Yuu 351-355

Title: When Did You Get the Illusion That I’m a Big Bust Fan?

The morning matches had concluded. Naturally, Sobu High advanced to the next round.

The score this time was quite precarious. The match went into an extension round for the captain, and Yuu secured the victory by scoring two consecutive points.

“I didn’t expect Kyushu’s kendo club to be so strong. We almost lost…”

Having nearly lost their chance at the championship, the defeated participants, even those who drew, were still visibly shaken. Once back in the rest area, they reflected with grim faces and expressed even greater gratitude to their captain, Yuu, for his ability to turn the tide.

Unfortunately, Yuu wasn’t swayed by the praise. With the coach’s approval, he issued an ultimatum without hesitation—

If Himura, the combat power detector, judged that two of the first four members might lose, then to secure victory, Yuu would immediately request a one-against-five match format, leaving them no chance to fight and embarrass themselves.

As mentioned before, this winner-takes-all system was also known as the Gyokuryuki System.

The rules were simple: anyone could fight, and if you were strong enough, you could fight alone from start to finish until the opponent had no one left to compete.

Yuu had boasted about helping them become national champions. In critical moments, he couldn’t worry about their feelings. He’d do whatever it took to win. Otherwise, it’d be more humiliating if they were eliminated before even getting to fight.

As a result, after the rest area was dismissed and the midday break began, the kendo club members left the room with serious expressions. Their enthusiasm for fun was completely extinguished. They all shouted about training until they collapsed. For them, nothing was more important than improving their skills.

Seeing the gloomy atmosphere transform into a fiery fighting spirit, Yuu didn’t say it aloud, but in his heart, he was quite satisfied… He just hoped this strategy worked and the national championship didn’t turn into his solo performance.

However, upon hearing this, Masuzu, Yuigahama, and Haruno were thrilled. They couldn’t wait to see him fight, crush all five opponents cleanly, and end the match as quickly as possible.

It’d be even better if Yuu did it in the first match tomorrow.

Only someone as serious as Yukino would think about the kendo club members’ pride… Or rather, spectators were never satisfied with just watching the show.

The talk about the match ended there. They had a decent lunch at Kyoto University’s central cafeteria, then returned to the gymnasium to watch Asuna swiftly win her fencing match. After the six gathered again, they headed to Heian Shrine to enjoy the famous ancient temple’s scenery in Kyoto.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Time passed steadily.

The afternoon sunlight filtered through the red maple forest in Kyoto Gyoen, illuminating the red tiles of Heian Shrine.

The leisurely, tranquil sky seemed to pause time. Only the hoarse caws of noisy crows on the power poles disregarded the atmosphere.

By around five in the evening, the maple forest glowed as if set ablaze by the sunset. The horizon turned a fiery red.

Exhausted from walking all afternoon, everyone returned to the inn to rest. Soon after, they had to head to a restaurant for dinner—the snow-like girl with limited stamina quietly sighed, only to be teased again by the perceptive Haruno.

Masuzu also wanted to join in the teasing, but her words were swiftly deflected by Haruno, who was fiercely protective of her sister. Masuzu had no choice but to hide behind Yuu, seeking protection and comfort from him.

Overall, though their group was an odd mix, the atmosphere remained harmonious, almost like a school trip.

As for Asuna, since her inn was very close to theirs and they’d grown quite familiar, she accepted Haruno’s invitation. She’d come to their room after dinner to play games like poker and sugoroku, which they’d bought on the way back.

Around 6:30 p.m., before Asuna arrived, Yuu escorted Masuzu and her belongings back to their room.

Along the way, the girl protested vehemently. But Yuu silenced her with one sentence:

“The walls here aren’t that thick. If we accidentally do something, the neighbors might hear.”

After he said that, an awkward cough came from the next room, proving the inn’s soundproofing was indeed subpar.

“Fine, we’ll have plenty of time when we get back…”

Masuzu sighed regretfully. She wanted to respond casually, but when she recalled their intimate moment last night, her fair face flushed.

(Last night, I didn’t scream too loudly, did I?)

(I remember just sighing or panting. Sounds that small shouldn’t have been heard by the neighbors…)

“Tch, I’m going to complain to the inn about this terrible soundproofing.”

With a flushed face and a click of her tongue, Masuzu stood up, tidying her long hair. She no longer insisted on sleeping together. She only said with a hint of resignation, “We’ll go soak in the hot springs later. After that, we’ll head back to the room to play games… Yuu, want to join?”

“Sure. I also want to try the public bath here.” With his friendly, gentle smile, Yuu added, “Of course, I’ll go to the men’s bath.”

Masuzu nodded in satisfaction. “There’s no mixed bath here anyway. Even if you wanted to be a lucky pervert, you’d have no chance. You’d just get arrested like normal.”

Yuu held his forehead, speechless. “I didn’t say I wanted to go to the women’s bath either.”

“Really not interested?” As she walked to the door, Masuzu teased, “Besides Yukinoshita-san, don’t our figures suit your taste perfectly? Especially Dango-chan—she’d definitely be more impressive without clothes.”

Yuu couldn’t help but twitch the corner of his mouth—when did this girl get the illusion that he was a big bust fan?

