earnest request to have my punishment reduced!!”

“…”

After hearing my explanation, the leader of the FFF seemed to ponder for a while. Even if the FFF would severely deal with any guy who interacts with girls, if I only met her coincidentally on my way to school, wouldn’t that be too heavy of a punishment? If they’re always jealous about this, it would never end! Don’t tell me that they were blinded by jealously because of such a trivial thing? I think they’ll send 5 members to pinch my arms with the thumb and middle fingers—

“—Then, 10 members shall deal flying kicks to Yoshii Akihisa.”

Seems like their jealousy’s more than what I could imagine!

“Wa, wait! Isn’t this punishment too heavy!? If you want to punish me, what will happen if something similar happens to you?”

“Uu…”

The leader went silent again. He should be considering the possibility that ‘the same thing may happen to them’.

“Leader, I don’t think what the accused said is unreasonable.”

“We’re not merciless devil. For this level of action, I think we can just close an eye and forgive him.”

“Maybe one day, this lucky event of getting to walk to school with girls will happen to us too.”

“Also, I’ll be punished everyday if I’m being punished for ogling someone.”

The members rallied around me. It seemed that the ‘this thing may happen to you’ statement had some effect.

“In that case, we’ll specially reduce the punishment such that it’ll be a flick on the forehead by the leader.”

Just when I heaved a huge sigh of relief because of such a large reduction in punishment—

“Please wait a moment!”

Himeji-san panged as she rushed into the classroom. Hm? What’s going on? Did Himeji-san run over because she was worried about me?

“Akihisa-kun didn’t do anything wrong! I—”

Himeji-san blushed as she desperately tried to explain to everyone.

“—I forced him to come to school with me today!”

“20 members shall now carry out German Suplexes.”

“““NO OBJECTIONS!!!”””

What’s going on? What Himeji-san said changed my punishment from a flick on the forehead to German Suplexes, and the number went from 1 to 20! Such a drastic change is really hard to react to!

“Hi, Himeji-san, I’m grateful that you spoke up for me, but what you just said would only create an opposite effect…”

“But, it’s my selfish intention to adjust Akihisa-kun’s collar and let our hands touch each other! This has nothing to do with Akihisa-kun, it’s not Akihisa-kun’s fault at all…”

“FLIP THE TATAMI! SMASH HIS HEAD DIRECTLY ONTO THE FLOOR!”

“YES! THE WORK’S DONE HERE!”

“WE CAN ADD SOME NAILS TO ADD TO THE EFFECT!”

“I GOT SOME IRON STAKES READY!”

Damn it! These guys are already thinking about burying this immobilized me now! If I don’t hurry up and explain…that’s right! I just need to make them feel like this is nothing! I just need to explain to them that it’s something trivial in our everyday lives—

“Everyone, calm down! If you’re punishing me because of this, what about Yuuji? Don’t you often see him coming to school with Kirishima-san?”

“In that case, we shall punish Sakamoto Yuuji as well.”

Sorry Yuuji, it seemed that my words caused you to be punished too.

I was sending my apologies in my mind to that bad friend of mine with the wild presence as I clapped my hands together. At this moment, CRAK, the entrance door to the classroom was slid aside.

“Good morning~fuuwaa…I really feel like sleeping…”

Ahh, Yuuji, why did you have to turn up just at this moment?

“Hm? Akihisa? What’s up? You got captured by the FFF again? It’s been tough on you in the morning—OI, WHY ARE YOU GUYS SNEAKING BEHIND ME AND TWISTING MY ARMS!!?”

Yuuji, who looked sleepy as he came to school, was immediately grabbed on the waist from the back by the FFF members with their strong arms.

“Himeji-san, can you please turn over and look at me?”

“Eh? Ah, okay.”

I tried to gather Himeji-san’s gaze and concentration onto me.

From the corner of the classroom, Yuuji’s body flew in a beautiful arc in mid-air, and at the same time, ‘THOMP’, ‘THOMP’, ‘THOMP’, blunt sounds could be heard. That would be three times already…

“Good morning—WHAT IN THE WORLD? YUUJI’S BLOODIED FACE’S SLAMMED ONTO THE GROUND!!”

17 times already?

“WHAT ARE YOU DOING!? HURRY UP AND GET BACK TO YOUR SEATS!!”

As the heavy sound echoed for the 18th time, Ironman’s arrival finally calmed down this commotion. Ah, that was dangerous. Once Yuuji’s head takes another 2 hits, the next one would be me…

<center>☆</center>

“Damn it, ending up with such dumb luck in the morning!”

After morning lessons ended, afternoon break finally started. Yuuji finally regained consciousness as he sat at the seat right in front of me with his bento there.

“Though it is the same as usual, seeing that so early in the morning really isn't good for the heart...”

The one who said that was the bishoujo girl carrying the bento—Hideyoshi as he walked over. He had smooth silky hair and wide puppy-like eyes. Hideyoshi himself was already very cute, but ever since second year started, I started to feel that Hideyoshi looked a lot tenderer. Is this so-called youth? Does Hideyoshi have someone he likes?

“…Other people’s happiness is the taste of poison. This is the tradition of the FFF.”

After that, the one who approached us silently after buying the rice ball from the convenience store was Tsuchiya Kouta, nicknamed ‘Muttsurini’. He’s a short and small classmate of mine who gives a silent vibe.

“That’s strange? Didn’t you take part in the execution this morning, Muttsurini?”

“…I went to investigate a few things.”

“To think that there are even executioners and accused amongst friends. Even I feel that this is way too weird…”

“Really? Isn’t there a saying that ‘yesterday’s enemy is today’s friend’?”

“I say…the way you guys switch between enemies and friends is way too intense.”

From my personal experience, we’re enemies about 90% of the time and 10% in critical danger.

“You guys are always repeating the same thing over and over again.”

“I thought that this would be a peaceful class when I came to second year…”

Minami swung her ponytail about as she walked over, and Himeji-san followed her from behind.

After moving a few short tables together, the six of us tucked in our lunches like usual. Such a scene is gradually becoming more common nowadays.

“Eh? Aki, you brought a bento today?”

AS I opened my bento on the table, Minami asked me.

“It’s rare for Akihisa to bring his own bento.”

“Yeah, there were a lot of side dishes left yesterday.”

I accidentally cooked too much yesterday. Luckily, these were all dishes that can be eaten cold.

“Then let’s do ‘that’ again. Scissors, paper…”

“““Stone!”””

Muttsurini showed scissors. Everyone else showed stone.

“…Uu…”

Muttsurini looked at his hand that showed scissors in a remorseful manner. It seemed that he was really bothered.

“It’s rare to see that we can decide the winner in one go. I want Oolong tea.”

“I’d take green tea then.”

“I want lemon soda.”

“I want milk tea.”

“Excuse me, please help me get sugarless red tea.”

Everyone took out a 100 yen coin and handed it to Muttsurini.

“…I’ll get the drinks then.

After collecting the money, Muttsurini ran off alone to the teamwork club to buy drinks for everyone. This punishment game of being a gofer is a common scene in lunch break.

“Ah~ I’m hungry.”

Yuuji opened the bento he brought, and everyone else—opened their bentos on the table. It’s a basic rule not to wait for the gofer to come back before we start eating. If not, we will feel bothered and end up restraining ourselves.

“Akihisa, your bento looks rather good.”

“Yours too, Yuuji.”

It’s rare that Yuuji and I would each bring our own bentos as we couldn’t help but compare. Yuuji’s side dish is teriyaki pork…it looks good.

“Is that tuna…ginger fried tuna? Not bad…”

Yuuji’s voice came from beside. It seemed that he had already locked onto his target.

“Alright, Akihisa, let’s have an exchange.”

“Ok, what do you want, Yuuji?”

“I want that ginger fried tuna of yours. You?”

“I want that teriyaki pork of yours.”

“Okay, deal’s set.”

“Yeah. Here’s the ginger fried tuna.”

“Oh, your teriyaki pork.”

IN Cherry tomato stalk (dipped in teriyaki sauce)

OUT cabbage shreds (Ginger flavored)

“YOU WANT A PIECE OF ME!!!??”

“I’LL RETURN THOSE WORDS RIGHT BACK AT YOU, Itsuki!”

Both of us grabbed each other on the collar. This guy’s really petty! Can’t he just let me win a little bit?

“Are you two kids…”

Seeing Yuuji and I tussle each other as we grabbed each other on the collars, Hideyoshi could only sigh in a somewhat reluctant manner.

“No, that’s not it, Hideyoshi. I’m already an adult, but Yuuji’s a despicable scumbag!”

“Hideyoshi, don’t compare me with Akihisa, will ya? That guy’s the only one with the brain of a primary school kid!”

““!”” (Widening our eyes and glaring at each other)

“You two are just like kids in situations like this…really, you guys…”

Hideyoshi sighed and then used his chopsticks—

“Well, isn’t this enough?”

““AH!””

Just when Yuuji and I were roaring at each other and holding each other off, Hideyoshi had already switched our dishes over.

“Of course, I want my share too.”

Hideyoshi said as he moved his chopsticks and swapped the deep-fried pork chop he brought over too. Now everyone’s dishes looked much more interesting and appetizing.

“Can’t be helped then. Since Hideyoshi said so, I’ll forgive you for today, damned Yuuji.”

“That’s my line!”

My hand released Yuuji’s collar and retracted back. Instead of doing such a stupid and meaningless thing, it’s more important to put the food into my stomach.

“Really…can’t you two just eat your own bentos quietly?”

“If someone would prepare a bento for me, of course I’ll just eat my own share.”

“There’s a lack of surprise when I prepare my own bento. It’s kinda lonely.”

“Then shouldn’t you guys just exchange your dishes in the first place…”

If Yuuji and I are to bring our own bentos, we’ll normally prepare our own dishes. It’s good that we can choose whatever dishes we like, but there will be no sense of expectation when we open the bento box, and that’s a little empty feeling.

On a side note, the options to exchange dishes quietly never existed in the first place. Because if that happened, we can’t increase our bento’s share. Don’t underestimate a high school guy’s stomach!

“Mizuki, what did you bring to exchange with everyone today?”

“Ah. In that case, then…let’s exchange a little…”

“Un. Then, here.”

“Here, please have some.”

Seeing our commotion, it seemed that the girls wanted to try it out too. Himeji-san and Minami wanted to try the fun of exchanging dishes as they handed their bento boxes over to each other. It’s a lot gentler when girls do the same thing, and this is quite a nice scene.

“Heh, you have quite the interesting side dish. Is this tuna…ginger-fried tuna?”

“Yes.”

“Un? Ginger-fried tuna?”

“ACK!”

I choked hard on my food.

DA, DAAAAAAMMMMNNNN IT! Speaking of which, I prepared Himeji-san’s bento too, so the dishes inside are completely similar to mine! Got to smoke this through somehow!

“Tha, that’s quite a coincidence, Himeji-san! Did your mom watch the ‘simple cooking’ program yesterday?”

The next second, I blurted out the excuse of watching the same TV program. Please, Himeji-san, please go along with what I said and end this topic right now!

“Eh? Akihisa-kun, have you forgotten? Today’s bento was prepared by yo—UU!”

“Himeji-san, let’s go somewhere else to talk first!”

She’s way too naïve!

I frantically covered Himeji-san’s mouth and moved to a corner of the classroom. I vaguely realized it a while back, but Himeji-san’s really slow-witted!

(You can’t tell them, Himeji-san! If you tell them the truth, wouldn’t they know that we’re living together?)

(Eh? We can’t tell everyone else that we’re living together?)

(No way! Absolutely not! We mustn’t let other people know about this!)

Whether it’s about Himeji-san’s reputation or my own life.

(Ah…that’s right. It’s really not good if the school knows that we’re living together.)

(That’s right, that’s right. It’s great that you can understand.)

(I got it. Then, this will be our little secret.)

Himeji-san clenched her small fist in front of her chest.

Now that I remember, I realized we have never talked about keeping the fact that we’re living together a secret. Even so…but she never really thought about it. It seems that Himeji-san’s really a little weird. She said that she’s like her mother, so I guess it’s definitely about being so naïve that she‘s an air head.

(Akihisa-kun, let’s work hard to hide this secret!)

(Un, let’s do our best.)

After achieving common understanding with Himeji-san, we returned back to our seats. From now on, we have to protect this secret with a bronze wall like stance!

“What the heck, Akihisa, did you prepare the bento for Himeji?”

But the first attack rattled me.

“Ahh, no. That’s…eh…”

It’s moments like this that Yuuji can easily see through lies. Also, he has Hideyoshi beside him. To think that there’s such big trouble at this moment!

Just when I was thinking about this—

“What are you worried about? She’s just helping you finish of the seafood deluxe set you drew the last time, right?”

“That was really a lot.”

It seemed that Yuuji and Hideyoshi didn’t really worry about it. That’s strange? Was I able to sneak through like this?

(You must have said to Himeji something like ‘since there are leftovers, I’ll just prepare something for you as thanks’ and prepared the food for her before sending her off, right? Your mind’s rather quick at times, Akihisa.)

(I really have to look at you in a different light.)

They deliberately whispered to me. I see, so there’s such an understanding. Anyway, it’s great that they would think this way about this.

“That’s right. It’s like we didn’t use up much food after we had the hotpot party.”

“It can’t be helped though. A lot of things happened back then.”

“The hotpot then became a black hotpot that didn’t have really any relation. The only one who really used the food was the cold dish Shimada and the rest did, right?”

“Yeah, that was really good.”

I remember the appetizer Minami, Kirishima-san and Kudou-san made for us that day. There was a seafood cold dish, steamed oysters and seafood salad. Each one of them was really good.

“That’s right. Minami, the sauce for that seafood cold dish—”

I wanted to turn around and ask Minami how she prepared that sauce. But…

“Humph!”

I found that Minami was giving me an unhappy look.

“What’s wrong, Minami?”

“…Nothing, nothing at all.”

Though she said that, it’s obvious that she was unhappy about something. Uu, does Minami want a bento too? We tried her cooking the last time, but there wasn’t any response, and I only made a bento for Himeji-san, so it’s kinda unfair to Minami. I see. If that’s how it is…

“If you don’t mind, Minami, I’ll make a bento for you next time?”

“Eh? Will you?”

“Un, it doesn’t really matter whether it’s a 3 persons share or 4 persons share.”

It doesn’t really matter whether I cook a person’s share or many’s. If the current situation can be resolved by making a bento, it’s not some difficult problem.

“I see. I’ll tell you the recipe for that cold dish~ for the sauce, do not add too much balsamic vinegar, and also—”

Minami shook aside the unhappiness that shrouded her and happily told me the way to make the cold dish sauce.

“Balsamic vinegar? Must I add distilled pesticide to acetic acid?”

Beside me, Himeji-san muttered something really scary. If she says that she wants to make a seafood cold dish, I have to be careful the next time! I again checked the danger hidden within Himeji-san.

Anyway, let’s tuck in first. This is the first time I tried making ginger-fried tuna, and unexpectedly, it tastes good even after being cold. Maybe it’s really suited to be added to a bento.

“…I’m back.”

Just when everyone was talking and eating, Muttsurini carried a large number of dishes with both hands as he finally came back.

“Oh, you took quite some time today. Were there a lot of people inside the teamwork club?”

Yuuji asked as he received the Oolong tea Muttsurini handed over. It really took quite some time today, and for the quick and nimble Muttsurini, it’s really rare.

“…Someone discussed something with me when I went to buy drinks.”

“Discussed something with you—”

Who is it? Just as I was about to ask, a certain person happened to appear right before our eyes.

“It doesn’t matter, Tsuchiya-kun. I’ll talk to them directly.”

She had nice short shoulder-length hair and a cold expression. Her arms were folded right in front of her as she looked down at us while we’re tucking in as we sit on the tatami mat. This person in front of us is—

“Hello, everyone in class F.”

“Hm? That’s quite a rare guest.”

The one who came over was the class rep of C class, Koyama-san. Like what Yuuji said, she was really a rare guest.

“In that case, the one who went to discuss things with Muttsurini was—”

“That’s right, it was me. But, instead of a discussion, I’ll say that we just so happened to meet each other in front of the teamwork club, so I asked him a few questions.”

“…It seemed that she wanted to know about F class’ plans for the summoning battle.”

“Our class’ plans?”

“It seems that the system maintenance was done, and we should be able to carry out our summoning battle two days later in the morning. I want to ask what F class will be doing.”

The summoning war that was supposed to be allowed once the second term started had to undergo some maintenance because of change of equipment and other situations (the given reason though was that they wanted to change the summoned beast’s equipment). However, the summoning war that was delayed for quite a while will finally be restarted two days later. Our F class’ aim is obviously to take revenge after losing in the first semester.

Even so, it’s unexpected that she would actually come over to check on us, the worst class.

“You’re really cautious.”

Yuuji said in a mocking manner. As for this, I have the same thoughts as Yuuji.

“Really? You F class created lots of chaos in the first semester amongst the second years, and it wasn’t any different from the eye of a tornado. It’s obvious that I would be more cautious, right?”

Koyama-san wasn’t affected by Yuuji’s taunting words as she calmly smiled back.

“That’s quite an appraisal for us…but can that really do? Once second term starts, class C will finally get back the original facilities, but to think that you would consider about the summoning battles…”

Yuuji said to Koyama-san in a criticizing manner.

One of the rules of the summoning war is that ‘the facilities that were swapped because of a loss in the summoning war will be reset once the new term starts’. Of course, while nothing will change when the upper-ranked class loses to a lower-ranked class and causes a change in facilities, but if the lower-ranked class loses and had to degrade their facilities, it’ll be reset in the new semester.

“Speaking of which, C class lost to A class before and had their equipment downgraded to D class, right?”

“Then C class should be able to get back C class’ equipment once the new term starts, right?”

To emphasize on this rule. The main aim is to hope that the students can take part in a summoning battle enthusiastically. In that case, once a summoning battle begins at the end of the semester; the lower class will challenge the upper-ranked class without much risk.

Even if we want to carry out a summoning battle after we were streamed, the points difference between us is way too great, and normally speaking, we won’t easily go for battle. The school hoped that students would study hard while regretting this and check their progress at the end of the school semester. However, we started a riot right from the beginning of school term, and with the adjustments of the summoning system and all sorts of events, the end of the school semester was rather quiet.

“What do you mean by starting a summoning battle? I never talked about taking the initiative to fight. I just want to know the action of F class, which was the central cause of everything the last time.”

“That’s really an indirect way of saying it. In other words, if we don’t provide information, you won’t say anything, right?”

“You can interpret it like that too.”

Koyama-san gave a proud smirk as she said that.

Is she asking for an alliance? I guess not. She’s just going to make a deal with us. She will talk about C class’ movements, and also, we have to talk about F class’ movements. There won’t be any problems if we don’t get into each other’s way. If not, we can think of a countermeasure early and avoid attacking each other if we know what will happen.

“In that case, why don’t you just ask Yuuji straight away?”

Why did you ask Muttsurini?

“Well, if I ask Sakamoto-kun, I won’t have to make such a deal. It’ll be best if I don’t have to automatically provide information.”

Facing my doubt, Koyama-san didn’t flinch as she honestly answered. That’s just like her.

“Uu…Yuuji, what do you intend to do?”

“That’s good. I accept this deal.”

“Really? That’s really a great help.”

Koyama-san looked like she knew that Yuuji wouldn’t refuse right from the beginning and said thanks indirectly.

“I just need to tell you the class we intend to go against, right?”

“That’s not enough. You need to say the time you intend to attack. If we know the class you intend to target, I wouldn’t have to come over and ask you.”

Koyama-san’s right. Our F class’ ultimate aim is to beat A class, and everyone knows about this. It’s not much of a deal if she knows who we want to attack.

Yuuji showed a somewhat hesitant look as he was asked to mention the timing of the attack. Don’t tell me he hasn’t decided on these details yet? It’s not like Yuuji to say triumphantly that we’re going to beat A class without thinking of a plan.

“As for A class, about a week after the summoning battles are allowed—latest 2 weeks, and we’ll attack. That’s my plan.”

“Un…I see…”

That’s strange? Do we have to wait that long…I thought that with Yuuji’s personality, we’ll be attacking immediately after the summoning battles are allowed.

I wanted to ask the question, but Yuuji gave me a sharp stare that said ‘don’t talk too much’. It seemed that the information battle had begun silently even when the battles haven’t started. In that case, I’ll let Yuuji handle this.

“And what about your class? If you’re aiming for A class, we’re enemies.”

“We’re not so ambitious. We just want to attack B class. It’s about the same as you guys, most likely, about a week or two after the summoning battles are allowed.”

“…”

C class’ aiming for B class? It’s true that this is a rather logical consideration. They couldn’t fight it out to decide the winner the last time, so they intend to fight B class. I can understand that.

“But is that really good? I remember B class’s Nemoto-kun…should be Koyama-san’s boy—”

“I’ll kill you if you dare continue.”

It seemed that I misappropriated her unforgettable past.

“I like smart guys, and not guys who’ll only study.”

“That’s right. That Nemoto’s just a despicable scum.”

“To achieve victory, it’s rather effective to use all sorts of despicable tactics, isn’t it? I kinda like it…but I had enough of that guy.”

Koyama-san cackled. To think that she would like despicable guys. I guess everyone thinks differently…

“I’ll be later than others when playing janken.”

“What are you saying!? Don’t you always lose even when you showed up late? You’re not despicable. Unlike me, I’ll pretend to have a tummyache every time it’s my turn to sweep the floor!”

“Nonono, I’m the real despicable person.”

“There’s no such thing. I’m the really despicable one here.”

“…Actually, I have a cousin of the same age. I once asked him about dating, and he introduced his classmates to me.”

““YOU DAMNED Itsuki! I’M GOING TO KILL YOU!””

“…But I remember that guy should be studying in a guys’ school.”

“…I’ll give you this can of juice.”

“…I’ll treat you to takoyaki when we go home.”

“…Thanks guys…”

Our nearby classmates started boasting about how despicable they were. Our guys are really too understanding.

“I see, so Koyama-san likes smart guys.”

“That’s right, Himeji-san, I like smart guys. Fufu~”

Koyama-san gave a somewhat meaningful smile.

“In that case…Sakamoto-kun’s a smart person too, right?”

“““…(Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh)!”””

“Oi, you guys! Don’t stab those penknives into the tatami mat. That’s really uncomfortable, you know!”

A few of our classmates far away stabbed the tatami mats beside them with the penknives. If they were a little more direct, the one that would have holes pierced through wouldn’t just be tatami mat, but Yuuji’s body.

“Speaking of which…really? One, two weeks after the ban’s lifted…I see…”

Koyama-san muttered with a somewhat meaningful tone, and Yuuji looked surprised as he stared at her.

“Thanks for sharing this with me. It seemed that our aim was different. Let’s do our best when we start the battles, then.”

Leaving this sentence behind, Koyama-san folded her arms, turned around and left F class’ classroom. Now that we know that we won’t be fighting C class in the next summoning battle, there’s one less enemy we have to be wary of.

“Looks like the other classes are already testing each other out and preparing for the summoning war.”

“It’s been a while ever since we swapped classrooms. Now even if the quality of the classes have changed, it’s not really that surprising, isn’t it?”

The last time, it seemed that only F class took the initiative. However, the summoning war that will soon start seem like it will cause quite the ripple amongst the 2nd years. Will that be good or bad to us…

“Ah, speaking of summoning battles, didn’t I hear that the summoned beasts’ equipment changed? What will they be like now?”

Beside me, Minami tilted her head and asked. That’s right, how do our summoned beasts look like now?

“Change in equipment…we have to check it out so that we can control the summoning battle well.”

“…It seems that the system’s repaired.”

“Now we can summon our summoned beasts, right?”

“I guess. Do you want to try it out? Who’s going to get the teacher—”

Anyway, we have to get permission from a teacher before we can summon our summoned beasts.

Perhaps it was perfect timing as we saw our homeroom teacher, nicknamed Ironman—Nishimura-sensei walks over from the corridor…

“It can’t be helped then…”

“Yeah, lunch break’s about to end soon.”

“Then…Nishimura-sensei!”

“Hm? Yoshii, Sakamoto, what’s the matter?”

Once I called out, Ironman walked into the classroom. He frowned in an irritated manner. That attitude was basically ‘there’ll be trouble once we talk to him’. How rude!

“Sorry, can you please ‘nope’ allow us to ‘no way’ summon? ‘Rejected’ the summoning war ban’s ‘I refuse’ lifted, ‘give up’ so the new summoned beasts ‘don’t force me’…oi, how many times have you refused us? I only asked you for one thing, and you refused me six times before I even finished. This is the first time I met such a situation, how infuriating!”

“It’s because you brats never listened to me, right?”

No, I think that was completely far off. Sensei wasn’t even listening to me…

“I mentioned it before that your summoned beasts can’t be summoned whenever you want to, right?”

“Even though you did say so…”

My summoned beast’s different from others, one that can touch other physical objects. As I have a special summoned beast that can touch other objects and has several times the strength of an ordinary person, it’s no wonder that Ironman would be so worried. However—

“Sensei, don’t worry about it. Have we deliberately caused trouble up till now?”

“I remember you two had to write more than 100 reflections in the first term, right?”

“Let me see…that’s about 1 every day.”

“That’s enough to make a book…”

“How many have you two written anyway…”

Yuuji definitely wrote 99 of them!

“Besides, if you would call me ‘sensei’, it means that nothing good will happen. Are you going to come up with some tricks again?”

Ironman stared at Yuuji and me with a suspicious look. What the heck, so we called him wrongly.

That’s simple then. We just need to change the way we call him.

“Please, Sou-kun~ (PAKK!)”

“Thousand please, Souichi~ (BEKK!)”

“WHO ASKED YOU TO CALL SENSEI’S NAME DIRECTLY!”

““MY HAAANNNDDD!!!””

As we just said that, our arms that were reached out were twisted by a powerful plier-like force. If we can’t call him that, what’s next?

As we were clutching our right hands and rolling on the floor in pain, Himeji-san and Minami went in front of Ironman.

“You can’t allow us, Nishimura-sensei? It’s not like I and everyone else want to do something bad. We just want to call our summoned beast and see if there’s any change in equipment.”

“Minami-chan’s right. We won’t summon our summoned beasts for pranks.”

“No…but…”

““Please, Nishimura-sensei.””

“Haa…it’s not like I don’t understand how you feel about wanting to check out your new equipment.”

As the two model students in our class pleaded earnestly, Ironman’s attitude showed some sign of softening.

Alright, now, once more!

“Please, Tetsun (PAKK)☆”[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]”

“We’ll leave it to you then, Te-chan (BEKK) ♪” [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]

Now our left hands, which were fine, were twisted. Damn it! How can there be such a stubborn guy!

“You two, really…okay, make it quick.”

“Eh? What quick?”

“I’m busy here. Just summon if you want to. Really…”

Ironman sighed as he said this. What, so he still agreed in the end.

“And besides, no matter how I refuse, you’ll use Sakamoto’s platinum bracelet to summon, right? In that case, I might as well let you take action under my watch, and I’ll…feel more at ease.”

I see, so there’s such a reason. But in that case…

“If you think that way, shouldn’t you have just allowed us to summon right from the beginning?”

“Yeah. And my hands got twisted. That was really quite the loss.”

“If I allowed permission just like that, you guys will definitely get ahead of yourselves.”

Of course we won’t…ah, maybe.

“Never mind, at least we got permission.”

“Yeah, we got what we want in the end.”

“…(Nods head).”

“I’m looking forward to it. I don’t know how our summoned beasts would look.”

“I’ll just pray that it’s not a concrete wall like the last time…”

“Then lets summon and see, ready—”

“““SUMMON!”””

Our gang shouted out. Soon, patterned array appeared around our feet, and the summoned beasts that were shaped off everyone’s looks appeared.

“Wow…nice armor…it really looks awe-inspiring.”

“A lance and armor? Have I evolved into a knight? That’s great…it’s great that I’m not using a chopping board as a shield. This is really great!”

“Oi, Yuuji, look at me. My uniform has a dragon woven.”

“Look, Akihisa, mine’s a tiger.” [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]

“A longsword and a coat…so I became the Shinsengumi. Looks really strong.”

“…I got improved to a jonin.”

Unn, I see. So everyone’s equipment became better.

““JUST WAIT A SECOND, DAMN IT!!””

“What now, Yoshii, Sakamoto? You’re really noisy.”

“OF COURSE WE HAVE TO COMPLAIN! THIS IS OBVIOUSLY UNFAIR!”

“Really?”

“Yeah! Just look at the changes on Himeji-san!”

“Eh, my armor’s sturdier than before, and my weapon became longer and larger.”

“Minami?”

“My army uniform became a knight’s uniform, and my spear became a lance.”

“Then Hideyoshi?”

“My Naginata warrior became a Shinsengumi member.”

“Muttsurini!”

“…I went from a Chonin to a Jonin.”

“But Yuuji and I—”

“Only had patterns woven on our school uniform!”

““THAT IS WAY TOO STRANGE!””

Yuuji and I said that in perfect unison. This is way too different from the rest! Why is Yuuji and my equipment almost the same as before!

“No, Akihisa, wait, I’m different from you. My weapon changed too.”

“Eh? Really?”

“Yeah. My metal knuckles became a bat.”

“THAT’S NOT MUCH DIFFERENT!”

It looks like no matter how much changes happened, I’m always given the equipment of a delinquent. Or rather…it’s the principal’s doing?

“Alright, you should be happy now, right? I’m going to revoke the permission.”

Once Ironman said that, the summoning field disappeared, and at the same time, our summoned beasts disappeared. GUUUUUu…! I CAN’T ACCEPT THIS…!

“Lunch break’s almost over. Don’t play around and prepare for the next lesson.”

Leaving these words behind, Ironman left the classroom.

“Aki and Sakamoto haven’t grown up at all.”

“Shimada, don’t associate me with that idiot. It’s too disrespectful.”

“Yeah, Minami. My brain’s different from Yuuji’s brain and Minami’s chest, I did grow—(CRACK)”

“What did you just say?”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“Akihisa really hasn’t grown up at all…”

I held my hands that were twisted to the limit and endured the sharp pain that came from the joint as I continued the afternoon lessons.

<center>☆</center>

Time flew, and it was already after school.

“It’s been a while since things were quiet. Let’s just look forward to the upcoming days of school dismissal.”

Carrying the school bag that wasn’t really heavy, Yuuji walked beside me and muttered.

“Because we had to stay behind for after-school supplementary lessons recently.”

The school’s nature allowed for more supplementary lessons for classes that were more likely to be involved in summoning battles. We had to take lessons, and also had to take exams to replenish our points.

“It’s because you guys always skipped lessons that you ended up having more supplementary lessons than the rest.”

I have no idea what Minami was talking about at all.

“…We should be grateful that we can look forward to school dismissal in such a free manner.”

“Speaking of which, it’s like our free time was extended. It really feels like we earned it.”

Muttsurini and Himeji-san said that in a seemingly happy manner. On a side note, Hideyoshi went for his drama club practice. He’s the only one amongst us who’s taking part in club activities, so there’s not many chances for him to go back with everyone.

“It’s rare for us to leave school early. Why don’t we walk somewhere?”

Yuuji raised this usual plan as we never had a planned schedule.

Normally, I would definitely agree to hang out with him, but…

“Forget about today. I need to go to the supermarket to buy ingredients.”

“You’re going shopping? I thought there’s a lot of that seafood you won.”

“There is a lot, but I want to cook meat. I remember that eggs and meat will be cheaper on Monday.”

In fact, as there’re 3 people at home, the seafood we won was almost finished. It’s okay if ane-san and I were at home, but since Himeji-san’s living at my house, I had to put some more effort in cooking. As we’ve been eating seafood during the past few days, I want to try a meat dish.

“Really? I’ll have meat today too.”

Yuuji’s in charge of cooking today too (In his situation, it should be ‘again’)? He seemed to be pondering as he said this.

“Oh yeah. What do you intend to cook tonight?”

“Hm…about that…”

That’s really troublesome. Even though I said that I wanted to cook meat, I don’t really have things that I want to cook…and every menu has to vary, which is really troublesome…ah, that’s right!

“Himeji-san, what do you want to eat tonight?”

“Eh? Me?”

I turned around and asked Himeji-san. It’s rare for her to be a guest of mine, so I’ll like to hear what she wants to eat. I’ll have some idea on what to cook.

“I don’t really have things I like or hate…but more than that, Akihisa-kun, what do you like to eat? Akihisa-kun cooked yesterday, and it’s my—”

“No no no no no! It’s my job to cook! You really don’t have to worry about this!”

Before Himeji-san could say something even more dangerous, I hurriedly interrupted her. I’ll handle the cooking; no way will I back off from that!

“““…”””

Just when I was discussing dinner with Himeji-san, Yuuji and company looked at us.

“Oi, Akihisa.”

“What is it, Yuuji?”

“Why are you asking Himeji what do you want for dinner?”

“Eh?”

Now that Yuuji mentioned it, Himeji-san and I subconsciously looked at each other.

Damn it! I was thinking about dinner tonight and accidentally blurted out that we’re living together! How could I make such a simple mistake! An, anyway, got to calm down! Got to find some way to hide this!

“Tha, tha tha tha that’s because of that! Right, Himeji-san?”

“Ye, yes! It’s because…eh, Akihisa-kun just wants to use what I like as reference so that he can prepare dinner tonight. It’s not for me to eat!”

“““…”””

After hearing Himeji-san’s explanation, the stares on us had even more doubts and suspicions.

“Eh…the…I’m going to the supermarket first. I’ll make a move first!”

“I, I have something I have to do. Sorry, I have to leave!”

Before everyone else could comment, we ran off. Though they didn’t chase up, the stares on my back were so piercing they’re aching me.

“Is, is it’s alright? We weren’t discovered, right?”

“I, I guess we’re definitely alright. We just explained it properly just now.”

After turning around the corner, Himeji-san and I looked at each other. It’s really hard to hide secrets from others…

“In that case, how about you go home first, Himeji-san? I’ll go back once I’m done buying the stuff.”

“No, I should come along if I want to buy stuff. I’ve been treated kindly by you, and I would bothered by it.”

“But it’s not good for us to buy ingredients together…”

“How about you leave the shopping to me? I’ll be in charge of dinner tonight. Akihisa-kun can go back to study for tomorrow’s lessons…”

“Alright, let’s go shop then! What should we have for dinner tonight?”

“Ah, Akihisa-kun, wait for me!”

Asking Himeji-san to cook, and for me to study…wouldn’t that be the worst case scenario? There’ll be no problems if it was the complete opposite…

<center>☆</center>

“Akihisa-kun, I heard that eggplants are going at a special price today?”

As I carried the basket into the supermarket, Himeji-san said to me after seeing the vegetables area near the entrance.

“Eggplant...that's good. Do you eat eggplants, Himeji-san?”

“Yes, I like eggplants the most!”

Himeji-san answered with an ever-radiant smile.

We're now entering autumn time, and it's the time when eggplant tastes best. If it's a little cheaper, I'd really like to buy it. Maybe I should deep-fry and then stew it, or maybe I should add green peppers and meat slices to stir fry if I want some seasonal taste. It'll taste good once I add ginger soy sauce after frying. My mouth started to water as I imagined it.
“Miso yakitori’s good too…no, we can also steam it with chicken…”

“Sounds good. Eggplants have low calories and are really healthy, and since it is autumn, it’s the best season to eat eggplants.”

“That’s right.”

Just when we intended to buy some eggplants, a shop worker was walking over and shouting energetically.

“OVER HERE, OVER HERE! CHEAP AND HEALTHY STUFF ARE HERE! COME CHECK IT OUT!”

It seemed like I heard this mysterious tone before…is this shop attendant a foreigner?

As Himeji-san and I widened our eyes curiously, the shop attendant continued to shout in front of us.

“TODAY’S VEGETABLES ARE VALUE FOR MONEY! ESPECIALLY THIS—”

At this moment, the shouting stopped.

The shop attendant’s eyes were staring at the eggplant he was holding in his hand as he tilted his head slightly before shouting again.

“ESPECIALLY THIS…how should I call it? Eh…THIS THING THAT LOOKS LIKE A PURPLE BAT! IT’S REALLY DELICIOUS!”

Doesn’t this guy know what an eggplant is?

“IT’S COMPLETELY RIPE AND FULL OF HONEY! IT’S SWEET AND DELICIOUS!”

What’s with that eggplant? What’s added inside!?

“Ohh, the newly-wed couple over there! How do you feel about this…purple thing? Wanna buy some home?”

Maybe we were looking too interested as the shop attendant that was hawking soon noticed us. Damn it. This person doesn’t look normal in any way. It’s best to run away before we get involved with him…

“Call, calling us a newly-wed couple…”

Himeji-san beside me was blushing as she looked all fluffy, and had no intention of running away.

Speaking of which, Himeji-san’s really like a girl. It seems that girls are powerless against words like ‘bride’ or ‘newly-weds’.

“Come look! What do you think of this purple rod, kiddo? It’s cheap and ripe! It’s extremely sweet!”

“Sorry. If possible, please don’t give me that ripe and sweet one.”

That unnaturally soft and sweet smell must be because the inside’s rotten already, right?

“No no, kiddo, you don’t have to be so kind with me! This purple rod’s sweet part is the best! This, eh…this has the label ‘local produce’! It has lots of calories, and has nothing to do with nutrition! Also—”

This shop attendant’s not even listening to me at all as he continued to utter rubbish…Himeji-san hasn’t recovered yet. Looks like I can only continue to stay here…

“…And something like that. It’s a good that’s well-loved from the past! Once this vegetable’s been used in the north pole 800 years ago…”

As I stood in front of the shop attendant who’s continuing to fire off, I sank into deep thought. Let me see…aside from the ingredients for the dishes tonight, is there anything else I need to buy?

“Ah, speaking of which, kiddo…”

There are still napkins, and there’s no problem with the toilet paper and toothbrushes.

“I’d like to know the name of this purple vegetable? —”

If I have to say it, it’s the one thing we didn’t have much left the last time we did cleaning…

“—Toilet cleaner…”

“Oh! I see! Thank you very much!”

“Hm?”

Once I recovered, I found that the shopkeeper was standing in front of me, holding my hand and thanking me. Ahh, so he finally finished talking?

“I’ll have a bag then. Let’s go, Himeji-san.”

“Ah, okay, my beloved—no, Akihisa-kun!”

Himeji-san looked like she finally recovered too. I took a bag of eggplants, and soon after, left the vegetables section.

“WE’RE SELLING TOILET CLEANERS CHEAPLY TO YOU! RIPE AND SWEET TOILET CLEANERS ARE NOW FOR SALE! FOR SWEET STUFF, CHOOSE TOILET CLEANERS!”

The shop attendant just now was shouting behind me about something he’s selling.

“Akihisa-kun, what was that shop attendant selling?”

“I don’t know either…”

I heard toilet clean or sweet or something. Are they selling a new product, edible toilet cleaner?

“Oh yes, Akihisa-kun, do you know?”

“Hm? What is it?”

“Do you know the saying ‘don’t let your wives eat eggplants in autumn[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]’…”

“Ah, I think I heard of that before.”

The source of this saying should be because aunties feel that ‘it’ll be a waste that the delicious eggplants in autumn are fed to those irritating spouses’, I guess. That’s rude.

But Himeji-san’s thinking so thoroughly for her to ask this. Maybe she’s wondering if she could eat eggplants.

“Himeji-san, you don’t have to worry about that saying. That’s an old generation way of thinking.”

“Tha, that’s right. I shouldn’t be thinking about this and work hard to give birth to a healthy and energetic baby!”

Why must you mention a baby? I don’t understand what she meant at all.

“Akihisa, I think I have to explain it to you. The saying ‘don’t let your wives eat eggplants in autumn’ is because ‘eggplants have few seeds, and they feared that the chances of pregnancy would be lowered’, so they would prevent their wives from eating eggplants.”

“Heh~ I see. Yuuji’s really knowledgeable.”

“It’s not that I’m knowledgeable, but that you lack common sense.”

Really? I didn’t know that—HEY, HOLD ON A SEC!

“Yu, Yuuji? Why are you here?”

“Sa, Sakamoto-kun! When did you come here?”

“Nothing, I just came here to buy ingredients for dinner…”

Speaking of which, Yuuji did mention that he had to cook dinner tonight too…there are not many supermarkets from school to home, so it’s not really surprising that we would meet here. It’s because we just went our separate ways that I made a huge mistake…

“Say it! What’s going on?”

“Wha, what are you saying? Himeji-san and I just happened to meet at the supermarket and went together!”

“That’s right, Sakamoto-kun. We really met coincidentally before shopping in the supermarket!”

“Hoho? Really, you two said that you wanted to buy ingredients for dinner together. Looks like you have quite the good relationship there.”

“That’s not it. It’s not like that at all!”

“Speaking of which, it’s too suspicious that you two would enter a supermarket together. You must be hiding something else besides shopping together, right?”

Seeing that Himeji-san and I were looking uncomfortable because of his words, Yuuji placed his hand under his chin and gave a pondering look.

“Yesterday’s dinner, today’s lunch and tonight’s dinner are the same…it seems that you two have been eating the same dishes together…and you two came to school together…”

WAAAAHHHH!! Yuuji’s getting closer to the truth! Got to find some way to change the topic!

“S, speaking of which! There’s a lot of social news everyday!”

“Yes yes! Like airport strikes, flights terminated and all that stuff!”

“That’s really bad! A lot of people can’t go back to Japan if the airport’s under strike!”

Himeji-san and I tried our best to divert the topic to the latest news. But after hearing what we said, Yuuji frowned harder.

“…Airport stop…Himeji had to stay at Akihisa’s house two days ago…are you two…”

Most likely, Yuuji noticed some critical fact as he inadvertently widened his eyes. Wha, what what? Does he know about it?

“Oi, Akihisa, answer me honestly! Don’t tell me—”

“Wha, what do you want to say?”

“—You’re staying together with Himeji…!?”

WERE WE DISCOVERED? SO QUICKLY TOO!

“NO, NONONONONO, OF COURSE NOT! HOW COULD SUCH AN IMPOSSIBLE THING HAPPEN!”

“THATHATHATHATHATHAT’S RIGHT, SAKAMOTO-KUN. THAT’S COMPLETELY IMPOSSIBLE. HOW COULD IT HAPPEN! YOU DON’T HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT THAT HAPPENING!”

“Yo, you two…why must you two come up with something like this at this moment!?”

Our denials were meaningless as Yuuji gave us vengeful looks as he glared at Himeji-san and me. Damn it! If anyone knows of what happy things happened in my life, I’ll have people jealous of me and killing me…

I predicted the attack manner Yuuji may choose and stealthily got into defensive position. However—

“How did that happen…this is bad! This is really bad! Damn it…!”

Yuuji was clutching his head and shaking as he didn’t do anything cruel to me. Eh? That’s strange?

“What’s with you, Yuuji?”

“AND YOU DARE ASK ME WHAT’S WRONG!? DAMN IT…WHAT DID I…WHAT STUPID THINGS DID I SAY!? I REALLY WANT TO WHACK AKIHISA AND ME THAT TIME…”

If you really want to do so, couldn’t you just hit yourself only?

“Ah well, it’s pointless to grumble about it. Oi, Akihisa. Nobody knows that you two are living together, right?”

“Uu, ah, yes. I don’t think anyone other than Yuuji knows.”

“That’s really the best thing I heard in this misfortune. If you find out that this is about to be discovered, hurry up and tell me, and I’ll try to cover up for you.”

“Eh…Ah, un, thanks then.”

To think that Yuuji would say such things. I thought that he would be hollering in anger ‘when can you get so cocky you idiot’ and beat me up.

“However, you must never ever let anyone else know that you two are staying together! You must be extremely careful, understood!”

“I’ll definitely try my best not to let others know…”

“What’s with those spineless words!? It’s not even to try! Akihisa, listen up! You must, never, ever, let anyone else know about it!”

“Uu…un, I understand.”

Yuuji glared at me viciously as he continued to remind me over and over again.

“If other people know about it, I’ll beat you down into the path to hell, or else I won’t be able to erase the anger within me!”

What’s going on? Will something horrifying happen to Yuuji if the fact that Himeji-san and I are living in the same place?

“Got it, Yuuji. I’ll keep that secret no matter what.”

“Please. I really want to avoid doing meaningless actions like revenge on you! Hurry up and go back before other people discover you.”

“Got it. Then, here’s a present.”

After handing the eggplant in my hand, we said goodbye to Yuuji. It’ll be alright. Though that guy said it as if something will happen, but nobody will know that Himeji-san and I are living together!

“I’m worried, but it can’t be helped…I have to hide this secret for them with my utmost—!”

“…Yuuji.”

“…………………………………What is it?”

[[Image:BTS vol 08 079.jpg|thumb]]

“…Do you remember our promise?”

“Ha…haha, ha…Shouko, when were you…standing there…”

“…Right from the beginning. Because Yuuji wouldn’t come home with me, I came over to punish Yuuji.”

“I, I see…I’m really sorry then…”

“…Don’t worry. It doesn’t matter now.”

“That’s right. Then—”

“…Un.”

“Farewell!”

“…Don’t run. You won’t be able to escape.”

"DDDDDDDDDAAAAMMMMMNNNNNN IIIIITTTTT, AKIHISAAAAAA!!! THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULLLLTTTT!!!”

I felt a little killing intent behind me, but I must be thinking too much.

After walking out of the supermarket, Himeji-san and I walked side by side with each other as we went home. Really, it’s because Yuuji suddenly appeared that I forgot to buy vegetables…

“Wah, speaking of which. I haven’t bought ingredients for dinner!”

“Ah, you’re right.”

It took a lot of my mind to think of how to handle the situation just now, and I forgot to buy vegetables. This is bad.

“Can’t be helped then. I’ll go back and buy again. Can you please head home first, Himeji-san?”

“No, in that case, I should follow…”

“No, we were just discovered by Yuuji. I don’t know what he will say if we head back to the supermarket together.”

“I see…”

“I’m going back then.”

“I understand. Please take care.”

I waved my hand and bid farewell to Himeji-san for the time being. Alright, I have to buy the ingredients for dinner tonight and hurry back home.

<center>☆</center>

And so, after buying all the ingredients for dinner, I went back home.

“I guess it’s about time to rain too, but this is bad…”

I already felt that the air was a little too humid, and soon, it started raining as expected.

“This is bad. And I didn’t bring an umbrella…”

I took note not to let the rainwater enter the grocery bag with the dinner ingredients inside. Anyway, better get to a nearby convenience store to avoid to rain. It’s not far from home here, and I’m fine with running back in the rain, but I saw some manga that were recently released—maybe I should go home when the rain’s lighter.

I noticed the outside situation as I took the magazine out to read. Unn, there’s going to be a lot of games coming out next month. I don’t know if I can secretly get some money from ane-san…

I browsed through the magazines for quite a while and found a lot of interesting reports, but just when I wanted to stop read and bring it directly over to the cashier, I found—

—ZABA ZABA ZABA ZABA ZABA

The rain outside was like a pail that’s fully filled with water being kicked, and had become a torrent. Looks like…I will get wet no matter whether I bring an umbrella out or not…

I took out my handphone, went to the internet and checked the weather report. The webpage did note that I have to be wary of heavy rain. This is bad. I was thinking about not letting Himeji-san cook so much that I didn’t notice the weather change. But the good thing is that I let Himeji-san go home first.

“Looks like the rain won’t be stopping anytime soon…”

Looking at the current situation now, the rain will only get bigger. Can’t be helped then. I can only run home…

I got ready to be drenched as I walked out of the convenience store. The magazines will only get wet under such large rain. Next time, I guess.

BAYABAYABAYA. The rain continued to pour on me as I couldn’t see the road in front of me. Uuu…if I don’t hurry back to take a shower, I might catch a cold…

The ground collected lots of rainwater as the cars that moved by created splashes like they’re wading through a river. The sound of rain and wind swirled beside my ears, and my eyes and hearing were covered by the stormy rain all around me.

At this moment—

“Uu…”

It seemed that I heard a soft sound.

Hm? I think I heard this voice before…

To hear that voice clearly, I gathered all my concentration.

“Uu…it’s so cold…this place’s so cold…”

On hearing that, it sounded like a girl crying.

To find the owner of that voice, I could only widen my eyes at the visual range that’s only several meters in radius and search. That voice…I think it came from the park?

Since I’m already wet, I might as well go into the park.

Looking inside the pavilion,

“Hazuki-chan?”

“Ah..baka-onii-chan?”

I found Hazuki-chan, all wet and looking like she’s about to cry.

“Why did you come here? You’ll catch a cold.”

“I came to see baka onii-chan! I thought that I’ll see you here if I waited here!”

“Eh? You came to see me?”

Ah, that’s right. Speaking of which, I did meet Hazuki-chan for the first time at this park.

“But why are you looking for me?”

“Onee-chan was too much. She always lied and wouldn’t let Hazuki go to baka onii-chan’s house.”

As she said that, Hazuki-chan puffed her cheeks unhappily.

“So Hazuki kept it a secret from onee-chan and came to look for baka onii-chan!”

“But it suddenly rained, and you didn’t even know where my house is, so you came to the pavilion in the park to avoid the rain?”

“That’s the case…”

And that’s quite the coincidence. But since I can meet Hazuki-chan here, I guess it’s the best thing amongst all these.

“Kuchuun.”

Hazuki-chan was trembling from cold as she let out a cute sneeze.

As I went there before, I guess Minami’s house isn’t that near to my house. It’s really tough for Hazuki-chan to go out alone in such weather.

“Then come over to my house then. You’ll catch a cold if you continue to stay here.”

“Can I really? That’s great! Hazuki’s really happy!”

“Guu!!”

It seemed that she was really happy as she hugged me happily and hit her head straight into my chest. Due to the difference in height, that one hit from her slammed straight into my weakest point. I know Hazuki-chan shouldn’t have any ill intent, but if she’s going to meet me like this all the time, my life may be at risk…

“Hazuki-chan, you better grow up…”

“Hm?”

At that moment, your head won’t be hitting my chest.

“Ah, that’s right, so baka onii-chan means that. Hazuki understands and will do her best. Hazuki will work hard and grow bigger!”

“You understand?”

“Yes! Hazuki wants to hurry and grow up and become a beautiful bride!”

Un, she’s thinking the wrong way.

“But I don’t really have confidence about my chest’s size…”

Hazuki-chan placed her hand on her chest and said in a somewhat dejected manner.

That’s not true—I wanted to comfort her like that, but I couldn’t say more. I remember Muttsurini saying before that this is most likely genetic…

“An, anyway, you have to get yourself dry. Let’s go, Hazuki-chan.”

“Okay!”

To escape from this rain that continued to pour hard, I took Hazuki-chan’s hand and again ran off.

<center>☆</center>

“Akihisa-kun, you finally came back. It’s quite the heavy rain outside, are you—oh my?”

“Ah! Pretty onee-chan!”

“I’m back, Himeji-san.”

Himeji-san, who came back home first, met me at the entrance with a large towel, but she couldn’t help but widen her eyes after seeing Hazuki-chan come back with me.

“I found her at the park nearby. She can’t go back home alone in such heavy rain, so I brought her back. Right, Hazuki-chan?”

“Yes!”

“I see. It’s easy to catch a cold when you’re all wet. Hurry up and wipe yourselves dry. I prepared the bath.”

The indoor slippers let out a clapping sound as Himeji-san went back into the house to get another towel. To think that she would even prepare the bath water. She’s really a thoughtful girl.

“Go take a bath first, Hazuki-chan, I’ll find if ane-san got a shirt or something for you to wear—”

“Got it! A bath it is, right?”

Hazuki-chan nodded her head and immediately got ready to take off those wet clothes of hers. Eh? That’s not good no matter what, isn’t it?

“Well…Hazuki-chan, it doesn’t really matter if you wet the floor, but you should head to the changing room before taking off your clothes.”

“? I can’t take off my clothes here?”

“Un. Hazuki-chan’s not that young anymore. I feel that it’s not right to take off clothes in front of the opposite gender.”

I won’t have any perverse lust for such a small kid (I guess), but even so, she can’t just take off her clothes right in front of me like that. Though Hazuki-chan’s naïve and carefree, she’s a little too liberal in some aspects.

“But even if we take off our clothes separately, Hazuki’s going to bathe with baka onii-chan, right?”

“You want to bathe with me!?”

“Eh? Hazuki often bathes with onee-chan, like after watching a scary TV show, we will always bathe together.”

Minami…if you’re so scared that you have to bathe with a primary school kid after seeing such a scary show, you might as well not watch it in the first place, right…

“And I would also bathe with daddy and mummy.”

“No, it’s not really a problem if it’s with family members…”

“Then it’s alright, because baka onii-chan’s Hazuki’s husband, so you’re family!”

It sounded right, but our conversation didn’t seem to match. Uu…what should I do now.

“Or rather, will baka onii-chan feel weird somewhere if you bathe with Hazuki?”

Hazuki-chan looked at me with really sincere eyes. Nononono. It’ll be bad if I have such an interest!

“That’s not true! There’s no one able to keep a steady emotion and remain unshakeable like me!”

“That’s great. Then we can bathe together!”

“Of course!”

………………………Eh?

“…”

“??? Baka onii-chan, what’s wrong?”

Eve, even though it’s not really possible, but did I…

“Did I lose in a debate with a primary school kid? How did this happen…”

“Hazuki’s not really sure what’s going on, but Hazuki is happy that baka onii-chan’s willing to bathe together!”

“MY GOOODDDDD!!!”

Did I just verbally lose to a primary school kid? I’m already a high school student!

“Hazuki-chan, that won’t do. Akihisa-kun’s a boy, so how can you bathe with me? That’s not good.”

Just when I was clutching my head because of this unacceptable fact, Himeji-san came over with another towel.

“Uu…that won’t do…”

“That’s right. Hazuki-chan’s a girl, so you have to be more wary of guys.”

“I understand. Hazuki wants to bathe with pretty onee-chan then!”

“Eh? Bathe with me?”

“Yes!”

Hazuki-chan smiled happily. Girls can bathe together, and that will really help me out a lot. That’s gratifying, gratifying—

“Akihisa-kun. I’ll like to talk to you later about you two wanting to bathe together just now.”

As she handed the towel to me, Himeji-san’s eyes gave off an inexplicable aura.

“Alright, Hazuki-chan. Let’s hurry up and bathe.”

“Okay!”

Himeji-san led Hazuki into a room. I suddenly felt a bad chill and hurriedly used the towel to wipe my wet hair as I entered the house. While they’re bathing, I should wipe myself dry and change clothes…ah, before that, I should call Minami first. I think she should be worried about where Hazuki-chan is.

After taking out the handphone, I used the towel to wipe the wet screen and searched for her handphone number. However, the phone rang a few times and then went straight to the mailbox, so I could only leave a message in her phone ‘I found Hazuki-chan in the park nearby, so I’ll send her back later. Don’t worry’. That should do, I guess?

“Waa~ pretty onee-chan’s really amazing! It’s completely different from my onee-chan!”

Hazuki-chan, you’ll get a cold if you don’t hurry up and enter.”

“I will enter only when I touch your breasts!”

“No~! I’ll let you touch later. Get into the bathtub first—”

“Fuwaa…amazing…onee-chan’s breasts are so soft…”

“Ahh, really…can’t be helped. Once you have enough, get inside the bathtub and warm your body up.”

“Okay!”

“…”

Okay, now I should…

“Himeji-san.”

“Ah, yes. What is it, Akihisa-kun?”

“I’ll go run a few rounds outside.”

“Eh? Isn’t it raining now?”

“And also, I bought some dishes on the way back. You can start off with Hazuki-chan. No need to wait for me.”

“Ah? Akihisa-kun! Why are you suddenly…”

“I’m going out then…”

Himeji-san’s surprised voice came from behind, but I sprinted out of the house. No! This isn’t some despicable perverse lust, but that I’m overflowing with abundance of youth and a lust to abuse housewives…that’s all!

I muttered to myself in the rain and ran for quite a few minutes, catching Minami’s call on the way. The moment I got home, my brain and my body were all cold.

<center>☆</center>

“Fuu…that’s a nice bath…”

It felt really good to be bathed in hot water after being drenched in rain, and I accidentally stayed inside the bathtub for too long. It’s a luxurious happiness to be able to have a warm bath in cold weather.

“Onii-chan, you’re all warm now that you bathed!”

As I returned back to the living room, Hazuki-chan, who’s dressed in pajamas, ran to me.

“Are you cold, Hazuki-chan? There’s no problems, right?”

“Yes!”

Hazuki-chan showed a bright smile at me. Seeing her like this, I won’t have to worry about her getting a cold, right?

“That’s strange? Where’s Himeji-san?”

“Pretty onee-chan looked like she went to dry Hazuki’s clothes.”

The blow-dryer’s buzzing came from the room. Himeji-san, must be using the iron and blow dryer to dry Hazuki-chan’s clothes.”

“Hazuki said that she would do it, but pretty onee-chan said that it’s dangerous and wouldn’t allow me to do it…”

“Un…that’s true. The blow dryer’s alright, but the iron’s really too dangerous for you.”

Maybe Hazuki-chan can really dry her own clothes, but it’s better to leave this to Himeji-san. Having lived together in the same house as Himeji-san during these past few days, I understand that Himeji-san’s good at every form of housework except cooking.

“Hazuki-chan, do you want to watch TV with me?”

“Okay!”

I took the remote control and sat on the sofa in the living room. Hazuki-chan then sat beside me. Unn, this little critter-like action’s really cute.

“What show do you want to watch, Hazuki-chan?”

“Erm…Hazuki wants to watch a drama!”

“A drama? Which one?”

I don’t really watch dramas, so I was somewhat shocked to hear her say that. So do kids nowadays love to watch drams?

“Hazuki doesn’t really want to choose one…but Hazuki wants to watch one!”

Hazuki-chan looked around before answering. Oh, I get it…she’s trying to be like an adult, right? Hazuki-chan most likely watches other shows.

“But there’s a few interesting shows on other channels too.”

“I don’t want to watch those childish shows. I want to watch those shows that are related to romance!”

Hazuki-chan forcefully voiced her opinion. Un…is there something wrong with the way I suggest it? Maybe I should choose a show Hazuki-chan may be interested in. Besides, I feel that it will be better watching it.

“Then, let’s see what sort of interesting drama we can find…”

I searched the program menu, but the time wasn’t right, and there’s no drama showing now.

“There’s no drama.”

“Ahh…”

“Ah, speaking of which.”

I remember I recorded some ridiculous drama accidentally because I failed in my recording. I guess I haven’t deleted that program…oh, got it, found it.

