Yuu 311-315

Title: Who’s Helpless?

After school.

On Yukino’s suggestion, the group first gathered at the Service Club before heading to the kendo club to discuss the matter.

Of course, this included the two first-year female students, but they seemed to have urgent business. Despite being closer to the special building, they arrived later.

Before that, the atmosphere in the Service Club was slightly awkward—Yuu and Yukino had been verbally sparring since they met, while Masuzu and Yuigahama silently observed each other like spectators.

For some reason, Masuzu felt Yuigahama’s gaze on her was particularly strange.

There was a hint of resentment, a touch of resigned acceptance—in short, the aura of a loser was thick... This should’ve been good news, yet somehow, she felt slightly uncomfortable, though she couldn’t explain why.

“What is it?” Masuzu decided to take the initiative, asking with a smile.

Yuigahama forced a stiff smile and said, “Nothing.”

“If nothing’s wrong, why do you keep staring at me?”

“N-Natsukawa-san, you’ve been secretly looking at me too, haven’t you?”

“Oh? If you weren’t looking at me, how would you know I was watching you?”

“Ugh... Wait, Natsukawa-san, you’re doing it too!”

“Not the same. I can sense waves—your evil aura is so strong I can’t ignore it.”

“What evil aura?! Natsukawa-san looks more like the villain from every angle!”

“Oh? From which angles exactly? Please explain, so I can improve.”

“Uh, that’s...”

Masuzu wore a happy, sadistic smile, clearly enjoying making Yuigahama speechless.

But Yuigahama simply didn’t want to say it. After all, aside from stealing men, Masuzu had never done many of the things good people usually did.

Saying so would only turn it into a trial and make the atmosphere worse.

“Sorry for keeping you waiting~” A lively, crisp voice suddenly sounded. Iroha opened the classroom door and entered casually. “Let’s head to the kendo club now—the president, vice-president, and most members are already waiting for us there~”

“Sorry we’re late.”

She was followed by Kanade. Her small silver-haired head nodded in agreement, then quietly shifted her gaze toward Yuu, saying nothing more.

“President, give your orders.”

Having just finished arguing with Yukino about whether height or appearance mattered more, Yuu mocked her.

Yukino didn’t care. In fact, she was used to it and could easily ignore him whenever she wanted.

Standing up from the chair near the window, she said coldly, “Let’s go. Based on my observation of today’s rumors, the kendo club should welcome Tenkuji-kun warmly. But I don’t know what the main team members will think.”

“Haaah, don’t overthink it~ Anyway, if anyone objects, let Senpai fight them. No problem can’t be solved with one match. If that fails, do it twice!”

Iroha swung her fist cutely, her face filled with a mischievous grin, as if watching a show unrelated to her.

“Besides, Kanade-chan is super cute there. Don’t even talk about Senpai’s siscon tendencies—they’ll probably all obey without complaint! As long as President Himura agrees, everything will be fine~”

“I see.” Yukino nodded, pressed her lips together, hiding a faint smile in her eyes, then looked seriously at Yuu.

“So, siscon Senpai, what do you think?”

“You’re joking—what opinion could I possibly have?” Yuu smiled brightly, cracking his joints as he walked toward Iroha. “Give me a moment to deal with this junior who talks nonsense.”

“Eh? Wait!” Iroha just realized what she’d said. “Senpai, no! Hear me out!”

“Explain?” Yuu kept walking forward; Iroha slowly backed away, passing Kanade and heading toward the door.

“It’s all because of Senpai... When Kanade-chan called you ‘Onii-chan’ in broad daylight, rumor has it you showed an extremely pleased expression, right? After hearing that, my impression of Senpai subtly changed... I’m not at fault either!”

Yuu frowned and glanced at Kanade.

Kanade tilted her head innocently, as if asking, “What?”

Yuu raised his gaze back to Iroha and sneered.

“I don’t find a single trace of innocence in your words.”

“Senpai, this is discrimination!”

After angrily complaining, Iroha fled immediately.

As Yuu passed Kanade, he ruffled her soft white hair, then chased after her.

“Yuu, stop! I never heard anything about the ‘Onii-chan’ thing!”

“Yuu-kun does have a little sister at home, but letting a junior call him ‘Onii-chan’... Could it be that...”

“Heh, stupid man.”

Footsteps quickly faded down the corridor of the second floor of the club building. Only leaving behind chaos and whispers inside the classroom.

There was also a little girl holding her head in confusion, staring at his retreating back with a puzzled expression.

“My head got patted again... Did I do something wrong?”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

Not long after.

