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Том 6.5 Глава 1






 

[Yukinoshita Yukino will continue trying till the very end.]

 

The setting sun dyed the sky red. The clouds gushing out from the sea ward side covered the eastern sky, which made them appear to be burning brightly.

 

At the same time, the land seemed to be slowly swallowed up by the darkness. A somber atmosphere also hung in the conference room.

 

In the end, there was still no progress after Hiratsuka Sensei announced the dismissal of the meeting. Yukko and Haruka took the lead in leaving the conference room. Those that were present were also returning to their clubs.

 

We were waiting for Hiratsuka Sensei and Meguri-senpai to return.

 

Zaimokuza gave a deep sigh, and twisted his body in a disgusting manner. As though that was a sign, Yuigahama and the members of the student council sighed as well.

 

Yukinoshita however, did not do the same. She closed her eyes, sat up straight and maintained a serious expression. With the exception of her, everyone else seemed to be at a loss. And so, everyone’s gaze naturally fell upon that one person.

 

Sagami Minani.

 

She had once been the chairman of the Cultural Festival committee, and now, she was the chairman of the Sports Festival committee. However, she did not seem to have the dignity or appearance that matched her title.

 

She was just lying on the table, not saying anything. The occasional sound of her nails pressing her smart phone could be heard.

 

From where I was seated, I could not see her expression, but it was probably not one of happiness.

 

Her friends that collaborated with her during the Cultural Festival, clearly did not approve of Sagami now. In fact, they were even openly opposing her. This also had a huge impact on her.

 

It was precisely because of the existence of these connections with others that caused one to feel pain when one severed them.

 

I didn’t think that she deserved it.

 

Rather, I pitied her.

 

They were never really that close to begin with, yet pain was brought about at the exact time these relationships were lost. The fluidity of these human relationships were really a bother.

 

Despite there being few returns, the risks involved were too much.

 

“Yo! -Friend” is what was associated with this kind of limited friendship. I will teach Komachi about this someday. [1]

 

Perhaps for whatever reason, they were once the best of friends. However, they were mere acquaintances now. They would greet each other with a “Yo! ” when they occasionally see each other in school, or perhaps even exchange two or three lines of pleasantries. That kind of relation.

 

It was different from the fixed relationships that existed in classes or clubs.

 

The Cultural Festival committee and the Sports Festival committee were representative of this fact. Maybe people in part-time jobs were also included in it.

 

Could you really call these friends? Don’t you think you have set the bar too low for who you would consider as friends?

 

Sagami had miscalculated that those [Yo! -friends] of hers, Haruka and Yukko would stand by her side this time as well. However, strictly speaking, their positions were different now.

 

Sagami was one of the top management in the committee, whilst Haruka and Yukko were just the members.

 

Just a difference in their positions alone could easily lead to friction amongst each other. If those three had the same positions as they did in the Cultural Festival, they would probably still be on good terms with each other.

 

That chairman is horrible, doesn’t bother to do much work. She only knows how to ask others to do work but would never lift a finger herself. They were probably exchanging words like these whilst happily working on their jobs. The effects that such malicious gossips and insults would bring about could not be easily determined.

 

Shared experiences and knowledge. A common cause being their uniting factor.

 

This common cause was that of wanting to know the weakness of others. Hence they display their malicious intent openly and trade information with one another through such ill-means.

 

And then, they would smooth any conversation afterwards through the badmouthing of others.

 

Gossip was the best. You could be on good terms with anyone with just gossip.

 

However, the one who is being gossiped about will not be able to take such a blow.

 

Friendships that were founded on the basis of sacrifice will always require new sacrifices. If the supply of sacrificial lambs were cut off, then this sacrifice must come from within.

 

Ever since their positions differed, Sagami has always been on the losing end. Furthermore, this was a 2v1 situation, and thus, from that point on, it was already decided that Sagami would be the sacrificial lamb.

 

Now, Haruka and Yukko were probably making all sorts of malicious gossip about the management of the committee.

 

Thinking about this, I felt that Sagami was really pitiful. This was all the more so seeing her grip her hand phone tightly, as though trying to hang on tightly to those relationships.

 

Surely I wasn’t the only one who thought this way.

 

Yuigahama’s lips were curled, constantly glancing at Sagami.

 

No matter what our intentions were, the one who pushed Sagami to be the Sports Festival Chairman was us. This was a fact that made me feel quite guilty about.

 

“Meguri senpai and the rest are so slow…….”

 

Yuigahama did not seem to talking to anyone in particular, but it was because of her that the mood in the conference room started to lighten up somewhat.

 

“Yes…...”

 

Yukinoshita opened her eyes all of a sudden and replied.

 

“Should we go and have a look at the situation? ”

 

A member of the student council stood up and posed the question, but Yukinoshita shook her head.

 

“I suppose they are still not done with their conversation. Even if we go now, nothing will change.”

 

Her calm and composed voice brushed off the suggestion of the student council member, to which he nodded and sat down again.

 

However, it was clear that the members of meeting were growing impatient from all the waiting. The conversation between Hiratsuka sensei and Meguri-senapi was taking longer than I had imagined.

 

About 20 minutes passed once more, and the two finally returned to the conference room.

 

Hiratsuka sensei’s expression was more serious than usual. Maybe it was my imagination, but Meguri-senpai looked kind of down-hearted.

