Kämpfer:Volume 10.5 Chapter 1

Volume 10.5 Chapter 1  

Because I love studying so much, I attend classes in both the boys' and girls' sections.     Of

course, that's a lie. I'm not a studious person, and I don't have two student sections just

because I love studying. Besides, are there any high school students  who love studying? I

think everyone enrolls just for the title of "high school student," which only lasts for three

years. Why am I enrolled in both the boys' and girls' sections? Because I'm a boy, but I can

transform into a girl. Once I transform into a  girl, I become Kämpfer, improving my physical

abilities and engaging in various battles. Of course, I'm not proud of my transformation; it

just makes me busier, and there's nothing good about it. I'm completely lost about myself.

I     'm in my girlish fo rm now, but if I keep trying to stay that way, I feel like my heart will

become girlish. What if I have a period? I don't have any sanitary pads! I'm in Class 4, Grade

2, because the student council president, Shizuku Sangou, is behind this. She thinks I s hould

just be in the same class as the boys' section. While this is something I'm grateful for, I still

feel like this is the "Idiot Class of the Century," made up of even stranger people than our

boys' club. The only rule of survival in this class is to h ide yourself. While joining those idiots

in a mischievous group might give you a chance to take charge, I lack the social skills to do so,

so I just keep quiet. But in this world... or rather, the girls in Class 4, Grade 2 of the Girls'

Club, wouldn't let such behavior go unchecked. On the contrary, they actively engage with

others.     "Natsuru, Natsuru!"     I instantly held my breath, as if I were conducting a failed

experiment. It was the class president. A scholar who looked perfectly suited to wearing  

glasses. She possessed a brilliant mind, yet she was always thinking about something

illicit.     "What's that?"     "I have something I need to discuss with you."     I thought: Here we

go again. It definitely wasn't a good thing. Like asking me to be a maid on assignment. I

instantly went on alert, but not too much. It was like a stranger suddenly calling and saying,

"It's me, it's me!" Anyone would be suspicious. It was the same principle. The only difference

is that if it were her, even seeing her face  would have forced me to pay attention.     "Even if

she didn't tell me..."     I replied lackadaisically.     "I haven't said anything yet!"     "You'd know

even if I didn't hear it,"     I said, deliberately lowering my voice coldly. Because even if I we re

a woman, my voice wouldn't change. To avoid revealing my male identity, I kept my tone low.

Surprisingly, this deep voice was perceived by the girls as magnetic and handsome. There's

danger everywhere in this world, I couldn't help but think.     "I hav e something to

discuss."     "I don't have anything to discuss." It definitely wasn't good, and she might even

ask me for a consultation fee.     "I don't want to hear what Natsuru wants to discuss, but if

there's something bothering you that you absolutel y must talk about, it's okay to listen. I

might even charge you a fee depending on the situation."     As I expected, she completely

ignored my opinion.     "It's about me."     "What...?"     "No, let me correct that. It's about

us." As she spoke, two gir ls suddenly appeared from behind the class monitor.     "Yeah~~

Natsuru!"     "You don't look very happy today either."     The first line came from the vice -

class monitor, the second from the accountant. Like a high school girl infused with Ossan Ekis

(presumably an extract from a man), they've risked everything for their lives. As for the

accountant, he's a complete lunatic, there's nothing much to say.     My alarm level began to

rise. One person alone is enough. Three of them together, not to mention  Manjushri, is like

King Ghidorah (a character from the 1964 Toho film about the ultimate showdown between

the three great monsters). If they came to a fight, only Godzilla could handle them.     "And

what?"     "So, we need to discuss this with you."     "No."     "I haven't said anything

yet."     "Still no,"     I refused. Anyway, no matter what they proposed, it wasn't something I

could handle, whether it was exams or sports. And all three of them were better at studying

than me, except for sports, wher e they couldn't match me as Kämpfer. But even so, I couldn't

teach them the essentials of the exercise.     "Anyway, listen to me first." The vice -class

monitor leaned in. What did this woman want with me? She probably wasn't trying to hug

me wickedly, but  simply wanted to see my reaction to having my personal space invaded, and

she was enjoying it.     I turned my face away.     "Turn around."     "No."     "This can't be

resolved without the help of Natsuru."     Was that true? It seemed like a casual

remark.     "Actually..."     the class monitor began again.     "We, want

boyfriends"     ...     "Didn't you hear? We want boyfriends."     What a direct way to put it.

Unbelievable, that's all I could say. There might be girls in this class who have boyfri ends, but

these three are the only ones I doubt. Of course, this guess was only half right. It was true

that they didn't have boyfriends, but I didn't expect them to actually want one.  

    "Of course we didn't cry all night because we didn't have boyfriends."  

    Of course, I'd never heard of that before.  

    "Before this, we talked it over at the supermarket in front of the station."  

    "You guys are such a good friend."  

    "It's better than nothing, right? And then we came to the conclusion that high school girls

at least need a boyfriend."  

    " What on earth is that...?"  

    Well, it took them five minutes to come to that conclusion. "  

    I have no idea what that means.  

    " "That won't cause you any problems, will it?"  

    "It does. For girls, a boyfriend is a symbol of social status. Just like having a designer bag.

No, it's more important than that. Having a boyfriend is like bringing some moisture to the

desert of high school life." "  

    Boys think about similar things, so I understand, but it's a bit cheesy.  

    The class monitors and the others are, in a sense, people who are detached from the

world, and now they're actually wanting boyfriends. Well, the topic of boyfriends doesn't suit

them at all. Especially for the accountant, it would be more appropriate to just offer money

as a boyfriend.  

    But at that age, being interested in the opposite sex is normal, though a bit surprising.  

    " "Honestly, I just wanted to find a boyfriend because I was bored," the class monitor said.  

    I felt a little relieved. Men are good in every way, that's like you.  

    "But... even if you discuss it with me..."  

    "This is my idea," the accountant suddenly interrupted. She held a calculator in her hand,

pretending to calculate, but she wasn't actually using it. How should I put it, is this a

character design?  

    "We talked a lot at the supermarket. We have no chance of getting involved with men right

from the start. Without a middleman, it would be like having no brains."  