Having “dealt with” Iroha, Yuu and the others headed to the kendo club together.

“I wasn’t dealt with! Even though I received excessive punishment from Senpai...”

Muttering, she suddenly noticed her senior’s girlfriend beside her, smiling at her. Iroha immediately put on a serious expression and casually distanced herself from Yuu.

As for what happened after Yuu chased her, no one asked, and she wouldn’t volunteer the answer—anyway, it wasn’t anything like spanking.

The distance between the special building and the kendo dojo wasn’t far—certainly closer than to the main school building.

Since the kendo club was Sobu High’s highest-achieving and most prestigious club, a few years ago the school had specially invested heavily to build a new kendo dojo next to the club building for their use. Compared to the Service Club’s classroom-turned-storage room, the dojo was like comparing Levi’s height to a 60-meter Colossal Titan.

The group of six entered the kendo dojo. On the clean, gleaming wooden floor, dozens of kendo club members sat neatly in rows, wearing full protective gear except for their face guards.

Short red-haired, friendly-faced President Himura sat in the most prominent position, apparently giving a verbal lecture in place of the coach.

“Oh, you’ve arrived.”

When Yukino had just opened the door, he stopped speaking and stood up.

Holding a practice shinai, his smiling eyes slowly narrowed, staring straight at the group standing at the entrance.

“You’re here about that issue, aren’t you?”

Suddenly, his tone and the surrounding temperature turned cold.

“Eh...”

It was as if a sharp blade flashed directly at her. Yukino, standing at the front, instinctively stepped back. Before she could widen her eyes in surprise, a dark shadow appeared in front of her—a broad, sturdy back blocking her view.

Yuu stood before her, meeting President Himura’s glare with an annoyed expression, and said sarcastically:

“Wow, haven’t seen you in a month, and your sword skills have truly improved. You can even intimidate our helpless president now... Himura-kun.”

Yukino: “...”

At a moment like this, should she honestly thank him for protecting her—or use aikido to teach him whether she was really helpless?

-

Title: Just a Friendly Practice Match

“It wasn’t intentional. Sorry if we offended you.”

Unaffected by the sarcasm, Himura kept his friendly smile and shook his head. “I was just a little excited... It’s truly thrilling to fight against you again, Tenkuji-kun.”

Yuu hadn’t responded yet, but Yuigahama had already muttered behind him, “Hina mustn’t hear those words, or she’ll be the one getting excited…”

Ebina Hina, a well-known fujoshi from Class F.

She belonged to the same group as Miura Yumiko and Yuigahama Yui. She became extremely enthusiastic when talking about BL, and currently, her favorite pairing was Totsuka and someone else.

She was one of the few people Yuu dared not approach, fearing he’d be dragged into the abyss of depravity by her corrupt aura.

Yuu’s cheek twitched slightly. He decided to pretend he heard nothing and replied to Himura with a polite smile, “Sorry, but I might have to disappoint you. I’m here only to discuss the matter, not to fight…”

“Oh right.”

As if suddenly remembering something, Yuu’s smile widened, and he raised an eyebrow. “That shinai is still in our club room... Himura-kun, if you want to retrieve it, I’ll have someone deliver it after we finish talking? That way, we won’t need to waste time fighting again.”

These words were clearly provocation aimed at the defeated opponent standing before Himura. It was practically a direct slap to the face.

“You bastard!”

“Even if it’s you, show some respect for our president!”

Seeing several impulsive club members stand up angrily, glaring at them, Yukino couldn’t help but frown. She tugged on the hem of his shirt and whispered,

“Enough, we came here to—”

The second half of her sentence was cut off.

Because she suddenly remembered—the kendo club was the one seeking help. It didn’t matter if Yuu simply left now. The ones who should be worried were the kendo club, and she had no standing to ask him to stop!

But still, Yuu couldn’t keep provoking them endlessly, could he?

If they actually fought, win or lose, it would be troublesome if the school got involved...

Unconsciously, Yukino pressed her lips together with a serious expression and began thinking about how to help clean up the mess he’d created.

Yuu glanced sideways, watching the girl’s eyelashes lower slightly. He rolled his eyes and said, “Don’t misunderstand—I’m not avenging your honor. I’m just being arrogant.”

Yukino lifted the corner of her lip, showing a mischievous expression. “Oh? I didn’t say anything—”

“Exactly, this is called intimidation, Yukinoshita-san.” Before Yukino could finish, Masuzu beside her nodded in agreement, speaking seriously. “Yuu is cruel and cold-hearted. He wouldn’t avenge someone else’s grudge. Don’t get the wrong idea.”

