Chapter 52

Book 5




"You there. You're not allowed to take photos within the campus ground. Could you show us your entry pass?"

　No, this ain't it.

"The stall over there, please don't set price tags above what the committee has ruled on."
"Err... Kyouko-san, I get that patrolling is part of our job... but maybe we can have some fun while we're at it..."
"Is that so... my apologies, I could not overlook those violations out of habit. It's an event sponsored by Akimiya, hence I can't afford to make it less than perfect under my watch..."
"Hmm, well, I guess the guests are all wearing fancy clothing. But don't the real bigwigs only come on the exhibition match day, tomorrow? You gotta loosen up."

　Hello there it's me Yuuki on a school festival date with Kyouko-san... or so I was hoping, but in reality, we were patrolling in our capacity as committee members.
　Well... I did get an inkling this was how it'd turn out though, yeah?

"Yes indeed, I should do just that. Speaking of which, our students apparently used neighboring festivals as a reference to choose what stalls to put up, one of them being a target practice perusing blank magic shell at Device Engineering Lab. They let you operate custom made devices, which has piqued my curiosity."
"Oh, that sounds interesting! Man... they got their mind in the right set for sure, there gotta be ways to use devices in a more playful manner, yup."

　Yes yes, next you're telling me they're gonna develop VR games, right? The indoor VR shooting practice I got to test back then was already game-like and all.

"But man, that's some crowd alright... we usually take classes in the sparsely populated main building, yeah? You don't see this many people all at once in this campus often."
"True, at most small crowds would form in the canteen or school store. Ah, also during ceremonies and such."
"And here you've got a student who couldn't attend the opening ceremony."
"...Right of course. There has been some rumors regarding your suspension among my gossip-loving friends... did you really fight Yanase-kun without doing your due diligence on school regulations?"
"Yes. I didn't think it would turn into such a big deal though... What's your opinion on this matter, Kyouko-san?"
"...Well, ordinarily, corporations are incapable of making a move on Scwhein School students. Some groups might have made an attempt to solicit you but it was limited to them sending their children and have them make contact with you. But the matter of a certain corporation having successfully poached Yanase-san is a comparatively hot topic between top people in the circle. The majority of students here do not set their career paths until after graduation, thus securing a talented student before that point has set a new precedent."
"And here we have a future CEO getting along real well with me as of late."
"Fufu yes, let us put it that way. But... I'm seeing a surprising amount of late bloomers around. Men should be the ones sending invitations in these kinds of events."
"Hee, so you watch a lot of that kind of dramas huh?"
"Wha... yes, I do! I am partial to that type of genre!"

　Kyouko-san seems to have loosened up more than usual too. She usually wouldn't let that kind of slip-up.
　Hahaha... okay, I might have teased her a bit too much.
　We made our way to the Device Engineering Lab all while I did my best to soothe Kyouko-san.

"Oh, that's quite a crowd, they've really turned their lab into a target shooting practice site."
"Truly. It must have been originally sparse of miscellaneous objects unlike other lab rooms. Now then... it looks like we can wait our turn once we put our names on this list."
"That's a lot of names. Don't they have to give the revenue to the campus?"
"Part of it yes, but to my understanding, members must consult their advisor about excess profit... They have some nice equipment in here. I might want to ask if I could join this lab next year."

　She's really taken with this lab it seems.
　Her eyes are sparkling if I'm not imagining it though she looks more interested with the custom devices over the shooting practice.
　As I waited in excitement while listening to the cheers and shooting sounds in the background, Kyouko-san's turn finally came up.

"I see... a simple frame customized to be even smaller. My, I'm delighted to find an USH-made reactor inside."
"Oh if it isn't Kyouko-sama! Not only are USH devices highly customizable, they're easy to work with. They can even be made into entertainment-focused devices like these!"
"Fufu, I agree. I see... perhaps we should put more focus in entertainment sector..." 

　Hm. I couldn't keep up with their conversation midway through, but it's fine as long as Kyouko-san is having fun.
　Then, as my turn in queue approached, I overheard a voice.