“Can this do, Hazuki-chan? This looks like a drama too.”

“Okay, Hazuki wants to watch this!”

After obtaining her permission, I pressed the play button on the remote control. Soon, the melody of the main theme came from the screen, and then the drama was aired. This drama’s called ‘Waiting for you under that legendary tree’ [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8_Translation_Notes_and_References]…hhmm, let me see.

“Shinji, I’m sorry for taking something to smash you. Thinking that you wouldn’t accept my love, I couldn’t hold back my emotions…”

“That’s not something that can be settled by apologizing.”

“As an apology, I prepared a bento for you. Are you willing to eat it?”

“That’s suspicious. Did you spike the bento?”

“Ho, how could I do such a thing?”

“As expected. Let’s check it out first. (licks) this is…anesthetic!”

“Damn it! You find out…that’s right! That’s a powerful anesthetic that will numb you with just a lick. As expected of George, for you to find that out!”

“Fufun, I’ve already seen through your thoughts (bkun bkun)”

Fuu…this drama is really boring…we started from the middle, so I really couldn’t tell what the drama was about, and up till now, it’s all about guys…

“…(Nods head, nods head).”

As I looked beside me, Hazuki-chan seemed to feel bored too as she leaned on me and slept.

“I’m tired from all the running today too. I just had a nice warm bath. Now I want to sleep…”

My consciousness felt like it was floating away as my eyelids became heavier and heavier…

<center>☆</center>

[[Image:BTS vol 08 097.jpg|thumb]]

“Hm? Ugh...”

Ah, this is bad. I fell asleep!

My mind wasn't really awake, but I still tried to wake up, and I found—

“Eh...ah, waahh! Akihisa-kun!”

Himeji-san was in front of me, looking all flustered.

“Eh...Himeji-san, what are you doing?”

“Eh, we, well...I entered the living room and found that both of you were sleeping, so I wanted to join in...”

“But your eyes were awake, weren't they...”

“Tha, that's not true! I wasn't staring at Akihisa-kun's face!”

Himeji-san raised her hands to deny it. Is that so? I guess I'm mistaken then.

“Hm...baka onii-chan?”

“Ah, Hazuki-chan, are you awake?”

“Yes...”

Rubbing her eyes sleepily, Hazuki-chan sat up straight on the sofa. I looked at the clock and found that the minute hand was between '9' and '10'.

“Ah, we slept too much. Hazuki-chan, it's about time to go home.”

“I understand...”

I handed the still sleepy Hazuki-chan over to Himeji-san and let her change Hazuki-chan's clothes. I got up to prepare the rainy day attire to send Hazuki-chan back to Minami's house.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

After waiting at the corridor for several minutes, the still-somewhat-sleep Hazuki-chan came walking towards me with her clothes changed.

“I'll send her back then, Himeji-san.”

“I'll go too...”

“No no no. If you do that, Minami will know that both of us are staying together.”

“Ahh...that's right. I'll stay at home and wait for Akira-san then.”

“Un, I'll leave it to you.”

I took two umbrellas and pushed the main door at the corridor.

“Good night, Hazuki-chan.”

“Good night, pretty onee-chan.”

Hazuki-chan waved her hand and said goodbye to Himeji-san before following me out of the house.

The heavy rain's over already, I guess. As it drizzled, I held Hazuki-chan's hand as we walked slowly down the night street.

“Hazuki-chan, are you still sleepy?”

“A little...”

Hazuki-chan struggled somewhat with holding the umbrella as she yawned and walked.

“In that case, I'll give a special service.”

I knelt down in front of Hazuki-chan, who's nodding away in a sleepy manner, and she immediately understood my intent.

“Thank you, onii-chan...”

Hazuki-chan said as she climbed up my back.

“Heh!”

I leaned the umbrella in my hand on my shoulder and carried Hazuki-chan as I walked on. The weight that came from behind was warm, and this sure does feel good.

And then, we continued to walk in the middle of the rain.

“Aki! Hazuki!”

Just when we're about to reach Minami's house, someone called our names.

“Ah, Minami, sorry for being late.”

“No, I should be the one. I'm sorry for not bringing her back.”

It's dangerous for a girl to walk alone at night. Even though Minami wanted to come over to my house to pick up Hazuki-chan, I was the one who stopped her, so she didn't have to apologize to me. Minami's rather polite too.

“My turn to carry.”

“I'll just carry her over to your house.”

“It's alright here. My house's nearby.”

“Un, got it.”

I handed the weight over to Minami. Hazuki-chan twitched for a moment, but soon found that Minami was the one carrying her and went back to dreamland.

“Hazuki, say thank you to Aki.”

Minami shook Hazuki-chan gently and prompted her to thank me.

“No need for that. She's still asleep. You don't have to worry about that.”

“That won't do. Oi, Hazuki, thank Aki.”

“U...onii-chan, thank you very much...”

Even though she's almost asleep, Hazuki-chan thanked me politely.

“No no, it's alright.”

I responded back

And then—

“Please help Hazuki thank that pretty onee-chan too...”

“Eh? Hazuki? Are you talking about Akira-san?”

Minami asked the half-asleep Hazuki. Argh, just treat it as if she's talking in her dreams and leave it as that!

“I, I understand! I'll pass Hazuki-chan's feelings over to ane-san!”

I deliberately emphasized that the sister Hazuki-chan said was ane-san and wanted to end this topic.

However—

“That's strange? I remember pretty onee-chan is used on Mizuki...”

Minami still noticed the suspicious thing about this. In that case, it can't be helped!

“I'll leave it as that then, Minami! See you at school tomorrow!”

“Ah! Wait a minute, Aki!”

If all else fails, retreat! I ran away as fast as I can before Minami discovered even more.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume8 The First Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume8 The Third Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 Author's Notes

2012-04-19T06:44:00Z

128.189.154.252:

==Author’s Notes==

I really want to thank you for picking up this book. I’m the author of this novel, Inoue Kenji.

Unexpectedly, we’ve reached the ninth volume, and we managed to pile it up a bit. It’s thanks to everyone’s that this baka story could continue. Although I say that all the time, I really like thank the readers for their continuous support.

Unlike the last volume, this afterword is about 8 pages long, so I want to introduce some letters, mailcards and faxes the readers sent me. Actually, I really wanted to reply them all properly…

Alright, then, let me introduce the content of such letters.

“I love Muttsurini! Please make him Kudou-san’s boyfriend!”

“When will Aikou-chan and Muttsurini become girlfriend and boyfriend?”

“I’m a fan of Muttsurini! Since Aikou-chan said that she doesn’t love Muttsurini, create a character similar like mine to go out with him!”

There are many similar letters, and some readers even sent in some cute illustrations. I’m really happy, but I still can’t let such new characters debut, so I’m really sorry…

The readers who like Muttsurini seem to be divided into different groups. One wants ‘him to be with Aikou’, while the other group ‘doesn’t want Muttsurini to be with anyone’. I understand. If that’s the case, I’ll take the middle ground and ‘propose that Muttsurini’s a girl’. How does everyone feel about this? If that’s the case, it won’t be a question of whether he should be with anyone. It’s a good idea that can solve all this—nonono, you’re mistaken! I’m not envious that Muttsurini attracted a bunch of girls. This is just to set up a common consensus between the readers. It’s something I had to do! If you are still feeling doubtful, you can ask the leader of the FFF, Sugawa-kaichou. I think he will agree with me.

Alright, enough with the jokes. Now, there’s a lot of ‘will A be together with B’ questions. Well, I’m not really certain now. What kind of development will they have…? One letter even had this ‘I’ll give the Toko-Natsu pair to Inoue-sensei, so just let Hideyoshi be my wife’. I’ve been a member of society for 6 years, and this is the first time I heard of such an unreasonable deal.

Alright, next, it’ll be the next question. This would be a question everyone would ask me regardless of gender.

“What is ‘Souuke’?” [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References]

Inoue Kenji just met the biggest crisis of his life.

This is really…too unprecedented…! When I wrote ‘please promise me never to ask the meaning of these words to your parents’, I didn’t think that it would cause me to be in such a predicament…

But that’s right. Since you don’t know, and you were forbidden from asking, you can only ask the person who wrote this…

Mn, if I have to explain it…well, how should I pit it? If I have to put it, don’t they have a litmus paper test in science? A fluid’s nature is different, causing it to change colors. Using that example, it’ll be that the other pieces of paper will change color according to the fluid, but it would always change into the same color—eh? What’s that? Is it God’s punishment on me? Kami-sama…from tomorrow onwards, I’ll live a proper life. Please forgive me…

This question is like asking ‘where do babies come from’. Besides, you’ll know when it’s time, so everyone, please forget about this like good kids. Okay?

Alright, on to the next kind of letters. These are letters from readers who are aspiring to be novelists asking me questions.

“How do you think of such brilliant answers in the tests?”

“How do you come up with a story like Baka Test?”

“When would you think of such funny answers in the tests?”

There are many more like this, and also ‘the way I plan out the story’. I guess this should differ according to person, but to me, I included a lot of personal experience.

Like for example, something happened while I was dealing with a shipment from overseas.

As the meeting went halfway through, my superior started indicating all sorts of problems with regards to the foreign designs. Of course, all the prepared materials were in English, so everyone paid attention to the superior.

At this moment, the briefing included a part of my designing. So my superior turned to me and asked me.

Superior: “Inoue, did someone include the next design plan as response to this?”

My superior was talking about a investigation report on a foreign market that was written completely in English.

I wasn’t ready yet, so I got really anxious when I was called. But if I stood up to answer hurriedly, my superior wouldn’t believe me. To prevent that from happening, I then got up hurriedly from my chair and looked through the information in my hand to answer my superior’s question.

Me: (…I don’t understand what’s on the paper other than ‘this’ no matter how many times I read it…)

Because of that personal experience, I wrote a ‘do you only know how to translate the word ‘this’?’ in the test question. In this world, some things are useful to oneself, so readers, please don’t waste your personal experience and experience more about life.

On a side note, as for the predicament just now, I frantically searched through the report, and managed to roughly explain the data and layout to my superior. Well, I managed to get through. My sempai told me that the most important part about designing is to ‘fulfill my talent as much as I can’. Sempai, I managed to get through this, but I feel that it’s going to hit me hard one of these days. Dear readers, please don’t be like this Inoue-sama, and study your English well.

Of course, there were many more personal experiences based on me, but love, summoned beast system, cross dressing and homosexuality were all my creation. Especially the last two points, I’ll be really pitiful if those last two points happened to me…

Well well, there’s now very few pages left. Actually, I still have lots of letters I want to share with everyone, but I’ll just leave it till next time. To the readers who wrote to me, I really want to thank you.

From now on, I’m going to talk about parts that are relevant to the story. To the readers who haven’t read the book yet, we’ll say goodbye here.

I just mentioned about the ‘way Baka Test was written’. As for the part when the hidden ball was used. Hideyoshi’s declaration that he wanted to take a bath, it was just based on a little moment when me and my friend were paying baseball. Of course, it was like a motivation tactic as we just said things like ‘I really want to bath’ ‘yeah’ that kind of thing. If I remember correctly, on one occasion, we seemed to mix in a ‘hidden ball=I want to bath phrase’, but what will happen if it happens to others? Would we ve seriously bathing? Basically, not many people would come up with a hidden ball tactic.

As for the ball distribution and tactics, I’ll be really ashamed if the readers look into it too seriously. Please just close an eye with regards to this. Let’s not talk about the baseball rules, I already got a few mistakes in the baka test questions…so I’m really sorry for this…

Mn, and now for the thanks.

To Haga-sensei, who’s in charge of illustrations. My heart just danced when I took a peek at the cover illustration. Mizuki’s really too cute! As expected of the first (?) heroine in this story! The last one with Mizuki and Shouko talking together was really nice. I love it! And that picture when they forced Akihisa to go ‘ahh-’ (laughs). I’m really grateful that you would work hard to create such cute and cool pictures.

K-sama and N-sama, who’re in charge of editing, I’m sorry for stubbornly asking for many details in the ‘the rice’s the culprit part’. I guess there will be a few word and visual puns to express the humor, so please bear with me. As for the deadline to finish the script, I will abide by the timing as much as I can.

And I also like to thank the people involved in the making of the anime. It’s thanks to everyone that the world of Baka Test became even wider. I’m really grateful that you could think of so many interesting plots that I couldn’t think of. This allowed me to have a chance to learn about a world I don’t know about. It’s really interesting.

And most importantly, I want to thank the readers. Baka Test has now published 9 volumes, and I’m really happy to be able to walk down this path with all of you. I don’t know how this story will continue to develop, but I hope that everyone will continue to accompany me in this story. I’m really sorry for being unable to reply to the letters, postcards and e-mails, but I did read every single one of them thoroughly. These are my main source of energy. Thank you, everyone, for supporting me all this time. I’ll continue to work hard from today onwards!

And now, a preview to the next volume.

I think the next volume will be a short story. The content would be ‘strip poker with men’s pride on the line’ and the ‘same old yami hotpot those guys send over’ and more. However, these are just estimations. Maybe there will be more changes…if there’re really changes, I’ll like to say that I’m sorry here. I think the next volume will reach the readers’ hands pretty soon, at least that’s what I hope, so please continue to follow this story.

I look forward to seeing all of you on the next stage of Baka Test

[[Image:BTS vol 07 360.jpg|thumb]]

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Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Eighth Question

2012-04-19T06:32:48Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Eighth Question==

Please read the following passage and choose the wrong conclusion from the brackets.

:Jim and Della were a young couple. Even though they're poor, they still loved each other.
:Jim had a gift with him. It's the golden watch that's passed down from his family. And Della's treasure was the beautiful hair of hers.
:Christmas was about to arrive, and Della wanted to buy a gift for her beloved husband. She cut off her beautiful hair willingly and sold it to the wig shop. She used the money she earned from the sale to buy a platinum locket for Jim to hang on his golden watch.
:When Jim returned back home, he saw Della with her hair cut off...he wasn't angry, shocked, unhappy nor afraid, but felt complicated as the gift he bought for Della was that beautiful haircomb Della always wanted.[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References]

:(1) Because Della couldn't use the item he bought for her.
:(2) Because he felt happy about understanding Della's feelings for him.
:(3) Because the originally beautiful Della looked ugly now that her hair was cut, and Jim felt that it was a pity.
:(4) Because Jim already sold the golden watch, and the gift Della bought for him couldn't be used anymore.

'''Kirishima Shouko's answer:

(3)

'''Teacher's comment'''

That's correct. This is a famous story about Christmas. The gifts both husband and wife got for each other couldn't be used, but they understood each other's feelings for each other. It's a heartwarming story, and sensei hope that the students can have their own wonderful families in the future.

[[Image:BTS vol 07 295c.jpg|thumb]]
'''Kudou Aiko's answer'''

(3) *Short hair's rather cute too!

'''Teacher's comment'''

The answer's correct, but sensei feels that your understanding seem to be a little off.

Either way, the question stated to 'note the wrong conclusion', so (3) is the correct answer.

'''Sugawa Ryo's answer'''

(Ku)risumasu' (Christmas) supposed to be the celebration of Jesus Christ's birth. THIS STORY IS DAMN WRONG FOR HAVING MAN AND WOMAN EXCHANGE IN SOME SICKLY AND ICKY SWEET EMOTIONAL EXCHANGE!!

'''Teacher's comment'''

There's no such thing as option (Ku).

“ALRIGHT EVERYONE! LISTEN UP! WE HAVE ONLY TWO CHANCES TO COUNTERATTACK! WE HAVE TO GET THE POINTS AND OUR TREASURES BACK!”

“““OOOHHHHH!!!”””

“WE MAY LOSE TO THEM IN SCORES, BUT OUR ATHLETIC ABILITIES DEFINITELY WON’T LOSE! WE MUST LET THEM SEE THE ABILITY OF US YOUTH!

“““OOOHHHHH!!!”””

“WE’RE GOING ALL OUT FROM NOW ON! SO…PLEASE ASSIST ME A MUCH AS YOU CAN! WE’RE GOING TO GET OUR TREASURES BACK! OUR MOTTO IS—”

“““GET BACK ERO-BOOK!!!”””

“TIME TO COUNTERATTACK! LET’S DO IT, GUYS!!”

“““LEAVE IT TO US!!!”””

As Yuuji rallied everyone like usual, everyone got pumped. That Yuuji finally did what he had to do. Seems like he’s finally ready to bring on his real ability.

“KONDOU, YOKOMIZO, HIDEYOSHI!”

Yuuji called out the first, second and third batter, and the three people that were called out walked to Yuuji in unison.

“It’s time to carry out the plan. You guys know that we can’t win if we keep this up. Even if we managed to get a base on balls or hit by pitch, it’s unlikely that we’ll get any points from them.”

We managed to defend quite well just now, but our offense is rather pitiful. Yuuji’s right. Even if we manage to get on base somehow, we can’t guarantee that we will be able to get any points from them.

“So right now, we can only bank everything on this plan. I want you people to drag the time on as much as you can.”

“Mn, I got it.”

“For our Ero—for the sake of our reference books, I will think of something no longer how much time I have to drag on.”

“But we can’t fail this time.”

All 3 of them nod their heads and agreed to take part in this operation. It’s a rare chance for them to step up, so of course they wish to have an outstanding performance, so they agreed to the delaying tactic. Every time this happens, I always feel that they’re members of class F.

“Ero book, ero boo, ero book…”

“Pillow, swimsuit photo, bathroom curtain…”

…They’re really members of F class…

“PLAY!”

The batter will try to delay the game without breaking the rules as each of them entered the batter’s bunting position. It seems like he wants to get a foul ball to waste more time.

“Are you ready, Yuuji?”

“Of course. I already gave instructions to those guys. Now we just need to wait for the time to arrive.”

“Is that so? Then we can only pray for the three of them to delay time as much as possible.”

“Yeah.”

I exchanged words with Yuuji as I prayed earnestly inside while looking at the situation on the field. Our opponents are the teachers. I don’t even know whether we can even delay some time.

“STRIKE! BATTER OUT!”

“Ku…!”

After recovering, I found that Kondou-kun was forced into a tight spot. Even after hanging on for so long, he finally took 3 strikes.

The next batter Yokomizo-kun went all out to fight, but the opponent landed some perfect fastballs in some nice locations, and he got struck out as well. Hideyoshi’s the only batter left in this inning.

But, our chance—still hasn’t arrived yet.

“It guess it’s about time…”

“Just a little bit. It’ll begin in just a while. Do your best, Hideyoshi…”

“FOUL BALL!”

Just when we were discussing this, the match continued. Hideyoshi continued to swung the bat to try and hit the fastball the teacher pitched.

Right now, the time on the school wall is 2.28pm. it feels like time just went by so slowly because there’s no second hand.

“Damn it. If only that teacher pitched 4 balls…”

“Based on that teacher’s personality, I think he’ll pitch rather carefully.”

The pitcher for this inning is the English Writing teacher Yamada-sensei. Though the pitches he threw weren’t so fast that we couldn’t react, his control is rather good. Looking at this, I don’t think we can expect a 4 balls walk.

“Can’t we hit it out?”

“Well, we can’t possibly hit it far. Besides, the shortstop and second baseman are that Terai and Ooshima.”

One is Terai-sensei who’s young and played baseball before, and the other is the health and physical education teacher Ooshima-sensei. We can’t possibly beat them with our abilities even if we do our best. Besides, the opponent can’t possibly throw four balls, so we can only pray for Hideyoshi to do his best and hang on…

“FOUL BALL!”

I don’t know how many foul balls has it been now, and right now, It’s 1 ball and 2 strikes. While the opponent can throw a ball, we can’t allow any mistakes here. However, with the teacher throwing that many pitches, Hideyoshi’s concentration should be at his limit.

“Not yet, not yet…”

“Hang in there, please, Hideyoshi…”

I can feel these anxious emotions climbing up our backs, but as we are only watching the match, the only thing we can do is to pray.

KLANG!

“FOUL!”

Every time the ball was pitched, cold sweat would break out of my back. Looking at how things stand now, it won’t be weird for Hideyoshi to be out at this point.

The palm of my tightly clenched fist is filled with sweat as I bend my upper body on the bench, earnestly waiting for the time to arrive fast.

“…It’s here.”

Suddenly, Muttsurini muttered.

“Uu!!”

Yuuji felt jumpy and turned around, looking at the loudspeaker hanging on the school building.

“...Zzu…zu…”

Some static could be heard from the loudspeaker as the sharp sounds reached our ears.

“IS IT HERE?”

Yuuji shouted out in excitement.

The next second, the audio broadcast could be heard throughout the entire sports arena.

“Right now, there will be a borrowing race in the center sports hall. All participants, please head to the designated area—”

<big>“““IT’S HERE—!!!”””</big>

Everyone cried out in unison.

After that, Hideyoshi was thrown out and finally ruled to be out. Now, it’ll be a switchover, but even so…we achieved our objective!

“Yare yare…looks like I managed to succeed.”

“Ahh! Hideyoshi! Nice going! Nice job too, Kondou and Yokomizo!”

Patting Hideyoshi’s shoulder as he returned to the bench, Yuuji looked extremely happy. We were waiting for this moment!

“Eh? What’s wrong with them? We got 3 outs on them, yet they look so happy.”

“Uu, who knows.”

“Those guys must be planning something.”

Several teachers feel amazed by our reaction. It’s true that our attack ended, but this is a trap for our next inning. We focused on the last inning, and we have to use that inning to get our final victory!

“Yoshii, Sakamoto. I don’t know what you’re happy about, but hurry up and get on field to defend!”

Ironman walked to our noisy bench and prompted us to hurry up and get ready.

“We know, but just wait.”

“? Wait for what?”

“You’ll see. I think they’ll be here soon.”

I smiled to Ironman who doesn’t understand anything and looked around. As expected, a few people are running over to us. They’re here! Our class F classmates!”

“What are those guys doing? Why are they rushing so fast—”

Ironman stared at the 3 students who came running here and can’t help but have a question mark above his head. At this moment, those students shouted at the supervising teachers who are on the baseball field.

“Endou-sensei! We’re having a borrowing race! Sorry, but please come along with us!”

“Eh? But I have to be in charge of the match here!”

“Just come along with us!”

“But—”

“It’s useless to talk further! An ordinary event’s much more important than the baseball tournament!”

“““—u?”””

I can see several teachers widening their eyes in shock. That’s right, this event was planned beforehand. This baseball match’s just used as a good chance to get along, and the other events are of priority.

“Ah, well…sorry senseis. I have to go first.”

“Hurry up, sensei!”

The teacher in charge of supervision in this match, Endou-sensei, got dragged by the hand.

“This can’t be helped. The teachers on the bench will have to—”

“Funakoshi-sensei! Please come along with us!”

“Takenaka-sensei, please!”

The other two teachers on the bench were called up, and the ones who called them were our F class members as well. With that, the teachers have no more additional help.

“Sakamoto, that’s your plan, right?”

“Well, what do you think?”

“Stop messing around. Weren’t the people who came over all F class people?”

“Haha, that’s a coincidence, right?”

Of course it’s not. After knowing the lineup of the teachers, Yuuji already requested our classmates to borrow a few teachers away. I guess the paper they drew should be something completely different from what they needed to borrow.

“Ironman, there’s no other teachers left now, you know.”

“Can’t be helped. I’ll just have to ask the teachers in the previous few innings.”

“That’ll be against the rules. The rules were already decided that the ‘same subject can’t be used twice’. Didn’t you forget?”

“Then what do you want me to do? There’s no more teachers who can act as supervisor, and we can’t use any teachers who’ve supervised the previous few subjects. Are you planning on making us compete with 8 players?”

Ironman’s sharp eyes brush past our faces. He must have thought that we will use this to render the match useless. No no, who’ll do such a bothersome thing? Besides, we won’t get any benefit if that’s the case.

“I—Nishimura-sensei, there are other subjects that can be used to decide this, isn’t it?”

“What are you saying, Yoshii. The teachers who were able to supervise were taken away.”

“No. What I mean is that even if the supervising teachers were taken away, there’s another subject that can allow us to continue playing.”

This is the plan Yuuji thought of in the beginning. Using the sports meet exchange match’s programmed rules to let us continue this match, a way for us to win.

“For the 5th inning, we’ll use physical education—we’ll win with our real ability!”

We’re not deciding this through marks, but using our own bodies. Physical education is able another subject the students need to learn. We’ll use this real baseball match to thoroughly crush the teachers.

“Alright, everyone. Put on your gloves! The 5th inning’s not going to be easy!”

Yuuji stretched his arm out and pointed at the gloves we borrowed from the baseball club beforehand.

Thus, it’s now the final inning. This is the only teachers-vs-students exchange match, and it will now begin for real.

<center>☆</center>

“ALRIGHT! TIME TO BRING OUR ALL TO THE FIELD!”

“““UOOHHHH!!!”””

Again, I’m the pitcher now, and Yuuji returned back to being the catcher. Our opponent this time is the seventh batter Hasegawa-sensei who’s on for the second time. I was really scared until a while back, but at this moment, I don’t feel afraid at all.

(Outside corner, high, curve.)

I pitch the ball according to Yuuji’s direction. Although my pitching ability’s only at recreational level, but it’s enough to deal with the teachers who aren’t athletic enough!

“Uu…”

“STRIKE!”

Hasegawa-sensei just stood there blankly as the ball just flew into the catcher’s glove. With that, we managed to take the lead in the ballcount.

(Keep low. Straight.)

Nodding my head slightly, I pitched it down and middle. Now, I’ve already forced Hasegawa-sensei into a tight corner.

(Inside corner. Low. Slow ball.)

This is a feisty ball from Yuuji. I smirk slightly and pitch a slow ball as according to his instruction.

“Oh, oh my.”

Completely missing the timing of the slow ball, Hasegawa-sensei bent low but missed the swing.

“STRIKEOUT!”

We dealt with one. Now the next batter’s Ujiie-sensei, and after that, it’s Yamada-sensei.

Yuuji and I mixed slow balls and changeups to mess around the opponent’s batting. This unkind mix dealt with Ujiie-sensei and Yamada-sensei well.

“BATTER OUT! CHANGE!”

The umpire called for a change over.

“Good thing we weren’t facing Ironman or Ooshima-sensei.”

“Yeah.”

I returned back to the rest area and exchanged a few words with Hideyoshi nearby. Good thing we weren’t facing Ironman or Ooshima-sensei. In a real match. Those two will definitely be the people we need to watch out for.

“Actually, I really wished that we could borrow them in the borrowing race.”

“Let’s not talk about the kind Endou-sensei. It won’t be that easy to borrow Ironman and Ooshima-sensei.”

Hideyoshi’s right. Those two won’t let us drag them away so easily. Maybe they might even ask to see the content of the paper. If that happened, our lies will be seen through. We would end up revealing the content of the papers if we asked too much, and that’ll be adding insult to injury. So we have to play just a little risk.

“It seems that Ironman and Ooshima-sensei still don’t trust us.”

“After doing so many stupid things, it’s no wonder they won’t believe us.”

We returned to the bench while talking.

After the outfielders all returned, Yuuji looked around at everyone and finally spoke up,

“Alright…now, it’s our last chance to attack.”

Right now, the score’s 0-1. It’s now the bottom half of the last inning. This is our last attack.

“It’s not enough to get a point. We’ll lose if we can’t get a turnaround in this inning. We don’t have a chance of winning in extra innings.”

If we get into extra innings, the teachers who were taken away for the borrowing race will come back. At that time, we’ll go back to deciding this match using scores. At that point, our chances of winning will become zero.

“This inning is the time when we have to show off our real ability. No matter what, we have to get 2 points. LISTEN UP, YOU GUYS! WE ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO WIN THIS MATCH!!!”

“““OOHHHH!!!”””

Our morale’s really strong, so strong that we can see the light of victory. Now, we can only progress on.

However, at this moment—

“If that’s the case, can I switch out with Tsuchiya?”

“Eh?”

“As the first batter of this inning, Minami suddenly made this request. Switch out? What does she want to do?

“What’s wrong, Minami? Don’t you have any confidence?”

“Mn, one reason is that I don’t have the confidence. Either way, I can’t possibly play baseball as well as guys. A girl’s physical abilities can’t match a guy, and I’m not so experienced with baseball after all.”

“I see…girls don’t really get involved in baseball often.”

As compared to us who often skip class to play baseball, Minami’s experience with baseball is really minimal. However, I don’t think she would lose to anyone of us in terms of athletic ability…

“So I want to switch with Tsuchiya. Tsuchiya would definitely perform better than me. And besides—”

“Besides?”

“Besides, in moments like this, a guy showing his best in baseball looks really cool, doesn’t he?”

While saying that, Minami smiled happily.

Minami really looked cute for saying this. Though she did all sorts of terrifying things in front of us, but maybe she has the heart of a girl more than anyone. That idea suddenly popped up in me.

“…I’m going.”

Muttsurini picked the bat up and walked towards home plate. After indicating to the umpire that he wanted to exchange places with Minami, he entered the batter’s box.

“PLAY!”

The umpire called for the bottom half of the 5th inning to begin. The batter’s Muttsurini, and the pitcher we’re going up against is the P.E. teacher Ooshima-sensei.

“Ironman’s the catcher…seems like they’re wary of us making a close play.”

“Well, we were the ones who said that we wanted to take revenge.”

Most likely, they’re afraid that once we hit the ball, the baserunner running to first base will collide with the catcher. If Ironman’s the one blocking main base, we’ll be blocked by him or even sent flying away no matter how hard we ram in. We have no chance of winning if we ram into the catcher.

Ooshima-sensei pitched the first ball rather forcefully as the arm swung down. The ball zipped through the wind and flew into the glove.

“…uu (PANK!)”

“STRIKE!”

Muttsurini swung the bat below the ball and missed. If he swung it below the ball, it means that the opponent’s pitch was a lot faster than he thought. As expected of Ooshima-sensei. He’s really a P.E teacher.”

“…(su)”

Muttsurini readied his bat again. Ooshima-sensei and Ironman spent some time with the signal, and the second pitch was thrown.

This pitch seems to be flying at a fastball speed, but it glided sideways at the last second. Is that…a slider!? It’s just a teachers-vs-students exchange match. What sort of ball was he pitching! That’s not like what a mature adult would do!”

“STRIKE!”

Muttsurini missed the second swing. Now, it’s two strikes, and he’s trapped now.

“Nice pitching, Ooshima-sensei.”

Ironman threw the ball back at Ooshima-sensei as he said that. Right now, Muttsurini’s staring at Ooshima-sensei’s wrist as he gets ready to bat.

Ooshima-sensei pitched a curveball this time. Will Muttsurini be struck out?

“BALL!”

The umpire decided that this was a ball. Looking at where Ironman was putting his glove at, I thought it would be a strike again….it seems like Ooshima-sensei’s control isn’t that good.

Ooshima-sensei swung his arm and pitched the fourth ball. This ball…will he hit it…!?

“…GO…!”

The ball flew by the pitcher and rolled to third base. Hasegawa-sensei’s guarding third base, and I never heard that he’s athletic. There should be no problems.

“Oh, oh my.”

After picking up the ball, Hasegawa-sensei hurriedly threw to first base, but Muttsurini already passed first base before the ball even reached there.

“SAFE!”

“““WOOOOOHHHH—!!”””

Nice! Now we have the tying run on base. Now, it’s no man out, one man on first base, and the next batter is—

“I’LL FOLLOW TSUCHIYA AND GET ON BASE!”

The leader of the FFF—Sugawa-kun.

Sugawa-kun grabbed the bat with swagger and waits for the ball. Ooshima-sensei pitched a straight fastball at Sugawa-kun.

“…Gu…!”

“STRIKE!”

Sugawa-kun just stood there with wide eyes. He probably never expected Ooshima-sensei’s pitch to be that amazing.

Ooshima-sensei then pitched a few more fastballs, and Sugawa-kun missed. After going off, Fukumura-kun went past him and entered the batter’s box.

“…That was fast. Watch out there.”

“Mn, I got it.”

Having returned to the bench, Sugawa-kun reminded me. I have never seen Sugawa-kun look so serious, even though it was for the ero-books.

“Ku…!”

Fukumura-kun swung the bat, and the ball rolled up to the front of the pitcher. It seems like his swing lost to the power of the pitch.

Ooshima-sensei quickly picked the ball up, checked the condition at second base, and saw that the agile Muttsurini was about to reach second base with several centimeters left.

Giving up on second base, Ooshima-sensei then coolly passed to first base to throw Fukumura-kun off. Right now, it’s 2 men out with the runner on second base.

Finally, it’s time for the next batter, and I stepped up.

“Aki. The timing’s really great. You’ll be the hero if you can knock that out!”

“Well, please do your best, Akihisa-kun! I’ll be cheering for you here!”

The two girls in our class cheered for me energetically. Of course, I’m really happy that they would encourage me, and I hope to perform well now. However—

“Thanks. I don’t know if I can live up to your expectations, but I’ll do my best.”

Anyway, I can only answer like this, and I turn around and head to the batter’s box.

“So you’re the batter, Yoshii. Seems like things just got interesting.”

The catcher Ironman said that to me as I entered the batter’s box.

Yeah. I feel that this is really interesting.

“Yup. If I can get a base hit, we’ll catch up, and I’ll be the hero of our class.”

“Those girls just cheered for you, right? I know that you want to hit it out—but as a teacher, I have a pride that won’t allow me to lose. I won’t let you hit it out like that.”

“I never expected you to give me any leeway anyway.”

I answered Ironman and raised the bat.

Ooshima-sensei already got ready to pitch the ball. After that, the pitch from Ooshima-sensei flew by me and landed directly into Ironman’s glove.

“BALL!”

The first ball was a ball. It didn’t land into the strikezone well. Maybe he’s wary of me.

“I thought that you would swing at the first pitch.”

“Because you thought that I would try to act cool in front of the girls?”

“Mn, you can say that.”

Ironman pitched the ball back to Ooshima-sensei. I twist my neck lightly and stamp on the ground below me lightly to flatten the red dirt ground lightly and hold the bat in my hand tightly.

Ooshima-sensei checked that Muttsurini’s still at second base, and then pitched the ball at me. It’s a fastball this time, low at the strikezone.

“STRIKE!”

I silently let this ball fly past. Seeing me like this, Ironman seem to feel that something’s not right. It seems like he’s thinking that I’m thinking something bad again.

After checking Ironman’s signal and the position of the glove, Ooshima-sensei threw the third pitch.

“BALL!”

Facing the third pitch, I still had no intention of swinging the bat. This time, the ball felt like it was outside the strikezone. It seems like they’re becoming more wary of me now.

“What’s wrong, Yoshii? Not going to hit?”

“Yeah. Well, how should I put it…I have a lot of ideas in my mind.”

I deliberately made such a taunting tone to make Ironman more wary of me.

I don’t know what Ironman’s feeling now, but I can feel that Ironman just moved the glove slightly behind me.

“BALL!”

Another ball. Now it’s 3 balls and one strike. Right now, the opponent can only fight it out with me.

“…”

Ironman adjusted the glove for the fifth pitch, and I silently grip the bat for Ooshima-sensei’s pitch.

The ball went nicely down the middle to the strikezone. Unlike the four powerful pitches before, this pitch focuses on control instead. I don’t think it’s a curveball, so it’s time to swing the bat. Facing this ball, I have confidence that I can hit this half the time. But…

“STRIKE!”

I still didn’t swing the bat. Though I am confident that I can hit the ball half the time, it means that I will miss half the time.

“Is that really alright, Yoshii? Don’t you want to be the hero to tie this ball game?”

“No, I do want to be the hero.”

Seeing that I let the ball slip by, Ironman looked really intrigued and couldn’t help but say that to me. To him, it seems that I don’t want to knock a base hit. Well, it’s no wonder he would think that way when I didn’t hit that ball just now.

As I hold the bat to a short position, the sixth pitch immediately came to me. Like the pitch just now, this pitch focused on control as it landed into a nice center position. At this moment, I can’t let any ball pass by me.

KLANG! I swing the bat to let out a nice crisp and light sound, and the ball rolled out of first base.

“FOUL!”

Right now, it’s 2 strikes and 3 balls.

“…Are you waiting for a base on balls? That’s a passive way of thinking.”

“Ah, no. I don’t mean that—”

“Humph. Stop lying. From the way you swung the bat, even an idiot can tell what you’re thinking.”

Having seen me swing the bat, Ironman muttered. He’s right, I am aiming for a base on balls. I intend to hit all the pitches into foul territory until the final ball comes.

“It’s rare to have such a chance, and yet you want to waste it.”

“Well…actually, I was thinking the same way…”

KLANG!

“FOUL!”

The seventh pitch was a foul ball as well. Ooshima-sensei should be irritated by now?

“But since it’s a rare chance, I want to repay what I borrowed.”

“Repay? What do you mean?”

KLANG!

“FOUL!”

“Uu…how should I say it? I’m really troubled. I bet everything on such an important match, yet I didn’t accomplish anything before this thing ends.”

“Hm? What are you saying?”

“I can only wish that others can finish off this wish that I would never give up on. Should I be depressed, or angry, or is it an inexplicable feeling…”

“I have no idea what you’re trying to say here.”

KLANG!

“FOUL!”

I hit the ball aside, and it grazed past the grass.

I grip my bat again, and watch the opponent pitch the ball.

“I don’t know how to express it, but anyway—”

“Anyway? What are you trying to say?”

The ball zipped past the outside corner.

I didn’t swing the bat this time, but casually answered Ironman’s question.

“—I’M JUST UNHAPPY THAT I’M NOT THE MAIN CHARACTER TODAY!”

“BALL! BASE ON BALLS!”

Ooshima-sensei’s concentration was finally worn out by me and finally lost control. Now I can get onto first base.

“Speaking of which, sensei. Is that really alright?”

“What?”

“If you really want to fight it out with us, you would send me and Yuuji onto base, and focus on Himeji-san, right?”

Ironman faced off against me. If that’s the case, he would be going up against Yuuji too. If the teachers wants to win this game without worry, they would focus on Himeji-san who’s after that.

On hearing me say this, Ironman remained silent, and suddenly burst out laughing.

“WHAT ARE YOU SAYING, YOSHII!? LISTEN UP—”

Ironman pointed at me and said it clearly to me.

“We teachers have to be role models for you students. If we can’t face you all head on, what can we teach you!”

Now that he mentioned it, I can’t say anything for a while. This teacher’s always giving us corporal punishment, so why didn’t anyone sue him to the educational committee. At this moment, I seem to understand the reason.

Our conversation came to an end. I turn around to look at the batter, Yuuji. Yuuji’s staring back at me.

“I paid you back for the test of courage, Yuuji.”

“…Stop joking around. Don’t think you owe me just that.”

I passed my bat to Yuuji, who gripped it tight. Alright, now I’m a runner at first base, and now I can only leave everything to Yuuji.

“I’ll leave the rest to you then.”

“Got it. I’ll hit the ball out.”

I nod hard at his forceful reply and turn to walk towards first base.

Our class F just needs to catch up by one point. Right now, it’s two men out and runners on first and second. If Yuuji can hit a long ball, we can win with a base hit, but if only one person returns to first base, we’ll definitely lose in extra innings. This is an easy to understand situation.

Right now, my body’s stiff straight due to the tension, and I can only stand at first base and watch the duel between the pitcher and batter. Once the ball gets hit, I have to run with all I got. If I can get to home plate, it’ll be our F class win.

After Ooshima-sensei checked the runners at first and second, they got ready to pitch.

The first pitch left Ooshima-sensei’s hand.

“ST—STRIKE!!”

The signal of the strike rang throughout the entire arena. The way I see it, this ball was really fast. The fatigue of the full count off was still there, but Ooshima-sensei just pitched it as it were nothing. It was strong as ever, and no wonder Muttsurini was only about to hit a short ball.

Ironman threw the ball back at Ooshima-sensei. Both of them decided on the next pitch, and Ooshima-sensei again got ready to pitch.

“BALL!”

This time, it’s a low ball. Yuuji didn’t swing as he just let that fly by. Right now, it’s 1 ball 1 strike.

Everyone can only swallow their saliva and wait for this crucial third pitch.

Ooshima-sensei rested his right hand on his shirt and wipes off the sweat.

Yuuji focuses his weight on the back foot, seemingly storing energy so that he can launch a hard one here.

Ooshima-sensei tilted his body forward and forcefully swung the ball.

That was a fastball that came right at the batter.

Swinging the back foot that’s acting as the center of gravity, Yuuji spins his body and swings the bat hard.

--KLANG!

The crisp sound echoed throughout the arena.

““—u!!””

At that moment, Muttsurini and I used all our strength to sprint to the next base.

[[Image:BTS vol 07 339.jpg|thumb]]

The ball landed right in front of the center fielder, and the center fielder who’s rather far out ran front to get that bouncing ball.

Muttsurini, who was on second base, quickly stepped onto third base and ran to home. And I stepped onto second base and ran to third.

I can feel the teacher in charge of center field picking up the ball.

“Ooshima-sensei!”

What entered my ears was the voice of a young teacher. Terai-sensei picked the ball up and quickly passed the ball to Ooshima-sensei who’s in the middle.

At that moment, Muttsurini stepped onto first base. It’s now 1-1. We’re even!

The third base coach told me to stop.

This instruction is correct. Besides, I won’t make it if I continue to run. But even so—

“““YOSHII!!”””

I stepped onto third base and continued running to home.

Now’s the time. I have to get onto home plate!

I frantically try to run on the arena. I’m almost there. There’s just 5 m left.

At this moment, Ironman caught the ball from Ooshima-sensei. He’s blocking me as I continue to run to first base, spreading himself defensively to block me in a melee brawl. As we collide, if the ball dropped out from Ironman’s glove, I’ll win. However, Ironman will win if I get blocked completely.

“—Uu!”

I grit my teeth and lowered my body as I get ready to crash in. Like me, Ironman immediately lowered his center of gravity to block me.

At this moment,

“—U!”

I tilt my body aside and spin around Ironman.

“Uu? Ku—!”

Trying to block my impact and lowering his center of gravity, Ironman couldn’t catch up to my unexpected action. As his body slowed down by half a step, I fall forward and reach my hand out to home plate.

The dust scattered, and everyone present couldn’t help but hold their breaths.

And then, the umpire loudly declared the outcome of this game.

“—SAFE!!!”

<big>“““YYYYYYYYYEEEESSSSSSS!!!”””</big>

Everyone in F class jumped up from the bench and let out delighted cries.

“…Nice going, Yoshii.”

Pa Pa. Ironman patted the dust of his shirt and said that to me.

“Because I thought that it could work?”

“It could work? Even if I were the opponent?”

“No, since I’m going up against Nishimura-sensei, I felt that it could work. Didn’t sensei tell me that?”

I impishly imitated Ironman’s tone,

“‘We teachers have to be role models for you students. If we can’t face you all head on, what can we teach you!’”

As I understood Ironman’s personality, I felt that it could work. Because he’s one that will honestly block me head on, so I felt that this bypass plan could work.

On hearing me explain that, Ironman couldn’t help but widen his eyes, and then responds happily,

“I see. If that’s the case, I have to change my attitude on you next time.”

“THE TEACHERS-VS-STUDENTS MATCH BETWEEN CLASS 2-F AND THE TEACHERS ENDED! FINAL SCORE’S 2-1. CLASS 2-F WIN!”

“““THANK YOU FOR THE MATCH!!”””

Finally, the baseball tournament that belonged to us ended.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Seventh Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Final Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Seventh Question

2012-04-19T05:45:41Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Seventh Question==

'''Please choose the correct element symbol corresponding to the question, and write down the correct name of the element.'''

''‘Mn O S Na I Pb Ne’''

# Has a crystal-lattice structure. It will react strongly with water to form a yellowish flame.
# Has a boiling point of 184.26 degrees Celsius and melting point of 113.75 degrees Celsius. It reacts with Starch to form a blue compound.
# Has a relative atomic mass of 54. The oxide material is commonly used as a catalyst to decompose oxides into oxygen and water.
# A rare element. It is in the second period. It can be liquefied and used as a refrigerant.[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References]

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer'''

"1--Na (Sodium), 2--I (Iodine), 3--Mn (Manganese), 4--Ne (Neon)"

''"Teacher's comment'''

Correct answer. Once you can memorize all these names of the elements, you can explain the reactions of each element. So you have to memorize the basics.

'''Shimada Minami's Answer'''

"I don't want to write."

[[Image:BTS vol 07 237c.jpg|thumb]]
'''Teacher's Comment'''

What's wrong? I'm really sad that you don't want to take the test. Sensei always thought that Shimada-san is a hardworking girl. I'm disappointed that you aren't willing to answer the question. I can understand if you don't know the answer, but that isn't an excuse. Before we talk about studying, you have a big problem with your attitude. If you don't correct this now, it will be tough on you when you go out into society.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's Answer'''

"1--Na ( ナ), 2--I (イ), 3--Mn (ム), 4--Ne (ネ)"[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References]

'''Teacher's Comment'''

I really have to apologize to Shimada-san.

Even though it’s just an activity on the sports meet schedule, the most important event in the sports meet to us is the baseball tournament. Before starting the finals that involve life and death, we’re all gathered at the F class bench near 1st base as we all check our batting arrangements.

“So Kinoshita’s third. The first subject’s Chemistry, right?”

“Mn. My other subjects are rather bad, but this batting order is good for me if it’s Chemistry.”

“My Chemistry’s one of my better subjects too. The opponents are of that level, so we have to compete with them using the subjects we’re good at.”

“Me too. World history and English were too difficult. I couldn’t even compete with others.”

This time, our opponents are the teachers’ team. Since they’re somewhat old, their athletic ability and decision making should have decreased quite a lot, but their scores alone make them our strongest opponents. It wouldn’t be overzealous of us to check our defensive alignments and make sure what we will do later.

“Is it really okay for Yuuji to take the eighth batter?”

“…My English and world history are somewhat manageable.”

Yuuji coldly responded. It seems like he’s not too happy at the moment, maybe he’s feeling down.

“Really…it can’t be helped that Yuuji would be so angry, but we can’t involve these two together.”

I try to calm Yuuji down for the next match. At this moment, I feel someone tugging at my sleeve. Who is it?

(Well, Akihisa-kun…)

(Hm? Himeji-san? What’s wrong?)

(When Akihisa-kun said that it couldn’t be helped, is it because you felt that it’s weird for Sakamoto-kun to be so angry?)

Himeji-san kept her voice to the softest possible in order not to let Yuuji hear it.

Even if she asks me if I feel this way, I…

(Not really. It’s just that from all I know, even when Kirishima-san got so angry at Yuuji, it couldn’t change anything…)

Basically, I’m leaning towards Kirishima-san’s side instead of Yuuji’s side, but this just can’t be settled like that.

(I think Sakamoto-kun just argued back like that because Shouko-chan said that, so it’s not really all Sakamoto-kun’s fault, but…)

Himeji-san’s tone had at little sadness in it.

(But when he calms down, I really hope that Sakamoto-kun will apologize to Shouko-chan properly, or else Shouko-chan will be feeling pitiful.)

Saying this, Himeji-san looked down.

It seems that Himeji-san is completely standing on Kirishima-san’s side, but I can understand Yuuji’s feelings… Uu… are the guys’ pattern of thought different from girls in this situation?

“Now, we’ll be beginning the teachers-vs-students baseball meet, all students, please assemble in a straight line.”

The refereeing teacher spoke up.

“Oi, stop chit-chatting over there. Time to go, Akihisa.”

“Ah, I’m coming over.”

Anyway, we’ll leave this aside for now, everyone, including the bench players went over to the middle of the sports arena as we line up. The teachers also walk over casually from 3rd base, and line up against up.

“MATCH BEGIN!”

“““Please take care of us!”””

After bowing, we head to our defensive positions.

In this match, we’ll be pitching first and batting later, so I stood on the pitcher’s mound. The first subject should be Chemistry. I’m the pitcher, and Yuuji’s still the catcher.

# First batter: 3rd baseman Kondou Yoshimune
# Second batter: Left fielder Yokomizo Koji
# Third batter: 1st baseman Kinoshita Hideyoshi
# Fourth batter: 2nd baseman Shimada Minami
# Fifth batter: Center fielder Sugawa Ryo
# Sixth batter: Shortstop Fukumura Kohei
# Seventh batter: Pitcher Yoshii Akihisa
# Eighth batter: Catcher Sakamoto Yuuji
# Ninth batter: Right fielder Himeji Mizuki
Bench players: Kimishima Hiroshi and Tsuchiya Kouta (Muttsurini)

[[Image:BTS vol 07 253.jpg|thumb]]

After calling out my summoned beast, I just need to wait for the opponent to step up.

“Baseball, huh... Haven't played it for over 20 years—summon.”

The first batter of the teachers’ team, Fuse-sensei entered the batter’s box and summoned his summoned beast.

Chemistry Teacher, Fuse Fumihiro, Chemistry, 501 points

Vs

F Class, Yoshii Akihisa, Chemistry, 57 points.

Though it’s to be expected, isn’t this difference in scores too huge! If he hits it, the ball I pitched will be sent flying out of the park.

I’m facing such a strong opponent at the beginning. Now what do I do…

I stand on the pitcher’s mound and wait for Yuuji’s instruction. We can't use curveballs, so Yuuji could only instruct me with the ball direction and speed.

(Outside corner, low, slow ball.)

As the teachers were running all the events of the sports meet, they only came over to play with us when it’s time for the match. In other words, these teachers are having their first match. Yuuji guessed that they would let the ball through first, so this is to be expected.

I nod my head slightly and pitch the first ball. Outside corner, low and slow ball…!

“STRIKE!”

Fuse-sensei didn’t move at all. As expected, he’s watching carefully. They themselves haven’t played much baseball, so it’s expected that it he would be cautious.

(Inside corner, high, slow ball)

Yuuji next instructed a ball. Is he trying to use a ball to see how the opponent will react?

I swing my arm wide and pitch the 2nd ball.

“…”

“BALL!”

Fuse-sensei seemed to move a bit, but he didn’t swing the bat. This means that it’s one ball one strike.

(Low inside corner, fastball.)

It’s the 3rd pitch now, and the opponent should be swinging now. I have to be very careful with this pitch.

I swing my arm wide and pitch the ball with all I got. Eat this, Fuse-sensei! This is my, our F class’ full power—!

“Where are you pitching this ball to?”

Damn it, I used too much force.

In this situation where the ball would normally be hit, my pitch went straight to the strike zone in a dangerous matter.

“U!? Oh, oh my…”

On seeing this ball, Fuse-sensei seemed to lose his balance for some reason as he swung the bat out. That’s strange? What just happened?

The ball had grazed the bat and immediately felt up into the sky. I’m impressed that there was so much power with just a simple graze, but unfortunately, this ball was hit too poorly.

“OUT!”

In the end, the ball got hit into the air and finally reached the left fielder’s glove. We managed to eliminate the first batter safely. That lack of control scared me, but it’s a good thing that it’s under control.

“Yare yare…I got too anxious because the ball was too good…”

Fuse-sensei chuckled wryly as he returned back to the bench. I see, since the ball was pitched better than what he expected, he got shocked and panicked. It may be a coincidence, but to be able to deal with a Chemistry teacher in the subject of Chemistry is a strong start for us.

“I’ll be the next batter. Summon.”

This time, it’s a young man’s voice. This isn’t the voice of Takeuchi-sensei who usually teaches our class, but rather, the other modern literature teacher of year 2, Terai-sensei.

Modern Literature Teacher, Terai Shinsuke, Chemistry, 211 points

Vs

F Class, Yoshii Akihisa, Chemistry, 57 points.

211 points? Since he’s the teacher in charge of Modern Literature, he’s not really that good in Chemistry, I guess. Well, but at least his grades are in class A level.

(Keep it low as possible, fastball.)

I nod my head at Yuuji’s comment, making sure not to throw a wild pitch. The ball path—locked on. How about this?

“…Ha!”

KAN! With a blunt impact sound, the ball was hit low as it quickly grazed pass the ground. It went through the hole between first and second base. Ku...! He took action so quickly…!

“I thought I could hit the center of the ball. Looks like it’s really different from playing it live.”

Terai-sensei gave a wry smile after standing on first base. Speaking of which, I heard that Terai-sensei once played baseball in school…maybe it would have been better to give a ball?

Right now, it’s one man out, one man on first base, and the third batter who’ll come up is—

“Let’s have a good game.”

The talented woman who’s our level head, Takahashi Yoko-sensei, stepped up. Today, she’s not wearing the speck-free suit, but a sports attire that’s suitable for this event. This makes her look even more kind and approachable.

“Please hold back, Yoshii-kun—summon.”

Takahashi-sensei normally wouldn’t initiate a conversation with us, so this is a rare and valuable experience. Speaking of which, the last time we spoke to each other was during the 2nd year guys peeping incident. Thinking about this, I feel that having this event to improve the relationship between students and teachers is actually—SOMEBODY SAVE ME!!!

Level head, Takahashi Yoko, Chemistry, 801 points

Vs

F Class, Yoshii Akihisa, Chemistry, 57 points.

“““GUHOOO!!!”””

I didn’t need to look back to tell that everyone in their defensive positions all cried out in amazement when they saw the score. 800 points!! What’s with this person? Why is her score even higher than that of a teacher in charge of Chemistry!!

(We can’t fight it out with her. Send her on base.)

Yuuji used his eyes to indicate that I send her on base. Of course, I would agree with his view. How can I win against someone with such a terrifying score using my own score? It can’t be helped that we have to send her on base. I see, so that’s how it is. All our opponents up till now probably felt the same way when they faced Himeji-san—hm?

“That’s strange? What’s going on…”

Takahasi-sensei’s summoned beast that was standing in the batter’s box seemed to be doing something wrong. I know she looks clumsy, but it’s not just that…ah! She mixed up the way she should be holding the bat. The left and right hands are both placed wrongly. In that case…

(Let’s fight it out, Yuuji. It seems that Takahashi-sensei doesn’t really know how to play baseball.)

I told Yuuji to check Takahashi-sensei’s hands with my eyes. After being prompted by me, Yuuji realized that Takahashi-sensei placed her hands wrongly, and immediately got ready to catch as he positions the glove.

“Takahashi-sensei, your hands are positioned wrongly. You can’t hit well like this.”

“Ahh, that’s right…thank you for reminding me, Nishimura-sensei.”

Ready to get on, Ironman reminded Takahashi-sensei, and she immediately put her hands properly. Right now, she’s holding the bat correctly, but now that confirms our guess that Takahashi-sensei can’t play baseball. If that’s the case, it’s not impossible to get her out.

(Outside corner, high, fastball.)

Noticing the position and manner that Takahashi-sensei’s holding the bat, Yuuji slightly adjusted the position of the glove. Bait her with a ball…I think she can’t play baseball well, so maybe it’s a good idea to let her swing and miss.

I follow Yuuji’s instruction and get ready to pitch. As I pitch

“Let me see, like this?”

Takahashi-sensei suddenly changed her posture and holds her bat again.

“STRIKE!”

As I deliberately pitched the ball out of the strike zone, Takahashi-sensei didn’t hit the ball as it flew directly into Yuuji’s glove. Is she trying to bunt…? Un…

(Let her bunt if she wants to. We can add another out.)

Yuuji threw the ball back and gave me this instruction. Yuuji’s right. If Takahashi-sensei wants to bunt to advance the runner, we can add another out. The reason’s simple. The next batter will be the 4th batter, and it will be the teacher with the highest score. We will send him on base no matter what. In other words, the runner on first base will go to second base no matter what. With one person out, it’s better for us to let her do a sacrifice.

I ready myself and pitch the ball hard. Really, was sensei too naïve? Bunting in this situation, it’s like she’s giving herself up in this situation. If I think about it carefully—

“No wait! That’s not how it is!”

The opponent doesn’t even know how to play baseball, and is one of the teachers! How can she be so naïve to let us see through it! If even I can sense this, she would notice it too…!

But it was too late when I realized this. Before I knew it, the ball that left my fingers reached the front of the bat.

“Over here, like this…”

DONK! The forceful hit rang in my ears. Takahashi-sensei didn’t change her bunting position, however—

“A Drag-Bunt?”

A bunt is a bunt, but this is a drag bunt. It’s different from a sacrifice bunt. This is to score. Damn it! So that was her aim!

The ball that got hit flew low and passed by me and the 3rd baseman. Not good!

Just when I was about to give up, god gave us timely reinforcements.

“Leave it to me!”

“Fukumura-kun!? Thank goodness!”

The flight of the ball flew directly to the shortstop Fukumura-kun.

Fukumura-kun put the glove in front of him as he lowered his body to grab this body. Now, Fukumura-kun just need to catch the ball and throw to 1st base.

“GUAAAAHHHHH!!!!”

“““HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE!!!”””

Fukumura-kun’s summoned beast got blown away together with him.

Hold, hold on a minute! What’s the situation now! That was just a normal bunt! It didn’t hit the center. How does it have such tremendous power to send a summoned beast flying as well!

“TAKAHASHI-SENSEI, YOU CAN TAKE SECOND BASE IN THIS SITUATION!”

Someone among the teachers shouted out. Fukumura-kun’s summoned beast and the ball got knocked into center field, and even rolled a few times. Damn it, Takahashi-sensei’s going to take second base!

“Second base? I got it.”

Takahashi-sensei nodded her head calmly.

And then, her summoned beast ran to second base, directly at second base, even past the pitcher’s mound I’m standing on.

“““……Ha?”””

Including Terai-sensei on the base, everyone present widened their eyes.

“…Batter out.”

The umpire declared that Takahashi-sensei was out. The rules of baseball stipulates that the baserunner can only run in the directed path, and can’t skip first base before running to second base. It seems that Takahashi-sensei doesn’t understand these rules at all.

[[Image:BTS_vol_07_265_EN.jpg|thumb]]

“Takahashi-sensei…you’re out, please return to the bench…”

“Why’s that?”

“Anyway, that’s the case…”

The eyes hidden behind the glasses narrowed, but Takahashi-sensei’s summoned beast could only return back to her own camp. Whether it’s Himeji-san or Takahashi-sensei…they can study, but why don’t they understand the rules of sports…

“Well…sensei, you’re tagged out.”

“Eh?”

Unknowingly, Terai-sensei, who was standing blankly behind first and second base, got tagged out. While everyone was still stunned, Sugawa-kun picked the rolling ball up to do a terrific defensive play, but…what’s with this complete lack of enthusiasm?

Level head, Takahashi Yoko, Chemistry, 801 points

Vs

Class F, Fukumura Kohei, Chemistry, DEAD.

On a side note, Fukumura-kun’s summoned beast got called back to the Lord.

<center>☆</center>

“I'm going then.”

“We'll leave the rest to you, Kondou-kun.”