Yuu’s cheek twitched. “Hey, are you defending me or insulting me?”

“Of course I’m defending my beloved Yuu~”

“...Hah.” Yukino didn’t want to deal with these two anymore. She rubbed her forehead as if having a headache and sighed tiredly. “Fine, do whatever you want.”

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

On the other side.

Himura stopped the members who wanted to confront Yuu. He smiled calmly. “He’s just stating the truth. That day, I really did lose to him. The winner is king; the loser is a nobody. There’s nothing to get angry about.”

“But President, his tone…!”

The bald man, looking fierce as if fresh out of prison, gritted his teeth. He glared sharply at Yuu, who was chatting casually with the beautiful girls. His expression was filled with anger and a hint of jealousy.

Yet only three or four shared his sentiment. Most remained neutral. Though they disliked the disrespect toward their president, they had to admit Yuu had the ability—and the right—to say such things.

Moreover, there were even people wanting to defend Yuu—like the vice-president, desperate to win a national championship title before graduation, and the dark-skinned kendo girl whom Yuu had once taught how to become stronger.

More than anyone, these two wanted to harness Yuu’s strength, so naturally, they didn’t want relations between both sides to sour.

Realizing the sudden shift in atmosphere, they quickly stepped forward, eager to mediate.

However, before they could open their mouths, Himura had already smiled and said, “No buts.”

“Anyone with objections can challenge me—or fight directly against the one who defeated me.”

“The victor has the right to speak; the loser has even their dignity trampled. So strive to become stronger. Isn’t that why you joined the kendo club?”

His tone remained as friendly as ever, yet carried pressure that made others unable to resist.

Several members who had issues with Yuu instinctively took a step back. They bowed deeply to him, then returned to their seats with slightly pale faces.

“As for you two…”

Himura turned to face the hesitant vice-president and dark-skinned girl approaching him. He smiled with a touch of helplessness. “Don’t worry—I haven’t forgotten that we were the ones who asked him to join as an outside member.”

“The itch to fight is one thing, and meeting the desires of less capable members is another. I’ll do my best to convince him to help.”

“We sincerely apologize for not being strong enough…” Both bowed their heads guiltily.

Looking at his right arm in a cast, the bespectacled vice-president couldn’t hold back his reddening eyes. He bit his lip, holding back tears, trembling with regret.

Himura let out a soft sigh.

“This is partly my fault too. I’ve been president for so long, yet couldn’t lead you all to victory because I kept getting suspended… Let me redeem myself just this once.”

With that, he walked toward Yuu, standing at the front of the group of six, and sat neatly one meter in front of him.

Then, he placed both hands on his knees and slightly bowed his straight, sword-like back.

“I was very rude earlier. Our match shouldn’t be brought up now. As for that shinai, it’s proof you surpassed me—and the entire kendo club. Of course, there’s no reason to take it back.”

“Me?” Yuu froze momentarily. Was this guy actually changing his self-reference when he got serious?

Yet seeing his genuinely lowered head, no matter how cold-hearted Yuu was, he couldn’t possibly continue mocking him now. He merely waved his hand casually and said indifferently:

“Never mind that boring stuff. I just want to ask—are you really in need of my help? If not, I’ll leave.”

Himura didn’t lift his head. Only a steady voice, filled with sincerity, came from beneath his hanging hair:

“Please, help us.”

At the same moment, the other club members simultaneously bowed their heads—without a trace of insincerity. Their low, echoing cries seemed ready to tear through the kendo dojo’s roof:

“Please, help us!”

“This…”

Yuu stared in shock at the uniform scene. After freezing for several seconds, he felt slightly embarrassed and scratched his cheek.

Soon after, he cleared his throat twice and answered seriously:

“I’ll do my best.”

The moment he finished speaking, Himura immediately lifted his head. His face still wore the same friendly smile.

“In that case, before we discuss the match order—would you like to spar to demonstrate your skills directly to everyone?”

“...Seriously, you just want to fight, don’t you?”

“Of course not. This is just a friendly practice match.”

-

Title: Nine-Headed Dragon! Sky-Dragon Flash!

In the end, Yuu decided to spar against Himura.

In the vast kendo dojo, many club members had never witnessed the extraordinary sword duel from the autumn festival.

They only knew from hearsay that this man had once defeated Himura, but they didn’t know how strong he truly was—nor why people spoke of it with changed expressions, even tinged with disbelief.