 

“Sorry for the wait.”

 

With that, Hiratsuka sensei sat down in a chair at the corner of the coference room. Merguri senpai followed her and went to the middle seat.

 

When Hiratsuka sensei had made sure that all eyes were on her, she began to speak.

 

“I have talked with Shiromeguri and decided that this committee will stop its work for one day tomorrow.”

 

“We want to give everyone some time to cool down.”

 

Meguri-senpai added.

 

This was probably an appropriate judgement. Since there was no way to disperse this strained atmosphere, one could only let the passage of time diffuse the tension or rather, to prevent the deterioration of feelings of everyone.

 

However, I did not feel that this was sufficient.

 

“But, if it’s just one or two days we can still manage somehow……”

 

Yuigahama murmured.

 

“I don’t think it’s possible…..”

 

Anger was an emotion that persisted for a short period of time. Once given sufficient time to cool off, the correct judgement can be made.

 

However, even if anger doesn’t continue, the resentment will. They will continue to burn somewhere deep within, just like the silently and slowly burning embers.

 

What was even worse was that the jeers, scorns and contempt will continue on for an even longer period. Looking down on others is always easier than praising others. A little bit of wit mixed into those words would probably make it all the more enjoyable. Precisely because it allowed one to feel light-hearted, they would be able to continue doing so with the feeling of “Just kidding.” This was different from resentment and anger. This would continue on for a long period of time because people didn’t feel guilty in doing so.

 

After a few days, there was the possibility that the situation could worsen even further.

“But still, I think it’s better if we continue on with today’s meeting.”

 

Perhaps sensing my worries, Hiratsuka sensei said so in an awkward manner.

 

Indeed, if they were to meet suddenly tomorrow, it would be hard to say whether a good outcome could be borne out of it. Furthermore, it was all the more so given Sagami’s current expression.

 

Giving an occasional glance at Sagami, Sagami continued to stay quiet whilst biting her lips.

 

“Then, there’s no problem right? ”

 

Hiratsuka sensei confirmed with Sagami, to which Sagami gave a nod.

 

“No problem, I guess…….”

 

With her head lowered, she answered in between breaks and pauses,

 

“……”

 

Yukinoshita who had always been staring at her, suddenly tore her gaze from her and looked towards Meguri-senpai.

 

“……Then, to inform everyone else about the temporary suspension of work? ”

 

“Yes. This will be left to to the student council.”

 

Meguri-senpai replied. Understanding her words, the student council began to work. Although I had no idea whether they were doing the informing via text or the next morning, but I guess that they had a simple way of doing so judging by how they seemed confident in being able to complete the task quickly.

 

After ensuring that their task was complete, Hiratsuka sensei continued.

 

“Then, I guess we will call it a day.”

 

With that, everyone broke choruses of “Good work” and prepared to leave.

 

“Then, See you tomorrow, Hachiman.”

 

Zaimokuza who had always been sitting quietly beside me, quickly packed his things and left the conference room at a brisk pace. The other student council members were also quickly packing up their things, ready to go home.

 

I snatched up my bad and was ready to leave when I heard a voice that was obviously targeted at me.

“Hikigaya. Would you all stay back for a while.”

 

“Ah. No, I still have some other matters today…….”

 

Despite showing her my disapproval, but she nevertheless got everyone else to stay back. Upon careful inspection, Yukinoshita seemed to have predicted this, and continued waiting with an appearance unchanged from before. Yuigahama seemed to have stop thinking about anything and just stood there stoning.

 

It seems like as a member of the Service Club, staying back was a matter that was already decided. The moment I realized that resistance was futile, I sat down unwillingly.

 

Well then, what’s there left to say. As I waited for Hiratsuka sensei to speak, her eyes were gazing at somewhere unexpected as she spoje.

 

“Also, Sagami, you too as well.”

 

Sagami responded with a twitch upon hearing her name. However, she did not show any signs of rejection, merely responding with a tiny “Yes.”

 

Hiratsuka sensei glanced at me, Yukinoshita, Yuigahama, Sagami as well as Meguri-senpai and began speaking.

 

“Alright then, let’s get to the point. What shall we do from now on? ”

 

Yuigahama and I exchanged glances, unable to comprehend the true intentions behind those words. However, just doing that will not lead to an answer. On the other hand, Yukinoshita seemed to have understood Hiratsuka sensei, and stared at her.

 

“That is, how the committee can progress from here on? Is that the meaning? ”

 

“Well, something like that. But it’s not just that alone…..”

 

Hiratsuka answered her question vaguely and glanced at Sagami once more.

 

“Sagami, how do you want to go ahead from this point on? ”

 

“Eh…….”

 

Sagami did not seem to have expected the question to be thrown to her, and started to speak after a moment of thought.

 

“If you ask in such a manner, then I guess, we can only continue.”

 

What came out was a stuttering and vague voice.

 

Even though this cannot be considered an answer to the question, but it was probably because she has realized that continuing on in this manner was detrimental. Hiratsuka sensei’s question was how they should proceed and not whether she has recognized the underlying problem. Wasn’t it kind of overboard to pose such a question to Sagami who was already in such a state?

 

Hiratsuka sensei did not sigh, only nodded her head earnestly. Then, she spoke slowly to Sagami.