"Hee! Earth sure got some interesting toys! I rather play with a sword though. Hmm, guess I'll look for the next one."

　There are many children coming to this festival but I couldn't help but turn to that somewhat off-sounding line, to see.
　A girl with aqua-like blond hair. Her youthful facial features look somewhere between junior and middle schooler age.
　...Yep. It's Rio-chan alright.

"Kyouko-san, something came up! Can you wait for me here!?"
"Eh? I don't mind. I believe I will be staying here for a while."
"My bad! Later!"

　I parted with Kyouko-san to chase after Rio-chan.
　She smoothly weaved her way past crowds. I can't catch up to her for some reason.
　Who is she anyway. I found out that she wasn't normal during summer break. I wanna find out.
　...No. I want to show her how I am now. Everything... began with my defeat in her hand.

"Why can't I catch up... ah dangit, how are there so many people around!"

　By the time I realized, I was in the parking lot for handy scooter-like vehicles behind the building I usually don't frequent.
　Weird, I'm sure I had her back locked on, yet I can't see here anywhere...

"...Is she some sort of phantom..."
"Yep, phantom girl Rio-chan made her entrance!"
"Uwah!?"

　But then, someone... I mean, Rio-chan suddenly hugged me from behind and almost tripped me up. But I immediately turned around and--

"Alright, I got you!"
"You got me~."

　Caught her.
　Huh? We might have exchanged blades in our match but I never got to her, did I? Have I vindicated myself then?

"Lemme down~ lemme down~"
"Uwaah, you're so small even I can lift you up. Now that I know you're not your average girl, will you promise you won't be up and gone if I do?"
"I won't, I won't! What if someone saw me, lemme down~."

　I put Rio-chan down as she cutely flailed her legs around and sure enough, she didn't try to run away and leaned on an lamppost. Ah, it's gonna light up soon, time-wise.

"Who are you really? I know that you can erase memories from multiple people, falsify data and even trespass secured places easily."
"Hnn... you found me out faster than I thought, Yuu-chan. And here we still haven't even made a real attempt to sniff you out."

　She made a smile not befitting of her age as she said that.

"Quit it with the smokescreen. You look like you belong to some sort of organization, but I personally don't want to antagonize you. That's to say, I'm not gonna probe deeper, just don't do anything illegal."
"Nn. Well, it's illegal sure but it's my rule to never be evil... besides, we really are bystanders this time around, I swear."  
"...This time around, huh. So you're telling me something is gonna crop up?"
"Well, I can't say no to that... Yuu-chan, have you been enjoying your campus life here?"
"Where did that come from? Well, I do have fun though it's also suffocating at times."
"I bet... but this place is really quite a nice cushion between Earth and Grandia. That's why, I don't want anything bad happens to this school. Yet, I get where the perpetrators are coming from. Hence, I choose to be a watchful bystander."

　I kinda get the feeling that what she's saying is not all smoke and mirrors, so I keep listening to her.

"...Akimiya can be trusted to a degree. But they're monopolizing too much power on their own. I only believe what my eyes see for myself... This school is decent enough for Yuu-chan to enjoy huh."
"Well, I also think Akimiya group as a whole is an anomaly. But this school seems alright to me. The Chairwoman herself too."
"Oh okay. Guess, I'll stay a bystander then. Yuu-chan, we won't make a move if trouble comes knocking. Can't you do something about it?"
"Who knows? I won't be here tomorrow, see."
"Eeh! I'm worried~!"
"Me too~! So please keep it safe~!"
"Nope~! ...You have enough faith in this place to still go even after this knowledge I see. I only believe what I see myself. I'm relieved to hear those words from your mouth."
"There you go again acting unlike your age. Just how old are you really?"
"Fufu, who knows? I want to think I'm ten, but maybe not."

　That was when the surrounding light changed from the pale sky color to orange and the lamppost got switched on. 
　I shifted my line of sight at the lamp for a mere moment which was enough for Rio-chan to disappear by the time I looked back.

"...Yeah, I gotta report this."

　...Oh yeah, I haven't seen Chairwoman in person since my suspension.