    "Huh..."  

    "The girls' department is just like a girls' school. There's no chance of interacting with

boys."  

    "Really...?" "  

    But the class president has connections to the underground Bishoujo Research Club, so

they should have as many male members as they want. "  

    As if seeing through my thoughts, the class president shook her head.  

    "No, no, if I abuse my connections with them, the student council will target me. Especially

today, it's best not to do anything."  

    Summer vacation is approaching, and the school is keeping an eye on things to prevent any

problems. Even the student council, led by Shizuku, will have to pay attention to the school's

opinions for a while. If they act too conspicuously, the discipline  committee will be called in

immediately.  

    "Huh... But how do we do it?"  

    "That's it." The class president's glasses gleamed, as if you'd finally gotten the point.  

    "We're not used to boys, so there's only one thing we need to do: socialize!"  

    "...Huh?"  

    "So. Socialize!"  

    she repeated. No, I knew about that, of course. I was just surprised that the class president

and the others wanted to socialize. Acting like ordinary high school girls doesn't fit their

image at all!  

    "Why?"  

    "Is it not possible?" "It's not impossible.  

    " "I sometimes want to do something like this, but there's a problem."  

    "Ha..."  

    "Girls aside, we can't invite any boys."  

    Of course. A social gathering with only girls isn't really a social gathering. It's just a

gathering. And then we keep talking until sunset.  

    The class monitor is now talking like a commentator presenting economic statistics.  

    "We are new to social gatherings and outsiders. We don't have a connection with boys. So

we thought, if we can't do it ourselves, we can just ask others for help."  

    "...And then me...?" I pointed at myself.  

    "Yes, Natsuru is also very popular among boys and knows a lot of people. Can you invite a

few boys from your acquaintances?" "  

    Perhaps the monitor was unexpectedly serious this time.  

    Of course, I still had my doubts. Why would these three people bring up such a serious

proposal as a social gathering? It sounded like something a model reader in a popular

magazine would say, the kind of thing a girl would say with her hair tied up an d her tie

slightly loosened!  

    Speaking of which, it was strange to ask me to find the boys. Of course, I knew that, but it

was limited to Class 4, Grade 2 of the boys' department. They wouldn't gather the boys

together to make prints and sell them, would they? It looked like the ac countant would do

something like that. But the current accountant slowly shook his head.  

    "There won't be any distribution methods, because if people knew the social gathering

was fake, there would be problems. Even if they really wanted to hold a large -scale sale, they

would only choose to mail or call." "  

    Very fluent explanation. I did hear that large -scale sales were popular in the neighboring

town, and it seems that this girl hadn't given up the idea of selling it! Anyway,  

    I replied first.  

    "But, I don't know many boys..."  

    "At least more than we know." It seemed that the monitor had misunderstood me as

"knowing boys."  

    "That's right, please introduce them." "  

    Why..."  

    "Does Natsuru want us to die without any luck with men?"  

    "Yes, yes! I want to find a boyfriend through the social gathering."  

    "Everything will become experience."  

    The vice -president and the accountant agreed with the monitor. It's a good thing that the

three of us are doing it together, but what about my will?  

    "You seem dissatisfied!" the monitor said.  

    "Well~ Of course..."  

    "There's nothing I can do. I have to make Natsuru a companion."  

    "...Huh?"  

    "If I make Natsuru one of the social gathering members, I think you'll be fine with that."  

    "Eh...!"  

    Wait a minute, why did it become a matter of course that I have to participate in the social

gathering too?  

    The monitor showed an expression as if it was a matter of course. The vice -president and

the accountant also nodded in agreement. These guys, couldn't they have calculated

everything from just now?  

    "Social gathering and so on...!"  

    "Oh? As one of the three most beautiful girls in the Star Tetsu group, are you afraid of

social events?"  

    "So I didn't say I was going..."  

    "Are you kidding?"  

    I wasn't kidding. I've already given my all to Sakura, so I should try my best to distance

myself from this kind of activity. If I don't protect my purity, I'd be doing Sakura a disservice.

A lot of things have been tainted lately, though.  

    "If Natsuru comes, I think it'll be a real party," the accountant said.  

    "After all, Natsuru is a beautiful girl that everyone recognizes. She's also very popular with

the boys. You'll definitely be able to hook a good man. Please come."  

    No, that's weird. I'm very popular with the boys, and you want me to go and invite the

boys? Are you planning to leave it all to me?  

    "You don't seem interested!"  

    The vice -class monitor noticed my reaction. It's amazing you know that. Although there's

probably no one who doesn't know.  

    "Of course..."  

    "That's right. Natsuru can't contain his popularity, so he wants to hide it."  

    "It can't be helped. Okay, we'll see to the other girls," the vice -class representative

decided. Doesn't he need my opinion?  

    "It's okay, it's okay. We'll bring a girl who'll surprise even Natsuru." "  

    Surprised by..."  

    "Someone who normally wouldn't attend."  

    "...Who?"  

    "Who..."  

    The vice -class representative smiled silently. This girl couldn't keep the same poker face as

the accountant. But she was surprisingly tight -lipped. She usually wouldn't confess in such a

situation.  

    But who is this girl who even surprises me? I'd be surprised if it was our homeroom

teacher, but it couldn't be her. That female teacher seems to spend most of her salary on

new games. She  

    doesn't seem like someone who would attend a social gathering, and she's a student who

surprises me... Could it be Sakura?  

    I'm a little tempted. Would the pure and beautiful Sakura participate in such a dirty

activity? But she wouldn't be someone who could be taken in by men.  

    But what should I do in that case? If Sakura's ideal man is attending this social just to

reaffirm my charm, then I should attend. And at least make her say, "Natsuru, that's

awesome!" before going home. Yeah, that's it.  

    I gradually calmed down. No! Vice -President, you're quite capable! I'll host you at Sakura's

and my wedding ceremony.  

    "...Natsuru, you've become more motivated."  

    "Not really..."  

    "Likewise, I'll leave the boys to you."  

    He patted my shoulder. Ah! That's right, I haven't been exempted from my responsibility to

convene the group. Life is indeed a life of burdening oneself with difficulties.  