For instance, the fierce bald man. As the second-string member of this year’s national tournament team, he clearly doubted Yuu’s strength—he just kept quiet out of respect for Himura’s authority.

“Hmph, he’s just a pretty face, a playboy. He must’ve used some cheap trick to beat the president…”

A small minority harbored negative opinions about his presence and hoped to see Himura defeat him with the shinai.

Of course, Yuu didn’t care about their thoughts.

There was only one thing he needed to do: at the national high school kendo tournament, he would crush those kids with Perfect-Level swordsmanship and superhuman physicality, bringing home the trophy for the school and the kendo club—that was all.

No need to build good relations with them. On the kendo field, there were only two people—himself and his opponent. If he lost, so be it. It had nothing to do with teamwork.

If they used the Gyokuryuki format, he wouldn’t even need the other four players. He could defeat five opponents alone; at most, he’d just expend a lot of stamina.

He was practically a one-man army. Even he himself felt it was a little unfair.

How about that? Jealous?

His new girlfriend gave it to him.

“I’m glad you agreed.” The laughter from behind his face guard was slightly muffled, yet still warm and cheerful. “Since that day, I’ve been waiting—for you to come to my home dojo, to fight again as we promised.”

“Don’t speak so ambiguously. Sorry, after that match, I forgot I ever promised to fight you. I’m not really someone who enjoys fighting.”

After completing his second mission, his aggressive nature had unconsciously faded. Yuu could no longer find the same fighting spirit he once had during his intense battle with Asuna.

Yuu, clad in thick kendo armor, sighed. “Fine with bamboo swords. But if we use wooden swords, there’ll definitely come a moment when we can’t hold back.”

“What a shame... Well, let’s return to the main topic.”

On the nine-by-nine square court, Himura stood behind the white line, lightly swinging the shinai in his hand.

“Tenkuji-kun, you’ve probably never competed before, right? This match isn’t just to satisfy our itch to fight—it’s also to show you the rules of official competitions, and which moves count as fouls and won’t earn points, even if they hit valid areas.”

Yuu shrugged. “Thanks for the consideration. Though I’ve never competed, I understand these rules.”

In Perfect-Level skills, even the history of kendo development was included, so of course competition regulations wouldn’t be overlooked.

“Really? Then let’s begin immediately.” Himura looked relieved. His relaxed posture suddenly became rigid.

He gripped his sword, bowed slightly toward his opponent, then made a symbolic motion as if drawing a blade. After that, he knelt down gracefully and smoothly.

On the other side, Yuu simultaneously knelt and rose. Then he assumed the chūdan-no-kamae stance—the most common position—with the tip of his shinai pointed straight at his opponent’s throat.

Through the face guard, his cold eyes stared directly into his opponent’s, missing no single change.

“—“

Even before the referee shouted “begin,” the oppressive atmosphere blanketing the entire dojo already controlled every spectator’s breath.

Among the kendo club members, the fierce bald man merely watched the confrontation scene unfold—his expression couldn’t help but shift. In the end, he had to admit he’d misjudged.

Without even fighting, that aura alone could make someone surrender—the man was, at the very least, a fighter on par with Himura. He was certainly no one to be doubted.

The vice-president pushed up his glasses, trying to hide the joy in his heart. His eyes fixed intently on the two figures on the court.

As if he had become Yuu himself, standing before the president—and in the future, standing on the tournament stage, claiming the sole national championship title of his life.

As for the Service Club group...

“This is the first time I’ve seen Yuu-kun in kendo gear...”

“All black and can’t see his face—so ugly. Give me back my Yuu!”

“Wow, wow, wow, Senpai and the president look so scary... Kanade-chan, who do you think will win?”

“Hmm... Mapo tofu?”

“Senpai? Yeah, he’s already won once.”

“Why did ‘mapo tofu’ become his nickname... And the match is about to start—please everyone stay quiet.”

When the Service Club’s chatter finally subsided, the kendo girl acting as referee took a deep breath. Her face flushed slightly with excitement. After confirming both sides were ready, she raised her arm sharply:

“Shobu!” (Begin!)

One command.

The shadow behind the white line vanished instantly. His footsteps left afterimages, and the shinai shot forward at nearly invisible speed, slashing straight toward Yuu’s face.

“Men, effective!”

“One point! Break!”

Within about one second, the kendo girl raised her right hand, stuttering as she declared Yuu had scored a point.

Including the referee, everyone froze, staring at him as he calmly pulled back his sword and walked back to the white line.

Inside the kendo dojo, silence reigned. Only increasingly tense, heavy breathing could be heard.