“Leave it to me. I'll give a big one.”

Our first batter here is Kondou-kun, who stood in position. This half-inning will be played with Chemistry as the subject. The pitcher's Fuse-sensei, and Ironman's the catcher. As for Takahashi-sensei, the level head is guarding right field. They can't let her pitch anyone. Takahashi-sensei's kindness now would be like our Himeji-san here.

“Maybe we might have a chance if the ball flies to right outfield.”

I mentioned it to Yuuji beside me. If the ball flew to Takahashi-sensei, maybe we can expect her to make an error.

“Ahh, maybe.”

Yuuji's response's as cold as ever. It seems that his mood hasn't improved.

“How will this match end up...”

I couldn't help but mutter.

According to the plan--

“STRIKE!'”

--I just heard a bit,--

“STRIKE TWO!”

--The chances of us winning should be--

“STRIKE THREE! STRIKEOUT!”

--decided at the final stage. To Yuuji--

“STRIKE!”

--Our attacks now--

“STRIKE TWO!”

--Aren't worth looking forward to.--

“STRIKE THREE! STRIKEOUT!”

--But no matter what--

“STRIKE!”

--Since our class' on the offense--

“'STRIKE TWO!”

--We should cheer them.

“STRIKE THREE! STRIKEOUT!”

Oh, time to defend. Let's do our best.

Kondou-kun, Yokomizo-kun and Hideyoshi got struck out with three strikes each. Compared to the last half-inning, our attack seemed to end so suddenly...

F class again arrived on the field as we all stand at our designated defensive alignments. In this inning, the subject tested will be world history, and I'll be the batter. Ever since the last summoning tournament, Japanese history and world history have become my specialities somewhat. I think I should be able to do well in this inning.

“Alright, come on! I won't let you score that easily.”

I stood on the pitcher's mound and wait for the next batter. Alright, who's next?

“You really can talk big, Yoshii.”

I, Ironman...what's going on? My hot-bloodedness seemed to subside in an instant....ah, this can't be helped. Ironman's most terrifying aspect isn't his scores, but his athletic ability. Besides, since he's teaching us class F, how can his brain be--

Remedial Teacher, Nishimura Sochi, World History, 741 points

Vs

F Class, Yoshii Akihisa, 121 points.

(Send him on base.)

(OK, Yuuji.)

I can tell what Yuuji's thinking without seeing it. Facing such a monster, only a fool would ask for a proper showdown.

Yuuji positioned the glove outside the strikezone. Eh? He's not getting up? Is he thinking of letting Ironman think that it would be a foul ball but want me to throw a strike? Or is he just lazy to get up?

Though I have lots of question marks above my head, I still pitched the ball according to where Yuuji is.

After the ball got pitched, Ironman frowned, but he didn't swing at the first pitch.

“BALL!”

As the umpire declared it, Yuuji silently pitched the ball to me.

Seeing him like that, Ironman muttered in a coarse voice.

“...Was that you instruction, Sakamoto?”

“That's right. What's wrong with it.”

After answering Ironman, Yuuji put the glove at the same area again.

“I see...”

Ironman muttered unhappily as he again looked at me. What is Ironman trying to say? Is he going to scold us for sending him on base?

“I thought that you guys just couldn't study, but at least you knew what to do in this situation...looks like I have to educate you.”

“Eh? What are you saying? Aren't we just sending you on base? It's common in the game. Are you thinking about telling us off because of this?”

“No, I'm not talking about sending me onto base...listen up, Sakamoto, as a teacher, I have something to tell you.”

Ignoring what Yuuji and Ironman were saying, I pitched the ball at where Yuuji positions his glove. I just need to send him on base anyway. It doesn't matter whether they're chit-chatting, I'll just pitch anyway.

“--NO MATTER WHAT, IF YOU WANT TO DO IT, MAKE SURE YOU FINISH THE JOB!”

KLANG!! With a crisp batting sound, the ball that was flying at the glove disappeared. How is that possible? Did Ironman just hit a ball?

In the blink of an eye, the ball disappeared from my eyes. My motion senses couldn't catch up to that ball. That ball that was hit isn't in the summoning field now.

“HO...HOMERUN!!!”

“…Humph.”

Ironman’s summoned beast casually stepped through all the bases. We were careless…! If we want to send the opponent on base, I should have called Yuuji to stand up even if it’s troublesome and throw it at a place the bat can’t possibly hit…!

“Ku…”

While standing on the pitcher’s mound, I can clearly heard Yuuji bite his lip and looking really troubled. Really, this isn’t like him. There was no need for Ironman to lecture him; Yuuji’s a guy who wouldn’t be careless when it’s time to be careless, but he actually performed poorly in this situation. This isn’t the Yuuji I know.

Looking at this, I have to speak up.

“Time!”

I immediately asked the umpire for a timeout, and get off the pitcher’s mound as I head to Yuuji.

“…What now, Akihisa? You’re going to scold me now?”

Yuuji glared at me unhappily and spoke up before me.

“Mn, I guess.”

“Keh, you don’t have to say it. I know that.”

Yuuji replied me with a bad tone.

It seems that Yuuji himself understands that he wasn’t focusing on this match. When we had to send Ironman on base, or when facing Takahashi-sensei, the normal Yuuji would have noticed that Takahashi-sensei held the bat wrongly earlier than me, and he would have deduced that she was going for a drag bunt. How can a guy who’s always thinking not notice it when even I noticed it?

“I won’t nag on if you understand. We’re facing an opponent that you can’t just beat by just thinking wildly.”

“Enough nagging. Okay, get back onto the pitcher’s mound when you’re done. The match’s still on.”

After saying that, I didn’t want to talk any more as I turn and return back to my defensive position.

But even though I said so,

“I told him to concentrate, but it can’t be helped that Yuuji is so angry…”

To be honest, I felt that I just gave him one huge problem.

Yare yare…the way that guy is now, it’s unlikely that we can win this match…

“PLAY!!”

Once I returned back to the pitcher’s mound, the umpire declared that the match would continue.

Right now, there’s nobody out and no baserunner on base. Now, we’re facing the 5th batter, which is Ooshima-sensei, the teacher in charge of Health and Physical Education.

“So we’re playing baseball with summoned beasts against the students instead of having lessons…summon.”

Health Education Teacher, Ooshima Takeshi, World History, 233 points

Vs

F Class, Yoshii Akihisa, 121 points.

This period would mostly be held outdoors, and Health Ed’s the only lesson we would stay in class. But what’s with such a score? Forget about the athletic ability first, we must have lots of guts if we want to face him.

(Inside corner, lower, fastball.)

Yuuji’s instruction was a inside pitch that’s normally harder to hit, and keeping it low will prevent the long ball. This may seem passive, but it can’t be helped.

I get ready as my eyes watch Yuuji’s glove. I then pitch the first ball.

KLANG

“FOUL!”

The ball that got hit passed by 3rd base and went to the patch of grass in the corner of the sports hall. Swinging the bat like that without much thought, Ooshima-sensei’s really into it.

“I see. So it’s different from swinging it personally.”

Ooshima-sensei muttered softly. It’s a good thing that the teachers were assembled together at the last minute. If this were the second match when they got warmed up, that’ll be a really scary thought.

After receiving the ball, I silently wait for the instruction of the second pitch from Yuuji.

(Inside corner, high.)

Another inside ball. Yuuji must be preparing to use this good opportunity while the opponent isn’t warmed up yet and deliberately pitch the ball at the inside corner which is the hardest point to hit.

I nod my head at Yuuji’s instruction and get ready to pitch. This time, since he didn’t indicate the speed of the ball, I just need to pitch it like before?

(--Slowball.)

“—Eh?”

I was about to pitch it out, and he only gave such a command now. That idiot, at this moment…!

While the ball was about the be pitched up, I force my own movements. Can I make it…!?

The summoned beast pitched the ball out in an awkward manner, and the ball slowly flew to the catcher’s glove. As for the ballpath—it’s not in the direction Yuuji directed! This ball went into a sweet spot!

“—Uh!”

Daishima-sensei’s summoned beast swung the bat hard, and the ball flew high up into the air. The ball landed at 3rd base. That ball looked like it was hit on the bottom of the bat, so he couldn’t hit a long ball.

“I can make it—u!”

Yokomizo-kun’s summoned beast continued to chase the ball and finally managed to catch it in the glove. If there’s no problem, the batter will be out.

“…”

But the umpire didn’t declare that the batter was out. Maybe he’s questioning my seemingly two-part pitch. Though there’s no baserunner, strictly speaking, I did break the pitching rules.

But Ooshima-sensei went back to his own bench on his own, even saying to the umpire, “Just treat it as that I was out.”

Is he not being too fussy because it’s only the first inning? To be honest, I really don’t like Ooshima-sensei’s casual attitude here—but he did help us out.

That damned Yuuji hasn’t recovered yet. Where did that daring decision making of him that’s worth praising go to?

(…I gave the command too slow. I’ll take note next time.)

Yuuji scowled impatiently, but at least he understood that he should apologize for the error just now.

In this unstable situation, the match continued.

Right now, it’s 2 men out and bases full. After Hasegawa-sensei hit a fly ball, two batters hit two base hits, and I walked on batter, causing this devastating situation. We kept the ball low, but that was enough to cause a crisis.

Thus, the net batter will be the first batter Fuse-sensei as we went through one round of the batting order. This is his second time in the batter’s box, so he should more or less be used to controlling the summoned beast. I can’t expect him to make an error like the last time now.

Perhaps he saw that I’m too nervous, as I caught Hideyoshi raising his hand at me, seemingly trying to say something to me. Is he trying to ask me to throw a pickoff to relax myself in this disadvantageous situation?

The runner at first base didn’t look like he was going to steal base, so there’s no need to throw it at him, but to buy time, I still pitched the ball at Hideyoshi.

PAKN. The ball that wasn’t pitched too hard immediately landed in Hideyoshi’s summoned beast’s glove. Of course, the runner at first base wasn’t tagged out as he casually returned back to the bag.

“SAFE!”

The umpire’s decision rang. Of course, I don’t think that I can get a third man out here, and the I threw a pickoff to calm myself down—at least that’s what I think. But Hideyoshi looked troubled for some reason. Hm? What is it? Did I throw that ball strangely or something.

“Time.”

Hideyoshi called out to the umpire and ask for a timeout, and then led his summoned beast to me. Most likely, Hideyoshi wants to give me suggestions while returning the ball to me.

“Hm? Hideyoshi, what’s wrong?”

“Uu, actually—”

Hideyoshi leaned closer to me as he looked like he’s about to whisper something to me. Beside us, our summoned beasts lean together like us.

“Actually what?”

“Actually, after this game—I want to take a bath.”

“—Uu!”

At that moment, I forget everything about baseball, and my consciousness started to swim.

Hideyoshi…wants to…bath…?

Why did he say such a thing out of the sudden? What benefit does Hideyoshi get for messing with my heart at this moment? Or there’s a deeper meaning to this? Maybe it has something to do with the notion that Hideyoshi’s breasts are growing a little?

“I just want to say that. Sorry for disturbing you.”

There seemed to be some ploy as Hideyoshi gave me a devilishly cute smile before returning back to his defensive position, but I couldn’t get rid of the wild thoughts in my mind.

I don’t understand. Why would Hideyoshi mention about bathing with me? What should I do after hearing him say that? Do I have to guard Hideyoshi while he’s bathing?

“PLAY!”

The umpire’s call to continue the match entered my ears.

That, that’s right. We still have a baseball game. Right now, I shouldn’t be thinking of why Hideyoshi suddenly mentioned about bathing. I need to think of how to get past this dangerous situation, and bath with Hideyoshi! If we can beat the teachers, I can smile and bath together with Hideyoshi. But if we lose to the teachers, I will have to cry and bath with Hideyoshi. I DON’T WANT THAT!

“…Well, I feel that Akihisa-kun’s giving off a really evil presence.”

“…I don’t know what’s going on either, but seeing him like this makes me really angry.”

Alright! At this moment, I’m all pumped up. Either way, I have to get a 3rd man out—eh, hold it, that’s strange?

“Hm? Where did the ball go?”

Just when I was about to pitch, I found out that my summoned beast wasn’t holding the ball. That’s strange? When Hideyoshi came over to the pitcher’s mound with his summoned beast, I believed he did bring the ball over…didn’t I receive the ball?

I start to look around for the ball. At this moment,

“Tagged out, here.”

“…What?”

Hideyoshi’s voice could be heard from first base. Tagged out? What’s the situation now?

The ball wasn’t with me, and Hideyoshi that was defending first base is still holding onto the ball I was looking for just a second ago. Then, Hideyoshi reached out the hand that has the glove on and tapped the runner at first base that was slightly far away and ready to run off. Is this the famous—hidden ball?

“RUNNER OUT! SWITCH!”

The umpire declared that we switch over. Eh? Really? We just escaped this dangerous half-inning like that?

“Nice, Kinoshita!”

“You acted really well, using that hidden ball!”

“…Good job.”

“At least I was of some use now.”

After walking back to the bench, everyone praised Hideyoshi for his brilliant performance. He really saved us there. Really, I thought that that half-inning as a goner. If that’s the case—

“So I can bath happily with Hideyoshi!”

“…Akihisa, what’s with that messed-up thinking of yours?”

Hideyoshi gave me a ‘I don’t know what to do with you look’. Hm? There seems to be something strange with that.

“Eh? But didn’t you just say on the mound that you wanted to bath with me, Hideyoshi?”

“What are you talking about? I didn’t say that just now—“

Speaking halfway through, Hideyoshi suddenly remembered something and immediately remembered,

“No, wait! Speaking of which, I seemed to have said it just now! That’s right! A bath! Akihisa, you must go to the men’s bath with me—Kuu!”

“Oh my, Kinoshita, how can that do? A bath is separated by gender, you know.”

“That’s right Kinoshita-kun. If you want to bath with your friends, you can bath with us later.”

“Sh, Shimada and Himeji!? Calm down first! Don’t tell me you’re thinking that there’s nothing wrong about bathing with me.”

Himeji-san and Minami grabbed Hideyoshi on each hand as they showed a sweet smile. Uu, that’s right. Even I feel that it’s bad to bath together with the opposite gender, and that it’s unforgivable. It’s the same as when he hid the ball just now, Hideyoshi was just joking around. Ye, yes, just a joke. I knew that, I knew that, so I won’t feel so disappointed…

“…Akihisa, tell me the specifics about bathing just now.”

Unknowingly, Muttsurini prepared a recorder as he stood beside me. Once something pervy happens, this guy’s smell and mobility is really amazing.

Uu, I’ll just leave this thing that happens normally aside.

“Alright, time for us to attack! Time to concentrate!”

“““OOOHHH!!!”””

<center>☆</center>

“Alright, everyone. Time for us to defend again. Got to do our best.”

“Oh...”

That was fast, really fast. Why did our offense end in the blink of an eye?

The three batters that lined up were quickly struck out, and we switched over. We couldn't even get a base on balls, let alone a single hit. We're just getting pounded here.

We're attacking later, and so as the second inning ended, it became the top half of the third inning. The subject changed from world history to biology.

The first batter Fuse-sensei hit a nice hit, and the second batter Terai-sensei was intending to do a sacrifice bunt, but unexpectedly, it became no men out and runners on first and second base. Before I noticed it, danger lurked in front of us again.

And the third batter—is her again.

“Please guide me through.”

The talented woman who's the level head—Takahashi Yoko-sensei again stood in the batter's box.

(No need to send her on base?)

(Of course not.)

I expected Yuuji's answer. If we walk Takahashi-sensei here, we have to face Ironman with bases full.

Takahashi-sensei's scary, but the next batter Ironman's even scarier. With that score and freakish athleticism, he's not someone we can beat no matter how hard we try.

“I'll hit it well this time.”

Takahashi-sensei held her bat in a really short and obvious manner, she intends to bunt. Well, she just looked like she just wanted a hit. Someone among the teachers must have taught her that, I suppose.

(Outside corner, high, fastball.)

Yuji wanted me to throw at the furthest point from Takahashi-sensei’s summoned beast’s reach. This should be a decision made to counter her bunt.

I use all my strength and pitch the ball according to where Yuuji indicated. If she’s not ready, I guess it’ll be hard to hit the ball—

“Well, just as I expected.”

““—Wha?””

Suddenly, Takahashi-sensei extended her arms. Damn it! I got carelessly thinking that Takahashi-sensei was an amateur at baseball, but she’s still the smartest of all the teachers!

As the ballpath got seen through, the pitch I threw with all I got was hit easily, and the ball flew out in a very low trajectory.

“No, DON’T COME HERE! DON’T COME FLYING AT MEAHHHHHHHH!!”

Fukumura-kun’s summoned beast got sent flying away again and rolled to center field. K…u! he got completely defeated again!

“Takahashi-sensei! Please run in order, starting from first base!”

An instruction could be heard from the teachers. Che! They’re so naggy!

“Got it. I won’t make the same mistake twice.”

Takahashi-sensei’s summoned beast ran through first base, second base and third base at a speed respective to her score. It’s amazing that she can be that fast, really fast.

And because she was too fast—

“Takahashi-sensei…you’re, out…”

“Why?”

She sprinted past the other baserunners in front of her as she was too fast.

“““…”””

Everyone seeing this is dumbstruck.

In baseball, one of the rules state that the baserunner behind, if not out, will be treated as out if he overtakes the front baserunner. Anyway, she will be out if she ran past a baserunner in front.

We, well, I can understand that she doesn’t know these baseball rules…erm, I guess…? I think Takahashi-sensei’s summoned beast was too powerful that such a tragedy occurred, but that’s lucky to us.

“Anyway, you’re out, Takahashi-sensei. Please return to the bench.”

“I can’t accept that.”

“That’s the way it is…”

Takahashi-sensei narrowed her eyes unhappily, but she returned to her camp obediently. Well, this exchange match made me suddenly have a feeling that my distance with Takahashi-sensei got shortened…she really feels like my sister in some ways.

“Eh…hai, tagged out. Hey, Shimada (pew)!”

“Eh?”

“(PA) OK—tagged him out here.”

“Ah!”

The other two baserunners that were stunned by Takahashi-sensei’s actions got tagged out by Sugawa-kun and Minami respectively. Well, we got 3 outs like this…

“…3 outs, switch.”

The umpire declared weakly as if he was muttering to himself. I can’t say that I don’t understand. Having 3 men out like this is completely unheard of, so I guess the umpire would be so listless.

“I can’t believe that Takahashi-sensei would do such a ridiculous thing...”

“Actually, I always looked up to Takahashi-sensei…”

Fuse-sensei and Terai-sensei look dejected as they return back to the bench. Takahashi-sensei’s normally hardworking, smart and knowledgeable when she’s in the staff room, so I guess they should be rather shocked on seeing her like this.

“An, anyway, we passed through another crisis. Time to hit a base hit now! Who’s the next batter—ha?”

“It’s you, Akihisa.”

Ah, oh yeah. So my responsibilty’s really great. I have to meet everyone’s expectations no matter what.

“…I have great faith in you, Sakamoto.”

“Sakamoto, we can only rest our hopes on you.”

“Please hit a homeroom.”

For some reason, my classmates started stating their vote of confidence to the batter after me.

“Is everyone doing that so as not to burden me with too much pressure?”

“““…Ah…well, you can put it like that…Anyway, Yoshii…”””

“FORGET ABOUT THIS! I DON’T WANT YOUR CONFIDENCE LIKE THIS!”

The way everyone showed their expectations of me made me unable to hide my disappointment as it showed on my face. Even my heart’s crying now.

“Well…Akihisa-kun, please do your best!”

At this moment, I heard an Angelic voice healing me.

“Hi, Himeji-san…! Thank you! I’ll do my best!”

“Yes, I’ll cheer you on!”

“Alright! I must get on base! That’ll be my gift for Himeji-san!”

It’s time to show my manly side. I have to show my cool side to make others think better about me. I went to the batter’s box with swagger and watch the opponent pitch the ball right in the middle of my vision.

“HIT BY PITCH!”

“GYYYAHHH!!!!! MY HANNNDD! MY LEFT WRIST STARTED TO LOSE FEELINGGGGGG!! AAAHHHHHH!”

“So, sorry Yoshii-kun…I had a bit of problem with the force I used just now.”

Just when I stepped from with swagger, the opponent just gave me a wild pitch…it was a bad pitch, but why was the force so great!!

“We, well…Akihisa-kun said that he would dedicate this moving onto base to me, but how can I accept it…”

“Mizuki, just snort and mock him all you want and say that he’s embarrassing for trying to look cool.”

“Ha, okay…”

“Uu…I wanted to show off, but I embarrassed myself…”

I finally pulled my body through the excruciating pain and head off to first base silently. My summoned beast look like it just escaped from the gates of hell.

But even so, I did end up on base, and without anyone out. It’s apt to say that it’s our best chance. I’ll just have to wait for the next batter to perform well.

“Alright, time for me to go up.”

The next batter Yuuji entered the batter’s box. With Yuuji’s score and athletic ability, maybe we can break through in this half-inning.

Chemistry teacher, Fuse Fumihiro, Biology, 269 points

Vs

F Class, Sakamoto Yuuji, Biology, 188 points.

Though biology’s the subject used in this inning, the pitcher’s still Fuse-sensei, the teacher in charge of Chemistry, as there’s only one Biology teacher who’s free enough to be here and supervise. Fuse-sensei, who took over as pitcher, has a better score than Yuuji, but with Yuuji’s own athletic ability and reflexes, this matchup’s worth watching. I got to get ready first and rush the moment Yuuji hit the ball.

“I have to be careful not to throw a wild pitch…”

Fuse-sensei’s summoned beast gets ready to pitch and launches the ball from his hand. The ball was right down the middle at an ordinary speed. Maybe he deliberately controlled the force on the ball because of the hit pitch on me. If that’s the case…there’s a good chance!

“—Uu.”

Yuuji watched this ball pass as his body tremble--but he did not swing.

“STRIKE!”

In the end, the opponent got a nice start. Maybe Yuuji didn’t hit that ball because he was thinking about something, or did he just miss the opportunity.

Just when I tilt my head as I don’t understand, Fuse-sensei then pitched the second ball. This time it’s the low outside corner. It seems that the ball can barely squeeze into the strikezone. How should I deal with this ball?

“Damn…it!”

Like just now, Yuuji trembled, but this time, he actually swung the bat.

Kang! What resounded wasn’t a loud crisp sound as the ball rolled in front of the pitcher. That moron! He didn’t hit well because he hesitated!

The pitchered picked up the ball that dropped and threw directly to second base. Damn it! I can’t make it in time!

“OUT!”

The ball already landed in the second baseman’s glove before my summoned beast could even reach there, and the second baseman then threw the ball at first base.

“OUT!”

The batter Yuuji was out, and in the blink of an eye, it became two men out. This is a rare chance, and unfortunately, we couldn’t take advantage of it well.

“DAMN IT!”

Once we returned to the bench, I heard Yuuji howl out.

I bring my summoned beast back to the bench, and at this moment, Minami leans over to me.

(Aki, what’s wrong with Sakamoto?)

Minami looked over at Yuuji worriedly and whispered to me softly. Speaking of which, Minami was busy trying to convince Hideyoshi to change into cheerleader costumes, so she didn’t notice Yuuji quarreling with Kirishima-san.

(He had a bit of a quarrel with Kirishima-san…)

(Fu…so something happened…)

I didn’t explain it specifically to Minami, but it seemed that she caught onto something. Maybe she felt that it’s not good to dig into private matters like that as she didn’t ask any more and returned back to the bench.

“STRIKE THREE! BATTER OUT! SWITCH!!”

“Uu…I’m sorry…”

As I was talking to Minami, Himeji-san was struck out and returned back. Just like that, we switched over offense and defense again.

3rd inning over, and we’re losing 0-1. We’re just losing by one point, but this match’s basically a one-sided beatdown!

I feel that it’s time to come up with a reversal like usual, but the most important thing is that Yuuji’s still in that state..

Seems like we can only give up. Besides, trying to beat the teachers is basically like dreaming. Right now, I should so something to console Yuuji.

“Yuuji, your feelings—”

“Ahh?”

Before I finished, Yuuji glared at me angrily. It seems that he’s still raging inside.

“Really…Yuuji, you should be more mature, right? Kirishima-san would occasionally be in a bad mood too.”

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY BEING IN A BAD MOOD! I CAN’T EXPLAIN THAT AT ALL!”

I basically just added fuel to the fire, as Yuuji’s rage just burned even more.

He clenched his fist and trembled in anger.

“IT WAS JUST SOME MEANINGLESS PIECE OF PAPER! WHY MUST I NOT BE ANGRY AT HER!”

Here we go again. How many times did he roar today? We can’t patch things up like this.

Yare yare, really, you…just when I was sighing—

“Eh? You’re talking about the piece of scrap paper?”

Himeji-san tilted her head in a weird manner. That’s strange? Did she know what was confiscated from Kirishima-san?

“What’s wrong, Himeji? Are you going to lecture me and tell me not to treat important documents to others as a trash?”

Even though he he’s not angry with Himeji-san, Yuuji sounded really unfriendly.

Himeji-san stared at Yuuji with an inexplicable look,

“No, that’s not it. I’m not talking about that…the paper you just mentioned about…was different from what I heard…”

Eh? Different from what she heard? What’s different?

This time, Yuuji and I have question marks above our head.

“What do you mean by that, Himeji-san—”

“Well…I heard that what was confiscated from Shouko-chan was the wedding headdress she got from Sakamoto-kun at Kisaragi Highlands…”

““…Ha?””

For some reason, even I asked back at these unexpected words.

Wedding headdress. The wedding headdress she’s talking about…isn’t that the thin piece of cloth covering the face when wearing the wedding gown. Is it that thing that’s worn with the wedding gown when the bride’s about to be married? Speaking of Kisaragi Highlands, is it that thing from the wedding experience? Did Kirishima-san get the wedding certificate confiscated from her.

Facing us with question marks above our heads, Himeji-san continued to explain.

“Shouko-chan once told me happily that Sakamoto-kun gave it to her after she got laughed at in public. It was a wedding headdress full of important memories.”

“Ah, I remember that as well. She even looked happy when she mentioned that during our study meeting. That left a deep impression on me. So the headdress got confiscated…no wonder she looked so shocked.”

Standing beside us, Minami lowered her eyes in sympathy.

““…””
Having heard the facts from Himeji-san’s mouth, Yuuji and I can’t say a single thing out.

That was the only dream Kirishima-san harbored since young. It must have hurt her to hear so many people mock her like that. However,

“‘But then, I won't laugh at your dream’…”

If Yuuji said such a thing, it will become the most important memory in her life.

“So I felt that it was too much when Sakamoto-kun said that the headdress was something ‘worthless’.”

It’s no wonder that Kirishima-san would be so shocked after hearing those words, because Yuuji didn’t care about that headdress at all. Yuuji said that ‘I won’t laugh at your dream’, but his cruel words mocked Kirishima-san’s dream.

“If it’s Shouko-chan, she should be able to get that headdress back if she explains to the teachers properly…”

Himeji-san and Minami looked down in sympathy. The teachers wouldn’t mock Kirishima-san’s story. Everyone knows that, but even so—she’s afraid of the one in a million chance.

My mind recalls the words Yuuji said.

That thing.

That useless trash.

I’ll throw it away.

The dream she always kept so preciously just got mocked by Yuuji like that. Those words would be so cruel to Kirishima-san.

“…Yuuji…what have you done…”

Though this is unrelated to me, even I can’t help but think of covering my face and sigh. No wonder Himeji-san’s standing on Kirishima-san’s side.

“Sakamoto-kun…that was given to Shouko-chan by you. You didn’t know what was confiscated…?”

“…I really didn’t know.”

Yuuji answered weakly and honestly.

Anyway, Yuuji was mistaken. Kirishima-san thought that Yuuji knew what it was because Yuuji gave it to her. That’s why she couldn’t accept that it was something ‘worthless’.

“…”

It’s only now that we all realized that we were thinking about different things.

Nobody can be blamed as everyone was mistaken. But if there’s any side worth feeling sympathy for, it’ll be Kirishima-san. Even though he didn’t know what was going on, Yuuji did hurt her. Because of this, Yuuji showed such a shocked expression when he realized everything.

Trying to wake up this guy that got lost in thoughts, I deliberately raised my voice to ask him,

“Alright, Yuuji, what do you intend to do? If this keeps up, we can’t get back those confiscated items.”

If we lose this match, we won’t be able to get back out confiscated items, either our treasured items or a certain person’s memorabilia.

“What else can we do…we can only defend well and get points to win the match.”

But even so, he doesn’t have a detailed plan. It seems that Yuuji’s mind is still unable to move.

“Even so, Yuuji, the next fourth batter’s that Ironman. We have to think of something or this inning’s not going to be easy.”

Having remained quiet up till now, Hideyoshi joined in the conversation. Like what Hideyoshi said, the next batting order is from Ironman onwards, and it’s his second time. If we use our tactic from before, the teachers will definitely score. Besides, we can’t really expect the teachers to make any mistakes now.

I glance at Yuuji. This time, that idiot’s trying to move his brain and think of a way to get through the next inning.

--That’s the first time I ever saw him so serious ever since I knew him.

“…”

Lacking the casual attitude he had up till now, Yuuji started to think of a plan.

Really, since this guy’s showing such an expression…looks like I should lend him a hand.

“Yuuji.”

“…What is it, Akihisa?”

Yuuji looked up. I stretch and point my finger and myself and Yuuji as I say,

“Swich positions.”

“““…Eh?”””

On hearing my words, everyone gave me a ‘what is this guy thinking about look’, but amongst them, Yuuji was the only one who realized the meaning behind that proposal. He looks straight into my eyes and asks,

“…Can you do it?”

Yuuji’s words were more like confirmation than a question.

You’re talking about that at this moment?

“Let’s give it a shot. We can’t lose this match, right?”

“…Yeah.”

On hearing me say that, Yuuji gave me a smirk.

“What’s going on, Akihisa? It’s okay for Yuuji to be the pitcher, but who can be the catcher in our class? Are you talking about Himeji?”

“Haha, Hideyoshi, what are you talking about? How can I let Himeji-san do such a tough job?”

The catcher has a lot of things to deal with. It’s too cruel to let Himeji-san to carry out this role.

“If that’s the case, who can catch Yuuji’s pitches?”

“Yeah. In this situation, there’s still one person who can catch the pitches.”

It’s simple. If I don’t want to be ejected from the game because I have no points left, I just need to catch every single pitch. In front of my body, right at the center of the glove. I just need to catch every single pitch without leaving any injuries on me. It’s just that simple. And as for the only person with that level of control…that’s me.

“Bring it, Yuuji. I’ll catch every single pitches of yours!”

“You said so, Akihisa. Don’t regret because you said those words. Your summoned beast’s going to fly if you don’t catch my pitches.”

It’s now the top half of the fourth inning. The match officially begins for us now.

<center>☆</center>

“PLAY!”

The match began again. Yuuji’s the pitcher, and I’m the catcher. We’re facing the fourth batter Ironman.

(Right down the middle. I’m going to throw it straight.)

(Got it.)

I ready my glove at the position Yuuji designated through eye contact. The first ball is going to be a pitch right down the middle. That’s one daring path for someone stepping up for the first time.

Yuuji’s summoned beast gets ready to pitch and throws the first ball with a powerful force.

PAM! The glove let out a crisp sound, and my arms and shoulders feel the transfer of the recoil. It hurts—! That bastard pitched at me with such force!

F Class, Sakamoto Yuuji, English Writing, 281 points

Vs

F Class, Yoshii Akihisa, English Writing, 75 points

I caught the ball from the front, but I still got damaged. Seems like I have to exert more force and catch the ball down the middle of the glove with a softer stance. Concentrate. I have to concentrate and catch every single pitch Yuuji throws to prevent any damage.

[[Image:BTS vol 07 301.jpg|thumb]]

“STRIKE!”

The umpire hesitated for a while before making his decision.

Ironman couldn’t even react to Yuuji’s pitch. That’s to be expected, since after getting used to my weak pitches, even Ironman’s eyes can’t catch up to a fastball like that.

“Nice pitch.”

“Of course.”

I threw the ball back at Yuuji and quipped a praise at him. I then see Yuuji smirk. Really, this guy’s not cute at all even when I gave him a rare praise.

(Right down the middle. Straight. I’m going to pitch now.)

On catching the ball, Yuuji gave me that signal through eye contact. This bastard…he’s going to pitch without resting?

I frantically readied my glove.

Yuuji caught the ball, and without giving the normal hand signals, he suddenly widened his arm and pitched at me.

The ball went down the path just now and flew over in the blink of an eye. The impact was transferred to my body again.

“S…STRIKE!”

I threw the ball back at Yuuji and warned him with my eyes,

(That was dangerous! What will happen if I couldn’t catch it!)

I managed to catch it, but that pitch just now was really dangerous. If I wasn’t careful, my summoned beast may end up on the casualty list, and maybe it can’t fight on.

But, that Yuuji,

(Stop yapping. Didn’t you say that you would catch every pitch I throw?)

Yuuji responded like that with his eyes.

…That bastard…! He sure can talk! My score’s quite far off from Yuuji, but my control of the summoned beast’s definitely better! Just wait and see!

Maybe my thoughts reached Yuuji, as he pinched the ball without waiting for me to answer.

The ballpath this time is—since it’s this guy, I can tell without looking.

“Alright, senseis. I’m sorry for being so stubborn…because a lot of things happened today.”

[[Image:BTS vol 07 293c.jpg|thumb]]
Yuuji’s summoned beast pitched the third ball.

The next moment, the ball flew straight forcefully with blazing speed and ended up right in the middle of my glove. I managed to catch it well, but the impact numbed my arms.

“STRIKE THREE, BATTER OUT!”

With that, it’s three balls and three strikes, and we managed to get the first out.

“From now on, you’re not going to get another point off us!”

This is our real ability when we fight, and what that means is that the teachers aren’t going to hit the ball anymore!

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Sixth Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Eighth Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Sixth Question

2012-04-19T04:44:47Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Sixth Question==

[[File:BTS vol 07 200 EN.jpg|250px]]
[[File:BTS vol 07 201 EN.jpg|250px]]

“Yuuji…you actually thought of such a terrifying plan…”

“No, I didn’t expect the feedback on the summoned beasts at all…after seeing that, even I had to feel pity for them…”

“Well, Akihisa-kun…”

We returned to class F’s waiting area. After taking victory from class A, we could look forward to a happy lunchtime, but for some reason, I just can’t feel happy.

“Besides, I thought that ‘the 3rd years wouldn’t accept supplementary tests to continue the match because they didn’t have anything confiscated’. If that damned old granny didn’t interfere, it wouldn’t have ended up like this.”

“Well, Sakamoto-kun…”

Let’s ignore the Toko-Natsu group, we really did something overboard and cruel to the 4th batter sempai. I hope he won’t get any mental trauma…

“The way I see it, the principal seemed to find that this was too much. After the match, she promised to set the summoned beasts back to how it was.”

“…That was a tragedy.”

“Well, Kinoshita-kun, Tsuchiya-kun…”

Seeing that scene of despair, the principal probably felt that she’s not worthy to be an educator for making such a cruel decision. I can only offer my prayers to the four souls who lost their lives.

“Okay, as for the match in the afternoon…”

“Well…PLEASE LISTEN TO ME!”

We tried to look away, ignoring reality, but we just couldn’t run away anymore. Thus, the 4 of us could only look like we’re about to cry and timidly turn around to the person who spoke.

““““…Yes””””

“Actually, I prepared bentos for everyone…”

Himeji-san said that as she pulled out a large bento that’s wrapped in cloth. Actually, I knew it…the moment I saw Himeji-san carry such a thing to us, I knew that she was carrying some ominous presence of death to us. I just didn’t want to admit it.

“Really, Mizuki, you always work hard no matter what it is.”

Standing beside Himeji-san, Minami scowled for some reason. Seems like she’s really unhappy for some reason.

“Eh, anyway, you two can sit down first.”

Trying to move out of position to let Himeji-san and Minami sit down, Yuuji stood up and then turn around to walk to another direction.

“Alright, I’ll go get drinks.”

“Nonono, I’ll do it, Yuuji. I’ll buy the drinks.”

“You guys don’t need to say that. I’ll handle the buying of the drinks.”

“…I’ll buy it.”

We just stood up without letting each other get up. These guys—they definitely intend to use the excuse of buying drinks to get away, right? Those guys are despicable! Don’t they know any shame?”

“Haha, you don’t have to force yourself, Akihisa. Don’t you need money to buy drinks?”

“No need to worry about me. I’m living pretty well now. Besides, I’m the one people think of when they need a gofer. There’s no one else more suited for this role then me.”

“Hold on a minute! I’ve been doing that for 15 years, and I’ve been a gofer for my sister since young. You can’t look down on my running ability. Let me show my more refined manner of running than Akihisa!”

“…No, the most important thing is speed. The gofer’s work is definitely most suited for me ‘the king of sprinting through the darkness’.”

Everyone tried to anchor the gofer role to get away from the scene. If I can get away from Himeji-san’s vision, pretend to get lost or give an excuse that the drinks in school were sold out and that I had to go out, I guess 3 people will be the sacrifices and get dealt with the devil once I come back.

“You guys really dare to say that! Do you think you can beat my running ability if I get serious?”

“What nonsense are you spouting!? My running ability several hundred times better than you! You minor characters just need to stand aside!”

“It’s really sad that you’re calling me a minor character who doesn’t have much aptitude. You dare to say that without even seeing my running ability.”

“…Alright, stop yapping and let me buy it.”

If you guys can’t understand, I’ll just show my ability to shut everyone up. I’ll let you see my real hidden ability.

“Ah, I prepared the drinks for you guys.”

““““………….ahh……I see……….””””

Minami’s earnest kindness made us cry.

“Alright, hurry up and sit down.”

After Minami joined in, Himeji-san sat with Minami.

“We, well, Himeji-san, what kind of bento did you prepare?”

“Uu, uu, I, I’m really looking forward to it…”

“Ya. Haha, hahahahahahaha…”

“…My heart’s beating really fast, I can’t even control it…”

All of us feel the cold sweat floating down our backs, and Himeji-san slowly unravels the cloth of the bento, letting us see the contents inside.

“Eh? That’s strange? Did you prepare a lot less than usual, Mizuki?”

Looking at the bento Himeji-san made, Minami couldn’t help but ask that. Hearing Minami say this, I seem to feel that the measurement’s really a little too small. Besides the multi-layered wooden box, there’s also another bento box that’s smaller by more than two times. If I remember correctly, Himeji-san would prepare a lot more than this serving.

“Ah, yes. Actually, it’s because I failed…”

Saying that, Himeji-san opened that larger wooden box. What’s inside…are little triangular rice dumplings.

“Actually, I made some other dishes, but…”

Speaking of which, the other lunch box should have some dessert of something. I see, because of the lack of side dishes, the bento this time is a lot less than usual.

“Do you want to eat some, Minami-chan?”

“Can I? Don’t mind me then.”

““““AHHH!!!””””

Before we could even stop her, Minami reached out and stuffed a rice dumpling into her mouth. Damn it! If we knew that things would become like this, I would have stuffed the rice dumpling into Yuuji’s mouth.

As we take a deep breath and look on, Minami continued to chew on the rice dumpling.

That’s strange? Did something…didn’t something, happen?

“Mn, it’s just ordinary rice dumplings, it’s delicious."

“Really? That’s great.”

Himeji-san smiled with relief. Eh, why is Minami alright?

“Oi, Himeji, how did you make these rice dumplings.”

Yuuji seemed to harbor the same doubts as me as he couldn’t help but ask Himeji-san how these dumplings were made. I have never heard that Minami’s digestive system exceeds normal capability, so there should be some hidden secrets within this dumpling.

“I didn’t add anything to it. I just added salt to cooked white rice and pinched it to a triangular shape before wrapping it with seaweed.”

I see. With that method, it’s true that it’s hard to make something weird. Maybe that’s the reason why Minami was able to escape safely.

“The dumpling’s really normal, but I worked so hard on the side dishes…”

In other words, this box of rice dumplings is edible—no, that’s not right, they should be the highest quality rice dumplings that Himeji-san made from her beautiful hands! If I remember this, I won’t have to worry about it.

“Itadakimasu, Himeji-san!”

“Ah, okay, please eat.”

I pick up a dumpling from the bento box and put it in my mouth. It’s just ordinary rice dumplings with only salt and seaweed added, but for some reason, it tastes really delicious.

“I won’t hold back then.”

“I’ll have some too.”

“…Itadakimasu.”

The rest all reach out and put the dumplings into their mouth. It’s because we know of how Himeji-san would cook her food that we had to treasure this ordinary taste of the rice dumplings. It’s like a lost traveller in a desert finding and drinking clear fresh water!

“Oh, oh yes, actually…”

“Hm? Minami? What’s wrong?”

“No, well…uu, didn’t Mizuki just say that she failed to make her side dishes? Well…that, if you don’t minds…”

Minami timidly reached out from something behind.

“Hm? Is that a bento? Isn’t that your share, Minami?”

“Ye, yeah. But I just ate Mizuki’s rice dumplings, so…I’ll share this with everyone…”

While saying that, Minami opened the bento box in a rather stiff manner. There are sandwiches of assorted flavors. Besides the normal tomato and lettuce sandwiches, there’re also egg, tuna, potato and cheese sandwiches. On the other side, there are pieces of fried chicken and omelets, even sausages too. No matter how I look at this—this is one luxurious bento!

“Oh~your own share~”

“Even though you say that you want to eat it yourself, there’s quite a lot of serving.”

“…How dishonest.”

Yuuji and the rest showed a sinister look as they looked at Minami’s sandwiches. To a girl of her age, this serving would be too much—they’re probably making fun of Minami with this attitude. Really, these guys’ interests are really lousy.

“I, I just made a little too much! Because sandwiches…I can bring them home to eat even though I, I can’t finish.”

Can’t finish? Minami’s too wasteful for saying that.

“Minami, you should tell me at this point of time. I would help you finish it up WAAA—”

Suddenly, I felt an electric shock like pain from my back. This, isn’t this…a protractor? Who used this to attack me!

“Yoshii Akihisa…I hate you! If Miharu can kill someone with just hate, it’ll be really great…”

A voice of a girl from class 2-D came from somewhere. Saying about what using hate to kill…didn’t you just attack me already!?

“This presence…it’s Miharu!”

“Damn it…I was found out? If that’s the case—I’ll give up on the ambush and strike now! ONEE-SAMAAAA!!!”

“I HAVE NO TIME TO DEAL WITH YOU RIGHT NOW!!”

Minami frantically got up to avoid the thing that’s rushing over here with dust as she gets off in another direction. Woah, she’s really fast.

“ONEE-SAMA~ ONEE-SAMA!~ O-…NEE…AHH…”

“DON’T, DON’T COME ANY CLOSER! YOU’RE BECOMING EVEN FREAKIER NOWADAYS!!!”

“WHAT ARE YOU SAYING, ONEE-SAMA? IF IT’S FOR ONEE-SAMA, MIHARU WOULD GLADLY FALL INTO THE FALLEN PATH!!”

“THAT’S THE REASON WHY I’M FREAKED OUT!!!”

Why did this happen? Looking at Shimizu-san now, I suddenly remember the demonic presence during the test of courage.

“Well, forget about it. That’s how they build their relationship.”

“Ya, like Yuuji and Kirishima.”

“…Quite the good relationship.”

“It really makes me want to smile.”

“OI, YOU GUYS! STOP ACTING LIKE IT DOESN’T INVOLVE YOU! DON’T YOU KNOW HOW THE VICTIM INVOLVED KEPT THINKING OF WAYS TO SURVIVE!?”

It’s a common understanding that those in the way of love should be kicked aside, so I guess we shouldn’t disturb them. It’s more important to enjoy this lunch in front of us.

“I’ll have some of Minami’s sandwiches then.”

I pick up a sandwich and put it in my mouth. This seems to be the tuna and potato flavor sandwich. It’s nice to eat such things when my stomach’s rumbling. The somewhat hard and chewy feeling’s are little bits of corn, and there’s even ham slices in it. These are added to mayonnaise, tuna and potatoes, and finally some black pepper for tasting. This unexpected spicy flavor’s really delicious to me who likes to put spicy stuff in food.

“Mn, it’s nice.”

“Ohh, this is rather good.”

“I feel that the fried chicken and omelets are nice too.”

“…Very good.”

“Minami-chan’s cooking’s really good. I have to work harder!”

While biting onto the sandwiches Minami prepared, all of us can only praise her for that. Minami’s really like a girl in this aspect…if she didn’t exert violence that randomly, she should be rather popular with the guys. That’s really a pity.

“Today’s lunch’s rather rich. Fried chicken to go with rice dumplings.”

“Yea, I thought of going to the welfare club to buy bread for breakfast this morning, but to think that I would get a chance to eat such a nice meal.”

“…That’s great.”

I chew on the fried chicken Minami prepared, and take another bite off the rice dumpling Himeji-san made. Well, the rice dumpling Himeji-san made is nice as well. The white rice’s cooked to perfection, and there’s the perfect amount of rice. Even the force used to pinch the rice is just perfect. This is the difference of eating hand-made dumplings as opposed to eating the ones from convenience stores. It’s simple, yet I won’t get sick of it.

“Oh yea, where’s the drinks?”

“Speaking of which, Minami seemed like she took them away…”

Looking over at the sports arena, those two probably went to build on their relationship. I haven’t found out where they are anyway.

If that’s the case, we can only buy our own drinks.

““““…””””

Looking up, I exchange looks with Yuuji, Hideyoshi and Muttsurini.

We quickly turn our backs on Himeji-san, and wordlessly begin our janken. They chose stone in unison, and I chose scissors. Did I lose…damn it.

“Sorry Akihisa~I want cola.”

“I want tea.”

“…Lemon soda.”

These three guys look rather happy as they ordered the drink they want. Everytime, it just seems like having someone else buy drinks for me would be tastier then buying them on my own…because the loser has to treat.

“Okay okay, I got it. What about you, Himeji-san?”

“Eh? What did you say?”

“I’m asking you what you want to drink. Just treat it as payment for lunch.”

“Ah, no need. I’ll feel really sorry about this.”

She prepared lunch for us and I only wanted to serve her a drink. Himeji-san doesn’t need to find mindful about this and hassle with me.

“Then, how about red tea? You love to drink that during lunch.”

“Ye, yes.”

“Then please wait. I’ll come back with it later.”

I get up from my seat and head to the school hurriedly. If I don’t, they’ll finish up the lunch. Forget about Minami’s portion, I’ll be gravely mistaken if I think they would leave food for me.

<center>☆</center>

“Hm? Isn’t it Yoshiii-kun?”

“Ah, Kubo-kun.”

Just when I was about to reach the vending machine beside the welfare club, the guy from class A, Kubo Toshimitsu saw me and said hello to me. Was he about to go back after buying his drink?

“You look rather hurried. Why’s that?”

While saying that, Kubo-kun swept his fringe subconsciously. I’m rather surprised that he would be bothered about his hairstyle.

“I lost in janken, so I have to buy drinks for everyone.”

“That’s a coincidence. I was about to buy a drink too.”

“Uu, I see.”

Isn’t the canned oolong tea in his hand a drink?

“Speaking of which, I heard that class F beat class 3-A.”

“As for what happened—I don’t know whether it can be considered our victory, but we did enter the finals.”

“Really? Either way, that’s wonderful news.”

Kubo-kun said that to me somewhat earnestly, but that made me feel guilty. This feeling’s really unbelievable.

But I got praised by Kubo-kun for not losing the match. I guess the match with class 3-A was tough. Besides, the Toko-Natsu’s pair not really one to be trifled with usually.

“What about you, Kubo-kun? Are you going to take part in the main competition? Ah, is it because that you people didn’t have anything confiscated that you weren’t really motivated?”

“No, that’s not the case. In our class, at least class rep Kirishima-san, Kudou-san and me are rather enthusiastic.”

“Eh? Is that so?”

Let’s not mention about Kirishima-san and Kudou-san, I’m rather surprised that Kubo-kun would work hard for the baseball tournament. I thought he wouldn’t be interested in such a thing.

“Because I got a lot of things confiscated as well, like pillow, bolster, bathroom curtain, anyway, a lot of things got confiscated.”

Is a pillow a necessity to a high school student nowadays?

“If that’s the case, why…”

“We lost because the opponents were too strong. And they were smart going about the batting order according to the subjects. That 4th batter was ridiculously powerful.”

“Heh, oh…their 4th batter…”

Speaking of the 4th batter, wasn’t that the pitiful person whose soul was sent to the netherworld while preparing to step up? Whether it’s the baldy-sempai whose head got blown like a rotten pomegranate or that 4th batter sempai, I really feel sorry for them.

“Sigh, this can’t be helped. I could only give up on those items. It’s my fault for bringing things that aren’t related to studies anyway.”

“Really? It’s amazing that Kubo-kun would think this way.”

As for the attack on Ironman and the raid on the staffroom, we still couldn’t get our items back. In a way, that should be rather impressive.

“No such thing. I’m a guilty person after all.”

“Eh? Really?”

“No…rather, there’s an indescribable wall…”

At that moment, Kubo-kun looked away for some reason and muttered.

Here we go again. I feel that mysterious chill that came from nowhere. Where’s this chill coming from.

“Oh yes, Yoshii-kun…”

“Hm? What is it?”

“Can you please look at this 5 yen coin?”

“Hm? I can look here…”

Kubo-kun pulled out a 5-yen coin that’s tied to a thin string. What is he trying to do?

“Yoshii-kun…”

“What is it?”

“Reach your hand here.”

“Eh? Isn’t that too sudden? Even if you want me to do something that’s like training a dog, I…”

“Ahh, nothing. Sorry. I have no intention of treating Yoshii-kun like a dog.”

I tried my best to hide my wry smile, and Kubo-kun puts the 5-yen coin with the string attached to it, seemingly muttering about something.

“…It’s troubling that I couldn’t get that hypnotism book from Kirishima-san…”

I didn’t hear what he said clearly, but I felt that I just lost 10 years of my life.

“Ah, got to hurry! Yuuji and the rest are going to finish off the food!”

“Really? Sorry to bother you. Let’s get the drink.”

“Mn, sorry, Kubo-kun.”

“No, don’t mind it, Aki-ch—sorry, Yoshii-kun.”

While talking to Kubo-kun, I felt a chill down my back as I couldn’t help but tilt my head. But I still sped up to buy the drinks.

Then, after buying the drinks, I said goodbye to Kubo-kun and returned to where everyone was.

<big>“THE RICE’S THE CULP—!”</big>

Leaving those words behind, Hideyoshi collapsed onto the floor.

“Please have some of it♪.”

“Ha, haha, ha…hahahahaha….”

“…(Trembling violently).”

As Himeji-san smiled, Yuuji and Muttsurini looked absolutely terrified as they trembled violently. I don’t know what’s going on, but on seeing this, my survival instincts are screaming at me to ‘run away now’.

“Too bad they sold out on cola. I have to see if there’s any place else selling them—”

“Oh, Akihisa! You finally came back! Forget about the cola. Just sit down first!”

“…(Nods head as if he’s mashing garlic)!”

Damn it, that Yuuji! Is he going to drag me to hell!? That bastard!

“Sorry Yuuji, I’m already a high school student. If I can’t even do my gofer job well, my value will drop a lot. Even if I have to go out of the school gate, I have to buy the cola back!”

“Nonono, I don’t really want to drink cola that much. You don’t have to work so hard. More than that, you have to sit down no matter what.”

“I can’t do that. I’ve already promised you the cola, and yet I didn’t bring it back. My sense of responsibility wouldn’t allow me to do that. So can you please let go of those arms that are grabbing my tightly?”

“Hahaha…don’t say it. I told you to sit down, you bastard!”

“Hahaha…anyway, I told you to let go, you scum!”

“Well…Akihisa-kun, aren’t you holding onto a can of cola?”

That damned Yuuji, grabbing my hand until even the hand’s cracking. He must be trying to drag me down!

“…Akihisa, you’re really indecisive.”

“WAAAHHH!”

Muttsurini suddenly kicked me on my kneecap, causing me to collapse onto the floor. The actions of of these two and the corpse of Hideyoshi lying not far away are telling me that something ominous’ about to happen. I got to get away.

“Anyway, it’s been tough on you, going out on your way to buy drinks for us. Have some rice dumplings first.”

“Ah, okay…”

Yuuji smiled as he passed me Himeji-san’s dumpling. I remember these should be harmless, right?

I reach out for a triangular rice dumpling and toss it into my mouth. It’s the ordinary one alright.

“…Che, he’s alright…”

“…Lucky him.”

The two guys standing beside me muttered some things that I couldn’t ignore. What’s going on now?

“You three, no need to hold back. Have some more.”

“Ah, thank, thank you, Himeji-san.”

“Is, is that so…then.”

“…(Swallows saliva).”

As Himeji-san told us to eat more, everyone took a dumpling from the bento box. What’s going on? I suddenly feel an ominous presence surrounding us…

“Hi, Himeji-san…”

“Yes, what is it?”

“Did you—add something special in these rice dumplings?”

I just ate some normal dumplings, but since Yuuji and Muttsurini are definitely terrified, and after seeing Hideyoshi’s corpse, I’m definitely feeling that something’s amiss.

“I didn’t have much time, so I didn’t add much special seasoning. But…”

“But?”

“2 of them have the special ingredients I used to make those side dishes.”

At this moment, Himeji-san’s bento box became a landmine.

“I prepared dessert too. Please have more.”

“““Ha, haha, ha…”””

Yuuji, Muttsurini and me can only hold onto the dumpling in our hands and let out a dry laugh. However, we couldn’t muster enough courage to eat it. Oh, oh yea, I should say something to drag the time on.

“We, well, Himeji-san…speaking of which…”

“Yes, what is it?”

“How did you fail when you made those side dishes?”

Did she flip the bento box over? Did she forget to bring it out? I try to ask some casual questions to quell the ominous presence of death in these rice dumplings—

“Eh…because I accidentally failed when balancing, even the bento box melted…”

YOSHII AKIHISA, CONVINCE YOURSELF!! THERE’S NOTHING STRANGE ABOUT THOSE WORDS! JUST TELL YOURSELF THAT!!

“““…”””

We rein silent, and remain unable to do anything else. At this moment, Muttsurini moved the hand that’s holding onto the rice dumpling. No way. Is he going to eat it?

“…(zzztt).”

With a light sound, Muttsurini reached his hand out, taking care not to let the dumpling in his hand drop. He slowly brings it to a position where the mouth can eat.

--And at my mouth.

“…Say ahh, Akihisa.”

“…”

THIS GUY’S MAKING FUN OF ME LIKE THAT! HE WOULD IGNORE HIS OWN SHAMELESSNESS AND LET A GUY LIKE ME SAY ‘AHH~’…STOP JOKING AROUND! WHO CAN ALLOW HIM TO STUFF THE RICE DUMPLING INTO MY MOUTH LIKE THAT!?

“Hahaha, Muttsurini, stop kidding around.”

I give a gentle smile as I pretend not to notice my bad friend’s prank and turn around.

But after turning around, I see another rice dumpling waiting for me.

“Akihisa, here, ah~”

As that familiar and crude voice entered my ears, Yuuji uses his boney large hand to push the dumpling to my mouth. Hahaha…is this something that would only happen in manga, this dream like sequence of going through the back gate of a palace?

My two classmates said ‘ahh~’ as they tried to force down the hand-made dumplings into my mouth. A boy in his youthful years would definitely wish for this, right? So, if anyone wants to change places with me, please register your name, and I will hand that honor over without saying anything else. Really, I won’t regret it!

“Oi, Akihisa, you’re really shy. Just open your mouth.”

“…No need to be bothered.”

“No no, please stop joking around. This is really embarrassing!”

“No problems. Nobody else will see it, so just open your mouth obediently.”

“…Here, ah~”

“NONONONONO! I, I DON’T MEAN THAT I DON’T WANT THE DUMPLINGS! WHA, WHAT I MEAN IS…PLEASE DON’T DO SUCH AN EMBARRASSING THING IN SUCH A PUBLIC PLACE!!”

GOD! WHAT AM I TO DO? WHAT SHOULD I DO TO ESCAPE FROM THIS DANGEROUS PREDICAMENT?

Facing this unprecedented crisis of fighting for the groom (the gender’s still a huge problem), I could only ask God for help. Maybe my prayer reached the Heavens as a goddess’ voice reached my ears.

“Akihisa-kun.”

“Yes!”

SAVE ME, OH GODDESS-SAMA!!!

“—Ah, ahh~”

Now even Himeji-san brought the rice dumpling in her hand over to my mouth.

GOD, I DIDN’T MEAN IT LIKE THAT! I DON’T WANT AN INCREASE IN THE HAREM! I JUST WANT TO TURN THESE RICE DUMPLINGS INTO DUMPLINGS THAT WON’T HARM THE HUMAN BODY!

“Oh my, Akihisa’s really shy. Can’t be helped then. I’ll help out and open your mouth.”

“UBOOAHHH!!”

“…(Tosses in).”

“Please, please have some.”

“What? You want some drinks? Akihisa, you really like to fawn around.”

“GOBAGOBAGOBA!!”

My mouth got opened forcefully, and I got 3 dumplings and a large gulp of drink in. No turning back now. Right now, I can only pray that none of the dumplings struck lottery. I can only pray to god’s pure heart to escape from my misery.

[[Image:BTS vol 07 225.jpg|thumb]]

During the short moment while the jury’s proceeding, my mind started to be filled with lots of scenes. The time when I was in kindergarten, when I entered primary school, after I entered middle school…those memories that wouldn’t fade away caused my anxious emotions to calm down.

“Did that idiot…start to walk down memory lane..?”

“…We can only pray for a smooth journey for him.”

GOD, DO YOU REALLY HATE ME THAT MUCH?

“UGH! WHO’LL DIE!?”

““Hm?””

I forcefully drag my last ounce of strength to keep my feet in the mortal realm. I can’t die. I still have lots of things I want to do…

“How, how’s the possible!? Akihisa, why, why are you still alive?”

“…Unbelievable!”

No, wait? You should be glad that I’m still alive, right?

“Because I had many opportunities to taste my sister’s cooking during the entire summer vacation…”

“I see…so you were trained…”

“…It’s been tough on you.”

If you really think of it this way, can’t you be a bit more gentle to me?

“Anyway, the rest are ordinary dumplings. Akihisa and Hideyoshi ate the special ones anyway.”

“…That’s too bad.”

“Sorry, because I only made two special ones.”

“Nonono, Himeji, you just need to focus your time and efforts in making such nice things for Akihisa. We’ll just have our own share.”