    "The key is the number of people,"  

    the accountant began tapping away on a calculator.  

    "The three of us, plus Natsuru and the secret guest. That's five people in total. Please

agree on the number of boys as well."  

    This kind of calculation can be done without a calculator, isn't it? It's like not feeling at ease

when the key is unlocked. Or like Ryan's blanket. (Ryans, a character from Snoopy, whose

strongest weapon is a blanket)  

    "So, how many boys do you want?"  

    "Let's do this," the class monitor said.  

    "You do have a close relationship with the boy named Senou, don't you?"  

    Close, so close, it's more like they're the same person.  

    "That guy, bring him along too."  

    "But..."  

    "What's the matter?"  

    I replied, saying it was nothing. My female self and my male self are the same person, so

it's impossible for us to both attend the social.  

    When the class monitor looked at me with suspicion, I immediately replied. The boys will

go to Class 2, Grade 4 of the Boys' Division. Class 2, Grade 4 of the Girls' Division is a bit of a

problem anyway, so let's just forget about it.  

    "When?"  

    "Next Sunday. I'll let you know the place and time later."  

    I got it, I replied. It was more like I was forced to agree. "  

    But, suddenly such an incredible task was given to me. I felt I had to gather the members

of the social gathering. Although it is an exciting activity with the opposite sex, I look like a

girl but I am a boy!  

    Even if I complain, things will not start automatically because no one seems to listen to me.

Really, if Sakura doesn't come, I will leave immediately. I thought so.  

    That afternoon, I skipped class and naturally left early. But I didn't go home, but went to

the men's club. After all, there is only one body, and there is nothing I can do about it. For

this reason, in The girls' club was labeled the sickly pretty gir ls, and the boys' club was

labeled the latecomer. This was a disaster for me.  

    Walking into the boys' second -year class, class four, none of my classmates looked

particularly surprised. Should I say they were too aloof or too indifferent to the affairs of

others besides themselves?  

    Okay, my job was to gather the boys. I scanned the room, looking for someone who stood

out. But I couldn't decide immediately. There were plenty of gentle ones, but what would

happen if I were to attend a social gathering? If I suddenly told them we we re going to a

social gathering with the girls' club, would they all just come along? In the end, I decided to

talk to the easiest guy first.  

    "Hey, Higashida." Sure enough, this guy was the one to talk to about this kind of thing.  

    "Hey, Natsuru, is it early today?"  

    "Early... I have a little favor to ask you. Or rather, an invitation."  

    "What's the matter? Do you want me to help you create an opportunity to meet a

beautiful girl?"  

    "Pretty much. A social gathering." As expected, Higashida gave me a "what?" look.  

    "So it's a social gathering."  

    "Are you the organizer?" "  

    No, the girls in the girls' club asked me to, so I had to gather the boys."  

    I gave a rough explanation instead of details because the rumor would be processed. In

any case, the female me and the male me are two different people in the eyes of others. If

asked, I can just say "I heard it from the female Natsuru."  

    "That's great."  

    "Yeah, are you interested?"  

    "The girls in our school are of high quality. As a member of the Beautiful Girl Research

Club, I can't miss this opportunity."  

    This guy, while more of an otaku than the average person, is more obsessed with three -

dimensional girls than anime and games. He's the closest thing to an idol otaku, I guess.  

    However, his obsession with the girls in the Girls' Club is truly incredible. Like a dabohaze

(a type of fish). He's constantly snapping photos of them, desperately trying to cross the

barrier between men and women.  

    Even so, there's something to be concerned about.  

    "But it depends on the person, right?"  

    "If it's the girls from Seitetsu, I have no complaints."  

    "But it's the class presidents of Class 4, Grade 2 of the Girls' Club," I confessed. Those

conspirators, weird uncles, and misers are fine, too. Even if it's Higashida, I'm really

sympathetic.  

    But this guy doesn't mind.  

    "That's great, those cute girls."  

    "Huh...?"  

    "The class president and vice -president are pretty high -ranking, aren't they? And the

accountant, too; the scheming part is awesome,"  

    Higashida asserted. Hey~~ What's wrong with you? Are you crazy?  

    "I still kind of wish there were a member who could stir my M heart, so I wouldn't have any

complaints. As expected of Natsuru, they actually thought of inviting me." Higashida looked

like he was practically beside himself with joy. Ugh, have I become weird? Higashida  

    's obsession with girls is incredibly strong, but his standards for cuteness are very strict.

Higashida did tell me before, "A beautiful girl is..." or something like that.  

    "Are you having a fever?"  

    "No, not really. The girls in Seitetsu are very nice."  

    "Your type is so wide -ranging?"  

    " Natsuru, you might not know that cute and beautiful girls are different things. First of all,

girls are always cute. That's the truth. Among these cute girls, beautiful girls exist; that's the

pinnacle. But even so, that doesn't mean he treats cute g irls with disrespect. He treats them

equally."  

    So, I at least understand Higashida's rationale.  

    This guy thinks all girls are good. But think about it, Higashida has never once called any of

the girls in Seitetsu ugly. Even if he created a mental ranking of the highest, he wouldn't

create a lowest ranking. He's full of love for girls, though he d oesn't even need to say it. But

he's definitely better than me in that regard.  

    "I see." I finally understand.  

    Higashida said to me, arms folded.  

    "Besides, there are a lot of cute girls out there, and you know why I have to collect photos

of those beautiful girls."  

    "I feel like I'm almost convinced, never mind."  

    "So, how many girls are there in total?"  

    "Yeah, five."  

    "Who are they?"  

    "The three from earlier, the girls' Natsuru, and the mysterious figure."  

    "Oh, the girls' Natsuru is coming too." Higashida's eyes lit up with the light of desire.  

    "Then it's going to be a very competitive social gathering. Okay, let's go invite the boys."  

    We each separately approached the boys in the class. Higashida's group should be quick.  

    But contrary to my expectations, the boys didn't react much.  

    First, they gave up at the social gathering stage. There's nothing I can do about it. If I were

in a different position, I might have done the same. Second, they already had someone

scheduled, so it wasn't possible. That was understandable. After all, it was a sudden

proposal.  