He had no specific preference for women’s figures. If he had to choose, Kurisu’s slender, innocent build was more his type.

Women’s chests—big ones were nice, sure, but small ones had their own charm. Weren’t there girls who didn’t suit large chests and looked better flat as a board?

Not that he was pointing at anyone.

Yuu sighed and said casually, “Just you. The others don’t… I’m not interested in any woman’s body except my girlfriend’s.”

“Really?” Masuzu blinked.

“Of course.”

Yuu thought she’d react, but after asking, Masuzu took a deep breath and suddenly turned away.

“Waaah~ Perverted Yuu! Pervert, pervert, super pervert! You want to see my body naked! Masuzu-chan’s in danger!”

Screaming like a child, she opened the door and fled, her swaying silver hair disappearing behind the closing door.

In the now-quiet room, Yuu stood stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter.

“Such an idiot…”

(You hid your shy smile, but you forgot to hide your blushing ears and those feelings you can’t hide anymore.)

Telling dirty jokes and getting easily embarrassed. That was the Masuzu he knew…

Maybe in a few days, she’d become an adorable girlfriend he didn’t recognize anymore.

-

Title: Hot Springs, No Steamy Scenes, Please Stay Calm, Reviewers

This was a forbidden zone for men, a space reserved exclusively for women.

It was the forefront shrouded in white steam, a secret garden for shedding clothes and armor.

The wooden floor was slightly damp. The heater drove away the chill that should’ve been present, so exposed skin didn’t feel cold.

Some lockers on the wall were locked, others open. In front of the mirrors, many women, still warm from the bath, were drying their hair. Some had disheveled clothes, others wore only bath towels. Their beautiful curves were clearly visible.

Of course, there were also plenty of middle-aged and elderly women with sagging skin, walking around the changing room stark naked while chatting with others. They had no intention of covering up, fully embracing the freedom of liberating their bodies.

In short, Yukino was dragged here by Haruno.

Despite expressing her absolute refusal, her devilish older sister, who would do anything to amuse herself, forcibly dragged her from the room to the women’s hot spring. She’d even prepared a change of clothes.

“The last time we bathed together was a few years ago, wasn’t it?”

Haruno’s eyes held a nostalgic glint. Her expression was sincere, her tone soft, like a wolf grandmother coaxing Little Red Riding Hood into her mouth.

“Don’t you miss it, Yukinon? We used to bathe together all the time. Back then, you loved squeezing that yellow rubber duck…”

“Enough! Stop making up memories that never happened!” Yukino flushed with irritation, showing her disgust without hesitation. “The past is the past. I don’t want to bathe with others now. Is that a problem?”

With a cold face, she hugged her clothes and headed toward the door.

A few steps later, a sigh came from behind her.

“It’s just soaking in a hot spring. Why overthink your figure? I didn’t expect Yukinon to lack confidence to this extent…”

“…”

The moment those words were spoken, Yukino stopped.

She turned back with icy eyes and a blank expression. Without glancing at anyone, she silently walked to a locker, set down her clothes, and began unbuttoning.

Seeing Haruno flash a pleased smile at her successful plan, Yuigahama hesitated but cautiously offered advice.

“Um, Haruno-san… Everyone has their own struggles. If Yukinon really doesn’t want to, isn’t it better not to force her?”

“Hm?” As if surprised someone was defending Yukino, Haruno glanced at Yuigahama oddly. The corners of her lips then curled into a smile. She affectionately ruffled her hair.

“Don’t worry. Of course, I wouldn’t do anything too outrageous. At this level, Yukinon won’t get mad at me~”

“Because you’ve done even more outrageous things.” Yukino’s cold voice seemed to freeze the floor. She removed her outer clothes, revealing her white undergarments.

Ignoring her, Haruno lowered her head and whispered in Yuigahama’s ear, “Besides, Yukinon’s just shy… Believe it or not, if she doesn’t soak now, she’ll sneak back here tonight to bathe alone.”

She laughed proudly. “Hmph, if she’s not prodded, she’ll hesitate over everything. That kid’s always such a hassle.”

“R-Really?”

Yuigahama couldn’t connect the word “hesitant” with Yukino, who was always decisive and correct.

But since Yukino’s sister said so, she, as an outsider, couldn’t argue. She could only nod honestly. “I understand. Sorry for meddling without knowing…”

“No, as her sister, I’m thrilled Yukinon has a good friend who cares about her!”

Haruno raised her voice again, firmly patting Yuigahama’s shoulder with cheerful enthusiasm. “As you can see, Yukinon basically has no friends at all. So, Yuigahama-chan, you have to cherish your friendship with her!”

Yuigahama clenched her fists and answered seriously, “Of course, I will!”

“Yuigahama-san, don’t listen to her nonsense.” With a gaze devoid of warmth, Yukino, her slender figure wrapped only in a towel, spoke in an displeased tone. “Hurry up and change so we can go to the hot spring. If you plan to chat here until morning, pretend I didn’t say anything.”

“Aaah, I almost forgot!” Reminded, Yuigahama quickly broke free from Haruno’s grasp and headed to another locker to change.

With a resigned sigh, Yukino turned back, tucking her hair behind her ear.