 

“I see. Lets start with the subject at hand then.”

 

Time has been given to Sagami to confirm her current situation and the points she should be taking note of. Hiratsuka sensei seemed to insist upon Sagami finding out the solution to the problems herself. This was totally Hiratsuka sensei’s style of doing things.

 

Sagami looked left and right restlessly, her mouth opening and closing slightly. As though she had no idea where she ought to begin.

Sagami’s gaze darted to the people in the surroundings and then shifted away again. Although she did make eye contact with me, she immediately looked away in shame and disgust.

 

No one else was saying anything. They were all waiting for Sagami to speak.

 

As though she could feel the pressure, Sagami opened her mouth hesistantly.

 

“Um……., we could ask those who are present I guess.”

 

“……”

 

Oh, so this is how you are going to do things. Rather than say that the mood now was that of surprise, perhaps you could call it understanding. The people who were seated made no sound. Only Meguri-senpai gave a troubled laugh.

 

“Yes……. I see. Even though it’s the Sports Festival, in order to organize something captivating, we still require people here to seek the help of those in the sports clubs so that the event may progress smoothly. However, no one has any spare time, so to confirm the schedule would be quite a task……. Is that what you meant? ”

 

“Y, Yes! ”

 

Sagami replied quickly, but I suspected that she did not truly understand the meaning behind Meguri-senpai’s words.

 

But, that’s alright anyway.

 

Since the position of chairman was Sagami, the one who made the final decision was also Sagami. Hence, letting Sagami think about this problem herself was right.

 

However, to put it another way, it was all right as long as Sagami was the one who came out with the final decision.

 

What we ought to do was to lead Sagami to that final decision.

 

Yukinoshita seemed to have understood all these and paused for a while before turning towards Meguri-senpai.

 

“Then, the negotiations and coordination with the various clubs……. Confirm the clubs’ schedules during the time period leading up to the main event, and divide the tasks according to it.”

 

Yukinoshita’s suggestion was spot-on.

 

This was to take Haruka and Yukko reasons, or rather, a way to tear apart the arguments they used as a shield one by one.

 

However, this was still not enough.

 

A logical way of doing things could only persuade people who thought logically.

 

“Just like that probably won’t do……”

 

“Yes….., probably like that.”

 

Upon hearing me, Yuigahama assented in a soft voice. It seems like Yuigahama also understood the main problem behind this whole affair.

 

“Please say it.”

 

Hiratsuka sensei urged me, and so I proceeded to explain in an extremely simple manner.

 

“Since others have the mentality to oppose, unless dealt with appropriately, they will not take any action.”

 

Humans were creatures that operated on emotions.

 

The basis of decisions were not just founded on logic alone, it also depended on emotions. Not only that, actions done on the spur of anger could form the basis for actions taken in the future.

 

In regards to those hateful and unpleasant things that they did, even if they felt disgusted by it, they will still seek all forms of excuses to justify themselves.

No matter how logical the explanation was, the conclusion drawn would be different. There was no need to give any specific examples. Disputes that had subjectivity and objectivity mixed into them were all like that in this world.

 

“I don’t really understand……”

 

Sagami said so rather agitatedly.

 

……. I am talking about you, Sagami.

 

Although I wanted to explain things with even more clarity, but she obviously had no self-awareness if she still did not understand at this point. There was a need to be sarcastic with her so that she would understand. There was no point in explaining things further to a person without self-awareness. Not knowing and not existing was the same.

 

Although explaining things clearer would be good, but it would be a troublesome affair if I started arguing with Sagami at this juncture. Hence, I decided to forgo concrete examples and the utmost proper nouns, and just told her plainly.

 

“If they are not happy with us, no matter how much logic we inject in our words, they will act on their emotions and continue to criticize us.”

 

An exceeding simple answer. Because it was too plain and simple, perhaps it wouldn’t be far-fetched to call it a universal truth. No one could object to my words.

 

My words caused everyone else to be unable to say anything, the entire room was in total silence. But this was supported by evidence. Rather, the example of Sagami during the Cultural Festival was pretty convincing. It could even be that everyone was thinking of that that they were being so quiet.

 

Hiratsuka-sensei broke the silence with a “Fu-“ as she let out a sigh and started to speak.

 

“…….. If Sagami continues to be the committee chairman, then this problem would continue to persist.”

 

Such a view was correct.

 

Once that trust was lost, it cannot be gained back that easily.

 

On the other hand, to lose another’s trust was way too easy.

 

Sagami has failed.

 

And, this world was very harsh on failures.

 

During your first few weeks in high-school or college, failure was lethal. Failure during a mop-up or a deciding match would lead to eternal blame on you.

 

A person who succeeded could glorify his failure, but that was merely a footnote in their tale of success, a conclusion designed to cover up for what it really is.

 

There was no value in talking about the failure of a failure. It only let others feel that the failure had no reason to exist.

 

Although they were both failures, it can only be glorified if it comes from the mouth of one who succeeded. Those who did not succeed must seal their lips and those who have yet to succeed will definitely not believe those sugar-coated words.

 

Sagami seemed to have understood that she failed, and was now listening to Hiratsuka sensei whilst chewing her lips.

 

And then, she noticed the meaning behind Hiratsuka sensei’s words.