“H-How did he do it?”

“But the president attacked first! And there was no clash at all—just one second...”

“He feels even scarier than before...”

Whispers outside the court began to turn chaotic. The expressions of the two facing each other on the field barely changed. They continued staring with cold eyes, all energy and spirit gathered, without the slightest relaxation or distraction.

Before the referee gave the signal, Himura whispered:

“Just a fraction of a second faster than me—but victory is yours.”

Yuu replied casually:

“To win, a fraction of a second is enough.”

“Indeed... This time, I won’t lose again.”

He smiled faintly. His perpetually narrow eyes suddenly widened, as if a sharp blade flashed through the face guard, reflected in Yuu’s eyes.

The next second.

“Shobu!” (Begin!)

In a world where time slowed completely, Yuu saw it. The shinai bent slightly, sweeping a crescent-shaped slash from the upper corner.

No—not one.

Karitake, kesagiri, migi-nagi, migi-age, gyakufu, hidari-age, hidari-nagi, gyaku-gamae, tsuki—Nine slashes appeared almost simultaneously, like a nine-headed dragon baring its fangs and tearing through the air at incredible speed, silently surrounding him.

“Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū Technique—Nine-Headed Dragon!”

“Hah?!”

Yuu widened his sharp eyes, nearly shouting.

—Damn it, can bamboo swords use such absurd sword techniques?!

If he took the attack head-on, the shinai in his hand would surely shatter under those nine strikes... His opponent seemed to be aiming for exactly that.

Was he seeking revenge?

Yuu wouldn’t allow it. He stepped back with an unstable, ghost-like movement, maintaining distance.

“Not over yet!”

Without waiting for his opponent to counter, Himura, whose attack had missed, quickly advanced. Without the slightest pause, he pulled his shinai back to his waist. Left foot forward, right foot back.

Other club members finally managed to follow his movements, but couldn’t suppress cries of shock:

“Battōjutsu?!”

This wasn’t a stance commonly seen in kendo matches—it left too large an opening. If he slashed at his head now, he could easily score one men point.

His foot positioning was also wrong. Normally, battōjutsu stance had the right foot forward and left foot back, making it easier to draw from the waist... But Himura couldn’t possibly make such a foolish mistake.

Was he doing it on purpose?

Only Yuu wasn’t confused. He even took a defensive stance with a serious expression, preparing himself.

Because he knew—if he attacked now, he’d fall right into the trap.

“Smart... If you can withstand this technique, try it.”

The voice, slightly laced with laughter, still hung in the air.

It was a clash even the referee couldn’t follow. In the blink of an eye, everything would end.

Super-fast battōjutsu, stealing the very air from Yuu’s lungs.

“Hiten Mitsurugi-ryū Technique—Sky-Dragon Flash!”

A dull impact sounded.

*BANG!*

“—“

If the first strike missed, he could step forward again with his right foot, readjust his center of gravity to normal position, and launch a second, stronger battōjutsu slash.

That was Himura’s plan.

He couldn’t believe that even after becoming this serious, he could still be so easily defeated by that man.

Precisely to defeat Yuu, he would cunningly use real combat techniques in practice, disregarding kendo rules.

Even his own master would struggle to withstand this technique—there was no way that guy, no matter how strong—

“Tsuki.” (Thrust.)

As his thoughts halted, a faint sound rang out.

In the gap of his first missed attack, a shinai split the air and thrust straight into his throat.

While pushing him back, Yuu also reflexively deflected the rebounding shinai—which now lacked much force.

Then, the sound of a shinai hitting the ground echoed throughout the silent kendo dojo.

“Haaah... Good thing my reaction speed and physical strength are higher than yours. Otherwise, who could withstand a slash that nearly created a vacuum?”

“You...”

Struggling to stabilize his retreating steps, Himura touched his neck guard, staring in disbelief.

“Even capable of using techniques like this... Japanese high school students are monsters.” Yuu sighed. He placed the shinai over his shoulder, glanced at the still-frozen referee, and raised an eyebrow.

“Referee, that last move should’ve been my point, right?”

“Ah, yes!” The kendo girl quickly raised her hand. Her face still showed bewilderment. She announced flatly, “O-One point! Match over—the winner is Tenkuji Yuu from the Service Club!”

No applause, no praise.

Even among the Service Club group, silence reigned as if stunned...

*👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻*

No—someone was still conscious.

Kanade clapped softly. Her golden eyes remained perfectly calm. She commented emotionlessly,

“Amazing.”