<TLN: Catch the latest updates and edits at Sousetsuka .com >


　As I knocked the door to the ever solemn-vibed Chairwoman office I hadn't visited for a while, the same as ever cold voice greeted me, 'Come in'.

"Excuse me."
"Welcome, Yuuki-kun. It's really quite been a while. I thought you had grown to dislike me."

　Chairwoman and her usual pig-shaped half mask was polishing a pig statue with a peculiar face... Where did she even get that thing from? Does that pig exist in this world too...?

"Students don't normally come to the chairwoman office unless they're summoned. Today is an exception though."
"...You're not here to greet me or to talk about tomorrow... are you."
"...Yes. I need to report something, Chairwoman."

　I told her everything. All the info I have on Rio-chan, starting from my defeat and my reunion with her. And the fact that there might be trouble brewing.

"Unknown affiliation... She has the power to not only erase her trace from latest security cameras but even people memories... I can't say I don't have a candidate in mind. So you're saying that girl was confident something would happen tomorrow."
"...Yes. She doesn't seem to have any ill will toward this school, and neither does it look like she's plotting something. But... I get the impression that she's not exactly trusting either."

　Chairwoman laughed like she had resigned herself--

"I share that sentiment, just so you know?"
"You're just gonna admit it huh."
"I mean, am I not an object of fear? To you as well."
"I won't deny that, but I find you affable more than anything."

　I will admit but not entirely. For some reason, I just know this person will never side with evil.
　Well, that might very well be because she's helped me out so much.
　Also, she's a super beaut under that mask.

"...The way you voice yourself so honestly is your good point but you should refrain from saying that to women. Had I been a woman with a certain fetish, I might get overcome with the urge to make you mine."
"My bad. I was kinda at my wit's end there."
"However... a trouble brewing is it. I do not believe the attempt to poach Kai-kun has any relation to him gaining that power... but it's evident that someone had purposely made it so that it would be discovered. This someone had also predicted that I would adopt this solution beforehand. Yuuki-kun, please do your role as planned tomorrow but if something comes up... let's see, assume your role as my Demon Sword, Dainself once again. We'll use the opportunity to show off her prowess to both Earth and Grandia."
"Understood. We're announcing Yuki is Dainsleif right. But well, I'll try to keep that a secret if possible."
"Yes. That will be Plan B. Even if that fact becomes known, the only thing that will change is my right hand's codename, to Yuki."
"And, all is well if nothing happens."
"And yet, it's a certainty in all likelihood. I will strengthen the security on the day. I shall have a few of my cards on standby as well. Please don't forget that you're the Joker in my deck."
"...Got it."

　I'm sure she's keeping a whole lotsa stuff from me.
　But not like I'd get it even if she told me anyway. Might as well just put my faith in her. The fact that she's willing to listen and laying out the countermeasures is good enough for me.
　That's why, please don't put that apologetic look on your face. I can tell even under that mask.

"...You must have that mask on because your face is easy to read."
"...I'm starting to think that I should wear a full face one as of late."
"I'd hate that..."

　After leaving, I made way through the less crowded building as my impression of Chairwoman improved just a little bit.

"Oh crap, wonder if Kyouko-san's still there..."

　Uwaa, it's already seven... I'm in for a scolding for sure.



"--No, this won't do. This trades bigger recoil for elasticity. There's no need for excess performance in a game meant for entertainment."
"Right... I thought it was a good idea but our guests today left a lot of feedback about how difficult it is..."
"...I loathe to say this, but perhaps you could replace the barrel with Akimiya-made one instead. I believe theirs are installed with a mana dispersion functionality to increase control, correct?"
"A-are you sure!? Then..."

　Why are you not only still deep in discussion but even participate in the development when it's already nightfall with no guest around already? Kyouko-san.

"Kyouko-san, sorry! I ran way late!"
"My, Yuuki-kun.... Yes you did. I was waiting for you."
"Don't tell me you forgot...?"
"...Yes. Doesn't that make the two of us? That business of yours seemed urgent... Was it something to do with your outing tomorrow perhaps?"
"Yup, that's about the gist of it. But it didn't change the fact that I left you by yourself."
"Fufu, how proper of you. Yes, I admit I had gotten myself too absorbed I forgot all about you... it is time to return home indeed. My father should be coming soon--"

　Her smart term in her pocket rang.