 

“That is to say, it would be better if I were to resign? ”

 

Upon hearing Sagami flare up, Hiratsuka sensei gave a bitter smile.

 

“I didn’t say anything like that. It’s just that if we were to repair our relationships with the rest, it’s going to be quite tough from here on. I hope you can understand that.”

 

Sensei said so in a indirect manner.

 

But, that was way too indirect.

 

Although one cannot say that failure will not lead to success, but it definitely was not as simple as the elders or people who succeeded made it out to be. Most of the time, failure will only lead to more failures.

 

If this continues on, Sagami will continue falling down through the spiral of failure.

 

To put it briefly, she should just dump away all her past, her attachments, everything and just go live on another planet.

 

Hiratsuka sensei seemed to be testing Sagami’s resolution as she stared at her. Sagami seemed to be a little bit afraid.

 

“…….Ah, that.”

 

Listening to Sagami’s words, Yukinoshita glanced at her.

 

That gaze was one that was looking for an answer. However, that is a big mistake. If I had to say what was wrong, then it would be that she’s looking for the answer from the wrong person. She ought to be looking for the one who could give the ideal answer.

 

Yukinoshita had the same cold expression on her, but spoke to Sagami in an icy tone that was colder than usual.

 

“There’s no problem if you quit. It was just our wish from the start anyway, it was never Sagami-san’s intention. There is no need to continue if you don’t want to.”

 

“B, But…….”

 

Yukinoshita interrupted Sagami’s words of protest

 

“The one who asked of this favor was me. I will take full responsibility for this.”

 

In other words, to fulfill the duties of Sagami’s appointment, Yukinoshita would complete the work of the committee chairman.

 

Those words were just too realistic. If it was Yukinoshita, then she was definitely more capable than Sagami, the Cultural Festival was proof of that.

 

This way, someone could cover Sagami’s duties. The problem with stopping Sagami from quitting would also be solved.

 

In order to confirm her resolve, Hiratsuka asked her solemnly.

 

“Sagami, what are you going to do……”

 

“I, I…….”

 

Sagami answered with a shaky voice. What Sagami wants, was probably for someone to keep her, to console her. Using those as excuses, she could push her own responsibilities to others.

 

Or rather, to give a look of pity as she part ways with her own determination, others will not be able to see that she is just running away. That way, she can protect her own pride.

 

However, Yukinoshita Yukino will not allow her to do that.

 

This was a gamble.

 

Now, in order to complete the request given to the Service Club, to change the mood in class 2-F, to help Sagami regain her self-confidence, to utterly wipe the slate clean of any negative emotion, then Sagami’s path of retreat must be destroyed.

If she escaped, then it will only lead to responsibilities being pushed onto others, and she will once again bad-mouth others to maintain her pride.

 

If that were to happen, then Sagami will not change at all, the class atmosphere will not as well. No, perhaps Sagami’s attempts at protecting her pride could worsen the mood even further. To prevent all these problems from happening, Sagami must be the one to make that resolve. She herself must be the one to announce that she wants to be the committee chairman out of her own volition, and destroy her path of retreat.

 

“……”

 

Sagami could not give a immediate reply.

 

I was a little surprised as well. Sagami quitting right here as the committee chairman carried no risks. All she had to do was find a sacrificial lamb in the class that was lower than her in social ranking in order to save her pride, even if it has to be Haruka or Yukko. After all, those two are just superficial friends, severing her ties to them carried no great harm. Once out of the school compound, they would be able to make light-hearted conversation as though nothing had happened.

 

The only worry that Sagami has was probably that she obtained this position after Hayama’s persuasion. However, because Hayama would never speak ill of anything, her pride will not take a hit as well.

 

This was not a very favorable gamble.

 

Even so, since it was Yukinoshita who first proposed it, there should still be some chance at victory. Yukinoshita Yukino hated failure, and so she wouldn’t have been foolhardy enough to engage in this sort of gamble.

 

Yukinoshita followed Sagami’s movements closely, even her breathing.

 

Sagami noticed this as well, and so looked at Yukinoshita with her head lowered.

 

They made eye contact.

 

“…… There’s no need to worry about anything after this. Leave it to me.”

 

The blade was unsheathed.

 

Yukinoshita followed up on her attacks with a stroke of a blade.

 

The words seem to be showing concern for Sagami on the surface, but it was probably a line that suggested there was no meaning to Sagami’s existence anymore. No longer beating about the bush, but a straight-forward way of telling her that her presence will not affect the committees’ actions anymore.

 

Sagami’s face moved a little bit. The sides of her mouth stiffened, and made a forced smile.

 

I see, was this part of Yukinoshita’s plan?

 

The gist is that, not to resort to outright scolding or abuse, but to use words to allow Sagami to understand it herself. After that, to await her rousing herself. Probably something like that. Indeed, one’s internal torment is far more painful that what others could say to you.

 

If it was others speaking ill of you, all you had to do was do the same to them. But when you notice that you are hurting yourself and start rebuking yourself as a result, you are probably unable to speak of ill of other then.

 

That was a very strict yet proper way of driving her.

 

However, there was just a little problem with Yukinoshita’s method.

 

This sort of method that seeks to motivate with rough words, was only effective against those who still had the drive, for those who still had the hope in them. Against those who only knew how to push the responsibilities to others, it was useless. Not only that, if one were to block her retreat path, it would only lead her closer in the direction of giving up.