“Haha, thanks for the compliment.”

Yuu scratched his neck, strangely pleased.

-

Title: Volume Three Isn’t Over Yet

After this battle, not a single kendo club member dared complain about Yuu joining.

...Especially after defeating Himura, Yuu walked toward the bald man with the shinai in hand, tapping it lightly against his palm as he smiled at him:

“Yo, you and your buddies seemed to have a lot of complaints about me? You even shouted ‘kora!’ telling me to be more respectful? Hahahaha, impressive courage—I like that.”

“What a coincidence. I’m used to eliminating all obstacles early on. To prevent any misunderstandings that might lead to unpleasant cooperation later, how about we get to know each other properly with swords right now?”

Yuu spread his arms wide, smiling politely:

“Don’t say I’m bullying the weak. I won’t wear armor and will fight one-handed. Meanwhile, you can all wear full protection. If that still seems unfair, I won’t use either hand. I’ll show you the legendary sword techniques from the greatest swordsmen of the sea.”

“By the way, do you prefer one-on-one or gang-up? One-on-one means you versus me; gang-up means me versus all of you. Doesn’t matter which you pick—just don’t run away.”

After speaking in a low voice, he leaned in close, as if about to kiss, staring sharply into the bald man’s cold-sweating face, smirking.

“He’s a villain.”

“The kind of lowlife villain who gets kicked to death by the protagonist in the first chapter.”

“How embarrassing...”

Yuigahama, Iroha, and Yukino couldn’t bear to watch and turned their heads away, faces slightly flushed with embarrassment.

In contrast, Masuzu folded her arms across her chest and nodded proudly. “Truly worthy of being my Yuu. Just trample them all, use the kendo club as your stepping stone, and start building your own empire from now on!”

“You can’t do that.” Hearing those words, Kanade immediately tugged his sleeve and said seriously, “If he wants power of his own, Senpai Yuu could run for student council president. Then everyone would listen to him.”

“Ugh...”

For a moment, Masuzu’s expression froze. Her exaggerated act seemed to collapse under that overly innocent gaze. A pang of guilt welled up from deep within her heart.

Her eyes darted around. She cleared her throat twice. “That, Tachibana-san... I was just joking earlier. Can’t you tell?”

“Joking?”

Unlike Masuzu, Kanade—whose snow-white hair was as pure as the first winter snow—tilted her head in confusion, then let out a soft sigh. Her golden eyes radiated a calmness that was oddly reassuring.

“Thank goodness.”

“You don’t even understand jokes. Did you grow up in some paradise where everyone speaks honestly?”

Masuzu turned her face away, refusing to look at her.

For some reason, in front of this underclassman who was just one year younger, her worst traits seemed magnified. The more she stared into those clear, sincere eyes, the more she was forced to confront how petty and fake she truly was compared to others.

“Not really. They joke with me too, and lie to me... It’s just that if they don’t say it, I usually can’t tell.”

Shaking her head, there wasn’t a trace of sadness on Kanade’s face. She simply lifted her small face and gave a gentle smile. “But even if it’s a joke or a lie, as long as it makes everyone happy, I think that’s important enough. Whether it’s heaven or not.”

“As long as people are happy, truth or lies don’t matter?” Masuzu stared at the floor, sighing. “Such naïve and selfish thinking—just like him.”

Kanade blinked. “Is that bad?”

“Not bad at all. The world needs one or two people like you so negative energy doesn’t pile up uncontrollably without anyone cleaning it up.” Masuzu shrugged helplessly, then suddenly raised her hand and gently patted Kanade’s head.

“Cute underclassman! Keep being like this and become the fresh air of this world!”

Facing Masuzu’s hand, Kanade looked up, confused. “Just like Tenkuji-senpai, why do you also pat my head?”

“Well...”

Recalling the scene of Yuu ruffling her hair at the Service Club and his pleased expression when praised, Masuzu’s eyes sparkled. She narrowed her eyes with a cold look.

If she were a kind-hearted woman, of course she wouldn’t have such twisted thoughts.

But quite the opposite!

She, Masuzu, was a jealous, suspicious villainess. After dating for so long, he hadn’t even touched her chest once. She already suspected Yuu was a pedophile!

Based on her observations, Yuu either liked flat chests or petite girls—but given Yukino’s existence, it was 90% certain this man was indeed slightly pedophilic!

Ah, what a disappointing discovery...

Masuzu, supremely confident in every seductive curve of her body, nearly burst into tears. No wonder there had been so many opportunities yet the other party remained unmoved. The root cause was a flaw in the preference system!