"Speak of the devil. Fufu, I must say that my father should find it a shame to miss you tomorrow. Well then, everybody and Yuuki-kun. I must take my leave. Adieu."
"Yes, I'll be back the day after tomorrow. Good night."

　After seeing her off, I hurried my way back home to prepare for tomorrow.





　...I don't feel particularly nervous about my upcoming match with Kai nor am I that high-strung about Rio-chan's warning.
　Rio-chan said it's because I believe in Akimiya, but in reality, it's because I'll be there. Also because Chairwoman is moving after I told her.
　But if there's one thing that turns my stomach upside down, it's gotta be--

"Yuki, have a look at this. You must wear this dress for tomorrow aside from the combat suit for the match. Come now, I shall teach you how to spray perfume correctly while we still have an ample time..."
"I-I'm good! Just let me wear normal clothes for goodness sake."
"You cannot! Haven't you agreed to try more outfits out in that form? And besides, aren't you actually wearing that suit, that flesh-colored leotard under your clothes in reality?"
"It's embarrassing either way! And aren't those women underwear?!"
"I had all these bought! Now, let me fix your hair..."
"I'm going with a long straight hair! I won't be making my hair or anything!"
"Tens of thousands of people will be watching you tomorrow, don't you realize!?"
"Noo! Don't remind me!"

　Yep, it's purely out of embarrassment.
　I mean... I'm gonna crossdress in front of so many people, you know? That's way embarrassing!
　Why didn't that realization ever hit me.
　Anyway, I've been running away from Ixia-san sliding up to me with underwear in her hands as I tried my best to look away from the needlessly realistic human body-look of the Yuki suit I'm wearing.

"My goodness what do I do with you... is this what they call a rebellious phase I wonder... you will be heading to your campus in that form tomorrow, make sure you're dressed up right, you hear me? Here I was thinking I could show you the way..."
"No need. I should be fine on my own, I think..."
"Don't forget your perfume and make sure you comb your hair."
"I-I get it, I get it... I'll be fine I'm telling you."
"Mwu... Very well then, we will be walking to your campus together tomorrow. I'm one of the concerned party tomorrow after all."
"Got it."

　Man, can't believe how much she acted like a mother... did she think of me in this form like her daughter I wonder.
　Maybe she really had a daughter-like someone back then...?



"A, aa... Aa... Test, test."

　The following morning. After checking up my transformed voice, I left home early before the school festival's starting signal was shot.

"Ixia-san, let us go."
"Oh? You haven't forgotten your perfume and combed your hair? Maybe I should braid it a little?"
"No, I will pass on that."
"Mwu... you're in Yuki mode already. But today, you have some time to yourself so we can be together right? The stalls may not be open yet, but I'm sure there is fun to be had strolling around the school buildings."
"You... think so. Hearing that makes me happy."
"...Ey."
"Uwaa."

　A hug out of nowhere. I couldn't dodge that.

"...Fufu, what a novel experience. You're acting like a different person yet I know you're Yuuki. I can tell because I'm your parent."
"...I'm sure, that's the reason."
"Fufu, it is. Now, let's go. I only ask you to not get hurt, okay? Supposedly, you are to fight with everything you have today. If you were to get hurt... I cannot promise I will stand idly."
"You'll be watching in the authorized person-only seat right? Please be sure you do not call out 'my' name."
"Yes, of course."

　And thus, the fateful day arrived on the second day of the school festival.
　Not like it's anything grand though, I'm not particularly on edge.

"But you really do look alike with Chairwoman... although, perhaps not quite as thoroughly."
"Yes well, Chairwoman did mention that she modeled the face after herself with some arrangements..."
"I see... Fumu, try looking up... I see, you do look a bit like me as well."
"D-do I really?"
"Yes. I find some similarities with your nose and contour. That does explain why I feel a weird sense of affinity."
"I see... alright, first let's head for Chairwoman's office."