    Unexpectedly, there were people who gave up just by hearing about the social gathering,

and those who refused to go just because they heard about Class 2, Grade 4. They were all

concerned when they heard I was going, but when they heard about the class  monitor, they

all said no. Apparently, the class monitor has a bad opinion of them here. It's not that I dislike

them, it's just that they're hard to deal with. Some people, worried about being caught,

refused to go. They  

    're overly worried. It seems not; it's more like they have strong risk management instincts.

If they act too conspicuously, the discipline committee will be called in immediately.

Higashida, who loves the spotlight, is the exception, after all. While  

    I admire their foresight, it's a tough situation right now; we don't have enough people.  

    "Natsuru, did you find someone?"  

    I could only shake my head at Higashida's words.  

    "No way."  

    "Anyway, Hanzawa said he'd go."  

    "Aren't they all familiar faces?"  

    "You can't force them. That leaves... Nakahama -san and Mori -san."  

    They were all classmates. Nakahama was a very hard -working student and the best

student in the class. Mori was a slightly eccentric guy who enjoyed mysteries.  

    "Nakahama can't help it. Doesn't he hate girls' topics?"  

    "Maybe he's just curious now," Higashida brushed it off lightly. Then I crossed Nakahama

off the attendance book in my mind.  

    "And then, is it Mori?" "Let  

    me ask."  

    Higashida went to talk to someone holding a book with a title like the one about a sunken

continent. Then he came back immediately. (That's Atlantis.)  

    "He said he was going."  

    "Really?"  

    "Mori doesn't look like he's actually very enthusiastic."  

    That's not the case. He's not just looking for a place to show off his useless knowledge. Do

girls like talking about mysterious topics?  

    I started counting on my fingers.  

    "So that's Higashida, Hanzawa, and Mori... three people. Not enough."  

    "Hey, what about you?" Higashida asked, looking at me incredulously. I turned my head

away, avoiding his gaze.  

    "I'm not going."  

    "You invited someone, but you're not going?"  

    "I have something to do."  

    I had to attend as a girl. I couldn't possibly attend as a boy. Last time when I was a delivery

maid, I also played the roles of both a man and a woman, but I don't want to be so tired

again. That kind of experience is enough once. Come to think of it,  this guy was there that

time.  

    "So if we don't gather more people."  

    "Our class is gone." Higashida said. Really, they are all shy boys.  

    "That's not good. It's not fair with the number of people."  

    "How about dividing into three groups?"  

    "Instead of that, Higashida, can't you call a few boys from your beautiful girl research

department?"  

    "Those people are even more timid than our class. Maid cafes, on the other hand, tend to

be very active. They tend to like things with a bit of a fantasy element."  

    What exactly are we pursuing with the social? Could it be that bringing the young magician

would be enough?  

    Higashida and I fretted over this, and then, after some reflection, realized I was really going

all that far.  

    "Teacher...is it impossible?"  

    "Natsuru, do you want to be featured in the Three Stars Newspaper?"  

    "Dogs."  

    "They want humans to attend, right?"  

    "Waste."  

    "Worse than dogs."  

    "Invisible people."  

    "Only elementary school students would forgive you."  

    Of course, Higashida shot down every suggestion I made. Invisible people might actually

exist.  

    This doesn't look good. Then the mysterious Sakura won't come. I'm starting to feel

uneasy.  

    No, on the contrary, I'm going to use this opportunity to exclude both of us. ...No way, I'm

going to attend as a girl. Huh? Wait. A simple fact swirled around in my head, then stopped

at a certain point.  

    "Higashida."  

    "What's wrong?"  

    "I'll definitely attend after all."  

    "That's fine, but what about your business?"  

    "Cancel."  

    Yes, canceling was necessary. The plan started from here. Simple and clear. Yeah, no

loopholes.  

    "I'll be there. Four of us will be just the right number."  

    "Isn't that still short for one?"  

    "Yes." "That's enough."  

    "Then let's do it..."  

    I told him with a sinister smile, and I'd let him know the time and place to wait. Higashida

rubbed his temples with his fingers. Don't worry, don't worry. This must be a spell to pray for

the weather. My life will clear up too! Go hang up the sunny do lls.

    It was sunny that day. My wish must have come true... Although I wanted to say that, I

completely forgot about the sunny dolls when I got home and fell asleep watching a comedy

show. So, what's important is my prayerful mood; things like sunny dolls ar e just urban

legends. The club members who went to the roofless stadium should immediately hire me to

work for them.  

    The gathering place is in front of the station. It's an inconspicuous place like usual, but

that's all. Changing places all the time will only get confusing. I was the first to arrive, the

latecomer who arrived before everyone else. Everyone would be s urprised.  

    "Natsuru's so early! Is it snowing?" Mori asked. He's a refreshingly handsome man whose

glasses look perfect, but his love of mysterious phenomena makes him unpopular. Stop

writing about black magic in the special skills section of your part -time job r esume.  

    "You're so lucky to be up."  

    "I usually get up early," I replied. "I just didn't go to class."  

    "That's awful." There was  

    no other way. I had to attend either the men's or women's club.  

    Not only Mori, but Higashida and Hanzawa also showed up right away. It must be the

magic of the social gathering.  

    "Where are the crucial girls?" Hanzawa looked around. There were many people gathered

like us, but there was no sign of the class leader and the others.  

    "They should be here soon," I muttered to myself. It wasn't that the girls were late, it was

that we were too early, especially me.  

    There's no point getting anxious here. Surely I should just puff out my chest and wait for

them with anticipation. Especially if Sakura is coming. They'll probably be surprised too. The

mysterious guest hasn't told me who it is yet, but I'm the only on e who can talk to Sakura.  

    "Sorry to have kept you waiting," a voice suddenly said.  

    We turned around and saw the class president and the others. They were just startled by

their sudden appearance, nothing more.  

    "Hey, hey! Class president."  

    "It's been a long time."  

    For a moment, I felt a sense of discomfiture. Ah... I see, so it's because I haven't seen guys

many times. I pretended nothing happened.  