And Tachibana Kanade, a 15-year-old girl likely only 150 cm tall, not only fell squarely within his preferences but was also unguarded and easily deceived by wicked men...

Clearly, Yuu—who flirted with women everywhere—was a 100% evil man.

She had to stop this before it happened.

“Listen, Tachibana-san.”

“Yes?”

“Do you know? There are creatures in this world who enjoy having young girls call them ‘Onii-chan’ and get excited over underdeveloped bodies. They’re the FBI’s top targets...”

As she spun her tale, Masuzu felt a pang in her heart. This was a rare experience for someone who lived on lies.

But wait—wasn’t this actually not a lie, but the truth?

Masuzu instantly felt relieved.

“Underdeveloped bodies...” Kanade glanced at Masuzu’s ample chest, then looked down. Her gaze landed directly on her own toes.

Though she showed no expression, Masuzu sensed disappointment from the other side. The light in her eyes dimmed.

Her conscience’s torment intensified. Masuzu took a deep breath to steady herself. She decided not to beat around the bush and went straight to the point.

“Creatures like that are called pedophiles—and Yuu is one of them... So you must be careful and keep your distance, so he doesn’t reveal his fangs to you someday.”

Was it really okay to slander her own boyfriend like this? For some reason, she regretted the words the moment they left her mouth.

Kanade lowered her eyes, seemingly pondering the truth of those words.

“Is this also a joke?”

“...No. Not this time.”

Saying this without changing her expression, Masuzu punched her own chest lightly to relieve the tightness in her heart.

“I understand. I’ll be careful.”

Kanade nodded, her expression remaining blank.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

At that moment, Yuu, who had finished meeting the kendo club members and completed friendly communication, finally returned to the Service Club group.

“The issue is almost settled. Later, we’ll find time to discuss match order and practice together before nationals.”

Yukino lifted her gaze from the light novel she’d been reading and calmly looked at him. “So we have no further business here?”

“I could’ve come alone. You guys can decide whether to join or not. During nationals, the kendo club will stay in Kyoto for four days and three nights. As an outside member, I have the privilege to invite a few friends to watch—we can ride the bus together, and I’ll help book accommodations. But lodging costs will be self-paid.”

“Going to Kyoto...” Yukino sank into thought. Her delicate fingers tapped the back of her book. “I don’t mind...”

“Hmm, I’m not sure if Mom will agree. Four days—I’d need school permission too...” Yuigahama looked very interested, but couldn’t commit immediately.

Yuu shrugged casually. “Anyone who wants to go, let me know later. As for Masuzu, you—“

“Do I even need to be asked? I won’t let you leave me for so long. I’ll follow you anywhere, even to the ends of the earth,” Masuzu said, hugging his arm and grinning widely.

Then she glanced at Kanade. She expected the straightforward, innocent girl to step forward and ask Yuu if he was a pedophile. She had prepared her excuses.

But surprisingly, the silver-haired girl simply stood in place, quietly observing their conversation. She didn’t interrupt or show any intention to be wary of Yuu.

(She doesn’t fully believe my words? Seems she’s not just a simple fool.)

For some reason, Masuzu felt relieved.

“What are you thinking about?” Yuu’s low voice sounded in her ear.

Masuzu froze. Before she could answer, she felt her forehead gently flicked.

“Must be thinking something bad? Were you secretly badmouthing me?”

-

Title: Finally Becoming the Person I Hate Most

Masuzu looked up, meeting his deep eyes with a small smile, warmth from his heartbeat spreading through her entire body.

Unconsciously—or rather, she never even considered hiding it from Yuu—she admitted with a bitter smile, “Got me, huh... I told someone else you’re a pedophile.”

“To Tachibana?” She expected Yuu to be angry, but he merely raised an eyebrow and said helplessly, “Seems you’re in cahoots with Isshiki. Having fun making jokes like this, but playing with someone’s innocence isn’t exactly admirable.”

“Yeah, I’ve reflected on it.” Masuzu buried her face into his arm and rubbed it twice listlessly.

Before their private conversation could continue, Yuigahama, standing near the kendo club door, said, “If everything’s settled, shall we head home? Our bags are still at the Service Club.”

After saying that, she walked out first, followed by Yukino and Iroha.

Yuu and Masuzu exchanged glances, saying nothing more. As they prepared to follow, they felt the hems of their clothes being tugged.

Walking out of the dojo together with them, Kanade looked up at Yuu. Under Masuzu’s strangely tense gaze, she asked seriously,

“Is the mapo tofu you make tasty?”