“…(Nods head violently).”

“Wha, what are you saying, Yuuji? I can do with ordinary food too! And with my sis at home, I’ve been eating my meals properly too.”

“Haha, that’s true though. If I make Sakamoto-kun a special bento, Shouko-chan may get angry.”

“Ah, that’s right.”

“…I agree.”

After knowing that the existence of the terrifying rice dumplings that would harm life is gone, the atmosphere regained its calm and peacefulness. Lunchtime should be like that.

“You’re rather lucky, Yuuji.”

“Ah? What are you talking about?”

“Because you wanted to feed me just now and even made an ‘ahh’, didn’t you? I don’t know how Kirishima-san will punish you once she saw that.”

Even though we’re guys.

“Ohh, you’re talking abou that. Well…you may be right. Recently, even though I’ve been emphasizing to her that ‘he’s a guy’, she just wouldn’t listen. If she saw that just now, I really wouldn’t know what to do.”

“Eh? You’re talking about Shouko-chan? She just walked in front of us.”

“…………Really?”

“Yes.”

God will pass the same punishment to fools. Most likely, Muttsurini would have the same fate too.

“Goodbye Yuuji. It’s been an honor to have a last meal with you.”

“…Let’s do something stupid in our next life.”

“Hold on, both of you. Don’t say goodbye to me so painlessly.”

He just ate what a girl made and even made an ‘ahh~’. There’s almost no chance of Yuuji surviving.

“Really, Akihisa-kun, Tsuchiya-kun, you’re joking too much! Shouko-chan wasn’t that angry!”

“No, that woman will send me to hell because of that.”

Regrettably, I could only agree with Yuuji.

“Why are you saying that too, Sakamoto-kun? That’s not true! If Shouko-chan’s really angry, she would step up to deal with you.”

What Himeji-san just said was weird. I hope she realized what she just said.

“Speaking of which, that’s weird. It seems like Kirishima-san’s slightly different from usual.”

“…(Nods head)”

If she didn’t see that, okay, but she did see it, and she didn’t punish Yuuji. That’s not like her at all. Is she...waiting for the shocking judgment like that seaside trip? No, that’s too weird as well…

“Uu…she probably realized that there’s no point in monitoring my every movement. That’s a nice change of pace.”

Yuuji didn’t seem to mind as he put the remaining dumplings into his mouth.

“AH! When did you…”

Before I noticed it, Minami’s sandwiches were finished. Both of them were delicious (except for the special killer dumplings Himeji-san made), yet they were finished up.

“Ahh, sorry. I ate more as it was too good.”

“Fufu, I’m really happy to hear you say that.”

Himeji-san smiled happily as she keeps the empty bento box. Food that Himeji-san makes that are safe to eat are really precious, yet they were eaten up so fast…

“Don’t look so disappointed, Akihisa-kun. I prepared dessert too.”

“Where are you going, Akihisa?”

“...I’ll taze you if you dare run away.”

“No, that’s not it. I just want to buy drinks!”

My hands got held hard, and there’s a taser poking at me on the back. The, these two guys…they’re using me as a shield just to let themselves live longer?

“My house got some special fruit, so I brought it to school.”

Himeji-san pulled out another bento box with dessert in it. Eh? Fruit? If that’s the case, it should be something edible.

“I see. I’ll have some then.”

“Special fruit? I’m looking forward to it now that you say that.”

“…What is it?”

“Yes, the fruit is—”

Himeji-san removes the lid of the bento box and shows us what’s inside.

“—Pomegranate!”

The fruit that’s waiting silently in the bento box is way too similar to the summoned beast of that baldy-sempai who went to the netherworld.

<center>☆</center>

“And now, we’ll have the first year cheerleading competition. All first years, please—”

The audio broadcast could be heard. The first event everyone was looking forward to is the cheerleading competition everyone’s looking forward to. The first years are all dressed in different colored clothing as they started to perform with the music.

I check out the kouhais’ performances with my eyes as I prepare for our turn.

“It’s been a long time since I wore a collared uniform…maybe since middle school.”

“Huh? Akihisa, your school uses collared uniforms?”

“…Me too.”

“Same here.”

“Heh~ Hideyoshi, you wore a sailor uniform, right?”

“Akihisa, it seems like we’re not on the same wavelength here.”

Everyone’s holding onto the clothes they were preparing to change into as we chat leisurely. At this moment, Minami came walking here with a cheerleader outfit. She looked like there’s a problem that’s hard to deal with. What happened?

Having these doubts, I see her walk to Hideyoshi as she give an ever serious look.

“Oi, Kinoshita..”

“I don’t want.”

“Uu…I haven’t said anything yet.”

It’s rare for Hideyoshi to answer Minami so coldly like that. What is Minami trying to ask him?

“Don’t say that. Look, isn’t this clothing really cute?”

“It’s because it’s cute that I don’t want it.”

Hideyoshi tilted his head aside as if he’s deliberately ignoring the cheerleader outfit Minami showed him.

“No matter how you ask me, I won’t agree to the cheerleading. I want to join the guys side!”

“There’s too many on the support side, but we only have 2 people. That’s really troubling, so please?”

Minami didn’t give up. It seems that she really wants Hideyoshi to take part in the cheerleading, but why? Minami’s actions really puzzle me.

“Ah, Minami-chan! There’s almost no time! Hurry up and change.”

Dressed in cheerleader outfit, Himeji-san came running here.

DOING, DOING, DOING…Himeji-san seemed to be bouncing here. It’s rare for Himeji-san to do something big, and now she looks really active—that’s right, she’s giving off a really vibrant look.

“…(Zzzzsst).”

I didn’t see it myself, but I can feel Muttsurini beside me drawing a cross in front of his chest.

So I immediately look down to hide the blushing look that’s rising up in me. This is…REALLY SHOCKING!!!

“That’s why I don’t want to take part in the cheerleading with her! Look at her bouncing so hard! We have to jump later! There’ll be a commotion!”

“Even if you say that, I’m a guy. I don’t want to be some cheerleader.”

As Hideyoshi and Minami continued to budge, it’s a little late, but Muttsurini collapsed on the floor due to overwhelming nosebleed. That’s too dangerous. If I looked away just a bit later, I would be in Valhalla now.

“Oh yeah, if Minami’s to take part in cheerleading with Himeji-san, there will be a lot of parts being used for comparison…”

“And she’s really spinning hard! I feel that she’s deliberately standing beside me just to bully me!”

I see. So Minami’s really bothered about what people have and what people don’t have…so that’s why she wanted to get Hideyoshi in. At least the mental trauma would be a bit less. Minami really has it tough, there’s a lot of things to worry about…but I think she really doesn’t need to think that way, because Minami’s rather cute herself.

“Please Hideyoshi, just grant her request and take part in the cheerleading. I think you'd be rather cute if you wear the cheerleading outfit, Hideyoshi.”

“I don’t want.”

“But isn’t it better to wear a cheerleading outfit than to be forced to wrap a bandage around your chest?”

“That, that’s because if I don’t, you guys would complain to the disciplinary committee! That’s why I had to wear it!”

Of course. If Hideyoshi just showed his chest like that, they might even send the police in to arrest him and put on the bandages. That’s the correct call.

“Well, Akihisa-kun…what is Minami-chan asking Kinoshita-kun to do?”

Standing in front of me, Himeji-san sees Minami and Hideyoshi in stalemate, and couldn’t help but ask that.

Eh, about that…

“Why aren’t you willing? Isn’t this cute?”

“That’s because it’s cute! I’m a man! I don’t want to wear cute clothes!”

“Kinoshita, calm down and listen to me—”

“What is it?”

“Actually, those who wear cheerleader clothes…are rather manly!”

“I say…are you treating me as an idiot on Akihisa’s level!?”

[[Image:BTS vol 07 237.jpg|thumb]]

“Minami’s trying to get Hideyoshi to take part in the cheerleading.”

I didn’t mention the specifics, but at least I’m not lying.

“Ohh…so she wants Kinoshita-kun to take part in the performance as well…but why?”

“Ahaha…I guess Minami feels that we have too few girls in our class?”

“Ah, I see.”

PA! Himeji-san suddenly clapped her hands in understanding, and then—

“Well, if there’re too few girls…”

“Hold on, Himeji-san, why are you taking out another cheerleading uniform and staring at me with that expression?

I WON’T WEAR IT! I WON’T WEAR THAT SORT OF THING NO MATTER WHAT ANYONE SAYS!!

“Hahaha, Akihisa. Isn’t this good? I was worried that we have too few girls in class as well. It would look better if you take part.”

“Well, Sakamoto-kun…if you’re wearing…”

“HOLD ON, HIMEJI! WHY ARE YOU TAKING OUT ANOTHER UNIFORM AND LOOKING AT ME LIKE THAT!?”

What can we do? I think Himeji-san’s brain got some terrible illness recently.

This will be bad if this keeps up. Better act as if nothing happened and change the topic.

“Oh ya, Himeji-san…”

“Yes, what is it, Akihisa-kun?”

I sounded really scared. Seeing Himeji-san who wouldn’t keep the cheerleading outfit no matter what, I could only tremble and point at her as I finish saying.

“I heard that you were really serious when practicing in this cheerleading performance.”

“Ah, not, I wasn’t really that serious…”

Himeji-san’s already someone who would work hard, but unexpectedly, she would work so hard to do something she’s not good at. That’s really amazing.

“But the way you’re seriously practicing really made Shimada worry. Don’t work yourself too much. The cheerleading competition’s just a side event, it doesn’t have anything to do with sports ranking.”

Yuuji added on to what I said. I can imagine why Minami would be so worried…there’s a lot to this…

“Yes, I did try to check my body condition, but—”

“But what?”

Saying till here, Himeji-san smiled.

How should I say this? I feel that Himeji-san’s really different from before. Until a while back, she would be troubled because she didn’t know how to play baseball, but now, she wouldn’t give that feeling any more. Actually, I’m rather happy about that.

“Ah, Mn! Of course!”

The reason Himeji-san changed so much wasn’t because class A that focuses so much on studying changed her, but that she stayed in class F. Thinking till here, I can’t help but feel pro—

“Okay, please cheer for me—and please wear this!”

Let me correct myself. She definitely changed in a bad way. Himeji-san really needs an environment like class A.

Just when I was about to lecture Himeji-san on the clothing guys should be wearing—

“Eh? Isn’t that Kirishima-san?”

That’s rare. That’s really rare. Kirishima-san’s here, yet she didn’t seem to notice Yuuji’s presence as she walked on. What’s going on? It seemed like she’s completely lethargic.

“Oh, that’s true. What’s wrong, Shouko?”

“…Ah…Yuuji…”

Even though Yuuji talked to her, she just gave a lifeless response. What’s wrong? She really looked lifeless.

“…Our class…lost the baseball game…”

“Yeah, I know that.”

We weren’t present, but we know that class 2-A that was led by Kirishima-san lost the match. Is that the reason why Kirishima-san was so listless?

“But we beat class 3-A, so I took revenge for you.”

“…But the thing that got confiscated from me won’t come back again…”

Kirishima-san muttered painfully.

The confiscated thing she mentioned should be the marriage certificate Yuuji mentioned before, right? I see, so Kirishima-san wanted to win the baseball tournament to get that back from the teachers. No wonder she felt so sad about losing the match.

“The confiscated items again? Really, you…”

Yuuji revealed a reluctant look and scratches his head. He says,

“…I wanted to keep it until the marriage ceremony….”

On hearing Kirishima-san say that hoarsely—

“STOP KIDDING AROUND! EVEN IF THAT WASN’T CONFISCATED, I’D THROW IT AWAY IF I FOUND IT!!”

Yuuji still said that in a crude manner.

“…Eh…”

Kirishima-san looked stunned as she looked up, but Yuuji didn’t care about her response at all as he continued on in a self-centered manner.

“’WHAT’S WITH THAT ‘EH’? ISN’T IT THAT THING THAT GOT CONFISCATED? IS THERE A NEED TO BE SHOCKED!?”

“…You say…that thing…”

“BEING ALL DEJECTED BECAUSE YOU LOST THAT THING, NO WONDER YOU LOST TO THAT TOKO-NATSU GROUP—“

At this moment—

“…uu!”

<big>—PAAAA</big>

[[Image:BTS vol 07 243.jpg|thumb]]

The crisp slapping sound rang in front of us.

“…That’s not…something stupid!”

Kirishima-san cried as she bit her lower lip.

Eh? What’s…the situation now.

“ONLY YUUJI! I WON’T ALLOW YUUJI TO SAY THIS!”

The pitiful cry that nearly rocked my mind caused me to close my eyes inadvertently—the moment I opened my eyes, Kirishima-san turned and walked away.

“““…”””

Yuuji, Himeji-san and I are rooted to the spot. What? What just happened?

“I, I’ll go check out Shouko-chan!”

Being the fastest to recover, Himeji-san frantically ran to Kirishima-san.

Yuuji and I still don’t understand what’s going on and can only stare at each other blankly.

After a while, Yuuji finally recovered from his shock.

“…That Shouko…damn it…”

That was a low bellow from the deepest part of his abdomen.

“That Shouko…saying that it’s ‘not something stupid’. A MARRIAGE CERTIFICATE WITHOUT MY OWN CONSENT ISN’T ANYTHING BUT STUPID!!!”

Yuuji couldn’t help but roar out as he looked up to the skies. Even though he often got abused by Kirishima-san, it seemed that he stepped on a landmine this time, and Yuuji couldn’t forgive this.

“SHE DOESN’T WANT ME TO SAY THIS!? I’M THE ONE WITH THE BIGGEST PRIVILEGE TO SAY THIS! I NEVER PROMISED HER ANYWAY! OF COURSE I WOULD SAY THOSE THINGS TO HER!!”

He’s really fuming. Yuuji’s really angry now. If there’s a table or some shelf nearby, he would be kicking it to vent his own frustrations now.

“Uu…Yuuji’s right. No matter how important that thing is to Kirishima-san, it’s really troubling that she would be angry about a marriage certificate without your consent..”

“THAT’S RIGHT! IF SHE FELT THAT ‘SOMETHING STUPID’ IS BAD ENOUGH, I CAN CALL IT ‘USELESS TRASH!’ THAT IDIOT!!”

[[Image:BTS vol 07 235c.jpg|thumb]]
Seems like Yuuji really can’t calm down now. I can understand somewhat. To me, what Kirishima-san did was really unreasonable, and since Yuuji’s the party involved, it’s to be expected that he would be that angry.

Standing in front of Yuuji who’s roaring away, I can only carry the cheerleader outfit that was thrown on me and sigh. Well, that’s really troublesome…

“So how about this, Kinoshita? I got an idea! I’ll wear the collared uniform and you wear the cheerleader outfit—”

“That doesn’t solve anything for me!!”

From far away, Minami and Hideyoshi continued their argument, not noticing our situation here.

On a side note, Hideyoshi finally ended up wearing a collared outfit with a bandage around his chest and ponpons in his hands as he danced with Himeji-san and Minami. Everyone in the audience roared in approval, and the atmosphere was really intense.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Fifth Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Seventh Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Fifth Question

2012-04-19T04:27:36Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Fifth Question==

Remember these baseball rules!

Yuuji: “So that's how it is. Since Himeji doesn't understand baseball, we will do a simple explanation of the rules.”

Akihisa: “We're normally the ones being taught, to think that it'll be the other way around.”

Mizuki: “Ple, please teach me well.”

Yuuji: “Now, we're going to explain the foul called '[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References balk]'.”

Mizuki: “Balk...is it?”

Yuuji: “That's right. This is a foul when the pitcher's pitching.”

Mizuki: “A foul? What is it about?”

Akihisa: “For example, when the pitcher's steps on the rubber to pick off the baserunner in place but didn't throw the ball out.”

Yuuji: “Or throwing a pickoff while the toes are facing the batter.”

Akihisa: “And there's also the 2-part pitching stance—stopping midway throwing the pitching motion, even if it's a little bit, these are all fouls.”

Mizuki: “Let me see, pointing the toes at the batter yet throwing a pickoff, and the 2-part pitching stance...”

Yuuji: “Anyway, it's not okay as long as the pitcher does something to hassle the batter or make the batter misunderstand.”

Akihisa: “Like letting the batter think that 'the pitch is coming' only to throw a pickoff, or making the batter think that the pitch won't be coming and pitching out of a sudden. This will severely affect the match.”

Mizuki: “I see...so letting people misunderstand is called a balk...”

[[Image:BTS vol 07 145c.jpg|thumb]]
Yuuji: “Well, yeah, you just need to think this way.”

Mizuki: “Then, Akihisa-kun...”

Akihisa: “Hm? What is it?”

Mizuki: “You balked.”

Akihisa: “Eh?”

Mizuki: “You balked.”

Akihisa: “What are you saying, Himeji-san?”

Mizuki: “Akihisa-kun balked.”

Akihisa: “Eh...”

Yuuji: “Haiz...I'm too lazy to even comment about this...”

In the end, class 3-E and 3-F couldn't beat each other, and so we advanced to the next round without a fight.

Thus--

“It's time for the semi-finals.”

“Yup, the class of that Toko-Natsu pair.”

We've just battled against them in the test of courage a while back, and now we met each other so soon. It seems that we have sort of inexplicable relationship with those two.

“Um, so that means 2-A lost?”

“I guess they did.”

“They lost? They have the almighty Kirishima-san!”

The class rep of 2-A, Kirishima Shouko-san is someone whose scores is greater than even Himeji-san's. How did she lose to that Toko-Natsu group?

“Mm...well, she's not as bad as Himeji but Shouko doesn't know much about baseball. I guess that's the reason why she lost.”

“The way I see it, there are people who are as impressive as Kirishima.”

“Well, I guess so.”

Anyway, since class A, which is led by Kirishima-san, lost, we have to be ever more cautious now.

I guess there's only 1 or 2 times that we can get points from the third years.

“It's pointless to think about it now. Let's hurry to the sports center.”

“That's right. We should be able to understand once we play against them.”

I'm wondering about the fact that 2-A lost to them, but to us, this may be a good thing. Besides, the key to us winning is the plan Yuuji comes up with. Class 2-A has Kirishima-san, who understands Yuuji's personality and thoughts thoroughly, leading them, so they should be harder to beat than class 3-A with better marks.

“Yuuji...”

“Hm? What is it, Akihisa?”

“If class 2-A advanced, what would your plan be?”

I think Yuuji thought of a plan against 2-A already.

“I actually planned to get Kubo to join us by charming him over and play 10 vs 8.”

On hearing my question, Yuuji casually answered back. 10 vs 8...if we can do it, the difference between both classes can be reduced, so it will be to our advantage. It's just...”

“Charming Kubo-san over? What are you saying? How can Kubo-san do such a dirty thing?”

“Really...if you can think this way, maybe it's a blessing to you...”

“The real Kubo got blinded by those corrupted feelings...”

“...Not knowing is the real blessing.”

“Eh? Why is everyone looking at me with pity when I mentioned Kubo-san?”

Those eyes looked like someone just died. I can't understand them at all.

“Oh yeah, Yuuji, what's our plan now?”

“To be honest, I really didn't expect 2-A to lose with Shouko and Kubo among them, so I didn't really make any adjustments for the match with class 3-A. However--”

Though he says this, Yuuji must have planned already.

“--I guess we should just kill their summoned beasts.”

I see, this plan is easy to understand.

“Seems like you guys don't have any sportsmanship at all...”

“This tactic is the worst...”

“Kill them? We're going to kick them out?”

Seeing Himeji-san look so puzzled, it seems that she still doesn't understand Yuuji's plan well.

“Got it. So we're going to beat those guys up during a mess-up until they can't show up?”

“...Who're we doing it on?”

“I'd say, you guys have already accepted such a plan without hesitation...”

Muttsurini, who's used to assassination, taking photos from the shadows, cover operations and doesn't even have any relation to sportsmanship. Of course, he accepted it without any resistance. I'm different from Muttsurini, I'm a pretty fair guy normally, but we have an aim we have to achieve no matter what, so it can't be helped that we have to use such underhanded means to win.”

“No, it's alright even when it's not a mess. There are many other means besides attacking directly.”

“Yup, like sliding into the opponent or throwing a 'Hit by Pitch'.”

“...Or faking a swing and hitting the bat on the opponent.”

“That's good. Great that you can understand.”

“I say...you guys are really too evil!”

It's too crude to call us evil. If there's a need to call us that, just say that we have a flexible approach to the rules.

Standing beside us, Minami rolls her eyes and says,

“I say, you guys...if you guys do such a thing, you deserve it even when you're scolded and called 'despicable'!”

Despicable? Scolded? What is this girl saying?

“Hoho, Minami, it seems that you don't understand.”

“Yup. Seems like Shimada hasn't gotten the whiff of our sportsmanship.”

“...Lack understanding.”

I, Yuuji and Muttsurini answered in turn. Can't be helped though. Even though she didn't study enough, there has to be a limit.”

“Wha, what do you mean by that!? What are you trying to say?”

“Listen up, Minami.”

Seeing the troubled and puzzled Minami, all three of us answered loudly in unison,

“““DESPICABLE AND DIRTY ARE THINGS THAT ONLY LOSERS WILL COMPLAIN ABOUT!!!”””

“YOU GUYS ARE REALLY ROTTEN!!”

This is the golden rule of winning and losing. To win, we have to pull all the stops.

“Uu, well, but even if we force the opponent's summoned beasts to be immobile, it doesn't mean that we will win, right? How should we deal with it? And looking at their points, we can't possibly do much damage to them, right?”

Hideyoshi voiced out his doubt.

That's true. It's okay to take them out, but what do we do after that?

“The opponents are the 3rd years. And the spot-check was only done on the 2nd years, so their desire to win isn't a great, right?”

“Mn, that's true.”

We're motivated to get back those confiscated items, and we're a whole lot different from the 3rd years who're just participating this school event out of necessity.

“So we'll use the difference in strength of motivation.”

“Using the difference in motivation? Even if you say that...”

“Ahh, well, just look at it. Besides, there's no other way anyway.”

“Mn, I got it somewhat.”

“...Understood.”

Yuuji didn't explain the plan further, and we head to the middle sports arena where the match will begin.

“...At times, I really thought, what's so good about that guy...”

“Using such evil means just to get back the A-books....”

“Ah, ah hahahaha...”

<center>☆</center>

"--STRIKE THREE! BATTER OUT!"

The umpire's call echoed throughout the sports arena, and the 1st batter Minami walked back in a lonely manner. As expected of class 3-A, their ball velocity and control can't be underestimated.

"Sorry, I really couldn't hit it..."

"Don't worry, Shimada. There's a huge difference in scores anyway."

Yuuji consoled Minami like a coach. This time, we're using Chemistry as the subject, and as it's not Minami's speciality, it couldn't be helped that she couldn't hit it. Besides, Yuuji's plan isn't to hit the ball, but to attack through violence, so it doesn't matter that we didn't hit the ball.

"Summon!"

As the second batter, Sugawa-san called out him summoned beast. On a side note, this match's batting lineup goes like this.

#First batter: 3rd baseman Shimada Minami
#Second batter: Shortstop Sugawa Ryo
#Third batter: Pitcher Yoshii Akihisa
#Fourth batter: Catcher Sakamoto Yuuji
#Fifth batter: Right fielder Kondou Yoshimune
#Sixth batter: 2nd baseman Tsuchiya Kouta (Muttsurini)
#Seventh batter: Center fielder Kimishima Hiroshi
#Eighth batter: 1st baseman Fukumura Kohei
#Ninth batter: Left fielder Yokomizo Koji

[[Image:BTS vol 07 163.jpg|thumb]]

It'll be bad if we use violence right from the start, so the lead-off batter just need to hit in a normal manner, while Sugawa-san and me behind are to act according to the situation. If we feel that it's alright, Yuuji will give us the go. It'll be great if the first batter Minami can make them let their guard down...

Class A, Natsukawa Shunpei, Chemistry, 244 points.

VS

Class F, Sugawa Ryo, Chemistry, 59 points.

As how things went in the past, the pitcher and catcher are the baldy-sempai and the mohawk-head, the Toko-Natsu group that we're all too familiar with. I heard that the pitcher and catcher were different in their match against 2-A. Maybe they decided to take over this time because they know that Yuuji and I are partnering in this one. Those two really hate to lose.

“59 marks? This guy's score is really pitiful.”

Standing on the pitcher's mound, baldy-sempai saw our displayed scores and happily mocked us. This guy's looking down on us as usual.

But even though we got laughed at for our grades. Sugawa-san doesn't look like he really cares. His summoned beast just raised the bat and gets into a swinging position, As expected of a member of class F, he didn't lose his patience even though he got treated like an idiot.

“Oh, you don't even have the guts to argue back? Such a useless bum.”

After saying this nonchalantly, baldy-sempai's summoned beast gets into a pitching motion. IT gathers all the force in the arm, and at the next second, he throws the ball out.

“STRIKE!”

The next moment, the ball landed neatly into the glove of the mohawk-sempai's summoned beast. I noticed it a bit when Minami was in the batter box. That ball's really fast.

“What's wrong? That was right down the middle,”

The baldy-sempai gave a mocking smile at us as he looked down on us and receives the ball from the catcher. Sugawa-san doesn't respond at all as he just readjusts himself as he readies his bat again.

Seeing Sugawa-kun's unmoved look, the baldy-sempai just looks bored as he snorts. He then pitches the second ball.

“STRIKE TWO!”

He didn't swing at all again. Now, it's two strikes. Sugawa-san continues to stare at the opponent, seemingly analyzing the situation calmly.

“You're going to be the 2nd one who's going to be struck out!”

Baldy-sempai pitches for the 3rd time. The breaking motion isn't too different, but the velocity's a lot slower than before.

Did he miss the timing? Sugawa-san didn't swing the bat as he just remained over there. The pitch just landed inside the glove. If that's the case...

“STRIKE THREE! BATTER OUT!!”

Like what baldy-sempai predicted, he really struck Sugawa-san in three strikes. Now, it's 2 men out with no baserunners.

“Oi oi oi, I threw that ball really slowly already. Shouldn't you swing your bat already?”

Baldy-sempai mocked us with a taunting tone. Ever since we began, his way of pitching was basically mocking us. This sports meet is planned by them, so they're still angry about this? They're the ones who came up with the punishment in the first place...

“What's wrong, Sugawa-san?”

I asked Sugawa-san softly as I went past him. Maybe he noticed a flaw in the opponent's attack.

“No way, I couldn't find a way to attack.”

“I see...”

“No matter how I tried to look for it, I couldn't find that sempai in the erotic yukata...”

“I see, this information is way too useful.”

If that's the case, I don't have to waste my time looking for that sempai. Though it's a little...no, it's really a pity, but now I can concentrate on the match. Let's think of it in another way. Maybe this might be a good thing.

“You're going to be the 3rd batter I'm going to strike out, Yoshii Akihisa!”

As I walked into the batter's box, the baldy-sempai on pitcher's mound said that to me.

Class A, Natsukawa Shunpei, Chemistry, 244 points.

VS

Class F, Yoshii Akihisa, Chemistry, 57 points.

After a while, our scores are shown. I understand that my score will cause me to be in a tough battle. Unless I can hit the ball in the middle, the ball shouldn't be able to fly into the outfield. However--

“I won't give up like that, Hengawa-sempai.”

“HOLD ON A MINUTE! DID YOU JUST MIX MY NAME WITH THE WORD 'HENTAI' TO CREATE A COMPLETELY NEW SURNAME!?”

“Ah, sorry, hentai-sempai.”

“NO!! I DON'T WANT YOU TO CHANGE IT TO 'HENTAI'! CALL ME 'NATSUKAWA'! JUST GIVE ME A PROPER NAME!”

“Sorry, because your name pronunciation is easy to mix up.”

“SINCE WHEN IS IT EASY TO MIX UP! THE ONLY THING SIMILAR IN 'NATSUKAWA' AND 'HENTAI' ARE THE NUMBER OF KANJI WORDS!!”

“My my, don't be so agitated, Natsukawa-hentai.”

“So you mixed them up because 'sempai' and 'hentai' sounded all too similar!?”

The fated duel's within the bat of an eye as baldy-sempai's burning up. This isn't any different from a hot-blooded shounen sports manga anyway.

“Damn you, Yoshii Akihisa...I'M SO GOING TO KILL YOU!!!”

Baldy-sempai's summoned beast raises its position and gets ready to pitch the 1st ball—which quickly came rushing here.

“STRIKE!!”

The first ball was right down the middle. I didn't react to this pitch at all as I analyze the situation.

“Heh, seems like you don't dare to take action.”

My reaction seem to make the baldy-sempai happy, as after he received the catcher's throw back, the baldy-sempai snorted in a rather good mood.

Then, he pitches the 2nd ball.

“STRIKE TWO!!”

At this moment, the opponent pitched another ball right down the ball.

“What the heck. You're pretty quiet now.”

Like when Sugawa-san was on just now, I just let two pitches fly by me to see if there's anything. Baldy-sempai just snorted in a bored manner.

“I'm just checking where you're pitching. I'll get the next one.”

“Checking where I'm pitching? HA! Stop lying! You just couldn't hit my pitch, right?”

“...”

I didn't answer him as I just wait silently for the next pitch.

Like how he pitched against Minami and Sugawa-san, the opponent's been pitching only in the middle. It's really just like his personality. He wants to strike me out within 3 pitches, so I guess the next pitch is straight down the middle again.

“Che, so you can only look at the ball? You guys are wimps!”

It's true that I've been observing the ball up now. However, I'm not just looking at the ball, but also the positioning of the pitcher. The baldy-sempai would stand at the same place after both the 1st and 2nd pitch. AS expected of this 3rd year sempai. He really knows how to control his summoned beast, and his posture is rather stable.

But that's going to be his Achilles' Heel.

“Alright, time for the final blow!”

After getting into position, the opponent pitches the 3rd ball at me. I use this chance to match the opponent and swing my bat hard at the opponent.

The white ball zips through the air as it flies towards my head while I throw the metal bat at the opponent's face. Both of us use our killer throws, and at that nail-crunching moment, it finally reached my head.

“--DANGER!!”

The pitch the opponent threw grazes past my temples, and the metal bat I threw flies past the opponent's nose.

““YOU'RE TOO DESPICABLE!!””

“YOU TWO ARE THE SAME!!”

That damned bastard made me think that he would throw all three pitches down the middle, and the last pitch came flying at my temples! If I didn't dodge it at the last minute, it would have become a huge tragedy that couldn't be recovered!

“STRIKE THREE! BATTER OUT!”

My throw just now was treated as a swing by the umpire, so I got struck out. So now, with 3 men out, it will be a switch over.

There's no other ideas I can think of. Better gather with Yuuji and the rest on the bench and talk it through first.

“Sorry Yuuji, those guys may be wary of us already.”

“Don't mind. Just make up for that failure through your pitching.”

“...Don't worry, everyone will help you out.”

“That sounds rather normal, but for some reason, I'd think what you guys are talking about is the worst...”

“Don't these guys know of something called sportsmanship...?”

“Like being cautious, induced base on balls, there's really a lot of technical terms in baseball.”

Of course, I can pitch. My scores aren't great, so the power of the ball isn't much, but I'm rather confident of my control. I'll smack that ball hard into the opponent!

“Alright, time for us to go up. EVERYONE, LEVEL THEM TO THE GROUND!!!”

“““YEAH!!!”””

<center>☆</center>

“Are you Yoshii? Whether it's about the test of courage meet before or this competition...I'll make you regret taking on us 3rd years! Summon!”

The first batter from class 3-A entered the batter box with hostility. Seems like the test of courage made more seniors hate me now.

Class A, Hotta Masatoshi, Chemistry, 217 points

Vs

Class F, Yoshii Akihisa, Chemistry, 57 points.

Soon after the summoned beasts appeared, our scores were shown. As expected of a student from class A, the marks aren't to be underestimated.

(Let's take this guy head on. I want to see how far the ball will fly with such a difference in scores.)

That's what Yuuji's telling me with his eyes. Yuuji's right. Right now, we're facing class A opponents, so we have to see how good they are. If things so smoothly, we'll be facing the teachers' team that's even better than class A. We have to know how far we can go before we should hold back. That is an important thing.

I nod my head slightly to indicate that I understand, and then let my summoned beast get into a pitching posture. Yuuji's glove is located at the low outer corner of the strikezone. Even if it gets hit, at least it won't fly out if it's not a solid hit, right?

Compared to the baldy-sempai's pitch in the previous half of the inning, the pitch of mine is a lot slower as it flies towards Yuuji's glove.

“STRIKE!”

Facing the pitch I just threw, the opponent just let it by and doesn't swing the bat. Does he want to check my pitch velocity and power? The score's over there already, so he won't feel that I can threaten him. If the next pitch lands in the strikezone, I guess he would swing.

Then, Yuuji throws the ball over. This time, it's slightly high at the corner. Is he trying to make the opponent have a hard time hitting the ball (is that a free stance)? Well, I can't really think of a reason why such a difficult thing.

I follow the position Yuuji indicated, and this time, the opponent swung the bat.

KLANG—The crisp sound of the impact can be heard, and this time, the opponent did swing the bat.

It seemed that the batter either missed or wasn't used to playing baseball as the ball missed the center. The fly ball didn't drag its distance as it flies.

“DAMN IT!”

Looking rather angry and hurt, the opponent returned to the bench area.

I see. Even if the difference in scores is larger, it naturally doesn't cause the ball to fly far if the opponent missed the center. On the other hand, when facing class E, even though their scores were about the same, the ball would naturally fly near. It's not that power alone can win games as this would be no different from other baseball matches. However, the stronger class still has overwhelming superiority.

“Okay, I'm okay. Summon!”

A familiar voice can be heard as the second batter called out his summoned beast.

Class A, Tsunemura Yuusaku, Chemistry, 223 points

Vs

Class F Yoshii Akihisa, Chemistry, 57 points.

It's the other member of the Toko-Natsu pair, the mohican-head sempai who was the catcher. Even if he's really rotten deep inside, he's really worthy of being a member of A class, having such high scores.

“BRING IT, ON, YOSHII! SAKAMOTO! I'LL RETURN ALL THE SHAME I BORE WITH INTEREST!!”

The mohican-head sempai glared as he said that to us. Seems like he's rather pumped as well. What should I do...

(Let's pitch a ball first.)

Yuuji positions his glove. His glove is aimed at the far corner where the bat can't possibly hit. I guess he has a plan if he wants me to throw that far out.

I open my arms wide and pitch the first ball. At this moment, the mohican-head sempai deliberately swung the bat. Alright, now we have a strike--

“Ahh, my hand slipped!”

Just when I thought that, the mohican-head sempai continued his swing without stopping as he swung the bat back to Yuuji's summoned beast that's getting ready to receive the pitch.

Class A, Tsunemura Yuusaku, Chemistry, 223 points.

Vs

Class F, Sakamoto Yuuji, Chemistry, 109 points.

Having been hit on the head hard, Yuuji's summoned beast had its points changed due to the damage, and the 200+ points up till now got deducted by a lot now.

“Sorry Sakamoto. That wasn't on purpose.”

Glancing back to look at the umpire's decision, the mohican-head sempai said that to Yuuji.

If that act just now was deemed as intentional, he would be forced off the field. That sempai was probably worried about this, which was why he just said those insincere words.

“...No, no need to worry about it. A lot of mishaps often happen in sports anyway?”

Yuuji doesn't look bothered by it as he said it with a smile on his face. His summoned beast bends down to picks up the bell that was dropped due to the impact.

“I see, Sakamoto's rather magnanimous.”

“No no. I'm not really a kind person.”

Both of them seem to maintaining their smiles as they said that peacefully. After that, Yuuji throws the ball hard at the opponent with all his force.

--At the summoned beast of that mohican-head sempai between us.

With the blunt impact sound, Yuuji threw the ball directly at the mohican-sempai's summoned beast head.

Class A, Tsunemura Yuusaku, Chemistry, 191 points.

Vs

Class F, Sakamoto Yuuji, Chemistry, 109 points.

“Sorry sempai. It seem that I really can't control my summoned beast well.”

This time, it's the mohican-head sempai whose score got reduced. Yuuji lost about 100 points, and yet the opponent lost only about 30. It seems that since Yuuji's summoned beast was weakened, the difference in power was clearly shown on the ball that was pitched.

“But this can't be helped. A lot of accidents happen in sports, right?”

“Uu...ye, yea. I'll forgive you with a smile then. Besides, there wasn't much damage anyway...”

The mohican-head sempai smiled as he said this, but veins are popping out of his forehead. I see that he really looks like he wants to rush up to Yuuji. However, he showed these emotions to the umpire,

“YOU TWO, CONCENTRATE ON THE MATCH! BOTH OF YOU WILL BE EJECTED IF YOU DO SUCH A THING AGAIN!!”

““...””

After being lectured by the umpire, those two didn't say anything more as they return back to positions to complete the mission. This time, Yuuji threw the ball into my glove. And my summoned beast readies itself to fire another pitch.

Before I pitched, my eyes receive the signal Yuuji gave me.

(It's time, Akihisa.)

(Got it.)

I finally got the attack signal from Yuuji. The catcher's glove is set at the middle, but my pitch is aimed at the batter's head. Aim at the head and throw. I must break the enemy's head!

“Bring it, Yoshii!”

The mohican-head sempai gets into the free-swinging posture...that's an easy way to swing, either for the catcher or the hitter—he should be aiming it at Yuuji, right? That hit just now must have vexed him. If that's the case, right now, we just need to blow off the enemy's head.

In this tense atmosphere, my summoned beast lets out the 2nd pitch.

The ball that's aimed at the forehead of the batter and the bat that's deliberately aimed at the catcher let out forceful hits as we all hit our targets like we were attracted.

“--HIT BY PITCH!”

Don, dong...the ball rolled on the ground several times, and the results of the attack are shown.

Class A, Tsunemura Yuusaku, Chemistry, 177 points.

Vs

Class F, Sakamoto Yuuji, Chemistry, 7 points.

“AKIHISA YOU IDIOT! YOU DIDN'T DECREASE HIS POINTS BY MUCH!!”

“WHAT ABOUT YOU, YUUJI! YOU GOT HIT TOO MUCH! DEFEND YOURSELF PROPERLY!!”

Yuuji got 100 points reduced, and that mohican-head sempai just lost 10+ points. If this keeps up, we're going to be killed by them.

“OI, YOU BASTARDS! THAT WAS DELIBERATE, RIGHT? YOU HAVE GUTS TO DO THIS TO YOUR SENIORS!”

“WHAT NONSENSE ARE YOU SPOUTING!? YOU SEMPAIS ARE ANGRY THAT YOU LOST TO US IN THE TEST OF COURAGE, RIGHT!?”

“WHAT ARE YOU SAYING!? IF YOU'RE GOING TO DO IT LIKE THIS, FORGET ABOUT WHAT BASEBALL TOURNAMENT OR SUCH, LET'S JUST--”

“FINE BY ME! I HAD ENOUGH OF YOU THIRD YEARS ANYWAY. LET'S--”

The other bench players started a commotion. It's true that we didn't like each other, so it can't be helped that there would be so much antagonistic intent. Is this the chaos that Yuuji planned to raise?

Acting as the catcher, Yuuji smirked. If a battle's about to begin, I have to hurry up and choose my target so that I can punch him with all I got when I get the chance.

“STOP YOU!! ALL YOU IDIOTS!!”

At this moment, a certain person with a hoarse voice entered the fray that's about to become a battlefield. Who is it? Coming here to interfere while our objective was about to be complete!

“Really, you brats are really a lost cause...why can't you be obedient even when I let you people use summoned beasts to fight it out?”

Putting her hand on her forehead as she said this—is the damned old granny who always interfered with us.

“WHAT THE HECK, GRANNY!? WHY DID YOU COME HERE!!?”

Yuuji inadvertently clicked his tongue and questioned her. Besides, since his plan was ruined, I can understand Yuuji's reason for being unhappy.

“CALL ME THE PRINCIPAL, YOU DAMNED BRAT!!!”

The principal snorted as she turned to Yuuji. She then turned around to glare at all of us before saying,

“Really...the moment I heard that you two classes are matched up, I immediately came over to see the situation. To think that it ended up like this again. It's rare for the guests to find that our summoned beast baseball tournament is rather good. I can't possibly allow all you idiots to wreck it and ruin the school's reputation.”

It seemed that the damned old granny came over to watch us once she saw that it was us class 2-F vs 3-A...she really thought everything through.

“Please don't stop us, principal! We have a duty to use physical education to teach those useless scum from 2-F what respect and common sense is about!”

“We're the ones who can't stand you guys! Treating others as idiots and looking down on us so badly! Principal, please let us kill these sempai scums who love to put an act!

'''“I TOLD ALL OF YOU TO SHUT UP!!! YOU DAMNED BRATS!!!”

Facing the quarrelling group of people, the principal roared again. As expected, an elderly person sure can do things when she takes action. Everyone just shut up once she roared.

“Really, you idiots...so you would come up with this because the pain of the summoned beasts won't be inflicted on you...”

The principal shook her head reluctantly, thinking as she stares at us.

Finally, as she puts her hands on her hips, she decide to say to us,

“I've decided to change the settings of the summoned beasts in this match.”

“““Huh?”””

Everyone present just expressed their doubts in unison.

Change the settings of the summoned beasts? What does that mean?”

“Only this once, just once. I'll let all of you feel the pain that's inflicted on the summoned beasts. With that, you won't think about all sorts of nonsense and play ball seriously, right?”

Inflicting the pain the summoned beast suffers onto the body—anyway, it's about setting the summoned beasts to be like mine?

“Alright, that'll be it. All of you are to play seriously now!”

Leaving these words behind, the principal waved her hand and turn around to walk to the school building.

“Eh, now...”

Things just happened out of a sudden, and for a while, I didn't know what to do. It's alright to change the settings of the summoned beasts, but if that's the case, what about our plan?

“Sorry, please allow us to take a timeout.”

Yuuji asked for a timeout to the umpire, and this match just interrupted officially. After confirming that, we should start a strategy meeting.

Yuuji and the infield players are all gathered near the pitcher's mound. Okay, what do we do now?

“What do we do now, Yuuji? Our plan to create chaos was ruined.”

Our plan right from the beginning was to create chaos with the 3rd years, but it ended up like this, so our plan could only end with failure. We can't win if we play with them head on!

“No problems. Things are different from what I expected, but if that's the case, we can launch our secret weapon here.”

“Secret weapon?”

“That's right. It's a good thing that the next batter's that baldy, so there's no need to go easy on him.”

After saying that, Yuuji walked to the umpire and turned to the bench, asking for a switch of players.

“Himeji will replace Yoshii as the pitcher, Yoshii will be the catcher, I as the catcher will switch to Shimada's 3rd base.”

So the defensive alignments and pitcher are to be changed? So Himeji-san is the pitcher, I'll be the catcher, Yuuji defends 3rd base, and Minami returns to the bench to rest?

We follow Yuuji's instructions and head to our respectively areas. Himeji-san came out from the bench, running to Yuuji to say something to him. I can't hear them as they're too far away. What are they saying?

“Sakamoto-kun, I, I can't be the pitcher. I never played baseball before, and I can't really play sports...”

“Calm down, Himeji. Listen to me.”

“No, no! I can't! I can't do it.”

“Baseball focuses on teamwork, so the trust between the teammates is important—especially the pitcher and the catcher, which has to be the closest.”

“Ah, I see...but...”

“A pitcher and catcher that can create a beautiful combination—it's often called 'husband and wife' in baseball.”

“Eh? Husband and wife...”

“That's right. From now on, I won't be the catcher. Akihisa will be the one. The result of this match will prove whether you and Akihisa can develop a good 'husband and wife' relationship.”

“...”

“You must believe in your relationship with Akihisa, so throw that ball in your hand out to see it. Akihisa will use all his strength and catch your pitch. That's the 'partner'--no, 'husband and wife' relationship.”

“I...I got it!”

“Remember this, Himeji. Use all your strength. Don't think about where the ball will go. Just use all your strength to pass your feelings to Akihisa. If you deliberately hold back, your trust between each other can't be established.”

“I understand!”

What's going on? I don't know what's going on, but I have a bad feeling about this.

Just when I'm trembling at this unknown chill, Himeji-san, who finished talking to Yuuji, came running over. She looks really energetic.

"Well...Akihisa-kun, please guide me through!"

"Mn, please guide me through as well, Himeji-san."

Himeji-san seem to be rather nervous as she started stuttering.

"I believe in Akihisa-kun, I'll pitch the ball with all I got!"

"Haha, I'm happy to hear that. Let's do our best."

"Okay! Let's do our best. Let's create a wonderful family! Well...my, my beloved..."

What? What did Yuuji just say to her?

"Then, please catch my pitch!"

After she took small steps to the pitcher's mound, Himeji-san starts her preparations as she gets ready to pitch. Oh well, better not think too much. I just need to do my own job.

I'm standing at where Yuuji's been standing up till now as I let my summoned beast squat at the catcher's position.

Alright. Right now, there's one person out, one man at first base, and the match continues.

"Heh~I don't really understand what stupid plan you're thinking of, but that's not going to work on me! I'll show my strength to you. Summon!"

The opposing 3rd batter--baldy-sempai entered the batter's box and gets ready to summon.

"I, I'll do my best...summon!"

The pitcher and batter's scores are shown half a second later.

Class A, Natsukawa Shunpei, Chemistry, 244 points.

Vs

Class F, Himeji Mizuki, Chemistry, 437 points.

"Wah! That's woman's score way too much..."

On seeing Himeji-san's score, baldy-sempai started trembling. That can't be helped. Like what everyone can see, Himeji-san's scores are the elite amongst the elites, so even baldy-sempai from A class can't possibly beat her.

"Damn it. Leaving Takagi behind may be a bad decision..."

Baldy-sempai looked troubled as he muttered to himself.

Takagi? This name seems familiar. Where have I heard that name before...

"O, okay, please guide me through!"

Just when I was thinking, Himeji-san's already getting ready to pitch. I should be the one who should learn from her--HOLD ON A MINUTE! I DIDN'T REALIZE IT JUST NOW, BUT AM I THE ONE WHO'S SUPPOSED TO CATCH HIMEJI-SAN'S PITCHES!!? I'LL DIE REALLY BADLY IF I FAIL!!

"Let me see. First, step on the rubber, and then..."

"Ho, hol, hol, hold on a minute Himeji-san!!"

"Hm? What's wrong, Akihisa-kun?"

I called out to stop Himeji-san, who's getting ready to pitch. Himeji-san is so gentle and understanding. I guess she would hold back a bit, but since the difference in our scores are so far different from each other, I don't know what's going to happen, so it's better to let her try out.

"You see a runner at first base? Throw a pickoff at first base to prevent him from stealing base. Would you like to try it?"

The runner at first base didn't run too far away. I just want Himeji-san to throw a pickoff there so that she can get used to it. Anyway, I just want to let Himeji-san throw a ball first.

"A pickoff--ah, I got it. I just need to throw to first base, right?"

"That's right. Can you please throw to Fukumura-san at first base?"

"I understand. Then--"

Himeji-san's summoned beast raises its arm and gets into a pitching position.

"Heh!"

"................AH?"

Class A, Tsunemura Yuusaku, Chemistry, DEAD.

Vs

Class F, Himeji Mizuki, Chemistry, 437 points.

Class F, Fukumura Kohei, Chemistry, DEAD.

Vs

Class F, Himeji Mizuki, Chemistry, 437 points.

--There were immediate reports of two deaths.

KLANG...with that, the sound of some heavy objects tumbling down continuously can be heard.

The summoned beasts of the runner at first base, that mohican-head sempai and Fukumura-san, who's watching first base disappear together into the wind like good friends.

""WAAAHHHHHHHHH!!! IT HURRTTSSS!!! MY BODY HUUUUUURRRRRTTTTTSSSS!!!"

After a short while, controllers of the summoned beasts cried out in pain as well.

It seem that the settings change managed to catch up to the ball, so both of them got the effects of the damage done to the summoned beasts, which caused them to roll on the floor in pain.

"Ah! So, sorry! I didn't know how to control the strength on the ball, so..."

Himeji-san frantically lowered her head to apologize to both of them who're rolling on the ground. However, I don't think they would bother hearing her apology now.

"Will the bench players please take over the injured players so that we can continue the match?"

The refereeing teacher coldly asked the players to come on. The 2 severely injured players who are unable to move due to the pain are carted off. The opponent sent out one sempai, while Hideyoshi, who was on the bench, replaced Fukumura-san to guard 1st base.

"Uu...I failed..."

Though she managed to bury two people at one go, Himeji-san seem to be remorseful over it. If possible, I would like to encourage her, but if she doesn't control her strength and use all her force, the next ball will strike me, the catcher. If I get hit by that powerful ball, I'll most likely get sent to a whole new dimension in pain. Though I'm really sorry to her, I really don't want--

"Don't mind, Himeji. Just pitch with all you got."

"But..."

"Don't worry too much. That's what a catcher should do."

"But if I do this, Akihisa-kun would..."

"Oi oi, why are you saying such a thing? Don't you trust Akihisa at all?"

"Ah...no, that's not it! I never doubted Akihisa-kun!"

THAT BASTARD'S DEFINITELY TRYING TO KILL ME!!!

"Akihisa-kun, here I come!"

NOOOOO!!! HIMEJI-SAN, DON'T THROW THAT BALL AT ME!!!!

"He, heh!"

"Hm? eh? How did it--"

Himeji-san let out a cute sound and a pitch that's not cute at all. The pitch that can't be seen with the eyes landed directly on the 3rd year senior who's waiting to bat next.

Class A, Kindaichi Shinnosuke, Chemistry, DEAD.

Vs

Class F, Himeji Mizuki, Chemistry, 437 points.

The 4th batter of class 3-A didn't even manage to show his score as he immediately become a lifeless soul, never to come back again. Because of that, he became the 3rd victim.

"RE, REF!! THAT WAS A DANGEROUS BALL, WASN'T IT!!? SHE SHOULD BE EJECTED!!"

Standing in the batter's box, the baldy-sempai's expression changed greatly as he argued that Himeji-san broke the rules. But before the umpire could say anything, Yuuji, who's standing at 3rd base, says,

"Oi, sempai? How can you say such a cruel thing? Look at Himeji. You know that she didn't do it on purpose!"

"So, sorry! This is my first time as the pitcher. That's why I'm so nervous..."

Himeji-san came running over to class 3-A's bench and continued to bow to them in apology. Seeing Himeji-san looking so lost about what to do, I don't think anyone would doubt that she didn't do it on purpose.

"ST, STOP JOKING AROUND, SAKAMOTO!! SOME THINGS CAN'T BE FORGIVEN EVEN IF IT'S NOT DELIBERATE!!"

"SHUT UP, YOU SCUM!! Sensei, think carefully. One side is a cute student who's working hard to participate in a class event even though she's not good at it. The other side is one whose evil intent is to tarnish the sacred meaning of sportsmanship, a dumb, evil and ugly sempai. As a teacher, which side will you stand on?"

"BEGIN!"

"U, umpire?"

The umpire mercilessly announced the continuation of the match. Compared to our dastardly deeds, Himeji-san's actions aren't of ill intent at all. In that case, the judgment's correct, but I find that this umpire has a rather distorted view on values.

"OI, YOSHII! HURRY UP AND CHASE THAT WOMAN AWAY! YOU'LL DIE IF THIS KEEPS UP!"

"HO, HOW CAN I DO THAT? DON'T LOOK AT HER LIKE THAT, HIMEJI-SAN'S REALLY SOMEONE WITH VERY RADICAL THOUGHTS!!"

I continue to talk to the baldy-sempai in the batter's box. If I can do it, I really want Himeji-san to get off the field!

"Uu...it's really hard...maybe I can pitch better if I use a little more force..."

Himeji-san returned to the pitcher's mound and said that, causing me to break out cold sweat.

HOW IS IT POSSIBLE!! SHE DIDN'T THROW THAT BALL JUST NOW AT FULL STRENGTH!!

The one with the ability to be the valedictorian of our year pitched that without noticing the control. It seem that only the bench is a safe zone. If that's the case, it just made me forget that we have a baseball tournament going on. This isn't a match, it's a one-sided massacre.

"Th, this time...I must pitch it at Akihisa-kun!"

""EEIIYYYYYAAAAA!!""

Baldy-sempai and I let our summoned beasts throw our bat and glove away as we just cared about using both hands to cover our heads and duck. A heavy fastball flew right above our summoned beasts' head.

"BALL."

The umpire decided that it was a ball, BUT WHO WOULD CARE ABOUT WHETHER IT'S A STRIKE OR A BALL NOW!!?

"SUB HER OUT, SAKAMOTO! GET THAT PITCHER OFF!!"

"What are you saying, sempai? Himeji's pitches are getting sharper. Isn't she getting into the groove?"

"I CAN'T SEE HER AIMING AT THE CATCHER'S GLOVE!!!"

I agree with that.

Ignoring the baldy-sempai and Yuuji who're arguing, Himeji-san stands on the pitcher's mound, seemingly muttering about something.

"Uu...maybe it's because I didn't trust in Akihisa-kun thoroughly, so I couldn't pitch well...I have to trust Akihisa-kun more..."

Thus, she grasps onto the ball in her hand even tightly as she prepares to do something even more shocking. Eh? What's Himeji-san doing?

"HO, HOLD ON A MINUTE!! DID THAT PITCHER JUST CLOSE HER EYES!!?"

"That's not the case, that's the trust between partners. It's because she believes in the guidance of the pitcher that she would close her eyes to pitch."

"HOW IS SHE GOING TO BE GUIDED BY THE CATCHER IF HER EYES ARE CLOSED!!? YOU'RE SPOUTING NONSENSE HERE!!"

"That's it. It must have opened her inner eye. A truly great player doesn't need sight, he just needs to detect the presence of the pre--the opponent's location."

" SO WHAT IF SHE FOUND MY LOCATION! THE MAIN POINT'S TO PITCH DIRECTLY INTO THE STRIKEZONE, RIGHT!!? DID YOU JUST NEARLY CALL ME 'PREY'!!?"

"Please don't say something overbearing, alright? Prey-sempai?"

"DID YOU JUST SAY THAT!!? YOU JUST CALLED ME 'PREY-SEMPAI' WITHOUT THINKING, RIGHT!!?"

The most important thing right now is whether the prey Yuuji just mentioned involved me or not.

"Well...Himeji-san! Can you hear me? Actually, you don't have to be so serious..."

"Hoo...ha...hoo...ha...it's alright, I can pitch a strike if I believe firmly in Akihisa-kun..."

"Himeji-san?"

It seems that Himeji-san just entered a zen phase as she's unable to receive my words or the hand signals. Anyway...I have to use my own means to survive if I want to see the sunrise tomorrow.

"Can, can't be helped. If that's the case, I'll just dodge sideways when Himeji-san pitches. If my luck is good, maybe I can keep my own life!"

"THAT, THAT'S TOO UNDERHANDED, YOSHII!! YOU JUST WANT TO SAVE YOUR OWN LIFE!!?"

"Sorry sempai, I still love my life!"

On a side note, the basic rules of baseball indicates that the batter can't leave the batter box. I feel somewhat sorry that the baldy-sempai in front of me will have to dodge Himeji-san's pitches in the narrow area.

"I'm pitching, Akihisa-kun!"

"PLEASE TRY AND OPEN YOUR EYES, HIMEJI-SAN!!"

Facing Himeji-san's declaration, I could only beg for her to spare my life. But it seems that my wish didn't reach her heart as Himeji-san continued to keep her eyes closed and pitch the ball with all her strength.

A heavy fastball

With tremendous power

Aimed at the baldy-sempai's summoned beast's head.

".........................waaa........."

Everyone knows of a fruit called pomegranate that blooms in the beginning of summer? It's a sweet and sour fruit that's bright red. It grows on the tree, and when it ripens without anyone picking it off, it will drop because it overripes. Once it drops onto the ground, the crimson red flesh and juice will spill out all over the place.

Right now, the image of the batter that's shown into my mind started to remind me of the terrible state when the pomegranate drops for some reason.

Class A, Natsukawa Shunpei, Chemistry, DEAD.

Vs

Class F, Himeji Mizuki, Chemistry, 437 points.

"That's...overkill...that woman's...the...devil..."

Standing beside the summoned beast that got battered badly, baldy-sempai suffered lots of pain as he looked like he's about to lose consciousness and collapsed onto the ground. Seeing this...I can only feel pity for him.

After lunch, I think some people will recover, right? But the baldy-sempai's summoned beast carried its thoroughly devastated state as it disappeared into mid-air.

"Well...Akihisa-kun, was that pitch alright?"

It's only at this moment that Himeji-san finally opened her eyes. It's because she kept her eyes closed that she didn't see that burst pomegranate-like scene. Maybe this might be a good thing to her.

"Well...if we considered our initial aim, that ball was well pitched..."

But for some reason, there's some emotion within me that's making me unable to be happy.

"Next batter, please step up the plate."

The umpire coldly prompted for the next batter.

Looking over at the 3-A bench, everyone there is deliberately looking down, not daring to look at the umpire straight in the face.

"HEHE!! THE 3RD YEAR BATTERS ARE SCARED!!"

It's unknown where that mockery came from.

Hoo...I think the batter's not the only one who's scared.

"SENSEI! WE RAN OUT OF SUBSTITUTES!!"

Class 3-A reported that they don't have any substitutes left. If that's the case, since there are other events going on, there could only be 2 bench players. What should be done? Is he going to get those unregistered to play?

At this moment, I remember a rule included in the summoned beast baseball tournament. Yuuji added a rule that 'Each team is to hand in the list of players. Those players whose names aren't on the list will be unable to take part in the match'. That damned bastard created this plan to fulfill that rule...?

"Not enough bench players? Well...we'll skip past that person's batting order. The other players are to do their remedial tests."

The teacher made that cold decision. This sounded reasonable, but wouldn't that mean that the other players will have to do the tests just to take Himeji-san's killer pitches...?

"Right, so now to the next batter--5th batter, please step up. Those players with no points left are to take part in the remedial tests."

"""CLASS 3-A DECIDES TO FORFEIT!!!"""

And thus, with two Hit by Pitch at two batters and having caused 4 martyrs, a damage rating of 200%, the pitcher of F class Himeji Mizuki became a legend in the sports meet.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Fourth Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Sixth Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Fourth Question

2012-04-19T03:34:23Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Fourth Question==

Use mathematical induction [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References] to prove the following:

1 + 3 + 5 + … + (2n-1)=n2       ①

:When n is a natural number.