    "Well, everyone here is from my class," I  

    said, and began to briefly introduce Higashida and the others. We met before at the class

president's sister's house, so they should be acquaintances. ………Is Mori the only one

meeting this time? By the way, is it really okay to bring people I know to th e social gathering?  

    The class monitor nodded slightly.  

    "Let's introduce ourselves in detail once we get to the store."  

    "Okay." Introducing in a place like this would only make things more chaotic.  

    "Is everyone here?"  

    "Except the special guest. But, I have something to share with you all that's unfortunate."

The class monitor said something strange.  

    "The woman, Natsuru, isn't feeling well today, so she can't come."  

    The boys let out an "Ah~~~." It was rude to show disappointment so openly.  

    "Ah—, she's definitely not feeling well."  

    "Yes, thanks to that, we found a toy... No, taking care of your health is so important. As

high school students, you can't be careless." Sure enough, he treated me like a toy. But forget

it for now; after all, I'd lied to get here.  

    This morning, I called the class monitor right after waking up. I deliberately called from a

pay phone to avoid being caught. Even if I were to be detected, it wouldn't be detected.  

    If I think about it, wouldn't using a public phone arouse even more suspicion? But the class

monitor just said, "Take care," and then added, "Let's go see you together." I declined

without even thinking. It was definitely a trap.  

    Of course, I, the girl, was absent; I, the boy, was present. There were only three men in the

men's club, which made four including me, while the other women had five, which made

four without me. So, it was a perfect match. In the classroom, I immediat ely did the math

and came up with this brilliant plan. It was really just simple addition and subtraction,  

    but it made a huge leap forward for my plan to monopolize Sakura. Higashida and the

others were just supporting roles. I should be the star.  

    "Then let's go,"  

    the class monitor said, leading the way. While the women's and men's groups usually walk

separately at times like this, and we didn't break that convention, why was I walking in front

with the class monitor?  

    "It's at the shop over there," the monitor pointed.  

    "We've already made a reservation."  

    "Izakaya?"  

    "High school students probably can't go in there... I think."  

    "That's a bit embarrassing."  

    "It's a shop run by a relative. They don't serve alcoholic beverages."  

    The monitor has so many relatives. It seems like they're all in business. Be sure to thank

him later.  

    After turning a few corners, we saw a restaurant with a homely feel.  

    "That's it."  

    "Huh? Here?"  

    I was a little surprised, and so seemed Higashida and Hanzawa. I didn't know what Mori

was thinking. Anyway, because it was very high -end, it seemed more like a place for

gatherings of directors and section chiefs of first -class companies than students .

    The sign said something in Latin letters, probably French or Russian cuisine.  

    "I'm quite confident about the taste. It's delicious."  

    "Don't worry. I told you beforehand that we can afford the price. What tricks did you use

to get that?  

    Anyway, I was surprised just to hear it. Yesterday, to be on the safe side, all the comics and

games were sold to a second -hand store. If that's not enough, I'll have to sell myself.  

    Higashida and the others were a little relieved. The other girls didn't react. Maybe they

had already heard about it.  

    The squad leader opened the door. The bell rang. Although I wanted to ask if the store was

not open yet, it seemed that it was opened especially for us. The inside of the store was the

opposite of what I expected. It was a place that was a fusion of Ja panese and Western styles.

It matched the color of the dark wood very well, and what the vice said was a little more

Japanese.  

    We were taken inside. I don't know what the squad leader and the people in the store

were talking about. Since they are relatives, the man who looks like the boss and chef should

be a relative of the squad leader. Be sure to thank him later.  

    "Please use the private room here. "Looking towards the room in question, it was a tatami

room with seats that dug down.  

    Just sit down... it seems impossible. Boys and girls have to sit face to face. Changing seats

can only be done after the atmosphere becomes lively.  

    I sat at the edge, and the seat opposite me was empty. Why did I choose this place? Of

course, it was because Sakura would sit here. Then the two of us spent a happy time.  

    "Just order your own drinks, even though they only have non -alcoholic drinks." The class

monitor said so. It seemed that she had to do this on behalf of the waiter. I will change with

her later.  

    We looked at the menu and each ordered our own things. I chose oolong tea.  

    After everyone was seated, the class monitor immediately said, "Then before the drinks

are served, at least introduce yourselves. You seem very familiar. Is this person really at the

first social gathering?  

    "Let's start with the male Natsuru."  

    "Me?"  

    "Yes." Everyone looked at me with a natural expression. Indeed, I was sitting at the

innermost seat, so it was probably natural for me to start. There is really no other way, so

let's just solve it simply.  

    "Um, I'm Natsuru from Class 2, Grade 4. Hello everyone  

    ." That was it. What else could I say? Besides, everyone here knows me, didn't they?  

    "..." Ah, silence. Sure enough, I should have said something more interesting. Maybe

something about a doll that spoke in Shizuku's voice. Now the atmosphere was awkward.  

    The self -introductions continued, but they only mentioned my class and my name. The

vice-president seemed to have a hard time speaking, the only other person being the

accountant. This girl's talkativeness plummeted if it wasn't about money.  

    "Hey, then, let's just leave it at that..."  

    "Everyone gave me a look that said, "You idiot, save the situation!" What? Is it my fault?  

    Have I mastered the art of not reading the atmosphere and ignoring awkward silences?

You've all said the same thing before!  

    There was nothing I could do. I had to say something, but I couldn't find a topic. It was so

frustrating. Even though I had experience with things I couldn't say to ordinary people, I

couldn't say it to them anyway. After all, if I told them I could tr ansform into a woman and

talk to a doll, they wouldn't believe me.  

    "Oh, by the way, isn't there another girl coming too?"  

    I forced the conversation to the class monitor. First, we had to find a way to deal with this

heavy atmosphere. It was also true that one seat was empty.  

    "She should be here soon," she checked her watch  

    . "Should I pick her up?"  

    "Then I'll..."  

    Just then, a text message rang. It was the class monitor. It had Tiger Band's "Give Me a

Woman and Color" as its ringtone. What an oldie.  

    The class monitor pressed the call button, exchanged a few words, told her the party

venue, and hung up.  

    "It's today's guest," she said, shutting off the phone.  

    "She said she'll be right here."  