In a place no one could see, her eyes still held dissatisfaction, but the corners of her lips unconsciously curved into a faint, genuine smile.

About a minute later, after Yukino finished arranging her long hair, an energetic, innocent voice sounded beside her.

“All ready! Yukinon, let’s hurry to the hot spring!”

Yukino turned from the locker and scolded, “Yuigahama-san, hot spring etiquette—I shouldn’t have to teach you—”

Before she finished, her voice, along with the smile she forgot to hide, vanished from her face.

Before her eyes were three pairs of white weapons.

To be blunt, a large-busted pink-haired girl, a large-busted black-haired girl, and a large-busted silver-haired girl.

Though wrapped in towels, their curves and cleavage were unmistakable. Under the towels’ pressure, they seemed ready to burst out, full of elasticity.

Receiving such a strong visual shock, Yukino froze for a moment. Then she instinctively looked down.

…Hmm, it’s not like she had nothing, but wrapped in a towel, it made no difference.

At least she could still see her toes.

Yukino’s expression darkened instantly. A strong murderous intent flashed in her deep blue eyes. The temperature around her plummeted drastically.

It was a frustration born of feminine instinct. Though she reassured herself with a hundred reasons that body shape didn’t matter, the feeling of her soul being wounded couldn’t be erased. It even made her a bit resentful.

(It’s fine for Sister… But why, as fellow high school girls, do Yuigahama-san and Natsukawa-san have such large ones… It’s unreasonable.)

(This unreasonable world was created by God, wasn’t it?)

(If so, from now on, God is dead. Perfect humans will create a new world.)

And what a perfect human was—light, slender, without excess fat—she shouldn’t need to say it again, right?

“Huff…”

With a light breath, Yukino quickly adjusted her mindset. She placed her palm on her chest, tightening her towel.

“Let’s go.”

With a calm expression, she walked past the three pairs of weapons toward the women’s hot spring entrance.

The first to follow was the silver-haired large-busted girl.

Masuzu smiled and praised, “Yukinoshita-san, your skin is so nice.”

As if concerned for her sister, Yukino held back. But the provocation in her eyes was as clear as the white tiles on the wall.

“Thanks for the compliment.” Answering coldly, Yukino didn’t stop. “Whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger… Natsukawa-san, just say what you want to say. No need to beat around the bush.”

“That’s a Nietzsche quote, right? Unfortunately, I wasn’t mocking your figure. That’s too low-class.”

Masuzu shrugged, stopping her smile and speaking frankly. “If a flat chest could ward off men’s disgusting gazes, I’d be fine with mine shrinking to AA. In the end, breast size can’t represent the nobility of someone’s soul, right?”

A noble soul is one with self-respect—Beyond Good and Evil, also by Nietzsche.

This completely different attitude made Yukino look at her in surprise. She felt strange but also agreed with her words.

“Indeed. Ultimately, judging by body shape is itself unworthy of support—”

Before she finished, Masuzu cupped her face with both hands, grinning foolishly with joy.

“Besides, Yuu said, flat or large, he only likes me~ So, body size doesn’t matter at all. What matters is that the person we love is satisfied! Right, Yukinoshita-san?”

“…”

Silently, Yukino closed her eyes. After taking a deep breath, she opened the hot spring door without looking back.

The version of herself that stopped to listen was probably the biggest fool in the world.

And most importantly—

The feeling of tightness in her chest was, after all, just an illusion…

-

Title: Natsukawa Masuzu and Yuigahama Yui

White steam swirled in the air.

Though not an open-air hot spring, this inn had a special touch. The ceiling of the hot spring was deliberately designed to resemble the sky. Looking up, under the warm, soft glow of the lights, constellations twinkled brightly and faintly.

Before bare feet turned red from the hot water, hot spring etiquette required washing the body first.

Hair wasn’t supposed to touch the water, so it had to be tied up and covered with a towel. When rinsing, the bath towel had to be removed. However, there was no rule against wearing a towel while soaking, as some people didn’t want their bodies seen by others.

Since there was no mixed bathing, no one wore swimsuits while soaking. Most casually revealed their smooth thighs and arms. Stunning curves were faintly visible in the white mist. Excluding the middle-aged and elderly women over forty, the women’s hot spring could be described as a flower garden, a secret paradise.

Of course, with no men present, women typically didn’t get excited over the sight. No one stared at others’ naked bodies for too long. They simply enjoyed the comfort of the steam and hot water, relaxing their minds and bodies.

Yuigahama cautiously dipped her toes, testing the water’s surface. She let her calves adjust to the scalding temperature. Her thighs and hips slowly sank into the hot spring pool. Her fair, soft skin almost instantly turned a vibrant rose red.

A few strands of pink hair clung to her cheeks, her neck looking elegant.

She exhaled a warm breath, stretching her arms and legs comfortably in the water. She hummed casually, “This feels so nice~ Winter is definitely for hot springs, just like summer is for swimming!”

Haruno lounged at the pool’s edge, eyes narrowed, chiming in with a smile, “And eating ice cream while soaking in a hot spring, or hot pot while swimming.”

Yukino sat at the pool’s edge, her feet gently stirring the water. Her voice sounded clearer in the steam.