 

The Sagami of now was battered, her eyelids drooped downwards.

 

Even so, Yukinoshita did not intend to slacken her hold on Sagami. She seemed to want to continue her barrage of verbal attacks.

 

“Sagami-san, you…….”

 

“Yukinoshita, please stop.”

 

I interrupted Yukinoshita’s words midway.

She glanced at me but it did not show any signs of wanting to oppose me. Even so, with the exception of Yukinoshita, everyone else thought that my actions was strange, and looked at me awaiting my explanation.

 

Well, since I have already interrupted her, I suppose I should state my reason. I did not look at Sagami, but at Yukinoshita.

 

“Even if you continued to say anything, there won’t be a good outcome. Humans are not creatures that change just because of the words of others.”

 

No matter how wise the sayings were, they were only good for those who were willing to listen. If a wise saying could change a person’s life, then this world would be HAPPY SO LIFE, is a BEAUTIFUL WORLD.

Those who succeeded based on those wise sayings, would probably succeed regardless of whatever they used as their impetus.

 

Words itself had no power from the very start. It only gave strength to those who accepted it. Speaking of which, Sagami was someone whom words will have no effect on. No, not only towards Sagami, but probably to a lot of others as well. I am one of them.

 

My interruption caused the conference room to return back to its quiet state.

 

Thanks to that, a tiny voice that was like the buzz of a mosquito reached my ears.

 

“…… I will do it.”

 

A high pitched and hoarse voice sounded out. It seemed to have been entangled in the depths of her throat and was now being squeezed out with much difficulty. The owner of the voice glared at the table, crumpling her skirt as she grasped at it tightly with her trembling fists.

 

Even so, it was definitely Sagami Minami who gave that reply.

 

Hiratsuka sensei uncrossed her arms and placed them gently on the table and heaved a deep sigh of relief.

 

“……Is that so. Well then, we will leave the rest in your charge then.”

 

However, I did not feel relieved. In fact, I was totally uncomfortable with it. Why would Sagami Minami continue to be the committee chairman?

 

In my impression, Sagami was the type who would not hesitate to run away should such an option exists, the type who would rush towards the spider’s thread and cling onto it. [2]

 

Furthermore, there was no Hayama or other members of class 2-F to protect her here.

 

The people present here, took her as an enemy, or at least not as an ally.

 

Amongst them, Meguri-senpai who was warmer towards Sagami stood up and walked to her side.

 

“Then, the first thing would be to mend your relationships with them.”

 

“……Yes, I guess.”

 

Sagami murmured in a voice devoid of confidence.

 

“”I think that if you explained it to them, they would understand.”

 

Meguri-senpai patted Sagami’s shoulders, and followed through with that discourse.

 

However, if the Prime Minister were to say that during a coup d'é tat, he would definitely be killed. [3]

 

Hiratsuka sensei who was watching the two of them converse suddenly turned towards us. Perhaps she thought that Meguri-senpai would be better off handling Sagami.

 

“Then we will leave the coordination of those present here to Sagami……”

 

“Meanwhile, we will be in charge of the coordination between the various departments. There will be a need for some form of instructions and explanations before we begin the conference next time.”

 

Yukinoshita answered quickly, to which Hiratsuka sensei gave a satisfied nod. Seeing this, Yukinoshita took out a ballpoint pen and a notebook.

 

“Do verify the schedules of the various departments in the mass meeting. Leave the compilation and distribution of work to me.”

 

Next to Yukinoshita who was quickly doing the job listings, Yuigahama slid her chair with a clunk.

 

“Leave the heads of the sport clubs to me. I kind of know them anyway.”

 

“Alright, then I will leave them to you.”

 

Yukinoshita gave a smile as she replied, to which Yuigahama gave a proud snort, making a “hnng” sound. It seemed like being relied upon had made her really happy.

 

“What’s next is to consider how we can reduce the workload involved in setting up the [Kibasenn]. [4]

 

Yukinoshita placed the ballpoint pen under her jaw as she pondered over the matter.

 

And then, she suddenly looked at me.

 

“…….Eh, what.”

 

“There’s still one person who hands are empty.”

 

“Ah, no, that……”

 

As I said it, I looked at my own hands. Huh, this was strange. I totally did not feel that my hands were empty. I didn’t think that my hand had a hole that was capable of sucking in demons?! [5]

 

“Well then, Hikigaya-kun will be in charge of reducing the costs for the [Kibasenn]. Boutaoshi [6] does not need any more labor, its fine the way it is now.”

 

Before I had even thought a reply, Yukinoshita had already continued her instructions speedily.

 

“It’s unreasonable to ask me to make those arrangements. Don’t get me to do those jobs that require communication. I am one of those types that either hide in a corner in a dark room making flowers earnestly, or those that put the strawberries on top of cakes in a bread factory.”

 

What’s next was reading magazines in the backroom of a convenience store in the night, and able to return magazines which I don’t like as I pleased.

 

No, I was never suited for work anyway,

 

“I think you were the one who said something about the right person doing the right job.”

 

The words that came out of my mouth was a brilliant phrase that I had said some time ago.

 

However, Yukinoshita did not seemed to have heard any of it.