    "Who is the guest?" Higashida asked innocently.  

    "It's still a secret until she arrives."  

    "Someone beautiful?"  

    "I promise."  

    Of course she's beautiful, because it's Sakura.  

    Higashida, Hanzawa, and Mori all looked excited. I was also very much looking forward to

it. But I absolutely won't leave the guest to you guys. That person is mine. If anything

happens, we'll just leave together and have some fun. We've already made p lans.  

    The doorbell rang.  

    "Looks like she's coming," the class monitor whispered.  

    Finally, Sakura is about to make her appearance. Since I've made Sakura my mental fiancé,

of course I'm doing my best to welcome her.  

    The door to the room opened. I went to greet her with a smile on my face —and then

froze. In came the student council president, Shizuku Sangou.  

    "Sorry for being late," Shizuku apologized and walked into the room.  

    "I was a little delayed by school matters, but it's okay now."  

    Wouldn't it be better to just stay in school? I complained to the class monitor in a low

voice.  

    "Hey, why is it that woman?"  

    "Huh? She was the president from the start."  

    "What's wrong with Sakura?"  

    "Did I even mention she was coming?"  

    I began searching my memory. After hearing that, I realized Sakura hadn't mentioned

anything about coming. Was I too sure it was Sakura?  

    "But shouldn't Sakura be the one to come?"  

    "That person wouldn't have any interest in the social."  

    "Wasn't the president here too?"  

    "She immediately said she was going after I mentioned Natsuru's name."  

    Was that me, the man, or me, the woman? It's the same on either side, but which one is

it?

    No, even if that's the case, this shouldn't be Shizuku. Someone as beautiful as Sakura...

someone like that doesn't exist on Earth. At least someone a little more attractive than

Sakura should be the one to come. Isn't there, well... well, there should  be one if I look for it.  

    Ignoring the screams in my head, Shizuku glanced at the seat. Higashida and the others

looked dazed and idiotic. This was the first time they'd looked at Shizuku so closely.  

    Then, without stopping, the woman walked over to the seat directly across from me and

sat down.  

    "This is the only one left empty,"  

    the class monitor said, looking at my irritated face. "Go to hell," I see. This seat was clearly

left empty for Sakura. Yet, Shizuku took it.  

    The food arrived: fried chicken, fries, salad, and the like. It felt like an izakaya. The portions

were generous, perfect for students.  

    With Shizuku seated, the number of men and women finally equalized. The social

gathering was about to get down to business.  

    But the tension only grew. The mystery guest turned out to be the student council

president of our Seitetsu School. Someone with the guts to confront such a prominent figure

would actually attend such a ridiculous event. I never imagined it. Why are yo u here? Are you

even less able to absorb the atmosphere than I am?  

    Shizuku stared at me, and I stared back... No way. She stared at the class monitor next to

her as if she were the murderer of her father. But Higashida and the others, in turn, focused

their gazes on Shizuku. This seating arrangement is strange. I shou ld be the one furthest

away from Shizuku.  

    "Thank you so much for coming here today," the class monitor thanked Shizuku.  

    "No, I just wanted to come."  

    Higashida and the others started to make a noise. It's unthinkable for Shizuku to say

something like "I want to socialize.  

    " "At least start talking," the class monitor said, like a host.  

    But the atmosphere still didn't get any more lively. Shouldn't we just start talking after

saying "Let's talk"? How do experienced socializers around the world seize opportunities?  

    But Shizuku was the reason. Everyone was watching her every move. The people here

were just like ordinary citizens afraid of hooligans. This guy is essentially a gangster. I was

wondering what to do when Higashida spoke up.  

    "Well, tell me about your interests first."  

    It made sense, though it felt a little late. Is that really okay? Higashida.  

    Then a boy sitting next to me glanced at me. Ah! So, interests should be mentioned along

with the self -introduction. Not bad. I know the order in which things should be done at a

socializing party.  

    Once their interests are revealed, the atmosphere should gradually heat up. First up is

Higashida.  

    "My hobby is taking photos, portraits and the like."  

    I can proudly say everyone here knows the truth. The person being photographed is a

beautiful girl, so it's obviously candid photography. If the police catch you, no one will defend

you. I'll actively testify that he did it.  

    Next up is Hanzawa.  

    "Eh—. My hobbies are movie appreciation and gaming."  

    While that's true, it's a bit of a twist. You're talking about anime and gal games, right?

Wouldn't it be enough to just say you're good at baseball?  

    Then there's Mori. I've never heard this man introduce himself like this before. Hanzawa,

Higashida, and I stared at him.  

    "My hobby is... fortune -telling." The vice -class monitor's eyes lit up.  

    "Is it using blood type or something?"  

    "That's a little different."  

    Of course, the boys knew what it was. It was black magic. He was conducting some sort of

curse experiment at home. There were also rumors of bottles of chicken blood.  

    "So, it's a constellation?"  

    "Something like that,"  

    the vice -class monitor said, suggesting it would be better to say something more

obnoxious. Oh no, Mori's been left out. Honestly, it seems like I'd be more appealing to the

vice-class monitor.  

    Then it's the accountant. What a strange order. It started with Higashida, who I mentioned

at the beginning, and now he's sitting across from me. Well, maybe that's just fine when

introducing yourself.  

    "My hobby is... calculating?"  

    the accountant said, nodding in agreement. What's that?  

    "My hobby is rating things, I guess."  

    Again, he wasn't lying, but it was a lot more interesting. Counting money with a calculator

one-handed is your forte, right? And then there's selling those unidentified scrolls and pots.  

    The accountant's expression didn't change. While different from Shizuku, he's still quite

capable.  

    "Are you good at math?" it was Mori who asked.  

    "I'm good at mental arithmetic. Things like change and interest."  

    The accountant said something different from before, but Mori seemed fine with that. He

looked pleased. I asked Higashida.  

    "Hey, does Mori like that type?"  

    "Don't you know? He seems to like the silent and calm type. As long as it's very quiet, even

a Maitreya statue can be married."  

    "That's amazing. What will it look like then?"  

    Although Shizuku doesn't have the same compassion as Maitreya. She is the reincarnation

of Capone (the godfather of the mafia).  