　Knocking thrice. I went as Yuki to the completely familiar Chairwoman's office.
　I could sense she's with some other people inside....

"Excuse me. It's me, Yuki."
『You may, come in.』

　As I opened the door with that approval, I saw an unexpected group of people inside.

"...Good morning. Quite an assortment of visitors you're hosting, Family Head."
"Good morning."
"Good morning. As for the ones who needs introduction--"
"...If you would please introduce me to that man."

　I know them all. But I picked the one Yuki shouldn't know.

"...Hohou, I'm the only one you chose. I take it you're familiar with everybody else then?"
"Yes. I can hazard a guess the gentleman over there would be Ichinose Mikoto-san's father."

　Yep. Ichinose dad and daughter... Kai, and also grandpa Ishizaki are all here.

"A keen insight indeed. I am Ichinose Soujirou. Would you be Yuki-san?"
"Yes. I'll be the opponent of Kai-kun over there today. And... Family Head, if you will."
"Yes. He is the boss of the company who poached Kai-kun upon his awakening in Grandia, perhaps as an attempt to incorrigibly harass me. The former president of Ishizaki Group."
"Hohou, that will be correct. You're not a student here, are you? What do you say about joining my group?"
"No thank you. However... let's see, I am strong enough to make that boy's power a footnote, so can I correct his mistaken impression. Show me that your everything makes all of Akimiya pale in comparison and I will be yours. That includes your gentility."
"Hoho, gentility you say... you're quite a sharp one. This Kai might not measure up to you, indeed."
"Whaa!? Please believe in me, Ishizaki-san!"

　Taunting is the basic of course. I'm gonna do everything I can.

"Yes, there is no room for doubt on that. That kid must be made aware of his surroundings. There is always someone better than him out there. And how foolish it is to get drunk in power just because you compare yourself with the kids on earth."

　I know those folks y'know. From the seven dragon b**ls, or that ramen topping nar**o.
　They're all are way more amazing. This world don't got fictional works like those as references though. But... as someone who knows and is getting closer to those fictional characters power-wise, there's no way I'm gonna lose to anyone. I'm the spokesman of those fantasy right now.

"This should do as introductions, Family Head. I will be touring the school building. It's my first time watching so many people my age getting together, I'm slightly intrigued. Ixia-san, if you could accompany me."
"Very well. Please make sure you don't run late for the appointed time."
"Fufu, oh I will go with you. Let's take a look around together, Yuki."

　I have no more to say so I'm leaving.
　But Kai stood up and blocked my way.

"Need anything else?"
"You've been... so sure of yourself since our first meeting. Where did all that confidence come from."
"...Right back at you. You have nothing else to learn here, do you now? From where I stand, I see you're leaving a lot left on the table. You're... such a fool."
"Kuh... fine by me, you'll see for yourselves. Just how powerful I've gotten!"
"Stop it already, Kai! ...You look so, shameful..."

　Ichinose-san who was watching on the sideline couldn't contain herself anymore.
　However, her word didn't seem to reach Kai.

"...Chairwoman, you promised. You will write off all the penalty from renouncing my scholarship and grant me the permission to drop out if I win. I want to... live in real battlefields."
"...Very well. I understand you don't want to make things difficult for your guarantor, Soujiro-san. If you are able to defeat Yuki in the match, I shall accept your demands unconditionally. I also promise that I won't stop the Grandia-based company under Ishizaki, I believe it's a civil security one, from dispatching troops."
"Hohoho. I heard you loud and clear, Akimiya. Kai, don't disappoint me now."

　Figured he had a hand in Kai's poaching.
　Which means... the matter Rio-chan brought up is probably unrelated.

"...Yuki-san, may I go with you... I, um, don't want to be here anymore."
"Yes, come along... All the talk about strength and power aside, I have the goosebump thinking someone who made a good friend of theirs put on such a face enter the world of adults. Let us go, you two."

　If there's one thing I can't forgive Kai, it's that.
　Ichinose-san definitely likes Kai... just gotta hope he'd wake up after everything is over.

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