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer'''

1. When n=1, equation ① is calculated as,

:Left Hand Side = 1
:Right Hand Side = 1

2. Assuming that n=k is valid,

:1 + 3 + 5 + … + (2k-1)=k2       ②

When n=k+1, the left hand side of ① is written as

:1 + 3 + 5 + … + (2k-1)+(2k+1)
:=k2 + (2k+1) (Obtained from equation ①)
:=(k+1)2

In other words,

:1 + 3 + 5 + … + (2k-1)+(2k+1)
:=(k+1)2

① is valid when n=k+1.

From 1. and 2., equation ① is valid for all values on n.

'''Teacher's comment'''

That's correct. In mathematical induction, you need to prove that n=1 is valid. Also, when assuming that n=k is valid, you have to deduce that n=k+1 is valid. In this question, the key is that n is a natural number. On a side note, people often forget to put that n=1, so do take note when answering.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's answer'''

"I'll prove here that ① is correct - Tsuchiya Kouta"

'''Teacher's comment'''
[[Image:BTS vol 07 107c.jpg|thumb]]

Even if you try to sneak through by writing it in a style of a thesis, it's useless. The question mentioned that you have to prove it through 'mathematical induction', so while assuming that n=k, please write the equation that n=k+1 is valid.

'''Yoshii Akihisa's answer'''

"My judgment can hold."

'''Teacher's comment'''

"Please use an assumption."

“Oh! Akihisa, you're back.”

“Been tough on you, Akihisa.”

“...Welcome back.”

“Ah, mn, I'm back...”

As I finish the replenishment tests and return to the middle of the sports arena, Hideyoshi and the rest kindly receive my arrival. Seeing them like this at least alleviates the feeling of behind left behind a bit. But whether we won or lost, I still wished to see it through with everyone...

Thinking about this, my eyes turn to the class F rest area that's bounded by rope. At this moment, I realize that the guys in class are surrounding a strange box and arguing. What are they doing?

“PLEASE LET ME BE THE LUCKY GUY!”

“STOP YAPPING AND START DRAWING! THERE ARE PEOPLE BEHIND!”

“I GOT IT, I GOT IT! WHY ARE YOU GUYS SO ANXIOUS! ALRIGHT, IT'S THIS ONE—DAMN IIIIIITTTTT!!!”

“““NICE! CRY YOUR WAY HOME!!!”””

“Eh, what are they doing?”

I asked Yuuji who's beside me. Several classmates of mine seem to be dejected and unhappy. Why is that?

“Hm? You're talking about them? Just doing a lucky draw.”

“I know that. I just want to know why they're doing it.”

“Oh. The next event is the 2-people-3-legged race. The draw's to decide who goes with who.”

“Heh~so that's how it is.”

It's true that the choosing of partners in the 2-people-3-legged race is crucial. More than one's own ability, the most important thing is for both sides to be able to co-ordinate together.

“What's wrong, Akihisa? You're pretty calm.”

Hideyoshi asked me with a puzzled look, but there's no reason for me not to remain calm...

“Because it doesn't matter who's the partner. Guys and girls will be separated anyway--”

“This is a mixed event.”

“No problems at all. SUMMON!”

GO, MY SUMMONED BEAST! KILL THOSE GUYS FOR ME!!

“CALM DOWN, YOU IDIOT! DO YOU THINK YOU CAN SUMMON WITHOUT A TEACHER'S PERMISSION?”

“I CAN'T CALM DOWN AT ALLLL!! WHO IS IT? WHO'S THAT LUCKY GUY WHO GOT THE LUCKY NUMBER?”

“Relax, it's not decided yet.”

“Eh? Really?”

“...If that were the case, we wouldn't be quarreling like this.”

“Ah, you're right.”

Lucky...the key to winning the 2-people-3-legged race is to not get anxious and match the steps of the partner. The bodies will have to be together. If there's any traitor who would do such a great thing to the girls, that guy will be massacred by the FFF.

“I see. That's why everyone's praying.”

“That's the case.”

Everyone's praying before they stand in front of the box, putting their hands together and praying.

“But, to think that Himeji-san and Minami would agree to play the 2-people-3-legged race with the guys as well. Yuuji, did you say something to them?”

Looking over there, the other girls seem to be paired up with the same gender. Himeji-san and Minami probably did that because there are only 3 people, Himeji-san, Minami and Hideyoshi and can't leave someone out?

Hearing my words, Yuuji gives a 'really, you...' look.

“What idiotic words are you saying? I would wish for guys and girls to be in different groups.”

“Eh? Why—oh ya, I understand. You'll be killed if something goes wrong.”

“Good that you can understand.”

Once Kirishima-san knows that Yuuji's partner is a girl, no matter how far Yuuji is, she would install some counter measures. There's no such thing as 'impossible' in a girl-in-love's dictionary—everyone knows that.

“More than that, I feel that the baseball tournament's more important.”

“...I agree.”

Yuuji and Muttsurini nod their heads. These people have already turned into Asure just to get their confiscated A-books. They would prefer the more practical honor of getting back their A-books 10,000 times more than getting honor and glory.

“If that's the case, the next match is decided, right?”

The middle (first) sports arena is used to hold the sports meet, and the second arena that's located behind the school compound was used to hold our second-year baseball tournament.. The gym is opened for the 3rd years. We're facing the 3rd years later...

“...They haven't finished yet. It's extra innings.”

“Oh, if we're successful, we get a walk over.”

Due to the time limit, this match will be extended to 7 innings. If they can't win, the match will be decided as a tie. It sounds nice, but both sides can't progress on. If that's really the case, we can take the next match without playing.

“Anyway, let's check the next match to game plan...let me see, the next match has maths, biology, modern literature, economics and geography.”

Yuuji took out the schedule to check. These are all basic, normal subjects.

“...No health education.”

Muttsurini sounded rather lonely when he said that as he glanced at the schedule in Yuuji's hand. Like what Muttsurini says, there's no health education for every match.

“If that's the case, do you want to take part in the sports meet event, Muttsurini?”

“You're right. We'll do that for the second round.”

“...I got it.”

To think that Muttsurini would actually leave the frontlines. However, since there's no health education in the next few matches, it can't be helped. Besides, Muttsurini's other subjects are worse than me.

“Then we should readjust the batting order and the defensive alignments. The first one is maths, so Shimada will be the 1st batter...we'll let Sugawa handle the second. That guy seems like he can really bunt.”

“Then what about me? I can't handle maths.”

“You can't handle maths 'too'. Besides, even if we leave you at the back few batters, your biology scores are atrocious, so I might as well just leave you at 3rd. It's good if you can really bunt. If you're successful, we should be able to get 1 point.”

“Mn, got it.”

Yuuji decided our batting order and defensive positioning.

Just when Yuuji and I are discussing--

“Well, erm, Akihisa-kun...”

A voice called me from behind. This voice...Himeji-san?

“Hm? Himeji-san, what's wrong?”

Turning around, I see that Himeji-san and Minami are standing behind me. They're looking really serious. What's going on?

“It's not really something big...”

“Well...Akihisa-kun, what's your number?”

“Eh? You're asking me for my number...”

Ah, should be the batting order, right? As expected of Himeji-san, being so serious when she does things. She would actually check the defensive position and batting order. Though she's not really good at understanding sports, it seems like he's seriously thinking about this match.

Uu, my batting order...

“I'm 3. Number three.”

““WAH!!””

After I answered that, Himeji-san and Minami seem to whimper for some reason. Is my batting order weird?

“Uuu...I know the chances are slim, but I thought that it could be possible...”

“That's too much. This is too saddening...the one chance to stick on. This is a rare chance...”

Both of them are holding onto a little piece of paper each as they becried.

“AH~so you're talking about that. Don't worry, you two, Akihisa was just talking about the batting order. He hasn't drawn the number for the 2-persons-3-legged race.”

Yuuji said to them while sounding like he's lecturing them.

““Eh?””

Himeji-san and Minami, who were in a moment of melancholy just a second ago, lifted their heads up at the same time. Hm? Was the number they were talking about regarding the 2-persons-3-legged race?

“Oh ya. I forgot all about that. Got to take one number!”

Who can take it if those guys take the wonderful opportunity to be with the girls!?

“Ah, that...Akihisa-kun!”

“Wait, Aki!”

As I was about to go for the box of numbers, Himeji-san and Minami suddenly stopped me. Uu...if I don't hurry up, my happiness will be taken away.

“What? Is there something?”

“No. We...well...what should I say...I'm 7...”

“My number's 6...”

Himeji-san and Minami seem to say these numbers gingerly. 7 and 6? I see. So I'll strike jackpot if I get these numbers, right--

““(PLEASE) DON'T DRAW THIS NUMBER!””

Seems like they really hate me.

“I, I got it...then, I'll draw one number then...”

“I say, you two. Those words may have already caused Akihisa to misunderstand...”

“Be, because it's Akihisa-kun...if we say to him 'please draw this number'--”

“That, that's right! When that happens, it will become the opposite of what we wish for. For some reason, I keep feeling that he will get Sakamoto's number or something...”

“...Really, it's been tough on you two...”

Sigh, though I never had much luck, I can't possibly get a good draw anyway. But I'm really sad to be told them by them...I drag my heavy footsteps and arrive in front of Sugawa-san, who's watching over the box.

“Alright, Yoshii, draw your fate.”

“Uu, okay...”

With Sugawa-san staring at me mysterious, I reach my hand into the box. It'll be heaven if I can draw 6 or 7, so I have to do my best. Uu...okay, this one!

I immediately pull out the number. The number written on the paper is--

“Ah, 6...”

'''“KILL HIM!!!”'''

'''“““YES, HIEROPHANT!!!”””'''

“WHAT'S GOING ON? I GOT SURROUNDED!”

I haven't even said my number out loud, and a large group of people in black hoods surrounded me. I was careless! Saying out my number so openly like that, is it the end of me...

“6, 6...I see, so Aki will be with me...”

“Uu...Minami-chan looks so happy...”

“Do, do I? When do I look happy...”

“You liar! I can see your face glowing...”

“Uu...”

“I think Minami-chan will use this chance to touch Akihisa-kun's chest and butt...that's too sneaky...”

“Wh, what are you saying, Mizuki! How can I do such a thing—eh, what? What did you just say? Touching...Mizuki, what were you talking about...”

“Ah! No, nothing! I'm not talking about touching him sneakily. Th, that...I'm just talking about improving the relationship with Akihisa-kun. I just said it wrongly!”

“Mizuki..what were you planning to do to Aki...”

In a blink of an eye, I got wrestled down onto the floor by them as they forcefully take away that piece of paper in my hand. These guys...these techniques aren't moves that amateurs can do!

“Alright, this no.6 will be auctioned.”

“VERY GOOD, NO MATTER HOW MUCH YOU OFFER, MIHARU WILL BUY IT!”

“““WHY IN THE WORLD IS SHIMIZU-SAN HERE!?”””

“Sorry, but this is a class affair — hm?”

“What's wrong, leader?”

“No, this..isn't 6. It's 9. Yoshii just looked at it in the opposite way.”

Sugawa-san opens the number in his hand. The number 9 has an arrow to indicate how it should be read.

“What the hell, so it's 9. That shocked us...”

“Yoshii really loves to create commotions.”

“Causing us to spend so much effort on this.”

“It's all Yoshii's fault for being unable to see such a simple number like that. How stupid.”

The FFF members grumbled as they turn away. That was close. If I really got 6, I would have been killed...

“Well, Aki...”

While I'm stroking my joints, Minami walks up to me.

“Hm? Minami, what's up?”

“What should I say? Well...before the meet, why don't we tie our legs toward and practice a bit? We need to practice on chemistry, so I think we should practice to match our breathing and rhythm...”

Minami starts to warm up as she asked me.

Practice for the 2-persons-3-legged race? I see. So Minami's seeing that as really important and actually willing to make a contribution to the class like that. That's nice. In contrast, those classmates of mine who would execute me out of jealousy are really rotten until I want them to the mud in their nails.

“Ah...but I feel that it's best to train with your own partner, right? It's more effective to train together with your partner.”

“I'm not deliberately closing my distance with your body—eh? What did you just say?”

“I just got 9. Didn't you get 6, Minami?”

I open my paper I just drew to Minami for her to see.

That's a pity. If I could partner with the athletic Minami, I can perform better in the 2-persons-3-legged race. And besides, there would be a lot of happy things happening as well...

“Oh, I see. So it's like that...if that's the case, it doesn't matter...”

Hearing me say that, Minami shrugs her shoulders and looks lost as she walks away. Did she feel that it would be easier to pair up with me? We do work together well. If she really thinks this way, it would be really great.

“I'm sorry, Minami-chan. The truth is that, I heaved a sigh of relief just now.”

“Don't worry Mizuki...I think I would do the same thing if our roles were reversed...”

Minami walked to Himeji-san, and both of them said something. It seems to be something involving girls. I shouldn't eavesdrop, and besides, it's time to go back to Yuuji and the rest.

After keeping the number I opened properly, I turn around to return to my usual friends. Yuuji and the rest seem to have finished discussing about the baseball match as Yuuji passed me my batting order number once I got there.

“What's wrong, Akihisa? You didn't get the number you want?”

Yuuji mocked me. If I really got the number I wanted, I would have been buried, right? In a certain sense, maybe such an outcome is really the jackpot.

Speaking of which, who's my partner?

“Oh ya, Yuuji, what's your number?”

“Hm? Well, I haven't drawn yet. I wanted to draw once those guys calm down, but I forgot.”

“Me too.”

“...Same here.”

It seems like these people haven't decided on their partners in the 2-persons-3-legged race. Since the partner number 9 hasn't drawn his number yet, one of these three people will be my partner. If that's the case...

“Please, Hideyoshi! You must draw 9!”

“Hm? What's wrong, Akihisa? You want to be partners with me?”

“Of course! I really want to be partners with Hideyoshi!”

If it's just Yuuji, Hideyoshi and Muttsurini, I would choose Hideyoshi without exception. Considering the honor of the class, it would be better to choose Yuuji or Muttsurini, but things aren't that simple. This world has things that are more important than winning.

“We should draw our numbers too. Besides, the class challenges is more important than the baseball tournament as per schedule.”

“...It will be bad if we don't take part in those events.”

“I feel the same.”

The 3 of them head to the box. As things go, only those 3 haven't drawn numbers yet. The only ones with an undecided partner are me, Himeji-san and Minami. In other words, once they draw the numbers, there will be tragedies of bloodshed.

While everyone's trying to hold back their saliva, Hideyoshi reaches into the box.

Please, Hideyoshi, get 9!

“Uu, I got 9--”

“BRING IT ON, YOU GUYS!! I'LL DEFEND THIS PIECE OF PAPER EVEN IF I DIE!!!”

'''“““DON'T THINK THAT YOU CAN LIVE TO SEE THE SUN TOMORROW, IDIOT!!!”””'''

Not willing to lose to the overwhelming killing intent, I shouted out and gripped my fists tightly. There's only a few minutes before the 2-persons-3-legged race begins. Until then, I must survive!

“--Sorry, saw it wrongly. It's 6.”

“““...”””

The killing intent immediately dissipated. At this same time, my enthusiasm disappeared. If it's 6, then Hideyoshi's partnered with Minami...I feel that it's a pity, but there's a sense of relief here...

If that's the case, there's only 7 and 9 left. The next one will either be my partner or Himeji-san.

“...(sssst).”

Muttsurini reaches into the box. To him, this is a battle of winning and losing, right? If he can be with Himeji-san, he can touch Himeji-san's amazingly self-aware parts. That guy will jump into the vortex of happiness even when he knows that he would die. I don't want him to get such an envious outcome!

Muttsurini finally pulls out that piece of paper that decides his fate and slowly opens it. Now, what will he get...

“...9--”

“FAREWELL!!”

'''“DON'T YOU DARE ESCAPE!! EVERYONE, CATCH SAKAMOTO AND OFFER HIM FOR A BLOOD SACRIFICE!!!”'''

'''“OSSSUU!!”'''

Less than a second after it happened, the moment Yuuji knew that Muttsurini's my partner, he realized that he would be Himeji-san's partner without drawing the numbers, and the class immediately ran off in a lightning quick hunting action. Mn, it's not that I don't understand everyone's feelings for wanted to catch that damned guy and execute him.

Looking at Yuuji and the other classmates sprint at a speed that's worthy of a sports meet, Hideyoshi and Muttsurini came up to me with their drawn numbers.

“Really, everyone's so energetic.”

“...That's really noisy.”

“What's wrong, Akihisa? Aren't you going to deal with Yuuji?”

Perhaps suspecting my calmness, Hideyoshi couldn't help but ask. Uu, I want to deal with him on my own...

“No problems. Even if I don't, Kirishima-san will--”

“..I won't forgive you for fooling around.”

“GUUUUAAHHH!!! SHOUKO!? WHERE DID YOU COME OUT FROM!!”

“--Kirishima-san will fulfil my wish for me.”

“I see. Either way, the way I see it, Yuuji most probably doesn't have much of his life left...”

Kirishima-san, who suddenly appeared out of nowhere, has already inserted her slender fingers forcefully into Yuuji's face. That should hurt...

“...Oh yes, Yuuji.”

“Oi, Shouko, hold on a minute! Who would talk casually in this situation? Normally, people would remove the force on the hand, right?”

“...Did auntie give you anything?”

“Hm? You're talking about my mom? Ahh, if that's the case...”

Yuuji, whose face is locked in by the fingers is still talking to Kirishima-san, muttering 'hold on a minute'. But for Yuuji to be able to talk in this situation, I think that's pretty impressive.

“...About that?”

“That spot-check, I handed that thing my mom wanted to pass to you in the bag as well.”

“...Bag?”

“Eh, the bag with the hypnotism book.”

“...Really?”

“Yes.”

“...You aren't lying to me?”

“I didn't.”

“...”

“Shouko, what's with you? What will happen if that bag's confiscated?”

“...To me...what...”

“So, what in the world are you saying—”

“...What...''did you do to me!''”

“UWAAAHHH!! IT HURTS, THIS HURRRRTTTTSSSSS!!!”

''“...Everything in that bag got confiscated....”''

“UWAAAAHHHHH!!!!”

I can vaguely hear a snap. The next moment, I found Yuuji lying limply on the floor.

''“...Yuuji is...a big idiot!”''

Leaving behind the unconscious Yuuji, Kirishima-san ran off without turning back.

Really, it can't be helped. At this moment, I can only take care of Yuuji. If I'm to keep him lying there, it'll be a huge disturbance to everyone else.

“What did you do, Yuuji?”

I lean over and grab Yuuji's hand to pull him up, asking about the situation just now. Yuuji shakes his head before answering. It doesn't matter anyway, but for Yuuji to be able to get up immediately after such an attack, I really feel that he's not normal in any sense.

“Well...it seems that it's because of me. My mom wanted to hand her something, and those magazines got confiscated as well.”

“Your mom asked you to give Kirishima-san something...”

Seeing her so angry, it must be something important.

“Speaking of what my mom would give to her, don't tell me...a marriage agreement!?”

Ahh, I see. Since Yuuji and Kirishima-san are still underaged, both sides have to agree to the marriage. The marriage agreement that she work so hard to get got confiscated. No wonder she's so angry.

“That's too dangerous...if that's the case, I really have to be grateful to that spot-check guu...!”

Yuuji again tumbled to the ground. Behind him, our classmates are holding tasers as they surround him.

'''“Take him away.”'''

'''“““Yes!”””'''

They lift up Yuuji's lifeless body and walk to a dark corner of the school compound. Now that Yuuji's gone, he will definitely be executed...but never mind. That guy will only makes things more difficult for me if he continues to live. More importantly, I should focus on the 2-persons-3-legged race.

“Anyway, my partner's Muttsurini. Let's do our best.”

“...Let's do our best.”

We hold our hands together forcefully. In terms of speed, Muttsurini's even faster than Yuuji. In a competition, he should be the best partner.

“Kinoshita's with me, right? Let's do our best as well.”

“Ya, I'd say, let's do our best.”

Minami leans over for some reason. Maybe she practiced with Hideyoshi already. Besides her, Himeji-san looks really worried.

“With Sakamoto-kun...I worried that I would drag him now...”

“Ahh, Himeji-san, I guess you don't have to worry.”

Once Yuuji comes back, his body would be in a state that he can't run normally.

Right now, our groupings are 'me and Muttsurini', 'Minami and Hideyoshi' and 'Himeji-san and corpse'. I can't take part in the mixed group, but at least this may be a good thing.

“What's wrong, Aki? Your partner's not Kinoshita, it's Tsuchiya...but you look rather happy!”

“Eh? Re, really?”

The reason why I felt really happy that my partner's Muttsurini is because I would die if I'm to partner with a girl...but it's really tough to say such things. Anyway, better slip through with a prank.

“I guess. Besides, having Muttsurini as a partner is better than having Yuuji.”

“Heh~ why?”

“Isn't Muttsurini rather cute?”

“““...Eh?”””

Minami and Muttsurini use a really serious expression as they asked me.

“Didn't Muttsurini wear a female outfit at the seaside? I find that he looked rather cute that time—ow!”

Saying till halfway, I got knocked lightly on the back of the head by someone. Who is it!?

“...Sorry, Akihisa.”

Turning around, I see Hideyoshi looking rather unhappy as he stood behind me. Eh? Did Hideyoshi just hit me?

“What's with you, Hideyoshi?”

“Uu...actually, I don't really know, but I couldn't help it...”

“Eh? Like that? Well, it doesn't matter anyway, since it doesn't really hurt...”

Maybe Hideyoshi's hand slipped? I can't imagine Hideyoshi hitting people randomly, so he must have hit my accidentally...but thinking about it carefully, he seemed to have done a wrestling move on me...

"Recently, it seems that Akihisa-kun's interests is spreading. I'll feel really bothered..."

"...Pervert.."

"YOU, YOU TWO ARE MISTAKEN! I'M NOT REALLY INTERESTED IN CROSSDRESSED MUTTSURINI, I'M JUST HAPPY THAT IT'S EASY TO WIN WITH HIM AS MY PARTNER!!"

I continued to shout to Himeji-san and Muttsurini, who're standing far away from me and muttering away. Speaking of which, I DON'T WANT TO BE CALLED A PERVERT BY SOMEONE LIKE MUTTSURINI!!!

"Heh~Aki, you're pretty confident."

It seems that my 'easy to win' words made Minami unhappy as she snapped back. What confidence? I'm not so confident anyway...

"Uu, everyone knows how amazing Muttsurini is, and I'm rather good in spots too."

If we're to compete in a 100m dash, I'll lose to Muttsurini by a bit, but my timing would be rather decent. If Muttsurini and I can get along well, it's not hard to beat the rest.

"Humph, and you really said it...so if that's the case--"

"Hm?"

"How about a race with us?"

"Eh? With you two?"

"That's right. Kinoshita and I. I remember each class is allowed to sent two groups up, right?"

Hearing Minami say this, I seem to remember that this is really the case. Ever year has their own race, and for classes A-F, each class is to send two groups, a total of 12.

Since Minami challenged me, it'll be interesting to challenge them.

"Mn, OK, we'll have a race then."

I pondered for a while before agreeing to it.

"Then, the loser will have to be punished."

"Eh?"

Minami added another condition.

Punishment...if it's Minami, what sort of punishment would she make me do? Just thinking about that alone makes me terrified.

"What's wrong, Aki? Don't you have any confidence of beating our girls group?"

"Shimada, are you mistaken? I'm not a girl."

Minami made a taunt.

Woah, Minami actually dared to say that. I don't really have much confidence in studies, but I can't lose in sports!

"Of, of course now! Okay, let's do this!"

Thinking about it, I kept competing with Yuuji with regards to all sorts of things. Compared to that guy's dirty and despicable punishment games, this should be a lot easier. Who's afraid!?

"As for the loser's punishment--"

"Mn, say it, I'll win anyway!"

"If I win--"

"Um hm? If you win--"

"--You'll go out with me."

"Eh? Go out with you...a weekend kind of thing? You're going shopping?"

Minami's thinking of asking me to go out and help her carry things, right? I heard that girls will spend a lot of time on shopping, so Minami would ask me to do this? Maybe I have to carry a lot.

"Uu...well, anyway, it's like that. Shopping, eating, watching movies...a lot."

"That, that's...we can finish it off in a day?"

It feels like the schedule's packed. It seems that the punishment game Minami just said is really punishment.

'''"...And I didn't just mean 'for one day' when I said that."'''

Minami muttered to herself in a barely audible voice. Is she planning something else?

"Mn...I can go out with you for one day. But on my side, if I win-let me think, I want a good meal."

"Okay, I'll promise you that."

"So is our bet on?"

"Yeah, if I win--you really have to go out with me!"

Minami sounded really serious. Maybe she would force me to eat something really expensive with her or give me some extremely tough project for me, or maybe she would playfully drag me to the lingerie section to buy stuff...

'''"The 2-persons-3-legged race is starting soon. All second year students, please gather at the line."'''

At this moment, the announcement can be heard from the loudspeakers.

Mn, I just don't need to lose this battle! Since it's decided, a man's word is a man's word.

"Okay! Oi, Muttsurini, stop standing far away from me like that, we're starting soon! We have to get a good result!"

"...Akihisa, don't get too close to me."

"I SAID IT WAS A MISUNDERSTANDING!"

I could only try my best to explain to Muttsurini, who's keeping his distance away from me, as we head to the starting point of the 2-persons-3-legged race.

<center>☆</center>

At the starting point where many contestants are bustling noisily. According to the agreement, I line up together with 'Minami and Hideyoshi's group' for the showdown.

"EVERYONE READY! GET SET--"

BAM!

The clear bang of the guns can be heard, and the front row of contestants started moving. We're in the next group, so it's about time to get prepared mentally.

Trying to relax my joints and muscles, I gently shake my limps and simulate the situation of appearing there later when I step up. When I go up, I have to time my steps and breathing and then slowly speed up.

"..."

Standing beside me, Minami's also waiting for the time to start. She seems to be nervous, looking extremely serious as well.

"You're rather serious, Minami."

"Eh!? Do, do I? I'm okay."

"Haha, why are you so nervous?"

"Since, since when am I nervous?"

"...You, you are, a little..."

"See, I said. It's good to be serious for the glory of the class, but if you don't relax, what's winnable will become unwinnable."

Even from afar, I can see that Minami's body is rather stiff due to nervousness. Why is she so enthusiastic about the 2-persons-3-legged race.

"...But I want to win no matter what..."

Minami mutted that softly, and those words enter my ears seemingly casually.

She's looking at the starting line with a serious look. I don't understand why Minami would be so enthusiastic, but since she's treating this so seriously, as the opponent who agreed to this, I should treat this match seriously. This should be a courtesy.

"EVERYONE! GET READY--"

BAM! The gunshot can be heard. The groups of people in front of us rush off. It'll be us next.

"Let's do this, Muttsurini, we'll be the first one to the finish line!"

"...(Nods head)."

"Kinoshita, I'll leave it to you then."

"Mn, I'll do my best too."

"Understood. Miharu would do her best too."

After swallowing saliva, we wait for the starting gun. The time to decide the victors is right now.

"NEXT GROUP, GET READY! SET--"

BAM--the crisp bang can be heard. Muttsurini and I move forward. Left foot first, then right, then left, I count the beats as we take steps. It feels good.

Then, we should slowly increase our speed and finally end up running forward at the fastest speed. At that point, we almost forget that it's a 2-persons-3-persons race as we run off as if we aren't bound to someone else in the first place. With a partner that can breathe and move in the same movement, I even forgot of the other person's presence.

"THAT GROUP...WHY IS IT 3-PERSONS-4-LEGGED?"

It's only now that Minami realizes that beside Hideyoshi, her other foot is tied together with Shimizu-san's.

"Eh? Wha, WHAT'S GOING ON! HOLD ON, MIHARU! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!?"

"Ahh, onee-sama...even when sticking to you, I can't feel that little chest that's sticking so close to your body. This alluring feeling is making Miharu unable to hold it any longer..."

"STOP TOUCHING ME! MOVE AWAY! IT'S IMPORTANT FOR ME TO WIN THIS!"

"What is onee-sama saying? Miharu's doing this for onee-sama's sake!"

"SINCE WHEN IS IT FOR MY OWN SAKE! IF YOU'RE DOING IT FOR MY OWN SAKE--OI, HO, HOL, HOLD ON! DID YOU JUST REACH FOR MY BACK AND UNDID MY BRA HOOK!?"

"No problems! Even if onee-sama doesn't use a bra to support, there won't be any problems at all!"

"YOU'LL REMEMBER THIS!"

"YES! MIHARU WON'T FORGET THIS FEELING!"

"I DON'T MEAN THAT!"

"What should I do in this situation..."

Recovering ourselves, we reached the end first. I guess our group won.

"Haa, haa, haa...Miharu, you..."

"That's wonderful, onee-sama!"

"What should I say, this two-persons-three-legged(?) race made me feel tired..."

We undo the ropes on our feet, and soon Minami's group came running in to the end.

The 3-persons-4-legged participants actually took second. No matter how I look at it, they're more impressive than us.

"MIHARU! WE LOST BECAUSE OF YOU!!"

"Miharu will go off here. We'll meet later, onee-sama!"

"AH! DAMN IT, MIHARU!!"

After bowing to Minami, Shimizu-san glared at me and shot off like a rabbit.

"...Really, she..."

Though angry, Minami gives a wry smile. That's strange? This match was ruined and yet Minami looked okay.

"Are you alright, Minami?"

"Eh? What do you mean?"

"No, well...if Shimizu-san didn't get involved, you two could have gotten first."

"Well...hm, maybe that would be that case."

"Isn't that right?"

They were able to run a 3-persons-4-legged race at that speed. If it were a normal 2-persons-3-legged race, it'll be hard to tell the outcome. But--

"Thinking through it calmly, this may be the better outcome."

Minami looked like she doesn't care, but wasn't she so adamant on winning at the start?

"Uu? What do you mean...by 'this may be better'?"

"If I use such a despicable mean--even if I feel alright now, I may regret it some day. It may be a little too late, but that's how I feel now."

Despicable means? What did she mean by that? Saying that to me who often hang out with those shameless and evil thugs, is she saying that she would do something even more cruel that I would regret? Thinking about that, my body started to tremble. If that were the case, I might really need to thank Shimizu-san.

"Then our bet is invalid because the match doesn't count."

"Eh? No need, I lose this time, so I'll treat you to a meal."

"No need, that's too awkward. Besides, we haven't had a real duel anyway."

"I insist! Or what is it? You're not willing to let me treat?"

"Uu...since you say it, I'll be thankful for that then."
[[Image:BTS vol 07 151.jpg|thumb]]

"Mn, very good!"

After saying that, Minami gave me a bright smile.

"Oh ya, Shimada..."

At this moment, Hideyoshi, who was silent up till now, said rather hesitantly.

"Hm? What's up, Kinoshita?"

"No, what I want to say is...that 'thing' of yours is still open. Don't you need to wear it back properly?"

"Eh?"

Dok dok, Hideyoshi points at his own chest.

To be honest, I've been mindful of that ever since the beginning...

"Ah...no, that's not it! I didn't forget to wear it back because I felt that there's no difference in leaving the bra hook off!"

Minami covered her chest with both hands and rush to the other corner of the school. I see...so Minami didn't realize it because she didn't feel anything even with no support...

"...(collapse)."

[[Image:BTS vol 07 143c.jpg|thumb]]
In a corner where nobody noticed, Muttsurini passed out due to massive loss of blood.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Third Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Fifth Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Third Question

2012-04-19T03:02:19Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Third Question==

'''Please read the text below and answer the following question:'''

:“The forces of King Xiang has arrived at the wall, having suffered casualties and lack of food."
:"The Han forces and the warlords surrounded them."
:"During the night, forces of Han surrounded the encampment of King Xiang and started singing folk songs of Chu. The leader of Chu was startled by this."
:''"Has Chu falen into the Hans' hands? Since when did Chu has so many?"''
:"King Xiang stood up in the middle of the night and starting drinking.”" [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References]

Please write the idiom that was formed to describe Xiang Yu's attitude.

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer:'''

“Chu Song from 4 sides (四面楚歌, shimensoka).”

'''Teacher Comment'''

Correct answer. When the enemy forces started singing the 'Chu folk songs' his own comrades should be having, this means that Xiang Yu's forces are trapped yet have no way to fight back. 'Being isolated and surrounded on all sides' is thus called 'Chu Song from 4 sides'.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's answer:'''

[[Image:BTS vol 07 055c.jpg|thumb]]
“Strike first.”

'''Teacher's comment'''

He struck later.

'''Yoshii Akihisa's answer:'''

“Strike first.”

'''Teacher's comment:'''

He lost after attacking later, okay?

“The summoned beast baseball tournament will be held at the 2nd sports hall. Will all participating students please—”

The broadcast was aired through the loudspeakers all over the school.

Just like that, it's now the day of the sports meet.

After the boring opening ceremony ended, we stood up from the seats that we specially sat for this sports meet and head towards the baseball arena.

“Yuuji, who's our first round opponent?”

“I remember it should be our neighboring class in the same year. We're facing class E. See, this is the schedule.”

Yuuji handed an A4 sized paper to me, and there's a pyramid-shaped diagram schedule.

So we're facing class E...though it's our neighbor class, it seems like we didn't interact much with each other. We never faced them in a summon battle, and yet didn't really interact with them during the test of courage event. If I have to say it, the only time we really interacted with each other was during the peeping. In other words, I don't have any information on them.

“Is it okay for us to go up against class E? Will there be any problems?”

I asked Yuuji, who's walking beside. Besides, we have Himeji-san and Hideyoshi on our side, so I have a duty to make sure that they're alright.

“Mm...I don't think there will be much of a problem. I just said hello to their class rep for a bit, and her reaction was rather cute.”

“Eh? Really? You said cute, what sort of person is she?”

“If I have to say, it's...”

Yuuji would actually call her cute. Even if she's the opponent, I'm rather intrigued. How did class E's rep greet Yuuji.

“'Hello, I'm class E's rep, my name is Nakabayashi! We will definitely win today's match!' Or something like that.”

“That person must be pretty muscular, right? She's not cute at all, right!?”

No matter how I think of this, I can't possibly link this sentence to the word 'cute'!

“I'm joking. She basically said, 'let's have a good game, we'll definitely not lose~☆ '. Well, that's roughly the tone class E's rep used.”

“I see. Okay~ we won't lose as well!”

“But she's from the rugby team.”

“That's someone who's ridiculously muscular, right!?”

Someone from the rugby team uses such a tone? That's annoying!

“I lied. Class E's rep is the leader of the girls' tennis club, Nakabayashi-taichou. She has a similar personality to Shimada.”

“And her appearance?”

“About the same as Iron—I was kidding!! Where're you running to, Akihisa!?”

“Your jokes aren't good for the heart, Yuuji!”

If she really has Minami's personality and Ironman's offensive power, we can't possibly win.

“Really...Yuuji, stop bullying Akihisa too much. That doesn't involve the main objective anyway. Speaking of which, how's E class like?”

This time, Hideyoshi, who's walking beside us, asked as well. It seems like he's not familiar with class E as well.

“Sorry, well...if there's a need to describe class E, it's that they're a 'sports class'.”

“A 'sports class'?”

“Yeah, Those guys from class E seem to be focused on sports. As they're busy with club activities, their scores were atrocious. However, their physical abilities and senses are amazing.”

So they're a class centered around club activities? No wonder they never took part in summoning battles much. To them, having good club facilities is better than class facilities.

“I see, so they're just a bunch of sporty idiots.”

Hmm...just when I nodded my head in understanding, a figure's walking up to me from the front. Hm? Who's that?

“I DON'T WANT TO BE CALLED AN IDIOT BY YOU, YOU IDIOT!”

A girl with a headband saw me and started scolding me. I, I guess this is the first time I met her...

“Well, that...”

“IF WE'RE IDIOTS, THEN YOU CLASS F GUYS WHO'RE OF A LOWER LEVEL THAN US ARE SUPER BIG IDIOTS! YOU BIG IDIOT!!”

This girl with the head band looked really angry as she pointed at me and started scolding me. This is...

“Akihisa, this is class E's rep, the Nakabayashi I just told you about.”

Seeing me with the puzzled look, Yuuji gave me a rare kind explanation to solve the doubt in my heart.

Ahh, I see, so this is—

“So this is the girl who we just said was muscular all over the place and—”

“MUSCULAR ALL OVER THE PLACE? HOW DID YOU INTRODUCE ME!?”

The girl with the headband widened her eyes and shouted in disbelief.

Ah, sorry. I said the wrong thing. Should call her class E rep.

I use this time to recollect my feelings and stare at Nakabayashi-san. Her appearance does give the impression of being strong, but other than that, there's nothing too weird. That's great...finally, a normal person I didn't get to interact with nowadays!

However, my stare just seemed like it created a misunderstanding in her, so Nakabayashi-san suddenly uses her arms to wrap around her body and gets away from me, shouting,

“WHA, WHAT'S WITH THAT EXPRESSION OF YOU!! THAT'S WHY I HATE CLASS F IDIOTS!! LOOKING AT OTHER PEOPLE'S BODIES LIKE THIS, YOU GUYS ARE REALLY PERVERTS!!”

That's a serious misunderstanding, I didn't look at you like that.

“That's not true! I just thought that Nakabayashi-san plays rugby, so you should look somewhat like Ironman—”

“YOU'RE PICKING A FIGHT WITH ME, RIGHT!? YOU'RE JUST LOOKING FOR A FIGHT, AM I RIGHT!!?”

Not good, she just stared directly at me and looked extremely angry.

“Ahhh, calm down, brawn-haired girl, Akihisa just said that out accidentally.”

At this moment, Yuuji saved me at the right time just when I don't know what to do. But what's with that brawn-haired.

“Brawn-haired? You mean blond-hair? You idiot, I didn't dye any blond hair or anything like that. Do you want a checkup at the hospital?”

Nakabayashi-san seem to be harboring the same doubt as me as she stared at Yuuji in disbelief.

“No no, I'm not talking about brawn-haired as is 'the hair is blond', but that even your hair is so trained that even muscles came out.”

“And you dare to say that...”

“—That's what Akihisa thought.”

“WHAT DID YOU SAY!!”

“THAT'S A HUGE MISUNDERSTANDING!!!”

I got hit! I didn't say anything all all!!

“Oh ya, Nakabayashi, I forget to ask you. Will E class be batting first or later?”

“I DON'T KNOW! JUST DO WHATEVER YOU WANT!”

“I see. Since you say that, we'll pitch first and bat later.”

“ANYTHING! ANYWAY, REMEMBER THIS! I WON'T LOSE TO YOU GUYS!!”

Leaving these words behind, Nakabayashi-san took forceful steps as she returned back to class E's rest area.

“Nice going, Akihisa. That taunt just now was good.”

“What do you mean 'nice going'? Because of Yuuji, she already had a huge bad impression on me! How do you intend to compensate me!”

“Don't mind, Akihisa. If you are willing to work hard, the difference between humans can be patched up, dreams of different magnitudes can be fulfilled, and we can get back those A-books of ours.”

“Hearing you say it like that, the last sentence was the most impactful!”

Sigh, but it's true that the A books are important.

“It seem like a quarrel happened. Are you two alright?”

“We're okay. Or rather, things went as I expected. Can't be better.”

“For me, it's really bad...”

What should I say? The mental trauma's too great.

“Sigh...if that's the case, another person thinks that I'm a weirdo...”

I always tried to live under the hood, and yet this society's approval of me seem to go downhill. That's too illogical.

After sighing for a bit, I guess it's time to call of the summoned beasts. The first inning of this match will be refereed by Mukai-sensei. Seems like we're competing using Ancient Literature.

“Here I go, summon!”

After saying these words out, some little array appears beside my foot. Then, a little figure that's of my appearance appears in it. The summoned beast that normally wears a student uniform and has a wooden sword is...

“So it got baseball clothing. Actually adjusting the system for this tournament, the principal sure is hardworking on some weird aspects.”

My summoned beast looks rather cute with the baseball bat and glove in hand.

“It seems like they automated some aspects of the controls to help smooth-flow this baseball tournament.”

Well, that's right, or else we can't play baseball.

Looking at how the summoning system used to work, even though everyone wants to wait for a ball, no one will be able to throw the ball accurately. It's good that the principal managed to think of it.

“As for the problems with the system, I guess it's pointless to think too much about it. Right now, the most important thing is that we should focus and get ready for the match.”

“Hideyoshi's right. No matter the circumstances or what, anyway, this is a good chance to get back out confiscated items.”

Though Yuuji says this, he hasn't mentioned anything about the brilliant plan.

“Okay, I'll announce the defensive lineup and batting order. Oi, everyone, listen up!”

Yuuji raised his voice to the other classmates who are ready to take part in the baseball tournament. Every time this happens, it means that Yuuji's has something planned out, so there's no need to worry. That is why everyone would gather and listen to Yuuji.

“Basically, this will be the defensive lineup and batting order.”

# First batter: 1st baseman Kinoshita Hideyoshi
# Second batter: Shortstop Tsuchiya Kouta (Muttsurini)
# Third batter: Pitcher Yoshii Akihisa
# Fourth batter: Catcher Sakamoto Yuuji
# Fifth batter: Right fielder Himeji Mizuki
# Sixth batter: 2nd baseman Shimada Minami
# Seventh batter: Center fielder Sugawa Ryo
# Eighth batter: 3rd baseman Fukumura Kohei
# Ninth batter: Left fielder Yokomizo Koji

Bench players: Kimishima Hiroshi and Kondou Yoshimune.

[[Image:BTS vol 07 075.jpg|thumb]]

So I'm the 3rd batter and the pitcher? That feels like a nice position...

“But Yuuji, is it alright that I be the pitcher? Wouldn't you or Himeji-san be more suited?”

If we're to battle using summoned beasts, the ones with the highest scores in our class, Himeji-san or Yuuji should be the pitcher, since wouldn't that make it more difficult for the opponent to bat? And it I'm placed in the outfield, my points may be too low and I can't throw the ball back time. I think it should be alright if I defend the infield.

“If I could, I really want to do that.”

On hearing my question, Yuuji just smiled bitterly.

“If you could? What do you mean by that?”

“If Himeji or I are to pitch, which catcher do you think can catch the ball?”

Hearing him say that, I start to imagine the situation.

Uu. Now that he mentioned it, it's true...

“Oh ya, since the summoned beasts aren't like an ordinary human body, and that it has 10 times or more that of a human...”

“That's the case. Though it's a relatively minor issue, it's like how we can't touch the summoned beasts, so we can't touch the ball as well, but there will still be weight. And considering that the ball is to be used by the summoned beasts, I guess that old granny would increase the points of the ball.”

“I, I see...”

Hearing Yuuji say this, I am a little shocked, but I feel that I can understand it. Even if the summoned beasts strength are of our points, they're still several times stronger than a human. Just with class F's abilities alone, we are already able to throw with such force, let alone the students of class A.

“If that's the case, it can't be helped. If someone like Himeji or Yuuji is pitching, I don't think anyone in our class can catch the ball.”

Of course, it's not that we can't catch their pitches in the gloves...but if there's an accident, like being hit on the body or something, It seems that I can fly off into the Heavens.

“Then can't Himeji pitch and Yuuji catch?”

Hideyoshi raised his hand and asked, but before Yuuji could answer, Himeji-san already answered first.

“I, I'm sorry, but I don't understand baseball at all...in fact, I never played it before...”

“That's the case. We'll consider everything else later, but right now, I need to let Himeji understand the rules of baseball in this first round, which is why I left her at right fielder. However, looking at the scenarios in the future, I may need to do some defensive alignments.”

Forget about those guys on the baseball club, in a tournament of baseball that's held with summoned bests, I think it's not easy to hit the ball to either left or right, right? Besides, when the ball is hit out, it will be harder to hit to right field, and the infield situation is rather messy, since it would be harder for people who are not used to playing there, so Yuuji's judgment should be correct.

“This is all I have to say. Any questions?”

Yuuji looks around at everyone. It seems that nobody has any questions.

Thus, all of us naturally form a circle around Yuuji, and Yuuji shouts to encourage everyone present.

“Okay, let's go—ARE YOU GUYS READY!!?”

“OOSSUU!!”

“SO WHAT ABOUT E CLASS? THEY'RE JUST A STEPPING STONE!! WE CAN'T POSSIBLY LOSE!!”

“OOSSUU!!”

“OUR AIM IS TO ADVANCE TO THE FINALS AND TAKE REVENGE ON THE TEACHERS!!! OUR GREATEST AIM IS TO KILL THEM OFF, GET THEIR SCALPS AND OFFER THEM TO OUR FALLEN COMRADES (A-books) GRAVES!!”

“WWWWWWOOOOOOHHHH!!”

“EVERYONE, THE TIME HAS COME!! THIS WILL BE A WAR FOR OUR IRREPLACEABLE FRIENDS (A-books)!!!”

“““LEAVE IT TO US!!!”””

The guys' eyes are burning with passion. Those enemies of ours who took away our friends without remorse—the teachers' team led by Ironman will suffer DIVINE PUNISHMENT!! WATCH AND LEARN, YOU TEAM OF DEMONIC TEACHERS!!!”

“Well, about that, Minami-chan...things have developed like that. It feels like...”

“Yeah...it's like we got those kinds of books confiscated from us...”

“I didn't bring any A-books to school...”

Our class F is finally united. Because we must remain united and beat those classes above us!!

<center>☆</center>

“PLAY BALL!!”

Mukai-sensei, who's acting as the umpire, shouted as the voice echoed throughout the sports arena, and with that, the match officially begins. The real match is played with summoned beasts, so it doesn't matter where we stand...but for easy control, everyone's standing behind their summoned beasts, so it basically not much different from being on the field ourselves.

“Let's have a nice game! Summon!”

The first batter of class E said hello as he stepped into the batting box. The defensive side isn't required to stand at a particular place, but the batter has to remain in the batter box. It seems that it's to prevent the batter from see the defensive signals and the location of the glove.

Ancient Literature

Class E, Sonomura Toshiya, 117 points

vs

Class F, Yoshii Akihisa, 71 points.

The subjects tested for every inning are, Ancient Literature for the 1st inning, Maths for the 2nd inning, Chemistry for the 3rd, English for 4th and Health Education for 5th. So right now, it's a battle of Ancient Literature.

My summoned beast holds the ball in its hand, waiting for the catcher's signal. As the breaking ball can't be used, Yuuji can only indicate the trajectory and the speed. Let me see, the first ball. Yuuji's summoned beast is putting its hands at—the middle!?

(Can I really throw it right down the middle!?)

I use my eyes to ask Yuuji, who's behind the catcher summoned beast. This would be the common way we would communicate with each other, as Yuuji answered me in the same manner.

(No problems. This is the first ball, and the opponent isn't used to controlling the summoned beast. I just want to test out the opponent.)

(Okay, I see.)

On getting Yuuji's reply, I understand that he wants me to throw a strike down the middle. Considering that we have to taunt the opponents, let's give a slow ball. Since I have to throw a strike, it's best for me to preserve my energy.

(I'm pitching, Yuuji.)

(Okay, bring it on!)

I just need to follow the trajectory Yuuji pointed out and throw the ball. Ready...

KLANG!!

“HOMERUN!!!”

“THROW THAT DAMNED BALL BETTER, YOU IDIOT!!!”

“I SHOULD BE THE ONE SCOLDING YOU! GIVE A BETTER DIRECTION, YOU SCUM!!!”

The ball let out a sharp sound and disappears behind the blue sky.

That damned Yuuji, that's basically what I just said.

“You two...no matter what, throwing a slow bullseye down at a club member was really dumb...”

The first pitch was sent flying for a homerun, and we immediately fell behind, 0-1.

“Let's have a good game! Summon!”

With no one out and no baserunners, the 2nd batter's already standing in the batter's box. I receive the box and exchange looks with Yuuji.

(Akihisa, you bastard! If you mess up next time, I'll stuff that bat up your butt!)

(Right back at you, Yuuji! If you make another mistake, I'll break you leg bones with the bat!)

After confirming the signal through eye contact, I launch the first pitch to the 2nd batter.

KLANG!

“HOMERUN!”

““GIVE ME THAT BAT!!!””

Yuuji and I immediately ran to the rest area and sounded out our request. We lost points again! This damned bastard...how useless is he!? This is stupid!!

“I CAN'T STAND YOU TWO IDIOTS!! WE CAN'T LEAVE THIS TO YOU TWO!!!”

“ACTUALLY TRUSTING IN THOSE TWO IDIOTS YOSHII AND SAKAMOTO!! WE'RE THE BIG IDIOTS!!!”

“IF THAT'S THE CASE, I'LL PITCH! YOSHII, SUB!”

“I'LL BAT THEN! SAKAMOTO, SUB!!”

--KLANG!!

“Class E 3-0 Class F”

“...Arr, suddenly a large crisis...”

“No no no, this isn't a crisis anymore. Only one side is getting the points...”

Even if the pitcher and catcher were changed, the opponent still hit a homerun off us. Right now, the score is 0-3. Those class E bastards, to think that they're rather impressive.

We asked the umpire for a timeout at the pitcher's mound. At this moment, Himeji-san, who was guarding the outfield came running over in small steps.

“Well, Akihisa-kun...”

“Hm? What's wrong, Himeji-san?”

“Is it really alright to change pitchers like that?”

“Mn, it's alright as long as we're not changing with bench players.”

There're a lot of rules in real baseball, but the summoned beast baseball tournament doesn't seem to have too many restrictions. However, if we're overboard with our efforts, some people may have issues with regards to this.

“Anyway, let's regroup. Akihisa will still be the pitcher, and we have to attack cautiously. Akihisa, you better throw the ball better this time.”

“Mn, got it.”

After deciding the plan, we all return back to our defensive positions. I'm the pitcher again...got to pitch seriously this time.

After returning back to the pitcher's mound, I wait for the batter to get ready. Now, I'm facing the 4th batter, which means--

“Yoshii Akihisa, you actually called me muscular...I, I definitely won't forgive you!”

So as expected, it's Nakabayashi-san from class E. As expected from the 4th batter, she has amazing presence.

(Akihisa, it's the 4th batter now. Just pitch with all you got.)

I nod my head to respond to Yuuji's eye signal. I'm not so stupid to mess up here.

Trying to hold down the nervous feeling in my chest, I sigh deeply and get ready to pitch.

DONK!

“HIT BY PITCH. BATTER WALKS.”

“LET'S ME BEAT HIM UP! JUST ONCE, JUST LET ME BEAT HIM UP!!”

“Calm down, Nakabayshi! We have the upper hand now. Wouldn't our efforts be futile if you make the match invalid because you were too much?

The guys in class E are trying desperately to calm the raging Nakabayashi-san.

I used too much force and missed...would Nakabayashi-san be willing to forgive me if I immediately take off my cap to apologize to her?

Even though I'm feeling despair with regards to the relationship with the neighboring class rep, the match still continues. Baserunner on 1st, and nobody out. It's now the 5th batter.

(Alright, no time for games. Pitch seriously now.)

(I was being serious since the beginning...)

I sighed, and pitched the ball to where Yuuji's glove is. Maybe the batter felt pressurized as there were consecutive homeruns before, as the batter in the batter box frantically swings at a fly ball that falls in front of the second base and sends him out. With that, we finally got our first out.

(Good, good, very good. Now, pitch here.)

Yuuji readies his glove. I missed and hit Nakabayashi-san, but right now, I'm getting used to the rhythm of the game, so there shouldn't be any problems now.

“STRIKE! BATTER OUT! SWITCHOVER!”

Next, the 6th and 7th batters were out, so now it's finally time to switch sides. This time, we'll be batting.

“Alright! There was a little miscommunication, but it's basically still within my plan! Let's hurry up and get the points back and kill off class E!”

“““YOOOOSSSSHHHH!!!”””

Speaking of which, our class's normally disorganized. It's only when we're attacking that we can finally fulfill our abilities.

“Our first batter will be Hideyoshi. It's up to you.”

“Leave it to me.”

After saying that, Hideyoshi turns and walks to the batter box. Do your best, Hideyoshi!

“Kinoshita, I'll immediately crush you and use this momentum to get all the way to the finals!”

Standing on the pitcher's mound is Nakabayashi-san, who's acting as pitcher. She's burning with passion all over. Being the class rep of the class full of people in clubs, her attitude right now is basically what I would expect.

After confirming that Hideyoshi entered the batter's box, Nakabayashi-san starts to pitch. Hideyoshi stares carefully at the ball that flew here, and just lets the first ball fly past.

“BALL!”

The umpire shouted out 'ball' really loudly. The catcher throws the ball back to the pitcher, and the 2nds ball is thrown.

“BALL!”

The second ball never landed in the strike zone cleanly as well. Nakabayashi-san looks somewhat troubled as she receives the ball, and gets into position cautiously before throwing the next pitch.

“STRIKE!”

This time, it finally entered the umpire's strikezone. It seem that Nakabayashi-san was unable to pitch well because she couldn't decide on the pitch as it made her look anxious.

As the match continued, it's now 2 balls and 2 strikes. As Nakabayashi-san starts to pitch again, Hideyoshi, who hasn't been moving up till now, finally takes action.

“FOUL BALL!”

Hideyoshi seems like he's deliberately not swinging with full force as the bat grazes the ball. This is what they call 'cut', right?

“Oi, Yuuji, that swing Hideyoshi just did...”

“Yeah, he's most likely trying to get base on balls.”

This is a baseball tournament that's played with summoned beasts instead of being there themselves, but the basic rules of baseball hasn't changed. If the opponent throws 3 strikes, it'll be a strikeout. But if the opponent throws 4 balls, the batter can walk on to first base. However, it seems that the umpire isn't too stringent on pitching fouls.

“FOUL BALL!”

He used the same method to hit the next ball. This method can lure the opponent to throw a large amount of pitches, it can also cause psychological burden on the pitcher. Already unused to controlling summoned beasts in this tournament, the 1st batter's already being so tough to handle. I guess the opponent must find it tough, right?

“BALL!”

And another ball. Now it's 3 balls and 2 strikes.

“Damn you...KINOSHITA, YOU'RE BEING TOO DESPICABLE!”

Being on the pitcher's mound, Nakabayashi-san's gritting her teeth in anger. Right now, in this world that so emphasizes on winning and losing, this is a common tactic, but Nakabayashi-san doesn't seem like she would forgive him.

“SWING HARD, KINOSHITA! IT'S TIME TO SETTLE THIS!”

“Sorry, but I can't oblige. We're now 0-3 down, and this match only has 5 innings. We must get points from you.”

Due to time constraints, this baseball tournament matches are only 5 innings long. As the attacking side, Hideyoshi's judgement is correct.

“WHAT! ARE YOU AFRAID OF ME? FORGET ABOUT BASE ON BALLS AND SWING A BASE HIT!”

“It's useless no matter how you taunt me. I just want to do my part.”

“DAMN YOU! STOP SAYING TO MUCH AND PLAY—CAN'T YOU BE MORE LIKE A MAN!”

“...You say that you want me to be more like a man?”

“--STRIKE! BATTER OUT!”

“Sorry everyone. I can't do it.”

“No worries, this can't be helped...but why did you swing so hard at the last minute?”

“Don't mind, it's just that I won't back away with regards to certain things.”

“Eh? Uu...”

I don't really understand, but anyway, Hideyoshi got forced out. Right now, the second batter's Muttsurini. This guy's pretty good at sports, and is very used to controlling summoned beasts. He probably won't let us down.

Ancient Literature, Class E, Nakabayashi Hiromi, 105 points.

Vs

Ancient Literature, Class F, Tsuchiya Kouta, 22 points.

“What do we do now, Yuuji? I feel that Muttsurini will die really badly!”

“That's a coincidence for once, Akihisa, I feel this way as well.”

Even if he can hit the ball, with the unique difference in scores, he can't possibly hit the ball far, right?

“But Akihisa, you don't have to worry too much.”

“No, even if you ask me not to worry...”

Is there a way we can think of?

“WE MUST BELIEVE! IF WE BELIEVE, EVEN THE YOUKAIS WILL STAND ON OUR SIDE!”

“AH, NOW WE CAN ONLY PRAY TO THE GODS!”

And we're doing this in such a ridiculous manner.

“Please, killer youkais...”

“Watch out! That guy's using the name of evil spirits!!”

If the prayer really comes true, maybe the evil god would ask for a sacrifice from us?

“OUT!”

As we're talking about this useless thing, Muttsurini hit a rolling ball to the batter and got struck out. Now, it's 2 men out. Next, it's the 3rd batter—ahh, time for me to take the bat.

“Alright, I'll hit a big one!”

“Oh! Akihisa, we'll leave it to you then!”

“Leave it to me!”

Thomp thomp! I beat my chest as I enter the batter's box. No problems. I'll do well!

DONK!!!

“--Hit by Pitch, batter walks.”

'IT HURTS! IT HURTS! MY ORGANS GOT RUPTURED!! OUUUCCCHHHH!!”

The first ball was a hit by pitch on the face. The impact of the ball that hit my summoned beast's face was transferred onto my body. You don't have to go that far!

Facing me, who's rolling on the floor in pain, Nakabayashi-san, who's standing on the pitcher's mound, says seriously,

“FROM THIS MOMENT ON, AS LONG AS YOU'RE THE ONE BATTING, I'LL THROW THE BALL AT YOUR BODY!”

“THAT'S A LOUSY DECLARATION! YOU'RE HATING ME FOR WHAT HAPPENED JUST NOW, RIGHT!?”

Can someone replace me for my next bat?

I drag my body that's in pain to 1st base, Uu...that was just a misunderstanding...

“Alright, now the real powerhouse is here.”

Now, it'll be the 4th batter Yuuji.

Ancient Literature, Class E, Nakabayashi Hiromi, 105 points.

Vs

Ancient Literature, Class F, Sakamoto Yuuji, 196 points.

Like usual, both their scores are displayed to everyone.

Yuuji's scores are so high, has great control over his summoned beast, and he's pretty athletic, so there shouldn't be any problems. Facing off against the opponent from class E, he should be able to take one down.

“Ugh...that's guy's terrifying, but the next batter is 'that' Himeji...better settle it here.”

Nakabayashi-san glared at Yuuji's score and muttered.

If the next batter after Yuuji is just a little prick, maybe Nakabayashi-san would deliberately throw a Base on Balls to avoid the confrontation, but unfortunately, behind Yuuji is the second in our year, Himeji-san. Of course, she doesn't want to deal with Himeji-san when there are baserunners on, so she chose to face off against Yuuji.

“Class F's rep, I'm going!”

With 2 men out and 1 baserunner on, Nakabayashi-san gets ready and pitches the 1st ball at Yuuji. The white ball flies straight at the glove--

“HA!”