    And then there's the vice -class representative. This girl is very good at talking.  

    "My interests are tennis, basketball, ballet, baseball, swimming, running, bagel, hockey,

table tennis, taking the dog for a walk, and cute girls."  

    She announced proudly. But there seemed to be something strange mixed in at the end.  

    "You like baseball?" Hanzawa said. This guy likes sports anyway, because he plays baseball.  

    "Yeah, I like it."  

    "What's your position?"  

    "Anything. Pitcher, catcher, infielder, outfielder, umpire —everything." Such a bold

statement. Later, when I asked, it turned out to be just one person batting and running after

throwing the ball. Apparently, he'd even managed to turn the game around o n his own.

Being this deft was practically an art form.  

    Hanzawa kept talking to her, even then.  

    "Not just baseball, I've done everything."  

    "So, how about we run a marathon together next time?"  

    "Where? The Imperial Palace?"  

    "No, watch anime non -stop for a month."  

    What kind of marathon is that? Sure, that's a marathon. But wouldn't that kill me?  

    The vice -class representative blinked. I had a feeling she'd agree. Hanzawa's status in my

heart skyrocketed.  

    Surprisingly, the vice -class representative took a breath and said, "For Indian TV and

movies, just watch non -stop." With that, they began to grow closer, and the pressure on me

eased again.  

    And then there was the class representative. What would become of him?  

    "My hobby is... watching the news."  

    I arrived unnoticed. I'm not familiar with social gatherings, but I doubt anyone would say

something like that without being targeted.  

    "NHK?"  

    Higashida asked. I was thinking the same thing.  

    "All of it. I'm always recording the CS broadcasts, and I've also burned all the commercial

broadcasts on my computer onto CDs. That would be perfect.  

    " What perfect? "  

    Well, what do you use it for?"  

    "For love, events, or something." The class monitor was speaking seriously, so I couldn't

answer casually.  

    "...like my photos, right?"  

    "They're different from photos; they move."  

    "You can keep photos anytime."  

    "You can keep anime if you want."  

    Higashida gave me a puzzled look. But, fundamentally, your collection of beautiful girl

photos is the same. How about just becoming a couple?  

    A subtle tension rippled between the class monitor and Higashida. Since they both knew

each other, there was no way they could be at odds. It seemed there were a lot of things we

couldn't compromise on.  

    We've already talked about everyone's interests. That's the end of it... I wanted to say it,

but I couldn't. From here on, the tension began to mount.  

    "So... President," the class monitor urged. Shizuku's expression softened slightly.  

    "Even if they heard about my hobbies, it wouldn't be fun."  

    "Is this everyone's first time? It's bound to be interesting."  

    "Really? Hobbies... probably comedians, right?"  

    The boys and girls were extremely surprised. I was also taken aback when I first heard it. It

completely contradicted her image, and everyone thought so.  

    "Really? comedians?" Hanzawa bravely asked. I also supported this suspicion. Everything

Shizuku said should be doubted.  

    "Surprising?"  

    "Hey... I think the president should have more adult interests."  

    "Really."  

    "No, that's not the case. I think it's fantastic." Hey, Hanzawa, what do you think?  

    He wasn't praising Shizuku's comedians, nor was he disparaging them, just saying, "It's

very interesting." He said things like, "It's a shame I can't hear comedians like Shinsei

(comedians), but that's too technical and I have no idea."  

    Hanzawa asked again.  

    "Is comedian your only interest? Student council and stuff..."  

    "That doesn't count as an interest, does it?"  

    "Well, then, are you interested in boys?"  

    Uh-oh.

    Higashida and Mori's faces lit up. This was certainly something they could do. In response,

I don't know why I started getting nervous.  

    "Ah, you want to hear about that?"  

    "Hey, hey hey... Of course. A president admired by all the boys? What kind of boys do you

like? Of course I want to know."  

    "It's an honor to be admired,"  

    she replied, even though she didn't seem to feel honored. Yeah! Social etiquette.  

    "Hmm..."  

    Boys and girls alike were all staring intently at Shizuku's next words, making sure not to

miss anything. "Why hasn't the war started yet?" I was the only one thinking that.  

    "...Probably the type who doesn't dress up much."  

    There was no reply worth criticizing. An air of reassurance flowed.  

    "You like the unassuming type?"  

    "That's not the same as being unassuming. If I had to say, the guy I like is the type I like.

Isn't that boring?"  

    "Really."  

    "So, I like people who don't show off, and I don't like those who are self -absorbed." Why

are all those guys' eyes sparkling?  

    "I'm not self -absorbed."  

    "Me neither."  

    "Me neither."  

    Higashida and Hanzawa Mori said this almost simultaneously. While these guys aren't self -

absorbed, it's more like they don't have even the slightest doubt about their interests. That's

also a form of self -absorption.  

    "It's good to be conservative. But don't be too self -deprecating. Showing confidence will

help you on the test," Shizuku lectured the boys, who hadn't had any second thoughts about

what she was saying.  

    "But has the president ever thought 'that's wonderful' about a certain guy?"  

    Higashida pressed on. This is a perfect opportunity to expand the research on the Beautiful

Girls Research Club. And without my help.  

    "Everyone in our boys' club has their own unique personality, which I think is great."  

    "So, are there any boys you'd like to date?"  

    "Yes."  

    I swallowed, unnoticed. Shizuku and I didn't make eye contact, but our scents were

palpable.  

    "Wouldn't it be even better if there were?"  

    "For news purposes, it would be even better."  

    "Well, yes," Shizuku said with a chuckle.  

    Not only the boys, but the girls too let out a moaning sound.  

    Shizuku from Seitetsu Academy is a being from another dimension. Since she's right in

front of us, I don't know how to describe it. It's not just kind or beautiful, but rather, she

exudes an aura of something more than human. The best way to describe i t is to use the

words of someone who "got scolded by Shizuku Sangou" about the fan club. There are also

those who wish the president would spit on us from the rooftop.  

    I finally understand that perversion knows no bounds. After all, there are boys who like

Shizuku, and there are certainly those who don't  

    . She's a bug catcher, so why would someone go out of their way to get caught in the

forest? But the fact that she'd actually said she wanted to date a boy is certainly surprising.  