“That’s just an overgeneralization.”

Unlike Yuigahama, who boldly placed her towel on a rock and entered the water, Yukino’s wet towel clung to her slender, simple curves, accentuating the flatness of her stomach.

“Though there’s a saying that eating hot pot in summer and ice cream in winter won’t harm your stomach, in reality, what we eat in any season doesn’t affect the body much, as long as we control portions. The rest is just personal preference.”

“I see… Hehe, that stuff doesn’t really matter.” Haruno suddenly grinned. With a splash, her voluptuous upper body surged out of the water. She reached for her sister with devilish claws at an unavoidable speed.

“Not cold up there? Come on, get in and enjoy!”

“Wait, I’m not used to it yet… Kyaa!” Yukino yelped instinctively. She was pulled into the hot spring like a lamb pounced on by a tiger. Two fair bodies collided in the water, creating a loud splash.

After a moment, things calmed down. Haruno clung to Yukino, teasing her while stroking her chin, smiling seductively. “Your body’s not a cat’s tongue—why so afraid of hot water? Sitting at the edge so long, you’ll catch a cold from the temperature difference.”

“H-How could… it be that easy… to catch a cold!” Panting, Yukino struggled with all her might to break free from her grip. She quickly hid behind Yuigahama, glaring warily like a kitten forced to bathe.

“If you want to soak, just soak. Don’t touch me randomly.”

Haruno feigned sadness. “This is just my sisterly way of showing love. Yukinon’s too much! Are those two dango so great? They’re not even that much bigger than mine!”

“I didn’t say anything…” Yuigahama, unintentionally a shield, could only blink her large eyes, standing innocently in front of Yukino.

After glaring at her sister, Yukino shifted her gaze to the other side of the pool. “If you’re so bored and want to play in the water, why not go after the person over there who’s also too scared to get in?”

Realizing eyes were on her, Masuzu casually dipped her feet in the water, asking in confusion, “What’s up?”

“Masuzu-chan’s scared of hot water too?” Haruno raised an eyebrow slightly. She didn’t immediately rush to pull her in like before.

“Sorry, please speak Swedish. I don’t understand Japanese.”

“The water’s not too hot. How about getting in and swimming? (in Swedish)”

“…”

(You’re good!)

Masuzu clicked her tongue. Under Haruno’s amused gaze and Yukino’s spectating one, she reluctantly stood in the pool and slowly sat, hugging her knees.

“Sss…” She couldn’t help but hiss. Her smooth, fair skin seemed like it might cook, turning a deeper red.

Enduring the comforting yet slightly painful sensation, she casually lifted her chin toward everyone. “This might be my first time soaking in a hot spring. Yukinoshita-san, could it be yours too?”

Yukino opened her mouth to speak but, remembering the lessons from her previous two encounters, firmly closed it and ignored her. She leaned against the wall, closing her eyes to rest.

Haruno had no intention of teasing them further. Since it was a rare soak, she wanted to let the hot water wash away her fatigue, then think about how to have fun with these young girls later.

As long as her sister was with her, she wouldn’t have a chance to escape. Haruno wouldn’t waste it.

The hot spring corner grew quiet. Four women and three pairs of “fruits” floated on the water’s surface. Droplets trickled from slender necks, and breaths exhaled from noses, creating a beautiful, captivating scene.

A few minutes later, Masuzu rose from the hot spring, feeling slightly dizzy. She planned to step out and relax for a bit.

She glanced and saw a sauna sign. Hesitating, she opened the door and entered.

Under the dim lighting, the woody-scented steam stung her nose. Masuzu paused at the door, then closed it and sat in a corner. Leaning against the damp wooden wall, she closed her eyes, emptying her mind of all thoughts.

The faint sound of the door opening echoed. Steam escaped, and cool air rushed in. Things quickly returned to normal.

Someone sat beside her, speaking in a voice only they could hear:

“Natsukawa-san.”

“…Dango-chan?” Masuzu opened her eyes, turning to the dango beside her.

Due to her large bust, still prominent despite the towel, Masuzu’s gaze lingered on her upper body for a few seconds before finally meeting her expression.

“Hehe, this is the first time we’ve talked alone like this since the autumn field trip.”

Yuigahama flashed her familiar goofy smile. The honesty and sincerity in her eyes always made it hard to meet her gaze.

Masuzu looked away. Stretching her arms and legs forward, she replied casually, “Yeah. I remember saying a lot of harsh things to you back then. Thinking about it now, I’m sorry.”

Yuigahama asked curiously, “Why does Natsukawa-san need to apologize?”

Masuzu bit her lip, her voice unconsciously softening.

“Why? …Back then, you genuinely cared about me. But I responded with that attitude, even arrogantly treating you like an enemy…”

Silence followed beside her.

Then, Yuigahama burst into laughter, laughing heartily and freely.

“Pfft, hahaha… Natsukawa-san, you’re not like your old self. Not only are you willing to apologize, but you’re also seriously reflecting on your attitude… That’s so weird!”

“Weird? Your manners are lacking. Don’t treat me like a kid who doesn’t know right from wrong!”

Her tone was filled with dissatisfaction, but hearing Yuigahama’s laughter, Masuzu felt relieved.