KLANG—the sharp sound echoed, and the white ball flew into the air. There's no need to see where it went, this is a real homerun.

Class E 3-2 F Class

Yuuji and I return back to home plate, and we got 2 points. Now we're just 1 point behind class E.

“Damn it...it seems that I need to deal with Sakamoto through hit by pitch...”

““JUST USE A NORMAL BASE ON BALLS!!!””

Yuuji and I shouted out at Nakabayashi-san. We thought that she was a normal girl. Only after we started playing against each other that we realized that Nakabayashi-san's really weird somewhere.

“It's been tough on you, Sakamoto.”

“...That was a nice hit.”

“Good one, Yuuji.”

Once we returned back to the bench, everyone received Yuuji warmly. Isn't anyone concerned about me being hit by the ball?

“Alright, it's time for Himeji to go up. The way I see it, let's use this chance to hit another homerun and even the score.”

“Uu...that's a bit hard for Mizuki, right? Her grades are good, but she's not really good at sports.”

Minami gave a wry smile. Himeji-san's body is already extremely weak, and she doesn't really get the chance to play sports, so this can't be helped.

“I thought that way as well, so I told Himeji just now that she doesn't need to swing the bat.”

“In other words...you want Himeji-san to get Base on Balls?”

“That's right, besides, Himeji's marks can't be underestimated. It's okay if the bases are loaded, but when nobody's on base, I think the opponent won't want to fight it out.”

That's right. Besides Yuuji and Himeji-san, everyone here is of class F level, so with nobody on base, it's best to let her walk and fight it out against someone else.

“Base on balls, batter walks.”

“Ah, okay, thank you very much.”

While we're talking, Himeji-san got base on balls. Right now, it's 2 men out, a baserunner on 1st base, and the next batter is--

“Uu...it's me...”

The 6th batter is Minami, but it seems that she doesn't look confident...

“Eh? Minami, you don't know how to play baseball?”

Minami's pretty good at sports.

“Ah, it's not that I don't know how to play it. It's just that...”

“?”

Minami sighed and walked towards the batter box in a lonely manner. What's wrong?

Ancient Literature, Class E, Nakabayashi Hiromi, 105 points.

Vs

Ancient Literature, Class F, Shimada Minami, 6 points.

“ALRIGHT, EVERYONE, TIME TO DEFEND! WE HAVE TO DEFEND WELL!!”

“““WOOOHHH!!!”””

“I HAVEN'T EVEN BATTED YET!”

Minami's shout is ever so hollow. In the blink of an eye, she hit a rolling ball to the 3rd baseman and was immediately thrown out.

Sigh, too bad that the subject for this inning is Ancient Literature. Minami's not good with this subject at all, so this can't be helped.

Anyway, this series of offense is over. After the switch in sides, the 2nd inning is carried out through maths. Alright, time for me to--

“Hold it, Akihisa. You're not the pitcher in this inning.”

“Eh? Not me?”

Just when I was about to step up on the mound, Yuuji suddenly called me to stop me. Now what?

“This round will be conducted with maths. Shimada will be the pitcher.”

“Maths...ah, I see.”

Maths is one of the rare few subjects that Minami's good in, and Yuuji's rather good in maths too, so he should be able to catch Minami's pitches. Looking at this inning, they should be at around class B's level.

“That's the case, Aki, leave this inning to me. I'll do my best to hold them off.”

Minami patted me on my shoulder and I said,

“Mn, then I'll leave it to you then, Minami.”

“Okay, leave it to me.”

PA! Minami and I exchange high fives as I walk off the pitcher's mound. Minami's been through the baptism of the summoning battles and the summoning tournament, and she's already outstanding at sports, so I can leave the pitcher mound to her. If that's the case, I'll defend the second base Minami was defending.

Just when I was thinking this as I walked down the pitcher's mound, I find Himeji-san walking towards where I'm defending as well, staring at me for some reason.

“Hm? Himeji-san, is there something?”

“Ah, yes, that...”

Himeji-san came running over with small steps. What's wrong?

While we talking, Himeji-san raises her hand like she's hailing for a taxi. Eh, so I just need to copy her action?

“Like, like this?”

I followed what she did and raised my hand. Himeji-san immediately revealed a radiant smile--

“Yes!”

Pa, she high-fived with me.

[[Image:BTS vol 07 097.jpg|thumb]]

“Let's do our best, Akihisa-kun.”

“Ah, mn, let's do our best, Himeji-san.”

“Okay!”

Himeji-san is smiling as she ran off to the outfield. I don't know what's going on, but she wants to encourage me by clapping hands together? So she's feeling the same as us?

Is that so? Then Himeji-san...

“She really wants to see our precious A-books...”

That's bad. These aren't things that girls should read.

“...What's going on? I feel that there's a severe misunderstanding here...”

Alright, time to wake up and defend. With class E as our opponents and Minami maths marks, they most probably won't be able to perform too well. The ball can't possibly fly into the outfield, right? In other words, I'm more important as an infielder now.

Mathematics, Class E, Oumura Shintarou, 65 points

Vs

Mathematics, Class F, Shimada Minami, 193 points.

The huge difference in points can be expected, the opponent's the 8th batter, so there shouldn't be any problems.

After the 1st and 2nd pitches, the chemistry between the pitcher and catcher makes us not worry for them. But Yuuji missed the 3rd ball, and it landed in his chest. The pitch Minami threw with such a high score was extremely fast, so missing it is to be expected.

Mathematics, Class F, Shimada Minami, 193 points.

&

Mathematics, Class F, Sakamoto Yuuji, 175 points.

Minami and Yuuji's marks are shown in front of us. Up till now, Yuuji's marks have been hovering around the 200 mark, so that slip up caused him to lose 25 points. If even Yuuji's summoned beast can suffer such damage even with those kind of marks, I think it will be bad if it's anyone else, right? If I'm the one catching, the pain would even end up on me, so I have to avoid being the pitcher no matter what.

While I'm thinking about this, the match is still ongoing. After that, Yuuji slipped up on another ball, but both of them managed to hold off the 3 batters. Minami's maths is really strong.

“It's been tough on you, Minami. Nice pitching.”

“Thanks, Aki.”

“Your pitching was strong, amazing.”

“Fufu, that was because I didn't managed to do well during batting just now. Of course I have to compensate through defense.”

Minami blinked one eye as she said that to me. Uu, it's cool when she does it--

“ONEE-SAMA! ONEE-SAMA'S THE BEST! SEEING ONEE-SAMA LIKE THIS, MIHARU...MIHARU HAS ALREADY...”

A certain girl from class D was shouting and cheering from the stands.

--Wouldn't girls fall for Minami if she does this?

“It'll be our offense now.”

“It's the 7th batter now, so Sugawa starts.”

“Osu! I'll hit that ball high and far!”

After saying that, Sugawa-san storms towards the batter box with mojo. Unfortunately, he knocked a high fly ball and got tagged out. Though the next batter Fukumura-san managed to get a base hit, Yokomizo-san and Hideyoshi didn't perform, and we ended the 2nd inning without earning a point.

3rd inning, 4th inning. Both us and class E didn't manage to get a point.

It's now the final inning. The subject for this round should be Health Education, so--

“Muttsurini, we'll leave pitching to you then.”

“...Got it.”

Speaking of health education, this will be the guy we first think of. This guy has points that surpasses a health education teacher, and it's now time for him to perform. If this guy's to throw the ball, I don't think anyone can hit it.

“No no, hold on. Muttsulini will be the catcher in this round. I'll be the pitcher.”

But Yuuji dampened my mood.

“Eh? Yuuji's going to be the pitcher? Why?”

Yuuji's health education marks shouldn't be lousy as well, but it's a whole lot less as compared to Muttsurini's. We're only behind by one, so shouldn't Muttsurini be pitching?

“I say...didn't I say it just now. If Muttsurini's to pitch with all he got when Health Education's the subject, the catcher will die if he's hit.”

That's right. It was a similar situation when Minami was on the board.

“That's true...but you just need to catch the ball well. Wouldn't there be no damage if you catch the ball in the glove?”

“In other words, I'll die if I miss one!”

On a side note, the summoned beast that's acting as the catcher in this tournament doesn't have any defensive equipment. In this situation, if Yuuji's hit directly by Muttsurini on the body, even Yuuji's summoned beast will suffer severely.

“Really, Yuuji...you're so spineless. If you're a man, you should bet your life and finish the match.”

“I see, so I'll let you be the catcher and show off your manly side.”

“I'm sorry, I'm really sorry.”

It'll be a joke if my summoned beast is to catch that ball with such low marks. Even if I can catch it well, the damage on me will be tremendous.

“What's wrong, Akihisa? Aren't you good at controlling your summoned beast? Forget about the score difference, I think you should be able to catch Muttsurini's pitches.”

“No, it's not that easy no matter how you say it.”

Having just seen the power of Minami's pitch when it was about 200. The speed was already terrifying. Compared to that, it'll be easier to hit against a pitch that's flying at 130 km/hr. Even if we can't pitch curveballs, it'll be too terrifying to throw pitches with that kind of speed with just summoned beasts. Besides, if the pitch hits me while I'm the catcher, the pain the summoned beast takes will be inflicted on me. This will be way too risky. Even if I'm really used to controlling the summoned beast, I can't take such huge responsibility.

“Besides, the opponent's class E, so I can still hold them off if I pitch. More than defense, right now, we need to worry more about offense. Remember, we're still 1 point behind.”

After Yuuji said that, he turns to walk towards the pitcher's mound. He's right. Even if we can hold off the opponents, we'll lose if we can't score. More important than the defense now is that we have to find a way to score in the bottom half of the inning.

Health Education, Class E, Yumata Hirofumi, 52 points

Vs

Health Education, Class F, Sakamoto Yuuji, 147 points.

The scores of the pitcher and the batter are out. As Yuuji said, there won't be any problems with such a difference in score.

“STRIKE! BATTER OUT! SWITCHOVER!”

In the blink of an eyes, Yuuji already struck all three out, and it's now the bottom half of the inning. Though Muttsurini missed the catches twice, health education's his speciality, so he didn't suffer that much damage, and we managed to end this inning safely.

“Alright, time for us to make a comeback! Who's starting?”

“Me, I guess.”

We've been through exactly 2 rounds of batting, so now it's Hideyoshi up as the 1st batter again. Okay, we're settling this in this round.

“Please, Hideyoshi, you must hit the ball out.”

“There'll be no problems if it's Hideyoshi. Do your best.”

“...I'm looking forward to it.”

“Kinoshita, no matter what, you must hit the ball out!”

“Show them what you're made of Kinoshita! All hope is on you!”

“That's right! Do your best! And try to hit the ball out!”

“U, uu, I'll try to hit—”

“““THIS IS FOR THE SAKE OF OUR A-BOOKS!!!”””

“...”

“STRIKEOUT!”

“What's wrong, Hideyoshi? You didn't swing hard at all!”

“Those encouraging words of yours drained strength from me...”

For some reason, Hideyoshi looked really tired. That's weird, even if Hideyoshi's summoned beast is tired or hurt or what, it shouldn't bounce back onto Hideyoshi himself.

“Alright, everyone, don't be disheartened. Muttsurini's next. There will be something good!”

Yuuji said this, seemingly to encourage everyone. That's right, sending Muttsurini in health education, we're really looking forward to it.

“...I'm going up.”

Muttsurini walks into the batter box. His score is--

Health Education, Class E, Furukawa Ayumi, 102 points

Vs

Health Education, Class F, Tsuchiya Kouta, 589 points.

Such a shocking difference. If he can hit the ball, Muttsurini would definitely hit a homerun.

“Tsuchiya-san amazing. If that's the case, he can hit a homerun.”

“Mn. If he can, it should be a homerun.”

Standing beside me, Himeji-san clenches her fist and makes a little victory pose. It seems that she and I have the same thought. Unfortunately...

“However, I think it can't happened. Tsuchiya's unable to hit it.”

Minami said to break Himeji-san's wonderful imagination.

That's right. Muttsurini can't perform now.

“Eh? Why?”

Minami's words made Himeji-san, who still doesn't understand baseball too well, have all sorts of question marks on her face.

“Because there's too much of a difference between both of them. The way I see it, Muttsurini will be forced to walk.”

“Walk—ah, you mean that the opponent will throw a Base on Balls and let Tsuchiya-san on base?”

“Mn, that's the case.”

If they're to face off now, it'll be extremely likely that Muttsurini will hit a homerun. But if they send him on base, they won't lose points if it's just a baserunner. on. The opponent will win if they can keep this point, so they'll try and avoid facing off against Muttsurini.

“Base on Balls. Batter walks.”

“...(Nods head).”

As what we expected, Muttsurini got sent on base. In that case, we can't get a point now.

“The way I see it, class E's plan is to deal with Akihisa and send Yuuji and Himeji on base first before taking on Shimada.”

Seems like the opponent checked through our scores. Of course, they won't take on Yuuji or Himeji-san, but rather attack Minami. If that's the case, even if I bunt, I can only gift the opponent with an out...

“Oh yea, Akihisa, I don't know what's your score?”

“I remember my health ed score is around 23.”

“That's really pathetic.”

“Tha, that's because, because...my reference books (A-books) got confiscated...”

“WHAT WERE YOU READING ALL THIS TIME, IDIOT!”

With such a score, if there's no miracle, I can't possibly hit the ball into the outfield. But if I can get on base, I can get Yuuji or Himeji-san to get one back.

“Don't think too much, Akihisa. Just relax. It'll come to us.”

Though the situation is disadvantageous to us, Yuuji still looked rather casual.

“What do you mean? Have you thought of a plan?”

“No, I don't mean a plan or anything...stop saying so much. Get on board. If you don't get there, the umpire's going to be mad.”

“Ah, okay, I'm going then.”

“Akihisa-kun, do your best.”

“Thank you, Himeji-san.”

With Himeji-san seeing me off, I turn to walk to the batter box. Seeing Yuuji look so confident, I know he's planning something, but I don't know what it is. What does that Yuuji plan to do?

“Yoshii-kun, please hurry up.”

“Ah, okay. Sorry.”

The umpire's staring at me now, and I can only scamper to the designated batter box. Once my summoned beast got ready, the opponent confirms Muttsurini's position before getting into a pitching position.

“Oh ya, Sakamoto, Aki just asked. Is there a plan you prepared?”

“No—ut just look at the field. You'll understand, we won't lose this match.”

“Won't lose? But the situation's disadvantageous to us.”

“No, you're mistaken. The one in a disadvantage is them. Think, it's now the bottom half of the 5th inning, we're behind by one, and that subject's health education.”

“I know that. But Tsuchiya's already on base...”

“And on base—is that Muttsurini.”

“STEAL!”

A call can be heard from class E.

After confirming that the batter won't throw over to hold him at first base, Muttsurini dashes towards 2nd base. I see! So that's how it is!

The pitcher threw the pitch, and it flew to the catcher's glove. In order to help Muttsurini steal base, I try to swing as wildly as possible. If I can block the catcher's vision, I can increase Muttsurini chances of stealing base greatly.

“Damn it...”

After catching the ball, the catcher immediately throws the ball to second base. Damn it! At this moment, it'll be hard for Muttsurini to steal base--

“...Eh? Hard? That Muttsurini?”

Of course not! This is health education, Muttsurini's unbeatable! If the opponent's class A, it can still be talked off, but when the opponent's only at about 100 points, how can it be tough for Muttsurini?

As I say this--

The moment the catcher throws the ball towards second base, I seem to see a glint in Muttsurini's eyes.

“...Baited.”

Muttsurini's summoned beast sudden accelerated. That guy was deliberately running slow!

“Fa, fast!”

Muttsurini's summoned beast steps onto 2nd base at a speed the human eye can't catch, and he didn't stop as he dashes towards 3rd base. At this point, the catcher just threw the ball to second base. Muttsurini slowed down to confuse them, causing the catcher to throw to second base and not third base! It's true that if Muttsurini did that, the catcher would have ignored second base and went straight for third base right from the beginning. That's a brilliant plan!

“THIRD BASE!”

“GOT IT!”

The catcher immediately gave the instruction, and the second baseman immediately throws the ball to third base. Will Muttsurini be tagged out?

It's also tough for him to get from second base to third base. Now, what will he...

“...Accelerate.”

At this moment, Muttsurini muttered that code word. This is a special activation command that only summoned beasts with more than 400 points can have. Muttsurini has this unique ability, and like what the term means—it can cause the summoned beast to increase speed.

“HOW IS IT POSSIBLE!?”

Class E just let out a cry of disbelief.

Muttsurini steps onto third base at a speed where only the afterimage is left behind, and the ball is still in mid-air.

“STOP MESSING AROUND!”

The third baseman finally catches the ball and throws the ball back to home plate. However--

“...Final acceleration.”

Muttsurini ran faster than the ball as he steps onto home plate, taking a point in an exciting fashion.

“““BRILLIANT!!!”””

Class F's bench erupted into roars. So now we're 3 all. We're tied!

“Alright! Let's get it back at one go!”

Getting ready for the next pitch, I let my summoned beast raise the bat and get into position. It should be alright if I can use the chance when the opponent's wavering due to what Muttsurini did--

DONK!

“HIT BY PITCH. BATTER WALKS!”

“Why...why is it that I always get hit by pitch...”

If you're affected by what Muttsurini did, just send me a base on balls!

Health Education, Class E, Furukawa Ayumi, 102 points

Vs

Health Education, Class F, Yoshii Akihisa, 0 points.

“Yoshii Akihisa, KIA!”

[[Image:BTS vol 07 105c.jpg|thumb]]
“Eh? Hold on! The match's still not over! What happens if my health ed drops to 0?”

Does this mean...

“Akihisa, go take the replenishment tests. I'll let Kondou be the pinch baserunner.”

“Damn it! Isn't this way of getting off too lousy!?”

Why is it that I have to take the tests in this rare sports meet? I feel that the summoning system's not right!

“Well, you don't have to worry about the match. As things stand, we'll definitely win.”

“Uu...that's too much...”

I drag my heavy steps to the staff room.

In the end, while I was taking my health education replenishment tests, class F was able to send class E home with a base hit. But for me, who's unable to take part in the match, I'm feeling really uninvolved...

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Second Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Fourth Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Second Question

2012-04-19T02:12:17Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Second Question==

[[Image:BTS vol 07 034c.jpg|thumb]]
Remember these baseball rules!

'''Please explain the following baseball terminology'''

'Touch Up.'

'''Sakamoto Yuuji's answer'''

'When the batter hits a fly ball, the baserunner who's off the base must check the movement of the ball. The baserunner can only run off once the ball lands in the glove.'

'''Teacher's comment'''

That's correct.

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer'''

'To do a perverted act.'

'''Teacher's comment'''

I really shocked that you don't know the definition of 'touch up' in baseball yet understand the English definition of it. It's correct in the English subtext, but it's wrong in terms of baseball.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's answer'''

'When the batter hits a fly ball, the baserunner who's off the base must check the movement of the ball and the short skirts of the cheerleader girls. The baserunner can only do a perverted act once the ball lands in the glove.'

'''Teacher's comment'''

Calm down, your answer has the correct knowledge and your derogatory thoughts mixed together.

'''NOTICE'''

Fumitzuki Gakuen's sport meet.

''Bonding match. Teachers-vs-student baseball meet.''

The above mentioned events will be modified and competed with summoned beasts.

Fumizuki Gakuen Principal Todou Kaoru

[[Image:BTS vol 07 046.jpg|thumb]]

<big>'''''DAMN OLD GRANNY--!!!'''''</big>

Forcefully pushing the principal's room door aside, Yuuji and I shouted.

“What now, you brats? Being so noisy so early in the morning?”

“WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY BEING SO NOISY SO EARLY IN THE MORNING? IS IT TIME FOR SUCH WORDS, DAMNED OLD GRANNY!?”

Yuuji and I stormed towards the principal, who covered her eyes and looked unhappy, with the momentum of an army of tens of thousands.

It's hard that our whole class of guys managed to gather our grudge over the loss of our bibles and rely on the teachers-vs-students match to take revenge on the teachers...but the moment we came to school this morning, we suddenly saw this notice. Of course we would be fuming.

“Why did you change the format of the match to summoned beasts? Now we can't even take revenge on the teachers and teach them a lesson!!”

“Didn't you just say the reason why the school needs to change the format to include summoned beasts...”

Giving us a 'really, you guys' look at Yuuji and me, the principal turns to look at the data in her hand. Is, is she even human?

“Do you know how hard we worked, how much we planned all the dirty tricks and practiced them....that's why you would say such inhumane things!!”

“You damned brats, you should use this focus on other things!”

Our great hard work got completely denied. What kind of educator is her!?

“Che, suddenly changing the format to a summoned beast battle, I guess it's about promoting the summoning system...the most important summoning system has been manipulated until it can be controlled by humans?”

Now that Yuuji said this, the principal frowned. Our school principal is more like a researcher than an educator. She will never let other people underestimate the technicalities of the summoning system.

“Forget about the summoning tournament and what happened during the summer, the summoning system is now completely in my grasp. If that's not the case, how can I let you people have the summoned beasts play baseball?”

Hearing her say this, I start to wonder. Now that she mentioned it, it's true, but during the test of courage, our summoned beasts did become monsters, so obviously something wrong happened to the system...maybe it's because the system adjustments failed this time that caused our summoned beasts to become baseball midgets.

“Damned brats, hold it right there. What's with that expression of yours!? Did you think that I failed in the adjustments and caused the summoning system to be that of the baseball style that I forced all of you to take part using summoned beasts? Are you thinking that way?”

We're thinking like that alright.

“Humph, I don't know what your idiotic brains are thinking, but I spent a lot of effort just to modify the summoning system into baseball style. I had to expand the system's effective range , designate the bat and gloves, and the I had to imagine the ball before creating it. How is it possible to create all these if it wasn't for the complete control system.”

Creating a ball through imagination, calculating the amount of air resistance through the shape of a ball, and the seamless curveball...these tough terminologies started coming out from the principal's mouth. I really don't understand what she's saying. Anyway—

“So now that the summoning system is alright, you want to let all the teachers and students see it for themselves?”

“—”

Ah, the principal's expression froze.

“Akihisa, you got to note your word usage, See, because you guessed correct, that old granny's face just froze.”

Did I guess correctly? This person in front of us is a lot older than us, yet she does seem like a kid in some place. Or rather...are all researchers like that?

“Of, of course not! Either way, as a school principal, I do want to have the students and teachers have a warm and cuddly interaction game.”

“Ah~really~that's amazing~”

“Amazing~I've all my respects for you~”

“You damned brats are so irritating!!”

Being able to say such a lie that can be seen through easily, it seems like we're rather half-baked.

“However, if that's the case, I guess it's impossible to revert the rules back to normal, right? Since the idea to let the summoned beasts play baseball was the old granny's idea.”

“Yeah, principal. Please retract that notice and let us play baseball normally!”

“I refuse.”

““WHY!!??””

“You just treated me like an idiot when you said that. How can you think that I'll grant your request like that?”

Unbelievable. She would actually refuse the earnest request of her cute students. Is she really the head of the school?

“Even if you didn't say anything, it's impossible to retract the notice since the settings were all set.”

The principal pushes a pile of hi-quality binded paper to us.

“Why did it end up like this...not asking for our agreement and doing such things on your own...”

“What nonsensical words are you talking about!? Why must I ask for your agreement?!?”

Damn it! If we knew that this would happen, we should have bribed the sports management committee. But this damned old granny probably would not listen to them.

Just when I clench my teeth, thinking of some way to salvage this, Yuuji reveals a pondering look and then stares at the principal, saying,

“Now that it can't be changed...but if that's the case, wouldn't the difference between the teachers and the students be too great?”

“The difference you're talking about, you're referring to the difference in summoned beast strength between the teachers and the students? Ha! I thought that you have something else to say.”

“But principal, Yuuji's right! Aren't the teachers' score ridiculously high? And the marks are equivalent to power. IF there's such a difference in power, how can we possibly win--”

“Stop saying such dumb things. This isn't normal fighting. I'm telling you to play baseball! If power alone can win, those professional baseball players would be bodybuilders.”

“But...”

“Besides, Fumitzuki Gakuen is a school that focuses on grades to increase the learning potential. The difference in grades would be the difference in strength. What's wrong about that?”

I couldn't say anything back at the principal when I heard that. She's right. We already knew of Fumitzuki Gakuen's educational principle before we entered this school, but we still chose this school.

“But even if you say it, even when knowing that there's a huge difference in ability, he can't possibly focus on playing baseball! So please revert it back to normal!”

“Ah, Akihisa, just hold on. Didn't I say this? This is impossible.”

I wanted to say something else, but Yuuji stopped me. Eh? Wasn't Yuuji talking about letting the principal revert the format?

“But Yuuji, that...”

“Mn, you're right. That will make us less focused when we play. So principal, how about it? If you want us to have some enthusiasm, you should prepare some prize for us, no?”

Thus, Yuuji raised that proposal to the principal in a manner-of-fact. Prize? What's this all about?

“Your proposal's really ridiculous. Either way, I can't produce some good prize at such short notice, right?”

“No, you don't have to prepare them, nor do you need to pay a single cent.”

No need to pay a single cent? That means--

“If we can beat the teachers, please return the things that were confiscated during the sudden spot-check. What do you think?”

“...I see. So you prefer something more realistic than a title?”

“Of course, it would be good if we can take revenge, but since we can't change rules that were fixed, it's pointless to grumble about it. It's better to get some realistic prize.”

Saying that, Yuuji smirks. Abandoning the name and getting the reward...on one hand, this seems like what Yuuji would do—but for some reason, I feel that something's not right. Uu, what's wrong...

“As for the sudden spot-check. I think that not just the students, even the teachers said a lot to you regarding that, right?”

“...Humph, if you don't want your items to be confiscated, you shouldn't have brought such ridiculous things to school. What did you treat school as!?”

Though it's all in the name of education, Fumitzuki Gakuen's spot checks are a lot stricter than other schools. An ordinary school would return students' personal belongings back to them even after confiscating them. Not just the students, I guess it wouldn't be too much of a course to see teachers telling the principal that 'that's too much'.

“That's because of such a ruling that I would raise this proposal to you. If you can accept my proposal, we would obediently abide the tournament format. If you would give us a chance, we would do our best to hold back this dissatisfaction. To you right now, this should be a good deal, right?”

“So you unhappiness would explode because you guys don't know what's going on? I can just tell the students that there's 'a chance to get back the confiscated items', and even if you can't get them back, you guys would be angry at yourselves for losing instead of us teachers.”

“Mn, that's the case. No matter what, anyone would hate to be weak as they get plundered. But if there's a chance, even if humans fail to get what they want, they can unexpectedly accept such an outcome.”

Yuuji's again talking about some deep stuff with the principal. Basically, if we got get a chance to fight back, everyone would feel bad. Is that the case?

“So that's the idea. What do you think, damned old granny?”

Yuuji turns to the side and faced the principal. I don't know what they're talking about, but it seems like I should go along with Yuuji.

“Please, damned old granny.”

I stood beside Yuuji and copied him as I stepped towards the principal.

Hearing us say the, the principal strokes her chin and says,

“So...regarding this, instead of a deal, you're begging me for it right? But seeing you people beg me with that attitude, I can't possibly nod in agreement so easily.”

Uu...I tried my best to endure that ugly 'you damned old granny' that's rising up to my mouth, because I'm trying to understand what she's saying.

“Excuse me...but what are you talking about here?”

“Calling someone older than you 'old granny'...how can I agree to you brats and your request?”

I see. Since she doesn't like people calling her 'old granny', I'll just repeat this.

“Sorry for that, 'damned'.”

“Like what 'damned' said, we should be more careful.”

“HOLD ON A MINUTE! YOU JUST REMOVED THE 'OLD GRANNY' FROM THE 'DAMNED OLD GRANNY'!”

The principal twists her face in anger. She's too stubborn already. How can we possibly accommodate so many requests.

“Forget about that. What do you think?”

“Uu, well...during the sports meet, there will be guests from other countries. It will be best if you guys can behave yourselves...the summoned beast baseball tournament match between class 2-A and 3-A will be shown to them. As for you stupid brats, just focus on the baseball match. Then I'll let the guests view the other sports meet event. That should be safer...”

It seems like we got treated as some trouble. But at this point, better close one eye and don't argue too much with her.

“Really, you guys. Alright, I accept.”

“Really? Thanks for helping us out then.”

Yuuji and the principal nodded.

Now then, though our aim to revert the tournament format back wasn't accomplished, at least we managed to gain an opportunity to get back our confiscated items. That shouldn't be much of a drop off.

“Since we've decided, we'll write it in black and white, and we have to write about the prize, otherwise we will be bothered if you use the line 'I never heard of that before'.”

“Damned brat, that's my line.”

Then,. Yuuji and the principal started bickering with each other, and started writing down the rules of the tournament.

''“So only one subject is to be used for each match summoned beast baseball match?”''

''“I don't mind. But wouldn't you guys feel bothered if it's just one subject?”''

''“Yeah. If possible, I hope to have different subjects for all innings.”''

''“Okay, I can agree to that. It's related to studies anyway.”''

''“That's a great help to us. If that's the case, how about writing down 'you must choose one of the taught subjects' instead of 'using the subjects for the summoned beasts' to make it easier to understand, right?”

''“I'm fine as long as it doesn't distort the original meaning of the rules itself.”''

Both of them continued to talk (or rather, it's just Yuuji negotiating), and the blueprint for the baseball rules were almost set. It's great that things are going smoothly due to Yuuji's plans, but I have a feeling that something's not right...

'''Summoned beasts baseball tournament rules (school rules)'''

#During each inning, one of the taught subjects is to be used.
#In each match, if the subject's used once in the previous innings, it is not to be used again in another inning.
#One of the non-participating teachers is to act as umpire. Also, the other teacher who's in charge of invigilating the match is forbidden from moving.
#Once the ball that's batted flies out of the summoning field (summoned beast baseball style), it will be considered a homerun if it's in play. If not, it's to be considered a foul ball.
#There will be 5 innings of offense and defense. If the score remains the same, the game will be extended to 7 innings. If the match can't be decided within 7 innings, it will end in a tie.
#Each team is to hand in the list of players. Those players whose names aren't on the list will be unable to take part in the match. Also, this rule is applicable to the bench players and the teachers in charge of the match.
#There will be one player for each defensive position and 2 bench players, making a total of 11 players.
#When the match is held, the sports meet events are of priority. If the match times overlap, each team can change the list of players at the last minute.
#Other than these, the basic rules will be as of official baseball rules. [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume7_Translation_Notes_and_References]

[[Image:BTS vol 07 057.jpg|thumb]]

<center>☆</center>

After our negotiations ended, we returned to class F. On the way, I finally realize the reason why I'm so troubled.

Ahh, speaking of which...

"Yuuji, as for just now..."

"Are you talking about the summoned beast baseball tournament?"

"Mn, it sounds like a reasonable decision...but that's on the assumption--that we can win the match, right?"

Just now, Yuuji did say that 'if we win, the teachers will return the confiscated items back to us'. That's right, in other words-unless we 'win the tournament', we can't get back the prize. If we can give up our revenge to get back those confiscated items back, it does sound reasonable, but in fact, that's not the case. This is a tournament that has to be won with marks. How can we win against the teachers! If that's the case, I might as well find a chance to vent all my anger and take revenge on them.

Hearing me say that, Yuuji reveals a 'it's rare that you would notice this' expression and glances at me before saying.

"You're right. In terms of the outcome, if we can't win in the baseball tournament, it would have no meaning at all. Because she knew it, that damned old granny would agree to our request."

"So that's the case. But our opponents are those teachers. The chances of us winning against them is practically..."

"Mn, that's the case. Most likely, we can't win if we play normally..."

There's a whole lot of difference between those teachers' marks and ours. Though we do have to look at the subject tested, there's a whole difference in skill.

"So Yuuji, what plan have you thought of?"

"Hm? What you talking about?"

"Stop playing dumb. You definitely looked like you were thinking of something when you gave that pondering look. And you decided those rules, right? You thought of a plan already, right?"

"Uu, that's the plan. How can I possibly fight a losing battle?"

"Yeah. So? What did you plan?"

"Like you said, I intend to use those rules--but it's interesting only when we do it. Besides, if I tell you now, you will definitely forget."

How rude, I just can't remember things occasionally.

"But Yuuji, why are you enthusiastic out of a sudden? It seems like you didn't just get your MP3 confiscated, is it?"

"And three deluxe edition picture albums."

"You actually managed to hide three of them in your house...aren't you too amazing?"

To actually be able to escape Kirishima-san's search and Yuuji's mom's natural instincts! Yuuji's way too amazing to be able to hide them like this...

"I hide them in under the bookshelf, or in the ceiling board, or even wrapping them up in complete waterproof package and dropping them into into the freshwater fish tank. I spent a lot of effort on them..."

"So you couldn't immediately take them out to read."

So that's what they mean by mixing up the aim and the means.

"If I don't do this, I can't protect them treasures. Besides, the level of those albums are already enough for me to do such drastic measures."

"I see. If they're so great, I want to read them."

"...Me too."

I nodded heads with Kirishima-san who's right beside me. How great are those picture albums? Since Yuuji said that, I'll try my best to get them back from the teachers and read through them.

"Okay, that'll be all for now. Yuuji and Kirishima-san can now develop their relationship."

"HOLD IT RIGHT THERE, AKIHISA! HOW CAN YOU ABANDON ME LIKE THIS AT THIS MOMENT!!"

Yuuji forcefully grabbed my wrist, but if I continue to stay here, I'll just see a devastating scene...

"...I really underestimated Yuuji. From now onwards, no matter the basin or under the flower pots or the bathtub when Yuuji's bathing, I will inspect them carefully."

"OI, hold on a minute. THE REAL AIM OF THE LAST ONE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH INVESTIGATIONS!!"

"...Because I have a duty to check Yuuji's growth."

I see, so she has a need to check Yuuji's growth.

"--Hm?"

Hold on a minute. Speaking of this checking of growth...doesn't that mean--

"Kirishima-san, let me ask you something..."

"...What is it?"

"Kirishima-san, did you...bathe with Yuuji before?"

"...Before middle school."

'''"HYYYYAAAHHHHHH!!!!"'''

"DANGER!!"

Che! He dodged! To be able to dodge that full-powered spinning kick of mine, this guy's reflexes are no joke...

"LISTEN TO ME, AKIHISA! IT WAS BEFORE MIDDLE SCHOOL, BUT WE NEVER HAD THEM WHEN IT WAS 5TH, 6TH GRADE--"

"...And only a few times after my breasts grew."

'''"HHHHYYYYYYYAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!"'''

"WOOOHH!! ARE YOU TRYING TO KILL ME!!!?"

"SHUT UP YOU PAGAN....YOU HERETIC WHO STEPPED INTO THE HOLY PLACE THAT SHALL NOT BE DEFILED!!...YOU SHALL PAY FOR THIS BLASPHEMY WITH DEATH!!! ALSO--"

<big>'''''"--YOU SHALL BE SUBJECTED TO THE MARTIAL LAW OF THE FFF!!!"'''''</big>

"HOLD, HOLD ON A MINUTE! WHEN DID YOU GUYS APPEAR!? I NEVER FELT YOUR PRESENCE UP TILL NOW!!! EVEN IF I DID BATHE WITH SHOUKO BEFORE, IT DOESN'T MEAN THAT ANYTHING HAP--GWWWOOOAAHHHH!!!"

"...Ah...Yuuji..."

"First class inquistor Yoshii, thank you for fishing out this heretic. It's been tough on you."

"No no, I would like to thank you, Leader Sugawa."

"...I just wanted to ask...about the 'if we win the baseball tournament, can we get back all the confiscated items'..."

[[Image:BTS vol 07 063.jpg|thumb]]

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The First Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume7 The Third Question}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume6 The First Question

2012-04-18T22:39:35Z

128.189.154.252:

"...Yuuji"

"What is it, Shouko?

"Until when will the special supplementary lesson continue?"

"I think end of this week to the utmost. Really, even though the first semester finally ended too, to still have to go to school everyday, does that hag doesn't understand the meaning of summer holiday?"

"....But, it can't be helped for Yuuji and everyone in the F class. Since you usually skip classes a lot."

"Well, you have a point there.... Rather than that, why are you going to school everyday? A class doesn't have supplementary lessons right?"

"...There's no supplementary lessons, but we have a summer short course [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Translation_Notes_and_References&action=edit&redlink=1]"

"Summer short course? If I'm not wrong, that's for the college entrance exam preparation right?"

"...Un"

"Yare yare. To go to school even during holiday, you're really enthusiastic aren't you. As expected of A class-sama."

"....It has nothing to do with A class. Yuuji is there, so I go to school."

"You're still spouting that...."

"....If Yuuji's not going to school, then I'm also not going. Whether there's a summer short course or not."

"Aaah. Got it, got it."

"...If Yuuji's not going to the wedding place, then I will bring you there. Whether there's any intention to marry or not."

"It sounds like a cool line, but remember that it's a splendid human rights violation! Or rather, if it become like that, I will make sure to resist with all my power!"

"....Resistance is futile. Because I will do my best."

"Why are you doing your best on something like that! Don't waste your effort!"

"...Before"

"Aan?"

"....Before, Yoshii said this."

"What? What did that idiot say?"

"....[I can do my best for the people that I like]"

"That's not it, okay!? The implication of what he said wasn't that at all okay!?"

"...Lately, I also think like that."

"What do you mean by also! Even if you look for it, you're the only one in the world who would think like that!"

"....With Yuuji, I will fight without any petty trick straightly with my arm strength for a marriage."

"What's marriage has to do with arm strengyaaaa! My skull! My skull let out a creaking voice!"

"...Will you, marry me?"

"I won't! Or rather, I can't! It's too soon you know!"

"...Ah...is that so..."

"Ze...ze... Do you understand now...."

"...Un. I was too hasty...."

"That's right. I'm still 17 years old you know? Even if I wanted to marry - "

"...At this hour, the wedding place and the civil office haven't opened yet."

"That's not the problem you know!?"

"...Un. I know. Just joking..."

".......How do I say this, you, you're steadily getting stupid aren't you...."

"...So mean."

"It's the truth."

"....So mean."

"Keh."

"....But, Yuuji"

"Haa?"

"...That remark earlier, does that mean you will marry me when you turn 18?"

"Geho geho! What are you spouting about!"

"...I'm looking forward to it."

"You know.... Until when do you plan to keep spouting those words.... It's time for you to return to reality."

"...It's alright."

"Alright? What's alright?"

"....Because no matter what, I will always like Yuuji."

"Geho geho!"

==First question==

'''Please change the following words into English'''

"スペイン語"

'''Himeji Mizuki's answer'''

"Spanish"

'''Teacher's comment'''

One of the basic English words, isn't it. Sometimes there are people who forget to write the first letter, S, as a capital letter. Please remain vigilant against those kinds of careless mistakes.

'''Tsuchiya Kouta's answer'''

"Speines-"

'''Teacher's comment'''

I wonder if you wanted to write "Speinese", just like the form in "Japanese". Too bad, but it's wrong.

'''Yoshii Akihisa's answer'''

"Spaget-"

'''Teacher's comment'''

No matter how I tried to interpret this otherwise, I can't see this as anything other than, you were going to write "Spaghetti" as the answer.

The finals are over, it's a period where we're covered by an indescribable sense of freedom. The number of days left until July ends become just a few more. The loud voice of the cicada and the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cumulonimbus_cloud cumolonimbus] that cover the surrounding skies, the signs that signal that true summer has come are being painted all around us.

The season where the burning ray of sun rains on us - something that a girl who's mindful about getting sunburned might hate.

Not only sunburn. The season called summer is hot, noisy, and even insects come out.

But, even so, for me, this season is the one I like the most in going through the whole year.

Passing through the cold winter, the season where life start to bud, spring.

The color of the mountain change from green into red, the season where preparation against the visiting cold wave start, autumn.

The air is clear, the season where you can feel the shine of the stars closer than usual, winter.

Even each of the other seasons have their own mountains of good things.

But, in spite of all that, I feel that compared to the the other season, the season called summer always have something special.

The boiling heat, the bug's self-assertion that breaks your eardrums, even the clamor of the baseball club that you can hear from the campus, all of them are the spices to enjoy this special season.

Going outside, I want to feel the heat that can only be felt on this period. Frowning a little toward the bustling clamor, I want to bask in the burning sun rays. Wiping the unstoppable sweat, I want to move my body as much as I can. That's the right way to enjoy the season called summer, the period of time called broad daylight isn't it.

That's right. Now is the special season called summer which can make your heart dance. That's why -

(Yuuji, let's run. From this hell's jail of the soul.)

(Nicely said Akihisa. I'm already fed up with this iron-fist-supplementary-lesson full course.)

-That's why, we decided to run away from Tetsujin's supplementary lesson.

(In the first place, to still have lessons even on summer holiday is a mistake isn't it. Moreover, most of the people in this class is male. Let alone study, it's hard enough to breath inside here isn't it.)

My bad company, Sakamoto Yuuji, who sit right beside me frowned his full-of-roughness face.

(And additionally, the one doing the supplementary lesson is iron man too.... He's so sultry even in the winter, in this circumstances, looking at iron man is just like a torture.)

At the platform, the well muscled hot-blooded teacher, Nishimura-sensei a.k.a iron man is continuing the supplementary lesson without even showing a drop of sweat. The reason he doesn't even slightly show any form of being worn-out is because his trained physical strength through his hobby of triathlon.

(For Himeji to still be able to take a note seriously in this situation.... Is she a monster?)

(Just as expected of someone who has the capability of A-class's valedictorian - is what I want to say, but Himeji-san's body is weak isn't she. I wonder if she will be okay.... Lately it seems she's in a good condition, but I'm still worried.)

For the time being, at least she got the window-seat position where the ventilation is good, but the best position under the shadow of the pillar is already given to someone else. As long as she doesn't forget to keep hydrated, I don't think anything bad can happen suddenly....

(Iron man is pretty considerate about that think so it should be alright isn't it. Even if he looks like that, in proportion to who the other party is, he's pretty considerate to them)

(Un..... he indeed look well at who the other party is isn't he....)

That's why we're placed at the furthest ridge from the window where the heat from the sun is strongest and the ventilation is the worse. This is extreme discrimination.

(So, Yuuji, how do you plan to slip out? The opponent is that iron man so if we're caught it will be hell.)

(Akihisa, you invite others to run away but didn't think about any plan at all?)

(If I already have a plan I would have executed it alone at once.)

(Well, you're right about that. Now, what should we do....)

While discussing with Yuuji in small voices, we're looking for iron man's weakness. Of course, we don't have the luxury of being suspected of talking with each other. We suppress our voices to the lowest volume and move our mouth like a ventriloquist when we talk. An indispensable technique for the boys in this class that iron man set his eyes on.

[-Assume the height of the object before is h, when all of the potential energy in the object is converted into kinetic energy, the formula of the speed of the object in this state, v, is heavily reliant on the gravitational acceleration g and the height h which- ]

Iron man was facing us while reading the text book out loud.

To move now is not a good idea. If we made even a slightly stupid move, we will caught immediately wouldn't we. I wonder what should we do.....

(Oi, Yoshii, Sakamoto. Are you two going to run away?)

(If you're going to run, we're coming too. We can't stand staying in this hell any longer.)

(Me too. If I stay like this, I will certainly die from dehydration.)

While being troubled thinking about the way to escape, our classmate that sit nearby start to talk to us. Of course, their face keep facing the blackboard, and their mouth only move very slightly that you wouldn't think they were currently talking. The only person that iron man hasn't set his eyes on is only Himeji-san and Minami. The other classmates already learned this special skill.

(Then Yuuji, how does the plan where we simultaneously run away with this many number of men sound?)

(Human-wave tactic huh? It's a simple yet reliable tactics... Yosh. I'm in.)

Yuuji, with his farsightedness that I almost don't understand at all, slightly nodded.

The demon is only iron man himself. If we all scattering simultaneously on different directions to run away, even iron man wouldn't be able to catch us all would he.

(Everyone agree on it right? No resentment for whoever get caught. If there's no more problem, everyone who wants to do it please nod slightly.)

After saying that, everyone in the class beside Himeji-san, Minami, and Hideyoshi simultaneously nod. For 47 people out of 50 running away.... even though I'm the one who make the suggestion, but this class really is odd isn't it.

Although, the more people join means the probability of me getting caught is lower. How convenient.

All that's left is looking for the chance.

[ - That means, the speed of a falling object is independent to the weight of the object itself. But, unlike the ideal condition in this theory, in reality there's also the resistance of the air. The reason a feather and an iron ball doesn't fall with the same speed was largely because of this air resistance. When it's inserted into the equation - ]

Since the explanation finally reach its climax, iron man turn to face the blackboard and start to write something there.

There's no way we're going to miss this timing when he finally face away from us!

When we raised our hip to escape,

"Nobody move!"

"""----!!"""

In that instant, iron man get a start on us. Impossible! We were found out!?

"You punks.... you've got quite some guts to try to escape aren't you. Is my lesson that boring?"

Iron man slowly turned this way and glared at us. Ku...! Just as expected of inhuman creature. To be able to read our escape just from our presence...!

While we're being afraid about who'll become the first victim of the iron fist,

"...Is that so. I didn't realize you were that bored with my lesson. This is my fault for giving a boring lesson."

unexpectedly iron man said something like that. Huh? You're not going to hit us?

"As an apology, I will tell you an interesting story in return. ....Himeji, Shimada, Kinoshita, you three close your ears."

Interesting story? that's always welcomed, but I wonder why Himeji-san and the others have to close their ears. If it's something interesting, isn't it better to let everyone hear it?

"That's right. That was a summer more than 10 years ago - "

As if ignoring our questions, iron man starts to weave his words.

"-This is when I was wrestling with a exchange student from Brazil."

"""Gyaaa"""

Damn it! It seems the guys with low resistance are done in by iron man's sweltering words!

Iron man's wrestling lecture in this scorching condition is just like a death penalty....!

"The opponent is a giant with a height of 195 cm and weight of 120 kg named Gino Grachero. He was a man whose arm was as thick as a female's waist. Even so, I wasn't going to lose. With my 188 cm tall trained body with a 97 kg weight, we clashed from the front..."

"Stop it! Please stop it!"

"My brain! My brain hurts!"

"Mamaaa!"

The sound of the mental breaking seems to can be heard like a clattering sound.

This is bad! My head starts to feel strange too! Have to think of a counter-measure soon!

" - But, he mistake wrestling with judo. He do an [http://www.makino418.com/blog/腕ひしぎ.jpg Ude-hishigi] move on me. But, there's no way he can win against this prided biceps of mine. Covered with sweat and with my blood vessel showing up, I continue to resist by not letting my arm get stretched. Then, the other party starts to go around my head without delay, and while pressing that bulky chest muscle of his to my face he start to do [http://www.hktayy3.edu.hk/~judo/newaza/kame-shiho-gatame.JPG Kame-shiho-gatame] - "

"Guaaaaa! No more! I don't want to close my eyes! The worst image cling to the back of my eyelid and it won't come off!"

"He's not waking up! Fukumura's not waking up! Oi, get a hold of yourself!"

"Air! I need cool and fresh air!"

In this [http://www.metal-archives.com/images/2/7/9/3/279344_279345.jpg Abikyoukan hell]-like situation, to bear the mental attack, I continuously looking at our class' 3 girls.

First is the girl who doesn't understand what's going on and keep closing her ears while staring blankly at us, Himeji Mizuki-san. That gentle hair, that fluffy atmosphere, she's a girl that looks as if all her body is formed from healing aura. Brilliant mind, satisfactory physical growth, killer cooking, she's far above the normal level in all those categories. Just looking at her is enough to escape from this mental attack, and just remembering the taste of his cooking is enough to send you to the other world.

Next is the girl who's looking at us with a shocked expression while plugging her ears, Shimada Minami-san. A girl whose characteristic is her ponytail, pretty leg, and slender body. A precious girl in the class who we can talk without worry, but just remembering her high attack power that she send out in her joint-lock technique is enough to make cold sweat running on my back. Well, even that will be refreshment in this situation so I can't say that it's something not to be grateful about I guess.

The last one is the classmate who understand everything and sympathize with us while pushing his ears, Kinoshita Hideyoshi. There's a little sweat at Hideyoshi's eyebrows because of this heat. If it's hot, it would have been better if he would just wear the more breezy girl's uniform too. No, rather than uniform, how about wearing a one piece dress. Wearing a white one piece dress while being fluttered by the wind and standing on a plateau Hideyoshi. Un. It sure feels refreshing imagining that.

" - and then, using up until the time limit, we continue to attack and defend using Newaza [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Translation_Notes_and_References&action=edit&redlink=1] - N? What's wrong you guys? Already downed?"

When I noticed it, almost every classmates of mine already prostrating on the tea table while losing consciousness.

"Really, no choice then. Let's have a 10 minutes break. Reflect on your action for trying something stupid like escaping."

After giving a gesture for the three person who close their ears that they can remove their hands, iron man instructs them to rest and then sit at the teacher's chair. It looks like even though we got some break time, he doesn't have any intention to go out of the classroom. I wonder if it's because he's still wary about us escaping?

In this class that's fill with dead bodies everywhere, the few survivors approach us.

"Ano, Akihisa-san. What happened here? Everyone looks like they're suffering...."

Himeji-san worriedly look at the classmates who fall flat on their face at their tea table. Just as expected, she really is kind."

"Uuumm, how do I explain this, it's some kind of verbal punishment, or rather you could say that it's some kind of mental attack...."

If I want to explain this, I have to re-tell iron man's story. Please spare me from that.

"Really, in any case it must have been something stupid again isn't it. It's because you think about something like escaping, of course sensei's going to be mad."

At Himeji-san's side, Minami's looking at me with a chaperoning expression while letting out a sigh.

"Don't say that, Shimada. Akihisa and my seat's position is bad enough that it can't be helped that we think about escaping. It's around all-the-water-part-in-our-body-will-evaporate level of bad."

Just like Yuuji said, it won't be an exaggeration to say that Yuuji's and my seat's exposure to sun already far past the satisfactory level. The absence of curtain wasn't a problem up until now, but it's because of this kind of period that make me realize the importance of that for the first time. So that thing wasn't only for making people outside unable to see inside huh....

"Is that so? My seat wasn't that hot so I can't understand that."

"The wind pass through mine too so it's still okay."

"It's because our seat is positioned in the place where the sun exposure is the strongest and the ventilation in the worst. It's really awful."

"How awful is it?"

"Around Akihisa's test mark level."

"On the level that human can't be endured by human then."

What a thing to say.

"But, this seat is really around Yuuji's personality level of awful. Just now when I touch the aluminum part of my pen, I get a light burn."

If a steel plate was laid out, we could make something like a sunny-side egg on it.

"You get a burn? Where?"

"Ah, no. It's not something that bad."

Minami spontaneously took my hand. It seems she's worried about my burn. Lately, the difference between when Minami in an attacking mode and when she's in kind mode is large. I wonder what happened. I really can't understand girl's way of thinking.

"What's this Shimada. Aren't you quite kind to Akihisa?"

"That's right. Minami-chan is too close to Akihisa-kun."

Seeing us like that, Himeji-san and Hideyoshi start to said those words.

"I, it's not like I'm being kind to Aki...! I, it's just that if he's hurt I have to hold back when hitting him...!"

So you're still going to hit me even if I'm injured....

"Even so, I also think that Minami is kind."

"Eh...? Even Aki too, what are you saying."

"You're helpful, notice about sensitive things, care about your little sister too. And also, you can put your love into animals too - as an opposite sex."

"You still misunderstand about that!?"

The last part was Minami's big secret that only I know of so I turn down my volume when saying that. A person who loves animal is kind, so Minami is no doubt a kind person.

"Listen well, Aki! It seems you misunderstand, but I don't have any interest in orangutan, the one that I actually like is - "

"""Is?"""

Talking about such important topic such as the person she like, everyone in the class, including all the classmates who collapsed earlier, focused their attention on Minami.

".........Chimpanzee!"

Minami boldly confessed in front of everyone's attention.

"I, is that so...... That's.... sorry, for misunderstanding."

"U.... T, that's right.... it's not like I like orangutan you know...."

Furthermore, seeing me shocked by the new truth that just come out, Minami slowly murmur "I can no longer be a bride...." with a cry-like face.

What is it I wonder. Just know I feel like somehow I can understand something from Minami.

"Shimada. It's hard to be you too isn't it."

"Sakamoto.... If you're feeling sorry about my situation, please repair Aki's misunderstanding...."

Misunderstanding? If it's about Minami liking chimpanzee instead of orangutan then I think I already get it though.

"Well, this seat is indeed hot. I guess it's just normal for you guys to plan an escape."

Hideyoshi put his hand on my tea table.

"Now that you mention it, Hideyoshi was really quiet weren't you? You didn't hear our talk about escaping?"

"No, I did hear it....but my seat is a lot more cooler than yours. I dozed off because of that and missed the timing to participate in the plan."

Even if his seat is not cooler than ours, to be able to dozed off in this heat, Hideyoshi sure is something else. Furthermore, there's also the matter of him not getting found out by iron man while sleeping. I wonder if his ability to sleep while still looking as if he's awake is also part of his acting ability.

"What's the matter? Did the escape plan become ugly because I didn't participate?"

"No, that's not it. It's just that, as a part of stupid friends group, it feels lonely when one of us is missing."

It feels hard to invite Himeji-san and Minami for things like this. It's different for good friends and stupid friends though.

"Is that so...."

"? Hideyoshi, why do you look so happy?"

Is it just my imagination I wonder. I somehow can see a smile at Hideyoshi's face.

"Umu. Truth to be told, I'm a little happy to be called stupid friend. It's because lately you think of me as a girl. I'm a little worried about how you don't care about the part in my appearance that's different from my sister."

The sister Hideyoshi's talking about is his twin older sister Kinoshita Yuuko.

Well, both of them really do look alike, they're both very cute too...

"Hideyoshi also worries too much about weird things aren't you?"

"No, taking account of how you treat me lately, I don't think it's weird at all though..."

Seeing me laughing it away, Hideyoshi said this sourly as if he's still not convinced at all.

Why is he worrying about weird things like that I wonder.

"Because, to not care about things other than appearance, there's no way that could happen right?"

"But, I"

"Indeed, I do think Hideyoshi is cute, but if it's only that, there's no way we'll be together like this right? To study together, play together, it's because I know a lot about how good Hideyoshi is inside that we're together like this you know."

To choose your friends based just on the appearance, I think that's a very weird thing to do.

"......!?"

"N? What's wrong, Hideyoshi?"

"D, don't look this way"

Saying that, I don't know why but Hideyoshi turns his back this way as if wanting to hide something.

"Mizuki..... Kinoshita is really cunning isn't he..... even though he's treated like a woman usually, only at times like this he wasn't thought as an opposite sex and get those kind of words..."

"He really is isn't he..... My hard work's in vain...."

"Mizuki's still better. My hard work only results me becoming a high-school girl who loves chimpanzee..."

Himeji-san and Minami seem to grumble about something with some sigh mixed in while doing that.

"Nmu....? By the way Akihisa, I get the feeling you didn't refute the part about thinking of me as a girl though?"

"Ahaha. Hideyoshi really worries about strange things aren't you. It's not like that kind of things need to be answered clearly."

"Why are you avoiding making a statement!? Eei, do you think of me as an opposite sex? Answer clearly with a "yes" or "no"!"

"Youi" [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Translation_Notes_and_References&action=edit&redlink=1]

"Mu.... the two answer is mixed in so it become unclear - or not!? You, on top of that, you mix "yes" and "oui" aren't you!? You really thought of me as a girl aren't you!"

"By the way Yuuji. Mutsullini looks to be like in a really dangerous situation though."

"You're letting the fact that you just said it doesn't need to be answered slide!?"

Our friend who usually plays with everyone together or with his camera during break time for some reason doesn't move even the slightest bit and only blankly staring today.

"It's because his imagining power can't be compared to normal people. The picture of iron man and the Brazilian sultrily wrestling must have been freshly burned in his brain from hearing that story isn't it."

"....That happens without difficulty huh?"

I see. So he become unable to move even an inch because of that.

"Even so, it sure is hot isn't it.... my sweat won't stop since earlier."

"It is.... In this condition there's no way we can put our spirit to study isn't it..."

The tatami and tea table equipments look like something that further add the sultriness. To be hot during summer is a natural thing, but just as expected this is a little too much....

"What's the matter, Aki. You were quite spirited in studying during the final exam last time, but now you return back to be just like usual?"

"That time was an exception for repelling my sister. In the first place, I don't really like studying."

The result of the test, in the end I'm in the fix of my sister returning to Japan. Right now, in order to prepare to move here, she returned for a while to my parents place, but my freedom is in a precarious situation now.

That's why, I wanted to fully enjoy my summer break even more, but of all things to have supplementary lesson is really.....

"Besides, there's also another reason in the last test."

Yuuji, who also shows that his low study motivation like me, said that.

"Another reason? Is it about the summoned beast's equipment being reset?"

"Un. It's because mine and Yuuji's equipment is extremely weak. We thought we might get a stronger equipment if we get a new one, but...."

"You of all things missed putting the important name field at the test. It will be a [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_school_uniform#Gakuran Gakuran] and [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bokken Bokutou] again isn't it."

"Uuu... I wished for at least a metal weapon...."

I don't want a bokutou because I feel like it will be worn out just from clashing with other's weapon....

"Well, with that result Akihisa's weapon might not be changed, but what about Yuuji? Didn't your score go up quite a bit since the last class division test?"

"N? Now that you mention it. I wasn't paying attention to my score or my equipment since I'm too caught up in with other people's score."

"It's because Yuuji is in the position of giving command right? You assumed that there won't be many instance where you have to fought directly with your enemy aren't you?"

"Aa. Instead of upgrading my equipment, having the others' equipment strengthened will make the battle easier."

That kind of thought just naturally come to me, so this guy really must have commander disposition by nature.

"My final exam's result was quite good too. Perhaps my equipment became better too."

"Compared to class division test, I can read the question better too on the final exam, so mine might get a little stronger too."

It seemed Hideyoshi's and Minami's test result became higher. I'm so jealous.

"I'm sorry.... It seems mine doesn't change that much."

"No no. If Himeji-san's result become even higher it will be too amazing you know."

Even if there's no limit to the test's score, to get a higher score than that is extremely difficult isn't it.

"Ah. If that's so let's all summon our summoned beast once. I'm curious about what everyone's equipment became too."

Perhaps my equipment also turned better. Since the equipment before is the worst, there's no way it will become worse than before I think.