 

“Yup. That’s why, this can only be done by you. You have something to say to Za, Zai……Zaitsu-kun do you not? ”

 

What Yukinoshita just said was indeed correct. But, you had better remember the name!

 

“I don’t really have anything to say to him……. That guy totally does not listen to anyone.”

 

Although I tried to object, Yuigahama opened her mouth then to speak.

 

“Furthermore, just look, neither of us two know how to communicate using Chuunibyou language.” [7]

 

“No, I don’t know either.”

 

I had once changed my phone number but did not tell Zaimokuza about it. Oops I guess it was my mistake. A careless blunder that I did. (Sticks out tongue) Just when I wanted to inform Zaimokuza about my change of phone number, for some reason, a bug prevented that message from being sent. I felt that mobile companies should seriously consider how to rectify this bug.

 

Because of my willful negligence, I had also buried Zaimokuza’s email address into the darkness. However, this sort of willful negligence was something similar to that of a secret love.

 

Anyway, thanks to me changing my phone number, Zaimokuza and I no longer had any way of contacting each other, providing me with a beautiful excuse. There was no way that any prosecutor could turn this around! [8] Just as I thought about this with relief, Hiratsuka sensei however, cocked her head.

“I don’t think that’s possible. I just told Zaimokuza about it.”

 

“So it was you…….”

 

So was it all Hiratsuka sensei’s fault whenever Zaimokuza texted or called me out of the blue in the past? What on earth are you doing in an era whereby the Personal Information Protection Law is in effect?

 

“So you really do know.”

 

Yuigahama was surprised.

 

However, I have an excuse for that. I hated texting anyway.

 

Texting first gave me the feeling that I had lost, hence I hated it. Why was there this unwritten law that guys had to be the ones who texted first? Because of this puzzling rule, the difficulty level was raised instantly. What if there was no reply after the message was sent? The damage that I suffer as a result is not small, you know? Thanks to that, ever since junior high, I had deleted every single [? ] sign in all my messages.

 

Well, since it was Zaimokuza this time, there wouldn’t be any problems. In fact, there was no need to worry at all. Even if I was treated like something that is worse than trash, I would be perfectly all right, hence I felt at ease.

 

“……..Well, guess I will just do it.”

 

I answered reluctantly. Yukinoshita nodded her head.

 

“Then, I will leave it to you.”

 

“Ah.”

 

Anyway, I was already used to rejecting Zaimokuza’s plans. I could even go to the extent of saying that his plans were trash and to outright deny it altogether.

 

Just like that, the distribution of jobs was done.

 

Yukinoshita was in charge of the scheduling and coordination of shifts, Yuigahama was in charge of negotiations with the various sports club’s captains. I was in charge of cutting costs. I guess such an arrangement was quite appropriate.

 

Even if my workload were to be increased, I would be okay with that. I ought to be satisfied the extent of work I had. In other words, I was the most relaxed with the amount of actual work that I had to do.

 

But, is this really okay, to entrust everything else to them.

Yuigahama would definitely encounter the most problems. The committee and the people of the sports clubs were often at loggerheads with one another, hence communication between both parties would be kind of a bother. If that’s the case, then she will need a guy to lighten her burden. A high spec elite. The duty of Botticelli for short. [9] No, more like fate. Nevertheless, I didn’t know any of the heads in the sports clubs, so how could I possibly help Yuigahama? AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! Wait, don’t I know someone? There was one that I did know of. The President of the tennis club, Totsuka. Wait that’s wrong, he’s my acquaintance. So I did know one.

 

And so, my conscience and compassion began to hurt me from the inside. This really was compassion.

 

I started to list out the subjective reasons.

This could be important.

 

I concluded the internal debate within me over what reason I would use. Then, pretending that I had just noticed something, I gave a slight cough and said.

 

“Ah, Yuigahama. I have Totsuka’s contact and if you don’t mind, I could contact him for you. You see, it’s the same whether I call up one or two people, so it doesn’t really matter. Still, letting Yuigahama contact everyone is going to be a tough job. I am just doing it because it’s convenient for me, so you really don’t have to worry about it.”

 

Objective reasons were just as important, aren’t they!

 

However, Yuigahama gave me a look of bewilderment and shook her hands.

 

“Eh? There’s no need for that. Sorry, I already have Totsuka’s contact. This is my job, please leave it to me! ”

 

Yuigahama clenched both her fists and placed them both to her chest, giving off the image of confidence. Hearing her say it so directly, I couldn’t think of any rebuttal for that. That, no, that’s not what I meant…….

 

Yuigahama averted her face from me a little bit and then glanced upwards at me.

 

“But……. About that, thanks.”

 

“……. There’s no need for that.”

 

Although I had totally no intention of helping her, given the present situation, I could only answer her as such. Ah, I have lost my just cause to text Totsuka. On the contrary, I have just revealed my ulterior motive, my heart hurts.

 

Just as I was enduring the pangs of conscience, Hiratsuka sensei started to speak.

 

“The plan is already set. I guess we shall call it a day.”

 

She stood up quickly and called out to Meguri-senpai.

 

“Shiromeguri. I will lock up the place, you may leave first.”

 

“Ah, okay.”

 

Meguri-senpai who has been all the while talking to Sagami raised her hands and replied. Thereupon, she patted Sagami’s back and urged her to go back as well.