For no reason, she couldn’t help but curl the corner of her mouth, giving a light smirk.

“What can I do? Back then, you stood in front of me as a love rival. Of course, I wouldn’t be polite. No matter how kind you were, I’d see it as a trap… But now, it’s different.”

Like a curious child, Yuigahama leaned closer and asked, “What’s different?”

“Well…”

Gently tucking the silver hair that had slipped from her towel, heat spread across Masuzu’s cheeks and ears. She could feel Yuigahama’s expectant gaze on her face. Yet, she couldn’t help but hesitate.

The sauna’s heat came from the outside in. But now, an awkward, embarrassed feeling warmed her from the inside out. Her insides felt itchy and uncomfortable. She desperately wanted to flee the sauna and that gaze.

Yet her body loyally stayed on the wooden bench, unwilling to leave Yuigahama, who was so close.

-

Title: From Love Rivals to Friends

It was as if a voice kept urging Masuzu in her heart: Say it! Now’s your chance—if not now, it’ll be too late!

The chance to muster the courage to change, to step closer to the truth, to touch the light she once didn’t dare reach for…

If she fled now, Masuzu would forever be a coward who deceived herself.

She could never connect with others sincerely, always living in suspicion and calculation, deceiving others and herself, basking in loneliness with an arrogant gaze—she hated that Natsukawa Masuzu more than anyone. She hated that kind of maturity.

So, she kept questioning herself until she shed all disguises and let the answer in her heart surface—

(If I take this step, can I also have friends?)

(If I take this step, can I laugh with them too?)

(If I take this step, can I face my feelings as sincerely and honestly as she does?)

(If I can… can I become his girlfriend?)

“…”

Her fists quietly clenched at her side. Her lungs inhaled the oddly scented steam. Her consciousness grew hazy for a moment, as if dizzy from the heat.

“I want to be your friend. That’s what makes me different from before.”

(I said it!)

Realizing she’d voiced her heart, Masuzu’s heartbeat suddenly quickened. Her gaze instinctively darted to the corner of the wall. Her ears seemed unable to hear anything from outside. This nervousness surpassed even the moment she kissed him.

Swallowing hard, she moistened her dry lips. “Maybe you’ll find it strange… No, I find it strange myself. What’s someone who always toys with others’ feelings even saying? So shameless…”

After crossing the hardest threshold, the remaining words, though halting, flowed out like water breaching a dam.

“But I’m still jealous of you… Jealous that you can be honest with your feelings like Yuu. You can admit without hesitation that you want to be kind to someone, to like someone. You’re never afraid of suspicion or deception. You get closer when you want to get closer. Your words and actions always follow your heart… You know? That’s what’s most lacking in my world. It’s like a pearl hidden in a rock. I want to take it, but I’m afraid it’s a trap. But there are two—”

Her increasingly rapid words suddenly stopped.

Slowly, Masuzu lowered her head. She propped her elbows on her thighs, sighing long while holding her forehead.

“…Sorry, my feelings are a mess right now. I don’t know how to express them properly.”

“If it weren’t for Yuu, I might never have known how comfortable and peaceful it is to interact with someone openly… These words might sound harsh to you, but if I hadn’t asked him to be my fake boyfriend that day, forget talking with you or Yukinoshita-san. I might’ve stayed an outsider, alone, without meaningful memories until I graduated and left Japan.”

“Wanting to be your friend might also be because I want to repay the change he brought me…” As if suddenly understanding her issue, she smirked, mocking herself. “What a selfish reason. So typical of me.”

Masuzu shook her head, preparing to leave.

“Sorry, Yuigahama-san. Forget what I just said—”

“Does the reason matter?”

As soon as those words were spoken, a soft body drew closer. With a surprised expression, Yuigahama gently hugged her.

Their warm skin touched. Yuigahama tightened her arms, speaking softly. “Didn’t I once say I cared about you because I wanted to know more about Yuu-kun? That’s true.”

“That feeling is selfish. If that’s called selfish, then every girl in love is part of a super selfish group… So, the reason doesn’t matter at all. You did it because you wanted to. That’s enough.”

“…”

Silent, hesitant, confused.

Though Masuzu sat still like a statue, Yuigahama held her calmly, conveying warmth through her body, as if quietly saying something with her actions.

Masuzu leaned against her chest, closing her eyes, silent for a long time. Then, she slowly parted her dry lips:

“You’re saying… words so similar to his.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. Just like a life coach. It makes me question whether the beliefs I’ve built all this time are right.”

“It’s not that complicated.” Yuigahama smiled gently, stroking her head like soothing a child. “It’s just easier to do it. Who made Natsukawa-san so difficult anyway?”

“Difficult? Compared to Yukinoshita-san?”

“Hmm… Equally difficult?”

“Haha, she’s quite something too.”

Amused by her puzzled expression, Masuzu suddenly sat up straight. She gently pushed Yuigahama away and turned to face her.

They smiled at each other. Their eyes were clear and honest, as if they could see straight into each other’s hearts.

“So, Dango-chan…” Masuzu gathered her courage, not looking away. “Would you like to claim the throne of Natsukawa Masuzu’s first friend?”