"You're right. To grasp our fighting potential is an essential need for test summoning war. Fortunately we also have iron man here, let's get permission for summoning and check the new equipment right away."

"Right. Excuse me, Nishimura-senseeei."

I called iron man who's sitting on a pipe chair near the blackboard to look at the class' situation. When I do that, iron man looks this way with a dubious expression on his face.

"What is it Yoshii. How rare it is for you to call on me."

Of course I am. I'm not as stupid to voluntarily talk to someone when it'll add bruises to me proportional to the number of conversation we have.

"Excuse me. I have a request for sensei."

"Request? It's not a strange request right?"

"No, it's not. We just want to get a permission to summon our summoned beast."

When I said that, iron man clearly showed an expression that said "troublesome things occurred". I wonder why. Is there some problem or something?

"Aaah... Listen here, Yoshii. You're the Kansatsu Shoubunsha. Your summoned beast have more power than most people, and furthermore, it can touch things and people. To recklessly summon that kind of thing is not something good. Don't think about useless things like that - "

N? His condition is really strange. Even though he'll usually talks about everything clearly, he's really awfully ambiguous now. Is there something he feel guilty about I wonder.

"Nishimura-kyouyu [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Translation_Notes_and_References&action=edit&redlink=1]. It's not like we're planning something bad. We're just purely curious about what our summoned beast's equipment has become."

Hideyoshi interrupted to help. Iron man won't believe me or Yuuji no matter what we said, but he won't be able to ignore if it's Hideyoshi or Himeji-san or Minami who says this.

"No, even so, Kinoshita, to call out a summoned beast besides using it for summon war is not something very good you know."

He said that as if there's something caught in his molar. Just as expected there's really something wrong going on.

"Iron man. What are you hiding to that extend? Is there something inconvenient with our summoned beast?"

"No, there's nothing going on, Sakamoto. Rather than that, the break will soon end. Return to your seat and prepare for the next class."

To not complain even a word when called as iron man, this is really a rare sight.

Seeing this situation, not only Yuuji who realized this from the start, even Minami and Himeji-san start to realize there's something wrong with iron man.

"Nishimura-sensei. Did something happen to our summoned beast?"

"Our summoned beast can't touch things so it's okay to summon it right?"

"...Now then. Let's start the lesson."

Iron man ignored both of them and return to the teaching platform.

"Wait a minute."

Yuuji grabbed his hand.

"What is it Sakamoto?"

"It looks like there really is something going on. I'm not going to ask to give use permission to summon our summoned beast anymore then. But, I want an explanation on what's going on - Awaken!"

Reacting to Yuuji's voice, the silver bracelet activated. This guy's silver bracelet ability is to create a summoning field. In other word, we can summon our summoned beast even without permission from the teacher.

"Well then, without further ado - Summon!"

Letting that familiar keyword from my mouth, A magical array like geometrical pattern appeared in front of my feet. And then, from the center of that, some kind of figure come out gradually. If there's no change in equipment, the one coming out there should be a deformed version of me in a Gakuran and Bokutou, but -

"Huh? My summoned beast somehow look....?"

"Oi oi.... What an extravagance equipment for someone like Akihisa. Is that armour?"

"It even brought a sword. It's completely different from before isn't it?"

"And also, isn't it's kinda tall?"

The one appearing is a knight carrying a big sword with body covered in silver armour.

"A, amazing! It somehow looks quite strong!"

"Oh dear.... This think really looks amazing isn't it. The summoned beast war gonna look like a real war isn't it?"

"That's right isn't it. If it's like this, it wouldn't look that much different from real people would it?"

The summoned beast is usually the deformed form of myself, but looks like this time it's different. It's almost as big as my real body.

"The face also looks completely similar to Akihisa-kun isn't it. Unlike the cuteness up to now,
this time it looks quite gallant."

"Eh? I, is that so?"

It's somehow feels a little embarrassing to be called gallant.

"Himeji's quite whimsical aren't you? What's good about this ugly thing?"

"Ouch."

Pakon! Yuuji nudged my summoned beast's head. And then, that nudged head is separated from the neck and slowly fall to the tatami due to its weight.

""".........."""

In front of us who turn speechless, the summoned beast's head who's separated from the body rolls quietly. That freshly severed head is rotating on the tatami for many times over and stopped when hitting one of the tea table's feet in a condition where its eyes looking to us.

""Kyaaaaa!?"

"Eeeeh!? W, what is this!? Why is my summoned beast's become unable to be showed on living-room!?"

The body is still standing in a [http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/nio.shtml Niou], only the head is moving on the floor. How do I say this, it looks even more grotesque due to it not being in a deformed form.

"N? Aaah, sorry. I didn't mean to hit it that hard, but I didn't think that it would get detached like that... Wait a moment. I'm going to bring a stapler."

"Yuuji, what are you talking about!? You should be using glue if you want to stick something together!? Because you will make holes and it hurts if you use a stapler!"

"I think that's not the problem though"

Geez.... Does he forget about the fact that I'm a Kansatsu Shoubunsha?

"By the way, even if Akihisa's test result is close to zero, it doesn't have to become unable to battle as soon as it appears isn't it."

"Eh? Is this because of that?"

During the last final exam, my test score did indeed become zero because I misplaced putting my name on the test paper, but I wonder if that is really the reason it become like this. Up until now, if the score is zero we would just become unable to summon our summoned beast no matter how much we call it.....

F Class Yoshii Akihisa
Comprehensive Subject Score 1503 point

As usual, the score number is displayed a little later after the summon.

Un. It's not too high but there's definitely some score left, so looks like Yuuji's explanation is wrong.

"Akihisa. It looks like your summoned beast's neck getting detached doesn't mean that it became unable to battle."

"Un. It sure looks that way."

Just as Hideyoshi said, even if its head had fallen off, my summoned beast still calmly stood, and when I tried to move its hand, it moved without any problem at all. That means it became a summon beast with an attachable head right? It's looks like a very vanguard-ish ability..... but if possible, I would prefer a more normal one.

"Himeji-san, Minami. It's okay to open your eyes now. It looks like this isn't a dead body."

I called out to the two girls who firmly close their eyes. To become frightened by that, just as expected, they really are girls aren't they.

"Hau.... Even if it's not a dead body, it's still scary...."

"I, I was just surprised you know. It's not like I get frightened by something like th..."

Those two awkwardly avert their gazes away from my summoned beast. The frightened Himeji-san and the pretending Minami bring a smile to my face.

"Now then iron man. What is this about. You know about this don't you?"

Yuuji unnaturally turn his gaze away to inquire iron man.

Iron man let out a big sigh, and as if giving up, start to explain while clicking his tongue.

"....I also doesn't know about it much, it seems the summoned beast that you summon now will become a monster of some sort."

"A monster?"

If we're talking about a monster with a detached neck, furthermore with a knight figure to boot....it should be something like Dullahan right? But, why is such a thing get summoned?

"Just like you knows, the summoned beast system doesn't consist of only scientific technology. There's many coincidences and occult-like element surrounding it."

"??? That means, what exactly?"

"Ahh...in a word...."

"They failed when adjusting the system."

"Don't say it blankly like that."

Iron man respond with a sour look toward Yuuji's answer. Is that so. I indeed heard that the summoning system's condition wasn't good before, so this is the result of that.

"From looking at Akihisa's summoned beast, it seems the adjustment made the occult part stronger. This is also interesting though."

"I see. It's because if we're talking about occult, we can't help but think about monster isn't it."

If I see things like this on a road during the night I won't be able to keep standing.

"Even so, why is it Dullahan? If it has to be a monster, there should a lot of Japanese monster that can be used too isn't it?"

I wonder if there's any reason to use monsters that's not that familiar in Japan.

"From what I heard from the headmaster, it seems the monster selected is chosen based on the summoner's characteristic and true nature."

Iron man explained while folding his hand.

"Characteristic and true nature? If that's so then the reason Dullahan is chosen for me is because my knightly spirit affect my summoned beast isn't it."

"Akihisa, don't turn your eyes away from reality."

"Eh? That's not it? If that's so, the only other reason I could think about is a manly person who looks good in an armour, or maybe a person with the strength to swing around a broadsword?"

"It's probably "No head = Stupid" isn't it."

"It came out! The reality that I tried desperately to turn my eyes away from was said bluntly by Hideyoshi!"

Uuuu... So that's really the reason.... To think that even the test summoning system thinks of me as stupid....

"Even so, if it's just from looking at it like this, it seems stronger than the summoned beast from before isn't it. The weapon is made from metal, and it wear an armor too."

"T, that's right isn't it? It looks stronger than before isn't right?"

Leaving aside the characteristic and true nature part, getting stronger is something to be happy about.

"I don't think it's stronger though."

Even so, Yuuji said something that dampened the festive mood.

"What is it Yuuji? Is there something unsatisfying about it?"

"That detachable neck is a big problem isn't it? What do you think will happen if it got off in the midst of a battle?"

Yuuji point at the summoned beast's fallen head.

Ummm, if the neck fall of to the ground during a match,

"....it will get targeted, for sure."

"I think so too."

The head is the weak point when you want to beat up someone. If that weak point fell off and not protected by the body, of course it will become a target.

"Uuu... So it's like that...."

When you say it like that, indeed you can't say that the summoned beast is stronger now even if the equipment get more or less upgraded. On the contrary, the summoned beast from before is stronger because it can use both of its hand freely.

While we're making a fuss like that, several of our classmates who finally woke up from the nightmare that they got from iron man approach us.

"Yoshii, seems like you've been doing something interesting for a while aren't you?"

"Is this summon beast? You said about something regarding characteristic and true nature right?"

"I see. So that's why Yoshii's summon beast doesn't have any head."

I don't want to hear about that from these guys.

"If you want to talk like that then call yours too. A worse summoned beast than me will surely come out."

When I said that, the three of them stand in line, the top of their lips distort, and an unpleasant smile surfaced on their face.

"Oi oi Yoshii. Are you sure you want to say something like that?"

"There's no way our summoned beast will lose to the one belonging to number one idiot in Japan such as you right?"

"It's because no matter how you see it our characteristics is gentlemanly. There's no way a terrible summoned beast would come out you know? Watch this-"

"""Summon"""

Reacting to those three's summoning voice, their summoned beast's figure starts to appear one by one.

......Zuzuzuzu <- Zombie comes out

......Zuzuzuzu <- Zombie comes out

......Zuzuzuzu <- Zombie comes out

I see. I guess it's because their nature is rotten to the core?

"I, it's scary, Akihisa-kun..."

"Y, you lot! Quickly put something filthy like that away!"

Those three guys who got told that their true nature is filthy embrace each other's shoulder and start to cry.

"Even so, this is interesting in its own way isn't it? What about Hideyoshi's summon beast?"

"Nmu? Mine? That's right.... When you said about my characteristic, it's acting I guess. Instead of a demon, a mysterious person who's famous on the stage is more appropriate isn't it? ...Let's see. Summon."

....Pon <- [http://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nekomata Nekomata] comes out.

"Heee~. A cat monster isn't it? It sure is cute. It really suits Hideyoshi well."

"It seems that Hideyoshi's characteristic is [cuteness] isn't it?"

"E, even the summoning system finally treats me like this...."

It seems not everything is scary even if its a monster. How do I say this, it's soothing...

"Kinoshita lured Aki like that again...!"

"I, I also won't lose"

Minami and Himeji-san make a scary face in proportion to how not scary Hideyoshi's summoned beast is.

"Akihisa-kun, please watch me. I'm going to show you a cute summoned beast too."

"Ah, un. I'm looking forward to it."

"Yes. I'll do my best."

It's the kind Himeji-san. I'm sure it will be something like an angel or a goddess that's going to come out.

"I'm going to do this. Summon..."

....Bon <- Succubus comes out

"Kyaaaa!? A, Akihisa-kun!? Don't look at it!"

"Kupe!?"

On the instant I lay my eyes on the summoned beast, my neck is turned 180 degrees by Himeji-san. This is bad. Looks like my real body's neck going to come off too.

"W, what an amazing summoned beast..... ....... Especially on the chest."

"Even though the exposure level isn't that big, but the largeness is extremely emphasized isn't it...."

"A, anyway, some outer clothing.....au! it went through......!"

I was only able to look for an instant because my head got twisted, but I somehow get the feeling that Himeji-san's summoned beast is quite sexy.

"........Akihisa...! This isn't the time to go down....!"

And then, I don't know since when, Tsuchiya Kouta, who's known as Mutsulini, is desperately taking picture although his face is dyed by fresh blood, while handing me one spare piece of each photo. No matter how many times you press the shutter button, I think it's useless when the lens is covered by blood though.....

"Himeji. If you want to hide your summoned beast then get away from me. It should naturally disappear if you move away from the field's effective range."

"Ah.... O, okay. I'm going to do that."

Himeji-san nods her head in response to Yuuji's words, hurriedly move away from him, and after making sure that her summoned beast has disappeared, she return back right away.

"Uuu.... So awful.... That kind of outfit, that's just so embarassing...."

Himeji-san, who turns red right down to her neck, made a crying-like expression.

"But, even if you say that, that is Himeji's true nature you know. There's no other way around it right?"

"M, my true nature.....?"

Himeji-san's face is clouded with uneasiness while looking at us. U..... It's hard to answer that....

"U, ummmmm..... that's.... How do I say this...."

"T, that's right..... It's hard to say, but....."

"It's the big chest isn't it?"

"Uwaaaannn!"

Just as expected of Yuuji. He calmly said the thing that we have trouble saying.

"T, that's not the case at all! I indeed grew a little fatter, but it's not as major as it becoming my characteristic at all!"

"Stop right there, Himeji-san! If you say about that matter further a certain someone will get huh? Suddenly my vision field seems to darken?"

"Aki. If you have something to say let's hear it now."

Minami smilingly pushes my carotid artery.

E, even though I've went out of my way to stop the topic out of consideration...

"Leaving aside the outer appearance characteristic, the other characteristic I can think of is [Boldness] I think? After all, it's a succubus."

"B, boldness?"

"Aa. Now that I think about it, I can occasionally see that characteristic in Himeji. When you went home with Akihisa before you also said something like [I'll control myself so that I won't attack Akihisa-kun]."

"Now that you mention it, before, during the opening of school festival, she also pushed down Akihisa didn't she?"

"Y, you're wrong. T, that was, umm, a desperation measure, or rather, a spur of the moment, anyway, that wasn't it..."

Himeji-san hang her head with a bright red face as if she's really embarrassed. I don't think she should mind about it too much though since there's a lot of circumstances going on at that time like the course of the conversation, or the effect of sake.

Looking at Himeji's situation, a triumphant smile surfaced on Minami's face.

"Fufu. Poor Mizuki. It's because you have that kind of chest that that kind of summoned beast appeared."

"Uuu.... This is too much..."

"But, on that point, there's nothing for me to worry about. Surely instead of an indecent thing like that, a fairy, a goddess, a war maiden, or something cute like that will come out. Just see - Summon!"

Gogogogo... <- [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nurikabe_(folklore) Nurikabe] comes out

Not good. If I laugh now I'll be killed.

"...Ne, Aki."

"W, what is it Minami?"

The Minami who speak while keeping her back facing this way is bizarrely scary. Around the level of the-likes-of-Zombie-and-Dullahan-means-nothing scary.

"This summoned beast, I wonder if there is something you want to say to me?"

"I, I wonder what?"

While making my word ambiguous, I tried to look around for hel - it's no use! Yuuji and Hideyoshi already averted their gaze away while making a pitying expression.

If it's like this I have to evade the topic to some other characteristic than the perfectly level part of her body! The only thing I can count on right now is only my own brain! Ummm, Nurikabe's characteristic other than the perfectly level is -

"That's right! I'm sure Minami is hard just like a Nurikab... ouch...."

After saying that, I realized something myself.

So that's it.... This question, in the first place, there's no right answer that will enable me to survive with my life.

"Hee..... So I'm hard. At which part I wonder?"

If that's so, at least let's live till the end with dignity....

"Un... Surely,.... your chest is har... agaa! That's right! Your fist! Your fist is also hard gyaaaa!"

"What do you mean by also! Even though you've never even touched it! Stupid Aki!"

I do touch your fist in real time currently though!

"Mutsullini, what kind of summoned beast did you get? You haven't check it yet right?"

Hideyoshi, it could be to save me, starts to talk to Mutsullini who have finished doing treatment to stop the bleeding. It's a little late, but nice follow.

"....Summon"

With a murmur from Mutsullini, nearby, a boy wearing a tuxedo with a bad complexion appear. It's somehow looks cool, but this is...

"I see. Somehow the image of always wanting some blood fits really well isn't it."

"There's also a resemblance in the liking-young-women part too."

It really is a vampire isn't it. It really fits Mutsullini in a sense.

"Since we've come this far, I'm curious about Yuuji's too. How about you summon yours too?"

"N? You're right.... Well then, since I can't call my summoned beast this way, I guess I'll turn off the field and ask for permission from iron man. Even iron man won't complaint about it now right?"

Hearing Yuuji's word, iron man murmured a "yare-yare" and nod his head.

"Unlike us, Yuuji's personality is aggressive. The one coming out might be a combat-oriented demon."

"Indeed, you have a point there. An ogre who brings a large crowbar, or Jason with a big sturdy chainsaw, or maybe even a god of death possessing a dreadful scythe will come out."

The only image of Yuuji that I have is exactly like an ogre.

"Well then, here I go. .....Summon!"

While listening to our prediction on the equipment, his summoned beast appeared in response to his call.

That thing's equipment is - a trained up body, a tightened body, and a body surrounded by muscle.

"It's empty-handed again isn't it!"

Yuuji's summoned beast appeared confidently bare-fisted. This guy, doesn't he know any other attacking method beside using his fist!?

"Rather than that, doesn't Yuuji's summoned beast regressed instead!? It's just equipped with a trousers isn't it!?"

"Furthermore, there's no special characteristic at all. The one that's coming out looks like Yuuji himself isn't it. Beside the difference in clothing, it's perfectly similar to Yuuji."

"I, it's a little embarrassing to see isn't it...."

Himeji-san turn her sight to outside of the window. Yuuji's summoned beast only wore trousers on the bottom half while the upper half is stark-naked.

"Yuuji....first of all, quickly call that summoned beast that make everyone who look at it become unlucky back."

To say this bluntly, this is nothing other than an opposite of service-shot.

"I got it. This kind of thing, even I don't want to look at it."

"Even so, in the end, what kind of demon is Yuuji's summoned beast? I really can't find out about that even the slightest bit from looking at it."

".....Doppelganger maybe?"

Hideyoshi and Mutsullini tilt their head a little bit. Hm? I wonder if those two doesn't know what kind of demon this is?

"What are you two talking about? Isn't this a new variety of demon found recently in Japan called [Sakamoto Yuuji]? In the story, it deceives its pretty childhood friend with its ugly figure and dirty personality."

"Akihisa. Call out your summon beast."

"N? Well, I have no problem doing that. Summon"

"Aim toward World Cup! (Gako)"

"Agaa! Yuuji!? You kicked it didn't you!? You treat my summoned beast's head as a soccer ball and kick it into the trash bin!? What a cruel thing to do!?"

"Don't be so mad, Akihisa. They said it a lot right? [Your friend is the ball]"

"It's [The ball is your friend]!? It's just bullying when you switch the order like that you know!?"

If the ball has its own will, it will surely cry being swarmed and kicked by many friends.

"In the first place, I never recognize you as my friend."

"Then don't kick it!"

Even I don't think this kind of idiot as my friend!

When, I just about to think "Anyway, let's first take the freshly severed head from the trash bin",

"Nmu? Yuuji, your summoned beast's condition is strange isn't it?"

"O? It really is. What happened to it?"

When we thought that Yuuji's summoned beast's body are starting to tremble, its mouth start to split and hair starts to grow on the body with a huge force.

""Kyaaaa!!""

"......A werewolf."

"I see. So that's it."

One of Yuuji's characteristic, that spiky hair, stood up even more, and that face that was full with air of wildness, turns into the very definition of wildness itself. Is that so. So Yuuji's characteristic is wildness.

"B, but, isn't it strange that it transform even though there's no full moon right now?"

Maybe because she's afraid of Yuuji's werewolf form, Himeji-san hold on my sleeve while asking that.

"Beats me. Maybe it somehow saw some kind of round thing? It's because the legend itself was quite vague in the first place. Something close to that should be reasonable isn't it."

If you say a round thing......could it be the head of my summoned beast that was kicked before? The appearance while it rotate after getting kicked did indeed resemble something round, but is that really it? It was indeed the result of an adjustment failure, but they really are extremely half-hearted when making it aren't they?

"By the way, will this summoned beast really be fixed by the time we can do the summoned beast war again? If it's like this, it will become a big demon war when we do inter-class match won't it?"

"T, that will be troubling.... The scariness will be troubling, and my summoned beast is really embarrassing too...."

Himeji-san's hand that's been grabbing my sleeves is grabbing it even stronger. To be afraid even at a bright place like this and with this many people around, I feel a little guilty to the person herself for thinking this, but I somehow she's a little cute like this.

"I also doesn't know that much about the summoning system adjustment. The headmistress might know about something regarding this."

Iron man narrowed the gap between his eyebrows. It seems that this situation is something that even the teacher side dislike about.

"It seems that indeed it will be better to ask the headmistress rather than iron man regarding this matter isn't it? After all, she's the summoning system developer herself."

"That's right isn't it? Let's ask the headmistress about this."

I stood up together with Yuuji, and headed to the headmistress room. Summoned beast war is a really important subject for us. There's no way we can leave it alone like this. We really need to confirm it as soon as possible.

[YOU TWO! YOU'RE RUNNING AWAY AMIDST THE CONFUSION AREN'T YOU! ]

"Damn it, Yuuji! We're found out!"

"Run, Akihisa! If we manage to run to the headmistress room it's our win!"

"Roger!"

"Well, what's going on, headm - hag."

"Please tell us, headm - hag."

"...I wonder why can't you just obediently call me headmistress...."

When we press her for an answer, the headmistress sighed as if she's tired of us.

Damn it. Lately, whether it's iron man, hag, or Mutsullini, I somehow got used to calling them by their nickname.

"I'm sorry. Headmistress."

"Han? Do you think I'll tell you if you change your remark, you stinky brats."

"No way!? That's just cruel, head-hag."

"That way of calling is the cruelest one you've ever called me you know!?"

Not good. It's strangely mixed in because the spur of the moment.

"Oi Akihisa. Don't speak rudely to the headmistress who has a reputation as a young person in public (lol)."

"You're also plenty rude yourself, stinky runt."

It looks like the headmistress' mood got even worse than before. This is bad.

"Well, hag. What's the situation actually? Is it getting restored well?"

"Haa? Restored? What are you talking about you little baldy. You said it as if there's a defect in the summoning system."

The headmistress looks at us as if she's looking at some stupid people. Leaving aside Yuuji, to look at me like that is just unthinkable.

"But, even if you say as if, the adjustment failure can be seen in plain sight isn't it?"

"No, that isn't a failure."

The headmistress shake her head just like a foreigner in a mail order channel. What does she mean by not a failure?

"That's just a little playfulness."

"Playfulness? What are you talking about?"

I can't see this as something other than failure no matter from where I look at this though.

"It's because it's summer now. Isn't this is a season that somehow screams to bring a test of courage on?"

"Ha?"

What is this old woman suddenly talk about?

"In other word, you want to say that you tried to match with the season of test of courage and customize our summoned beast into a monster form specification?"

"That's right. This is a modest present to my cute students who still come to school even though it's in summer holiday."

"A present, that's ridiculous..."

Even if that's true, there should be some kind of announcement beforehand. It's really suspicious.

"Nn... is that so. Well, if the hag said that then let's leave it at that."

"E? We're not going to ask what's really going on?"

I'm surprised at Yuuji's unexpected words. I was certain with his personality he will press further question toward the headmistress after grasping her weakness.

"It's not like there's any merit for the hag to say "Actually, this is an adjustment failure" right? Let's gratefully make use of the headmistress' kind consideration here."

"Make use?.... You mean, we should really use our summoned beast and do some kind of courage test just like she said earlier?"

"Aa. The headmistress said that it's the present that she gave with that kind of consideration right? Since we've reported about the change in the summoned beast, there's no way the academy side who care about their appearance in public eye will do nothing isn't it?"

When Yuuji send out a gaze, the headmistress nodded with a sigh.

"Yare yare.... Your brain works really fast only on things like this aren't you?"

His brain works fast? What does she mean?

"In other words, the academy side don't want to admit that not only that they operate an experimental system, they also failed doing the adjustment. It's good if it kept hidden, but they can't have it get found out by the student of all people."

"Aa, I see. That's why they make it looks like "an incident that we planned since the beginning" by inviting us to do the courage test right?"

It's tough to get the attention from the world isn't it....

"Then, since it's like that, it's okay to do the courage test for the remaining two days of the supplementary lesson period isn't it?"

Yuuji happily inquire the headmistress. Then this guy, from the start he planned to use the test of courage front to thwart iron man's sultry supplementary lesson isn't he? What a good idea to think about. Good job.

"No, if it's just a normal test of courage then I have to reject it. The summoned beast is in the end a tool to raise the will to study. I won't recognize it as something related to a class if you use it only to enjoy its appearance."

Only on that point I won't yield, the headmistress who just said that shake her head.

In other word, it's no good unless we incorporate the using-test-score-as-a-contest's-element part right?

"If that's so then let's make some kind of check point, and do some kind of contest there sound. You have no further complaint if it's like that right?"

"That's right.... It depends on the rule, but it should be okay for me to approve it I guess."

"Yosh. It's decided then."

Yuuji satisfyingly nodded.

With this, we become involved in an unconventional test of courage that use the academy and summoned beast system.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume6 Novel Illustrations|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume6 The Second Question}}
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Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Final Question

2012-04-18T20:21:06Z

128.189.154.252: Fixed nav link

==The Final Question==

Question: Please write down the chemical formula of vinegar, and please write down a simple way to cook a dish that will use vinegar—tuna salad.

'''Shimada Minami’s Answer:'''

“CH3COOH”

'''Yoshii Akira’s comment:'''

That’s right. HCOOH (methanoic acid), CH3COOH (ethanoic acid) and C2H5COOH (propanoic acid) all have a certain formula. You can memorize more chemical formulas if you memorize the formulas and apply them accordingly instead of memorizing them all one by one.

'''Yoshii Akihisa’s answer:'''

“I remember the sauce used to make tuna salad is vinegar mixed with olive oil and salt. If you don’t use vinegar, you can use lemon juice to replace it, which can also create the sour flavor of the sauce; but I feel that this question doesn’t seem to have any relations to chemistry!”

'''Yoshii Akira’s answer:'''

“You don’t have to suspect anything. Just answer.”

'''Himeji Mizuki’s answer:'''

How to make tuna salad.

“Tuna salad is 1. Sour, 2. Salty, 3. Has a unique flavor. I feel that it’s alright if the 3 conditions can be met when making the sauce. So the chemical equation to make the sauce is CH3COOH(vinegar that brings about sourness) + NaCl (Salt that brings saltiness) + HCN (Hydrogen Cyanide that brings about a sweet and sour smell)

'''Yoshii Akira’s answer:'''

With the ingredients you mentioned and the difference in the making of the dish, HCl (Hydrochloric acid) and NaCN (Sodium Cyanide) will be created. I can’t say anything other than that I’m scared the moment I think of how one small dish of tuna salad can kill 50 mature boys.

“Really, Aki-kun…no, should I be calling you Alexander the Great?”

We had a huge argument yesterday, but once I got home, I had to endure my embarrassment and report the exam results today to nee-san. After nee-san heard that, she could only shake her head reluctantly.

“Uu…bu, but, I feel that I should be able to do well! I It’s because I didn’t write my name that I’ll still be deemed to have no points…”

Having said such big words yesterday, I ended up like this today, and I really feel embarrassed. I can’t say such big words like yesterday now and could only lower my neck and kneel in front of nee-san

“We’re talking about how you may get high marks if you wrote your name, right? If Alexander the Great made the same mistake as you in the exams, do you think you would be forgiven if you explain it to the invigilator?”

“Uu…”

I couldn’t argue back as nee-san viciously pointed that out.

That’s right. A real test doesn’t allow for any excuses. Fumitzuki Gakuen’s vision is to nurture students who will be able to adapt to society, and no excuse will be accepted if they can’t go all out in a formal test no matter what. So Himeji-san didn’t get any benefit even when she fell sick and had to leave halfway.

“Uuu…I really worked hard…”

“No matter how hard you worked, you still can’t change the outcome, right?”

“Sorry…”

“You don’t have to apologize to nee-san. Nee-san never had any expectations for Aki-kun.”

“Uuu…”

“Oh well, I knew that no one was expecting anything from me, and nobody prepared dinner for me on the day before the exam…”

“But I can considering adding some points seeing how you worked hard.”

“Eh? Re, really?”

“But if your hard work doesn’t translate to results, it’ll be a waste no matter what I say. Hard work is a mean to achieve a result. No matter how much you work, if you can’t get the outcome you should be having, it’s pointless even if you’re proud of the process.”

Nee-san said such words that were hard to understand again. Basically, it’s a good thing that I’m working hard for the outcome, but it’ll be a huge mistake if I have the idea that ‘I worked hard, so it doesn’t matter whether I got the outcome’, right?”

“If I really have to say it, it’s because you didn’t study hard normally that you ended up like this, Aki-kun. Nee-san wants you to work every day and not start cramming at the last minute before the exams…”

Nee-san’s meaningful lecture time began again.

Ugh…as compared to that violent and crude mom of mine, nee-san’s nagging causes me even more trouble.

“Aki-kun, are you listening to me? Really, child, you’re always—”

—BIBEEP

At this moment, the electronic sound of the clock rang, interrupting nee-san’s words that she wasn’t able to complete.

“Oh my, it’s 7pm. I forgot the time after lecturing so much. Time to eat dinner then.”

I, I’m saved…in that case, I can finally be saved from hell…

“Aki-kun, you still have tests tomorrow, so I’ll continue the rest tomorrow.”

Eh? You want to continue tomorrow?

“I’ll prepare something simple to eat then…”

“No need. Let’s eat outside. It’s pretty late now anyway.”

I’m not exactly hungry, but nee-san, who likes home-cooked meals, actually suggested that I go out and eat. So it’s because…she will be troubled if I prepare dinner and got bad grades, right?

“Aki-kun, we’re going on.”

Nee-san took her bag with her purse inside and turned to walk out of the living room.

“Okay, then I’ll…”

I turned over and walked to the kitchen. Don’t be surprised here. I’m always in charge of the kitchen in my house. It’s alright that we’re going out to eat, but there’s something I have to settle before that.

“If we’re not cooking, I’ll freeze the meat I bought just now.”

I remember that there are some ingredients that are about to expire at home, but I suppose it should be alright if I put that meat a little longer…I thought about this as I stepped into the kitchen, and then noticed something else.

“That’s weird. Why is the cooker hood open…? Did I forget to close it?”

I turned off the cooker hood that was still running, and my mind started to recall. I didn’t cook last night, and before that, I went to stay overnight at Kirishima-san’s house. Was it already turned on before that?

“Probably not. No matter what, I would have noticed if the cooker hood’s turned on for 3 days straight…”

At this moment, the weird discrepancies I recently thought about recently started to surge in me. What’s going on? What’s strange about that?

I tilted my head as I faced the fridge, and took out the piece of meat I intend to put inside the freezer.

—At this moment, I finally realized where the strange discrepancies came about.

It was a pile of question marks that came from a lot of doubts.

Why? Why did nee-san buy so much ingredients that day even though she didn’t know Yuuji and the rest would be coming?

Why? Why was it that nee-san never had the intention of eating Japanese cuisine despite coming back to Japan after a long while?

Why? Why would that naggy nee-san of mine not allow me to cook dinner yesterday?

The many doubts gradually formed a fact that was clearly shown in front of me.

—There was a plate of burnt paella in the fridge.

“A, ahaha…what the heck, so that’s how it was…”

All my doubts were answered.

Why did nee-san buy so many ingredients?

—She deliberately bought a lot because she was scared that she cooked it wrongly.

Why paella, and not Japanese cuisine?

—Because nee-san remembered that paella’s my favorite dish.

Why did she buy ingredients I wasn’t familiar with?

—Didn’t nee-san say it before? She prepared the ‘ingredient list’. That must be because…she learnt how to really cook paella overseas.

Why didn’t she allow me to cook yesterday no matter what?

—Isn’t it obvious? Because nee-san…intended to cook what I liked to eat for my sake!

“Couldn’t she have just said so directly…”

Really, why is it that this nee-san of mine would be so strict to everyone, whether it’s to other people or herself. Saying that she didn’t have any expectations of me, and yet sparing a thought for me. She should be tired because of work and the long distance travelling, yet she still wanted to cook a dish she wasn’t even good with for her brother’s sake. Maybe it’s because it wasn’t delicious that nee-san wanted to hide it and not let me know.

Maybe nee-san already thought of cooking dinner herself on Monday, but I unexpectedly brought so many friends along that she could only get rid of the thought. It’s because of that that she looked somewhat unhappy then.

“I see. So that’s why nee-san said that no matter how hard I work, it’s pointless if I don’t show the results…those were the same words she wanted to say to herself too.”

It’s because she’s not good at it that she worked harder to overcome it. Nee-san’s really followed what she said through her actions.

“This is bad…I actually said such horrible words to nee-san…”

The more I think about it, the clearer things are. The reason why nee-san wore an apron and even started the newly-wed couple game out of a sudden is…

No matter whether it’s to others or herself, nee-san’s always a strict person.

That dish may be a failure, but I’m already happy to see the effort and dedication nee-san put in. I’m really touched.

“Aki-kun, what are you wasting time for? We’re leaving!”

Nee-san, who was waiting at the door, called me from the corridor.

“Sorry! I’ll be there now!”

I put the meat into the freezer, went back to the living room to stuff my wallet into my pocket, and walked out of the house.”

I didn’t see nee-san around, probably because she heard my reply and left.

I didn’t want to keep her waiting, so I chose not to take the lift, but leap down the stairs two steps at a time.

The moment I stepped out of this building, I saw nee-san walking in front of me.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

I hurriedly rushed over and apologized to nee-san with her back facing me.

“People often say that ‘time is money’. It’s not good to keep people waiting.”

“Un, I’ll take note of that.”

As we continued with our conversation, I slowly walked behind nee-san, 2 steps behind her.

Nee-san didn’t deliberately look back at me, but casually looked in front.

“Nee-san, well..”

I increased my stride and leaned over at nee-san.

“What is it?”

Nee-san answered, but didn’t look at me.

It’s because she’s always showing off such a proud look at people are mistaken.

But behind this attitude, she’s actually thinking about me.

It was the same with the argument yesterday. Now that I think about it, didn’t nee-san say that ‘there’s no need for Aki-kun to cook’ only? It’s not that nee-san didn’t notice my intentions, but that nee-san was trying to tell me ‘I’ll prepare dinner, just focus on studying and try and get good grades’. Her cold tone caused me to misunderstand, but nee-san’s doing this for my sake in her own way.

Thinking about this, I suddenly felt rather happy, and even couldn’t help but show a smile.

“…Fufu.”

“Hm? Aki-kun, what’s wrong? Calling nee-san and laughing out of sudden is really rude. Is there something you want to say?”

Nee-san looked shocked as she stared at me.

[[Image:1212_285.jpg|thumb]]

“Un, yeah.”

What should I say? At that moment, I couldn’t help but feel confused.

Right now, no matter what, what I have to say isn’t an apology to nee-san. Even if I apologize for everything that happened till now, nee-san probably won’t feel happy about it.

So, instead of an apology, I should let my true feelings and thoughts be known to my sister.

“Nee-san, well…”

“Un.”

I took a short breath and said to nee-san from the side of her face.

“Thank you very much. I—love nee-san the most.”

“What did you say?”

I took a deep breath.

“What nonsense are you spouting now?”

“Ahaha, I’m talking about love between family members.”

“…Even if you’re trying to get on my good side, you won’t be able to escape tomorrow’s telling off.”

It’s still an irritating tone, but I just feel ever-so relieved hearing that.

“Is that so? That’s a pity.”

“Of course.”

“Really?”

“Really.”

“…”

“…”

Nee-san immediately went silent, and both of us walked together side-by-side under the sunset.

How many years has it been since both of us went out together?

“…Next time…”

“Hm? Did you say something, nee-san?”

“Next time, if nee-san have the urge, I’ll cook dinner for you.”

“Heh? Really?”

“Yeah. I’ll cook something nice that will shock Aki-kun.”

“Really? I’m looking forward to it then.”

“But you must wait till I have the mood.”

I suppose it’ll be a long time before she has the mood again. Nee-san’s one who focuses on the outcome, but is a really bad cook. She’ll definitely spend a lot of time practicing before her dishes can be served.

Really. She still doesn’t understand. Even if she doesn’t cook for me, there’s still a way to make food delicious and shock me.

“Nee-san.”

“What is it?”

“Do you know what’s the best seasoning, nee-san?”

“The best seasoning…salt?”

“Um~ I’m not talking about that.”

“Not that kind? In that case…an empty stomach, right? There should be no better seasoning than using survival instincts to increase a person’s appetite.”

“I see. It’s really just like what nee-san would answer.”

“Now that you say it, it doesn’t seem that an empty stomach’s the correct answer…what is it then?”

“Fufu, what could it be then?”

“...Aki-kun, are you making fun of nee-san when nee-san doesn’t know anything about cooking?”

Nee-san started to throw a tantrum and narrowed her eyes, giving me a chiding look.

But that made me even more unable to control the smirk on my face as I faced such a stare.

As for the best seasoning, if it’s not an empty stomach, the only thing left would be the last answer.

“…Never mind. It’s fine. Just laugh all you want. You can only laugh now.”

Nee-san pouted as she saw me snickering.

“I’ll interrogate you thoroughly, Aki-kun, and make you beg for mercy.”

“Eh? Are you intending to change the lecture into corporal punishment?”

“If you don’t like it, nee-san can kiss you instead then.”

“PLEASE BEAT ME UP! JUST BEAT ME UP UNTIL I CRY AND BEG FOR MERCY!”

“You’re really a pervert, Aki-kun.”

“I DON’T WANT TO HEAR SUCH WORDS FROM MY OWN SISTER WHO INTENDED TO FORCEFULLY KISS ME!!”

In the end, we continued to bicker with each other like usual as we moved forward.

Maybe it’s because the heat of the day didn’t dissipate as the road feels warm while I walk side by side with my sister.

<center>☆</center>

On the same day, at Fumitzuki Gakuen—

“…Principal. What’s going on?”

“Don’t give me such a chiding look, Nishimura-sensei. Isn’t this just a slight error that cropped up with the system adjustment?”

“…This shouldn’t just a ‘slight’ error, right?”

“Just that the appearance is a little bad.”

“Oh, is that so?”

“Un, that is the case.”

““…””

“…Summer...”

“Principal, I won’t be fooled by you even if you pretend to look far away.”

“Alright alright, I got it. Gather some teachers that are free here so that we can finish up the repairs earlier.”

“I’m fine with that, but what do you intend to do if the students find out?”

“What can I do? I just said that it’s just an error in the appearances. There’s no need to be bothered with those brats even if they start making a ruckus.”

“In that case…”

“Just go with the flow.”

“Really, you. It’s because of this that this school…”

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Seventh Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 Author's Notes}}
</noinclude>

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Final Question

2012-04-18T20:18:41Z

128.189.154.252:

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Seventh Question

2012-04-18T19:59:38Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Seventh Question==

'''Please fill in the blanks with the correct answers.'''

“In 334 BC, having beaten the final king of the Achaemenid Empire, Darius III, (___________) started the (____________).”

'''Himeji Mizuki’s answer:'''

“In 334 BC, having beaten the final king of the Achaemenid Empire, Darius III, (Alexander the Great) started the (Eastern Expedition).”

'''Teacher’s commet:'''

Correct answer. After that, Alexander the Great went on to Issus and Arbela and was thoroughly defeated. It would be perfect if you know of such historical stuff[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#].

'''Tsuchiya Kouta’s answer:'''

“In 334 BC, having beaten the final king of the Achaemenid Empire, Darius III, (Warrior of Light Arc) started the (Final Quest ~Last Crusade of the King~ ).[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#]”

'''Teacher's Comment:'''

There’s the ‘final’ and the ‘last’ words in there, but it just doesn’t feel like it’s going to end. Really intriguing.

'''Sakamoto Yuuji’s answer:'''

“In 334 BC, having beaten the final king of the Achaemenid Empire, Darius III, (Alexander the Great) started the (Eastern Expedition).”

'''Teacher's Comment:'''

Oh? Sakamoto-kun’s answer is the last one for F class? I think I didn’t see Yoshii-kun’s wonderful answer…did he answer it correctly?

It’s finally time for the exam. Unlike usual, I was the first one to reach the classroom, and immediately took out my textbooks from my bag to begin my final revision.

“Morning, Aki.”

“Ahh, Minami, morning…”

“Oi, Aki, why do you look like you’re about to die? Are you alright? It’s just the first day!”

“I’m fine, I’m alright…I’m sorry, but can you please don’t talk to me now? Or else I think that what I stuffed into my brain last night will be forgotten…”

“I, I see…if Aki says so, I won’t disturb you then…”

Then, as Yuuji and Himeji-san entered the classroom, I said the same thing to them.

After arguing with my sister, I locked myself inside my room and started memorizing, and I didn’t eat or drink the entire night. I don’t know whether nee-san had dinner, but I would feel sleepy if my stomach’s full, so it’s alright that I ate little.

“Don’t think too much. Better do more revision. In 334 BC, Alexander the Great started the Eastern Expedition. In 330 BC, the Achaemenid Empire was eliminated. In 250 BC, the Parthia Empire…”

I started to revise the points that I just couldn’t remember no matter how much I tried to memorize. Himeji-san said that this part may appear in questions. I’ll mark them on the test script first once the exam scripts are handed down so that I don’t forget the year and what happened then.

6 subjects are to be tested today, and in order, they are modern language, English (literacy), world history, mathematics grade two, chemistry and health education. The other subjects will be tested tomorrow. I just need to do the tests normally for the first period - modern literature - and English literacy for the second period. World history is where I have to go for the decisive. If I can get a good mark for world history, everything will be alright.

“Everyone, get to your seats. Today’s the first day of the end-of-term tests…”

Ironman walked into the classroom as per usual and simply reminded us of some things we had to take note of. There’s nothing else to really say, so the homeroom lesson in the morning ended.

There’s still some time till the test in the first period, and I continued to study. I’ll forget about English in the second period, and there’s not much to memorize for modern language in the first period, thus, I focused my revision on world history, where it would be make or break for me. Anyway, I can only memorize a bit at this point. It’s best that I can memorize everything in the textbook.

The government of the Shang Dynasty is set with society set around its capital city as politics and religion was done together. Based on research, the words back then became the oracle words that evolved into Japanese kanji…

“Alright, time to put away the textbooks. The first period’s test is about to begin.”

Just when I was focusing entirely on studying, unknowingly, the invigilator for the first period lesson entered the classroom.

I put my textbook away obediently and waited for the test script to be handed out. World history is the key to this end-of-term test, but I can’t neglect the other subjects. If I can get good grades here, I can send that damned sister of mine back overseas, and my life will be full of calm again.

“It’s not the first time sensei’s saying this, but sensei still wishes to remind everyone that you can’t put anything on the table other than your stationery. Also, if there’s any writing on the table, it may be considered as a form of cheating. Even if it’s not written by you, I hope that everyone can check it through. Also, if you leave halfway through the exam, the subject score will not be given unless it’s really important—”

I’m hearing the same things they will remind us to take note of during an exam, and received the test script my classmate handed over to me. I took one, put it on my table, and then passed to the classmates behind me.

Alright, the end-of-term test now begins!

~Modern Literature.~

From the options below, please choose the correct meaning of the idiom ‘Besieged on all Sides’.

1. Completely isolated.
2. Singing and doing nothing else.
3. The song of Chu being so loud that it could be heard all over.
4. The BGM all around are all songs of Chu.

This type of questions are the ones I’m good at. Amongst multiple-choice questions, I do belief that I can at least get one correct out of 5 questions. It would be great if all the questions in tests were multiple-choice, but unfortunately, in an exam, multiple choices are just a little benefit the tester would give.

~English (Literacy)~

Please explain the ‘it’ indicated in the sentence below in Japanese.

“‘It’ won’t take you more than ten minutes to get to your home.”

※Warning: Anyone who puts 'it' as the answer will be sent to the staff room without exception.

Since it’s ‘it’, when translated into Japanese, it will be ‘it’—danger! Nearly went to the staff room for tea. Good thing that warning was there…

But it does seem weird somewhat? Why do I feel that this warning was a mockery targeted at a certain group of students?

And so, without any serious mistakes, the first two periods of exams ended peacefully—and it’s now time for the world history test which is the most important one to me.

“Alright, everyone. We’re going to start with the exam. Please put everything else other than your stationery aside into your bags.”

The invigilator in this period seemed to be Ironman as I could hear the familiar gruff voice without even lifting my head.

“Take one test script and answer script each before passing it backwards. You are not allowed to flip the answer script until the bell rings. Understood?”

The classmate in front of me handed the question and answer scripts back. I followed Ironman’s order and took one each and flipped the test script over.

I continued to try and memorize those parts that I could easily forget before the bell rang.

KIN KOOONNN—

And finally, the decisive moment has arrived.

“Begin.”

The moment Ironman spoke, I took my mechanical pencil and flipped the script over. I jotted down the important notes before checking the questions. Time to read the questions carefully!

I wrote down some of the names that could be easily mixed up and what happened then. After that, I flipped open the script. Let’s see. The first question, please state the correct type of government of the Shang Dynasty…I still remember that. The answer’s ‘religious politics’. Second question, during this era, the origins of the Japanese kanji that was formed is…‘Oracle Text’. Third Question, the people then lived ___ lives—the answer here is ‘vertical pits’.

Alright! I got it! I know them all! As expected of Himeji-san’s teachings! If this keeps up, it’s not impossible for me to achieve the marks I want! Now I can finally get rid of that cold sister of mine who only brings about trouble!

I will write the answers down first, and then check through those questions I couldn’t answer before and think through it. there’s no limit to the number of questions in Fumitzuki Gakuen’s tests, and the difficulty will increase bit by bit, so there’s such questions that targets such topics. If I can’t answer those questions, I would just end up with a pile of questions I couldn’t answer, and I will waste a lot of time. So I have to answer from those I can answer. This is what Yuuji and Himeji-san taught me. Up till now, I’ve been doing each question slowly, but after following their method, the score I got was a lot different. I see. Looks like I can change my answering style.

I focused thoroughly on answering the questions. Unknowingly, the questions on the test script were almost completely answered.

KIN KOOONNN—

The chime of the bell indicated that the test ended.

“Okay, put your pens down. Students sitting at the last row, please collect the scripts.”

I could hear the students in our class heave a sigh, and the classmates sitting at the last row followed the instructions and took the script.

“Oi, Asakura. That’s too disgusting. Hand me the script.”

“Wa, wait a sec! Just let me change the answer here!”

“Asakura! The bell rang! Give up and put your pen down!”

Perhaps discovering that he wrong the answer wrongly, Asakura-kun just wouldn’t give up his script and got scolded by Ironman as a result. Really, how stupid. The bell rang already. Even if you find that you made a mistake, you can only wait for your punishment.

Even though I thought of that, I still lowered my head and looked at the answer script that will soon be taken away.

That’s great. I don’t think there should be any problems. I don’t think there’s any problems with my answers—nn?

I quickly scanned through, but found that a certain part wasn’t right. That’s weird? This is…

“Yoshii, I’m going to collect the script.”

“Ah.”

Just when I was about to correct it, I wasn’t even allowed time to beg as the answer script was taken without mercy.

Ironman collected the answer scripts, returned to the podium to arrange them, and put into a bag meant to put answer scripts in it before leaving the classroom.

“…”

Unable to do anything, I could only watch Ironman leave.

“How’s your most important world history, Akihisa? Could you do them?”

Yuuji got up from his seat and walked over to me.

“Ahh, un. There’s a few careless mistakes, but it’s still the best test I had up till now.”

On hearing my answer, Yuuji merely shrugged.

“Really? How boring. I was about to mock you for going all pale and trying to save yourself.”

“What are you saying, Yuuji? Really, stop kidding around.”

Really, such jokes aren’t funny.

“Yeah. You really put in a lot of effort this time. You shouldn’t be doing worse than the last time.”

“Yeah, you’re really annoying. Ahahaha.”

“Haha, I’m that kind of person anyway.”

Yuuji and I exchanged looks as we both started laughing, but my mind couldn’t help but think of the world history answer script that was taken away.

I actually made such a mistake…

[[Image:1212_274.jpg|thumb]]

Farewell, my happy lone life.

<noinclude>
{{BakaTest Nav|prev=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Sixth Question|next=Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Final Question}}
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Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Sixth Question

2012-04-18T19:50:11Z

128.189.154.252:

==The Sixth Question==

'''Yoshii Akira-Sensei's Special English(?) Test'''

Question: Please describe honestly any intimate association or experience with the opposite sex up till now ''‘spit it out even if you have to do it in Japanese!’''.

'''Yoshii Akihisa’s answer:'''

<big>“THAT’S JUST AN INTERROGATION!”</big>

'''Yoshii Akira’s comment:'''

This is a test. If you once hugged someone of the opposite sex, write down that you did so. If you once kissed someone of the opposite sex, write down that you did so. Please answer my question honestly. Later on, nee-san will directly interroga—carry out remedials for Aki-kun. You are to study honestly with nee-san tonight.

'''Shimada Minami’s answer:'''

“I once had an encounter.”

'''Yoshii Akira’s answer:'''

Scattering beans [http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#] doesn’t need to involve relationships with the opposite gender.

Yuuji got into an accident and ended up hospitalized, and Himeji-san went home once school was dismissed.

This continued for another 3 days, and in the blink of an eye, it was Saturday, just like we agreed.

“Aki-kun, nee-san told you before. I’ll have to work in the mornings today and tomorrow, so you still have to watch the house even if you feel bored.”

Nee-san said this to me as she put the breakfast I prepared into her mouth.

“It’s tough working on Sunday, let alone today.”

Nee-san’s been coming home late, and I hardly have the chance to meet her other than at mornings. There's such a mountain load of work, is the company running really well?

“Don’t worry. Tomorrow I just need to work in the morning and can come back in the afternoon. And Monday and Tuesday are my days off.”

“I see. Tomorrow I’ll be back in the afternoon too, so we can then have dinner together. What do you want to eat, nee-san?”

Since it’s a rare chance, I’ll show off my culinary skills to nee-san and cook something good. As for the money to buy the ingredients..oh well, better use what I have and don’t be fussy.

I pondered as I waited for nee-san’s response, but unexpectedly, nee-san refused me with a sharp tone that didn’t allow for any arguments.

“No need. There’s no need for you to do such unnecessary things.”

“Unnecessary things…what does that mean?”

I really didn’t like that tone. What does she mean by asking me not to do anything excessive? It’s been a long time since us siblings met, so I proposed to have a meal together. There’s no need for nee-san’s tone to be that bad, right?

“What do you mean by meaning? I’m telling you exactly as what I said. There’s no need for you to cook dinner.”

“No need to cook dinner? Are you going out because you have an appointment with someone at dinner?”

Maybe it’s not work, but she got some friends to eat with her, right? It can’t be helped in that case. I’ll find a chance next time…but nee-san’s words just now were rather irritating.

“It’s not like this…let’s not talk about this for now. You’re going out too, Aki-kun?”

“Un, yeah? Didn’t I tell you before? I’m going over to stay at my friend’s house for the night and study for the end-of-term tests with everyone.”

“I see. It’s really great to see you so passionate towards your studies.”

I’m not studying because I want to…but because someone kept deducting points without any warning, I’m forced to do such things.

“Don’t cause too much trouble over at Yuuji’s house tonight.”

“Eh? No. I’m going over to Kirishima-san’s house…”

“Kirishima…‘san’?”

WHY DID I JUST MAKE SUCH A FATAL MISTAKE!? AM I AN IDIOT!?

“Aki-kun, nee-san’s so touched that I have to look at you in another light.”

“Eh?”

“You’re not hiding anything from nee-san and would even tell the truth honestly. Nee-san feels that this is a great thing.”

“Ah, un. I’m happy that you can praise me like that.”

“And your determination to overcome obstacles really impressed me.”

Nee-san took out her notebook and added a new demerit value on it.

“Wait, nee-san! Did you just write a 4 digit number? You’re mistake! Kirishima-san’s a girl, but she’s Yuuji’s bride—ah, no! I’m not having an affair with her! Hurry up and erase those 5 digit numbers!”

5 digits…that’s a score even Kirishima-san can’t get. That’s basically a death sentence.

“Then, tell me what’s going on?”

“We, well…anyway, we’re gathering everyone in class to stay overnight at Kirishima-san’s house to get ready for the tests. And we have a lot of people, so Kirishima-san’s house is the only one large enough…”

Kirishima-san was the one who invited us in the first place, but that wasn’t important, so I better skip it.

“In that case, you will be gathering together to study and nothing else, right?”

“Yeah.”

I really can’t have the luxury to think of anything else when I have to raise my points up by 340. No no, even if it’s not about the grades, I can’t just think about those random things.

“If it’s just studying, nee-san don’t have to deduct that much points from you…but nee-san can’t praise you like that.”

“Eh? Why? I’m going to study!”

“It’s a huge mistake when you have to go to someone else’s house to study right before the exams.”

“Tha, that’s because…I’m not good at studies—”

“Aki-kun.”

Nee-san sternly interrupted my words which I couldn’t even say out.

“Nee-san understands how Aki-kun can’t study, and nee-san feels that being able to understand what you don’t understand is an important part of growing up.”

“Uu, un…”

“But even if being able to see your own limitations is something important, you can’t have the thought of ‘I can’t do this because I’m not good at it’, you know. You should have the attitude of working harder than anyone else to make up for this. This attitude is the most important one you should have. Aki-kun , didn’t you use ‘I’m an idiot’ as an excuse and not try to work hard?”

“Uu…”

Nee-san’s direct words caused me to be unable to argue back.

It’s true that when it’s tough or troublesome, no matter what, when I can’t come up with a solution, I would think ‘I’m an idiot, so I can’t do it’.

I never showed such a thought before, but nee-san’s really my own sister. She really understands me. Nee-san’s right. This naïve thinking isn’t good—

“Oi, hold on a sec! in that case, aren’t you the same, nee-san? Using a high and mighty tone to lecture me. What about you?”

“Me? What are you talking about?”

“Cooking! Telling me to work hard, yet regarding the things you’re bad at, you never—”

—BIBEEP!

As if it was pre-timed, the clock in the living room indicated 8am.

“Sorry. It’s been a nice conversation, but the time’s almost up. Nee-san should be going to work now.”

“Argh! That’s dirty! Are you running away? Despicable!”

“Also, I have to deduct you 50 points for going over to stay overnight at a girls’ place.”

“DAMN IT! HURRY UP AND GET OUT, YOU BIG IDIOT!”

“Okay~ I’m going out then.”

I didn’t get points deducted by 4 digits or 5 digits, but my deducted points went up to 390 after a morning. Looks like I have to be more serious in the study group today…

<center>☆</center>

“…Welcome, Yoshii.”

I waited for a while after I pressed the bell, and Kirishima-san in plainclothes came over to invite me in.

“So, sorry for intruding.”

Her house is way too luxurious, causing me to tense up for some reason. I heard of it before, but there’s really an invisible pressure when I really see it…she probably has servants who stay in the same house.

“…Everyone else was here.”

“So I’m the last one.”

With Kirishima-san leading me, I slowly followed her from behind. This is amazing…I’ve never seen such a long corridor before.

“Wow~ your house has a lot of rooms~”

“…They’re all for different functions.”

As expected of rich people, having so many rooms for different functions.

“This room that’s full of books is…”

“…The library.”

“That room with the large curtain is…”

“…A mini-theater.”

“That room with chains buckled all over is…”

“…Yuuji’s room.”

Alright, let’s forget about the conversation just now.

“…And this is the study.”

After walking by a few rooms, Kirishima-san suddenly stopped and opened a door. The moment she opened the door, I could see a boy and a girl arguing with each other. Isn’t that Muttsurini and Kudou Aikou from A-class? What are they arguing about?”

“You’re thinking too much, Muttsurini-kun! Haven’t you heard of the saying that ‘Seeing is believing’?”

“…It’s an ever foolish thing to get on stage without going through a mock-drill.”

“It’s because you think so much that you always get nosebleeds and can’t get up.”

“…No matter what you say, I have no intention of changing my belief.”

“You’re saying such things again! You just won’t listen (flash a little)!”

“…Too despicable…(Nosebleeding in spurts).”

Kudou-san flipped the breast side of her shirt, and Muttsurini immediately drowned in a pool of nosebleed.

…What in the world are those two doing…?

“You’re finally here, Akihisa.”

“Ah, Hideyoshi, what’s with those two?”

“Mu, they were discussing hotly about how ‘secondary sexual characteristics come about’ and things ended up like that…”

“I say, isn’t it weird to discuss such things already?”

What exactly happened such that they would discuss about secondary sexual characteristics?

“Hello, Akihisa-kun.”

“Un, morning, Himeji-sa—”

I turned over to look in the direction where the familiar voice came from, and was immediately so shocked that I couldn’t talk.

“Hm? What is it?”

Himeji-san tilted her head slightly. She looks somewhat different from usual, because she had a cute ponytail tied behind her.

Is, isn’t that too cute! What should I do? What words should I use to express the feelings I have now to her? “Himeji-san’s so cute today. My mind’s about to blow while looking at you.”[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#] Alright, I’ll say that to her.

No, wait, if it’s too long, I might even mess up the most important point of the sentence. Got to make it easy to understand. I should shorten the sentence here—alright.

“Akihisa-kun?”

“Today’s Himeji-san’s dead today![http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#] ”

“EHHH!?”

WOAH! I’M SUCH A BIG IDIOT! WHAT IS THIS!? WHAT KIND OF DOOMSAYER APPEARED!

“Well, Akihisa-kun…is there some bad omens on my face?”

“Sorry…don’t worry about it…I just couldn’t handle something that happened out of a sudden…”

“Eh, oh…”

I wanted to praise her, but how did it end up in such an absurd statement?

“Aki, did you see something today? Why are you being stupid again?”

“Ah, Minami. Really, I’m not trying to be stupid here.”

“Really…why can’t I seem to tell?”

“Yo, you’re thinking too much.”

For some reason, the stare Minami gave me felt rather sharp, and she didn’t look like she was in a good mood.