    Higashida leaned forward and pressed, "Well, who is that?"  

    "Who is it?"  

    "Is it the boy we know?"  

    "You guys might know."  

    Higashida's excitement reached its peak, shouting "Ooooh!" Hanzawa Mori also looked at

Shizuku, putting the girl in front of him aside.  

    Then, of course, the class representative and the others were also staring at Shizuku.

Unlike the boys, they were just out of pure curiosity. I couldn't tell if this was a social

gathering or Shizuku's presentation. And I was already straining my muscl es just wiping the

sweat off my face. A hand towel would have saved me, but I felt like my clothes were sticking

to me.  

    Everything Shizuku said seemed directed at me. I wasn't proud at all, but my heart still

fluttered. Given this woman's attitude, it wouldn't be surprising if she said, "That person is

Natsuru." Of course,  

    this was just Shizuku picking on me. S must be enjoying seeing me in pain. Why would she

care so much about me, a boy who's always loved Sakura? She's definitely a messenger from

hell sent to disrupt Japan's sexual mores.  

    "Um, could you at least reveal your name?" Higashida pleaded. How unbecoming! You

should be more assertive. I don't have the right to say that about others, though.  

    "What should I do? I'm a little embarrassed," Shizuku said, her tone devoid of any hint of

shyness.  

    "Even the first word is fine."  

    "So you want to know?"  

    I wanted to know. Higashida, the squad leader, and the others also began to stir. This

wasn't going to go well, anyway... My body sensed the approaching danger. My heart began

to beat violently.  

    This woman before me certainly didn't care about my life or death. She must have thought

I'd have a heart attack and die. This demon. If I don't do something, if I don't stop this

monster, my life will be in danger.  

    The moment Shizuku opened her mouth, I did my best to interrupt.  

    "Well, well, I haven't mentioned my interests yet," I said with a silly smile.  

    "I'm almost there." I thought it was a good job. It was true that I hadn't mentioned my

interests, and it would have hindered Shizuku. Simply blocking Shizuku from speaking was

enough to win a Nobel Prize. But the fools all looked at me with reproachfu l eyes.  

    "Natsuru, you're so traditional," Higashida said casually beside me.  

    "Both black hair and long hair are pretty ordinary, right? At least brown hair!"  

    "..."

    "And he's older than you, it's like he's talking about the president!" Higashida laughed.  

    This man had always known about my longing for Sakura and hadn't thought about

Shizuku at all.  

    "Higashida..."  

    "Hmm?"  

    "It's great that you're an idiot." After telling him that, I finally lay down on the table.  

    The social continued after that, though I barely remember anything. They were probably

talking about something insignificant. The vice -class monitor seemed to say something like,

"Let's bet on Natsuru getting up in a few minutes."  

    "It's almost closing time," the class monitor said. I finally returned to myself.  

    "We're closing the shop first and reopening later because we need to prepare for dinner."

It's over. What a blessing it is to be able to go home. Thank God.  

    We left the private room and walked out of the restaurant. Finally, the squad leader and I

thanked the owner. But he said, "You're welcome, but you don't look well." I think so. If you

knew what had happened, you'd definitely think it was unavoidable. It

    was still bright outside. It was already dark, so it wouldn't be surprising. Why not just wait

until dark ?  

    The vice -squad leader urged us to go somewhere else, looking so energetic.  

    "Natsuru, I'm planning to come too. What do you think?" Hanzawa asked.  

    "I'll forget it..."  

    "Higashida and Mori also said they were going."  

    "I can't help it. I'm tired."  

    Hanzawa didn't force me to go, which was a huge help.  

    The squad leader and the others left together, completely unconcerned about my absence.

Whether it was karaoke or a love hotel, we could go wherever we wanted.  

    I sighed deeply. "Huh..."  

    "Sighing?"  

    "Wow!"  

    I almost jumped in surprise. Shizuku was standing right behind me. She looked at me

without hesitation.  

    "If you sigh all the time, happiness will slip away."  

    "It slipped away a long time ago." And she had no intention of going home at all. You guys

have endless managers, don't you?  

    "Aren't you going with them?"  

    "I thought the president would definitely go."  

    "Because I have Natsuru." She said something so outrageous again. I want to be with

Sakura. "  

    Hey, president..."  

    "What?"  

    "Why do you do that?"  

    "What?"  

    "Um, with your feet..." Shizuku replied immediately, as if it was a matter of course,

"Because you look happy."  

    "Happy, of course! My heart almost stopped."  

    "You're lying, you look so comfortable," she said, as if seeing through me. It's so frustrating

not to be able to deny it. No, it's the way that movement is so ingenious. Only Shizuku could

do it.  

    "My boyfriend's a pervert."  

    "Pervert..."  

    "Why feet?"  

    "The president used his feet, right?"  

    "Would it be better to use hands next time?"  

    "..."

    Queju. No, there's no way I can win an argument with her. I might as well end this topic. I

can't stand it if she really uses hands.  

    "Why did you come to the social?"  

    "Because I heard you were going."  

    "Isn't it okay with me?"  

    "Because the other girls are looking at me, it's a little..."  

    "Isn't it the same for everyone?" I have no idea how this guy thinks. Is he worried about

something, or am I mistaken? Yeah, never mind. Anyway, for me, without Sakura, it means

nothing. What Shizuku did was just a simple accident. Just consider it as protecting my purity.  

    I walked towards my home.  

    "Want to go home?"  

    "I'm tired."  

    "Then I'll take you there." Shizuku and I walked side by side.  

    "Hey, what's going on?"  

    "So I'm taking you home."  

    "Is that a girl's thing?"  

    "Natsuru, are you going to take me home?"  

    "...No." I don't know where this guy lives, and I don't know what's going to happen to him.

Like, he'll be eaten or sold.  

    "So I'm taking you home," Shizuku urged. "You've had a great time today."  

    If I even objected to that, I felt like I was being thrown into a cauldron of hell and

screaming. On the way home, I kept thinking about this.  

Translator's Notes

This chapter was translated from the Chinese translation of the original Japanese text.

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