Yuu: “Huh?”

Masuzu: “That’s what you wanted to ask?!”

Without a hint of humor, Kanade continued earnestly, “If it is, I’d like you to teach me how to make mapo tofu.”

Yuu’s expression turned odd. “...Eh, what if it’s not good?”

As if she’d never considered this question, Kanade showed a slightly confused look. After thinking for a moment, she replied hesitantly:

“Then... try to improve?”

“...”

After a brief silence, two sighs—unsure how to respond—escaped simultaneously.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

After school, Yuu went home with Masuzu—or rather, escorted her home.

“I feel like, in front of that girl, being cunning is unforgivable.”

Masuzu sighed with slight disbelief.

Hand in hand, their shoulders occasionally brushed. Though the late October temperature was already cold enough to require a jacket, Masuzu didn’t feel any chill.

Was it because her physical condition had unknowingly improved, or because he was by her side?

She was too lazy to ponder that question now. She just wanted to enjoy it—just wanted to feel happy.

Yuu thought for a moment and said, “It’s not that extreme. But I can understand why she’s called an angel and adored by most first-years.”

Masuzu whispered, “Perhaps those with the dirtiest hearts feel this sensation most deeply.”

Yuu glanced at her. After a pause, he spoke hesitantly.

“At first, I wanted to say something comforting, but then I realized... I can’t utter such obvious lies.”

Masuzu’s eyebrows twitched twice.

“Then don’t say anything. Comfort me with your body!”

She puffed her cheeks cutely, leaning her shoulder against Yuu’s in playful annoyance.

The words were loud enough that passing pedestrians gave them strange looks.

But neither cared. Their eyes were only on each other.

On the way to the station, there was a busy plaza near the shopping district—a favorite dating spot for many couples, especially after school. Everywhere, one could see student couples ignoring teacher rules, wandering around and teasing each other.

As an apology for her earlier slip-up, Yuu bought a cherry-flavored crepe from a street vendor. They shared it—he took a few bites, then let her finish the rest.

“What a shame it’s just cherry sauce. I thought I could show you my rero technique.”

Masuzu regretfully bit into the warm, crispy crepe. The sweetness made her squint, and she nodded in agreement. “But it’s pretty good.”

“Glad it tastes good. Next time, let’s get two different flavors.” Yuu didn’t care about hygiene—he immediately took a bite right where she had eaten.

Blinking her bright blue eyes, Masuzu smiled happily. “Hmph~ suggesting such a standard romantic move means you really want to flaunt our affection in public, huh? You’re amazing, Yuu.”

“What are you talking about? The couple next to us is doing the same thing.”

Yuu rolled his eyes, not understanding her exaggerated attitude.

Hearing that, Masuzu finally shifted her gaze and looked around at the people nearby.

Indeed, there were many couples in the plaza sharing crepes—you bite, I bite. The bolder ones even kissed directly, then blushed and quickly fled from mocking stares.

Reflexively, Masuzu felt nauseous, and her skin prickled.

She desperately wanted to run over and make a grotesque face, hurling every insult she knew to humiliate these disgusting lovey-dovey fools and gain satisfaction from it.

The existence known as Natsukawa Masuzu deeply despised everything about love—heterosexual couples should stay out of sight. If you want to fool around, do it in your own bedroom. Why deliberately come out and pollute others’ eyes?

...That’s what she used to think.

Slowly, she lowered her head and looked at their tightly clasped hands, unwilling to let go.

She also looked at the cherry crepe they were sharing, held in their other hands.

Undeniably, to outside observers, they were no different from any other couple—publicly displaying affection.

Like in a dream, Masuzu murmured:

“So I’ve become the person I hate most...”

But why, when it happened to her, did it feel so good—and why did she want it to last forever?

The question flashed through her mind, and Masuzu forced herself not to think further.

Because the moment she found the answer, the pillars she had trusted and relied upon would completely collapse.

(Please, just a little longer.)

(Give me a few more months, or even a year...)

(By then, perhaps even someone as hopeless as me can climb out of the abyss of hatred and start believing in things that seem beautiful.)

She tightly gripped the warmth in her hand.

Like a little girl who loved to dream, Masuzu hoped.

◆━⊰✧⊱━◆

After escorting his girlfriend home, Yuu returned to his house before the sun fully set.

The moment he entered, even before removing his shoes, he was blocked by his sister at the doorway. He saw her arms folded across her modest chest as she coldly declared:

“Confession reduces punishment; denial increases it!”