 

“Well then, Sagami-san. Let’s continue to work hard in the coming week.”

 

“……Yes.”

 

Sagami answered weakly and grabbed her bag. Thereafter, she followed Meguri-senpai and left the conference room.

 

Us, who were still left behind could finally leave as well.

 

We took our own respective bags and headed towards the door. Hiratsuka shut off the power source and the lights were immediately extinguished. She spoke to us amidst the background of the setting sun.

 

“Once again, I have caused you some trouble.”

 

Looking back, Hiratsuka sensei was standing in the middle of the setting sun. Owing to the backlight and the creeping darkness, I couldn’t make out her expression, but that voice was softer than usual.

 

“Ah-, not at all. I am quite happy too.”

 

“Besides, this is a club activity.”

 

A graceful voice and a cheerful voice replied her.

 

“It was what Sensei asked us to do in the first place.”

 

Upon hearing the languid voice that followed from behind the two of them, Hiratsuka-sensei smiled brightly.

 

X X X

 

As the autumn season intensifies, the absence of people in the entrance made me feel much colder.

 

The footsteps of the three of us echoed out. One of them had a regular rhythm to it, the other one was prancing about. The last one was dragging his feet as though his whole body was being dragged along as well.

 

Yuigahama wore loafers, and walked in front of me in a manner that seemed like she wanted to grind away the heels of her shoes. She turned her head and looked at me.

 

“It would be great if Sagamin could continue being the committee chairman.”

 

“Who knows? I feel that if she had given up at that time, it would have been better for all of us.”

 

I answered her as I wore the shoes that I had just thrown on the floor. Yukinoshita walked quietly behind us.

 

“It would certainly seem so from the perspective of the Sports Festival committee.”

 

“But, if she did quit, then she would not have changed.”

 

Yuigahama nodded her head with a “Un, un”

 

Well, it was indeed so. Both of them were correct.

 

The Service Club had taken on two requests.

 

The first was to ensure that the Sports Festival was a success. The second, was to increase Sagami’s “rating”, to let her gain back her confidence and change the mood in the class.

 

Now was definitely a good time to fulfill these two requests, however, it was precisely because of these two requests that created the two current big problems.

 

Sagami Minami was the bottleneck. We couldn’t exclude her or control her. Well, in this kind of situation, the only way was to let her continue.

 

I looked at Yukinoshita in surprise.

 

“Then again, I didn’t know you would really use that sort of method. That kind of method won’t normally work. If it was me, I would have quitted there and then.”

 

It would’ve been fine for those who were unwilling to quit. That was not worth making a fuss over. That was not a fellow that you can use the Powerpuff girls on or to harass with power. [10] Eh wait, the term Powerpuff seems wrong?

 

Anyway, Yukinoshita was definitely the type to go around mentoring newbies.

 

But, Yukinoshita was now supporting her chin with a finger, twisted her hand and proceeded to speak in a nonchalant manner.

 

“Ah, but all I did was speak the truth? ”

 

“Even though it’s the truth……”

 

All these truths and realities, I didn’t have to be Conan to know them. [11]

 

However, I did hear that the society of today had the view that when mentoring newbies, one shouldn’t be too strict nor should one piss them off. If you went overboard with your words, there would be adverse consequences.

 

I cast a look of suspicion at Yukinoshita. She swept away the hair at her shoulders and spoke again in a nonchalant manner.

 

“……Even a mouse that is driven into a corner would retaliate by biting the cat back. Am I wrong? ”

 

“…….”

 

Was this Yukinoshita’s way of nurturing others? Even if you use the word cat in your example, wasn’t your method of pushing Sagami akin to that of a lion or tiger? It was nowhere as cute as a cat being bitten by a cornered rat. It’s a lion.

 

A lion will push its cub into an abysmal valley to kill it, a lion will use all its strength to kill even if it’s for a rabbit. A lion will chase the worms out of its body and kill it. [12] I really wanted to leave behind these sayings to the world.

 

Not only was I speechless, but Yuigahama too, gave a troubled laugh and changed the subject.

 

“…….Ahaha. I mean, Sagamin really hated Hikki.”

 

“Well, that is indeed so.”

 

“Why are you so proud!? ”

 

Why was Yuigahama so surprised?

 

What was this person even saying given the current situation? I was fully aware of that since a long time ago. I mean, if there was even someone who still liked me given what I did, I would feel really sorry for the human race. People like Hayama for example.

 

Anyone, those who hated me was not limited to just Sagami alone.

 

“Why not put it this way. Not only Sagami, but basically everyone else.”

 

Hearing me say that, Yuigahama gave a “Un” as she thought about it for a little bit before she spoke.

 

“I am not talking about you being disliked. I am talking about Sagami. She seemed to be the most irritated when being treated like an idiot by Hikki. When Hikki was saying stop, she was glowering at you……”

 

“Well, that is probably so. To be looked down upon by someone of a lower status, it would be most reasonable if she started to have one or two thought about murdering me.”

 

“No….. maybe not to that extent.”

 

Yuigahama was a little bit surprised. However humans do go about killing others for the most mundane of reason, so please don’t get yourself killed by being caught off-guard.

 

Thus, it would be for the best if one would think before they spoke.

 

The conversation partner was of more importance than the contents of the conversation. Even if the words are the same, the outcome would be large affected by one’s social status, title and caste.

 

Because of that, those who were not afflicted with any of the above could freely speak their mind.

 

When you are alone, you are assured of the fact that you can speak freely. On the other hand, those who were in the top caste often controlled the speech of others. What kind of bleak country in the world today still suppressed other’s speech? I guess loneliness was seriously a developed nation then.

 

As I stood there basking in the belief that I had once again secured victory over the top caste, Yuigahama ignored me. Then, she clapped her hands as though she had just thought of something.

 

“Ah, so Sagamin should have some motivation in her after that? ”

 

“Huh? ”

 

Yuigahama spoke in a goofy voice, making it obvious that she still did not understand the issue.

 

She walked to Yukinoshita’s side and stole a glance at her.

 

“Hey, Yukinon. You said those words because you understood what Hikki’s words meant, didn’t you? ”

 

“……Who knows.”

 

Yukinoshita answered briefly and took her leave. Yuigahama and I looked at each other unintentionally. And then, Yuigahama gave a proud laugh.

 

What? I highly doubt that you read her intentions. The setting sun bathed the school building, school campus and everything else in a shade of dark red. Thanks to that, my face was probably dyed a deep red as well.

 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

 

One day…… A mobile conversation between Hachiman and Zaimokuza.

 

Hachiman: The progress with the [Kibasenn] is going along so slowly.

 

Zaimokuza: …… Eh? What are you saying all of a sudden…….

 

Hachiman: Cutting down on labor costs sure is a painful chore. Can’t they make that activity simpler.

 

Zaimokuza: …….Haho. You, your texting skills is so poor.

…… Even I can’t take it.

First of all you should check whether I am free, then you should add a [? ] to the back of the sentence. Otherwise, it’s really difficult for me to reply.

 

Hachiman: What the heck is that? That sounds like something Google would tell you if you searched for [How to write a message to a girl]. Never mind. Anyway, I just wanted to know if you can do anything with respect to the costumes.

 

Zaimokuza: FUMU. But I, do not really know much about cosplay?

 

Hachiman: That’s fine. Goodbye then.

 

Zaimokuza: Giving up already! If you are talking about cutting costs, then we should start thinking from the design perspective.

 

Hachiman: Does that mean you can do it?

 

Zaimokuza: AHEM! Don’t assume that I can do everything just because I am an otaku. I don’t know how to make costumes, I don’t know how to draw illustrations, and neither do I know the railroad particularly well. I don’t really know much about setting up personal computers as well…… Even so, why does my mother always ask me those questions…… When I say I have no idea, she gives me that look of contempt……

 

Hachiman: Well, mothers are probably just like that. It would speed things up if there was someone who could make costumes.

 

Zaimokuza: It would really be great if such a person existed.

 

Hachiman: I have someone in mind. Although I have no idea whether she would listen to me.

 

Zaimokuza: Oh, so there exists such a person. So then, who is it.

 

Hachiman: That, Kawasomething…… Kawauchi?

 

Zaimokuza: Kawauchi….. A light cruiser? Sounds like they specialize in night warfare. [13]

 

Hachiman: Probably something like that. Anyway, please come up with a brief proposal by this week.

 

Zaimokuza: Leave it to me! ……. Fumu? Wait, do you really mean this week?

 

Zaimokuza: Hello Hello? What???? That’s weird? Isn’t today already Friday night?

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________

 

[1] No legitimate English translation as far I can think of. Written as [よ っ 友 ] simply means a friendly who you just say Yo to. But that’s too clunky to put inside so I just left it Yo-friend.

[2] “The Spider’s Thread” is a 1918 short story by Ryū nosuke Akutagawa. Search it online J

[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_15_Incident

[4] Google Kibasenn and you will get it. Also, S1E13 has footage of it as well, first half I believe.

[5] Reference to Miroku from Inuyasha. His Wind—Tunnel opens up a hole in his hand that can suck demons.

[6] Same as [4]. Google it. Two groups of people trying to knock down each team’s pole. S1E13 has it as well.

[7]Should be familiar to most. From Urban Dict: People with chuunibyou either act like a know-it-all adult and look down on real ones, or believe they have special powers unlike others.

[8] [検 事 で も 逆 転 ] à Reference to the Pheonix Wright Ace Attorney franchise, specifically, Turnabout Prosecutor of which the Japanese title is [逆 転 検 事 ]

[9] I think this originates from the Botticelli (game), of which you guess the names of a person the other has thought of. This person must be as well-known as Botticelli hence the name. I presume it just means the duty of someone famous here.

[10] Pretty sure Watari is just playing around with the words [パ ワ パ フ ] (Powerpuff) and [パ ワ ハ ラ ] (Power harassment). Also, Powerpuff here does indeed refer to the Powerpuff Girls.

[11] Detective Conan.

[12] 獅 子 は 我 が 子 を 千 尋 の 谷 に 突 き 落 と す, 獅 子 は 兎 を 狩 る に も 全 力 を 尽 く す and獅 子 身 中 の 虫 are the three original proverbs. Hachiman added the “To kill” part to them. The first one means to mould a child through tough love. The second means to put one’s best efforts in everything. The third means something thorn in one’s flesh.

[13] Reference to a battleship used in WW2 by the Japanese. See: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_battleship_Kawachi

 






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