“You’re still so arrogant…”

Yuigahama sighed in resignation but extended her hand, grinning widely.

“Of course!”

“As long as you don’t mind your friend being your former love rival!”

“…”

Masuzu blinked her large eyes, slowly withdrawing her outstretched hand. “You didn’t mention it, so I didn’t think about it… Honestly, I’m a bit hesitant. Let me think it over.”

“Hey!”

Even the soft-hearted Yuigahama couldn’t help but bare her teeth and shout.

Masuzu mischievously stuck out her tongue, grabbing Yuigahama’s hand and swinging it. “Just kidding~ Let’s be good friends, Dango-chan!”

Yuigahama pouted, complaining, “Natsukawa-san… No, Masuzu-chan, don’t keep making annoying jokes like that.”

Masuzu shrugged innocently. “Sorry, I can’t help it. It’s an instinct embedded in my DNA, like a vampire craving bread or Stand users being drawn to each other!”

“Annoying instinct!”

The steam in the sauna was foggy. Though they were close, their faces were slightly blurred.

Even so, one thing was clear to them at that moment.

—Masuzu and Yuigahama, from love rivals born of lies, officially became good friends who had soaked in a hot spring together.

“…”

“Oh, Dango-chan, I have one question.”

“What?”

“How can I believe that this feeling is what’s called love?”

“Eh~ That’s such a philosophical question. I’m not sure I can give an amazing answer.”

“It’s fine. I just want to hear your thoughts.”

“Hmm, let me think… Well, love, dreams, or family—when those strong feelings arise, they’re often accompanied by pain. Right?”

“Yeah, that’s why people unconsciously reject them.”

“But I think meeting those extraordinary feelings is the greatest treasure of my life.”

“…Sorry.”

“I told you, no need to apologize. Yuu-kun fell for you himself; you didn’t steal him from me… Just follow your heart! After that, maybe you can name the feeling you have now.”

“I’ll remember that. Thanks, Dango-bahan.”

“You’re welcome, Masuzu-chan. Keep it up!”

Anyone can be changed by those around them. And because of their changes, that person changes too.

Like gears… Perhaps that’s the shape of fate.

Yuigahama nodded as if enlightened, then couldn’t help but grin proudly.

“I can think of such deep stuff. Am I as smart as Yukinon now? I’m pretty amazing!”

The hot steam filled the sauna, but the stone under their feet still felt cool.

Following her new friend, Yuigahama waved enthusiastically at Yukino in the hot spring pool, then dashed toward it.

She didn’t care that her towel slipped off in the air. With two marshmallows bouncing, she charged toward her.

The pain in her chest seemed to have never existed.

Only the satisfaction of completing a mission warmed her entire heart.

-

Title: Super Cool

After everyone finished soaking, Asuna arrived as promised to hang out and play games.

That night, Yuu played games in the room with a group of fragrant girls. Around midnight, he and Masuzu escorted Asuna back to Kurayuri Academy’s inn.

Of course, despite there being five women and one man in the room, their activities remained wholesome and normal.

They played games like regular Monopoly and UNO. As for the unconventional Monopoly version and Kings Game proposed by Haruno, everyone unanimously and firmly rejected them, successfully preventing all sorts of weird incidents.

On the way to drop off Asuna with Masuzu, nothing special happened. On the way there, they chatted a bit. On the way back, they were silent, simply walking hand in hand through Kyoto’s quiet streets, gazing at the clear, transparent night sky. A few stars adorned their eyes, both gentle and bright.

Upon reaching the inn, at the door, Masuzu looked at him as if she wanted to say something. Her small lips parted slightly.

“…Good night, Yuu.”

In the end, she only gave a sweet smile, stood on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek, then, with a flushed face, hurried back to their room.

“What the heck…”

Turning to open his private room’s door, Yuu touched his cheek, his face filled with confusion.

But a familiar premonition quickly surfaced, making him realize, almost certain—

“Is the time almost up?”

It had happened before, and before that too. This repeating process could be called a routine. Combined with the mental preparation he’d made before coming, Yuu felt neither regret nor sadness, just a slight loneliness.

He simply turned off the light, closed the bed curtains, letting the room sink into pitch-black darkness, like an eternal night, not allowing a single ray of light into any corner.

Then he lay down fully clothed, quietly waiting for that moment to arrive, whether tomorrow or the day after.

His dreams that night were filled with memories.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

The next morning, the National Kendo Championship reached its critical point in the final rounds.

Today, they would compete straight through to the semifinals. The two remaining teams would face off in the final round tomorrow morning to determine this year’s national champion.

As a result, the atmosphere in the arena was more tense than yesterday. The stands were packed with more spectators. Cheers and shouts of support set the gymnasium’s air ablaze, growing even fiercer in this winter season.

In the first match, Sobu High faced trouble—one of their second players accidentally sprained their wrist during emergency training yesterday. Yet, they endured it without saying a word, holding their ground against a stronger opponent than before with difficulty.

They managed a draw. But when Himura forcibly removed their hand guard, a swollen bruise was revealed. It was clear they couldn’t continue to the next match.

In the rest area, the fierce bald guy knelt on the ground, hands pressed to the floor. He bowed deeply before the other club members, especially the coach and club president.

“The next semifinal is against Kyuuzan. I know their second player. Our substitute, Kuroda, will lose by one point… Whatever punishment you give, I’ll accept it. Please let me keep fighting!”

They exchanged glances. No one spoke. They silently avoided looking at his bowed head. Only the coach, president, vice president, and Yuu stood there, staring at him in dogeza.

“With your wrist like that, the current Kuroda could beat you with one hand.” Yuu said calmly, arms crossed.

“Let’s try!” The bald guy suddenly raised his head. His eyes were red like an enraged bull, filled only with anxiety and a plea to prove himself. “It’s just a slight sprain. If I can beat him, please let me fight!”

Yuu raised an eyebrow. “That’s your confidence to win? You think you can defeat a strong opponent while injured? Ignoring the risk of losing, just to prove your strength, gambling with your teammates’ victory?”

“…” The bald guy fell silent, clenching his fists, staring at him.

“Well, I guess I don’t have the right to say that to you. I’m just way stronger, so I can talk tougher.” Yuu sighed, shrugging slightly. “Baldy, your wrist injury from overtraining is your own fault. Didn’t I tell you yesterday to pace yourself and not overdo it? Since you did it on purpose, your punishment is to sit out.”

“I have a name, it’s ○○○○!” The bald guy instinctively corrected him.

“That’s not important. You’re not fighting anyway. Stay on the bench.” After saying it mercilessly, Yuu looked around at all the kendo club members, including the coach, president, and vice president. “Kuroda will take the second player’s spot. Then we’ll change tactics—starting now, we’ll propose the Gyokuryuki system. The order stays the same to ensure we don’t lose before I fight.”

“So, fight calmly.”

“Yes, sir!”

Amid the unified shout, only the bald guy’s voice held a hint of reluctance. The others had complete confidence in Yuu, feeling even more at ease about the next match.

If they’d used this tactic from the start, while they wouldn’t need to worry about early elimination, there was a risk opponents would be wary and refuse the Gyokuryuki system. The chance to use Yuu to secure victory in the finals would’ve been slimmer.

Now, with the semifinals imminent, every team was eager to show their strength. They had enough confidence and pride in their abilities. Though they knew Sobu High had a captain who always won, they’d accept the proposed system with a mindset to test and challenge him.

After ensuring no objections, Yuu dismissed them. They’d regroup in the rest area when the next match began. He then went to a corner with the coach, president, and vice president to discuss the upcoming match’s strategy.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Time passed quickly.

In the next match, Sobu High proposed the Gyokuryuki system for the first time in the National Championship. Their opponent, Kyuuzan High, after a few minutes of team discussion, happily accepted. They sent their captain as the first player, as if he’d sweep everyone from the start.

At that moment, in the second-floor stands:

“This place is so noisy… Hurry up and finish, then come back.”

The man in a suit sighed softly. He tugged at his slightly uncomfortable tie, brow furrowed, as he navigated the bustling crowd in the corridor.

The match below had just started. He glanced at it casually, then turned to the two following him. “Which one? Which field is Masuzu’s boyfriend on?”

“You can’t see from here. Please follow me.”

Seeing the familiar friendly smile on her face, Mana first signaled Yasuoka with her eyes. She then led the way, guiding her father, who had come from afar.

Her fingers brushed the phone in her pocket. The petite blonde girl hesitated briefly but didn’t warn Masuzu via message—mainly because there was no chance. She could only deliberately take her to watch the match far from her sister. She could only help a little.

“What a jerk, always pulling surprises…”

Muttering to herself, Mana couldn’t help but click her tongue.

She knew her father’s return to Japan was to meet Masuzu’s boyfriend. With Yasuoka by his side, it was natural that she, who secretly came to watch the match, would be found—what surprised her was that her father didn’t just show up but also asked her to take him to see his brother-in-law’s match. He even planned to wait for him in the participants’ corridor afterward and say something.

Wasn’t this too rushed? It wasn’t like her father, who always controlled situations and planned everything.

Her mind was full of questions, but she didn’t dare ask. Mana could only suppress her curiosity, assuming her father happened to enjoy watching kendo, and casually led him to a corner of the second-floor stands.

“Field two, Sobu High’s captain position—that’s him.”

“Mm.” The father nodded calmly, no longer paying her attention. His gaze fixed on a young man below, observing him.

Mana quietly stepped aside, sighing in relief.

Here, she didn’t need to worry about Masuzu and her father spotting each other. Avoiding trouble was best if possible. The rest, she’d leave to her all-capable brother-in-law—that was the impromptu plan she devised.

Her gaze also turned to the first floor. Like yesterday, it focused on that mature, composed figure. When fighting, Yuu was aggressive and decisive. Mana twirled her blonde ponytail around her pinky. Her small nose wrinkled slightly, but a proud, joyful smile unconsciously spread across her face.

“Stupid brother-in-law, I’ve thought of so much for you guys… If you don’t treat me well later, I won’t forgive you!”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

At the same time, the first match below ended.

Kyuuzan’s captain easily defeated Sobu High’s lead player. The second player couldn’t hold the sword properly, visibly nervous. As soon as the referee announced the start, they retreated and moved around, seemingly trying to exhaust the opponent’s stamina.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“I thought the rules were one-on-one and sequential… Why’s he still on the field?”

Hearing her father’s confused murmur, Mana was startled but answered, “Sobu High proposed the Gyokuryuki system. From now on, it’s a chain battle. Whoever wins stays on the field. Whoever runs out of players loses.”

“I see.” The father nodded, staring at his brother-in-law while muttering, “Though they proposed this system, he didn’t step up to show strength like the opposing captain… Is he calm or conservative? From the intel, he shouldn’t be the type to shy away from standing out…”

Mana understood instantly. Her father didn’t come to watch the match but to observe her brother-in-law’s performance… He wasn’t interested in kendo but in his personality and worth.

…The adult world was too complicated. As a fourteen-year-old, she didn’t want to overthink it. She refocused on the match.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Despite trying hard to stall, over four minutes later, Sobu High’s second player still lost to the opponent’s captain. Kyuuzan’s cheers grew louder. Many voices wondered why Sobu High brought trouble on themselves.

The middle player then stepped up. Perhaps because the opponent’s stamina was waning, this time their fight was even. Sobu High’s middle player even had a slight edge.

Just as time neared an extension round, Kyuuzan’s captain suddenly exposed a weakness. Sobu High’s middle player instinctively advanced and lost a point. Kyuuzan’s morale surged again, their applause like thunder.

At this point, Sobu High was nearly defeated. Three players were consecutively beaten by the opposing captain, who still had four fully rested players. The situation seemed certain. The highly praised strong team would taste the bitter fruit of their arrogant system choice.

But Mana wasn’t swayed by the shifting atmosphere. Instead, she grew excited—the Sobu High players on the field showed only reluctance and shame, not a trace of despair over losing. Like her, they placed immense trust in their captain.

Without hesitation, after the middle player left, a black-haired girl boldly stepped up. In less than a minute, she defeated Kyuuzan’s exhausted captain. Amid applause, she faced their second player.

The sound of bamboo swords clashing was intense, their rhythm like a stormy tide.

Both second players were evenly matched. Though the black-haired girl attacked relentlessly, she couldn’t break her opponent’s perfect defense. After six minutes, both stepped down, ending the match.

Kyuuzan High still had their lead, second, and middle players.

Sobu High had only their captain, Yuu, who fearlessly faced the three prepared opponents. He rose from the lineup.

His lips moved slightly, as if saying something. Though Mana squinted, she only caught that he seemed to say a number.

“Three…”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Wearing his face guard, holding his bamboo sword, Yuu stood in the center of the field under countless gazes, kneeling in salute.

“Begin!”

After the referee’s shout, he slowly rose. One second passed.

Then he stepped forward. The second second passed. His bamboo sword vanished in the air. The opponent’s sword tip hadn’t even risen.

*THWACK!*

As if he’d never attacked, Yuu stepped back with proper posture. The third second passed. He looked at his stunned opponent and the wide-eyed referee, moving his sword tip as if urging.

“…Men! One point valid!”

Time stopped at seven seconds, but Mana knew the match ended at the third second—the “three” he mentioned meant three seconds per opponent?

The corner of Mana’s lips twitched. She tried to hold back but couldn’t help smiling, showing a proud, joyful grin.

(Look, that’s my brother-in-law!)

Though she didn’t want to admit it, Yuu was super cool!

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

It seemed no one grasped what happened. The atmosphere froze briefly, then scattered applause broke out. It grew louder, like rain, echoing through the gymnasium.

The stands’ enthusiasm didn’t affect the match. After the middle player left the field, scratching their head in disbelief, the second player faced Yuu, gripping their bamboo sword more nervously and cautiously than before.

The match began. In the second second, they raised their sword to protect their head, but Yuu struck heavily at their side. The force was so great it staggered them back several steps, and they fell to the ground.

“Do! One point valid!”

This time, time stopped precisely at the third second when the point was called.

The same result consecutively. Forget the referee—many spectators were slack-jawed, looking confused.

They just stared at Sobu High’s captain returning to his ready stance. Even the applause quieted. The atmosphere froze again.

Though they knew the captain was a team’s core and that Sobu High’s captain was strong, on par with Kyuuzan’s captain who defeated three players, victory wasn’t impossible—

But this was too strong!?

The opponent wasn’t a dummy or a post. They were a skilled fighter who reached the National Championship semifinals. Yet they were defeated in three seconds, like a mere practice target… Was this something a human could do?

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

“Indeed, he’s a monster to that extent…”

Seeing her father’s slightly disbelieving expression, Mana nodded proudly. She glanced at Yasuoka. Both showed a strange, resigned look, starting to feel pity for Kyuuzan’s students.

Forget defeating three people—defeating five would be easy for him.

The fact that Yuu didn’t step up and crush all five “kids” outright showed he still had some sportsmanship…

While her father focused on the match, Mana lost interest and looked away. She quietly took out her phone.

This match had no suspense left. It was time to warn her sister to stay away from their father, to avoid being dragged back to Sweden.

That way, she could leverage it for her sister’s sake—if she could get him to be her personal bodyguard for a day, it’d be super fun.

Thinking of that future, Mana couldn’t help but chuckle softly.