“Really…it’s Mizuki’s place if I have to say it. it’s too despicable to change hairstyles out of a sudden. What should I do now…”

“Wha, what are you saying?”

Minami looked like she had some really deep grudge as she stared at Himeji-san’s hair. Their hairstyles are really cute now, and I really don’t know what to do when I’m standing beside them…this isn’t good! My mind seems like it’s going to explode the moment I think about it!

“Speaking of which, Himeji-san, it’s great that you can stay out today!”

I hurriedly changed the topic to avoid digging my own grave. Regarding hairstyles, if I don’t make everyone calm down first, it might end up in a very dangerous situation.

“Yeah, that’s great.”

Himeji-san smiled back happily.

Himeji-san seemed to have reflected obediently after throwing a tantrum, and for the next few days, went home directly. Maybe it’s because being obedient worked out for Himeji-san that her parents allowed her to stay out today. If she would normally keep her behavior in check and obediently report to her parents, it’s not like they wouldn’t understand.

“I immediately got out today too.”

“Oh? What happened to you, Minami?”

“No, it’s not me. It’s Hazuki.”

“What’s with Hazuki-chan?”

“If she knows that we’re going to have a study meet, she’ll definitely demand that I bring her along.”

“Ahaha, I see.”

“Luckily, mom and dad’s bringing her out to the movies today that I was able to get out quickly. Or else, it’ll be troublesome if she catches me going out.”

We’ll definitely welcome Hazuki-chan if she decides to come along, but Minami doesn’t seem like she wanted to bring her along too. Maybe she felt that it’ll be troublesome if both sisters were to come along, but I feel that Kirishima-san won’t worry about such a small thing.

“Speaking of which, we have Himeji-san, Minami, Hideyoshi, Muttsurini, Kudou-san and Kirishima-san for the study group today. That’s a lot of people.”

Including me, that would be 7 people, but the house doesn’t feel like it’s packed even with so many people here, which is really amazing. I really have to be grateful to Kirishima-san for providing such an outstanding study environment.

“Oh yeah, I don’t see Yuuji around.”

“Mu, I’d didn’t see him too. Is he late?”

Is he late? Really, we agreed to meet in the afternoon, and he could still oversleep. I should say that he’s way too relaxed—

“…I brought Yuuji here.”

DOSA!

Yuuji, who was tied up in ropes all over in rings, was lying on the carpeted floor.

“Nn? Akihisa, why are you guys here?’

“…Ahh, un. It’s because Kirishima-san’s good intentions…”

Why are you tied up by her in ropes? No, now doesn’t seem to be a good time to ask this question.

“Yuuji, we’re about to have a study group today. Didn’t you hear from Kirishima?”

Hideyoshi undid Yuuji’s ropes as he asked.

“Yeah, I didn’t hear anything. I just lost consciousness like usual, and by the time I woke up, I was here.”

Like usual, is it? I see. So this is the reason why I occasionally can’t contact Yuuji on the weekends.

“Then what about my textbooks and notes?”

“…Don’t worry, I prepared them.”

Kirishima-san was holding onto Yuuji’s bag, and seemed to have prepared a change of clothes for him. She really didn’t miss out on anything.

“Alright, since everyone’s here, we should start studying.”

“Yeah, I’d agree.”

“You’re right! Ordinary street surveys show that more than 68% of mature women are all—”

“…It’s not a mistake. The survey results of the World Health Organization investigations showed that 72% of mature men support this.”

“You’re saying such nonsensical lies again!”

“…Not lies, these are facts.”

“Damn it! in that case, I must overcome Muttsurini-kun in the next tests to prove that I’m right.”

“…You’re not going to chase me off from the top position in our year.”

“Saying such vexing words again…why are you always like that, Muttsurini-kun (flash)!”

“…Too despicable…(Spurts of nosebleed)!”

We haven’t started studying, yet those two seemed to have something wrong going on between them again.

<center>☆</center>

“Akihisa-kun, you don’t have to differentiate between the East side and India here. It will be easier to memorize what happen each year in each country directly.”

“Each country?”

“Yes. For example, around 500 BC, when Confucius, a great person was born, another famous person was born in India.”

“Confucius…I think I heard of this name before…”

“Confucius was the one who started the ‘Confucianism’, and is a great who had great influence in the Romance of the Three Kingdoms you like, Akihisa-kun.”

“Ahh, speaking of which, I might have heard of that name in manga or video games.”

Is it the one who advocated wisdom and faith? I remember this name seemed to be always associated with ‘the Arts of Tsu’.

“When Confucius, the founder of Confucianism was born, the founders of Buddhism and Jainism were born at the same time.”

“The founder of Buddhism…is it Sakyamuni?”

“That’s right. He also has another name called Siddhattha Gautama.”

“But I don’t know about the founder of Jainism.”

“That one is harder. The founder’s name is called Mahavira.”

“Uu, never heard of that before.”

“They’re rather famous founders of religions in history. It’s best if you can memorize their names.”

“Fm fm.”

Gautama is Buddhism, Mahavira is Jainism.

“Don’t you find this interesting, Akihisa-kun?”

“Eh? What’s interesting about this?”

It seemed that three of the great people that created religions in such a vast world full of history were all born in the same time.”

“Ah…that’s right. Speaking of which, it might be a coincidence.”

“Maybe, or maybe not. Perhaps the species called ‘humans’ would have similar thoughts after going through some time and started believing in gods.”

“That’s amazing…even if the places are different, people evolve at the same speed. Is that what you mean?”

“Yes, or…”

“Or?”

“Maybe a real god descended to this world back then, crossing through India and China before teaching them such knowledge.”

“Ooh, so that’s how it is! If I think about it, it can explain why several religions were created at the same time…and also romantic.”

“But nobody knew what actually happened.”

Himeji-san gave me a prompting cute smile. A real god has descended on this earth; the textbooks never wrote such things, but such an idea is really interesting.

“Akihisa-kun , do you know what you should answer in the bracket?”

“Un, got it. the founder of Confucianism is—‘Confusing’, right?”

“Yes, well answered.”

With Himeji-san guiding me, I filled in the blanks of the questions one by one. Unlike Yuuji, Himeji-san would often talk about some interesting stories. This will waste some time, but can create deep impressions, so it’s a lot better than just memorizing. Himeji-san probably had such interests in studying through this method. I can tell everyone’s personality from how they work.

“Ah, that’s right, Himeji-san…”

“Yes?”

“It may be a little late, but well…you, your hairstyle seem somewhat different today. Why did you change out of a sudden…”

“Ah! We, well, that’s because…I, I just thought of tying a ponytail…but I’m not used to tying it like this, so it’s not really nice…is, is it weird?”

“No, not at all! I think it suits you!”

“Re, really? That’s great…it seems that spending two hours to tie a ponytail finally paid off…”

“Two hours?”

No matter what, even if it’s a girl, spending two hours to tie hair is way too long!

“I might as well tie it like this every day.”

“Ah, no. This hairstyle suits you, Himeji-san, but the normal one’s the cutest!”

“Cu, cute? Re, really…you’re too sweet, Akihisa-kun…”

“Ahaha, I’m not exactly saying kind words here…”

Ponytails are one of my fetishes, but Himeji-san’s normal hairstyle really suits her best. Besides, I’m really sorry if she has to spend two hours to tie her hair because of what I think.

“But you look a lot cuter than me, Akihisa-kun…”

“I CAN’T BE HAPPY WHEN YOU SAY SUCH THINGS!”

Looks like I have to show my manly side to Himeji-san.

''“Oi, Shimada. Stop reading world history only and get serious, will you? Your language grades are on the same level as Akihisa. If you can’t improve to double digits, we’ll be in lots of trouble during the summoning war next term.”''

''“Uu…I, I know that! But, well…I don’t have much confidence in world history either.”''

''“Don’t worry, your world history grades are atrocious, but it’s considered normal amongst us F class. You should focus on improving on your weak points instead of world history. If you can understand the questions on the scripts, you can become a force on our side, so it’ll be more efficient to study language than memorize world history.”''

''“Uuu…it’s not like I hate tatamis and short desks…”''

''“I’d feel…it’s alright if our class can have facilities that are good enough so that Himeji doesn’t have to transfer, right? Even if we relax a bit…”''

''“No, not at all! I must beat A class and defeat Shouko! If I can’t beat her, I’ll end up being held down by her no matter how much time passes!”''

''“You can’t change it even if you win, right?”''

''“I’d feel this way too. It’s about time you two get together anyway.”''

''“Damn it! You guys…never mind, this question then. ‘Please use the past form of <<to wait upon>> to form a sentence’. Try forming one sentence.”''

''“The cake I ate in the ‘past’ was ‘very’[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#] delicious.”''

''“YOU TWO, STRAIGHTEN YOUR BACKS AND GET BACK HERE!”''

Yuuji’s teaching Minami and Hideyoshi language. Kirishima-san was around, but I couldn’t find he around at this moment. I wonder where she went.

''“Muttsurini-kun, even you can’t answer this question right?”''

''“…In the first year of middle school, it’s 70%. 87% in second year and 99% in the third year.”''

''“Why do you even know such a thing so clearly?”''

''“…That’s common knowledge.”''

''“Uu…looks like I can’t beat you through a direct attack…”''

''“…You’re too naïve, Kudou.”''

''“In, in that case, Muttsurini-kun, actually, I—”''

''“…?”''

''“—I don’t normally wear bras, you know.”''

''“…u!? (TATATA)”''

''“Eh? Are you asking me why the shape won’t change when I don’t wear a bra? That’s because…actually, I do (mumbling) massage until (mumble), and every night, I will always—”''

''“…Are you trying to kill me…(BUSSSHHHHIIIIIIIIII))”''

''“What do you trying to kill you? It’s really not nice to hear it. I just want to make you lose so much blood that you can’t go all out in the exams, Muttsurini-kun, no other ill intentions here.”''

''“…I’ll just give you a few points. This level of obstacle is nothing to me.”''

''“Ohh, you can actually say such things?”''

''“I’ll definitely not lose to you!”''

''“In that case, I won’t hold back then—oh yeah, I haven’t finished about just now, (mumbles) until the body gets hot, and then use a (mumbles), and then (secretly)—”''

''“…I won’t…die in front of you…(DABADABADABA)!”''

Kudou-san and Muttsurini’s conversation was rather weird, but Muttsurini looks somewhat pale after having lost lots of blood, which I’m rather worried about.”

“…It’s about time for dinner. Everyone, please move to the other room.”

I recovered and heard Kirishima-san’s house.

That’s weird. Didn’t we just have tea? Is it 6pm already?”

“Alright, Shimada, Hideyoshi, we’ll stop here for ancient language. Time to eat.”

“Uu…what in the world is a conjugation form? Even if I don’t know, I don’t think it’ll affect my life much…”

“Yeah…I’d don’t think that this kind of thing will appear in drama or theater…”

With Yuuji teaching, Minami and Hideyoshi had to take a boring ancient language lesson. Ancient language was something they’re the weakest at, and I can tell that they’re tired even as a bystander.

“…I’m alive…!”

“Muttsurini-kun, study hard with me after dinner.”

“…I refuse.”

Are Kudou-san and Muttsurini on good terms or not?

“Nn~…alright, and…”

I put down my pen and got up, stretched my stiff back muscles, heard the creaking sound of the joints, and it felt really good. Normally, when I hear creaking sounds from my body, there’s a high chance that my body’s being abused tragically by someone…

“…I’ll bring everyone to the dining room. Please follow me.”

“““Okay.”””

We continued to walk and chat with Kirishima-san, who was leading us, as we head towards the dining room.

“I’m really happy to be able to eat so much good stuff recently.”

“I think you should start changing your lifestyle, Akihisa-kun…”

“I do sweep the floor and wash my clothes and all that usually.”

“I said that I should at least make the bentos—”

“That won’t do, Himeji-san. My life will be at risk if I do that.”

“Because the students in F class are strict about that.”

Uu, this is one of the reasons.

Soon after we left the room, there was the appetizing fragrance of food.

“…This is the room.”

Kirishima-san, who was leading us, stopped in front of one of the rooms.

The moment she opened the door, the appetizing aroma of the food came at us.

“A, amazing!”

“Wow…”

“Th, this is very extravagant.”

On the large table that will definitely not be seen in an ordinary family, there’s a lot of delicious dishes set there. The floating smell of roasted peking duck that was dripping with golden meat sauce, a large piece of shark’s fin was floating on the thick and gluey soup surface, green pepper fried with double-cooked meat, eight treasures vegetables, mapo tofu and all sorts of dishes were delightfully placed on the large plates at the center of the table. Also, each seat has a small tea bowl with a cover there. Is that the famed bird’s nest soup that’s supposedly the highest of classes?

This meal is so luxurious that it doesn’t seem to be for friends who’re coming here to play! It’s basically like a scene in a dream!

“You’ll definitely hurt your stomach eating all these because you’re not used to them, Aki.”

“Ahaha, that’s right.”

No matter what, the dishes in front of me would me more than several months of my meal allowance. I couldn’t help but drool just by looking at it.

“Oh yeah, are we the only ones eating? What about your family, Kirishima?”

“…Un, there’s only us.”

There’s only 8 of us in this room. Is Kirishima-san’s mother the one who set up so many dishes for us? Or is it her helpers? But I don’t see anyone else around? They probably don’t want to ruin our moods when eating.

“Shouko’s family won’t get involved with each other, so they live rather freely.”

“…Un, so everyone, don’t feel restrained and relax.”

I see. Free…she did make a room for Yuuji. No family can be described ‘free’ more than Kirishima-san’s family.

“…Then, everyone, please choose a seat you like.”

We followed what she instructed and took the seats closest to us. Alright, let’s tuck in.

“““ITADAKIMASU!!”””

Everyone clapped their hands together and yelled, immediately savoring the happy dinner time.

“This meal’s really amazing…!”

“Th, this is really great…! Uu…I’ll accidentally eat too much if this keeps up…”

“Why is it that the food I like to eat have so much calories…!?”

“…Replenishing iron.”

“Shouko, why is it that this meal here looks poisonous with all the purple?”

“…I didn’t add any strange drugs in this.”

“I love Chinese food!”

It’s like we booked a room in a high class restaurant to eat, and each dish is so delicious, it’s really delightful.

“Yoshii-kun, let me feed you. Here, ah~”

“Nn? An~”

“Aki!? What are you doing?”

“Akihisa-kun? Your table manners are really terrible!?”

“Shouko, why is it that my drink looks poisonous with that pink color over there?”

“…I didn’t add any suspicious drugs in this.”

“Muttsurini, what are you eating?”

“…Bird’s Nest. It’s nice.”

As we enjoyed the high-class cuisine that we would rarely get to eat, the bodies and souls that were fatigued by studying found comfort.

The last dessert, almond jelly was served, and as we ate, Kirishima-san suddenly asked Yuuji.

“…Yuuji.”

“What is it, Shouko?”

“How’s the studying?”

“Going really well. You don’t have to worry.”

“…Really?”

“Yeah, I might even beat you in the next tests.”

“…Is that so?”

“I’ll be able to regain my freedom like this.”

On seeing Yuuji show such a relaxed expression, Kirishima-san couldn’t help but narrow her eyes.

“…If that’s what you say.”

“Nn?”

“…How about a challenge?”

It’s rare that Kirishima-san will show such a taunting look.

“You want to challenge me?”

“…Un, I want to see what you can do, Yuuji.”

“Hoho, so you’re viewing yourself highly there, huh, to actually say such words.”

That’s weird? Did Yuuji actually think of accepting her proposal…?

“…I’m definitely above you. That’s a fact.”

“DAMN IT, FINE! WE’LL HAVE A CHALLENGE! WHO’S SCARED HERE! LET ME TELL YOU THE DIFFERENCE IN OUR ABILITIES!”

He got hooked. Kirishima-san really understands Yuuji’s thoughts.

“…I understand. In that case, we’ll have a simple revision test about the test topics later.”

“FINE! DON’T THINK I’LL BE THAT OLD USELESS ME IN THE PAST!”

“…If I win, you’re sleeping with me, Yuuji.”

“HA!?”

On hearing that, Yuuji’s eyes immediately became little black dots. What an idiot. He doesn’t seem to have comprehended what was going on.

Anyway, if Yuuji loses the revision test later, he’ll have to sleep together with that Kirishima-san who’s beautiful and has a great body. If it really ended up in such an envious situation, it’ll be a case when I’ll really be jealous and think of killing him…

“Sorry, Kirishima-san. I want some more almond jelly. Can I borrow a knife from you? A chopper or a katana will do too.”

“…I’ll get it for you now.”

“WAIT A SEC, SHOUKO! DON’T GIVE ANYTHING DANGEROUS LIKE A KNIFE TO HIM! YOU’LL ENDANGER MY LIFE LIKE THAT!”

Cheh! That Yuuji’s instincts are rather sharp!

“…But if you win, Yuuji, I’ll allow you to sleep with Yoshii.”

“THAT’S TOO SCARY! I DON’T GET ANY BENEFIT AT ALL!”

What is this stupid guy saying? If it’s me, I’ll definitely fight to get 0 points here!

“This is great. Seems interesting, I want to do something here~”

The jealous feelings in me caused me to get ready to grab the chair and smash it on Yuuji’s head, but Kudou-san said with a happy look.

“…You want to join too, Aiko?”

“I can join, but since it’s a rare chance…”

Kudou-san deliberately paused the moment she said that, and looked over at me. What does she want to do?

“—How about everyone take this text and use the points to decide who sleeps with who?”

Kudou-san looked at me and deliberately blinked. Is she actually thinking…of seducing me?

“FINE! I WAS REA—”

“YOU, YOU CAN’T DO THAT! ERM, IT, IT’S TOO EARLY FOR YOU TO DO THAT, AKIHISA-KUN!”

“But it’ll be better for Yoshii-kun to gain more actual experience with me on health education, right?”

“NO! YOU MUSTN’T DO THAT!”

“But I really want to teach Yoshii-kun health education~”

“I SAID NO MEANS NO! ABSOLUTELY NOT! IF YOU INTEND TO DO THAT, KUDOU-SAN, I, I WANT TO SLEEP WITH AKIHISA-KUN!”

“EHHHHH!? WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU SAYING, HIMEJI-SAN!?”

Himeji-san just said such ridiculous words out of impulse when Kudou-san challenged her, right?

“MI, MIZUKI! WHAT ARE YOU SAYING!? EVERYONE KNOWS THIS ISN’T POSSIBLE!”

“BUT YOU ARE AWARE AFTER READING THROUGH AKIHISA-KUN’S H-BOOKS, MINAMI-CHAN! AKIHISA-KUN’S A GUY! HE’S VERY INTERESTED IN THOSE PERVY STUFF! SOMETHING BIG WILL HAPPEN IF HE SLEEPS WITH KUDOU-SAN!”

“It’s true that the 4th H-book Aki collected has a short hair girl…”

HOLD ON A SEC, HOW MUCH OF MY TOP SECRET DO YOU KNOW OF!

“So I must sleep with Akihisa-kun to protect him!”

“Tha, that’s right. I have to sleep with Aki to protect him too.”

Why is it that things are getting weirder and weirder? And I’m bothered that you revealed my deep secrets to everyone like that.

“No no, I’d think that you people are all too excited here. This won’t happen if you reject Kudou’s proposal.”

“KUDOU-SAN, LET’S CHALLENGE! I WILL DEFINITELY NOT LOSE TO YOU FOR AKIHISA-KUN’S SAKE!”

“YEAH! I’LL SLEEP WITH AKI IF IT’S FOR HIS SAKE TOO!”

“Ahaha, you two are really interesting. Didn’t let down my expectations there.”

“I’d feel…that it’ll be fine…if you just refused…”

Hideyoshi’s suggestion was thoroughly ignored. I would occasionally think that the aptitude to study doesn’t have a direct relation to how smart one is, is it?

“…In that case, I’ll take out a brand new mock exam that wasn’t used before.”

“WAIT A SEC, SHOUKO! I HAVEN’T AGREED YET!”

“…It’s decided. You said that you’ll challenge me just now, Yuuji. You can’t say no now.”

“Ugh! I, I did say that alright…”

Yuuji’s gaze was unfocused as he looked around, seemingly thinking of something.

And then, his eyes turned to the table. I clearly saw that Yuuji overturned the glass of fruit juice from an angle Kirishima-san couldn’t see.

“Oh, sorry Shouko! Did it get your clothes?”

“…I’m fine.”

On first glance, it looked like Kirishima-san’s clothes weren’t ruined by the juice.

“No, that can’t be right. You can’t see it there, but your hem has juice on it.”

Yuuji pointed at the back of Kirishima-san’s waist as he said that.

“…I’ll be troubled.”

“Sorry, I was careless there—”

“…That drug will corrode fibers.”

“WAIT A SEC, WHAT IN THE WORLD DID YOU ADD IN MY DRINK!?”

It looks like Yuuji’s drink was spiked, which was why the color’s different from everyone else.

The juice that was tossed out gave off green smoke on contact with the carpet, but I can’t be envious about that…

“…I’ll get a change of clothes.”

“That’s right, it’s better to change clothes…since you need to change, we can have a bath even though it’s early. Treat it as aiding digestion.”

Yuuji stopped Kirishima-san, who was about to leave and get a change of clothes, and suggested it.

That’s a good idea. It’ll be hard on us if we immediately start studying while we’re full, so we might as well take a bath and rest. However, I’m rather worried as I may feel sleepy if I bath after eating.

“…I understand. Let’s take a bath then.”

“Alright, we’ll talk about the mock tests later then.”

“…Un.”

Having gotten Kirishima-san’s permission, we went to get a change of clothes, and the boys and girls went to different rooms.

<center>☆</center>

“Alright, let’s go.”

We entered our room, and a few minutes later, Yuuji suddenly got up.

“Understood. We’re going to peep, right?”

“…Leave it to me.”

“I’d say, how foolish can you people be…”

On a side note, Hideyoshi was assigned to another room, but came back to our guys’ room. He felt lonely, right?

“Idiots, you’re wrong. We’re going to Shoukos’ room.”

“Heh? Why?”

Kirishima-san’s room? Leaving the girls’ bathroom alone and choosing to go to Kirishima-san’s room? Why?

Do I have to say it? I have to steal the mock test she just mentioned.

This guy’s ever so despicable.

“But I don’t think we’ll lose out on anything even if we don’t steal the test script.”

“(Nods head)…Peeping’s more important than that.”

Yuuji may not want to sleep with Kirishima-san, but this is really a great opportunity to peep for Muttsurini and me, so we have no need to sneak around like that.

“Do you really think that’s the check?”

Yuuji started to ask me with that pretense tone of his.

“What are you trying to say?”

“Think about it carefully, Akihisa? What did that sister of yours that just came back forbid you from doing?”

“Eh, well…‘gaming for only half an hour a day’ and ‘no illicit sexual relationships at all’—damn it! I forgot about it!”

It’ll be a death penalty if I end up sleeping with girls—whether it’s my happy life of living alone or my life.

“Ah, but, if nee-san doesn’t know—”

“I’ll leak the news if you don’t help me.”

“DAMN BASTARD! YOU’RE A SUPER DAMNED BASTARD!”

Though I already knew that Yuuji was a bastard.

“And you’re in danger too, Muttsurini.”

“…Why?”

“You’ll die due to massive nosebleed.”

That’s really the case.

“…Do you think I’m scared of death?”

WHAT THE HECK! THAT LINE’S WAY TOO COOL!

“But think of the ranking. If the people on top and choose who they won—”

If we predict the results, Kirishima-san will be first, Himeji-san will be second, and Kudou-san will be third…that’s likely to be the case.

“When Kirishima chooses Yuuji, Himeji chooses Akihisa, who will Kudou Aiko choose?”

Hideyoshi put his hand at his chin and muttered,

“Kudou will likely choose Muttsurini.”

“…How is it possible?”

“You two just argued a whole lot. Didn’t she sweat to get back the top rank in health education without letting you lose too much blood, Muttsurini?”

“…Ugh! That’s too despicable!”

I don’t really understand, but it seems that Muttsurini and Kudou-san have some strange competition going on between them.

“…Those pants aren’t going to kill me…!”

It seems that Muttsurini isn’t scared of death, but will die because he hates the pants. Does he have some emotional scar with them?

“That’s the case. Are you willing to help?”

“Got it. I’ll help.”

“…I have no other choice.”

This is a matter of life and death. If I don’t help Yuuji, I’ll likely be dunked in a hell of boiling water.

“I’d help you too.”

“Heh? You’re going to help us too, Hideyoshi? Why?”

No matter what I think, Hideyoshi doesn’t have a reason to help.”

“No particular reasons.”

“?”

Uu…since Hideyoshi wants to help, it’ll be a great thing.

“Alright, since it’s decided, let’s hurry up and take action. Based on what Shouko said, that mock test should be hidden in her room, so we have to enter her bedroom.”

“““Got it!”””

We could only help Yuuji and enter Kirishima-san’s room together because of all sorts of reasons.

<center>☆</center>

''“Kirishima-san, what kind of bath do you have at home?”''

''“…There’s a large bath and an open-aired bath.”''

''“A, amazing. It’s just like a hot springs hotel.”''

''“I’m really looking forward to it.”''

''“I’m looking forward to it too. Whether it’s the hot springs hotel or that I can touch, Hime-chan’s part, right?”''

''“Wah! Ku, Kudou-san, where are you touching!”''

''“They’re so big~ what do you put inside?”''

''“…I’m so envious…”''

''“Wa! Wh, why even Kirishima-san…”''

''“That’s right. It’s really too unfair that Mizuki’s grown like that…I wonder if I can get a needle to poke them and suck the stuff inside…”''

''“Mi, Minami-chan! Are you joking around? Your expression looks horrifying!”''

[[Image:1212_231.jpg|thumb]]

The bewitching conversation could be heard as Himeji-san and the rest were holding onto their change of clothing and were ready to move to the bathroom.

“Yuuji, I say…”

“What?”

“I just want to forget about everything and follow Himeji-san and the rest.”

“…Same here.”

The wish we couldn’t get in the past can definitely come true now!

“Idiots, think about it carefully. Think about what happened then!”

Yuuji calmly retorted back. Of course, we’re not so stupid to end up in such a forsaken state.

“I won’t make the same failure twice over! I’ll do it properly this time and definitely not end up getting myself suspended from school again!”

Now, allow me to repeat this once again. I just want to peep into the girls’ bathroom for the sake of my desire.

“In that case, let me change the saying.”

Yuuji pointed his index finger fiercely at me.

“Think about it, you guys, about that damned old granny’s naked body.”

““…UGH!””

The dinner we just digested seemed to have went back into the throat.

“There’s nothing good about peeping at all…whether it’s the one watching or the one being watched…”

“…Should never commit the same crime again.”

“It’s great that you guys can understand this.”

If we end up getting the cops involved because I saw such a thing, I won’t be able to die in peace even if I do.

“Are we ready to go into Kirishima’s room?”

“You’re right, we’ll just waste our time if this drags on.”

Girls bath longer, but this theory can’t be applied to everyone. We have to finish this mission at the fastest speed possible.

After checking that Himeji-san and the rest aren’t around, we tiptoed over to the other side of the corridor, aiming at Kirishima-san’s room where Himeji-san and the rest came out from.

“Alright, let’s go in.”

Yuuji stood in front of the door, and held onto the door handle before twisting it.

“That’s weird? Why can’t we open it?”

But even though it was a turning handle, the door still wouldn’t budge as it let out a creaking sound.

“I’d say, it should be locked.”

“In her own house? Ugh…is there really something important inside?”

Or is it that girls of this age are used to doing such things?

“What kinds of important things would that person have…never mind. Muttsurini, can you do it?”

“…Give me 30 seconds.”

Muttsurini took out a tool that we never saw before, poked it inside the keyhole and fidgeted for 30 seconds before finally opening Kirishima-san’s bedroom door. That’s really an amazing ability.

We entered the room and looked around, and couldn’t help but feel amazed as we stood there.

“This room’s really grand…”

“Bi, big…”

Kirishima-san’s room should be about the size of 20, 30 tatamis.[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#]

“We’d should spread out and look, or else it’ll be impossible for us to find it.”

“Yeah, everyone, spread out and find. If we find something similar to test scripts, open it out even if we see the questions, we won’t have any excuse even if we’re discovered.

In other words, it’ll be unfair if Kirishima-san’s the only one who saw the test questions of the mock test; what kind of lame excuse is that? It’s really despicable, and it’ll be sorry for Kirishima-san, but we have no other ways to escape.

“Got it. I’ll search from that bookshelf.”

“…I’ll check from the entrance.”

“I’d check from the windows.”

“I’ll check through Shouko’s drawers.”

The four of us split up to look for that mock test.

The bookshelf I’m in charge of has magazines, novels and some small things.

My eyes screened through a corner of the bookshelf,

“Ehh, let’s see, what is this…<<100 Conditions To Be A Good Woman>>, <<Making The Person You Like Notice You>>, <<Commentary. Men’s Heart>>, <<Methods Of Stalking>>, <<Understanding What’s Legal And Illegal In Torture>>, <<Black Magic Gate>>…”

I just feel that the books Kirishima-san reads are becoming more and more criminal…especially that black magic book. For Yuuji’s sake, I better introduce something like white magic to her.

“Forget about that. I can’t find the questions of the mock test here…”

Kirishima-san probably didn’t put the test script here. Is it at where the other members are looking? I turned around to look at the door,

“…!(SWOOSH)!”

“MUTTSURINI! WHAT’S WITH YOU!?”

Suddenly, Muttsurini, who was supposed to be looking around, had bright red blood patterns forming on his face, and an inexplicable scene entered my eyes.

What’s going on?

“…Is this…a trap…?”

Muttsurini was drowning in a pool of blood, yet his stare was fixated on—a pile of female underwear that was folded neatly.

“…Care…ful…Akihisa. Kudou Aiko…wants to kill…all of us…”

“Ahh, you’re wrong. I guess the only one who’ll die because of such a thing is you, Muttsurini…”

Is that Kudou-san’s underwear? I won’t actually drown in my pool of nosebleed, but my heart really feels like fluttering when I think of how the short-haired girl who often wears pants would wear such underwear…

“ARGH, THIS IS…!”

Not far away, Yuuji yelled too. What now?’

“You found the test script, Yuuji?”

“KU…DAMN IT! IT’S HARDENED GLASS! IS, IS THERE SOMETHING I CAN USE TO BREAK IT…”

I looked at where Yuuji’s looking, and he’s looking at a piece of glass that was fixed to the wall.

What’s wrong with this guy?

“What is it, Yuuji? Found the test script?”

“JUST NICE, AKIHISA! HURRY UP AND HELP ME GET THIS DAMNED THING OFF!”

Yuuji roared, and the damned thing he was referring to was the marriage certificate that was sealed in the thick glass.

“The way I see it, it’s impossible to take it out. Forget about that; getting the test script is more important.”

“WHAT NONSENSE IS THAT!? DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH TIME I SPENT LOOKING FOR IT!? THAT SHOUKO ACTUALLY LIED TO ME AND SAID THAT SHE HANDED IT OVER TO THE LAWYER…IT’S BECAUSE SHE’S HIDING SUCH A THING THAT SHE LOCKED THE ROOM UP!”

Yuuji has completely forgotten that we got in here to look for the test scripts.

I should be reminding Yuuji here, but I might end up being scolded by him if I say the wrong things…really, how did I end up getting myself into this mess…

“Sigh, Yuuji and Muttsurini are useless now. Looks like Hideyoshi and I have to work harder…hm?”

I started to look around again to find that test script, and found a little hairpin on the table. Isn’t that the bunny hairclip Himeji-san normally puts on her hair?

“Speaking of which, Himeji-san does seem to like such small things…”
I just took the hairclip without thinking and stared at it.

Forget about primary school. She still likes such a small thing even till now. This is really what Himeji-san would do—

“…Arre? What’s wrong?’

As I looked at the hairclip in my hand, my mind started to have some strange thought surging. Ughh…

“Yoshii-kun, what are you looking at?”

“WAH!?”

A sound came from behind me. Who, who is it?

“Really, Yoshii-kun. How can you secretly sneak into a girl’s room.”

The one who blinked at me and smiled in a vexing manner is,

“Ku, Kudou-san!? Why…didn’t you go bathe?”

“I forgot to take my underwear. I took it out from my bag and forgot to bring it into the bathroom, so I came back to get it.”

Kudou-san smiled and pointed at the clean underwear right in front of Muttsurini’s corpse.

I’M AN IDIOT! WHY DIDN’T I NOTICE IT TILL NOW! SHE DIDN’T BRING HER UNDERWEAR EVEN THOUGH SHE WANTED TO BATH, AND IT’S OBVIOUSLY BECAUSE SHE FORGOT TO BRING IT!

Since Kudou-san’s right in front of me, maybe the other girls are coming back—

“NOT GOOD! EVERYONE, RETREAT! THE KILLING SQUAD MAY BE COMING BACK!”

I hurriedly interrupted the plan and dashed out to the exit. There’ll definitely be an unavoidable great tragedy if Minami or Himeji-san finds me here.

“Damn it! looks like I can only watch and leave this thing behind…”

Having noticed my condition here, Yuuji hurriedly grabbed Muttsurini and rushed towards the exit, and Hideyoshi followed us.

“See you later, the four of you.”

Kudou-san didn’t look angry and even waved at us as we got ready to escape.

“Ugh…the plan failed. What should we do…”

Even if Kudou-san let us off, we still didn’t find that script. If this keeps up, I’ll…

“What do you mean what we can do? We can’t do anything now that we’re discovered.”

“This is bad…Muttsurini’s lucky that he fainted, but we…”

“We can only think of beating them.”

“You’re right. If Yuuji wins and chooses to sleep with me…”

“…At that moment, we’ll be sentenced to death by this society.”

Should I choose physical death or social death? It’s really a painful and cruel choice between two here! Why do I have to face death all the time in my life?”

“Relax Akihisa. I’d just scanned through the questions of the mock test.”

“Eh? When?”

“Just when you guys were fooling around.”

That is why Hideyoshi’s being so quiet. He’s been working silently.

“Oh yeah, I just can’t understand, Hideyoshi. Why are you willing to help us?”

“I’d have all sorts of complicated feelings here…”

Hideyoshi looked far away with teary eyes.

“If I sleep with a lady on the same bed and nothing happens, I’d be treated as a woman complete. But if something really happens, a big problem will happen. There’s no bigger problem than this…”

So Hideyoshi has his own troubles.

We ran around on the corridor, and finally got far away from Kirishima-san’s room before slowing down.

“Akihisa, we’d should be heading off to bath, right?”

“You’re right. Let’s go and bath.”

“To me, now’s not the time to bath…”

Right now, Yuuji’s completely focused on that marriage certificate left inside Kirishima-san’s room, but I just feel that no matter how much he struggles, it’s all futile…

“Sighs, we can’t think of anything good now. Better go take a bath first, Yuuji.”

“That’s right. We might be able to think of something when we’re bathing.”

“Yeah. Then, see you later, Hideyoshi.”

I waved at Hideyoshi and got ready to return to the room Kirishima-san prepared for us to get a change of clothes.

“HOLD IT!”

“Heh?”

Unexpectedly, Hideyoshi reached his hand out and tugged at my shirt.

“What is it, Hideyoshi? Don’t you want to bath?”

“Fm, I’d want to bath too, but why must I be separated from you guys?”

“Eh? That’s because…we’re going to bath!”

“Fm, bath.”

“So we have to go to the guys’ bathroom, and Hideyoshi, you’re,”

“I’d go to the guys’ bath too!”

“Hm? Did you mix up on the bathing time? We’ll let you bath first then.”

“OF COURSE NOT! I’D WANT TO BATH WITH EVERYONE!”

“EHHH!? NO YOU CAN’T!”

“WHY NOT! TODAY, I’D DEFINITELY PROOF TO ALL OVER YOU THAT I’M A REAL MAN! AS MEN, WE SHOULD BE HONEST WITH EACH OTHER!”

“Hon…honest with each other…”

“WHA, WHAT’S THERE TO BLUSH ABOUT THIS!? ANYWAY, NO MATTER WHAT YOU SAY, I MUST GO INTO THE GUYS’ BATH!”

[[Image:1212_243.jpg|thumb]]

Hideyoshi was so angry that he was grabbing onto my wrist. Looks like his heart is really unmovable now as I can’t shake his will no matter what I said. At this moment, Hideyoshi’s as firm as ever, and I can’t convince him. I could only give up reluctantly.

“…I, I understand, Hideyoshi. Since you say so, let’s bath toget—”

“Mizuki, it’s sudden, but don’t you want to see Aki get thrown into a swimming pool without water?”

“It’s really a coincidence, Minami-chan. I want to see how Akihisa-kun looks like when he’s diving without oxygen tanks.”

“That’s weird? Why is it that my arms are tied behind?

“Come with us, Aki. There should be a swimming pool in such a large house. It’ll be great if there’s a 20m jumping platform, right?”

“After that, you must dunk your head into a bathtub full of water and count till 1000! You must make yourself warm, you know!?”

“Ahaha, you two really like to joke around. I’ll definitely die if you do that.”

Himeji-san and Minami used a lot of force to drag me. There must be some mistake! That’s right, there must be a mistake!

“Really, hearing that you want to bath with Kinoshita after coming back from the bathroom…”

“Luckily, Kudou-san forgot to take her change of clothes. Have to thank her properly later.”

“Aha, ahaha…why are you two joking around since just now? You two are actually joking, right? Oi, you’re joking right? WHY AREN’T YOU LOOKING AT ME!? WHY ARE MY HANDS TIED UP TIGHTER! PLEASE, LISTEN TO ME! SOMEONE! SOMEONE SAVE ME NNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!”

''“…Yuuji.”''

''“SH, SHOUKO! WHEN DID YOU COME BACK!?”''

''“…Thinking of stealing our marriage certificate. Unforgivable.”''

''“WA, WAIT A SEC! LISTEN TO ME! I’M NOT STEALING IT. THIS IS A RIGHT I HAAAVVVVVVVVVVVVVVEEEEEEEEEEE!!!”''

''“Muttsurini-kun, hurry up and get up.”''

''“……Uu…uuu…”''

''“Watch me (flash)!”''

''“GUUAAAAHHHHH (SPLOSH)”''

“…So in the end, I’d can only bath alone?”

Luckily, Kirishima-san’s house occupies a lot of space. If the neighbors are living nearby, they’ll definitely call the cops after hearing our anguished cries.

<center>☆</center>

In the end, because of Hideyoshi’s contributions, the mock test could only be cancelled. We then continued to study for a few hours. After midnight, it was time for bed.

“Kinoshita-kun. If something happens, please make such to call out.”

“…This is a bell and a taser. You can use it if Yuuji has any ill intents to you.”

“Muu…is Akihisa’s sister the only one who was able to correctly identify my gender?”

“Aki, I suppose you should be clear. If anything…”

“I, I got it! I won’t do anything bad!”

Because Hideyoshi strongly insisted, we could only split up into ‘guys and Hideyoshi’ and ‘girls’ rooms. Based on how nothing happened during the training camp before, the girls specially allowed us, but…in that case, they didn’t need to take out tasers or threaten us already, right? Am I the only one who thinks that?

And so, it’s finally time for bed.

~Conversation in the girls’ room~

“Arre? Where did my hairclip go? I definitely left it here.”

“Is your hairclip missing?”

“Seems that way.”

“…I’ll search for you.”

“Ah, no need. I’ll find it once we get up tomorrow morning and tidy the beds.”

“…Understood.”

“Speaking of which, it’s like you’ve been wearing that hairclip all the time, Mizuki.”

“…What kind of memorabilia is it?”

“Nfufuf~, according to my guess, that hairclip is given to you by someone you like, right, Hime-chan?”

“Nope, it’s just a normal hairclip I bought for myself.”

“Oh my…I actually guessed wrongly.”

“But it can be considered some kind of memorabilia.”

“Eh? What is it? It sounds interesting.”

“Unfortunately, that’s my own secret. More than that, I’m more mindful about Kudou-san’s matter.”

“Eh? Me?”

“Yeah, I’ve been wondering too.”

“Fufu. Are you two that interested in hearing me say pervy things?”

“Nope, we’re not talking about that.”

“It’s about the relationship between you and Tsuchiya-kun.”

“EHHH!?”

“…I’m wondering about that too.”

“WHA, WHAT ARE YOU THREE RAMBLING ABOUT!? WHAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP WOULD I HAVE WITH MUTTSURINI-KUN. THERE’S NO SUCH THING!”

“Even the way you strongly deny that is suspicious.”

“…Normally, Aiko would definitely laugh it off.”

“THA, THAT’S NOT TRUE! I HAVE NO SUCH THOUGHTS AT ALL, WHETHER IT’S ABOUT ME OR MUTTSURINI-KUN!”

“Who knows? Maybe Tsuchiya’s saying the same thing as you in the guys’ room now, you know?”

“…This is something we have to talk about when camping overnight.”

“That’s right. The guys must be talking about the same things as us.”

“Yeah. Those guys may be interrogating Tsuchiya, so you better answer honestly.”

“…It’ll be easier on you if you say it out.”

“Just tell us, please?”

“THAT’S WHY I SAID THAT I HAVE NO INTEREST IN SUCH BIG-HEADED GUYS AT ALL!”

~Conversation in the guys’ room~

"Sakamoto Yuuji will start." (Yuuji himself)
"""Yeah~!""" (Me, Hideyoshi and Muttsulini respond in rhythm)
" 'Past and present[http://www.baka-tsuki.org/project/index.php?title=Baka_to_Tesuto_to_Syokanju:Volume5_Translation_Notes_and_References#]'!"
"""Yeah~!"""
“The names of Akihisa’s lovers that’s rumored amongst some students!”

…Heh?

Pa pa (clapping hands in rhythm)--> Yuuji's turn

“<Toshimitsu Kubo>!”

“PROTEST! I PROTEST! KUBO-KUN’S A GUY!”

Pa pa (clapping hands in rhythm)--> Muttsurini’s turn

“…<Sakamoto Yuuji>.”

“I DON’T WANT IT! I ROUGHLY KNOW ABOUT IT, BUT IT’S REALLY DISGUSTING WHEN YOU SAY IT! NO!”

“I’M THE ONE WHO SHOULD BE DISGUSTED, YOU IDIOT!”

Pa pa (clapping hands in rhythm)--> Hideyoshi’s turn

“Eh, ermmm…then, then me!”

“…”

“A, Akihisa! I’d feel troubled if you remain silent and blush!”

Pa pa (clapping hands in rhythm)--> My turn

“<Sh, Shimada Minami>!”

“““AKIHISA HAS TO BE PUNISHED!”””

“WHY~”

Since Kubo-kun and Yuuji are allowed, why is it that my kiss with Minami is deemed out! Isn’t this outcome way too weird!?

“Alright, Akihisa, draw one.”

“Uu…I just don’t feel relieved here…”

“Relaxed. Everyone’s relieved other than you.”

In such a bothersome situation, I could only grab onto a piece of paper into the bag Yuuji handed over to me. Let’s see, what’s written on it…

“<Go to the girls’ room and return Himeji-san’s hairclip to her>…eh, isn’t this what I wrote?”

I actually drew the punishment I thought of. I really don’t know whether this should be a good draw or a bad one.

“What the heck, Akihisa. Your punishment’s way too light.”

“Eh? Really? We have to enter the girls’ room here.”

Actually, I panicked and took Himeji-san’s hairclip along as we panicked and ran away just now, which was why I wrote such a punishment, but this punishment’s rather severe, isn’t it? Besides, I might lost my life if I’m careless when entering the room those girls are sleeping in.”

“Speaking of which, what did everyone wrote.”

“Mine’s <Go to Shouko’s room and get the marriage certificate back>. Of course, the person must get that marriage certificate no matter how many times he fails before completing the mission.”

“Mine’s <take an album full of photos in female outfits>. I’d have to make you guys feel my pain.”

“…<Take photos of all sorts of goods>. It’s hard to capture them in some special poses.”

Obviously, everyone wrote down their punishment of this game to satisfy their own aim.

That’s great. It’s great that I drew what I wrote…

“Alright, let’s spend time talking before those girls sleep.”

“I’d say, that’s a good idea. Those ladies should be tired, so they should be asleep in an hour.”

“…What should we talk about?”

“Well…oh yeah. Let’s talk about ‘the most embarrassing thing we’ve done in our lives’. There’s a deck of cards here. I’ll be hearts, Hideyoshi will be diamonds, Muttsurini will be clubs, and multiples of 1 will be Akihisa. How about it?”

“““OK!”””

Eh, WAIT! WHY IS IT THAT MY CONDITIONS ARE DIFFERENT FROM THE REST?

“Spade 4. It’s a multiple of one, so Akihisa will answer.”

“THAT’S WAY TOO WEIRD! IT’LL BE ME NO MATTER WHAT IF YOU USE MULTIPLES OF ONE!”

“No no no, you’ll be fine if the joker appears.”

“THAT’S TOO MUCH! WHY ARE MY CHANCES WAY TOO HIGH!!?”

“…The chances are 52 out of 53.”

“Well, no matter what, since spade appeared, you have to answer, Akihisa. I’d say, you better give up and say your most embarrassing past.”

“Gu…got it. Let’s see, it should be when I was in first year of middle school—”

………
……
…

“Alright, Akihisa. It’s about time.”

“WHY DID IT END UP LIKE THIS!? WHY IS IT THAT I JUST SAID ‘MY 16 MOST EMBARRASSING THINGS IN MY LIFE’, AND YOU GUYS DIDN’T SAY ANYTHING! ISN’T THIS TOO UNFAIR!”

“If you have to blame something, blame your draw luck.”

“…You’re so weak it’s scary.”

Yuuji was the one who started drawing, but the cards drawn were all spades. I suspected him a cheating, so I drew them myself…but the cards I drew were all spades. How unlucky can I get?

“Stop yapping. Alright, hurry up and go.”

“Uu…got it—wait, you’re going too, Yuuji?”

“Yeah. I have some things I have to finish.”

As he said that, Yuuji took out the glass cutter he borrowed from Muttsurini and showed it to me. He must be aiming to steal that marriage certificate back, but since that glass is so thick, it’s probably impossible to break it with such a small knife.

“In that case, Muttsurini and I’d follow you onto the corridor.”

“…I’m looking forward to seeing some interesting mishaps.”

“What mishaps? Stop joking around.”

I put down the poker cards and got up, making sure not to make too much noise as I opened the door.

The corridor with only the night lights switched on showed a trail of still and serenity.

(Alright, let’s go.)

(Okay.)

Yuuji and I nodded at each other, and we tiptoed down the corridor.

That’s weird. It’s like I’m used to doing such things recently…

(Are you ready, Akihisa?)

(No problems.)

I took out Himeji-san’s hairclip which I put in my pocket.

It’s just putting the hairclip back to where it was. Nothing hard.

Giii…

Maybe the door’s locked only when no one’s inside, right? I turned the door handle, and the girls’ room door immediately opened. Looks like I didn’t need Muttsurini’s help this time.

(I’ll go that side. You have to be careful.)

(Got it. Make sure you don’t get caught too, Yuuji.)

The moment we entered the room, Yuuji immediately went over to the table, and I snuck around and went near the mattress. I remember I found this hairclip somewhere around here…

I searched my memory as I stood beside the pillow, looking for where I put the hairclip.

“Nn…”

—ACK!

Someone seemed to flip around, causing me to nearly jump. Is she awake? She’s not awake yet, right?

To be cautious, I turned around to look. If she’s awake, she should be screaming, so they should be sleeping now…

“…Akihisa-kun?”

Unfortunately, my optimistic guess was completely debunked as Himeji-san was already sitting up from the side of the bedding, looking straight at me.

(H, Himeji-san! Yo, you’re mistaken! I’m just…erm…returning the hairclip you dropped!)

I handed the hairclip over and tried to explain it to her. And, well…I’m a little sorry to her!

““……””

The unbearable silence continued for a few seconds.

During this blank period of time, Himeji-san seemed to be thinking about something.

“…(waves hand)”

In the midst of the darkness, Himeji-san waved at me slightly. What? Is she thinking of punishing me now?

I got mentally prepared to get my joints snapped, and can only move closer to her no matter how unwilling I am.

After going closer, Himeji-san noticed the surroundings, and whispered to me,

“Akihisa-kun, the hairclip you mention. Is it my bunny hairclip?”

(Ah, un, yeah.)

That’s weird? She’s not angry?

(I see…)

Himeji-san seemed to be happy for some reason, but looked a little troubled as well as her face showed a complicated expression. She’s probably happy that she found the hairclip, but couldn’t let go of the boy who snuck into the girls’ room in the middle of the night easily.

(Well, Akihisa-kun…)

(Yes!)

I subconsciously straightened myself and knelt down in front of her.

(That hairclip…can you please…put it on me?)

(Eh?)

On hearing Himeji-san state such an inexplicable request, I could only feel confused and bothered. What does she want?

(Can’t you?)

(Ahh, no, I can if you want me to put it on.)

In this situation, I already had no right to refuse.

So, I followed Himeji-san’s request and put the hairclip in my hand onto her hair. Thi, this is really awkward…

(How, how is it? Does it suit me?)

(Ah, no, I don’t mean putting it on your head, Akihisa-kun. I hope that you clip it on me…)

THIS IS WAY TOO EMBARRASSING!!

(So, sorry! That, that’s right. Guys normally won’t wear such things.)

(It suits you, you know?)

(I’m sorry, please forget about just now…)

I apologized as I brought the hairclip in my hand over to Himeji-san. During this time, my heart started pounding around like crazy because I touched Himeji-san’s hand.

(Will this do?)

(Yes. Thank you very much.)

Wasn’t she sleeping just now? Why must she clip her hair? Are girls like that? Nee-san has short hair, and there’s no need for her to clip her hair, so I’m not sure.

Uu, that’s likely the case. Anyway, I’ll just leave it as that and don’t pursue on.

(I’ll be going then.)

Since I returned what I wanted to return, it’s not good for me to stay, so I better retreat earlier.

(…Please hold on.)

—At this moment, Himeji-san suddenly reached out and grabbed a corner of my shirt.

(? Is there something else, Himeji-san?)

She still wants to punish me, isn’t it?

(Does this bunny…suit me?)

(Eh? Ah, un, of course. I’ll think of bunnies when Himeji-san’s mentioned, and I’ll think of Himeji-san when bunnies are mentioned. The bunny hairclip really suits you, Himeji-san.)

(…! Is, is that so…that, that’s really great…)

(???)

At that moment, Himeji-san seemed to be suppressing some hidden emotion within her. Did I say something I shouldn’t have said?

(Well, Akihisa-kun…can you please, come a little closer…?)

(U, un. Sure.)

I knelt down, moved my knees and went near to Himeji-san. Unexpectedly,

(Akihisa-kun…)

(—!!!???)

She suddenly wrapped her arms around me. What’s going on?

(So it’s impossible…hearing you say such words that shake my heart, I really…)

I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT SHE’S SAYING AT ALL! WHAT IS IT!? IS THIS SOME HUGE COMEDY THAT MESSES WITH ME!? IS MUTTSURINI HOLDING A CAMERA AND HIDING SOMEWHERE?

(Just now…when I talked about the hairclip with Minami-chan and the rest, I remembered a lot of things in the past, and my heart’s all fuzzy…and out of a sudden, Akihisa-kun, you appeared right in front of me…)

I don’t exactly know what’s going on, but is Himeji-san saying that I came at the wrong time? No no no, hold on! She might be praising me in this situation! It’s not the right moment to come over, but the timing’s perfect, isn’t it?

“Uun…”

GASP!

The person sleeping beside suddenly twitched, and Himeji-san and I were shocked.

“……”

“……”

I held my breath and peered over at the source of the sound. Did, did someone wake up?

“Suu, suuu…”

Soon after, I again heard the sound of rhythmic breathing. That’s great. I managed to escape a calamity here…

(Ah, sorry, Himeji-san! I’ll immediately get away now!)

(Eh? Ah, no, I should be the one apologizing to you.)

After both of us calmed down, I hurriedly got away from Himeji-san. What in the world am I doing!

(A, Akihisa-kun. I hugged you because I thought Minami-chan woke up. Well…I didn’t mean anything at all!)

Himeji-san frantically explained it to me.

I see, so that’s how it is. Himeji-san’s really a kind person, hiding me for fear that I was discovered.

(Thank you. I should be leaving now while I’m not discovered.)

(Ah, okay. That’s right. I feel that this is for the better.)

I raised a hand and said goodbye to Himeji-san, and tiptoed my way out of the girls’ room.

''“Right now, it’s the important time for Akihisa-kun to surge before the tests, so I can only endure…but, if there’s another chance…I’ll definitely…”''

I heard a voice as I walked out from the girls’ room. It’s likely Yuuji’s wail as he got caught by Kirishima-san while working, but it soon disappeared.

<center>☆</center>

On the following afternoon,

Having ended the study group at Kirishima-san’s house, I went home.

“Oh yeah. I think I have to eat dinner with nee-san tonight.”

Nee-san said that she’ll be done with work before noon, so she should be on the way home now. If she stays at home, I can’t just drink water for dinner tonight.

“Even though she said so, I guess I should cook Japanese food for her, I suppose?”

It seemed that nee-san didn’t have any other arrangements and deliberately said such words because she didn’t want to bother me. If that was the case, I would be really happy. But while both siblings could have a rare chance of having dinner together, I still want to prepare a piping hot dish to make nee-san happy. Thanks to the study group, I more or less grasped the concepts tested for the end-of-term tests, so there wouldn’t be much problem if I spend some time cooking.

If I want to cook, what should I cook to make nee-san happy? Speaking of Japanese, food, I suppose it should be potato and meat curry, right? I suppose cooking some chowder rice would be good. But that doesn’t seem special in some way.

“Hotpot…it’s not the season now…and it’s too hot to eat tempura now…”

I continue to think about tonight’s dinner as I walked home. But no matter how much I think, it doesn’t seem to work…oh well. If I go to the supermarket to see what they’re selling, I should be able to think of something good.

I walked into the lobby on the first level, and took the lift up.

I was worried that I had to carry lots of ingredients then, so I decided to put my books and stationery at home first before going out shopping.

“I’m back~”

“Welcome back, Aki-kun.”

The moment I opened the door, nee-san came to the corridor to invite me in. It seemed that she was doing well with her work, and didn’t end up with some unexpected situation where she had to change her schedule and is unable to go home. In that case, we can have dinner according to what I planned.

“Sorry, nee-san. Can you help me put my bag inside.”

I didn’t step into the house, but handed my bag over to nee-san as I was going to go out shopping. Nee-san looked like she had something she wanted to say, but grabbed my bag.

“I’m fine with that…but Aki-kun, you’re still going out now?”

“Un, I have to buy ingredients for dinner.”

Oh yea, every Sunday, the sashimi at that fish shop near the station seemed to be cheaper. I wonder how much the hand-made sushi would cost? It won’t be cheap, and I have to give up on some games that will be coming up in the market recently…but I can only spend it for nee-san’s sake. I’ll then boil some soup—un, nee-san should be happy in that case.

That’s what I planned, but—

“Aki-kun, do you have the time to even worry about that now?”

Unexpectedly, this was my sister’s answer.

‘Ahh, no, I’m not really that free. It’s just that it’s rare for nee-san to come back…”

“You’re mistaking your priorities here.”

Nee-san mercilessly interrupted me before I could even finish.

“Listen, nee-san doesn’t know what you’re mistaken about, but your sister here specially came back here just to check on your living lifestyle and studies, Aki-kun. And you’re always thinking of such useless things. What is that about? If you can’t improve your grades, it would be meaningless, wouldn’t it? Let me ask you again, Aki-kun; do you still have the spare time to prepare dinner?”

“Tha, that’s true…”

But nee-san’s explanation really infuriated me.

Why is it that she’s so by the book and wouldn’t change a bit? It’s rare that I would want to cook for this sister of mine that I never met for a long time, but to her, it’s just a ‘that kind of thing’. She said that it was ‘something unnecessary yesterday’, but is my intention to make something for nee-san something worthless and trivial? Is a reunion with her brother something minor?

Thinking about this, I couldn’t control the restlessness inside me.

Talking about deducting points time and time again, and even pulling pranks on me that made me unhappy right in front of my friends…she never even did anything for me.

Ever since she came back, everything she did just infuriate me. What nee-san said just now is the final fuse that blew me up emotionally.

“You have tests tomorrow, and yet you have the mood to cook. Nee-san will be bothered when you get bad results and say ‘I was busy with cooking and didn’t have time to study’. You—”

“YOU’RE TOO NOISY! YOU’RE ONE BIG IDIOT, NEE-SAN!”

I yelled out and interrupted nee-san’s words.

WHAT THE HECK! DOESN’T THIS MEAN ‘NEE-SAN WILL BE BOTHERED IF YOU CAN FIND AN EXCUSE BECAUSE YOU DIDN’T DO WELL FOR THE TESTS’? I WANTED TO DO SOMETHING FOR HER, AND SHE FEELS THAT IT’S JUST AN EXCUSE TO SLACK? IS IT THAT I CAN HAVE A PLATFORM TO STAND ON WHEN MY EXAMS RESULTS COME BACK DISASTROUS!? SHE’S LOOKING DOWN ON ME LIKE THAT! IT’S RARE THAT I WANTED TO MAKE HER HAPPY AND EVEN WONDERED WHAT TO COOK FOR DINNER…

“SO NEE-SAN FEELS THAT TEST RESULTS ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN TALKING WITH ME, RIGHT!? I GOT IT! I’LL DO WHAT YOU WANT TO STUDY HARD, FINE!? I’LL GET GOOD GRADES AND SEND YOU OVERSEAS!!”

I’M REALLY STUPID TO RELAX OVER SUCH A SISTER HERE! I DON’T WANT TO BOTHER MYSELF WITH SUCH A PERSON!

“…Is that so. It’s great that you can focus on your studies like that.”

“YEAH, YOU’RE RIGHT! I’LL FOCUS ALL MY EFFORTS ON STUDYING! SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO BOTHER ME! BYE!”

I left these words and rushed into my room without looking back, slamming my room’s door shut.

At this point, there’s no need to play along with her. No matter what, I must work hard to make up for those deducted points and live my happy lone life and not stay with such a sister under the same roof!

I took out my textbooks and notes from my bag, sacrificed my school and spent all night studying.

'''Current score [-390 points]'''

<noinclude>
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Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Sixth Question

2012-04-18T10:24:38Z

128.189.154.252:

Baka to Tesuto to Syokanju:Volume5 The Sixth Question

2012-04-17T09:05:13Z

128.189.154.252: