# 027. Denpa Onna to Seishun Otoko

## 01. Volume 1‎ ( Full Text )

### 001. Afterword

The person who wrote this book is someone who could easily say, 'I didn't win the prize, so why the hell would I join the award ceremony!”. An envious person who refuses to admit defeat, who makes up for what he lacks with pure motivation — a terrible person. I say that, but I actually did win a prize. The dispute I had at the final examination was a past long gone.

The reward I won was called the first '直o賞.' (Nao*Shyou) There's no way the word in the middle was 木 (ki). During a conversation, if I vaguely bring up 'yea, I actually got the 直。。。賞!' the effect is quite amazing. As a side note, my chief editor's name is 小山直子 (Koyama Naoko).

Man, what a surprise.

Aside from that, this book's outline was, without the empty lines, about four lines long — the blank was astounding. I wanted to walk from the east exit of Shinjuku station to the south exit, yet I got all the way to Yoyogi station. Even until now, I still can't type without looking at the keyboard. A lot of things happened too, like doodling on the white board in the editorial department, but the book was published safely. This is all thanks to the help of many people around me, and the readers.

To be honest, I didn't think I could be an author for so long.

Because there wasn't any idea for afterwords, I've preemptively set the next volume's to be a short, single paged story — if there is a next book!

My greatest thanks to the two editors who gave it their all for the production of this book. Being able to bring this perilously written book out into the stores so quickly, my biggest thanks to you.

I've only seen the rough sketches of ブリキ先生(Buriki), who provided the illustrations of my work this time, but I believe sensei will definitely deliver beautiful pictures that will raise the book's interest when displayed in store.

Also, to a certain fifty three year-old person who bragged 'I know everything!' only to ask 'what is that?' two seconds later, and my mother, who I will not make comments here about, my appreciation. I still haven't heard anything from 水彦先生, who once made fun of me saying 'if you can be a writer, then I can live with gillls!'. I'm a bit worried; I am eagerly waiting to see you walk under the blue sky energetically with gills.

Finally, not just to the people who first read this book, or the readers who have supported me all this time, I give the greatest thanks to all viewers of this work. Thank you.

Hitoma Iruma 人間入間

### 002. Chapter 1 - City of the Aliens

Let’s talk about Youth Points.

“Five-Points” is the most which could be scored in a single event; below are some examples.

First and foremost are the One-Point’s, such as chatting with girls during recess, eating with friends after school; anything that involves having a normal student life generally generates these points.

But Youth Points depreciate over time, and negligence of these points cancels out any accumulation. These events may be fun at the time, but a lack of memorable highlights is something no high school graduates want.

Next is the two-point. Similar to the above examples, some of the most iconic activities include talking to a girl in the nearby park during the twilight. Two-Point’s are mostly One-Point’s catalyzed and enhanced by factors such as “night” or “club activities;” if One-Points are the basics, then Two-Points are the applications. They don’t come often, but with a bit of wit, chances are definitely not insufficient.

Three-Point activities are riddled with many uncertainties – as the name suggests, they are sort of like the Three-Pointers in a ball game: making a decisive shot isn’t easy, yet a successful one can easily turn the table. In short, it is a leap of faith.

A date with a crush easily ranks as a Three-Point; note that, however, regular dates with an actual girlfriend won’t gain any more points – these points are limited to single-sided romance or ambiguous relationship.

But at this point, care should be put when determining whether the other is giving ambiguous remarks, or simply drawing lines.

Aside from that, Three-Point’s also contain special occasions with group activities. Things like a gathering for a trip, celebrations for clubs, etc, are all very unlikely and therefore score high.

Chances for Four-Point’s mostly come from specialized events; school festival is exemplary, but these events have to be participated in with intent: a distinct goal and preemptive steps to prevent any chances that lead to potential point loss.

On the other hand, if the surrounding atmosphere doesn’t feel right and fails to build hype, it’s hard to get higher points during a sports festival. Most people can’t even enjoy sports to the fullest, reason being that gaps between individuals’ athletic abilities are far from small.

Graduation ceremony as well – from the methodical viewpoint, many points can be racked up during this event; after all, crying one’s dignity away amidst the sea of sadness could be considered joyous to some.

To begin defining Five-Point’s, their subjectivity must first be established. If a person can proudly declare “This is it!” to a specific memory, that, to him, must have been determined as a whole Five-Point.

For example, running wild in town disregarding basic human dignity for a crush; and winning the Koshien championship. Only by stepping on the fine line between permanent PTSD and eternal glory, and sprinting forward can one ever hope to achieve the highest points.

For those without ambition, the tail of a Five-Point is forever out of reach.

In a sense, adolescence can only prosper in a capitalistic manner.

With a deep understanding of the essentials, along with the needed capacity to grow, a person may even get more than twenty Youth-Points in the three years of high school. Such wealth in the future, universities and vocational aspects may not hold much value, however.

But for someone who’s reached nirvana, accomplishment feels drastically alien than for the commoners.

Since life’s ‘process’ exists only for ‘result,’ it is obvious just how significant high school is.

… I was just bored, and came up with these definitions on a whim.

The brain tends to spin when the hands are busy at work, so I couldn’t help but think about a few things.

Only, what kind of fetish do I have, getting all excited from stuffing things into boxes? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Vertical Movement lover? Rectangle cultist?!

“Ahh, humans do enjoy categorizing. Or should I say differentiating?”

I nitpicked at my own thoughts while humming, and glanced at the television, at the meantime stuffing my luggage. My exuberant feeling contrasted well with the room, which became more and more desolate as time passed. Despite having sleep deprivation, my spirit elated: in all, my condition was top notch.

Like in the common galge’s , my parents moved oversea, leaving their son with two more years of high school at the house of my aunt. Two days after my official transfer notice was accepted, four more remain before my relocation. For the yearning me, this is like welcoming the peak of my life.

This year is my first ever to not complain about the short break during spring.

I can’t wait for the arrival of the next semester.

After all, where I’m going is the city; classes will have more than twenty people, and student stores will have more than just curry bread on their menu. The campus may even have convenience stores, or ten-minute-one-thousand-yen barber shops.

Honestly speaking, from the Youth-Point standard, my past high school life has nothing but negatives. If enrolling into the school equates to starting from zero, then my total points are probably negative three. The points that are lost like my youth – never mind a refund, I can’t even keep my own balance. But that changes today.

“Wahahah! Heehee~!” If my neighbor saw the disgusting smug on my face, she’d probably move her house further away. Sense of superiority drove my limbs numb. This feeling is probably the same as those liberated from major exams, when the last of the anxiety melts away. How soothing. Is this how the Cochlea feels after readjusting from a shock?

“I’ve never been to the sea; I wonder what it’s like!” After settling down in the city, I have to ride the train to the beach, and rack those Youth-Points up! If possible, with a girl, and if not, a group is fine.

I put the only prize I ever won during elementary school into the second cardboard box below, and stuffed an entire rope-bound textbook on the top. “Ahh, but I’d probably have to re-buy all the books.”

Like a college girl moving out of a crappy apartment agonizing over her old fridge, I tilted my head, immersed in the entertainment that is choice-making.

Regarding the explanation as to where I am living, it is full of things that can make a highschooler like me hop in joy.

My aunt lives alone: she has no husband or children, and she works (of course). In essence, I am living independently with few restrictions. Put into words, it’d the dream every rebellious, pre-pubescent high school boy could only wish for – an evil incubator that they wish to live in even by throwing away money and pride: “How could anyone simply express this?!” To me, it is probably just the momentary defiance which sought to topple adult’s ‘plan for healthy teen’ that excited me so much.

My hysteria for a new life could probably rival even the joy of apes that defiled a whole field of crops for a delicious meal.

Would a bumpkin like me offend the cliques of the city kids? I couldn’t even care about such problems. My boiling heart beat – so wonderfully that it felt like a nudist streaking through the spring sun.

I feel absolutely terrific.

The four days of combating gravity, turning and defeating the luggage (basically, wasting a lot of energy) are over: the days of my city life finally began.

Two days ago, I bid farewell to my old classmates. It was inevitably disheartening, as in the countryside students tend to stick to the same classes; hence members of the school hardly changes. Even if we only spent about a year together, there were still many familiar faces.

More or less submerged in the sentiment, I think the atmosphere and scene of the parting were satisfactory.

If a girl were to cry for me in front of everyone, I planned on mailing her entire person to where I live. Of course, I ended up not being a kidnapper. With the power of the EMU , I said goodbye to the land where I'd lived for almost fifteen years. I didn’t know anyone well enough to have them see me off.

My parents also left Japan about a week ago, heading to somewhere called the Socotra Archipelago or Soviet Union – something like that.

But, if the excitement blooming from the departure was enough to cancel any Youth-Point negativity, wouldn’t my balance be back to zero? As if peering into the horizon of my heart, I felt the compatibility between a great mood and a fresh start.

Being able to experience the welcoming ceremony twice in itself is also rare enough.

Two and a half hours passed quietly as the train seat shook me gently. About midway of the trip, I apparently slept for about an hour. Most of the seats were filled with passengers by the time I woke up, and the scenery outside had changed from fields to houses and factories.

Ear buds stuck in my ears (This grammar may make sense in English, but it’s like saying nosebleed from the nose) returned to silence after finishing another round of shuffle.

I took the iPod out of my pocket and played another song, but listened with little attention as I was barely awake.

With blear eyes, I gazed at the name of a company gardened on their lawn, appealing to some environmentalist messages – Mount Fuji and even the ocean passed my view, all while the PA read out the names of destinations.

‘I’m almost there.’ I took out my cell and sent a mail to the inbox of my recently-registered aunt.

‘I’ll meet you right away.’ The train hadn’t even slowed down, and a reply already arrived.

“.......” Was she serious? It’s hard to tell from a text! I deemed it to be a friendly response and put my cell back.

Most of my luggage was already delivered to my Aunt’s house; I carried only a wrinkly, dry bag which reeks of bleach as my carry-on.

The neighboring purple-haired woman moved her leg for me; I nodded to her, and moved to the walkway. Perhaps led by my walking toward the door, passengers originally standing at the walkway all started the preparation to get off. Every time I brushed by a person, I’d shoot a glance; no signs or stickers to differentiate people of the city and the countryside, nor were there fashionable people clanking with accessories.

I didn’t even smell the so-called urban air. My sense of excitement waned.

The train rode into the platform. It was six times the size of the town station where I used to live; people filled the entire stop. I shriveled a bit. Music of my iPod went from piano performance to the howling of a male vocal – a preparation for my courageous journey. The automatic door opened as I plunged first out of the cart; the line began pouring out.

I didn’t ride the escalator, instead climbing the stairs towards the ticket booth. Started half-way, I thought for a bit:

My aunt – the person whom I will be living with: what kind of person is she? I’ve never met her. From the sole information that came from my parents: “She’s a big kid - a combination of an adult and a kid.” Hence, her name became “Aunt Kamaboko” on my contract list; but how well does this intelligence mix with the overall impression? All I could think of was one of the Yakult salesladies .

The ticket machine stopped for a second, but I went through shortly. I dodged to the wall on the side so as to avoid the crowd, and began scouting.

I looked around for my aunt anxiously – more so than the girl with dyed hair next to me, who was probably looking for her boyfriend. My father gave me a twenty-seven year old picture of him and his sibling. But to look for my aunt this way, I might just end up being Urashima Tarou. If anything, I’d rather be Momotarou (TL Note: Urashima Tarou is a fisherman in Japanese legend who rescued a turtle, and was rewarded with a visit to the Dragon God's palace. He stayed for three days, but upon returning, realized that time above had passed three hundred years. Momotarou is also figure in Japanese legend who was born from a giant peach and raised by an old couple. He later on went on a crusade with a dog, monkey and pheasant to defeat the Oni, or demons, terrorizing the land.)

“Makoto!”

Someone probingly called out my name. The little man living in my mind, like a youthful Edison, relayed all of my consciousness (from the Martian station) – coincidentally, his name is resentment. My name is Niwa Makoto. Not Tana, Niwa; not Shin, but Makoto.

I turned to the right in search of the owner of that voice. A refreshing, thirty-some year old woman looked straight at me. Since we are not familiar enough to communicate through our eyes, I had hoped that she’d be more tactful.

I couldn’t help but avert my gaze and shut my lips, unsure of what to say during the moment.

“You are Makoto, correct?”

She smiled politely due to my lack of response, and gently asked again. Elegant, refined behaviors of a young girl created a gap between her demeanor and appearance. Plus one to first impression.

“Ah, yes! I am Niwa Makoto. Ugh, nice to meet you!”

I hurriedly bowed. Even I feel with my petty attempt to act polite. “I will be in your care for a while!” Flustered, I added on. Ugh, real smooth.

“No, no. I should say the same.” My aunt bowed as well, her long hair pouring off from her shoulder.

“Ah, I’ll hand you a business card.”

She crudely searched in her purse after straightening her back, and retrieved a plastic card case. She opened the case and handed me a rectangular card befitting the Golden ratio of Fibonacci.

“Thank you, how polite.” I took the card with an absolute mess of a manner and skimmed it:

'Touwa Meme – “Thirty Nine”' A bold double-quotation mark emphasized the age label. It would appear she wants to carry out the “What are frozen shoulders?” way of life, though the business card’s expiration date was barely a year away...

Still… Even though I knew beforehand, her name… How strange.

“Um, Touwa… Probably has an artistic or floral origin, or maybe it’s a generic pseudonym; it may even be the written name of the alter ego, but...”

“It is my actual name!”

I sensed every attempt from her airy lines to sound younger. I recognize the characters, but do I read it MeMe, or Jojo?

Perhaps noticing my confusion, my aunt added on:

“Touwa Meme. But you can call me Jojo.”

She blinked. Crow’s feet emerged on the sides of her eyes. If I accidentally spilled it, my life may be cut short. I swallowed gingerly and reevaluated the business card.

The name speaks explicitly about the naming sense of the parents. I would definitely laugh if I saw this somewhere on the web, but I’d rather be polite in front of said person.

“I see~” I gave a simple voice of assent, put the card in my wallet and waited for a sign to move.

“Let's take the taxi home today.”

“Ah, sure. How luxurious!” As I spat out these words, I realized I may have became numbed to them.

Meme-san briskly crossed the road ahead with a genial smile; about half way there, she asked while stroking her hair.

“Are you tired after spending so much time on the train?”

“Yeah, since I haven’t been on one since the middle school field trip.”

“Is that so~? You are a second year in high school, right? They sure grow fast~”

“Right. Is the school close to your house?”

“Hmm~ it’d take about fifteen minutes on bicycles. Ah, but that’s for me – you should be faster.”

We prattled along the way, talking about trivial things. One thing that did strike me was Meme-san's unique mien – one that was neither intimate nor estranged. Like warm but sticky water, it’s not discomforting, but slightly unnerving.

“Hold up~” Meme-san waved at the green taxi next to hub. I thought it was kind of cute, but I'm not into older women, so I looked to the high school girl from earlier waiting by the light with her boyfriend from a distance away; I stared at the frill of her skirt. How unbearable... No, no; I pushed away the thoughts. 'Are you stupid~?' Even though she mouthed those words to her boyfriend, I did not feel one bit repulsed.

I got into the backseat, Meme-san the passenger seat. She told the gray-haired driver our destination. She spoke quickly, and I didn’t even remember a word. I sunk into the seat as I rubbed my heavy eyelids. On a different topic, how come Meme-san sat in the passenger seat when there were only two of us?

For some reason, she didn’t especially turn to talk to me. Sigh, even if she did, the conversation would probably just die miserably in this hole. I’m grateful that she didn’t try to talk.

As I first entered high school, my parents required me to study at a local university; being able to live the style of life I almost gave up half a year ago, I am deeply grateful for the blessing in the form of Meme-san.

I want to live a semi-independent life in this city. This is a place perfect for growth – nay, for Youth-Points!

My goal for the next two years: a total of fifteen Youth-Points.

Ten minutes after leaving the row of skyscrapers, the car drove into the housing area. Despite that, the environment lacked green; metallic building filled the scene, and I was somewhat bewildered.

The city brimmed with the scent of metal. Compared to my hometown’s smell of dirt, it seems to be full of promises.

After my little secret celebration, I met Meme-san’s eyes through the rear-view mirror.

That was awkward.

As the taxi passes under an overhanging sign, she suddenly turned back with a radiant smile.

“Welcome to the city protected by aliens.”

“…Huh?”

A smile and a sentence more aversive than welcoming.

A jagged ray of confusion mixed with words traveled from my eardrums to the brain.

Judging from the lack of reaction of the driver, I couldn’t deny the possibility of mishearing. I sincerely had no words.

“Eh~ No reaction?” Meme-san put up a fake smile with wide eyes.

“There are many sightings of UFO’s here – kind of like in Florida?” She explained.

“Oh~” I see how it is. Before I understood, I thought “maybe this person is an alien fanatic?” Maybe she was born during the time of MMR?

But youth does not belong in the milky ways. Potential points set in my mind began to dwindle in their number.

“Older grocery stores even sell these ‘seventh-dimension’ key chain figures!”

“I don’t understand, limiting technology like that in a three-dimensional shop.”

Besides, aliens and dimensions may sound relevant, but are in fact unconnected. The difference between them is like that of electronic and rhetoric.

“Do you want to go straight home, or explore a bit?”

Meme-san confirmed the definite part of my travel, and asked me for the indefinite part. “Hmm, let's see.” I scratched at my temple, taking my time before answering.

“I can make a simple introduction for ya if we walk home.”

She spoke with just the right amount of kindness – enough to be wiped away with a finger; enough to not make things awkward.

“Have to take care of the luggage… Let’s just stay home.”

I hesitated at the word ‘home:’ whether I should have added ‘auntie’s home.’ But for brevity's sake, I didn’t bother. Maybe talking like this can actually bring us closer in the end.

“Alrighty~ Then let’s have dinner at home!”

The smile on her face never faded till she turned the other way.

And so, the taxi drove on the asphalt road for five more minutes.

“Ah, this is it.” Following Meme-san’s instruction, the taxi stopped at a plain spot with no landmark. Left door to the back seats opened automatically as I first exit the car. I glanced at the taxi meter as I left; with the allowance my parents gave me, I can at least ride twice back-and-forth. Speaking of which, where do I get allowance from now on?

### 003. Chapter 2 - Perverse Observation

The unmoving Chikuwa lay there.

Maybe it's a robot that ran out of power and (Skip). Sigh, despite my efforts, things still aren't less complicated. It’s not like I could deny it, but this is probably the limit of my Japanese skill. I am, after all, a successful student who summarized an entire essay into “the author’s self-comforting behavior” and still managed to score a barely solid check mark on the exam.

“Okey-Dokey~ The house isn’t too messy, please come in. I even cleaned up yesterday, but the house is still small, so I hope you don’t mind~”

Meme-san waved drolly at an astonished me. My legs, however, seemed to resist moving toward the trap lying by its master’s feet. The bumpkin’s aspiration for the city sunk – as it fell, something felt as if it would explode any second.

The torso of that object – the arms and the head – was rolled up into the futon as it lay on the ground capriciously. Rope for drying laundry completed the bundling process, and the rest of its body was exposed like a piece of Burdock in Chikuwa. No, this is without a doubt abnormal. By the way, Calamus-pattern covered the entire roll – obviously it knew about its own calamity.

The person buried in this futon should be completely blind, for the sheet was its world. Of course, I couldn't see its face. It remained motionless, almost at the level of furniture.

But looking closely, the toes on those slender legs moved ever-so-slightly. A girl…? I spotted the corners of a shirt and a skirt – it’d appear to be a living organism.

The delicacy her figure emits appears serious – a joking kick may end up being an assault. “Hmm?” Meme-san smiled cutely with tilted head. Led by her vague countenance, a twitching smiled cracked from my face.

“My, still being so polite? It’s not good to be a stranger~!”

She suddenly flung another line at me. By the way, the words were paired with a flirtatious gaze. 'Dry-eye beam, fire!' The words appear with the devilish act.

“……Waah?”

“Oh? Was that out of character?” My aunt, who played dumb shamelessly, inquired.

“No… Uh…” If it were fifteen years ago, I probably would have fallen for it!

“That’s good; my target is to achieve a ‘gap-moe’ character – do you know what ‘moe’ is?

“For the sake of my future development, I refuse to know.”

“For example, a “she could defeat Rikidouzan , even though she’s my aunt!” kind of character.”

“No!” I shouldn't have played along: “Who cares about that kind of niche? Does a pitcher who only throws sliders sound interesting??”

Basically someone whose dream is doomed from the get-go due to a terrible pitching stat.

At this point, I decided to pretend to have never seen that 'thing.' “Whoa~ What a beautiful house...” I tried my best complimenting the house while crossing the wooden hallway. “It feels very exotic~” My fingers felt everything I saw.

The light glass reflected my face – my eyelids looked very heavy.

“Your room is upstairs, second floor. The closer of the two is yours.”

“Got it.” I turned toward the entrance as I listened; mysterious object X remained motionless. If she’s the type of relative who dresses up for practices jokes, she should be chasing me for my negligence; yet nothing of the sort happened. Mom and Dad told me my aunt lives alone – what happened to that??

Judging from current situation, I think the seeds of Youth-Point will remain fallowed in this house.

“If there is anything, you're welcome to tell me~”

Really? Then I will skip the honorifics, and begin the machine-gun talk!

“No. I am more than happy to have a place to live.”

With a stream of refreshing words, I brushed over my wavering heart.

In the end, I tenuously climbed up the stairs without looking back.

The shady omen crawled from the entrance hall and entwined me.

And so, I slept in a room full of unopened boxes for about two hours.

I’d be lying if I say I didn’t mind the bamboo-shoot bacon roll downstairs, but once decided that I shouldn't care, a burning, defiant sense of “I want to be in a futon too!” drove me into slumber.

Somehow, the raw honesty of the above statement and conclusion depresses me.

Just like my perturbed mind, the bed (currently made of softened wood planks) felt terrible. Repeated Stage 1 Sleep’s even gave me a headache. As I went down stairs, sloppily sweeping away the cold sweat from my forehead, dinner was served.

… But something else was also being prepared.

“I gave it my all today~!” The thirty-nine year old woman hopped energetically in front the myriad of dishes.

“….Oh.” I stole a glance to my right.

“Starting tomorrow, we won’t have much chance to eat dinner together! Makoto, can you cook?

“Uh, dishes without using the knife, maybe…” Cold sweats dripped.

“Ahaha! As expected of a boy~”

She clapped twice – my answered satisfied her, for some obscure reason,.

“How come you’re all fidgety? Is there something wrong?” Nothing is wrong? Are you Buddha himself? How many enlightenment and molting does it take to be so nonchalant? We aren't in reality anymore!

The futon-roll sat upright next to the table, its exposed protein in the form of legs pointed outward.

“Should I not see this? Shouldn't I? Something from my right is bothering me.”

“The so-called spirits apparently will appear only from the left side...”

“I don’t want to discuss the investigation between science and the super natural over dinner… Fine, I get it. I am not good at being circuitous, so I’ll just say it.”

“My, are you proposing?”

“I'm not talking about the bulb of a hyacinth !”

I blew up, intentionally making that pun. I didn’t get adopted here as a son-in-law, right? I released my legs from the proper sitting posture, flinging these trivial doubts out.

“Meme-san, you lied.”

I pointed my finger rudely at my aunt. Was I lied to? The fire of rage in my heart burned, like a happy college student introduced to a two-roomed apartment for only 37,000 yen a month, only to be disappointed by a run-down, crappy room, giving me all the rights to resort to such audacity.

Meme-san rested the chopsticks she just picked up, altering her facial muscles and smiled:

“Lie? “Makoto Exposes a Lie!” looks pretty cool on paper!”

“Oh yeah, you are right...” The tension almost tuned out. Detective does sound pretty cool… Hold on!

“...You don’t live alone.”

“N-no way~” She couldn't be any less convincing.

“...How is this possible? Can a hungry person really be this angry?”

“Oh dear, I heard stomach cramp comes from working too hard~”

Just like that, Meme-san struck down my complaints.

Well, no; I just didn't sound serious enough.

“Can you prove it?”

“Proof…?” I smacked the futon-roll with the back of my hand: “This is proof.”

Wham! The roll fell back like a punching bag and immediately balanced itself with its toes. She appears to be unrelated to turtles.

“Arara~” Meme-san looked at the evidence’s movement and spat out a banal reflection.

“I'm not good with being circuitous, so what is this?”

“To explain, I'd have to be quite euphemistic.”

I feel provoked by her continuous joke even after my accusation. It's quite petty, but I feel that I should probably be able to intimidate a woman.

If my opponent was someone named “Gyuu Saburou,” a muscular man with a size matching his name (and secretly likes dolls, if possible), I’d probably give a courtesy laugh while avoiding eye contacts, muttering “Sorry, I'm so sorry,” and be crowned the class’s king of cowards.

“Then, please tell enlighten me.”

I smacked the futon again. The roll didn’t tumble this time, but its innards remained motionless—whoever is inside could be a mannequin.

If that’s the case, I doubt my aunt’s sense of decoration.

Hence my 'independent life' became 'dark days after a nuclear war with an outlandish family.' This year’s disbursement rate on my Points is guaranteed to double.

“In the early 1900’s, a dark shadow covered a small country town in rural America...” Meme-san cleared her throat.

“How about without the preface?” I immediately requested an omission.

“It’s great to be young~” But Meme-san did not waver:

“Even the word 'impatience' sounds good next to 'youth.' If I were to fight for a time-sale in a crowd, people would just give me the eyes.”

“I think the problem is with your bloodshot eyes...” Due do her looking away, it suddenly became my job to corroborate with her. Wait, the conversation is straying again. What kind of crappy, easily derailed structure is this conversation made of?!

“Hold up, it doesn’t matter to me if a bag of eggplants is only 150 yen or if minced meat’s on sale. My problem is—” Like knocking on a toilet stall, I slapped the futon-roll.

“Oh, the dishes will get cold! Herry erp end ert, Merkerto (Hurry up and eat, Makoto)~”

“What language was that last part spoken in?!”

I slapped the roll instead of the table.

It became a cathartic motion, and I even tried to add rhythm to it.

And thus, the blanket roll retaliated.

“Ow! Ow!” Someone ambushed me from below, kicking me swiftly in the shin. My knee jerked upward and slammed right into the table; I moved backward,bent down, and saw the 'face' of my perpetrator.

“Whoa!” I pulled back. A leg flew over in aim of my forehead. It was from the futon, and it was a willful attack.

“You've got to be kidding…” Not a mannequin: I was careless because the skin didn’t look organic.

“EEEitsalevelfourcontactttselfdefenseinitiated!”

“Hah?” A grumble came from within the roll. Frankly, the Japanese in those lines was abbreviated to mere bones.

“ Pardon? ” I stuck my ear closer to the source of this voice, hoping for a repeat.

“EEeyaa…”

“Agh, nevermind.” I gave up. Words spat out with a kick don’t matter anyway; the point though is the realization that 'this things speaks.'

A pair of angry legs swung like a certain pirate ship ride somewhere in Chiba. Presumably from her lack of sight, she could only lock-on to a general direction. She's missing out on a lot of things. Like life.

“MissingEEEsentientttobeservationeasilydisallowedtoUUUme.”

I couldn’t comprehend. I couldn’t even tell what she was saying. Though it is anybody’s freedom to talk through sheets of blanket, I still wish she could at least use a translator. Just eat a Translate Jelly!

“Irresponsiblecarbonbasedorganisminotherwordsyou.”

“……”

I stared at the futon; the migraine that subsided came creeping back from my neck. I give up. If I try thinking about this, my boundlessly-developing (yes, it is) frontal lobe may be mysteriously slaughtered by aliens.

“Please translate.”

I sought help from my reliable and beautiful aunt (a combination of three propitious words).

“She said ‘nice to meet you.’ She’s my daughter: Touwa Erio.”

Your translating prowess may be professional, knowing that you didn’t listen to a single word!

“…Daughter?” Relative; family, not single.

My mood was slaughtered like blue sky painted with water-color scribbled by a permanent marker. My fist trembled as I spoke:

“What the hell is a daughter??”

“ My Daughter. ”

“It’s hard to complain like this: could you elaborate?” No, that’s not the point!

“And You are a virgin.”

“Shuddup!” There’s not many opportunity in the country; it’s not my fault!

Even though that was kinda just an excuse!

“What happened to you living alone??” Like a torrent, I demanded an explanation for the crucial part of my dream.

“Didn’t I act like I lived alone ever since meeting you?”

With neither guilt nor a joking smile, Meme-san answered vaguely.

“Ah, uh…” I was speechless. Lightly and effortlessly, Meme-san turned the tide of the atmosphere and further pursued:

“Is there a problem?”

“No, like… For example, your reasons for ignoring the—That's it, now you've done it!”

The automated defense system far more unreliable than plastic-bottle-cat-repellants kept attacking me under the table. I pressed the roll-with-legs down; it crashed backward, exposing its panties.

I, however, felt no temptation. As a healthy high schooler, I can’t even stay calm looking at the pink underwear on the displayed model in stores. Yet the panties of the futon roll merely looked like an extra piece of cloth. The color was solar yellow, by the way.

But all I saw was a field of copper (it sounds like a secret move, so I remembered).

“Uwah…Uun!” The roll that tipped over, a.k.a Touwa Erio muttered something. I couldn’t understand a word; it sounded the same as the shattering cry of a child who wasn’t allowed to buy a toy.

“Dammit… this is wrong. What is going on??” Dreams are only beautiful when peered from afar, a voice whispered, breathing the air of despair into my ear drum. Youth-Points: negative two.

My crumbling torso could collapse on the table at any time. My solitary life shouldn’t be this rowdy. No, I'm not alone... I almost sung these words out, remembering a song with similar lyrics. But since I can’t remember the rest of the song, I'll just hum it.

“Hey~ Makotocchi.” “’Chi…’” You should give up on the whole gap-moe thing – keeping forcing it and you will get a cramp!

“Can I keep explaining?” “...Explain what?”

I’m not some famous person printed on the old bills: there is no way I’d remember any of this brainless topic . Rather than making a discussion, Meme-san sounded like she was just making conversation.

“The man’s name was George, the woman’s name was Maria."

“Please don’t casually tell stories like Junichi Yaoi would.”

“Eh? Makoto’s generation doesn’t know this game anymore?”

‘Don’t assume every topic works with people who are twelve years younger!’ <- What I thought.

“Yeah!” <- What I actually said.

A little lie can’t be helped, especially when living in Japan.

From my look of anguish, Meme-san smiled even brighter – her teeth looked at least three times brighter.

Those enamels still look twenty, I thought. This is still irrelevant.

“Aha~ Makoto and I are already besties!”

“For realzies!” With just the bare-bone of speech, my desire to speak politely has completely diminished.

“Umumumu~” Brandishing her legs, the thing (since she’s my aunt’s daughter, wouldn’t she be my cousin?) with hope of getting the world’s backstroke champion kept giving the new resident an over-the-top panties service.

But she is just a roll. No one’s getting excited, and her speech is just alarming. Even now, what vocabularies she managed to squeeze out consists of atoms or essence – some seriously chaotic content indecipherable from the words themselves.

“From now on, let’s live happily together as a family of two!” Meme-san’s brain remains fried.

“Please do a recount.”

I can’t deal with the infinitely growing numbers of questions and complaints, so I resorted to responding to the latest one like a frog an insect flying about its front. Even though my headache inconceivably disappeared, my tired throat burned as if hot sand were poured in.

“Basically, that croissant-like thing is… your daughter. Right?”

“Hm… Ah, you mean that? Ignore it.” My aunt’s refreshing smile overruled any objection.

What sort of mother-daughter relation is this?! Even if I asked, she’d probably brush me off with a “don’t mind it~” so I didn’t even try. A daughter whose existence is unknown to her relatives: isn’t this situation a bit delicate? Why hide this from my parents? Questions like these proliferated.

“Ah, is my uncle also here?” I scanned around.

“Ara~ My husband’s name is George.” Since when is your name Maria?

“ConscienceanddesireinflatedDDDprograminjected!”

Like a worm traveling on its cilia, the blanket-woman wriggled her entire body, waving her two legs around. Meme-san and I stared piteously at the blanket comedian whose futile attacks were as if attempting to step on some air-pedal. I firmly grasped the feeling of a pilot overlooking at villagers attempting to shoot down the jet with dart guns.

“Hiya-!!” However, when her toes caught onto the side of the table and lifted upward with all her might, the situation changed.

The figure of a lonesome fisher – I could almost see the splashes.

Sigh, it’s time to cut the losses.

Organisms evolve to overcome gravity.

Meme-san’s dishes, likewise, attempted to fly with imperfect wings.

And so, they welcomed the destined fall.

Food splashed about; the cacophony surpassed even the pointless chimes hung in front of restaurants during summer time.

“EEEEYAAAAAAAH!!” My aunt screeched an unknown noise as she witnessed the crash.

The roll’s self-defense mechanism shriveled from her pained toes, completely unaware of her own folly.

“Waaaoooo!” She cried in pain and struggled dramatically.

I earnestly hoped that someone would pull the curtain and dim the entire world.

As for later that day, I have no recollection.

Perhaps an excellent scientist erased some of my neurons with a machine – I relied on the nonsensical imagination to explain reality. My Youth-points inexplicably dropped by three more points; I felt sorrowful for some reason.

☆

Even though there remain too many unsolved problems, I am becoming a transfer student starting tomorrow morning.

I don’t need fire, neither am I mysterious, so I guess I will just be a carefree person!

All I have left after giving up living alone is a healthy high school life.

At least compared to this house, the school offers more chance for points.

I put on a shirt, and then wore the new uniform prepared by Meme-san. It’s a bit bigger – could it be her anticipation for my future growth?

I tugged lightly at the collar, grabbed my brand-new backpack; it gleamed brightly, but today is only the opening ceremony, so it was rather flat. As for textbooks, I’d have to ask the home-room teacher.

Pinching the pack under my armpit, I scanned the room. The luggage which I planned to sort out last night was untouched, even my casual clothes for days-off were unorganized.

“…Lets just forget about yesterday.” At the same time, I again sealed away any aspiration for a solitary life.

With anticipation for the future, I arrived at the faucet to take care of my hair. Jaunting on the fir-wood hallway before going downstairs, I glanced into the open door to the room on the left.

“……Whoa.“

A hand-made mini-planetarium on the table and an extravagant telescope on the corner of the room—a room where a cosmos enthusiast inhibits. Wow… Amazing – a ball chair! This is the first time I’ve seen such a treasure, but isn’t that chair worth at least a couple hundred-thousand yen?

Initially I pictured the room to be “lacking femininity while permeated with the smell of incense” or some such smoke-filled room, but now I am quite surprised.

Yet the books lined up on the shelf, E.G “Laws of Motion,” “Subconscious and Nature,” are items indefinitely disparate from the everyday life and disturbed me a bit. A map of some town hung on the wall in the back – at least there wasn’t anything pointing to the revival of some cult.

Naturally, the blanket-entwined person lied on the floor.

Like a deep-sea eel lurking in corpses, the creature with its torso stuck within the futon boldly displayed its feet without moving.

Her clothes were, however, changed: purple polka dot pajama concealed her legs. Personally, I wanted to tie a rope onto her exposed feet and drag her around the street while madly laughing “Wahahaha!” Out of concern of the feminist group, however, I have to unfortunately give up on that notion. Speaking of which, must be quite difficult to identify her gender from afar.

Even the pattern of the blanket was humbly changed from Calamus to Plum Blossom and Oriole.

How old is she? Does she go to school? There’s an ironed uniform on the wall. Well, that’s not important.

“Hm…” Come to think of it, this does count as living under the same roof as another girl.

From some perspective, this is the final stop of all pubescent boys’ delusion. Compared to the girl-falling-from-sky scenario, this is slightly more realistic and even messier. I can’t let go of this idea, and it won’t go away from my brain.

“But…” Getting more points is still rather difficult in this situation – Chikuwa doesn’t have gender! Even though I don’t know what they are made of, hahahah… I should leave. The blanket girl might wake up if I mess with her.

After all, she was giant swung by an insane mother, mistaken for a rocket by the neighbor and forced to practice the art of sumo – how tiresome… Crap, the memories are coming back. Must eliminate those other-dimensional delusion...

In layman’s term, the distinction between fiction and nonfiction is that of the three-dimension and two-dimension. The raucous uproar last night (raucous refers to the sound effect most heard during the certain commotion) on the level of a third-grade comedy novel made an imaginative me create a brilliant and delusional motion picture that lasted about five minutes before getting cut short.

Quickly escaping to futon-roll and the room, I jumped down the last two steps of the stairs and landed with a solid thud. The house surrounded by silence digested the refreshing motion, and the glass doors sighed gently.

If Meme-san is home, I’d like to greet her before going to the faucet. So I began searching. First stop is the kitchen – to be honest, I was just grasping at the vague hope of breakfast being there.

Yet the kitchen remained looking ravaged by the Red Tornado. It was a mess – the local gang may even demand an entrance permit if I were to walk in there. Wherever did clean-up time go?

In the center of the dining table, where the wreckage of food and plates were forcefully pushed away, two pieces of notes and a paperweight frolicked. I feel sorry for bothering them when they are playing, but I pulled the paper out from under the weight and glanced at the note.

One of the notes was a map from home to school. It didn’t have any drawing, and instead all the directions were written – quite original, actually. 'Veeeery long~' she wrote, visually trying the best to demonstrate the long road near the residents. The level of her navigational skill is slightly more useful than the unfriendly hints in RPG’s.

In addition, the other note written in scarily rigid fonts (with at least two parts of the finishing and the outlines being completely straight) was mainly message left for me.

‘Take care of your own needs. The peace of tomorrow rests on the efforts of today~★’

I crumbled the paper to test my grip strength. Doing everything so logically – as expected of my aunt!

“She never waste a single moment in life!”

Since I do not intend to plant the flag for her, my aunt probably won’t show up too many times from now on.

Alright, for the sake of a good first impression with classmates and others, let’s go tidy up at the mirror!

“Mm~” Not bad… In terms of good-looking. Standing in front of the mirror, I rated my appearance.

Not too shabby from an objective view, though the judgment was likely mixed with my own subjectivity.

For the next seven minutes and thirty seconds, I ceaselessly sorted my bangs, and desperately tried to cover the reddened pimple on my forehead with makeup. I have returned to being a high school freshman.

Following the direction Meme-san wrote on the paper, I dragged out an unlocked bike stuffed in the outdoor storage room and pat the dust off it. Every part of the bicycle was rusted, as if soaked in water; swarms of raging insects like rag worms living in capes poured out when I rung the bell. Ugh, I averted my eyes.

This bike may have been the futon girl’s.

“…Mm?” I think I’ve this bike somewhere before… For example, that red-white paint covering the back of the rust mark. Hm, whatever. Probably not a big deal.

I tried sitting on it, and after checking that the two wheels could barely turn, I pedaled hard without much expectation. I noticed from a long time ago that, basically, the degree of disappointments from reality scales positively with the level of expectation. Let's be wise. We'll be myopic. Live a gloomy, musty life. That's it.

Every now and then, I glanced at the diagram (or is it a map?) and rushed through the ‘veeeeeery long~’ road all while emitting that screech noise. This map, upon closer inspection, with “Obligatory Cheat Route” and “Portal to World 4-1” doesn’t really have much credibility – but I’ve already decided to not hold any expectation: as long as I get there, all is well.

I passed through an alley narrow enough to almost pinch the sides of my bike and traversed the trees near the residential, and finally to the big road. The amount of bicycles and pedestrians increased exponentially, and I even had the illusion of a germ bomb exploding.

Buildings more than three stories high stood naturally on both sides; though the road is more than wide enough, the wave of people still cramped the entire walkway. Also within the crowd were students in the same uniform as I, as well as high school girls in different attires (of course).

There were even some scattered students eating with their friends at the sushi stores and Mister Donut midway – completely different than in the country where everyone finishes the breakfast prepared by his mom. Rest assured: this is the city~ I immersed myself in my rustic ways.

Besides, other students flung looks of bewilderment as they easily bypass my rusty utility bike that lacked gear shift or any superior function. Due to the direction of the sun, their expressions were unclear to me.

I felt paraded. Thus, I lowered my head and pedaled my hardest.

About half way, I met a group of high school girls with the same uniform that was hanging in the room of that futon girl. It seems like that is the girl uniform of the school I’m going to.

In about fifteen minutes later, I successfully reached the destination something-something Second High School without getting lost. See, this is what I meant by not having expectation:

Being able to enjoy indubitable facts – to an extent.

A tiny, opened school gate, with the pathway leading inside glamorously carpeted by the fallen pedals from the cherry blossoms that grew on the sides. When the trees bud in May, caterpillars will probably dominate the flowery highway. And so I poured a bucket of cold water at the scenery. To the left was a rather open field, with some guys in track suits racing on the runway. Are they training in the morning? Just looking was satisfying: their contribution to raise the youthfulness of the setting.

I stood by the fences for a bit, squinting in envy at the sports club member who frolicked as they sprinted.

Obtained one Youth point – after all, the scoring guide is rather loose on the first day.

I shook my head lightly to fling the drowsiness away, and headed toward a man who appears to be the security.

“Excuse me, where is the parking lot for bicycles?”

“New student?” He sounded surprise, probably because I was walking with my bike.

Should I start walking to school tomorrow? I proposed a debatable topic to my brain.

“Yes, I’m a transfer student!”

“Oh, I see. Then head back to outside first, circle around the school and you’ll see another gate. A lot of bikes are parked to the left of it.”

“Thank you!” Security of the city was very kind. Starting today, you are ‘Mister Security’ in my heart!

“Beep – Beep – backing up.” I murmured to myself as I pulled the bike back to the road in front of the entrance. I begin stepping on the weighty pedal to follow the lazily-moving bikes ahead of me.

Amongst teachers handing out class distribution sheets like newspaper, I traversed the flocking students and successfully reached my shoe locker. In any case, heading to the staff’s faculty has to be the first step!

“……” Speaking of which, where is the administrator’s room? Looking up, I hoped to see maps on the ceiling like those in the station, yet all I got was a pair of exhausted eyes blinded by the florescent light.

I’m also hesitant to ask one of those teachers handing out sheets with professional precision. Without an alternative, I decided to find my target by walking around. I’m not without some sense of direction; I’ll find it eventually. Brand new indoor slippers squeaked on the floor. I proceeded down the hallway, away from the raucity.

Perhaps due to the campus being ventilated by the smell of people, the hallway corner exuded a smell like unopened mint-flavored gum, emanating a clean and fresh scent. Paired with the morning rays seeping in from the window, it was very comforting.

Strolling aimlessly, I easily located the Staff’s Room. After passing through the hallway into another building, I found the office sign hanging welcomingly there; I walked up without hesitation.

Just as I began pacing suspiciously outside the door like a first grader, the savior arrived.

“Ah, are you a transfer student?”

A thirty-some year old man with short, gravity-defying hair saw and walked toward me. Upon closer inspection, his hair was sharpened with gel; it may even jab those who dare to touch. Tragedy awaits for any lady who offers her laps to him.

“Let’s take a look…” The teacher altered between the picture and my face. It would be rather dreadful if he were to somehow deem the two different. “Niwa, Makoto. Is that how you say it?” “Yes. Nice to meet you!” “Hm… Ah, I’ve never heard of this place.” “Hahahah, it is pretty out there!” Now I’m not bragging, but I have absolute confidence of hitting the fifty-two point mark with that cheery response. Even the teacher chuckled awkwardly:

“I’m your homeroom teacher in class 2, so remember my face… Alright, I’m heading to the classroom; follow me. Since this is the beginning of a new semester, just think of it like an extension to new class division!”

To ease some tension, the teacher prattled while walking me to the class. His appearance exudes a subtle athletic atmosphere, full of ambition to get popularity amongst the female students.

After leaving the Staff’s room, the teacher didn’t speak much on our way to the class. Instead, his attention fell on the stack of paper in his hands, instead of the speechless space between us. Even my gaze drifted around the skirts of passing girls, as should any healthy high school student.

We returned to the building with shoe lockers and climbed upstairs. Judging from the sign, second-year class rooms are on the second floor. Third-year on third floor, and held-back on the rooftop… And if that were true, the school board will definitely be issued a strict probation order – and that’s just ridiculous!

For starters, the rooftop on which the chances for amassing Youth Points are significantly higher has restricted access in every school campus. People won’t fight for food in the cafeteria and campus stores, and the nurse in the infirmary won’t be a hottie in white uniform. Even if one were to fight tooth and nail with reality, the most he could accomplish is just having somewhat different activities with friends; and even those are rare, outlandish exceptions.

“Class instruction is in just a bit, and then you can introduce yourself to everyone.” My homeroom teacher spoke swiftly. I couldn’t help but feel this is the first time speaking to an adult in the city; after all, the woman I met yesterday is someone more worthy of the title ‘Thirty-nine-year-old Child.’

“Morning!” Releasing a salutation like an air freshener, the teacher yelled with full throttle as he entered the room. I followed without a sound, and roughly fifteen people beamed their gaze on me at once. Perhaps because the seating hasn’t been decided, everyone casually stood between the tables and chattered, and only a few sat.

Properly ignoring the stares, I looked for my last name on the seat assignment table written on the black board in Gojuuon-order . Incidentally, I sit in the center of the classroom.

People naturally moved out of my way, and thus I swiftly reached the spot. Even in the city, school desks are made of wood like in the country. As for the reason, well, probably because metal ones could cause some serious toe-tribulation for students in tantrum.

My neighbor was busy reading pages of a book. She had scary eyes emitting a standoffish aura, and a head of bobbed hair (this is irrelevant, but until now, hearing the word bob only make me think of foreigners). But even from the side, her cuticles looked quite smooth. The hair was so thin, if it were a man’s, it’d be seen as a sign of balding. Even her makeup was right on the mark. Her eyelashes are so long… and so I stole glances of her side face to pass time.

…… Thinking of which, this person is really tall. No, way too tall – like one-eighty centimeters?

Though her height is menacing, she still managed to give off a frail air – impressive.

When the bell rang, I thought about the empty shelf in my new, dusty room all while resting on my arm.

Somehow, the thought of having to take care of my luggage when I get home saddens me.

☆

Concisely, I finished my mundane introduction.

Even though I just transferred in, this is the month of April, when the new semester starts and everyone advances one year. New faces in class are but normality, so no special attention was given to me.

I conservatively introduced myself with the standard “name-and-home” procedure; playing the clown before confirming the tolerance level of this new environment could lead to ostracization by my classmates, and I do not want to transfer again – in tears.

Thus during class meeting, I sat duly and looked for cute girls around the class. Disregardful of the result, I noticed the differences between city and country girls. Namely, the makeup they wear. Country girls either have too little or too much; city girls have just about right, or a bit on the heavy side.

Then, after an assembly with nothing worth noting, school ended before noon.

I brought up my problem regarding new text books to the teacher who quietly drifted out of the class (though in an awkward manner). After getting “buy new ones; the bundle will have to wait a few days,” I returned to my seat.

Other classmates left one by one with their friends, perhaps they plan to shop before head home, or complain about the class distribution.

Sigh… I don’t even know anywhere to go; I have yet to establish a life-enriching environment.

…… But shouldn’t there be a special encounter on the first day in a city school?? With resolve no one can see, I sat in the class, resting my head on one hand and effectively radiating a melancholic air.

…… Not a single soul in the room, and neither were there people who left their things in the class.

Rather than feeling empty, I felt more dejected. I will never let people know that I’ve done something like this.

I stood to leave the class, prepared to recreate my old room in my new home. I walked properly through the empty hall, despite of my desire to lie down and monopolize the dusk sun shining on the floor; I have yet to give up on all aspects in life. From the shoe locker devoid of love or duel letters, I took out my shoes and headed toward what looked like a bicycle parking lot made of temporary homes .

The only thoughts in my head as I lazily walked over were about the warmth of sunlight and such.

Fortune tends to flee like wild animals when it smells the expectation of a human being.

… At that time, it must have been the lack of expectation that allowed me to pinch the tail of fortune!

In the lot, I met eyes with the owner of the bike next to mine; our eyes clashed, like bowling ball to pins. We each froze and waited for the other to look away – the air between us distorted.

The rust on my bike scattered as breeze passed by, taking the role of fireworks and sprinkled in the air.

“Yo! Transfer~ student!”

She has a hair of cute, wavy hair (I arbitrarily categorized the hair that is wavier, softer, and more importantly, cuter to the same as the curly hair of old woman. There are so many types, I just can’t remember them), and a wool sweater with sleeves enough to cover half her hands. Just when was this encounter with a girl foreshadowed today? In just a second, my lung stopped moving.

Talking with a city girl, the country boy flustered… This is bad!

If she knew I’m a transfer student, we must be in the same class.

“What kind of pronunciation is that? It’s like ordering me to transfer in a different dialect.”

Anyway, I have to respond in a wacky way that would least repulse the other person.

“Pff!” In the moment of what seemed to be her slip of laughter, we were finally able to relax. Our locked gaze was released and we returned to our casual attitude.

I was so relaxed! She seems the type that spreads a calming aura. Since a long time ago, I’ve always liked girls with brown or blonde-dyed hair – including this girl in front of me.

I tapped away at my mind-calculator, tallying the total amount of Youth-points increase in my little world.

“Whassup with the mystery? You are Niwa-kun, right?”

“Yeah, and you are… Catha…”

“Me? I am Ryuu…ko, Mifune Ryuuko.”

Though her hesitation seemed esoteric, I still accepted the lady’s name.

Ryuuko, Ryuuko . I see, then her name should be Ryuuko (流虎)! How’s that? Though it does sound like an acronym for an Out-of-body experience .

“Oh yea! Didn’t you call me something else?”

“Nope, nothing.”

“Well, I’m not Catherine nor Jackson~”

Hahah ~ Mifune-san smiled candidly while I chuckled dryly.

As she unlatched the lock on her bike, she continued talking with me:

“So, where did ya move to?”

“Hm, it’s hard to describe! I haven’t explored the town enough.”

“Really~? Just a general direction would do~”

She asked me to imitate the role of a compass. I really want to reply her smile, but I am just a literary boy who doesn’t know north from south.

As a person who doesn’t know which side the sun rises from, I live my life hazily as if in a forest.

“Ah!” Right, I still have one thing. Though it has stuff like teleportation point written on it, I hope she can turn a blind eye. “My house is where the star symbol is.”

I ripped out the map stuck on the bicycle basket and handed it to Mifune-san. “Ah, I don’t have a free hand~” I feel guilty: she was just about to get her bike out, and now she is in complete disarray.

“Uu… Ugu~” Perhaps due to her confusion, Mifune-san held the map with her mouth, franticly turning her eyes read the paper. Rather than a beauty making an ugly face, it was more like a beauty casually showing off an unsightly expression. Nice, as expected of the city.

Being able to talk insouciantly with a girl like this, I couldn’t help but wonder if I squandered away three weeks’ worth of luck. Could this be the opposite of yesterday’s terrible fortune? That’d be great.

“Hmmm, mmm~”

She seemed to comprehend it, nodding her heads between what sounded like lines of a toothless person. Since she stopped making the silly face, I assumed that she was done and drew the paper from her mouth. “Pwah!” Her breath and the way her tongue stuck out – virtuous perversion (Isn’t that an oxymoron?).

Of course, the balm on her lips slightly moistened the paper’s edge. It may even be saliva, but so what? So what if it was? I guess I’ll preserve it.

How can the clueless me ever lose the important map given by my aunt?

“Mmm~ let’s see~”

“Yep, yep.” I answered arbitrarily. Like I said, I’m a guy who doesn’t listen to people… (ignore rant).

“We share the same route home from here, all the way to the crossroad at the train station!”

“Really~” I stuck my chin up cockily, despite not having a clue of what she said. Like I said, my grade is (ignore).

“Anyhow, we are now com~rades~!”

“Come~aid!” What does that mean again? I realized Mifune-san meant comrades after a bit of thinking.

“In that case, why don’t we go halfway there together? It’d be like hanging out after school!”

“Com~rades (sure)!”

Everything is going where I am.

“But, why me? No, I mean, this is great, I don’t mind at all.” I returned to my senses; I am aware that I do not have the quality to mesmerize people on the first meeting.

“Mmm~” Mifune-chi (A nickname I just thought of, probably something no one would use) pressed her index finger (with brown nail polish) on her lips and groaned:

“If you go home alone, wouldn’t it be embarrassing if rumors about you not having friends starts to spread?”

“Why, thank you for the concern.” How tear-jerking. If she were a dude, I would probably spray him with rust dust for her nosiness.

I followed Mifune-san out with my rusty ride. Honestly, nothing sounds better than leaving this scrap metal here and steal one of those bicycles parked there.

Looking forward, I saw Mifune-san making a preparation no other high schoolers would do.

“What’s that...?” I asked without thinking.

The transportation responsible for bring her around doesn’t appear to be a motorcycle. If anything, it looks like a human-powered bicycle. Naturally, Mifune-san took out from the basket a helmet – an artifact that high schoolers, nay, grade schoolers have long abandoned.

“Mm?” She looked back and squealed an adorable response: “This is a safety helm. It’s ouchie if you fall!”

She lightly put on the hard-hat like object and adjusted the belt. People from my old school’s Bicycle Club also wore helmet and kneepads, but there is a decisive difference between this and that. What is this discrepancy? The outpouring substance of cuteness? Her helmet seems to match with her hair style, but what about about hat hair?

“Now I don’t have to worry about hurting my head or hair… Helmet, equiped!”

She shook the helmet’s side with her tiny hands to check the tightness, and asked me with an abashed smile:

“Niwa-kun, are you going to leave your head in the nude?”

“Normally, no one would associate head with nudity.”

Besides, it was an obvious attempt to rhyme. But I didn’t make a big deal out of it.

“My friends don’t wear helmet either, but it’s so scary. Bicycles are kind of fast… Well, my friends are…”

Mifune-san mumbled a few complaints. Her every move is just flawless. As I thought, a person born with good qualities are able to effortlessly bring ideal and reality together.

“Well, it’s not like I ride fast!” I jumped onto my bike and began chasing Mifune-san’s skirt.

I gracefully stuck my finger out to press the bell, but with the possibility of a second or third insect platoon inside, I gave up on the reckless act and instead brushed my bangs.

Mifune-san isn’t short, but the height difference between us still means that she has to look up to me. The pimple on my forehead is really bugging me. What if she sees it~? Keep in mind, I am an adolescent boy.

I almost lowered the standard for the Youth-Point scoring guide.

“Really? I’m super fast though. I hopecha don't mind the dust then~”

A smug that could never upset her opponent.

“Even if you say that, I can't go any faster.”

“C’mon, just do it~ Come on~!”

The wheels spun smoothly, and Mifune-san pointed next to herself:

“Come here~ let’s talk!”

The power of a girl’s natural expression blooming into a radiant smile is just as effective as a right hook after three jabs.

Even if I lose my pride and masculanity right here, nothing beside a room modeling a devastated world (Not my business, but why do authors always imagine a destroyed future? Stuff like world-domineering computer losing control, meteor-induced climate change or great wars between human, etc is just too depressing) and a futon cousin who temps people to pour cold tea onto her head await me if I ditch Mifune-san and go straight home.

I, Niwa Makoto, have zero experience when it comes to being hit on. I can’t resist, and so I dumbly followed her.

☆

“Ahahah! You’re the best! Awesome~!”

“Ahahah~ Hold up, dammit!” Just as she said, I couldn’t catch up.

Mifune-san’s delicate legs didn’t bulge twice as big; neither was she stomping to crush the pedals. In fact, she was quite composed. It’s impressive how she didn’t fall.

A madly-cycling idiot chased a construction helmet-wearing girl. I guess bicycling is, in a way, similar to a three-legged race. If one person gives up, the other would have too. The pedals whirled like a hand mixer, yet the most crucial part – the wheels – spun slower than the brain of a dead cow. I know you are a rusty piece of junk, but you aren’t dead yet! Stand up!

Perhaps her first time surpassing anyone else, the girl teased me ceaselessly. An eleventh grader drenched in sweat chasing a girl to see her teasing face, but let’s not delve in too deeply. I don’t want to open the door to that world. Students from our school stared at our commotion (percentage-wise, about 80% Mifune’s doing). There may be some reaction in the class tomorrow. Since when have I ascended to the level of a potential protagonist?

But my Youth-Points remained negative.

I’m having a blast, but I still feel unnerved. Please, I don’t want to be picked on for this!

Anyway, what the hell is wrong with this bicycle?! I'm pedaling super hard, but the speed is the same as this morning's; it's starting to feel like a parting time job. “The wage is the same for those hard-working, and those hardly working” the cocky bicycle seems to say.

We stopped at the third traffic light after crossing the bridge, and I finally caught up to Mifune-san. The previous lights were very observant, in a way, as they didn't dare to stop the girl, being the pro-cute girl-ist they were.

“Good job~ But ya seem really tired!”

“Just… a little…!” It isn't if I can see the side of your smiling face.

“One day, this will definitely make a great memory~!” She spread her arms freely and leaned back.

… So this must be puberty, I glanced at her body and thought. As of what I mean, you are welcome to interpret. Is this what the city really is? Since earlier, Mifune-san's been talking louder to avoid being covered by the sounds of passing cars.

“………..”

City is definitely different than the country. Though the cars are pretty much the same ones, I could only surrender to the car-wave assault in front of me. Just from seeing so many people is enough to give me experience possible only overseas.

“But that's a pretty amazing bike. Is it custom made?”

She poked at the bike's basket, as if asking where this thing came from.

“I don't think there is a market demand for professional garbage making...”

Amateurs can try making these too, in a sense. Just charge into a river and voila. Even shiny bicycles gifted by dads to celebrate graduation can't withstand the damage.

Seawater would likely give similar result, but those environmentalist probably won't be too happy.

“Ah, um...” Mifune-san sounded reluctant when she changed topic.

“Hm? What's up?”

She straightened her back, placing both hands on her thighs.

“Y'see… I don't actually need to cross this street.”

“Ah… Oh. I see.” She did say her house is on the way to mine, but I forgot to where.

“I live over there.” Mifune-san pointed to the left. Dizzying amount of cars and white buildings on the sides drew out the scenery. A similar sight fanned to the right as well. Symmetry . Yep, I'm at the age to use words that I don't fully understand.

“We hafta say bye here!”

“Seriously!?”

“But we didn't even get to talk on the way~!” Puu! Sounds like she could burst out in laughter anytime.

“Hah… Hah...” I heaved heavily, leaning onto the bicycle's handlebars.

“Besides, ya don't look so good!”

“…. Haah~ Haahh~” I am definitely not trying to sniff her.

“Oh well, I guess I'll have to wait till tomorrow!”

“… Cough, cough!” I choked for some other reasons. Is this what the city really is?

Ring ring, Mifune-san rung the bell twice. Following the sound, I looked up to stare. “Mm~ mm~ Oh!” But the girl only looked around as if searching for something. “Gimme a sec.” She seemed to have located her target and jogged away after shoving the bicycle's handlebars into my hands.

I thought about switching our bikes and leaving for home, for the sake of her own youth development. But I quickly recalculated: time spent with a girl is way more precious than a stupid bike.

The traffic light turned green, as if mocking me who waited there. Just then, as if by some meticulous calculation, a familiar person deftly crossed the streets – the girl sitting next to me in class whom I have observed quite closely. Of course, she didn't look this way. Probably doesn't know my face either.

When Mifune-san returned, the traffic light had turned yellow. She was probably looking for a vending machine earlier, what a great girl.

“Here ya go.” She handed over a drink.

“Thanks!” I grabbed the can.

“I thought you'd like Oolong tea, from how you looked. Ya like it?”

“Well~ Not as much as coke, but it's good.” Then Mifune-san must likes orange juice! She does look very sweet.

By the way, she took the drink money without missing a cent. What a clever and able girl. (← starting to become blind)

“Only a hundred and ten yen for a drink! Too bad ya don't see those vending machines anymore!”

We chugged the drink simultaneously. No one played food taster. The slight bitterness of Oolong tinged my throat, piquing a refreshing pleasure. Memory of misreading a light novel title as Oolong-gosou came rushing back into my brain.

“Puwahh~!” Mifune-san downed her drink and took a satisfying breath. She kept staring at me as she groomed the hair outside of her helmet. Just a little, my heartbeat raised.

“So, why did ya transfer here?”

“I'll give you a hint: do you think there's some romantic reason?”

I answered with a question. “Uu~” The tolerant girl earnestly thought about it. Ding! A light bulb popped out, and she answered vigorously:

“You were a notorious delinquent who did something terrible in your last school!”

“Then would we still be talking right now?”

“Yeah, you're right~” She grinned. The drinks were finished by now.

“My parents are working overseas, so they sent me to my aunt's.”

“Wow, that sounds great~” A scenario all girls look forward to made Mifune-san's eyes glitter.

“I know, right? I think so too… Scratch that, I thought so.”

I looked away, eyes following the cars that seem to pursue the Mercedes ahead.

And so I successfully avoided the trauma from the repercussion of last night.

“Ah, the light’s green.”

Mifune-san reported. I don’t remember how many green lights it has been since the tall girl passed. However, the short time we spent here is all about quality over quantity.

“Well, it’s about time for me to head home anyway!” To be honest, I want to talk to her for another hour.

“Um…”

“?”

Mifune-san tipped on her toes slightly: “Niwa-kun!”

“Hm?”

“I hope you make lottsa friends!”

“Hahahahah.” What are you, my sister?

“Get along with everyone~ Oh!” With toes still tipped, she cheered.

“Oh~! …Oh, whatever. Oh~!”

She left after declaring something I can’t agree with.

I stood and watched Mifune-san’s silhouette leave. She turned back and waved her left arm; her bike wiggled left and right, looking really perilous.

She adjusted her helmet with her left hand after the bike stabilized. Evidently, she’s very conscious of her hair.

After seeing her off, I feel an overdue sense of fulfillment tingling. I stretched my shoulders:

“…In any case, that’s one less issue.”

For the chance of saying “what a coincidence! Let’s go to class together, ahahah~” to her at the bicycle lot, I decide to continue biking to school. It’s final.

☆

It was still noon when I got back to Meme-san’s house, because I didn’t go anywhere else. It was just half over twelve, a sufficient amount of time remains till tomorrow.

I parked the bike into the storage with its imaginary lock. Rubbing my hands together, I tried to get rid of the reddish-brown powder off before going into the house. Even if the residents are people who should be censored like profanity on TV, the house they live in is still innocent! I figured I may as well keep the place clean if I’m living here.

“I’ve been thinking: do things have heart too?”

I had something weird as a pet in first grade. It’s a bit of a complicated past that’s been sealed away. It could be a touching story with a bit of wording, but I’m likely to be crushed by shame halfway through recounting.

It has to be kept secret. I opened the door.

“…I’m home~” I quietly greeted. The room desirous of movement swallowed the feeble noise; like a drop of water on gauze, it dissipated without a trace.

Meme-san was of course still working at the company (probably, but I don’t even know what she does), but her daughter… Did Erio run out somewhere with her futon?

“…………” The image could be part of a heartwarming anime.

I don’t know the neighbors yet, but what if rumors (especially the kind people whisper) were to spread? I will be treated as the same!

I am not a cogwheel bound by the rules of society, and I refuse to follow fate! But now’s not the time to work the fallow field of my mind with silly jokes. I took off my shoes and rearranged them after stepping inside.

A pair of Geta sat at the entrance, and a pair of modernistic shoes a girl my generation would wear next to them.

I proceeded to the stairs through the hall. What to do for lunch? I thought as Oolong-tea swiveled at the bottom of my stomach; I don’t even know where the convenient store is, and I’m just an ordinary guy who can’t cook… Then should I try the Onigiri store I saw this morning?

Checking my purse, I reached the stairs. Just then, I heard noises from the living room that was untouched since yesterday. I stepped off and turned toward the living room. Could it be a thief?! If it is, would he be kind enough to clean the kitchen? Optimistic wishes popped up in my head.

Unconsciously, I hid in the shadow and peeked into the room. And so, a futon-roll (shoo, shoo, go away) sitting in the living room entered my vision. As if imitating some scientist inspector, she kneeled in front of a TV screen filled with snowy noise. What a surreal sight.

“The kosmos is mersderrected…” She muttered, quite loudly for talking to herself, at the TV. Something about the cosmos.

Ignoring her is easy, but I’m not just a hotel guest either. Let’s at least try to figure out a way to live with this person!

“Hey~” A cautious call. We didn’t properly introduce ourselves, and we’re also the opposite gender. I have to take in consideration that she may be upset that a guy had suddenly moved in.

Futon girl twisted her body to face me. But since there’s that cotton in between, I didn’t think we’re really interacting.

“I’m home.”

“…….” She remained silent, but the top of the futon moved slightly, reflecting the inner movement.

I put my pack on the table and sat down on the tatami floor in front of the futon girl. I stared at her rudely, but there’s wasn’t much I could ogle anyway.

She changed from pajama to long-sleeved shirt and square-pattern skirts, something semblance of a messily-worn school uniform.

…. Though I tried to speak, what should I ask? I need an inspiration for topics… I know, I’ll try what I did at school!

“Oh, my name is Niwa Makoto. We are cousins. Pleased to meet you.”

An introduction on our second meeting. Just like in a classroom, we’ll start with this!

“Earff is in denner.”

“Huh?” Her answer was obviously not ‘pleased to meet you.’

Once again, the girl with cotton in her mouth spoke unclearly. This time, I understood what she said:

“Uh, so Earth is in danger….. Is it?”

Aren’t the people polluting this planet already a threat to Earth?

Perhaps as retaliation to my lackluster response, she extended out her right hand from below the futon, grabbed the remote and dialed the volume up. White noise swarmed, so did a feeling of brow-frowning discomfort in my head.

“I get it, I get it. I don’t know what to get, but I get it. Forget about the cosmos, just drop the remote.”

I reached for the remote, but she dexterously blocked me with her futon body. But since she lowered the volume, my words were not unheard.

As the wobbly futon girl sat down, I asked the long-overdue question; this is something I find difficult to ask Meme-san:

“One question: are you really my cousin? Meme-san’s daughter? Is it true?”

I said one question, but it’s more like a sentence full of questions meant to suffocate this stifled-looking person.

“….Kousin…”

Futon-girl relaxed her kneeling legs and mumbled. 'Kousin' sounds like you're talking to someone else!

“Child of the serbling of parents – neese. Also yused merterphorically with people of approximate who are not related by blood. Example: ‘The guy in front of me resembles a Tardigrade kousin.’”

“Don’t insult people while pretending to be a dictionary.” I understood the muffled speech, maybe because I’m getting used to it.

And you haven’t even seen my face...

Neither have I her. I’m not disinterested, since people in manga tend to be rather beautiful.

In reality, however, only people with ulterior motives will try to hide their intent.

“What else? You seem to be avoiding my questions.”

Then I’ll ask you with my fists! Just kidding. I’m not curious enough to use violence, but what’s important is the fact that this thing lives with me.

The futon girl doesn’t seem to have much to say though. Sigh, fine.

“Anyway, I’ll be a guest here for a while, meaning we’ll be living together.”

I want to see her reaction, so I stepped down and explained.

“….Oo…Oo……..Oo….”

Futon girl whispered something, but under the TV noise and her muffler, it’s quite unclear. I wanted to turn off the TV, so I stood to grab the remote place on the table.

Probably detecting my movement, the Futon girl hid the remote in her body with unexpected speed. I clawed at the air, wondering if I should just beat the remote out of her. But harassing someone whose face I don’t even know doesn’t seem like a good idea, so I stopped.

Even if we are acquaintances, the punishment and despise I would get for touching a girl’s body wouldn’t be any different.

“What are you doing?” I asked without letting the screen into my sight.

“Awaiting for a telerportation from Spaes.”

“…. Are you ok upstairs?” I finally expressed freely the concerns a relative should have.

“Lerng range telerportation compleet. ETA T minus onehundredandtwentyseven seconds.”

“Uh?” A hundredandtwentyseven seconds…. Two minutes and seven seconds? She’s just making this up!

As expected, thirty seconds after she said it, the so called “teleportation” is complete. Looks like the aliens have quite the earthly manner, ringing the doorbell. From the futon girl’s reaction, that’s what she’s being waiting for.

“It hasn’t even been a minute!”

“The report was inaccurate. Unfortunately, the result must be recalculated.”

“...I’m actually happy that you answered, but are we really talking here?”

The futon girl ignored my protesting and strode out. Her steps were impeccable, as if telling me “even my ears are stuffed with cotton.”

“…. I guess I should go.”

Letting that person answer the door doesn’t seem smart. Common sense tells me to follow her; the futon girl said nothing to her follower.

I came back to the entrance I was just at.

Perhaps the process of teleportation is carried out with man power; the door’s glass distinctively mirrored the shadow of a person.

Looks like a delivery man.

“Hold it.” I pulled the futon-roll back as she walked down with bare feet.

“……..” I felt her strong dissatisfaction even through the sheets.

“You a cat? Don’t just walk around with no shoes.” I pushed her back into the hall, put on my shoes and opened the door.

Since I’m lounging here, might as well make it a habit to take care of the family.

The alien standing outside wore a green-and-white striped uniform and carried something tantalizing.

“Thanking for using ooo Pizza delivery!!” A young man who could charge people for his smile appeared.

“Huh? What pizza?”

“ooo Pizza.” His pronunciation is flawless, but I couldn’t comprehend.

Could he actually be...? …No way.

It mattered little, whether if he’s from D*minos, P*zza Hut or Papa M*rphy.

“Thank you, enjoy!” Somehow, I ended up paying the bill.

The delivery bro didn’t realize the existence of the futon girl, and dashed off on his scooter. Those are so good; my bike just kinda drains its user.

Close the door, lock it. Arrange the slippers nice and neatly, put my wallet back.

What remains in my hands is a bacon and onion pizza, German style, size small. One thousand and four hundred yen.

“The kousin’s evaluation score raises to two on the x axis.”

“Mm...” Summarizing it wasn’t easy, but to put it simply, she meant ‘thanks?’

“Speaking of, the universe is pretty small! We have something like this in the country too!”

“The universe is hermernity’s clersest hope.”

“Wha? The universe is humanity’s closest hope? Can’t you just give me a straight answer??”

Futon girl didn’t heed to me, simply returning to the room holding on to the pizza box. I followed mindlessly. She appears familiar with the way of her house, carefully dodging the cabinet and vase placed in the hallway without tripping on or breaking anything.

We walked into the living room and, for some reason, sat next to each other. Normally sitting next to a girl in public places would be embarrassing enough to skyrocket my pulse and heartbeat – a sign of imminent Youth-Points — but sitting next to a mattress just makes me sleepy. I'd like to hug it, but I am not about to commit a crime. I’m serious, she was just a futon! No one is gonna listen to an excuse like this — even if it’s true!

She wiggled in the futon and found four hundred yen in coins and a wrinkled thousand yen bill. With an arm that could barely move above the wrist, she handed the money to the middle of nowhere. Seems like the crazy girl still know the concept of money.

At least knowing how to order deliveries places her closer to being social animals.

“Thanks.”

I took the money and put it back to my wallet. All right, my mission and screen time is over. Should I just head back to the second floor? Looking at others eat may reveal how deprived young people look nowadays... But I do want to see how she eats.

Even if everything out of her mouth is space-related, I know she actually likes gravity. There is no way she would eat with the futon on. In other words, she will take off her cover.

This is an opportunity to steal a peek of her face; curiosity fixed my feet on the ground.

I'm too hungry to even ask “why do you dress like that?”

Futon-girl opened the box. Aroma of the pizza intensified, exacerbating the growling of my stomach. Maybe I'll call a pizza too? Hunger demanded so, but after considering the price, the thinking bits rejected the notion. Someone who doesn't work just can't afford to spend a penny.

She grabbed a corner of the pizza with two hands. Still clothed with futon, she kept the look of a tube.

“Huh?” She ripped the pizza in half and tossed it into the front of the futon. A hole in one.

“………..” This is the first time I've ever opened my eyes so wide in silence for something so outrageously negative.

I was shocked and wordless, impressed yet confounded. I couldn't pretend that I didn't see something that looked like it came straight from a circus.

Like the ball toss game on field days, toppings falling off the pizza made a mess of the futon. Eventually, the pizza flew toward the mouth of Erio. Does it taste good without half the ingredient? Her ridiculous way of eating even sparked some nonsensical concerns on my part.

I tried imagining the inside of the futon; a disgusting picture terrified me.

She put the other half of the pizza back, probably meaning that she's not eating it.

“What about the rest?” Though there is a mountain of questions, hunger isn't losing out either.

“Based on the Kousin's evaluation, he can have it.”

She seemed to say “go ahead.” What a great development. I already decided to ignore whatever happened in the futon.

“Then we'll split the money!” I shoved seven hundred yen into he dangling hand.

“….” Whoa. Holding her hand, I realized this is a girl.

Her pale and slender fingers were like five silver fishes.

Her faintly warm finger tips had a softness like a premium cake dough, warping around my skin. I felt as if the hand would simply melt if I keep holding on to it.

Since I know no one would do it, I cleaned the kitchen. After that, I went and unpacked two of my luggage. Just a bit after seven, the phone rang.

The neighboring Futon girl remained motionless on her ball chair, so I rushed downstairs. Not only do I have to help with expenses, I have to pick up the phone too.

“Hello, Niwa residence.”

“Oh my, you are home already? But I made reservation for our crystal anniversary!”

“Good luck on your golden anniversary then.”

“Didn't you say Niwa residence? How else could that be unless we're married?”

“Oh… That's right.” I should have said Touwa residence: “Sorry, my bad.” Kadda.

I hung up. But the demon returned. Like human history, the ringing repeated itself.

“Shin-chan, you are terrible~” Needless to say, the person nagging me with the cutesy voice was none other than Meme-san.

“Shin-chan?! That sounds like Cr*yon Shin-chan, don't call me that!”

“But you were just like him when you were a kid”

“Yeah, right! I don't even think we've met before!”

“We met in the hospital when you were born.”

“Good to know! ...So what do you need?”

“Did you have dinner yet?”

“Nope.”

“I can't go home yet, so dinner's up to you.”

“Got it. What about your daughter?”

“Well… I don't know, but you should just pretend she doesn't exist.”

“I can't do that!” I tapped with my toes loudly.

I looked away. Night enveloped the sky outside; in contrast, lights from the residences shone brightly. Perhaps because of the incorrect space or angle, the moon was invisible.

“Then it's up to you! I don't care anymore~”

Her sense of responsibility is as palpable as helium.

“… Are you really her mother?”

I asked the response-less telephone. To be frank, what exactly happened if there is a daughter that no one in the family knew about? If she's letting me stay, my aunt probably doesn't mean to hide her forever.

One more mystery lingered in my mind; I rested the handset. Something I don't care about may just end up giving me insomnia tonight. I slouched in dejection.

I went upstairs to grab my wallet, visiting my cousin's room on the way.

“Hey, um...” What do I call her? She seems to have named me the cousin, but what about me? Calling my cousin by her last name is weird too.

“What are we eating for dinner? Ah, what do you usually get?”

Without using any subject nouns, I asked. We'll discuss about that later.

The cousin-and-futon half-buried in the ball chair stood up steadily. I want to try sitting on that too if I have the chance.

“Userlly nutrient from spaes that can pervide ample energy for night operation.”

The transcribed sentence would be “Usually nutrient from space that can provide ample energy for night operation.”

“So you insist that pizza is space food, huh…?” Fine, I'll pretend it's space pizza!

She still smelled like pizza. Why not just wash or change the futon?

“But the nutrient was divided to the cousin today. Active time has thus been shortened.”

“…Oh~ You don't have dinner cuz you gave me the pizza. I get it.” I could almost be a translator at this point!

The pizza is divided for lunch and dinner. That's futon-girl's daily diet. But since I ate half, she doesn't get dinner tonight.

What a nutritionally unbalanced diet. Well, I only had a variety of food because I lived with my parents, but I'm likely to stuff myself with junk food if I live like the futon-girl (I deliberately didn't describe her with this particular word).

“Then we'll cook...” I swallowed the dumb question back halfway. Doesn't Erio-san emits an aura that says “I only know how to sleep”? Her sense of fashion says just that. The only thing I can't win against her is her unique style.

Thought I still can't deny that she isn't exactly dignified as a human being.

“Want me to get something for ya, Nee-san?”

I tried laying low, before anything worse happens.

Something tells me the terrible development that is being forced to go outside with this futon ball awaits me if I don't say anything. It's a sort of six sense – an omen, even. Like mother, like daughter.

“The kousin has yet to pass everluation – it is unknern whether he could pervide satisferctory results.”

See? I knew it.

After translation, I think she definitely meant “I'm going too.”

The refreshing night breeze blew over my shoulder.

Passion and freedom filled my chest, as I looked up at the waxing moon.

Yet obstacles (and pedestrians) were plenty on the night street.

As expected of the city.

Ahhh~ They're all looking. Everyone's staring. My dark history is growing by the second… They wouldn't think I'm out to dispose a dead body, right?

I want to immerse myself in the atmosphere of a night walk, but the object in front of me would always drag me back into reality.

The futon-girl who sat butt-in in the basket, feet swaying, is not a pleasant sight.

We'll definitely be lectured by some dedicated policemen if we keep riding the way we are. Riding double isn't trending anymore, but for her, it must be a rare occurrence.

Her reaction was the same as a kindergartener making a racket on a shopping cart.

I'd like to hope that I'd be mistaken for a mattress deliveryman, but the futon-girl simply doesn't have the technique or ability to retract her legs. How should I put it? it's pretty damn hard to ride the bike, especially not being able to see the front; I couldn't see without tilting my head. Things were looking bleak as the bicycle's center of mass changed and the wheels started to tremble.

The thing that should be dealt first is that futon, but she was stubborn to not take it off. I tried to rip it off before heading out, but she ran away; looking at her struggling on the floor somehow made me feel guilty. I did help her up, but I lost a point on the X axis.

I lost two Youth-points too, so we'll call it even.

But since I don't know where the convenient store is, I needed to compromise with her.

Besides, since we went outside, the futon-girl's rate of tripping increased exponentially. Her maneuverability seems to only apply in the domain of her home; even walking on flat ground proved impossible without falling. The plan of walking to get food was thus discontinued, and we switched to using a bike.

This is a Itasha (not mentally, but physically painful). This would be the second headache today.

Though she gave out some vague hints to my crude road report, we still managed to reach the closest store before bumping into any policemen. In any case, anyone could tell her innocuity, despite appearing suspicious. For example, she won't be able to tell the direction or keep herself balanced if she wants to catch someone. If this was an RPG, she'd be a monster that gives one exp.

“Here we are… What should we get~?”

I want to stick my face to the window and ogle at the things inside, but since I'm in the city, and I care about morality and shame, I gave up on the thought. Also, I didn't actually want to do any of that.

Clank, clank. The protest of “don't leave me here” in the sound of ankles kicking the basket came from behind me. She may be dense in terms of reading the atmosphere, but her hearing is pretty sharp.

“You have to take that thing off if you want to come in. I won't let you go in like that.”

Though not as intimidating as a person wearing motorcycle helmet, the futon-girl would still rouse some sort of fear in human beings. Maybe a collective body of cotton, from afar.

“As a secernd-rate envestigator, I must not reveal my identerty to the public, for it may affect the intergrity of the everluation.”

“Is that so? I admire your professionalism, so just stay there and be good!”

“But aderptability is also the prerf of a first-rate enverstigator.”

“Oh~? So in other words...” I looked back with slightly malicious eyes and listened to her plea.

“Hernce, I must extract my posterior from the bersket.” Are you the giant turnip from a certain folklore?

I originally wanted to play tug of war with her legs, but considering her being a girl, I princess-carried her out. I rested her legs on the parking lot's asphalt ground, releasing her only when she regained balance. I genuinely felt that her legs, not just her fingers, were that of a girl's.

Then, as if trying to become a human compressed-image, she struggled in the little space inside of the futon trying to untied the clothesline. She almost tipped backward because of her arms' awkward angle.

“You could have just asked for help.”

I couldn't stand to watch. Does she go through this much hassle everyday to tie herself up?

I released the tightly wrapped rope. Futon-girl, A.k.a Touwa Erio finally reveals her true form under the night sky and the light of the convenient store.

Even though I have no interest, I gawked at her face.

“…...”

My first impression was…

She looks like an extraterrestrial creature.

“What are you? Alien? A princess in bamboo?”

Anxiety washed over my mind, wavering it. I don't know if I finished the sentence without stuttering. Blood vessels pulsed under my wrist, rendering me breathless, and my eyes bleared.

Touwa Erio without her futon is an alien… Oh, I mean alien in comparison to how I look.

If I'm Earth, then she is celestial.

The stock for Touwa Erio exploded in my mind, like witnessing Kaguya-hime being born from a Durian.

An unbelievably beautiful girl born from that unbelievable aunt stood there.

Amazing. Her hair was emitting particles; that's not the hair of an earthling.

Her hair can absorb even dandruff! I won't go as far as saying that. But even the bits of dry pizza ingredients were nullified by it.

“Alien…?”

“Hm?”

Erio widened her eyes to my reflexive comment. What's the matter?

I don't mean anything else: it's just to describe her as a different entity. But this may be what she likes to hear.

Erio strode forward, but her right foot tripped on her left.

“Me…? I… I am an alien!”

She closed her distance with wobbling steps, grabbing onto my upper arms before regaining her balance. Her nails stabbed into my flesh, bringing a nonnegligible pain.

“What are you – hey!”

I nudged Erio away and stepped back; she followed.

The reason being our hands.

I let go of her hands and cast my head aside, glancing sideways at Erio.

She loosened her fists, despite her heavy breathing.

As if to calm herself down, she caressed her eyelids and muttered:

“This is the facade I use to avoid attention.” She nonchalantly described herself, looking away.

A voice as clear as the ring of a triangle, proving herself to be a girl. Shock settled in, but I still couldn't look at her.

“It doesn't seem to work very well!” I answered without looking. If someone of my gender hears this, he'll definitely beat me up.

Probably because of being relieved from a stifled condition, Erio ignored my dissent, and took another deep breath. I somehow remembered the times during middle school, when bullies shoved their victim under sheets of cushion and sat on top. Though I wasn't involved.

The reason being that Erio looks like a bullied kid, despite having a ray-emitting appearance. What should I do? If I ditch her, I'd feel pretty guilty… Well, frankly speaking, I won't deny having ulterior motives such as casually interacting with girls.

“…...”

I wanted to at least get rid of the crumbs on her hair, and sifted my finger through the strands to clean them. The dehydrated pieces separated from the hair, falling like dirt.

My fingers felt tingly, and they shook slightly. Wuah, I'm nervous. I mockingly assessed, trying to calm myself. Not that it worked.

It's not like I've never touched a girl, but this is the first time my fingers have felt a beautiful girl.

And so my torso was so stiff to the point that it might hurt later.

Erio let me groomed her hair, all while staring into my eyeballs. It was kinda unsettling.

Thanks to that, my nervousness receded. My shoulders relaxed, and my breath eased.

I took my finger back to see there are particles there, only to see the remains of bacon. I dust them off and awaited for Erio's reaction.

“…...” Silence. She poked at her ribs, as if wanting to say something. Even I'm hesitant to speak fist.

Her presence even made me lose the words I had in mind.

I didn't want to break the silence; I wanted to be engrossed in the view.

She isn't the banal, adorable type: she has the exotic beauty of an untouchable art.

Thanks to the futon she held with her right hand, I could at least keep her in my sight.

“I plan to unveil my secret to the cousin, for you have the potential.”

She finally spoke, and with varying pitch and eye movement, looked much more human. The monocular view finally developed into a binocular one.

“Mm… What kind of secret?”

Since she showed me her face, she must trust me to some degree. However, I don't want to know you.

Feels like I will be brought to a different universe.

Erio flicked her greasy hair, expressionlessly but solemnly declared:

“The Earth is in danger.”

“I've heard of this one!” How come she knows about stuff like this?! Aren't we the same age?

Not again. This is your secret? This is worse than compromised national security… If it was real .

Of course, I won't seriously consider it. Aliens are losing their habitats because of human's technological advancement.

Occasionally, I'll meet with one of these people, who believe that highly-civilized aliens have already integrated themselves into human society. Right... Is that so?

Do these people want to live like they did during the Muromachi-jidai?

No. Ridiculous.

I can't admire theories on mysteries that are too close to the daily life.

Alien may exist, but where are they?

… Sigh. This is the thought of a dreamless, half-baked and pretentious philosopher: me.

A dead-serious Miss Cousin began chattering, with more vigor and color than ever before:

“I'm a conciliatory investigator of alien origin. My assignment is to evaluate the citizens of both this city and Earth, and to erase the trace of any alien contact. There is also a testing ground for aliens to break free off of earth's gravitational field.”

The night wind swallowed her hysterical cry. The particles from her hair also ceased to emit.

This must be God's punishment, I thought.

It must be a penalty imposed on her for her out-of-worldly appearance.

This is exactly what I meant by over-anticipation.

Everything she's been saying has been neatly put into a single phrase.

Then I'll say it out loud!

No B.S, I'll say it! One, two… three!

“...Is that so?”

And so, I met Touwa Erio.

- Dream of independent life ruined by futon-girl: -2

- Witnessed a nightmare on the first day of moving in: -3

- Seeing a morning practice on a sunny day: +1

- The combination of going home, drinking and riding with Mifune-san: +2

- Touching futon-girl's hand, the feeling of a boy-meets-girl scenario: +1

- Riding with futon-girl in the basket during the night: -2

- Seeing Touwa Erio's: + 3

- Hearing Touwa Erio: -4

Youth-Point Total: -9

### 004. Chapter 3 - "Question to self: What if I got three jokers on hand during a game of Old Maid?"

New morning, new high school. On the second day, I arrived extra early.

The empty lot still looked like a simple temporary house with interspersed bikes. It almost looked as if people just abandoned their bikes and parked haphazardly. Since I can park wherever, I picked the spot next to the storage; that way, I can leave easily when bikes fill the place later. Of course, I left it unchained. Thieves have eyes: they'll want a different bike.

Speaking of locks, I don't even have the key to Meme-san's house. Erio even told me she often goes out during daytime. That's not good. I'll have to apply for one when I get home!

After shoving some books that I might need into the back pack, I dragged dutifully from school->shoe locker->stairs->classroom. If there's a way to skip a step, please teach me.

I pulled open the class door; the screeching noise reverberated in the hall, and I cringed. Perhaps lacking the innate skin humidifier of a human being, the room was filled with dry air. The same kind that is left in your room few days after a trip.

Walking in, I saw two people in the class already. One was a guy, sleeping on his desk – probably how he spends his lunch time. He sat by the window, meaning he's behind me in the last name order.

The other was my neighbor; her name should be Maekawa-san. Back hunched, she rested her cheek on one arm. Her hair swayed every now and then – man, she doesn't look very reliable~ I commented as I drifted to my seat.

As I pulled the seat out, Maekawa-san's side face became a straight-on portrait. She stared at me; her eyes weren't scary today. Maybe she's near-sighted and didn't wear her contacts yesterday.

I traded looks with this girl who's taller than me when sitting down. As a whole, she gave the impression of an oarfish. Despite looking beautiful underwater, there's just something disappointing about them when viewing up close... She belongs in the art category.

Maekawa-san seemed to also realize that gazes can't communicate, or maybe she thought this was the time to make the next move. Her first broadcast came from her lips:

"Transfer student." Without verbs or adjectives, she finished her speech with a slightly coarse voice.

"Which makes you 'student.'"

"Hm, I've been here for two years." She took out her student ID, the proof of her status.

"Well... We are in the same grade — even the same class!"

"I know." Of course we are, she seemed to say.

She gave a little frown. That should be my expression! I put up a contending stance.

"......"

The conversation ended. Not abruptly, but gradually faded away.

Since the second story was in complete silence, even shallow words like these were enough to excite the mind. I opened the back pack I didn't have to, peeked inside to alleviate the boredom.

"...Ah." Since I don't have my books yet, I'll ask Maekwa-san to lend me one. I could just ask the Tanizawa guy behind me, but I'm also not a man with a noble soul.

In the end, the backpack remained untouched, hanging by the desk.

"......"

I gazed at the clock above the blackboard. About half a circle away from homeroom.

So just why did I leave so early?

Question — from me.

Answer — from me. You're welcome.

It's because Erio was home!

I recalled what happened after I denounced her "duty."

Below is a memory too recent to be the past.

"The world exists in a polygonal box; a higher existence observes the known universe. These entities see us as a form of entertainment, and thus, they entered fragments of the truth into the minds of normal human beings. Speaking strictly from the results, these people are bound with conditions similar to dementia, and are exiled in order to suppress the dissemination of truth. Just as the word suggests, they are erased from the world. Even the observers cannot predict the technology humanity used to cross the parallel worlds.”

“Really, now.”

“In addition, there are traces of human experimentation. They observe the direction in which human souls adhere to, and arbitrarily create realms as abodes for these souls. There are even rumors that they have been evaluating the reactions of humans when given a new life, and comparing their view on life to those of other earthly organisms.”

“Really, now.”

“The Observers even used cities as testing grounds, in order to ascertain the capacity of emotional fluctuation within humans and to select the ones with superior psyche. People murdered for bounty, and the dead haunted the town as walking corpses. The situation was perilous.”

“Really, now… Ow!” She smacked on my back, almost making me choke on the half-swallowed rice.

I chugged down the Oolong tea next to me to wash down the food. About a third of a bottle worth of liquid rolled into my stomach. I gave Erio a glance of “what the hell was that?” but she only nibbled away at the Okonomiyaki on hand

She seems to prefer the diet of eating pizza in the morning, and Okonomiyaki at night. Don't they somehow overlap with each other? I did warn her at the convenience store, but she just ignored me.

We didn't head straight home, instead circling to a densely forested park behind the temple under Erio's command.

“Outside activity is a rare occurrence. Hence, I must carry out my duty as a blahblahblah.” She explained her motivation for our detour. The rest had nothing to do with her – something about the will of the universe – so I just listened cursorily.

We sat and ate next to each other on the half-buried tires in the park. I picked the yellow one, Erio the white one; the pink one remained neglected.

I heard that parks and temples in the city are occupied by hobos… Keeping my country sense keen, I did see a few people. Since there was a mysterious girl carrying a mattress around, some old guy even thought we ran away from home (I don't like it either, but some people even mistook us as eloped couple) and kindly offered us help. Perhaps the nearly destroyed bicycle that looked as if its been salvaged from a river bank amplified our impression.

However, when the guy carelessly asked for Erio's identity…

“Within restricted parameter combined with lowered linguistic standard, I am an esper .”

“Wow~ Impressive!” Super — the simplified version of “super stupid.” So you do understand!

After such conversation, everybody retreated near the temple to let us alone. Seemed like they may have realized that Erio is a rather hard-to-describe individual. No, they are right, but I was still bothered, and want to scream some unmentionable words.

I peered up at the evening sky. Cloud hid the moon, trying to raise the night's potency. If the time was now, I might be able to say it. I looked toward the dim stars; memories of the country's sky sighed.

“Ah~ Cough, cough… So, cough, cough… I just wanna say, cough, cough… Guess not...”

Simple coughs created some breathing spaces, but somehow I sounded irk with her. Tsk!

I continued eating.

Erio bit the Okonomiyaki with Yakisoba as I stabbed at the fried-fish bento.

Great atmosphere we were having during meal time… That's good, but there wasn't any opportunity for talking. I thought maybe she'd break into a rap after taking that futon off, but everything coming out just spelt chuunibyou. Even without the outer space element, every other sentences of hers pervaded delusion.

“I don't comprehend the cousin's stance of ignoring my beneficial intelligence.”

Like treating a neanderthal, Erio shrugged at me like an American woman. By the way, the futon she wore served now as padding. According to her, it hurt to sit because her butt wasn't too fleshy… And for some reason, her analogy involved Mars and the moon. Think about that now, why?

“We aren't exactly on the same wave length here; why not learn a thing or two from a TV…? Oh yeah, why does every channel here has something playing? The TV was on when I was unpacking, and I almost wanted to praise the city when I saw the eighth channel with a show on.”

Channel five was listed under entertainment back home. Man, the eighth channel was almost pitch black – I thought maybe it was a program meant for clairvoyance training.

“Under what order is the cousin sent here?”

“The earthly order that my parents had to work elsewhere.”

“Was there any interaction with the extraterrestrials in the previous settlement?”

“Nothing. The earth is quite big, y'know. No reason for them to only visit Japan.”

Seems like at least in her manner, she's the same as those foreigners who adore the Yamato-damashii. But if aliens were to visit, why would they bother showing up in the middle of the sticks where I lived? Shouldn't they go see places like Kyoto instead?

“A logical point.” Erio assented with a rare, honest nod.

I might see particles from her hair again if I lower my guard.

“Eri… Agh. Erio.” And what about her name? This is not for Japanese people.

I don't want the mother who named her to have any more screen time!

“…?”

Because of my stopping halfway, Erio inquisitively tilted her head. I guess she didn't hate the idea of me calling her name, nor did she seem to think “why are disgusting people all so shameless?” with a revolted expression. And so, I asked unreservedly:

“Why do you insist on playing as an alien?”

“Because I am one.”She concisely asserted.

“Alright, so am I eating dinner with an alien?” I don't believe her one bit.

“The cousin should have ascertained my identity.”

“Haah?” Oh~ I did say that at the convenient store, but it was just figuratively speaking.

If she thought I was serious, both of us lose in a way.

“I am curious: why do you possess the galactic clairvoyance, despite of a misleading appearance?”

“Excuse me for interrupting your half-assed compliment, but it's a misunderstanding.”

“…Modesty. A young man who seeks praises by relying on the Japanese virtue?”

“N—o, and you're a wacko.”

Perhaps to test my honesty, Erio stared at me, making me answer awkwardly. I keep thinking that I somehow won her faith with idiotic phrases.

But is trust really a concept suitable for Erio? She is “ super ” after all.

Not someone of my level could deal with.

As if to end the conversation, she bit off a big chunk of the Okonomiyaki. Well, big enough to fill maybe half my mouth.

“Does the reason really matter? Oh yeah… here, for you.”

As it had been sitting underneath the bento, the napkin was lukewarm, but it should be usable.

I handed the wet wipe I also bought earlier to Erio. Since she didn't have a free hand, she merely stared at me with oblivious eyes, as if telling me something, instead of taking it.

“You still got pizza on your face. Doesn't it itch? How about cleaning it?”

“…...Why?”

Erio strickenly asked, appearing apprehensive. Her reaction was not what I had expected.

“I don't even know why you asked.” And take it fast, the flies are going steal my food.

“….☆☆☆☆☆☆” Erio's lips vibrated at high frequency.

“Wha? Speak up~”

I tried speaking like Mifune-san. Sometimes, the same thing done by guys just irritates people. The amount of healing was even less than sugar during war time; it was gross, but I did my best at a falsetto.

“...Um, but why?” I softened my tone of speech, but vacillated because due to indecisiveness.

Man~ the stress is killing me! We already don't talk that much, communicating only through cringey, choppy phrases, and I'm even slower when it comes to actually doing things.

I won't tolerate things to develop at such turtle pace.

Unable to stand the pressure, I helplessly took out the wipe to clean her face and around her mouth.

With a bit of force, I rubbed around her eyelids and sides of nose. Erio let me do so without facing away.

It's like taking care of an infant. I remembered the times during a middle school kindergarten visit. Maybe that's why I don't feel nervous touching Erio's face, but then…

“I will not change your evaluation score even with bribery.”

“Good for you. Someone who trusts easily or flip-flops is definitely unreliable.”

Just like the disks of a Reversi game, changing to one color is as easy as to the other.

I balled up the wipe and threw it into the bag after finishing. Since I've located the park's garbage can, I'll just dispose of the trash when we head back.

Once again Erio and I used our hands and mouths for purposes other than speaking. Without a question she can eat normally, but since she already feeds in such amusing way, she probably would actually never take off the futon aside for bathing.

Must be really muggy, being sequestered in the world of futon.

A pubescent guy will definitely become a hotbed for pimples, adding more holes and scars on his skin.

“…...”

I peered at Erio's profile to my content.

Her appearance is best used when eating quietly. If her mouth were taped shut, she must be able to advance in life by at least three levels.

However, she probably chose to become degenerate, so it has nothing to do with me.

From about three paces away, I inquired Erio:

“What do you during the day anyway?”

“Eradicate evidences of extraterrestrial contact. Why do you ask?”

“No, no reason.” I still added a line of “is that so?” afterward.

☆

And the night passed like that. I rewound the empty film strip of memory.

We engaged in an exchange valued at around two Youth-points. Though due to content of our conversation, about one point in fragment was scored.

I wonder if my deficit can ever be reimbursed in that household.

The guy next to the window already turned his lying head elsewhere, changing even the position of his arm. Seemed like he just wants to relax, as opposed to actually being sleepy.

It's not like the concept is foreign: during seventh grade, I've always felt that time was slow. Not because there was the lure of joy waiting ahead that every second felt like an hour, but the exact opposite – it was so boring, I just wanted to leave school and take a nap back home. Every second, minute and hour bored me.

The lack of change drained me of even the strength to resist gravity, sinking me bit by bit.

Once adapted to the murky depth of sea, there is no turning back.

Evolution is clever, but not omnipotent — it is still flawed.

Though it's not like living under the sun is the only way.

Deep-see fishes have their way of survival. Man, they are so disgustingly cute!

For someone who adores deep-sea creature, I can't help but think of them as romantic.

At least it's better than confiding in the aliens, and it suits the mysterious character better.

As I smiled to myself, Maekawa-san began her rerun:

“So...” Still resting on her arm, she looked sideways at me.

“So…?”

I tried speaking like her. What if she gets angry? I thought regretfully, but Maekawa-san didn't mind and continued calmly:

“I just wanted to say, I'm not a hold-back.”

Once again she waved the student ID at me. This time I noticed the blonde hair on the picture, which was now completely black.

Maekawa's head must have had an agricultural revolution or a bio-re-engineering!

“People often think I'm older because of my height.”

“I see.” I concisely expressed my comprehension. Well, no. I don't even think age is the issue here…

“Was that not funny? I thought it was a good joke.”

‘How strange’~ Maekawa-san stared at the clock with a finger on her lip, thoroughly confused. Her expression was like that of the science teacher who got more magnifying glass back than there are students in the class. The conundrum exists, but it isn't unsettling or anything.

I understand she was confident in her joke… However, I didn't see the elements of a punchline.

“Mmm...” Maekawa-san grumbled, “Hmm...” She glanced every now and then, busy gathering and processing the information while I passed time looking at her.

Since I knew that as long as I kept the “what's she doing?” attitude, she wouldn't suspect a thing.

Nevertheless, her body is so long! Looking more like a kite with only its frame, she didn't feel imposing. If she were in a Sengoku warfare, she would possibly be used as a substitute spear.

Would this be classified as model physique? The April morning slipped away as I pondered.

☆

I should have realized from the last names, Mifune-san sat behind Maekawa-san.

In other words, object 'M' is located behind me, to the right diagonally.

“So Niwa-kun is a bread person, huh?”

Lunchtime. “Let's munch on our lunch!” invited Mifune-san. And so, I put the bread I bought this morning on her desk and began eating.

The neighboring Maekawa-san floated out of the class, probably headed to the cafeteria.

Maybe I'm being nosy, but can Mifune-san see the front sitting behind her? Sigh, if not, just use Maekawa-san's back as the black board! (I suddenly went insane.)

“Cuz my aunt has to work. You got your own lunch, Mifune-san?”

“Yep, my ma made it! Oh yeah, just call me Ryuuko! Actually, you hafta !”

She gently commanded with a beaming smile. But it's probably not a good idea to force a shy guy to call her by name!

Mifune-san (tentative) took out a single-layered bento from a different bag. Beneath the wrapping was a tiny box, small enough for me to swallow the entire thing.

Erio, too. Half a pizza was enough – girl's digestive system shocks me. Or maybe it’s just the whole weight-loss trend.

“It so nice to have lunch buddies right after getting inta new classes!”

Mifune-san's wavy hair and charming face radiated a light that could soften everything, possibly even contribute to world peace. If everyone has one at home, we won't need air purifiers anymore.

I will even breathe the carbon dioxide that's been to her lungs! I don't know if my organs will agree, though. I'm not an extinguisher; isn't it unsafe to do that?

“You're great help for me, too, since I don't know anyone. Don't you have other friends to eat with though?”

“All of my friends are in a different class, so it’s kinda weird for me to butt in. It’s sorta like, hmm~ I'm on an island chewing on grass, while they are eating luxury sushi on some faraway ferry. While they became women who don't need to wait for that time sale for fatty tuna, I turned into an acorn-eating forest-dweller. Wuu… There ya have it.”

“It's not exactly the time to be saying 'butt in'...” Send an SOS, or you might die!

“Eh~ ya think? It's kinda fun on the island though~ No one would care if I cut a buncha trees down, and people wouldn't destroy my secret headquarter!”

“And no one would say a thing if you yell a bunch by the sea!”

I gave up on defying the direction of our talk. Why not hitch a ride? Islands are awesome~

…… A perfect harmony between me and her, yet my back crawled as if there were ants on it.

The gazes from around us, especially those of the indecently curious guys, made me feel conscious. As a person who was often in their shoes, I knew not to mind them or feel upset. Actually, it’s more like the premonition and warning of “I am possibly at the top of my life right now” made me so free that I wanted to say “Look closely! Better yet, record this and broadcast it nationwide!”...Well, that was a lie.

Mifune-san opened the bento. In it were cherry tomatoes, apple, Youkan, pickled cucumber, banana tempura and very little rice. It's like a famine in there; the menu lacked any red.

“Are you a vegetarian?” I had to ask.

“Mm~” She quickly noticed that I was referring to her lunch and contemplated.

“If I hafta say, I’d call myself fruitarian?”

I don't really know where people like her should go. Your spirit of word-making is admirable, just remember to look back on the road of peerlessness.

“It’s not like I don't eat meat; I just don't always. Well, that's what I tell people.”

“Huh, that's unusual. So fast food is not your thing?”

“Yeppers. I love fruits. My goal is to become a tropical girl with juice for blood!”

The day of her dream-come-true, all the insects will gather around; my plan of mass producing Mifune-san may suffer from a setback! Ahh~ seriously though, Mifune-san is the best. Currently, she's my number one. Well, I suppose the number of people I know may be the reason, but at least she scores higher than Erio.

“Already eyeing the new guy, Ryuushi?”

Passerby A entered, foreshadowing the next event… Ignore the things a crazy gamer might say. A person neither transparent in name or appearance popped out and jokingly call Mifune-san 'Ryuushi.' Could it be that her name is 'Mifune Ryuushi Ryuuko?' With so much Japanese in the name, that's impossible even for a multiracial person.

“No and no~ I'm investigating if Niwa-kun from the other town bleeds sap~”

“What kind of speculation is that?” I gave a vague smile to the girl I just met.

“Also! Don't call me Ryuushi~ I order thee to say it right!”

She corrected the person with an overall not-too-harsh tone. The girl gave an equivocal smile to us and left.

The story will probably have little to do with her later, so I'll skip the introduction. What is important, however, is what's behind the word.

“Ryuushi-san.”

“It's Ryuuko!”Her angry expression was adorable. “Ryuushi is just a word; Ryuuko is my name!“ She focused her irritation on some strange things.

Mifune-san puffed out her cheeks; the shape of a cherry tomato appeared, like a manga character with cavity.

“So why does she call you Ryuushi?”

“Mm~ I don't like it either, but my name in Kanji is like this.”

With a pen, she wrote down her name in squiggly writing. “Ryuuko. (流子)”

“Ah, so that's why it’s Ryuushi.”

So you can say her name like that.

“So which one is right?”

“Of course it’s Ryuuko~!!”

Mifune-san nibbled on her apple while explaining the origin of her nickname:

“Someone called me that last year. I tried correcting her, but she just ignored me, saying Ryuushi sounds more cosmic… In the end everybody called me that. That name... is a hazard .”

“Hm, like, you were sick?“ Cosmic? Something clicked as I spoke.

The uniform hung next door swam in the milkyway. Away with you!

“Ah, ya want some?”Mifune-san suggested to me the banana tempura.

“Yay~ stealing others' food has always been my dream!” I'll take what's offered then. The green banana wasn't quite sweet enough, nor was it soft – it's like eating a vegetable. Honestly, I could only smile when she asked whether I liked it.

Mifune-san stared at my throat, continuing only after seeing me swallow.

“She doesn't come here anymore though – she dropped out.”

“'Dropped out’?” The uniform covers Earth. Stop it, you conceited world-uniform.

“There were a lotta problems around the girl - must be complicated if she voluntarily left.”

Picking up another slice of apple, she skimmed through the story with a lonely smile.

“I saw her the other day. Her style was, like, really unique, ya know? I think it's pretty cool.”

“Huh, that's nice. What was it like?”

I responded quickly, feigning my ignorance. It was so smooth, the word “cool” may as well have been written on my face. Oh, but it’s only because my empty answer is very well-ventilated.

“Heheh, it's a secret! You will know once ya see it!”

Mifune-san mischievously tried to pique my interest with a childish smile.

Then it's a secret for me too. Your friend probably lives with me!

Openly admit my affiliation with that person may just lead me to the road of ostracization, considering her previous circumstances.

Speaking of which, Erio and I are actually the same age! I had no idea about something so basic.

Does that mean Mifune-san's nickname is the legacy of her school life?

“Niwa-kun will definitely see her! She's quite the landmark of town now! Mm~Mm~”

“Wow~ I wish it'd be sooner~” I saw it this morning too. Actually, it's haunting me!

“I must visit blah-blah place today. Escort me with the bicycle, my assistant Watson!”

Omitting the jargon, Erio's intent was to force me to take her out. And so I fled to school early this morning. As someone between a model student and a delinquent, I wouldn't skip school on the first stay – being late is my worst.

“I'm done.” Joining her hands, Mifune-san finished her meal first. Seems like city dwellers are well developed in the technique of eating and speaking. I still had half my bread.

“Niwa-kun, got any interests?” As we packed our lunch, she flung out a question essential to a blind date.

“For interests, I would have to say deep-sea creatures. Sometimes I look up pictures of them on the web too.”

“Deep-sea fish? Like shrimps or crabs?”

“Yeah, those.” But you said fishes.

“And mollusks and jelly fishes?”

“Them too!” Was it intentional? Or was she born with it?

“How about cute ones? Like, you'd wanna catch them and stuff.”

Mifune-san flapped up and down, imitating a fisherman.

Did the lady confuse deep-sea fish with tropical fish? Well, as long as it’s cute, it’s forgivable.

“If you're talking about ugly-cute, then there are plenty.”

“Mm~ ugly-cute...”For some reason, she shot me a glance when she said it. 'Couldn't ya at least talk about the cute ones?' Deep-sea animals are indeed creepy; after all, they live in a totally different place.

“You should lend me an atlas if ya have one.”

“Sure, if I can.”

I answered unhesitatingly. Not that it matters, but whenever this girl says the word “atlas,” it just reminds me of the “Atlas for Kids” grade schoolers read. We should be in the same grade — could this be one of the school's seven mysteries?

Mifune-san clapped her hands and cracked a smile:

“Then your name from now on shall be Shinkai-san!”

“No, that's not smart at all...” Specifically, the combination of the names.

“Mm, then Shingyu-san.”

“Does every name you come up with overlaps with someone else's?”

And just like the Japanese dishes that focuses too much on preserving the original taste, they were always untouched.

Following her naming sense, people who likes spinach would be named P*peye, and criminals Harper.

“Hmm?” Finding no fault with her own declaration, Mifune-san tilted her head slightly.

I can welcome this type of quirk. Spending time together is always more interesting with a bit of variation.

On the surface, she looks like a modern girl; but on the inside, she’s a bit retro.

Appearing like the Heisei period, but actually the Shouwa period — that’s her impression.

Anyhow, I will register the nickname ‘Ryuushi-san’ in my heart.

I like the name: it’s not in bad taste, though I will pretend to not know who made it.

So ended my first day at the new school.

Since it’s the first time for every class, we didn’t learn anything significant, and I didn’t need to borrow the books of my neighbors.

And so, my reaction: boredom.

In the end, I dragged my useless bag out of class. Today, I will be all alone on the way home!

Ryuushi-san said “I gotta club today, so I’ll see ya tomorrow!” and left with a smile. I don’t know what club she goes to yet, but it’s worthy of imagination — nay, prediction .

“Hm~…” From her aura… Either drama or basketball.

While employing my brain on fruitless fantasy, I walked down stairs toward the shoe lockers. After changing my shoes, I discovered Maekawa-san at the neighboring row stretching by a pillar.

It’s like seeing a giant sword fish on a crane. Her stretching body gave off a terrifying air; she’s a candidate for creating shades along the summer road.

Her torso flexibly bent back; it was then she found my observing stare. For reasons unrelated to physiology, Maekawa-san blinked and spoke:

“Isn’t it the transfer student, what are you doing?”

“I am looking at Maekawa-san.” I spoke respectfully for some reason.

“Is that so? Whoooa!” She staggered backward, back still arched. How horrifying, it’s like the standing version of the Exorcist; I almost jumped back.

Before I actually ran away, she regained herself. “Ahh~ everything’s shaking~” She groaned while holding onto her head. Is she dizzy?

“Blood is rushing into my head… I’m seeing stars~” Halfway through her speech, she cracked a strange smile; it’s rather uncanny looking from the side.

“Going home with a bike?” She resumed, still leaning forward.

“Yeah, actually riding it, instead of being ridden…”

It wasn’t anything funny, but I still responded like that. Maekawa-san, though, burst out in light laughter; it seemed well-like. Considering our conversation this morning, she may actually be someone who laughs easily.

After she poised herself and re-did her hair, we unintentionally walked together to the parking lot. Walking side-by-side like this, I think I understand the mentality of wanting to call someone “Senpai!” or “Nee-chan!”

“Got plan for joining a club, transfer student?”

Maekawa-san gave way to the football club members who ran around the campus, and tossed me a casual topic.

“Nothing, really. I was the phantom member of paper craft during middle school and P.A during high school.”

“How are those related?”

“Then how about yourself?”

Hearing my counter-question, she looked away toward the falling cherry-blossom:

“About a year ago, I was invited to many clubs. Then a week later, they all see me as an extra. So now, I am the phantom of the art club.”

Was it injury? Family problem? Her heavy tone indicated such problems.

“May I ask why?”

“Hm, it’s nothing big, but I guess this is why.” Maekawa-san stopped suddenly, raising her arms in a victorious pose.

“…?” What if she asks me to do the same? I hesitated for a moment.

“Give me a second.” She told me to wait. Everyone, give me your energy! I looked up to where her arms pointed to, but the only object in the air was the sun. What is going on? As I looked back, I screamed embarrassingly – a frowning Maekawa-san staggered toward me, her slender legs unable to support her weight.

If I move, her body would likely to crash into the ground at full force. I could only accept the challenge of catching a meteor with my bare hands. Surprisingly, though, I easily caught her shoulders. Is Maekawa-san’s bone structure like a Pterodactyl’s? Her weight did not match her height, rather light for her height.

“Thanks.” She held her forehead even as she thanked.

“Ahh~ my ears are ringing, and blood is filling my head~” She spoke obliviously with mushy voice. What is wrong with this person?

“If I put my arms above my head for about ten seconds, I get dizzy; so basketball, volleyball and drama all gave up on my height. What do you call people like me?”

“A weakling.”

“That’s it. Not very useful, huh? I was fired from my part time job at the bookstore for this reason too.”

“………”

A magnificent yet frail Onee-sama, how charming!

No; a frail, yet magnificent Onee-sama, how charming! Sounds better this way.

Either one sounds girly as hell though.

Maekawa-san regained her posture and began fixing her hair. She may be mumbling “Uu, uu” but seemed like she could at least walk now.

“There was a blood drive last year, and I went. The nurse told me ‘You’re a big girl. So we’re taking 400cc!’ ignoring my explanation and began the procedure. Something strange happened though: I finished about twice as early as the big guy next to me. I think my blood flow is like faster than other people’s, maybe that’s why I get dizzy.”

“Oh~? That means your blood is clean, so isn’t that good? You don’t have to worry about artery hardening.”

“Yeah, the nurse also told me I’m likely screwed if I got into an accident.”

“I see.” Is this what they mean by “The weakness of the biggest weapon is its back?” Mm, mm~ tricky.

We temporarily separate upon reaching the storage room. Since I parked the bicycle there earlier, I was able to get it out immediately. Maekawa-san, who got here before I did this morning, also got her ride out.

The same as I it saw yesterday, her bike was an everyday, silver city bicycle. As a side note, we call these ‘Country bicycle’ where I came from! Of course not! We call them utility bikes, or their dialect equivalent.

As we carried the bikes out, a comment fell in the air.

“That’s a pretty retro bike!” As for who said it, take a guess.

I took the lead peddling forward. Counting yesterday, I went home with two different girl for two days straight. I am racking those Youth-points in! Does transferring improve my fengshui?

However, my fortune lasted until the school gate.

“Eh?” Maekawa-san gave a bewildered sound, easily passing me and increasing the gap.

I gazed with envy and despair at the wheels that spun effortlessly ahead of me.

Maekawa-san waited and looked back at the traffic light. She scowled at the distance between us, slowly waved at me.

Making her wait for me bothered me too, so I waved back.

She sped up even faster, her slender figure disappearing.

“…I lost to a weakling?”

Adding a bicycle onto the list of necessities, I decided to save up on my allowance.

☆

The first thing I saw back home was the lying futon-roll. I know you’re not a Chikuwa now!

Maybe I’m used to it; I didn’t feel a point lost.

Since there was a NEET fairy, or maybe a NEET who wants to become a fairy, in the middle of the hallway, I raised my foot to step on it. But since abusing of animal is frowned upon, I merely stepped over. Heave- “Ho… Whoa!”

My foot tripped on the suddenly active Swiss roll, and I landed on my butt: “Ow…”

Without any preparation, I fell. The floor squeaked at the quake. I am not generous enough to pretend that it was fortunate that no one, including the perpetrator herself, didn’t see me falling on my ass.

“Dammit…” I glared at the target of my words; Erio rolled on. “You little…!” I kicked the front end of the futon-roll, sending her forward until she stopped at the end of the hall.

Without the padding, she’d probably be bleeding out of her nose, like the loser of a brawl.

Man, mattresses are such nice things.

But since Erio didn’t move, I still went and check her safety.

“Still breathing?”

“Chance of survival: high.” She seemed lively.

“What are you doing anyway?”

“Act of vengeance. It is but natural: after discovering the act of physical contact which lacks common sense (rude), I must re-educate and-“

“Eat this.” I stomped on the futon-pattern where her butt should be. I’ve had enough of your rant.

Man, futons are simply perfect. I would never kick a girl, but I didn’t even think twice about this – futons just create a magnanimous air, like I could be forgiven for anything. Sixteen year after my birth, I learned the other function of the futon. What isn’t taught at school, you learn at home. Hmm, perfect.

This must be the education of city~ what a convenient excuse.

“And then? What’s an alien going to do outside during day time?”

“The cousin’s view is respected: we operate during the night.”

“What, so I still have to go?” Still stepping on her butt, I rolled her around. Yeah, futon-girl is not attractive at all. What a strange feeling, knowing how the person inside looks. It must looks like a rolled-up corpse from other's view.

“The cousin may be unsuitable as Watson, but you will do since I am understaffed.”

“I am so sorry for being so unreliable. Maybe the aliens should just use a recruit magazine.” I blocked Erio when she decided to attack again.

So she’s learned the taste and convenience of hitching a ride! Or has she decided that I’m her comrade, if what she said about aliens was true?

“The evening, huh…” I have to go buy dinner anyway: “Fine, I’ll take you.”

I am sort of interested in why she acts so cosmically. As long as I get to the bottom of it, I’m confident a line of “is that so?” is enough to stop her tirade. Mm, being with Erio sorts of put me on the edge.

I don’t know the reason, but she always either affirms my intuition or irritates me.

…Sigh, it doesn’t matter why or how, the important thing is we got closer after seeing the content of the futon.

“Then, free time until the night. Meeting adjourned. Farewell!” I lifted my foot and restriction on her.

The unchained Erio advanced – no, assaulted with a motion. I dodged backward, letting her roll all the way to the entrance. “Uu, uu…” Her feet seemed to have absorbed some impact, and she whined weakly. I gave a smile, feeling a bit warm on the inside.

Before heading upstairs, I peered into the kitchen. Pizza box on the table again; another half of a pizza on the inside:

“Then the inside of that futon… Ugh, must be like a blender!”

I pictured the status of Erio’s face, grabbing and pouring the barely tea in a cup, and gulped the drink. Maybe the water quality is different; it tastes different from the one back home.

The water of city tastes metallic. Perhaps, it tastes like blood.

☆

The night cometh. I actually wish it wouldn’t.

I finally arranged the books I brought on the shelf (I read a few nostalgic book half way through the process). To ventilate the musty room, I opened the window.

The heat precipitating in the room mixed with the warmth coming from outside.

“Oh~ I could see some stars!” Leaning on my arms, I looked out the window at the stars. Whirls of thin cloud played background, tracing out the evening sky. The transparency was almost the same as the night back home. “But the city’s lights are taking over the sky!” I scanned the city – not a speck of darkness. Lights from houses, stores, skyscrapers are incomparable to those in the country, which consists of maybe just the red beacon of radio towers. “Hm~”

Forget about that for now, if I could watch the stars with my friends on the park's bench, it'll give about two points. Especially during winter, when the air we breathe out turns into white smoke; even better if we have a can of drink to warm ourselves. “Hm—“ By the way, the mosquitoes during summer time would be annoying. “Hmhm—“ Shut it. How are you even speaking?

Erio, whom I intentionally princess-carried down the stairs (I actually wanted to kick her down), complained incessantly with eyes that emitted 'Are we going? Are we going?' Our destination was not the entrance, but the kitchen.

Like a dog who hates to take baths, Erio struggled when I tried to clean her up. I held her and forcefully took off the futon. Pieces of dry cheese and tomatoes stuck on her hair, and because of her rolling, there were even crusts on her neck. How admirable of her to lie down like that and even trip people!

Even sadder was that despite touching Erio’s skin a bunch, I didn’t feel my blood and pulse dilating. I felt like I was taking care of a needy animal, even though I shouldn't have become used to touching her. Somehow, I lose.

“Alright, you're done.” I let go of her after wiping where the eyes can see. Erio sprinted to the other futon I prepared without a word of thanks. Before hiding her face into the half-wrapped futon, she gave me a dry glance of “tie it for me?” with a heart sign… Probably not. I sighed and spitefully tied the rope.

“Hiding your only merit… You an ascetic? Or a hermit?”

“Is it really wise to expose a cosmic existence such as myself?”

“No, but you're totally exposed in some other way!” People like you are generally branded as socially ignorant.

As her compadre, I may also be lobbed in the same category. Sigh, nothing I could do.

People like me just have to suffer to get close to girls.

The loss with Ryuushi-san isn't obvious yet, but sooner or later I'll have to pay for my fortune; I thought melancholily.

Futon adjustment complete. I lifted Erio, whose sole exposure was her head, and carried her out the door. Would someone mistake me as a kidnapper of cute girls? I worried anxiously, and tossed her into the bicycle basket. Combination complete; in some ways, this is also a Itasha.

“Alright, where to? Do heroes of justice really have a destination?”

“I must investigate the site. Further instruction will be issued.”

“Now.”

“Right turn after leaving the house.”

What a convenient and comprehensive cosmic command.

With a kick, the bike began its motion: “Alright, now what?”

“...Initiating telepathy.”

“Sorry, left my phone and TV at home, so I can't receive your signal~ So, left or right ?”

“ Left side .”

Even with the directions stitched in between our banter, the bike traveled at a speed that provided plenty time. I hate this!

I didn't understand my GPS's navigation, so I stopped for a second.

“ Rewrite .” She tried to sound cool. You can read days as daizu, and I still won't laugh!

“A straight with momentum.” Didn't think baseball is popular in space. You a part of Major League Spaceball?

“ Sunny-side up .” And that's cooking. Her terms were all over the place.

...Just where was she headed?

☆

Our destination was the beach across the city.

Night beach!

I emphasized again – this was the reward of two-hours of nonstop pedaling.

Am I accomplished now? I waited for the feeling to come over, but there wasn't much change.

Even in the city, the beach was quiet and dark.

I had to walk to the shore; It couldn't be helped. The sand shuffled – shuffled! - under my feet.

I got excited for no reason and paced like a chicken. Like a tap dancer, I kicked quickly, making more shuffling sound. Wow! I must looked stupid!

On the other side, the light tower consisted of futon and a pair of legs stood by the night sea. Romantic – the farthest possible connection. Waves coated Erio's ankles. Fixed, she stared the horizon. I think.

“What are you doing~? If you are seeing things, the eye doctor is always open!”

Maybe it's hard for her tell~ there are times when, in human society, we see 'things' we don't need to see~ Well, it didn't matter to the me who was having so much fun alone at the beach.

“Ah~Ha! Ah~haha… hah… phew...hah...hah...” Sorry, I can't do it anymore.

Hands on my knees, I heaved heavily. I'm exhausted. Totally forgot I just biked all the way here, doing too much leg workout – on sand, too. I'll have an appointment with sore muscle tomorrow.

“...Ah?”

I saw the supposedly still Erio moving closer to the beach. The futon gradually sunk into the surface, yet her strides were fearless and rhythmic.

Her head was inside the futon with no escape.

...Oi, oi!

Even though I just used all of my energy, I could only rush after Erio:

“Are you here to kill yourself?!”

She ignored my call; water reached her waist.

Ah, she fell like an idiot. She had no way of standing up because of her trapped arms.

This is the same as suicide by drowning. Are you stupid? Are you?!

“Ahhhhh!!” I kicked open the water, saving a moron. Like a scuba diver, I picked her up. What now?

It would be easy to just leave her here. As expected, she irritates me no end.

“Pu~” Water spumed from the futon. “Hng!” I pulled open the cover, letting Erio's face out. Her wet bang stuck on the forehead; she looked at me expressionlessly.

“Oi, ya crab, don't mess around like that. I will tie you up like a shrimp later, so stop pretending to be a crustacean.”

I pulled Erio out of the sea. With the water absorbed, her weight increased a lot.

“Floatation is possible in this coordinate; I had tested.”

“No, you were sinking because of the futon...”

“Even I… lack some knowledge.”

“Oh~ right~ then this must be a great experience.” I don't care anymore.

If I let Erio walk on her own, she may end up drowning again, so I carried her. Is this how a bored surfer feel as they return to the shore? Also, she's heavier than Maekawa-san!

“So, why did you come here?”

“I visit here and investigate on a regular basis, for it has everything.”

“All the way here? Walking too… Are you bored — no, stupid, or really enthusiastic?”

The only thing I was sure of, listening to all that, was 'you've got some stamina.'

“No, I flew here.”

“Hah?”

Her unexpected comeback astonished me. Erio spoke, spitting water and words:

“In the cousin's pitiful vocabulary — I can fly. During emergencies such as the diving from earlier, I will be able to evacuate using aviation.”

“…...” I was glad for not thinking of something like that. How comforting for my brain.

Many aliens and heroes are able to fly without training or reason — that is to be accepted.

…Such is the convenience of being an alien: you don't have to explain anything!

“It was a miscalculation of astronomical chance. There won't be a next time.”

“It doesn't matter if it was a miscalculation, you're gonna die if you're gonna die. Jokes or not, death is death: the only difference is the person's feeling. The result is just that.”

“…...The cousin with low predicted-IQ is lecturing me.”

“Har-har, insult me more!”

Sigh~ I'll admit: I can't even beat a game's IQ test!

“You call yourself an alien, yet you can't warp?”

“Advanced technologies will interfere with an otherwise impartial investigation.”

“Take notes from the futuristic robot cat then.”

Without room for discussion, I had to bike all the way back. Wet clothes stuck to my skin, the wind chilled me shivering, and my legs were swollen as well. This is the worst.

I wasn't hungry anymore – I just wanted to puke. How I wished to just jettison my cargo and not give a crap.

We left home at six; it's about eight now, so we'd be home at ten. It might be my first time out so late, because of my parents' strict upbringing.

Meme-san is probably already home waiting for our return. I do want to go home, but I fear facing my aunt. Is she the type to get angry with her kids being late, or is she laid-back?

She may be either indifferent toward or have completely given up on Erio, but she's always found ways to make fun of me. For example: “Oh no~ Makoto turned into a delinquent~ It's all my fault. Yay~ I didn't stutter~ Now I have to tell your parents. You son has been tainted, and often stays out late. He's even came home wet – really, really wet, like (the below content has been deleted due to unsavory content).”

Ugh. I hate this: these two robbed me too much of my peace.

As I quivered my way through another street, tongue out from dehydration, I saw a woman trapped in a sandwich hiding behind the street light. Thoughts interrupted.

“…...”

“……”

We stared at each others. Uh, what kind of sandwich is that?

Well, as expected of the city: full of freaks!

...Now isn't the time to be impressed. We got a wacko here too in the basket, kicking the basket and being annoying. Was it an act of intimidation? Aliens are so barbaric and rude.

“Transfer student… Transfer student of the night.”

There was no need to pull the content out from the sandwich – simply put, she was Maekawa-san.

She calmly strode closer after discovering my existence. Um, is this really my classmate? I suspected the person wearing a sandwich outfit.

From afar, she looked like a Nurikabe after losing weight. Or a yam cake that ran away from a store. For some reason, she held a corny sign that said “Just five thousand yen.” Whoa, what is that~?

My understanding caught up then, however, and I chose to ignore it.

What's wrong with her? I know I asked the same thing earlier, but this time out of totally different reasons.

“Good evening, I am the sandwich woman.” She politely greeted. Must have been hard to bow in all that!

“...That name sounds like the heroine out of a third-rate hero film.”

“Was it not funny? Sandwich woman in a sandwich outfit.”

“I couldn't care for it.” We just want to get warm!

“Hm~ he doesn't care… Nevertheless, I am the sandwich woman — not man. Do remember that.”

“No… What you care about really doesn't matter.” If it bothers your that much, please try to emphasize more on your feminine part, ok?

“It does. Totally does — I'm a girl.”

Maekawa-san stubbornly maintained. I've heard the opposite of that saying, but it was fresh hearing someone insist herself as a girl.

“I take secret pride in hearing someone say 'you look like a model' and 'do you go to a beauty salon.'”

It isn't secret anymore if you divulge it. Are you asking for complements?

“'You look like a model!'”

“…...” Maekawa-san grinned with satisfaction.

What kind of stupid contest is this?

“Maekawa-san, how tall are you?” I asked what I was curious about, forgetting the whole thing with the cosplay.

“One hundred and seventy nine point nine centimeters.” She puffed out her chest – or rather, the sign – and answered boastfully.

“Ah~ so, a hundred eighty?”

“No – 179.9.”

“...There!” I tipped on my toes and grabbed a strand of her hair. “Now you are!”

“How dare you!!”

“Oh, oh~” Now she's pissed. Maekawa-san burst in anger. Did I rub her the wrong way?

I kept my guard up in the event of being grabbed by my collar, but Maekawa-san slumped lethargically. Amidst this deja vu, she mumbled dispiritedly:

“Uuu~~ The ringing… Man, I've always had chronic headache whenever I yell. It must be because of my lifestyle…. Probably. But why do I get shoulder aches then?”

“…...” How impressive of you, being sickly while not being labeled as sickly.

After the resurrection of Maekawa-san, she gave me an unhappy look. I held responsibility for making her like this.

Hmph! She turned away, noticing the object in the basket in the process.

“What's this? The transfer student reeks of crime!” Thanks, exposed legs on the futon.

“Yeah, I know, but she's totally alive! She's, uh, a fellow cosplayer like you.”

“That's a pretty cool character~ Not even a ten-week manga would take her~”

“Then, uh, a mascot, yeah… She's homely-looking, suffocating and miserable; her name is the futon-roll...”

“Why not just toss it in the sea… Hey, isn't this Touwa?...I think! I can't see her face, but there isn't anyone else like that around here.”

“Oh, you know her?”

“Everybody except new students or transfer students knows her. Unless you're a spy.”

Maekawa-san gave me a sideways glare. Oh, I'm a suspected spy cause I'm a transfer student? What kind of data am I stealing? Report on the bland taste of the cafeteria-sold bread? Who am I reporting to?

“She was notorious for a while… You know her, but not about that? She disappeared for half a year, from June till November. Right, Touwa?”

Erio repeated knocked on the basket with her ankles without speaking. Is she awkward about meeting her classmate? No, I don't think she's capable of that emotion. Plus they are sandwich and futon, food and furniture.

…Mm~ the mattress is winning slightly. I won't say what the contest is about though.

Anyway, 'disappearance…' What's that about?

Perhaps sensing my curiosity, Maekawa-san explained without regard of the person in question:

“Touwa said she was abducted by aliens; I thought maybe she just watched too much X-F*les. She even said she's an alien investigating earth, creeping everybody out before she left. I think she also watched too much cup noodle commercial!”

Maekawa-san's poignant words were unrestrained, even when the party involved was right there. Erio banged even harder, ceaselessly protesting.

...Alien, kidnap, and disappearance. Hm, I think I can kind of see why she acts like this.

“So, why is the transfer student traveling with Touwa? Riding double… Hm, technically you are. What could this mean?”

Maekawa-san revealed a prying smile. It's amazing how she didn't come across as repugnant.

“Nah, it's cuz we're cousins.” I tapped the futon-roll.

The frail Maekawa-san was shocked into a stagger, almost falling again. “Whoah!”

“Wow~ seriously? You are relatives? And you live together?”

“I didn't even say anything about that!” Do I got a poster on my back?

Maekawa-san was shocked (skip). Is this person's learning capability also that weak?

“Wow, I was just kidding when I said that, that's why I'm surprised again. That's amazing, transfer student — I thought your were just a normal guy with no personality, but you have some extraordinary background.”

The classmate of mine squinted at me like I was some exotic beast. Her already sharp eyes became even slimmer, making me wonder what she was staring at,

“Man~ if everyone in class knew about this, there will be a storm! Use your power and plunge the world into chaos!”

“City people are really into scandals!”

“Aha, I'm just kidding. I won't tell anyone — for now.”

Maekawa-san agreed to postpone with a dangerous condition.

“Well, I guess its better if I don't say it — you don't enjoy storms, do you?”

“Oh, please spare me!” I was just tossed around in the sea, blown by cold wind and am now shivering.

Imperceptibly, Erio had already stopped her protest, exhausted from all the kicking. You tried, NEET.

“What is Maekawa-san doing here?” I don't know why, but I sometimes talk politely.

“I'm just strolling around; I like the night sky, especially the clouds.”

…Uh. Is this person also trying to get Youth-points?

But, wearing that?

Perhaps noticing my stare, Maekawa-san simply supplied a reason that sounded like an excuse:

“I usually wear something else, like a uniform. I just felt like wearing this today.”

Why would you ever feel like dressing up as bread? D-do you want to be eaten? (I uselessly accelerated my heartbeat)

“Do you have this kind of hobby?”

“'This kind of hobby'…?” She gawked. Oh, she can totally open her eyes! I thought they'd stay squinted all the time!

“Cosplaying.”

“Hm~ kind of! On my day-offs, I walk around in all sorts of outfits.”

'All sorts of'…? Um, would this mix my imaginations with some bias?

Maekawa-san looked troubled, the skin of her face gathered at the nose.

“Hm~ I orginally just wanted to be like the 2D(?) characters I liked… But, how do I put it, it just felt strange. Isn't it rare for there to be a female character close to 179.9 centimeters in a manga? So I thought “this doesn't suit me~” when I saw myself in the mirror. The cosplay just didn't look right, so I gave up on that. Now I focus on shop uniforms and mascot costumes.”

“Mascots?” The word made me think bipedal mice and Hello cat (is it white?).

“I'll show you next time.”

“Well, if I have to say it… No thanks.” Compared to that, I want to see her in a uniform more. That's too blatant, so I stopped myself.

“I use the name Kibo-nengu Deko when I cosplay. It's my handle, so call me that during the night~” She spoke in Edo accent for some reason.

“Kibo-nengu-san, huh?...Can I switch the kana's around to call you Maekawa-san?”

“What kind of reconstruction did you do to get 'Maekawa' out of those five kana's?”

I still don't know Maekawa-san's first name.

When I parked the bike into the storage, I had just realized Erio was dozing off.

“Isn't it hard to fall asleep like that?”

I was honestly dead tired too, yawning constantly. If Patrasche were to find me, I would definitely pass out.

As I entered the house with Erio in my arms, I noticed a pair of shoes that was absent when we left.

“We're back.” I whispered, expecting the owner to not notice. Good.

I ascended upstairs without anyone seeing us, walked to the end of the hall and into Erio's room.

I let her down and removed the wet futon, in case she got sick. And there goes the first time I take off a girl's clothes. Uwah~ Another page in the memories I want to forget.

“Hng...Mm...” Erio wriggled, trying to block out the light from entering her eyes.

There wasn't any futon left, so I covered her with a few sheets of summer blanket.

Since the weather was warmer, it should be fine. As for bathing, she would have to take the advantage of being a NEET — whenever she wants.

But I couldn't do that; I had to quickly grab a bite from downstairs, take a shower and go to sleep. Unlike before, I don't have the luxury of having someone to wake me.

In the kitchen, Meme-san was eating the Erio's leftover pizza.

“Ah, welcome home~ You want some too, Makoto?”

“...That's Erio's Pizza.”

“Don't worry yourself. She's already asleep in her room, right?”

Meme-san swallowed the pizza and wiped her mouth with her fingers and napkin.

“She was awake when we were out, but she fell asleep halfway home.”

“Oh my, Erio went out with you? Mhm~”

Her obvious nonchalant attitude with her daughter was actually evidence of her affection.

“So you went out together, huh?”

“I was patrolling with a world Mediator armed with alien technology.”

“Ah~ Right, right. I miss those days~”

I pulled up the chair directly opposite of her, my hand grabbing the pizza on its own.

“I heard Erio went missing last year.”

“Hm, she did. Though I think it should be called 'disappeared.'”

We began devouring the pizza assiduously while talking about the absent family member; it wasn't exactly blooming with excitement.

“Was she kidnapped?”

“Who knows. It didn't look crime-related from how she looked afterward: she didn't lose weight and was uninjured.”

“Then, she ran away from home?”

I split the last slice in half, one for each of us. Meme-san continued after gulping down her food:

“In June, she was supposed to come back home like everyday, but I didn't see her again till November – floating in the sea. Police tried retracing her steps and memory, but they found nothing… At least it was proven that Erio remembered nothing during those six months. Simply put, she had amnesia.”

“So she filled the blank with the whole alien thing?”

I clenched my jaw hard.

“I think so. She loved the cosmos as a kid, so I think she chose what she knew about most as a mean to escape the fear of losing memory.”

“…...”

“Hm? Why do you look so angry, Makoto?”

“No, not really… Well, I'm not angry with you.”

My anger was with that part of Erio – the part that no one knows about.

“Aliens…? Dumbass. You idiot. Give us some proof, dammit!”

I lied on the table, complaining about the person who wasn't here. I knew I was talking to myself, but I got a response.

“She wanted to prove herself, but failed.”

“What...?” I looked up.

“Erio tried flying down the river on a bike; she landed on the shallow parts and broke her leg… In the hospital, she started wearing futon around her.”

“The bike...” So that's why. The rusty bike must be the aftermath of the failed alien-playhouse.

You totally can't fly…!

Anyway, I'll feel angry first with how she ruined a bicycle.

Meme-san poured me a cup of tea, and I drank it gratefully. Keeping quiet, I tried to calm myself. Perhaps because she's exhausted from working, Meme-san didn't joke at all, instead stretching a lot.

I wanted to take a shower right after asking the most important questions.

“How was Erio born? At least it didn't seem like my parents knew about her.”

“Wu—Cough, cough!” Surprisingly, Meme-san choked on her tea. She covered her mouth with the cup and looked away. That must be the look of a child who was caught playing a prank.

“She… There isn't much to say! She's like the mysteriously delicious drink that you would somehow make in a family restaurant.”

“You are too old for this. What are you hiding?” I especially accentuated the old part.

“There should only be one kind of fluid that made her~”

“Meme-san, you're becoming the inappropriate character!”

Is this person really related to my antediluvian dad?

“Hm, I guess maybe the aliens were involved after all.”

“Is that the best excuse you have??”

But, still… It wouldn't be too strange for Erio's birth to be labeled with “alien involved.” If her looks were because of some divine intervention, then aliens are definitely going to be great friends with us earthlings. Nice taste, guys, go make some figures!

“Even your aunt me doesn't really remember when I had her!”

“Hey!” You hag! Why are you lamenting?!

“The story that I was pregnant with her after an alien abduction is actually growing on me.”

“I bet you just played around too much when you were young!” And you just don't want to admit it.

Meme-san glared at me with an upset pout, as if saying “that was surprising.” It didn't last long though, as she relaxed with a sigh:

“O.K. I yield! I am the mother!”

“Uh-huh.”

“And you are the father.”

“Please at least be quiet when you're guilty.”

As expected, she's helpless. We need more people to fix her problems.

- Listening to Erio's rant while eating dinner with her in the park: +1

- Eating lunch with Ryuushi-san in class for the first time: +1

- Going home with Maekawa-san +1

- Went to the night beach with Erio: +1

- Meeting the cosplay woman, in other words Maekawa-san: +1

Youth-Point Total: -4

### 005. Chapter 4 - The Lost Teenage Paranoia

Rather than with lateral movement, she seemed more apt with longitudinal one's.

Oh, by 'she' I meant Touwa Erio.

The time was Saturday afternoon — a time filled with laziness. Warm light seeped into the window, endowing the room with serenity and dryness. To escape the sun, I leaned onto the entrance directly opposite of the window, reading the book I bought yesterday. Ryuushi-san recommended it to me after introducing me to the store.

Spending time alone in my own room could almost temporarily erase all the troubles.

Yet something stiflingly hot sat next next to me ruined the moment.

“...Why are you in my room?”

“UweeUwee~” Deciphering her is a pain, so I substituted her lines into a cute phrase.

From what I heard, this thing sleeps at ten everyday and wakes up at six on the second day. Erio's lifestyle is way healthier and more staunch than what it seems – not that it matters, because she looks like that . Still, there were things to learn from her.

“UweeUwee~”

“Oh~ I see. I didn't think it was so profound of a reason.”

Basically, I think she meant “since you're free, and I am too, why not bring me to the beach?” which is why I tried to ignore her, lying down or facing away from the noise source.

I don't want to waste my precious weekend on the water that does not pay off the energy it takes to get there. Some energy is only restored and accrued through alone times. If I were to go out, I'd rather it be like a date with Ryuushi-san.

Because Erio permeates the signs of stagnation. In that futon, she looks like the fairy of NEET: even if the content is beautiful, it is still on the same level as the smooth hands of those who refuse to do works or chores.

“…...” I peeked at her face – hm, I didn't even know where it was!

On that note, she's also been purposefully moving next to me since earlier.

Maybe she was looking down at her feet to follow my movement, like a dot on the x and y axis. It's like the table football me and my friends were obsessed with back home – she shuffled about like the hand bars on to the table. The thought of tripping and using her as a pillow sprouted. My chance of winning at this table football game, though, dropped to the third of a thousand.

“Huu~Hah~Huu~Hah~” The thigh-and-futon in front of me changed her breathing sound.

If she regress any further, would she turn into a water flea?

Her choices after giving up her human status would fall into the top five most primitive animals.

This girl wasn't oppressive, but the pressure was still strong enough to affect my breathing.

“...Stop trying to brainwash me. My country-bred brain can't decipher your noises!”

Shoo! I nudged her back with the back of my hand.

But if you earnestly used your looks to your advantage, I wouldn't be so sure… I'm truly helpless.

“Dammit, go away. Why don't you read some books too?”

“Hah~Huu~Hah~Huu~”

After calming down, she flipped onto her stomach. This preposterous entity does exists on Earth. Go back to your planet, dammit.

We lied on the floor and read the novel together. I wish it was that simple.

“Uu~Ee~Wu~Ee~” My neighbor swung her feet, protesting her treatment.

“Hah? The room is too dark for reading? Isn't x-ray vision easy for a ' super ?'

Or rather, you should just write the contents too and submit it when you're done.

A certain Light Novel and Illustration contest is looking for people too… wait, what was that?

Is this what they meant by that “He that lieth down with dog” thing? I have only known Erio for two weeks, yet my brain is corrupting at a surprising speed. If this goes on, the worst case scenario would be the birth of the combination of my body and Erio's brain. I need to at least resist… But do I? Maybe the order would be reversed, resulting in the combination of my brain and the futon. I don't want to give up on being a human. You could try to entice me by saying “you could spend a whole day in a futon with Erio~” but the only thing affected would be my heartbeat.

Two rings of doorbell came downstairs, from the window's direction, notifying us of a visitor. From the timing and her action prior, I predicted the visitor's identity.

“Alright, the cheese disk from space is here. Go get it… Well, not like I'll let you.”

And that's the gist of it. Setting the usual aside, I do try to maintain the Touwa family's reputation, as a guest should. …I may or may not have thought this when I brought Erio to the entrance.

As a side note, the house owner Meme-san left a 'I'm going to work. Even though it's the weekend… No day off...” complaint full of curses and went out early this morning. She mumbled about at least hoping it to be lucky today, dashed out on the bicycle with — intentionally — a piece of toast in her mouth.

“Ah, so she's snapped already.” I saw my aunt away with the new understanding.

I paid the haunch-backed deliveryman and received the pizza. He was different than the usual chill guy, obviously wary toward Erio. Maybe the usual guy just turns a blind eye, so he acts friendlier. Just as I re-realized the peculiarity of the object next to me, the sound 'woosh!' came where my hands were (Erio stole the pizza).

Pitter-patter, pitter-patter… She darted into the kitchen in scattered steps. If she falls down now, it'd look like the colored version of the pied face. I thought as I slowly followed her.

I entered and sat at my spot in the kitchen, pouring two people's worth of tea.

Next, the routine feeding.

Erio ripped off half the pizza, aimed, and tossed it.

Shew~ The pizza dance in the sky.

“Shew~” Like catching a bouquet, I intercepted the food midair. Greasy. Splash! My finger-orchestra played a realistic soprano. The image of a piano played in the middle of a silent classroom emerged – a highly self-conscious feeling.

I hurriedly caught the parts that were falling off where I grabbed the pizza. The original target, Erio, opened her mouth upward like a nestling. As if trying to grasp the situation, she wriggled in the futon, waiting for her evil mother to drop the food.

“Strip.”

If it was her, I could easily spit out words that would lead me to being sued by normal girls.

This must be what they call trust, right? Am I right, or am I right, dear fictional readers?

“For once, why don't you eat normally? I don't want to eat with you if you're going to be like that.”

Even though I didn't want to eat with her, I don't mean I didn't want to eat with her. The ambivalent motivation rocked the mass of my stomach back and forth.

“WueeHuu~” Erio appeared to be complaining. She flapped her legs under the table, probably angered by the denial of her sustenance. I kept thinking about throwing a Frisbee inside instead of a pizza.

“I'm gonna take off the futon!”

I loosened the cheep D.I.Y seal, letting the house air pollute Touwa Erio.

Hearing my declaration, she attempted an escape; I caught her with my leg. “UwahUwah~” A mysterious constraint threw Erio into a disarray. I ignored her reaction, dismantling the clothe line and forcing the innards out into the sun.

“Wow, nice to see ya.” The particles weren't flying today, obediently covering her hair.

Erio smacked my hand and the futon away, shutting her eyes, as if saying “accursed Earthling!”

How do I put it — only her eyes moved, giving the impression that her face lacked exercises.

'You think that's enough to stop me?' She stiffened her torso and pierced me with eyes shining with pride.

Erio grabbed the pizza.

Like doing origami, she folded the pizza in half, swept the topping off and ate them. Then, she stuffed the folded bread in her mouth and began the futon-wrapping process.

“…...” Flaunting at me like that, are you a kid?

“UweeUwee~” Between the futon and the sound of chewing, Erio meant “tie it for me!”

Fingers twitching, I contemplating on strangling her as well.

I filled my stomach with the other half of the pizza and went back to my room.

Erio followed. Now I have a padding in case I fall, how reassuring… I may or may not have thought that.

So why does she stick with me? She must be seeing me as a comrade. What a pain!

We sat against the room's desk and listened to some music.

Erio snatched one of my earbuds away, rustling it under the futon and listened in. I hope Earth music is to your taste.

“......”

Snuggled next to a girl and sharing earbuds.

...Wait, what? This was supposed to be an enviable situation, yet my Youth-point calculator didn't move — there wasn't even light hitting the solar cell.

Mm, indeed I didn't see the neighboring object wrapped in globe pattern futon as a girl. But I did the sandwich Maekawa-san — why?!

Taking advantage of the confusion, my Karaoke solo begun:

“Go back to your planet, alien.”

These lines were harsh, but not exactly spiteful. I evaluated calmly, swallowing the bitterness, and spoke.

“The universe is huge, so stop staying over at earth. The other galaxies are yours, so get a move on. Don't be like one of those mistaken 'friends' who stay over to eat dinner!”

“…UweeUwee~” They didn't pick you up? Were you ostracized?

Not just on the earth, but also in the galaxy. It's big, I guess, but that's still pretty empty.

Are you one of those people who panic when they hear P.E teacher yell 'pick your partner?'

I guess alien relationship is complicated too.

“Do aliens need oxygen to survive?”

“UweeUwee~” Hmph, how dull.

“Why do aliens like earth?”

“UuhoUuho~” Oh~ then go to a country with more beautiful women!

“Do aliens… like pizza?”

“UweeUwee~” That's all they eat… If a pizza shop sets up on moon, it'd be pretty popular.

Ugh—

She seriously annoys me.

Her wheels just don't spin.

So why, then, am I with her?

Under the spring sun, the question and sentiment spread in my mind.

☆

A lot happened in the two weeks passed since I moved here.

My books got here, and I don't get lost in school anymore.

I also made a few guy friends, whose primary reason of associating with me seemed to be Ryuushi-san.

“Why are you suddenly buddies?”

I don't know.

“What, did you know each other before?”

I don't know.

“What's your name, by the way?”

Leave me alone. Above were all my real thoughts, but my literal responses were slightly retouched. Below are some examples —

Q: Why are (skip)? A: “Cuz I lost to her during a race, now she's onto me.”

Q: What, did (skip)? A: “If we've never met in the previous life, then no.”

Q: What's your name again? A: “Leave me alone.”

I tried thinking seriously.

I'm not a transfer student anymore, neither am I special.

Maybe because of that, Ryuushi-san talks to me every chance she gets, probably to prevent my fate of becoming the shunned student A in class. In this time and age, rather than saying her kindness is wasted in the city, it's more like you can't get it anywhere but the paradise!

One of the three dudes asked me after hearing my explanation:

“Why do you get special treatments?”

I didn't know, so I asked.

“Hmmm, I like being the background class-rep character, y'know? The type people trust base on her abilities instead of title: someone who doesn't stumble easily. So I decided to win you over first! By the way, I was the head of lunch back in elementary school!”

“…Something like that.”

“So why you?”

Give me a break! The eternal loop of Ryuushi-san Q&A began again, so I changed topic into “how much older can your lover be?” One of them said “Up to forty is fine.” Such desperate response made me really want to introduce a person to him.

After the seat change (completely done with drawing lot), I made a few guy friends. The price was the lost of Maekawa-san, who was now three or four seats away from me, and the opportunity to talk with her in class.

Ryuushi-san also moved to the seat close to the entrance window, which was the farthest possible distance from me. But she always swings by my seat to eat with me during lunch.

Setting our relationship aside, the curious glances from everyone else was getting sharper.

The gentle Ryuushi-san sang 'an unbalanced diet is an unbalanced heart' — a tune like a certain grade school's slogan — while giving the mushrooms in her bento to me, who always had simple bread. Is her sharing of food with the publicly vegetable-liking yet secretly shroom-hating me the manifestation of her naivete? If it was the result of careful calculation, I would have probably been gnawed to the bones and thrown away.

...And like so, my school life is generally good. Figuratively speaking, it would be the front wheel of a bicycle.

The family, which represented the rear wheel, would be the problem.

☆

I was forced to accompany Erio to the faraway beach at night.

“Ugh, what a pain. I have to study.” After my decline, the futon-girl would shadow me everywhere, groaning about how important her tasks were. She would even arbitrarily come into my room to watch TV. “Beep~Beep~Tss~Tss~” was the sound of her cosmic exchange. She's pretty much a new breed of monster. I beg you to migrate to that world where nothing is impossible.

Sometimes I give in to her persistence and go out with her, surprising even myself.

Why?

Honestly, some parts of Erio vexed me to no end.

But I still served as her driver every three days.

And Erio would walk to the beach during daytime for the remaining days.

Toward the sea where she floated amnesiacally.

In a way, her consistency and perseverance impress me.

“Would your memory come back in a bottle if you come here? This isn't exactly like how the culprit would come back to his crime scene, y'know?”

I sat on a terribly corroded bench that was away from the waves and inquired the stalled mattress. She didn't answer or look back.

lately, when we come here, Erio only looks out from the futon as if peeking at something.

Slightly sticky wind blew every now and then, lifting Erio's exposed hair and stealing the particles. But then it would immediately start emitting rays again — from just the neck up, she really is pretty.

What a waste. The thought appeared as I stared at the back of her head.

Maybe I'll think differently if I look at her side face! I couldn't openly stare though, because it's embarrassing.

“But… it really is quiet.”

I checked last time, kind of hoping to see delinquents or biker gang occupying the place, but I saw neither cherry blossom or grass that should be growing during spring, nor people who came to do some early water-dipping. Sigh, motorcycles rust around water, so I doubt anyone would come.

I took off my sandals and followed the beach line to Erio. Man, I'm already used to the shuffle of sand. Human nature is truly depressing, always casually devouring the food of life and making a mess.

As for Youth-points, it counted during the first time, but not anymore since it became a weekly routine.

“Oi, space girl, can you hear me?”

“Speak, Earth ape.”

A venomous riposte, with a simple 'Earth' added in. There are aliens apes, too?… Oh, there are!

That's a movie though.

“Why are you still here, if you're an alien?”

Back to your home world. I think like this because I'm a xenophobic Japanese.

“Don't tell me you're the vanguard of an alien invasion force who fell from a ship.”

“How did you know?”

Didn't know she could improvise a shocked expression. Not that I care. Oh well.

If her delusion is for the protection of her subconscious memory, then oh-well.

“Also, your mom totally looks Japanese! Where were you born in space?”

“It is inexpressible in Earth tongue. Based on my judgment, the cousin's score in the Earth's world language, English, is below the decimal points, rendering it impossible for you to comprehend.”

“Hey, that's going too far!” You're overestimating my grade.

Cough, cough!

She created a barrier made of linguistic energy. Is it really that scary to lose all your memory?

...Perhaps it is.

It is essentially death.

Sometime I see the transformed Maekawa-san of the night — our habits seem to have significant overlapping.

“Maekawa-san, what do you think of aliens?”

I sat on the swing of the kid's park (where me and Erio ate dinner), curious of the girl who was energetically carrying out the pendulum motion next to me.

After bumping into Maekawa-san, Erio would always head home first.

By the way, Maekawa-san was wearing a convenient store's uniform: the ones with green and white stripes.

We had a lot of those stores back home, but I have yet to see one here — the company probably hasn't expanded here.

“Aliens… Have you been infected by Touwa, transfer student?”

She sought the pleasure of fast swings, despite having to bend her knees.

Initially, Maekawa-san swung with straightened back. Her head rammed right onto the metal bar above, making her writhe painfully in the muddy ground for a few minutes. “Ack…”

Her store uniform now looked like a baseball player's after sliding in mud.

“No, I'm just curious. You don't have to be serious, but what do you think of them?”

“Hm, well… I suppose they're not too different from religions. Some believe in them, some make money off of them, but I feel like people seek spiritual comfort from both.”

“Huh… I see.”

“Besides Touwa, do you have other reason for asking this?”

“There is. I want to use it as a reference as to how I should think and do.”

Since ignoring our Miss Touwa-san is not good for my health.

Strange, though. I actually wanted to get closer to Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san, but why am I wasting time with Erio at the beach? Ever since moving here, I haven't gotten my Youth-points to positive. I thought I actually wanted to spend more time with people who aren't Erio.

“Oh yea. Wanna dress up with me, if you're free tomorrow?”

“At least think of something I would want to do!”

“Hahah, whatever animal you want, I have all~ of them!'

“Chupacabra.”

“Alright! Let's go drink some blood! Our targets will be couples!”

“You have it?!”

It's not B.S? Someone found the real deal?!

“Sigh, I can't go even if you have it. I got things tomorrow.”

“Things? Someone who looks as free as you? What could it be?”

“Things.”

Maekawa-san smacked me with the arm of a Gibbons. Her arms went up at full speed and fell on me.

But, if you keep this up…

“Ahh~” After three strikes, Maekawa-san faltered.

“U~wahh~ The blood~ The blood is rushing into my head~”

She kneeled down in a daze. The swing swished by in a pendulum motion, grazed her back and…

“...Ah.” What do you call this awkward feeling?

The almost palpable 'pain' appeared before my eyes.

☆

I made a date with someone yesterday.

At the station that I had never been to since two weeks of moving here, I arrived at eleven o'clock.

Since I told the other person I only know the streets around the taxi stands, she supportingly said, “Then we'll meet around there~” I rode my bike to the meeting location.

I took a while deciding on my outfit… In the end, I wore a shirt and a pair of cargo shorts – basically what I usually wear. Is it better to wear something that has more city-ness (what?) I regretted a bit, but considering what the wearer is composed of, there's not much use lamenting… I grabbed my bangs; I'll probably dye my hair sooner or later.

Besides, spending an entire night going through all my clothes, arguing back and forth 'this looks better~no, this looks better~' is already Youth-points worthy. Well, whatever. In any case, I was a bit tired.

Instead of Erio, a satchel sat in the basket. The basket is finally doing its real job!

“Sigh, I guess I can't assume things about that either.”

There isn't a point in thinking about the meaning of life.

What I refer to is my basket's regular, Erio, who walked to the beach today as well. She begged me to be her personal driver even on the weekends, so I fled here after running away from her. I didn't feel guilty, but this bike does belong to Erio, so I kind of regretted it now. I should have asked her. I'll casually apologize to her after I get home.

“...It's gonna be a problem for her to ride though.”

Arms trapped in futon with only her head out: riding like that, she may even have the choice of circus act as a future career! But more basically, I don't even think she can go out alone.

“…Oh, there she is.”

My eyes caught a girl running lightly toward here.

...Hm? Her appearance was very familiar. I paused the motion of adding another point, squinting hard.

The girl waited on the other side, waiting for the light to change while marking time.

The person you're waiting for isn't so important that you should be freaking out so much! I thought, a bit self-depricatingly so.

The person I'm meeting was Ryuushi-san.

She told me she's bringing me around the city during the weekends.

Since Ryuushi-san's always in club after school, she's never free after school.

She slid in front of the bicycle, using the friction between shoes and ground to brake. Entry. Her shoulder moved up and down as she heaved, and sweat drops were forming on her. The makeup on her face was wearing off a bit, but I pretended to not see.

Why is she wearing school uniform, anyway?

“Good… Morning… Uu, it's hot~”

“Mornin'. Uh… Nice casuals you got!”

“Ah, ya mean this…? Sorry. My morning practice took a for~ever, so I couldn't change… It's super~ embarrassing, but I didn't want to make ya wait...”

Ryuushi-san somewhat moved her tired lips and arms full of lactic acid, and explained her attire.

“No, it's fine; I don't mind. Where's your bicycle, Ryuushi-san? You parked it somewhere?”

“Eh, hahah… I ran all the way here!”

With hands on her knees, she managed a laugh before a torrent of coughs ensued.

“Why?”

“Cuz… I woulda hafta wear helmet.”

“Ah, eh…?”

“Then it'd squish my hair… so I ran here.”

“…...”

She didn't think to ride without wearing a helmet. This girl is the devil of adorableness!

Until Ryuushi-san caught her breath, my fingers were twitching to pet her head.

“My hair is really naughty~ If I leave it alone, it'd straighten itself~ I wanna be a curly~ Seriously, it's de-curling again~”

Her homemade words weren't exactly coinable, but they somehow carried the meaning across anyway — impressive. Ryuushi-san redid her messy bang, tilting over and peeking at my bicycle basket.

“Aren't ya parking it?”

“Ah, nah. I can catch up.”

“That sounds kinda weird, Niwa-kun… And I told ya, it's not Ryuushi.” As per usual, she added.

Ryuushi-san strode forward, her ordinary footsteps drowned out by the bustling city.

“Oh, not bad: the bike's actually faster than walking today.”

The two-step distance between she and me elated both the bike and its rider. Since my goal was so low, I ended up wasting more energy looking everywhere for something that would encourage my spirit.

Even if it's out of my reach, would it still be better to have a more normal goal? After all, Ryuushi-san's looks were kind of stinging.

Mm… If this goes on, she will suspect the meaning of this bicycle's existence. I have to prove to her that we are two-in-one.

I timed, when pedestrians around dissipated, and shifted my center of gravity backward.

“Check it, wheelie!” I showed the only trick I know on the bicycle.

Strictly speaking, it's not a wheelie, but more of a jumping-on-the-rear-wheel

“Whoa, a circus performer!” Her pitying stare abated a bit, and she even clapped twice.

Since doing something like this on a crowded street just spells trouble, I quickly landed on both wheels.

Rolling on earth is a bicycle's job.

It cannot exceed its ability or defy gravity.

☆

The time was close to noon. Ryuushi-san had brought me to a diner nearby.

Before we went in, she was exceptionally animated, even declaring, “I'm uber pumped!” What's happening? Surprised, I walked inside.

After being led to the no-smoking area, I glanced at the waiter who served us. Maekawa-san probably has their uniform too, I thought while ordering the Beef Risotto with unlimited drinks on the first page of the menu. Ryuushi-san picked tomato salad, rice and vegetable soup with drinks. Basically, it was a full course meal without the full course — limbs-without-body meal.

If a stranger saw her, he'd probably think she's trying to lose weight! Her meal content was way too healthy.

“I'm amazed at how you're not underweight.” I had a sudden urge to hit her with an ashtray from the smoker's area as I asked. “Won't you get hungry later?”

“Hm~ I guess. Make that two salad, please~”

“...At least get a different one!”

We went to the beverage dispenser together, and there I found the reason of her excitement.

“Hm, this has a calcium-color~ Kids probably don't like 'em too much. I'm gonna add some tasty carrot juice~!” Ah. The fluid turned into the color of Apollo Chocolate’s top.

“You mix drinks too, Ryuushi-san!”

Wasn't she humming while pouring different color fluid into a glass? She'd even forgot portioning.

“I'm not Ryuushi-san~! Doesn't everyone do this?”

“I think it's just city folks! Back where I lived, nobody does this.”

Because there weren't any diners, but a lot of cafes.

Whimsically mixing her drinks, she began nitpicking the country's problems:

“That's bad: it's like having sixty percent of your life with no spice.”

“That bad?” And I don't even know how life tastes.

From another angle, that sixty percent is also open for use, so I'll accept it like that.

“Prototype complete! Drink it!”

Ryuushi-san revealed the amber liquid and gave it to me.

“Wait, I'm drinking it?”

“This is my work of pride.”

“Then I'll give it a shot.” To exaggerate a bit, it was handmade by Ryuushi-san!

I sucked into the straw.

The taste was enough to kill; it didn't even get swallowed.

“Wassup? Not sweet 'nuff?”

She worriedly handed me syrup. Man, girls are really into sweets! Hold it!

“Is this carbonated?”

“Full of CO2!”

“Yeah, I'm no good with carbonated drinks.”

Because it dries and burns my throat, even if it's just sitting in my mouth.

“Eh~Sorry~ You shoulda told me first.”

Ryuushi-san waved her arms, either concernedly for, or protestingly against, me. Under her lovely expedition, my Youth-points boosted immensely, but I didn't think she'd tell me to drink it.

“Niwa-kun is the Oolong tea guy, right? But failure is the mother of success, so I'll learn from this experience… Um, but doesn't this mean if the mom doesn't fail, there won't be a kid?”

With a joyful and positive tone, Ryuushi-san turned her failure into ambition.

How do I say this — it seemed that she had just described a philosophy that fits even for life. Based on her personality though, maybe it's just something normal a ditz would say.

“Alright~ Let's make a number two! This time I'll make ya shoot beams outta your mouth!”

“And when do you plan on making that happen?”

“A success depends on a dad, too! A happily-married couple~!”

I realized her premise for prototype number two was failure. That makes me the monitor!

Ryuushi-san mixed number two with Oolong as the base, and number three which overwrote number one (which she drank, like an indirect kiss. Whoaho~). She then came back to our seats.

“Oh yeah. What are your interests, Ryuushi-san?”

I swiped the sparkling number two and number three out of my field of view, casually bringing up the topic.

“ My name is Ryuuko ! Mm~ Interests. Interests! ...Now that ya asked… Um, like… clubs? Oh yeah, here ya go.” She nudged number two over here.

“What club are you in?” I'll live on with my head held high!

“Girl basket ball; cuz I like M*tsui His*shi, so I joined.” She picked up the cup.

“M*tsui His*shi…?” I glanced over at my feet occasionally. Maybe someone was crawling toward me, grabbing my foot and asking for help.

“Don'cha know Sl*m Dunk?” The two glasses assailed me constantly.

“Oh, I know the name. It's manga, right?” Don't look up, and don't look down. Just live in the present! The present!

“Yeah, that! It's super awesome! I'll lend you a few books; ya should check it out. Ah, do you read manga?” She utilized her arms to the maximum, even sending the glass of water over.

“If I must say, it's like I didn't really read them when I was a kid, so I don't have the habit.” Even though I think the one in the middle is drinkable, judging from the atmosphere, the first to give in loses, so I didn't do anything.

As the battle played on in the cordial air, Ryuushi-san's salad was served. The verdancy of the cabbage and blush of tomatoes contrasted, and for those who see it… They must recall the brothers who grow bigger eating mushrooms.

“I'm diggin' in!”

Ryuushi-san set the glasses on my side, temporarily ceasing fire. She joined her hands, properly greeting before eating.

Though her taste in drink blending is X, she indeed has the capability of a saint: affable with others.

She picked up the tomatoes with a fork, putting it in her mouth before the juice dripped. Ryuushi-san chewed, a cheerful smile on her face like when I eat my favorite food, such as burgers.

Mm~ tomatoes I get, but cabbage… Ryuushi-san must be a herbivore! So if I'm a carnivore, I can eat her! (Mental status: really broken)

“Ryuushi-san, do you have any special talents?”

“Hm, talents?”

The transport of cabbage halted halfway. She put the fork back into the bowl, arms crossed.

“Talents~… Using ten yen coins to, ah, not that… Using ropes or clothe lines, um… I can sometimes use grade schooler tickets… that's dumb… It doesn't count~...Nope… no, maybe it does. Forget what I said, I wanna cancel! Boomska boom boom~”

“It's alright if you don't have one...”

“T-thats rude! No, I mean, shuddup! I totally do, and I have lots!”

The sweetly-rash Ryuushi-san was a feast for the eyes.

“Ah! I know!” As if grasped a thread of hope, she beamed a brilliant light.

“On the elementary school yearbook, isn't there a section for teachers to write down comments and compliments for their students?”

“Oh?”

“The teacher complimented me, saying I was the best at making cyclamen bloom!”

“Bloom? So it spread a lot of flower particles (粒子)?”

Seems like your teacher didn't really know what to write! Even if my mouth gets ripped, I will never say this out loud. Ashtrays are scary things!

“Well, it was actually a Hyacinth at the time.

"......”

What's up with your going silence? Seriously, airheads!

“Heheh, so that's that! What about Niwa-kun?”

Ryuushi-san didn't seem to have understood what she just proved, flinging the same topic back to me while picking up her fallen cabbage. “The cabbage core is awesome~” She seemed satisfied.

“Talents? Wasn't my wheelie good enough?”

“If ya think so, sure~”

She smugly assented. If Ryuushi-san hadn't dug her own grave prior to saying this, I might actually get mad. She has quite the foresight, I admiringly thought.

“Oh, can I ask another question?”

“Sure. Go 'head.”

Even though I objectively couldn't find what made her happy, the fact was that Ryuushi-san is feeling exceedingly great. Then, here I go.

“What is 'mystery' to you, Ryuushi-san?”

“Hm… Mm~ mm… About that...”

As if her head-down was drowned in water, she squeezed out an anemic response, mood drastically changed.

“Gimme a sec, I'm switchin' over to my brain's serious parts.”

Zoom, click. Ryuushi-san motioned and made the sound of switching mode. She seems to have altered her brain's hyperlink function. Amazing: the division must be the reason why your usual behavior is so (omit).

Why did I ask her that?

The reason why Erio irritates me so much may be because of the way I view 'mystery.' So I thought about listening to others' opinions.

“Um, I got it.” She raised her hand.

“Go ahead.” I picked her.

“It's like this!” She answered.

Ryuushi-san smiled, expanding her arms to her joy. The waiter also happened to served us the Beef Risotto and soup at the exact moment; her gesture and charming smile froze right there.

“Whoa!” The server was indeed baffled.

“Uwoooooh~” The herbivore gave a cryptic cry.

“So, is there more to your answer?” Since her arms were still out, I asked gingerly.

“Of course!” Ryuushi cheered herself up. She perked up, fixing her messy clothes and hair.

Both hands on her knees, she began her childlike explanation on 'mystery':

“The things I see, things I hear, say… To me, they are all bewildering.

“Even though we learned in science class reasons why things happen, I honestly don't think they feel real. And the tools we used too. Like phones: I know how to use it, but I don't get how it works. Cars are fast, but I don't know why either.

“Just how much do I know? It's got me thinking, and it's got me confused. But I know I'm alive because of something. Sometimes, before I sleep, I even ponder about the mysterious things that kept me alive~”

“…...”

The answer I sought was found.

Astonishment and the sage right next to me wet my eyes.

“You're right.” I couldn't help but gave a twisted grin. The me now must look creepy as hell.

“Ah, no~ I'm embarrassed about how shallow I must sound. Sorry.”

“Ryuushi-san, you pass!”

“Whua? Ah? I passed…? Wow~!”

After a delay, she finally picked up, raising her hands with the fork still in one.

The scattered customers focused their gazes on us, as if blessing.

From society's view, we'd be called 'idiot couples'… Only if. My evil thoughts churned.

☆

Afterward, Ryuushi-san brought me around the station.

I asked her to introduce me some bookstores where I can spend my allowance, also a relatively cheap cloth shop nearby. Too bad it wasn't exactly male oriented.

By the way, the worst things I've said so far today, “what's a boutique shop?” has been trashed and promptly deleted.

...Someone please kill my brain cells!

Though I made a freckle-sized black history, today was, overall, a meaningful day-off. Youth-points, without a doubt, increased by three points.

Just how much do I have collected now anyway? To be honest, the calculations were done with basic arithmetic depending on the situation, so the result isn't recorded.

I bought a few novels in the used-book store, and then a cheap hat at some other place. I asked Ryuushi-san, “does it fit?” after putting it on.

The answer was, “Ahahah!”

Ahahah !

Since a certain aunt was waiting for me back home, fussing me, “we should at~least~eat~dinner on the weekend~”, we went home after five.

“Remember to show me the assignment tomorrow in class~” Ryuushi-san waved me goodbye and ran her way home. After separating with her at the station, I stepped on the inefficient bike pedals.

Spending way more time than the on the taxi ride, I cycled into the city of aliens. Passing through the shop that sells seven-dimensional key chain, I admired the houses and road saturated by a nonseasonally red dusk and strolled back home. It isn't bad to relax while you can. Whenever Erio's riding with me, I can only focus on keeping up due to the increased calcium intake.

“...Man~”

My gaze (seemed to have ) locked on with that of Erio, who was walking on the opposite side of the road far away. Even with the futon between us, I could sense her stare. Wait, no; I don't want any super power. Erio dragged her left foot along. I changed the direction of my bike slightly, riding toward her side. Being next to her during daytime really stands out! I definitely don't want to become the person we are looking for in “Finding W*ldo.”

“...This is so sad.” Even walking with just my feet, the speed wasn't too different.

“You want a ride? Or do you want your bike back?”

Walking shoulder by shoulder, I kindly taunted her.

“The permitive tool that suits the kousin's feeble berdy is embarrassing. I do nert need it.”

Erio dragged on while (probably) forcing herself to answer. I looked to the ground; one of her feet was shoeless.

“Oh I know, why not just fly? I don't get how it works, but it has to be easier that walking! Oh yeah, how about flying with a bike? You can reenact that one really famous scene!”

I freed one hand from the handlebars and pointed it to the sky, making it so Erio can get on the bike. She ignored me, though, and walked on aimlessly.

“Sigh, I bet you can't fly even on a bike! Even though you're an alien.”

“…...”

Originally walking forward, Erio turned around. She intentionally hid her face, readying her shield.

“If you try to fly, you're probably going to crash into the river again!”

“…...”

She faced forward again, looking away. Not like she could see anything.

She really annoys me. Nevertheless, I couldn't help but mind for her. Is this the power of being cute?

I held her hand, leading her to the right path. As for my impression of feeling her hand, put it metaphorically, it's likely to melt faster than ice cream in the summer; and it will return to the air with no aftertaste.

Carrying her up the bike, I learned what it's like to be a class leader bring everyone to school. I asked myself what to do next.

The opportunity for a heart-to-heart dripped, waiting to erupt from the spiritual faucet.

Do I say everything now? It's going to be terrible if I deliver a half-baked speech and have to find another time for a one-sided talk.

Please, I don't want to spend more time with the current Erio. Stomach ulcer and pimples are dreadful!

“You wear the futon, because you don't want to bike anymore, right? Honestly, I don't get how you thought of that… But where is the lost memory? Like how you treat aliens, you could only 'believe.' If aliens exist, then your memory must be in their hands — yet, you can't fly.”

And so, she could only seal it away. Lock away her own inability; make an excuse in order to survive.

...I don't deny the act in itself. However, her way of exploiting the name of alien rubbed me the wrong way.

“You're not going to make any excuses?”

“I have no interntion to explain to cernscienceless berngs.”

“...Is that so.”

End of conversation. I stuffed Erio into the basket and onto my wallet and the bag with book. The ride begins.

Before the sun set, we returned to the house of Toudou— I mean, Touwa. Erio didn't get off the bike until I parked it into the storage. I carried her off the basket, and we walked into the house.

Then, we stopped in front of the entrance.

“…...”

“…...” For some reason, neither of us wanted to go in first.

“You first.”

“To averid a sneak atterk, I must stey berhind.”

“...To avoid a sneak attack, I must stay behind?”

Anything counts as a sneak attack against you!

☆

The time was now two days later, the night of Monday. Since the new school's class progress is different than my old one's, I was studying.

I plan on going to college, so I study quite a bit. Erio went to bed early today as well, with no intention of going out. There's also the repercussion of our single-sided argument.

Though I didn't really care — that's just what I called it.

I'm pretty damn insensitive, right? right .

There were only sound of pen sliding across paper and pages of book flipping…

“Mako-chan~ let's play~”

It was supposed to be, but an obviously bored person had to barge in here.

“Please act your age!”

As a person of natural candor, I sometimes speak frankly.

“Why? Mako-kun is still a kid!”

“I mean you...”

The agility of a woman who's about to become forty is eye-popping.

Meme-san, who just came out from the shower and was still steaming, stood next to me while covering her hair up with a towel. She peered over at the desk:

“Oh~ You're studying? Math, huh~”

Meme-san pinched the page up with her finger tips, flipping without regard to the marked pages:

“So this is what you're learning~” She flicked the corner of a page with her middle finger.

“Don't you know that you should be quiet and not bother someone who's studying?”

“Nope. I didn't have my own room.”

She denied altogether, even using irrefutable facts as her argument.

“Haven't you heard from your dad? We used to live in a crappy apartment.”

Meme-san flipped the pages continuously and spoke.

“No, I haven't spoke often with dad since long ago.”

That's why I admired leaving my parents and living alone.

We don't talk not because there aren't relatives around, but because we don't have anything to talk about. I hope something that awkward would never happen.

Meme-san closed my book and notes, and put my pen and eraser back into the pencil pouch.

“Why are you putting my stuff back?”

The cleaning hand paused because I grabbed it. Meme-san stared her eyes out, scarily playing out appearance of a childish girl. How fearsome, if it was natural.

“Why? Because Mako-kun is playing with me!”

“Too much restriction would affect a child's decision making skills.”

“Staring at these tiny words till the middle of the night will make~you~old~”

She began imitating a realistic monster (I dub her Forty-years), becoming even more suspicious. Is this really an act?

“Is burning the midnight oil a bad thing?”

“Knowing me, you should know I ignore rhetorical questions!”

She actually ignored my query and started to pace around the room:

“Hey, what is this framed award for? Dirty mags?”

“Miss foreign, we're in Japan: please use proper language.”

“Let's see… Kanji Certified level three? That's pretty lame~” So not just questions, but everything in general is ignored?

Meme-san browsed through the words on the award and put it back. She walked toward the shelf; the hanging towel swung, following her like a pony tail.

“Hm, deep-sea creature… Wu~uu, you don't like manga, Mako-chan?”

Meme-san confirmed what's on the shelf and asked. Indeed, it was filled with novels I bought from the store; their authors' names forgotten, and their genre eclectic. And the rest were sea creature atlases. Since I don't have a thing for scholarly books, I didn't have a version with scant pictures.

“No, not really. I did buy J*mp for a while, but now I just browse them in convenience stores.”

“Really? I have a bunch of cooking manga in my room; you can borrow some.”

“Thanks.”

“Read up and become a house husband who would do all my chores!”

“You already have a daughter who claims to do things, go train her!”

“That reminds me, I have a friend who didn't read manga too. She's a girl though.”

Meme-san reminisced while touching my books. She neglected me again… I'm getting used to it.

“There was also a person who ripped book pages to make puzzles. He made every book he borrowed from the library into puzzles — the librarian even cried.”

“…...”

I looked away, assuming the ignoring stance. Why did I participate in this immature fight? This 'big kid' was indeed lowering my mental age.

The self-made word has many ways of pronunciation, but I will read it as Daikyou. Sounds like Great Misfortune, not bad.

“Okay, lets see what else is in Mako-kun's room! We'll start with the wallet, a.k.a the treasure. Then I'll get his passbook~ passwords later. Are there piggy banks? I'm going to smash them~”

“I don't want strangle my aunt, so please stop.” I stopped ignoring her. Wait, this doesn't help.

Her act was, in a way, an invasion; I didn't want to cry to my sleep because I chose to keep quiet.

And Meme-san is the modern age video game heroine: she doesn't search the nooks or crannies, but goes straight for the expensive things. In other words, a thief.

“Kidding! I already have Mako-kun's allowance in my bank account!”

Meme-san raised her hands above shoulder and beamed. This was probably the same as an animal showing you its stomach, like a sign of friendliness! Sometimes, looking at her behavior, I seriously wonder if she's drunk!

But I know one of my living problem is gone. If my allowance depends on my aunt, I'd have to be careful in what I say and do.

“So you wanted to play, but there isn't anything here.” I sighed while holding my hair up, attempting to struggle.

“Aren't you here?” She answered with a brilliant smile.

“…...” I really wanted to hear a girl my age say that. That way the Youth-points burrowed underground might actually see the sun.

Meme-san jaunted toward me. Wordlessly, she sat by my feet and looked up with an alluring smile. I… I don't plan on planting a flag here! Who's gonna try to sneak a peek at her boobs! Damn right, I was looking at something else. Like the pattern on her pajama. Meme-san had some weird pattern, like the suns that show up in heart-warming anime. It doesn't suit you!

Meme-san unleashed the towel on her hair, letting out her half-dried black hair. Probably because of the angle, her thirty-some year old appearance looked twenty.

“Sigh… I am shocked!”

Obliviously staring at the front of the room, she suddenly sighed.

“Sh-shocked about what?” Somehow my pitch changed.

“I actually have to work tomorrow. Life as an adult is just unbelievable.”

“But… Isn't that normal?”

Today was Monday, but she talked like she was working overtime on her weekends.

“Well~ You aunt was a still student not too long ago~” She hugged her knees and rolled around in the room.

Disregarding the lies, she was simply complaining, “I don't wanna work~”

“Being a single mom sucks~ Yeah, I get to save money for one person, but there are times when I need more hands. Since I can't compare, I don't really know though.”

In any case, this household lacks a father since the beginning.

“Do you really not know who Erio's father is?”

As the question did involve privacy, I softened the tone.

“Mm~...” She lay there, eyes and toes pointed at the ceiling. “Ah~ the light hurts~” I'll pretend to not hear that. Since my aunt was mumbling to herself, I waited for a response.

“...Listen, Mako-kun.” She spoke amidst the whisper. Does she actually have two tongues?

“Yes?” I just realized, Meme-san seemed to have settled on the name 'Mako-kun.'

“Right now, I have no bra!”

“I bet that has nothing to do with what we're talking about. Quick, get up.”

“Nnwuu...” Meme-san flipped over; naturally, ignoring me. Our level of incommunicableness had traversed the level of planet, no, gender .

Whether without comeback or had given up, I felt dizzy, not knowing what to say to her back.

Meme-san's mumbling stopped; her lips folded into a line. Her feet didn't leave the ground, and she tried to roll herself up like a Daruma doll.

“Hold on, I'll use a calculator.”

“...For what? Hey, for what?” Was Erio's father an electronic part?

“Papapa~” She opened my drawer and took out the calculator… Um, why does she know where it is? “Beep, beep, beep~” Meme-san clicked on the machine. It was like a novelist who doesn't quite know where the keys are, and has to use his index fingers… Hm, why did I draw such an analogy? Aliens? I best not to think about this anymore.

“Um, I am two-thousand and two hundred… then six hundred. And then the first person was one thousand and seven hundred… no, next… from just the right side, maybe three thousand. He looked like a myna from the front. Not him either, his level wasn't enough. Then...”

Back from work, the exhausted aunt grumbled as if possessed. She ceaselessly clicked away on the calculator with a serious look. Working into the middle of the night, how remarkable of her.

“All right~ I think I know who her dad is!” She raised her arms and threw the calculator to the side.

“With a calculator...”

“Me+Erio's father/2 = Erio. Isn't she super pretty? Beautiful ~ Just like me~”

“I agree with the first part.”

“So her material's looks must be great. I was counting the good-looking point of the men I was with before.”

“This only depresses me, sigh.”

She really likes being circuitous. Meticulous or irresponsible – she could be either.

Seriously, all she needed was to recall using the normal way. She should have at least liked the person for a bit.

“From the five most likely candidates, the most suspicious… Hm, it had to be the foreigner Elliot!”

“Isn't it easy to figure out from her name?” Then what was all that about?

“His good-looking point was about seven thousand and five hundred.”

“That's enough to destroy the earth!” Lets just keep talking to ourselves! I'm being ignored anyway!

“By the way, you are about two thousand, Mako-kun. You don't have to feel bad.

But I can't feel good either, right? Hearing the honest opinion from a female is a good thing, so I didn't refute.

“So~ her dad was Elliot, huh~ Ah, then she's mixed!”

There's a limit to playing dumb, I agreed in my mind infinitely… Ah, a mixed person! First I've seen! I didn't know being mixed would give your hair particles… Pretend you didn't hear that.

“But you totally knew where she came from!” Was I infected by my aunt? I have to be careful about how I talk now — especially around Ryuushi-san.

I think, depending on the situation, I could totally speak obscenely around Maekawa-san, but I still care about Ryuushi-san more.

“Look, do you really think your aunt could charm that many men at once?”

Her expression was like a kid's who stiffly confessed after having her mischief discovered by an adult.

“I haven’t seen you in your prime, so I wouldn't know.”

I jokingly shrugged. A twelve-year old picture is, after all, too early.

“I think I'm still young~” Though pouting, she still lowered her head.

“That guy was handsome, but I didn't think we'd make it far even if we lived together. We broke up, too, because our priority in life was different… or our values (?) were. So what I have now is the best! Ah~ but now I have to work my butt off! Uwah~”

Meme-san hugged her hung head and began struggling, but instantly looked up, invigorating herself.

“Oh well! Now I got Mako-kun. You can be my younger husband.”

Her eyes squinted with a smile, looking straight at me. Uwah!

T-the Youth-point didn't move! In a way, it almost went down! My adolescence may be forced to have a period put on if I become too involved with this person!

“...So why did you come into my room?” I am not embarrassed. I may or may not be lying.

“Because we haven't been in sync recently, so I wanted to talk.”

“Were we ever in sync…?”

Please, look at the previous pages filled with meaningless punctuation as references.

“See~ you're always like that. Mako-kun is so cold.”

Meme-san pouted… See what I mean? (I sought the silent assent from my fictional readers)

“I bet you won't believe me, but they call me mushy at work!”

“Ohhh (your brain?)...”

“How come you drawled like that? How fascinating.”

“The world is filled with fascinating things!” And without monsters!

The sea is an enigmatic treasure trove. For me, it is the most exciting place on this planet; rather than some famous art gallery or theme park, I'm more fervent about the ocean.

Ah, the universe counts as fantastical too. So does the girl next door to me.

“Oh, right.” Meme-san clapped. And again. Clap, clap, clap, “Stop it.”

Bluntly speaking, is she an idiot? I almost called my aunt a stupid kid.

My assessment for you is changing way too quickly.

“I don't ever come here, so let's play 'Old Maid.' I'm pretty darn good at it!”

Perhaps wanting to play cards since the start, Meme-san raised the cards she brought and spoke. Are we really doing this? A not-so-young aunt playing poker with a high schooler in the night… Poker Night — this made me think of some sort of magic trick. Usually adding 'Night' in a word makes it sound erotic, but this was refreshing.

“Just us? What about Erio?”

“No~way~ I wanna play with just Mako-chan.” Meme-san knocked on the floor with her ankles.

“I really want to say 'Shut up!' and 'Damn Brat!', but most importantly, don't call me Mako-chan.”

I have too many things to care for. Even my name is first come first served. What the hell!

In the end, me and my aunt played Old Maid. As opposed of the game's name, the family's daughter was not one of the two participants.

Meme-san shuffled the cards while humming, her eyes glittering.

“Lets bet on something! If Mako-kun wins, I'll do anything.”

“… Wishes above my aunt's ability are impossible!”

That much I knew.

“My, I'm serious — I just don't have to lose!”

Meme-san calmly asserted. From her tone, the entire sentence seemed genuine.

“...What if I say I want a girl's panties?”

“Oh my~” She answered bashfully: “Mako-kun is so daring… Well, you are a guy after all! I guess I'll have to give you mine — no, give you some aid as well!”

“I mean a girl's .”

Please stop disregarding the key points of someone's sentences. Even though I was kidding about the panties, so I don't really care, I was actually angry with her.

“If you really wanted it that bad, couldn't you just go next door and take a few? Mako-kun, you're so weird.”

“Yeah, yeah, I'm weird, so let me say it: your brain is fried!”

Even though the night was tranquil, I screamed my throat out. If we lived in an apartment, our neighbors would definitely complain. Probably even ostracize us.

Meme-san finished shuffling; before she dealt the cards, I asked.

“...And? (それで？)”

“ De Lorean ~!” She raised her right fist. How annoying.

“Shut your spinal reflex, please. I meant, what do you want if you win?”

I needed to make sure. My opponent was, after all, Touwa Meme-san.

I intentionally mentioned a preposterously embarrassing wish, but she tried to grant it. Gambling with a foe like this without drawing the line first is like running to my own death.

“Right, then…” Meme-san's eyes abruptly turned stern, and she spoke solemnly. “Break up with your girlfriend.”

“I can't do things out of my power!” I yelled out the most authentic thing I'd said so far today.

“Ahahah, I might say something like that. Come on~ it'll be fun!”

She began dealing with a magnanimous smile that will accept — or rather, devour —everything.

There were only two people, so she totally could have just given me half the cards.

Though something was definitely off, my butt remained stuck on the chair.

☆

Speaking from just the result, it was a flawless defeat for me.

I lost completely.

For the first two times, I thought it was just bad luck.

Suspicion rose at the fourth round, and the consecutive defeats afterward mercilessly buffeted me.

As my losing streak made it to the twelfth, the tunnel vision from rage and dry-eyes recovered.

Something was off. Statistically speaking, this is impossible! This is a game with a fifty-fifty chance of winning!

And Meme-san didn't even hesitate when she drew my cards, which directly affected her chance of winning. Even though everything besides pulling of the last two cards was routine, her motion hadn't changed since the start.

No matter how long I pondered, I would always grab the joker from Meme-san's last two cards.

She had to be cheating. I know it.

“...But knowing it now after losing so much is a bit late.”

“I know, right?” Meme-san, who sat on my bed without permission, nodded in agreement.

The game of Old Maid finally ended after I admit defeat. Ironically, the first one to quit wasn't the old woman.

Since there were only two players, our battle tossed back and forth, proving indecisive.

“What did you do?”

Please stop rolling around my bed, I looked down at the scattered cards and thought. Dealing with emotion when discontent is especially difficult.

“Since you didn't see through me, I can't teach you. You're such a kind boy, Mako-kun; I'm worried about how gullible you are.”

“...I don't know what to tell you.” Actually, didn't you just deceive me?

“Here's a hint: Mako-kun agreed to play with my cards, and then let me shuffle and deal the cards. That's how you lost.”

“So you did cheat!” Not just the cards, but also when you dealt them?!

“Alright, Mako-kun.”

Meme-san climbed back up to a sitting position.

“...Don't call me that.”

“Wha~? Why~?” Her fawning words shot out a beam of “why? Why?”

Ugaah~

I don't want to admit either, but it's because I almost grinned every time she called me that.

The woe of being a lonely high schooler. Even if it's just my aunt, the reaction is the same.

I am helpless against her brain-flattening voice.

The situation was already grave when I felt the attractiveness of an old woman.

I trampled onto the Youth-point that peeked from underground, demanding it to reflect on it's lack of chastity.

“Cuz it sounds like a girl's name.”

I made up an excuse and freeze the case.

“So what~?” She glossed over with a smile, “C'mere, let's talk~” and pat the spot next to her.

“Uh.” Don't come so close to a high school guy so nonchalantly, especially on his bed. I thought 'please let me go' while feeling overly conscious, and looked away. I felt dumb, somehow.

On the other hand, my aunt, who is less than sheepish, was waving innocently at me, telling me to come closer. I didn't want to be teased after being seen through, so I answered the summon with a calm face… Ah.

I wanted to be further away, but I miscalculated the distance and sat down extremely near her; our outer thighs were touching. 'Get away!' I thought, but it'd be unpleasant if I was misinterpreted of having weird thoughts, so I lifted my chin and put on a stoic face. Though it was an easily-popped balloon of a bluff.

“...What are we talking about?”

Giving my neighbor a glance, I intentionally asked callously.

I saw Meme-san's mother-like face, and I felt embarrassed every time we met eyes.

Looking closely, her skin was very well-kept for her age, so I inadvertently compared her to mom.

For a brief second, even Meme-san's hair appeared to shoot particles, but then —

“…...Eh?”

She embraced me.

The first time in my life ever hugged by a female.

By someone who was twenty-three years older than I.

For a normal high schooler, it may just be something to be forgotten in the future — but things always depend on the other party.

At least for me, who faced Meme-san, I almost actually stopped breathing.

The points! My Youth-points are being sucked away! Were if not for…

“If you're getting close to Erio because of her looks, give up. If you are that desperate to find a girl, go find a different person. Don't come near Erio if you're doing it out of personal interest.”

“Eh? Ah… Uh...” Now isn't the time for that! Save the serious things for later!”

“Hm? Mako-kun?”

“Uh, no, um… I was just shocked from being hugged all of the sudden.”

The throat that was twitching too hard from nervousness calmed down, but the arms and hands were still in spasm, and my muscles hurt as if ripped.

“Oh, I see. Your heart is racing.” My pulse, too, was hurrying to the next life.

She moved her hand that was on my back to my chest, checking my heartbeat. Meme-san's finger tip subtly drew on my shirt and tickled. Is it okay if I describe the act as bewitching? As the stain on the opposite wall saw the scene, I wanted to splash paint and revamp the wall.

“Uhh, soo...”

“Yes.”

“Why are you hugging me?”

“It just happened!”

Please don't do this.

As I couldn't rebuke her, I shut up and focused on suppressing my heart's throb. Adjusting my breath, I made sure to not think about the hair that carelessly brushed my neck and the gentle caress of her skin. I glared at the wall's stain, abiding my time to solve the problem.

“Have you calmed down?”

She read the heart report from her hand, confirming whether she could keep talking.

“I guess I'm used to it now.” Human adaptability is not to be underestimated, and I feel empty.

Whether happiness or sadness, once habituated, the degree of emotional effects diminishes.

Sooner or later everyone's heart would be flat, even if the individual process deviates.

“Should I say it again?”

“Please.” I'm not trying to make word count meet, because this isn't a novel. Hm!

“If you're getting close to Erio because of her looks, give up. If you are desperate to find a girl, go find a different person. Don't come near Erio if you're doing it out of personal interest.”

“Is this what you came to say?”

You seriously copy-pasted what you just said, what a lazy person. Oh no, I don't mean Meme-san.

“Mm, yes, because I can't let it go on anymore. That's why I'm here to advice you.”

“...I can't just accept it, even if you tell me that.”

Firstly, I tried choosing 'no.' I couldn't see her intention, neither did I want to obey.

“Why? Do you really think it's too much of a shame to give up on a girl like Erio?”

“…...” Sigh, is this called bullseye? That's what most people would have thought.

“I'll be blunt: If Erio's looks were below average, I bet you wouldn't take the time to walk around in the night with a girl like that.”

“I won't deny that.”

The more I reject the notion, the more obscure the humane intent would seem. I am no saint, and I don't live for some enlightenment. I am what is known as a humble man.

“Then give up. There must be some other girls in your class you like?”

Meme-san rested her chin on my shoulder and began her investigation.

“No. I've only been here for two weeks, so not really.” Liar.

“How about the girl sitting next to you?” My heart skipped a beat. “Then what about the girl sitting to the right behind you?” Wait a minute!

Meme-san knew? No way, she's probably bluffing. Now isn't the time to complain and inadvertently give everything away.

Luckily, she stopped talking about my friends and regressed back to the topic on hand.

“Or, do you only like Erio?”

“I'm not doing this because I like Erio!”

She, however, was making me uneasy. As for the reason, I sensed that it was divulged not too long ago.

“Then why are you always around her?”

“I am intrigued by her… That's one of the reasons, but...” As for the other causes, I'll just let them drift!

I don't want to do anything to her, but I didn't want to admit that the biggest impetus was my curiosity for her.

“She wants to be alone if possible, just respect her decision.”

Meme-san's apathetic words reflected the image of complete despair. Her hands grasped tightly onto my shirt as she spoke.

“That's why you try to ignore Erio's existence?”

“Right.”

“But you love her so much — that ball chair must have cost a fortune.”

“Oh, the chair? She said she needed it, so I spent four years saving up for it. It has to be the most expensive furniture in the house.”

I thought so too. Everything in my room combined must pale in comparison to its price.

“But just giving her things is not good enough — she needs family. Parents are the closest people a kid could have.

“Even though your aunt thinks that for Erio, I am not a bad mother...”

Nonchalant and mischievous; she is, however, a good mother where it counts… Um, doesn't this count as 'gap-moe?' Of course not!

“But not having the preparation and resolution to raise a child before having one… That's not what a good parent would do.”

“…...”

“Things are never smooth, even if the mentality is to deal with problems as they come. My parents too: they weren't rich, yet they had too many kids, and everyone suffered because of that. Those kind of misery doesn't get even out — everyone has to shoulder the same weight.”

Only the last words mutely washed by my ears, flimsy and frail like re-steeped tea.

Held by Meme-san, I had the illusion of being crushed under the very same weight.

“My parents don't seem to know Erio's existence.”

If they knew, would they have sent me here?

“I kept quiet; I don't keep in contact with the family anyway.”

“Glad it wasn't discovered.”

“...Frankly, I don't really remember when I had her. Or maybe it's like my memory when I was pregnant was vague… By the time I realized, she was already in the house… that's how I think sometimes.”

...Alien. Her origin may be related to how she was raised.

“Why didn't you tell anyone?”

“I don't want even the relatives to badmouth her, calling her a bastard child.”

“...Eh?” Surprising. No, not really?

Or do I just not know her enough?

“We digressed a bit. Mako-kun, you don't have to help Erio with her suffering. If you do, I will actually beat you both.”

She flexed her fingers and prepared to claw my skin.

“Do you get it now?” Smiley face ☆

“I'll think about it later.” Grin ☆

“Munch~~” She bit my neck. “Gah!” Goose bumps. What was that on my back?

As if declaring the end of conversation, Meme-san held my shoulder and pushed me away. “Hm.” Like ending a segment, she nodded. The heat from her early shower dwindled, and the blush on her cheeks receded to normal.

“Let's bunk together!”

“Please go back now. What time do you think it is now anyway?”

I pushed Meme-san's back and got her off the bed. “I thought maybe Mako-kun is lonely~!”

“Man, aren't you the lonely one?”

Arbitrarily, I answered saying that. Unexpectedly, Meme-san's face was serious:

“Perhaps.”

She picked up the towel and cards, and then head to the door:

“Thank you for spending time with me. Night, Mako-kun.”

“You too. Good night.”

Meme-san waved, gave her usual smile, and then left.

For reasons unknown, I seem to plant the most flags with my aunt:

“...Sigh~”

Is this what it feels like to have your girlfriend's parents' disapproval?

Oh boy, I don't have even the slightest of a crush for Erio.

Admiring Erio from head to toe, extolling her like an art piece is the true pleasure. I don't want to make direct contact with her.

“Oh, Erio's underwears are located on the second drawer from the top.”

Someone came back and gave a laughable advice.

“Thanks for the unnecessary earth-intel, Iseijin (異性人).”

Go back now, shoo.

“…...”

I went out to the hall, making sure Meme-san was gone. Good. I ran back into the room.

I lied down and took a big whiff.

Anything? I thought, even though I felt ashamed having such perverted thoughts.

...Um, not really.

“I just showered, and I have no make-up on, so there shouldn't be any smell!”

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!”

I screamed with the force of two hundred frogs being crushed simultaneously. I backed up, the back of my head banged on the wall.

“Your brain's going to turn into Takoyaki, Mako-kun.”

“W-w-warp?! Where did your footsteps go?!”

“I hid… no, I went to Erio's room to see her sleeping face. And then Mako-kun… Kyah~!”

“Gahhhhhhhhh!!”

Meme-san's got my weakness, and I made yet another memory I want to kill myself for.

☆

During childhood, I had pet rocks… Of course, I meant mineral rocks.

I put black, white and shiny rocks into a bug box, and I watered them at times.

It s not like I believed that things have hearts, I just didn't know the difference between the living and the inorganic.

Because of that, I experienced many losses and grief, and became who I am.

Like ephemeral pictures in a dream, I recalled the memory.

Alright, it's Tuesday tomorrow. Like adults who have to go to work, students also have to go to the depressing school.

In the school of city, students with blonde or brown-dyed hair ravaged the classrooms like beasts, making trouble for others… Intimidation and extortion were common during recess. I used to think that, but no one skipped out on classes, and nobody put his or her feet on the desk. Everyone walked together when we change to chemistry class; everyone opened his or her notebooks, getting ready to take notes from the blackboard to prepare for the exams.

Being no exception, I scribbled on the notebook as well, but the content wasn't the chemistry that I studied halfway yesterday. If I must say, it was about the life and ethics of the possibility that grade schoolers may be learning the same thing as well.

“…...”

Pretty girl who was normal until high school↓

Sudden disappearance two months after enrolling↓

Not even she knew why↓

Sudden return after half a year. According to herself, she was floating in the sea after she woke up↓

Apprehension for the amnesia of the past six months↓

Unable to stand the stares of others, blames aliens, which she was already interested in, as a way to escape reality↓

Stubbornly insists herself as an alien, and became a deviant↓

Flew with a bike from a river, with the obvious consequence of falling into the river. Got sick↓

Dropped out, became a NEET who eats pizza weirdly. Still cute though.

I wrote down the concept map of Erio's history. It's something like thats. Man, a stereotypically dangerous person right here. And she wasn't even brainwashed by some new religions. Unbelievable.

The problem roots in 'memory' and 'aliens.' I circled the two words. The last straw of Erio's peace of mind stems from the belief in the extraterrestrials. And so she looked for traces of aliens in the town, earnestly searching for that which knowing adults made television specials for. But she knew, at the bottom of her heart, that all this was a farce. From our interaction thus far, I felt for sure that there is room for intervention.

As for her memory, I literally cannot do anything. Erio often goes back to where she was found; if she can't remember anything, then there isn't much I could do either. It is impossible to trace Erio's steps in the past half-year, unless it's someone of an organization or with investigative ability like the police or detective. Besides, if the search ends with no answer, the theory that Erio was kidnapped by aliens will only thicken and lead her toward the wrong direction. She might finally break free of the mantle and reach the zone beyond logic and consciousness. That way, she will even stop pretending to be an alien.

Then, the only thing I can do is to crush the alien.

I will kill that illusion of yours… No, wait, I'm not the hot-blooded character~ Then what am I?...What is individuality?...No, I do have characteristics! I am not some wet sponge! Dammit, if this goes on, I won't even be qualified to sympathize with a certain particle (粒子). I will not end like the primrose! I got it! I know a lot about deep-sea animals! So that makes me Shingyu-san!

So it still came down to this, huh? That's still as bad as flower! Fish & flower, Fish and Flower ! Oh, that sounds pretty neat!

Kinda like the title of western song, or like the name of a dish. Such as Fish and Chips .

My partner Ryuushi-san, who returned to my diagonal rear in the classroom we move to, was avidly scribbling away on a notebook. Neither my gaze nor the teacher's voice could intrude her artist's soul.

Lets see. The 'first dimension' consisted of just a single line. A strangely well-drawn primrose, 'second dimension.' A carrot that somehow had limbs and a humble smile was 'third dimension.' 'Fourth dimension' with only a watch. With 'Japanese history' written on its head, 'fifth dimension.' Does it refer to the fifth period today? Lastly, an old woman with mangled face showcasing a key chain with geometric design: 'sixth dimensional granny.'

Is that the grocery store lady Meme-san told me about on my first day of moving here? But if Meme-san's information was right, a dimension seemed to be missing. If you ask who I trust more, both option A and B would be Ryuushi-san; if it weren't for her getting close to me after taking a bath and hugging me, who the hell would trust her… Oh, but Meme-san is exceptional when it comes to threatening people!

“Uwah...” At the moment, I loathed the adolescent that permeated me. Why the hell did I do that?! I lost to curiosity at the time… Well, to be honest, I do have desires. Nevertheless, I will never be able to defy my aunt. Even ten years from now on, I bet she will still talk about it.

“...Hm?”

Unknowingly, I met Ryuushi-san's eyes, and the painter's hand stopped. I focused on her irises, and the confusion embarrassed her.

Perhaps confident in her own drawings, her gave a bashfully faint smile.

Ryuushi-san improvisedly drew 'shingyu-san' next to the sixth dimensional granny. No matter I how I looked at it, it looked like a fishman.

I glossed over with a courtesy smile and an imitation of gill-breathing, turning back like a fishman climbing onto the shore. I'll talk about being partner with her later.

Like a cicada fresh out from its shell, Meme-san's warning/advice from yesterday bugged me.

Quit messing with her because of her looks, Meme-san said so. It is just as she said, I only took on Erio's strange hobby because of the peerlessly exquisite face inside the futon.

If that person's gender was the opposite, even if she were air, I'd treat her like carbon dioxide. Thus, her astute opinion — as occasional as it is — as an elder and a parent should be taken as a whole. Living in segregation — perhaps it would be for the best.

The reason for that would be how smooth life is now. In just two weeks, my new life has surpassed every bit of my expectation; I should even abandon the person who needs to experience life and move on. I met Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san: the deficit caused by the Touwa's has been offset, and I am in the position where I could see the rising trend in the future.

Why do I prioritize in getting myself involved with Erio, the culprit of my lost points? Rationality questioned. It makes perfect sense, really. But I abandoned logic in reality, becoming closer to Erio, and started caring for Erio.

Touwa Erio calls herself an alien; she claims to able to fly, and she asserted that she came to evaluate the human race. But none of it is true. To hide the abnormality of her own action, she buried herself in the futon.

Her way of living is a testament of how lonely she is; yet, she can never be two people, and she can't live without another person.

This way of living with the premise of being saved by others angers me.

I should just imitate her mom, and ignore this cousin of mine. Of course, it should just conclude like that.

I shut the book and closed my eyes. The bang that covered my eyebrows when I hung my head agitated me.

…But still, looking at Erio pains me somewhere in the heart.

It's like… Someone who couldn't read between the lines: someone who decides to be drowning in the corner of my eyes when I'm happily playing catch with someone else by the riverbank.

Swallowing this feeling, keeping it in my stomach and living an indigestive life might trigger gastritis some days. I can't accept Meme-san's advice and defer to her.

I'm pissed.

I can't stand the pessimistic attitude she believes the existence of aliens with.

That nonnegligible negativity is more conspicuous than the alacrity of success or smooth-sailing.

Mystery should be hopeful. Just like imagining the unknown sea creatures that excited me no matter how old I am, they are an existence that should promote progress. It doesn't matter if it's human, skyfish or the Greys.

She sullied the mysteries, filling her past with them, using them as a means to secure her own footing. Touwa Erio does not deserve to be called an Earthling, from how I see it.

I feel deeply from her the flaw that no beauty can ever compensate for.

But she is no alien, no — she is a shell devoid of identity, but instead filled with simple yearning for heterogeneousness.

So—

So~ I don't know what's going to happen.

Only, I'll deal with what I can't stand now.

“Alright~ Alright~ Alright~”

Al—right.

☆

I snuck out of school after first period ended.

Since it's too apparent if I took it, I left my backpack in the class.

Carefully avoiding the teachers, I jogged to the shoe lockers, the parking lot and to my bicycle. I scanned around one more time and escaped the school.

Unlike usual, I took the long way home. This was the first time I ever skipped school like this, pretty nice. Two points to Youth.

Aside from going to school, I don't get many chance to ride in the morning.

As I chose an unfamiliar path, I sort of got lost and spent a bit of stamina. I got back before third period started, however. Right about now, how would my classmates and teacher assess the fact that I was gone?

Ryuushi-san will definitely talk about this all day tomorrow! Am I thinking like this because of over self-consciousness?

I opened the door without shutting it, took off the shoes and went upstairs.

I passed my room, found the person who was naturally lying there, and walked over.

I grabbed the futon-girl (every time I see her, I just want to deep fry her to make tempura) and commanded.

It was rude, but I felt freaking great.

“Fly with me, right now. If you can't, you'll become human.”

- First date with Ryuushi-san: +3

- First hug stolen by my aunt: -5

- Leaving school halfway: +2

Youth-Point Total: -4

### 006. Chapter 5 - The Impossible Moment of the Crawling Girl

In the beginning of each semester back in my old school, the teachers would check our bicycles.

For examples, if the headlights worked, the stickers were school appropriate, or brakes were ok… The school arranged teachers to especially examine the bikes after school's out. It was nosy — even more so, since it's mandatory.

From the angle of someone who doesn't go to a club, it's was being forced to line up for teachers to check one bike at a time after school when you want to play around before going home. And it was outside.

April: trample on the fallen cherry blossom; September: death by the sun. And January: chattering teeth in the cold.

Complaints from the athletes department also rose when the field was swarmed with bikes.

In the past, the softball club even began batting practices, apparently aiming volley of balls at the teachers. Some guy made two goals. He'll probably become an official member of the team after becoming a second year. The only problem was his victim: the softball club adviser.

If they found problems like a broken bell or a rocket engine attached on the bike, they'll even check again. Thus, no one forgets to fix his or her bike the day before. Basically, the goals of the staffs were already accomplished at that moment. This feeling is like sheep being chased by a shepherd dog. I disliked that pompous attitude.

How many years ago was it when I took the initiative to fix my bike? Occasionally I refill the tires, but sweating and trying hard to derust the bike must be a first.

Dragging my rusty transport out of the storage, I gave my best to revert it back to its former glory.

I even bought a rust removing spray from the mart to polish the frame. Man, it's not working! As if cleaning the bloodstain displayed on a TV screen, it was fruitless.

It would actually be faster I borrowed Meme-san's working bike, but it's probably more economical with the crappy one, since it's going into the Mother of Life — the sea. I also don't want to feel the wrath of viewers.

I don't believe one bit that she can fly. Wahahahaha.

Even if she had a bike like this.

I finally remembered where I've seen this. This bicycle painted in legendary red-and-white color indeed soared in the sky. With the backlit moon, it flew with an alien in its basket.

It's the movie 'E.*' . What I was fixing was the very same bike used in that movie. I remember seeing it in the twentieth anniversary edition during elementary school.

I could easily picture the Cosmophile, Erio, begging Meme-san to buy this expensive and limited replica of the bike. She treasures her daughter, no matter what she may say.

Just a glance at her pair of model-like, scarless hands with perfect nails confirmed the theory.

Lady Erio stood on the side without words or questions, watching someone else sweating to fix her bicycle. The azure sky contrasted well with the contrail; she stood barefoot on the grass, emitted subtle particles and formed a landscape painting of a realized fantasy creature. She held the hair that flew in the air — just to my taste.

...Eh? I was suppose to censure her, so why was the content full of adulation? ...Oh well.

I'll be a man who values the inside more, and give up on derusting. I touched the chain that may snap at any moment; I pressed on the center — it was loose. Incredible how it held out all this time.

Flying on this bike was of course out of the question. Even the cosmic power of the extraterrestrial won't be enough to make up for this junk's inadequacy. Wait, the bike should have been working at that time: it only looks like this because of the accident. Anyway, the bike doesn't matter — aliens should be able to levitate with their own feet. I guess they like to show off too!

I took out the dusty tools stuffed inside the shed, earnestly playing my role of a substitute bicycle-chiropractor. Since I left school, the time went from morning to noon, and my hands never stopped the unending tasks.

The hell am I doing? I'm tired of hearing my own question. It's like forcing myself to listen to the same vocabularies during sleep with a speaker pillow for twenty hours. The brainwashing probably already caused hearing difficulty.

This was purely an endurance battle between me and Erio. Do I admit her alien status? Or do I shut her down to an Earthling? We shoved each others from our respective mindset, not budging one bit. For illustrations, just imagine fighting for spots for flower viewing!

We weren't thinking for each other: we just want to forcefully carry out our own ideals. This was a fight of egoism. I won't give her the excuse of having inadequate equipment — be completely crushed by the gravity of Earth!

As for the upgrading of bicycle parts, I didn't want the knife of 'being broke' to further stab into my stomach, so I finished with just a pumped tire and swapped chain.

I walked inside to wash my face in the restroom, dried off the water and sweat with a towel, then went back into the yard.

“Oi, E.T. (The acronym for Erio Touwa).”

Erio's fine dress swayed in the zephyr, and she looked like the daughter of nobility. I ordered her.

Her gaze was fixed on the grasshoppers beneath, and then she looked up silently:

“…...”

Me? She pointed to herself, the meaning revealed from the act. Yes, you.

“Get in the basket. You like that better, right?”

Speaking of which, the back seat on this bike was removed. Is it coincidental, or intentional? It isn't impossible to have another person stand on the back using the footstand, but it's more thrilling to imitate the movie.

This is what they called Role Playing. Maybe it's better named reversely.

“I won't say this is never done before, but it's definitely hell lot more uncommon for people to fly on bikes. Even though I hoped it'd look more official, but… This is what we get!”

I stroked the frame's rust mark with my palm. The sensation was terrible, and gave me goosebumps:

“If you can fly, just fly all the way back to space!”

And find somewhere to drop me off too.

You heard me — even the sea's fine. Even if I lose my memory, it's fine.

Erio's nodded slowly. Her act of jaw clenching was not out of doubt or cowardice, but of fortitude. Her lips formed a line, silent yet revealing of will.

And we reached consensus. First, Erio entered the white basket. The large-sized basket devoured her with its mouth gaping toward the sky. Putting life into the bike is the job of an alien.

Touwa Erio.

If you don't have the proof of being the Amazonian alien, then show me yourself!

Prove the existence of aliens.

Prove what you've lost half a year ago was taken by the aliens.

I stepped onto the bike, my destination no longer needing navigation.

The route to find the laughable trace of alien, paved in the rue of Erio — the road toward the ocean.

Disregarding the impetus of its user, the bike kept going at its own pace. Awesome.

The speed didn't change~ like a loyal puppy, I obeyed my personal goal for the day: “save energy.”

The bike that was resurrected, almost covered with my own hand grimes, tediously maintained the usual speed that I lose to Ryuushi-san with; it killed any premonition of escaping the daily life.

Did something abnormal happen to the interior of the bike that an amateur can't see? Maybe the inside is all incorrigible.

In any case, the speed wasn't enough for flying off the cliff. We'll just fall off if we ride like this toward the bluff; we'll totally die if we bump into the rocks all the way down.

“Oi, self-proclaimed Alien, use the acceleration device in your molar.”

“…...”

Was she ignoring me, or simply speechless? The two reactions are close in effect, but the attitude diverges acutely. Erio did not look around, constantly focused to the front. I wonder what was going through her mind.

The me who originally went at the pedal turned to cruise control to save energy — also to prevent the loss of stamina in this comical spiritual battle.

This is a chicken fight: a fight to see who will seriously fly into the sea before Erio yields.

How horrifying! Bungee jumping without the cord has to be the extremity of fear for acrophobes. It is a heroic act even among these dreadful situations — the pinnacle of suicide.

If we let our youthful life end here in this stupid challenge, scientists are going to moan about the detriment of edutainment. Who's dying?! I clenched my jaws. Who's going to let her die?! The hands that gripped the handlebars flowed with power.

I will speed toward the cliff, slow down right after Erio shows her fear for death, change the route to back home, and then give her the certificate of an Earthling… that was the schedule.

The bike maintained it's speed to where we could see the ocean. The target slope with the perfect distance for flight had about two hundred meters left.

After the downhill was a slight inclination to the coastal road on the side. Essentially, it could be used as a ramp. The road does have a railing to prevent cars from going off, but it's probably scalable with disregard to slowing down and braking.

Just do the exact opposite of how normal people ride.

Not to mention the premise of speed. The me now had no help for speed gain. If the rider was a grade schooler who just took off the assistant wheel, the bike's way would be kinda cute — for a high school second year though, the bike's just a target for snickering. My ride had no sign for a mad dashing, even though I'm booming with youth — and that, is where the problem is.

Going down the hill will simply result in an extra lump of metal on the rail. Worst case scenario, the energy will send Erio into the sea, leading to a tragic ending.

Even my first time riding a bicycle was a little faster than this.

How could you lose having two wheels? To encourage the bike, I flicked the broken bell. The frail ring sounded as if saying, “avoid confrontation~” like an antisocial, grumbling NEET. I felt my waning determination's return as I pedaled on.

I'm not someone who would shamelessly go home without a putting up a fight.

The fact that I went through the trouble of skipping school made me struggle on.

I pedaled with all my strength, attempting to accelerate.

Imagining the exercise bike at a gym, I smiled wryly at the empty feeling beneath my feet. Eh?

The first loop was heavy. It took a while for me to realize the 'anomoly.'

I half-stood, maintaining the posture and biked.

The wind suddenly picked up.

“Oh?” Oh...Oh, oh?

Considering the structure of bicycle, this is but natural.

Fully stepping on the pedal equals superior speed.

Common sense returned.

The wheels and the pedal's link was revived, giving me the praise my hard work deserves.

My conscience was the only thing confused; the pedals spun at an amazing speed, under the guidance of inertia.

The speed between the bicycle and its friends were already abnormally fast by the time I slowed down my cycling.

In my mind, I saw the last light before a candle is blown out.

W-wait a minute, at this speed, we might actually not… Stop!

The brake's whacked I forgot to check!

Sensei, check my bike!!

“Uwahhh!!”

We are on track! We’ll definitely die if we run into the sides! Can I stop? Stick my feet out? Yes, do it! This is bad! Ah, my shoe’s gone! It’s gone to the wood after a few bounces! And the bike didn’t even slow down! Hills are scary! Scarier than manju’s ! Erio even stuck her body out! Since it’s came to this, use telepathy! Stop, stop, stop, stop, stop, stop; I’m serious too. I’ll stop the car. Stop time ! Stop, stop, stop, stoooooooop!

We are getting close! The goal at the end, the rail and the sea! Three on three?!

“…Right! Ah… Um…!”

Erio said something! I can’t hear! She yelled, almost falling out of the basket!

Fly! Ocean, rail, ah~ ah~ ah~ It’s too laaaaaa – !

It’s! Too! Late!

And thus: “I can’t flyyyyyyyy!!!”

I stomped! Stomp! More!

Five pooooooooints!!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhyieh! Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar! Whoosh!

“ ‘Uwaaaaaaaaaahyeeeeeeh!!!’ “

Sounds like my voice is overlapping with someone elseeeeeeeeeeee’s!

Using the technique of a wheelie performance, I lifted the head of the bike to scale the rail; the end of the crossroad at the bottom of the hill became the ramp!

The pedals regained freedom and let go of their duty! Spin! Sky! My body left the seat and flew above the bike!

The wheel’s freaky noise resonated, burning into my eardrums!

“Extreme happiness” was enough to describe the sensation of breaking the air barrier.

Our background music wasn’t the sound of vibrating wings, but instead the noise of a passing car.

We held onto the speed of sound, leaning forward in attempt to surpass it, finally defying gravity.

In a world unrelated to earth, a bike and two people flew in the air.

It’s not a plane or a rocket: primitive science crossed the boundary.

We swam fatefully in the air.

Conscience and situation were instantly surrounded by azure.

I’m flying.

I’m flying. “I’m flying!” That’s right, I am flying! Still flying!

“Ah~Ha~Ha~Hahhhhhhhhwuiiiiiiiiiik!!” I am falling.

Gravity began its domination when we reached the apex. The bastard that was slapped by our momentary acceleration swung its gigantic palm down, swatting the traitors that ignored the speed of sound and light.

Time felt long during the jump, yet the fall was but a moment. Descent. The word didn’t even make it past the spine; I didn’t even have time to reflexively blink. The wind might have ambushed around my ears, but the incoming sea surface occupied my nerves.

The first to eat it was the person who lost her status as ‘alien.’

Like a cannon ball, Erio held her knees and pounced first into the water.

I saw sparkles; after she disappeared into the water, the bike and I also finished submerging.

Impact beyond imagination buffeted everywhere on my flesh. Water, too, assaulted my weakness from every angle, torturing my body by waves.

The sound of me crashing awkwardly into the sea rang in my skull. Ignoring space distribution, bubbles burst from my mouth, eating away at the strength of my limbs. I sunk gradually. Someone told me people float in the water if they don’t struggle, but I was sinking lazily!

Only if I could store wax like deep-sea animals.

Is this how diving into a different world feels?

My near-numb conscience obliviously remarked on what was happening.

The bike already left my grip, possibly keeping on the attack not too far ahead. It won’t come back up, and will probably become the new homes or nests for fishes in the future. Will it hate me? At least the hatred will be split among me and Erio, right? Cuz she lied, right?

…… I started moving. The speed of decent slowed, and my sunken body no longer numb. The swimming begins.

“Pwah! Cough, cough!” Without hesitation, I spat out precious oxygen and changed stance.

I turned, searching the source of light to face upward.

Opening my eyes in the fumed and dirty water, I attempted to find the silhouette of Erio. Actually, opening your eyes in the sea without goggles is not likely. Still, I pushed on.

Nothing else is dumber than dying while struggling to live!

As my face edged close to spasm from suffocation, my bleared view located a pair of legs that floated vertically onto the sea. Seems like Erio’s already at the surface, so I don’t have to stay here anymore. I relaxed my unmoving right arm, and power-stroked with my left.

For better or worse, my fading conscience from the lack of oxygen tranquilized my body. Since there was a dearth of nutrient for fear, I was forced to maintain a calm state of mind. I will live on without anxiety.

My face easily pierced the surface, and I began floating. Water expulsed from my nose and mouth dripped into my lungs, choking as I puked water. I didn't even have time to breathe.

My temple twitched; the blood vessels in my brain near exploding.

The content may be water, but the sound effect was undoubtedly that of vomiting.

Trying to play badass any more could kill me; I will puke without a second thought even in front of a girl.

Erio, who rose before I did, was still coughing, but it would appear she's done with getting rid of the sea water. Breathing in too much air would actually cause more choking.

For a while, we coughed incessantly, paying the price for our bravado.

As my body habituated to the spring sea that was colder than a just-opened swimming pool, I caught my breath. Hair drenched in water stuck to my skin, covering my vision.

To avoid the one of us from being washed away, I naturally held Erio's left hand.

Erio's finger tips were the same warmth as the sea water. They are, however, very tangible.

“Oi, pretend-alien, how does the sea of Earth taste?”

“It tastes salty, and the service was terrible.”

Head hung, she spouted the misplaced words of a food critic.

She did, however, spoke in proper Japanese.

With fingers that I couldn't felt, I pull Erio closer and clamped her left hand:

“Anyhow, you sure sucked! Never mind space, you won't even make it to Enoshima .”

“This is all the fault of the secretary: I have nothing to do with it.”

“Haha! That doesn't change the fact that you failed! I may be the culprit, but I don't give a crap.”

I laughed, and water once again filled my mouth. Not only that, Erio even splashed water at me with her empty right hand.

Simply put, I was splashing water with a girl by the beach! It should have been. Hmm, I guess we were literally, but the realistic development was kind of off. Is this how a victim of an elaborate scam feels?

“Well, I'm getting better at being delinquent too! Like skipping schools and going to the beach and stuff. My Youth-points are skyrocketing! The inflation is real!”

“How dare you talk like that, when you should be going for niche stuff like this with your guy friends.”

Somehow she seemed acquainted with the scoring criteria. Would this happen to be an international standard?

“Also, I'm not a student anymore — I've graduated from adolescence.”

Erio corrected as she flicked her soaked hair unto her shoulders. Even when wet, her hair still emitted particles; in my eyes, this was the most vibrant so far.

“I don't mean that… sigh, I was talking about going to the beach normally. Something like this...” I turned to scan around.

The ocean diffused endlessly.

Hard to imagine that there are continents and islands in the horizon of the sea.

The magnitude of the sea even brought me despair of unbelonging.

It is both blue and endless.

Erio pointed to the far horizon.

“Let's go there!”

“Why? Hell no, I don't like sharks.”

“Lets find an island and live there together!” Her eyes were muddled; they scared me.

“Screw that! I would hate a world with just you and me! We aren't Adam and Eve! And Adam was only willing to compromise because there was only Eve! He actually prefers pin-up girls with bigger chests! I still have Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san!”

“Uwah~ He's not letting go of the flags that are frailer than a P*cky stick!”)

“And what makes you think you can shut down my tiny hope? And with capsule made of jargon?”

“I'm done with that.”

Erio muttered calmly, wiping the water away from her cheeks.

The water on her face was swept away, yet the droplets from her palms never stopped. They didn't even serve as temporary drying solution.

Plight signifying her problems in life seemed to expand on Erio's face.

“Also, what's the meaning of this?”

Her purple lips trembled lightly; her pale skin suffused with bits of sanguine.

“By that you mean?”

“For the cousin, what is the meaning of doing this?”

On our linked hands, Erio's nails dug into my finger joints. Just that was enough to make it felt like the soggy skin was peeling off:

“Must I provide something like a reason or motivation?”

“Of course.”

She answered immediately and stabbed me with her fingers, telling me to hurry…

What a pain~ That's my actual thought.

Since I decided on a whim, I didn't care about what would happen afterward. Even now, I still don't know my intention.

Like choosing a future career, my impulsive youth was troubled with the direction of the future.

I have to add in some motives that came later.

If my answer doesn't pass, she might return to the sea — literally.

What was it… Oh yeah, that. The first time I met Ryuushi-san.

Just like this, toes tipped.

“Get along with everyone~” Since I wasn't too confident in my cuteness, I left the 'oh~” in my heart.

“Huh?”

Erio froze. How rare, but how cute. Both the value of this occasion or the cause for this reaction were satisfying.

“It's the human ideal! I decided to go for this first, so I don't have to worry about other things!”

“Sounds like bull~”

Erio's gave the look of smelling something sour and stuck her tongue out.

“Yeah, right! Since I'm going to living in your house, I want everyone to get along. Isn't it natural?” I kept thinking that I sounded more suspicious.

The sound of my teeth clenching drowned in the waves.

“I'm an alien! I should know how to fly! No, I can definitely fly! Just a bit! Three miles! At least I am certified! But I have to admit! An Earthling defeated me! Why? No, I know why! I don't know why!”

Erio pretended to be mental and in denial, and the lines I tossed out were,

“You deserve it… I will definitely be the bad guy if I say that.”

Thus, I said nothing.

If you're normal now, it's up to yourself! This way would be the only acceptable for her as well.

“The fact that we've became friends is terrible! The relation between the different planets have been ruined by the cousin! My command post is destroyed, and I'm soaked. Your triumphant smug is also in violation of several space agreement!”

Both outer space and Earth Miss Erio were conflicted, busily going back and forth between the stratosphere. It's time for you to give up on life without gravity.

But was my expression really like that? If I have to say it, I thought I was just grinning.

“There isn't a perfect relationship in this world that would hurt no one from start to end!”

Because of someone's evil arrangement, meetings are always paired with departure.

“...I don't get what you mean.”

She callously pointed out. Mm, the plan to gloss things over with pretty words failed.

“Anyway, nothing is final yet. Cuz, this is our first day meeting each other.”

At the right time, I lifted my right index finger to jab the oblivious Erio… Eh? I can't move my arm. Oh well, it's probably being rebellious like its owner!

I don't need body language. I'll use my eyes and mouth to explain clearly, cleverly impose my geniality!

This is the biggest weapon for those peace lovers who wish for people to get along:

“Is this your second time to Earth? I'll start selling settlement pizza next time.”

“…...” A solemn face. In other words, the stubborn expression that will explode into tears with the lightest touch.

“I want to get along with the pretty girl who returned to Earth. If you're worried about your amnesia, I will listen to your complaints too. Today was to prepare for that.”

Crossing such event (falling deeper) will pull the distance between the two hearts closer.

Heheheh, this is indeed the suspension bridge effect.

Jokingly carry out the test would only result in actually falling from the bridge.

Who would blush from an ending like that?!

… Fine, I give up on any benefits. Let's put an end to this!

To crawl back onto land, and let gravity torture me.

“To get along, we have to understand each other first. In short, self-introduction is vital!”

“Ah… I'm Tou...wa...”

Hey, slow down. I'm not done yet.

Helplessly, I gave the screen time to Erio. Perhaps a bit shook up, she stuttered, unable to finish.

Since the tears flowing into her mouth were choking her, it seemed my lines won't be omitted.

Ok, then I'll say it!

“Hey, Earthling. Give me your name.”

“Touwa… Erio… Eri...o ...Touwa… Erio!”

“Good. I'm Niwa Makoto, pleased to meet you.”

- I can not fly. +5

Youth-Point Total: +1

### 007. Chapter 6 - Aliens of the City

The price of five Youth-Point was hospitalization.

Holding onto the handlebars as we pounced the sea, my right arm was bent to a point where even Yoga masters would be shocked to see. The elbow that took the hit snapped in half.

And it wasn’t a simple fracture: apparently I wasted so much of my daily calcium supply that the bone wouldn't heal.

After what happened, we had serious trouble just getting back to the shore. Amazing how neither Erio nor I drowned. Half way home, my elbow hurt so much that I was on the verge of breaking down in tear. This was my first time experiencing such intense yet joyless sea bath. What can I say – the sea of spring was colder than I imagined. Because of the lack of kindness and calcium, I think I should have eaten the fishes swimming around and ate some Paracetamol from ten years ago to replenish the lost nutrition.

Like a fish or shrimp before being fried, I was covered in sand after climbing onto the man-made beach. Clothes drenched with sea water weighted me down, and the way back could be summarized as 'horrible.' Gravity's counter attack dominated me.

The bicycle was, naturally, gone in the sea. In the turbid water, the shadow of a bike that went the opposite direction of space bobbed. If the local residents saw it, I bet we'll be reprimanded for illegal dumping.

“…...”

Thus, I lost my means of transport. The straw of hope Erio gripped onto slid away.

…Was there a point? Rather than a query, it was more of a feeling of self-reflection that swayed in my heart.

Just like for evil adults who divulged the truth when it should have been a part of a growing for kids to realize the nonexistence of Santa Claus, the ephemeral thrill was ensued by bitterness and self-questions that I could not answer.

The Erio who fell from the basket earlier into the sea than either the bicycle or me was unhurt. Nevertheless, she cried. I don't know if they were the tears of fear, despair or physiology; I merely held her hand.

While thinking about the annoying taste of water in my mouth, I clenched my jaw, dragging my right arm and Erio to somewhere where we can call for an ambulance. While trotting, I didn't have the strength to take care of the bangs covering my eyes; the only thing repeating in my murky head was 'haircut next weekend.' Incessantly, I meditated 'barber, barber, barber, and then a hair salon.' Like the eighth channel back home, the paper that is my heart was imbrued black. I probably wasn't thinking then, but rather moved on mechanical autopilot.

Otherwise I would have talked more with Erio, using more words weaved with encouragement, censure, love and hate.

Ever since our landing, I had been silent, eventually letting go of even her hand.

My hospitalized life ended after two weeks, and I went home with an arm in support and cast. Golden week ended already, marking the beginning of a world reeking with the May Disease . Even I was infected by the air, occasionally hanging my head and eyelids.

There's still Erio and Meme-san back home. Even if the direction is different, the effort of dealing with this pair of mother and daughter was definitely not lacking.

Ah~ My arm itches. I wish I could just not give a damn and scratch it.

As I stepped out of the hospital, the illusion of pressure change overwhelmed me; as if quickly pulled out of the sea, I almost passed out on the street. Paper bag filled with clothes rustled; substituting the cries of cicada, and knocked on my eardrums.

The heat unperceivable in the hospital dazed me.

I walked toward the Taxi stand while flicking my since-then longer bangs upward.

Give me some happy memories — give me some energy for today! I ruminated, finding more nutrition than one. Awesome.

… Oh yeah, Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san visited me when I was hospitalized!

Though I walked on a rope thinner than the weaker-than-expectation piano wire, perhaps the flag I planted for them exists still.

Erio, however, never came.

“Mornin', Mako-kun!”

I went into full alert, thinking it was the attack of Meme-san.

Ryuushi-san stared, wide-eyed. Just finished with school, she wore the school uniform, with her pack, helmet and a large enveloped under her arms. Her hair may be flatten by the helmet, but the devil of adorableness was alive and well.

Perhaps this way suits her better (spoken with vehemence).

“Oops, was that too friendly?”

Close the door first, then apprehensively poke the dying dude on the street to see if he's alive. Ryuushi-san seemed to visit me with the same cautiousness.

“Nope, perfectly O.K.” If that someone was a certain aunt, I will shout, 'don't call me that.' People are realistic like this. Since I am in middle of a rebellious phase, it is my obligation to reject my guardians. I explained to myself.

“Oh! S'that so?”

Swoosh! With a dexterous and exaggerated motion, Ryuushi-san opened her pack and put on a softcap with both hands. She messed with the edge of the hat, adjusting the angle. She sat down after filling the unfilled (please excuse my skill with words) hat. The way she put things on her knee and skirt was super cute.

Put me there too. No, I mean let me sit there too. Did my brain rust from drinking too much sea water?

“What's up? With the hat I mean.” In some way this counts as QBK.

“Oh~ hahaha~” Ryuushi-san intentionally covered up with a boyish laughter; her level of embarrassment was just right. She pulled the hat down, just to the point where her eyes were hidden. She looked around bashfully:

“Cuz my hair's all messy. The wind went woosh, my helmet went squish, and the sweat went eeky. I tried to fix it in the hospital's rest room, but I can't get it all fluffy! I can't get it like bread!”

Ryuushi-san played with her shoulder-length, coffee-colored hair, as if defending the reason of her hat. Agh, dammit, I want to feel her swaying arms~ As I cordially looked at her, I suddenly realized.

Ryuushi-san's uniform had changed season, and she was now wearing summer outfit.

“Is it weird?” She grasped onto the hat, looking at me with upturned eyes. This devil of adorableness seems to have the innate ability to hit people’s bullseye. With her finger – not a needle – she poked into my heart.

“Not even! Girls look good in anything, it's amazing.”

“The hat fits me? This is a guy wear though!”

“It totally does. I almost thought you were a boy!”

“Wha! Really now~? Can I punch you?”

Ryuushi-san brandished her fists with a smile.

Her knuckles were round like a child, looking very soothing.

“Seriously, you are so cute.” I finally stopped hiding and said out loud.

Ryuushi-san's shoulder jumped; her hats almost flew off. “U-uwahh~! Wahh~!” Screeching like a monkey, she expressed her freak-out both inward and out.

Patients in the same room mostly gave me a 'what the hell?' and 'how annoying' look, but what do you people want me to do? Tell her to get in the bed? The argument is very enticing, but it's too early for a sexual harassment charge.

Just let me wish for a life of missed opportunity!

“I-I'm not that cute! N-not even close! I'm so plain that two guys rejected me during my first year!!” Your nervousness is giving away some personal information!

If I let Ryuushi-san be, she might divulge a few more secrets. However, she might end up reincarnating into a monkey and begin stampeding in the room like a chimp in the zoo. In the end, the festering carcass of his lover was carried to his arms… I hope things will never come to be like that, so I have to calm her down.

“Sorry, was that creepy?”

“Y-yeah! Super-duper creepy!”

“...My bad.” I thought she was going to say otherwise from the way our conversation was going, but the impact was unexpected.

How many years has it been since I've apologized like that?

Ryuushi-san seemed to have also realized the implication of her words; she waved her arms about and added in some intense denial:

“No, no! Not really! Yeah, ya aren't up close!”

“So I am from a distance away...” It might be better getting called trash.

“Awuwah~” Ryuushi-san dug her grave even deeper, probably already reaching the mantle. Her voice stopped abruptly as she hugged her hat and spun her head inside. I wanted to clap my hands to see how she'd react to the sound.

Finally recovered, she proposed with a charming visage that emitted warmth:

“May I start over?”

“You may.”

“Then, cough cough!” Ryuushi-san made the sound without movement. It was kind of half-baked. “These are copies of my notes for classes — midterms are coming up!”

She picked up the brown envelope and fanned the air about.

“Wow, thanks!” I thanked her as I browsed through the notes inside. Though I didn't understand a word in the articles, just looking at those curly characters was enough to satisfy me.

If this were Meme-san's note, I'd only cower at the undecipherable writing and use it to test my grip strength.

“If there's anything ya don't get, just send me a text. Well, I'm not the smartest, so I'm not exactly the most reliable.”

“Not at all, you are my only support, sensei!” I jokingly spoke, concluding with a little banter.

As the laughter fade, her face changed.

Ryuushi-san placed her fists on her knees, finally asking the real question toward the bed. Her voice was very slight, as if the words were made of sand:

“So...”

“Hm?”

Her hesitant eyes and lips moved up and down. Ryuushi-san was looking for a way to peek into my heart.

“Hm?” I don't like burden, so I gave her the chance to keep speaking.

Perhaps effective, the question that led Ryuushi-san hesitant quickly appeared onstage.

“Were you planning to kill yourself when you jumped into the sea?”

Ah, I see. So she heard about what I did.

“Nah, that wasn't the intention.” I denied there and then, leaving no room for misunderstanding.

At that time I pedaled to soar in the blue sky for my own survival.

My goal wasn't anything as grand as space, but I sure gave it my all.

“You might not know yet, Niwa-kun, but a while ago, there was someone who did exactly what you did. She started spouting nonsense because she got hurt… I'm super worried!”

“Hm… Sorry for making you worry.” Cough cough, but I only did that because I was worried for the same girl!

Only if she learned her lessons in the second challenge.

“Since it was real scary near the end though, I did prepare to die.”

“Don't die! Absolutely don’t. Um, the person who's dying may not care, but the people left behind would definitely be sad. It's the worst if you take those sadness lightly because you can't see it.”

“You're right. Ryuushi-san would be sad too.”

“Of course! If Niwa-kun died, the entire school will cry.”

“Hahah, more like no one will.”

“No way~ I won't let ya make that kind of record!”

Ryuushi-san puffed her chest out confidently. She probably wasn't conscious of it, but for the person in question, hearing her assert like that kind of flustered me. Why did I have to be a high schooler who fears serious topics?

As long as it isn't an untrusting person, most people would assess Ryuushi-san as someone who doesn't hide her emotion.

But then again, it is entirely impossible to see the entirety of someone's heart.

The human heart is tantamount to the existence of aliens: the location of it unknown, and its depth abyssal.

Erio wrapped herself in futon, perhaps seeking at least equivalence in appearance, and tasted the fruits of defeat. She wanted to become an existence of 'unknown.'

Though her blockheaded cousin proved to her that she was a city girl of pure Earthling genes.

“Oh yeah. Are you a cellphone enthusiast, Niwa-kun?”

“I don't advocate anything; I celebrate both Christmas and New Year. Wanna exchange number?”

“Lets!” Rustle rustle, Ryuushi-san took out a neon pink cellphone from her pocket. The power was off, probably because she's in a hospital.

“I don't have mine right now, could you write it down for me? I'll call you after I'm released.”

“Ok~” She took out her pencil pouch, and even mischievously pretended to roll her sleeves up.

Everything was so smooth, it's great. The level of smoothness of conversations between me and Erio didn’t even come close to a hamster wheel. But those memories seem to have been purified by the sea.

I recalled the endless horizon when I flew with Erio; I looked up.

“…...” I saw something at the entrance.

My melodrama was cut before it ended. Even the life of a dragonfly lasts longer than you!

A natural malice with no intention to visit struck.

“Transfer student, feeling bored?”

Maekawa-san, a uniform enthusiast, used coming to hospital as an excuse to dress up as an eggplant. I definitely didn't mistype nurse (ナース) with eggplant (ナス), the indigenous Indian fruit belong in the Solanum genus.

“Yo!” From the stem of the purple costume, she greeted with arms that penetrated the fruit.

For me and Ryuushi-san, time indeed stopped for two seconds; the patients sharing room with me also turned into unseasonal icicles.

The clear sky deeply embraced us… I attempted to escape with a scenery description, switching the entire background. I take back what I said earlier. There are things girls can't wear. If the person changes into something else, I'm not going to help making more excuses.

Because of the lack of reaction, Maekawa-san (or eggplant) tilted her head:

“Huh… Not funny? I chose nurse and eggplant because we're in a hospital...”

“Please don't explain the joke.”

The sea of spring already lowered my body temperature. If forced to listened to anymore of this, the audience, I, may end up cringing with cheeks burnt: having someone explaining an unfunny joke humiliates even me.

This onee-sama failed to realize the plunging of her authority. Not even — Maekawa-san herself looked really satisfied. Speaking of purple mascot, isn't there one in McD*nald's?

“This was a costume for a part time job I had. The manager gave it to me when the store closed down.”

I wanted to lock Nasu-san into a cupboard. You actually wore this all the way through the roads in the city, the hallway and the hospital? This isn't the Super N*ntendo Era: your equipment will reflect on the outside. I'll give you a piece of advice then: put your gallantry and valor away, and live an earnest life with normal clothes!

“So Maekawa-san is this kind of person...”

Ryuushi-san shot a rigid glance. As her body recovered from frigidness, she spoke with a pitying voice.

“Mhm.” Maekawa-san, who is in many way off the rail, was unwavered, and proudly nodded.

“So I suppose you're here to visit Niwa-kun?” Eh? Ryuushi-san looked scary.

“Why else would I be here?” Maekawa-san was also scary in a different way.

My social circle doesn't cover eggplant's who'd pay me a visit.

An eggplant she may be, Maekawa-san is still a girl. The other person may be a girl, but is also Ryuushi-san. To be honest, I haven't done any good deeds today, yet there were two girls who paid me a sick visit. Rather than joy, I felt uneasiness. Am I going to die soon?

“Hmph~ Since when are ya so chummy~? You don't even~talk~in~class~”

Oh boy, Ryuushi-san… is she jealous? No way! But she sure is observant of what Maekawa-san and I are like in class.

I'm not going to be overly self-conscious: it might cause some damage for both parties later~

In contrast to my enlightenment, Maekawa-san turned into an idiot.

“Because the transfer student and I spent a night together.”

“ 'Hah?' “ Maekawa-san successfully froze time again. Especially for Ryuushi-san, who seemed to have lost much to the thief of time.

She even forgot to blink, like someone else was wearing a Ryuushi-san costume.

“Hold on, jokes like this could ruin my name–”

“Guuwah~!” Look at what you've done!

Perhaps the recoil from the earlier pause, Ryuushi-san's time accelerated all of the sudden. Blood boiling on her face imbued her cheeks and eyes; if a pulse were taken from her delicate wrist, the doctor would probably mistakenly say 'are you suicidal?'

“A night is an evening! Pitch black!”

No, uh, really — night in the city isn't exactly pitch black unless specially made.

“I've been wronged — she made this up! I haven't had lessons that tempting yet!”

“What do ya mean tempting?!” Ryuushi-san went berserk to a point of no return.

“Dammit, Kibo-nengu! My school life is done thanks to you!”

“Oh, I was thinking that all the time we've met in the evening adds up to a night~”

“This isn't like lottery in a market! Don't combine them!”

The nightmare brought by the purple devil worn my spirit; their argument intensified as if they were on the opposite ends.

Me and Ryuushi-san were spitting alien by the latter half of the conversation.

Before I realized, the primary substance of the storm, Ryuushi-san, had already left. The only one left was the striking eggplant woman and a high schooler who's hospital life from now on will blamed for various things.

“Your boring and depraved hospital life had just been visited by a refreshing wind!”

Maekawa-san summarized the entire event as if narrating for a nature travel program.

“You mean a storm? The local buildings and culture are gone.”

“Didn't think Ryuushi was going to have that great of a reaction — your love meter is exploding.”

“It isn't! And don't call me Ryuushi!”

The target of gossip quickly turned back into the room to deny the rumor, and then ran away again.

“Is she the transfer student's familiar?”

“I don't even know the number of her summoning medium...” Because of a certain eggplant's meddling, I didn't get it.

“You guy see each other every day anyway, do you even need it? Alright, time for me to take this costume off. It's too hot.”

As if the cousin of a Gibbons ape, Maekawa-san deftly unzipped the zipper on her back. The eggplant shed. The nurse was inside! Only if the development was so sweet. Since I didn't tell anyone, I won't commemorate it as some memorial day. The Maekawa-san on this inside didn't transform, donned in normal uniform.

“As expected, you're better as a uniform cosplayer.”

“This isn't cosplay — it's my profession.”

She lazily say on the folding chair and crossed her long legs. Seriously, her legs were so long, it wouldn't be surprising if her ancestors were wooden horse craftsmen. It's also surprising how my brain thought of something like this.

“Transfer student, I heard you jumped into the sea? Planning on reincarnating into a member of the fish?”

With a teasing tone, Maekawa-san asked me the question.

“Man, I planned on flying to the sky, but I fell because of the shortage of momentum.”

“What, so you wanted to be a bird?”

“...I aimed to fly higher than a bird though.”

At least Erio wanted to go through the atmosphere. I think.

“Hmph.” Maekawa-san swapped legs. She seemed to have seen something on me, and hunched forward with a slightly different expression. Sensing that she's attempting to see through my mind, I felt anxious.

“Tell Touwa this for me: next time I'll lend her a costume of the Greys to dress up with me.”

“...Was it that obvious?”

“Who knows?”

“Roger. I'll tell her after I'm released.”

Erio probably won't visit. Though the reason of my judgment wasn't easy to say, Maekawa-san noticed the overtones.

“She didn't make it to space? I guess Touwa doesn't qualify to be an alien!”

“Of course not.”

Human progress would have stalled three hundred years ago if they could fly into space with such low cost and low effort equipment. We gambled with our lives on the scale, and managed to get a few seconds of fly-and-float experience.

She straightened her back, her jeering lips tilted at a different angle.

“Oh, on an unrelated note, let’s go to the beach this summer!”

“That is really unrelated, Nee-san.”

“You can see the gill and scales that are my fish-cosplay's charm points!”

“No, I don't care about fishes other than those in Judo outfit.”

“Bam~!” Ryuushi-san, who still hadn't gone home, came back and tackled Maekawa-san.

Maekawa-san, who has the appearance of an oarfish and the innards of a minnow, was pushed by the diminutive Ryuushi-san. “Whoa!” She stumbled onto the bed. I guarded my right arm just in time, but couldn't move her out of the way; she beautifully fell on my knees.

“Uwee~!” Ryuushi-san squeaked out of either mimicry or a representation of anger, and stuck her arms underneath Maekawa-san, forcefully pulling her out from the bed and back to the chair.

Maekawa-san looked like a miniature surfboard model when she was being carried.

“What are you doing?” She might have said that, but Maekawa-san's satisfied smile betrayed her malice.

“Shoulder charge is now in season.”

Ryuushi-san omitted the abstractness of 'autumn of sports' and added hostility, advocating the new season's unique sight. “Beep, beep beep beep~” She even imitated the prelude of an intercom broadcast, acting out the overly-cordial sound effect:

“The beach is prohibited.”

“ Why ?”

Maekawa-san English pronunciation was extra crispy. Written in words, though, must be the about the same as mine.

“Cuz there are jellyfishes.”

“Huh? Jellyfish?”

“ Yes ~ Squishy~”

She curled her fingers, attempting to convey the sensation.

“By that you mean guys and girls can't… No, you mean I can't go with the transfer student.”

Maekawa-san comprehension seems to be rather high — she might even be able to translate the early Erio's Japanese!

Ryuushi-san raved in the hospital, completely lost her mind.

“It has nothing to do with him — it's about guys and girls going to the beach! It's scary and it’s inappropriate!”

“Then according to you, what about the transfer student? He's already gone past the level of going to the beach.”

Pretending to be innocent, Maekawa-san shifted focus to my fatal injury.

“You… You've done more shameless things (ハレンチック)?”

Her self-made word is only two kana’s away from romantic (ロマンチック), yet it's so much harder to use.

“What, don't you know? Transfer student is Touwa's cousin!”

Hey, didn't you promise that 'it's better to not say it'? See, Ryuushi-san froze for the third time.

Why are new problems being dug out when I could clearly see the ending?

...Oh well, because it isn't a lie, I won't deny anything. At Least I won't.

It couldn't be helped if I get ostracized for it.

Because all I did was told the truth.

Even if the truth isn't the right answer, it is the only acceptable ideal I have.

Like so, I destroyed Erio's delusion.

I had no plan for the afterward consultation to salvation, and I did what I did irresponsibly.

...I've already decided the course of action when I get home.

In more ways than one, I've made up my mind. Like an Enypniastes, I will expose not just my organs, but also the brain on the outside of my body.

Let Ryuushi-san's home-made warmth evaporate the puddle of thoughts.

“By the way, I live with Erio.”

“ 'W-what~?!' “

Um, shouldn't one of you be aware of this?

☆

I reminisced, thinking that the process wasn't actually that interesting.

Since the memory was still fresh in its raw state, it probably wouldn't be glorified unless a year of two passes. Even if that happens, the likely thing to appear is probably a short story about 'why I hate eggplant.' I'm afraid that it wouldn't change my values.

Pondering about these thoughts, I returned to my second home on a shaky taxi through the river of life known as a road. Paying the tab with the remaining allowance I had, I left the car.

Like the first time I visited here on the last day of spring break, I looked around the entire house a distance away. There wasn't any sentiment of returning to a missed home.

It doesn't matter if it's this, that or whatever, everything depends on the coming days.

The story started here.

“...Alright, first episode's done. Please continue onto the second episode.”

Just a side note: my vision will extend to the eighty seventh episode. Every day is like birthday.

I lightly pushed the entry door (Not like it matters, but every time I opened this door, I thought of a certain sea-food restaurant in Setagaya.

“I'm home~” A quiet greeting.

In just a second, Erio would frantically run down from the second floor to greet me, saying, 'welcome home, Mako-kun!' with a grin. And then I would proceed to be scared senseless and mouth agape. However, the Touwa family wouldn't have such antiquated and idealistic environment. I indeed felt a nostalgically cold air.

“...Hm?”

At the entrance, paper memo and paperweight were playing again. It would appear that they have assumed that all they needed to greet me, who was missing for three weeks, with was something that isn't even alive. A Zashiki Warashi would do just fine!

I set the paper bag down, picking up the paper weight and memo with my left hand. The memo was filled with seven round and greasy characters: 'welcome back, Makoto.' A rainbow: she especially used a different marker for each character, making the end product look like a cheap neon sign for a pachinko parlour. For some reason, the purple-colored 'Makoto' was especially grotesque and thick. I focused, looking for the reason… I see.

Looks like an experiment was carried out here — red and blue were mixed to see if the outcome was purple, and the charred product was forcefully covered with a purple marker. If Meme-san weren't the one who left this message, I honestly might have thought that it was cute.

While thinking about how to deal with this one-time grip-strength testing device, I took off my shoes. “Hah??” One step into the house, I discovered the walls of the hallway and even the floor was densely covered with memos. As if telegraph, it seemed like a circuitous way of communication. I picked up a piece next to my hand.

'The snack in the cabinet should be expired.'

“Save it before it's gone!” Are you the devil? The enemy of Engel's Coefficient.

Also, the contents were too reflective of a certain Isono family. We don't even have enough people.

“Uh, if I crowbar it, I'd be Masuo — no, Katsuo. Erio'd be Sazae… Wakame. Meme-san is Fune...” Actually, screw this! The future would be bleak if I set our characters here! Even I reached the same conclusion.

I got annoyed when I read the second message, so I ripped off and crumpled each one of them afterward. The simple task quickened; my footstep also lightened.

Destroy everything altogether using this opportunity! I followed the guidance of the notes all the way to the kitchen. The one on the basket seemed to be the last.

I glanced at it, so when Meme-san asks me how I thought about it, I could give her a complete answer. Like a book report for summer homework, all you need is the first half of the book to begin writing.

'There's a cake to celebrate your homecoming. It's almost expired, so eat it quick.'

“Now there's something useful.”

I only listen to useful information.

I opened the fridge.

There was Meme-san.

“Eeeeck!” With no shame or pretense that no one heard, I screamed as if I received the Horror News and hopped backward. Paralyzed on my butt, I scoop back and bumped my right arm countless times onto the cabinet. But mental (fear) problems superseded bodily (pain) ones, rendering me mindless of it.

With knees bent, Meme-san was stuffed in the fridge in a fetal position, head tilted sharply to the right. Her eyes were rolled back, and her tongue out.

E-Erio? Was it Erio? Are you U.N. Owen ?

Why did it turn into a mystery in the end? Are you sick of writing RomCom? Bastard.

Is the second volume going to start with an accidental push down a flight of stairs, then finding out that the refrigerator is already occupied with another body when dumping the corpse?

“Makoto...”

She’s alive! Eh, is she? It’s raw, but it’s alive!

But I don’t want to be near her! My legs are shaking!

“It…is…cold…”

“Ah…Um, yes… Eh, uh… Ah, yes!” Finally mustering the strength to lift my ass up, I stumbled toward the fridge, threw the paper bag away and held the sides of the fridge.

“Are… Are you all… right?” I shudderingly felt her right hand.

…Hm?

“I’m freezing to death, Mako-kun. Warm me with your skin…”

“……” A current went through my body.

I closed the door and backed off for a moment.

“……” I tried knocking.

“……”

“Come in~” The answer sounded warm. Hah?

“Dammit!” I busted the door open. I realized that this was a wasteful deed to a society that advocates saving energy — at least someone outside of the fridge did!

“You’re so cold, Mako-kun~” Please don’t wave your brown irises around like a girl in love: I’ll want to stab them.

“It’s not like the thought of hanging myself went through my head… I’d rather not ask, but what are you doing?”

“Chilling.”

“Don’t expect that to work every time.”

“Ahahah! Heave! Ho! Hnng!”

Meme-san struggled, holding on to the side of the fridge. With her own strength, she escaped and crashed onto the floor.

The entire process was like a new version of the R*ng.

“Eheheh~” Meme-san stood, sticking out her tongue while messaging her neck.

“Ah~ My neck hurts (☆)”

“Just become a star then.” Or rather, bring me to space or a paradise where you don’t exist.

“Please don’t be like me, good children everywhere!”

“The existence of this person is fictional.”

Or rather part of my crude delusion. Alright, it’s about time to put a period to this story.

“Mako-kun, where are you going? There’s a lost lamb in need of warmth here.”

“You’ll live. Not like you’re a cold-blooded animal.”

“But I spent five minutes crawling in there~ You’re so cold, Mako-kun.”

You are the cold one here. Stop rubbing my arm, your fingers are cold.

“Basically, don’t you have work today?”

“I’m off today.”

“Speaking of which, what do you do?”

“It’s – a – secret!”

“……” I would have socked you if you’re a guy.

“More importantly, you should worry about how the fridge was empty enough to fit me in there.”

“Your head is empty enough to fit fifty hobbits in there, how breath taking.”

And those hobbits are building an empire there!

“You must be malnourished if you’re so easily angered!”

“I thought I should have taken more calcium. Man, why do I have to have an irritating person doing whatever the hell she wants within my fifty cm radius?”

“Or is it because you can’t let out your frustration in a place full of people?

“You can pretend it’s Amano-Iwato if you want, just go back to the fridge.”

“By the way, next up is the cake! But it’s made by someone else!”

The refrigerator opened once again; the frigid air oozed out depressingly.

“Oops, sorry. Your aunt accidentally crushed the cake.” She showed me the pulverized blue box.

“It’s ok. My feeling of appreciation was also crushed.”

Enough. Let it end, roll the credit.

It’s ok if that’s also crushed.

I gave up completely. Well, about half of it was to hide my embarrassment.

Actually, I was worried at first that maybe Erio murdered her mother.

“Alright~ Let’s celebrate Mako-kun’s release from jail~”

“Hospital, you mean.”

“Yes, yes, the hospital. Why don’t we go out for lunch? What I mean is to eat at a nearby diner!” There were flowers around Meme-san.

She’s probably planning on buying some drinks — drinks that look like gasoline.

“Go get Erio, she’s upstairs.”

As if nothing happened, Meme-san spoke with no hint of awkwardness.

“Me?”

She flashed a calm and magnanimous smile that befitted her age.

“This is your job in the house, Mako-kun.”

“Huh…” This was my first time overwhelmed by a benevolent feeling.

My right foot was stuck on the ground; I wanted to shake the goosebumps off.

The rate at which her brain solidifies astounded me.

Her smile crossed the boundary of observable plane, illuminating the world with love.

If Meme-san was at least a decade younger, I would have fallen for her.

As expected of a character going for gap-moe: she will say acute lines occasionally at a miraculous probability.

I can’t even believe that the brain of the person who just crawled out from the fridge earlier was connected to the lips that just said those words!

“But why not have you do it sometimes? Since you’re usually so indifferent toward Erio.”

“My, what do you mean usually? Before Mako-kun came here, our life was pretty normal!”

Hoh~ Normal, you say? I shot a glance of suspicion. Normal days with a blanket is just sleeping together, isn’t it?

“I’m only apathetic toward Erio, because I knew Mako-kun will be her friend, and do things for her. Everything is going according to my plan.”

…Even a thumbs up. Are you for real? No, you are really cold on a physical level.

“I understand. I’m going now.”

There were two rooms and a resident upstairs. But starting today, there will be two people again.

I discovered something after coming back from two weeks of absence.

The smell of this house was the smell of Erio.

It was neither sweet nor stimulating.

Yet, that comforting smell provided a serenity that permeates the entire body.

I peered into her room.

“Eri-“

“…”

The tongue halfway through greeting paused.

She was wrapped in futon. Except this time everywhere else besides the toes was hidden.

What the hell is up wrong this caterpillar?

I saw the sign of her poor direction of growth.

From the bottom of my belly, let’s say it out loud!

“…I’m home!”

“…!” Erio jumped. Ugh, legs grew out from the futon.

She stood up, hunched forward, and escaped to the corner of the room.

Is she a hermit crab? Or maybe a croissant-disguising worm that grew limbs.

Agh, gross. Deep-sea animals may be disgustingly cute, insects are just too disgusting for me to admire.

“It…It’s here!”

“I’m not some freak. You should come out though.” From the futon.

Erio knelt on the floor, and poked her head out from the futon. The shape was like a bowling pin, making me want to tip her over.

“… How’s your hand?”

“The itch is killing me, but everything else is fine.”

Also, it hurt like hell when I knocked the cabinet earlier when your mom freaked me out.

“Sorry.”

Decent behavior. Acceptable. But I still wanted to laugh because of her futon.

Erio’s Japanese vocabulary may have been reduce… Yet, her communication skills are normal now.

“I’ll introduce myself again.”

“Hm?”

“I’m Touwa Erio, sixteen. My profession is… housework assistant.”

“Must be nice being a girl, having a backup like that.”

Guys would have to deal with it head-on.

“The cousin is back.” Though facing down, she stared at me.

“Mhm. Meme-san says we’re going out to eat, so I’m here get you.”

“Mm.” Silence after raving. What a bipolar tongue.

“Take the futon off.”

“…Mm.” She hung her head somewhat regretfully. Why?

I looked closer, finding out that the pattern on the futon was a flower never seen before. Calamus blooming in purple, and the sheet was also as fluffy as a croquet- no, a grilled mochi.

Was this the fruit of her hard work? Am I popular now?

Where do kids in the city pick up their fashion sense? Magazine kapok?

Erio pulled herself out from top of the futon-roll. Leaving the futon that was shed like a snake skin, she stepped onto the room’s floor.

Why are the things this pair of mom and daughter do so realistic in a bad way?

She stood to flatten the folds on her dress. There wasn’t a speck of awkwardness on her brilliant expression, completely natural.

“Do aliens really not exist?” Erio eyed the telescope, and muttered dejectedly.

“Who know? The only thing I proved was that you are my cousin, a hikkikomori who helps out at home.”

“I seem to be treated as useless…”

“Don’t mind it.” I’ll feed you! “No way!”

“Hm?”

“No, seriously, don’t mind it.”

I rolled my shoulder, glossing over the topic. I almost blurt out promises I can’t keep!

“Ah… Mm.”

“Mm…” Since standing around was difficult for both of us, we tossed out courtesy smile to each other.

There was a mysterious emptiness in the air. The only thing left was to walk to the entrance.

But other than vocational reasons, I also had some private matters with her.

“Um…”

I stopped half way; I scratched the back of my head, giving the push the words in my mouth need. The words were practically squeezed out!

“Yes?”

“Sorry. For ruining your dream.”

I had already decided in the hospital that I would apologize to Erio first thing getting home.

“…?”

“If you were serious and accepting of it too, then I was probably just being nosy.”

I turned toward the map of town. Precisely, to avoid facing her.

Even if her direction was wrong, she was neither lost nor anxious. With some compromise, she might even live on. Erio’s goal didn’t need to be censured.

But that’s because you weren’t broken.

Because you could still come back.

I destroyed your delusion.

“It’s ok. The cousin must be right.”

With a subtle expression, Erio walked on the rope between consent and dissent.

She could not see me, who could only destroy, as a figure of complete agreement or denial.

However, she spoke on:

“Amnesia is scary…”

She paused for a moment, and then lifted her head up as if finished with recalling:

“Thanks to the cousin, I flew for a second. It felt great.”

A smile like the clear sky of May appeared on Erio’s face.

Particles on her strands of hair were completely revitalized. Dazed, I could not look straight at her face.

“So, this is my thanks.”

I reflexively received the object when her hand reached over.

It’s an underwear.

I threw it on the floor.

Actually, I wanted to toss it upward, but having something like that fall my head is mortification beyond a lifetime. I held my impulse.

“What are you doing?”

“What the hell are you doing? Are you still nuts?”

“Because the cousin requested girl’s panties from mom before.”

“Wha-!”

I planted a flag this serious at that time?! You heard that ? Are you a moron?!

“Can’t you tell if something sarcastic?”

“It was prepared after considerable contemplation.”

I smacked Erio on the top of her head. I’m going to sue both of you for slander!

Man, honestly! The serious atmosphere dissipated, the only thing left was a vexing tumor.

“Anyhow!”

“Mm.”

“About your lost memory, I’m sorry that I can’t help much.”

I forced the dialogue back to seriousness.

“It’s fine, I can deal with it myself — it’s the only thing I can do.”

Erio shut her eyes, a faint smile on her face as she led the way out.

Even without sight, she seemed to know the entirety of the house. She correctly turned to where I was and jokingly said:

“Only if I didn’t leave school.”

“I think so too — It would have helped with finding a job.”

“No, not that.” Erio shook her head, emitting particles.

With a layer of that stuff, even hallways in normal houses would become rice with gold dust.

Not that it’s anything worth being happy about!

“Because going to school with the cousin seems to be fun.”

…Cough!

While going down stair with her, I thought about the tiny possibility of that happening.

On the moment of that day when we flew.

If the bike didn’t accelerate when it did, we wouldn’t have enough force to fly and might end up running off the cliff, becoming ‘two high school students mysterious fell to death.’

How come the bicycle regained its performance at the end?

It would make sense, saying that it’s all a coincidence.

…However, where are the aliens?

Before solving this doubt, this question is still meaningful and valued.

Touwa Erio is an Earthling. She isn’t a cyborg either, just lost a bit of her memory.

Perhaps, she really is favored by the aliens watching over this city.

With her car parked outside, Meme-san ambushed us just outside of the house.

Of course, it isn’t a vehicle as wasteful and convenient as a car. It’s a city bike, or colloquially known as a utility bike

“You’re slow~ why didn’t you come out earlier if you knew the sun was so hot~ Hurry~”

In just a short time, she impeccably fixed even her makeup.

“Don’t tell me — are we all riding on this?”

I said so, knowing that there is no other way. The thought of giving up flashed.

“No problem. You aunt is driver paper . This is a piece of cake.”

“I have no clue whatsoever on what you’re talking about.” Is Meme-san’s brain ruined by the heat or the frigidity?

“Who’s pedaling?” With proper Japanese, Erio joined the conversation. Not particularly worked up, Meme-san answered naturally:

“Of course Mako-kun is! Also, I’m sitting in the back. Wow~ the smell of love!”

“Must be rotting or something, cuz ripe fruits are sweet.” And ‘Mako-kun’ seemed to have become my fixed name.

Even though I’m injured, there is no problem if it’s just riding a bike.

“Where is Erio sitting?”

“Here.” The two pointed at the same place simultaneously. Naturally, it was Erio’s special basket.

“This isn’t some circus act…”

…Well, whatever.

Erio jumped into the basket to become its load. Meme-san sat in the back, her arms circling my waist.

“Please don’t hug me.”

“How much, in percentage, in that phrase was ‘tsun?’

“Measured in inches instead of percentage, about three inches.”

“What about for me?”

“About five centimeter per second.”

I stepped on the pedal, each cycle onerous.

Rather than being pedaled, the bike slid downhill on its own.

Finally, the wheels wobbled precariously forward.

The four-man five-legged race including a bike never escaped the speed of ‘slack.’

“Gravity should go to hell!”

“Agreed.”

The bicycle will not be soaring in the sky today.

Carrying passengers who weren’t aliens, it went to a place somewhere on Earth.

### 008. Part time jobs? Or are my parents sending it to Meme-san?

“Here we are – Makoto’s second home~”

Meme-san stood next to me after paying the taxi. According to her, I can live here like at my own house (how shameless of me).

Though I would like to elaborate, there really wasn’t much to describe in my new abode.

It was very normal: an inconspicuous house. If someone took a picture of it and posted it everywhere around town, no one would compliment it, saying things like “Wow! What a wonderful mansion” – any comment like that would probably result in suspicions like “Is this a new form of house fanaticism?” Sigh, maybe this house only appears normal, but is full of mechanics and traps like a ninja’s house – spinning hidden doors and junk, things impractical in real life.

“Let’s head in!”

“Oh yes, uh, I’ll be in your care now.”

Before stepping inside, I greeted once again. If a son’s attitude is less than stellar, others will doubt his parents’ teaching!

“How polite of you.” Meme-san copy-pasted my line – of course, recycling and using it with a different tone of voice. “That should be my line, really. Sorry, please excuse everything.”

She swiftly replied… hmm? Just now, I thought I heard something like an apology blended into her words…?

Ahh, she meant “sorry if my mansion was so grand?” I must have came off a bit too cocky~

Aunt Meme opened the slide-door before I even finished solving the mystery. I followed as she disappeared into the entrance hall. I tried sniffing, curious to know what type of life transpired here… Just then –

“I’m home!”

She deftly took her shoes off and landed lightly onto the hallway… Hold up.

Before putting your slippers on,

Before calling my name,

Before putting on that smile,

There is something by your feet you should watch out for!

I can see the imaginary starting-line drawn by my feet distort.

“Makoto, try saying that too!”

But she ignored my piercing gaze, and repelled it with a money-worthy smile.

The world’s focus blurred instantly.

“…Eh, ah… Yes...” I answered while locking my sight to the lower right.

I came from the country side, but I can't speak in its accent, and my pronunciation is rather stiff. This is not important, but… Next to the carpet laid on the entrance hallway, there was something – no, someone ?

… From then, my enthusiasm paralleling that of a kid’s night before field trip was frozen off by an omen that spread in my heart.

It's like seeing an abnormally cute puppy, but only being able to think “What's wrong with the furball? The fleas are everywhere now!” and refusing to hug it.

The pile of thing dropped a load of ‘reality’ into my dreamy life.

On the lovely entrance that will later see the reluctant me off to school, and welcome an absolutely tired me home…

A Chikuwa-like object lay there.

That person fashioned — to be precise, swallowed by the outfit — an attire tasteless anywhere on the globe,

Fully expanded toes, completely throwing the doubt of sleeping on the floor out of the window,

That thing nagged at my brain, and I wanted to stomp on it and kick it around.

“……”

The spring sun shone down through the frosted glass and into the entrance. A chill froze up my back as droplets of sweat perspired. I sensed wiggly lines on my forehead, poking and dancing on the skin.

My Youth-Points are slapped back to the negatives.

- Total score at last school: -3

- Sense of superiority, living a different life: +3

- Discovering Chikuwa-object at my Aunt's house: -3

Youth-Point Total: -5

### 009. Chapter 1: City of the Aliens

## Chapter 1 - City of the Aliens

Let’s talk about Youth Points.

“Five-Points” is the most which could be scored in a single event; below are some examples.

First and foremost are the One-Point’s, such as chatting with girls during recess, eating with friends after school; anything that involves having a normal student life generally generates these points.

But Youth Points depreciate over time, and negligence of these points cancels out any accumulation. These events may be fun at the time, but a lack of memorable highlights is something no high school graduates want.

Next is the two-point. Similar to the above examples, some of the most iconic activities include talking to a girl in the nearby park during the twilight. Two-Point’s are mostly One-Point’s catalyzed and enhanced by factors such as “night” or “club activities;” if One-Points are the basics, then Two-Points are the applications. They don’t come often, but with a bit of wit, chances are definitely not insufficient.

Three-Point activities are riddled with many uncertainties – as the name suggests, they are sort of like the Three-Pointers in a ball game: making a decisive shot isn’t easy, yet a successful one can easily turn the table. In short, it is a leap of faith.

A date with a crush easily ranks as a Three-Point; note that, however, regular dates with an actual girlfriend won’t gain any more points – these points are limited to single-sided romance or ambiguous relationship.

But at this point, care should be put when determining whether the other is giving ambiguous remarks, or simply drawing lines.

Aside from that, Three-Point’s also contain special occasions with group activities. Things like a gathering for a trip, celebrations for clubs, etc, are all very unlikely and therefore score high.

Chances for Four-Point’s mostly come from specialized events; school festival is exemplary, but these events have to be participated in with intent: a distinct goal and preemptive steps to prevent any chances that lead to potential point loss.

On the other hand, if the surrounding atmosphere doesn’t feel right and fails to build hype, it’s hard to get higher points during a sports festival. Most people can’t even enjoy sports to the fullest, reason being that gaps between individuals’ athletic abilities are far from small.

Graduation ceremony as well – from the methodical viewpoint, many points can be racked up during this event; after all, crying one’s dignity away amidst the sea of sadness could be considered joyous to some.

To begin defining Five-Point’s, their subjectivity must first be established. If a person can proudly declare “This is it!” to a specific memory, that, to him, must have been determined as a whole Five-Point.

For example, running wild in town disregarding basic human dignity for a crush; and winning the Koshien championship. Only by stepping on the fine line between permanent PTSD and eternal glory, and sprinting forward can one ever hope to achieve the highest points.

For those without ambition, the tail of a Five-Point is forever out of reach.

In a sense, adolescence can only prosper in a capitalistic manner.

With a deep understanding of the essentials, along with the needed capacity to grow, a person may even get more than twenty Youth-Points in the three years of high school. Such wealth in the future, universities and vocational aspects may not hold much value, however.

But for someone who’s reached nirvana, accomplishment feels drastically alien than for the commoners.

Since life’s ‘process’ exists only for ‘result,’ it is obvious just how significant high school is.

… I was just bored, and came up with these definitions on a whim.

The brain tends to spin when the hands are busy at work, so I couldn’t help but think about a few things.

Only, what kind of fetish do I have, getting all excited from stuffing things into boxes? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Vertical Movement lover? Rectangle cultist?!

“Ahh, humans do enjoy categorizing. Or should I say differentiating?”

I nitpicked at my own thoughts while humming, and glanced at the television, at the meantime stuffing my luggage. My exuberant feeling contrasted well with the room, which became more and more desolate as time passed. Despite having sleep deprivation, my spirit elated: in all, my condition was top notch.

Like in the common galge’s , my parents moved oversea, leaving their son with two more years of high school at the house of my aunt. Two days after my official transfer notice was accepted, four more remain before my relocation. For the yearning me, this is like welcoming the peak of my life.

This year is my first ever to not complain about the short break during spring.

I can’t wait for the arrival of the next semester.

After all, where I’m going is the city; classes will have more than twenty people, and student stores will have more than just curry bread on their menu. The campus may even have convenience stores, or ten-minute-one-thousand-yen barber shops.

Honestly speaking, from the Youth-Point standard, my past high school life has nothing but negatives. If enrolling into the school equates to starting from zero, then my total points are probably negative three. The points that are lost like my youth – never mind a refund, I can’t even keep my own balance. But that changes today.

“Wahahah! Heehee~!” If my neighbor saw the disgusting smug on my face, she’d probably move her house further away. Sense of superiority drove my limbs numb. This feeling is probably the same as those liberated from major exams, when the last of the anxiety melts away. How soothing. Is this how the Cochlea feels after readjusting from a shock?

“I’ve never been to the sea; I wonder what it’s like!” After settling down in the city, I have to ride the train to the beach, and rack those Youth-Points up! If possible, with a girl, and if not, a group is fine.

I put the only prize I ever won during elementary school into the second cardboard box below, and stuffed an entire rope-bound textbook on the top. “Ahh, but I’d probably have to re-buy all the books.”

Like a college girl moving out of a crappy apartment agonizing over her old fridge, I tilted my head, immersed in the entertainment that is choice-making.

Regarding the explanation as to where I am living, it is full of things that can make a highschooler like me hop in joy.

My aunt lives alone: she has no husband or children, and she works (of course). In essence, I am living independently with few restrictions. Put into words, it’d the dream every rebellious, pre-pubescent high school boy could only wish for – an evil incubator that they wish to live in even by throwing away money and pride: “How could anyone simply express this?!” To me, it is probably just the momentary defiance which sought to topple adult’s ‘plan for healthy teen’ that excited me so much.

My hysteria for a new life could probably rival even the joy of apes that defiled a whole field of crops for a delicious meal.

Would a bumpkin like me offend the cliques of the city kids? I couldn’t even care about such problems. My boiling heart beat – so wonderfully that it felt like a nudist streaking through the spring sun.

I feel absolutely terrific.

The four days of combating gravity, turning and defeating the luggage (basically, wasting a lot of energy) are over: the days of my city life finally began.

Two days ago, I bid farewell to my old classmates. It was inevitably disheartening, as in the countryside students tend to stick to the same classes; hence members of the school hardly changes. Even if we only spent about a year together, there were still many familiar faces.

More or less submerged in the sentiment, I think the atmosphere and scene of the parting were satisfactory.

If a girl were to cry for me in front of everyone, I planned on mailing her entire person to where I live. Of course, I ended up not being a kidnapper. With the power of the EMU , I said goodbye to the land where I'd lived for almost fifteen years. I didn’t know anyone well enough to have them see me off.

My parents also left Japan about a week ago, heading to somewhere called the Socotra Archipelago or Soviet Union – something like that.

But, if the excitement blooming from the departure was enough to cancel any Youth-Point negativity, wouldn’t my balance be back to zero? As if peering into the horizon of my heart, I felt the compatibility between a great mood and a fresh start.

Being able to experience the welcoming ceremony twice in itself is also rare enough.

Two and a half hours passed quietly as the train seat shook me gently. About midway of the trip, I apparently slept for about an hour. Most of the seats were filled with passengers by the time I woke up, and the scenery outside had changed from fields to houses and factories.

Ear buds stuck in my ears (This grammar may make sense in English, but it’s like saying nosebleed from the nose) returned to silence after finishing another round of shuffle.

I took the iPod out of my pocket and played another song, but listened with little attention as I was barely awake.

With blear eyes, I gazed at the name of a company gardened on their lawn, appealing to some environmentalist messages – Mount Fuji and even the ocean passed my view, all while the PA read out the names of destinations.

‘I’m almost there.’ I took out my cell and sent a mail to the inbox of my recently-registered aunt.

‘I’ll meet you right away.’ The train hadn’t even slowed down, and a reply already arrived.

“.......” Was she serious? It’s hard to tell from a text! I deemed it to be a friendly response and put my cell back.

Most of my luggage was already delivered to my Aunt’s house; I carried only a wrinkly, dry bag which reeks of bleach as my carry-on.

The neighboring purple-haired woman moved her leg for me; I nodded to her, and moved to the walkway. Perhaps led by my walking toward the door, passengers originally standing at the walkway all started the preparation to get off. Every time I brushed by a person, I’d shoot a glance; no signs or stickers to differentiate people of the city and the countryside, nor were there fashionable people clanking with accessories.

I didn’t even smell the so-called urban air. My sense of excitement waned.

The train rode into the platform. It was six times the size of the town station where I used to live; people filled the entire stop. I shriveled a bit. Music of my iPod went from piano performance to the howling of a male vocal – a preparation for my courageous journey. The automatic door opened as I plunged first out of the cart; the line began pouring out.

I didn’t ride the escalator, instead climbing the stairs towards the ticket booth. Started half-way, I thought for a bit:

My aunt – the person whom I will be living with: what kind of person is she? I’ve never met her. From the sole information that came from my parents: “She’s a big kid - a combination of an adult and a kid.” Hence, her name became “Aunt Kamaboko” on my contract list; but how well does this intelligence mix with the overall impression? All I could think of was one of the Yakult salesladies .

The ticket machine stopped for a second, but I went through shortly. I dodged to the wall on the side so as to avoid the crowd, and began scouting.

I looked around for my aunt anxiously – more so than the girl with dyed hair next to me, who was probably looking for her boyfriend. My father gave me a twenty-seven year old picture of him and his sibling. But to look for my aunt this way, I might just end up being Urashima Tarou. If anything, I’d rather be Momotarou (TL Note: Urashima Tarou is a fisherman in Japanese legend who rescued a turtle, and was rewarded with a visit to the Dragon God's palace. He stayed for three days, but upon returning, realized that time above had passed three hundred years. Momotarou is also figure in Japanese legend who was born from a giant peach and raised by an old couple. He later on went on a crusade with a dog, monkey and pheasant to defeat the Oni, or demons, terrorizing the land.)

“Makoto!”

Someone probingly called out my name. The little man living in my mind, like a youthful Edison, relayed all of my consciousness (from the Martian station) – coincidentally, his name is resentment. My name is Niwa Makoto. Not Tana, Niwa; not Shin, but Makoto.

I turned to the right in search of the owner of that voice. A refreshing, thirty-some year old woman looked straight at me. Since we are not familiar enough to communicate through our eyes, I had hoped that she’d be more tactful.

I couldn’t help but avert my gaze and shut my lips, unsure of what to say during the moment.

“You are Makoto, correct?”

She smiled politely due to my lack of response, and gently asked again. Elegant, refined behaviors of a young girl created a gap between her demeanor and appearance. Plus one to first impression.

“Ah, yes! I am Niwa Makoto. Ugh, nice to meet you!”

I hurriedly bowed. Even I feel with my petty attempt to act polite. “I will be in your care for a while!” Flustered, I added on. Ugh, real smooth.

“No, no. I should say the same.” My aunt bowed as well, her long hair pouring off from her shoulder.

“Ah, I’ll hand you a business card.”

She crudely searched in her purse after straightening her back, and retrieved a plastic card case. She opened the case and handed me a rectangular card befitting the Golden ratio of Fibonacci.

“Thank you, how polite.” I took the card with an absolute mess of a manner and skimmed it:

'Touwa Meme – “Thirty Nine”' A bold double-quotation mark emphasized the age label. It would appear she wants to carry out the “What are frozen shoulders?” way of life, though the business card’s expiration date was barely a year away...

Still… Even though I knew beforehand, her name… How strange.

“Um, Touwa… Probably has an artistic or floral origin, or maybe it’s a generic pseudonym; it may even be the written name of the alter ego, but...”

“It is my actual name!”

I sensed every attempt from her airy lines to sound younger. I recognize the characters, but do I read it MeMe, or Jojo?

Perhaps noticing my confusion, my aunt added on:

“Touwa Meme. But you can call me Jojo.”

She blinked. Crow’s feet emerged on the sides of her eyes. If I accidentally spilled it, my life may be cut short. I swallowed gingerly and reevaluated the business card.

The name speaks explicitly about the naming sense of the parents. I would definitely laugh if I saw this somewhere on the web, but I’d rather be polite in front of said person.

“I see~” I gave a simple voice of assent, put the card in my wallet and waited for a sign to move.

“Let's take the taxi home today.”

“Ah, sure. How luxurious!” As I spat out these words, I realized I may have became numbed to them.

Meme-san briskly crossed the road ahead with a genial smile; about half way there, she asked while stroking her hair.

“Are you tired after spending so much time on the train?”

“Yeah, since I haven’t been on one since the middle school field trip.”

“Is that so~? You are a second year in high school, right? They sure grow fast~”

“Right. Is the school close to your house?”

“Hmm~ it’d take about fifteen minutes on bicycles. Ah, but that’s for me – you should be faster.”

We prattled along the way, talking about trivial things. One thing that did strike me was Meme-san's unique mien – one that was neither intimate nor estranged. Like warm but sticky water, it’s not discomforting, but slightly unnerving.

“Hold up~” Meme-san waved at the green taxi next to hub. I thought it was kind of cute, but I'm not into older women, so I looked to the high school girl from earlier waiting by the light with her boyfriend from a distance away; I stared at the frill of her skirt. How unbearable... No, no; I pushed away the thoughts. 'Are you stupid~?' Even though she mouthed those words to her boyfriend, I did not feel one bit repulsed.

I got into the backseat, Meme-san the passenger seat. She told the gray-haired driver our destination. She spoke quickly, and I didn’t even remember a word. I sunk into the seat as I rubbed my heavy eyelids. On a different topic, how come Meme-san sat in the passenger seat when there were only two of us?

For some reason, she didn’t especially turn to talk to me. Sigh, even if she did, the conversation would probably just die miserably in this hole. I’m grateful that she didn’t try to talk.

As I first entered high school, my parents required me to study at a local university; being able to live the style of life I almost gave up half a year ago, I am deeply grateful for the blessing in the form of Meme-san.

I want to live a semi-independent life in this city. This is a place perfect for growth – nay, for Youth-Points!

My goal for the next two years: a total of fifteen Youth-Points.

Ten minutes after leaving the row of skyscrapers, the car drove into the housing area. Despite that, the environment lacked green; metallic building filled the scene, and I was somewhat bewildered.

The city brimmed with the scent of metal. Compared to my hometown’s smell of dirt, it seems to be full of promises.

After my little secret celebration, I met Meme-san’s eyes through the rear-view mirror.

That was awkward.

As the taxi passes under an overhanging sign, she suddenly turned back with a radiant smile.

“Welcome to the city protected by aliens.”

“…Huh?”

A smile and a sentence more aversive than welcoming.

A jagged ray of confusion mixed with words traveled from my eardrums to the brain.

Judging from the lack of reaction of the driver, I couldn’t deny the possibility of mishearing. I sincerely had no words.

“Eh~ No reaction?” Meme-san put up a fake smile with wide eyes.

“There are many sightings of UFO’s here – kind of like in Florida?” She explained.

“Oh~” I see how it is. Before I understood, I thought “maybe this person is an alien fanatic?” Maybe she was born during the time of MMR?

But youth does not belong in the milky ways. Potential points set in my mind began to dwindle in their number.

“Older grocery stores even sell these ‘seventh-dimension’ key chain figures!”

“I don’t understand, limiting technology like that in a three-dimensional shop.”

Besides, aliens and dimensions may sound relevant, but are in fact unconnected. The difference between them is like that of electronic and rhetoric.

“Do you want to go straight home, or explore a bit?”

Meme-san confirmed the definite part of my travel, and asked me for the indefinite part. “Hmm, let's see.” I scratched at my temple, taking my time before answering.

“I can make a simple introduction for ya if we walk home.”

She spoke with just the right amount of kindness – enough to be wiped away with a finger; enough to not make things awkward.

“Have to take care of the luggage… Let’s just stay home.”

I hesitated at the word ‘home:’ whether I should have added ‘auntie’s home.’ But for brevity's sake, I didn’t bother. Maybe talking like this can actually bring us closer in the end.

“Alrighty~ Then let’s have dinner at home!”

The smile on her face never faded till she turned the other way.

And so, the taxi drove on the asphalt road for five more minutes.

“Ah, this is it.” Following Meme-san’s instruction, the taxi stopped at a plain spot with no landmark. Left door to the back seats opened automatically as I first exit the car. I glanced at the taxi meter as I left; with the allowance my parents gave me, I can at least ride twice back-and-forth. Speaking of which, where do I get allowance from now on?

Part time jobs? Or are my parents sending it to Meme-san?

“Here we are – Makoto’s second home~”

Meme-san stood next to me after paying the taxi. According to her, I can live here like at my own house (how shameless of me).

Though I would like to elaborate, there really wasn’t much to describe in my new abode.

It was very normal: an inconspicuous house. If someone took a picture of it and posted it everywhere around town, no one would compliment it, saying things like “Wow! What a wonderful mansion” – any comment like that would probably result in suspicions like “Is this a new form of house fanaticism?” Sigh, maybe this house only appears normal, but is full of mechanics and traps like a ninja’s house – spinning hidden doors and junk, things impractical in real life.

“Let’s head in!”

“Oh yes, uh, I’ll be in your care now.”

Before stepping inside, I greeted once again. If a son’s attitude is less than stellar, others will doubt his parents’ teaching!

“How polite of you.” Meme-san copy-pasted my line – of course, recycling and using it with a different tone of voice. “That should be my line, really. Sorry, please excuse everything.”

She swiftly replied… hmm? Just now, I thought I heard something like an apology blended into her words…?

Ahh, she meant “sorry if my mansion was so grand?” I must have came off a bit too cocky~

Aunt Meme opened the slide-door before I even finished solving the mystery. I followed as she disappeared into the entrance hall. I tried sniffing, curious to know what type of life transpired here… Just then –

“I’m home!”

She deftly took her shoes off and landed lightly onto the hallway… Hold up.

Before putting your slippers on,

Before calling my name,

Before putting on that smile,

There is something by your feet you should watch out for!

I can see the imaginary starting-line drawn by my feet distort.

“Makoto, try saying that too!”

But she ignored my piercing gaze, and repelled it with a money-worthy smile.

The world’s focus blurred instantly.

“…Eh, ah… Yes...” I answered while locking my sight to the lower right.

I came from the country side, but I can't speak in its accent, and my pronunciation is rather stiff. This is not important, but… Next to the carpet laid on the entrance hallway, there was something – no, someone ?

… From then, my enthusiasm paralleling that of a kid’s night before field trip was frozen off by an omen that spread in my heart.

It's like seeing an abnormally cute puppy, but only being able to think “What's wrong with the furball? The fleas are everywhere now!” and refusing to hug it.

The pile of thing dropped a load of ‘reality’ into my dreamy life.

On the lovely entrance that will later see the reluctant me off to school, and welcome an absolutely tired me home…

A Chikuwa-like object lay there.

That person fashioned — to be precise, swallowed by the outfit — an attire tasteless anywhere on the globe,

Fully expanded toes, completely throwing the doubt of sleeping on the floor out of the window,

That thing nagged at my brain, and I wanted to stomp on it and kick it around.

“……”

The spring sun shone down through the frosted glass and into the entrance. A chill froze up my back as droplets of sweat perspired. I sensed wiggly lines on my forehead, poking and dancing on the skin.

My Youth-Points are slapped back to the negatives.

- Total score at last school: -3

- Sense of superiority, living a different life: +3

- Discovering Chikuwa-object at my Aunt's house: -3

Youth-Point Total: -5

### 010. Chapter 3: "Question to self: What if I got three jokers on hand during a game of Old Maid?"

## Chapter 3 - "Question to self: What if I got three jokers on hand during a game of Old Maid?"

New morning, new high school. On the second day, I arrived extra early.

The empty lot still looked like a simple temporary house with interspersed bikes. It almost looked as if people just abandoned their bikes and parked haphazardly. Since I can park wherever, I picked the spot next to the storage; that way, I can leave easily when bikes fill the place later. Of course, I left it unchained. Thieves have eyes: they'll want a different bike.

Speaking of locks, I don't even have the key to Meme-san's house. Erio even told me she often goes out during daytime. That's not good. I'll have to apply for one when I get home!

After shoving some books that I might need into the back pack, I dragged dutifully from school->shoe locker->stairs->classroom. If there's a way to skip a step, please teach me.

I pulled open the class door; the screeching noise reverberated in the hall, and I cringed. Perhaps lacking the innate skin humidifier of a human being, the room was filled with dry air. The same kind that is left in your room few days after a trip.

Walking in, I saw two people in the class already. One was a guy, sleeping on his desk – probably how he spends his lunch time. He sat by the window, meaning he's behind me in the last name order.

The other was my neighbor; her name should be Maekawa-san. Back hunched, she rested her cheek on one arm. Her hair swayed every now and then – man, she doesn't look very reliable~ I commented as I drifted to my seat.

As I pulled the seat out, Maekawa-san's side face became a straight-on portrait. She stared at me; her eyes weren't scary today. Maybe she's near-sighted and didn't wear her contacts yesterday.

I traded looks with this girl who's taller than me when sitting down. As a whole, she gave the impression of an oarfish. Despite looking beautiful underwater, there's just something disappointing about them when viewing up close... She belongs in the art category.

Maekawa-san seemed to also realize that gazes can't communicate, or maybe she thought this was the time to make the next move. Her first broadcast came from her lips:

"Transfer student." Without verbs or adjectives, she finished her speech with a slightly coarse voice.

"Which makes you 'student.'"

"Hm, I've been here for two years." She took out her student ID, the proof of her status.

"Well... We are in the same grade — even the same class!"

"I know." Of course we are, she seemed to say.

She gave a little frown. That should be my expression! I put up a contending stance.

"......"

The conversation ended. Not abruptly, but gradually faded away.

Since the second story was in complete silence, even shallow words like these were enough to excite the mind. I opened the back pack I didn't have to, peeked inside to alleviate the boredom.

"...Ah." Since I don't have my books yet, I'll ask Maekwa-san to lend me one. I could just ask the Tanizawa guy behind me, but I'm also not a man with a noble soul.

In the end, the backpack remained untouched, hanging by the desk.

"......"

I gazed at the clock above the blackboard. About half a circle away from homeroom.

So just why did I leave so early?

Question — from me.

Answer — from me. You're welcome.

It's because Erio was home!

I recalled what happened after I denounced her "duty."

Below is a memory too recent to be the past.

"The world exists in a polygonal box; a higher existence observes the known universe. These entities see us as a form of entertainment, and thus, they entered fragments of the truth into the minds of normal human beings. Speaking strictly from the results, these people are bound with conditions similar to dementia, and are exiled in order to suppress the dissemination of truth. Just as the word suggests, they are erased from the world. Even the observers cannot predict the technology humanity used to cross the parallel worlds.”

“Really, now.”

“In addition, there are traces of human experimentation. They observe the direction in which human souls adhere to, and arbitrarily create realms as abodes for these souls. There are even rumors that they have been evaluating the reactions of humans when given a new life, and comparing their view on life to those of other earthly organisms.”

“Really, now.”

“The Observers even used cities as testing grounds, in order to ascertain the capacity of emotional fluctuation within humans and to select the ones with superior psyche. People murdered for bounty, and the dead haunted the town as walking corpses. The situation was perilous.”

“Really, now… Ow!” She smacked on my back, almost making me choke on the half-swallowed rice.

I chugged down the Oolong tea next to me to wash down the food. About a third of a bottle worth of liquid rolled into my stomach. I gave Erio a glance of “what the hell was that?” but she only nibbled away at the Okonomiyaki on hand

She seems to prefer the diet of eating pizza in the morning, and Okonomiyaki at night. Don't they somehow overlap with each other? I did warn her at the convenience store, but she just ignored me.

We didn't head straight home, instead circling to a densely forested park behind the temple under Erio's command.

“Outside activity is a rare occurrence. Hence, I must carry out my duty as a blahblahblah.” She explained her motivation for our detour. The rest had nothing to do with her – something about the will of the universe – so I just listened cursorily.

We sat and ate next to each other on the half-buried tires in the park. I picked the yellow one, Erio the white one; the pink one remained neglected.

I heard that parks and temples in the city are occupied by hobos… Keeping my country sense keen, I did see a few people. Since there was a mysterious girl carrying a mattress around, some old guy even thought we ran away from home (I don't like it either, but some people even mistook us as eloped couple) and kindly offered us help. Perhaps the nearly destroyed bicycle that looked as if its been salvaged from a river bank amplified our impression.

However, when the guy carelessly asked for Erio's identity…

“Within restricted parameter combined with lowered linguistic standard, I am an esper .”

“Wow~ Impressive!” Super — the simplified version of “super stupid.” So you do understand!

After such conversation, everybody retreated near the temple to let us alone. Seemed like they may have realized that Erio is a rather hard-to-describe individual. No, they are right, but I was still bothered, and want to scream some unmentionable words.

I peered up at the evening sky. Cloud hid the moon, trying to raise the night's potency. If the time was now, I might be able to say it. I looked toward the dim stars; memories of the country's sky sighed.

“Ah~ Cough, cough… So, cough, cough… I just wanna say, cough, cough… Guess not...”

Simple coughs created some breathing spaces, but somehow I sounded irk with her. Tsk!

I continued eating.

Erio bit the Okonomiyaki with Yakisoba as I stabbed at the fried-fish bento.

Great atmosphere we were having during meal time… That's good, but there wasn't any opportunity for talking. I thought maybe she'd break into a rap after taking that futon off, but everything coming out just spelt chuunibyou. Even without the outer space element, every other sentences of hers pervaded delusion.

“I don't comprehend the cousin's stance of ignoring my beneficial intelligence.”

Like treating a neanderthal, Erio shrugged at me like an American woman. By the way, the futon she wore served now as padding. According to her, it hurt to sit because her butt wasn't too fleshy… And for some reason, her analogy involved Mars and the moon. Think about that now, why?

“We aren't exactly on the same wave length here; why not learn a thing or two from a TV…? Oh yeah, why does every channel here has something playing? The TV was on when I was unpacking, and I almost wanted to praise the city when I saw the eighth channel with a show on.”

Channel five was listed under entertainment back home. Man, the eighth channel was almost pitch black – I thought maybe it was a program meant for clairvoyance training.

“Under what order is the cousin sent here?”

“The earthly order that my parents had to work elsewhere.”

“Was there any interaction with the extraterrestrials in the previous settlement?”

“Nothing. The earth is quite big, y'know. No reason for them to only visit Japan.”

Seems like at least in her manner, she's the same as those foreigners who adore the Yamato-damashii. But if aliens were to visit, why would they bother showing up in the middle of the sticks where I lived? Shouldn't they go see places like Kyoto instead?

“A logical point.” Erio assented with a rare, honest nod.

I might see particles from her hair again if I lower my guard.

“Eri… Agh. Erio.” And what about her name? This is not for Japanese people.

I don't want the mother who named her to have any more screen time!

“…?”

Because of my stopping halfway, Erio inquisitively tilted her head. I guess she didn't hate the idea of me calling her name, nor did she seem to think “why are disgusting people all so shameless?” with a revolted expression. And so, I asked unreservedly:

“Why do you insist on playing as an alien?”

“Because I am one.”She concisely asserted.

“Alright, so am I eating dinner with an alien?” I don't believe her one bit.

“The cousin should have ascertained my identity.”

“Haah?” Oh~ I did say that at the convenient store, but it was just figuratively speaking.

If she thought I was serious, both of us lose in a way.

“I am curious: why do you possess the galactic clairvoyance, despite of a misleading appearance?”

“Excuse me for interrupting your half-assed compliment, but it's a misunderstanding.”

“…Modesty. A young man who seeks praises by relying on the Japanese virtue?”

“N—o, and you're a wacko.”

Perhaps to test my honesty, Erio stared at me, making me answer awkwardly. I keep thinking that I somehow won her faith with idiotic phrases.

But is trust really a concept suitable for Erio? She is “ super ” after all.

Not someone of my level could deal with.

As if to end the conversation, she bit off a big chunk of the Okonomiyaki. Well, big enough to fill maybe half my mouth.

“Does the reason really matter? Oh yeah… here, for you.”

As it had been sitting underneath the bento, the napkin was lukewarm, but it should be usable.

I handed the wet wipe I also bought earlier to Erio. Since she didn't have a free hand, she merely stared at me with oblivious eyes, as if telling me something, instead of taking it.

“You still got pizza on your face. Doesn't it itch? How about cleaning it?”

“…...Why?”

Erio strickenly asked, appearing apprehensive. Her reaction was not what I had expected.

“I don't even know why you asked.” And take it fast, the flies are going steal my food.

“….☆☆☆☆☆☆” Erio's lips vibrated at high frequency.

“Wha? Speak up~”

I tried speaking like Mifune-san. Sometimes, the same thing done by guys just irritates people. The amount of healing was even less than sugar during war time; it was gross, but I did my best at a falsetto.

“...Um, but why?” I softened my tone of speech, but vacillated because due to indecisiveness.

Man~ the stress is killing me! We already don't talk that much, communicating only through cringey, choppy phrases, and I'm even slower when it comes to actually doing things.

I won't tolerate things to develop at such turtle pace.

Unable to stand the pressure, I helplessly took out the wipe to clean her face and around her mouth.

With a bit of force, I rubbed around her eyelids and sides of nose. Erio let me do so without facing away.

It's like taking care of an infant. I remembered the times during a middle school kindergarten visit. Maybe that's why I don't feel nervous touching Erio's face, but then…

“I will not change your evaluation score even with bribery.”

“Good for you. Someone who trusts easily or flip-flops is definitely unreliable.”

Just like the disks of a Reversi game, changing to one color is as easy as to the other.

I balled up the wipe and threw it into the bag after finishing. Since I've located the park's garbage can, I'll just dispose of the trash when we head back.

Once again Erio and I used our hands and mouths for purposes other than speaking. Without a question she can eat normally, but since she already feeds in such amusing way, she probably would actually never take off the futon aside for bathing.

Must be really muggy, being sequestered in the world of futon.

A pubescent guy will definitely become a hotbed for pimples, adding more holes and scars on his skin.

“…...”

I peered at Erio's profile to my content.

Her appearance is best used when eating quietly. If her mouth were taped shut, she must be able to advance in life by at least three levels.

However, she probably chose to become degenerate, so it has nothing to do with me.

From about three paces away, I inquired Erio:

“What do you during the day anyway?”

“Eradicate evidences of extraterrestrial contact. Why do you ask?”

“No, no reason.” I still added a line of “is that so?” afterward.

☆

And the night passed like that. I rewound the empty film strip of memory.

We engaged in an exchange valued at around two Youth-points. Though due to content of our conversation, about one point in fragment was scored.

I wonder if my deficit can ever be reimbursed in that household.

The guy next to the window already turned his lying head elsewhere, changing even the position of his arm. Seemed like he just wants to relax, as opposed to actually being sleepy.

It's not like the concept is foreign: during seventh grade, I've always felt that time was slow. Not because there was the lure of joy waiting ahead that every second felt like an hour, but the exact opposite – it was so boring, I just wanted to leave school and take a nap back home. Every second, minute and hour bored me.

The lack of change drained me of even the strength to resist gravity, sinking me bit by bit.

Once adapted to the murky depth of sea, there is no turning back.

Evolution is clever, but not omnipotent — it is still flawed.

Though it's not like living under the sun is the only way.

Deep-see fishes have their way of survival. Man, they are so disgustingly cute!

For someone who adores deep-sea creature, I can't help but think of them as romantic.

At least it's better than confiding in the aliens, and it suits the mysterious character better.

As I smiled to myself, Maekawa-san began her rerun:

“So...” Still resting on her arm, she looked sideways at me.

“So…?”

I tried speaking like her. What if she gets angry? I thought regretfully, but Maekawa-san didn't mind and continued calmly:

“I just wanted to say, I'm not a hold-back.”

Once again she waved the student ID at me. This time I noticed the blonde hair on the picture, which was now completely black.

Maekawa's head must have had an agricultural revolution or a bio-re-engineering!

“People often think I'm older because of my height.”

“I see.” I concisely expressed my comprehension. Well, no. I don't even think age is the issue here…

“Was that not funny? I thought it was a good joke.”

‘How strange’~ Maekawa-san stared at the clock with a finger on her lip, thoroughly confused. Her expression was like that of the science teacher who got more magnifying glass back than there are students in the class. The conundrum exists, but it isn't unsettling or anything.

I understand she was confident in her joke… However, I didn't see the elements of a punchline.

“Mmm...” Maekawa-san grumbled, “Hmm...” She glanced every now and then, busy gathering and processing the information while I passed time looking at her.

Since I knew that as long as I kept the “what's she doing?” attitude, she wouldn't suspect a thing.

Nevertheless, her body is so long! Looking more like a kite with only its frame, she didn't feel imposing. If she were in a Sengoku warfare, she would possibly be used as a substitute spear.

Would this be classified as model physique? The April morning slipped away as I pondered.

☆

I should have realized from the last names, Mifune-san sat behind Maekawa-san.

In other words, object 'M' is located behind me, to the right diagonally.

“So Niwa-kun is a bread person, huh?”

Lunchtime. “Let's munch on our lunch!” invited Mifune-san. And so, I put the bread I bought this morning on her desk and began eating.

The neighboring Maekawa-san floated out of the class, probably headed to the cafeteria.

Maybe I'm being nosy, but can Mifune-san see the front sitting behind her? Sigh, if not, just use Maekawa-san's back as the black board! (I suddenly went insane.)

“Cuz my aunt has to work. You got your own lunch, Mifune-san?”

“Yep, my ma made it! Oh yeah, just call me Ryuuko! Actually, you hafta !”

She gently commanded with a beaming smile. But it's probably not a good idea to force a shy guy to call her by name!

Mifune-san (tentative) took out a single-layered bento from a different bag. Beneath the wrapping was a tiny box, small enough for me to swallow the entire thing.

Erio, too. Half a pizza was enough – girl's digestive system shocks me. Or maybe it’s just the whole weight-loss trend.

“It so nice to have lunch buddies right after getting inta new classes!”

Mifune-san's wavy hair and charming face radiated a light that could soften everything, possibly even contribute to world peace. If everyone has one at home, we won't need air purifiers anymore.

I will even breathe the carbon dioxide that's been to her lungs! I don't know if my organs will agree, though. I'm not an extinguisher; isn't it unsafe to do that?

“You're great help for me, too, since I don't know anyone. Don't you have other friends to eat with though?”

“All of my friends are in a different class, so it’s kinda weird for me to butt in. It’s sorta like, hmm~ I'm on an island chewing on grass, while they are eating luxury sushi on some faraway ferry. While they became women who don't need to wait for that time sale for fatty tuna, I turned into an acorn-eating forest-dweller. Wuu… There ya have it.”

“It's not exactly the time to be saying 'butt in'...” Send an SOS, or you might die!

“Eh~ ya think? It's kinda fun on the island though~ No one would care if I cut a buncha trees down, and people wouldn't destroy my secret headquarter!”

“And no one would say a thing if you yell a bunch by the sea!”

I gave up on defying the direction of our talk. Why not hitch a ride? Islands are awesome~

…… A perfect harmony between me and her, yet my back crawled as if there were ants on it.

The gazes from around us, especially those of the indecently curious guys, made me feel conscious. As a person who was often in their shoes, I knew not to mind them or feel upset. Actually, it’s more like the premonition and warning of “I am possibly at the top of my life right now” made me so free that I wanted to say “Look closely! Better yet, record this and broadcast it nationwide!”...Well, that was a lie.

Mifune-san opened the bento. In it were cherry tomatoes, apple, Youkan, pickled cucumber, banana tempura and very little rice. It's like a famine in there; the menu lacked any red.

“Are you a vegetarian?” I had to ask.

“Mm~” She quickly noticed that I was referring to her lunch and contemplated.

“If I hafta say, I’d call myself fruitarian?”

I don't really know where people like her should go. Your spirit of word-making is admirable, just remember to look back on the road of peerlessness.

“It’s not like I don't eat meat; I just don't always. Well, that's what I tell people.”

“Huh, that's unusual. So fast food is not your thing?”

“Yeppers. I love fruits. My goal is to become a tropical girl with juice for blood!”

The day of her dream-come-true, all the insects will gather around; my plan of mass producing Mifune-san may suffer from a setback! Ahh~ seriously though, Mifune-san is the best. Currently, she's my number one. Well, I suppose the number of people I know may be the reason, but at least she scores higher than Erio.

“Already eyeing the new guy, Ryuushi?”

Passerby A entered, foreshadowing the next event… Ignore the things a crazy gamer might say. A person neither transparent in name or appearance popped out and jokingly call Mifune-san 'Ryuushi.' Could it be that her name is 'Mifune Ryuushi Ryuuko?' With so much Japanese in the name, that's impossible even for a multiracial person.

“No and no~ I'm investigating if Niwa-kun from the other town bleeds sap~”

“What kind of speculation is that?” I gave a vague smile to the girl I just met.

“Also! Don't call me Ryuushi~ I order thee to say it right!”

She corrected the person with an overall not-too-harsh tone. The girl gave an equivocal smile to us and left.

The story will probably have little to do with her later, so I'll skip the introduction. What is important, however, is what's behind the word.

“Ryuushi-san.”

“It's Ryuuko!”Her angry expression was adorable. “Ryuushi is just a word; Ryuuko is my name!“ She focused her irritation on some strange things.

Mifune-san puffed out her cheeks; the shape of a cherry tomato appeared, like a manga character with cavity.

“So why does she call you Ryuushi?”

“Mm~ I don't like it either, but my name in Kanji is like this.”

With a pen, she wrote down her name in squiggly writing. “Ryuuko. (流子)”

“Ah, so that's why it’s Ryuushi.”

So you can say her name like that.

“So which one is right?”

“Of course it’s Ryuuko~!!”

Mifune-san nibbled on her apple while explaining the origin of her nickname:

“Someone called me that last year. I tried correcting her, but she just ignored me, saying Ryuushi sounds more cosmic… In the end everybody called me that. That name... is a hazard .”

“Hm, like, you were sick?“ Cosmic? Something clicked as I spoke.

The uniform hung next door swam in the milkyway. Away with you!

“Ah, ya want some?”Mifune-san suggested to me the banana tempura.

“Yay~ stealing others' food has always been my dream!” I'll take what's offered then. The green banana wasn't quite sweet enough, nor was it soft – it's like eating a vegetable. Honestly, I could only smile when she asked whether I liked it.

Mifune-san stared at my throat, continuing only after seeing me swallow.

“She doesn't come here anymore though – she dropped out.”

“'Dropped out’?” The uniform covers Earth. Stop it, you conceited world-uniform.

“There were a lotta problems around the girl - must be complicated if she voluntarily left.”

Picking up another slice of apple, she skimmed through the story with a lonely smile.

“I saw her the other day. Her style was, like, really unique, ya know? I think it's pretty cool.”

“Huh, that's nice. What was it like?”

I responded quickly, feigning my ignorance. It was so smooth, the word “cool” may as well have been written on my face. Oh, but it’s only because my empty answer is very well-ventilated.

“Heheh, it's a secret! You will know once ya see it!”

Mifune-san mischievously tried to pique my interest with a childish smile.

Then it's a secret for me too. Your friend probably lives with me!

Openly admit my affiliation with that person may just lead me to the road of ostracization, considering her previous circumstances.

Speaking of which, Erio and I are actually the same age! I had no idea about something so basic.

Does that mean Mifune-san's nickname is the legacy of her school life?

“Niwa-kun will definitely see her! She's quite the landmark of town now! Mm~Mm~”

“Wow~ I wish it'd be sooner~” I saw it this morning too. Actually, it's haunting me!

“I must visit blah-blah place today. Escort me with the bicycle, my assistant Watson!”

Omitting the jargon, Erio's intent was to force me to take her out. And so I fled to school early this morning. As someone between a model student and a delinquent, I wouldn't skip school on the first stay – being late is my worst.

“I'm done.” Joining her hands, Mifune-san finished her meal first. Seems like city dwellers are well developed in the technique of eating and speaking. I still had half my bread.

“Niwa-kun, got any interests?” As we packed our lunch, she flung out a question essential to a blind date.

“For interests, I would have to say deep-sea creatures. Sometimes I look up pictures of them on the web too.”

“Deep-sea fish? Like shrimps or crabs?”

“Yeah, those.” But you said fishes.

“And mollusks and jelly fishes?”

“Them too!” Was it intentional? Or was she born with it?

“How about cute ones? Like, you'd wanna catch them and stuff.”

Mifune-san flapped up and down, imitating a fisherman.

Did the lady confuse deep-sea fish with tropical fish? Well, as long as it’s cute, it’s forgivable.

“If you're talking about ugly-cute, then there are plenty.”

“Mm~ ugly-cute...”For some reason, she shot me a glance when she said it. 'Couldn't ya at least talk about the cute ones?' Deep-sea animals are indeed creepy; after all, they live in a totally different place.

“You should lend me an atlas if ya have one.”

“Sure, if I can.”

I answered unhesitatingly. Not that it matters, but whenever this girl says the word “atlas,” it just reminds me of the “Atlas for Kids” grade schoolers read. We should be in the same grade — could this be one of the school's seven mysteries?

Mifune-san clapped her hands and cracked a smile:

“Then your name from now on shall be Shinkai-san!”

“No, that's not smart at all...” Specifically, the combination of the names.

“Mm, then Shingyu-san.”

“Does every name you come up with overlaps with someone else's?”

And just like the Japanese dishes that focuses too much on preserving the original taste, they were always untouched.

Following her naming sense, people who likes spinach would be named P*peye, and criminals Harper.

“Hmm?” Finding no fault with her own declaration, Mifune-san tilted her head slightly.

I can welcome this type of quirk. Spending time together is always more interesting with a bit of variation.

On the surface, she looks like a modern girl; but on the inside, she’s a bit retro.

Appearing like the Heisei period, but actually the Shouwa period — that’s her impression.

Anyhow, I will register the nickname ‘Ryuushi-san’ in my heart.

I like the name: it’s not in bad taste, though I will pretend to not know who made it.

So ended my first day at the new school.

Since it’s the first time for every class, we didn’t learn anything significant, and I didn’t need to borrow the books of my neighbors.

And so, my reaction: boredom.

In the end, I dragged my useless bag out of class. Today, I will be all alone on the way home!

Ryuushi-san said “I gotta club today, so I’ll see ya tomorrow!” and left with a smile. I don’t know what club she goes to yet, but it’s worthy of imagination — nay, prediction .

“Hm~…” From her aura… Either drama or basketball.

While employing my brain on fruitless fantasy, I walked down stairs toward the shoe lockers. After changing my shoes, I discovered Maekawa-san at the neighboring row stretching by a pillar.

It’s like seeing a giant sword fish on a crane. Her stretching body gave off a terrifying air; she’s a candidate for creating shades along the summer road.

Her torso flexibly bent back; it was then she found my observing stare. For reasons unrelated to physiology, Maekawa-san blinked and spoke:

“Isn’t it the transfer student, what are you doing?”

“I am looking at Maekawa-san.” I spoke respectfully for some reason.

“Is that so? Whoooa!” She staggered backward, back still arched. How horrifying, it’s like the standing version of the Exorcist; I almost jumped back.

Before I actually ran away, she regained herself. “Ahh~ everything’s shaking~” She groaned while holding onto her head. Is she dizzy?

“Blood is rushing into my head… I’m seeing stars~” Halfway through her speech, she cracked a strange smile; it’s rather uncanny looking from the side.

“Going home with a bike?” She resumed, still leaning forward.

“Yeah, actually riding it, instead of being ridden…”

It wasn’t anything funny, but I still responded like that. Maekawa-san, though, burst out in light laughter; it seemed well-like. Considering our conversation this morning, she may actually be someone who laughs easily.

After she poised herself and re-did her hair, we unintentionally walked together to the parking lot. Walking side-by-side like this, I think I understand the mentality of wanting to call someone “Senpai!” or “Nee-chan!”

“Got plan for joining a club, transfer student?”

Maekawa-san gave way to the football club members who ran around the campus, and tossed me a casual topic.

“Nothing, really. I was the phantom member of paper craft during middle school and P.A during high school.”

“How are those related?”

“Then how about yourself?”

Hearing my counter-question, she looked away toward the falling cherry-blossom:

“About a year ago, I was invited to many clubs. Then a week later, they all see me as an extra. So now, I am the phantom of the art club.”

Was it injury? Family problem? Her heavy tone indicated such problems.

“May I ask why?”

“Hm, it’s nothing big, but I guess this is why.” Maekawa-san stopped suddenly, raising her arms in a victorious pose.

“…?” What if she asks me to do the same? I hesitated for a moment.

“Give me a second.” She told me to wait. Everyone, give me your energy! I looked up to where her arms pointed to, but the only object in the air was the sun. What is going on? As I looked back, I screamed embarrassingly – a frowning Maekawa-san staggered toward me, her slender legs unable to support her weight.

If I move, her body would likely to crash into the ground at full force. I could only accept the challenge of catching a meteor with my bare hands. Surprisingly, though, I easily caught her shoulders. Is Maekawa-san’s bone structure like a Pterodactyl’s? Her weight did not match her height, rather light for her height.

“Thanks.” She held her forehead even as she thanked.

“Ahh~ my ears are ringing, and blood is filling my head~” She spoke obliviously with mushy voice. What is wrong with this person?

“If I put my arms above my head for about ten seconds, I get dizzy; so basketball, volleyball and drama all gave up on my height. What do you call people like me?”

“A weakling.”

“That’s it. Not very useful, huh? I was fired from my part time job at the bookstore for this reason too.”

“………”

A magnificent yet frail Onee-sama, how charming!

No; a frail, yet magnificent Onee-sama, how charming! Sounds better this way.

Either one sounds girly as hell though.

Maekawa-san regained her posture and began fixing her hair. She may be mumbling “Uu, uu” but seemed like she could at least walk now.

“There was a blood drive last year, and I went. The nurse told me ‘You’re a big girl. So we’re taking 400cc!’ ignoring my explanation and began the procedure. Something strange happened though: I finished about twice as early as the big guy next to me. I think my blood flow is like faster than other people’s, maybe that’s why I get dizzy.”

“Oh~? That means your blood is clean, so isn’t that good? You don’t have to worry about artery hardening.”

“Yeah, the nurse also told me I’m likely screwed if I got into an accident.”

“I see.” Is this what they mean by “The weakness of the biggest weapon is its back?” Mm, mm~ tricky.

We temporarily separate upon reaching the storage room. Since I parked the bicycle there earlier, I was able to get it out immediately. Maekawa-san, who got here before I did this morning, also got her ride out.

The same as I it saw yesterday, her bike was an everyday, silver city bicycle. As a side note, we call these ‘Country bicycle’ where I came from! Of course not! We call them utility bikes, or their dialect equivalent.

As we carried the bikes out, a comment fell in the air.

“That’s a pretty retro bike!” As for who said it, take a guess.

I took the lead peddling forward. Counting yesterday, I went home with two different girl for two days straight. I am racking those Youth-points in! Does transferring improve my fengshui?

However, my fortune lasted until the school gate.

“Eh?” Maekawa-san gave a bewildered sound, easily passing me and increasing the gap.

I gazed with envy and despair at the wheels that spun effortlessly ahead of me.

Maekawa-san waited and looked back at the traffic light. She scowled at the distance between us, slowly waved at me.

Making her wait for me bothered me too, so I waved back.

She sped up even faster, her slender figure disappearing.

“…I lost to a weakling?”

Adding a bicycle onto the list of necessities, I decided to save up on my allowance.

☆

The first thing I saw back home was the lying futon-roll. I know you’re not a Chikuwa now!

Maybe I’m used to it; I didn’t feel a point lost.

Since there was a NEET fairy, or maybe a NEET who wants to become a fairy, in the middle of the hallway, I raised my foot to step on it. But since abusing of animal is frowned upon, I merely stepped over. Heave- “Ho… Whoa!”

My foot tripped on the suddenly active Swiss roll, and I landed on my butt: “Ow…”

Without any preparation, I fell. The floor squeaked at the quake. I am not generous enough to pretend that it was fortunate that no one, including the perpetrator herself, didn’t see me falling on my ass.

“Dammit…” I glared at the target of my words; Erio rolled on. “You little…!” I kicked the front end of the futon-roll, sending her forward until she stopped at the end of the hall.

Without the padding, she’d probably be bleeding out of her nose, like the loser of a brawl.

Man, mattresses are such nice things.

But since Erio didn’t move, I still went and check her safety.

“Still breathing?”

“Chance of survival: high.” She seemed lively.

“What are you doing anyway?”

“Act of vengeance. It is but natural: after discovering the act of physical contact which lacks common sense (rude), I must re-educate and-“

“Eat this.” I stomped on the futon-pattern where her butt should be. I’ve had enough of your rant.

Man, futons are simply perfect. I would never kick a girl, but I didn’t even think twice about this – futons just create a magnanimous air, like I could be forgiven for anything. Sixteen year after my birth, I learned the other function of the futon. What isn’t taught at school, you learn at home. Hmm, perfect.

This must be the education of city~ what a convenient excuse.

“And then? What’s an alien going to do outside during day time?”

“The cousin’s view is respected: we operate during the night.”

“What, so I still have to go?” Still stepping on her butt, I rolled her around. Yeah, futon-girl is not attractive at all. What a strange feeling, knowing how the person inside looks. It must looks like a rolled-up corpse from other's view.

“The cousin may be unsuitable as Watson, but you will do since I am understaffed.”

“I am so sorry for being so unreliable. Maybe the aliens should just use a recruit magazine.” I blocked Erio when she decided to attack again.

So she’s learned the taste and convenience of hitching a ride! Or has she decided that I’m her comrade, if what she said about aliens was true?

“The evening, huh…” I have to go buy dinner anyway: “Fine, I’ll take you.”

I am sort of interested in why she acts so cosmically. As long as I get to the bottom of it, I’m confident a line of “is that so?” is enough to stop her tirade. Mm, being with Erio sorts of put me on the edge.

I don’t know the reason, but she always either affirms my intuition or irritates me.

…Sigh, it doesn’t matter why or how, the important thing is we got closer after seeing the content of the futon.

“Then, free time until the night. Meeting adjourned. Farewell!” I lifted my foot and restriction on her.

The unchained Erio advanced – no, assaulted with a motion. I dodged backward, letting her roll all the way to the entrance. “Uu, uu…” Her feet seemed to have absorbed some impact, and she whined weakly. I gave a smile, feeling a bit warm on the inside.

Before heading upstairs, I peered into the kitchen. Pizza box on the table again; another half of a pizza on the inside:

“Then the inside of that futon… Ugh, must be like a blender!”

I pictured the status of Erio’s face, grabbing and pouring the barely tea in a cup, and gulped the drink. Maybe the water quality is different; it tastes different from the one back home.

The water of city tastes metallic. Perhaps, it tastes like blood.

☆

The night cometh. I actually wish it wouldn’t.

I finally arranged the books I brought on the shelf (I read a few nostalgic book half way through the process). To ventilate the musty room, I opened the window.

The heat precipitating in the room mixed with the warmth coming from outside.

“Oh~ I could see some stars!” Leaning on my arms, I looked out the window at the stars. Whirls of thin cloud played background, tracing out the evening sky. The transparency was almost the same as the night back home. “But the city’s lights are taking over the sky!” I scanned the city – not a speck of darkness. Lights from houses, stores, skyscrapers are incomparable to those in the country, which consists of maybe just the red beacon of radio towers. “Hm~”

Forget about that for now, if I could watch the stars with my friends on the park's bench, it'll give about two points. Especially during winter, when the air we breathe out turns into white smoke; even better if we have a can of drink to warm ourselves. “Hm—“ By the way, the mosquitoes during summer time would be annoying. “Hmhm—“ Shut it. How are you even speaking?

Erio, whom I intentionally princess-carried down the stairs (I actually wanted to kick her down), complained incessantly with eyes that emitted 'Are we going? Are we going?' Our destination was not the entrance, but the kitchen.

Like a dog who hates to take baths, Erio struggled when I tried to clean her up. I held her and forcefully took off the futon. Pieces of dry cheese and tomatoes stuck on her hair, and because of her rolling, there were even crusts on her neck. How admirable of her to lie down like that and even trip people!

Even sadder was that despite touching Erio’s skin a bunch, I didn’t feel my blood and pulse dilating. I felt like I was taking care of a needy animal, even though I shouldn't have become used to touching her. Somehow, I lose.

“Alright, you're done.” I let go of her after wiping where the eyes can see. Erio sprinted to the other futon I prepared without a word of thanks. Before hiding her face into the half-wrapped futon, she gave me a dry glance of “tie it for me?” with a heart sign… Probably not. I sighed and spitefully tied the rope.

“Hiding your only merit… You an ascetic? Or a hermit?”

“Is it really wise to expose a cosmic existence such as myself?”

“No, but you're totally exposed in some other way!” People like you are generally branded as socially ignorant.

As her compadre, I may also be lobbed in the same category. Sigh, nothing I could do.

People like me just have to suffer to get close to girls.

The loss with Ryuushi-san isn't obvious yet, but sooner or later I'll have to pay for my fortune; I thought melancholily.

Futon adjustment complete. I lifted Erio, whose sole exposure was her head, and carried her out the door. Would someone mistake me as a kidnapper of cute girls? I worried anxiously, and tossed her into the bicycle basket. Combination complete; in some ways, this is also a Itasha.

“Alright, where to? Do heroes of justice really have a destination?”

“I must investigate the site. Further instruction will be issued.”

“Now.”

“Right turn after leaving the house.”

What a convenient and comprehensive cosmic command.

With a kick, the bike began its motion: “Alright, now what?”

“...Initiating telepathy.”

“Sorry, left my phone and TV at home, so I can't receive your signal~ So, left or right ?”

“ Left side .”

Even with the directions stitched in between our banter, the bike traveled at a speed that provided plenty time. I hate this!

I didn't understand my GPS's navigation, so I stopped for a second.

“ Rewrite .” She tried to sound cool. You can read days as daizu, and I still won't laugh!

“A straight with momentum.” Didn't think baseball is popular in space. You a part of Major League Spaceball?

“ Sunny-side up .” And that's cooking. Her terms were all over the place.

...Just where was she headed?

☆

Our destination was the beach across the city.

Night beach!

I emphasized again – this was the reward of two-hours of nonstop pedaling.

Am I accomplished now? I waited for the feeling to come over, but there wasn't much change.

Even in the city, the beach was quiet and dark.

I had to walk to the shore; It couldn't be helped. The sand shuffled – shuffled! - under my feet.

I got excited for no reason and paced like a chicken. Like a tap dancer, I kicked quickly, making more shuffling sound. Wow! I must looked stupid!

On the other side, the light tower consisted of futon and a pair of legs stood by the night sea. Romantic – the farthest possible connection. Waves coated Erio's ankles. Fixed, she stared the horizon. I think.

“What are you doing~? If you are seeing things, the eye doctor is always open!”

Maybe it's hard for her tell~ there are times when, in human society, we see 'things' we don't need to see~ Well, it didn't matter to the me who was having so much fun alone at the beach.

“Ah~Ha! Ah~haha… hah… phew...hah...hah...” Sorry, I can't do it anymore.

Hands on my knees, I heaved heavily. I'm exhausted. Totally forgot I just biked all the way here, doing too much leg workout – on sand, too. I'll have an appointment with sore muscle tomorrow.

“...Ah?”

I saw the supposedly still Erio moving closer to the beach. The futon gradually sunk into the surface, yet her strides were fearless and rhythmic.

Her head was inside the futon with no escape.

...Oi, oi!

Even though I just used all of my energy, I could only rush after Erio:

“Are you here to kill yourself?!”

She ignored my call; water reached her waist.

Ah, she fell like an idiot. She had no way of standing up because of her trapped arms.

This is the same as suicide by drowning. Are you stupid? Are you?!

“Ahhhhh!!” I kicked open the water, saving a moron. Like a scuba diver, I picked her up. What now?

It would be easy to just leave her here. As expected, she irritates me no end.

“Pu~” Water spumed from the futon. “Hng!” I pulled open the cover, letting Erio's face out. Her wet bang stuck on the forehead; she looked at me expressionlessly.

“Oi, ya crab, don't mess around like that. I will tie you up like a shrimp later, so stop pretending to be a crustacean.”

I pulled Erio out of the sea. With the water absorbed, her weight increased a lot.

“Floatation is possible in this coordinate; I had tested.”

“No, you were sinking because of the futon...”

“Even I… lack some knowledge.”

“Oh~ right~ then this must be a great experience.” I don't care anymore.

If I let Erio walk on her own, she may end up drowning again, so I carried her. Is this how a bored surfer feel as they return to the shore? Also, she's heavier than Maekawa-san!

“So, why did you come here?”

“I visit here and investigate on a regular basis, for it has everything.”

“All the way here? Walking too… Are you bored — no, stupid, or really enthusiastic?”

The only thing I was sure of, listening to all that, was 'you've got some stamina.'

“No, I flew here.”

“Hah?”

Her unexpected comeback astonished me. Erio spoke, spitting water and words:

“In the cousin's pitiful vocabulary — I can fly. During emergencies such as the diving from earlier, I will be able to evacuate using aviation.”

“…...” I was glad for not thinking of something like that. How comforting for my brain.

Many aliens and heroes are able to fly without training or reason — that is to be accepted.

…Such is the convenience of being an alien: you don't have to explain anything!

“It was a miscalculation of astronomical chance. There won't be a next time.”

“It doesn't matter if it was a miscalculation, you're gonna die if you're gonna die. Jokes or not, death is death: the only difference is the person's feeling. The result is just that.”

“…...The cousin with low predicted-IQ is lecturing me.”

“Har-har, insult me more!”

Sigh~ I'll admit: I can't even beat a game's IQ test!

“You call yourself an alien, yet you can't warp?”

“Advanced technologies will interfere with an otherwise impartial investigation.”

“Take notes from the futuristic robot cat then.”

Without room for discussion, I had to bike all the way back. Wet clothes stuck to my skin, the wind chilled me shivering, and my legs were swollen as well. This is the worst.

I wasn't hungry anymore – I just wanted to puke. How I wished to just jettison my cargo and not give a crap.

We left home at six; it's about eight now, so we'd be home at ten. It might be my first time out so late, because of my parents' strict upbringing.

Meme-san is probably already home waiting for our return. I do want to go home, but I fear facing my aunt. Is she the type to get angry with her kids being late, or is she laid-back?

She may be either indifferent toward or have completely given up on Erio, but she's always found ways to make fun of me. For example: “Oh no~ Makoto turned into a delinquent~ It's all my fault. Yay~ I didn't stutter~ Now I have to tell your parents. You son has been tainted, and often stays out late. He's even came home wet – really, really wet, like (the below content has been deleted due to unsavory content).”

Ugh. I hate this: these two robbed me too much of my peace.

As I quivered my way through another street, tongue out from dehydration, I saw a woman trapped in a sandwich hiding behind the street light. Thoughts interrupted.

“…...”

“……”

We stared at each others. Uh, what kind of sandwich is that?

Well, as expected of the city: full of freaks!

...Now isn't the time to be impressed. We got a wacko here too in the basket, kicking the basket and being annoying. Was it an act of intimidation? Aliens are so barbaric and rude.

“Transfer student… Transfer student of the night.”

There was no need to pull the content out from the sandwich – simply put, she was Maekawa-san.

She calmly strode closer after discovering my existence. Um, is this really my classmate? I suspected the person wearing a sandwich outfit.

From afar, she looked like a Nurikabe after losing weight. Or a yam cake that ran away from a store. For some reason, she held a corny sign that said “Just five thousand yen.” Whoa, what is that~?

My understanding caught up then, however, and I chose to ignore it.

What's wrong with her? I know I asked the same thing earlier, but this time out of totally different reasons.

“Good evening, I am the sandwich woman.” She politely greeted. Must have been hard to bow in all that!

“...That name sounds like the heroine out of a third-rate hero film.”

“Was it not funny? Sandwich woman in a sandwich outfit.”

“I couldn't care for it.” We just want to get warm!

“Hm~ he doesn't care… Nevertheless, I am the sandwich woman — not man. Do remember that.”

“No… What you care about really doesn't matter.” If it bothers your that much, please try to emphasize more on your feminine part, ok?

“It does. Totally does — I'm a girl.”

Maekawa-san stubbornly maintained. I've heard the opposite of that saying, but it was fresh hearing someone insist herself as a girl.

“I take secret pride in hearing someone say 'you look like a model' and 'do you go to a beauty salon.'”

It isn't secret anymore if you divulge it. Are you asking for complements?

“'You look like a model!'”

“…...” Maekawa-san grinned with satisfaction.

What kind of stupid contest is this?

“Maekawa-san, how tall are you?” I asked what I was curious about, forgetting the whole thing with the cosplay.

“One hundred and seventy nine point nine centimeters.” She puffed out her chest – or rather, the sign – and answered boastfully.

“Ah~ so, a hundred eighty?”

“No – 179.9.”

“...There!” I tipped on my toes and grabbed a strand of her hair. “Now you are!”

“How dare you!!”

“Oh, oh~” Now she's pissed. Maekawa-san burst in anger. Did I rub her the wrong way?

I kept my guard up in the event of being grabbed by my collar, but Maekawa-san slumped lethargically. Amidst this deja vu, she mumbled dispiritedly:

“Uuu~~ The ringing… Man, I've always had chronic headache whenever I yell. It must be because of my lifestyle…. Probably. But why do I get shoulder aches then?”

“…...” How impressive of you, being sickly while not being labeled as sickly.

After the resurrection of Maekawa-san, she gave me an unhappy look. I held responsibility for making her like this.

Hmph! She turned away, noticing the object in the basket in the process.

“What's this? The transfer student reeks of crime!” Thanks, exposed legs on the futon.

“Yeah, I know, but she's totally alive! She's, uh, a fellow cosplayer like you.”

“That's a pretty cool character~ Not even a ten-week manga would take her~”

“Then, uh, a mascot, yeah… She's homely-looking, suffocating and miserable; her name is the futon-roll...”

“Why not just toss it in the sea… Hey, isn't this Touwa?...I think! I can't see her face, but there isn't anyone else like that around here.”

“Oh, you know her?”

“Everybody except new students or transfer students knows her. Unless you're a spy.”

Maekawa-san gave me a sideways glare. Oh, I'm a suspected spy cause I'm a transfer student? What kind of data am I stealing? Report on the bland taste of the cafeteria-sold bread? Who am I reporting to?

“She was notorious for a while… You know her, but not about that? She disappeared for half a year, from June till November. Right, Touwa?”

Erio repeated knocked on the basket with her ankles without speaking. Is she awkward about meeting her classmate? No, I don't think she's capable of that emotion. Plus they are sandwich and futon, food and furniture.

…Mm~ the mattress is winning slightly. I won't say what the contest is about though.

Anyway, 'disappearance…' What's that about?

Perhaps sensing my curiosity, Maekawa-san explained without regard of the person in question:

“Touwa said she was abducted by aliens; I thought maybe she just watched too much X-F*les. She even said she's an alien investigating earth, creeping everybody out before she left. I think she also watched too much cup noodle commercial!”

Maekawa-san's poignant words were unrestrained, even when the party involved was right there. Erio banged even harder, ceaselessly protesting.

...Alien, kidnap, and disappearance. Hm, I think I can kind of see why she acts like this.

“So, why is the transfer student traveling with Touwa? Riding double… Hm, technically you are. What could this mean?”

Maekawa-san revealed a prying smile. It's amazing how she didn't come across as repugnant.

“Nah, it's cuz we're cousins.” I tapped the futon-roll.

The frail Maekawa-san was shocked into a stagger, almost falling again. “Whoah!”

“Wow~ seriously? You are relatives? And you live together?”

“I didn't even say anything about that!” Do I got a poster on my back?

Maekawa-san was shocked (skip). Is this person's learning capability also that weak?

“Wow, I was just kidding when I said that, that's why I'm surprised again. That's amazing, transfer student — I thought your were just a normal guy with no personality, but you have some extraordinary background.”

The classmate of mine squinted at me like I was some exotic beast. Her already sharp eyes became even slimmer, making me wonder what she was staring at,

“Man~ if everyone in class knew about this, there will be a storm! Use your power and plunge the world into chaos!”

“City people are really into scandals!”

“Aha, I'm just kidding. I won't tell anyone — for now.”

Maekawa-san agreed to postpone with a dangerous condition.

“Well, I guess its better if I don't say it — you don't enjoy storms, do you?”

“Oh, please spare me!” I was just tossed around in the sea, blown by cold wind and am now shivering.

Imperceptibly, Erio had already stopped her protest, exhausted from all the kicking. You tried, NEET.

“What is Maekawa-san doing here?” I don't know why, but I sometimes talk politely.

“I'm just strolling around; I like the night sky, especially the clouds.”

…Uh. Is this person also trying to get Youth-points?

But, wearing that?

Perhaps noticing my stare, Maekawa-san simply supplied a reason that sounded like an excuse:

“I usually wear something else, like a uniform. I just felt like wearing this today.”

Why would you ever feel like dressing up as bread? D-do you want to be eaten? (I uselessly accelerated my heartbeat)

“Do you have this kind of hobby?”

“'This kind of hobby'…?” She gawked. Oh, she can totally open her eyes! I thought they'd stay squinted all the time!

“Cosplaying.”

“Hm~ kind of! On my day-offs, I walk around in all sorts of outfits.”

'All sorts of'…? Um, would this mix my imaginations with some bias?

Maekawa-san looked troubled, the skin of her face gathered at the nose.

“Hm~ I orginally just wanted to be like the 2D(?) characters I liked… But, how do I put it, it just felt strange. Isn't it rare for there to be a female character close to 179.9 centimeters in a manga? So I thought “this doesn't suit me~” when I saw myself in the mirror. The cosplay just didn't look right, so I gave up on that. Now I focus on shop uniforms and mascot costumes.”

“Mascots?” The word made me think bipedal mice and Hello cat (is it white?).

“I'll show you next time.”

“Well, if I have to say it… No thanks.” Compared to that, I want to see her in a uniform more. That's too blatant, so I stopped myself.

“I use the name Kibo-nengu Deko when I cosplay. It's my handle, so call me that during the night~” She spoke in Edo accent for some reason.

“Kibo-nengu-san, huh?...Can I switch the kana's around to call you Maekawa-san?”

“What kind of reconstruction did you do to get 'Maekawa' out of those five kana's?”

I still don't know Maekawa-san's first name.

When I parked the bike into the storage, I had just realized Erio was dozing off.

“Isn't it hard to fall asleep like that?”

I was honestly dead tired too, yawning constantly. If Patrasche were to find me, I would definitely pass out.

As I entered the house with Erio in my arms, I noticed a pair of shoes that was absent when we left.

“We're back.” I whispered, expecting the owner to not notice. Good.

I ascended upstairs without anyone seeing us, walked to the end of the hall and into Erio's room.

I let her down and removed the wet futon, in case she got sick. And there goes the first time I take off a girl's clothes. Uwah~ Another page in the memories I want to forget.

“Hng...Mm...” Erio wriggled, trying to block out the light from entering her eyes.

There wasn't any futon left, so I covered her with a few sheets of summer blanket.

Since the weather was warmer, it should be fine. As for bathing, she would have to take the advantage of being a NEET — whenever she wants.

But I couldn't do that; I had to quickly grab a bite from downstairs, take a shower and go to sleep. Unlike before, I don't have the luxury of having someone to wake me.

In the kitchen, Meme-san was eating the Erio's leftover pizza.

“Ah, welcome home~ You want some too, Makoto?”

“...That's Erio's Pizza.”

“Don't worry yourself. She's already asleep in her room, right?”

Meme-san swallowed the pizza and wiped her mouth with her fingers and napkin.

“She was awake when we were out, but she fell asleep halfway home.”

“Oh my, Erio went out with you? Mhm~”

Her obvious nonchalant attitude with her daughter was actually evidence of her affection.

“So you went out together, huh?”

“I was patrolling with a world Mediator armed with alien technology.”

“Ah~ Right, right. I miss those days~”

I pulled up the chair directly opposite of her, my hand grabbing the pizza on its own.

“I heard Erio went missing last year.”

“Hm, she did. Though I think it should be called 'disappeared.'”

We began devouring the pizza assiduously while talking about the absent family member; it wasn't exactly blooming with excitement.

“Was she kidnapped?”

“Who knows. It didn't look crime-related from how she looked afterward: she didn't lose weight and was uninjured.”

“Then, she ran away from home?”

I split the last slice in half, one for each of us. Meme-san continued after gulping down her food:

“In June, she was supposed to come back home like everyday, but I didn't see her again till November – floating in the sea. Police tried retracing her steps and memory, but they found nothing… At least it was proven that Erio remembered nothing during those six months. Simply put, she had amnesia.”

“So she filled the blank with the whole alien thing?”

I clenched my jaw hard.

“I think so. She loved the cosmos as a kid, so I think she chose what she knew about most as a mean to escape the fear of losing memory.”

“…...”

“Hm? Why do you look so angry, Makoto?”

“No, not really… Well, I'm not angry with you.”

My anger was with that part of Erio – the part that no one knows about.

“Aliens…? Dumbass. You idiot. Give us some proof, dammit!”

I lied on the table, complaining about the person who wasn't here. I knew I was talking to myself, but I got a response.

“She wanted to prove herself, but failed.”

“What...?” I looked up.

“Erio tried flying down the river on a bike; she landed on the shallow parts and broke her leg… In the hospital, she started wearing futon around her.”

“The bike...” So that's why. The rusty bike must be the aftermath of the failed alien-playhouse.

You totally can't fly…!

Anyway, I'll feel angry first with how she ruined a bicycle.

Meme-san poured me a cup of tea, and I drank it gratefully. Keeping quiet, I tried to calm myself. Perhaps because she's exhausted from working, Meme-san didn't joke at all, instead stretching a lot.

I wanted to take a shower right after asking the most important questions.

“How was Erio born? At least it didn't seem like my parents knew about her.”

“Wu—Cough, cough!” Surprisingly, Meme-san choked on her tea. She covered her mouth with the cup and looked away. That must be the look of a child who was caught playing a prank.

“She… There isn't much to say! She's like the mysteriously delicious drink that you would somehow make in a family restaurant.”

“You are too old for this. What are you hiding?” I especially accentuated the old part.

“There should only be one kind of fluid that made her~”

“Meme-san, you're becoming the inappropriate character!”

Is this person really related to my antediluvian dad?

“Hm, I guess maybe the aliens were involved after all.”

“Is that the best excuse you have??”

But, still… It wouldn't be too strange for Erio's birth to be labeled with “alien involved.” If her looks were because of some divine intervention, then aliens are definitely going to be great friends with us earthlings. Nice taste, guys, go make some figures!

“Even your aunt me doesn't really remember when I had her!”

“Hey!” You hag! Why are you lamenting?!

“The story that I was pregnant with her after an alien abduction is actually growing on me.”

“I bet you just played around too much when you were young!” And you just don't want to admit it.

Meme-san glared at me with an upset pout, as if saying “that was surprising.” It didn't last long though, as she relaxed with a sigh:

“O.K. I yield! I am the mother!”

“Uh-huh.”

“And you are the father.”

“Please at least be quiet when you're guilty.”

As expected, she's helpless. We need more people to fix her problems.

- Listening to Erio's rant while eating dinner with her in the park: +1

- Eating lunch with Ryuushi-san in class for the first time: +1

- Going home with Maekawa-san +1

- Went to the night beach with Erio: +1

- Meeting the cosplay woman, in other words Maekawa-san: +1

Youth-Point Total: -4

### 011. Chapter 4: The Lost Teenage Paranoia

## Chapter 4 - The Lost Teenage Paranoia

Rather than with lateral movement, she seemed more apt with longitudinal one's.

Oh, by 'she' I meant Touwa Erio.

The time was Saturday afternoon — a time filled with laziness. Warm light seeped into the window, endowing the room with serenity and dryness. To escape the sun, I leaned onto the entrance directly opposite of the window, reading the book I bought yesterday. Ryuushi-san recommended it to me after introducing me to the store.

Spending time alone in my own room could almost temporarily erase all the troubles.

Yet something stiflingly hot sat next next to me ruined the moment.

“...Why are you in my room?”

“UweeUwee~” Deciphering her is a pain, so I substituted her lines into a cute phrase.

From what I heard, this thing sleeps at ten everyday and wakes up at six on the second day. Erio's lifestyle is way healthier and more staunch than what it seems – not that it matters, because she looks like that . Still, there were things to learn from her.

“UweeUwee~”

“Oh~ I see. I didn't think it was so profound of a reason.”

Basically, I think she meant “since you're free, and I am too, why not bring me to the beach?” which is why I tried to ignore her, lying down or facing away from the noise source.

I don't want to waste my precious weekend on the water that does not pay off the energy it takes to get there. Some energy is only restored and accrued through alone times. If I were to go out, I'd rather it be like a date with Ryuushi-san.

Because Erio permeates the signs of stagnation. In that futon, she looks like the fairy of NEET: even if the content is beautiful, it is still on the same level as the smooth hands of those who refuse to do works or chores.

“…...” I peeked at her face – hm, I didn't even know where it was!

On that note, she's also been purposefully moving next to me since earlier.

Maybe she was looking down at her feet to follow my movement, like a dot on the x and y axis. It's like the table football me and my friends were obsessed with back home – she shuffled about like the hand bars on to the table. The thought of tripping and using her as a pillow sprouted. My chance of winning at this table football game, though, dropped to the third of a thousand.

“Huu~Hah~Huu~Hah~” The thigh-and-futon in front of me changed her breathing sound.

If she regress any further, would she turn into a water flea?

Her choices after giving up her human status would fall into the top five most primitive animals.

This girl wasn't oppressive, but the pressure was still strong enough to affect my breathing.

“...Stop trying to brainwash me. My country-bred brain can't decipher your noises!”

Shoo! I nudged her back with the back of my hand.

But if you earnestly used your looks to your advantage, I wouldn't be so sure… I'm truly helpless.

“Dammit, go away. Why don't you read some books too?”

“Hah~Huu~Hah~Huu~”

After calming down, she flipped onto her stomach. This preposterous entity does exists on Earth. Go back to your planet, dammit.

We lied on the floor and read the novel together. I wish it was that simple.

“Uu~Ee~Wu~Ee~” My neighbor swung her feet, protesting her treatment.

“Hah? The room is too dark for reading? Isn't x-ray vision easy for a ' super ?'

Or rather, you should just write the contents too and submit it when you're done.

A certain Light Novel and Illustration contest is looking for people too… wait, what was that?

Is this what they meant by that “He that lieth down with dog” thing? I have only known Erio for two weeks, yet my brain is corrupting at a surprising speed. If this goes on, the worst case scenario would be the birth of the combination of my body and Erio's brain. I need to at least resist… But do I? Maybe the order would be reversed, resulting in the combination of my brain and the futon. I don't want to give up on being a human. You could try to entice me by saying “you could spend a whole day in a futon with Erio~” but the only thing affected would be my heartbeat.

Two rings of doorbell came downstairs, from the window's direction, notifying us of a visitor. From the timing and her action prior, I predicted the visitor's identity.

“Alright, the cheese disk from space is here. Go get it… Well, not like I'll let you.”

And that's the gist of it. Setting the usual aside, I do try to maintain the Touwa family's reputation, as a guest should. …I may or may not have thought this when I brought Erio to the entrance.

As a side note, the house owner Meme-san left a 'I'm going to work. Even though it's the weekend… No day off...” complaint full of curses and went out early this morning. She mumbled about at least hoping it to be lucky today, dashed out on the bicycle with — intentionally — a piece of toast in her mouth.

“Ah, so she's snapped already.” I saw my aunt away with the new understanding.

I paid the haunch-backed deliveryman and received the pizza. He was different than the usual chill guy, obviously wary toward Erio. Maybe the usual guy just turns a blind eye, so he acts friendlier. Just as I re-realized the peculiarity of the object next to me, the sound 'woosh!' came where my hands were (Erio stole the pizza).

Pitter-patter, pitter-patter… She darted into the kitchen in scattered steps. If she falls down now, it'd look like the colored version of the pied face. I thought as I slowly followed her.

I entered and sat at my spot in the kitchen, pouring two people's worth of tea.

Next, the routine feeding.

Erio ripped off half the pizza, aimed, and tossed it.

Shew~ The pizza dance in the sky.

“Shew~” Like catching a bouquet, I intercepted the food midair. Greasy. Splash! My finger-orchestra played a realistic soprano. The image of a piano played in the middle of a silent classroom emerged – a highly self-conscious feeling.

I hurriedly caught the parts that were falling off where I grabbed the pizza. The original target, Erio, opened her mouth upward like a nestling. As if trying to grasp the situation, she wriggled in the futon, waiting for her evil mother to drop the food.

“Strip.”

If it was her, I could easily spit out words that would lead me to being sued by normal girls.

This must be what they call trust, right? Am I right, or am I right, dear fictional readers?

“For once, why don't you eat normally? I don't want to eat with you if you're going to be like that.”

Even though I didn't want to eat with her, I don't mean I didn't want to eat with her. The ambivalent motivation rocked the mass of my stomach back and forth.

“WueeHuu~” Erio appeared to be complaining. She flapped her legs under the table, probably angered by the denial of her sustenance. I kept thinking about throwing a Frisbee inside instead of a pizza.

“I'm gonna take off the futon!”

I loosened the cheep D.I.Y seal, letting the house air pollute Touwa Erio.

Hearing my declaration, she attempted an escape; I caught her with my leg. “UwahUwah~” A mysterious constraint threw Erio into a disarray. I ignored her reaction, dismantling the clothe line and forcing the innards out into the sun.

“Wow, nice to see ya.” The particles weren't flying today, obediently covering her hair.

Erio smacked my hand and the futon away, shutting her eyes, as if saying “accursed Earthling!”

How do I put it — only her eyes moved, giving the impression that her face lacked exercises.

'You think that's enough to stop me?' She stiffened her torso and pierced me with eyes shining with pride.

Erio grabbed the pizza.

Like doing origami, she folded the pizza in half, swept the topping off and ate them. Then, she stuffed the folded bread in her mouth and began the futon-wrapping process.

“…...” Flaunting at me like that, are you a kid?

“UweeUwee~” Between the futon and the sound of chewing, Erio meant “tie it for me!”

Fingers twitching, I contemplating on strangling her as well.

I filled my stomach with the other half of the pizza and went back to my room.

Erio followed. Now I have a padding in case I fall, how reassuring… I may or may not have thought that.

So why does she stick with me? She must be seeing me as a comrade. What a pain!

We sat against the room's desk and listened to some music.

Erio snatched one of my earbuds away, rustling it under the futon and listened in. I hope Earth music is to your taste.

“......”

Snuggled next to a girl and sharing earbuds.

...Wait, what? This was supposed to be an enviable situation, yet my Youth-point calculator didn't move — there wasn't even light hitting the solar cell.

Mm, indeed I didn't see the neighboring object wrapped in globe pattern futon as a girl. But I did the sandwich Maekawa-san — why?!

Taking advantage of the confusion, my Karaoke solo begun:

“Go back to your planet, alien.”

These lines were harsh, but not exactly spiteful. I evaluated calmly, swallowing the bitterness, and spoke.

“The universe is huge, so stop staying over at earth. The other galaxies are yours, so get a move on. Don't be like one of those mistaken 'friends' who stay over to eat dinner!”

“…UweeUwee~” They didn't pick you up? Were you ostracized?

Not just on the earth, but also in the galaxy. It's big, I guess, but that's still pretty empty.

Are you one of those people who panic when they hear P.E teacher yell 'pick your partner?'

I guess alien relationship is complicated too.

“Do aliens need oxygen to survive?”

“UweeUwee~” Hmph, how dull.

“Why do aliens like earth?”

“UuhoUuho~” Oh~ then go to a country with more beautiful women!

“Do aliens… like pizza?”

“UweeUwee~” That's all they eat… If a pizza shop sets up on moon, it'd be pretty popular.

Ugh—

She seriously annoys me.

Her wheels just don't spin.

So why, then, am I with her?

Under the spring sun, the question and sentiment spread in my mind.

☆

A lot happened in the two weeks passed since I moved here.

My books got here, and I don't get lost in school anymore.

I also made a few guy friends, whose primary reason of associating with me seemed to be Ryuushi-san.

“Why are you suddenly buddies?”

I don't know.

“What, did you know each other before?”

I don't know.

“What's your name, by the way?”

Leave me alone. Above were all my real thoughts, but my literal responses were slightly retouched. Below are some examples —

Q: Why are (skip)? A: “Cuz I lost to her during a race, now she's onto me.”

Q: What, did (skip)? A: “If we've never met in the previous life, then no.”

Q: What's your name again? A: “Leave me alone.”

I tried thinking seriously.

I'm not a transfer student anymore, neither am I special.

Maybe because of that, Ryuushi-san talks to me every chance she gets, probably to prevent my fate of becoming the shunned student A in class. In this time and age, rather than saying her kindness is wasted in the city, it's more like you can't get it anywhere but the paradise!

One of the three dudes asked me after hearing my explanation:

“Why do you get special treatments?”

I didn't know, so I asked.

“Hmmm, I like being the background class-rep character, y'know? The type people trust base on her abilities instead of title: someone who doesn't stumble easily. So I decided to win you over first! By the way, I was the head of lunch back in elementary school!”

“…Something like that.”

“So why you?”

Give me a break! The eternal loop of Ryuushi-san Q&A began again, so I changed topic into “how much older can your lover be?” One of them said “Up to forty is fine.” Such desperate response made me really want to introduce a person to him.

After the seat change (completely done with drawing lot), I made a few guy friends. The price was the lost of Maekawa-san, who was now three or four seats away from me, and the opportunity to talk with her in class.

Ryuushi-san also moved to the seat close to the entrance window, which was the farthest possible distance from me. But she always swings by my seat to eat with me during lunch.

Setting our relationship aside, the curious glances from everyone else was getting sharper.

The gentle Ryuushi-san sang 'an unbalanced diet is an unbalanced heart' — a tune like a certain grade school's slogan — while giving the mushrooms in her bento to me, who always had simple bread. Is her sharing of food with the publicly vegetable-liking yet secretly shroom-hating me the manifestation of her naivete? If it was the result of careful calculation, I would have probably been gnawed to the bones and thrown away.

...And like so, my school life is generally good. Figuratively speaking, it would be the front wheel of a bicycle.

The family, which represented the rear wheel, would be the problem.

☆

I was forced to accompany Erio to the faraway beach at night.

“Ugh, what a pain. I have to study.” After my decline, the futon-girl would shadow me everywhere, groaning about how important her tasks were. She would even arbitrarily come into my room to watch TV. “Beep~Beep~Tss~Tss~” was the sound of her cosmic exchange. She's pretty much a new breed of monster. I beg you to migrate to that world where nothing is impossible.

Sometimes I give in to her persistence and go out with her, surprising even myself.

Why?

Honestly, some parts of Erio vexed me to no end.

But I still served as her driver every three days.

And Erio would walk to the beach during daytime for the remaining days.

Toward the sea where she floated amnesiacally.

In a way, her consistency and perseverance impress me.

“Would your memory come back in a bottle if you come here? This isn't exactly like how the culprit would come back to his crime scene, y'know?”

I sat on a terribly corroded bench that was away from the waves and inquired the stalled mattress. She didn't answer or look back.

lately, when we come here, Erio only looks out from the futon as if peeking at something.

Slightly sticky wind blew every now and then, lifting Erio's exposed hair and stealing the particles. But then it would immediately start emitting rays again — from just the neck up, she really is pretty.

What a waste. The thought appeared as I stared at the back of her head.

Maybe I'll think differently if I look at her side face! I couldn't openly stare though, because it's embarrassing.

“But… it really is quiet.”

I checked last time, kind of hoping to see delinquents or biker gang occupying the place, but I saw neither cherry blossom or grass that should be growing during spring, nor people who came to do some early water-dipping. Sigh, motorcycles rust around water, so I doubt anyone would come.

I took off my sandals and followed the beach line to Erio. Man, I'm already used to the shuffle of sand. Human nature is truly depressing, always casually devouring the food of life and making a mess.

As for Youth-points, it counted during the first time, but not anymore since it became a weekly routine.

“Oi, space girl, can you hear me?”

“Speak, Earth ape.”

A venomous riposte, with a simple 'Earth' added in. There are aliens apes, too?… Oh, there are!

That's a movie though.

“Why are you still here, if you're an alien?”

Back to your home world. I think like this because I'm a xenophobic Japanese.

“Don't tell me you're the vanguard of an alien invasion force who fell from a ship.”

“How did you know?”

Didn't know she could improvise a shocked expression. Not that I care. Oh well.

If her delusion is for the protection of her subconscious memory, then oh-well.

“Also, your mom totally looks Japanese! Where were you born in space?”

“It is inexpressible in Earth tongue. Based on my judgment, the cousin's score in the Earth's world language, English, is below the decimal points, rendering it impossible for you to comprehend.”

“Hey, that's going too far!” You're overestimating my grade.

Cough, cough!

She created a barrier made of linguistic energy. Is it really that scary to lose all your memory?

...Perhaps it is.

It is essentially death.

Sometime I see the transformed Maekawa-san of the night — our habits seem to have significant overlapping.

“Maekawa-san, what do you think of aliens?”

I sat on the swing of the kid's park (where me and Erio ate dinner), curious of the girl who was energetically carrying out the pendulum motion next to me.

After bumping into Maekawa-san, Erio would always head home first.

By the way, Maekawa-san was wearing a convenient store's uniform: the ones with green and white stripes.

We had a lot of those stores back home, but I have yet to see one here — the company probably hasn't expanded here.

“Aliens… Have you been infected by Touwa, transfer student?”

She sought the pleasure of fast swings, despite having to bend her knees.

Initially, Maekawa-san swung with straightened back. Her head rammed right onto the metal bar above, making her writhe painfully in the muddy ground for a few minutes. “Ack…”

Her store uniform now looked like a baseball player's after sliding in mud.

“No, I'm just curious. You don't have to be serious, but what do you think of them?”

“Hm, well… I suppose they're not too different from religions. Some believe in them, some make money off of them, but I feel like people seek spiritual comfort from both.”

“Huh… I see.”

“Besides Touwa, do you have other reason for asking this?”

“There is. I want to use it as a reference as to how I should think and do.”

Since ignoring our Miss Touwa-san is not good for my health.

Strange, though. I actually wanted to get closer to Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san, but why am I wasting time with Erio at the beach? Ever since moving here, I haven't gotten my Youth-points to positive. I thought I actually wanted to spend more time with people who aren't Erio.

“Oh yea. Wanna dress up with me, if you're free tomorrow?”

“At least think of something I would want to do!”

“Hahah, whatever animal you want, I have all~ of them!'

“Chupacabra.”

“Alright! Let's go drink some blood! Our targets will be couples!”

“You have it?!”

It's not B.S? Someone found the real deal?!

“Sigh, I can't go even if you have it. I got things tomorrow.”

“Things? Someone who looks as free as you? What could it be?”

“Things.”

Maekawa-san smacked me with the arm of a Gibbons. Her arms went up at full speed and fell on me.

But, if you keep this up…

“Ahh~” After three strikes, Maekawa-san faltered.

“U~wahh~ The blood~ The blood is rushing into my head~”

She kneeled down in a daze. The swing swished by in a pendulum motion, grazed her back and…

“...Ah.” What do you call this awkward feeling?

The almost palpable 'pain' appeared before my eyes.

☆

I made a date with someone yesterday.

At the station that I had never been to since two weeks of moving here, I arrived at eleven o'clock.

Since I told the other person I only know the streets around the taxi stands, she supportingly said, “Then we'll meet around there~” I rode my bike to the meeting location.

I took a while deciding on my outfit… In the end, I wore a shirt and a pair of cargo shorts – basically what I usually wear. Is it better to wear something that has more city-ness (what?) I regretted a bit, but considering what the wearer is composed of, there's not much use lamenting… I grabbed my bangs; I'll probably dye my hair sooner or later.

Besides, spending an entire night going through all my clothes, arguing back and forth 'this looks better~no, this looks better~' is already Youth-points worthy. Well, whatever. In any case, I was a bit tired.

Instead of Erio, a satchel sat in the basket. The basket is finally doing its real job!

“Sigh, I guess I can't assume things about that either.”

There isn't a point in thinking about the meaning of life.

What I refer to is my basket's regular, Erio, who walked to the beach today as well. She begged me to be her personal driver even on the weekends, so I fled here after running away from her. I didn't feel guilty, but this bike does belong to Erio, so I kind of regretted it now. I should have asked her. I'll casually apologize to her after I get home.

“...It's gonna be a problem for her to ride though.”

Arms trapped in futon with only her head out: riding like that, she may even have the choice of circus act as a future career! But more basically, I don't even think she can go out alone.

“…Oh, there she is.”

My eyes caught a girl running lightly toward here.

...Hm? Her appearance was very familiar. I paused the motion of adding another point, squinting hard.

The girl waited on the other side, waiting for the light to change while marking time.

The person you're waiting for isn't so important that you should be freaking out so much! I thought, a bit self-depricatingly so.

The person I'm meeting was Ryuushi-san.

She told me she's bringing me around the city during the weekends.

Since Ryuushi-san's always in club after school, she's never free after school.

She slid in front of the bicycle, using the friction between shoes and ground to brake. Entry. Her shoulder moved up and down as she heaved, and sweat drops were forming on her. The makeup on her face was wearing off a bit, but I pretended to not see.

Why is she wearing school uniform, anyway?

“Good… Morning… Uu, it's hot~”

“Mornin'. Uh… Nice casuals you got!”

“Ah, ya mean this…? Sorry. My morning practice took a for~ever, so I couldn't change… It's super~ embarrassing, but I didn't want to make ya wait...”

Ryuushi-san somewhat moved her tired lips and arms full of lactic acid, and explained her attire.

“No, it's fine; I don't mind. Where's your bicycle, Ryuushi-san? You parked it somewhere?”

“Eh, hahah… I ran all the way here!”

With hands on her knees, she managed a laugh before a torrent of coughs ensued.

“Why?”

“Cuz… I woulda hafta wear helmet.”

“Ah, eh…?”

“Then it'd squish my hair… so I ran here.”

“…...”

She didn't think to ride without wearing a helmet. This girl is the devil of adorableness!

Until Ryuushi-san caught her breath, my fingers were twitching to pet her head.

“My hair is really naughty~ If I leave it alone, it'd straighten itself~ I wanna be a curly~ Seriously, it's de-curling again~”

Her homemade words weren't exactly coinable, but they somehow carried the meaning across anyway — impressive. Ryuushi-san redid her messy bang, tilting over and peeking at my bicycle basket.

“Aren't ya parking it?”

“Ah, nah. I can catch up.”

“That sounds kinda weird, Niwa-kun… And I told ya, it's not Ryuushi.” As per usual, she added.

Ryuushi-san strode forward, her ordinary footsteps drowned out by the bustling city.

“Oh, not bad: the bike's actually faster than walking today.”

The two-step distance between she and me elated both the bike and its rider. Since my goal was so low, I ended up wasting more energy looking everywhere for something that would encourage my spirit.

Even if it's out of my reach, would it still be better to have a more normal goal? After all, Ryuushi-san's looks were kind of stinging.

Mm… If this goes on, she will suspect the meaning of this bicycle's existence. I have to prove to her that we are two-in-one.

I timed, when pedestrians around dissipated, and shifted my center of gravity backward.

“Check it, wheelie!” I showed the only trick I know on the bicycle.

Strictly speaking, it's not a wheelie, but more of a jumping-on-the-rear-wheel

“Whoa, a circus performer!” Her pitying stare abated a bit, and she even clapped twice.

Since doing something like this on a crowded street just spells trouble, I quickly landed on both wheels.

Rolling on earth is a bicycle's job.

It cannot exceed its ability or defy gravity.

☆

The time was close to noon. Ryuushi-san had brought me to a diner nearby.

Before we went in, she was exceptionally animated, even declaring, “I'm uber pumped!” What's happening? Surprised, I walked inside.

After being led to the no-smoking area, I glanced at the waiter who served us. Maekawa-san probably has their uniform too, I thought while ordering the Beef Risotto with unlimited drinks on the first page of the menu. Ryuushi-san picked tomato salad, rice and vegetable soup with drinks. Basically, it was a full course meal without the full course — limbs-without-body meal.

If a stranger saw her, he'd probably think she's trying to lose weight! Her meal content was way too healthy.

“I'm amazed at how you're not underweight.” I had a sudden urge to hit her with an ashtray from the smoker's area as I asked. “Won't you get hungry later?”

“Hm~ I guess. Make that two salad, please~”

“...At least get a different one!”

We went to the beverage dispenser together, and there I found the reason of her excitement.

“Hm, this has a calcium-color~ Kids probably don't like 'em too much. I'm gonna add some tasty carrot juice~!” Ah. The fluid turned into the color of Apollo Chocolate’s top.

“You mix drinks too, Ryuushi-san!”

Wasn't she humming while pouring different color fluid into a glass? She'd even forgot portioning.

“I'm not Ryuushi-san~! Doesn't everyone do this?”

“I think it's just city folks! Back where I lived, nobody does this.”

Because there weren't any diners, but a lot of cafes.

Whimsically mixing her drinks, she began nitpicking the country's problems:

“That's bad: it's like having sixty percent of your life with no spice.”

“That bad?” And I don't even know how life tastes.

From another angle, that sixty percent is also open for use, so I'll accept it like that.

“Prototype complete! Drink it!”

Ryuushi-san revealed the amber liquid and gave it to me.

“Wait, I'm drinking it?”

“This is my work of pride.”

“Then I'll give it a shot.” To exaggerate a bit, it was handmade by Ryuushi-san!

I sucked into the straw.

The taste was enough to kill; it didn't even get swallowed.

“Wassup? Not sweet 'nuff?”

She worriedly handed me syrup. Man, girls are really into sweets! Hold it!

“Is this carbonated?”

“Full of CO2!”

“Yeah, I'm no good with carbonated drinks.”

Because it dries and burns my throat, even if it's just sitting in my mouth.

“Eh~Sorry~ You shoulda told me first.”

Ryuushi-san waved her arms, either concernedly for, or protestingly against, me. Under her lovely expedition, my Youth-points boosted immensely, but I didn't think she'd tell me to drink it.

“Niwa-kun is the Oolong tea guy, right? But failure is the mother of success, so I'll learn from this experience… Um, but doesn't this mean if the mom doesn't fail, there won't be a kid?”

With a joyful and positive tone, Ryuushi-san turned her failure into ambition.

How do I say this — it seemed that she had just described a philosophy that fits even for life. Based on her personality though, maybe it's just something normal a ditz would say.

“Alright~ Let's make a number two! This time I'll make ya shoot beams outta your mouth!”

“And when do you plan on making that happen?”

“A success depends on a dad, too! A happily-married couple~!”

I realized her premise for prototype number two was failure. That makes me the monitor!

Ryuushi-san mixed number two with Oolong as the base, and number three which overwrote number one (which she drank, like an indirect kiss. Whoaho~). She then came back to our seats.

“Oh yeah. What are your interests, Ryuushi-san?”

I swiped the sparkling number two and number three out of my field of view, casually bringing up the topic.

“ My name is Ryuuko ! Mm~ Interests. Interests! ...Now that ya asked… Um, like… clubs? Oh yeah, here ya go.” She nudged number two over here.

“What club are you in?” I'll live on with my head held high!

“Girl basket ball; cuz I like M*tsui His*shi, so I joined.” She picked up the cup.

“M*tsui His*shi…?” I glanced over at my feet occasionally. Maybe someone was crawling toward me, grabbing my foot and asking for help.

“Don'cha know Sl*m Dunk?” The two glasses assailed me constantly.

“Oh, I know the name. It's manga, right?” Don't look up, and don't look down. Just live in the present! The present!

“Yeah, that! It's super awesome! I'll lend you a few books; ya should check it out. Ah, do you read manga?” She utilized her arms to the maximum, even sending the glass of water over.

“If I must say, it's like I didn't really read them when I was a kid, so I don't have the habit.” Even though I think the one in the middle is drinkable, judging from the atmosphere, the first to give in loses, so I didn't do anything.

As the battle played on in the cordial air, Ryuushi-san's salad was served. The verdancy of the cabbage and blush of tomatoes contrasted, and for those who see it… They must recall the brothers who grow bigger eating mushrooms.

“I'm diggin' in!”

Ryuushi-san set the glasses on my side, temporarily ceasing fire. She joined her hands, properly greeting before eating.

Though her taste in drink blending is X, she indeed has the capability of a saint: affable with others.

She picked up the tomatoes with a fork, putting it in her mouth before the juice dripped. Ryuushi-san chewed, a cheerful smile on her face like when I eat my favorite food, such as burgers.

Mm~ tomatoes I get, but cabbage… Ryuushi-san must be a herbivore! So if I'm a carnivore, I can eat her! (Mental status: really broken)

“Ryuushi-san, do you have any special talents?”

“Hm, talents?”

The transport of cabbage halted halfway. She put the fork back into the bowl, arms crossed.

“Talents~… Using ten yen coins to, ah, not that… Using ropes or clothe lines, um… I can sometimes use grade schooler tickets… that's dumb… It doesn't count~...Nope… no, maybe it does. Forget what I said, I wanna cancel! Boomska boom boom~”

“It's alright if you don't have one...”

“T-thats rude! No, I mean, shuddup! I totally do, and I have lots!”

The sweetly-rash Ryuushi-san was a feast for the eyes.

“Ah! I know!” As if grasped a thread of hope, she beamed a brilliant light.

“On the elementary school yearbook, isn't there a section for teachers to write down comments and compliments for their students?”

“Oh?”

“The teacher complimented me, saying I was the best at making cyclamen bloom!”

“Bloom? So it spread a lot of flower particles (粒子)?”

Seems like your teacher didn't really know what to write! Even if my mouth gets ripped, I will never say this out loud. Ashtrays are scary things!

“Well, it was actually a Hyacinth at the time.

"......”

What's up with your going silence? Seriously, airheads!

“Heheh, so that's that! What about Niwa-kun?”

Ryuushi-san didn't seem to have understood what she just proved, flinging the same topic back to me while picking up her fallen cabbage. “The cabbage core is awesome~” She seemed satisfied.

“Talents? Wasn't my wheelie good enough?”

“If ya think so, sure~”

She smugly assented. If Ryuushi-san hadn't dug her own grave prior to saying this, I might actually get mad. She has quite the foresight, I admiringly thought.

“Oh, can I ask another question?”

“Sure. Go 'head.”

Even though I objectively couldn't find what made her happy, the fact was that Ryuushi-san is feeling exceedingly great. Then, here I go.

“What is 'mystery' to you, Ryuushi-san?”

“Hm… Mm~ mm… About that...”

As if her head-down was drowned in water, she squeezed out an anemic response, mood drastically changed.

“Gimme a sec, I'm switchin' over to my brain's serious parts.”

Zoom, click. Ryuushi-san motioned and made the sound of switching mode. She seems to have altered her brain's hyperlink function. Amazing: the division must be the reason why your usual behavior is so (omit).

Why did I ask her that?

The reason why Erio irritates me so much may be because of the way I view 'mystery.' So I thought about listening to others' opinions.

“Um, I got it.” She raised her hand.

“Go ahead.” I picked her.

“It's like this!” She answered.

Ryuushi-san smiled, expanding her arms to her joy. The waiter also happened to served us the Beef Risotto and soup at the exact moment; her gesture and charming smile froze right there.

“Whoa!” The server was indeed baffled.

“Uwoooooh~” The herbivore gave a cryptic cry.

“So, is there more to your answer?” Since her arms were still out, I asked gingerly.

“Of course!” Ryuushi cheered herself up. She perked up, fixing her messy clothes and hair.

Both hands on her knees, she began her childlike explanation on 'mystery':

“The things I see, things I hear, say… To me, they are all bewildering.

“Even though we learned in science class reasons why things happen, I honestly don't think they feel real. And the tools we used too. Like phones: I know how to use it, but I don't get how it works. Cars are fast, but I don't know why either.

“Just how much do I know? It's got me thinking, and it's got me confused. But I know I'm alive because of something. Sometimes, before I sleep, I even ponder about the mysterious things that kept me alive~”

“…...”

The answer I sought was found.

Astonishment and the sage right next to me wet my eyes.

“You're right.” I couldn't help but gave a twisted grin. The me now must look creepy as hell.

“Ah, no~ I'm embarrassed about how shallow I must sound. Sorry.”

“Ryuushi-san, you pass!”

“Whua? Ah? I passed…? Wow~!”

After a delay, she finally picked up, raising her hands with the fork still in one.

The scattered customers focused their gazes on us, as if blessing.

From society's view, we'd be called 'idiot couples'… Only if. My evil thoughts churned.

☆

Afterward, Ryuushi-san brought me around the station.

I asked her to introduce me some bookstores where I can spend my allowance, also a relatively cheap cloth shop nearby. Too bad it wasn't exactly male oriented.

By the way, the worst things I've said so far today, “what's a boutique shop?” has been trashed and promptly deleted.

...Someone please kill my brain cells!

Though I made a freckle-sized black history, today was, overall, a meaningful day-off. Youth-points, without a doubt, increased by three points.

Just how much do I have collected now anyway? To be honest, the calculations were done with basic arithmetic depending on the situation, so the result isn't recorded.

I bought a few novels in the used-book store, and then a cheap hat at some other place. I asked Ryuushi-san, “does it fit?” after putting it on.

The answer was, “Ahahah!”

Ahahah !

Since a certain aunt was waiting for me back home, fussing me, “we should at~least~eat~dinner on the weekend~”, we went home after five.

“Remember to show me the assignment tomorrow in class~” Ryuushi-san waved me goodbye and ran her way home. After separating with her at the station, I stepped on the inefficient bike pedals.

Spending way more time than the on the taxi ride, I cycled into the city of aliens. Passing through the shop that sells seven-dimensional key chain, I admired the houses and road saturated by a nonseasonally red dusk and strolled back home. It isn't bad to relax while you can. Whenever Erio's riding with me, I can only focus on keeping up due to the increased calcium intake.

“...Man~”

My gaze (seemed to have ) locked on with that of Erio, who was walking on the opposite side of the road far away. Even with the futon between us, I could sense her stare. Wait, no; I don't want any super power. Erio dragged her left foot along. I changed the direction of my bike slightly, riding toward her side. Being next to her during daytime really stands out! I definitely don't want to become the person we are looking for in “Finding W*ldo.”

“...This is so sad.” Even walking with just my feet, the speed wasn't too different.

“You want a ride? Or do you want your bike back?”

Walking shoulder by shoulder, I kindly taunted her.

“The permitive tool that suits the kousin's feeble berdy is embarrassing. I do nert need it.”

Erio dragged on while (probably) forcing herself to answer. I looked to the ground; one of her feet was shoeless.

“Oh I know, why not just fly? I don't get how it works, but it has to be easier that walking! Oh yeah, how about flying with a bike? You can reenact that one really famous scene!”

I freed one hand from the handlebars and pointed it to the sky, making it so Erio can get on the bike. She ignored me, though, and walked on aimlessly.

“Sigh, I bet you can't fly even on a bike! Even though you're an alien.”

“…...”

Originally walking forward, Erio turned around. She intentionally hid her face, readying her shield.

“If you try to fly, you're probably going to crash into the river again!”

“…...”

She faced forward again, looking away. Not like she could see anything.

She really annoys me. Nevertheless, I couldn't help but mind for her. Is this the power of being cute?

I held her hand, leading her to the right path. As for my impression of feeling her hand, put it metaphorically, it's likely to melt faster than ice cream in the summer; and it will return to the air with no aftertaste.

Carrying her up the bike, I learned what it's like to be a class leader bring everyone to school. I asked myself what to do next.

The opportunity for a heart-to-heart dripped, waiting to erupt from the spiritual faucet.

Do I say everything now? It's going to be terrible if I deliver a half-baked speech and have to find another time for a one-sided talk.

Please, I don't want to spend more time with the current Erio. Stomach ulcer and pimples are dreadful!

“You wear the futon, because you don't want to bike anymore, right? Honestly, I don't get how you thought of that… But where is the lost memory? Like how you treat aliens, you could only 'believe.' If aliens exist, then your memory must be in their hands — yet, you can't fly.”

And so, she could only seal it away. Lock away her own inability; make an excuse in order to survive.

...I don't deny the act in itself. However, her way of exploiting the name of alien rubbed me the wrong way.

“You're not going to make any excuses?”

“I have no interntion to explain to cernscienceless berngs.”

“...Is that so.”

End of conversation. I stuffed Erio into the basket and onto my wallet and the bag with book. The ride begins.

Before the sun set, we returned to the house of Toudou— I mean, Touwa. Erio didn't get off the bike until I parked it into the storage. I carried her off the basket, and we walked into the house.

Then, we stopped in front of the entrance.

“…...”

“…...” For some reason, neither of us wanted to go in first.

“You first.”

“To averid a sneak atterk, I must stey berhind.”

“...To avoid a sneak attack, I must stay behind?”

Anything counts as a sneak attack against you!

☆

The time was now two days later, the night of Monday. Since the new school's class progress is different than my old one's, I was studying.

I plan on going to college, so I study quite a bit. Erio went to bed early today as well, with no intention of going out. There's also the repercussion of our single-sided argument.

Though I didn't really care — that's just what I called it.

I'm pretty damn insensitive, right? right .

There were only sound of pen sliding across paper and pages of book flipping…

“Mako-chan~ let's play~”

It was supposed to be, but an obviously bored person had to barge in here.

“Please act your age!”

As a person of natural candor, I sometimes speak frankly.

“Why? Mako-kun is still a kid!”

“I mean you...”

The agility of a woman who's about to become forty is eye-popping.

Meme-san, who just came out from the shower and was still steaming, stood next to me while covering her hair up with a towel. She peered over at the desk:

“Oh~ You're studying? Math, huh~”

Meme-san pinched the page up with her finger tips, flipping without regard to the marked pages:

“So this is what you're learning~” She flicked the corner of a page with her middle finger.

“Don't you know that you should be quiet and not bother someone who's studying?”

“Nope. I didn't have my own room.”

She denied altogether, even using irrefutable facts as her argument.

“Haven't you heard from your dad? We used to live in a crappy apartment.”

Meme-san flipped the pages continuously and spoke.

“No, I haven't spoke often with dad since long ago.”

That's why I admired leaving my parents and living alone.

We don't talk not because there aren't relatives around, but because we don't have anything to talk about. I hope something that awkward would never happen.

Meme-san closed my book and notes, and put my pen and eraser back into the pencil pouch.

“Why are you putting my stuff back?”

The cleaning hand paused because I grabbed it. Meme-san stared her eyes out, scarily playing out appearance of a childish girl. How fearsome, if it was natural.

“Why? Because Mako-kun is playing with me!”

“Too much restriction would affect a child's decision making skills.”

“Staring at these tiny words till the middle of the night will make~you~old~”

She began imitating a realistic monster (I dub her Forty-years), becoming even more suspicious. Is this really an act?

“Is burning the midnight oil a bad thing?”

“Knowing me, you should know I ignore rhetorical questions!”

She actually ignored my query and started to pace around the room:

“Hey, what is this framed award for? Dirty mags?”

“Miss foreign, we're in Japan: please use proper language.”

“Let's see… Kanji Certified level three? That's pretty lame~” So not just questions, but everything in general is ignored?

Meme-san browsed through the words on the award and put it back. She walked toward the shelf; the hanging towel swung, following her like a pony tail.

“Hm, deep-sea creature… Wu~uu, you don't like manga, Mako-chan?”

Meme-san confirmed what's on the shelf and asked. Indeed, it was filled with novels I bought from the store; their authors' names forgotten, and their genre eclectic. And the rest were sea creature atlases. Since I don't have a thing for scholarly books, I didn't have a version with scant pictures.

“No, not really. I did buy J*mp for a while, but now I just browse them in convenience stores.”

“Really? I have a bunch of cooking manga in my room; you can borrow some.”

“Thanks.”

“Read up and become a house husband who would do all my chores!”

“You already have a daughter who claims to do things, go train her!”

“That reminds me, I have a friend who didn't read manga too. She's a girl though.”

Meme-san reminisced while touching my books. She neglected me again… I'm getting used to it.

“There was also a person who ripped book pages to make puzzles. He made every book he borrowed from the library into puzzles — the librarian even cried.”

“…...”

I looked away, assuming the ignoring stance. Why did I participate in this immature fight? This 'big kid' was indeed lowering my mental age.

The self-made word has many ways of pronunciation, but I will read it as Daikyou. Sounds like Great Misfortune, not bad.

“Okay, lets see what else is in Mako-kun's room! We'll start with the wallet, a.k.a the treasure. Then I'll get his passbook~ passwords later. Are there piggy banks? I'm going to smash them~”

“I don't want strangle my aunt, so please stop.” I stopped ignoring her. Wait, this doesn't help.

Her act was, in a way, an invasion; I didn't want to cry to my sleep because I chose to keep quiet.

And Meme-san is the modern age video game heroine: she doesn't search the nooks or crannies, but goes straight for the expensive things. In other words, a thief.

“Kidding! I already have Mako-kun's allowance in my bank account!”

Meme-san raised her hands above shoulder and beamed. This was probably the same as an animal showing you its stomach, like a sign of friendliness! Sometimes, looking at her behavior, I seriously wonder if she's drunk!

But I know one of my living problem is gone. If my allowance depends on my aunt, I'd have to be careful in what I say and do.

“So you wanted to play, but there isn't anything here.” I sighed while holding my hair up, attempting to struggle.

“Aren't you here?” She answered with a brilliant smile.

“…...” I really wanted to hear a girl my age say that. That way the Youth-points burrowed underground might actually see the sun.

Meme-san jaunted toward me. Wordlessly, she sat by my feet and looked up with an alluring smile. I… I don't plan on planting a flag here! Who's gonna try to sneak a peek at her boobs! Damn right, I was looking at something else. Like the pattern on her pajama. Meme-san had some weird pattern, like the suns that show up in heart-warming anime. It doesn't suit you!

Meme-san unleashed the towel on her hair, letting out her half-dried black hair. Probably because of the angle, her thirty-some year old appearance looked twenty.

“Sigh… I am shocked!”

Obliviously staring at the front of the room, she suddenly sighed.

“Sh-shocked about what?” Somehow my pitch changed.

“I actually have to work tomorrow. Life as an adult is just unbelievable.”

“But… Isn't that normal?”

Today was Monday, but she talked like she was working overtime on her weekends.

“Well~ You aunt was a still student not too long ago~” She hugged her knees and rolled around in the room.

Disregarding the lies, she was simply complaining, “I don't wanna work~”

“Being a single mom sucks~ Yeah, I get to save money for one person, but there are times when I need more hands. Since I can't compare, I don't really know though.”

In any case, this household lacks a father since the beginning.

“Do you really not know who Erio's father is?”

As the question did involve privacy, I softened the tone.

“Mm~...” She lay there, eyes and toes pointed at the ceiling. “Ah~ the light hurts~” I'll pretend to not hear that. Since my aunt was mumbling to herself, I waited for a response.

“...Listen, Mako-kun.” She spoke amidst the whisper. Does she actually have two tongues?

“Yes?” I just realized, Meme-san seemed to have settled on the name 'Mako-kun.'

“Right now, I have no bra!”

“I bet that has nothing to do with what we're talking about. Quick, get up.”

“Nnwuu...” Meme-san flipped over; naturally, ignoring me. Our level of incommunicableness had traversed the level of planet, no, gender .

Whether without comeback or had given up, I felt dizzy, not knowing what to say to her back.

Meme-san's mumbling stopped; her lips folded into a line. Her feet didn't leave the ground, and she tried to roll herself up like a Daruma doll.

“Hold on, I'll use a calculator.”

“...For what? Hey, for what?” Was Erio's father an electronic part?

“Papapa~” She opened my drawer and took out the calculator… Um, why does she know where it is? “Beep, beep, beep~” Meme-san clicked on the machine. It was like a novelist who doesn't quite know where the keys are, and has to use his index fingers… Hm, why did I draw such an analogy? Aliens? I best not to think about this anymore.

“Um, I am two-thousand and two hundred… then six hundred. And then the first person was one thousand and seven hundred… no, next… from just the right side, maybe three thousand. He looked like a myna from the front. Not him either, his level wasn't enough. Then...”

Back from work, the exhausted aunt grumbled as if possessed. She ceaselessly clicked away on the calculator with a serious look. Working into the middle of the night, how remarkable of her.

“All right~ I think I know who her dad is!” She raised her arms and threw the calculator to the side.

“With a calculator...”

“Me+Erio's father/2 = Erio. Isn't she super pretty? Beautiful ~ Just like me~”

“I agree with the first part.”

“So her material's looks must be great. I was counting the good-looking point of the men I was with before.”

“This only depresses me, sigh.”

She really likes being circuitous. Meticulous or irresponsible – she could be either.

Seriously, all she needed was to recall using the normal way. She should have at least liked the person for a bit.

“From the five most likely candidates, the most suspicious… Hm, it had to be the foreigner Elliot!”

“Isn't it easy to figure out from her name?” Then what was all that about?

“His good-looking point was about seven thousand and five hundred.”

“That's enough to destroy the earth!” Lets just keep talking to ourselves! I'm being ignored anyway!

“By the way, you are about two thousand, Mako-kun. You don't have to feel bad.

But I can't feel good either, right? Hearing the honest opinion from a female is a good thing, so I didn't refute.

“So~ her dad was Elliot, huh~ Ah, then she's mixed!”

There's a limit to playing dumb, I agreed in my mind infinitely… Ah, a mixed person! First I've seen! I didn't know being mixed would give your hair particles… Pretend you didn't hear that.

“But you totally knew where she came from!” Was I infected by my aunt? I have to be careful about how I talk now — especially around Ryuushi-san.

I think, depending on the situation, I could totally speak obscenely around Maekawa-san, but I still care about Ryuushi-san more.

“Look, do you really think your aunt could charm that many men at once?”

Her expression was like a kid's who stiffly confessed after having her mischief discovered by an adult.

“I haven’t seen you in your prime, so I wouldn't know.”

I jokingly shrugged. A twelve-year old picture is, after all, too early.

“I think I'm still young~” Though pouting, she still lowered her head.

“That guy was handsome, but I didn't think we'd make it far even if we lived together. We broke up, too, because our priority in life was different… or our values (?) were. So what I have now is the best! Ah~ but now I have to work my butt off! Uwah~”

Meme-san hugged her hung head and began struggling, but instantly looked up, invigorating herself.

“Oh well! Now I got Mako-kun. You can be my younger husband.”

Her eyes squinted with a smile, looking straight at me. Uwah!

T-the Youth-point didn't move! In a way, it almost went down! My adolescence may be forced to have a period put on if I become too involved with this person!

“...So why did you come into my room?” I am not embarrassed. I may or may not be lying.

“Because we haven't been in sync recently, so I wanted to talk.”

“Were we ever in sync…?”

Please, look at the previous pages filled with meaningless punctuation as references.

“See~ you're always like that. Mako-kun is so cold.”

Meme-san pouted… See what I mean? (I sought the silent assent from my fictional readers)

“I bet you won't believe me, but they call me mushy at work!”

“Ohhh (your brain?)...”

“How come you drawled like that? How fascinating.”

“The world is filled with fascinating things!” And without monsters!

The sea is an enigmatic treasure trove. For me, it is the most exciting place on this planet; rather than some famous art gallery or theme park, I'm more fervent about the ocean.

Ah, the universe counts as fantastical too. So does the girl next door to me.

“Oh, right.” Meme-san clapped. And again. Clap, clap, clap, “Stop it.”

Bluntly speaking, is she an idiot? I almost called my aunt a stupid kid.

My assessment for you is changing way too quickly.

“I don't ever come here, so let's play 'Old Maid.' I'm pretty darn good at it!”

Perhaps wanting to play cards since the start, Meme-san raised the cards she brought and spoke. Are we really doing this? A not-so-young aunt playing poker with a high schooler in the night… Poker Night — this made me think of some sort of magic trick. Usually adding 'Night' in a word makes it sound erotic, but this was refreshing.

“Just us? What about Erio?”

“No~way~ I wanna play with just Mako-chan.” Meme-san knocked on the floor with her ankles.

“I really want to say 'Shut up!' and 'Damn Brat!', but most importantly, don't call me Mako-chan.”

I have too many things to care for. Even my name is first come first served. What the hell!

In the end, me and my aunt played Old Maid. As opposed of the game's name, the family's daughter was not one of the two participants.

Meme-san shuffled the cards while humming, her eyes glittering.

“Lets bet on something! If Mako-kun wins, I'll do anything.”

“… Wishes above my aunt's ability are impossible!”

That much I knew.

“My, I'm serious — I just don't have to lose!”

Meme-san calmly asserted. From her tone, the entire sentence seemed genuine.

“...What if I say I want a girl's panties?”

“Oh my~” She answered bashfully: “Mako-kun is so daring… Well, you are a guy after all! I guess I'll have to give you mine — no, give you some aid as well!”

“I mean a girl's .”

Please stop disregarding the key points of someone's sentences. Even though I was kidding about the panties, so I don't really care, I was actually angry with her.

“If you really wanted it that bad, couldn't you just go next door and take a few? Mako-kun, you're so weird.”

“Yeah, yeah, I'm weird, so let me say it: your brain is fried!”

Even though the night was tranquil, I screamed my throat out. If we lived in an apartment, our neighbors would definitely complain. Probably even ostracize us.

Meme-san finished shuffling; before she dealt the cards, I asked.

“...And? (それで？)”

“ De Lorean ~!” She raised her right fist. How annoying.

“Shut your spinal reflex, please. I meant, what do you want if you win?”

I needed to make sure. My opponent was, after all, Touwa Meme-san.

I intentionally mentioned a preposterously embarrassing wish, but she tried to grant it. Gambling with a foe like this without drawing the line first is like running to my own death.

“Right, then…” Meme-san's eyes abruptly turned stern, and she spoke solemnly. “Break up with your girlfriend.”

“I can't do things out of my power!” I yelled out the most authentic thing I'd said so far today.

“Ahahah, I might say something like that. Come on~ it'll be fun!”

She began dealing with a magnanimous smile that will accept — or rather, devour —everything.

There were only two people, so she totally could have just given me half the cards.

Though something was definitely off, my butt remained stuck on the chair.

☆

Speaking from just the result, it was a flawless defeat for me.

I lost completely.

For the first two times, I thought it was just bad luck.

Suspicion rose at the fourth round, and the consecutive defeats afterward mercilessly buffeted me.

As my losing streak made it to the twelfth, the tunnel vision from rage and dry-eyes recovered.

Something was off. Statistically speaking, this is impossible! This is a game with a fifty-fifty chance of winning!

And Meme-san didn't even hesitate when she drew my cards, which directly affected her chance of winning. Even though everything besides pulling of the last two cards was routine, her motion hadn't changed since the start.

No matter how long I pondered, I would always grab the joker from Meme-san's last two cards.

She had to be cheating. I know it.

“...But knowing it now after losing so much is a bit late.”

“I know, right?” Meme-san, who sat on my bed without permission, nodded in agreement.

The game of Old Maid finally ended after I admit defeat. Ironically, the first one to quit wasn't the old woman.

Since there were only two players, our battle tossed back and forth, proving indecisive.

“What did you do?”

Please stop rolling around my bed, I looked down at the scattered cards and thought. Dealing with emotion when discontent is especially difficult.

“Since you didn't see through me, I can't teach you. You're such a kind boy, Mako-kun; I'm worried about how gullible you are.”

“...I don't know what to tell you.” Actually, didn't you just deceive me?

“Here's a hint: Mako-kun agreed to play with my cards, and then let me shuffle and deal the cards. That's how you lost.”

“So you did cheat!” Not just the cards, but also when you dealt them?!

“Alright, Mako-kun.”

Meme-san climbed back up to a sitting position.

“...Don't call me that.”

“Wha~? Why~?” Her fawning words shot out a beam of “why? Why?”

Ugaah~

I don't want to admit either, but it's because I almost grinned every time she called me that.

The woe of being a lonely high schooler. Even if it's just my aunt, the reaction is the same.

I am helpless against her brain-flattening voice.

The situation was already grave when I felt the attractiveness of an old woman.

I trampled onto the Youth-point that peeked from underground, demanding it to reflect on it's lack of chastity.

“Cuz it sounds like a girl's name.”

I made up an excuse and freeze the case.

“So what~?” She glossed over with a smile, “C'mere, let's talk~” and pat the spot next to her.

“Uh.” Don't come so close to a high school guy so nonchalantly, especially on his bed. I thought 'please let me go' while feeling overly conscious, and looked away. I felt dumb, somehow.

On the other hand, my aunt, who is less than sheepish, was waving innocently at me, telling me to come closer. I didn't want to be teased after being seen through, so I answered the summon with a calm face… Ah.

I wanted to be further away, but I miscalculated the distance and sat down extremely near her; our outer thighs were touching. 'Get away!' I thought, but it'd be unpleasant if I was misinterpreted of having weird thoughts, so I lifted my chin and put on a stoic face. Though it was an easily-popped balloon of a bluff.

“...What are we talking about?”

Giving my neighbor a glance, I intentionally asked callously.

I saw Meme-san's mother-like face, and I felt embarrassed every time we met eyes.

Looking closely, her skin was very well-kept for her age, so I inadvertently compared her to mom.

For a brief second, even Meme-san's hair appeared to shoot particles, but then —

“…...Eh?”

She embraced me.

The first time in my life ever hugged by a female.

By someone who was twenty-three years older than I.

For a normal high schooler, it may just be something to be forgotten in the future — but things always depend on the other party.

At least for me, who faced Meme-san, I almost actually stopped breathing.

The points! My Youth-points are being sucked away! Were if not for…

“If you're getting close to Erio because of her looks, give up. If you are that desperate to find a girl, go find a different person. Don't come near Erio if you're doing it out of personal interest.”

“Eh? Ah… Uh...” Now isn't the time for that! Save the serious things for later!”

“Hm? Mako-kun?”

“Uh, no, um… I was just shocked from being hugged all of the sudden.”

The throat that was twitching too hard from nervousness calmed down, but the arms and hands were still in spasm, and my muscles hurt as if ripped.

“Oh, I see. Your heart is racing.” My pulse, too, was hurrying to the next life.

She moved her hand that was on my back to my chest, checking my heartbeat. Meme-san's finger tip subtly drew on my shirt and tickled. Is it okay if I describe the act as bewitching? As the stain on the opposite wall saw the scene, I wanted to splash paint and revamp the wall.

“Uhh, soo...”

“Yes.”

“Why are you hugging me?”

“It just happened!”

Please don't do this.

As I couldn't rebuke her, I shut up and focused on suppressing my heart's throb. Adjusting my breath, I made sure to not think about the hair that carelessly brushed my neck and the gentle caress of her skin. I glared at the wall's stain, abiding my time to solve the problem.

“Have you calmed down?”

She read the heart report from her hand, confirming whether she could keep talking.

“I guess I'm used to it now.” Human adaptability is not to be underestimated, and I feel empty.

Whether happiness or sadness, once habituated, the degree of emotional effects diminishes.

Sooner or later everyone's heart would be flat, even if the individual process deviates.

“Should I say it again?”

“Please.” I'm not trying to make word count meet, because this isn't a novel. Hm!

“If you're getting close to Erio because of her looks, give up. If you are desperate to find a girl, go find a different person. Don't come near Erio if you're doing it out of personal interest.”

“Is this what you came to say?”

You seriously copy-pasted what you just said, what a lazy person. Oh no, I don't mean Meme-san.

“Mm, yes, because I can't let it go on anymore. That's why I'm here to advice you.”

“...I can't just accept it, even if you tell me that.”

Firstly, I tried choosing 'no.' I couldn't see her intention, neither did I want to obey.

“Why? Do you really think it's too much of a shame to give up on a girl like Erio?”

“…...” Sigh, is this called bullseye? That's what most people would have thought.

“I'll be blunt: If Erio's looks were below average, I bet you wouldn't take the time to walk around in the night with a girl like that.”

“I won't deny that.”

The more I reject the notion, the more obscure the humane intent would seem. I am no saint, and I don't live for some enlightenment. I am what is known as a humble man.

“Then give up. There must be some other girls in your class you like?”

Meme-san rested her chin on my shoulder and began her investigation.

“No. I've only been here for two weeks, so not really.” Liar.

“How about the girl sitting next to you?” My heart skipped a beat. “Then what about the girl sitting to the right behind you?” Wait a minute!

Meme-san knew? No way, she's probably bluffing. Now isn't the time to complain and inadvertently give everything away.

Luckily, she stopped talking about my friends and regressed back to the topic on hand.

“Or, do you only like Erio?”

“I'm not doing this because I like Erio!”

She, however, was making me uneasy. As for the reason, I sensed that it was divulged not too long ago.

“Then why are you always around her?”

“I am intrigued by her… That's one of the reasons, but...” As for the other causes, I'll just let them drift!

I don't want to do anything to her, but I didn't want to admit that the biggest impetus was my curiosity for her.

“She wants to be alone if possible, just respect her decision.”

Meme-san's apathetic words reflected the image of complete despair. Her hands grasped tightly onto my shirt as she spoke.

“That's why you try to ignore Erio's existence?”

“Right.”

“But you love her so much — that ball chair must have cost a fortune.”

“Oh, the chair? She said she needed it, so I spent four years saving up for it. It has to be the most expensive furniture in the house.”

I thought so too. Everything in my room combined must pale in comparison to its price.

“But just giving her things is not good enough — she needs family. Parents are the closest people a kid could have.

“Even though your aunt thinks that for Erio, I am not a bad mother...”

Nonchalant and mischievous; she is, however, a good mother where it counts… Um, doesn't this count as 'gap-moe?' Of course not!

“But not having the preparation and resolution to raise a child before having one… That's not what a good parent would do.”

“…...”

“Things are never smooth, even if the mentality is to deal with problems as they come. My parents too: they weren't rich, yet they had too many kids, and everyone suffered because of that. Those kind of misery doesn't get even out — everyone has to shoulder the same weight.”

Only the last words mutely washed by my ears, flimsy and frail like re-steeped tea.

Held by Meme-san, I had the illusion of being crushed under the very same weight.

“My parents don't seem to know Erio's existence.”

If they knew, would they have sent me here?

“I kept quiet; I don't keep in contact with the family anyway.”

“Glad it wasn't discovered.”

“...Frankly, I don't really remember when I had her. Or maybe it's like my memory when I was pregnant was vague… By the time I realized, she was already in the house… that's how I think sometimes.”

...Alien. Her origin may be related to how she was raised.

“Why didn't you tell anyone?”

“I don't want even the relatives to badmouth her, calling her a bastard child.”

“...Eh?” Surprising. No, not really?

Or do I just not know her enough?

“We digressed a bit. Mako-kun, you don't have to help Erio with her suffering. If you do, I will actually beat you both.”

She flexed her fingers and prepared to claw my skin.

“Do you get it now?” Smiley face ☆

“I'll think about it later.” Grin ☆

“Munch~~” She bit my neck. “Gah!” Goose bumps. What was that on my back?

As if declaring the end of conversation, Meme-san held my shoulder and pushed me away. “Hm.” Like ending a segment, she nodded. The heat from her early shower dwindled, and the blush on her cheeks receded to normal.

“Let's bunk together!”

“Please go back now. What time do you think it is now anyway?”

I pushed Meme-san's back and got her off the bed. “I thought maybe Mako-kun is lonely~!”

“Man, aren't you the lonely one?”

Arbitrarily, I answered saying that. Unexpectedly, Meme-san's face was serious:

“Perhaps.”

She picked up the towel and cards, and then head to the door:

“Thank you for spending time with me. Night, Mako-kun.”

“You too. Good night.”

Meme-san waved, gave her usual smile, and then left.

For reasons unknown, I seem to plant the most flags with my aunt:

“...Sigh~”

Is this what it feels like to have your girlfriend's parents' disapproval?

Oh boy, I don't have even the slightest of a crush for Erio.

Admiring Erio from head to toe, extolling her like an art piece is the true pleasure. I don't want to make direct contact with her.

“Oh, Erio's underwears are located on the second drawer from the top.”

Someone came back and gave a laughable advice.

“Thanks for the unnecessary earth-intel, Iseijin (異性人).”

Go back now, shoo.

“…...”

I went out to the hall, making sure Meme-san was gone. Good. I ran back into the room.

I lied down and took a big whiff.

Anything? I thought, even though I felt ashamed having such perverted thoughts.

...Um, not really.

“I just showered, and I have no make-up on, so there shouldn't be any smell!”

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!”

I screamed with the force of two hundred frogs being crushed simultaneously. I backed up, the back of my head banged on the wall.

“Your brain's going to turn into Takoyaki, Mako-kun.”

“W-w-warp?! Where did your footsteps go?!”

“I hid… no, I went to Erio's room to see her sleeping face. And then Mako-kun… Kyah~!”

“Gahhhhhhhhh!!”

Meme-san's got my weakness, and I made yet another memory I want to kill myself for.

☆

During childhood, I had pet rocks… Of course, I meant mineral rocks.

I put black, white and shiny rocks into a bug box, and I watered them at times.

It s not like I believed that things have hearts, I just didn't know the difference between the living and the inorganic.

Because of that, I experienced many losses and grief, and became who I am.

Like ephemeral pictures in a dream, I recalled the memory.

Alright, it's Tuesday tomorrow. Like adults who have to go to work, students also have to go to the depressing school.

In the school of city, students with blonde or brown-dyed hair ravaged the classrooms like beasts, making trouble for others… Intimidation and extortion were common during recess. I used to think that, but no one skipped out on classes, and nobody put his or her feet on the desk. Everyone walked together when we change to chemistry class; everyone opened his or her notebooks, getting ready to take notes from the blackboard to prepare for the exams.

Being no exception, I scribbled on the notebook as well, but the content wasn't the chemistry that I studied halfway yesterday. If I must say, it was about the life and ethics of the possibility that grade schoolers may be learning the same thing as well.

“…...”

Pretty girl who was normal until high school↓

Sudden disappearance two months after enrolling↓

Not even she knew why↓

Sudden return after half a year. According to herself, she was floating in the sea after she woke up↓

Apprehension for the amnesia of the past six months↓

Unable to stand the stares of others, blames aliens, which she was already interested in, as a way to escape reality↓

Stubbornly insists herself as an alien, and became a deviant↓

Flew with a bike from a river, with the obvious consequence of falling into the river. Got sick↓

Dropped out, became a NEET who eats pizza weirdly. Still cute though.

I wrote down the concept map of Erio's history. It's something like thats. Man, a stereotypically dangerous person right here. And she wasn't even brainwashed by some new religions. Unbelievable.

The problem roots in 'memory' and 'aliens.' I circled the two words. The last straw of Erio's peace of mind stems from the belief in the extraterrestrials. And so she looked for traces of aliens in the town, earnestly searching for that which knowing adults made television specials for. But she knew, at the bottom of her heart, that all this was a farce. From our interaction thus far, I felt for sure that there is room for intervention.

As for her memory, I literally cannot do anything. Erio often goes back to where she was found; if she can't remember anything, then there isn't much I could do either. It is impossible to trace Erio's steps in the past half-year, unless it's someone of an organization or with investigative ability like the police or detective. Besides, if the search ends with no answer, the theory that Erio was kidnapped by aliens will only thicken and lead her toward the wrong direction. She might finally break free of the mantle and reach the zone beyond logic and consciousness. That way, she will even stop pretending to be an alien.

Then, the only thing I can do is to crush the alien.

I will kill that illusion of yours… No, wait, I'm not the hot-blooded character~ Then what am I?...What is individuality?...No, I do have characteristics! I am not some wet sponge! Dammit, if this goes on, I won't even be qualified to sympathize with a certain particle (粒子). I will not end like the primrose! I got it! I know a lot about deep-sea animals! So that makes me Shingyu-san!

So it still came down to this, huh? That's still as bad as flower! Fish & flower, Fish and Flower ! Oh, that sounds pretty neat!

Kinda like the title of western song, or like the name of a dish. Such as Fish and Chips .

My partner Ryuushi-san, who returned to my diagonal rear in the classroom we move to, was avidly scribbling away on a notebook. Neither my gaze nor the teacher's voice could intrude her artist's soul.

Lets see. The 'first dimension' consisted of just a single line. A strangely well-drawn primrose, 'second dimension.' A carrot that somehow had limbs and a humble smile was 'third dimension.' 'Fourth dimension' with only a watch. With 'Japanese history' written on its head, 'fifth dimension.' Does it refer to the fifth period today? Lastly, an old woman with mangled face showcasing a key chain with geometric design: 'sixth dimensional granny.'

Is that the grocery store lady Meme-san told me about on my first day of moving here? But if Meme-san's information was right, a dimension seemed to be missing. If you ask who I trust more, both option A and B would be Ryuushi-san; if it weren't for her getting close to me after taking a bath and hugging me, who the hell would trust her… Oh, but Meme-san is exceptional when it comes to threatening people!

“Uwah...” At the moment, I loathed the adolescent that permeated me. Why the hell did I do that?! I lost to curiosity at the time… Well, to be honest, I do have desires. Nevertheless, I will never be able to defy my aunt. Even ten years from now on, I bet she will still talk about it.

“...Hm?”

Unknowingly, I met Ryuushi-san's eyes, and the painter's hand stopped. I focused on her irises, and the confusion embarrassed her.

Perhaps confident in her own drawings, her gave a bashfully faint smile.

Ryuushi-san improvisedly drew 'shingyu-san' next to the sixth dimensional granny. No matter I how I looked at it, it looked like a fishman.

I glossed over with a courtesy smile and an imitation of gill-breathing, turning back like a fishman climbing onto the shore. I'll talk about being partner with her later.

Like a cicada fresh out from its shell, Meme-san's warning/advice from yesterday bugged me.

Quit messing with her because of her looks, Meme-san said so. It is just as she said, I only took on Erio's strange hobby because of the peerlessly exquisite face inside the futon.

If that person's gender was the opposite, even if she were air, I'd treat her like carbon dioxide. Thus, her astute opinion — as occasional as it is — as an elder and a parent should be taken as a whole. Living in segregation — perhaps it would be for the best.

The reason for that would be how smooth life is now. In just two weeks, my new life has surpassed every bit of my expectation; I should even abandon the person who needs to experience life and move on. I met Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san: the deficit caused by the Touwa's has been offset, and I am in the position where I could see the rising trend in the future.

Why do I prioritize in getting myself involved with Erio, the culprit of my lost points? Rationality questioned. It makes perfect sense, really. But I abandoned logic in reality, becoming closer to Erio, and started caring for Erio.

Touwa Erio calls herself an alien; she claims to able to fly, and she asserted that she came to evaluate the human race. But none of it is true. To hide the abnormality of her own action, she buried herself in the futon.

Her way of living is a testament of how lonely she is; yet, she can never be two people, and she can't live without another person.

This way of living with the premise of being saved by others angers me.

I should just imitate her mom, and ignore this cousin of mine. Of course, it should just conclude like that.

I shut the book and closed my eyes. The bang that covered my eyebrows when I hung my head agitated me.

…But still, looking at Erio pains me somewhere in the heart.

It's like… Someone who couldn't read between the lines: someone who decides to be drowning in the corner of my eyes when I'm happily playing catch with someone else by the riverbank.

Swallowing this feeling, keeping it in my stomach and living an indigestive life might trigger gastritis some days. I can't accept Meme-san's advice and defer to her.

I'm pissed.

I can't stand the pessimistic attitude she believes the existence of aliens with.

That nonnegligible negativity is more conspicuous than the alacrity of success or smooth-sailing.

Mystery should be hopeful. Just like imagining the unknown sea creatures that excited me no matter how old I am, they are an existence that should promote progress. It doesn't matter if it's human, skyfish or the Greys.

She sullied the mysteries, filling her past with them, using them as a means to secure her own footing. Touwa Erio does not deserve to be called an Earthling, from how I see it.

I feel deeply from her the flaw that no beauty can ever compensate for.

But she is no alien, no — she is a shell devoid of identity, but instead filled with simple yearning for heterogeneousness.

So—

So~ I don't know what's going to happen.

Only, I'll deal with what I can't stand now.

“Alright~ Alright~ Alright~”

Al—right.

☆

I snuck out of school after first period ended.

Since it's too apparent if I took it, I left my backpack in the class.

Carefully avoiding the teachers, I jogged to the shoe lockers, the parking lot and to my bicycle. I scanned around one more time and escaped the school.

Unlike usual, I took the long way home. This was the first time I ever skipped school like this, pretty nice. Two points to Youth.

Aside from going to school, I don't get many chance to ride in the morning.

As I chose an unfamiliar path, I sort of got lost and spent a bit of stamina. I got back before third period started, however. Right about now, how would my classmates and teacher assess the fact that I was gone?

Ryuushi-san will definitely talk about this all day tomorrow! Am I thinking like this because of over self-consciousness?

I opened the door without shutting it, took off the shoes and went upstairs.

I passed my room, found the person who was naturally lying there, and walked over.

I grabbed the futon-girl (every time I see her, I just want to deep fry her to make tempura) and commanded.

It was rude, but I felt freaking great.

“Fly with me, right now. If you can't, you'll become human.”

- First date with Ryuushi-san: +3

- First hug stolen by my aunt: -5

- Leaving school halfway: +2

Youth-Point Total: -4

### 012. Chapter 5: The Inconceivable Moment of the Crawling Girl

## Chapter 5 - The Impossible Moment of the Crawling Girl

In the beginning of each semester back in my old school, the teachers would check our bicycles.

For examples, if the headlights worked, the stickers were school appropriate, or brakes were ok… The school arranged teachers to especially examine the bikes after school's out. It was nosy — even more so, since it's mandatory.

From the angle of someone who doesn't go to a club, it's was being forced to line up for teachers to check one bike at a time after school when you want to play around before going home. And it was outside.

April: trample on the fallen cherry blossom; September: death by the sun. And January: chattering teeth in the cold.

Complaints from the athletes department also rose when the field was swarmed with bikes.

In the past, the softball club even began batting practices, apparently aiming volley of balls at the teachers. Some guy made two goals. He'll probably become an official member of the team after becoming a second year. The only problem was his victim: the softball club adviser.

If they found problems like a broken bell or a rocket engine attached on the bike, they'll even check again. Thus, no one forgets to fix his or her bike the day before. Basically, the goals of the staffs were already accomplished at that moment. This feeling is like sheep being chased by a shepherd dog. I disliked that pompous attitude.

How many years ago was it when I took the initiative to fix my bike? Occasionally I refill the tires, but sweating and trying hard to derust the bike must be a first.

Dragging my rusty transport out of the storage, I gave my best to revert it back to its former glory.

I even bought a rust removing spray from the mart to polish the frame. Man, it's not working! As if cleaning the bloodstain displayed on a TV screen, it was fruitless.

It would actually be faster I borrowed Meme-san's working bike, but it's probably more economical with the crappy one, since it's going into the Mother of Life — the sea. I also don't want to feel the wrath of viewers.

I don't believe one bit that she can fly. Wahahahaha.

Even if she had a bike like this.

I finally remembered where I've seen this. This bicycle painted in legendary red-and-white color indeed soared in the sky. With the backlit moon, it flew with an alien in its basket.

It's the movie 'E.*' . What I was fixing was the very same bike used in that movie. I remember seeing it in the twentieth anniversary edition during elementary school.

I could easily picture the Cosmophile, Erio, begging Meme-san to buy this expensive and limited replica of the bike. She treasures her daughter, no matter what she may say.

Just a glance at her pair of model-like, scarless hands with perfect nails confirmed the theory.

Lady Erio stood on the side without words or questions, watching someone else sweating to fix her bicycle. The azure sky contrasted well with the contrail; she stood barefoot on the grass, emitted subtle particles and formed a landscape painting of a realized fantasy creature. She held the hair that flew in the air — just to my taste.

...Eh? I was suppose to censure her, so why was the content full of adulation? ...Oh well.

I'll be a man who values the inside more, and give up on derusting. I touched the chain that may snap at any moment; I pressed on the center — it was loose. Incredible how it held out all this time.

Flying on this bike was of course out of the question. Even the cosmic power of the extraterrestrial won't be enough to make up for this junk's inadequacy. Wait, the bike should have been working at that time: it only looks like this because of the accident. Anyway, the bike doesn't matter — aliens should be able to levitate with their own feet. I guess they like to show off too!

I took out the dusty tools stuffed inside the shed, earnestly playing my role of a substitute bicycle-chiropractor. Since I left school, the time went from morning to noon, and my hands never stopped the unending tasks.

The hell am I doing? I'm tired of hearing my own question. It's like forcing myself to listen to the same vocabularies during sleep with a speaker pillow for twenty hours. The brainwashing probably already caused hearing difficulty.

This was purely an endurance battle between me and Erio. Do I admit her alien status? Or do I shut her down to an Earthling? We shoved each others from our respective mindset, not budging one bit. For illustrations, just imagine fighting for spots for flower viewing!

We weren't thinking for each other: we just want to forcefully carry out our own ideals. This was a fight of egoism. I won't give her the excuse of having inadequate equipment — be completely crushed by the gravity of Earth!

As for the upgrading of bicycle parts, I didn't want the knife of 'being broke' to further stab into my stomach, so I finished with just a pumped tire and swapped chain.

I walked inside to wash my face in the restroom, dried off the water and sweat with a towel, then went back into the yard.

“Oi, E.T. (The acronym for Erio Touwa).”

Erio's fine dress swayed in the zephyr, and she looked like the daughter of nobility. I ordered her.

Her gaze was fixed on the grasshoppers beneath, and then she looked up silently:

“…...”

Me? She pointed to herself, the meaning revealed from the act. Yes, you.

“Get in the basket. You like that better, right?”

Speaking of which, the back seat on this bike was removed. Is it coincidental, or intentional? It isn't impossible to have another person stand on the back using the footstand, but it's more thrilling to imitate the movie.

This is what they called Role Playing. Maybe it's better named reversely.

“I won't say this is never done before, but it's definitely hell lot more uncommon for people to fly on bikes. Even though I hoped it'd look more official, but… This is what we get!”

I stroked the frame's rust mark with my palm. The sensation was terrible, and gave me goosebumps:

“If you can fly, just fly all the way back to space!”

And find somewhere to drop me off too.

You heard me — even the sea's fine. Even if I lose my memory, it's fine.

Erio's nodded slowly. Her act of jaw clenching was not out of doubt or cowardice, but of fortitude. Her lips formed a line, silent yet revealing of will.

And we reached consensus. First, Erio entered the white basket. The large-sized basket devoured her with its mouth gaping toward the sky. Putting life into the bike is the job of an alien.

Touwa Erio.

If you don't have the proof of being the Amazonian alien, then show me yourself!

Prove the existence of aliens.

Prove what you've lost half a year ago was taken by the aliens.

I stepped onto the bike, my destination no longer needing navigation.

The route to find the laughable trace of alien, paved in the rue of Erio — the road toward the ocean.

Disregarding the impetus of its user, the bike kept going at its own pace. Awesome.

The speed didn't change~ like a loyal puppy, I obeyed my personal goal for the day: “save energy.”

The bike that was resurrected, almost covered with my own hand grimes, tediously maintained the usual speed that I lose to Ryuushi-san with; it killed any premonition of escaping the daily life.

Did something abnormal happen to the interior of the bike that an amateur can't see? Maybe the inside is all incorrigible.

In any case, the speed wasn't enough for flying off the cliff. We'll just fall off if we ride like this toward the bluff; we'll totally die if we bump into the rocks all the way down.

“Oi, self-proclaimed Alien, use the acceleration device in your molar.”

“…...”

Was she ignoring me, or simply speechless? The two reactions are close in effect, but the attitude diverges acutely. Erio did not look around, constantly focused to the front. I wonder what was going through her mind.

The me who originally went at the pedal turned to cruise control to save energy — also to prevent the loss of stamina in this comical spiritual battle.

This is a chicken fight: a fight to see who will seriously fly into the sea before Erio yields.

How horrifying! Bungee jumping without the cord has to be the extremity of fear for acrophobes. It is a heroic act even among these dreadful situations — the pinnacle of suicide.

If we let our youthful life end here in this stupid challenge, scientists are going to moan about the detriment of edutainment. Who's dying?! I clenched my jaws. Who's going to let her die?! The hands that gripped the handlebars flowed with power.

I will speed toward the cliff, slow down right after Erio shows her fear for death, change the route to back home, and then give her the certificate of an Earthling… that was the schedule.

The bike maintained it's speed to where we could see the ocean. The target slope with the perfect distance for flight had about two hundred meters left.

After the downhill was a slight inclination to the coastal road on the side. Essentially, it could be used as a ramp. The road does have a railing to prevent cars from going off, but it's probably scalable with disregard to slowing down and braking.

Just do the exact opposite of how normal people ride.

Not to mention the premise of speed. The me now had no help for speed gain. If the rider was a grade schooler who just took off the assistant wheel, the bike's way would be kinda cute — for a high school second year though, the bike's just a target for snickering. My ride had no sign for a mad dashing, even though I'm booming with youth — and that, is where the problem is.

Going down the hill will simply result in an extra lump of metal on the rail. Worst case scenario, the energy will send Erio into the sea, leading to a tragic ending.

Even my first time riding a bicycle was a little faster than this.

How could you lose having two wheels? To encourage the bike, I flicked the broken bell. The frail ring sounded as if saying, “avoid confrontation~” like an antisocial, grumbling NEET. I felt my waning determination's return as I pedaled on.

I'm not someone who would shamelessly go home without a putting up a fight.

The fact that I went through the trouble of skipping school made me struggle on.

I pedaled with all my strength, attempting to accelerate.

Imagining the exercise bike at a gym, I smiled wryly at the empty feeling beneath my feet. Eh?

The first loop was heavy. It took a while for me to realize the 'anomoly.'

I half-stood, maintaining the posture and biked.

The wind suddenly picked up.

“Oh?” Oh...Oh, oh?

Considering the structure of bicycle, this is but natural.

Fully stepping on the pedal equals superior speed.

Common sense returned.

The wheels and the pedal's link was revived, giving me the praise my hard work deserves.

My conscience was the only thing confused; the pedals spun at an amazing speed, under the guidance of inertia.

The speed between the bicycle and its friends were already abnormally fast by the time I slowed down my cycling.

In my mind, I saw the last light before a candle is blown out.

W-wait a minute, at this speed, we might actually not… Stop!

The brake's whacked I forgot to check!

Sensei, check my bike!!

“Uwahhh!!”

We are on track! We’ll definitely die if we run into the sides! Can I stop? Stick my feet out? Yes, do it! This is bad! Ah, my shoe’s gone! It’s gone to the wood after a few bounces! And the bike didn’t even slow down! Hills are scary! Scarier than manju’s ! Erio even stuck her body out! Since it’s came to this, use telepathy! Stop, stop, stop, stop, stop, stop; I’m serious too. I’ll stop the car. Stop time ! Stop, stop, stop, stoooooooop!

We are getting close! The goal at the end, the rail and the sea! Three on three?!

“…Right! Ah… Um…!”

Erio said something! I can’t hear! She yelled, almost falling out of the basket!

Fly! Ocean, rail, ah~ ah~ ah~ It’s too laaaaaa – !

It’s! Too! Late!

And thus: “I can’t flyyyyyyyy!!!”

I stomped! Stomp! More!

Five pooooooooints!!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhyieh! Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaar! Whoosh!

“ ‘Uwaaaaaaaaaahyeeeeeeh!!!’ “

Sounds like my voice is overlapping with someone elseeeeeeeeeeee’s!

Using the technique of a wheelie performance, I lifted the head of the bike to scale the rail; the end of the crossroad at the bottom of the hill became the ramp!

The pedals regained freedom and let go of their duty! Spin! Sky! My body left the seat and flew above the bike!

The wheel’s freaky noise resonated, burning into my eardrums!

“Extreme happiness” was enough to describe the sensation of breaking the air barrier.

Our background music wasn’t the sound of vibrating wings, but instead the noise of a passing car.

We held onto the speed of sound, leaning forward in attempt to surpass it, finally defying gravity.

In a world unrelated to earth, a bike and two people flew in the air.

It’s not a plane or a rocket: primitive science crossed the boundary.

We swam fatefully in the air.

Conscience and situation were instantly surrounded by azure.

I’m flying.

I’m flying. “I’m flying!” That’s right, I am flying! Still flying!

“Ah~Ha~Ha~Hahhhhhhhhwuiiiiiiiiiik!!” I am falling.

Gravity began its domination when we reached the apex. The bastard that was slapped by our momentary acceleration swung its gigantic palm down, swatting the traitors that ignored the speed of sound and light.

Time felt long during the jump, yet the fall was but a moment. Descent. The word didn’t even make it past the spine; I didn’t even have time to reflexively blink. The wind might have ambushed around my ears, but the incoming sea surface occupied my nerves.

The first to eat it was the person who lost her status as ‘alien.’

Like a cannon ball, Erio held her knees and pounced first into the water.

I saw sparkles; after she disappeared into the water, the bike and I also finished submerging.

Impact beyond imagination buffeted everywhere on my flesh. Water, too, assaulted my weakness from every angle, torturing my body by waves.

The sound of me crashing awkwardly into the sea rang in my skull. Ignoring space distribution, bubbles burst from my mouth, eating away at the strength of my limbs. I sunk gradually. Someone told me people float in the water if they don’t struggle, but I was sinking lazily!

Only if I could store wax like deep-sea animals.

Is this how diving into a different world feels?

My near-numb conscience obliviously remarked on what was happening.

The bike already left my grip, possibly keeping on the attack not too far ahead. It won’t come back up, and will probably become the new homes or nests for fishes in the future. Will it hate me? At least the hatred will be split among me and Erio, right? Cuz she lied, right?

…… I started moving. The speed of decent slowed, and my sunken body no longer numb. The swimming begins.

“Pwah! Cough, cough!” Without hesitation, I spat out precious oxygen and changed stance.

I turned, searching the source of light to face upward.

Opening my eyes in the fumed and dirty water, I attempted to find the silhouette of Erio. Actually, opening your eyes in the sea without goggles is not likely. Still, I pushed on.

Nothing else is dumber than dying while struggling to live!

As my face edged close to spasm from suffocation, my bleared view located a pair of legs that floated vertically onto the sea. Seems like Erio’s already at the surface, so I don’t have to stay here anymore. I relaxed my unmoving right arm, and power-stroked with my left.

For better or worse, my fading conscience from the lack of oxygen tranquilized my body. Since there was a dearth of nutrient for fear, I was forced to maintain a calm state of mind. I will live on without anxiety.

My face easily pierced the surface, and I began floating. Water expulsed from my nose and mouth dripped into my lungs, choking as I puked water. I didn't even have time to breathe.

My temple twitched; the blood vessels in my brain near exploding.

The content may be water, but the sound effect was undoubtedly that of vomiting.

Trying to play badass any more could kill me; I will puke without a second thought even in front of a girl.

Erio, who rose before I did, was still coughing, but it would appear she's done with getting rid of the sea water. Breathing in too much air would actually cause more choking.

For a while, we coughed incessantly, paying the price for our bravado.

As my body habituated to the spring sea that was colder than a just-opened swimming pool, I caught my breath. Hair drenched in water stuck to my skin, covering my vision.

To avoid the one of us from being washed away, I naturally held Erio's left hand.

Erio's finger tips were the same warmth as the sea water. They are, however, very tangible.

“Oi, pretend-alien, how does the sea of Earth taste?”

“It tastes salty, and the service was terrible.”

Head hung, she spouted the misplaced words of a food critic.

She did, however, spoke in proper Japanese.

With fingers that I couldn't felt, I pull Erio closer and clamped her left hand:

“Anyhow, you sure sucked! Never mind space, you won't even make it to Enoshima .”

“This is all the fault of the secretary: I have nothing to do with it.”

“Haha! That doesn't change the fact that you failed! I may be the culprit, but I don't give a crap.”

I laughed, and water once again filled my mouth. Not only that, Erio even splashed water at me with her empty right hand.

Simply put, I was splashing water with a girl by the beach! It should have been. Hmm, I guess we were literally, but the realistic development was kind of off. Is this how a victim of an elaborate scam feels?

“Well, I'm getting better at being delinquent too! Like skipping schools and going to the beach and stuff. My Youth-points are skyrocketing! The inflation is real!”

“How dare you talk like that, when you should be going for niche stuff like this with your guy friends.”

Somehow she seemed acquainted with the scoring criteria. Would this happen to be an international standard?

“Also, I'm not a student anymore — I've graduated from adolescence.”

Erio corrected as she flicked her soaked hair unto her shoulders. Even when wet, her hair still emitted particles; in my eyes, this was the most vibrant so far.

“I don't mean that… sigh, I was talking about going to the beach normally. Something like this...” I turned to scan around.

The ocean diffused endlessly.

Hard to imagine that there are continents and islands in the horizon of the sea.

The magnitude of the sea even brought me despair of unbelonging.

It is both blue and endless.

Erio pointed to the far horizon.

“Let's go there!”

“Why? Hell no, I don't like sharks.”

“Lets find an island and live there together!” Her eyes were muddled; they scared me.

“Screw that! I would hate a world with just you and me! We aren't Adam and Eve! And Adam was only willing to compromise because there was only Eve! He actually prefers pin-up girls with bigger chests! I still have Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san!”

“Uwah~ He's not letting go of the flags that are frailer than a P*cky stick!”)

“And what makes you think you can shut down my tiny hope? And with capsule made of jargon?”

“I'm done with that.”

Erio muttered calmly, wiping the water away from her cheeks.

The water on her face was swept away, yet the droplets from her palms never stopped. They didn't even serve as temporary drying solution.

Plight signifying her problems in life seemed to expand on Erio's face.

“Also, what's the meaning of this?”

Her purple lips trembled lightly; her pale skin suffused with bits of sanguine.

“By that you mean?”

“For the cousin, what is the meaning of doing this?”

On our linked hands, Erio's nails dug into my finger joints. Just that was enough to make it felt like the soggy skin was peeling off:

“Must I provide something like a reason or motivation?”

“Of course.”

She answered immediately and stabbed me with her fingers, telling me to hurry…

What a pain~ That's my actual thought.

Since I decided on a whim, I didn't care about what would happen afterward. Even now, I still don't know my intention.

Like choosing a future career, my impulsive youth was troubled with the direction of the future.

I have to add in some motives that came later.

If my answer doesn't pass, she might return to the sea — literally.

What was it… Oh yeah, that. The first time I met Ryuushi-san.

Just like this, toes tipped.

“Get along with everyone~” Since I wasn't too confident in my cuteness, I left the 'oh~” in my heart.

“Huh?”

Erio froze. How rare, but how cute. Both the value of this occasion or the cause for this reaction were satisfying.

“It's the human ideal! I decided to go for this first, so I don't have to worry about other things!”

“Sounds like bull~”

Erio's gave the look of smelling something sour and stuck her tongue out.

“Yeah, right! Since I'm going to living in your house, I want everyone to get along. Isn't it natural?” I kept thinking that I sounded more suspicious.

The sound of my teeth clenching drowned in the waves.

“I'm an alien! I should know how to fly! No, I can definitely fly! Just a bit! Three miles! At least I am certified! But I have to admit! An Earthling defeated me! Why? No, I know why! I don't know why!”

Erio pretended to be mental and in denial, and the lines I tossed out were,

“You deserve it… I will definitely be the bad guy if I say that.”

Thus, I said nothing.

If you're normal now, it's up to yourself! This way would be the only acceptable for her as well.

“The fact that we've became friends is terrible! The relation between the different planets have been ruined by the cousin! My command post is destroyed, and I'm soaked. Your triumphant smug is also in violation of several space agreement!”

Both outer space and Earth Miss Erio were conflicted, busily going back and forth between the stratosphere. It's time for you to give up on life without gravity.

But was my expression really like that? If I have to say it, I thought I was just grinning.

“There isn't a perfect relationship in this world that would hurt no one from start to end!”

Because of someone's evil arrangement, meetings are always paired with departure.

“...I don't get what you mean.”

She callously pointed out. Mm, the plan to gloss things over with pretty words failed.

“Anyway, nothing is final yet. Cuz, this is our first day meeting each other.”

At the right time, I lifted my right index finger to jab the oblivious Erio… Eh? I can't move my arm. Oh well, it's probably being rebellious like its owner!

I don't need body language. I'll use my eyes and mouth to explain clearly, cleverly impose my geniality!

This is the biggest weapon for those peace lovers who wish for people to get along:

“Is this your second time to Earth? I'll start selling settlement pizza next time.”

“…...” A solemn face. In other words, the stubborn expression that will explode into tears with the lightest touch.

“I want to get along with the pretty girl who returned to Earth. If you're worried about your amnesia, I will listen to your complaints too. Today was to prepare for that.”

Crossing such event (falling deeper) will pull the distance between the two hearts closer.

Heheheh, this is indeed the suspension bridge effect.

Jokingly carry out the test would only result in actually falling from the bridge.

Who would blush from an ending like that?!

… Fine, I give up on any benefits. Let's put an end to this!

To crawl back onto land, and let gravity torture me.

“To get along, we have to understand each other first. In short, self-introduction is vital!”

“Ah… I'm Tou...wa...”

Hey, slow down. I'm not done yet.

Helplessly, I gave the screen time to Erio. Perhaps a bit shook up, she stuttered, unable to finish.

Since the tears flowing into her mouth were choking her, it seemed my lines won't be omitted.

Ok, then I'll say it!

“Hey, Earthling. Give me your name.”

“Touwa… Erio… Eri...o ...Touwa… Erio!”

“Good. I'm Niwa Makoto, pleased to meet you.”

- I can not fly. +5

Youth-Point Total: +1

### 013. Chapter 6: Aliens of the City

## Chapter 6 - Aliens of the City

The price of five Youth-Point was hospitalization.

Holding onto the handlebars as we pounced the sea, my right arm was bent to a point where even Yoga masters would be shocked to see. The elbow that took the hit snapped in half.

And it wasn’t a simple fracture: apparently I wasted so much of my daily calcium supply that the bone wouldn't heal.

After what happened, we had serious trouble just getting back to the shore. Amazing how neither Erio nor I drowned. Half way home, my elbow hurt so much that I was on the verge of breaking down in tear. This was my first time experiencing such intense yet joyless sea bath. What can I say – the sea of spring was colder than I imagined. Because of the lack of kindness and calcium, I think I should have eaten the fishes swimming around and ate some Paracetamol from ten years ago to replenish the lost nutrition.

Like a fish or shrimp before being fried, I was covered in sand after climbing onto the man-made beach. Clothes drenched with sea water weighted me down, and the way back could be summarized as 'horrible.' Gravity's counter attack dominated me.

The bicycle was, naturally, gone in the sea. In the turbid water, the shadow of a bike that went the opposite direction of space bobbed. If the local residents saw it, I bet we'll be reprimanded for illegal dumping.

“…...”

Thus, I lost my means of transport. The straw of hope Erio gripped onto slid away.

…Was there a point? Rather than a query, it was more of a feeling of self-reflection that swayed in my heart.

Just like for evil adults who divulged the truth when it should have been a part of a growing for kids to realize the nonexistence of Santa Claus, the ephemeral thrill was ensued by bitterness and self-questions that I could not answer.

The Erio who fell from the basket earlier into the sea than either the bicycle or me was unhurt. Nevertheless, she cried. I don't know if they were the tears of fear, despair or physiology; I merely held her hand.

While thinking about the annoying taste of water in my mouth, I clenched my jaw, dragging my right arm and Erio to somewhere where we can call for an ambulance. While trotting, I didn't have the strength to take care of the bangs covering my eyes; the only thing repeating in my murky head was 'haircut next weekend.' Incessantly, I meditated 'barber, barber, barber, and then a hair salon.' Like the eighth channel back home, the paper that is my heart was imbrued black. I probably wasn't thinking then, but rather moved on mechanical autopilot.

Otherwise I would have talked more with Erio, using more words weaved with encouragement, censure, love and hate.

Ever since our landing, I had been silent, eventually letting go of even her hand.

My hospitalized life ended after two weeks, and I went home with an arm in support and cast. Golden week ended already, marking the beginning of a world reeking with the May Disease . Even I was infected by the air, occasionally hanging my head and eyelids.

There's still Erio and Meme-san back home. Even if the direction is different, the effort of dealing with this pair of mother and daughter was definitely not lacking.

Ah~ My arm itches. I wish I could just not give a damn and scratch it.

As I stepped out of the hospital, the illusion of pressure change overwhelmed me; as if quickly pulled out of the sea, I almost passed out on the street. Paper bag filled with clothes rustled; substituting the cries of cicada, and knocked on my eardrums.

The heat unperceivable in the hospital dazed me.

I walked toward the Taxi stand while flicking my since-then longer bangs upward.

Give me some happy memories — give me some energy for today! I ruminated, finding more nutrition than one. Awesome.

… Oh yeah, Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san visited me when I was hospitalized!

Though I walked on a rope thinner than the weaker-than-expectation piano wire, perhaps the flag I planted for them exists still.

Erio, however, never came.

“Mornin', Mako-kun!”

I went into full alert, thinking it was the attack of Meme-san.

Ryuushi-san stared, wide-eyed. Just finished with school, she wore the school uniform, with her pack, helmet and a large enveloped under her arms. Her hair may be flatten by the helmet, but the devil of adorableness was alive and well.

Perhaps this way suits her better (spoken with vehemence).

“Oops, was that too friendly?”

Close the door first, then apprehensively poke the dying dude on the street to see if he's alive. Ryuushi-san seemed to visit me with the same cautiousness.

“Nope, perfectly O.K.” If that someone was a certain aunt, I will shout, 'don't call me that.' People are realistic like this. Since I am in middle of a rebellious phase, it is my obligation to reject my guardians. I explained to myself.

“Oh! S'that so?”

Swoosh! With a dexterous and exaggerated motion, Ryuushi-san opened her pack and put on a softcap with both hands. She messed with the edge of the hat, adjusting the angle. She sat down after filling the unfilled (please excuse my skill with words) hat. The way she put things on her knee and skirt was super cute.

Put me there too. No, I mean let me sit there too. Did my brain rust from drinking too much sea water?

“What's up? With the hat I mean.” In some way this counts as QBK.

“Oh~ hahaha~” Ryuushi-san intentionally covered up with a boyish laughter; her level of embarrassment was just right. She pulled the hat down, just to the point where her eyes were hidden. She looked around bashfully:

“Cuz my hair's all messy. The wind went woosh, my helmet went squish, and the sweat went eeky. I tried to fix it in the hospital's rest room, but I can't get it all fluffy! I can't get it like bread!”

Ryuushi-san played with her shoulder-length, coffee-colored hair, as if defending the reason of her hat. Agh, dammit, I want to feel her swaying arms~ As I cordially looked at her, I suddenly realized.

Ryuushi-san's uniform had changed season, and she was now wearing summer outfit.

“Is it weird?” She grasped onto the hat, looking at me with upturned eyes. This devil of adorableness seems to have the innate ability to hit people’s bullseye. With her finger – not a needle – she poked into my heart.

“Not even! Girls look good in anything, it's amazing.”

“The hat fits me? This is a guy wear though!”

“It totally does. I almost thought you were a boy!”

“Wha! Really now~? Can I punch you?”

Ryuushi-san brandished her fists with a smile.

Her knuckles were round like a child, looking very soothing.

“Seriously, you are so cute.” I finally stopped hiding and said out loud.

Ryuushi-san's shoulder jumped; her hats almost flew off. “U-uwahh~! Wahh~!” Screeching like a monkey, she expressed her freak-out both inward and out.

Patients in the same room mostly gave me a 'what the hell?' and 'how annoying' look, but what do you people want me to do? Tell her to get in the bed? The argument is very enticing, but it's too early for a sexual harassment charge.

Just let me wish for a life of missed opportunity!

“I-I'm not that cute! N-not even close! I'm so plain that two guys rejected me during my first year!!” Your nervousness is giving away some personal information!

If I let Ryuushi-san be, she might divulge a few more secrets. However, she might end up reincarnating into a monkey and begin stampeding in the room like a chimp in the zoo. In the end, the festering carcass of his lover was carried to his arms… I hope things will never come to be like that, so I have to calm her down.

“Sorry, was that creepy?”

“Y-yeah! Super-duper creepy!”

“...My bad.” I thought she was going to say otherwise from the way our conversation was going, but the impact was unexpected.

How many years has it been since I've apologized like that?

Ryuushi-san seemed to have also realized the implication of her words; she waved her arms about and added in some intense denial:

“No, no! Not really! Yeah, ya aren't up close!”

“So I am from a distance away...” It might be better getting called trash.

“Awuwah~” Ryuushi-san dug her grave even deeper, probably already reaching the mantle. Her voice stopped abruptly as she hugged her hat and spun her head inside. I wanted to clap my hands to see how she'd react to the sound.

Finally recovered, she proposed with a charming visage that emitted warmth:

“May I start over?”

“You may.”

“Then, cough cough!” Ryuushi-san made the sound without movement. It was kind of half-baked. “These are copies of my notes for classes — midterms are coming up!”

She picked up the brown envelope and fanned the air about.

“Wow, thanks!” I thanked her as I browsed through the notes inside. Though I didn't understand a word in the articles, just looking at those curly characters was enough to satisfy me.

If this were Meme-san's note, I'd only cower at the undecipherable writing and use it to test my grip strength.

“If there's anything ya don't get, just send me a text. Well, I'm not the smartest, so I'm not exactly the most reliable.”

“Not at all, you are my only support, sensei!” I jokingly spoke, concluding with a little banter.

As the laughter fade, her face changed.

Ryuushi-san placed her fists on her knees, finally asking the real question toward the bed. Her voice was very slight, as if the words were made of sand:

“So...”

“Hm?”

Her hesitant eyes and lips moved up and down. Ryuushi-san was looking for a way to peek into my heart.

“Hm?” I don't like burden, so I gave her the chance to keep speaking.

Perhaps effective, the question that led Ryuushi-san hesitant quickly appeared onstage.

“Were you planning to kill yourself when you jumped into the sea?”

Ah, I see. So she heard about what I did.

“Nah, that wasn't the intention.” I denied there and then, leaving no room for misunderstanding.

At that time I pedaled to soar in the blue sky for my own survival.

My goal wasn't anything as grand as space, but I sure gave it my all.

“You might not know yet, Niwa-kun, but a while ago, there was someone who did exactly what you did. She started spouting nonsense because she got hurt… I'm super worried!”

“Hm… Sorry for making you worry.” Cough cough, but I only did that because I was worried for the same girl!

Only if she learned her lessons in the second challenge.

“Since it was real scary near the end though, I did prepare to die.”

“Don't die! Absolutely don’t. Um, the person who's dying may not care, but the people left behind would definitely be sad. It's the worst if you take those sadness lightly because you can't see it.”

“You're right. Ryuushi-san would be sad too.”

“Of course! If Niwa-kun died, the entire school will cry.”

“Hahah, more like no one will.”

“No way~ I won't let ya make that kind of record!”

Ryuushi-san puffed her chest out confidently. She probably wasn't conscious of it, but for the person in question, hearing her assert like that kind of flustered me. Why did I have to be a high schooler who fears serious topics?

As long as it isn't an untrusting person, most people would assess Ryuushi-san as someone who doesn't hide her emotion.

But then again, it is entirely impossible to see the entirety of someone's heart.

The human heart is tantamount to the existence of aliens: the location of it unknown, and its depth abyssal.

Erio wrapped herself in futon, perhaps seeking at least equivalence in appearance, and tasted the fruits of defeat. She wanted to become an existence of 'unknown.'

Though her blockheaded cousin proved to her that she was a city girl of pure Earthling genes.

“Oh yeah. Are you a cellphone enthusiast, Niwa-kun?”

“I don't advocate anything; I celebrate both Christmas and New Year. Wanna exchange number?”

“Lets!” Rustle rustle, Ryuushi-san took out a neon pink cellphone from her pocket. The power was off, probably because she's in a hospital.

“I don't have mine right now, could you write it down for me? I'll call you after I'm released.”

“Ok~” She took out her pencil pouch, and even mischievously pretended to roll her sleeves up.

Everything was so smooth, it's great. The level of smoothness of conversations between me and Erio didn’t even come close to a hamster wheel. But those memories seem to have been purified by the sea.

I recalled the endless horizon when I flew with Erio; I looked up.

“…...” I saw something at the entrance.

My melodrama was cut before it ended. Even the life of a dragonfly lasts longer than you!

A natural malice with no intention to visit struck.

“Transfer student, feeling bored?”

Maekawa-san, a uniform enthusiast, used coming to hospital as an excuse to dress up as an eggplant. I definitely didn't mistype nurse (ナース) with eggplant (ナス), the indigenous Indian fruit belong in the Solanum genus.

“Yo!” From the stem of the purple costume, she greeted with arms that penetrated the fruit.

For me and Ryuushi-san, time indeed stopped for two seconds; the patients sharing room with me also turned into unseasonal icicles.

The clear sky deeply embraced us… I attempted to escape with a scenery description, switching the entire background. I take back what I said earlier. There are things girls can't wear. If the person changes into something else, I'm not going to help making more excuses.

Because of the lack of reaction, Maekawa-san (or eggplant) tilted her head:

“Huh… Not funny? I chose nurse and eggplant because we're in a hospital...”

“Please don't explain the joke.”

The sea of spring already lowered my body temperature. If forced to listened to anymore of this, the audience, I, may end up cringing with cheeks burnt: having someone explaining an unfunny joke humiliates even me.

This onee-sama failed to realize the plunging of her authority. Not even — Maekawa-san herself looked really satisfied. Speaking of purple mascot, isn't there one in McD*nald's?

“This was a costume for a part time job I had. The manager gave it to me when the store closed down.”

I wanted to lock Nasu-san into a cupboard. You actually wore this all the way through the roads in the city, the hallway and the hospital? This isn't the Super N*ntendo Era: your equipment will reflect on the outside. I'll give you a piece of advice then: put your gallantry and valor away, and live an earnest life with normal clothes!

“So Maekawa-san is this kind of person...”

Ryuushi-san shot a rigid glance. As her body recovered from frigidness, she spoke with a pitying voice.

“Mhm.” Maekawa-san, who is in many way off the rail, was unwavered, and proudly nodded.

“So I suppose you're here to visit Niwa-kun?” Eh? Ryuushi-san looked scary.

“Why else would I be here?” Maekawa-san was also scary in a different way.

My social circle doesn't cover eggplant's who'd pay me a visit.

An eggplant she may be, Maekawa-san is still a girl. The other person may be a girl, but is also Ryuushi-san. To be honest, I haven't done any good deeds today, yet there were two girls who paid me a sick visit. Rather than joy, I felt uneasiness. Am I going to die soon?

“Hmph~ Since when are ya so chummy~? You don't even~talk~in~class~”

Oh boy, Ryuushi-san… is she jealous? No way! But she sure is observant of what Maekawa-san and I are like in class.

I'm not going to be overly self-conscious: it might cause some damage for both parties later~

In contrast to my enlightenment, Maekawa-san turned into an idiot.

“Because the transfer student and I spent a night together.”

“ 'Hah?' “ Maekawa-san successfully froze time again. Especially for Ryuushi-san, who seemed to have lost much to the thief of time.

She even forgot to blink, like someone else was wearing a Ryuushi-san costume.

“Hold on, jokes like this could ruin my name–”

“Guuwah~!” Look at what you've done!

Perhaps the recoil from the earlier pause, Ryuushi-san's time accelerated all of the sudden. Blood boiling on her face imbued her cheeks and eyes; if a pulse were taken from her delicate wrist, the doctor would probably mistakenly say 'are you suicidal?'

“A night is an evening! Pitch black!”

No, uh, really — night in the city isn't exactly pitch black unless specially made.

“I've been wronged — she made this up! I haven't had lessons that tempting yet!”

“What do ya mean tempting?!” Ryuushi-san went berserk to a point of no return.

“Dammit, Kibo-nengu! My school life is done thanks to you!”

“Oh, I was thinking that all the time we've met in the evening adds up to a night~”

“This isn't like lottery in a market! Don't combine them!”

The nightmare brought by the purple devil worn my spirit; their argument intensified as if they were on the opposite ends.

Me and Ryuushi-san were spitting alien by the latter half of the conversation.

Before I realized, the primary substance of the storm, Ryuushi-san, had already left. The only one left was the striking eggplant woman and a high schooler who's hospital life from now on will blamed for various things.

“Your boring and depraved hospital life had just been visited by a refreshing wind!”

Maekawa-san summarized the entire event as if narrating for a nature travel program.

“You mean a storm? The local buildings and culture are gone.”

“Didn't think Ryuushi was going to have that great of a reaction — your love meter is exploding.”

“It isn't! And don't call me Ryuushi!”

The target of gossip quickly turned back into the room to deny the rumor, and then ran away again.

“Is she the transfer student's familiar?”

“I don't even know the number of her summoning medium...” Because of a certain eggplant's meddling, I didn't get it.

“You guy see each other every day anyway, do you even need it? Alright, time for me to take this costume off. It's too hot.”

As if the cousin of a Gibbons ape, Maekawa-san deftly unzipped the zipper on her back. The eggplant shed. The nurse was inside! Only if the development was so sweet. Since I didn't tell anyone, I won't commemorate it as some memorial day. The Maekawa-san on this inside didn't transform, donned in normal uniform.

“As expected, you're better as a uniform cosplayer.”

“This isn't cosplay — it's my profession.”

She lazily say on the folding chair and crossed her long legs. Seriously, her legs were so long, it wouldn't be surprising if her ancestors were wooden horse craftsmen. It's also surprising how my brain thought of something like this.

“Transfer student, I heard you jumped into the sea? Planning on reincarnating into a member of the fish?”

With a teasing tone, Maekawa-san asked me the question.

“Man, I planned on flying to the sky, but I fell because of the shortage of momentum.”

“What, so you wanted to be a bird?”

“...I aimed to fly higher than a bird though.”

At least Erio wanted to go through the atmosphere. I think.

“Hmph.” Maekawa-san swapped legs. She seemed to have seen something on me, and hunched forward with a slightly different expression. Sensing that she's attempting to see through my mind, I felt anxious.

“Tell Touwa this for me: next time I'll lend her a costume of the Greys to dress up with me.”

“...Was it that obvious?”

“Who knows?”

“Roger. I'll tell her after I'm released.”

Erio probably won't visit. Though the reason of my judgment wasn't easy to say, Maekawa-san noticed the overtones.

“She didn't make it to space? I guess Touwa doesn't qualify to be an alien!”

“Of course not.”

Human progress would have stalled three hundred years ago if they could fly into space with such low cost and low effort equipment. We gambled with our lives on the scale, and managed to get a few seconds of fly-and-float experience.

She straightened her back, her jeering lips tilted at a different angle.

“Oh, on an unrelated note, let’s go to the beach this summer!”

“That is really unrelated, Nee-san.”

“You can see the gill and scales that are my fish-cosplay's charm points!”

“No, I don't care about fishes other than those in Judo outfit.”

“Bam~!” Ryuushi-san, who still hadn't gone home, came back and tackled Maekawa-san.

Maekawa-san, who has the appearance of an oarfish and the innards of a minnow, was pushed by the diminutive Ryuushi-san. “Whoa!” She stumbled onto the bed. I guarded my right arm just in time, but couldn't move her out of the way; she beautifully fell on my knees.

“Uwee~!” Ryuushi-san squeaked out of either mimicry or a representation of anger, and stuck her arms underneath Maekawa-san, forcefully pulling her out from the bed and back to the chair.

Maekawa-san looked like a miniature surfboard model when she was being carried.

“What are you doing?” She might have said that, but Maekawa-san's satisfied smile betrayed her malice.

“Shoulder charge is now in season.”

Ryuushi-san omitted the abstractness of 'autumn of sports' and added hostility, advocating the new season's unique sight. “Beep, beep beep beep~” She even imitated the prelude of an intercom broadcast, acting out the overly-cordial sound effect:

“The beach is prohibited.”

“ Why ?”

Maekawa-san English pronunciation was extra crispy. Written in words, though, must be the about the same as mine.

“Cuz there are jellyfishes.”

“Huh? Jellyfish?”

“ Yes ~ Squishy~”

She curled her fingers, attempting to convey the sensation.

“By that you mean guys and girls can't… No, you mean I can't go with the transfer student.”

Maekawa-san comprehension seems to be rather high — she might even be able to translate the early Erio's Japanese!

Ryuushi-san raved in the hospital, completely lost her mind.

“It has nothing to do with him — it's about guys and girls going to the beach! It's scary and it’s inappropriate!”

“Then according to you, what about the transfer student? He's already gone past the level of going to the beach.”

Pretending to be innocent, Maekawa-san shifted focus to my fatal injury.

“You… You've done more shameless things (ハレンチック)?”

Her self-made word is only two kana’s away from romantic (ロマンチック), yet it's so much harder to use.

“What, don't you know? Transfer student is Touwa's cousin!”

Hey, didn't you promise that 'it's better to not say it'? See, Ryuushi-san froze for the third time.

Why are new problems being dug out when I could clearly see the ending?

...Oh well, because it isn't a lie, I won't deny anything. At Least I won't.

It couldn't be helped if I get ostracized for it.

Because all I did was told the truth.

Even if the truth isn't the right answer, it is the only acceptable ideal I have.

Like so, I destroyed Erio's delusion.

I had no plan for the afterward consultation to salvation, and I did what I did irresponsibly.

...I've already decided the course of action when I get home.

In more ways than one, I've made up my mind. Like an Enypniastes, I will expose not just my organs, but also the brain on the outside of my body.

Let Ryuushi-san's home-made warmth evaporate the puddle of thoughts.

“By the way, I live with Erio.”

“ 'W-what~?!' “

Um, shouldn't one of you be aware of this?

☆

I reminisced, thinking that the process wasn't actually that interesting.

Since the memory was still fresh in its raw state, it probably wouldn't be glorified unless a year of two passes. Even if that happens, the likely thing to appear is probably a short story about 'why I hate eggplant.' I'm afraid that it wouldn't change my values.

Pondering about these thoughts, I returned to my second home on a shaky taxi through the river of life known as a road. Paying the tab with the remaining allowance I had, I left the car.

Like the first time I visited here on the last day of spring break, I looked around the entire house a distance away. There wasn't any sentiment of returning to a missed home.

It doesn't matter if it's this, that or whatever, everything depends on the coming days.

The story started here.

“...Alright, first episode's done. Please continue onto the second episode.”

Just a side note: my vision will extend to the eighty seventh episode. Every day is like birthday.

I lightly pushed the entry door (Not like it matters, but every time I opened this door, I thought of a certain sea-food restaurant in Setagaya.

“I'm home~” A quiet greeting.

In just a second, Erio would frantically run down from the second floor to greet me, saying, 'welcome home, Mako-kun!' with a grin. And then I would proceed to be scared senseless and mouth agape. However, the Touwa family wouldn't have such antiquated and idealistic environment. I indeed felt a nostalgically cold air.

“...Hm?”

At the entrance, paper memo and paperweight were playing again. It would appear that they have assumed that all they needed to greet me, who was missing for three weeks, with was something that isn't even alive. A Zashiki Warashi would do just fine!

I set the paper bag down, picking up the paper weight and memo with my left hand. The memo was filled with seven round and greasy characters: 'welcome back, Makoto.' A rainbow: she especially used a different marker for each character, making the end product look like a cheap neon sign for a pachinko parlour. For some reason, the purple-colored 'Makoto' was especially grotesque and thick. I focused, looking for the reason… I see.

Looks like an experiment was carried out here — red and blue were mixed to see if the outcome was purple, and the charred product was forcefully covered with a purple marker. If Meme-san weren't the one who left this message, I honestly might have thought that it was cute.

While thinking about how to deal with this one-time grip-strength testing device, I took off my shoes. “Hah??” One step into the house, I discovered the walls of the hallway and even the floor was densely covered with memos. As if telegraph, it seemed like a circuitous way of communication. I picked up a piece next to my hand.

'The snack in the cabinet should be expired.'

“Save it before it's gone!” Are you the devil? The enemy of Engel's Coefficient.

Also, the contents were too reflective of a certain Isono family. We don't even have enough people.

“Uh, if I crowbar it, I'd be Masuo — no, Katsuo. Erio'd be Sazae… Wakame. Meme-san is Fune...” Actually, screw this! The future would be bleak if I set our characters here! Even I reached the same conclusion.

I got annoyed when I read the second message, so I ripped off and crumpled each one of them afterward. The simple task quickened; my footstep also lightened.

Destroy everything altogether using this opportunity! I followed the guidance of the notes all the way to the kitchen. The one on the basket seemed to be the last.

I glanced at it, so when Meme-san asks me how I thought about it, I could give her a complete answer. Like a book report for summer homework, all you need is the first half of the book to begin writing.

'There's a cake to celebrate your homecoming. It's almost expired, so eat it quick.'

“Now there's something useful.”

I only listen to useful information.

I opened the fridge.

There was Meme-san.

“Eeeeck!” With no shame or pretense that no one heard, I screamed as if I received the Horror News and hopped backward. Paralyzed on my butt, I scoop back and bumped my right arm countless times onto the cabinet. But mental (fear) problems superseded bodily (pain) ones, rendering me mindless of it.

With knees bent, Meme-san was stuffed in the fridge in a fetal position, head tilted sharply to the right. Her eyes were rolled back, and her tongue out.

E-Erio? Was it Erio? Are you U.N. Owen ?

Why did it turn into a mystery in the end? Are you sick of writing RomCom? Bastard.

Is the second volume going to start with an accidental push down a flight of stairs, then finding out that the refrigerator is already occupied with another body when dumping the corpse?

“Makoto...”

She’s alive! Eh, is she? It’s raw, but it’s alive!

But I don’t want to be near her! My legs are shaking!

“It…is…cold…”

“Ah…Um, yes… Eh, uh… Ah, yes!” Finally mustering the strength to lift my ass up, I stumbled toward the fridge, threw the paper bag away and held the sides of the fridge.

“Are… Are you all… right?” I shudderingly felt her right hand.

…Hm?

“I’m freezing to death, Mako-kun. Warm me with your skin…”

“……” A current went through my body.

I closed the door and backed off for a moment.

“……” I tried knocking.

“……”

“Come in~” The answer sounded warm. Hah?

“Dammit!” I busted the door open. I realized that this was a wasteful deed to a society that advocates saving energy — at least someone outside of the fridge did!

“You’re so cold, Mako-kun~” Please don’t wave your brown irises around like a girl in love: I’ll want to stab them.

“It’s not like the thought of hanging myself went through my head… I’d rather not ask, but what are you doing?”

“Chilling.”

“Don’t expect that to work every time.”

“Ahahah! Heave! Ho! Hnng!”

Meme-san struggled, holding on to the side of the fridge. With her own strength, she escaped and crashed onto the floor.

The entire process was like a new version of the R*ng.

“Eheheh~” Meme-san stood, sticking out her tongue while messaging her neck.

“Ah~ My neck hurts (☆)”

“Just become a star then.” Or rather, bring me to space or a paradise where you don’t exist.

“Please don’t be like me, good children everywhere!”

“The existence of this person is fictional.”

Or rather part of my crude delusion. Alright, it’s about time to put a period to this story.

“Mako-kun, where are you going? There’s a lost lamb in need of warmth here.”

“You’ll live. Not like you’re a cold-blooded animal.”

“But I spent five minutes crawling in there~ You’re so cold, Mako-kun.”

You are the cold one here. Stop rubbing my arm, your fingers are cold.

“Basically, don’t you have work today?”

“I’m off today.”

“Speaking of which, what do you do?”

“It’s – a – secret!”

“……” I would have socked you if you’re a guy.

“More importantly, you should worry about how the fridge was empty enough to fit me in there.”

“Your head is empty enough to fit fifty hobbits in there, how breath taking.”

And those hobbits are building an empire there!

“You must be malnourished if you’re so easily angered!”

“I thought I should have taken more calcium. Man, why do I have to have an irritating person doing whatever the hell she wants within my fifty cm radius?”

“Or is it because you can’t let out your frustration in a place full of people?

“You can pretend it’s Amano-Iwato if you want, just go back to the fridge.”

“By the way, next up is the cake! But it’s made by someone else!”

The refrigerator opened once again; the frigid air oozed out depressingly.

“Oops, sorry. Your aunt accidentally crushed the cake.” She showed me the pulverized blue box.

“It’s ok. My feeling of appreciation was also crushed.”

Enough. Let it end, roll the credit.

It’s ok if that’s also crushed.

I gave up completely. Well, about half of it was to hide my embarrassment.

Actually, I was worried at first that maybe Erio murdered her mother.

“Alright~ Let’s celebrate Mako-kun’s release from jail~”

“Hospital, you mean.”

“Yes, yes, the hospital. Why don’t we go out for lunch? What I mean is to eat at a nearby diner!” There were flowers around Meme-san.

She’s probably planning on buying some drinks — drinks that look like gasoline.

“Go get Erio, she’s upstairs.”

As if nothing happened, Meme-san spoke with no hint of awkwardness.

“Me?”

She flashed a calm and magnanimous smile that befitted her age.

“This is your job in the house, Mako-kun.”

“Huh…” This was my first time overwhelmed by a benevolent feeling.

My right foot was stuck on the ground; I wanted to shake the goosebumps off.

The rate at which her brain solidifies astounded me.

Her smile crossed the boundary of observable plane, illuminating the world with love.

If Meme-san was at least a decade younger, I would have fallen for her.

As expected of a character going for gap-moe: she will say acute lines occasionally at a miraculous probability.

I can’t even believe that the brain of the person who just crawled out from the fridge earlier was connected to the lips that just said those words!

“But why not have you do it sometimes? Since you’re usually so indifferent toward Erio.”

“My, what do you mean usually? Before Mako-kun came here, our life was pretty normal!”

Hoh~ Normal, you say? I shot a glance of suspicion. Normal days with a blanket is just sleeping together, isn’t it?

“I’m only apathetic toward Erio, because I knew Mako-kun will be her friend, and do things for her. Everything is going according to my plan.”

…Even a thumbs up. Are you for real? No, you are really cold on a physical level.

“I understand. I’m going now.”

There were two rooms and a resident upstairs. But starting today, there will be two people again.

I discovered something after coming back from two weeks of absence.

The smell of this house was the smell of Erio.

It was neither sweet nor stimulating.

Yet, that comforting smell provided a serenity that permeates the entire body.

I peered into her room.

“Eri-“

“…”

The tongue halfway through greeting paused.

She was wrapped in futon. Except this time everywhere else besides the toes was hidden.

What the hell is up wrong this caterpillar?

I saw the sign of her poor direction of growth.

From the bottom of my belly, let’s say it out loud!

“…I’m home!”

“…!” Erio jumped. Ugh, legs grew out from the futon.

She stood up, hunched forward, and escaped to the corner of the room.

Is she a hermit crab? Or maybe a croissant-disguising worm that grew limbs.

Agh, gross. Deep-sea animals may be disgustingly cute, insects are just too disgusting for me to admire.

“It…It’s here!”

“I’m not some freak. You should come out though.” From the futon.

Erio knelt on the floor, and poked her head out from the futon. The shape was like a bowling pin, making me want to tip her over.

“… How’s your hand?”

“The itch is killing me, but everything else is fine.”

Also, it hurt like hell when I knocked the cabinet earlier when your mom freaked me out.

“Sorry.”

Decent behavior. Acceptable. But I still wanted to laugh because of her futon.

Erio’s Japanese vocabulary may have been reduce… Yet, her communication skills are normal now.

“I’ll introduce myself again.”

“Hm?”

“I’m Touwa Erio, sixteen. My profession is… housework assistant.”

“Must be nice being a girl, having a backup like that.”

Guys would have to deal with it head-on.

“The cousin is back.” Though facing down, she stared at me.

“Mhm. Meme-san says we’re going out to eat, so I’m here get you.”

“Mm.” Silence after raving. What a bipolar tongue.

“Take the futon off.”

“…Mm.” She hung her head somewhat regretfully. Why?

I looked closer, finding out that the pattern on the futon was a flower never seen before. Calamus blooming in purple, and the sheet was also as fluffy as a croquet- no, a grilled mochi.

Was this the fruit of her hard work? Am I popular now?

Where do kids in the city pick up their fashion sense? Magazine kapok?

Erio pulled herself out from top of the futon-roll. Leaving the futon that was shed like a snake skin, she stepped onto the room’s floor.

Why are the things this pair of mom and daughter do so realistic in a bad way?

She stood to flatten the folds on her dress. There wasn’t a speck of awkwardness on her brilliant expression, completely natural.

“Do aliens really not exist?” Erio eyed the telescope, and muttered dejectedly.

“Who know? The only thing I proved was that you are my cousin, a hikkikomori who helps out at home.”

“I seem to be treated as useless…”

“Don’t mind it.” I’ll feed you! “No way!”

“Hm?”

“No, seriously, don’t mind it.”

I rolled my shoulder, glossing over the topic. I almost blurt out promises I can’t keep!

“Ah… Mm.”

“Mm…” Since standing around was difficult for both of us, we tossed out courtesy smile to each other.

There was a mysterious emptiness in the air. The only thing left was to walk to the entrance.

But other than vocational reasons, I also had some private matters with her.

“Um…”

I stopped half way; I scratched the back of my head, giving the push the words in my mouth need. The words were practically squeezed out!

“Yes?”

“Sorry. For ruining your dream.”

I had already decided in the hospital that I would apologize to Erio first thing getting home.

“…?”

“If you were serious and accepting of it too, then I was probably just being nosy.”

I turned toward the map of town. Precisely, to avoid facing her.

Even if her direction was wrong, she was neither lost nor anxious. With some compromise, she might even live on. Erio’s goal didn’t need to be censured.

But that’s because you weren’t broken.

Because you could still come back.

I destroyed your delusion.

“It’s ok. The cousin must be right.”

With a subtle expression, Erio walked on the rope between consent and dissent.

She could not see me, who could only destroy, as a figure of complete agreement or denial.

However, she spoke on:

“Amnesia is scary…”

She paused for a moment, and then lifted her head up as if finished with recalling:

“Thanks to the cousin, I flew for a second. It felt great.”

A smile like the clear sky of May appeared on Erio’s face.

Particles on her strands of hair were completely revitalized. Dazed, I could not look straight at her face.

“So, this is my thanks.”

I reflexively received the object when her hand reached over.

It’s an underwear.

I threw it on the floor.

Actually, I wanted to toss it upward, but having something like that fall my head is mortification beyond a lifetime. I held my impulse.

“What are you doing?”

“What the hell are you doing? Are you still nuts?”

“Because the cousin requested girl’s panties from mom before.”

“Wha-!”

I planted a flag this serious at that time?! You heard that ? Are you a moron?!

“Can’t you tell if something sarcastic?”

“It was prepared after considerable contemplation.”

I smacked Erio on the top of her head. I’m going to sue both of you for slander!

Man, honestly! The serious atmosphere dissipated, the only thing left was a vexing tumor.

“Anyhow!”

“Mm.”

“About your lost memory, I’m sorry that I can’t help much.”

I forced the dialogue back to seriousness.

“It’s fine, I can deal with it myself — it’s the only thing I can do.”

Erio shut her eyes, a faint smile on her face as she led the way out.

Even without sight, she seemed to know the entirety of the house. She correctly turned to where I was and jokingly said:

“Only if I didn’t leave school.”

“I think so too — It would have helped with finding a job.”

“No, not that.” Erio shook her head, emitting particles.

With a layer of that stuff, even hallways in normal houses would become rice with gold dust.

Not that it’s anything worth being happy about!

“Because going to school with the cousin seems to be fun.”

…Cough!

While going down stair with her, I thought about the tiny possibility of that happening.

On the moment of that day when we flew.

If the bike didn’t accelerate when it did, we wouldn’t have enough force to fly and might end up running off the cliff, becoming ‘two high school students mysterious fell to death.’

How come the bicycle regained its performance at the end?

It would make sense, saying that it’s all a coincidence.

…However, where are the aliens?

Before solving this doubt, this question is still meaningful and valued.

Touwa Erio is an Earthling. She isn’t a cyborg either, just lost a bit of her memory.

Perhaps, she really is favored by the aliens watching over this city.

With her car parked outside, Meme-san ambushed us just outside of the house.

Of course, it isn’t a vehicle as wasteful and convenient as a car. It’s a city bike, or colloquially known as a utility bike

“You’re slow~ why didn’t you come out earlier if you knew the sun was so hot~ Hurry~”

In just a short time, she impeccably fixed even her makeup.

“Don’t tell me — are we all riding on this?”

I said so, knowing that there is no other way. The thought of giving up flashed.

“No problem. You aunt is driver paper . This is a piece of cake.”

“I have no clue whatsoever on what you’re talking about.” Is Meme-san’s brain ruined by the heat or the frigidity?

“Who’s pedaling?” With proper Japanese, Erio joined the conversation. Not particularly worked up, Meme-san answered naturally:

“Of course Mako-kun is! Also, I’m sitting in the back. Wow~ the smell of love!”

“Must be rotting or something, cuz ripe fruits are sweet.” And ‘Mako-kun’ seemed to have become my fixed name.

Even though I’m injured, there is no problem if it’s just riding a bike.

“Where is Erio sitting?”

“Here.” The two pointed at the same place simultaneously. Naturally, it was Erio’s special basket.

“This isn’t some circus act…”

…Well, whatever.

Erio jumped into the basket to become its load. Meme-san sat in the back, her arms circling my waist.

“Please don’t hug me.”

“How much, in percentage, in that phrase was ‘tsun?’

“Measured in inches instead of percentage, about three inches.”

“What about for me?”

“About five centimeter per second.”

I stepped on the pedal, each cycle onerous.

Rather than being pedaled, the bike slid downhill on its own.

Finally, the wheels wobbled precariously forward.

The four-man five-legged race including a bike never escaped the speed of ‘slack.’

“Gravity should go to hell!”

“Agreed.”

The bicycle will not be soaring in the sky today.

Carrying passengers who weren’t aliens, it went to a place somewhere on Earth.

## 02. Volume 2‎ ( Full Text )

### 001. Afterword

I did say last time that I was going to write a short story for the afterword… Sorry, just kidding!

Now with that excuse out of the way, let's nonchalantly begin this normal afterword. I didn't think there was going to a second volume… I think I wrote the same thing in the second volume of my other series too, but it's the same thing this time. I think I will still say the same thing if I ever have a new series.

Since I felt like there will be a few more books, I decided to list out this book's summary to fill up the lines. I've been camping out in my house as of recent, so I can't write any 'recently.' Well, here's the listing:

'Knives are allowed only in the kitchen. The police will show up if you take it outside' world view. New characters are never mentioned in the current volume 80 percent of the time. Hospitalization is not a per-book thing. Basically a Romantic Comedy: four hundred percent romance according to me. Probably zero in comparison though. Now when someone asks me 'What are you writing about?' the answer 'a bit of RomCom' will not be a lie. Hurray! I will needlessly connect the content with that of my other series. Sorry for those who have only read this one. Since they're mostly irrelevant, though, just ignore them if you don't understand. The main heroine of this series is not the aunt. This series is pretty much the opposite to うそつきみーくんとこわれたまーちゃん (Usotsuki Mii-kun to Kowareta Maa-chan. Lying Mii-kun and Broken Maa-chan)

Please allow me to give a word of thanks.

Though I write something so precariously similar every time, I still thank the two editors for their great help. I think you two must be quite tired of my slowly-revealed terrible personality by now, but please do continue with your assistance!

Also, to Mr. ブリキ(Buriki) who had also illustrated for the last volume: looks like I will be in your care in the future as well, so any advice is welcomed!

In addition, I naturally want to thank my father, who said 'stop saying bad things about me! Do that to your mom!' and is therefore retired from the afterword this time, and my mother who is more tactile in her speech.

I gave up this time due to circumstances, but if there was a third volume, I promise to write a really short story!

Thank you for purchasing this book.

Hitoma Iruma 人間入間

### 002. Chapter 1 - Kyaah—

I’ve turned forty! Forty! Kyaah~ Eeyaah~ Gyaah~! Forty — a demonic number capable of bringing down a corrupt government; it’s a number encapsulating the bounty and depth of not just life, but of history . People lose their immaturity here, and step onto the stairway to adulthood. Kyaah, what smooth skin! I’m so jealous! Dammit, even if she’s my own daughter, that look is just too damn much!

“Don’t steal my monologue!”

And what the hell is up with you replacing the chapter title with screaming? …I don't know what I'm saying either; it's like my mouth was possessed by a necromancer.

…Alright, start over. Hi, I’m Niwa Makoto. At the moment, the room is about forty times noisier.

Today – Sunday, June sixth — a certain forty-year old child was yelling her afternoon away. It was annoying. She came into my room, riled up the dust and crawled around on the bed like a beached shrimp. It would appear to be a futile struggle against the changing of her age.

As a side note, there’s some medicine patch on her feet. It looked kinda depressing.

“What a cruel world~ uwooo~wuu. If time and story could stop, I could be forever thirty nine. My dream of spreading 'thirty-nine year old business card' in the town is over.”

Sniffle~ Touwa Meme-san spat out her absurd wish. She’s my aunt (おばさん), and there is no way a ‘ka’ is between the two kana’s. Since her name might begin to appear in the examples of the definition of forty-years old, my peaceful life is threatened.

“Ahh~ Wuu~ Forty… Elliot is also forty, Hoshimimi is also forty. Onii-san is also forty two… Ohohohoh!” She buried her face into the pillow, an eerie smile crept up on her face. This way, she wasted her move. But in the time of each of my move, she has triple the amount of action – What energy. Well, not like I know what’s happening!

“Meme-san, please go back!” Shoo~ Shoo~ I put out my stance of eviction. It, however, has never worked.

“If you don’t call me Meme-chan or Honey , I’m not going to listen! Hmph!” Just as the sound effect suggested, she looked to the side.

Change your honey-smothered-brain behavior, ya forty-year old! I’m the one who wants you out of the house!

“ Honey ~ (the hell’s wrong with me)”

“Heck no! You sound perverted!”

She just grew in some unnecessary direction, compare to before. Sigh… I guess it’s pretty impressive, growing at all at her age.

“Don’t give me that look. My skin is actually so good that some people call me the smooth-skinned sensei! Don’t be shy, come here… Come here~”

I wanted to silently leave her alone, but Meme-san talked like she won’t accept a second of pause: “My~ Don’t be shy! Even though loving your dad’s sister is just as bad as falling in love with your own dad, endearing names are completely fine!” Her raving bloated like marshmallow, pressuring the air and my stomach.

She’s done: she's not at all mature, and it’s going to be terrible if nothing is done. Looks like I have to say something. If this goes on, misunderstanding will occur between us and the neighbors, and there will be no more weekends.

“…Meme-chan.”

“Badump~ (star)” Crap.

I’m going to kick her. And not just her shadow.

“Please stay in your room quietly.”

“Am I not~?”

“In your room… Quietly. What you just said isn’t true, but it isn't a lie either, so I wanted to point out one of the problems, but neither way works!”

“La~La~ I can’t understand your tirade~”

Slip~ Meme-san, who gave up on talking, slid closer and pounced me. “Heeyaw~!” She carefully closed the novel I was reading and tossed it toward the bed.

Oh no, Kikkawa Eiji flew off… Not that I’m passionate enough for this author to cry out like that. I’ve already read a few of his books, but his style is still too wordy. His wordiness is, however, pretty popular in a lot of places.

In the end of the book that just flew off, the main character defeated the weapon-wielding killer with a shoe. There should always be a limit to fickleness. Maybe it’s a mutant of the phrase “Pen is mightier than a sword”?

“There are bigger things, Mako-kun. Comfort your aunt whose Happiness-point is dropping because of sadness!”

She shot me a smile that begged for pity. Ugh, listen: people who are traumatized shouldn’t smile like that. That aside, what the hell is this point that scales inversely with mine?

“For the sake of convenience, I will name it 'an unbelievable feeling that strikes my heart, warms my skin, and upsets me when it’s gone.'”

“Don’t read garbage and use it as explanation.”

“C’mon! Licking, touching or crying, whatever you like!”

My kind aunt purposefully informed me of activities that would lead to the loss of Youth-points.

“Then I choose to back off.” Omitting the specific, I dodged the oncoming danger. Keeping the sum as zero when dealing with Meme-san is actually considered as great fortune.

“How terribly cold of you. You must have been raised in a fridge!”

“It’s better than a certain aunt who’s like an onigiri in the summer sun.”

“Why did I have to be forty? Thinking carefully now, wouldn’t my age and Erio’s add up to fifty five? That’s like Area 51, isn’t it? Creepy. Or better yet, Erio 51.

“It’s a bit of a pain to think about what you’re talking, so can I not?”

“Of course not~” From that fresh tone, I failed to sense the necessity for consultation.

“I see… The numbers don’t add up though. Shouldn’t Erio be sixteen now?” She’s my age.

“I’m thirty nine~!” Meme-san violently raised her hand. If there was a short-legged table there, she would definitely flip it merrily.

“Don’t tell me, your birthday has a reentry point?”

“Birthdays are special occasions. What’s so wrong about being thirty nine for that day anyway~?”

She rolled around, exhibiting an act of groveling that was obviously carefully deliberated. Judging from how she didn’t hope to be twenty nine, I could see her modesty. But I wished that she wouldn’t ask for my agreement. How in the world do you want me to response?

“Uh, hm. Anyway, happy birthday.”

‘You are a negative jerk, Mako-kun! Just as I thought!”

Meme-san bolted out of the room after leaving those words. How rude — I have +1 point right now. I counted again back in May when I was bored in the hospital, so I should be right. By the way, because it was too complicated, I didn’t calculate the total of when people came to visit me. But those points were probably canceled out by Ryuushi-san and Nasukawa-san’s attack.

Bam bam~ Unlike her name suggests, Meme-san ran downstairs valiantly, and then ran back up humming ‘Lalala~’. She quietly peeked inside in the hallway. Every time she does something like that, bad feelings and memories surface in me. This kind of sensation is like seeing a single black spot on the radio exercise attendance card.

“I forgot to tell you, Mako-kun – No, Mako-chan !”

“What?” Changing my name was definitely pointless.

“The blanket is covered with my smell, so you can sniff it all you want!”

“Wha~ahhh~!”

My reaction was supposed to be filled with a mountain of exclamation marks, but since this topic is filled with too much pain, I could only scream.

“Wuhaha! Ah~ It’s great to help someone!”

Meme-san rolled her shoulders, this time disappearing into the hallway and down the stairs with a demeaning smug.

Look at you – so you are worried about being forty. I didn’t even have the strength to make a retort to her back. Are human really capable of doing things they will never regret? I shifted blame to the difficult ethics in life, wanting to lament on various things. I made the decision to never lie down on that bed today.

…And then —

A person rolled through the hallway — as if trading place with Meme-san — from the neighboring room.

She was the futon-wrapped mini crazy girl, the daughter of that person just now. Speaking of which, would Touwa Erio end up like that in twenty years? No, think of it the other way – Meme-san was Erio twenty years ago. Hm~ it should be registered as one of the world’s Seven Wonders. In Ryuushi-san’s words, this is the mystery that exists around us.

With a cartwheel, Erio invaded my room, moving toward the target that was the center. She staggeringly stood up, almost sending the feathers out, and slid. Her legs seemed to be numb from kneeling down.

“Fufufufu…” Erio sneered cockily… Wait, maybe the numbness made her moan, 'Wuwuwu...’ sounding like the muffled laughter of a merciless antagonist with flu behind a futon.

Her right leg twitched, and the other kept a subtle arc. That must be the afflicted one. She lifted the blanket… Or rather, her whole body; but gravity had the upper hand, and she filled the space between her and the floor.

I’ll give you three minutes. I watched, yet Erio didn’t move. She seemed to have given up.

“Idiot.” People who are free 24/7 are irritating because of this: It’s habits like ‘what a pain, let’s just lie down here’ that are the worst. Yet, is is enviable, being allowed to do just that.

I helped Erio – or the blanket – up. The princess was, naturally, unhurt and indifferent. “Stick your head out.” And so, I commanded her as if summoning the Genie.

Swoosh~ Pah! Her head drilled upward, revealing only the face from the futon. Though expressionless, Erio — the embodiment of a pretty girl — was surprisingly earnest. This is like describing an apple, for example. Some people will emphasize on the redness or the size of an apple, but other than food novels or manga, no one will describe the species of apples in tremendous detail. Just like when writing about apples where most people would think of a red, palm-sized fruit, Erio’s appearance faithfully reproduces the hazy image that people have of a pretty girl.

Most men would probably think, ‘she’s super cute; I’ll take care of her,’ but I’m not one of them: I care more about the inside of a person. Well, not like I can assert that without a shard of doubt, but who cares? I changed my attitude arbitrarily:

“Why are you wearing the futon again?” Didn’t Denpa Onna end in the last volume?

“I’m the most comfortable like this.”

“You wanna decorate that hole in the wall? Whatever. You got something for me?”

Her dialogue didn’t stray to space, but was instead guided toward me, saving all the trouble of communication. However, I’m still not used to it. Or rather, I feel embarrassed to her answering me normally.

Why did her first impression have to be so intense?

Erio, who should be at her most comfortable, was squirming around restlessly, her gaze darting left and right.

"Today is Mom's..." Hearing something like that came out from her mouth was bizzare to me: sort of like something that looked wooden, but actually metalic. My days exchanging with Earthling Erio is still quite shallow.

"Birthday."

"Mmhm."

"...And?" She seemed to think that a single phrase would be enough to convey her intention: "...Everything else in the middle too." My comprehension isn't that good, so give me the accepted answer.

With a tinge of trouble on her face, Erio bit her lower lips and mumbled the missing link:

"The pastry."

"The pastry." I regurgitated pointlessly. For some reason, even the young high school guy with an overactive imagination found it difficult to picture Erio chowing down on snacks. Though I could picture her eating mochi, and stretching it out because the toughness.

“Mom likes dango.”

...Oh, I see. So we're celebrating? It should be fine if it isn't a cake, then, since dango's what she likes.

So, summarizing what Erio just said, I understood the purpose of she bringing up this topic… Hm.

“You want me to bring you there?”

“Mhm.”

“Ah—...Sure, whatever.”

Like sunlight reverting from dusk to noon, rays shot out from Erio. The particles of light sensed her reaction, and gathered on specific spots of her skin.

Perhaps recovered from numbness, Erio successfully stood up this time and hurried to the doorway.

“Oi, take the futon off first.”

“Guu!”

Though dissatisfied, she looked away as if remembered something.

“What's wrong?”

“Cousin.” Erio gazed at my eyes. Even the color of her irises was deep as if refined by extraterrestrial means. Water in her eyes gleamed chrome and clear; drinks filled with solvent are incomparable to it.

“What?”

“The futon has my smell. Do you want it?”

“You two got something wrong — I am not a sniffer.”

The answer opposite of your thought is so wrong, yet so right.

The new bicycle showed me worlds that I almost forgot.

Wheels that will actually follow the chain, handles that don't feel sandy, frame with no rust or shedding, basket with perfect paint, and the Erio inside of it — the last one was extra!

After my forceful removal of the futon (as a side note, her struggle, 'hng~ hng!', was cute) Erio obediently went out with me. She didn't sit behind me, but instead stuffed her butt into the basket naturally, waiting for the delivery. According to her, 'this is more comfortable.'

My cousin, who always prioritizes comfort, dismissed the white line that labeled sidewalk. Looks like rigorous effort is required to change her life for the better. Since this mission was not obligatory, I wanted to take good care of all of my bones — including my healed right arm. The certain someone who wasted all my calcium is now considered my nemesis.

Sun shone high on the Saturday two weeks after raining season, ensuing the weather of May. The wind and light were pleasantly dry, removing only the extra moisture on skin. The end of spring is the best time to ride a bicycle to enjoy the breeze.

As I followed along the dike, as per Erio's direction, I saw an open ground below with a group of adults and children playing baseball. How nostalgic! Baseball was something of a football substitute back in elementary school, when all the footballs in the gym storage have been taken.

Because we only had a total of six people from both teams, once three people land singles consecutively, we would have the outfielder come and bat. The result was ambiguous win/loss, but looking back now, isn't it pretty good to be able to kill time without arguments?

Kids tend to argue over the smallest things like winning or losing; although most are able to make up in weeks or months, there are cases when they will never speak again. Well, most people lose touch with their friends after graduating, but a happy farewell is always appreciated.

Since there wasn't any oncoming traffic, I had an overlook of the game. The tiny girl batter wore a red yukata, a pair of ukon geta, a construction helmet… A girl? Female? Her age was unknown. But the girl dressed in all that was batting, and she sent the ball flying to the left field. The batter stumbled because of the recoil at first, but immediately dropped the bat and sprinted forward. She made it to second base through the first, triumphantly raising her right hand. It looked like a mischievous Zashiki Warashi playing baseball.

If that's so, then this might not be the little league, but the yokai league? Maybe it's more enjoyable than a field day in the grave yard? I came to my own conclusion despite of obvious facts.

“Baseball...” Erio, who was stuffed int the basket, mumbled. The words unfiltered by futon sounded like notes played on a piano in staccato: they were clear, but vague in meaning.

“Do you like it?”

As I asked, Erio wildly shook her hair that was long enough to be a carpet. The game-watching was declared finished when I began looking at her hair. I rode across the bridge; the dyke disappeared.

“Were you ever in a club when you were still in school?”

Having a normal conversation with a girl riding on your bike — isn't this the promised land of Youth-points? Yet, the numbers showed no sign of changing due to her way of riding. Things are never as expected.

“Club… Astronomy club.”

“Ah, the quiet kind?” Just as I thought: space. So you do like that stuff.

“...I'm part of the go-home club that thinks 'I should have joined' with a smirk on my face.”

“...Is that so?” You'd still look like a painting with a creepy mug, right?

I followed Erio's instruction and entered what looked like the shopping district. Old shops that would treat shopping centers as enemies stood on both sides, and few with the shutters closed scattered here and there. Without fail, people standing by the stores and those in uniform riding on bicycles all turned their heads to gaze at the pretty girl in the basket. I felt awkward — definitely not about stupid things like 'I don't fit in this picture.'

On the southern part of the district, I parked in front of the pastry next to the bicycle shop. Through the window, the scenery inside the store seemed to emphasize the color white.

Written on the signboard outside was the introduction of strawberry daifuku and the new Dorayaki mochi.

As a side note, the shop's name appeared to be 'Mars Globe.' As expected of the greedy town that want to grasp not only the locals, but also a different planet: even the naming has something to with space!

“This is the only pastry I know.”

“Really…? Well, I don't really care where we're going. Meme-san should be happy as long as you bought it for her.”

Maybe she'll even feel that her tears shed for the lamentation of being forty 'what a waste~' and moved to tears again for different reasons. No, not a chance. She shouldn't be the type to honestly accept a gift. Sigh, the thing Meme-san talked about before, the, uh, Happiness-point might rise?

Erio seemed embarrassed; her cheeks flushed pink. She covered her face with her hands, as if trying to hide her blush.

We went inside the gorgeous shop decorated with flags and hand-drawn advertisement, like a refurbished pachinko parlor.

“Welcome… Eh, don't I know you two?”

The white, round object that was initially wiping the display case greeted us cordially.

“...”

Hah? I have to describe? But, uh, it's just Maekawa-san wearing a daifuku skin.

“Hm~? Why are you just standing there, transfer student? …And the futon-roll, whoa! It's been a while since I've seen the content!”

“...Mm.”

Was Erio's calmness out of maturity? Or simply seeing the other person as a fellow cosplayer? Faced with the gaze of an old classmate, she actually realized her disgrace and hid behind me.

“Oh man, you are shy now! And so chummy with the transfer student, too, with this and with that~”

“N-no, our relation isn't based on love; it's mostly just familial! So, what is Lady Daifuku doing then?”

“Watch it there, this isn't a daifuku — it's a shiroko of a bocchan dango. Dango, not shirako!”

She protested; her cheeks swelled as if stuffed with dango. I see, so that's a dango on her head.

“The two have totally different chewiness. You get me, transfer student?”

“Really? But you got powder on you.”

“It's just the paint falling off — this isn't exactly expensive.”

She stopped wiping the window and turned to face us. Maekawa-san was unfazed even when wearing this outfit that reduces both defense and coolness to minimum, standing tall with her back straight. Indeed, she lanky.

Rather than calling that a dango, isn't her outfit better suited as a yam? Let's keep this thought a secret.

“As you can see, I work here. A mascot is indeed a must-have in this time and age!”

“Right.” You just look like a ball for a game of pushball though.

“There are two more outfits for the Mugwort and red bean flavor, do you want to try it? Let's all be a skewer!”

She gestured to the inside of the store. The illusion of a drama club called Wagashi store spread from the interior. Just like people who ask others to play football after school, she encourages people to cosplay on the weekend… Is this what the city is about? Hm, definitely can't let your guard down in the city: there are always cars zooming by the road, so a misstep is always deadly. In the country side, the worst that could happen is falling into the field along with the bicycle.

After her careful words of politeness, Maekawa-san pouted out of boredom and began taking care of her customers:

“Alright, what are you doing here?”

“Shouldn't there only be one thing a customer could be here for?”

“The most surprising answer: you're here to stare at me. Mm.”

“Unfortunately, it is the most unsurprising one: Erio is here to get some dango.”

I nudged Erio, who was hiding behind to avoid the gaze attack, onto the stage. Holding her shoulders, I made her face Maekawa-san. I could feel the stiffness of her shoulders from my palm.

Maekawa-san peered at Erio with a novel look, while Erio gingerly looked up to Maekawa-san like a blackmailed girl. Erio may be able to speak normally with her family, but with others, she becomes suffocatingly punctual.

From an outsider's view, if either of them were to represent Earth on the space council, confusion would sure follow.

“Touwa, huh… Heh~ where's the futon?”

“She doesn't wear it anymore, right?” At least outside of the house.

Erio looked down, her gaze escaping to the side, without uttering a word.

“Is it just Maekawa-san in the store? What about the manager?” Since there was not progress in our conversation, I had to say something to ease the awkwardness.

“The manager skipped out, so she asked me to open the store. It's been like this for a while now.”

This distribution of labor is messed up! And she agreed to it. What an annoyingly lenient worker. Does dressing up freely also make you more open-minded?

If I ditch Erio, she will never say her reasons of visiting here. And thus, I had to say, 'all right, what are you buying?' sort of like being her encouraging mother. What a troublesome person.

“Dango, um… I'm here for some Mitarashi Dango.”

She finally kind of successfully spoke her intent to the white dango that called herself the clerk. Maekawa-san said, 'dango? Sure.' After letting her body bump into several places in the store, she opened up a display case:

“How many?”

“F…five sticks.” Erio shot her hand out abruptly, exaggeratedly stuck out all the fingers.

“Oh hoh, thank you!”

Maekawa-san responded with a manly, craftsman-like line, and wrapped her customer's food neatly.

“My hands are quite quick, but I can't get any better.”

She lightly commented, 'here ya go!” and handed the goods to Erio.

Just from this one scene, Maekawa-san appeared like Erio's senpai, or a college student older than she by three years.

As her inadvertent guardian, I opened my wallet and handed a thousand yen bill to the register.

“As for the change, just let me buy you a school lunch of equal price. How's that?”

“I'll gladly accept if it's Maekawa-san's handmade lunch.”

“Tch.” She tutted lightly, 'Jingle jingle~' she hummed out a register sound effect as she gave me the change: “You don't need the receipt, right?” She threw the paper away before handing it to me.

“Thank you.” Erio expressed her gratitude, her voice slight like a ring finger's motion.

“Don't mention it~ Believe it or not, my friends call me 'Maekawa the trouble-saver'!”

It's probably because 'the trouble is always somehow because of her~' or something like that — basically same as the saying 'you know it's Yahari~ (やっばり矢張)'? But that smug of superiority suits her, so I avoided talking as to not break it.

“Ah, right. Careful that you don't get Touwa kidnapped!”

Maekawa-san began wiping the counter and gave a bizarre advice.

“What do you mean, kidnap?”

“A lot of animals went missing around here recently.”

“Animals? Like pet dogs?”

I pictured a culprit killing animals; a bitter taste spear in my mouth.

“No, wild animals like cats, dogs or the occasional weasel.”

“… Is it the EPA?”

“Mm~ Doesn't look like it. I was thinking since Touwa is like an animal now, they might make a mistake.”

Maekawa-san happily continued her jabbing at the Erio, who hid behind me. Judging from this, she might actually like Erio? As expected of the master cosplayer Maekawa-san, being able to like the crazy girl who roams around town wrapped in futon. Or perhaps she thinks of her as a fellow enthusiast?

“Yep, I knew it. Looking at her trembling in tear; she's practically one of them.”

“Then her species must be space hamster!”

Wahaha~! We guffawed, despite of person in question glaringly at us resentfully.

“ 'Then, I'll see you at school.' “ After saying good bye, we left the store. Though Erio's expression seemed to darken when we spoke about 'school,' that might have just been the light outside that made her squint. The sun after the May rain also made me… Eh? Wasn't there something in the sky just a second ago?

It's too aerodynamic to be a bird, yet too small for a UFO.

“Thanks...”

Erio sat into the bike's basket, carefully holding the bag to her chest and thanked me.

“…For bringing me here.”

Afterward, she buried her face in her thighs, once again hiding her expression. She's embarrassed, right?

Girls who openly show their embarrassment are so cute~ my brain baked slowly in the sun.

Even for a person like her, at such a time my Youth-points will no doubt rise.

“...It's cool, but you have to pay me back later.”

I was definitely not hiding my embarrassment. Never.

There was a Seaweed-wrapped Chikuwa lying at the entrance of the Touwa household.

“…...”

I looked at the Erio standing next to me; Erio was staring at it blankly.

“Do you have a twin sibling?”

“I had never split in half.”

Non, non, she shook her head. In other words, this is that? What on Earth is this forty year old thinking?

A profound omen hit me, looking at her appearance.

Every time her happiness rises, my youth sinks with the descending carts.

“Okay.” I took off my shoes first and put them away neatly, then step onto the hall. Affected by me, the slightly-slower Erio followed suit and also took hers off. I proceeded as Erio put her shoes away.

“Ah, uh… This...” Erio, who remained fixed, shot glances at her feet. Why would you do this? I wanted to complain, but the smart thing to do here is obviously to ignore these things!

Luckily, the futon with bare feet didn't move.

“Alright~ C'mon in. The house isn't messy, but it's not too big either.”

I quoted words someone said to me before, inviting Erio in. “Wuwu...” Erio stopped in her track, her reaction ambivalent. Fine, I'll leave you two alone! After excusing myself out, I strode forward. However, where in this house were my legs bringing me?

In contrast to the one from two months ago, the futon-roll that crawled up — Meme-san — cried 'Ugahh~!' and charged toward my direction for reasons unknown. Whatever it was, I ran. I looked back, the thing pursuing me had to be a Yokai. Please someone go and send a rescue notice to the Yokai Mailbox!

“Whoa! Go away!!”

“Her der you order me~!” I don't understand your raving!

I sprint through the hall, and jumped into the room on the left. Hm, as predicted, Meme-san can't turn. Step step step~ She charged without signs of slowing, 'smack!' came the sound of running into a wall. Let's take a look at the scene.

Maekawa-san once cried 'Gwaaah!' painfully in the night park, rolling around in an epic fail break dance. At this moment, a similar futon-roll version replayed at the end of the hallway. The roll crawled around, busily bouncing back and forth.

I pushed the futon-roll forward, transporting a pained Meme-san back into the living room. Even as she closed to the table, she still struggled, 'Wuwhooooa' as if she had a cramp.

It made me think of the katsuobushi that would dance on iron plates.

Perhaps to follow her daughter's footstep, Meme-san popped her head out after a while, tongue sticking out, 'ahh~' from top of the roll. Sweat drops formed on her forehead, and her cheeks swelled in redness:

“I bit my tongue. Mako-kun, smooch me.”

“Smells like blood, so I'll pass.” And I don't want to have my first kiss stolen by my aunt either. Feels like I might have to lose some ridiculous amount, like twenty five points.

“Speaking of which, it's so hot in here. I can't believe Erio could stand it.”

“Feels like you might dry out.” If I said her skin, I would probably be strangled.

“So, what were you doing? Learning by experience?”

“Because I figured, isn't 'a pretty girl popped out of the futon!' the best gap-moe?

“That's the route your daughter left two months ago.”

And the noun 'pretty girl' doesn't extend to people of all ages.

“I also wanted to express my dissatisfaction with the world.” To prevent our eyes from meeting, I glanced at her sideways.

This isn't how a forty-year old should express her dissent. But more basically, I don't think a normal adult would run into a wall and then struggle on the floor.

“But I can't see Erio or Mako-kun's face like this, so it's kind of troubling!”

Meme-san crisply spat out some slightly embarrassing words without looking bashful:

“So, where did you two sneak off to?”

She pouted her cheeks, as if she would yell 'you aunt wanted to go too~!' any time, while swinging her arms and legs. I bet this person's attitude probably won't change even when she hits fifty!

“We just went to buy stuff.” Whether this counts as a date differ person by person, but this time probably isn't.

“Oh (you went to get some porn mags)!” She nodded deeply, conveying her comprehension.

“Could you not make weird explanations?” Besides, no one would invite girls to do that kind of stuff.

“Oh~ I get it. You're preparing for our first date by having a drill.”

“ 'No!' “ Meme-san received a pincer attack of denial. Erio, who came into the living room, refuted her mother's joke. Sigh, at least I think its a joke. For a brighter future, I will kill off the possibility!

Erio sat down next to Meme-san; Meme-san didn't seem to want to take off the futon, and she slowly turned toward her daughter like a pair of compasses.

“Welcome home!” She greeted elegantly. What did Erio think of her mother, seeing her like this? From her contained, expressionless face, traces of emotion were hard to find.

For example, I attempted to picture my mom welcoming me home dressed like a spiral bread. 'Welcome home!' ...I will for sure immediately enter the rebellious phase. Mm, it's a mental form of domestic violence. I will not accept it, even if someone tells me it's the real life version of 'The Metamorphosis' by Kafka.

“I'm… Home.”

An anxious Erio squeezed out a few dry words of greeting. Maybe Meme-san's unwavering and amicable disposition is actually abnormal here. How does she act so naturally then?

“Stare~”

Meme-san stared at Erio's knee. Erio couldn't find a proper reaction, so she cowered. Along with Meme-san's outfit, the situation looked like a diagram of a frog gawking at a snake. With no intention of being the slug, I began the search for the T.V. remote. I suspect this will turn into a war of attrition.

Yet the circumstance wasn't so. On a more fundamental level, Meme-san never needed a defensive stance.

“Lick!”

She did it: like a snake, Meme-san wriggled forward, her tongue making an advance on Erio's right knee. “Uwah!” Erio jumped backward. She backed into the wall, leaving particles in the dust of her trail.

Erio's eyes widened as she clutched her chest, signifying her perturbed state.

“This skin… The smooth taste of youth! Erio, Eri~o!”

“Who are you calling that?” And you should start your shedding! Are you that into futon mode?

“I am so jealous!” The honest Meme-san hopped about. It must be someone with a personality about thirty times worse than hers that fed Snow White the apple. But with the result in mind, didn't the whole process lead to the Snow White's first-sight love with the prince? Fate is honestly easily summed up with the word 'inconceivable.'

Seeing Erio unconsciously wiped at her right knee, Meme-san grumbled, “Super~ shocking~” and wormed to my side. I sensed that she planned to lick my knee, so I lifted my legs while watching her mouth, showing full-alert.

“Anyway, when do you plan on taking care of me, Mako-kun? Take this! Princess carry!”

My body shook. Since the damage is reduced like this, I changed my mind — maybe it's better for her to stay like this.

“Didn't I roll you here just now?”

“Ehhh~ You are a complete failure when it comes to taking care of girls, Mako-kun~”

“This is the only way to treat a woman donned in futon — your daughter taught me this!”

And the lady in question is also hunched over, like a kid inching toward a leashed mutt, closing in to Meme-san at snail speed.

“Ah… Even my own daughter is wary of me. Onee-chan is so sad that no one understands me.”

“You reap what you sow...” And you don't understand your own worth. Lets leave it at that.

Perhaps taking her mother's joke seriously, Erio scrambled to the front of Meme-san. Hm, how pure of her. If I didn't know about the situation two months ago, and instead met the her today for the first time, I may mistake her for a shy yet loving daughter. Actually, she's that! The futon you leave in the closet — the people worse than those who become useless outside of their house.

“Um, happy… Birthday.”

“Oh my~ Thank you!” Arcing like a shrimp, Meme-san lifted her chins and cracked a wrinkle — pretending that never happened, she kept smiling.

“But I'm not happy at all...”

She maintained the smile and drawled out a curse. Emotion-contradicting expression spooked Erio, but she still carried the present to Meme-san's face. “Sniff, sniff~” Meme-san sniffed the food as if it's courtesy. Stop that!

“I went to buy… Dango. Um...” Guh! Erio choked, and her shoulders stiffened. “Mom...” She then slouched, “favorite.”

“Kyah~ Eri-chan! Is this a confession of love to your sister — no, mom?”

...Mm? Well, I guess the phrase could indeed be interpreted as “I went to buy dango because mom is my favorite” instead of “because mom's favorite is dango.” Japanese is like a split end on a hair when it comes to delivering a message.

Erio's face burst into crimson, and she hid her face using the cooking magazine resting on the table. Was hiding her face how Erio disguises her embarrassment? Or was it a defensive maneuver?

But what bothered me more was, Erio's nickname is Eri? Ecchan or Rio-chan works too, right? If you really want to surprise people, Orie works too. Though that's someone else at that point.

“Eri-chan is still so cute! Glad you look like mom!”

Hm~ hm~ Meme-san nodded proudly, even bouncing her body around. She looked pretty happy! Or just someone who wants to convey how energetic she is with the baseline being fresh fish? Although shouldn't it be both when it comes to this person? I honestly couldn't convince myself otherwise.

Happiness-points increases by three~ I attempted to replace her role, playing out the cue.

“Speaking of birthday, we forgot to celebrate Erio's last year. Let's celebrate tomorrow as your birthday!”

This mother suggested a completely incomprehensible yet overall great idea; her daughter beamed.

“Do you want… Dango?” “Yes, I do!” Meme-san put on an innocent face in approval. In asking for comment of her childish behavior, she shot me a look of 'how's this?' to which I only shook my head.

Erio opened the package; Meme-san went from 'sleep' to 'sit.' Erio picked up a skewer, ready to give to Meme-san. The act and expression was like a child's during Mother's day, when she wants to help out in the kitchen: clumsy yet diligent.

Meme-san gazed at the process with a faint smile.

“...”

But all~ she~ did~ was~ watch. With the futon blocking, her arms couldn't reach outward for the dango. She ruined it. And she didn't look like she was going to take it off. She must really like this outfit. Is futon really this wonderful?… No way, I want to try it on too. Hm.

As I fell into contemplation, Erio, with the dango in hand, became more and more confused; even the sauce was on the verge of dripping off the five-in-one skewer. Does she need help? After all, it looked like cleaning up the aftermath was up to me anyway.

“Why not just have Erio feed Meme-san?”

“Eh?!” Erio shot me a surprised look. What, is it really that rare for me to say something smart?

Well, we did jump into the sea before.

“Ara~ I miss this. I used to do this for Eri-chan a really, really long time ago~!”

Meme-san blinked passionately, and “Ahh~” opened her mouth: “Ah… Mako-kun, you're making me blush, don't look~” I'm even more mortified being forced to listen to you say that!

Erio trembled to deliver the dango into Meme-san's mouth. What would happen if it was stabbed in there? Likely like the pirate in the barrel.

“Chomp!” The first three dango disappeared into Meme-san's mouth. The remaining two was pushed forward by a wincing Erio so it'd be easier to eat. Meme-san stuffed these two as well, her cheeks puffing out. “Is it good?” Listening to Erio's query, Meme-san answered, “Mer cherks are going to fall erff.” Actually, looking now, if I were to pinch her cheek, they might actually get pulled off like clay.

“Glance~ glance~” Um, she's making sound effects while staring at me. She's not even blinking. Is she waiting for me to say 'the sound effect is wrong”? Or is she…

I brought a skewer near her lips, and she bit at it. Same-san (鮫さん), I mean, Meme-san added more brethren to the dango bunch before swallowing those in her mouth.

Two more skewer of Mitarashi dango and her face would become dango itself. It doesn't matter how you put it, this isn't how a forty-year old should act. Should I flatter her, 'you're still young'? Or should I say 'please think about your age!' to give rise to her killing intent? Reticence is the wise thing, right? As I came to my conclusion, Meme-san choked on the dango. “Uguuh~!: Her throat bulged into the shape of the final boss laying eggs.

Erio, at loss of what to do. Me, waiting and watching. Meme-san, absolutely freaking out.

After about ten seconds, the event ended in the form of Meme-san swallowing all of the dango.

“That was close! If I died like that, they're gonna think it's an accident or a murder!”

Meme-san didn't particularly seem like she's joking, passively describing her thought on suffocation.

“…...Hahah.” A weak, yet pure smile spilled from within.

Here it is.

To me, the Touwa household became a place that is slightly, if not appropriately, rowdy.

Yet my Youth-points and independent life are still miles away.

### 003. Chapter 2 - The Melancholy of Thanksgiving

“Niwa-kun, do ya work part-time?”

Monday, June 7th, in a high school second year classroom, the time when Mifune Ryuushi-san — a classmate of the same grade — asked me this question was when lunch was halfway till over.

Finished with our lunch, we were sipping on our aluminum-packaged tea.

“I thought about getting one in a bit, since I'm not in a club anyway.”

Besides, I'm living under someone else's roof. Living in other's house without doing anything will, for some reason, always unsettles people. This was my impression after living here for two months.

Though perhaps in a few more months, this would change.

“Is that so? If ya get your first paycheck, shouldn't ya buy me a juice?” Ahaha! Ryuushi-san laughed cheerfully; a flower unconcealable by even the rowdiness bloomed in the classroom.

Ryuushi-san is so cute! I complimented freely in my heart. But I couldn't say it out loud.

Eating, drinking and talking with a cute girl. In a way, this is known as a school date. Then according to this definition, would chatting happily with the lady in front of the train station's bookstore who is recruiting for an English class be called a recruitment date? Though questions rose, this was just a made-up phrase that does not need to be concluded as a thesaurus.

“What about you, Ryuushi-san?”

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko! I, hmm, probably won't.”

“Huh, you won't?”

“Money cannot buy what's important.”

“That phrase doesn't really work here.”

Sorry for splashing cold water when you sound so proud.

“Ahh~ but I'm so busy after school with just club stuff, and I don't really need ta spend money… Hm, I'm like, y'know, super open and stuff! Ya know from just looking that I'm different, not some boring, same-faced character! Don't let the rumors get ya!”

What baseless, shameless rumor! Ryuushi-san sucked on the straw stuck in the black tea that she had since this noon. Actually, no one ever gave her a nickname like 'the Horizon' or anything like that.

Someone who looks different from just a glance… In all the people I know, there are probably two who fit the bill. One's an alien, the other a certain lanky person. Meme-san is different in a way, but I might be cursed if I counted her as one. I will unfortunately have to give up on that thought!

“Oh well, let's drop this character topic like it's hot trash. Oh yeah? I guess it won't work then!”

“Slurm?” The result of drinking while questioning is the mixture of sound, Ryuushi-san!

“Uh… What I'm saying is, I was going to ask if you're free after school today, but I guess not, huh?”

“Slurm.”

Ryuushi-san's motion stopped instantly. As if she just consciously thought of doing it, she swallowed the beverage in her mouth and put the package on the table. Her friend passed from behind us and laughed after seeing us as an item.

“'Let's go somewhere again~ Alright~!' Is that what you meant?”

Ryuushi-san's eyes were as if spying. The rubbing of desk and floor screeched intermittently, following her wobbling body.

“Mm, that sounds right. I mean, if you could come with me to buy a few things, it would have been— Uh… If you're busy, then it's fine.”

“Woowhoa~ Wait —“

Ryuushi-san's right palm reached toward my mouth, her fingers waving about as if trying to block the movement of my lips. And like a trained hound, I shut my lips and waited for her response.

“Wuu… Bam, bam, pass, pass, dribble; Nice shot … Yay~ backup starting lineup Ryuushi~! ...Niwa-kun, pedal pedal… Eeyahoo… What a headache!”

Absorbed in her own world, Ryuushi-san dribbled on an imaginary basketball and tried to ring an invisible bicycle bell, conveying to the world her thoughts in a never-before-seen mime form. But I panicked, since my invitation was neither significant nor important enough for her to weigh it so:

“It's seriously not a big deal: your club should come first.”

“Hm~ Um, did ya already decide on what you're getting, Niwa-kun? Or are ya the people who go into every store?” Ryuushi-san is actually the type who doesn't listen well. So far the most frank person may actually be Erio.

Sigh, but if it comes to misinterpreting the most direct response, no one is better than Meme-san.

“Ah, well~ My cousin seems to be celebrating her birthday today; I thought maybe I should get her something.” I of course didn't use the name Erio, instead calling her cousin.

“You cousin, Touwa-san?”

But the charade was seen through. Talking like this made it seem like it was reproachable to even mention the name 'Erio' in a public place. Indeed, the notoriety of Erio raises the eyebrows of everyone living in this town. Since she doesn't go out either, no one knew that she was kind of back from outer space.

“I don't really know much about this, so I wanted Ryuushi-san to come with me.”

“Ehh~” Um? Her reaction doesn't seem good. “Ryuushi-san just kinda got busier!”

“...Uh, you don't like Erio?”

Her lips were even pouting up. Strictly speaking from the spirit of 'straightforwardness,' I welcome this; but the other parts made it confusing. This feeling is like bubbles quietly rising from the bottom of the pot.

“I don't hate her or anything, and I don't know her enough to hate her.”

Ryuushi-san picked up the black tea and used it as a tool of escape. Sip, sip~ she sucked at the remaining drink, her gaze floating at the clock above the blackboard. I looked over as well, only to see the hand of the clock at a position that would finish this bento known as 'lunchtime' in a few minutes.

“Still, you seem angry.” Even though I don't think there's anything good in it, I still tried to delve into this topic.

“I told ya I'm not mad! It would take a lot to anger the holy Ryuushi-san, it'd worth a prize! Like whenever my mom yelled at me to 'clean my room,' I didn't talk back like I was in the rebellious phase! Geez~”

And the rage at that time was actually growing underneath, and finally erupted now… Could the reason of my instinct be the sensitivity that comes with youth?

“Well, if I hafta admit, I am directing this senseless anger on Niwa-kun, mm.”

“Eh, me?” And she senselessly explained to me. This isn't something that could be excused with an advanced warning!

“I found that Niwa-kun lacks delicacy, geez; you are such a non-delicate (デリカリー)!”

“What does it have to do with delicacy… Uh, which part was? And what was that word combined of?”

“I just thought it sounded good; it's kinda like non-calorie.”

After answering only the second question, Ryuushi-san shot me a dissatisfied look.

“So, am I to give up on Ryuushi-san after school?”

“Unfortunately, you have lost your chance. Also, didn't I say ta call me Ryuuko? It's Ryuuko! Ryuuko!” Underneath the desk, Ryuushi-san's bare foot performed three pendulum movement, justly punishing my ankle for answering the comprehension question wrong. It didn't look much, but it hurt so bad!

“Yeah? Then I yield.”

I declared so, and looked away. Moving my head slowly, I peered over Ryuushi-san's head at the classroom behind. This behavior was without intent, only meant to disperse the atmosphere.

Yet, why did I put Erio as the impetus of my actions? Have I lost touch with the Youth-points?

“Listen~ Niwa-kun.” As if to block my line of sight, Ryuushi turned her head and spoke.

“Hm?”

“Don't tell me you're looking for Maekawa-san.”

“Wha?” Hearing the unexpecting name, I couldn't help but overreact.

“Hm?” Even Maekawa-san, who sat from a bit away, turned when she heard her name. It would appear she was about bite down on a bread, with her mouth still ajar.

“Not a chance.” I denied honestly.

Asking Maekawa-san? Hm… Imagination, go. If she advices, 'how about giving her a warabimochi costume?' how would I react? Rather, the Ryuushi-san who seemed discontent with me bothered me more.

“Shoot!”

Ryuushi-san suddenly hopped up from her chair. She took the supposedly empty drink up above her head, and made a penalty shot. The package drew a parabola, graciously landing into the garbage can in the corner.

People in class went from looking at the shot to looking confusedly at Ryuushi-san. She paid no mind to the gazes, only nodding at the result, mumbling 'nice, nice.' Eveyone's focus instantly disappeared.

As if waiting for this moment, the bell that signifies the complete devour of lunch time rechoed through the school.

It also sounded like the buzzer that ends a game.

“That was cool, Ryuushi-san!”

“It was no biggie~” She humbly replied my solo-support with a wave: “Also, you got the player's name wrong, mister! ...Ah~… I guess I might actually end up hating Touwa-san!”

For realsies~ Ryuushi-san mumbled to herself while picking up her lunch box and putting the borrowed seat back to where it was. Putting laziness and habit aside, spending time with Ryuushi-san during lunch is one of my biggest enjoyment in my daily life. I honestly think that I am actually a very lucky guy!

Just as I was about to thank her for her time with me that cancels out the daily decrease in Youth-points, which kept the total at a positive —

“Oh, Niwa-kun.” Ryuushi-san turned and spoke with a smile as she parted.

“Mm? What's up?”

“Non-delicate.” Ryuushi-san's crisp, bassy voice blew like an Oboe into my head.

Umm? Questions still spun in my head when the crowd swallowed Ryuushi-san's back, its traces gone.

So began cleaning time. People who were chatting away up until now moved listlessly. Under the urging of the person behind, I also began moving the tables and chairs forward, as well as letting my mind run.

“Hm~mm...”

I kept thinking that it was me who upset Ryuushi-san; I don't think this is just me thinking too much!

Youth-points were declining. Are you ok, me? Anxiety and instability are riling up my inside! In a bit, or maybe now, I should find Ryuushi-san and apologize her for no reason.

All right! I stood up from my seat, a plastic bag full of lunch trash dangling from my hand.

Besides, did she really like how the word sounds?

“Non-delicate.”

I spoke to confirm it. The sound “kah” does indeed feel nice on the tongue, I thought.

☆

After school's out on that day.

I was convinced of buying Warabi-mochi. Not the costume, but the actual food.

As for the reason, it was because Maekawa-san, who had yet to transform into dango girl, came to talk to me at the shoe locker:

“Yo~ Makoto-san. What were you talking about during lunch.”

“Eh? It's nothing really.”

“Just talk to Maekawa-emon whenever you're troubled!”

“Ehh~ ...Fine. Maekawa-emon, I need your help~!”

“What's the matter, Makoto-san? Did the Chupacabra (♀) suck your blood again?”

“I can't decide on what to get for Erio-chan~”

“Hahahah, you silly boy. Alright~ When you're troubled, your best friend Maekawa-emon will always come to help~ Follow me!”

To describe using hyperbole, we had a conversation like that.

Simply put, I was brought by Maekawa-san to that Wagashi pastry, Mars Globe, where she promptly exerted the spirit of a merchant and sold me warabi-mochi. That was it. And just like that, as I purchased this thing, the last bill in my wallet was sucked into the cash register. Clink, clank. “Thank you for yer business!”

Maekawa-san, who just swapped with a different worker, hummed while dealing with her customer.

I received the warabi-mochi package with the phrase 'Happy birthday, Erio!' written in blue marker on it. The words were written by Maekawa-san herself, and in an irritatingly messy cursive script.

“No~ problem. My deduction concludes that the chance of Erio bursting into tear after receiving this is higher than seventy percent.”

“For reasons other than the powder getting into her eyes?”

“Relax, relax!” The dango girl answered unhurriedly, and shut the cash register. After getting used to her outfit the second time, I actually thought it was disturbing. I even started having images… Maybe, when there isn't anyone around, the dango and the sakura-mochi actually move around. Like, the head and limbs that were supposed to be hiding pop out, and they greet their neighbors with a 'hi~' or something like that. Since there was already stories with sentient toys that move around, then it shouldn't be too farfetched to have pastries becoming alive. 'Thrown away if not bought, or eaten after being purchased: which one is more painful?” And then, the Youkan will run to discuss this with the strawberry daifuku. Yet, they will not find the answer. Because it doesn't matter if they were thrown away or purchased, once someone leaves, he never comes back. It doesn't matter if everyone groups up, or faces the danger alone, they have to fight with an ever-present terror. Every time when the eyes of men look away, the same scenery replays over and over in the display boxes…

From the same angle, snacks like dorayaki or monako often run into situations where they're purchases with another brother, so perhaps when it comes to delaying the eventual solitude, they're actually pretty happy. But then for the last dorayaki who had to see his brothers disappear one by one, it must be a despair indescribable with words.

If they can move around with their arms and legs, why don't they run? Even though I thought so, but maybe it isn't allowed? I mindlessly thought.

They couldn't show their living side, probably because of some laws of the gods. Entities not accepted as lives in the human world are not allowed to arrogantly break into the territory of men.

The world is born in the cage of the gods.

Even the aliens are allowed only to reach their hands in, behind the bars that confined the universe.

Thus, I believe that aliens do not exist anywhere on Earth. Isn't that right?

Even though I imagined all sorts of things, my mind still does not have the courage to play the scene of a self-aware dorayaki being shoved into a human mouth and devoured.

“What's the matter, transfer student? staring holes at the snacks? Just don't drool!”

Maekawa-san's waving hand and black bottle appeared in front of my eyes. Since who-knows-when, she circled from the inside of the store to where I was. As if mocking my delusion, the limbs growing out from the dango shook along with their trunk.

She even started to drink her cola. Though I wanted to push that round body, I predicted that if I did carry the act out, Maekawa-san will definitely fall onto the ground with a roll and retract her arms. The overly slender limbs of Maekawa-san are capable of playing out a one-time concert of 'snap.'

“Ah!”

Standing in front of the Wagashi shop, I once again witnessed the objects that soared in the sky above the houses.

The speed was fast. It's not a glider. More like a mini-rocket.

As if disappearing into the corner of a screen, the object flew outside of the shop's glass screen and faded.

“You saw that?”

“Mm? Oh, that? It's a rocket.”

She unveiled the object's identity apathetically. But Maekawa-san never did elaborate on the previous explanation, and after she put down the cola bottle (by the way, the bottle somehow had the P*cari label), she carried a dustpan and a broom outside; I followed her back — no, what do I call this? Does it make sense to say the back of a dango? How do I convey that? As a mountain of question marks piled, I chased her out the store.

Faced with the singeing stares of the passersby, Maekawa-san — who directly wore the dango costume outside — wasn't even afraid, but rather completely indifferent to anything but to effectively sweeping with her lanky arms. Am I to follow her courage?

I put the warabi-mochi in the basket, preparing to ride home while chasing Maekawa-san with my gaze.

“Rocket.” Maekawa-san, who picked up a plastic bottle, spoke.

“Huh?”

“The thing from earlier, you probably can't see from your house, huh. Well, not like I know where you live.”

She dusted on while maintaining a hunched pose, and suddenly crouched down 'woo…' I thought something happened and sprinted to her side, 'since my head was down all this time, the blood gathered there.' Maekawa-san explained the symptoms.

“……”

Maekawa-san is seriously unfit for the 3D life! Is vertical her nemesis?

“I haven't had enough sleep recently, so I feel tired.”

“Is that right. But we're still really far away from the final exam.”

“No, it's just that my night job has been more taxing than I thought.”

“…...”

Should I feel normal for myself, who just did a completely gentlemanly imagination? Or should I be ashamed?

“Oh, there it goes.”

The 'rocket' that climbed in the air up until now lost it's thrust and fell from the sky. A tiny flower made of parachute expanded from the tip of the rocket, ensuring the body fall slowly. My eyes followed the rocket's path home, using it as an escape for the reverie:

“Of course it'd fall. It isn't a rocket for space, after all.”

Wobbling but mostly recovered, Maekawa-san held herself with the broom and looked up into the sky:

“That's a bottle rocket. If it was using gun powder, it would have been consider a firework in Japan — and you need a license for that. Normal folks would just have to put up with using water-powered rockets.”

“Oh~” Though I've heard of the name, this was the first I've seen it.

“There's a ridiculously big agriculture school that went under around here, so someone decided to use the school's field as testing ground. A guy with strange ear rings was always there; he's probably someone who just got laid off.”

“Really now~” What a horrible prediction. “You seem to be the expert. Someone you know?”

“Well, I wouldn't say I know him… Actually, why would that matter? Ahahah!” Appearing to not even want to bother with concealing, Maekawa-san just ended the topic. Now I'm curious. However, most of my questions were answered, so all is well:

“You work a lot, Maekawa-san. Are you saving up for something?”

“Mm? Of course.”

“New costumes?” A ruler mascot or something like that would suit her, and it's practical.

“Those too, but what I want now is a moped and a license.”

“Oh~”

“After I get both of those, I can drive you around.”

“Uh, you can't ride double on a light motorcycle...”

“Ahahah! If it's just a simple package, I think you can put it in the back!”

“...I'll think about it.”

I let loose of the brake and turned the bike toward home. In contrast to the noon's clarity, the sky was now painted in grey: the type that would probably rain if any more cloud gather. It's going to pour right as I get home, huh? I predicted hopefully, attempting to forecast.

“Oh yeah. Since you're celebrating her birthday, could you tell Touwa I say 'happy birthday?'”

“OK~ Maekawa-san, you're actually a good person!”

“Hehe, people actually call me 'the surprisingly-good-at-dealing-with-people Maekawa!'”

“Oh yeah? Must be difficult to manage all of those nicknames.”

“Right? Also, my first nickname when I got into highschool was 'the slightly-long domino Maekawa-san.' The first week of basket ball club was so nostalgic! I was actually the star rookie in the beginning, and on the second day I became 'the new guy', and on the last day of tryout I became the most useless noob! For real, I was being treated as a gorilla who can pass a ball decently!”

“...Hahah, that is so you!”

Even though this was a setback story that turned hopefulness to hopelessness, perhaps due of Maekawa-san cheerful tone, even I was influenced into smiling through the entire thing.

Yet for some reason, my conversation with Maekawa-san seemed all too normal. Is it because I don't care for Youth-points? Did I become weird after attempting to fly with a bike?

“Warabi-mochi~” I went on home, waving goodbye to the Maekawa-san who was singing while sweeping.

I looked back after a bit of distance, only to see the white dango crouching in front of the store, not returning the glance.

☆

“Kyahh~! Mako!” I said to stop calling me that.

“Welcome home.”

Two pairs of twin-tails welcomed me as soon as I enter the entrance of the Touwa residence.

One of them even bear-hugged me. Her arms circled around my neck; this was the homemade merry go-around for idiotic couples! Spin… spin… heheh… ohoho… “Not again!” Why do I only get hugged by my aunt? Well, that, of course, is because I have no girlfriend! Uh, does that mean it's my fault? Meme-san spun with my neck as her support; it was heavy and painful. Every time when the whip made of hair hits me, my Youth-points fall with a torturous patter. Was this also my fault? If so, can I also solve it as I see fit?

The fact that I've actually gotten partially used to being hugged by a forty-year old also saddens me.

“Do you want dinner? A bath? Or Eh-ri-o?” Don't drag your daughter into this! Are you some village chief who believes in sending living sacrifices to the cave on the mountain?

“Please let go of me.” I pushed up with my chin.

“Oh my~ How cruel~”

Perhaps ecstatic after playing house as a new wed, Meme-san returned to the side of Erio with a joyous expression that contradicted her speech.

Ah, that's the appearance when Happiness-point is rising! How obvious — I don't even want to look at it. Erio's eyes darted between the ceiling and the floor; compared to her intentionally-idiotic mother, she appeared to be more self-conscious.

Every time her eyes moved, the hair tied to both sides will trace out an incomplete pendulum. Thinking carefully now, this was the first time I've seen Erio with her hair tidied; how do I put this: with her face slightly lowered, and an abashed expression, that twin-tail hairstyle in many ways disallowed me to look away.

The problem was with the other person.

“The hair… Uh… Um...” I tried to control myself from the rude behavior that is touching other people's head.

“Heheh, is it ok?”

“No, are you ok…?”

“I tried to duplicate Erio's elementary school hair today!”

“……...”

Alright, so what were the thoughts going through my mind at this moment?

One: if it was Maekawa-san, she would definitely wear that monster's costume!

Two: doesn't it fit Ryuushi-san as well? My imagination seemed to have derailed quite a bit.

Three: why is Meme-san also wearing the same hairstyle as Erio?

As I tried in the most tactful way to ask for the answer to the third question, Meme-san responded with a smile possessing of cuteness and wrinkles (skip), along with a spin, 'swoosh~!' Look, I've been telling you all this time~

“I thought sometimes we should return to innocence, so what better time than now?”

What do you mean sometimes?

“...I am doubting my usual image of you being a grown-up.”

Actually, having the same appearance on both inside and outside is often considered an amazing feat.

But is there any other besides me who's witnessed a forty year old twin-tail? After all, there isn't a demand for it.

“I've also ran around like this before; the times when you'd run around with snacks you bought from the grocery stores… It's true~”

Meme-san's focus faded into the wall to the left. But kids nowadays don't have chances to visit those grocery stores!

“Seriously, it happened!” You don't need to say that sentence with such a solemn tone either, right?

“M-...mom's past?”

Erio asked vaguely, sheepishly joining the conversation. “Mm~ mm.” Meme-san beamed a benevolently motherly smile at her daughter — an otherwise normal behavior saved for the hair. The two twin-tails faced each others.

“Unimaginable?”

“Mm.”

“If Erio go look into the mirror, things might become clearer!”

Meme-san grabbed her shoulders and moved closer to her face as if about to kiss.

“Awoo… Uwah!” Erio used a palindrome to express her shock and bewilderment.

“Listen, Erio. From now on, you have to live a life looking into the mirror everyday. That way, more and more people will like you.”

Meme-san bumped foreheads, a mischievous smile on her face. Perhaps due to awkwardness, Erio's eyes occasionally darted to me; while focusing on the surrounding, her cheeks were imbrued sanguine.

The futon that served as estrangement disappeared, and a family was born in the Touwa household. If Meme-san's hair was the usual, it would have been a moving scene, but why did she have to always be the deviant?

As for whether it's intentional or not, there hasn't been a consensus.

“The gap-moe level of what I just said had over seventy percent chance of making Mako-kun fall in love with me again.”

Oh~hohohoh~ Meme-san purposely revealed an antagonist smug to test my reaction. “I've never loved you, and that wasn't much of a gap.” You always show the side of you that's too real.

Meme-san pouted in discontent, but immediately regained her smile, and pulled her hands away from Erio's shoulders:

“Alright, time to get dinner ready. Sigh~ Can Mako-chan become a professional househusband faster?”

“Sorry, but I like Meme-san's food.”

“Eh? Does that mean you want for me to make Miso soup for you every morning?”

“You're jumping to conclusion. Also, you're going too far in the no-traffic zone.”

“So we gotta go slow, right? Rather than hasty marriages, Mako is one of those who value the process! I have to write this down.”

“Could you also do something about your enthusiasm while you're at it?”

Woolalah~ Meme-san, who ignored my response, skipped around in an age-misfitting dance and proceeded to the kitchen. The twin-tails on her head precisely followed her casual movement; for some reason, this scenery created a sense of forlornness.

“…...”

The phone rang. I reflexively picked up the extension sitting in the Touwa house entrance.

“Hello.” I hesitated: “Touwa residence.”

“Oh? Makoto? It's been a while~ Remember your mom's voice?”

“Uh~ Now I do.” Not to the point of 'I miss it~' though.

“What about the smell?”

“I forgot what my favourite dish was, hahah!”

It's my mom. I forgot where she was, since I've never asked.

“I'm worried about my adorable son, so I called. How are you?” From the speaker came the sound of a rhythmic knock; should be mom knocking on the floor with her finger: It's her old habit.

“Hm, I'm alright. You?”

“We're great~ wanna hear it for yourself?”

“No, not hearing from you at all was evident enough.” If I said yes, she would have just sung anyway. Mom's hobby is to sing loudly while walking around the train station — that's just how she is.

“What about eating? Are you eating right? You're at that age now, so you need to grow more!”

“I am, especially dinner.” Because I have an aunt eating with me who would grumble if I don't finish.

“What about school? You're not part of the Student Sandbag Council, right?”

“There isn't any real bullying here, so it's a good school. Also~ Isn't this dad's old school?”

“So, isn't about time for a girlfriend?”

“You seemed to have forgotten about the Japanese culture, mom!”

And then I received simple queries regarding life for the next minute or so. Basically good, I responded so.

“Alright, I'm letting dad on.”

Mom's voice faded; replacing it was an obscure breathing and a deep voice sitting down next to my ear.

“Hey, it's your dad… Oi! Is that a good open?”

Good! Good! Mom's encouragement mixed with the background.

“Um… Hm, you getting used to the life there?”

“Uh, yeah. Hm, I guess.”

How do I put this: whenever I talk with dad, we're always so uptight.

“Did my sister cause you any trouble?”

“N—ope. Absolutely none.” Whoaho, I just straight-up spat some irresponsible lines.

Or rather, that's the first time I've heard anyone saying that to a lodger!

“Ah! Mako-kun!”

Aunt Skippy came back in no time. Is there maybe a way to use perspective to keep her forever away from me? Sadly, my wish reached no one, and Meme-san stood next to me.

“Who called?”

“My parents.”

“Ah! Good timing, kyah! Let me talk to my dearest brother, quick!”

“Why is it that I'd rather smash the telephone than let you speak?”

“My plan this year is to play the gap-moe sister!”

“…...” I could only hand the speaker to her wordlessly, and reach back to my warabi-mochi.

“Hello-in, Coca-ine… Ah, don't hang up! You're just like Mako-kun, hmph! You used to only talk with your girlfriend for forever, I've always wanted to beat the crap out of you...”

Meme-san entered the gossiping-women mode; I decided to leave her alone.

My eyes met the neglected Erio. She stood at the same place, her lips opened, and her mouth about to speak. Yet she stayed quiet, as if observing me.

“Is there something on your mind?”

“May I?”

“Yes.”

“Did you propose to mom?”

“Hell no.”

“D-Dad?”

“Please do not think that we've separate since your birth, and this is our tear-jerking reunium, and call me that. Of course not!”

On a more fundamental level, people should not marry my aunt. Of course, there isn't anything regrettable this fact. Absolutely none.

Sigh, with your cousin though it's fine. But so what?

“Cousin.”

The cousin who still refuses to use my name spoke without intonation. Between us, there should have been an impressionable introduction. However, if Erio expressionlessly call me “Mako-kun” one day, I might actually collapse. The pointer of Youth-points will fall instantly to Erio because of this tiny fuse.

“Mm, what is it? Lets not talk that stuff anymore.”

“I have something I must discuss with you. Come.”

“Discuss? Sure, I got something for you too. Lets go!”

Disregarding whether she'll like it or not, I have to give her the warabi-mochi. It came from my wallet, after all.

“Mm.”

Though deadpan, she still nodded satisfactorily and proceeded into the hall. Discussing with me… hm~ I'm fine if it isn't anything serious — like about her memory. Maybe she cares a lot about it, even though she remembers nothing. After all, it isn't something easily found.

“You remember… So what about … You jerk…… Also, I have a question for you: Nii-san, you used to scare...”

Meme-san was still talking. Sigh, just leave her!

Behind the entrance's frost glass, I heard the sign and sound of something falling. It seems that even arbitrary forecast is sometimes accurate. My sinking heart somehow rose, and my steps to the second floor faster. No matter what she wants to talk about, all I have to do is to reply with a cheerful attitude — just mimic Meme-san when it comes to this.

I follow Erio's steps onto the stairs. Did she just go into her room? Recently I began to realize that I could no longer go into the room of my cousin Erio, who took off the futon and became normal, along with a face like that.

Stepping into the second floor, I skipped my room, directly to Erio's. In the room filled with fragments of space, the owner arduously began her work of putting on the futon.

“Hold it!”

Erio looked back after adjusting the rope to the perfect tightness, as if asking, “what is it?”

“What kind of topic would need you putting on the futon? Speak to me.”

“I want to speaking with you calmly.”

“As for staying calm, please get used to the human way.”

I took away the rolled-up futon and loosen the rope. “Ah~ ah~” Erio emitted a sound between protest and lamentation, only able to watch as the event unfold. I had no need to pity her. Probably.

Though that may be so, after seeing a restless, trembling Erio glaring at me in normal clothes because I took her usual outfit, I felt a bizarre drive of 'I must gratify her.' And thus, I decided to began the ceremony of handing her the wagashi I held in my arm:

“Alright, on a day that's kinda like your birthday, here something for you that's kinda like your present.”

I put the packaged warabi-mochi on Erio's tiny hands. She stopped for a second; though she gawked shockingly, she still flipped the package around, or stared at the elegantly-written 'happy birthday,' as of trying to get a grip on the situation. Also, she seemed to be searching for the proper emotion for such an occasion.

As the warabi-mochi completes its three-and-a-half circle, Erio looked up:

“Thank you.”

“Hn~ Uh, well, it's to celebrate.”

“I'm happy.”

“That's good.”

“I like.”

Hearing her consecutive thanks in her faint reading voice, I didn't know know where I should kept them. Moreover, hearing the word 'like' without the object in that sentence gave me a ringing in my skull. Normally, would people say that without opening the gift? I almost opened my mouth to correct her, but it's probably because she didn't know what was inside that I get to hear her say 'like.' I guess all ends well, right? I couldn't help but agree strongly.

However, Erio naturally did not burst into tears. It seems like in this town, you just can't trust seventy percent.

“So, what did you want to talk about?”

I peeked at the dusty telescope at the corner of the room, urging Erio to begin. She twitched and straightened her back — rather, it was the reaction when the body is in shock — putting out a very elegant pose:

“Um, before I tell M-mom, I wanted to talk about it with the c-cousin.”

Erio's pauses seemed to be placed incorrectly, like she's forgotten about how to speak normally.

She moved her hands forward and clutched tightly. Under the thin hands that hid few veins, and in the palms that nails carved lightly into, what kind of determination was hidden? I stared, at the wrinkles that formed between her pushing brows, the irises that kept escaping to the sides of her eyes; the lips that shut tightly, and the rising cheeks that seemed to hold back the impulse to puke… Wait, hold up, hold up. Is this really voluntary? This expression looked like she isn't exactly willing!

As I predicted, after a few minutes, Erio still couldn't expand the conversation by speaking, only to reveal a suffocating look. The price of not breathing is choking and coughing at the interval of once a minute. When that happens, the twin-tails' tips dance like twins in the air.

“...Look, I can't understand if you don't speak.”

Don't expect some psychic stuff! My command list doesn't include 'Psych!'

As if saying, 'yes, I know,' Erio nodded hard, finally swinging her clasped fists, and using the forward momentum to let her throat go:

“I need to work!”

“Huh?” Fortunately she didn't say 'you.' Let me relax for a sec… I mean!

“I want to… go back… to society? Possibly… Maybe… I… think…?”

Like a leaf floating in the river, this assertion's ending and resolve slid away.

...Fine, only because she had guts. Since it's the first time, I'll be more lenient. Erio's Return-to-society points, +3.

☆

Following the map crafted by none other than Meme-san herself, we proceeded downtown. At the end of where the eyes could see, there stood a hair salon most conspicuous with its white wall untouched by the wind, and the bed sheet drying on the second floor balcony.

Outside of the salon were pots of flower and cat decorations; the entrance might have posters for eyelash curling and hair products, but nothing about hiring.

The wind today seemed to have been showered by rain before coming here, its texture heavy. Once it touched the skin, it left the moisture and went with no avail to the heat.

“Alright, let's go!” I reached to the back of Erio's knees, lifting the girl who was still stuffed in the basket. Once the futon is off, I become overly conscious to the softness of her skin. During the process, I could seldom look at Erio's face.

I put Erio's onto the ground, and stepped away from her. Why am I taking care of her so much? Even though my many doubts since the age of futon was unbroken to this day, as long as she opens her lips and say, 'thank you, cousin,' the me of recent begins to accept things with a 'whatever, it's fine.'

Today she wore a white shirt and skirt as well. Though shoes wrapped around her feet today, she was still barefooted. According to Meme-san, Erio seemed to have disliked socks since childhood.

I couldn't stand staring at Erio for some reason, and so I scratched the back of my head — I could even hear rustling of notebook paper in my palm. As a side note, Meme-san's map this time had some rather plain content such as '↑ 2 points' and '↓ 3 points.' Or put it this way: the directions became obvious fighting game commands such as 'A (Medium kick)' or 'Y (Light punch)'. My thumbs' skin might peel off if I follow her guide.

Before I strode forward, Erio remained fixed on the spot. I pushed the back of Eri-chan, who, thanks to her long time as a shut-in, has become overly passive. The situation evolved into one where we're finally in the salon.

I looked up to the partially covered, but overall categorizable as clear, sky to see if there were rockets flying.

Though I'm unsure how many points it would require for her to succeed, Erio's 'Return to society movement' has began.

Today was Saturday, June 12th — five days after her declaration.

The morning after Erio's substitute birthday took place, after I reported to Meme-san, 'Work? Erio? Mm~ I don't see what could go wrong~' She gave a casual answer while mixing the Natto. The possibility of her still being half-awake was there. “Then~ It might be better to make her hair better~ Let me introduce her to my favourite stylist~” Meme-san mumbled vaguely while drawing the map for us. Hm, thinking back now, she was definitely not awake.

Stepping into the salon, we felt the welcome of only a breeze — from the fan set on weak sitting at the entrance.

“Welcome~ We do any cuts!”

The one who welcomed us was a beautiful woman with a dangerous business-like attitude.

Wearing a blue shirt, her skin was as pale as the autumn cloud itself. This lady, whose entire outfit seemed to mimic the clear sky, looked to be about twenty or so. The long hair that grew past her waist appears to be saying, 'it's hard for even a hairdresser to cut her own hair.' Is she the owner?

“All right, someone's here. Go inside.” She directed the little girl playing a child piano on the sofa. She's probably her daughter. “Hm~” the girl replied ambivalently, at the same time picking up the piano and trotted her way into the inner door. She glanced at us halfway, but sped away when our eyes met. For some reason, I felt guilty. The woman who appears to be the owner turned the seat in front of the mirror toward us, welcoming us with an innocent smile that raised the mysteriousness of her age:

“Please sit here~ Young couples. Are you both getting a haircut?”

“No, just her please.” I put my hand on Erio's head, entrusting the job of hair treatment to the owner. If I leave her alone, Erio might never make the first step; therefore, I nudged her lightly from the back.

If a head-start was given, she could at least walk up to someone else — this was the Erio now. Is it ok to have the first step to be the right? Or the left? She might make conscious effort on those parts in order to practice. Doing everything, whether big or small, with full attention must be really painful! It would be really hard to fall asleep if you have to pay attention to how you breath after getting into a bed!

“Come, sweetie.” Once the owner beckoned, Erio began her run and jumped into the seat. Then, her fixed expression remain lowered to her thighs, her face hidden. The owner was a bit surprised to see her behavior, but the smile lingered on her face: “Mm, what an interesting girl.”

The owner adjust the seat's direction toward the mirror: “At this time and day, just being a pretty girl is not enough: I love this kind of suspicious characteristics!”

Heeheehee~ Like a bully who's locked on on her target, the owner snickered with a grin all while preparing the barber cape. “But, I need your face up here!” Hearing the order, Erio quiveringly stiffened her back.

From the mirror, she met my stare… Mm~ Autonomity is important too. She herself probably wanted to get a haircut as well. In any case, I mouthed, “you can do it!' to encourage her, and walked toward the sofa where the little girl sat. Then, I looked around the salon.

In the middle of the table ahead was a glass plate filled with candies. Probably for bored kids. Around the plate scattered women magazine and manga. Neither were my forte, so I didn't reach for them. It's just that I've begin to think that, maybe I should start reading manga to catch up with friends of the same gender? Sigh, maybe not now.

Cable broadcast played in the store; the fan spun weakly. Also, modern art painting with kindness instead of artsiness hung from the wall — probably the school project of the kid from earlier. Obviously it was the pride of her mom, especially since it was hung with a frame. That's much better than idiot parents, anyhow.

“What kind of hair would you like?”

The owner wet Erio's hair with a water spray, asking her customer's desire while combing the strands. Asking Erio for specific opinions, it's just… I grimaced on the side. The heat from thinking dyed her ears crimson; after holding back her impulse to hide her face, her final request was: “S… Something good!” At least it was an answer better than something like 'not too bad' or 'okay.'

“Meaning I can do whatever I want?” Erio nodded. “A chance for me to show off, huh? But you're fine: just a little failure wouldn't ruin your cuteness.” As the owner finished, she made the motion of shaving her entire head. The space hamster shook her head frantically, probably taking the joke seriously.

“Oh my~ You are so cute!”

The owner leisurely enjoyed her customer's fearful reaction; that devilish grin really suited her.

From the mirror, I seemed to have witnessed her breezy proficiency and experience.

The owner's fingers circled around the scissors' round handle, as if pityingly feeling the hair behind Erio's head.

“What's your name?”

“Erio… Touwa.”

“Touwa? Isn't that Jojo-san's (女女) last name?”

“Jo-… Jojo… M-my mom.”

“Hoh~ You're Jojo-san's daughter? You're cute just like your mom!”

What a skillful owner~! I'm impressed. Was the reason why her words didn't sound sneering her personality? Once again, I experienced the accessibility that comes with the so-called beauty.

Accompanies with a light cutting sound, the scissors began fixing Erio's hair. The hip hop music from yesterday also ended passionately with a trumpet; the momentary silence lowered the bar for words.

“Your hair is really long.” I tried giving the owner an unoffensive thought.

“'Cuz it's really convenient for strangling, right?”

She proudly introduced me a chilling usage. Perhaps also thinking that it was funny, she added a laughter 'ahaha!' afterward. The way she laughs was not different from the way Meme-san does when she mentions the past.

“Um… Name...” Since the futon was taken off, she lost her furry shield; the fact that Erio was awkward with words was exposed. I think she should give up on the service industry.

“Hm, sorry, I didn't hear you.”

“Name… What's yours…?” Oh, she's really trying. Yet, every time she opens her mouth, the returning path to society becomes darker.

“Oh, me? I'm Ooi Tooe. My friends always call me Toeic!” The twenty-some year old smilingly introduced herself with an abnormally fitting teenager tone. The owner — Ooi-san briskly cut Erio's hair. Long hair that grew freely fell like Nagashi-soumen that were not picked up, drawing out on the floor extraterrestrial shapes.

Erio lowered her head to avoid the mirror, rendering her inner thought completely unreadable.

“...Mm?”

The door inside cracked open; the little girl from earlier peeked inside the salon. Her eyes were mostly on her mother's side face, unreservedly emitting rays of hope that her mother would accompany her. But her mother was absorbed with Erio's hair with no sign of noticing.

Instead, the child traded look with me. “Hmn~” Though she immediately went back, the same sound as before came. After a bit, I could hear from the inside piano keys orchestrating a weak and unskilled melody. Was that some sort of taunt for someone? Maybe also a way to get attention.

“What's the name of your boyfriend there?” Ooi-san abruptly indicated the third person's existence.

Erio stuffed her face into the cape covered in hair, attempting to hide her face. “Ugee!” Perhaps some hair got into her eyes, she made a strange screech. “Eh? What's the matter, Ecchan?”

The cause of the chaos, Ooi-san, expressed her confusion.

Yet this was the only time I understood Erio's perplexity.

Boyfriend? There? I hoped she would properly pinpoint the location.

In short, my reaction was to check the surrounding of the sofa where customers would wait. My eyes could see objects, but no subjects. Even the inconceivable person in the mirror's world… Nothing. I'm fairly certain that so far in this salon, there are only three people — me, Erio and Ooi-san — breathing out carbon dioxide. As for Ooi-san's daughter, I could not open my mouth and ask for her name. If I do that, the kid might end up sobbing, 'wahh~!'

Looks like if I were to give up on wondering around the destination, I seem to have to admit: boyfriend = me. The conclusion waited open mouth.

…Uh, hm? What was I feeling? Uh, I think… I think we shouldn't delve in too deeply.

“No, I'm her cousin, the kind that's not a boyfriend.” My speaking speed was especially fast probably because of the increasing pulse behind my ear and on my wrist that accelerated the rest of my body.

“Cousin… Ohh!” Ooi-san clapped her hands without letting go of the scissors: “So you're that Makoto-kun?”

“Eh...Ah, Meme… My aunt told you?”

“Yep… So, you're the infamous Makoto-kun who looks at your favourite aunt with slightly evil eyes?”

Has the gossip of that person accumulated so much that her lies have became the truth?

About two weeks ago, I was about to be too friendly with her name, and ended up correcting myself and accidentally calling her 'granny.' Was she still holding a grudge against me for that?

In any case, I couldn't stay anyway. My mood now was as if I was stuffed with all kind of rocks:

“I'm going out for a bit, please call if you need me.”

“Ah, there he goes.”

Ooi-san's tone was like after observing a raucous cicada that came into your room and left from the other window: she neither teased me with words, nor made me stay.

As I looked up, I saw Erio, who became a feather decoration with her eyebrows and other parts were covered in hair, sending me a distress signal. I, however, still mouthed her a 'you can do it!' and fled the scene. I'll pretend her journey of returning to society has already begun with a '1UP mushroom.'

To digest time and shame, I wondered outside the salon. At that moment, I noticed the colourful pictures stuck on the window that I glanced at earlier. There wasn't much around here that interested me, anyway.

A blonde model in sexy pose showing off her gorgeous outfit, hair and makeup went down the same path as the authors of school textbooks. In other words, she's been vandalized. Long hair grew from the model's nose, and continued into her mouth through the jaw.

Which grade schooler did this? Also, why do people think adding hair on faces is funny? I kind of pondered for a while. The other advertisement seemed to be irrelevant with a hair salon. The content wasn't particularly rich, but there were strange words written beneath the title. Who knows if it was an address or a cipher.

But what the hell was it? Was it like a presentation on something such as 'we sold medicine that could give your skin and hair as smooth as your age ÷ 2'? Even though I couldn't read anything. If it were Meme-san, she'd probably pounce the paper like a starved orca.

It's just that the hand-written heading 'for the you who isn't ready to grow up' seemed to plan on residing in my left eye. Of course, the landlord eyeball really wanted to stare at the newcomer as a way of welcoming, threatening him that 'this is borrowed; you will pay for the monthly rent on time, right?' It worked: tears with too much salt rolled from the corner of the eye into the mouth at precisely thirty seven degree Celsius.

Whatever, uh… Just kidding! Is that enough? What a drag! Perhaps affected by a novel I read before, I imagined an annoying article full of lies. Damn you what-his-face (I forgot his name).

“Was it too short?”

“Mm~ I think it's fine.”

The correct answer was— honestly, I couldn't even tell if this length was any different from the one before. Why do girls care so much about cutting too much hair?

“In any case, it's way more refreshed.” I remarked using the less problematic compliment.

“Refreshed~” Erio swung her head to check the hair; the tidied hair followed subtly.

Her behavior was no different than a grade schooler who is about to head into the pool after coming out from the changing room. I almost chuckled.

The cost was covered by Meme-san's five thousand yen military fund. “All right~ thanks! Next time I'll cut your hair too, so make sure you come back!” After Ooi-san gave me the change, she beamed at me a close-ranged smile. It made me think that a situation where a man would happily say 'keep the change~!' isn't completely unreasonable! I deduced: her husband must have been mesmerized by the same smile, huh.

Erio and I left the store after bowing in thanks. For reasons unknown, a fulfilling sense of accomplishment after a job well done surged, but I lightly brushed the feeling away. For Erio, the job is only about to start.

“Alright, let's go find a place for hire.”

“Mm.”

“But, where do you actually want to work?”

“Anything is good.”

“Hm… But just because you think can doesn't meant you can, right?”

I euphemistically implied that she shouldn't have any expectation, but Erio seemed to not comprehend.

She shakily climbed onto the bicycle, into the basket… Uh, should we start from fixing habits like this? I must properly teach her the correct knowledge of fitting back into society.

Yet this time, it might become an extreme rehab: just how much changed in the environment of Earth while Erio was out in space? Let her experience reality!

Because I thought I should respect Erio's positive spirit, I still stepped onto the bike even though a part of me wavered. I prayed that her spirit would not be crunched by the wheels.

The preparation for the job interview was already completed yesterday.

I brought Erio to the station to take her ID photo — I even wrote her resume! It was under my ceaseless push that Erio was able to call them up herself. Actually, I'm more like a guardian than a boyfriend. Meme-san and I occasionally help Erio, whose goal is to eventually walk under the sun without her 'craziness'… Crap, isn't this basically a relationship of a couple and their daughter?

“You can still go back to school if you don't go to work.”

Ever since she spoke her mind about going to work, I recommended many times for her to go back. Yet Erio stubbornly refused: “Since I left, there is no going back. No!” Then why do you leave that uniform hanging in the room?

...Oh well, I am the person who forced her to live as an earthling. Just how much am I allowed to intervene in the choices of Erio's future? I am still searching for the answer, and I have not found it.

But seriously, am I like Erio's dad now? I'm actually worrying about whether she should go back to school or get a job. Am I the right person for this kind of thing? Having adaptability is good, but being so easily swayed is also…

The shadow of Youth-points dwindled. A nostalgic brown dyed my school life, like a withered cherry blossom that reminds people of a sweet and sour past… Hold it, I'm not about to have my cheeks wet by nostalgic tears.

“Then… Let's go to the food joint by the street.”

“Mm.”

I remembered inadvertently seeing the hiring criteria of that place being under the age of forty, when I went there with Ryuushi-san last week. Since there isn't a minimum restriction, there shouldn't be a problem. As for whether she fits, that would be up to the interviewer to decide.

Moving forward on the bicycle, I tried to pick routes that wouldn't overlap with the ones Erio used to go to the sea with.

I only hope that… For the person who has lost what's most important to her life in this town, this could serve as an atonement.

The result of her leaving out the back door dejectedly after entering the office-like room inside the kitchen went according to my prediction. So of course I'd look away. As to what I should look at after turning ended up bothering me. I guess I'll have to stare at the tip of my shoes. It was pointless.

Erio briefly explained that the people downright rejected her instead of telling her 'we'll call you if if you're hired.' After that, she hid her face… with the ground. She squatted by the wall and literally stuck her face to the concrete ground. You're gonna get hurt! I almost opened my mouth to remind her, but I thought, maybe she's already hurt everywhere? Hence I stayed mute till the end. I also thought that it'd be better if Erio stopped this behavior.

The fact that she just got a hair cut and was dressed neatly created an even bigger gap between her act. I crouched next to Erio and stared at the grey building in front. I suspected that my eyes lost focus, making the white seemed turbid. I rubbed them, and lifted my eyelids up high to see — the building was still grey.

The Erio who was still rubbing her face against the ground suddenly shot her torso upward. Her nose had a scratch, red like in the winter cold.

From that wound I felt an unnamed guilt: like mixing a neatly placed tofu in a plate with a metal spoon.

Perhaps calm again, Erio choppily described the interview.

Their questions seemed to have nothing to do with the job.

'Aren't you that? The girl who walks around town with a futon.'

'Why did you do that?'

'Oh, you don't go to school? I thought so!'

'Is your hair natural? Eh? You didn't dye it? Oh~ ...Touwa… Erio? Are you a foreigner? Oh, you're not.'

'You're pretty well known in town! I thought you're pretty brave, walking in the streets like that! Hm~ but why are you so scared now?'

'Yeah! I know you want to work here… But, you wouldn't hire a weirdo, right? Listen: just imagine you're running a store — you would think people in futon are weird too, right?'

'Well, you are really cute, so that's not too bad.'

'I'm more concerned with whether it'd dangerous working with you, not with if you can do it. Because people would be worried!'

'So, I'm sorry, but, we can't hire you. I think other places will be just as difficult too, right?'

'Anyway, keep at it! I'll cheer you on!'

Above are the notes I've taken in this one-sided interview.

“Ah~...” So they knew? I even tried picking a place that's further away from the Touwa household.

Why did you choose us? Or, why do you want to work? They didn't even ask questions like these. Erio and I even brainstormed together beforehand and came up with realistic responses.

Would it be better to ask Maekawa-san, who shares the unique appearance but with a better sociability, for advices and places to work? In any case, we have to restart.

Erio stumbled on her first step back to society. Or rather, she hugged on the ground the ankles of society, and got kicked away cruelly. Her wish of returning to society might never be granted.

The fact that her starting line wasn't zero is also tricky. Just how many points in debt awaited her?

Even when I got up and called her name, her knees refused to straighten up. If we go back home like this, she'll just end up becoming a bamboo-blind girl and cease all activity in her room. I even worried that she might regress back to the state of futon girl. Falling down again in that outfit, Erio will definitely never stand up on her own again.

“…What a pain.” Or maybe I'm overprotective? I began to feel anxious.

Sigh, I just have to change her mood. I gave up on contemplating and spoke:

“Anything you want to buy?”

“Eh?” Erio, who fretfully tried to rub her frown away, lifted her chin.

“Or anywhere you want to go. Since we're already out, let's hang out for a bit before going back. It's almost noon anyway, so we can eat too.” As for the reason, it's because I smelled Youth-points.

Let's just pretend it is so.

I pulled on Erio's right wrist and guide her up. Erio didn't resist; she evolved from an amphibian to a human.

As I wiped her slightly messy face, she coughed heavily. The stiffness in her facial muscle seemed to be expelled along with the cough, and it became catalyst of her return to neutrality.

“Are you hungry?”

“Mm.”

“Uh, what do you want to eat?”

“Pizza.” So it is going to be that?

“Roger. Then… Let's go to a diner.”

Erio stuffed her lower body into the basket again. By now, I could only admit that that is Erio's standard behavior. Besides, if she hugged me from the seat behind, my spine as a guardian might deform. Maybe it'd better if we keep our distance. But from the angle of Youth-points, of course riding double is more… Well, what can I say?

Perhaps, or rather most certainly, Erio will wrap herself up right when she gets home. But I sensed that her level of depression had been ameliorated to a point that she will still crawl out from her bed when dinner comes. Erio is fine: she might be slower than a cow, but she will be back.

She is still holding on.

She has been pulled back bit by bit by the gravity of society, hence she declared her intention to work.

What proof do I have though? When all is said and done, with whom do I have comparison for her with this 'will'? Places in my head hurt as if bruised, but since I have no basis for a reply, I could only endure the pain.

Simply put, I am not negative, and rather believe in Erio optimistically. Because it was only that, I felt terribly generous.

From then till about three, Erio and I wandered around town. And thus, I experienced why the kanji of wandering (うろつ) and lost (さまよう) are the same (彷徨) with my waist and legs. Together, we became hobos in front of the station; 'You're going to be sore tomorrow.' The Erio who swung her legs in the basket so said. I pinched her cheek as punishment, and returned to the Touwa residence.

After dumping the bicycle into the storage and locking up, I came to the entrance. Erio's standard head-hanging disappeared, her expression the same as when she came out from the salon this morning.

“I'm home!” Since Meme-san's shoes sat at the entrance, I tried greeting. “I'm home~” Erio mimicked me, squeaking a weak voice into the empty hall.

No reaction of a family member appearing after biting the bait. Could she be hiding in the futon again to set a trap for another princess carry? Just like with squeezing a Youkan out of a bamboo, I wanted to tighten the futon and force Meme-san out.

Since she's not coming out, it'd be a waste of time just standing. And so I told Erio to come inside. I thought that she resembled a certain robot boy, waiting for other people's command and couldn't make up her mind otherwise. But, since checking status is not a simple task in real life, the difficulty has risen dramatically.

“We're having snack, go wash your hand.” I jokingly spoke in a kid-spoiling grandad voice. “Mm!” She nodded intently and ran along the hallway… Eh? No way, she bought it? Eri-chan is too innocent, grandpa is scared that you might get scammed out there. Family members who are against their kids getting a job, and are for their them to stay at home should be pretty rare.

The happy Erio stopped in front of the living room, her mouth wriggled. She seemed to be talking with someone inside, probably saying hi to Meme-san. She ran off toward the bathroom; the other person probably didn't even get to say anything. I just bought her chocolate crepe earlier though! As expected of a girl — does sweet not count as food for them? Instead of snacks belonging in a different stomach, I secretly theorized that maybe they are put into a different organ. I had a friend who advocated this: 'maybe girls have a sweets-sack? Like a fire-sack in those monster atlas. I thought of that when I saw how much my girlfriend likes chocolate.' This became a fuse. Of course, the others exploded out of jealousy.

The sound of a distant pipe becoming a highway came; I followed into the hall. In the living room, the lazy house owner was indeed in there. She was currently displaying the status between lax and waste.

Meme-san sat on a cushion, her legs freely extended toward the television. She looked oblivious, and her eyes only half focused. Maybe I was thinking too much, but her side face looked blushed.

As for clothing, it was a pajama that seemed all too early.

On the TV screen was the protagonist who swore to become a violin maker on a date with a girl. It was a movie that endangers all the idiot couples in this world: the content was highly inappropriate for the education of a bachelor. What a throwback~ I had to stop and stare at the TV. At that moment, Meme-san finally noticed my return: “Ah, welcome home… Yawn~” She tiredly lowered her head.

“I'm back. Are you sick?”

“No, no~ I'm just spacing out. Maybe I was in there for too long.”

Meme-san seemed to have cooked her tongue, vaguely explaining the situation.

Ohh, she took a bath! Now that she said it, I noticed the moisture on her hair, and her skin was extra smooth. Looks like she went into the bath before the sun went down to fully enjoy her day off. That maybe so, but she often works on the weekends too, even though she wasn't working today. What does she do for a living?

I sat down next to Meme-san and began my simple report.

“Erio got wiped at the interview.” “Yeah? I thought so.” “Me too.”

We calmly agreed with each others. It's no wonder~ Meme-san reservedly added with a bitter smile:

“She probably thought that going back to school would cost a fortune.”

“Ah. Is that right?” We talked while gazing at the TV ahead.

“Actually, she isn't wrong.” When the scene changed, the darkened plasma screen reflected Meme-san's face momentarily.

“Right.”

“And she's probably worried about being bullied, huh?”

“That's very possible.” In both imagination and reality.

“Do you get bullied at school, Mako-kun? Did anyone call you an aunt-lover (オバコン)? I'm worried.”

“Hah? You mean big foot (ヒバゴン)? Your stupid jokes made it all the way to the freakin' salon. Do you think that's bullying?”

“…...Eehee~” Meme-san ignored me. Her unmoved attitude was enough to make me wonder if she misheard me. Did she have some license-less doctor do a surgery on her that would automatically detach her ear drums when someone criticizes her?

“Is this a replay?” I suddenly change the topic.

“Nope, it's a tape. It's been gathering dust in the cabin, but I took it out out of nostalgia.”

Indeed I received a response. The suspicion of her eardrum surgery grew.

This was just a hunch, but I think nothing on the screen is being carried into Meme-san's brain. Her nerves and face were slacking off on the side of the road, making her side face appear apathetic.

Her indifferent attitude must have reasons other than over-bathing.

“Did something happen?”

“Hm? Uh, it's kind of like...” Her eyelids hung again.

Meme-san's hands swung, tracing the air aimlessly like butterflies in a mime play.

“Like always joking about how 'I'm a god~' and then someone actually came out and praised you like a god; it actually confounds you, you know?”

“...Did you meet a member of the fan club?”

What if you cunningly deceived guys who wanted to join the Erio fan club, and now there are five members? I said so while imagining and counting with my fingers.

“Dong!” Meme-san made an enigmatic sound that was irrelevant to my question, and lied down at the same time. Swoosh! Following the sound that was lighter than imagination, she came to occupy my thighs as a pillow.

“...Um, Oba-san.”

“Hm~” Her eyes rolled under her lightly shut eyelids. The hair slightly wet tickled on my legs. Under the warm object, I really thought there was a cat or a dog on my knees.

… The soft air of a lovely atmosphere floated around my eyes. Be gone! I swatted with my hands. If you have the time to spray this kind of particles, why don't you just go help Erio wash her hands.

According to the situation that should happen between a girl and a guy — not with his aunt — there seems to be a glitch in my destiny.

“How do you like your cuchie (キューティ) aunt lying on your knees?”

“Like having a clam on my knees.” Or more properly, juicy. (ジューシー)

“Lick!” “Eeeek!” The clam licked my knee. Cold saliva sunk into the clothes and onto the skin. I yelped and winced like a girl. Though I wanted to attack her temple with a knee attack, Meme-san began her next phase of attack before I made up my mind.

“Lick lick lick lick~!”

“Hey! You damn pervert!” I pushed her forehead back with my palm.

Rhythmically she drenched my knee with her drool.

“I got a little too excited.” Teheehee~ She mimicked F*jiya's P*ko-chan. 'How careless of me~' she planned to slip by like that. She probably doesn't even care about other people's loss of points. Well no, it'd be difficult for me too if she does. Meme-san's mental status has recovered! Who would actually be glad about that? Keeping this person in warm water for the rest of the year, and a peaceful and harmonious Touwa family might just be reality.

“How do you switch so fast from depression to excitement?”

I couldn't help but feel that she uses a different fuel than regular people to stimulate herself. Would there be petroleum in the result of her saliva analysis?

“Oh yeah, listen Makkyun.”

“A nickname of a nickname… What?”

Again with the ignoring. Well, I'm used to it. Just think of it as talking to someone on the TV, and it'll be like facing twice the emptiness. I don't even know how to deal with her.

“About where Erio could work, I have something. I'll tell you now, so you two can go tomorrow.”

“...Oh?” I'm kind of impressed by this surprising information, but… “Then you should have just told me!”

That way neither my knees nor Erio would have to be exhausted from having too much lactic acid.

“I just found out today!”

“And I thought the only job that people could find taking a bath is for little ducky toys.”

“Just ask Erio and she would know where.” I began telling me the store's name and the job.

“… Ah, I see. Comparing to somewhere normal… This might be better.”

I've heard of it too, but I've never been there.

“There might not be much in terms of pay, but I think it's a place that Erio could conform to.”

Somehow, she spoke with a sentimental voice. Not fit in, but conform to? Well, they're pretty much the same thing.

“Credit's rolling on the tape.” I pointed to the screen.

“Rewind~ Also do the same to my age for about twenty years.” I flip and continued rolling.

“If I could do that, I'll throw in a bonus of doubling that.”

“Oh yay!” She nonchalantly raised her hands and stabbed with me with her nails.

Pitter-patter~ Erio frantically rushed in from the hallway. After seeing Meme-san using my knees as pillow, she stiffened still for a bit. Meme-san was relatively soft, the example being her face.

“Wanna join me, Erio?” Please don't invite your daughter in disregard of the will of the pillow! Actually, if a person has to ask for her furniture’s permission to sleep, she might simply be a wacko.

Erio waved her hands furiously in refusal. Drops of water from her hand hit my face.

After motioning an item-moving gesture to show 'enough about that for now,' she asked with tilted head:

“Snack?”

“You are the snack~!”

Like a plant growing at three-thousands times the speed, Meme-san entangled Erio with her vines known as arms: “Uuwhoa~! Bouncy skins~! Let me absorb it~! In every way~!” If you accidentally took her age, then you'll be extra skip-the-rest, Oba-san!

Erio, ravaged to the ground, stuck her hand out for the possibility of a rescue:

“Cousin, s-save me.”

“Let me finish this first.”

I acted as if fixed to the TV, deciding to turn a blind eye on the scene of a happy family.

… Yet, a side glance would reveal a prideful mom and/or idiotic mom sucking on her daughter's cheek.

Is there a problem in this world that would trouble her indefinitely? I might end up having a fever myself wondering about this question.

The next morning, Erio had a tantrum. She hid in the futon… Uh, like actually under it, since she wasn't rolled up in it.

Like a student struggling till the last moment in his bed when the chicken replacement, his mom, launches an attack on his fortress in the winter's moment between dream and reality, she resisted. She either escaped without checking the direction, or kicked randomly.

“I rerly hervent slerp yet~!”

“Liar!” By the way, her vigorous claim was: “I really haven't slept yet~!”

The thoughts of the futon-made darkness 'Ohohoho~”: Erio slept before ten o'clock last night; the time was now ten in the morning.

“Eets dergerous becerse the werve of sperce will cerse rain terday!”

“If weather forecast does send a rain alert because of your space wave, then I will gladly accept it. Alright, now get out!” I tickled her feet. “Uwah!” A clear reaction, followed by a kick to my chin. And then Erio wormed like a caterpillar when I let go. Her escape wasn't completely despicable; it was more like a child throwing a tantrum.

Like an infant scarred for life after touching a stove for the first time, Erio displayed an act of denial for job interviews. What a lack of determination she's showing. Agh, I take back the words 'I believe in her.'

Ahh~ The back-to-society points are regressing in no time. Ugh, well, she's probably numbed from it since she's already so far in debt anyway.

Actually, she originally claimed to be an alien as an escape from the problem anyway: running away has to be her one expertise — no, it has to be her basic behavior. But things are different this time. 'It wers for the cersin that I cried.'

Shouldn't the one crying be your mom? I almost said it, but I thought Meme-san wouldn't react that way. She will always respect her daughter's will. Though she will help her on her way back to society, Meme-san will neither assent nor dissent; she will unconditionally accept what Erio says.

“Rersts are needed for work. Wrapped up in yer bed is the rerght way to live!”

On the other hand, my cousin emitted her craziness to her content.

After being treated with temporary nonreaction, Erio peeked out from the futon. She surveyed about and, for some reason, sighed in relief after seeing me.

Since it made no sense, I jumped over to hold her neck; Erio frantically pulled her head back and rolled in attempt to distance herself. “Ah!”

Peril filled Erio's path. But I didn't stop her.

Her ankle met the telescope's tripod that sat in the corner of the room. “Uwhoooa!” Super effective. Erio, who could only perform lateral movements, intensely moved vertically; the floor squeaked. Musty dust flew everywhere, and I felt uncomfortable.

“Kyah~hah~hah~hah~!” Struggling painfully, Erio choppily screamed with a sound that could become a hearty laugh with a bit of editing. Once she settled, I assumed persuasion mode:

“Looks like it's more dangerous indoor for you. This morning's fortune said Sagittarius have good luck with money, and their charm is a white umbrella. So, we're going outside to get collect some lucky-points!”

Even though I lied. But I don't even know what Erio's birthday is, and how else could I further promote this point system?

“Okay, game time's over! Put your toy (futon) back, we're leaving~”

Though I tried telling her with a gentle attitude fit for kids, she insisted on 'it's warm~' jumping occasionally 'Jumpy~' then 'sleepy~ sleep~' and finally stopped moving. After about two minutes, sounds like snoring broke the silence.

“...Hah~” I rubbed saliva on my head and began meditating. Dot, dot, dot, ding~

Alright, just carry her out! A motion last seen long ago: I carried the futon girl out of Erio's room. “Warmth~! Warmth~!” The time for protest is over. Her outfit is perfect for rain too.

If the sight of me carrying Erio was caught by a certain problematic person who would ask 'magic mirror on the wall, who is the youngest Meme-san in the Touwa family of this town~?' she might start yelling 'stop those fingers!' and request being princess carried, so I hurried to the entrance. Luckily, I wasn't caught. Maybe she went somewhere? I realized after checking the shoes at the entrance.

Because Meme-san said 'I know those people there, so it's fine,' I put sandals instead of shoes on Erio. As for her messy bed hair, I couldn't care less.

I opened the door after picking up a plastic umbrella. The outside today was like a preview to the raining season: a gloomy drizzle. Riding a bicycle on a day like this and sliding all the way to the destination would probably result in a shower of Youth-points. It's just that that would be pretty dangerous, and I've already been sick once.

I pulled the bicycle out from the storage and put the luggage named Erio into the basket. Holding her, I felt she was like a light and soft mortar. The basket clanked; Erio was now in her spot. Oh man, I'm seriously used to it. Does this mean my points are already negative?

Human adaptability is terrifying; my youth is also being trained in a negative way.

With how things were now, Erio seemed to have given up as well, showing her face and initiating a normal conversation:

“Good morning, cousin.” Her eyes weren't filled with hatred: it was just a flat greeting no different from the usual's.

“Oh~ Morning… Oh yeah, Erio, hold the umbrella for me.”

I wanted her to stick her hand out to hold the opened umbrella.

Wouldn't holding the umbrella from the basket cover both me and Erio from the rain? Discovering her surprising usefulness, I felt sunny for a moment.

“And then? Where are we going?” Ah, she's pouting unhappily. This fresh reaction was kind of cute. I looked up to the umbrella, and, as if reporting to grey sky made obscure by the transparent plastic, my mouth gaped.

At the same time I thought… Are the aliens watching us through the dense cloud?

“The grocery store that sells seventh-dimensional key chain. I heard that your job is to substitute for the granny there.”

'The old lady has been resting inside recently, you two can just walk in there.'

Since Meme-san said so yesterday, I decided to walk in directly.

The store's door and roof had a few red and other brightly-colored signs stuck on them — an appearance of a classic personal shop. I parked next to the entrance. After learning our destination, Erio's mind and face seemed to be mixed with joy.

I looked for the name buried in the signs and found that the it seemed to be called 'The Tamura Shop.' For a store that is known for its alien-loving granny, this was a name that even an Earthling like me could understand at a glance.

In front of the store was a bench that seemed to be jacked from a bus stop. Currently, Erio gestured to me explaining that she used to eat snacks with her friends here after school.

By the way, I had to exercise the use of force to take away the futon, which she was about to use as a coat.

“Hoh~?” Erio has friends! Uh, I mean, of course, but what do you call it — like imagining the childhood of your parents, it isn't easy to picture the past of a person before you two met. I may have seen a picture of Meme-san from twenty seven years ago, but it is only remembered in still image, and it will absolutely never move. I do feel that her personality probably hasn't changed.

I pushed the noticeably aged, wooden slide door open. Perhaps installed improperly, the door didn't move all the way until I put some strength into it. After I opened the door, Erio squeezed by and jubilantly ran into the store.

Right as she entered, an electronic buzzer rang inside the dim store as a red object flashed on the register. Looks like every time someone comes in, a sensor will react and inform the old lady inside: a similar device as those in a convenience store.

I roughly surveyed the store with its walls and shelves brimming with items.

The same style on the inside: instead of being more traditional, this store emphasized more on the owner's personal taste. There were instant ramen with the expiration date indeed being in the future, and hot water. Dessert-wise, there were snacks, and there were also commercial ice cream in the small fridge.

“Oh, is this it?”

I took the rumored seventh-dimension key chain off the wall and investigated… No matter how I looked, it still looks like a purple accessory with multiple polygons stacked together. Is seeing through three dimension the limit of my eyes? And for the key chain over there with the word 'determination', how many dimension is that? After all, this is the territory of the mind~ Hard to say~ How philosophical. I'll tell myself that.

If we want to have a serious discussion, we might end up delving deep into an investigation on 'what is determination (根性)?' so I stopped. After all, there is still the word nature (性根). Is this about the origin of personality?

In addition, there was a signature of an alien named something-something and a specimen of a Nozuchi. I'll pretend I didn't see those. I can't believe adults seriously let their kids in here!

“Are we… going in?” Erio asked, pointing to the darkness ahead. “Yeah.” I concluded the perusal, proceeded next to the register, took off my shoes and walked in. We entered the living quarter with Erio in lead.

The neighboring building connected to the store was wooden as well, but it was a sublime house that showed no sign of tipping. Rain dropped quietly, and a refreshing cool suffused in the air. Even though this was space of gloom and brown, conspicuous stains, I felt, for some reason, that I was in a blue cave. “Probably… Here.” Erio stopped her in the middle of the hall. At the wall was a room sealed by two slide doors.

I opened the doors yellowed by the light and age. In the center was a slightly bulging bedding. It would appear that the person is someone who sleeps with the sheet over her head, as I couldn't find any exposed skin.

“Obaa-chan.” Erio set next to the bedding, endearingly calling the bulge.

“Yes, yes, I was just about go to the store!” The person explained while poking her head out from the bed. Much blackness remained in her hair, but compared to Oba-chan, she had an overwhelming amount of wrinkles. The granny's cheeks were thinned, and her eyeballs protruding. Hm…? I think I've seen this face before. Must be my imagination.

Before looking at us, she asked, 'who are you again?' An appointment with memory loss.

“Obaa-chan, um… Morning, how are you? It's been a while.”

It would have sounded fine if she spoke slowly, but Erio hurriedly put everything into a sentence. Well, that was just like her style.

The granny, Tamura-san, stuck out her skinny arm, which had skin so tight that even the wrinkles didn't stand out. But her hand stopped without moving forward. “Ah~ Earth's gravity is becoming worse than before.” The granny spoke shocking words. Is the so-called gravity something that would change in years like the economy? I wasn't surprised though. Setting my personal expectation aside, I have already gotten used to this kind of talk.

I held Tamura-san's hand and guided it to her reading glasses. “Oh… Hm, thank you then.”

She mumbled vaguely and put the glasses in front of her eyes instead of putting them on. The object became the translator for her eyes, making outlines of the world correct.

“Oh~ Oh~ Elliot. You're Elliot, right?”

“No, I'm Erio.”

“Since you're Elliot and Meme's kid, Elliot is fine, hm?”

Contrasting her appearance, her tone was imposing. Forward and ahead, her speaking speed was like words were pushing each others ahead, and they were very understandable. This was a tone that reveals a strong nature, but disallows others to express their opinion.

According to the previous statement, Obaa-chan knows Erio's father?

“Being Meme's kid, you actually inherited Elliot's good points. You have a bright future!”

Tamura-san's left hand that seemed unable to defy gravity came out trembling from the bed. The hand stayed in the air as if planning on petting Erio's hair, but it went back halfway, probably thinking that it was too much work.

“What about you?” This time she pointed the frame of the glasses at me, and asked:

“An unfamiliar face. If I forget, then my apology. Well, that would never happen anyway!”

Perhaps her memory had yet to decline, she asserted that we've never met. That's correct, but then what about what she said earlier?

“Ah, I'm Niwa Makoto. Erio's cousin.”

“Yes, cousin.” Somehow, Erio reported with a happy face. Tamura-san moved her glasses to observe my face. Through the reading glasses, even her face becomes bigger for me.

“Oh~oh, is that so? You're Shouji's son, of course you'd look alike.”

“Ah… Yes, he's my father.”

“I know~ he's someone with a low threshold: an idiot like an introduction manual.”

When your father is being happily and easily insulted in someone else's reminiscing, what kind of a face do you put up as a son? Dad's impression on me has always been strict and stubborn — a father without vulnerability. Hence, this past story didn't seem real.

“He's someone who likes animals more than people, the opposite of Meme. Also recently—“

“Um...”

“What?” Perhaps because of the interruption, Obaa-san was ostensibly upset.

But we're not here to chat, so we have to conclude things first.

“So, Erio will be working here, or rather will be helping out...”

“Ah~ Ah, that's right. Correct: Meme's already told me, so I know. Now, since you're done, can I talk now? Hm?”

“...Please.” What an individualistic old lady.

“Animals.”

“Hah?”

As if mocking my dumbfound reaction, Tamura-san raised the corner of her lips:

“Did you know? The animals in town have been disappearing lately. They've been kidnapped, I tell you, kidnapped!”

“Ah, yes. I've only heard of rumors though, nothing specific.”

“Ahahaha!” This old lady doesn't fit well with a monotone laughter like 'heeheehee.'

“Yes, it has to be cattle mutilation .”

“……...”

As expected of the city of aliens: when things happen to animals, that's the first thing that comes to mind.

However, wasn't that proven as caused by nature or other animals?

Furthermore, there weren't corpses at the scene, so I always felt that this was not an appropriate name. Oh, well, it's fine if they were returned after being carried away for experiments by alien saucers, right? ...Hm? Why bother giving back?

“Then… I'm next!”

“Hm… Eh?” My contemplation was attacked unexpectedly; I almost choked at the moment of surprise.

“ Cattle mutilation is about to happen to me.”

Tamura-san confidently puffed her frail chest that looked like it could no longer hold anything. Another person like this? I looked to Erio's face.

Erio was not stupefied, but instead smiling as if she came in contact with something worthy of the reaction. Ah… this old lady is like that! It has to be that.

She's like the Erio during April who grew old.

“Ah. Is that right?”

I used the more polite, but disapproving reaction for facing adults.

...And like that, Erio began working at the Tamura store.

### 004. Chapter 3 - Ryuu'ko'←(emphasis)san's, whatcha call it, trouble?

“Niwa-kun is like the right side of a crepe!”

“Eh?”

I reached for the onions rings and Niwa-kun, who sat on the opposite side, paused his hand on the fries.

“It has a light crusty taste, but that's it. It's, like, the parts with no filling.”

“Oh, meaning that I have to admit myself as a shallow paper-man with a 'yeah…'? I mean, I won't deny it, but my heart might get folded into a quarter. Maybe I'll just turn into a crane and jump out from the window!”

Niwa-kun scowled sadly and put a fry in his mouth, then he rubbed the salt off onto the tray.

“Oh no, I mean, like, there are people who like that stuff too. I think there musta be a lotta people who like the crusts.” I nodded and took a bite on the onion ring. Nom, nom, delicious~

“That's the first time I've seen someone eating onions so happily.”

“Hm? Ya don't like onions, Niwa-kun?”

“Not when it's just onions — especially when it's raw, 'cuz it's spicy.”

“Oh~ Are ya one of those who hate things before tasting them?”

“Uh, didn't I just tell you about the taste?”

Ah, he's right. Niwa-kun grimaced; I smiled embarrassingly.

“In the collective item known as 'crepe with filling,' do I fall under the needless parts? After all, if you all you want are the crispy parts, you just have to grill the middle parts.”

“But isn't is bad without those too? Like, ya can't hold the filling without the sides, and it isn't a crepe anymore.”

“Then… Right, just don't even have crepes! Burgers are in, anyway; just tell crepe shops to give up!”

“Ah, you're right! Niwa-kun, you're really good at being reasonable!”

“...This girl… Just when I wish she'd deny something, she'd give me a big smile.”

Bonk~ Niwa-kun collapsed… Hm? Did I… say something weird?

Niwa-kun is just that — interesting, but hard to get sometimes.

“Oh, I know!” I tried to snap… And failed. My fingers just rubbed together lamely.

“Hm?”

“I like the crust!”

“Puwah!”

“Oh oh! You look like a tipped fish tank!”

Did the Oolong tea and his windpipe play a prank on him?

...Mm, there was a day like that anyway.

That was in the beginning of June, about two weeks ago, when I had this conversation with Niwa-kun at the burger place.

You want to know how I felt? It's a bit difficult to say out loud! But it was the most recent happy time we had, so sometimes I think about it.

Mainly when I'm feeling tired and down.

Though I'm always sleepy in morning classes after practice, to the point where I miss my bed, the feeling of freedom will always come after club activity ends after school; I wouldn't want to go home directly, it's unbelievable.

For negative emotions, the feeling during class time is pretty important.

“Hey ya~ Ryuushi!”

When I was wiping the gym floor with a mop, Mikki, my club mate, came to my side and spoke. She's a girl cuter than Ryuushi who came from the city part of town.

“How can I help ya, ya naughty kid who got Ryuuko-san's name wrong?”

Just how widespread is this erroneous nickname of mine? Could it be the entire school? Jeez, Ryuushi-san is so famous; she's honest and flexible… Wait, now's not the time to feel happy!

“Before we head home, wanna go hang out at Tamura's?”

As for why this girl's nickname is Mikki, it's because she likes that one mouse in a certain park. Even though she's a girl, she's not M*nnie. Don't make me say the rest! By the way, she's a tough one who can go enjoy an amusement park on her own.

“Obaa-chan's store? Mm~...” I felt my tummy through the uniform to confirm multiple things: “Sure, it's been a while.” During the winter of first grade, I often went there after club activity.

“You're cooperative sometimes, Ryuushi~”

“I told ya it's Ryuuko! And no one ever says that!” Sigh, because… I've been hanging out with Niwa-kun recently.

But speaking of Niwa-kun, he's been having the habit of leaving as soon as school's out this week. Did something happen? My curiosity rolled like a ball in the bottom of my heart.

Was I too cruel refusing his offer? That's going to be… problematic~

Our job was finished after we wiped the floor. On our way to the changing room in the gym, we traded a 'good job guys~' with the volleyball team that we passed before leaving.

I opened up the cellphone left sitting in my bag to check for messages… Yay~ the battery is fully charged. Hahah… Hmph, I'm sick of seeing the black numbers in my calendar; I don't even have a day off. Seriously~ a birthday is a personal holiday, why not just take the day off? Just kidding— my birthday is at the end of month!

Today was the eighteenth of June. About ten more days. Mom always buys me delicious (but expensive) cake! I'm so excited!

“Hmm~” I stretched, my spine crackled and the elbows followed as if complaining. A surge what felt like energy came from my feet.

Tomorrow is Saturday, awesome! And that's why today's club ended on an especially high note. Even the weather was the rare sunny day during rainy season. The only problem was the humidity, like melting snow, sticking to the skin as if 'ah, it's going to rain!'

“Sorry for the wait, Ryuushi! Stripping so fast as usual, eh?”

Mikki, who came out later than I did, spat lines that would lead to misunderstanding and pat my shoulder.

“You're just slow! Whatever~ Let’s go.”

I pointed to the bicycle lot and strode forward proudly. Walk, walk, walk… Run, run, run. I switched to running halfway to catch to Mikki who outpaced me.

“You walk slow.”

With her usual expression of slight apathy, Mikki, who's my height, criticized me.

“A walk should be with a relaxed mind, s’what I believe.”

“But you're pretty fast at running!”

“Ya may call me Cheetah Ryuuko.” Just like a certain Jaguar someone!

“Is it cuz you don't strip?”

“Mikki, what you say sometimes go through time and space.”

And could ya stop making Ryuuko-san into some weird character?

Ah, but 'only sometimes go through time and space' sounds like an idiom!

Walk, walk, walk mixed with some run, run, run, we came to the lot. Kendo members who also just left club were also there, chatting while getting on their bikes.

After saying a few words with some friends there, I came to the side of my ride who waited patiently for her chance to shine.

“That reminds me, we haven’t seen the dog in a while.”

“Dog?”

“The stray dog with black fur. Doesn't he sometimes come around here, and even into the school?”

“Ah~ I remember. Hm~ Maybe… He was, um, kidnapped?”

“I guess so~”

I picked up and put on the helmet that was placed upside down in the basket. Mikki saw the scene and chuckled lightly:

“It's always hilarious to see you do that!”

“Do ya wanna try it? Rather than watching, it's more fun to do it!”

“No thanks. Ryuushi and helmet are born for each other!”

She laughed. Hmm~ … It was probably a compliment! Oh well~ I opened the bicycle lock and lift the body outside of the spot, clank~ I rode forward, and then was passed by Mikki. 'Uguu~' She slowed down for me, and subtly laughed her head off. Grr, she's a quick one!

“Also, you ride super slow.”

“I've always been the kid who can't do the three-legged race.”

Even Niwa-kun was able to let off his pent up frustration after getting a new bicycle. I jokingly told him off with an angry voice, and then he said 'then… I'll ride behind Ryuushi-san.' I'm happy and all, but I told ya I'm not Ryuushi!

We rode out the school gate toward the opposite direction of our home.

When I was little, my friends and I would always hang out at the store Tamura Obaa-san runs, which we were now heading to. Everyone's parents would tell him or her that 'don't believe in anything that old lady says!' She has always been a strange lady who likes to talk about aliens.

For example, she always says things like 'Aliens don't live in this world — they live outside of it.' She also always pet our heads and say stuff like 'I hope the aliens don't take you away~'

Because she treats the aliens like gods, I dunno… I think it's more like religious beliefs.

But even so, everyone loved Obaa-chan's weird stories. Compared to teachers' 'read your books! Do your works!' we like those more… Uh, of course! But at the time, I actually looked forward to them.

Under her influence, I even ran to the astronomy lab outside of town with everyone to look for aliens. In the end, I never saw one… Oh, but maybe that one time? And it was recent, from not too long ago. I met a self-proclaimed alien.

Did that boy properly return 'home?'

“Oh yeah, Ryuushi~ Heard you got a boyfriend now, is it true?”

“Wha?” I swirled, almost bumping into Mikki's bike.

“Ah, looking at your reaction, it must be true!” Mikki continued riding calmly.

“Ugh, no… I'm just surprised because I, the normal Ryuuko, have rumors!”

“That’s why you’re surprised?”

Mikki shot me a belittling look. How would you know as a basketball varsity member.

“But, boyfriends, huh… Hm~ I have no idea what ya mean.”

Oh, does she mean Niwa-kun? I only realized after speaking, so I didn't lie!

Is it because I eat lunch with him?

“You know what they say: 'there is no wave without wind.'

“Does that mean where there is no wave, the wind doesn't blow~?”

“Ryuushi, have you ever think about what you say?”

“Hmm~hm, never.” Hehehe, I tricked her.

After a bit of chatting, we were at the Tamura Shop. We parked next to the store; besides us, there was already a bicycle there. As if lining up, we put the bicycles into a row. Just when I took off the helmet and put it in the basket, Mikki laughed again.

Vending machine, bench with paint falling off its legs, tilted signs that was never changed, and the window that's blurred by age.

Under the push of nostalgia and my own past, I pulled open that wrongly installed slide door:

“Obaa-san, good afternoon~”

I consciously greeted the old lady who should always be sitting inside the store.

“Ah—“

The right hand I lifted petrified at the fingertip, because my prediction was way off.

Due to my stopping in the track, Mikki ran into me; I could even hear her complaining 'what are you doing~?' But my neck stiffened, unable to turn.

The other person was probably shocked as well: she dropped the bag of potato chips in her hands, and then hurriedly picked up the bag to her chest and stared over here.

“Oh, it's the thing inside of the futon roll.”

Mikki observed the inside over my shoulder, rudely pointing at the person. FYI, if someone points at M*ckey Mouse and tells her 'so the person in there…' she will give whomever said it a serious slap. Not that it's irrelevant.

Even Touwa Erio-san, whose history is like a flaw, began to reveal a suspicious reaction; she still lowered her head and nodded meaninglessly. I stared at the friend I came with.

“…...”

What is this awkwardness? Is it because I haven't seen her without the futon for a really long time?

No, there seemed to be reasons other than that.

Only, I think Touwa-san's and I were awkward for different reasons.

We gazed at each others uncomfortably with downcast eyes, and then…

“Touwa...E...rio-san.” I almost blurted something like Eru-rio.

“You're… Ryuushi...What's-her-face...” Just as her usual uncertain speech, her words did not contain the correct answer.

I said my name is Ryuuko!

“Looking at this bench, it looks like a bus would totally stop by.”

“*Breathing* (Seriously)!”

“Ah, if a cat bus comes, then it'll be purrfect~”

Meow~ Mikki had on an immodest face. She's very knowledgeable in that kind of things, addicted and even completely obedient to cute things. As for the same rule, I only half agree.

We sat on the Tamura Store's bench outside, sipping on the cup ramen we just bought. Mine was fried noodle, and Mikki's Ramen flavor. Ramen has soup, so would it make people fatter? Constantly worrying about this subtly, I always choose fried noodles. But I still eat Ramen when it's out of stock.

Though we talked, my gaze was mostly not on the noodles or Mikki, but floated into the store. Even if the store was dark, the light fortunately lit up the inside, so I could peek through the glass. I could only the right-half, but Touwa-san's interestingly colored hair will occasionally enter my sight, reflecting the scene of her cleaning. And thus, I stared continuously.

“What's wrong, Ryuushi?” Mikki slurped on the ramen, poking my side with her elbow.

“I said to call me Ryuuko, Mikki!”

“What, does Erio bother you that much?”

“Not really~”

“Hm, it's only natural. Why is she working at a place like this?!”

Mikki, who just ignored my words, tasted the shrimps in the cup and nodded. If it's just the second half, I too agree it is unbelievable. Now that I think about, the futon-roll hasn't been around lately~ I did thought so.

“But, like, wouldn't it be better if we don't come anymore?”

“Eh? Why?”

Suddenly hearing her say that we should avoid coming here, I looked to Mikki. She began her explanation only after sucking, chewing and swallowing a few noodles:

“Cuz Erio's here!”

“Hm, ok...”

“Now isn't the time to stop thinking, Ryuushi!”

“Ryuuko!”

“Think about what happened at school. I'm gonna be frank — Erio is mental. You don't want to be seen around her, right?”

“Ah...”

The roots of Mikki's idea sprouted from the mud; I had to agree.

I remember the scene when Touwa-san reappeared after missing for half a year. Even during class time, she didn't care… During lunch, she would even drive everyone out of the room… The situation at that time was really bad.

We weren't in the same class in first year, so I wasn't a complete victim. Seeing her wearing that futon around, I even thought 'that's pretty cute' so I didn't hate her.

But it's so complicated! Especially with Niwa-kun. N-no, Niwa-kun and I are just friends.

“Letting Erio welcome customers. Doesn't that seem more like unwelcoming them?”

“Uu… Oh! Isn't it cuz of that?”

“Because of what?”

“Because of the aliens— that's why she works with Tamura Obaa-san.”

“Oh, I see.” Mikki's reply was still filled with an attitude half of 'whatever.' “Now that you mentioned it, the old lady wasn't in the front. Is she inside?”

“Yeah, I hope she's doing ok!”

As if swayed by the topic, I stole another glance into the store. No signs of Touwa-san.

For a while we were wordless. Only the sound of sipping and drinking echoed on the damp bench.

Then, a man about forty — similar to my dad's age — came over on a bicycle and stopped a bit after the Tamura shop and us. He wore a suit, so probably a salary man? He spaced out looking up toward the store's roof. I secretly guessed, that if his one of the town's resident, he would have seen the futon weirdo. If he goes inside the shop and see the true face of the futon-roll Touwa-san, would he be surprised, or disgusted? The thought of those reactions upset me, but since the reason was also Touwa-san herself, I felt it was only natural, or not my business. In any case, emotions of all sorts blended together messily and lied in my heart. I don't hate Touwa-san, but it's kinda like 'hm…' Ah, but she did give me the nickname 'Ryuushi' in P.E so I have to take some points away.

According to Maekawa-san, Touwa-san is Niwa-kun's cousin, and they live together… Under the same roof, how shameless (ハレンチク)! If I was a disciplinary teacher, Niwa-kun would not have escaped the consequence of a shaved head. Heheh, fortunately I'm just a simple student, so he's lucky to be alive… I tried to bolster myself for a sec. Ahh~ Am I actually a very blessed girl? I dunno why, but my friends always say it~ They always call me a blessed person.

In the end, the man never walked inside and kept going forward in his bike. In the bicycle's basket there was a big cardboard box; perhaps of its weight, he struggled with jaw clenched to peddle. Mikki stopped her chopsticks as well, shooting her gaze at the man who had just left. I saw the box he was carrying. It was cola…I think? If the label on the box was right.

Oh! Ryuuko-san's English ability has finally appeared boldly for the sake of a chance! It might be hard to believe, but I am actually certified with level three English! But nothing for the Kanji examination that I took at the same time.

“Are those stolen?”

“Hard to say. Probably not.”

“Then it must be Otonakai!”

“Hm, Otonakai.”

Mikki and I traded looks and nodded, and both of us smiled for some reason.

“Are those all for himself?”

“Maybe he won it in some event, like a kid's party or something.”

“Mm… Maybe. Or maybe he's just a cola addict.”

“Mikki can read what's on the box! Tch~”

“Are you looking down on me?”

While laughing, we sucked on the remaining noodles.

“Also, did you see that guy's ear?” Mikki pointed to departed back and asked.

“Eh? Does he have big ears?”

“No~ I meant the thing he had on his ear. What was that?”

“Oh~...”

Mikki, who drank all of the soup, asked her question again just as I finished:

“I've actually talk to that guy before!”

“Eh?”

“He asked a lot about Erio, so I told him at my discretion.”

“Oh~...” So Touwa-san is someone dangerous enough to be followed by that guy?

Maybe Mikki's attitude of 'a true man will not stand beside a collapsing wall' is correct!

As of Niwa-kun… Hm~ Is it because he's not a true man?

“What do we do with the garbage?”

“Wuu...” If it were before, Obaa-chan will always say 'I'll take it' and take them for us.

I naturally looked inside the store.

...Ah, there was someone else besides Touwa-san. A male student stood next to her as if taking care of her.

Was he in there earlier? Also, the bike that was there… Kuh, the mystery has been solved.

“It's ok, just bring them back!” I waved my hands and said: “No!”

“Hm? Sure, I don't like letting Erio help me anyway.”

“Hmhm.”

I brushed her off with a sound and stood from the bench. Mikki got up as well.

We patted our skirts, circled into the store toward the bicycles.

Just before leaving, I looked back once. There was nothing inside.

“Oh right. Ryuushi, free tomorrow?”

“It's Ryuuko. What’s up?” I turned back while replying.

“Wanna go buy some accessories? I found some super cute stuff!”

“Tomorrow, huh...” Because it's a Saturday, there is no club, and the weather seemed good. “I’ve already made plan, sorry.”

What I saw in the store was way more important than hanging out with friends.

It is probably, for now.

When Niwa-kun first transferred here, I thought maybe he had become, to me, a kind of 'candy.' This is what I thought of when I ate alone during lunch.

How do I put it? Like the sort that is put on the side, when you wanna take a breather or if your mouth is a bit lonely, the candy that you'd want… Did I think of him like that? I wondered.

When we're alone, someone I can easily say hi to… That kind of feeling.

That's why sometimes when I'm alone, I feel stuffy.

I dunno why, but that's what I think.

Hmmmng. I start to realize how strange this whole thing is.

The rain got stronger as well. No doubt that this is the summer rain — rather than sinking into the body, it sticks onto your body along with things other than just water. Because of the humidity, clothes glued tightly on me.

Splatter, splatter… The sound of rain falling on the asphalt road and rooftops almost made me lose my calm. Every time it happens, I would concentrate by repeatedly closing and opening my eyes.

Uh, firstly… Let’s try to sort out the situation after coming here today.

Today was the day after yesterday, so Saturday. My reason for not hanging out with Mikki was, in simple terms, to keep an eye on the Tamura Shop. As for why, it's because yesterday… I discovered Niwa-kun in the store. How shameless! Well, I dunno why I'm so angry either.

Because Mikki, a potential bomb, was there yesterday, I just went home. However, if Niwa-kun does show up today, I will assault him with a 'bang!' I planned so and left home this morning.

Around ten o'clock in the morning, I rode to where the Tamura Shop is and hid in the corner to monitor the entrance — this was the so-called 'Tailing.' Who would have known that watching the alien headquarter — the astronomy lab — would become useful on day? I seemed to have gotten bored of it quickly then and played ball instead.

Looking back at past experience, I prepared beforehand a music player to let my favourite music absorb the boredom. At the same time, I stuck closely to a wall to quietly watch the store. The song that played in my ears was a drama or movie theme released a year ago by a female singer named 'Nijou Owari' (二条オワリ). The singer wrote in her history booklet that she was accidentally discovered while singing in front of a train station about six or seven years ago.

It also said that she likes dogs, which made me like her more. As for her songs, the lyrics and tones known for being 'pessimistic yet cheerful' don't provide a sense of straightforwardness. After listening, I agree with the review.

'I didn’t think it’d sell so well – this world is truly full of lies,' she said so with a naive smile on her first TV appearance — It left me with an impression, which is why I bought the CD and listened to it in times like now.

Mm, let’s not talk about this for now. In the middle of waiting for Niwa-kun, the weather worsened as well. The sunny day of the morning collapsed; the shapes of cloud gradually changed as well. Every time when the clouds moved, the sky was as if painted many times by a brush soaked in ink. In about twenty minutes, I successfully observed with my head the first rain of the day.

Just when I decided to move to somewhere with a cover… A problem appeared.

Ugh, it's like, there were other people watching this store. Two people, actually.

One of them looked like a woman of about thirty, and the other was the Cola guy from yesterday. Since the rain began scattering, the two of them moved as if they're being chased. The problem became more obvious: because of their locations, neither of the shuffling people noticed each other’s' existence — but I saw everything. I only moved after observing this scene; my shoulders were now a bit wet.

The omen of a plot loomed! Hmmm, I really don't get what I said either. Still, does everyone understand what I'm trying to say? There was some sort of a secret in this shop! Somethin' like that.

With the grocery store as the center, the female hid by the corner on the edge of the road. On the opposite side was me who hid half my body, and the cola guy. I could see the cola guy clearly, but if the woman moved a bit she'd completely disappear.

“Eh? A spotted cat sat anxiously by my legs. Was it hiding from the rain? Even when I met eyes with it, the cat didn't do anything but waited.

“Gah~” I tried to scare it with my arms raised… Ah, it actually ran away. Since when did I have the power to threaten cats? I felt a little guilty: “Come back~”

Splash~ Though I tried calling the silhouette back, my voice was drowned by the rain, unable to get its reaction.

I swallowed my tears and returned to observing the cola guy, as well as decided to be gentler next time when I meet a cat.

He wore the wrinkly suit today as well — something that has nothing to do with the weekend. There was indeed something on his ears… What are those? Things that looked like they're supposed to hang on a pet's ears. Cola guy slid his body in between the telephone pole and the wall, nervously looking left and right for something. What if, his target was also Niwa-kun…. Though I almost had this thought, I stopped in the middle. If he put on shades, he'd look like a spy from those cheesy movies. As for the Tamura Shop that's being watched by this kind of dude… The level of alien-ness suddenly rose. Was he the investigator of a certain alien department?

A certain File's mysteriousness also came from overseas. What is he here for? The signature of the alien? Maybe it hides the secret phrase that would lead to the next step of human-alien relationship. Or maybe, Nozuchi was the pet of an alien, but it was kidnapped during the recent stray animal abduction, and the guy has been looking for him all over the town. Mm~ Looks like I'm pretty wacky too. The world-view Obaa-chan planted in my head circulated like poison. If this keeps up, I might be suspected if I try to carry out my action of 'doubting common sense!'

Cola guy was still looking around. Even though I was hiding, he still didn't see me. His eyes didn't seem too good. Probably because my clothes and the wall had similar colours, so they looked like one thing? I could actually use camouflage to my advantage; maybe the infiltration four months ago was a useful experience. Hold~ Hold on~ Setting Earth aside, this atmosphere was as if I'm shouldering the burden that is the existence of this town. What would happen if I was found… Wait, no, why am I so excited?

Am I a space kid who is unfit to laugh at Touwa-san? I used to like the game of 'pretend.' This hand-sweating monitor that was gradually going off-course…

“Phoo~”

“Keewah!” Someone b-b-blew air, she did.

The sudden attack caused me to slide; just when I was about to land my butt on the drenched road, I was saved. The person who reach her hand out must have been the same who blew air at me. Held by another, I was able to resume my stance.

“What a close call!”

The smiling person who self-directed this crisis-and-rescue was none other than the woman I just saw. She wore a suit, and looking at her closely, there was actually some wrinkles on her face. But I don’t know how to describe it: her appearance still emits childishness. Even the umbrella she held was yellow… A color belonging to a grade schooler.

Did she see me and circled all the way behind me? Frankly speaking, what a weirdo!

“What are you doing at Tamura’s?”

“Eh? Ugh~ You are?”

“Me? You may call me the smooth-skinned sensei!”

She beamed at me an expectant smile. T-that aside, our conversations had been questions since earlier – are we running in circles?

“Here, do you want some?” The person who wished to be called smooth-skinned sensei handed me a half-finished cola. Though I took it without a second thought, I wouldn’t even think about drinking it. Because the education of my mom, who taught me ‘don’t take anything from strangers~’ is deeply seated in me. Ryuushi-san is actually considered a good kid. Well, about half… The bottle bobbed in my hand.

“Who are you waiting for with a toast in your mouth? How ambitious of you, even though it’s raining.”

“I’m here for a friend who is more important than my friends.”

“In adolescent terms, you’re worrying way too much for just a friend!”

“If I were ta think about question about where we stand, the place beneath my throat would feel stuffy.”

“Mmhm, It’s love”

“Is’t weird?”

“Ehh, not too different!”

“Really?”

We conversed in incomprehensible words. Because I had a feeling that I must not think too deeply, I’ve only replied shallowly:

“What about smooth-skinned sensei? Why are you playing spy?”

“I’m not ‘playing’!”

“Really?”

“Mm, it’s kind of like parent visit day?”

“Oh… Well, there’s actually a cola guy playing spy there too.”

“A guy?” Smooth-skinned sensei’s neck rolled softly. She stared at the person, ‘oh, oh’ed twice with a momentary, confused glance, but immediately declared: “That’s a space stalker.”

“What a large-scaled stalker.” It seemed like he can shoot laser beams while sneaking around?

“He is a fan of the smooth-skinned sensei – me!”

“Eh? If that’s so, then smooth-skinned sensei is a mochi from space?”

“The very same one that was flattened in Apollo 11!”

Just before I became the bad kid who talks with strangers, a bicycle’s brake screeched as if sliding in the rain. “Ah!” There he is!

Didn’t teachers tell us to not hold an umbrella on a bike? That boy is publically defying their teachings! “Then, I must get going!” I began preparing for a dash with some stretches. “Mm~? Ah, mm~” Smooth-skinned sensei shot the cola guy a glance and stared at me. After looking back and forth busily, she finally nodded in understanding.

“Then, I’m going!”

“Bye~”

She revealed a smile of habit for seeing someone off and waved.

Under smooth-skin sensei’s watch, I sprinted into the store at a speed too fast for an umbrella.

When it comes to running, I am super~duper~fast~!

### 005. Chapter 4 - In the Rain of an Extraterrestrial Town

"Yo! Been doing your job?" I hadn't even greeted the curled-up Erio, 'Hey~ Yeah!" when a loud Ryuushi-san in her casuals tackled me from the back.

Since today was the weekend, I went to bed late yesterday and overslept. When I woke up during noon, I spaced out for a while before deciding to visit Erio's work on the way for food. I slid my bike here in the rain. Erio never touches the bike on her own; she would only move on her two feet. Is it a habit? Or fear? Does she have PTSD with bicycles? I mean, I was there too... Though I don't want to think of it this way, but we did almost killed ourselves. Young people are just too rash.

That's it for boring things — just as I planned on entering the muggy store, Ryuushi-san, who dashed with all her might, appeared. Her hair seemed slightly wet, carrying a tiny bit of moisture.

Running into a girl classmate on the weekend… The situation should be the boiling point for youth; yet I noticed somehow that this meeting wasn't a coincidence, unable to press down on the calculator in my mind.

Since I have been occupied with the company of Erio on her ‘return to society and other things,’ they were sort of put to the side with the attitude of 'it's not really important right now.' Even so, I still remember about the existence of my Youth-points.

“H-hi~ Niwa-kun. Touwa-san too, mornin’!”

I raised my right hand like in the movie 'S*turday Night Fever' to greet her, and then put my plastic umbrella in the stand next to the store entrance.

“...Mornin'!”

Erio lifted her body and kept a half-crouched posture with her mouth slightly opened: “Cous...” This word was cut. With nowhere to go, it returned to the stomach along with air.

On her side laid her favourite Calamus futon. Was that especially carried from the Touwa house? Or did she walk here with it wrapped on? Erio probably planned to wear that thing during a break to kill some time. If I was there, forget about tidying up this outfit that challenges the line between freedom and eccentricity, I would probably have intervened. Speaking of the girl, she actually tried to welcome customers in a futon when Tamura Obaa-chan and I were talking inside the house. She silently approachrd the customers and scared the crap out of the old lady neighbor who came to get grocery. And the owner Tamura Obaa-san assented to that kind of behavior, even though she couldn't stand it either. As a side note, after seeing Erio's outfit, Tamura Obaa-chan actually said,

“Like father, like son; like mother, like daughter!”

Which side of Erio's parents was this comment for? And then Obaa-san went on: 'but of course! If blood goes backward, wouldn't people die? Really now! Things like going against the flow make no sense, since life is but a domino in destiny. Forget about standing out: if the flow stops, what would it even be?' Was that toward me, who sat next to her? Following my mute response, she intentionally humphed.

But now wasn't the time to ponder about the bedridden Tamura Obaa-chan. The problem was with Ryuushi-san, who came in energetically, yet subtly hostile.

“Uh… What business do you have with us today?” I rubbed my hands, querying het intent.

'That's my job!' I ignored Erio's protesting glace.

“What business do I have, of course… Um, I'm here to buy stuff! Shopping !”

She hummed, coiling her ankles toward the shelf. A flexible motion — I admired that her leg muscles were indeed trained. Shake, shake~ the fluid in the bottle Ryuushi-san held shook as well.

“Is that cola? You have that with you?” How dare she bring that evil drink? I despise carbonated beverage!

“This? Smooth-skinned sensei gave it ta me at the corner there earlier!”

“………” I felt like I've heard of that name before.

It's a Deja Feel! That's it! After the word’s creation, I felt 'what kind of name is that?!' So even for her, she'd still care about how her daughter is doing at work! She visited on Erio's first day, but was promptly given an embargo, so she snuck here. I see.

“Ah, Touwa-san...”

I don't know if Ryuushi-san knew it either, but she is currently talking with smooth-skinned sensei's offspring. Erio jumped, her shoulders wincing as if she would run into a dark corner to avoid Ryuushi-san at an instant.

Even though she stole glances of rescue at me, I decided to watch for any changes first. I'm interested in how these two would talk as well; besides, Erio wants to return to society, right?

“Uh, um… Um… Is Obaa-chan ok?”

“In… Inside.” There. With quivering fingers, Erio pointed out where Tamura Obaa-chan was. She rarely comes into the store. Or rather, she couldn't come? Her health seemed to require care.

“I see~ Uh~ Can I go say hi to her later~?”

Ryuushi-san glimpsed, her eyes alternating between me and Erio. What's going on with her today? She showed a strangeness different from the usual.

“Um!” Erio opened her mouth with a force that almost threw her forward.

“Eh?! W-what do ya want~!” Ya lookin' for a tussle~? She raised her cute fists onto her chest, readying her stance.

“We-...Wel...come.” Erio sincerely bowed down.

Do I call her serious? Or a dingus? Both? What a deep-seated problem.

And she's even giving me a smug of 'I didn't forget!' Um, if possible, do it when Ryuushi-san just came in, but I'll let it slide this time. After all, rather than coming through, Ryuushi-san assaulted the door.

“So, what's can we ge ya?” I turned to face the shelf on the right.

“Eh— Y-yup, I'm gettin' sumthin'!”

Ryuushi-san, who was quietly staring at the interaction between me and Erio, suddenly brightened her eyes. Was she just in a sleep mode like a computer? As if desperately trying to catch up with us, she hurriedly grabbed a snack off the shelf. It was a bag of chicken-flavoured potato chips. I haven't eaten this stuff lately, but apparently it's gotten more flavours now.

“Oh, right.” I noticed something and walked deeper into the shop. Following the hallway, I recycled something in the kitchen and returned.

Ryuushi-san was still in the same pose before I left.

“Here, for you.”

“Hmm?” Ryuushi-san tentatively took the towel I gave.

“Your hair and shoulders are kinda wet.” So I thought you could use a towel.

“O-oh. Oh!”

Ryuushi-san first shown a look of slight shock, then bloomed into a smile. Was my act of kindness really so out of her prediction?

I kind of wanted know how the girl in front of me thought of my action.

“Let me hold on to those for yoi.” I further piled on the kindness. This was totally not because I've decided to change my character from a normal high schooler to a kind high schooler (with indecent intention). Really.

After giving the chips and cola to me, Ryuushi-san picked up the towel with two hands. She first stroked her shoulders, then gently dried the droplet on her hair. She then sighed, holding on the bangs plastered to her forehead:

“Hair's gettin’ straight again, geez~ I hate it~”

“Plan on perming it again?”

“Mm~ Maybe it'd save more money if I just get an electrified-afro!”

Her tone and face didn't look like she was joking. You just can't underestimate her in this kind of situation!

Ryuushi-san's hands stopped; she looked up. Probably imagining herself with an afro. If this was a manga, there would definitely be onomatopoeia for warmth all around her — her relaxed face looked so.

“Would I look cool like a rock star?”

“Nope.” Feels like it'd be a fail of a healing character. A fierce criticism.

“Really~?” Tch. Ryuushi-san tutted. Just what on earth did she picture?

After wiping her neck with the towel, she finished with a shake of her head; water no longer flew from her hair.

“Ryuushi-san, totally dry now!”

“You're sparkling!” I meant to say her hair. Compared to when we just met, her hair indeed had become straighter.

“Even we have become dried (embarrassed)!”

“And what does that mean?”

“Thanks for the towel~” She stopped playing around and gave the towel back cutely.

“You're welcome.”

“Niwa-kun scored three Ryuuko-san points because you're attentive!”

And what are those points? Why does everyone make the same scoring guide? There are so many out there, I can't even keep track anymore.

“What do I get after getting those points?”

“After seven points, ya won't call me 'Ryuushi' anymore.”

“What a groundbreaking scoring that punishes you for doing well!”

Even scores for breaking traffic laws make more sense.

I returned the chips and cola in exchange for the towel. “Ung~” Despite of her mumbling, Ryuushi-san turned toward Erio. “I'm getting this.”

“Thank.. yer~” Erio's response failed as an imitation of a straightforward athlete; she received the chips and ran to the register. Her flip flops slapped, and as if pouncing the box full of money, she flew. “Hun-hundred twenty yen… About.” She clumsily clicked on the register while talking to Ryuushi-san. Witnessing Erio's all-out hospitality for a customer, Ryuushi-san took out her purse, cheeks twitching, and gave the proper amount of change. Erio collected the money with her smooth yet rigid fingers, gripping twice on the three coins in her hand.

Only her lips arced in a smile, showing satisfaction. Her expression bragged, similar to a child successfully accomplishing a task beyond her ability. Hm, after all, touching something that she had only watched from the side is an easily understood growth.

On a side note, Erio's job as a shop tender grants her a daily salary of five hundred yen — a coin. Even with whole month with no days-off, she'd only make about fifteen-thousand yen. For a sixteen year-old kid, it seems like a lot of allowance, but from a part-time view point, it is a sad number. It's just as shocking as the bleaching power of a new laundry detergent. That example may be a bit unintelligble, but in a store that runs on no more than 3000 yen a day, this amount of salary might actually be a generous treatment. I thought of this later. After all, hiring Erio is pretty much the same as letting the loss in profit be.

“Then, should I go visit Obaa-chan~?”

Ryuushi-san's gaze floated behind as if trying to peer into the back. She stared at Erio, seemingly wondering: ‘Can I?’

Erio first put the change into the register, then unhesitatingly replied:

“Ah, let me lead in you.” Erio spoke weirdly, and jubilantly kicked her sandals off. Looks like she was happy to have an excuse to not wear shoes. Hm~ jobs that would not need shoes… Jobs at home?

Ryuushi-san looked at my face for no reason, creating a mien of 'aren't ya coming?' I went with the flow, deciding to head to where Tamura Obaa-chan is. I see her often recently anyway. I would always go inside after checking up on Erio, and take care of her if she's not feeling well, as well as listen to some old stories of Erio's. I don't know if she likes it or not, but I talk about myself too, and occasionally I hear about Meme-san too. The most shocking truth was that, to summarise Meme-san's deeds when she's young, she's actually a slightly dumb, but honest and cute girl. Tamura Obaa-san herself even said 'Mm~ That's pretty much it, but her level of stupidity was really too much' as words of recognition. Was time and age too cruel, or did something else go wrong? Humans are truly fascinating.

With Erio in lead, Ryuushi-san in the middle, and me in the rear, the trio advanced along the hallway. With three people moving at once, the usually austere hallway bustled with sound. Was there a similar sound when Tamura Obaa-san's husband was still around? Meme-san said, though, that Tamura Obaa-san's husband passed away twenty years ago.

“Here.” Erio clarified for Ryuushi-san and opened the slide door in the hall. Inside was the usual: in the middle a slightly bulging futon. With a bit of focus, the bulge could be seen moving up and down along with its content's breathing. Obaa-chan sleeps with even her head under the sheet.

“Obaa-chan, Ryuushi is here.”

“I told ya I'm Ryuuko!”

Ryuushi-san protested against Erio's erroneous introduction, at the same time kneeling next to Tamura Obaa-san.

“Hah? What did you say? What -ko?”

Perhaps unable to hear well through the sheets, Tamura Obaa-san stuck her face out of the futon and asked sombero.

“It's Ryuuko. Hello, Obaa-chan!” Hi~ Ryuushi-san happily greeted with a raised hand.

Tamura Obaa-san looked up to her face and right hand, and closed her eyes as if defeated:

“Who?”

“Uwee! How could ya forget the super-special Ryuushi~! I am not that forgettable!”

As if fighting with an overhead object, Ryuushi-san's feeble fists waved in the air unreasonably.

“Of course it was just a boring joke; why are you so excited? You are Mifune Ryuuko, right?”

Tamura Obaa-san breathed out disapprovingly like a turtle mimic. “R-right… Ah, right, I was just pretending that ya tricked me, is all.” Ryuushi-san made an excuse with her face beet red.

“Makoto, glasses.” Tamura Obaa-san ordered me to hand her the glasses. Calling my name directly had been set! I calmly thought while retrieving the glasses and categorized:

Tamura Obaa-san → Makoto

Meme Oba-san → Mako-kun

Ryuushi-san → Niwa-kun

Maekawa-san → Transfer student

Erio → Cousin

Hmmm, it felt like how the further a rumor spreads, the more ridiculous it becomes. If the order could at least be reversed… Yep. Just as scary.

Tamura Obaa-san put on her reading glasses — more precisely, on her nose to have clearest image — and looked up to Ryuushi-san. As if understanding something, Tamura Obaa-san hid her chin back into the sheets with an 'ah, ah~' after seeing a coy Ryuushi-san:

“You're the kid who isn't one of Erio's friends, now I remember.”

“Ah~ Ugh, yes! Touwa-san and I went to different elementary school.”

Ryuushi-san shot Erio a glance after finishing; Erio nodded lightly in concurrence. Um, the air between these two seemed a bit estranged. From Ryuushi-san, I could tell that she didn't want to be acknowledged as Erio's friend.

“What, you are not friends?”

Sensing the atmosphere, Tamura-san bluntly crossed the line. Even though she looked like a defence-oriented shell, her offence did not have second thoughts. Tortoise shell combined with experience of age make the perfect team~ I absentmindedly enjoyed this misguided reverence. As for me, shutting up would be the wisest thing.

The wall existing between these two was likely related to Erio’s expulsion from school. And if that’s true, for an outsider, it’s a bit, you know, for me to interrupt.

“Ugh… No… We~ Are~ Friends…?”

Ryuushi-san’s ambivalent smile jovially slanted with the words that failed to combine, seemingly about to sink. Erio, too, was unsure and restless about the noun ‘friend.’ She requested helped from me with her eyes. What do you want me to do? I haven’t even decided if I should categorize you as a friend or whatever. The enigma of being relatives truly boggles me.

“Seriously, there is too many mixed signals here!” Tamura Obaa-san complained about the air:

“Listen well, I am changing the topic completely, so let the air breath!”

“M-mm.” “O-oh!” One of them nodded; the other raised her right fist.

“Cough!” Tamura Obaa-san cleared her throat convincingly, squeezing out a wrinkled yet gleeful voice. Looking at her like that, I thought it looked like a person who desperately sucked on an old bottle with few drops of sweet fluid inside.

“Your father is Naoya, correct? Is he doing okay?”

“Yep, he’s great! Dad just went mountain climbing last Sunday!”

Ryuushi-san reciprocated Tamura Obaa-san’s tone with her own cheery attitude. But I can’t deny that there was acting involved.

“How nostalgic! When he was in second grade, he ran into the store crying about UFO’s.”

Eheeheehee, a reminiscent smile climbed onto Tamura Obaa-san’s face. “Oh…” The momentum from earlier disappeared; Ryuushi-san accepted those words awkwardly. It was only natural, since it didn’t sound like her father’s brightest history, but something in the listing of a braggart.

“And then? And then?” Even though it was none of her business, Erio still pounced at the word ‘UFO.’ Compared to not having a hint of acting, her attitude was more like she had completely forgotten about the previous conversation. I might have almost forgotten, but Erio is that Meme-san’s daughter. Things like getting or giving information according to her personal needs might just be as natural as breathing.

“In the end someone found out that it was a lie, and he tasted his friends’ punishment. Of course: UFO aren’t that easy to find! Those bastards are extremely cautious!”

Like introducing a friend, Tamura Obaa-san described the secrecy of UFO’s.

“Yeah. You can’t even see them with binoculars.”

Erio complied. Normally, this isn't a topic discussed with a serious face!

Forced to listen to her father’s shameful history, Ryuushi-san lowered her head; to how easily this topic was carried, she could only give a bitter courtesy smile.

“Is it raining outside?” Tamura Obaa-san calmly listened and mumbled: “Lately, I’ve been not wanting to see the weather change.” Then she spoke those equivocal words that seemed like a complaint or else, eyes stared boringly at the ceiling.

The time of silence continued; Ryuushi-san and Erio awkwardly traded their glances. Looks like they both saw each other as aliens, investigating one another’s ecology.

And I stood about a step away from them, conducting my observation on the two.

“Hm? What, again?” Tamura Obaa-san’s mind returned ground from the weather as she asked bluntly.

Noticing our different positions – I don’t know how she saw it – she spoke:

“Listen, don’t you be thinking about all that stuff. I don’t want full-colours; no romantic comedy! If you’re doing that, go somewhere else!”

Shoo~! She seemed to drive us away with loathe from the bottom of her heart.

“This isn’t a romantic comedy! Ryuuko-san only does serious things!” Someone else hopped.

And thus we made it through the tension.

In general, I would never get into a pot full of so many Youth-points.

My daily life was basically white and black; vivid people occasionally appear in the frame and leave their faintly-coloured footprints. I will carefully save those fragments and name them ‘Youth-points.’

…Whatever, it was just some arbitrary thing I came up with Part 2 .

For a while after that, it was just Tamura Obaa-san talking and Ryuushi-san listening. Perhaps that’s how Tamura Obaa-san shows kindness, but she’s usually so talkative that I didn’t think it was any different.

When Ryuushi-san’s about to head home, I followed her toward the entrance; Erio sat still without moving. Ryuushi-san, too, when she held onto the slide door, gawking as if giving up on the chance to talk with Erio. She left never saying a word to the back that curled up.

I forced opened the hard-to-move slide door – which became even more so in the humidity – and went outside. The small rain grew into a medium rain (pronounced naka-same). Rain obstructed the sight of the wall across the street; splatters on the roof were more like the cacophony of construction rather than the splashes of droplets.

“Did you ride your bike here, Ryuushi-san?”

Standing next to me, Ryuushi-san nodded slightly melancholically:

“Mm, yeah. But my bike isn't around here.”

Huh? Strange, she didn’t add ‘I told ya I’m Ryuuko~’! For someone who’s grown addicted to that ‘I told ya~’ I am tempted by the dissatisfaction to run around Ryuushi-san and tell her ‘hey! You~ Are Ryuu~Shi!’ Just kidding.

Indifferent to my feeling, Ryuushi-san spoke, her hands twiddling on the grip of her umbrella:

“Touwa-san~ She’s a lot mellower now!”

The expression was just like using popcorn as filling for your teeth. You need to go talk to a real dentist to get a proper filling… I almost blurted out, but stopped because it made no sense. NO nonsense.

“Hmm, I guess. Pessimistic, maybe?” Or shy? In reference to the futon.

“She used ta be really mean and would never stop talking!”

“Really?” Verbally abusive I get, but I can’t picture her not shutting up. At most I could trace an expressionless Erio twirling her tongue.

If she hid in the shadow of the house of Tamura Obaa-san, she’d be a new breed of Youkai.

“Niwa-kun.”

As if severing something between us, Ryuushi-san exaggeratingly waved her umbrella, showing a serious attitude.

She straightened her back and stared at me unabashedly. I felt a little tingle on my face though.

With rain scattering in the background, a face to face with a girl — the scenery stirred the remnant of Youth-points like leaves in the wind. Yet the result of those fragments combining seemed unlikely this time.

“Saying something like this… Well, even I think it’s too mean…”

Ryuushi-san twirled her hair with a finger; rather than waiting to say the punchline, it’s more like she found it hard to unveil. “What is?” Under my nudging, she fearfully opened her mouth like dragging a numb foot. She even looked to the store midway through:

“Touwa-san is~ She’s got a bad name, especially in our school.”

“Mm.” I was neither involved nor familiar with it, so it didn’t seem real to me. But I nodded.

“So, if anyone knew I’m friends with her, people might shout ‘Hold it there!’ at me.” Saying so, Ryuushi-san suddenly reached out and slashed the umbrella at my side: “That might happen~ So Ryuuko-san is kinda worried about your future.”

“Mm, I see.” Meaning I won’t have any friends?

Indeed, the chance of something like that happening in a school is more than likely. After all, there is nothing else more controlling than ‘group mentality.’ If someone — especially a girl who’s the core of the class — who hates Erio appeared, the wave to ostracize me would spread like a virus.

Ryuushi-san awkwardly stared at her swinging feet, as if kicking some imaginary pebbles:

“I came here with my friend Mikki yesterday.”

“You’re friends with M*ckey?”

That’s quite a thing to say, Ryuushi-san. No, should I call you Ricky? Sounds like a rip-off!

“Ah, Mikki’s a friend in my club.” In other words, that person approached wearing the costume and asked ‘do you like basketball?’ …Ok, enough of the same joke. By the way, that whole manga was purchased one by one when I went shopping with Ryuushi-san in the bookstore. Currently I don’t plan on buying the whole set.

“How'd ya put it, Mikki doesn't wanna come here anymore because of Erio. So I thought, 'ah~ so that's what everybody thought~' For me, it's a bit complicated with Touwa-san in many ways, y'know~ But, like, is it normal to think like that at school?”

“...I guess.” Mikki-san's reaction was probably correct.

Covering for Erio isn't easy. Personal complication isn't an amnesty — rather than getting involved personally, might as well just make something up. It'll be better to just tell a story.

But between the two choices, the mere difference is 'the lower of low' and 'the higher of low.' Whatever the case is, Erio would be the latter. She did, after all, bothered everybody at school with her incomprehensible fits.

Hence for Erio, it doesn't matter whether it's not being hired or scaring others with her antics, everything was reasonable — it was her own making. Not even herself could deny it.

Life cannot be reset. No matter the age, it is impossible once shouldered with a lethal burden.

But it is still unclear whether Erio's past was the fatal wound for her.

“Um, y'know~” Ryuushi-san tugged on my shirt; my conscious was also pulled back.

“Hm?” When I realized, Ryuushi-san was unexpectedly close to me, sending me to a daze.

“Niwa-kun, do you… hate me now? Am I that despicable?”

She looked like meek and spoke with a slightly fawning voice… That's what I thought. But since I haven't received the certification of Ryuushi-san identifier, I couldn't tell the minor differences.

“Why?”

“Uh, cuz, I just am! Like, I've been trying all this time to make ya think I'm a good kid. So, y'know...” She muttered.

Ahh… Really? Hm, is that how it is? I get it, but I don't really think it's a problem.

“Not wanting to be friends with weirdos, and not wanting to be alone. These are all normal.”

“I-i-it's not normal! Ryuushi-san I have a thorny reputation because of my personality! Ya might get stabbed by me!”

“No, that's not what I mean!”

“I know~ Geez, I just can't stand serious topics all the sudden. I'm not very good with things like silica-gel. Mm.” Usually no one is. Also, you are responsible for being serious? Or rather, there wasn't anyone like that around me anyway.

Like there wouldn't be a doctor on an airplane. Not that I really know.

“So embarrassing~ ” After taking in a serious breath, Ryuushi-san seemed redden.

The rain poured on. Since I looked away, Ryuushi-san also turned back, letting the air of 'ah, then see ya later' slip in.

Ryuushi-san raised her umbrella toward the sky; the melody that played when droplets hit it circled in my eardrums:

“Thanks for the advice. I'll think about how to deal with Erio.”

“Eh. Ya wanna think — ah, but… I see, so that's what I meant. Wuu… Nnngg~ Ahhhhhh!” Ryuushi-san began struggling. She held her head and put the umbrella down; rain trickled down the inside of her neck. “Uh, Ryuushi-san? Do I need to throw you another towel?”

“Wuahhhhhh!”

She yelled abruptly and straight-up sprinted. She swung her arms dramatically; the umbrella were meaningless, or rather, an obstruction! She ran forward without balance, probably because of the umbrella's air resistance.

“I hate myself~! I know it~!”

Ryuushi-san kept screaming about something while sprinting in the rain. Even though she rides slow, she's pretty fast at running. Running in the rain without the protection of an umbrella — could she be looking for Youth-points…? Not that it looked like she was. I scratched the back of my head.

“Erio, huh…?” A mysterious name that sounded like the keyword.

Erio already left school.

Yet, the influence of Touwa Erio lingered.

It's unfair. My mouth moved for no reason.

“So why am I still here, after listening to all that...”

I was confused with why I returned next to Tamura Obaa-san's bed in her room without thinking. I even prepared a cushion, sitting on there with my hands holding my cheeks. Was I too relaxed?

“Your tea is not bad. At least better than Erio's.”

Sitting down and drinking with an old lady; I felt like I'm playing substitute grandpa.

We let the hot tea touch our tongues, sitting apart slightly from one another. Tamura Obaa-san trembled, but remained seated on the sheets; though the cup and the water within shook, she still enjoyed the tea.

My heart sinks every time I head into the kitchen to make tea.

There was only a blurred window with some cobwebs on the corner. It was also raining today; a darkness different from the night's filled the kitchen.

As if carpeted by coal ash, the room did not feel alive, like nobody has used it. Whether the diminutive stove worked was suspicious; the wares stacked on the shelf felt like they couldn't hold anything. A child's plate with bunny pattern was placed on the top, giving off an intense sorrow for some reason. Is it because I thought the plate held an important past for Tamura Obaa-san?

“A while ago I had Erio make some tea. The idiot almost burned herself.”

I grumbled with a voice bitterer than the tea.

“Just how much did Meme spoil her daughter?”

“How would I know? She suddenly rolled out with the futon. Is she throwing a tantrum?”

It was an objective analysis. Obaa-san could actually understand the emotion of that recluse Erio. Sigh, it's actually not hard to. Nobody in high spirits would ever hide in a futon, right?

“And then?”

“Hah?” I raised my head only after covering the cup.

“You are worried about something else, right?”

Tamura Obaa-san kept her left eye shut, turning only the right on me. Fortunately, it didn't look like she was winking.

“Can you manipulate people's heart when you're old?” I questioned first.

“Anyone could listening to you mumbling about things like 'why am I still…' Dimwit.”

Obaa-san arbitrarily censured me, in a way almost like spitting. And then, she looked to the ceiling wearily: “The rain has become louder.” Is she worried about a leak?

“May I talk this over with you?”

“If I'm only listening, then I will listen. As of whether it's worth talking over, it is not my business.”

Her attitude was pulling with one hand while pushing with another. Using modern terms to translate the unique quirk of old people, it'll probably be tsundere. How intriguing, I thought.

“If I don't listen to people talk occasionally, eventually no one would listen to me. This is what my stupid husband told me, but I basically follow it.”

Seemed like the target of Tamura Obaa-san's dere wasn't me, but her deceased husband. Good.

Actually, I kind of thought about whether it should be discussed with someone else. But after keeping my voice down in case anybody can hear it in the hallway, I began.

“It's actually about Erio, there's a bit...” More correctly, there a problem with yours truly who's always around her.

“Only 'a bit' when talking about her. Impressive of you.” As you've said.

“Ryuush… Ryuuko-san from earlier said that Erio is considered as a freak in town. To be frank, people hate her.”

“Oh? And then?” Tamura Obaa-san urged me to continue, somewhat disinterested.

“Because I'm Erio's cousin, we're pretty close. But if rumors spread in school, I'll be shunned. That's the advice I got.”

“Hm, one moment, let me drink my tea.”

Upon finishing, Tamura Obaa-san held up the tea quiveringly. With the sound of sipping noodles, she let the fluid rolled into her throat. Following her, I smoothed my mouth with some tea.

“Now, proceed.” Cough, Tamura Obaa-san lightly breathed out.

“So, I'm wondering about what I should do.” I personally think that it should be 'I am worrying.'

In truth, isolation at school is deadly to a student. There won't be any way to enjoy things like Youth-points; continuous mental stress builds up, and could potentially cause lasting damage.

Naturally, out-of-sight harassment exists in my school.

I don't want be in that spot. I honestly thought.

Only, was my brain thinking about that specifically? Doubtful, at best. It seemed that I've mindlessly accepted the current situation, unreasonably and wishfully thinking that it will continue forever.

The apprehension for such thoughts hid in my heart. Did I want to do nothing, without letting go of anything?

“Hm… I see, I see.” Tamura Obaa-san glancingly replied and nodded slowly.

“...” Sips.

“You'd only drown us both if you want me to help you. Don't think I can ever pull you out.”

You murderer of the old lady! I was reprimanded as if I've already committed the crime.

“'What should I do' is just searching for possibilities. People can only step on the ground of reality once they start worrying about what they will do. The so-called advices are things that you seek after that. Who would offer help for things in a person's head?”

She criticised me; the water in her cup shook. Faced with Tamura Obaa-san, I bluffed as well:

“Well, I've already decided that I will call the final shot.”

“Good. Even an idiot can think of something after contemplating.”

At that point, Tamura-san spat out some tea leaves as if she thought of something:

“Excluding gains and losses, an idiot's thought is basically correct. Idiots are simple, after all.”

This time, her cheeks and wrinkles relaxed elegantly, carrying a reminiscent kindness.

Was that an advice? Though the point is to think on my own, after talking with someone else, something deep down felt surprisingly easy. Like shoving extra luggage to someone else, it became lighter.

Then, let's think. Picture it: if Erio and I ceased all relation.

Even if Erio called me with her staccato of 'Cousin~' 'Cousin?' while approaching me, I could completely ignore her… Nope, probably not. It's already impossible, huh?

“If there is one thing I could clarify, it'd be… People can live without friends.”

Perhaps unable to stand even temporary silence, Tamura Obaa-san spoke on.

In the end, she still agreed to give me something like an advice. People who like to talk can never keep quiet.

I guess it's because she's a dishonest yet caring person? Must have been popular seventy years ago.

“Friends are neither oxygen nor water. If anything, they are a luxury: if they exist, people will naturally feel fulfilled, and if they don't, they'll find a way to make due. It isn't any different than coffee or tobacco, the existence of other people. Let's say a smoker: it's normal for him to not have smoke on him as well. There is no need to feel ashamed to have no friends; if you feel arrogant having many friends, then you're just a simple-minded fool, since that's synonymous to admitting that you're an addict. Sigh, it's good to be confident in your communication skills, but that's no different than being able to hold your liquor.”

Getting here with one breath, Tamura Obaa-san took a breath. Her shoulders slouched weakly, beginning the oxygenation of her lungs.

“In other words, don't be afraid of your friends now, or friends who might become your enemies in the future.”

“...” Hearing the word 'friends,' the first thing I thought was Ryuushi-san.

Even for her, would she point at me when everyone around has become the enemy? Were the frivolous things we said the first time we met at the parking lot all a big joke in the end?

“If you're scared of loneliness, don't live for too long. Just look at me: friends or husband, they're all dead. Aren't I the last person around?”

Those words were a complaint spoken with a cheerful determination — an oxymoron.

“I'm almost there myself. Lately, I think about how I'm the next every night. That's why I say the aliens will perform cattle mutilation on me.” Eheeheehee, Tamura Obaa-san concluded with her befitting laughter.

“Worry about it slowly! Worries are a thing that could be solved in a day! Rest well for the next 364 days.”

Tamura Obaa-san added one more thing, put the cup next to her pillows and tremblingly lay back on the futon.

Without the sheet, her back looked lonely — emaciated and vigourless.

“To think, and worry...” I looked up at the ceiling. The wood looked darker perhaps because of the seepage; drops of water seemed like they'd fall anytime. I stuck on tongue out, waiting for the drip that never came. I simply gawked stupidly.

My relation with Erio will affect those with other people.

For example, uhh… Ryuushi-san would one of them.

So what should I do?

Ignore the idiot rolling around in the hallway behind the slide door who emitted an air of 'give me attention~'

I can ignore the futon roll, but not Erio. This could be the key.

I stuck my tongue into the cup and touched the green surface.

The tea was lukewarm — the perfect temperature.

With one motion, I swallowed the entire cup of tea, enjoying the sensation of water swaying in my stomach.

☆

“Can I go to transfer student's house today?”

When I was sitting the school cafeteria eating a pork bowl, someone whispered in my ears: “I want to see your room...”

Of course it was a dramatic replay, but the conclusion was the same, right?

The event occurred on June 25th, Friday noon.

Maekawa-san, who sat opposite of me, requested after finishing talking about the flavour of pork bowl.

Gravity claimed the skin off the pork I held in chopsticks; only the meat stayed.

“Eh… Um, it's not my house...”

The sudden proposal shocked me into refuting an irrelevant detail.

“Oh, right, it's Touwa's house. So, can I?”

The 'can I' part somehow carried a hypnotizing charm. My ears are done, oh no!

“M-my parents won't be home today!”

“It's not like you live together anyway.”

“That's right.” That made no sense.

Maekawa-san picked up the pickled radish with her chopsticks, raising it to the light and spoke:

“Relax! I'll go home too; I won't eat you!”

Such adult declaration made my heart overly sensitive to the Maekawa-san who had on a teasing smirk. My head hurt:

“O-okay? To my house, huh?”

“Transfer student, you're not picking anything up. Your chopsticks are missing!”

“I've lost depth perception because I underestimated blue berries. Now my eyes are rebelling.”

Inviting a girl to my room. More specifically, a girl visiting. But it's worth three-points. I've gotten five-points, and considering four-points' are only in certain occasions, then isn't now the chance for the highest possible point in daily life? I made up these wordy definitions because I'm actually so nervous. Inviting a girl to my room — the last time I did it was in sixth grade.

“But why?”

“Just curious. I want to see what kind of room the transfer student lives in.”

And I have the day off — she added boredom as part of her motivations and bit down on the radish.

Having a… Tour? In my house with Maekawa-san after school. Not that I will find anything new, but oh well. Let my heart beat to a point where I can't focus in the afternoon lessons!

I tried to calmly grasp my excitement, almost vomiting:

“Having said that...”

“Hm?”

“Maekawa-san, do you have friends?”

Was the question surprising to her? Maekawa-san's eyes repeated performed a blinking action.

“ You are my friend.”

“Hm.” Touche, I thought.

With a pause, I asked another question:

“One more thing.”

“Hm.”

“What do you think of Erio?”

Hearing my query, Maekawa-san's not-so-big-eyes squinted even more.

Did I say something wrong? But since Maekawa-san already knew about me and Erio, it shouldn't be an issue.

Besides, this isn't a classroom; our chatter will be swallowed by the messy air before entering others' ears.

“Looking at Touwa, I couldn't help but think of one thing.” Maekawa-san spoke looking at the bowl.

“Which is?”

“If everyone belongs somewhere, where does Touwa belong?”

Maekawa-san stated solemnly while picking up the remaining rice with her chopsticks.

A place where Erio belongs.

In the futon… Not funny.

After picking out all the rice, Maekawa-san added:

“In any case, I think...”

“Hm.”

“The cafeteria lady needs to give up on the pork bowl and think about making a proper Oyakodon instead.”

You're completely right. I fully agreed, shoving the onions in my mouth.

☆

“Alright, lets go!”

Maekawa-san dragged her bag and came to my seat as soon as school was out.

The model-like classmate who usually leaves class after school's out actually walked to the window opposite to the door in a straight line. Her advance toward the transfer student's seat stole many eyes from the room.

Ryuushi-san, who melted into a crowd, was no exception. She jaunted toward us:

“Niwa-kun, where are ya goin'?”

She wore an extra bag aside from her school bag, slightly displeased to ask about my schedule today. I recently noticed that on the days when she carries that bag, she goes to club.

“I'm going to transfer student's house!”

“Wha-”

Hearing the destination, Ryuushi-san had a strange reaction. It was neither anger, nor envy.

Though the reply had a sound, it seemed lost as if a person wondering where to go.

I immediately realised where that expression came from.

Because my house equals to Erio's house. She's still worried about what happened six days ago.

“And we're gonna do all sorts of things.”

“Whuoa!”

But Maekawa-san's next line seemed to break her out of contemplation.

Rip the chains, be completely surprised, and charge forward… Oh.

“All sorts! Of things! Things… Sorts of things… Wu~!”

As if picturing something, Ryuushi-san eyed Maekawa-san from the feet up and began bouncing.

“Don't you think Ryuushi is surprisingly misinformed about things between guys and girls?”

Maekawa-san, with a big grin, asked bluntly for my assent. If I held her up by the collar it'd a simple harassment, so I only glared at her:

“Why do you only speak in confusing ways (語弊)?”

“How about dressing up like a gohei-mochi (五平餅) and speak in confusing ways (語弊)?”

“Did I ask you to hold a conference for costume-and-lame-jokes?”

“But won't it be boring just glaring at one another in a room? So I categorised possible activities like video games and Reversi into 'all sorts of things.'

“So you knew?”

“Hehehe, I told ya if you're ever in trouble, just find Maekawa.”

Did she really understand what she meant?

“Hey~!” Ryuushi-san tossed out the bag on her hand; the object flew through the opening between students, beautifully landing on the podium.

For some reason, she spun twice before smiling at me.

“Actually, Ryuushi-san doesn't have club today!”

“......”

I traded looks with Maekawa-san; I looked up, and she down.

'Either way is fine.' Her expression was both expectant and calm:

“My goal is to become the best support! Hm, this time.”

It's kind of rude to say this when she's so absorbed, but that's just some meaningless excuse to me.

Oh well, whatever!

It's settled.

Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san will visit the Touwa residence.

Hold on, part two.

### 006. Chapter 5 - Cosplay Seventy-two — Maekawa-san and Work Status

May 20th. A cola-giving stalker appeared before me.

…Well, since I haven’t discover his true identity or grasp a complete understanding of the entire business, it might be too early to make the conclusion. Uhh, let’s focus on the direction of ‘thinking’ first.

In the Wagashi shop I work at, I discovered Poc*ri bottles filled with cola left by someone in the backdoor when I was throwing the trash out. There were five bottles. ‘It isn’t poisoned, just normal cola. I can’t drink soda, please take it.’ The memo with retro handwriting stuck under the bottles claimed so. It didn’t say if this was a present for xxx, or ‘I’m your fan, please keep up the cosplaying’ — things that could explain the source.

“…”

If we were to let the thing known as ‘the view of an educator’ function, I seem to need to find out the admirable things first. Isn’t the attitude of not dumping unfinished food into the sink important? I think so at least. Then don’t buy or take it. It’s kind of worth complaining, but what should I do?

The environment around hadn’t desertify to a point where I’d chug one of these bottles of suspicious fluid.

Although I thought about using them as bowling pins, I probably shouldn’t play around too much during work time. Since keeping these outside would probably attract more attention, I decided to bring the bottles inside. It’s heavy — like a third of Maekawa-san. Who the hell could lift all this crap?! Complaining as I did, I still completed the onerous process without falling over. “Ah, shoot.” After shuffling the bottles, lining and cleaning them, I realized. Mindlessly shaking bottles filled with carbonated drinks might not have been too bright.

“What are those?”

Komaki-san, the substitute manager, asked about the items I brought in while slowly stirring the pot’s content with a wooden scoop. She’s probably making some uiro-mochi.

I reported after sitting down on the chair with red-bean coloured covering: “It was left outside with a note.”

Komaki-san is a beauty older than me; she is also the substitute manager who works harder than our actual manager. Out of the people I know, she's considered the serious type. Though the part of her that's too confident is worth noting as well. The primary source of income from the Wagashi shop I work at comes from purchasing and reselling food made else where. But Komaki-san makes her own snack in the shop. She doesn't make too much, but she still puts them in the display case for sell. Customers aren't scarce, but I think the manager wouldn't really blame us for not selling anything. Perhaps because it's been running since long ago, this shop has a very deep bond with the locals; the majority of our income has always been regulars. Red and white manju for gifting or celebration, or funeral manju: we've a hand in all of them. I've only learned recently that even if we don't perform well, this shop won't just go broke. To be honest, I've been coming to observe the store since long ago. I've never seen people go in, so I've always thought it was unbelievable.

“What about the drinks?” Komaki-san looked back to the pot and spoke indifferently.

“Hand them to the police?”

“No, it's fine. Leave them in the fridge, I'll have them later.”

Her index finger pointed firmly at the refrigerator.

“Eh? You're gonna drink them? This stuff?”

“Well, we already took them in.”

“We don't even know where it's from though!”

Even though I spoke so, the perpetrator candidate still appeared in my head. 'Maybe…'

Someone's been shooting bottle rockets lately. Making one of those requires roughly five plastic bottles; it's surprisingly difficult to prepare one of those. For example, in the arts and craft class in elementary school, we'd go collect bottles before recycle day to avoid the trouble of collecting.

“It's fine. It's not going to kill me.”

Rather than with the cola, she appeared more absorbed with making pastries — even the way she spoke seem to be unconcerned.

“When the mix thickens… Mm.” Komaki-san cross-checked the book on the side with the content in the pot, and then stopped scoop's motion. Looks like she's about to proceed onto the next stage. As for me, it was about time to go back to work.

“So...”

“Yes?”

Komaki-san once again turned around. Chewing while staring at my stark-white body, she asked. The hint of doubt appeared around between her brows:

“What is that?”

“My goal is to become the store's mascot.”

Ah, forgot to mention, but my current outfit was a cosplay of a white dango.

“Hmng.” With a hand back on her chin, Komaki-san asked with a tilted head: “What's your name?”

“People call me Maekawa.”

“I see. Then, Maekawa, go clean the front.”

“With this thing on?”

“With that thing on.”

“Aye, aye sir!”

I picked up the broom and dustpan, and wobbled my way out of the kitchen.

“Eh, is she serious?” Though mumbling seemed to come behind me, I paid it no mind.

I decided to go check out the scene after school tomorrow if I see a rocket flying tomorrow.

Why shoot rockets in the afternoons of weekdays? I'm somewhat interested too.

☆

I usually eat lunch at the school cafeteria. Because if I ask for bento from my parents, it'd basically be the leftover from the store. My parents run a bar, as for what reason I don't know.

We eat the leftover for breakfast too. Plus when I help out in the pub, I have dinner there as well. Hence, it became possible for me to have the same thing for all three meals; therefore, I decided to have lunch at the school cafeteria. Also, for some reason, the transfer student sat across from me today.

“The oyakodon here is pretty good!”

Scooping up the oyakodon I recommended with a spoon, he happily described his thoughts. His right hand was still wrapped in cast. Unfortunately, he broke his arm last month.

“It's a bit too sweet though.”

“Really?” Hearing me, transfer student quizzically tilted his head. It would appear the transfer student likes food with a lot of flavor.

Not that it will ever be useful, I still took a mental note:

“What's the matter, transfer student? How come you're not eating with Ryuushi today?”

“I thought that I should try the school food sometimes. Also, I don't eat with her all the time. The girls in basket ball are having lunch together today too.”

Pouring the egg-and-rice into his mouth, he spoke quickly as if defending himself. He doesn't have be concerned for me — shouldn't he worry about Ryuushi instead?

Ryuushi seems to call him by last name… Uh… Miwa...san? Probably, I think.

“Oh, yeah.”

“Hm?” Spoon in his mouth, transfer student looked up to me. Oh, that's kinda cute!

Should I bring the transfer student along to the rocket site today?

The opponent will be, after all, a stranger suspected of being a stalker.

If the person is a burly man like one of those astronauts, would I become a substitute javelin, or be stuffed into a tube and squeezed out like at a performance for a banquet? I'm pretty scared, especially of the latter one, The fragile Maekawa-san (sounds like a joke just looking at my appearance, but an unfunny truth once you know) needs a reliable guy to protect her… But looking closely, the transfer student can't use his dominant hand. I don't want to lose sleep knowing that his injury got worse because I brought him to places. Hm~ but I don't know any other guys.

“Never mind, just forget it.”

“Hrm?” He replied with the spoon still in his mouth.

We departed without ever mentioning the after school plan.

“See ya, Miwa-kun.”

I called his last name when we parted. Before I got a response, though, he gave me a weird look with a twitch.

For just a second, he had a 'who the hell's that?' look when your name has been mixed with someone else's, or like 'what a shame!' kind of disappointed look. Maybe he's actually not Miwa-kun?

Either way, I don't think that suited me. I decided to still call him transfer student next time I see him.

My favourite food is the banana Swiss roll. Next time someone asks me that, I'm going to answer that.

“I love this~” Honestly, it's so good — so good that I regretted neglecting it every time I pass it in the super market.

After school on the 21st, I received one of these from my boss, Komaki-san. After casually eating it, I gladly complimented. Komaki-san lightly smiled after hearing me, and spoke with her chopsticks moving:

“Awesome.”

Today Komaki-san baked two pieces of pancakes for herself. She called them the replacement for lunch. Since there weren't knives or forks here, she cut the pancakes with disposable chopsticks. She was even drinking the cola from yesterday. Up until now, Komaki-san showed no signs of change: the only thing that bubbled was the cola.

“Now I wanna go work at a bread factory.”

“I won't say no.”

“Starting tomorrow, I will wear a banana costume.”

“Give up on that or give up your job.”

With warm exchange like such, I passed my meaningful time off school.

“Don't you have the day off today?”

“I do! But I came for some tea.”

“Then why are you eating in the store front?”

“'Cuz this is the best spot!” I won't be able to see the rockets inside the kitchen.

From the entrance of the store I could see the rocket flying through the sky clearly. Even though it's more than a hundred times smaller than the scale of a rocket shown on a TV screen, the projectile piqued my interest during work more than the birds or planes. I had pretty much pinpointed the location.

The place is the abandoned farm school not far away from here. The campus closed down around the time I became a middle-school third grade, so about two years ago? Hmm, I miss the fifteen-year old Maekawa-san… Setting that aside for now, I finished the banana Swiss roll. A bit got on my hand, so I licked the butter off when Komaki-san wasn't looking. Neither of us was eating food related to Wagashi! Now then, what was I saying? Oh, rockets. The topic almost went to space since the beginning.

'Bottle rockets should only be used in the field or an open space!' Grade school teachers once taught me that. But they've never told me to keep the room bright and keep a distance from it. Duh. I've learned that you can't see well if it's not bright enough, and people beside the one responsible for launching the rocket have to be away. It's just common knowledge.

In simple terms, what I'm trying to say is that the only place open enough that's not too far away from here would be the abandoned school. If the rocketeer is someone with common sense, then he must follow that rule.

If not, then it should have already been a big problem.

“Ah, a rocket!” Hearing Komaki-san's words, I lifted my chin. Above the house in front of the store, the rocket grew. It appeared suddenly and soared through the air.

“Why do they launch that?”

After catching wind of my mumble, Komaki-san paused the hands that were busily glazing the pancakes with maple syrup and gave an answer. Her eyes focused onto the bottle rocket:

“Maybe their target is space?”

“Even though it's water-powered?”

“I think the goal of anything going upward is space.”

“Really?” For some reason I imagined myself jumping in front of a mirror.

“To completely leave gravity, and fly out with a boom. But space isn't exactly friendly to live, so it's just make-believe in the end. Does this mean to emulate the real deal isn't any easier?”

With a mature sigh, Komaki-san sent a piece of pancake into her mouth.

Had there been a past event that made her resent gravity? However, I have no way of knowing that, since it's got nothing to do with what's happening, and I've no reason to ask.

Is it about time to go? It would be inconvenient if the rocketeer left.

“I'm going now. See ya.”

“Good bye~”

Waving the chopsticks in place of her hand, Komaki-san drank the cola again.

I thought to myself as I left… I hope Komaki-san doesn't get a stomachache and not show up tomorrow. The concern for a possible increase in work ached dully.

I parked my bike outside of the high school; without caution whatsoever, I went in through the gate.

From the surrounding greenhouse and field that been completely neglected, the remnant of the agriculture school reverberated. Since no one came to clean up, plastic bag for bread that was probably blown in from the outside pushed against leaves covered in dirt. About a year ago, people of the shopping district were concerned with hobos living here. Maybe someone still lives here?

Animal husbandry is an education too, I realized as I headed toward the field.

There was, naturally, a cow in the barn. It mooed, eating some grain. Was it abandoned here? Or maybe someone is feeding it? It might even be the rocketeer's pet.

The cattle tag on its ear signified it's identity as a livestock. The cow's name was Hana-chan. A girl?

“Moo~” I called out to it since it stared at me. But that's all it did.

I backed away three steps away from the barn. It's still staring; three more steps. Still doing it. Two more. Ah, there she goes.

Looks like I've exited the cow's alert zone. I'll try wearing a cow costume in front of it next time. I wrote the future prank into my mental notebook.

Other things I saw on the way include a black dog lying on the window of the second floor classroom… I think it was a dog, probably. It seemed to be panting with its tongue out. Did it take over the class for itself? ...Ah, could it be 'that?'

There's been an increase in stray animals disappearance recently. Could it be that someone's been feeding them here? Or is there now a special residence in this abandoned school for stray animals? If it's the former, and the purpose is abusive… I'll check it out later to see if there's a crime scene. If they're just living here, then I don't care if it's some weirdo's hobby, I won't get involved. It didn't seem like a bad thing, after all.

Maybe he just didn't have anywhere else to keep them.

I hurried across the campus and the runway for horses, entering the wastefully large field. Obviously it was bigger than the one at my school. I even thought that maybe everyone at school should just come here instead.

The first rocketeer revealed before the nation seemed to insist that he no longer needed to hide, sitting in the middle of the field. A guy wearing a suit sat cross-legged —the sight was somehow both the sign of freedom and umemployment.

Holding a blue hose connected to the drinking fountain, he sprayed freely at the ground. Like a burst dam, water squirted out from the pinched tube.

Laid on the side was a plastic bottle that's presumably used before — he must be the launcher himself. I closed in onto the back that was slightly curled up. Despite me getting so close, the rocketeer never looked back. Perhaps because the water's stream drowned my footsteps. I got extremely close to him, then walked three big steps away. After hesitating for a sec, I spoke:

“Yo.”

I used a greeting learned during the April of first year when I was being kicked around like a ball in sports clubs.

“Whoa!” The rocketeer flew up like a rocket himself — a classic expression of surprise. He twisted to look back, the water from the hose wet the ground in a semi-circular pattern. He kept the posture, looking up at me with his neck turned in an uncomfortable way, then was shocked.

“You are...” He shut his mouth at this point. I didn't think he'd be so surprised, and for a second I worried 'maybe he doesn't even know me?' But his apparent attitude was very different from fear of strangers, so that's impossible.

Must be that kind of people: the kind that you'd occasionally see on a walk in front of where I work.

“It seems that you know me, but I don't know who you are.”

“Of course you wouldn't. Eh, you don't? Uh, but no, that should be correct.”

For some reason, he questioned himself twice in that statement. Um, have I met this person before? Anyway, his mien didn't come across as a dangerous person, being thin and short.

“I've got questions for you, so I came.”

“Ahh. What is it?”

“Was it you who left the cola at the store?”

“Mm, I did.”

He admitted frankly. Looking at the way he nodded, it didn't seem that he thought he did something either virtuous or malicious.

“Did you drink it?”

“No, it's sketchy.”

I answered bluntly. “Sketchy?” The rocketeer appeared shocked at my response, resting the hose on the ground. As if replacing it, he hugged the rocket into his chest and onto his laps.

“Didn't I leave a note there?”

“Thanks to that, it became even more so.”

“Really?” Perhaps fairly confident in his own writing, he questioned the negative response frankly.

“Well, things of questionable origin are kinda...”

“When I was still a kid, we'd eat anything that looks like food.”

“Those generous days are well past over.”

Again, with a pause this time, the rocketeer mumbled: “I see...” His voice sounded even more austere.

Hm, however, the shopping district still has that kind of atmosphere to it. But it's kind of considered by the city folks as the obsolete and shunned part of the city. As for me, who lives in the city but works in the shopping district, the position is quite the special one. Not that I'm aware of it all the time.

Even in class we can find people who live in the old houses bullied in grade school.

But that has nothing to do with what's happening.

“Why me?”

“Because I'm your… Uh, yes, fan!”

The rocketeer attempted to rely on this eureka, on-the-spot answer to rationalize his action. Rubbing the bottle rocket lovingly, he exposed his loss of cool.

“...You're lying.” And you're even fishier now.

“No, I'm not kidding, seriously.” If seen from a certain angle, this might carry a certain connotation. Hm, indeed, however, when it comes to giving me something, besides personal attachment, I can't think of any other reasons. In that case, is he asking for prostitution? For the Maekawa-san who's inherited half the characteristics of the pure-hearted shopping district, if somebody ever asks me that, it'll be determined as sexual harassment!

The rocketeer spent an unusual amount of time eying me from the bottom to top, and smiled. It's better if you don't smile like that too often, so people might like you more. The thought drifted in my head, but I said nothing. Whether it's for his own good or not is currently irrelevant.

“You're not wearing a strange outfit today!”

“Now that's rude, calling me strange. I'm actually a serious cosplayer.”

“Oh, then my bad.” Confused, he apologized perfunctorily.

He's real sketchy, this guy~ Doesn't quite smell like a fan~ Or rather, he obviously wasn't one — this isn't how a Maekawa-san hobbyist speaks. Should I, therefore, relax? Or let this sense of danger further expand?

The reason of him giving me cola mystified again… Uh, hold on. Maybe it wasn't actually for me? Eliminating the suspicious possibility that he's my fan, the motives for gifting me also dissipates. There are also others working in the Wagashi shop… Maybe he's trying to shift focus or make an excuse by saying it's for me. Like, maybe the true target is Komaki-san or someone? Most likely.

I'm still unsure what the rocketeer thought of my astonished look; he raised the rocket in hand to his forehead:

“Did you see this rocket going upward?”

“Uh… Sure, yeah. So why the rockets?”

“Ah… Hm, it's just my interest. Since I can never launch a real rocket into space, I use this as a substitute to fly into the sky.” He rubbed the tip of the rocket.

“...Space, huh?” The word somehow soothes me in a conversation. This might be the sign of a critical condition.

“Space is great, right? The sea hides many secrets, so it is just as amazing.”

“Hm...” I exhaled to regain the posture of my excited stomach and face muscles.

He's born in this town, right? Now I understand, in every way possible. Here, plenty of weird cosmophiles exist. Like Touwa. But, there is rarely a bad person.

I feel that everyone holds some sort of dream for wonders and mysteries — parts like an innocent child — all while playing grown-up.

“You, uh, quite good with your hands, yes?” The rocketeer asked in a strangely fast speed.

“Hm… I guess. I've always gotten five for my crafting classes.”

But only one for P.E, and last place for marathon. 'Cuz of air resistance and stuff.

The rocketeer's face beamed. “Excellent.” He muttered the words and brought an abrupt request:

“Actually, I wish for you to help me make rockets.”

“Wha?”

“Have you made one before?”

“Yeah, during art class of elementary school.” Don't look down on modern kids, I can even sharpen a pencil using a knife!

During elementary school, I seemed to have sunk into the quagmire of repeatingly chiseling on pencils because I refused to use the sharpener like everyone else. Suddenly, it hit me as life — 'amendment is vital,' it was a divergence into the current personality of Maekawa-san. If I've never learned that, I might still be an overzealous person.

“Ah, I thought so too. It's been kept since our time!”

The weakness of nostalgia belonging to the guy's generation had been promptly hit; he smiled brilliantly. If I kept quite, I predicted that the cherry blossom of memory will bloom.

“But can't you make it yourself?” Instead of using my finger, I pointed with my eyes at the rocket on his knees.

“I can.” The rocketeer agreed, but stopped halfway and scratched the back of his head.

“Uh, it's, um, I'm busy both at work and private, so I can't dedicate all my time on my hobby.”

Yeah, just keep up the B.S. I almost said it outside. However, I had to keep silent.

Because after that, the rocketeer brought up the price of each rocket: it was enough to make my part time income seem like pocket change.

“I expect you to make more, but I also want you to bring each one as soon as it's complete, since I want to test-fly them.”

“Hm...” Hesitation was just an act, even I knew that.

As dubious as he was, he didn't seem like a bad person. More importantly was the attractiveness of this job.

To control the scale tipped with risk, the fastest way is to have reward on the other side.

“I understand, please let me make the rockets.”

I agreed to the job at night.

After all, when you're troubled, just find Maekawa.

### 007. Chapter 6 - The Day That Will Become Someone's Memory

And like so, the RPG team of a male player consisting of one guy and three girls headed toward the Touwa household after school. With a flower in each hand, I didn't even have another for the girl stuffed in the basket. I found her walking back home from work with no shoes on, so I picked her up. The tension between her and Ryuushi-san seemed to only exist for the latter though. As for Erio, she'd shown nothing but a blank face.

Ryuushi-san sighed on the way to the bicycle lot: “Ah~ Now the position of starters is further away from me~ I don't wanna be the secret weapon anymore~” The Touwa household isn't exactly a paradise of hope and dreams that's worth visiting. There is someone who can light firecrackers with her brain there though.

“Hoh~ So this is Touwa's house?”

Parking first into the front yard, Maekawa-san carefully observed that residence that should be a fairly normal house. Perhaps due to looking up for too long (like five seconds) she moaned, 'wuu~' almost stumbling. Although she seemed the type who won't give in to pressure, her body seems slave to her blood flow. She mentioned before that 'I've never been to a hospital;' if possible, I hope she could live on peacefully.

“Whoa~” With a helmet still on her head, Ryuushi-san awed at the building and trod to my side as if avoiding Erio: “I thought maybe the walls would be covered in futons, but it's just a pretty house!”

Ryuushi-san earnestly reported on the gap between her imagination and the real deal. Hearing the comment, Erio shot her a glance, but didn't dissent. She merely stared at her house. For her, she might have the terrifying thought of 'that's not bad at all.' She is, after all, the fanatic that would surprise people if she doesn't collect blanket catalogs.

“I thought it'd be covered by a white sheet.”

Maekawa-san, too, followed. I've seen this somewhere!

Bell signifying some sort of break resounded from an elementary school nearby. I've been there before: it's a school about ten minutes away from the Touwa residence. Erio attended there as well. Contradicting the problem that is the falling birthrate, the amount of students there seem to multiply like biscuits in a pocket. Currently, the school is undergoing renovation and expansion of classrooms. This probably means that couples get along well around here.

Affected by the bell, we moved toward the entrance like students at the field toward classrooms after lunch has ended. Judging strictly by her appearance, the warrior Maekawa-san took vanguard, followed by Ryuushi-san, me and Erio. Being in the middle of Ryuushi-san and Erio, I should feel proud. But for Erio, maybe she just wanted to 'prepare for an ambush.' What could she possibly be fighting against? The world has an apparent animosity for her, so she probably doesn't have many comrades. There's Meme-san and Tamura Oba-san.

And... me? At least for now. Would this be considered as indecisiveness?

“Hm, door's locked.” The leading Maekawa-san voiced her objection at the solidity of the door and the common sense of all households.

“Usually people lock their houses when they leave.” I took out the key and went next to Maekawa-san.

“We don't, more often than not.”

“For whom it may concern, did you hear that~?”

I ridiculed her and opened the door. “It's opening!” For some reason, Maekawa-san became excited. Pulling the door ajar, she seemed strangely cheerful, closing and opening it repeatedly. I decided to let her be.

Taking the key out, I glanced back, only to find Ryuushi-san and Erio fixed on their spot.

“And why are you two just standing there? Saving someone's spot?”

There isn't entrance limit, and no one will get mad if you cut the line.

“Since Niwa-kun is the third, I'm saving your spot as a healer.”

She maintained a cheery look; with a victory sign, she boasted.

You're the most healing thing here.

Yet from just a second ago, Nervousness— or rather, anxiety — crept up in my guts. Strictly speaking, this isn't my house, but the fact that two girls are coming into my room choked the top of my stomach.

Not one on one, but one vs. many. It's an anomalous situation. The Youth-points who thought their time has come froze, doubtful and without direction. I too wondered what would happen.

“We're coming in!” Finally tired of the toy that is the door, Maekawa-san entered the entrance with a casual greeting. “Excuse me, I'm coming in!” Ryuushi-san bashfully spoke, turning to Erio halfway through the sentence. As expected of the polite helmet girl.

And the last two said 'I'm home.' We even received the normal reaction of 'welcome!' Maekawa-san, who had speedily took off her flats, welcomed us kindly. A lot about this was questionable. She must have realized too, awkwardly scratching her head:

“I screwed up. That's for my house; it should have been welcome home.”

Seemed like she still couldn't amend the mistake completely. Hm, if I could trade the house owner with Maekawa-san, I will gladly toss that big kid out. Only, she would come back faster than a salmon.

“House? What does your family do, Maekawa-san?” Setting her shoes next to Maekawa-san's, Ryuushi-san inquired with a straight back. “Oh, you live in the city, so you don't know, huh. Ryuushi.”

“I told ya I'm Ryuuko.”

“My house runs a pub in the shopping district, so you have to come when you're old enough, Ryuushi… Given that if the pub is still runnin' by then!”

Ahahah~ Since I can't articulate any better, I'll just laugh. Maekawa-san's expression conveyed so.

“Anyhow, let's go to transfer student's room. Which floor?” Maekawa-san pointed toward the hallway.

“Second floor. But there's seriously nothing interesting in there.”

“What are you on about, transfer student? Using poker as an example, there's nothing fun about a single card: the point is how to use that card in an interesting way.”

She dauntlessly asserted the lack of fun of a room she's never been in. I couldn't help but feel that maybe I should have put something like a game console in my room, knowing that others will criticize my lack of entertainment value. I had one in my old home, but I think I sold it when I moved.

A person befitting of being a tour guide, Maekawa-san led us forward as if directing her family. With this kind of advance, the distance sound of a whistle was almost audible.

A guy mixed with three girls. This made me think of Sw*mmy for some reason. Man, I miss that! Speaking of which, wasn't there a story called “The Red Fruit Has Burst” in our textbook? What was it about? I thought it's about a girl going out to buy fishes… I think, but that's not the point of the story. But whatever with that.

Maekawa-san stepped onto the stairs, peeking inside Erio's room.

“Mm? This Touwa's room?”

“Yes.” A tiny confirmation from the back.

“I see~ It sure suits you… Ah, that's the school uniform. For cosplaying?”

“No, it is not.” Erio denied Maekawa-san's biased evaluation of the uniform.

Then why? I wanted Erio to spill the answer, but she simply looked down and grasped at her skirt, silencing the owner of the voice.

“Ah, it's Mr. Pluto!”

On the other hand, what piqued Ryuushi-san's attention was the tan-coloured doll sitting on the ball chair. It's a… creature (?) of roughly forty centimeters long. On it's head was a hair not unlike the parents of a certain Isono family, and he's even got a red ribbon. Pluto? Does it have anything to do with space? It is sitting in Erio's room. Um… Is the discovery of such creature on Pluto human's spearhead of discovery? NASA would drop their jaws.

It's a cute doll that girls seem to like. Ryuushi-san hurried into the room and hugged the doll that's strikingly larger than her face. “How cute~ Boing!” You are so damn cute, I thought as I peered at that face. Tug, tug. Erio pulled on my sleeve from behind. I only looked back.

“T-that's mine...”

She's like a little girl angry with her older sister who stole her toy, telling her mom.

“...Then tell her.” I am not your brother — we're practically the same age.

“Wuu.. Wu...”

Erio closed in onto Ryuushi-san and forcefully took the plushy away. Uh, back? It is hers, but her action was unreasonable.

“Eh? ...Ah?” Ryuushi-san's dreamy visage was torn by that momentum; her fingers quivered.

“H-he sits here.” Erio put the plushy back to where it was.

“S-sorry…?”

Ryuushi-san haltingly apologized like she'd just accidentally sat on a house made of match sticks.

Just like before, an enigmatic air twisted between the two. As if veiled by a thick cloth, they could never reach each others.

Why are these two so awkward? The girl who has the sensibility of the world (? Questionable, but I won't take it back now) just can't be friends with the futon roll who strayed from common sense?

Then the bystander Maekawa-san spoke her thought regarding the plushy:

“How childish of you, Ryuushi, satisfied with a doll of only that size.”

A giantess preached so. She even sighed disapprovingly. She also seemed to have misunderstood why Ryuushi-san was so happy.

“If it were me, a 179.9cm Mr. Pluto is totally possible.”

“Don't do it.” It would be a different breed of creature at that point.

“Hm. 'Kay, now, to the long-awaited room of Niwa-kun!”

Ryuushi-san went 'Oh~!' leading her feet out with her right arm. Becoming the leader, she traded place with Maekawa-san, increasing the distance from Erio by one more space. If we do the same thing again, would this team of four recombine like in old games, letting Ryuushi-san follow Erio next? I suddenly had the feeling. Is my brain also shorting out because of Meme-san's radiation? The thought worried me.

“Hoh~ So this is Niwa-kun's room?”

Ryuushi-san firstly peeked into my room, leaving phrases of impression.

“Hoh~ So this is the room where transfer student rolls around on the floor in.”

Maekawa-san described the space. Apparently even the way I use it was set.

“Hoh~ The cousin's room.” Why did you follow them, Erio? Don't you come here all the time?

From my point of view, it would be terrifying if things worth looking increased in my room. I sat on the chair pulled away from the desk, observing the two classmates wandering the room. Hmm, the usually boring room suddenly lit up.

As long as these two are in the room, they could even replace an air freshener.

Erio, finding nothing interesting in the room, jumped onto the bed; then as if rolling the futon on her, she spun to the side….

“What kinda prank is this?” I pulled on her right leg.

Extracted by me from the futon, Erio blinked as if wondering 'what's the problem?' head slightly cocked.

“What are you doing?”

“That is my question: what is the cousin doing?”

“I'm only doing what's natural as your cousin. Stop putting that on.”

“I am playing as the hardworking sixteen year old who wants to wear relaxing clothes at home.”

“Shut up.”

“My smell might get on it.”

“I. Don't. Care.”

I can't believe she remembered that irrelevant detail. The strange prediction-sketch of Erio turning into Meme-san in twenty four years has been penciled. Rough draft next?

“Hey… Hey~ Niwa-kun.” Ryuushi-san called. Slightly thorny in her enunciation, I reflexively straightened my slightly-hunched back.

“Hm? What is it?” The eyes that gazed lost their sharpness, round like always:

“Is this the deep-see animal atlas ya mentioned?”

Ryuushi-san, who had scanned the bookshelf, put her finger on the spine of a book.

“Yeah, that's it. There's a ton of picture in there. It's a lot cooler than the other books!”

“Hoh~” She retrieved the atlas and flipped through it: “Uwah, the naked photos of ugly-cute characters!” As usual, her impressions were kind of twisted.

If Ryuushi-san were brought to a zoo, would she accuse them of public display of indecency?

“Um, which do ya like, Niwa-kun?”

She sat directly on the floor, opening the atlas about the size of a hardcover book. Then Ryuushi-san beckoned, asking me to come to her side. “Coming.” I accepted the invite.

I kneeled on one knee next to Ryuushi-san's right. On the page that Ryuushi-san had open were four deep-sea octopuses. My favourite creature was not swimming in there.

“This is so cute!” She pointed at the Dumbo Octopus in the middle.

“I know!” I indulged her. It's not like it'd be a problem liking one more animal.

“Then which one do ya recommend the most?”

“Um, I would say~” Confirming the page on the bottom left, I calculated how many pages need to be flipped back. Sixteen pages later, I pointed at the picture on the bottom left.

“Helicolenus Hilgendorfii?” Ryuushi-san read its name.

“Yeah, isn't it pretty?”

A red fish with a white crown flung its tail fin.

“It is, even though it's around a buncha freaky animals.”

“I like the way it stands out.”

“Oh~ But Niwa-kun, you shouldn't stand out, okay?”

“Hm, of course...” Sensing a gaze on the top of my head, I looked up.

Erio sat on the bed, her eyes fixed on us. The moment our sight met, she seemingly intentionally hid into the futon. “Haa, really?” What does she want, my attention?

Damn kid. If this goes on, she might become a great big kid.

I loosened the curled leg and waist, moving toward Erio. I can fly ~ I lightly landed, and from the corner ripped the futon off. This was even more ungentlemanly than tono-sama's sash-pulling game!

“Oh~ no~” For some reason Maekawa-san provided a voice-over from behind. Speaking of which, what is Maekawa-san looking for around the room? I did have a prediction though.

Because the way she walked and scanned was just like a certain 39 years old child.

“This room lacks the colour of skin.”

What kind of thought was that? This isn't where a serial killer hides dead bodies.

“Hey~ Niwa-kun, c'mere~ c'mere!”

Ryuushi-san waved at me again with a warmer attitude. Am I a hot item or what?

What, has my time of being popular come? But don't let all of it out, drag this out forever!

Youth-points are thing that won't react if directly approached.

“I'm coming~” I held onto the corner of the blanket, stretching my body as far as I can toward Ryuushi-san. My neck extended to the maximum, peering over the atlas from the top. My head almost rammed into Ryuushi-san's.

“What else do ya like? ...Hey, why not just let go of the blanket?”

“Uh. Well, if I let go, a certain someone will become the local mascot.”

“Why not just tie her up? Let her roll around over there.”

Dammit, she's only so relaxed because she's not dealing with her. She even started pouting. Is she jealous? I'm gonna assume you are. Don't underestimated the power that is the delusion of a self-conscious highschooler. If that was true though, uh… The hell do I do? Crap, the solution known as 'experience' isn't doing it's job on guiding me. Because it doesn't exist!

“Hey~ Transfer student, look.”

“Hah?” I looked back to Maekawa-san's voice.

With half the blanket rolled on her, Erio hopped on my bed!

“Gah~!!” The dust's everywhere! What a waste, I'm going to have to vent the room now!

And why are you just sitting there elegantly with a smile, Maekawa-san?! Go find some porn!

“Niwa-kun, click, click!” As if to sooth me, who had left, Ryuushi-san summoned.

Am I a stray cat? Is this below or above being classmates?

In the end, I ran around the blanket between Erio and Ryuushi-san thirty times.

Drenched in sweat, I opened the window regretfully. The air of girls and the heat escaped outside.

Out of the window, the colour of dusk began to swallow the edge of the sky. The world was as if flipped.

Only one person would appear when trouble's amok. Everyone should know.

The person whose personality and other aspects vex people to no end — Touwa Meme-san. When the girls were about to take off, they bumped into the returning Meme-san. Incidentally, they both called her smooth-skinned sensei.

Looks like both Maekawa-san and Ryuushi-san had met Meme-san. Now that I mentioned it, Ryuushi-san seemed to have received cola from Ryuushi-san before, but Maekawa-san… What was it? I don't see their connection.

Meme-san whispered a few words to Maekawa-san, clapped her hand saying 'Okay~! It's settled!' first and then declared 'I'm heading out again;' Maekawa-san also claimed that she is heading home and put on her shoes. She said she was going to get something to bring back here… What on earth is going on?

If it were the usual, Meme-san shouldn't be baited by this kind of a festival. But she did look busy. Is she conniving something? It's hard to tell because she's always playing practical jokes.

Meme-san further proposed something similar to this: “Since I won't be home, how about the girls do some cooking?”

“Cough, cough, so I don't have to cook, cough cough.”

“I don't get why you coughed.”

After waves of disturbance, Ryuushi-san decided to call home first. Decided to stay in the Touwa household till later, she planned on going home after waiting for Maekawa-san, doing some activities; and cooking and eating.

And thus Meme-san and Maekawa-san left the house. Erio, Ryuushi-san and I remained.

…This is practically a development for 'let's build a love triangle.'

Well, it's because of the words Meme-san tossed us that muddled the air, making me and Ryuushi-san extra conscious of each others.

We stared at each other with a twisted smile. One of us moved first, and the other two followed behind. Step, step. Only the sound of footstep echoed lightly.

In the living room, with Erio as the apex, adding me and Ryuushi-san, we mimicked a triangle sitting in front of the table.

“…...” Erio, who rarely sat upright, said nothing. She rubbed her upper arm as if conveying her anxiety over bare skin. Her eyes oscillated.

“Ah, uh… I wonder what Maekawa-san's bringin'~”

Ryuushi-san faced me, talking to me instead of Erio.

“I have no idea. What could it be?.” Could be a costume. But I refrained from speaking.

“Hm, I wonder...” Voices trailed off, and the conversation paused here.

If it were only me and Erio, or only me and Ryuushi-san, then any sort of conversation could become lively, but at the moment… How strange.

The ticking of clock that should be the sound of a daily life did not resonate. The room was completely silent. Ringing in the ear proliferated. The chirping of crickets that starts in the beginning of autumn shared the same unpleasant feeling as the current situation.

My nose dried; the taste of burn permeated in my throat. This was the syndrome of boredom.

“Want to watch… TV?” Erio held the remote and peeked at my face. Is this the conclusion she reached to cope with idleness?

“Sure.” I agreed; the TV shone.

On the screen gradually lighting up, sushi appeared. It looked to be a show promoting shops with fresh and delicious high-class sushi. The reporter and celebrity whose name escapes me shoved tuna sushi into his mouth, yelling 'so good.' He said nothing else in terms of compliments.

Since the volume was set on loud, the initially silent room suddenly flooded with noise. The various sound effects and BGM forced into my eardrum, suffocating me.

Now we're even more anxious. The overfilling noise and the current status of the room was too different.

I couldn't stand it anymore and left the seat, taking my time in the kitchen making tea.

After preparing tea for three people, I returned to the living room. The two still bored holes into the TV.

“Here, some tea.”

I put the tea in front of Erio. She looked down on the tea, staring into her reflection within.

For reasons unknown, she pushed to slide the tea in front of Ryuushi-san. The rising steam followed after.

“Here, tea.”

Basing her conclusion on something, Ryuushi-san slid the cup of tea to me. Are we playing the game of 'the bar scene you always see in cowboy flicks'?

“… A cup of tea.”

I attempted to give the tea to Erio again. She unhesitatingly handed the tea to Ryuushi-san. “Here, tea.” Though frowning, Ryuushi-san still returned the cup of tea to me. As if annoyed with following behind, the steam occasionally moved to the side instead of wasting energy going up.

I thought the thirst of boredom seemed to moisten by the ascending steam.

After that, the cup of team circled endlessly on the table.

The remaining two cups of tea were ostracized from the table, slowly losing the steam that is the candle of life.

In the midst of it, I reminisced the day of being forced to do can-crushing during an activity of kid's day.

✩

After about forty minutes, Maekawa-san came back.

“I’m home!” Somehow, she announced her return with the manner of the patriarch of the house.

Yet, there isn’t anyone who could change the ambiance better than she. As expected of ‘when you’re troubled, just find her’ Maekawa-san.

The light steps unfitting of her height approached the living room.

The person who entered the room was a Santa in white carrying a bag with no dreams inside.

“Since I am taking up role of professor, I am returning to the basics: lab coat.”

With the height of 179.9cm (self-proclaimed) and a lab coat over her uniform, the infirmary doctor with glasses moved forward briskly, carrying on her shoulder a plastic bag. If she were to appear during play house, you’d worry about having your stomach cut open — that’s the anxiety caused by the sharp aura exuding from her.

Empty bottles filled the bag. In addition, things that resembled nozzles lied on the bottom.

“By the way, the glasses are fake. For fashion purposes.” She pushed the glasses up with her free hand.

“Whoa~ That’s so cool!” Ryuushi-san looked up in awe.

Indeed, with her complimentary height, the outfit beautifully conveyed the sense of coolness.

“Hehe.” Having her serious cosplay praised accordingly, Maekawa-san chuckled joyfully and said: “I’m taking this cup of tea.” Her long arm lifted the blue cup and dumped the tea in her mouth.

“What the? It’s at the perfect temperature!”

It didn’t sound like a protest against the cold tea, but a praise. Looks like Maekawa-san is afraid of heat.

“Okay, so what you got there?”

I queried for the three of us. “Oh.” The cup left Maekawa-san’s lips.

“We’re making bottle rockets! That’s smooth-skinned sensei’s request. She said to have Touwa and the transfer student make them. These are the material.”

Swoosh~ She lifted the bag. This was Meme-san’s malicious plan? Or a part of it?

“I got some for Ryuushi too — you’re joining us too, right?” Maekawa-san watched for Ryuushi-san’s reaction; she tilted her head with finger on her lips:

“Hmmm. I… donno how to make one. And I told ya I’m Ryuuko. Don’t go settling on that nickname.”

“No problem, I’ll teach you. I know the steps enough to teach.”

“Then I’ll try~ But why, all of the sudden? I mean Touwa-san’s mom.”

“Who knows?” Maekawa-san revealed a meaningful smile, dodging the question.

“Touwa or transfer student, one of you go get scissors and knives from Meme-san’s room… I mean, could you bring me to her room? I think the tools we need are in her room.”

“Then, follow me.” I stopped Erio halfway as she got up and left the living room with Maekawa-san.

Using the chance that we had walking in the hallway with lights brighter than the sun, I questioned Maekawa-san.

“Hey, Maekawa-san.”

“Hm? What is it? Also starting from now and throughout the bottle making, call me doctor.”

Hands in her white coat pocket, Maekawa-san requested a change in profession.

If only Ryuushi-san could change her name as easily as she.

“…Doctor Maekawa.” Rolled off the tongue easier than Meme-chan.

“Hm, hm!” Shoulders trembling, she smiled satisfactorily.

“The rockets from a while back — are they related to this?”

“Hoh, how keen of you!”

Mae… Doctor Maekawa whistled as if complimenting the exceptional answer from her student:

“But one does not need to know the language of flower to appreciate its beauty, transfer student.”

“What I’m concerned with is if this is somehow related to me and Erio.”

“Neither do I know the meaning of flower, unfortunately.”

Her metaphoric response blurred my comprehension.

“Oh, I know this: red spider lily means ‘sad recollection,’ ‘the desire to meet again,’ and ‘I miss only you.’”

“I think the topic is going into the wrong direction…”

“In any case, it’s not a big deal! They are just bottles.”

Ultimately, she brushed me off.

In the story that progressed elsewhere, what role do I exactly play?

“Alrighty. Doctor Maekawa’s class will now begin.”

In the living room sitting on the opposite side of the table, Doctor Maekawa declared the start of her crafting class.

On my sides were Erio and Ryuushi-san. The students were fully prepared. Only…

…Um, am I being used as a screen to separate the two?

Won’t it be better to have these two get along? Ryuushi-san seems to frequent Tamura shop anyway. But is it okay for me to be so nosy? This was the true question.

“Do you remember how to make them, Touwa?” Maekawa-san surveyed to see if Erio had the proper knowledge.

“…Don’t know.” My left neighbor hurriedly shook her head.

“You should have made them in art class before, since we went to the same school.”

“Um, I took it home to have mom help me, so…”

Erio shrunk embarrassedly and confessed. Have mom help probably actually meant ‘Meme-san made almost everything.’ Appeared to have noticed, Maekawa-san grimaced:

“Then we’ll say you have a permit! Alright, first grab a bottle.”

Following her direction, all three of us laid the bottles on the table. We had a total of five, which will all be used when we finished. I didn’t know that till today.

“Next, pick up the nozzles that was given beforehand and screw that onto the bottle.”

I screwed the nozzles that sat on the bottom tightly onto the neck of the bottle. Compare to me and Ryuushi-san, Erio had a bit of trouble, but still successfully completed the task.

“Now we’re done with that, set it aside. Prepare the second bottle.”

“Done, Doctor Maekawa!” Ryuushi-san feigned an innocent reply. She’s pretty good at being a student. Wait, she is a student.

“See that line on the lower half? Cut the bottom off with the box cutter. Since we only have one, we have to take turns.”

Like doing a demo, Maekawa-san adroitly cut off the butt: “The trick is to not move the knife, but rather spin the bottle forward to cut it — just like shaving an apple!”

After giving the advice, Maekawa-san passed the box cutter to Ryuushi-san. “Whacha call it, I miss crafting classes~” Ryuushi-san worked while humming a tune. I’m envious of how she could seemingly enjoy everything.

I too finished without any problem. As for Erio, everyone held his or her breath as we watched. Erio clamped the knife with strength enough to bruise her fingers. “Uh, relax a little. But do hold on to it.”

She slightly loosened the grip. Then she clawed the bottle, her fingers digging in. “This isn’t a disposal site… But do hold on to it.” She eased a bit. And so… screech, screech… the knife sunk into the bottle. She gingerly exerted enough force that might snap the blade. If the cutter slip off, a part of Erio along with the clothes might end up split apart. I prayed for her safety.

Perhaps it was answered: she cut opened the bottle safely. Is everyone going to be on the edge from now on when it’s Erio’s turn? I swallowed the epiphany like a stone.

“… Uh, well then. Next step is to cut the extra part below that line. The key is to start from the bottom…” And like so, the project proceed under Maekawa-san’s guidance.

Next was to use the third bottle to make the base. Again, a rough cut with the box cutter, and then finer detail with the scissors; thus the rocket was mostly complete.

“With the PE rocket head as the tip, the second bottle on the top, the first on the bottom, and the base last… Here we are, the completed body!”

Combined with their parts, the rockets without wing stood on the floor. Ryuushi-san and I both tried putting the rockets together while Erio cut away on the bottle.

Although I offered help, she insisted, ‘No need. I must do it this time.’ Hence I stared from the side. From the bystander’s view point, I was terrified. Now I understand why Meme-san is so protective of her.

“Apparently the rockets are undergoing test-flight tomorrow.” Maekawa-san spoke.

“Tomorrow?”

“Eleven of clock, the closest beach. Meme-san’s instruction.”

If she whispered the instructions of making rockets to Maekawa-san, then I imagine Meme-san must be related to this whole thing. The closest beach — is it the one Erio and I went on that night? Riding there takes at least an hour!

After Erio’s finished with her work, Maekawa-san shifted direction to the making of wings. The parts cut off from the bottles were flattened with a piece of wood. This was the only part Maekawa-san performed poorly on. After forcing it down for a while… “Gwahh…” This person planned on throwing her dignity away with the lab coat effect.

Pliers could be used to stabilize the ridges on the flattened wing prototype. Next, label it with a marker and cut it. Stick the two pieces together with double-sided tape and staple them. Finally, cover the staple mark with electric tapes. The wing is now finished.

Now to put the wings on in an X shape on the body (this was is the hardest part). Connect it to the rocket with electric tape, then you can yell ‘done!’ And then wait for Erio to finish. I knew it. Ryuushi-san’s and my rockets weren’t exactly artistic on the taping part, but they at least had the shape. I inspected it in my hand. The forgotten sense of achievement from making something alleviated the growing exhaustion that weighed my skull down, warming up my head.

I switched the TV that’s never been off onto the news to check the time. It was already past seven, almost eight. In other words, we spent about an hour and half on making rockets. On one hand, I understood starvation. On the other, I was shocked at how late city girls are allowed to stay out. If it were where I used to live, if there was someone outside after eight PM, they’d be considered suspicious. A lax night like this would be upon every family by now.

“The night is full.” Eyes glued on the TV, Maekawa-san mumbled. Eh? So the city uses the same standard?

“Yeah, it’s about time to go home.”

“We have to prepare dinner for Touwa and the transfer student first.”

Hearing Maekawa-san’s words, Ryuushi-san winced. She stared at me, while I her. Ugh, Meme-san’s words echoes in my head. Just like the person herself, they were annoying.

In the spare time, Maekawa-san even decorated the rockets. She coloured the thing white to imitate a certain stream-line creature with strange wings. She called it ‘ skyfish .’

“I’ve never seen the actual thing, so this is just referring to the manga.”

“Of course ya wouldn’t!”

Ryuushi-san’s sheepish eyes moved away from me, observing the rockets from all sorts of angles while replying to Maekawa-san.

But in this town, it is said that skyfish has been witnessed frequently. Maekawa-san spoke as if to herself:

“Since tomorrow is flight, we won’t have time for a test. Having all of them fly up gracefully would be impossible though. These rockets probably won’t be mistaken as UFO trails; they’ll just crash midway. Maybe my skyfish will end its life as a seafish .”

And then Maekawa-san looked askance at Erio, divulging a jeering grin:

“I guess the only way is to have a fishing line hang it from space, huh.”

Was Erio equipped with the sense to detect that she had just been the butt of a space joke?

She ceased the work on hand, slightly pouting. Maekawa-san, who looked from the side, relaxed her expression and squinted. Instead of a quip, it was more a subtle smile:

“I look forward to it, Touwa. Use your space power and send these rockets upward!”

Okay, class is over. Now to the self-provided lunch. Meme-san’s still not home.

Looking at it this way: having done an unusual project and cooked dinner, it’s like a summer camp or something. It’s rather exciting.

And I get to eat food made by girls. This was unquestionably a three-pointer. The food itself is trivial — what matters is the act.

The conclusion was that everyone including me had to make a dish. The maximum occupancy of the kitchen was two, so we decided to have Maekawa-san and Ryuushi-san go first, then me and Erio next.

Erio and I sat in the kitchen’s chairs, appreciating the beauty in front of us. Sitting from the back and seeing the classmates in apron, I savoured the taste of youth. Maekawa-san still had the lab coat though.

Not too long ago, Erio, whose mother remarked her cooking skill as ‘as long as it’s a ham sandwich, she can make it,’ seemed satisfied with the rocket she made. She went as far as carrying it here, unable to stop grinning at her own creation. The surface was painted black; the uneven texture further emphasized the handmade feeling.

“This is the third one ever made.”

“Oh? Meme-san made the other?”

Slumping as if her spine was shattered by shame, Erio shrunk her chin. But she sat up again. The black rocket danced in the air via human power, occupying my view.

“But this one is mine.”

“Yes, yes, very impressive.”

I casually rubbed her head.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t a bad feeling seeing her shook around happily.

Because of the knife that shone dimly on the hand of Ryuushi-san who looked back, I terminated my action swiftly. Um… She does look like she’s sulking! In other words, she is somewhat interested in me? Umm… This requires further inspection.

If Ryuushi-san’s target turns out to be Erio, then I will be mortified.

The complicated feeling of joy and confusion swelled in my chest; looking at the back of the girls, I awaited my debut. Occasionally I have to deal with the rocket girl neighbor; I even thought about having the hydro-powered rocket fly into space.

“It’s done!” In just about twenty minutes, Maekawa-san reported. Only, both of them hid their dishes behind. “Before the last dishes are done, they’re secret.” Ryuushi-san said coyly.

Following their wishes, I avoided looking at their food and simultaneously switched place with them. Erio ruefully put the rocket in the corner of the kitchen, stiffly taking from Ryuushi-san the apron. “Looks like you two need to be lubricated!” Maekawa-san teased. I thought the same thing too.

As I contemplated on what to make, Erio returned from the fridge with some ham, laid them on the cutting board and chopped — or battered — away. I thought of the zombie mom of a dead family who went inside an abandoned house and pretended to be alive by making sounds. What does she plan on making?

I just made something simple. I picked up two eggs, since making anything extraordinary was impossible.

And like so, Erio and my dishes were complete. We both set them on the table.

Four bowls embellished with food, the colour combination sufficiently covered by just grey scale.

“Why did everyone decide to have rice covered by things?”

“It’s easy.” “My specialty.” “Here, ham.”

I wanted to stamp ‘learn Japanese’ on the forehead of the last person.

“This is an Oyakodon. It got cold though.”

Maekawa-san began the introduction of her dish. Compared to the ones served at school café, hers had prettier egg, and better smell. Everyone wordlessly extended their chopsticks, screaming ‘so good!’ like the celebrity on TV. It wasn’t that we didn’t have the vocabulary, we just rather spend time eating than talking — compliments should only be mentioned after eating the meal.

Since Ryuushi-san avoided those chickens, I snatched them away.

But, shouldn’t the best be the last? From the half-full stomach, I pulled out a similar regret:

“But, hm, this definitely deserves three points.”

To secure the sudden points, dibs must be called. Since I’ve been taking care of Erio recently, I felt as if my Youth-points had been dropping.

“Points… Well, I take that as a compliment.”

Maekawa-san didn’t seem unaccepting, taking the cleaned bowl away.

Next up, Ryuushi-san raised the bowl with a smile of slight embarrassment and anticipation like when she showed me the doodling on her notebook:

“Mine is an Oyakodon with no chicken.”

So the ‘Oya’ part evaporated?

“Uh… Then it should be called Tamagodon?” I stared at the bowl with a question.

“But I heard that Niwa-kun likes Oyakodon!”

She grumbled. Where did that rumor come from? …Ah, from Maekawa-san? True, I remember praising the Oyakodon served at the school cafeteria a month ago. But that was just a comment on the school’s cooking, not for Oyakodon itself… Well, it isn’t too late to make this my favourite dish today.

Also, since it’s the same as Maekawa-san’s, she had meant it to be? Hmm, the smell of gunpowder.

“What’s the big deal~ Just try it. Here ya go~”

Ryuushi-san passed the bowl to my mouth; the other two crossed their chopsticks in the air. The atmosphere now does not permit food sharing.

Is Ryuushi-san’s food only for me (俺専用)? Or is it for folding (折れ専用)? Not knowing her intent, I wavered.

In the background, Maekawa-san grinned mischievously. Hm, eggs, hold up… There's something else in there. I rolled the object several times on my tongue. It's shaped like a carrot. Not chicken, but it's a bit soft. Oh well, I bit down on this mysteriously textured object. Then, sweet juice flowed between the teeth. One hundred percent fruit.

“...” I swallowed the thing first. “Hey, Ryuushi-san?” The after taste was just as mellifluous.

“How was it?”

Just like the 'how does it look?' after a girl tried on new clothes, it was a forceful rhetorical question.

However, before I critic the taste, I must point something out:

“Is there pineapple in here?”

“Mm.” She confirmed earnestly, the smile still intact.

“So Ryuushi-san likes the pineapple in sweet and sour porks, huh?”

The background with two people setting their chopsticks on the table and sipping their tea looked mighty alluring.

“I love it. Personally I love sweeter flavour.” I especially spoke with the volume audible to Maekawa-san while shoving the pineapple-don in my mouth.

“Um… Is it good? How's it taste?”

“Mom taught me to not talk with my mouth full.”

“Weren't ya just talking normally?”

Once people start asking about my thought on the taste, I gloss over with that phrase. In the end, I cleaned the entire bowl on my own.

My throat is so sweet. Upon downing the tea, a blurring bitterness suffused in my mouth, somehow nauseating me.

The next two entrees weren't interesting, so I'll introduce them both.

“Fried-egg don.” Mine. Referring to the cooking manga Meme-san has.

“Ham-don.” It was literally sliced ham slapped on steaming rice. Because of the remaining amount of rice in the steamer, there's wasn't much in there. This was of course Erio's product.

With nothing particularly worth noting, the four of us ate quietly. Not that I moved my chopsticks. Although toward the end everyone entered the mode of 'I'm tired of rice' and dropped his or her chopsticks, we finished laboriously.

“Thanks for the food...” The listless voices of thanks crawled in the kitchen.

Perhaps having eaten Maekawa-san's Oyakodon first was the right choice. In the end, my stomach was too filled to taste anything anymore.

Being too full, no one planned on leaving his or her seat. We merely waited lethargically.

Though the thought of cleaning dishes poked from the corner of my mind, the lower half of my body refused to move the encumbering torso.

“Ah, it's almost nine. Aren't ya heading back, Maekawa-san?”

Ryuushi-san seemed to probe her with a 'I won't leave before ya do!'

“Yep.” Maekawa-san nodded affirmatively, even smirking. But before anything came from her lips, Erio, sitting beside me, popped up:

“Um, staying… over?”

“Eh?” Maekawa-san and I both seized.

The shock wasn't just from the act of 'staying over' — it was from the act of Erio's proposal.

In addition, the only vegetarian in a sports club jumped at the words:

“W-w-w-what are ya saying~!!”

Ryuushi-san pecked furiously at Erio. She's pretty energetic after the meal.

“Uh… I mean… Is it not good? It's… dark out… and dangerous… Like, aliens… and stuff.”

Erio stuttered incoherently for excuses. But Erio, the androphobic girl, was suggesting others to stay.

Is she happy to be able to spend times with girls of her own age after so long?

Well, since she had the attitude of wanting to connect with others, her return-to-society points indeed increased… Uh, this might be the first and the last time it will ever increase along with my Youth-points.

Originally gawking, Maekawa-san quickly went along with Erio's proposal:

“If you insist. Meme-san did mention that we could stay if it took too long. I got clean clothes when I went to get bottles, so I'm all good!”

Ahaha! Maekawa-san laughed heartily; the lab coat fluttered.

In other words, I'm spending a night with Maekawa-san under the same roof? Ung… My heart seemed to be strangled on the top.

Ryuushi-san spun back to face us, for a second giving the illusion that only her head moved. “Absolutely shameless!” She had to give preface:

“What about Niwa-kun? Stop lazing around like a slime!”

“Hmm. I mean, what's the problem? As long as Meme-san and Erio agreed to it.”

“Whazzup with that indifferent reason?!”

“Well, this isn't exactly my house.” I am living under someone else's roof. Totally different story if it's my house though.

If a girl wanted to stay over, isn't the necessity to deny her non-existence?

“Right?” I casually sought agreement from Erio. “Right~” She parroted me. Wait, this is your house right? The persuasiveness of my statement plummeted, bring even my cognition down.

“T-t-then I'm staying over too?! W-w-what am I gonna do??”

“Ryuushi-san too… Isn't that okay though?” My heart accelerated. We're talking about living together!

“This is cheating before the graduation trip! As the disciplinary committee, I cannot over look this!”

“Oh, Ryuushi-san's disciplinary?”

While I was hospitalized during May, the class' committees had been decided; thus I was shoved into the spot of Class Meeting Committee — which no one picked. So far, I'm not thrilled by this leftover.

However, telling everyone at school that 'Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san lived at my house~' and turning the school life around awaits me! Disregarding the feeling of superiority of course.

“What about your change of clothes?” We don't have basketball club uniforms here.

“Uh, oh, I'll go grab em.” Ryuushi-san decided to sneak out of the kitchen.

“I'll lend you… mine?”

Erio once again suggested an unexpected assistance. I oh'ed, exhaling a short breath of admiration.

Ryuushi-san too, showed a look of surprise; but she nodded vaguely:

“Mm, please then?”

“Good. Goood~”

Perhaps her brain cells finally gave up, Erio replied innocently.

I could no longer deny the possibility of sleep invading her head. She usually sleeps around ten, after all.

Confused by Erio's airy mien, Ryuushi-san pulled a cellphone out of her skirt. She's calling someone, probably her parents.

“...Hello, mom. So...” Saying so, she proved my theory.

Only, the part where she contended 'I told ya I'm not running away this time~' stood out to me. Ryuushi-san ran away from home before, huh. Hearing her unexpected past, I breathed out. Yet, peering over at that soothing back, I could not make the connection with the rebellious act of running away.

Everyone has a past, sculpting him or her in ways unseen by others.

In my dreamy mind, a sense of reverence grew for only the most natural thing.

✩

Although it was the rain season of June, the air outside still chilled at the eleven of night.

Wrapping a towel on my head, I came to the yard to cool down.

Grass shuffling underneath the shoes pleased the ear. Only, a melancholy followed — 'tis time to pull the weed.

Embedded with the June rain, wet wind melted in the warm skin just out of bath. Like making up for lost moisture, the usually sticky air soothed the skin. But I guess in about ten minutes, it'd become the fuel of a disagreeable sensation.

I walked to where the two bikes were parked, peeking toward the sky.

Cloud veiled the firmament; neither stars nor the moon hung in the air. I eyed at the obscure lights flashing above the distant town.

I did successfully bath, but the girls seemed to have fought a war.

Just earlier, they caused a racket in the bathroom.

To further the atmosphere of a grad trip, the three girls decided to bath together. But soon after they entered the bathroom, unattractive screams of 'Uwah~!' or 'Gawah~!' returned.

And then, steps fueled by rage stomped in the hallway.

With her right hand covering Erio's tiny head, and the left dragging Maekawa-san, who passed out sitting in the tub, Ryuushi-san charged into the room. The only thing on her was a big towel.

It's quite rude to say this when she's gone mad, but is it really okay to give me so much Youth-points in one go? I looked straight at Ryuushi-san.

“Why is she in there with her clothes on?”

“I messed up.” Reported the Erio with water dripped off of her.

“She said she messed up.”

“On what?!”

Hearing the explanation that explained nothing, Ryuushi-san let her voice fly. But since Erio's always ran into the bathroom fully dressed, I'd already habituated as one of the Touwa residents. It's nothing to be surprised by. She did took baths with the futon on before, which resulted in her almost drowning in the tub.

“C-coordinates.” Rambling, Erio answered Ryuushi-san's question. She was a little scared, under Ryuushi-san's menacing pressure. “X or Y-axis?!” Ryuushi-san, too, threw a mindless tantrum and exacerbated the pandemonium.

“Then… What about over there?”

“Ughhhh.” Maekawa-san's hand was lifted by Ryuushi-san, her head hanging languidly.

“Why did she fry like an octopus in just a minute of sitting in the tub?!”

“Circulation was too good.”

“Not… Not enough blood...”

“That sounds like the worst combination!”

So something like that happened. From the view of the disciplinary committee, does this suffice as the preview of the graduation trip?

Meme-san came back in about thirty minutes later. She stormed in her room quickly, grumbling something about being busy tomorrow. Perhaps she was planning something about the beach tomorrow.

Depthless wind blew. Branches on the neighbor's wall shook like fans. Maekawa-san should have come outside: it could improve the cooling rate.

Should I tell her? I turned, but changed my mind again and remained outside.

More than Maekawa-san's moaning, I wanted to continue listening to the sound of wind. The gale that blew today sounded like the echoes in the mountains of my old home — as if something soared in the sky.

Probably because of the nearby Self Defense airbase, the area was used to the sound of aircraft gliding. Was something flying? Could it really be a UFO? Or a floating bicycle?

At that moment, I heard the clank of the entrance door. Turning slightly, I saw Ryuushi-san wearing the slippers Erio doesn't like wearing. She planned on coming outside. Our eyes met; she smiled as if relieved.

“Heya.” I called out.

“Hey ya~!” She waved both hands at me. Wearing the white-blue striped pajama Erio lent her, she looked even younger. Accompanied by the slapping of slippers, she headed toward me.

“I went back to take a quick shower. It's so hot~”

“Yeah? How's Maekawa-san doing?”

“Just chilling on the hall's floor.”

“Erio?”

“Cooling that Maekawa-san with a fan.”

“Hm.” Maybe those two get along well.

“Here ya go.” Ryuushi-san stood next to me and passed a cold can of juice.

“Oh, thanks.” I took the juice, pulled the tab up and poured it in my mouth. The sour of orange.

“What if it rains tomorrow?”

“Hm. Well, if that happens, we'll just ask Meme-san.”

“True.” Ryuushi-san put her own can to her lips: “Hm, awesome.”

She gently exhaled and smiled. My heart raced at the shape of her lips.

“It sounds like something's flying through the air.”

Ryuushi-san mumbled at the cloudy sky. It sure sounded like it.

“What if a meteor came down?”

“I heard those can be predicted years before happening.”

“Jeez~ Stop saying dreamless things.”

Jokingly pouting, Ryuushi-san scolded my comment.

Dreams, you said. If a meteor hits us, the human race would be finished! But maybe some people do wish for that.

At least for now, I don't wish for a meteor. Not before I finish talking with Ryuushi-san.

“Tomorrow is actually my birthday.”

“Eh?” Surprise jolted my body, enough to necessitate my rebalancing.

Like confessing to a tiny prank, Ryuush-san smiled demurely.

If I knew a bit earlier, I would have prepared something beforehand!

“Really? We're a day early, but should we celebrate now?”

I passed the can in front of Ryuushi-san; she did the same. “Cheers!” The cans bumped. Let's celebrate a bit like this. The not-so-sweet orange juice flowed in my throat.

“I still wish that something special would happen on my birthday! I hope a meteor would come down, and bang!”

Ryuushi-san gestured her very own wish.

“Hmm. When we're done with the beach tomorrow, should we all celebrate?”

“Celebrate?”

“Having others celebrate for you isn't special or anything, but I think it's pretty important.”

Ryuushi-san blinked incessantly, finally saying with a red face: “That sounds nice too.” A tiny smile: “Mm, maybe it'd be the best!”

Perhaps assenting as well, she nodded deeply. Her gaze darted around for a bit:

“Even though it's kinda spur of the moment, but it's still kinda embarrassing.”

Heheheh. Ryuushi-san rubbed the back of her right hand:

“I mean, staying over at… A boy's place.”

“Yeah?” I played stoic. If it were me living at Ryuushi-san's house though…

“Yeah!” Ryuushi-san lifted a fist in hope for certainty.

“Well, I have already seen Ryuushi-san's sleeping face in math class before.”

“Why did ya look?!” Her eyes widened in retaliation: “And I told ya I'm Ryuuko!”

Seriously! She contendingly drank the juice. The exaggerated way she bit on the can, or rather poured the drink, was a bit childish, but cute.

“It'd be different if we shared a room. Since we don't, I'm not really that curious.”

Cough! Ryuushi-san's throat bulged. After choking, she tremblingly asked with tears in her eyes:

“D-different room… Right? Me and Niwa-kun?” Now's my turn to choke.

“D-different room.”

“Y-you’re right, mm...”

Both of our voice shifted in tone; both looked at our own feet.

Zephyr turning cold refreshed our burning cheeks.

Ah, that's right. Might as well make things clear with her.

“Ryuushi-san. About the t-t-thing from before.” My voice cracked halfway.

“B-before?” Oh? She's wavering.

The two of us hurried for a deep breath, waiting for the quake inside to settle.

“Good now?”

“Good now.”

“This is my report at this specific point of time.”

“Mm?”

“Hypothetically, Erio is walking around town when her old classmates came to harass her. And I happened to witness it.”

“...Mm.”

“If that were to happen, I will stand by Erio.”

Ryuushi-san's eyelashes shook; she looked down melancholily.

Well, I think it's dumb too.

However, I don't want to be smart enough to leave Erio to die.

“Uh… Even if it isn't Erio, but Maekawa-san or Ryuushi-san, I will stand by you as well.” I mean, everyone is a pretty girl after all.

“…...” Ryuushi-san remained mute, her left eyelid occasionally jumped.

“Whenever I plan on helping Erio, and you happen to be walking home with me, just kick me really hard in the back.”

I can't have Ryuushi-san suffer for my action. If she does just that though, she won't be seen as my friend. If she doesn't, she might even be branded as the leader.

“Even being alone, I'll still think of ways to be happy. Don't worry about me then.”

Even with just a person, a broom can still be used to rock the world. Enjoy life !

Moving forward to youth without accessories might be fun as well.

And as long as I stand by Erio, she would naturally do the same for me too, wouldn’t she?

Hence I tried to explain my attitude toward Erio to Ryuushi-san in the most cheerful manner.

If it does end up like that, Youth-points will probably bite the dust, falling with no way of recovering — this simultaneous, depressing feeling churned deep down in my chest.

Ryuushi-san kept her head low, wording her reply directly:

“This is purely for this specific point in time.”

“...”

Ryuushi-san looked up. It is not as if her face conveyed no emotion — a serene, almost defeated look:

“In that case, I will not stand with Touwa-san.”

“Hm.”

“But...”

After a pause, Ryuushi-san stood a step away from me.

With hands behind her back, she timidly leaned forward:

“But, I think I will stand with Niwa-kun.”

Finished, Ryuushi-san froze at the spot.

We gazed at each other.

Together we felt embarrassed.

Our faces reddened.

“Uwah~!”

She ran off. Scrambling to the entrance, she darted into the house.

I wanted to run somewhere too. Mostly to escape the embarrassment and the heart that raced even faster.

Just as I thought of this, Ryuushi-san peeked out half her face from the entrance and called me by a new name: “Mako-chan~!”

“Wha~t?”

“Ya are gonna get a cold in the wind out there, be back soon!”

“I know~!”

First replying to the mom character with shaky legs, I scratched my cheeks.

A certain object tore through the air still. I looked up to the sky.

Meteors did not slash through the clouds.

We will definitely welcome tomorrow.

“… Four, points?”

From the sense of fulfillment, and the proud smile on my face.

The following day came.

Under the urges of Erio and Maekawa-san, who were both regular early-risers, I woke up on the Eight o'clock of a day-off.

“That's pretty sad, transfer student. Can't you wake up without the chickens?”

“Waking before noon is considered as healthy in my household.”

We had the Maekawa-san's egg sandwiches and Erio's ham sandwiches for breakfast.

We shared the food, leaving the house with rockets in hand after dressing up.

As a side note, Erio wore twin tails today for some reason.

After my query in front of the shoe cabin, she quietly answered: “Because… It made the cousin happy.”

Since when have I cheered for twin tails? Is my spot in the Touwa household heading toward some weird direction? Including the various things involving Meme-san, concern brood over my mind.

“I wasn't expecting my plan of heading to the beach with you to be carried out like this.”

Maekawa-san saddled on the bicycle, flinging these words out expectantly. “Beep, beep!” Ryuushi-san, who prohibited the beach because of the jelly fishes, whistled. The frequency of that whistle was beyond my ability.

Erio naturally docked in her proper (?) spot of bicycle basket.

Touwa, you're hilarious! Like talking about escaping an island with four people on a raft that could only carry three. “When you're leaving, have one of you be part of the raft by holding on to the wood. That's how it's done.”

The example Maekawa-san drew balanced on the line between logic and nonsense, difficult to have a response for.

Thus we set off for the designated beach.

Why did I listen to Meme-san's instruction? Questions spun with the wheels, but I still pedaled onward.

The trip that took two hours with the old bike took only a bit more than an hour today.

On the beach with no superficial connection with Erio.

Six bottle rockets lined up on the platform, pointed toward the sky.

A visitor came before us. He was a suit-wearing man preparing for the launch.

Noticing us, he stopped and headed here.

“Ah, the space stalker.”

“My fan!”

“Stranger.”

“Who?”

Four people assessed the middle-aged guy in front of us. What's up with the first two?

“You are...”

“Ah, hello.”

Maekawa-san greeted. Another one of her acquaintances? Counting Meme-san, is her secret of having so many connections her vertical length? Something spoken so rudely awed me.

“Hm.” The man looked at the rockets in ours hands, nodding:

“Did Touwa Meme asked you to come?”

“Yes.” The person reacting the fastest to her mother's name was none other than Erio.

‘Just as I thought.’ The man happily softened his expression:

“Then let's get going; not that there's anything left to be done, but you all should prepare to launch your own rockets. If you need to, I'll help too.”

He directed with a kind attitude, willing to lend a hand.

Seemingly unfamiliar with him, Erio cocked her head quizzically.

“Let's get ready early, since we don't know when Meme's showing up.”

The middle-aged man urged us, his hands preciously holding on to a crimson bottle rocket.

Perhaps noticing my stare, he ostentatiously raised the red device with a wry grin.

“This is just a bonus; I'll get ready myself so don't touch it.”

“Oh no!” Now that I think about it, I think I forgot to wake Meme-san up.

The man turned to face the beach — in just a moment, he mumbled:

“My youth's on you. Counting on ya.”

The words floated into my ears. And so I decided to help out.

I'm a total adolescent guy (青春男). It might look like it's pronounced Ao-Haru-O, but I emphasize:

It's pronounced Seishun Otoko. Earnest to the point of stupidity.

Honestly, I had no clue why things ended up like this.

Am I entwined with something? I don't know, but I am currently swept up with it. That's what I thought.

But, well, who cares about the little thing?

Occasionally helping others get Youth-points sounds good too.

Especially if it's a five pointer, I will share the same glory.

### 008. Chapter 7 - The Prayer of Tsiolkovsky

"He was brought away by the gods."

That's what Tamura Obaa-chan said twenty eight years ago, when her husband, the Ojii-chan, passed away.

I was only twelve at the time, about to attend middle school the following year.

"It was a cattle mutilation — it must have been.”

From the farewell ceremony, the interment till home, Obaa-chan never cried. At the time, her face could still be called 'Oba-chan,' and there were less wrinkles. But she cried till her face was like now… Of course that'd never happened. For us bystander, she looked unmoved.

Even though it's already dusk, she sat in front of the register and ran the store. The grown-ups all said she's traumatized and pitied her. My brother dragged me there, where we sat quietly and listened to Obaa-chan's story.

“The gods are terrible beings. Unlike with other animals, they never take away the organs, but only the souls of people before leaving the body. Jii-san's body was very much pristine.”

After going to sleep, Ojii-chan never woke up. His face was peaceful, even though he wasn't that old.

The cause of death was unknown. Doctors looked over him, but they never found the reason. Perhaps because of that, Obaa-chan thought he was taken by the gods.

“People are gods' toy, as well as guinea pigs — such cruelty.”

Nii-san silently ate his chocolate popsicle; because the stick didn't say 'freebie,' he frowned — at least that's what he wanted us to think.

Nii-san, who loved Ojii-chan the most, cried in his futon after making sure everyone else went to sleep. We pretended to be asleep, staring as he sobbed. No one joined him.

Obaa-chan looked up to the alien signature personally forged by Objii-chan. It looked just like the signatures of baseball players I've seen on TV. “Plagiarism.” Obaa-chan grumbled.

At then, I didn't know what to say to Obaa-chan.

Since I had no comment, I merely questioned like usual:

“Are gods aliens?”

Obaa-chan squeezed a face full of wrinkles, either crying or laughing:

“Yes, the gods are aliens. That's why so many things are beyond our control.”

On the day that I woke to that dream, I had turned forty. June 6th, an easily memorized birthday.

“Really...” I used to play the sister character pretty well too! Just kidding! “Uwoahh...” Stiff shoulder in the morning already.

To escape the ceiling of reality, I rolled over on the bed. Ughh, can't move. Must be because of the sore on my leg.

“Ow, ow...” In their competition, the sore of the leg seemed worse than the shoulders'. My calves refused to work, currently boycotting; as if to wake me up, the pain and heat rose higher and higher.

“Towel… Uwoah.” Can't raise my right arm. The upper arm ruined the team formation, obstructing all efforts. Who would have known that the capturing activity from two days ago would show its repercussion today?

“But!” My tongue and jaw doesn't hurt when I move. “I'm seriously getting old.” How could you say that!

“E-easy peasy!” One-legged hop, step, and hop. I lightly… crawled up. After a bit of effort, I rolled to the side and got up on the table. Ughh, my waist… Is this the result of bending my back while stalking forward? I'll take the day off. Ah, but I still have to go feed 'them.'

Perhaps exhausted, I seemed to have woken up at a time that's highly inappropriate for functional adults. Glancing at the clock, I learned that it's past eleven.

Slowly taking off my pajama, I pulled open the pink curtain. Clear lights rare during the rain season suffused outside: it was a sunny day. But the rain was sneaking up. In the forty years of my life, I became disliking of the month. Because, it symbolized the time of separation.

Elliot, Ojii-chan, and even Nii-san becoming a June's groom in a different town— they all counted as departure. Then, there's my age. Especially my age. “Heeyah~” I attempted to intimidate someone with a mantis pose. With nothing covering me, this might be too much for any young men.

“It'd be bad for Mako-kun's growth!” Mm, mm~ I stopped, playing as an educator. If Nii-san visits and gave me a 'I picked the wrong person…' it'd be troubling. So, I treat my niece like a cat.

Clothing finished. Makeup… Whatever. Just give it a good smudge before leaving.

I rummaged through the dressing table and found the pain relief patches. I've been using these too much recently, and I think the smell's transferring onto me. I peeled yesterday's off and slapped the new one on my leg. “Kyah~” The cold sensation made me jump; the feeling is almost becoming a high. Is this patch addiction?

“Okay~” I walked around the room. After getting used to it, I noticed it hurt more when I stand still.

Wandering around, I contemplated. Thinking — my essence, and my all.

Today is Meme-chin's birthday~ Laundry or cleaning, I'm not gonna do it~

“Uwoh~” Imagination. Telling Erio my birthday. “H-happy...” I'm not happy at all!

“Uwoh~” Imagination number two. Telling Mako-kun my birthday. “Oh, happy birthday.” I just said I'm not… Gah!

“Uwoh~” Imagination number three. A cake with forty candles. Because of the abundant candles, it looks like a mountain of swords for flower arrangement. When I blew on the candles 'fuu' the flame set Erio's hair on fire. She rolled in a panic. The table that's been knocked over. The turkey and everyone's faces are messed up. What a tragedy!

“Hnng~” I put my hand up against my chin. “Ow!” The scratches on the back of my hand stung still. I'm not too popular with animals other than humans! I've been bullied before in elementary school by a band of rabbits during feeding duty. My brother, on the other hand, could lead a band with chickens, rabbits and ducks behind him. Is it because of some smell on him? For me, the only smell he has is of home.

“Sniff, sniff...” I tried smelling myself. No old people smell yet. Of course not! Rude.

“Okay~!” Let's think about what to do. Cleaning, laundry, cooking, feeding, working, playing with Mako-kun and bugging people. How should I begin? Having so many chores to pick from, I almost cried.

Alright. I extended both arms like wings and bolted outside:

“First, tease Mako-kun!”

Then I'll think about today's stuff.

After harassing Mako-kun like I promised, I hummed my way out of his room but almost slid off the stairs. Both my mental and physical energy had been depleted; my body had reached its maximum. Due to overusing, my back was as if carrying the weight a bicycle front wheel has to endure. Both my leg and waist were in a pinch. This… is a little… I can't. I didn't want to go out today. It is my birthday, so they'll understand. Mm, I'll take the day off.

But I still have to go to the school… Ugh.

I'll just focus on making the rocket in my room. Prototype number 1 is about to be completed.

Since I've decided, I will now take my special leave. I picked up the phone speaker placed next to the entrance. “Beep, beep, beep.” Although the number's already registered, my fingers still keyed in the memorized digits.

I waited for the part-timer cutie who should be working now.

“...Hello? Looking at this number, is it the manager?”

“Yes~ Actually, I feel like there's something happening today, so I can't move.”

“From what I can understand in that sentence, I'm guessing you're just being lazy.”

“Marvelous! So you'll ace the literacy exam, won't you?”

“Mm~ Well, I think it should at least be better than math...”

“About work, just listen to the substitute manager.”

“… The backup being better than the starter is indeed something worth considering.”

“It's just a name; the management right just so happened to have fallen into my laps! Goodbye~!”

Clank, I hung up. Phew~ I was nervous like during middle school whenever I asked for a leave because I wanted to slack off.

Perhaps due to moving constantly, I've acclimated to the sluggishness of my leg. Now my arm's acting up and I can't get it higher than my heart. Yet I tried to hide the sore from the family. Why? Because it felt lame. For humans, appearance is vital! And not just the inside.

Mm~ An easy life without the usage of arms… Oh right! Bingo~ The bulb shone.

I just need to cover myself in futon. Hohoh, learning something from my daughter, I must be gettin— still young! My learning ability is still ripe! Yahoo! That’s it!

After seeing Mako-kun and Erio, who were going somewhere, off, I went back to my room where the futon was still inside. Then, with the laundry rope, I tied the futon and crawled inside. Perfect. It's warm. It's hot. And stuffy. Is this a sauna? I can't even see a thing.

No, I saw darkness. The remnant of light also drifted in my eyes. The perfect night was absent in the futon. I tried rolling. Easily done; hence I rolled ceaselessly, keeping the speed low out of fear of running into the wall. I thought more about things. But In the end, I ended up being an adult who had to shoulder these burdens.

“Forty~ Sigh...”

What did Tamura Obaa-chan think when she turned forty?

What did the fifteen-year old Erio see in this murk?

What I saw, was the small-scale replay of memories— a time machine.

✩

The afternoon on the following day, Nii-san and his wife called. Their target, needless to say, was their son Mako-kun. If the phone does ring, I doubt Erio, who has no social sense, would pick up. But if it went off during daytime on the days when no one is home, would she answer? If she does, and it's someone I know, how would I explain? I pondered about the scenarios.

Except for some relatives, I hid the existence of Erio. Adults, after all, have things to consider.

After exchanging with Mako-kun, I had him pass me the phone. A familiar breathing came into my ear. That stubborn forty-two years old even breathes with rules. How does he not suffocate?

“...Hm? Makoto?”

“Helo-ine! Coca-ine!” Let's do some drugs first, then do more!

“Sorry, wrong number. I'll check the number, date and person and call back later.”

“Ah, don't hang up! You're just like Mako-kun, hmph!”

“Listen… Are you giving my son a hard time?”

“You used to only talk with your girlfriend for forever, I've always wanted to beat the crap out of you...”

“You're just the same old, huh… It was your birthday yesterday, right?”

“You remember?”

“Of course.”

“So where's that birthday present?”

“Did you know? June 6th is Brother's day. Shouldn't you be giving me something instead?” (TL notes)

“You jerk, I'm gonna give your wife evidence of you cheating!”

“I'm hanging up.”

“Wait, I have a question for you.”

Timing when Erio left the entrance, I cut to the chase.

“Why do you always take so long to get to your point? What is it?”

“Nii-san, you used to scare women away, but not animals, right?”

“I'm hanging up.” Good, she's gone.

“Tell me the secrets to getting close with animals.”

“How would I know? Go feed them with bones or something.”

“You're so cold! Omigewdness!” (TL Notes: Acchonburike あっちょんぶりけ the catch phrase of Pinoko from Back Jack)

“You're so annoying. You have a pet cat or dog now?”

“I even have a pet wild weasel!”

“That's not even a pet! You just wanted animal therapy to avoid facing dying alone as a city grandma, right?”

“Your adorable son is in my hand right now. If you want him back as a virgin, don't mention my age again.” (TL notes: I thought about changing this, but nah)

“Then are you building a Meme animal kingdom? Ahh~… Secrets, huh. Secrets? Was there any?”

“Nii-san, stop thinking and actually say something.”

“You are just so infuriating when you make sense. How about having them open up to you?”

“Where do I open on them?”

“I don't know. Now I'm really lost. Anyway, in simple terms.”

“Mm.”

“Use your head.”

“You're really unfit to be a teacher. Didn't you contributed to national by getting booted off the teacher certification exam?”

“Isn't thinking what you're good at?”

“True, but people al~ways think that I'm not thinking.”

“Must be your face.”

“Ah, cuz everyone's so mesmerized?”

“… Thinking is one good thing you have — take care of it.”

“And the one bad thing you have, Nii-san, is looking down on your sister so much! Make sure you get better with that!”

“I'm hanging up.”

“Mm, I'm going to make dinner too. I'm going to fatten your adorable son and make foie gras out of him✩”

“Before you go, let me give you a bit of advice.” He sudden lowered his voice and sped up.

“Wh~at?”

“Burn the evidence.”

He hung up. Beep, beep, the speaker rung, trying to resonate Nii-san's words.

“I was just kidding.” I grinned satisfactorily.

What will the kindling in my hand burn?

But that's another story.

✩

June 8th, one more day passed. 206 days until New Year, and two days after my birthday.

In the morning, while eating a slightly early breakfast, Mako-kun reported that 'Erio said she wants to work.' I mixed the Natto, giving off the appearance that I was still asleep and pretended that I wasn't listening. What I considered wasn't the will that Erio wanted to work with, but how to get her work. As for the carrying out the act itself, I will hand it to Mako-kun for now.

“I'm heading out!” After eating and preparing, I hollered from the entrance. Erio, who had woken up, charged down the stairs to wave at me with a 'have a nice day.' Erio-chan is such a good girl. Complimenting her being like myself yesterday was the right choice~ Eeheehee. Of course I didn't think that — especially the latter part.

Leaving the door, I went into the storage. Faced with my love ride, my calves continued to twitch painfully; but I lightly brushed it off. Saddling onto the bicycle that was new four years ago, I began to pedal slowly.

Ring, ring! I rung on the bell to raise my morale. Ring ring~ Ring ring~ Ring ring~!

“Shut up!” My niece reminded me from the opened window on second floor. “Was that a whip of love?” With that question, he immediately answered with an indifferent 'It's a whip of death!' He sounded just like my brother when he's young.

“I'm heading out~” I looked to the cloudy sky and waved at him. “Yes, yes, please look ahead when you ride.” Mako-kun, too, lightly waved at me. Mm, Mako-kun's 'tsun' is really hard, just like the rice in our house. If he ever becomes 'dere,’ though, he will never let go. How exciting!

With enthusiasm as fuel, I pedaled toward the store I’ve missed for three days. This wasn’t just starting late because I’m on management, but the privilege of being able to come whenever I want. Thus I didn’t sulk, instead rode on with head held high. Like a bird dancing through the air, I almost gracefully flew into the warning sign of a construction site. Now was not the time for silly mistakes!

Penetrating through the workers and students who were on their way to work or school, I took the back alley to the shopping districts. I used to dash through here — and trip. Even though I was the fastest in the group, I was often also the most oblivious. Thanks to the fall, though, I never ran directly into the street and hence the scooters or trucks along the way. I like to think it's a good thing. Actually, the same applies now as well: the bicycle that moved slowly due to my sore leg just avoided running into an orange moped. We will never know what is truly auspicious for them. Every cloud has a silver lining — the same applies for Momo-tarou’s story. The grandma cried about ‘I don’t wanna go do laundry by the river. I don’t even wanna move! Your turn, old man. Might as well be naked, too! What do we got to lose at this age? Build a new house next to the river while you're at it!’ or something like so to emphasize her laziness; when she unwillingly went to the river, she found the peach. After ten years, the son or grandson born of the peach beat the crap out of the local monster, and they found themselves swimming in gold. What I mean is, the domino of destiny is very intriguing. (TL Notes: Story of Momo-tarou, in which a boy born of a peach flowing down a river defeated the demons on an island with a monkey, pheasant, and dog. His grand/parents are an old couple)

Riding down a short slope, I let my limbs free to enjoy the much anticipated autopilot. The wheels spun successfully today, leading me down the hill like on a slide. It was awesome. Usually, it would swirl around.

After taking the time that’s not even excusable for management, but ghost members, I arrived at the store. I parked the bicycles in the corner of the parking lot and went into the back door. I thought about sneaking in, but in the end I walked in with my chest high.

Inside the substitute manager was already preparing to open. Her dexterous movements dazzled, as if encouraging the eyes that followed her to train hard. Substitute manager, Komaki-chan, noticed my presence and bowed lightly. The hair that poured to her shoulder politely drooped with its owner.

“Good morning, manager. It’s been three days.”

“Yup, it’s been three days for me too. It’s weird, but I think we’re on equal ground!”

“I’m always surprised that your brain doesn’t disagree with how biased its usage is.”

Her tone seemed simply impressed. “Was that a compliment?”

“Absolutely.”

“Oh yay~!”

I tried cheering for it. Koma-chan disapprovingly stared at me as if saying ‘amazing.’ But it didn’t last long. She looked back to the work on hand. Because of the serious and dedicated person that she is, this store managed to survive. Or rather, am I still needed?

“Do you want to be the manager?’

Everything is worth a try, so I asked. “No thanks.” Koma-chan denied the promotion without raising a brow.

“The only reason people work hard is because you are the boss.”

You’re good as a negative example. My brother, who failed many of his job applications, complained to me before.

“Thanks to you, boss, the part timer from last month is also very hardworking.”

“Ah, what’s that pretty girl’s name? Uh… I don’t remember at all.”

“What was it?”

The girl’s overwhelming appearance trivialized her other relevant information.

“That aside… So, I’ll keep the title of manager…?”

“Yeah, you have a surprisingly strong presence. That’s not too bad, right? Being the mascot manager.”

“Heheh, then I will keep it. My ex also told me this: using the metaphor of a village with a hundred people for earth and humans, I think you are worth about five people.”

“Those five are definitely not humans.”

Koma-chan grinned wryly and began doing something else. She’s such a diligent sweetheart, yet she only wrote down ‘being sound-minded’ in the specialty part of her resume. “Well, I thought it over, but it’s seriously the only thing I could think of.”

I recall when she said that while scratching her cheek like it was yesterday.

“For someone who skipped work, you look tired. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. But I’m still not going to work.”

That’s right. Koma-chan exaggeratedly nodded:

“So, a boy came here yesterday and asked a strange hypothetical question. Oh, he was a customer.”

“Mm? What was the question?”

“Hypothetically, if half the human were to be eliminated, are you confident that you will stay in the remaining half? He said it was taken straight from the afterword of a novel.”

“Huh. So what did you tell him?’

“’Thank you, please come again.’ Then I handed over what he bought.”

“Was he impressed with how professional we are?”

“Well, he did force a smile.”

I sat down on a chair, elbows on knees, and observed Koma-chan working. Stare~ Stare. “Jiiii~”

“Please don’t pretend to be a cicada indoor.” (TL Notes: the onomatopoeia for staring in Japanese is じいい)

Inspection complete! I am bored. I stood and knocked the chair away with my butt:

“I’m leaving for a bit~”

“Remember to be back before snack time!”

“Ahaha, I will work hard next month! I’m counting on ya~”

Swinging my handbag, I skipped out of the store. I wasn’t even there for ten minutes.

Jumping onto the unlocked bike that seemed to have predicted the outcome of things, I yelled ‘woohoo~!’ and flew onto the streets. The acceleration wasn’t too bad, but my legs were still too flaccid to keep up with the speed. After stabilizing, the wheels finally lost all their initial speed.

The destination, Tamura Shop. Ring ring, clank clank… Sigh~

✩

“Hah… Hah…” Panting heavily since the middle of the trip, I reached Obaa-chan’s house. When I got off, I stood on my toe for a second; like the sports injury drawn in hot-blooded sports manga, my left calve twitched intensively. Ultimately it was solved with a bit of cold sweat. Mm, good thing I didn’t work before coming here.

I looked back to the place that seemed to be the territory of that seemingly stray dog. I’ll find and capture him later.

Insisting on taking on the badly installed door on the right, I finally cracked open a slit that only a slim person like me could fit through after almost shaking the door out of its frame. Though my shoulders were almost stuck, I still forced my way through the opening. As usual, the siren-like doorbell screamed. I raised my head, looking down only after gawking for a bit.

“… Sigh.” Despite waiting, Obaa-chan never came to the front. Maybe she couldn’t. When her legs aren’t doing so good, she can’t get up from her bed; even if she managed to crawl out of the room, she could never make it to the bathroom… No matter how many times I suggested to have a care taker, she rejected the notion.

A hint of disappointment dragged my feet. I took off my shoes and entered the residence. As if the unseasonal snow that fell outside sucked all sounds away, the hallway was deathly silent. The air, too, was frigid, filled with the mien of ruin incompatible with human breathes.

I didn’t knock, directly pulling open the door in the middle of the hall. The pancake laid in the center bulged slightly. Seeing the tiny movement of breathing, I exhaled.

“I was about to go to the store!”

The usual words that sounded like an excuse made me smile. Obaa-chan’s shaky hand appeared on edge of the futon that covered even her head. She seemed to know who the visitor was without looking and said: “Meme, could you put my hand where the glasses are?”

“Yep.” How capricious of her, I smilingly slid next to the pillows. I held her hand and wrist — a thin, wrinkled and untoned wrist.

Despite my eyes deteriorating from age, I could still see clearly how emaciated her arm has become. Despite the bangs that draped and blocked my sight, reality was unabatedly displayed in front of me.

“Your hand.” She slightly squeezed back on my hand.

“Eh?’

“This is a blindfold riddle, right? Too easy.”

She happily guessed on her own, seemingly saying ‘don’t look down on me!’ This granny… Her mouth really doesn’t know the meaning of deterioration.

“Correct.” I praised her first before handing the reading glasses to her. I planned on letting go after putting her hand back into the futon. But Obaa-chan continued feeling my hand. For a second I thought she was writing something, but the trace contained no pattern.

“Obaa-chan?”

“Oh, your skin is still pretty smooth. Looks like you’re doing well.”

You could have just looked at my face!

After a while, Obaa-chan let go and put on her glasses, only peeking out from the futon.

Her lowered face grabbed my attention.

“Why did you come here?”

“To see you, Obaa-chan. Good morning.”

“Hmph, the same thing every time. Since when have you become such a boring kid?”

So from Obaa-chan’s view, I’m still a kid? No, wait! I think I’ve actually been branded the nickname of ‘big kid’ by other relatives! According to rumors anyway.

In other words, I’m still young! Woohoo! That’s right, woo!

“I’m already a grown-up.” But I still have to emphasize.

“Idiot. Grown-ups don’t play around at this time.”

“What about Obaa-chan?”

“Can't you tell I'm working at home?”

“Then I’m also running some errands.”

“You sure can run your mouth.”

Obaa-chan criticized me with the uncongenial attitude of both happy and cynical. She rustled both legs out of the futon, looking just like a turtle with front legs retracted.

“I’m going to do laundry, so I’ll take your clothes for you.”

“Fool, didn’t I tell you to go work instead of taking care of people?

“Or do you want to take a shower?”

“I’ll do that later. For now… Well, talk.”

“Talk…” The chatty Obaa-chan actually handed the job of talking to me.

“My tongue isn’t working too well today.”

Obaa-chan said so with a poker face. I hope it was just a joke.

“…Oh, the town’s animals seem to be disappearing recently.”

I shamelessly brought the topic up. “Wha?” Obaa-chan first scowled, and then understandingly looked away:

“I knew that from a week ago.”

“And it’s still happening! I heard that the stray cats and dogs all disappeared from the town.”

“Hmph. Cattle mutilation, huh.”

Obaa-chan mumbled amusingly. Those were muffled words difficult to understand.

“Oh, there wasn’t any body though!”

“The type that leave the bodies behind is already proven. Mysterious disappearance is always cattle mutilation, has to be.”

She hid both legs back into the futon. Obaa-chan’s smiling face, like that of a young prankster, was the collective of wrinkles. Not a solid sign of energy on there: like a kite, she was held together only by skin and bones. A kite floating in the daily breeze; if the wind were to pick up — and it doesn’t even need to be a gale — it will be torn into pieces, and crash.

“Are you excited?” My eyes hovered in the room as I spoke.

“For what?’

“Cattle Mutilation. The aliens might just be somewhere in this town.”

Obaa-chan laughed, like reacting to a kid saying 'I won't sleep till Santa is here!'

“Even if they are, you can’t see them!”

“Can you really declare something you’ve never seen as invisible?” Even though the phrasing is contradictory.

“They must be here right now. I bet you can’t see them.”

“If I were to rampage through this room, could I wipe them out?” I said so while rolling my sleeve up.

I was actually kind of serious. Perhaps noticing that, Obaa-chan casually pretended to have not hear me:

“It'll be my turn soon.”

“You’ve been saying that since twenty years ago. Is it still true?”

“Hmph… People who have expectation in fools must also be idiots themselves.”

“Uweh?”

“Stop making those disgusting sound. You really haven’t changed; both your face and personality are still off the hinge.”

“Oh yeah. Nii-san always said that I can emit Y*metaran radiation.” (TL Notes: Referring to Yametaran from the Ultraman TV series. Yametaran can emit a radiation that sedate people and make them lazy)

It’s about time for a new topic. I messed my bangs up, sorting out the uncertainly in my voice with a ‘ahh~’

“Obaa-chan.”

“Mm.”

“What did you think of when you turned forty?”

“Forty… Right, your birthday was last week?”

“Eh? Yes.” Before protesting to her about reminding me of my age, I was shocked with how she remembered.

And she even remembered my age.

Obaa-chan’s feet once again crept out of the futon. This time she tiptoed with her tiny feet, advancing slightly. The toes that pressed into the tatami allowed Obaa-chan to move another two centimeters. She planned to leave the room — took me two seconds to realize this.

“Obaa-chan, are you going to the restroom?” I stuck my hand beneath to support her.

“Stu~pid. I was going to give you a present. A snack of your choice on the house.”

“Haha, this brings me back!” Just like old time. Before I turned twelve, was I able to hop joyfully every year?

What’s different now is, I can no longer freely follow Obaa-chan's back.

I put Obaa-chan on my back. I intended to help her anyway.

“I can usually walk; today just happened to be a bad day.” Obaa-chan explained bitterly above my head.

“Yep, I know.” Her voice was raspy. The lips, unstable, felt just like her skins.

“Ah, it’s, uh, muscle sore. I tried to lift a box of cola yesterday, so my waist is sore.”

“What a coincidence! I left work early today because my legs are sore!”

“…You will never be someone who can walk on your own two feet.”

Obaa-chan was reprehensive; my heart only ached.

Even with pained muscle, I did not feel burdened carrying her — Obaa-chan has become so light.

The damp skin festered with pus.

I stopped. Eyes closed. With my tongue as guidance, I deeply, deeply breathed.

I refuse. Someone other than me wanted to use my mouth to say something.

“What? Are you tired? …A certain old man should have told you: where you lack strength and brain, make up with will! Well, not that your will is worth any expectation.”

“Obaa-chan.”

“Don’t tell me to get off, ahahah!” She lost her voice halfway through the laughter.

“I will defeat them.”

“What, your slacking tendencies?”

“No, those are my pets.” Nyahaha~ I glossed over with a laugh and opened my eyes.

Go forward. Then, I thought of something:

“Um… Obaa-chan?”

“Mm?”

“I want to send you a great worker…”

How about letting Erio work here? I think this time, it has to be the best idea.

✩

Weekend, ‘June Twelfth’ was completed. The rocket was simply and whimsically named after its day of completion. Just as bad as naming the kid Erio after her father Elliot. ‘That’s fine’ I’m currently looking for a man who could say the same. Actually, I don’t think I am.

“Yay~ It’s done~ Zoom~”

I lifted the newly-born rocket high with both hands and ran around the room. Ahh, being able to relive my youth… Ugh, the storm of complaints for me are as cruel as usual.

No. This is the gap that will excite everybody. Uh, I hope. Pshuu~ ...Mm, since this is a rocket, it should be silent after it reaches space. Though it is a little unromantic, flying with no sound.

“Test flight complete.” Next time, I'll use hydro power to test it.

Mako-kun and Erio both stepped out for their ill-prepared job hunt, so the house was devoid of noises and eyes. Since there's no need to be surreptitious, I just walked out with the rocket.

A clear day with patches of clouds; it might rain tonight though. In order to finish before they come back, I strapped the rocket tightly on the bicycle's back rack. As for work, I am of course running ‘errands’ outside again. I even forgot to put make up on, heheh!

I kicked off on the bicycle, in hope that it would finally rid my calves of sore that's finally let up. My destination: the abandoned farm school. I have to take care of the animals and test the rocket.

Ring, ring, clank, clank… Getting there is one thing, but why do I always ring the bell when I ride? Is this one of those 'everyone's seven habits?' (TL Note: The Japanese idiom無くて七癖, literally mean ' has to have seven habits,' which means 'everyone has his particular habits')

Parking the bicycle inside the school where the field with greenhouses is, I detached the rocket after locking up. “Yahoo~!” I charged forward, rocket in hand, like a surfer toward the beach.

First, break into the school from the door with broken lock. I left the rocket near the hallway's entrance to standby. Stepping barefoot on the lino floor, I felt a moisture that smoothed my feet.

Climbed up to the second floor in cold air like the one in Obaa-chan's house, I arrived at the office and opened its door. They really didn't care about this place, never locking up and all.

Even till now, I still disliked the musty air within. I picked up the animal feed on the table and left the way I came. Then I began the caring of animals that are each living luxuriously in their own room.

Each of them were full of spirit, baring their cute teeth at me unwelcomingly. “Open your mind~!” Gulped down with my brother's advice, I tried talking to them — to no avail. The advices simply lodged in my throat. I wasted more time and energy than needed feeding and cleaning the animals; finally, I moved onto the third floor. Up there was the new dog brought from around Obaa-chan's house. Perhaps he thought the classroom's smell was interesting, the dog sniffed everywhere.

On the way up the stairs, I almost heard Nii-san's laughter: “So this is what you 'thought of?” No, Nii-san, I am still thinking. This is only the process! I answered full of zeal.

Heyo~ I greeted the weasel and the dog, got nibbled by them, and then fed them.

Due to the food's cost exceeding the prediction, the war of attrition had been difficult. It's about time. With the thought in mind, I brought the rocket here today. The aliens are not in space — they hid in places closer to us.

I put the rest of the feed back in the reference room after taking care of all the animals; on the first floor, I scooped up the bottle rocket laying on the green hallway.

I put on my shoes and dashed to the track field. It may be our first time meeting, but I think it's safe to assume that he won’t bite me. I mean, he didn't look like a guy who will try and harm me!

Passing through the walkway between buildings, I moved toward the field where a factory-looking research building was visible. To the left was a dried swimming pool. When this school was still running, we would make up plans to sneak into the pool during night, and, like preparing for a field trip, we'd get super excited.

But in the end, we never did.

“Excuse me~”

In the middle of the field, the man again prepared for rocket launching today. I gregariously greeted him. Wearing a saggy suit that's never had a chance with an iron, he looked about my age… Whoa! This dude looks super young! A college senior? Looking for a first job?! If that were true, then I am, naturally, also a beautiful twenty-two years old college student… Shucks.

The man looked to be about thirty something, at least. On his right ear was a curious accessory; the 'failing-to-look-younger' fashion accessory drew my eyes, but ‘trendy’ is probably the least possible of what people would think of it.

“Whoa!” The rocketeer jumped, stopping his task of pumping the tire inflator. Though with no joy of 'a fellow rocketeer hath come!' he didn't actually appear fearful of a suspicious person — his reaction was comparable to a boy who was approached by a cute girl whom he didn't think he had a chance with.

“Nice meeting you! This is my—“ Ah, I wanted to use the business card. But it's something from thirty nine years old! It might end up as age forgery if I gave it to him. Not 'might,' but 'definitely.' Frustration grew.

“D-did you say 'nice meeting you'?” The rocketeer licked his lips while leaning forward peevishly.

“Yes?”

“No, I mean, you're joking, right?” His eyes blinked left and right.

“About what?”

“You're Meme, I mean— Touwa, right?”

Oops, he's got both first and last name right. An old friend?

“I lived here till middle school, so… Do you remember?”

The man fretfully gestured in a panic, begging recognition from my past. Why does he look like he's about to burst into tears? Does he want me to use a metaphoric bee on him? (TL Notes: Japanese idiom 泣きっつらに蜂. Literally translating to 'run into a bee while crying.' It's similar in meaning to a double whammy)

“Mm...” I placed a finger on my temple, eyes shut as if praying. Now playing memory. '”When was the last we met?”

“At least twenty years ago.”

“Mm, mm.” I reset the time and reminisced.

...Ah, could he be?

“Yamamoto-kun?”

“Wha—! Even with 'kun' added you didn't get a single syllable right!”

“But I probably remember now.”

“Not even my name was included in 'probably…' What exactly did you recall...?” Yamamoto-kun (subject to change) hung his head.

“No, I'm not kidding! I almost remember.”

“Ah, then do you still remember Seiji (星耳)?”

Looking up now, he asked in confirmation.

“Yeah, she's my friend.”

“I thought we were friends too…”

As for Seiji, she's a girl same age as I. She was a friend who moved elsewhere after revealing her pregnancy at highschool.

In the people I knew, she was the smartest who always played the famous detective in detective games.

“I heard she passed away, a long time ago too. Did you know?”

“No, I didn't. I see… She's gone, huh.” I felt surprised, but the acceptance came rather easily, not unlike mismatched wheels spinning.

I thought I shouldn’t have went to her funeral, but sighed in relief at the realization that I didn't have to see her in the coffin.

Whatever the case is, the gods are all morons!

“Since you know Seiji, we must be friends.”

“That's good enough for me. So, put all of your 'almost' together.”

“You are a friend who moved out of town twenty years ago.”

“That’s exactly what I just told you...”

He looked down dejectedly. I hope he doesn't guilt trip me so much next time.

“Did I just not stand out?”

Laughing weakly, he stared with anticipation. Should I just go along and laugh with him? It might end up being the fuse to make this Yamamoto-kun collapse in tears.

“Since when were you back here?”

I put up a nostalgic attitude and questioned. Considerate Meme, activate.

“Just last month. I quit my job and came home.”

Yamamot-kun grinned, tricked into a seemingly normal conversation. As if under the control of habit, he pressed on the inflator, once again pumping air into the bottles.

“Oh, by the way, I'm single.” Okay, so what?

Abruptly, a 'moo' echoed in the field. I turned to search for the origin, but no movements in sight matched the sound.

“An animal?” Still, It’s a little too loud to be them.

“Yeah, can you see the barn there? There’s a cow living there still.”

Yamamoto-kun pointed toward the campus at a direction that's different than where I usually come in. I had no idea. I have, however, seen the runways for horses there.

“Sometimes I feed it when I'm shooting rockets here. I’m actually starting to like it!”

“Yeah, it’s super healing!” Like, the biting and scratching.

“I think it’s the best when you can’t understand each other. Humans interaction is boring because it’s too easy to understand.”

He surmised like he's reached some peak of human relations, nodding contently:

“So what are you doing here? Don't you work?”

“I had little this and that. By the way, I want you to help me with this rocket.”

I came looking for the rocket-shooting weirdo; only, surprisingly, the other person (seemed to) knew me.

“Oh, sure. I'll give ya a hand.”

Yamamoto-kun stuck both hands out to catch it.

“So, why shoot rockets here?”

“Uh, eh… Oh, it's kinda like a hobby! Since I don't work anymore, I have a bit of time… So, uh...Hm.”

He put his own rocket on the side and took mine suspiciously:

“I love space, so I shoot these rockets. Yeah, that's it.”

“Oh~” As dubious as the motive seemed, I'm not particularly interested anyway, so I let him off.

“Oh yeah. I've never see her, but I heard your daughter is, uh, interested in space?”

“Eh? Yes, she is.”

So he even knew about my kid? With what he said about Seiji, he's pretty well-informed for someone who just came back last month.

“What a coincidence, me too.”

“You just told me that.” Does this Yamamoto think I'm senile?

“Just as I thought, there's a lot of people who like space here, huh.”

I don't. Not since the funeral twenty-eight years ago.

“So why are you shooting rockets too, Touwa? Are you interested in m— Uh, I mean, are you interested in it…?”

“It’s to defeat them.” Overlooking the field, I so declared.

Yamamoto-kun gawked at my forehead. He then patted his waist twice:

“Defeat… who?”

“The aliens.”

“...With a bottle rocket?” He looked down at the rocket he held.

“At least it'd do better than get rid of cats, right?” (TL Notes: A popular belief is that plastic bottles filled with water confuse or scare cats)

“These can't even hit airplanes though. Do these aliens ride around on birds?”

Yamamoto-kun smiled wryly with head cocked, but still agreed to help with the launching. His movement was concise, very practiced. He has always been nimble… Has he? Mm, I don't know.

He picked up the hose dragged from the water fountain and injected water into the bottle; he then suddenly pumped air energetically. So there's still running water here even though it's abandoned.

Yamamoto-kun finally finished preparation and kneeled down in front of the launch platform.

“You are… just far enough from the rocket, good.”

“Yep.”

“Then… Look closely, here we go.”

“Yep.”

“Three, two, one…!”

Zero. As I finished counting down inside, the rocket soared.

The shaken-carbonated drink burst, boiling and recoiling.

With the stream pushing, the bottle brought with it dust from the ground and drove toward the sky.

Its path wasn’t straight, wriggling left and right. Perhaps, that was why it never reached its apex.

Compared to Yamamoto-kun’s rockets, which I often peered at, the altitude wasn’t nearly enough.

However…

“It’s way faster than my Salamander (name I just gave for my bike)!”

Being able to see something going up at such a close audience, I was slightly taken aback.

“Ain’t it cool?”

Possibly because of sharing the same excitement with someone else, Yamamoto-kun grinned excessively. Mm, his smile is not quite composed enough though. I think a more collected face is manlier.

“But that rocket wasn’t very stable: the wing sizes were probably too different.”

While feeling joyous, Yamamoto-kun calmly observed me — he probably got used to watching me.

“Hoh, so I need to study a little more!” For the sake of assassinating the aliens.

I retrieved the rocket that, despite being blown around by the wind, finally landed in the campus. Yamamoto-kun, too, followed for some reason, his hands scratching the back of his head:

“Yeah, but someone actually makes better rockets than I do. In this town, I meant.”

“Oh~”

“So, uh… Where’s Elliot?”

“Elliot? He’s not here anymore. I don’t know where he is.” With his family, he moved again.

That reminds me, I’ve never met Elliot’s family. They had never come during parents visit days, and whenever I went to his house, he had always told me they were working or out shopping.

“I’ll make more rockets, so please shoot them for me!”

“Uh, sure, but…”

“Also, I have a favour I need to ask of you.” Good timing. It kind of felt like the guidance of fate.

“Oh, what is it? I can pretty much do anything for you! Yeah, whatever you want, just leave it to me.”

So just why did he fluster? It seemed like he was trying to convey how reliable he is with every word in that phrase. Question marks popped up in my head.

“Psst, psst…” After I requested the dubious Yamamoto-kun, ‘what?’ I met his upset face. “No?” I tried to push him further with a pathetic look.

“Well, uh… Fine! I get it. And it has to soon?”

“Yay~ Thanks! …Then, goodbye!”

“Yeah…”

We both waved vaguely at each other— “Touwa— I mean, Meme-cha—san!”

“Yes?” He hollered strangely as if calling me out for a duel. I turned.

“Uh, so… What I wanna say is… Would you… I mean, before… Or rather… Right, I have to be direct.”

He squirmed around like a girl, his toe drawing circles. Huh, that’s creepy. He’s like a bear pretending to a rabbit.

“…What is it, Yamamoto-kun?”

“I’m not Yamamoto!”

“Eh~ So what is your nam—“

“Marry me!”

“ W H A T ? “

My conscious was cut into eight separate lines. My, Meme didn’t understand a lick of it.

…Can’t I use ‘don’t understand’ to deal with this situation?

Without help of the setting sun, Yamamoto-kun lit up furiously. As for m-me...? How would I know!?

Disregard the cow mooing in the background.

Air circled my throat: I had nothing to say.

June 12th, eleven thirty, AM.

A man whose name I didn’t even know proposed to me.

✩

Except for before and after Ojii-chan’s funeral, I never went to the store with my brother anymore.

Nii-san made more school friends after he turned fourteen, and he couldn’t always come to the store. I’ve always thought that this was the line between being an elementary and middle school student. At the time I was in sixth grade, and I already had the hazy feeling that it was going to the last year I could keep going to the store. Elliot, too, was thinking the same thing, huh.

Elliot was a foreigner of my age. There was a huge house around where my family’s apartment was; he was the boy who lived there, and also almost every girl’s crush.

Elliot was a handsome boy; when he had just moved here, no one suspected him of a plastic surjer— surgery. He moved here with his family when he was six: he explained so when we just met. At the time, I thought he was the aliens that Tamura Obaa-chan and Ojii-chan were talking about.

His mysteriously colourless hair capable of reflecting all sorts of hue at different angles shot particles out lavishly — it was as if shining snow hid within. He had lucidly clear (although if it really was transparent, it'd be like a walking human anatomy model), pale skin, as well as defined and elegant features unlike the local's.

It's almost strange that he wasn't displayed in front of a train station like a statue.

Meme-chan, meaning me, fell in love with him on the first sight. I could rightfully say that he was my first love. Luckily, I became his first friend. Though we didn't get any further until a decade later. Interestingly and surprisingly, Elliot's first love didn't come to fruition.

I think the only person, in the past or the future, who could dump Elliot would be Seiji. According to her, Seiji said 'she disliked the part of Elliot that's like an alien' — hearing the comment, Elliot could only give a bitter smile of kindness.

Right after hearing that, I almost transformed into a monster, screaming every night: “Gwaahh! What a waste!” But twenty years since then, even I wonder about what sort of problem he had, considering that we aren't living together now. Well, I think I just couldn't see his flaw when we were young.

The twelve years old me and Elliot walked together to the grocery store. Just walking next to him was enough to make me lose calm. I had hoped that, maybe, if I absorb some of his bangs-particles, I'd become prettier. Heheh, not that I needed it! (Twenty-one year old me, debut!)

A month after Ojii-chan passed away, Obaa-chan restlessly ran her shop. A lot of older customers filled the store the week following Ojii-chan's funeral, but now was just the usual.

Seiji sat outside on the bench flipping through a novel. A bottle of ice water sat next to her, condensation covering it. Elliot happily talked to her while I quietly stared at the scene. As for the current me who's ruminating at the moment, it should just be deep contemplation.

I wonder— would Seiji still be alive, had she accepted Elliot's confession at the time and stayed here? But if that happened, Erio would never have been born, and that'd be problematic— my family, after all, is my main supplier of happiness points.

Entering the store, the siren-like device above the door would scream. I liked the feeling of secret base it created, so I always looked to it. “Welcome.” Obaa-chan coldly greeted. “Hello.” Erio and I responded together. I noticed, starting from that time, that Obaa-chan already didn't look well. Yet, I never brought it up with anyone else.

Elliot headed first to the drinks, while I the snack shelf. Since I promised dad that I'd only buy one snack a day, I deliberated. Spinning around the shelves, I nudged other people away. Eventually I casually made it to Elliot's side to eave drop on him, and, with some hope, join the conversation. Whenever I had the chance, I would always sneeeeak up next to Elliot.

He and a few other boys stood in front of the glass door of the fridge, pulling on each other while chatting.

“We make fireworks around here. Oh~ Well, meaning we sell fireworks! You've seen my dad's fireworks at last year's festival, right Elliot?”

“Yeah, I did.” Elliot nodded softly. And then, another boy followed:

“My parents sell flowers, especially for funeral stuff. Like when someone's grandpa died, I send flowers to them… Uh, that sounded bad.” Yep, it sure did!

Elliot replied with a confused smile. On the other hand, I noticed how both topics talked about flowers. (TL Notes: Firework 花火 literally translates to flower-fire)

It's then Elliot's turn to say what his family does, but he grinned, calling it a secret. “I don't really know either~” Once again he delivered smoothly, but it seemed like an excuse. Every time the topic of family is mentioned, Elliot would always gloss over like that. At times like such, even his distinctive presence would dissipate.

But forget about that; with Elliot as the center, the boys prattled. I could never butt in.

Ugh, it's one thing that boys are getting along, but I remember being rather infuriated. Though vexed, I still went back to pick my snack. Vent with sweets! I actually had no clue what that meant at the time, but eating delicious snack would always calm me down.

When I couldn't decide, I would usually pick smaller snacks. I don't remember the name, but I'd pick the pea-sized square candies. They were green or pink, and the texture was like mochi or gum while tasting sweet. I loved eating the little squares with the toothpick that came inside. (TL Notes: Kozakura mochi. Little square wagashi packaged like tablets)

With the plastic package in hand, I ran next to Obaa-chan. “I want this~” I handed it to her. “Alright, alright.” Obaa-chan then tapped on the register.

“Mm? What happened to your hand?”

Obaa-chan tilted her head questioningly after seeing my right hand. “Mm~?” I followed her to my finger tip. “Ah~” I remembered: “It was a cat. The grey one Nii-san brought home. It scratched me when I tried to touch it~”

“Hoh~ Again? Animals just hate you, don't they?”

“I know~ It's kinda funny.”

“I noticed that you always buy the same thing. Have you grown to be an idiot who likes to remember only one thing?”

“Eh~ I'm not an idiot. I got a hundred on a quiz last time.”

I paid before taking off my shoes and climbing next to Obaa-chan. She didn't say anything, only silently letting me sit there. Her wrinkled hands roughly rubbed my head:

“No, you are. All you need is to look at your parents' faces.”

“You're just being mean~” I opened the package casually sealed by a rubber band.

“Smart kids will never come here.”

As if deprecating herself, Obaa-chan spoke with a twisted smile:

“Kids come here because they're stupid— once they grew smart, they stopped coming. As for fools like Ojii-chan who never grew up, they inherit this kind of store. It's my parents' stores, so he could have just left it to close.”

“Aww!” I sensed that it sounded just like Nii-san; my spirit dampened: “I'll keep coming here! Even when I grow up, I'll still al~ways come.”

“Stupid. You have to work properly when you grow up… Well, it's my turn soon.”

“Turn? Do you want one too?” I skewered a piece and passed it to Obaa-chan's mouth.

'Don't want it' Obaa-chan brushed me off, and as if giving up, she mumbled:

“Cattle mutilation.”

A tiny explosion expanded in my eyes. I recalled— they were the words Obaa-chan mouthed after Ojii-chan's funeral. She had yet to cease her self-mocking tone:

“Your Ojii-chan and I are the same age. Following that order, shouldn't it be my turn soon?”

“Ehh~ But you can't!”

I pushed against Obaa-chan's hand, waving my hands raucously; the snacks fell everywhere.

“What do you want me to do…? Gods use alien technologies to hide themselves, so we can't see them; hence there is nothing I can do.”

Obaa-chan's words softened; rather than from kindness, it was more dejection.

Contrastingly, my emotion hopped from all sorts of places. I looked up, seeing the mustard-coloured face that lacked the circulation of health.

“Uwah, wuu~ I-I will take care of that cat-whatchamacallit!”

“Hoh~ How?”

Obaa-chan smiled maliciously as if asking a landmine-question.

My tiny brain couldn't think of anything, so I could only moan 'wu~wu~' and conclude. “I donno!” Due to brain cells being squashed, I gave up on thinking.

“See~ You are stupid.”

“But, I don't wanna Obaa-chan to be gone~ I~ don't~ wanna~!”

“Well thank you! Just stop kicking the floor, you're going to break it!”

Obaa-chan thanked hastily and patted my head. It wasn't my problem, but I almost cried. The imagination filled me with more loss than Ojii-chan's funeral.

“Mm, if you really want to do something, then think well. Think so well that even the toilet seats would move first. Even an idiot could come up with something after contemplating. Grandpa was also an idiot, but he'd always come up with some weird idea after two days of thinking.”

“...Wuu~”

“Why not just defeat them?”

The usually tranquil and calm voice interjected. It was Elliot.

Putting a bottled drink worth of coin on the register, he smiled at Obaa-chan and me.

Faced with the same smile, Obaa-chan hmphed, while my heart raced.

As though to confirm, Elliot said it again.

'Why not just defeat them?'

Maintaining that warm expression, he stated the simplest solution.

Then Elliot put the cola bottle next to his lips and chugged down.

Thinking about these things, I passed out in the bath.

A praposal, I mean, proposal. I escaped home and hid in the bathroom's tub. Why? I don't know why I hid in the tub. I was shaken, and before I realized it, I'm already viva non-non-ing in the hot water. (TL Notes: A reference to the song いい湯だな, nice hot water, of Japanese band 'The Drifters.' Viva non-non is chanted between verses)

I left the bathroom, boiled. Boiled~ spoiled~ spoiled. I lied down wearing nothing and crawled on the floor, enjoying the chilling sensation. It felt great on my burning skin, but the coolness left immediately, so I dragged slithered. Gecko crawl~ go back the way I came after reaching the entrance. The distance drew on and on~ Returning to the changing room, I stayed on the floor and put on my underwear and pajama.

“Gotta get up, gotta get up… Whoa~” Blinded by the eye patch that was my own hair, I finally stood up with my left eye covered. My soles singed the floor; my skin bloated by the water, feet shambling as if five or six bees were kept within. With my head rubbing against the wall, I dove into the living room. Wham~ While sliding inside, the tip of my nose burnt from the friction. Uh, my nose would be even flatter.

Out of such fear, I lifted only my head up with chin on the floor, mimicking Obaa-chan to propel myself forward with only my toes. Squiggle~ Having a longer-than-predicted reach is good, but my boobs hurt more than I had thought. Ow… Obaa-chan is flat as a— wait, what am I thinking?

Ultimately I crawled on my knees, grabbed the remote sitting on the table and collapsed on the floor again. Arm forward, press the button. 'Beep!' On a certain replayed film, a certain someone is about to marry a certain someone. Turn it off. Back on again, and change the channel. The show was about making a low-calorie fried pork-steak. I gawked at the golden hue of the meat; the worm in my stomach growled like a new species of animals.

“Ughh, I don't wanna cook.” As an emergency measure, I switched the channel. On the screen now was a teaching program; I joined the speech practice midway. “A~ B ~ C~ D~” Which reminds me: Elliot didn't speak anything besides Japanese, but his accent was still weird. No one knew where he came from.

“...Ugh~”

I dragged myself to open the cabinet. A moist wave of dust rose; the tapes were still stacked there. We don't have a machine for DVD in this house, so the tape will have to do the spinning.

Shoving the tape into the player, I picked up the VHS remote on top of the TV. “It's been a while!” I almost didn't even remember how to use it. After a few random clicks, the tape played successfully. I jellied again; affected by the still-present heat, my guts refused to settle. Even lying on the floor was a kind of hell.

The movie that we've only seen as children at the movie theater began playing on screen. I, Elliot, Seiji, and few others biked to see the movie. My brother was going to join us, but he got sick and stayed in our apartment. And when the film was broadcasted on TV, the entire family watched it together. I'll save this topic for another time.

Left eye glued to the floor's weavings, I watched the screen change with only my right. Yet whatever entered my brain was picture and darkness — my left eye saw nothing it was supposed to.

Please forgive me! I was kidding when I said I'm super popular! And now it’s actually happening. Uhh… Hnng… So, is this what Yamamoto-kun said?

“Marry me!”

I regurgitated the sickening consonants. I almost went mad from the embarrassment:

“...Are you kidding me?”

Thinking back, this was my first time proposed to. Of course I'm freaking out! How could I not be!

“Even if it's by some guy I don't know… Well, I probably knew him?” Not that I remember a thing.

How nerve wrecking! Should I just reject him? But more fundamentally, do I plan on getting married now? With whom? Yamamoto-kun? Elliot? No, not Elliot; I don't even know where he is. More importantly, I don't think it'd work out. Elliot is an abnormally exquisite art: he has a proper location, a fitting place to exist and a position right for him. In whatever case, that place is not here. Still, for me to just welcome Yamamoto-kun with open arms is just as impossible.

After all, I've only wanted to live with no one else but Erio. I don't have the confidence to let someone else in. As for Mako-kun, he's just like my kid. To treat an outsider like family — I am abnormally hesitant toward it. Wu~ My stomach is starting to hurt from the circular thinking.

Um… I was wondering about whether my happiness points are going up or down, right?

But I still have to think. Because, it is how I walked here all the way.

“...Sigh.”

What should I have done instead when Erio escaped into the futon?

Perhaps I should have told her: 'think.' Not just once, but as many times as I could.

If I had taught her well, she might still be in school now.

I've always lived in regret: even when I achieved something, I could never feel perfectly happy.

“...Meow~” I tried doing a duet with the cat on screen.

I can only hope to resolve the situation now without any remorse.

After a while, Mako-kun and Erio returned as my brain reached boiling point.

'Go find Obaa-chan!' I licked his knees after instructing so, finally regaining my spirit.

It's strange, but Mako-kun always motivates me!

...If I were to say that, I wonder if he'll let bygones be bygones?

The following week consisted of repeating days with the standard of June this year.

One day, I snuck into Tamura Shop to see how Erio's doing at work. Even though no one came on the first day, she's still freaking out. The moment I walked in, she bolted out frantically and tripped. Her nose started bleeding, so I wiped the blood away and stuffed her nose with a tissue paper.

What a worrisome child! That is, however, what made her so adorable.

After that happened, Erio prohibited me from coming into the store. 'Absolutely… no!'

'I'm… going back to… society!' She violently shook her head while saying 'don't come in… Don't come in… You can't!' Forming a barrier with her arms.

I thought about breaking this blockade by hugging it tightly, but this was no game for Erio. Hence, I decided to hold myself back — can't always try to interlope.

Even though the promise made it hard for me to see Obaa-chan, perhaps it is better this way before the preparation on this side is finished.

But knowing that Mako-kun could enter freely, I just had to bully them that night ☆

And, despite this being an information I happened upon on the following day, I heard that that Yamamoto-kun was purchasing a large amount of coke and visiting the store at a rather frequent rate. Knowing that before running into him was definitely helpful. So that, along with the hope for Erio, I decided to watch the store when nobody noticed. And I could also prepare for Yamamoto-kun meanwhile — two birds with one stone!

Then came the night when I shut myself in a room to make bottle rockets. Following Yamamoto-kun's advice, I adjusted the tail fins. To make the four wings equal in size, I had to trim carefully. Staplers, scissors; box cutter, double-sided tapes: the tools scattered on my desk were all purchased from Obaa-chan's store long ago. Do I cherish my things? Or maybe I just never used them?

Back when Erio was still in grade school, we made many rockets together; so without referring back to an instruction, my fingers did most of the steps. We also had some unused nozzles and PE rocket heads put away in the storage, so I didn't have to spend money. My Eri-chan has always been interested in flying objects since she wore diapers — she's quite full of wings and dreams! Uh, to a point where her brain was floating around for a while. Please do excuse her for that!

The most annoying part of making rockets had to be finding bottles. Even if you need only five bottles, our little Mako-kun doesn't like carbonated drinks: he wouldn't do his mission like a good little fairy if I were to leave those in the fridge.

How did Yamamoto-kun get his bottles? I didn't want to come across as a jerk, either, by having him test fire; so I've never progressed beyond making the rockets.

For the remaining time, I would occasionally show up to work at my own store. Yep, perfect. Just like summer vacation's daily schedule, it's never to be followed. I recall back in elementary, a classmate wrote 'stayin' alive' for all twenty four hours on his daily schedule. After turning that in, he got a detention and was scolded by the teacher. We didn't know till later that the kid was actually terminally ill and didn't have many days left; the teacher showed up at his door smeared with tears. The kid died… I think on the June the year after that. Everyone in class showed up for his funeral, so I remember. Ah, June again? Indeed the month of separation.

And so I stood near the Tamura Store on the Saturday of the following week as the sentimental Meme-san. For some reason, there were a lot of customers gathering today. I noticed two dubious shadows. A girl about Erio's age, and a middle-aged man living out his youth.

Including me, the three people hid in the shades to watch the Tamura Shop. Why did so many UFO show up in our peaceful town? Did someone with a human repellant drive these people out?

Just as the 19th of June sent an invitation to the rain, I blew air at the young girl's neck. It's more appropriate than with Yamamoto-kun, right? Under my goose bump-inducing breath, her entire person jumped with an amazing reaction. 'Keewah! She seemed completely oblivious of my presence.

The girl's boots gave, almost sending her butt-first into the puddle; I reached forward and helped her up. Her wrist pulsated quickly, and her eyebrows too blinked intensely.

I poked her soft cheeks — it was a very cute girl. I recognize her from somewhere. Was she Erio's friend? She didn't seem to know me though.

After introducing myself, I casually handed the cola I'd been sipping on to the girl. It would be a waste not to. Heheh, a successful transfer. I was about done with the taste of cola anyway. I don't like carbonated drink that much, because Meme was raised properly: I drank only barely tea when we lived in the apartment.

Without further ado, I asked the girl to tell me where Yamamoto-kun was while prattling. I told her that he was actually my fan, but perhaps he now wanted to observe Erio. Yamamoto-kun knew I have a daughter, so could he plan on getting on her good side? Is this slyness, or shamelessness? What on earth did he learn after leaving town?

After contemplating about the enigma of Smooth-skinned sensei, she yelped, 'ah!' with her pupil contracting. The girl looked toward the store as if she'd discovered something. To avoid Yamamoto-kun I hid myself more completely than she did, so I could not see the situation behind the concrete wall.

“Then, I must get going!” The girl bolted off after few stretches. “Bye~” I saw her off; Yamamoto-kun's silhouette replaced her.

“Uwah...” The orchestra of rain dripping off the yellow umbrella played out above my head.

Should I try talking to him to get friendly? No~no. Just thinking about that is going to make me collapse. On the embarrassment number scale, it's about 80. Usually I have about 3. Now, imagine using a decagon screwdriver on a tri-point screw. What I mean is, the number will break the roof.

And just standing around to talk is weird. Problem is, if I was invited to a cup of tea, I will be totally suspicious. Definitely. For the pure Meme-chan, she has no immunity to that kind of open relationship. I haven't even been vaccinated… Eh? The script? I'm supposed to say 'JK' here? Oh, just leave me alone, Manus Dei~. (TL Notes: Original text was 'the hand of god.' Manus Dei means the same thing in Latin)

“Wuu… Mmm~” Out of confusion, I started dancing. The rain poured and poured~

I've slightly regained composure. Thinking is vital, but there's only action after this point.

Yamamoto-kun looked around under his umbrella, appearing to be searching for something far away. Probably me. If it were Erio, he would have already entered the store.

I looked away from him. I'll give up on today's monitoring.

On the way home I found a cat. After abducting it into the school, I decided to go home.

A corner of my heart hoped to never see Yamamoto-kun again in town.

Rather than tea buddies, we were more like rocket comrades.

And we will duel on the field! Yes!

“...Hnm?”

Something seemed off, but I couldn't put my finger on it.

“Is it age?” I mumbled, as if tracing the parts I don't want to admit with the tip of the words.

I saw something in the grey sky — the scene of important things entering the morgue.

☆

On the day twenty-eight years ago that led to everything today.

Like divulging the secret of a magic, Elliot smilingly spoke.

To defeat what you can't see is actually very easy!

It was a smile that would look snide on others, but artistic only on Elliot.

“Defeat? How?”

I pulled my head away from Obaa-chan's palm and leaned forward. Though my hand crushed the green snack I dropped, the light pain was brushed aside when I questioned Elliot.

Obaa-chan looked at me in boredom, silent.

Elliot sipped the cola and asserted calmly.

The only way to touch which you can’t, is through faith.

'Face?' I shut myself up before saying a thing.

Ritual and prayers are needed to show faith.

Elliot claimed so maturely — the only time he seemed older than Nii-san.

“Ritual?”

Hearing the word only made me think of people in purple robes with only their eyes flashing red, hiding in dim room filled with incense, singing and dancing.

And prayer reminded me of the poor girl in W*rld Masterpiece Theater who had to sleep in the staple, but would never forget to pray every morning.

“Religion?”

So I asked, and he laughed. “I don't really understand either,” he shrugged: “I'm just observing to see if the things I see are really worth believing.”

With a grin pushing up his eyes, he stared. I felt like I was being devoured.

Goose bumps split the camouflage of skin, revealing the true nature. But of what? Of his — Elliot's eyes.

He has a gentle face, but all that contoured his features were straight lines. The natural existence of curvature was absent.

Obaa-chan's palm touched my frozen back and pushed lightly:

“More importantly, pick up your mess. Or you better pay up.”

“Aye, aye.” I imitated the cartoon character on TV and received a smack on the head.

Picking up the snack on the floor, I tossed them into my mouth.

“Don't eat off the ground, stupid!”

Pah! Another slap. “Owwu!” Though it didn't hurt, I still grabbed my head.

“Go wash them afterward. It's dirty here.”

“But this is your house, Obaa-chan!”

“Exactly.”

A flick on my forehead, but this time the nail hurt me.

“Obaa-chan, cut your nails!”

“Hmph, try again when you're older than I am.”

“How~!”

Seeing the exchange, Elliot beamed again. Seeing his squinting smile, my heart took the initiative to practice aerobics. “Hah, hah...” My chest hurt! It's more of an explosion than a jolt, like receiving a ball from a major league softball player.

“Oi, don't go all colourful here.”

“I-I'm always colourful!” (TL Notes: Original text indicated a Japanese proverb/idiom regarding first love, which apparently is synonymous with colouring. I could not find it as of yet)

I put the food back into its box and ran inside. Submerging the snack in water, I also rubbed and cooled my hand. “Phew~” I hate the feeling of heat; I like winter more than summer. At least, the cold I can stand.

And at the worst, I just have to roll around in a futon.

After cleaning up and drying off, I returned to Obaa-chan. “Oi, it's dripping.” The sharp-eyed Obaa-chan reminded me, but I still carelessly sat next to her while and ate away happily.

Nom, nom… After the wash, they tasted like gum with no flavour. It would seem that this kind of food only has flavouring on the outside!

“…...”

Even with the snack's flavour faded, the aftertaste of Elliot's statement lingered.

To touch what you can't see, you need faith. To show that faith, you need 'ritual and prayer.'

☆

I flipped the calendar; the number '25' shot into view.

Today was the twenty-fifth of June, the prep day of the ritual. It will be extremely busy… Well, not really.

How about treating the headache first? So I could keep my head up at the sky tomorrow.

“...But~ first~” I spun around in the living room, operating the remote.

First, set the channel onto the news program that we hardly watch. “Woosh~” As I began to feel the limit of my cochlea, and my lively twirl became 'Urwa, m-my head…' the forecast segment began. Toyed by my unruly eyes, I barely safe-landed in front of the TV screen. I rolled onto the ground and watched it with ringing in my ears.

Tomorrow's forecast was cloudy with a chance of sunshine. I was glad that it wasn't inverted. There's still a 30 percent chance of raining, but considering the season, this was more than acceptable. “Alright~' I raised my arm weakly. “… I'll stay like this for now.” Like a middle schooler set to stay home, I excused myself. I mean, I am going to see the person who proposed to me!

Mumble, mumble. Tumble, tumble. Trim my nails, tidy some things up, clean the window's edge already covered with dust. In about half an hour, I finally gave up on procrastinating. Pinched under my arms was the now yellow June 21st. It won't stop sounding like the number of a magazine. Due to a botched paint job, June 17th took the day off.

Just like last time, I rode, with the rocket behind me, on my favourite bike. Straddling onto the bicycle also known as 'ケッタ (ketta)' in the country side, I pedaled standing, heading toward the road decorated by the grey cloud that couldn't make up its mind.

The residential is located between the old town and the city that spread out like a squashed jellyfish; there are rarely people in the morning. Since it's a weekday, the buzzing of children was also kept in their schools, so the only ones barking were the dogs. A chocolate-coloured dog lives here, and every time when someone passes in front of the window it would reacted energetically. It's been barking since it was a pup — maybe that's his mission in life.

With no traffic on the road, I cut into the longer, straight road to test out my highest speed. I pumped strength into the thigh that grew stronger after the sore. Woosh~ the sight around stretched out. Wind resistance went from weak to medium.

My heart accelerated like when I first met Elliot.

Naturally, no matter how many turns the wheels had in store, I will never fly in the sky. The bicycle proceeded on the earth, finally delivering me to the house of animals and rockets.

“Thanks!” I rubbed the handles, showing my gratitude to its ten years of service. Is filling the tires next time enough for payment? I'll also throw in waxing for free.

After loosening the rope on the rocket, I lifted my arm to the highest point. I recalled running around in the room with a model airplane. Compare to then, would this rocket reach closer to the sky? Toward the sky, cloud and sun that seem touchable by hand.

Alright, here we go.

“Hi~ Shugoro.” (TL Notes: Yamamoto Shugoro 山本周五郎 is a Japanese novelist during the Showa Period)

Before reacting to me, he has to first be terrified. He's even shaking. And I thought I wasn't a furtive person. During his youth, though, Yamamoto-kun probably didn’t stand out much.

“That Yamamoto…? I mean, isn't it time to ditch 'Yamamoto'?”

“Really?” Back back back, I backed away.

“Not literally! Fine, I'll be Yamamoto… So please, stop running away.”

“Really?” Shuffle shuffle shuffle, I shuffled forward again.

Me and Yamamoto-kun stared at each other. I felt I couldn't be frank, though. So, the solution is to dance around the issue? Mm… Mm!

“Um… Uh, You, uh, here to shoot a rocket?”

He pointed at the rocket I held in my chest; his eyes darted about.

Just like a prey about to be devoured.

“Yeah. Also to turn you down.”

“Huh??”

Seeing the other side lose it, I managed to compose myself. How strange! It's like a scale.

More importantly, isn't the best time to tease him when he's flustered? We can't both be ruffled at the same time.

“Ah, I mean… What I said before… Not that I want you to just forget about it, but I was a little exited, or sudden… But, uh, sorry.”

“Well~ I wasn't really disgusted or anything. But I have to turn you down.”

Yamamoto-kun's eyes attempted to steal the base, but I picked him off to keep his eyes away.

“Turn me down, but— wait. Let me explain everything first!” Panic!

“Absolutely, please do so. But I will still have to refuse the offer.” Smile!

Though cowered, Yamamoto-kun still dropped the hose and displayed a truthfully bashful attitude. His legs, arms and head were bouncing around like a toy tangled by a spring.

“I've liked you since we were little.”

“Thank you.” That’s embarrassing! Especially when others mention old things!

“Well, uh… That's it.”

He picked up the hose, resignedly poured water around the field:

“After I quit my job and came back, I didn't have anything to do. Then I saw you riding by the train station. You looked so happy, like when you're little, riding like that. My eyes and, well… heart, was taken away by you. That's all.”

If you might lose to the embarrassment, just don't say embarrassing words!

He said I looked happy, possibly because my face seems happy all the time. At least I think that's why.

I'm almost always thinking about food when I ride to take my mind off the fatigue though.

“After coming back, the only friend I still have left here is just you, Touwa. That might be one of the reasons too… Aside from affection, I also wanted to interact with people.”

“…...” Not knowing what to say, I kept silent with an equivocal smile.

“Oh, right… What if it wasn't me — it could even be Elliot — do you plan on marrying anyone else?”

“No, I don't. Absolutely not.”

I tried my best to refute lightly; a hint of dejection appeared below Yamamoto-kun's eyes.

“Shame. You're still… um… so pretty.”

“Heheheh, I'm still young, so I don't wanna be tied down.”

“Elliot was the only thing you thought of when you're little though.”

“Let’s set the jokes aside.”

“Hm.”

“Me, my daughter, and my niece living together: that's plenty for me. Loving someone, or having someone love me… Well, frankly, I get my happiness points every day from my family. And in that family, a husband is not needed now.”

Mako-kun and I will be Erio's guardian. I'm surprised with how agreeable this turned out to be:

“I never married Elliot either, so I guess I will stay single forever.”

“I see… Hm.”

He directed the tube skyward, making a rainbow of water.

Yamamoto-kun smiled lightly as if all four corners of his emotion had been held down:

“I understand. I guess I'm just a little carried away since it's been so long since we spoke.”

“Making a decision for being 'a little carried away,' you sure have learned how to be reckless!”

“I'm usually mellower, being forty and all. I don't even have the energy to hop around anyway. Does that make sense?” Well, I almost hop around in home every day! Does that mean I'm actually not forty yet?

After rounding up… I’m about zero. In other words, me, Mako-kun and Erio are the same age. Despite being her mom, we're classmates — actually, I don't want any sci-fi gimmick, so if that were to happen, a lot of things would probably collapse.

Well, if I did say something like that, Mako-kun would probably give me the look. Oh boy~

“You're grown to be quite a sensible adult, Yamamoto-kun.”

“Well, I haven't quite given up yet, to be honest.”

“Unfortunately, I'm an extinct volcano.”

“How about we start as friends first?”

“Eh? I thought we are already friends?”

I played dumb. “That's… right.” Yamamoto-kun widened his eyes deliberately.

“You wanna shoot the rocket, right? Let me see it.”

“Thanks. Tomorrow is the official launch; I just want to do a last check-up.”

“Official launch?” Despite his eyes drifting askance, Yamamoto-kun still took the rocket.

“I told you, didn't I? I want to defeat the aliens.”

“With a PE rocket tip?”

“I want your help. After all, hadn't Tamura Obaa-chan taken care of you before?”

“I suppose so. I mean, I only met you after I started going to the store.”

Maybe he didn't realize his own words, but Yamamoto-kun's skin did not activate the production of red ginger.

“You want me to help, but specifically how? Shoot rockets?”

He poured water into the bottle through a funnel while asking with a disinteresting and professional tone.

“You know it.” I told him when and where.

“Okay. That’s you want me to help with?”

“Correct. How's it looking?”

“It's done. I did my best since you asked me to do it.”

Once again he casually and unabatedly stabbed the soft part of others' heart. Ugh, I could feel the goosebumps.

Yamamoto-kun looked away from the rocket; after scanning around, he shot me a glance:

“So, your daughter is really tall.”

“Eh?”

“I think she's at least 180, right? Is what you're feeding her that good?”

Yamamoto-kun mentioned 'daughter,' hoping for the mother me to respond… Hmn?

I crossed my arms, imagining and putting the model of Erio together. Paint gun… Okay, done. Now, let's think about this.

“Touwa, what's the matter?” I ignored Yamamoto-kun, the source of the question.

Just what is he talking about? Where do you find 180 on Erio…? Three sizes? No matter where, if it were shoved into this model, the shape is still too weird. Is it the sum of a number? If Yamamoto-kun knows how much her three-sizes adds up to, it's time to call the Popo.

Then, her IQ? Power level? Frequency? Whatever the correct answer is, my daughter stands out too much!

Well… About time to give up on escaping reality. Yamamoto-kun already said it from the start. Height. Over 180cm. Hence, the next question is 'who is he talking about?' The question crash landed… Oh? There's someone I knew that fit.

Around the same age as my daughter, and a height that fit that description. I think there's only one person like that in this town.

“Yamamoto-kun.”

“Yes, yes, I am Yamamoto, because that's my nickname. What is it?”

“You're mistaken.”

“Wha?” His hand twisted, a large amount of water poured onto the dirt.

“She's not my daughter.”

My Eri-chan isn't the white dango, but the futon girl!

Yamamoto-kun's eyes shrunk into a dot. Time passed while he connected the line:

“Eh… hah? That's her, right? The weirdly-dressed girl working at the Wagashi store?”

“That's the hardworking employee in my store.”

“But I've heard that your daughter was the girl that walked around town with some weird outfit.” Yep, you're correct!

“That part was indeed true — till this April.”

“April?”

“You said you came back during June, right? Then you probably missed futon Erio.”

“R-really? That wasn't her?”

“Yep.”

“…Well, I thought about how her height was never mentioned… Usually that's what people point out first. I thought something was off, since you don't look alike.”

Mm, indeed we don't. Maekawa-chan told me that she doesn't resemble her parents either. Well, not my business.

“That's quite presumptuous of you.”

“Yeah… But can you really blame me? If a girl walking around in Mr. Sat*rn's outfit isn't weird, I must be living my forty years of life backward!”

Yamamoto, what on earth did you think my daughter was?

“So your kid… What does she dress up like now?”

“Super normal and cute clothes! My daughter is quite dynamic!” Not referring to her evolution.

I'm so thankful of Mako-kun! I'm going to give him a peck on the cheek as thanks next time.

“… I was shooting rockets, hoping that your daughter would see them.”

Yamamoto-kun sighed, revealing the hope he had placed on the bottle rockets:

“I picked this place because I needed an open area where she could see the rockets from the front of that Wagashi store.”

“I see. Why?”

“I thought she's interested in space, so maybe that'll get her attention.”

“Ah, was that also part of the plan to find me?” Right after saying so, I gradually felt ashamed. Were my feelings numbed?

“Yes.”

“The label on your ear, too?”

“I thought she might like the whole cattle mutilation thing. Plus there's a cow around here.”

“I see. By the way, I like cow tongue.”

“She's a dairy cow...”

With the tube slipping from his hand, Yamamoto-kun barely answered my question, appearing as if he'd collapse any second.

Who would have known that the effect of Mako-kun taking off Erio's futon would be so far-reaching? That's the second volume for ya: you have to have the first to… Huh, what am I saying?

“So what? We united again thanks to the rockets!”

“I guess.”

Perhaps due to shock, Yamamoto-kun didn't react too strongly to my rare and embarrassing lines. He will definitively feel it after we split, when he's sitting in his house tub.

“So those leftover rockets, are they all for nothing?”

Yamamoto-kun stared at the warehouse-like building at the corner of the field.

“There's a pile of rockets there. I wanted to have an excuse as well as to get to know her; I asked that someone you mentioned to make a bunch of rockets. I even paid for the things… I guess it’s a graveyard at this point.”

“…...”

A bunch of rockets… Isn't that just what I need?

Like an army of locusts.

Like pigeons covering the sky.

Rituals must be carried out with fanfare and drums.

The signals Elliot sent me from who-knows-when shook my head; the muscles on my cheeks relaxed:

“Yamamoto-kun.”

“Hah? Ah yes, I am Yamamoto. Ahahaha...” It's not the time to give up!

Can't be helped. I lowered the spider's string for him:

“Aren't there a lot of platforms for launching rockets left?” (TL Notes: The Spider's Thread is a short story about Buddha letting a spider's string down into the depth of hell to attempt to rescue a single sinner. In the end, because of the sinner's selfishness, the string broke and he remained in hell)

“Wha? Hm, I did bought an entire set… My wallet's still aching.”

“Is it? To me, you have to be the best domino.”

I smiled at the old friend who bolstered my destiny.

Not just his face, Yamamoto-kun turned bright neck from his neck up. I decided I'll keep proud of my good looks. Awesome! The goal is now a gap-moe in ten years!

☆

On that night, the welcome at the entrance was about six times as rowdy as usual.

“Welcome home.” Four girls and boy filed down from second floor and greeted me in a row. Seeing Erio standing with girls her age, Meme teared up… Like this?

“You're Mako-kun's friends...” As my mouth opened, surprise shut it… Um?

“Ah!” I met eyes with the girl to the leftmost. Both of us realized we have met before.

Or rather, I know all four of them.

“Smooth-skinned sensei.”

“Smooth-skinned sensei?”

“S-smooth-skinned sensei.”

“…...”

Starting from the left, it's the soft-cheeked girl, the giant mistaken as my daughter; the daughter desperately trying to figure out what's going on, and the silent niece with a grim face. Everyone's eyes were askance on the niece.

“Cousin, are you not saying it?” Erio casually asked Mako-kun. Well done, Erio, just nonchalantly force Mako-kun to a dead end. As I thought, he appeared disgusted. Still, knowing he could not completely ignore us, he spoke.

“Isn't Meme-san just Meme-san?”

“Despite being under the strange gaze of a strange girl who's of world-class significant, Mako-kun's , like a self-satisfied main character, believes and accepts her as a normal girl, and thought he was being clever.”

“Meme-san just successfully delivered a third-person narrative, and thought she was being clever.”

“Mako-kun bitterly riposted, but he's worried that it didn't carry much weight.”

“Meme-san is about to realize that this whole narrative battle is pointless.”

“Then I'll stop.”

Mm, I shut my jaws. Mako-kun sighed while pressing his forehead, mumbling “I'm done.”

After standing there and witnessing our usual banter, soft-cheeked cutie (tentative) froze. “Uwah~ Ya both got some fast comebacks.” She's oddly impressed by something else. Next to her, Maekawa-san let out a snicker, “what~?' irking the cheek-girl. What a lovely environment, like have more daugh— no, sisters! (I asserted with wide eyes.)

“Surrounded by four cute girls, Mako-kun sure is lucky~”

“What’s the notation you used to get that number?”

“Are you embarrassed?”

“You should consider being that sometimes.”

“Ah, then—“ Just as I was about to sigh silently to the hostile Mako-kun, Erio scurried over. Perhaps since she's spent too much away from people, she had forgotten about the right time and place for doing things. Or maybe she just doesn't want to directly confront him. As I contemplated, Erio walked down the entrance barefooted. “Ah, hold it!” She even ignored Mako-kun and circled behind me.

“Without me, mom...” Erio nudged my back, exchanging me into the row. “Now there are three… cute girls. The number, fits.” With three fingers up, she smiled softly.

“Eri-chan...” How considerate she is for her mom! As long as she grew up kind, it doesn't matter if she's not great or rich. I felt like I may or may not have expected that. Well, still a good kid. From the side, though, it probably looked really sarcastic.

“I'm the daughter-certified 'cute girl', nice to meet you all!”

I shook hands with my neighbors. Both Maekawa and soft-cheeked cutie both gave a compromising smile of 'ah… Well, okay,' and held my hand. On the other side, though still looking at me disapprovingly under his eyelids, Mako-kun stuck his hand out. So I had to pull his entire person over and nibble on his neck. Oh my~ it was out of nowhere!

“Eeek!” As if bumping into a serial killer, Mako-kun slipped under sheer terror. Kicking frantically like a puppy, he fell flat on the floor. Even the back of his head rammed into the wall.

Ah~ That was refreshing. Mako-kun's reaction are supposed to be a bit over the top!

“Maekawa, c'mere, c'mere.”

“Yes?”

Since the warm welcoming has ended, I beckoned Maekawa, who stared at Mako-kun amusingly. Just like before, when the lanky, yam-looking girl leaned over, the overwhelming pressure hovered above. “I need your ear closer.” Simply asking her to bend down was enough to give the illusion of a monster-bird flying above.

I put my mouth closer to Maekawa's ear. “I will punch you if you bite my ear.” Kgh, she can read minds?

“Maekawa, I heard you are making bottle rockets?”

“Uh, yeah. So you knew. Do you know that man?”

“Grown-ups have quite the lateral connections! Since vertical gaps are too deep, naturally we grow sideways instead. That's the cruel truth of society, sniffle!”

“But where I work, the gap and bar between the manager and employees is so low, everyone got over it.”

“Because your manager is the type to want to stand and see with the employees!”

“Not~ even~ close. Under what kind of work ethic are you allowed to say that?”

“Geez~ Maekawa-chan, don't be so angry~ You should be smiling instead since you're rarely in such a cute uniform cosplay.”

“I already said this isn't a cosplay, boss. Are you actually not just Touwa's mom, but also transfer student's?”

“Erio and Mako-kun are actually siblings, and I'm actually the slightly-older sister. The theory has been flying around, mostly in my head though.”

“Sheesh. Enough, cut to the chase already.”

“Do you still have some left over stuff to make rockets with?”

“Yeah, I do.”

“And bottles?”

“There's still some. I got them right before recycle day.”

“Then, let Erio and Mako-kun make some tonight. We're going to fire them tomorrow.”

“Eh? Tonight?”

“If it took too long, you can stay.”

“Oh...”

“Okay~, it's settled!” Shifting away from her ear, I slapped my hands together.

What's happened? Doubtful glances fell on me, but I simply smiled to have them relax. Then, my feet once again entered the shoes that were about to be taken off. I saluted, soldier-style.

“I'm heading out again!”

“Eh? Where to?” Relieved from pain, Mako-kun queried.

“It's. A. Secret.” I pouted my lips. Is this what you call brevity? Maybe not.

“Why do you have to say it so irritatingly?”

“As for dinner. Right, how about the four of you make something? You can use whatever is in the fridge.”

I don't really remember what's in there though. In any case, since the fridge is not like a CD case, there's should probably be edible in there. Erio only knows how to make ham sandwiches, but since there are two other girls present, the blossom of cooking will definitely dance on the dining table.

“C-cooking?” Cheek-chan replied bemusedly.

“It's a fantastic chance to snipe your favourite guys!” I casually gave her an encouraging thumbs-up.

“Eeek!” Cheek-chan shrunk exaggeratedly, eyes bouncing about. Fufufu, I saw everything. Her eyes landed on Mako-kun for just a second.

“What do you mean guys? I thought I'm the only one here.”

Mako-kun carelessly nitpicked. Is he generous? Or just dumb? He's usually the high school boy who's all 'I wanna flirt with girls~' Maybe it's because he's not used to the actual doing of things, so he doesn't know how it feels? Nii-san was like a total stalker to his crush! He even confessed to the same girl five times, and was rejected four times. Was his wife not disgusted?

“Yeah, just Mako-kun.”

“So what you mean is… Uh, eh?” His pitch rose; he stared at Cheek-chan's face.

Finally noticed? The two of them even had a look-exchanging party.

Erio stood fixed in the middle of the two, a face of 'what does this have to do with me~?' I thought she was close to Mako-kun. I guess it’s just admiration for her guardian?

Hmng, I seemed to have planted the seed of chaos. So I guess I will just leave.

And also to look forward to the sorts of colour their relationship will be in when I get home.

“I'm also heading back. I'll be back soon.” Maekawa put on her shoes.

“Alright, let's go~ Maekawa-chan.”

“Ah… Mom, bye bye.”

“Yep, I'm going.” I've never thought that hearing Erio's greet will ever be normal again.

I savoured the taste of this springy happiness and head out with Maekawa. Outside was a murky sky with a layer of cloud; a slit of dusk sun hid between the masses, its dots of light painting the silhouettes of people faraway. The sun was setting.

When I was little, my parents would get angry with me if I haven't return home by this time. The curfew is earlier in my house; even with my friends, I've never been there when they split up for the day.

Just once, I ignored the curfew and stayed at my friend's house. Mother actually came to pick me up; for some reason, I was mortified. Face down, I held my mom's hand on the sunset way home. She wasn't angry — rather, she looked lonely.

Mom is no longer with us. She has never seen her granddaughter.

“What are we doing with the rockets?” Maekawa spoke, eyes on the soft twilight sun.

To defeat them! I swallowed the words and looked skyward.

“We are shooting them, of course! With prayers.”

Even though it’s right there when you look up…

It is untouchable by hands.

Send it flying, to the concept of space.

☆

After night, the darkness in Tamura Shop gathers.

The eyelids exposed to the freezing air twitched weakly, inducing sleep. I yawned.

I entered the store, but still waited by the entrance. Omitting the highly unlikely welcome, I headed inside the residence on my own. I pulled open the slide door in the hallway and entered Obaa-chan's room:

“Evening, Obaa-chan. How are you feeling?”

A barren light illuminated the room; compared to the dim hall, it was unnaturally bight. But Obaa-chan covered her entire body with the futon anyway, so it made no difference.

“Hmph, if I felt well, I would happily be outside instead of lying in this room.”

Obaa-chan flung a greet-and-retort with the sulking tone of a child. The futon rose gradually; she revealed half her face. Perhaps doing better today, she personally picked up her glasses from the side:

“Why are you here so late? Don't try to play grown-ups, you damn brat.”

“Obaa-chan, I am actually an adult now.”

I sat on the left of the futon, rebutting Obaa-chan's censuring.

“Oh? Where?” That taunting tone does sound youthful.

“For example, the inside.”

“How about you have someone dissect you?”

“Then, my boobs!”

“I will smack you, brat!”

This deep sound of scolding seemed to follow with it the act of eyeball gauging. Hard to believe she could say something like that to the person she's always treated like her own child.

Eh? Is Obaa-chan still bothered by her own lack of growth?

Uuu, I have the premonition that there will be a rival in the gap-moe candidates.

“Simply speaking, you only grew on the outside.”

“Wow~ I can't believe you just said that out loud!”

“An adult with the brain of a child. That has to be the worst thing.”

Obaa-chan swallowed the pill made of joy and amusement, laughing only after a long pause; the way she opened her mouth gave me the unacceptable feeling of relief. The feeling of loss has been oozing deeper into my heart, creating a thin, tepid film. Gingerly feeling the weight teetering like a hammock, I knocked lightly, wondering 'how much longer?' There is no response.

“Heave… ho!” Obaa-chan tried to get up with a limped push up.

“Just lie down, it's fine. I will be leaving soon anyway.”

“Shut it, I want to sit.” Obaa-chan answered crudely; she folded her dragging legs and kneeled on them.

She exhaled slowly, as if to make sure her torso will not break, before sitting upright. The palms on her knees trembled; her elbows seemed they would snap at any second.

With a sour expression, Obaa-chan completely straightened her back. Perhaps to escape the pain coming from deep within, she focused only on me. With a hmph, she breathed in.

“Indeed, the only thing that has grown is just your body.” The statement was without any sentiment.

“I think you've shrunk, Obaa-chan.”

“Of course! If you can grow, adults can shrink.”

“Huh...”

“I've also shrunk 3 centimeters compare to sixty years ago. Where on earth did it go?” She resentfully looked to a surprising direction. She's angry like a person who found her saved-up snack stolen by someone else in the house.

“Don't tell me, aliens can steal people's height?”

Aliens. My brows and cheek reacted to this sensitive word.

For Obaa-chan, the ‘aliens’ are the source of misfortune.

It is also known as 'fate' — or 'concession' — to others.

“How's Erio doing? Is she helping out?” I held the rudder, steering the conversation away.

“Just how much did you spoil her? You are too pampering!”

Is she telling me to insult someone when there's a problem? Ugh, that doesn't matter. The point is that Obaa-chan didn't really answer in order.

“Even I'm wondering how big my actual heart it, letting someone who can't even welcome customers work in the front!”

“I wonder.”

“You sent her here, right? She will be in all kinds of hell now.”

“I suppose.”

“Teach her how to be as dumb as you are, so she could maybe deal with hardship.”

Obaa-chan followed a bug flying by the light. I too, looked up. Yet, it had disappeared.

I first waited for Obaa-chan's eyes to come back, then I began.

Gee, I always say the important things last. It's not a good habit:

“Obaa-chan.”

“What, old brat?” Don't make me kick yer ass!

“Are you free tomorrow?”

“I don't want to, it's a pain.”

“…...”

“...Don't give me that look… Ahh~ fine! I'm kidding; I'm free. Asking someone who's always sleeping if she's free, it just sounds like a taunt! So, what do you want?”

“Mm.” I sat upright. In that stance, I asked solemnly while fixing my messy hair:

“Do you want to go the beach tomorrow?”

“Wha? A sea bath? I can't do something so devious, no.”

Shaking her skin and bones, she refused to go outside as if there was no room for debate.

“How could I go to the beach now?”

“Why not?”

“You should know.”

“Your health?”

“Idiot! I'm not confident with my shape!”

“Get your mind out of the gutter, you brown!”

“Hmph, don't get carried away because you have thicker fat, purple.” (TL Notes: Not quite sure why they called each other colours)

Hmph! We pointlessly battled with our eyes. That reminds me: how's Erio's chest growing?

“I'm going to be taken away soon anyway. Nothing means anything.”

Obaa-chan easily spoke her mind. I knew she didn't misspeak.

Because she has always been like this.

That's why I've been thinking since twenty eight years ago.

It matters not if it was incomplete or whatever. Like struggling in water, I waved my arms:

“Just for tomorrow, I beg you!”

I pleaded, and pleaded, with all my prayers.

The thread I've sewed with actions was close to tear.

Would it hold till the end? That would be out of anyone's grasp.

I prayed to an existence unrelated to fate.

Finally, a nostalgic word of refreshment appeared.

“I remember that!”

“Eh?”

“Shouji has always said that whenever he's asking a girl out. 'Just for tomorrow, just for tomorrow!' After the date, he would then proceed to ask 'can we do this again?' He would even say 'today's date ended today; next time's will end next time.' What a buffoon!”

Obaa-chan looked out the house, toward the town, peering as if laughing at Nii-san's silly face.

At the same time, she smiled peacefully, as though enjoying the tranquil breeze of the sea.

“How did you know?” I asked, looking up in astonishment.

“You're the one who ran here and told me everything.”

“Ah, that's right. You sure have a good memory.”

“Of course! It's what you told me, after all.”

As Obaa-chan so declared, her sickly face seemed dyed with some colour:

“I'm at a lost, but I will go. I'll close the store for a day.”

“...Okay! Thank you, Obaa-chan, for going along with my whims.”

“You've always been whimsical. You will lose your voice if you tried to thank me every time. Just forget about saying those kind of stuff.”

“Alright, then time to head home~” I stood up energetically.

“Oh~ Go home, then. I'm really tired.” Shoo, Obaa-chan attempted to drive me off.

“I'll pick you up tomorrow. Be sure to get up and be ready!”

“Ah~ I know, I know. You be sure to get here!”

“Aye, aye.” She won't hit my head now even if I mess around. That's good, for now.

I turned back, discovering the door had been open all this time.

“Meme.” This was the first time Obaa-chan called my name today.

Looking back from the hall, I saw Obaa-chan's laboured figure sitting there:

“Be careful on your way home — you are a mother now.”

“Mm, I know. I will see you tomorrow.”

I bowed deeply before shutting the door:

“...Pheeeeew.”

As if imitating Obaa-chan, I let out all the air in my lungs.

I rested my forehead on the door, eyes closed. In sixteen bits colour, droplets of returning memories flushed the darkness.

The illusion of a little girl running through the hall with snacks in hands echoed behind.

Just you wait, aliens.

We may not see you, but the rockets will still get you.

☆

“So after being too excited in the bed for the entire night, I woke up late.”

Hearing my shameless report, Obaa-chan did not look disappointed. 'I've seen this coming,’ she seemed to say.

“Really, now? I see you've an adult since long before: you haven't even change since three.”

“Yep, yep.”

“I will admit that you've grown enough to no look for excuses. Now, are we going to the beach? Take me there.”

As promised, Obaa-chan had on her outside clothes. She reached for me on the futon, and I took her hand over as if checking a ticket. I carried her up. Light, today as well. And she will still be light. I have, after all, became an adult… I'm forty. Argh!

“Hohoh~ You seemed tired!” Obaa-chan mocked at my undulating back.

“It's cuz I biked here as fast as I could. My knees are… a bit shaky.”

“You had no problem running around when you're young, and now you're playing old?”

Although it was unclear which part of that contained a compliment, Obaa-chan was somehow happy. People would always smile when they see someone they knew from long ago show up on the TV. In all the recent conversations I've had with Obaa-chan, I always felt so.

I went out the store front. For me, the true entrance to this house has always been the store. Obaa-chan, on the other hand, merely breathed lightly to my reflection.

As the forecast predicted, a stream of grey cloud covered the morning sky. Only if it would be sunny by the time we get there. I wished without expectation.

“It's not the same one.” Obaa-chan commented on the bicycle.

“That one broke long ago when I was still chasing Elliot around.”

“Oh.” And for some reason Obaa-chan looked away resentfully.

I let Obaa-chan sit on the back, had her hold onto my waist, and tied her hands together with a towel… Well, that was the plan, until — “No need, I will sit in the basket.” I was baffled for multiple reasons:

“Having you where the cargo is is kinda...” And the rocket's there too.

“Hush! I don't want to be tied up like a criminal.

“Just let me in.” She so stated, urging me from the back. A complex feeling like sputum in my throat bugged me; still, I seated Obaa-chan in the basket.

The transparently blue June 17th now sat in the back, strapped down by the towel brought for other reasons. 21st, the previously tested rocket, was better looking, but I chose this one today. Reason being that the lucky colour of the day was blue according to the morning fortune-reading program. So I thought, to affirm the unpredictable action that is a prayer, something just as unpredictable would suffice, right?

“How does it feel?”

“Worse than I imagined. I have no flesh on my hindquarter, so it hurts my tailbone.”

“So why don't you sit back here?”

“I refuse to.”

Obaa-chan shook her loose hair like a kid throwing a tantrum, turning down the offer to change seat. She never mentioned anything about the bottle rocket either, only maintaining the 'concise' attitude.

I first made sure both person and rocket were seated firmly, then straddled onto the bicycle as its driver. Kicking off the stand, I slowly gained balance while beginning to wind forward.

“Have you been there with Ojii-chan?”

“I swam in the river around here in the summer once. A brat fell in there, so I had to dive in the water. We didn't have cell phones, or people living around there, so we couldn't take the chances. I might have died too, had I been careless. Kids are such a handful!”

“Mm~ Obaa-chan is pretty hard to crack too!”

“What did you say? Seriously! Uwohh!” Every time when the basket bounced, Obaa-chan would look nauseous and complain about 'her butt hurting.' It seemed like to her, it would be too embarrassing if she didn't say anything. We began to enter streets where people frequent; perhaps that's how she chose to combat the awkwardness brought by this fact.

“Let me clarify beforehand.” Mixed in the wind, Obaa-chan's words flowed back.

“What is it?”

“I don't have a swim suit.”

Old people are clever, so out of self-defense, I remained silent.

Pedaling as hard as I could, I let the wind disperse all words.

As speed increased, that belief I had since childhood grew stronger.

If it were now, I might be able to fly. Again and again, I reminisced the wheels that spun, and climbed in the air.

☆

So was it the result of bringing today's lucky colour?

As we arrived at the beach after an hour of laborious biking, the sky drove the clouds away, letting pure sun shower the ground.

As if cut in half by a plethora of aircraft, the grey layers split. From the opening came the revered face of the sun that could never be directly viewed. My blood warmed to the skin touched by light.

“It's too hot. My nose is going to dry.”

Obaa-chan, who had been out of the sun for months, collected all the wrinkles around her nose, complaining at the sun. Her dried skin was as though raisin — as dry as it can be.

I parked the bicycle on a platform that rose like a hill. Then, I retrieved the rocket before helping Obaa-chan exit the basket. “What is that toy for? Are you going to play with it?” Obaa-chan didn't ask about the rocket till now; I simply twisted a grin. Picking her up again, I walked toward the platform to have her sit down. From here she should be able to see the ocean and the sky.

“Again with the uncomfortable seat.” Despite her grumbling, Obaa-chan still looked over the sea. From the wave-less sea came a breeze filled with the smell of tide.

Such rich wind even gave the illusion of sand entering the nostrils.

“Alright! Yamamoto-kun~!!” Next to Obaa-chan, I shouted toward the Yamamoto-kun who couldn't see me. “Oi~” From beneath returned the sound of sand shuffling, and a reply. Yamamoto-kun seemed used to the nickname, as well, not even responding.

With a dissatisfied scowl, Obaa-chan watched as things unfold.

“I'll leave this to you!” I tossed the plastic rocket toward the sky. On the bottle's way up, the sun penetrated it and shot a beam of azure into my eyes. The radiance was similar to the light shining down into the surface of the sea. For those drowning, it is both hope and death — a symbol to release them from the pain. I experienced the same light once, whenever I was too stubborn to lose to some friends when we went diving.

The rocket disappeared from my sight.

“Did you get it?”

“Somehow! Say something next time!”

Yamamoto-kun casually protested; his shuffling distanced away. Like with a cup of Ramen, we waited for a bit. I crossed my arms needlessly, standing showily against the sea.

“That voice. I’ve heard it before.” Obaa-chan mumbled apathetically.

“Really? Well, you might have met before.”

I answered; as though to enjoy the echo, I yelled at the top of my lungs: “Are you ready~?”

“Not ~yet~!” The soft-cheeked Cutie answered sluggishly.

“That one too. I think she was throwing a fit a while ago.”

“You sure know a lot of people, Obaa-chan.” And again: “Are you ready~?”

“Probably not~”

“Shouji’s son.” Perhaps for brevity’s sake, Obaa-chan revealed the answer.

“Are you ready~?”

“Not yet~” This time, Maekawa’s crisp voice.

“This one I don’t know.”

“There’s a new person, in case you are ever bored.”

Alright! Then… “Are you ready~?”

“R-ready~” Oh, that’s my daughter.

Deducing the answer to ‘what is this line-up?’ Obaa-chan squinted, elbows on her knees.

“What on earth is this about?” Face sitting on her palms, she commented with the tone of a bemused child.

A momentary pause appeared. I gazed at the waves washing away at the sand. I recall going to the beach with my family. Cold sweat beaded on my palm when I remembered the bouncy texture of the jelly fish. Then I remembered the day when Erio was brought back from the sea. Neither her person nor clothes were touched; she simply shivered in the winter sea donned in summer clothes — her lost memory of the past six months made me wonder if she traveled through time. Then at last, I see two Erio's — one sealed away in her futon, and another, standing on her own two feet — walking and standing together on the sand.

The memories appeared, like bubbling waves, and drifted away above the heart's surface.

Images of my first kiss with Elliot here — and I personally tore them apart with a smile.

Alright, alright~~ I stepped forward onto the edge and let my voice out.

Split, sea~~! With the same ambition, I yelled:

“Are you ready~~?”

The other side took a breath: a moment of delay. And then—

“””We are ready~!”””

“All right~ Let’s do it!!”

Answering my commanding arm, streams of water crashed into the sand.

Five plastic rockets broke free of gravity. The crux of recoil, water, continued to push; as if fishes in the sky, the rockets swam together into the air. An especially eye-catching, golden rocket lead vanguard into space.

With the altitude and volume less than that of a millionth of space, the fuel reached it limit. In terms of impact and everything else, it stood no chance.

Yet we still looked up to the genuine rockets that soared upward. Our eyes followed the trails, exhilarating us.

Dreams, hopes or prayers, those tiny frames carried all of that.

Obaa-chan wasn’t far behind, following the rockets with confusion. After confirming that with a side glance, I returned back onto the projectiles.

“Ah!” I sounded slightly disappointed. As each rocket reached its apex, they began to free fall.

Heads pointed at the horizon, the rockets took turn coming back. Pretending to be the tide, they did not refuse gravity on their way down, and disappeared from view.

“Urgh~ We’re not done yet!”

It is no time to be frustrated! You too, Obaa-chan, quit looking so lost!

Although it felt like forever, the second wave came in mere seconds. The second batch followed upward, again embellishing the sky. This, was the second squad of the rocket legion.

The mundane-looking black rocket fell behind his comrades, and swerved about. It might look like the most relaxed with its leisure flight; who made it? Must be someone clumsy!

“Obaa-chan, are you looking? Good!”

“Oi, what is…”

“Ah, here comes the next!”

Squad number three, the center. All rockets activated without hesitation, tracing out five different paths.

“Look! Look! That’s my June 17th! It’s flying!”

I shook Obaa-chan’s shoulders, pointing at the translucent-blue rocket in the front. Obaa-chan gawked, replying only with a ‘ahh.’

“How uninspired of you~” I laughed it off.

Perhaps because of its colour, my rocket carried out the longest distance, marking the record of the furthest in the air. Then it tipped at the peak and fell with its head first. I clamped down on my teeth, unwilling to let go of that sense of flight. Yet the rocket simply fell into retirement. Was that it? Any regrets? Fading away, it seemed to mock me so.

It overlapped with the feeling when Elliot had disappeared without a word. Something in me snapped.

“Elliot, you ass~!!” I yelled, hoping to reclaim my temper that way.

For the rockets, these might be the last.

They left, not because it is their job, but because it is their mission in life.

The most spectacular one flew the closest to the sea, but didn’t look like a bottle at all.

With accessories included, it was shaped deliberately like a fish. The rocket shot directly toward the sun; with the body of a pale Skyfish, it drew a white line across the sky.

It may not have flew the farthest, but anyone would remember the vigorous flight of its incongruous silhouette.

Like a dying Skyfish in its final moments, it must have wished for someone to see it.

“Meme.”

“Wait! There’s still one more…”

“Hah?”

The pivot of the ritual. I was restless, as though seconds were hours:

“Here it is!”

To break through the field of view, that object rose from below, floated into the air, and flew into the sky.

A red plastic bottle with ridiculous speed zoomed by.

A bit further, a bit more, and more.

With prayers and envy, I wanted to see it off to wherever it goes.

But I already knew its fate.

Get there. Get there. Get there! Hit the aliens! Punch him in the guts!

You wanna see some real flesh? Look at your own!

The words of prayer exited naturally.

With me!

“Yamamoto!!”

Flash, explosion and flame hatched on the distant sky.

“Whoaaa!!” Hahah, Obaa-chan jumped!

The rocket burst. According to my plan, and according to Yamamoto-kun’s design.

The firework scattered sparks. Red particles danced, as to pollinate themselves onto the earth, connecting the resonance of scarlet onto the tympanic membrane.

A breath of the gas electrified by the explosion seemed to awe even the lungs.

Raucous cheers came below, one after another. I guess Yamamoto-kun didn’t tell the others? I assume he had told everyone to keep away for the sake of safety.

Obaa-chan kept her head up, completely fixed on the spot. Her eyes remained glued to where the bottle had exploded; her eyelids had given up on blinking.

On the other hand, I was thrilled. Accomplishment and stomach acid boiled deep within my body.

Elliot, I… I did it!

I tried so hard and did it.

So, did I defeat them?

I waited quietly. The answer to my doubt formed.

A wind scattered everything, gradually ending the firework.

The overwhelming sense of achievement went down, spreading into the nooks and crannies via the capillaries.

My toes rustled; my skin almost softened in the heat.

“You… What…” Obaa-chan looked like she was talking without moving her lips. Or maybe she’s mortified by the fact that she screamed. Either way, she didn’t know where to look.

“Ahahah! That’s not made by some amateurs! The firework master’s son, what’s his face… Yamamoto-kun made that plastic rocket. According to him, he used gun powder as the fuel, and the body was carbonized.”

“Oh… Is that so? Then, that voice must have been Ashiro’s.”

Ah, so that’s his name! Ashiro-kun. I remember the job part because I’ve eavedropped on him and Elliot. In other words, I remember that because of Elliot!

Obaa-chan’s emotion seemed numbed from the tinnitus; her eyes balls spun, but received nothing. I felt that describing astonishment as 'bubble-eating' seemed fairly appropriate.

“How was it?”

“Scared the light out of me.” For Obaa-chan, it was a very frank and honest comment.

“Have the aliens let their guard down with the fake rockets, then finally send the real deal up there.”

Boom! I imitated the explosion to relive my senses to the impact:

“This have to have annihilated them.”

By aliens, I mean those around Obaa-chan.

“Of course!” Obaa-chan answered with a poker face, grumbling: “This is too much for an old person.” Probably due to calming down, she exclaimed again: “Ah~ that surprised me.”

“It would have been pointless if you weren’t!”

“What, you want me to die from shock”

“Well, do you feel alive? How long has it been?”

Were the aliens in Obaa-chan — the nihilist — defeated?

Even for just a moment — even if it cannot be measured.

Obaa-chan shut her opened mouth, her lips pursed.

Her spying eyes shone. Perhaps out of fatigue, she closed her eyelids tightly.

And so she returned her cheeks onto her wrists, pretended to be ambivalent:

“Mm, it does feel great being able to let go of the stupid little things.”

“Hahah!”

To my laughter, Obaa-chan sourly mumbled, “this is no joke.”

“Well, I didn’t think the explosion was going to be so big.”

“… So, that’s it?” Obaa-chan questioned.

“Yep, that’s it.” It’s over. The only thing left to do is to enjoy lingering taste.

“You thought of all this?”

“I thought of all this!”

“All this time?”

“All~ this time. The aliens who wanted to perform cattle mutilation on Obaa-chan are gone now. They could have just stick with animals. Why did they have to cross the line? A hare will bite when cornered, you know.”

“Hmph, you even had a hand in the missing animals. Great work.”

“Thank you~” With head held high. Needless to say, Obaa-chan was being ironic.

“Absolutely idiotic.” Obaa-chan shrugged.

“But it was so much work! I’m even used to muscle sore now.”

I spun my right shoulder. “That’s just you getting more muscle.” I guess that works too.

“Ah, but that means… You knew I abduct the animals?”

“Of course! Normally speaking, who in her right mind would be so happy to report something like that? Besides…”

As if to be dramatic, Obaa-chan stopped.

“Besides?”

“There was an obvious claw mark on the back of your hand. Was it a cat?”

“Mm.” Must have been about two weeks ago when Obaa-chan was checking out my hand.

I involuntarily look down at my hand. The wound had healed.

“Animals have hated your guts since you were little.”

“You remember a lot, Obaa-chan.”

Quit acting so high and mighty! The anger seemed to gather near her lips, yet Obaa-chan only looked away:

“I told you: I remember everything you told me.”

“Heheh, thanks.”

I showed my elation. And so, Obaa-chan turned 180 degree around. In other words, toward me.

I smiled, deeply touched by the unfriendly yet honest attitude of hers.

“I defeated them.”

With twenty eight years of my life, I’ve defeated Obaa-chan’s aliens.

“With that?”

“Yep. Didn’t the rockets take out those aliens spectacularly?”

Did they? I ignored Obaa-chan’s muttering and kept talking:

“What I’m saying is, they will not take my grandmother away yet.”

I even went as far as to accentuate my victory.

“Hmph, my stupid granddaughter knows nothing of the aliens.”

Obaa-chan’s maiden last name was Tamura. She hmphed at me; pieces of youth returned to her visage. (TL Notes: In Japan, and I suspect other cultures as well, the term 'grandmother' – or other terms such as uncles, aunt, sister, etc — are not necessarily used for only people of these age with actual blood tie with the speaker. For example, 'Onii-san' is commonly used to address young man in a friendly manner. In this particular case, it wasn't clear until this point that Tamura Obaa-san is actually Meme's actual grandmother)

She threw away her grim facade, revealing her true face.

I patted my chest in relief.

Peering from the top, I stared at the beach. There’s Mako-kun, surrounded by the girls; Erio, Maekawa-chan, and soft-cheeked Cutie. I held onto the Obaa-chan to let her see the view; we smiled at each other.

“For the son of that idiot Shouji, he’s in a rather envious place.”

“I know. The only reason Nii-san left town was for a girl!”

They basically eloped. Neither of their families were happy. And because of that, Nii-san rarely visited. Even with Mako-kun, I bet, he didn’t want me to be the guardian.

“Now I remember, Mako-kun is actually Obaa-chan’s great-grandson. So, how does it feel to finally meet him?”

“The first time he and Erio came, I thought it was you and Shouji.”

Obaa-chan shut her lips, as though remember the sour taste of nostalgia:

“After that, I’ve resolved to see the whole 'life-flashing-before-eyes' thing.”

“You really are a negative grandma~”

“I’ve been like this since your grandfather died. To keep it on the low, lest I crash and burn, I will have no strength for regrets.”

She grumbled forsakenly, and used it to dispel her pent-up grief:

“Even since I became alone, I blamed the gods and the aliens for my living for so long. All that lives dies, but the 'when' differs. If there is someone who decides our fate, then he can be hated.”

Like a machine gun, Obaa-chan spewed words that seemed to claw through the sound of waves.

On the other side, a shamble quartet came from the beach, singing ‘happy birthday to you.’ One of them is having a birthday?

“It’s easier that way: people cannot express hate or grief to that which they can neither see nor touch. This is how we come to term with reality. Even if we must swallow insanity and stuff it deep in the bowel, at least we can live on, thinking ‘it is what it is.’ It is complacent; it is painful, but at least you can retain the will to stay alive. Even when your grandfather is gone, or when your daughter is gone, or if I’m the only one who will see my great-grandson, nothing will change.”

Her tone was as if a hardened chunk of something in the rumen.

Even though it wouldn’t have been inappropriate with some mixed tears, Obaa-chan never cried.

Happy birthday Ryuushi~. My ears picked up the wacky lyrics. Ryuushi (粒子), like particles?

“But, you stupid granddaughter!” She glared. Just like a grandmother censuring her grandchild who had taken a prank too far.

“I’m sorry.” I lowered my head, apologizing to many people.

To Erio, for not being a perfect mother. To the animals, for forcing them to participate in a human’s business. To Yamamoto-kun, the friend who I used.

To Obaa-chan, for ignoring her will and projecting mine onto her.

…But, all I want is for her to stay for a while longer.

For my selfish wish, I wanted to defeat fate.

“There is nothing to apologize for.” Obaa-chan spoke again with a dried voice:

“Meme.”

“Yes?”

“Did you teach Erio ‘that’?”

“That? …Oh, you mean the futon? No, she figured that one out herself.”

“Mm… Wasn’t that what your grandfather did?”

She showed me a face of both sadness and joy:

“He too, hid in the futon when things go south. Like when he ate too much of the shop’s food, or when he was scolded for selling weird key chains to the kids, he would always hide in the futon.”

“Ahahah, it’s in the blood!” I clapped twice: “humans are truly mysterious!”

I felt the same thing when Obaa-chan wanted to ride in the bicycle’s basket.

Heritage, fate and the like connect us. Like a domino, one after another.

To resist it is as if to walk on water; however, I think it’s possible to change where the dominos fall. After what I did today, did I stop Obaa-chan’s dominos from falling toward the aliens?

“It is the same for me.”

“What is?”

Obaa-chan beamed the most brilliant smile at me, looking up toward the blue sky where the rocket flew:

“When your grandfather died, my health also deteriorated. Right, remember I told you I was close to dying? Yet twenty eight years later, the gods never came to pick me up despite my failing health. The doctor I knew told me fifteen years ago that ‘you don’t have long.’ Well, here I am.”

She said so while lying down, arms and legs spread like wings:

“The gods might actually be very tactile!”

“Hah? Tactile?”

“Maybe they were waiting for me. To defeat the aliens.” To defeat them.

“To defeat themselves?”

“Yep.”

“… Hmph, this isn’t some drama. They should have just killed me with a cross death-ray.” Denying as she did, she sounded fulfilled. Lying there, Obaa-chan gazed straight at my face. A long sigh, as if the evaporation of her thoughts.

After that cleansing sigh, tranquility triumphantly occupied Obaa-chan’s face.

“Stupid people truly are full of surprises.” Obaa-chan uttered a few more fading words. From her relaxing lips and eyes though, it probably wasn’t anything bad.

In any case, I replied to that first part:

“I am not an idiot: I just finished a game of sudoku on a magazine!”

Shut up, Obaa-chan whispered. “You’d be cuter if you were dumber.” She then said so:

“When I’m dead, hand that store to Erio.”

“…Really!” Again with those words. But I swallowed them back after Obaa-chan’s next line.

“But I’m not dying yet!”

She hurried added.

“Eh~ You’re so stingy~ Give some to your frequent customer me too~”

“Didn’t you get that pastry store from your mom?”

“That store is no longer in my hands!”

“Judging by your work ethic, it’s hard to say if it was ever.”

“Hey, Obaa-chan.”

“Mm.”

“Can we go somewhere before heading back?”

I suggested the continuation of our day out, watching for her reaction. Obaa-chan immediately responded:

“Mm, sure. Either way…”

At that moment, she slightly straightened her torso.

With elbows holding her up, she flexed her abdomen. Even behind the clothes, the changes were visible. The tightening of the corner of her eyes, the clamping of her jaw: they were signs of her holding on.

Exerted impulse drove Obaa-chan. It pushed her atrophied muscles, damaged bones, and brain that constantly struggled with the legs that could no longer stand. The disjointed limbs caused her to roll over. But she had not given up on the goal. I held my hand back, digging nails deep into the palm and waited quietly for the moment to come. Ryuushi’s birthday song paused; silence was upon us. Waves echoed faintly, as though guarding the space where something was about to happen.

And so, the effort was able to connect with the stubborn force of gravity.

That moment, I saw the particles appearing from Obaa-chan’s hair.

“Either way, the store’s closed for the day. What’s better than spending a day with your granddaughter?”

Obaa-chan’s hand stretched upward.

I cherishingly held it, gentling rubbing the back of her hand.

Let’s go see Ojii-chan.

I’ve already decided the first thing to tell him.

That is, even when separated from so many people, I am still alive.

I, have turned forty.

### 009. Chapter 8 - The E.T's Workplace

Why? For what reason? I questioned the ridiculous arrangement of a certain giant existence.

Did you just send me all your problems?

“Alright~ If you don't hurry up, the sun will make us old! Ugah~! I'm aging~! My skin is growing older every seven seconds~ It hurts! Sore! Muscles~!”

“Could you at least stop flailing around?”

While scolding the thirty-nine-plus-one years old person hugging my waist from behind, I tried speeding up according to her request: “Faster, faster, faster!”

My youth had burned and crashed; Meme-san's happiness point, however, looked like it was shooting toward the sky!

Why does it have to be her behind me all the time? Oba-chan's frequent visit is making me think that it's destiny — the unfortunate kind. My fate is being drained by something. I want to know what, not that it'd make a different.

Four days had passed since the beach-rocket event. It's the first of July — not having a schedule right after school could have been the cause of my downfall. Meme-san was waiting for me in front of the school.

“Hi~” She even waved once she saw me. If someone passing by asked me 'You into older ones?' I'm going to start, right then and there, my life as a hermit.

The black stray-dog roaming around the parking lot barked loudly at Meme-san from a distance. You sure are sharp. I complemented in my mind.

“...Why did you come here?”

I muttered quietly by the gate. I don't mind you popping out of nowhere, but at least know where to show up.

“Heheh.” She laughed mysterious for a bit, then raised her finger:

“Today is 'date with Oba-san' day!”

“Sounds like 'date with mom' day diluted 2000 times.”

I choked the bicycle grips and hoped to reach home earlier. Yet, she already circled behind the bike, moved the backpack and sat down on the rack.

“Alright, Oba-san is going to guide you hand-by-hand on how to be my hand.”

Hey, get you arms off me. Stop blowing into my ear. And don't change our position.

“Why is she the only one who's ever sat there...”

“With just three Happiness points, Meme-chan can pre-order the backseat.”

“I am seriously lost.” For me, it simply sounds like curse points.

Because of this, I was on a date with Oba-san after school.

The sun shone down, yet my heart was pitch black. Sure is amazing how it didn't pour. If it ever did, the umbrellas will be destroyed.

The destination: Tamura Shop. We were headed to peep on how Erio is doing:

“It's not fair that only Mako-kun can go in. I'm going to see Erio under the same condition too ~”

“Now that's bold, not trying to change your ways at all.”

Meme-san drags others down to make them see things the same way. But that's ok.

I noticed midway that the sun was shifting season: the light that weakened the moisture of rain heated the road and skin, creating a terrible dryness. The Sweat and lingering dampness — it was the season that people will fully realize how annoying perspiration really is.

My back, on which Meme-san squeezed tightly onto, naturally became the bed of heat and suffocation.

“…...”

So what happened?

No one told me the results of shooting those rockets at the beach. Meme-san, the space stalker/Maekawa-san fan, and even Tamura Obaa-san were there, but I still don't know what the rocket's explosion has cleared up.

Meme-san didn't look any different. She might take it for another meaning if I tell her; I cannot predict whether she will be pleased or not.

We arrived at the Tamura Shop. Backing up by kicking, I stopped in the front.

There wasn't a single rocket on our way here. Has it finished?

“Mako-kun is so cute; you're complaining, but still you hung out with me~”

“Am I to thank your happiness point for you being the only person to ever say that to me?”

Complaining as I did, when I turned her face was right there, and her embracing hands moved up. My heart sped up. Ok, I'm done. I'm a Obacon (snaps).

Letting Meme-san down first, I parked the bicycle. I left the backpack sitting in the basket after locking up and circled into the shop's entrance. Together, we stood by the bench and looked into the store.

“Mako-kun has been real friendly with Erio!” Meme-san, head peeking in, quietly asked.

“I don't think so.”

“When do you plan on becoming my honey?”

“When you're sourer.”

I pulled the properly-installed door open slightly to hear better.

In there, Touwa Erio held her fists tight, her voice trembling.

Amazingly, Tamura Obaa-san was in the store as well, perilously kneeling behind the register. From what I know, this was a first.

Meme-san stared at Obaa-san; she drew a sharp breath. She almost choked on her tongue.

Then she exhaled. Hah… Hah… Something buried under her heart followed her shaking breath.

I looked away from Meme-san's face and back into the store. I wonder: was she crying?

In a store with no customers played the voice lesson guided by Tamura Obaa-san.

“Wel...come...” The interior sucked Erio's tiny voice away.

“Unacceptable. One more time.” Tamura Obaa-san pointed out just where she was dissatisfied with and urged her to restart.

“Wel! ...come…” Erio burst and fell into pieces.

“That's not how people talk. Again.”

“Welcome...” As if poked with a needle, the end of her sentence deflated weakly.

“Ugh… Put more energy into it! Again!”

“Welcome…!”

Tamura Obaa-san finally pinpointed something abstract. She's still louder though.

Regardless, Erio was able to speak loudly in front of others now. On the path back to society, she took a firm step on the smooth road. Even though she needed a thousand steps just to stand back up; even though her speed is so slow it's hard to point out any progress, witnessing her growth was, because of so, so much more satisfying.

Erio's road back to society has just begun. Can this E.T successfully adapt to Earth?

“Listen well, Erio: if you can greet without any coma or period, I will give you double the salary.”

“Mm, I'll try. W...Welcome!”

“And before my throat dies.”

I sensed Tamura Obaa-san's shift in focus to solve the problem. So something did change on that beach? Perhaps that's why Meme-san was running around everywhere.

As I stared at Erio and Tamura Obaa-san, Oba-san silently hugged me from the side. Arms circling my left arm, she pressed onto me.

A-again… I almost froze. Upon sensing the air, however, I changed my attitude.

It was neither an embrace, nor an act of grovel — she merely leaned for support. Her face buried deep into my armpit, and her hair hung low with gravity; heels down from toes, she stood firm on the floor.

When Meme-san hid her face, her wrinkles, her everything. When she did all that, she looked just like a young girl.

“Happiness is the best!”

As though with teeth clamped, she uttered choppily.

The voice of a girl on her way back to a smooth, normal life echoed from the store, drowning those words. Following it was the sound of an old lady whose wrinkles were not wrinkling.

There seemed to be a cicada starting to cry on a tree far away.

Noises that were the breath of this town resonated, rippling continuously in my mind.

I thought I was restless; in fact, I felt goosebumps.

A feeling that was about to burst from the ground assaulted me.

As if to witness how the sensation was going to fly, I looked into the sky. From the crack on the ceiling, I saw the blue sky in which nothing flew by.

Cumulonimbus clouds stretched from faraway, waiting to devour the sun.

Since it was Meme-san to my side, my youth won't be lighted.

However.

Nonetheless.

“Yeah.” I muttered back.

How surprising.

I have come to accept this not-so-buggy fact.

The human will live on in this town of the aliens.

He will never find a UFO, and will keep looking at the sky.

### 010. Chapter 1: Kyaah—

## Chapter 1 - Kyaah—

I’ve turned forty! Forty! Kyaah~ Eeyaah~ Gyaah~! Forty — a demonic number capable of bringing down a corrupt government; it’s a number encapsulating the bounty and depth of not just life, but of history . People lose their immaturity here, and step onto the stairway to adulthood. Kyaah, what smooth skin! I’m so jealous! Dammit, even if she’s my own daughter, that look is just too damn much!

“Don’t steal my monologue!”

And what the hell is up with you replacing the chapter title with screaming? …I don't know what I'm saying either; it's like my mouth was possessed by a necromancer.

…Alright, start over. Hi, I’m Niwa Makoto. At the moment, the room is about forty times noisier.

Today – Sunday, June sixth — a certain forty-year old child was yelling her afternoon away. It was annoying. She came into my room, riled up the dust and crawled around on the bed like a beached shrimp. It would appear to be a futile struggle against the changing of her age.

As a side note, there’s some medicine patch on her feet. It looked kinda depressing.

“What a cruel world~ uwooo~wuu. If time and story could stop, I could be forever thirty nine. My dream of spreading 'thirty-nine year old business card' in the town is over.”

Sniffle~ Touwa Meme-san spat out her absurd wish. She’s my aunt (おばさん), and there is no way a ‘ka’ is between the two kana’s. Since her name might begin to appear in the examples of the definition of forty-years old, my peaceful life is threatened.

“Ahh~ Wuu~ Forty… Elliot is also forty, Hoshimimi is also forty. Onii-san is also forty two… Ohohohoh!” She buried her face into the pillow, an eerie smile crept up on her face. This way, she wasted her move. But in the time of each of my move, she has triple the amount of action – What energy. Well, not like I know what’s happening!

“Meme-san, please go back!” Shoo~ Shoo~ I put out my stance of eviction. It, however, has never worked.

“If you don’t call me Meme-chan or Honey , I’m not going to listen! Hmph!” Just as the sound effect suggested, she looked to the side.

Change your honey-smothered-brain behavior, ya forty-year old! I’m the one who wants you out of the house!

“ Honey ~ (the hell’s wrong with me)”

“Heck no! You sound perverted!”

She just grew in some unnecessary direction, compare to before. Sigh… I guess it’s pretty impressive, growing at all at her age.

“Don’t give me that look. My skin is actually so good that some people call me the smooth-skinned sensei! Don’t be shy, come here… Come here~”

I wanted to silently leave her alone, but Meme-san talked like she won’t accept a second of pause: “My~ Don’t be shy! Even though loving your dad’s sister is just as bad as falling in love with your own dad, endearing names are completely fine!” Her raving bloated like marshmallow, pressuring the air and my stomach.

She’s done: she's not at all mature, and it’s going to be terrible if nothing is done. Looks like I have to say something. If this goes on, misunderstanding will occur between us and the neighbors, and there will be no more weekends.

“…Meme-chan.”

“Badump~ (star)” Crap.

I’m going to kick her. And not just her shadow.

“Please stay in your room quietly.”

“Am I not~?”

“In your room… Quietly. What you just said isn’t true, but it isn't a lie either, so I wanted to point out one of the problems, but neither way works!”

“La~La~ I can’t understand your tirade~”

Slip~ Meme-san, who gave up on talking, slid closer and pounced me. “Heeyaw~!” She carefully closed the novel I was reading and tossed it toward the bed.

Oh no, Kikkawa Eiji flew off… Not that I’m passionate enough for this author to cry out like that. I’ve already read a few of his books, but his style is still too wordy. His wordiness is, however, pretty popular in a lot of places.

In the end of the book that just flew off, the main character defeated the weapon-wielding killer with a shoe. There should always be a limit to fickleness. Maybe it’s a mutant of the phrase “Pen is mightier than a sword”?

“There are bigger things, Mako-kun. Comfort your aunt whose Happiness-point is dropping because of sadness!”

She shot me a smile that begged for pity. Ugh, listen: people who are traumatized shouldn’t smile like that. That aside, what the hell is this point that scales inversely with mine?

“For the sake of convenience, I will name it 'an unbelievable feeling that strikes my heart, warms my skin, and upsets me when it’s gone.'”

“Don’t read garbage and use it as explanation.”

“C’mon! Licking, touching or crying, whatever you like!”

My kind aunt purposefully informed me of activities that would lead to the loss of Youth-points.

“Then I choose to back off.” Omitting the specific, I dodged the oncoming danger. Keeping the sum as zero when dealing with Meme-san is actually considered as great fortune.

“How terribly cold of you. You must have been raised in a fridge!”

“It’s better than a certain aunt who’s like an onigiri in the summer sun.”

“Why did I have to be forty? Thinking carefully now, wouldn’t my age and Erio’s add up to fifty five? That’s like Area 51, isn’t it? Creepy. Or better yet, Erio 51.

“It’s a bit of a pain to think about what you’re talking, so can I not?”

“Of course not~” From that fresh tone, I failed to sense the necessity for consultation.

“I see… The numbers don’t add up though. Shouldn’t Erio be sixteen now?” She’s my age.

“I’m thirty nine~!” Meme-san violently raised her hand. If there was a short-legged table there, she would definitely flip it merrily.

“Don’t tell me, your birthday has a reentry point?”

“Birthdays are special occasions. What’s so wrong about being thirty nine for that day anyway~?”

She rolled around, exhibiting an act of groveling that was obviously carefully deliberated. Judging from how she didn’t hope to be twenty nine, I could see her modesty. But I wished that she wouldn’t ask for my agreement. How in the world do you want me to response?

“Uh, hm. Anyway, happy birthday.”

‘You are a negative jerk, Mako-kun! Just as I thought!”

Meme-san bolted out of the room after leaving those words. How rude — I have +1 point right now. I counted again back in May when I was bored in the hospital, so I should be right. By the way, because it was too complicated, I didn’t calculate the total of when people came to visit me. But those points were probably canceled out by Ryuushi-san and Nasukawa-san’s attack.

Bam bam~ Unlike her name suggests, Meme-san ran downstairs valiantly, and then ran back up humming ‘Lalala~’. She quietly peeked inside in the hallway. Every time she does something like that, bad feelings and memories surface in me. This kind of sensation is like seeing a single black spot on the radio exercise attendance card.

“I forgot to tell you, Mako-kun – No, Mako-chan !”

“What?” Changing my name was definitely pointless.

“The blanket is covered with my smell, so you can sniff it all you want!”

“Wha~ahhh~!”

My reaction was supposed to be filled with a mountain of exclamation marks, but since this topic is filled with too much pain, I could only scream.

“Wuhaha! Ah~ It’s great to help someone!”

Meme-san rolled her shoulders, this time disappearing into the hallway and down the stairs with a demeaning smug.

Look at you – so you are worried about being forty. I didn’t even have the strength to make a retort to her back. Are human really capable of doing things they will never regret? I shifted blame to the difficult ethics in life, wanting to lament on various things. I made the decision to never lie down on that bed today.

…And then —

A person rolled through the hallway — as if trading place with Meme-san — from the neighboring room.

She was the futon-wrapped mini crazy girl, the daughter of that person just now. Speaking of which, would Touwa Erio end up like that in twenty years? No, think of it the other way – Meme-san was Erio twenty years ago. Hm~ it should be registered as one of the world’s Seven Wonders. In Ryuushi-san’s words, this is the mystery that exists around us.

With a cartwheel, Erio invaded my room, moving toward the target that was the center. She staggeringly stood up, almost sending the feathers out, and slid. Her legs seemed to be numb from kneeling down.

“Fufufufu…” Erio sneered cockily… Wait, maybe the numbness made her moan, 'Wuwuwu...’ sounding like the muffled laughter of a merciless antagonist with flu behind a futon.

Her right leg twitched, and the other kept a subtle arc. That must be the afflicted one. She lifted the blanket… Or rather, her whole body; but gravity had the upper hand, and she filled the space between her and the floor.

I’ll give you three minutes. I watched, yet Erio didn’t move. She seemed to have given up.

“Idiot.” People who are free 24/7 are irritating because of this: It’s habits like ‘what a pain, let’s just lie down here’ that are the worst. Yet, is is enviable, being allowed to do just that.

I helped Erio – or the blanket – up. The princess was, naturally, unhurt and indifferent. “Stick your head out.” And so, I commanded her as if summoning the Genie.

Swoosh~ Pah! Her head drilled upward, revealing only the face from the futon. Though expressionless, Erio — the embodiment of a pretty girl — was surprisingly earnest. This is like describing an apple, for example. Some people will emphasize on the redness or the size of an apple, but other than food novels or manga, no one will describe the species of apples in tremendous detail. Just like when writing about apples where most people would think of a red, palm-sized fruit, Erio’s appearance faithfully reproduces the hazy image that people have of a pretty girl.

Most men would probably think, ‘she’s super cute; I’ll take care of her,’ but I’m not one of them: I care more about the inside of a person. Well, not like I can assert that without a shard of doubt, but who cares? I changed my attitude arbitrarily:

“Why are you wearing the futon again?” Didn’t Denpa Onna end in the last volume?

“I’m the most comfortable like this.”

“You wanna decorate that hole in the wall? Whatever. You got something for me?”

Her dialogue didn’t stray to space, but was instead guided toward me, saving all the trouble of communication. However, I’m still not used to it. Or rather, I feel embarrassed to her answering me normally.

Why did her first impression have to be so intense?

Erio, who should be at her most comfortable, was squirming around restlessly, her gaze darting left and right.

"Today is Mom's..." Hearing something like that came out from her mouth was bizzare to me: sort of like something that looked wooden, but actually metalic. My days exchanging with Earthling Erio is still quite shallow.

"Birthday."

"Mmhm."

"...And?" She seemed to think that a single phrase would be enough to convey her intention: "...Everything else in the middle too." My comprehension isn't that good, so give me the accepted answer.

With a tinge of trouble on her face, Erio bit her lower lips and mumbled the missing link:

"The pastry."

"The pastry." I regurgitated pointlessly. For some reason, even the young high school guy with an overactive imagination found it difficult to picture Erio chowing down on snacks. Though I could picture her eating mochi, and stretching it out because the toughness.

“Mom likes dango.”

...Oh, I see. So we're celebrating? It should be fine if it isn't a cake, then, since dango's what she likes.

So, summarizing what Erio just said, I understood the purpose of she bringing up this topic… Hm.

“You want me to bring you there?”

“Mhm.”

“Ah—...Sure, whatever.”

Like sunlight reverting from dusk to noon, rays shot out from Erio. The particles of light sensed her reaction, and gathered on specific spots of her skin.

Perhaps recovered from numbness, Erio successfully stood up this time and hurried to the doorway.

“Oi, take the futon off first.”

“Guu!”

Though dissatisfied, she looked away as if remembered something.

“What's wrong?”

“Cousin.” Erio gazed at my eyes. Even the color of her irises was deep as if refined by extraterrestrial means. Water in her eyes gleamed chrome and clear; drinks filled with solvent are incomparable to it.

“What?”

“The futon has my smell. Do you want it?”

“You two got something wrong — I am not a sniffer.”

The answer opposite of your thought is so wrong, yet so right.

The new bicycle showed me worlds that I almost forgot.

Wheels that will actually follow the chain, handles that don't feel sandy, frame with no rust or shedding, basket with perfect paint, and the Erio inside of it — the last one was extra!

After my forceful removal of the futon (as a side note, her struggle, 'hng~ hng!', was cute) Erio obediently went out with me. She didn't sit behind me, but instead stuffed her butt into the basket naturally, waiting for the delivery. According to her, 'this is more comfortable.'

My cousin, who always prioritizes comfort, dismissed the white line that labeled sidewalk. Looks like rigorous effort is required to change her life for the better. Since this mission was not obligatory, I wanted to take good care of all of my bones — including my healed right arm. The certain someone who wasted all my calcium is now considered my nemesis.

Sun shone high on the Saturday two weeks after raining season, ensuing the weather of May. The wind and light were pleasantly dry, removing only the extra moisture on skin. The end of spring is the best time to ride a bicycle to enjoy the breeze.

As I followed along the dike, as per Erio's direction, I saw an open ground below with a group of adults and children playing baseball. How nostalgic! Baseball was something of a football substitute back in elementary school, when all the footballs in the gym storage have been taken.

Because we only had a total of six people from both teams, once three people land singles consecutively, we would have the outfielder come and bat. The result was ambiguous win/loss, but looking back now, isn't it pretty good to be able to kill time without arguments?

Kids tend to argue over the smallest things like winning or losing; although most are able to make up in weeks or months, there are cases when they will never speak again. Well, most people lose touch with their friends after graduating, but a happy farewell is always appreciated.

Since there wasn't any oncoming traffic, I had an overlook of the game. The tiny girl batter wore a red yukata, a pair of ukon geta, a construction helmet… A girl? Female? Her age was unknown. But the girl dressed in all that was batting, and she sent the ball flying to the left field. The batter stumbled because of the recoil at first, but immediately dropped the bat and sprinted forward. She made it to second base through the first, triumphantly raising her right hand. It looked like a mischievous Zashiki Warashi playing baseball.

If that's so, then this might not be the little league, but the yokai league? Maybe it's more enjoyable than a field day in the grave yard? I came to my own conclusion despite of obvious facts.

“Baseball...” Erio, who was stuffed int the basket, mumbled. The words unfiltered by futon sounded like notes played on a piano in staccato: they were clear, but vague in meaning.

“Do you like it?”

As I asked, Erio wildly shook her hair that was long enough to be a carpet. The game-watching was declared finished when I began looking at her hair. I rode across the bridge; the dyke disappeared.

“Were you ever in a club when you were still in school?”

Having a normal conversation with a girl riding on your bike — isn't this the promised land of Youth-points? Yet, the numbers showed no sign of changing due to her way of riding. Things are never as expected.

“Club… Astronomy club.”

“Ah, the quiet kind?” Just as I thought: space. So you do like that stuff.

“...I'm part of the go-home club that thinks 'I should have joined' with a smirk on my face.”

“...Is that so?” You'd still look like a painting with a creepy mug, right?

I followed Erio's instruction and entered what looked like the shopping district. Old shops that would treat shopping centers as enemies stood on both sides, and few with the shutters closed scattered here and there. Without fail, people standing by the stores and those in uniform riding on bicycles all turned their heads to gaze at the pretty girl in the basket. I felt awkward — definitely not about stupid things like 'I don't fit in this picture.'

On the southern part of the district, I parked in front of the pastry next to the bicycle shop. Through the window, the scenery inside the store seemed to emphasize the color white.

Written on the signboard outside was the introduction of strawberry daifuku and the new Dorayaki mochi.

As a side note, the shop's name appeared to be 'Mars Globe.' As expected of the greedy town that want to grasp not only the locals, but also a different planet: even the naming has something to with space!

“This is the only pastry I know.”

“Really…? Well, I don't really care where we're going. Meme-san should be happy as long as you bought it for her.”

Maybe she'll even feel that her tears shed for the lamentation of being forty 'what a waste~' and moved to tears again for different reasons. No, not a chance. She shouldn't be the type to honestly accept a gift. Sigh, the thing Meme-san talked about before, the, uh, Happiness-point might rise?

Erio seemed embarrassed; her cheeks flushed pink. She covered her face with her hands, as if trying to hide her blush.

We went inside the gorgeous shop decorated with flags and hand-drawn advertisement, like a refurbished pachinko parlor.

“Welcome… Eh, don't I know you two?”

The white, round object that was initially wiping the display case greeted us cordially.

“...”

Hah? I have to describe? But, uh, it's just Maekawa-san wearing a daifuku skin.

“Hm~? Why are you just standing there, transfer student? …And the futon-roll, whoa! It's been a while since I've seen the content!”

“...Mm.”

Was Erio's calmness out of maturity? Or simply seeing the other person as a fellow cosplayer? Faced with the gaze of an old classmate, she actually realized her disgrace and hid behind me.

“Oh man, you are shy now! And so chummy with the transfer student, too, with this and with that~”

“N-no, our relation isn't based on love; it's mostly just familial! So, what is Lady Daifuku doing then?”

“Watch it there, this isn't a daifuku — it's a shiroko of a bocchan dango. Dango, not shirako!”

She protested; her cheeks swelled as if stuffed with dango. I see, so that's a dango on her head.

“The two have totally different chewiness. You get me, transfer student?”

“Really? But you got powder on you.”

“It's just the paint falling off — this isn't exactly expensive.”

She stopped wiping the window and turned to face us. Maekawa-san was unfazed even when wearing this outfit that reduces both defense and coolness to minimum, standing tall with her back straight. Indeed, she lanky.

Rather than calling that a dango, isn't her outfit better suited as a yam? Let's keep this thought a secret.

“As you can see, I work here. A mascot is indeed a must-have in this time and age!”

“Right.” You just look like a ball for a game of pushball though.

“There are two more outfits for the Mugwort and red bean flavor, do you want to try it? Let's all be a skewer!”

She gestured to the inside of the store. The illusion of a drama club called Wagashi store spread from the interior. Just like people who ask others to play football after school, she encourages people to cosplay on the weekend… Is this what the city is about? Hm, definitely can't let your guard down in the city: there are always cars zooming by the road, so a misstep is always deadly. In the country side, the worst that could happen is falling into the field along with the bicycle.

After her careful words of politeness, Maekawa-san pouted out of boredom and began taking care of her customers:

“Alright, what are you doing here?”

“Shouldn't there only be one thing a customer could be here for?”

“The most surprising answer: you're here to stare at me. Mm.”

“Unfortunately, it is the most unsurprising one: Erio is here to get some dango.”

I nudged Erio, who was hiding behind to avoid the gaze attack, onto the stage. Holding her shoulders, I made her face Maekawa-san. I could feel the stiffness of her shoulders from my palm.

Maekawa-san peered at Erio with a novel look, while Erio gingerly looked up to Maekawa-san like a blackmailed girl. Erio may be able to speak normally with her family, but with others, she becomes suffocatingly punctual.

From an outsider's view, if either of them were to represent Earth on the space council, confusion would sure follow.

“Touwa, huh… Heh~ where's the futon?”

“She doesn't wear it anymore, right?” At least outside of the house.

Erio looked down, her gaze escaping to the side, without uttering a word.

“Is it just Maekawa-san in the store? What about the manager?” Since there was not progress in our conversation, I had to say something to ease the awkwardness.

“The manager skipped out, so she asked me to open the store. It's been like this for a while now.”

This distribution of labor is messed up! And she agreed to it. What an annoyingly lenient worker. Does dressing up freely also make you more open-minded?

If I ditch Erio, she will never say her reasons of visiting here. And thus, I had to say, 'all right, what are you buying?' sort of like being her encouraging mother. What a troublesome person.

“Dango, um… I'm here for some Mitarashi Dango.”

She finally kind of successfully spoke her intent to the white dango that called herself the clerk. Maekawa-san said, 'dango? Sure.' After letting her body bump into several places in the store, she opened up a display case:

“How many?”

“F…five sticks.” Erio shot her hand out abruptly, exaggeratedly stuck out all the fingers.

“Oh hoh, thank you!”

Maekawa-san responded with a manly, craftsman-like line, and wrapped her customer's food neatly.

“My hands are quite quick, but I can't get any better.”

She lightly commented, 'here ya go!” and handed the goods to Erio.

Just from this one scene, Maekawa-san appeared like Erio's senpai, or a college student older than she by three years.

As her inadvertent guardian, I opened my wallet and handed a thousand yen bill to the register.

“As for the change, just let me buy you a school lunch of equal price. How's that?”

“I'll gladly accept if it's Maekawa-san's handmade lunch.”

“Tch.” She tutted lightly, 'Jingle jingle~' she hummed out a register sound effect as she gave me the change: “You don't need the receipt, right?” She threw the paper away before handing it to me.

“Thank you.” Erio expressed her gratitude, her voice slight like a ring finger's motion.

“Don't mention it~ Believe it or not, my friends call me 'Maekawa the trouble-saver'!”

It's probably because 'the trouble is always somehow because of her~' or something like that — basically same as the saying 'you know it's Yahari~ (やっばり矢張)'? But that smug of superiority suits her, so I avoided talking as to not break it.

“Ah, right. Careful that you don't get Touwa kidnapped!”

Maekawa-san began wiping the counter and gave a bizarre advice.

“What do you mean, kidnap?”

“A lot of animals went missing around here recently.”

“Animals? Like pet dogs?”

I pictured a culprit killing animals; a bitter taste spear in my mouth.

“No, wild animals like cats, dogs or the occasional weasel.”

“… Is it the EPA?”

“Mm~ Doesn't look like it. I was thinking since Touwa is like an animal now, they might make a mistake.”

Maekawa-san happily continued her jabbing at the Erio, who hid behind me. Judging from this, she might actually like Erio? As expected of the master cosplayer Maekawa-san, being able to like the crazy girl who roams around town wrapped in futon. Or perhaps she thinks of her as a fellow enthusiast?

“Yep, I knew it. Looking at her trembling in tear; she's practically one of them.”

“Then her species must be space hamster!”

Wahaha~! We guffawed, despite of person in question glaringly at us resentfully.

“ 'Then, I'll see you at school.' “ After saying good bye, we left the store. Though Erio's expression seemed to darken when we spoke about 'school,' that might have just been the light outside that made her squint. The sun after the May rain also made me… Eh? Wasn't there something in the sky just a second ago?

It's too aerodynamic to be a bird, yet too small for a UFO.

“Thanks...”

Erio sat into the bike's basket, carefully holding the bag to her chest and thanked me.

“…For bringing me here.”

Afterward, she buried her face in her thighs, once again hiding her expression. She's embarrassed, right?

Girls who openly show their embarrassment are so cute~ my brain baked slowly in the sun.

Even for a person like her, at such a time my Youth-points will no doubt rise.

“...It's cool, but you have to pay me back later.”

I was definitely not hiding my embarrassment. Never.

There was a Seaweed-wrapped Chikuwa lying at the entrance of the Touwa household.

“…...”

I looked at the Erio standing next to me; Erio was staring at it blankly.

“Do you have a twin sibling?”

“I had never split in half.”

Non, non, she shook her head. In other words, this is that? What on Earth is this forty year old thinking?

A profound omen hit me, looking at her appearance.

Every time her happiness rises, my youth sinks with the descending carts.

“Okay.” I took off my shoes first and put them away neatly, then step onto the hall. Affected by me, the slightly-slower Erio followed suit and also took hers off. I proceeded as Erio put her shoes away.

“Ah, uh… This...” Erio, who remained fixed, shot glances at her feet. Why would you do this? I wanted to complain, but the smart thing to do here is obviously to ignore these things!

Luckily, the futon with bare feet didn't move.

“Alright~ C'mon in. The house isn't messy, but it's not too big either.”

I quoted words someone said to me before, inviting Erio in. “Wuwu...” Erio stopped in her track, her reaction ambivalent. Fine, I'll leave you two alone! After excusing myself out, I strode forward. However, where in this house were my legs bringing me?

In contrast to the one from two months ago, the futon-roll that crawled up — Meme-san — cried 'Ugahh~!' and charged toward my direction for reasons unknown. Whatever it was, I ran. I looked back, the thing pursuing me had to be a Yokai. Please someone go and send a rescue notice to the Yokai Mailbox!

“Whoa! Go away!!”

“Her der you order me~!” I don't understand your raving!

I sprint through the hall, and jumped into the room on the left. Hm, as predicted, Meme-san can't turn. Step step step~ She charged without signs of slowing, 'smack!' came the sound of running into a wall. Let's take a look at the scene.

Maekawa-san once cried 'Gwaaah!' painfully in the night park, rolling around in an epic fail break dance. At this moment, a similar futon-roll version replayed at the end of the hallway. The roll crawled around, busily bouncing back and forth.

I pushed the futon-roll forward, transporting a pained Meme-san back into the living room. Even as she closed to the table, she still struggled, 'Wuwhooooa' as if she had a cramp.

It made me think of the katsuobushi that would dance on iron plates.

Perhaps to follow her daughter's footstep, Meme-san popped her head out after a while, tongue sticking out, 'ahh~' from top of the roll. Sweat drops formed on her forehead, and her cheeks swelled in redness:

“I bit my tongue. Mako-kun, smooch me.”

“Smells like blood, so I'll pass.” And I don't want to have my first kiss stolen by my aunt either. Feels like I might have to lose some ridiculous amount, like twenty five points.

“Speaking of which, it's so hot in here. I can't believe Erio could stand it.”

“Feels like you might dry out.” If I said her skin, I would probably be strangled.

“So, what were you doing? Learning by experience?”

“Because I figured, isn't 'a pretty girl popped out of the futon!' the best gap-moe?

“That's the route your daughter left two months ago.”

And the noun 'pretty girl' doesn't extend to people of all ages.

“I also wanted to express my dissatisfaction with the world.” To prevent our eyes from meeting, I glanced at her sideways.

This isn't how a forty-year old should express her dissent. But more basically, I don't think a normal adult would run into a wall and then struggle on the floor.

“But I can't see Erio or Mako-kun's face like this, so it's kind of troubling!”

Meme-san crisply spat out some slightly embarrassing words without looking bashful:

“So, where did you two sneak off to?”

She pouted her cheeks, as if she would yell 'you aunt wanted to go too~!' any time, while swinging her arms and legs. I bet this person's attitude probably won't change even when she hits fifty!

“We just went to buy stuff.” Whether this counts as a date differ person by person, but this time probably isn't.

“Oh (you went to get some porn mags)!” She nodded deeply, conveying her comprehension.

“Could you not make weird explanations?” Besides, no one would invite girls to do that kind of stuff.

“Oh~ I get it. You're preparing for our first date by having a drill.”

“ 'No!' “ Meme-san received a pincer attack of denial. Erio, who came into the living room, refuted her mother's joke. Sigh, at least I think its a joke. For a brighter future, I will kill off the possibility!

Erio sat down next to Meme-san; Meme-san didn't seem to want to take off the futon, and she slowly turned toward her daughter like a pair of compasses.

“Welcome home!” She greeted elegantly. What did Erio think of her mother, seeing her like this? From her contained, expressionless face, traces of emotion were hard to find.

For example, I attempted to picture my mom welcoming me home dressed like a spiral bread. 'Welcome home!' ...I will for sure immediately enter the rebellious phase. Mm, it's a mental form of domestic violence. I will not accept it, even if someone tells me it's the real life version of 'The Metamorphosis' by Kafka.

“I'm… Home.”

An anxious Erio squeezed out a few dry words of greeting. Maybe Meme-san's unwavering and amicable disposition is actually abnormal here. How does she act so naturally then?

“Stare~”

Meme-san stared at Erio's knee. Erio couldn't find a proper reaction, so she cowered. Along with Meme-san's outfit, the situation looked like a diagram of a frog gawking at a snake. With no intention of being the slug, I began the search for the T.V. remote. I suspect this will turn into a war of attrition.

Yet the circumstance wasn't so. On a more fundamental level, Meme-san never needed a defensive stance.

“Lick!”

She did it: like a snake, Meme-san wriggled forward, her tongue making an advance on Erio's right knee. “Uwah!” Erio jumped backward. She backed into the wall, leaving particles in the dust of her trail.

Erio's eyes widened as she clutched her chest, signifying her perturbed state.

“This skin… The smooth taste of youth! Erio, Eri~o!”

“Who are you calling that?” And you should start your shedding! Are you that into futon mode?

“I am so jealous!” The honest Meme-san hopped about. It must be someone with a personality about thirty times worse than hers that fed Snow White the apple. But with the result in mind, didn't the whole process lead to the Snow White's first-sight love with the prince? Fate is honestly easily summed up with the word 'inconceivable.'

Seeing Erio unconsciously wiped at her right knee, Meme-san grumbled, “Super~ shocking~” and wormed to my side. I sensed that she planned to lick my knee, so I lifted my legs while watching her mouth, showing full-alert.

“Anyway, when do you plan on taking care of me, Mako-kun? Take this! Princess carry!”

My body shook. Since the damage is reduced like this, I changed my mind — maybe it's better for her to stay like this.

“Didn't I roll you here just now?”

“Ehhh~ You are a complete failure when it comes to taking care of girls, Mako-kun~”

“This is the only way to treat a woman donned in futon — your daughter taught me this!”

And the lady in question is also hunched over, like a kid inching toward a leashed mutt, closing in to Meme-san at snail speed.

“Ah… Even my own daughter is wary of me. Onee-chan is so sad that no one understands me.”

“You reap what you sow...” And you don't understand your own worth. Lets leave it at that.

Perhaps taking her mother's joke seriously, Erio scrambled to the front of Meme-san. Hm, how pure of her. If I didn't know about the situation two months ago, and instead met the her today for the first time, I may mistake her for a shy yet loving daughter. Actually, she's that! The futon you leave in the closet — the people worse than those who become useless outside of their house.

“Um, happy… Birthday.”

“Oh my~ Thank you!” Arcing like a shrimp, Meme-san lifted her chins and cracked a wrinkle — pretending that never happened, she kept smiling.

“But I'm not happy at all...”

She maintained the smile and drawled out a curse. Emotion-contradicting expression spooked Erio, but she still carried the present to Meme-san's face. “Sniff, sniff~” Meme-san sniffed the food as if it's courtesy. Stop that!

“I went to buy… Dango. Um...” Guh! Erio choked, and her shoulders stiffened. “Mom...” She then slouched, “favorite.”

“Kyah~ Eri-chan! Is this a confession of love to your sister — no, mom?”

...Mm? Well, I guess the phrase could indeed be interpreted as “I went to buy dango because mom is my favorite” instead of “because mom's favorite is dango.” Japanese is like a split end on a hair when it comes to delivering a message.

Erio's face burst into crimson, and she hid her face using the cooking magazine resting on the table. Was hiding her face how Erio disguises her embarrassment? Or was it a defensive maneuver?

But what bothered me more was, Erio's nickname is Eri? Ecchan or Rio-chan works too, right? If you really want to surprise people, Orie works too. Though that's someone else at that point.

“Eri-chan is still so cute! Glad you look like mom!”

Hm~ hm~ Meme-san nodded proudly, even bouncing her body around. She looked pretty happy! Or just someone who wants to convey how energetic she is with the baseline being fresh fish? Although shouldn't it be both when it comes to this person? I honestly couldn't convince myself otherwise.

Happiness-points increases by three~ I attempted to replace her role, playing out the cue.

“Speaking of birthday, we forgot to celebrate Erio's last year. Let's celebrate tomorrow as your birthday!”

This mother suggested a completely incomprehensible yet overall great idea; her daughter beamed.

“Do you want… Dango?” “Yes, I do!” Meme-san put on an innocent face in approval. In asking for comment of her childish behavior, she shot me a look of 'how's this?' to which I only shook my head.

Erio opened the package; Meme-san went from 'sleep' to 'sit.' Erio picked up a skewer, ready to give to Meme-san. The act and expression was like a child's during Mother's day, when she wants to help out in the kitchen: clumsy yet diligent.

Meme-san gazed at the process with a faint smile.

“...”

But all~ she~ did~ was~ watch. With the futon blocking, her arms couldn't reach outward for the dango. She ruined it. And she didn't look like she was going to take it off. She must really like this outfit. Is futon really this wonderful?… No way, I want to try it on too. Hm.

As I fell into contemplation, Erio, with the dango in hand, became more and more confused; even the sauce was on the verge of dripping off the five-in-one skewer. Does she need help? After all, it looked like cleaning up the aftermath was up to me anyway.

“Why not just have Erio feed Meme-san?”

“Eh?!” Erio shot me a surprised look. What, is it really that rare for me to say something smart?

Well, we did jump into the sea before.

“Ara~ I miss this. I used to do this for Eri-chan a really, really long time ago~!”

Meme-san blinked passionately, and “Ahh~” opened her mouth: “Ah… Mako-kun, you're making me blush, don't look~” I'm even more mortified being forced to listen to you say that!

Erio trembled to deliver the dango into Meme-san's mouth. What would happen if it was stabbed in there? Likely like the pirate in the barrel.

“Chomp!” The first three dango disappeared into Meme-san's mouth. The remaining two was pushed forward by a wincing Erio so it'd be easier to eat. Meme-san stuffed these two as well, her cheeks puffing out. “Is it good?” Listening to Erio's query, Meme-san answered, “Mer cherks are going to fall erff.” Actually, looking now, if I were to pinch her cheek, they might actually get pulled off like clay.

“Glance~ glance~” Um, she's making sound effects while staring at me. She's not even blinking. Is she waiting for me to say 'the sound effect is wrong”? Or is she…

I brought a skewer near her lips, and she bit at it. Same-san (鮫さん), I mean, Meme-san added more brethren to the dango bunch before swallowing those in her mouth.

Two more skewer of Mitarashi dango and her face would become dango itself. It doesn't matter how you put it, this isn't how a forty-year old should act. Should I flatter her, 'you're still young'? Or should I say 'please think about your age!' to give rise to her killing intent? Reticence is the wise thing, right? As I came to my conclusion, Meme-san choked on the dango. “Uguuh~!: Her throat bulged into the shape of the final boss laying eggs.

Erio, at loss of what to do. Me, waiting and watching. Meme-san, absolutely freaking out.

After about ten seconds, the event ended in the form of Meme-san swallowing all of the dango.

“That was close! If I died like that, they're gonna think it's an accident or a murder!”

Meme-san didn't particularly seem like she's joking, passively describing her thought on suffocation.

“…...Hahah.” A weak, yet pure smile spilled from within.

Here it is.

To me, the Touwa household became a place that is slightly, if not appropriately, rowdy.

Yet my Youth-points and independent life are still miles away.

### 011. Chapter 2: The Melancholy of Thanksgiving

## Chapter 2 - The Melancholy of Thanksgiving

“Niwa-kun, do ya work part-time?”

Monday, June 7th, in a high school second year classroom, the time when Mifune Ryuushi-san — a classmate of the same grade — asked me this question was when lunch was halfway till over.

Finished with our lunch, we were sipping on our aluminum-packaged tea.

“I thought about getting one in a bit, since I'm not in a club anyway.”

Besides, I'm living under someone else's roof. Living in other's house without doing anything will, for some reason, always unsettles people. This was my impression after living here for two months.

Though perhaps in a few more months, this would change.

“Is that so? If ya get your first paycheck, shouldn't ya buy me a juice?” Ahaha! Ryuushi-san laughed cheerfully; a flower unconcealable by even the rowdiness bloomed in the classroom.

Ryuushi-san is so cute! I complimented freely in my heart. But I couldn't say it out loud.

Eating, drinking and talking with a cute girl. In a way, this is known as a school date. Then according to this definition, would chatting happily with the lady in front of the train station's bookstore who is recruiting for an English class be called a recruitment date? Though questions rose, this was just a made-up phrase that does not need to be concluded as a thesaurus.

“What about you, Ryuushi-san?”

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko! I, hmm, probably won't.”

“Huh, you won't?”

“Money cannot buy what's important.”

“That phrase doesn't really work here.”

Sorry for splashing cold water when you sound so proud.

“Ahh~ but I'm so busy after school with just club stuff, and I don't really need ta spend money… Hm, I'm like, y'know, super open and stuff! Ya know from just looking that I'm different, not some boring, same-faced character! Don't let the rumors get ya!”

What baseless, shameless rumor! Ryuushi-san sucked on the straw stuck in the black tea that she had since this noon. Actually, no one ever gave her a nickname like 'the Horizon' or anything like that.

Someone who looks different from just a glance… In all the people I know, there are probably two who fit the bill. One's an alien, the other a certain lanky person. Meme-san is different in a way, but I might be cursed if I counted her as one. I will unfortunately have to give up on that thought!

“Oh well, let's drop this character topic like it's hot trash. Oh yeah? I guess it won't work then!”

“Slurm?” The result of drinking while questioning is the mixture of sound, Ryuushi-san!

“Uh… What I'm saying is, I was going to ask if you're free after school today, but I guess not, huh?”

“Slurm.”

Ryuushi-san's motion stopped instantly. As if she just consciously thought of doing it, she swallowed the beverage in her mouth and put the package on the table. Her friend passed from behind us and laughed after seeing us as an item.

“'Let's go somewhere again~ Alright~!' Is that what you meant?”

Ryuushi-san's eyes were as if spying. The rubbing of desk and floor screeched intermittently, following her wobbling body.

“Mm, that sounds right. I mean, if you could come with me to buy a few things, it would have been— Uh… If you're busy, then it's fine.”

“Woowhoa~ Wait —“

Ryuushi-san's right palm reached toward my mouth, her fingers waving about as if trying to block the movement of my lips. And like a trained hound, I shut my lips and waited for her response.

“Wuu… Bam, bam, pass, pass, dribble; Nice shot … Yay~ backup starting lineup Ryuushi~! ...Niwa-kun, pedal pedal… Eeyahoo… What a headache!”

Absorbed in her own world, Ryuushi-san dribbled on an imaginary basketball and tried to ring an invisible bicycle bell, conveying to the world her thoughts in a never-before-seen mime form. But I panicked, since my invitation was neither significant nor important enough for her to weigh it so:

“It's seriously not a big deal: your club should come first.”

“Hm~ Um, did ya already decide on what you're getting, Niwa-kun? Or are ya the people who go into every store?” Ryuushi-san is actually the type who doesn't listen well. So far the most frank person may actually be Erio.

Sigh, but if it comes to misinterpreting the most direct response, no one is better than Meme-san.

“Ah, well~ My cousin seems to be celebrating her birthday today; I thought maybe I should get her something.” I of course didn't use the name Erio, instead calling her cousin.

“You cousin, Touwa-san?”

But the charade was seen through. Talking like this made it seem like it was reproachable to even mention the name 'Erio' in a public place. Indeed, the notoriety of Erio raises the eyebrows of everyone living in this town. Since she doesn't go out either, no one knew that she was kind of back from outer space.

“I don't really know much about this, so I wanted Ryuushi-san to come with me.”

“Ehh~” Um? Her reaction doesn't seem good. “Ryuushi-san just kinda got busier!”

“...Uh, you don't like Erio?”

Her lips were even pouting up. Strictly speaking from the spirit of 'straightforwardness,' I welcome this; but the other parts made it confusing. This feeling is like bubbles quietly rising from the bottom of the pot.

“I don't hate her or anything, and I don't know her enough to hate her.”

Ryuushi-san picked up the black tea and used it as a tool of escape. Sip, sip~ she sucked at the remaining drink, her gaze floating at the clock above the blackboard. I looked over as well, only to see the hand of the clock at a position that would finish this bento known as 'lunchtime' in a few minutes.

“Still, you seem angry.” Even though I don't think there's anything good in it, I still tried to delve into this topic.

“I told ya I'm not mad! It would take a lot to anger the holy Ryuushi-san, it'd worth a prize! Like whenever my mom yelled at me to 'clean my room,' I didn't talk back like I was in the rebellious phase! Geez~”

And the rage at that time was actually growing underneath, and finally erupted now… Could the reason of my instinct be the sensitivity that comes with youth?

“Well, if I hafta admit, I am directing this senseless anger on Niwa-kun, mm.”

“Eh, me?” And she senselessly explained to me. This isn't something that could be excused with an advanced warning!

“I found that Niwa-kun lacks delicacy, geez; you are such a non-delicate (デリカリー)!”

“What does it have to do with delicacy… Uh, which part was? And what was that word combined of?”

“I just thought it sounded good; it's kinda like non-calorie.”

After answering only the second question, Ryuushi-san shot me a dissatisfied look.

“So, am I to give up on Ryuushi-san after school?”

“Unfortunately, you have lost your chance. Also, didn't I say ta call me Ryuuko? It's Ryuuko! Ryuuko!” Underneath the desk, Ryuushi-san's bare foot performed three pendulum movement, justly punishing my ankle for answering the comprehension question wrong. It didn't look much, but it hurt so bad!

“Yeah? Then I yield.”

I declared so, and looked away. Moving my head slowly, I peered over Ryuushi-san's head at the classroom behind. This behavior was without intent, only meant to disperse the atmosphere.

Yet, why did I put Erio as the impetus of my actions? Have I lost touch with the Youth-points?

“Listen~ Niwa-kun.” As if to block my line of sight, Ryuushi turned her head and spoke.

“Hm?”

“Don't tell me you're looking for Maekawa-san.”

“Wha?” Hearing the unexpecting name, I couldn't help but overreact.

“Hm?” Even Maekawa-san, who sat from a bit away, turned when she heard her name. It would appear she was about bite down on a bread, with her mouth still ajar.

“Not a chance.” I denied honestly.

Asking Maekawa-san? Hm… Imagination, go. If she advices, 'how about giving her a warabimochi costume?' how would I react? Rather, the Ryuushi-san who seemed discontent with me bothered me more.

“Shoot!”

Ryuushi-san suddenly hopped up from her chair. She took the supposedly empty drink up above her head, and made a penalty shot. The package drew a parabola, graciously landing into the garbage can in the corner.

People in class went from looking at the shot to looking confusedly at Ryuushi-san. She paid no mind to the gazes, only nodding at the result, mumbling 'nice, nice.' Eveyone's focus instantly disappeared.

As if waiting for this moment, the bell that signifies the complete devour of lunch time rechoed through the school.

It also sounded like the buzzer that ends a game.

“That was cool, Ryuushi-san!”

“It was no biggie~” She humbly replied my solo-support with a wave: “Also, you got the player's name wrong, mister! ...Ah~… I guess I might actually end up hating Touwa-san!”

For realsies~ Ryuushi-san mumbled to herself while picking up her lunch box and putting the borrowed seat back to where it was. Putting laziness and habit aside, spending time with Ryuushi-san during lunch is one of my biggest enjoyment in my daily life. I honestly think that I am actually a very lucky guy!

Just as I was about to thank her for her time with me that cancels out the daily decrease in Youth-points, which kept the total at a positive —

“Oh, Niwa-kun.” Ryuushi-san turned and spoke with a smile as she parted.

“Mm? What's up?”

“Non-delicate.” Ryuushi-san's crisp, bassy voice blew like an Oboe into my head.

Umm? Questions still spun in my head when the crowd swallowed Ryuushi-san's back, its traces gone.

So began cleaning time. People who were chatting away up until now moved listlessly. Under the urging of the person behind, I also began moving the tables and chairs forward, as well as letting my mind run.

“Hm~mm...”

I kept thinking that it was me who upset Ryuushi-san; I don't think this is just me thinking too much!

Youth-points were declining. Are you ok, me? Anxiety and instability are riling up my inside! In a bit, or maybe now, I should find Ryuushi-san and apologize her for no reason.

All right! I stood up from my seat, a plastic bag full of lunch trash dangling from my hand.

Besides, did she really like how the word sounds?

“Non-delicate.”

I spoke to confirm it. The sound “kah” does indeed feel nice on the tongue, I thought.

☆

After school's out on that day.

I was convinced of buying Warabi-mochi. Not the costume, but the actual food.

As for the reason, it was because Maekawa-san, who had yet to transform into dango girl, came to talk to me at the shoe locker:

“Yo~ Makoto-san. What were you talking about during lunch.”

“Eh? It's nothing really.”

“Just talk to Maekawa-emon whenever you're troubled!”

“Ehh~ ...Fine. Maekawa-emon, I need your help~!”

“What's the matter, Makoto-san? Did the Chupacabra (♀) suck your blood again?”

“I can't decide on what to get for Erio-chan~”

“Hahahah, you silly boy. Alright~ When you're troubled, your best friend Maekawa-emon will always come to help~ Follow me!”

To describe using hyperbole, we had a conversation like that.

Simply put, I was brought by Maekawa-san to that Wagashi pastry, Mars Globe, where she promptly exerted the spirit of a merchant and sold me warabi-mochi. That was it. And just like that, as I purchased this thing, the last bill in my wallet was sucked into the cash register. Clink, clank. “Thank you for yer business!”

Maekawa-san, who just swapped with a different worker, hummed while dealing with her customer.

I received the warabi-mochi package with the phrase 'Happy birthday, Erio!' written in blue marker on it. The words were written by Maekawa-san herself, and in an irritatingly messy cursive script.

“No~ problem. My deduction concludes that the chance of Erio bursting into tear after receiving this is higher than seventy percent.”

“For reasons other than the powder getting into her eyes?”

“Relax, relax!” The dango girl answered unhurriedly, and shut the cash register. After getting used to her outfit the second time, I actually thought it was disturbing. I even started having images… Maybe, when there isn't anyone around, the dango and the sakura-mochi actually move around. Like, the head and limbs that were supposed to be hiding pop out, and they greet their neighbors with a 'hi~' or something like that. Since there was already stories with sentient toys that move around, then it shouldn't be too farfetched to have pastries becoming alive. 'Thrown away if not bought, or eaten after being purchased: which one is more painful?” And then, the Youkan will run to discuss this with the strawberry daifuku. Yet, they will not find the answer. Because it doesn't matter if they were thrown away or purchased, once someone leaves, he never comes back. It doesn't matter if everyone groups up, or faces the danger alone, they have to fight with an ever-present terror. Every time when the eyes of men look away, the same scenery replays over and over in the display boxes…

From the same angle, snacks like dorayaki or monako often run into situations where they're purchases with another brother, so perhaps when it comes to delaying the eventual solitude, they're actually pretty happy. But then for the last dorayaki who had to see his brothers disappear one by one, it must be a despair indescribable with words.

If they can move around with their arms and legs, why don't they run? Even though I thought so, but maybe it isn't allowed? I mindlessly thought.

They couldn't show their living side, probably because of some laws of the gods. Entities not accepted as lives in the human world are not allowed to arrogantly break into the territory of men.

The world is born in the cage of the gods.

Even the aliens are allowed only to reach their hands in, behind the bars that confined the universe.

Thus, I believe that aliens do not exist anywhere on Earth. Isn't that right?

Even though I imagined all sorts of things, my mind still does not have the courage to play the scene of a self-aware dorayaki being shoved into a human mouth and devoured.

“What's the matter, transfer student? staring holes at the snacks? Just don't drool!”

Maekawa-san's waving hand and black bottle appeared in front of my eyes. Since who-knows-when, she circled from the inside of the store to where I was. As if mocking my delusion, the limbs growing out from the dango shook along with their trunk.

She even started to drink her cola. Though I wanted to push that round body, I predicted that if I did carry the act out, Maekawa-san will definitely fall onto the ground with a roll and retract her arms. The overly slender limbs of Maekawa-san are capable of playing out a one-time concert of 'snap.'

“Ah!”

Standing in front of the Wagashi shop, I once again witnessed the objects that soared in the sky above the houses.

The speed was fast. It's not a glider. More like a mini-rocket.

As if disappearing into the corner of a screen, the object flew outside of the shop's glass screen and faded.

“You saw that?”

“Mm? Oh, that? It's a rocket.”

She unveiled the object's identity apathetically. But Maekawa-san never did elaborate on the previous explanation, and after she put down the cola bottle (by the way, the bottle somehow had the P*cari label), she carried a dustpan and a broom outside; I followed her back — no, what do I call this? Does it make sense to say the back of a dango? How do I convey that? As a mountain of question marks piled, I chased her out the store.

Faced with the singeing stares of the passersby, Maekawa-san — who directly wore the dango costume outside — wasn't even afraid, but rather completely indifferent to anything but to effectively sweeping with her lanky arms. Am I to follow her courage?

I put the warabi-mochi in the basket, preparing to ride home while chasing Maekawa-san with my gaze.

“Rocket.” Maekawa-san, who picked up a plastic bottle, spoke.

“Huh?”

“The thing from earlier, you probably can't see from your house, huh. Well, not like I know where you live.”

She dusted on while maintaining a hunched pose, and suddenly crouched down 'woo…' I thought something happened and sprinted to her side, 'since my head was down all this time, the blood gathered there.' Maekawa-san explained the symptoms.

“……”

Maekawa-san is seriously unfit for the 3D life! Is vertical her nemesis?

“I haven't had enough sleep recently, so I feel tired.”

“Is that right. But we're still really far away from the final exam.”

“No, it's just that my night job has been more taxing than I thought.”

“…...”

Should I feel normal for myself, who just did a completely gentlemanly imagination? Or should I be ashamed?

“Oh, there it goes.”

The 'rocket' that climbed in the air up until now lost it's thrust and fell from the sky. A tiny flower made of parachute expanded from the tip of the rocket, ensuring the body fall slowly. My eyes followed the rocket's path home, using it as an escape for the reverie:

“Of course it'd fall. It isn't a rocket for space, after all.”

Wobbling but mostly recovered, Maekawa-san held herself with the broom and looked up into the sky:

“That's a bottle rocket. If it was using gun powder, it would have been consider a firework in Japan — and you need a license for that. Normal folks would just have to put up with using water-powered rockets.”

“Oh~” Though I've heard of the name, this was the first I've seen it.

“There's a ridiculously big agriculture school that went under around here, so someone decided to use the school's field as testing ground. A guy with strange ear rings was always there; he's probably someone who just got laid off.”

“Really now~” What a horrible prediction. “You seem to be the expert. Someone you know?”

“Well, I wouldn't say I know him… Actually, why would that matter? Ahahah!” Appearing to not even want to bother with concealing, Maekawa-san just ended the topic. Now I'm curious. However, most of my questions were answered, so all is well:

“You work a lot, Maekawa-san. Are you saving up for something?”

“Mm? Of course.”

“New costumes?” A ruler mascot or something like that would suit her, and it's practical.

“Those too, but what I want now is a moped and a license.”

“Oh~”

“After I get both of those, I can drive you around.”

“Uh, you can't ride double on a light motorcycle...”

“Ahahah! If it's just a simple package, I think you can put it in the back!”

“...I'll think about it.”

I let loose of the brake and turned the bike toward home. In contrast to the noon's clarity, the sky was now painted in grey: the type that would probably rain if any more cloud gather. It's going to pour right as I get home, huh? I predicted hopefully, attempting to forecast.

“Oh yeah. Since you're celebrating her birthday, could you tell Touwa I say 'happy birthday?'”

“OK~ Maekawa-san, you're actually a good person!”

“Hehe, people actually call me 'the surprisingly-good-at-dealing-with-people Maekawa!'”

“Oh yeah? Must be difficult to manage all of those nicknames.”

“Right? Also, my first nickname when I got into highschool was 'the slightly-long domino Maekawa-san.' The first week of basket ball club was so nostalgic! I was actually the star rookie in the beginning, and on the second day I became 'the new guy', and on the last day of tryout I became the most useless noob! For real, I was being treated as a gorilla who can pass a ball decently!”

“...Hahah, that is so you!”

Even though this was a setback story that turned hopefulness to hopelessness, perhaps due of Maekawa-san cheerful tone, even I was influenced into smiling through the entire thing.

Yet for some reason, my conversation with Maekawa-san seemed all too normal. Is it because I don't care for Youth-points? Did I become weird after attempting to fly with a bike?

“Warabi-mochi~” I went on home, waving goodbye to the Maekawa-san who was singing while sweeping.

I looked back after a bit of distance, only to see the white dango crouching in front of the store, not returning the glance.

☆

“Kyahh~! Mako!” I said to stop calling me that.

“Welcome home.”

Two pairs of twin-tails welcomed me as soon as I enter the entrance of the Touwa residence.

One of them even bear-hugged me. Her arms circled around my neck; this was the homemade merry go-around for idiotic couples! Spin… spin… heheh… ohoho… “Not again!” Why do I only get hugged by my aunt? Well, that, of course, is because I have no girlfriend! Uh, does that mean it's my fault? Meme-san spun with my neck as her support; it was heavy and painful. Every time when the whip made of hair hits me, my Youth-points fall with a torturous patter. Was this also my fault? If so, can I also solve it as I see fit?

The fact that I've actually gotten partially used to being hugged by a forty-year old also saddens me.

“Do you want dinner? A bath? Or Eh-ri-o?” Don't drag your daughter into this! Are you some village chief who believes in sending living sacrifices to the cave on the mountain?

“Please let go of me.” I pushed up with my chin.

“Oh my~ How cruel~”

Perhaps ecstatic after playing house as a new wed, Meme-san returned to the side of Erio with a joyous expression that contradicted her speech.

Ah, that's the appearance when Happiness-point is rising! How obvious — I don't even want to look at it. Erio's eyes darted between the ceiling and the floor; compared to her intentionally-idiotic mother, she appeared to be more self-conscious.

Every time her eyes moved, the hair tied to both sides will trace out an incomplete pendulum. Thinking carefully now, this was the first time I've seen Erio with her hair tidied; how do I put this: with her face slightly lowered, and an abashed expression, that twin-tail hairstyle in many ways disallowed me to look away.

The problem was with the other person.

“The hair… Uh… Um...” I tried to control myself from the rude behavior that is touching other people's head.

“Heheh, is it ok?”

“No, are you ok…?”

“I tried to duplicate Erio's elementary school hair today!”

“……...”

Alright, so what were the thoughts going through my mind at this moment?

One: if it was Maekawa-san, she would definitely wear that monster's costume!

Two: doesn't it fit Ryuushi-san as well? My imagination seemed to have derailed quite a bit.

Three: why is Meme-san also wearing the same hairstyle as Erio?

As I tried in the most tactful way to ask for the answer to the third question, Meme-san responded with a smile possessing of cuteness and wrinkles (skip), along with a spin, 'swoosh~!' Look, I've been telling you all this time~

“I thought sometimes we should return to innocence, so what better time than now?”

What do you mean sometimes?

“...I am doubting my usual image of you being a grown-up.”

Actually, having the same appearance on both inside and outside is often considered an amazing feat.

But is there any other besides me who's witnessed a forty year old twin-tail? After all, there isn't a demand for it.

“I've also ran around like this before; the times when you'd run around with snacks you bought from the grocery stores… It's true~”

Meme-san's focus faded into the wall to the left. But kids nowadays don't have chances to visit those grocery stores!

“Seriously, it happened!” You don't need to say that sentence with such a solemn tone either, right?

“M-...mom's past?”

Erio asked vaguely, sheepishly joining the conversation. “Mm~ mm.” Meme-san beamed a benevolently motherly smile at her daughter — an otherwise normal behavior saved for the hair. The two twin-tails faced each others.

“Unimaginable?”

“Mm.”

“If Erio go look into the mirror, things might become clearer!”

Meme-san grabbed her shoulders and moved closer to her face as if about to kiss.

“Awoo… Uwah!” Erio used a palindrome to express her shock and bewilderment.

“Listen, Erio. From now on, you have to live a life looking into the mirror everyday. That way, more and more people will like you.”

Meme-san bumped foreheads, a mischievous smile on her face. Perhaps due to awkwardness, Erio's eyes occasionally darted to me; while focusing on the surrounding, her cheeks were imbrued sanguine.

The futon that served as estrangement disappeared, and a family was born in the Touwa household. If Meme-san's hair was the usual, it would have been a moving scene, but why did she have to always be the deviant?

As for whether it's intentional or not, there hasn't been a consensus.

“The gap-moe level of what I just said had over seventy percent chance of making Mako-kun fall in love with me again.”

Oh~hohohoh~ Meme-san purposely revealed an antagonist smug to test my reaction. “I've never loved you, and that wasn't much of a gap.” You always show the side of you that's too real.

Meme-san pouted in discontent, but immediately regained her smile, and pulled her hands away from Erio's shoulders:

“Alright, time to get dinner ready. Sigh~ Can Mako-chan become a professional househusband faster?”

“Sorry, but I like Meme-san's food.”

“Eh? Does that mean you want for me to make Miso soup for you every morning?”

“You're jumping to conclusion. Also, you're going too far in the no-traffic zone.”

“So we gotta go slow, right? Rather than hasty marriages, Mako is one of those who value the process! I have to write this down.”

“Could you also do something about your enthusiasm while you're at it?”

Woolalah~ Meme-san, who ignored my response, skipped around in an age-misfitting dance and proceeded to the kitchen. The twin-tails on her head precisely followed her casual movement; for some reason, this scenery created a sense of forlornness.

“…...”

The phone rang. I reflexively picked up the extension sitting in the Touwa house entrance.

“Hello.” I hesitated: “Touwa residence.”

“Oh? Makoto? It's been a while~ Remember your mom's voice?”

“Uh~ Now I do.” Not to the point of 'I miss it~' though.

“What about the smell?”

“I forgot what my favourite dish was, hahah!”

It's my mom. I forgot where she was, since I've never asked.

“I'm worried about my adorable son, so I called. How are you?” From the speaker came the sound of a rhythmic knock; should be mom knocking on the floor with her finger: It's her old habit.

“Hm, I'm alright. You?”

“We're great~ wanna hear it for yourself?”

“No, not hearing from you at all was evident enough.” If I said yes, she would have just sung anyway. Mom's hobby is to sing loudly while walking around the train station — that's just how she is.

“What about eating? Are you eating right? You're at that age now, so you need to grow more!”

“I am, especially dinner.” Because I have an aunt eating with me who would grumble if I don't finish.

“What about school? You're not part of the Student Sandbag Council, right?”

“There isn't any real bullying here, so it's a good school. Also~ Isn't this dad's old school?”

“So, isn't about time for a girlfriend?”

“You seemed to have forgotten about the Japanese culture, mom!”

And then I received simple queries regarding life for the next minute or so. Basically good, I responded so.

“Alright, I'm letting dad on.”

Mom's voice faded; replacing it was an obscure breathing and a deep voice sitting down next to my ear.

“Hey, it's your dad… Oi! Is that a good open?”

Good! Good! Mom's encouragement mixed with the background.

“Um… Hm, you getting used to the life there?”

“Uh, yeah. Hm, I guess.”

How do I put this: whenever I talk with dad, we're always so uptight.

“Did my sister cause you any trouble?”

“N—ope. Absolutely none.” Whoaho, I just straight-up spat some irresponsible lines.

Or rather, that's the first time I've heard anyone saying that to a lodger!

“Ah! Mako-kun!”

Aunt Skippy came back in no time. Is there maybe a way to use perspective to keep her forever away from me? Sadly, my wish reached no one, and Meme-san stood next to me.

“Who called?”

“My parents.”

“Ah! Good timing, kyah! Let me talk to my dearest brother, quick!”

“Why is it that I'd rather smash the telephone than let you speak?”

“My plan this year is to play the gap-moe sister!”

“…...” I could only hand the speaker to her wordlessly, and reach back to my warabi-mochi.

“Hello-in, Coca-ine… Ah, don't hang up! You're just like Mako-kun, hmph! You used to only talk with your girlfriend for forever, I've always wanted to beat the crap out of you...”

Meme-san entered the gossiping-women mode; I decided to leave her alone.

My eyes met the neglected Erio. She stood at the same place, her lips opened, and her mouth about to speak. Yet she stayed quiet, as if observing me.

“Is there something on your mind?”

“May I?”

“Yes.”

“Did you propose to mom?”

“Hell no.”

“D-Dad?”

“Please do not think that we've separate since your birth, and this is our tear-jerking reunium, and call me that. Of course not!”

On a more fundamental level, people should not marry my aunt. Of course, there isn't anything regrettable this fact. Absolutely none.

Sigh, with your cousin though it's fine. But so what?

“Cousin.”

The cousin who still refuses to use my name spoke without intonation. Between us, there should have been an impressionable introduction. However, if Erio expressionlessly call me “Mako-kun” one day, I might actually collapse. The pointer of Youth-points will fall instantly to Erio because of this tiny fuse.

“Mm, what is it? Lets not talk that stuff anymore.”

“I have something I must discuss with you. Come.”

“Discuss? Sure, I got something for you too. Lets go!”

Disregarding whether she'll like it or not, I have to give her the warabi-mochi. It came from my wallet, after all.

“Mm.”

Though deadpan, she still nodded satisfactorily and proceeded into the hall. Discussing with me… hm~ I'm fine if it isn't anything serious — like about her memory. Maybe she cares a lot about it, even though she remembers nothing. After all, it isn't something easily found.

“You remember… So what about … You jerk…… Also, I have a question for you: Nii-san, you used to scare...”

Meme-san was still talking. Sigh, just leave her!

Behind the entrance's frost glass, I heard the sign and sound of something falling. It seems that even arbitrary forecast is sometimes accurate. My sinking heart somehow rose, and my steps to the second floor faster. No matter what she wants to talk about, all I have to do is to reply with a cheerful attitude — just mimic Meme-san when it comes to this.

I follow Erio's steps onto the stairs. Did she just go into her room? Recently I began to realize that I could no longer go into the room of my cousin Erio, who took off the futon and became normal, along with a face like that.

Stepping into the second floor, I skipped my room, directly to Erio's. In the room filled with fragments of space, the owner arduously began her work of putting on the futon.

“Hold it!”

Erio looked back after adjusting the rope to the perfect tightness, as if asking, “what is it?”

“What kind of topic would need you putting on the futon? Speak to me.”

“I want to speaking with you calmly.”

“As for staying calm, please get used to the human way.”

I took away the rolled-up futon and loosen the rope. “Ah~ ah~” Erio emitted a sound between protest and lamentation, only able to watch as the event unfold. I had no need to pity her. Probably.

Though that may be so, after seeing a restless, trembling Erio glaring at me in normal clothes because I took her usual outfit, I felt a bizarre drive of 'I must gratify her.' And thus, I decided to began the ceremony of handing her the wagashi I held in my arm:

“Alright, on a day that's kinda like your birthday, here something for you that's kinda like your present.”

I put the packaged warabi-mochi on Erio's tiny hands. She stopped for a second; though she gawked shockingly, she still flipped the package around, or stared at the elegantly-written 'happy birthday,' as of trying to get a grip on the situation. Also, she seemed to be searching for the proper emotion for such an occasion.

As the warabi-mochi completes its three-and-a-half circle, Erio looked up:

“Thank you.”

“Hn~ Uh, well, it's to celebrate.”

“I'm happy.”

“That's good.”

“I like.”

Hearing her consecutive thanks in her faint reading voice, I didn't know know where I should kept them. Moreover, hearing the word 'like' without the object in that sentence gave me a ringing in my skull. Normally, would people say that without opening the gift? I almost opened my mouth to correct her, but it's probably because she didn't know what was inside that I get to hear her say 'like.' I guess all ends well, right? I couldn't help but agree strongly.

However, Erio naturally did not burst into tears. It seems like in this town, you just can't trust seventy percent.

“So, what did you want to talk about?”

I peeked at the dusty telescope at the corner of the room, urging Erio to begin. She twitched and straightened her back — rather, it was the reaction when the body is in shock — putting out a very elegant pose:

“Um, before I tell M-mom, I wanted to talk about it with the c-cousin.”

Erio's pauses seemed to be placed incorrectly, like she's forgotten about how to speak normally.

She moved her hands forward and clutched tightly. Under the thin hands that hid few veins, and in the palms that nails carved lightly into, what kind of determination was hidden? I stared, at the wrinkles that formed between her pushing brows, the irises that kept escaping to the sides of her eyes; the lips that shut tightly, and the rising cheeks that seemed to hold back the impulse to puke… Wait, hold up, hold up. Is this really voluntary? This expression looked like she isn't exactly willing!

As I predicted, after a few minutes, Erio still couldn't expand the conversation by speaking, only to reveal a suffocating look. The price of not breathing is choking and coughing at the interval of once a minute. When that happens, the twin-tails' tips dance like twins in the air.

“...Look, I can't understand if you don't speak.”

Don't expect some psychic stuff! My command list doesn't include 'Psych!'

As if saying, 'yes, I know,' Erio nodded hard, finally swinging her clasped fists, and using the forward momentum to let her throat go:

“I need to work!”

“Huh?” Fortunately she didn't say 'you.' Let me relax for a sec… I mean!

“I want to… go back… to society? Possibly… Maybe… I… think…?”

Like a leaf floating in the river, this assertion's ending and resolve slid away.

...Fine, only because she had guts. Since it's the first time, I'll be more lenient. Erio's Return-to-society points, +3.

☆

Following the map crafted by none other than Meme-san herself, we proceeded downtown. At the end of where the eyes could see, there stood a hair salon most conspicuous with its white wall untouched by the wind, and the bed sheet drying on the second floor balcony.

Outside of the salon were pots of flower and cat decorations; the entrance might have posters for eyelash curling and hair products, but nothing about hiring.

The wind today seemed to have been showered by rain before coming here, its texture heavy. Once it touched the skin, it left the moisture and went with no avail to the heat.

“Alright, let's go!” I reached to the back of Erio's knees, lifting the girl who was still stuffed in the basket. Once the futon is off, I become overly conscious to the softness of her skin. During the process, I could seldom look at Erio's face.

I put Erio's onto the ground, and stepped away from her. Why am I taking care of her so much? Even though my many doubts since the age of futon was unbroken to this day, as long as she opens her lips and say, 'thank you, cousin,' the me of recent begins to accept things with a 'whatever, it's fine.'

Today she wore a white shirt and skirt as well. Though shoes wrapped around her feet today, she was still barefooted. According to Meme-san, Erio seemed to have disliked socks since childhood.

I couldn't stand staring at Erio for some reason, and so I scratched the back of my head — I could even hear rustling of notebook paper in my palm. As a side note, Meme-san's map this time had some rather plain content such as '↑ 2 points' and '↓ 3 points.' Or put it this way: the directions became obvious fighting game commands such as 'A (Medium kick)' or 'Y (Light punch)'. My thumbs' skin might peel off if I follow her guide.

Before I strode forward, Erio remained fixed on the spot. I pushed the back of Eri-chan, who, thanks to her long time as a shut-in, has become overly passive. The situation evolved into one where we're finally in the salon.

I looked up to the partially covered, but overall categorizable as clear, sky to see if there were rockets flying.

Though I'm unsure how many points it would require for her to succeed, Erio's 'Return to society movement' has began.

Today was Saturday, June 12th — five days after her declaration.

The morning after Erio's substitute birthday took place, after I reported to Meme-san, 'Work? Erio? Mm~ I don't see what could go wrong~' She gave a casual answer while mixing the Natto. The possibility of her still being half-awake was there. “Then~ It might be better to make her hair better~ Let me introduce her to my favourite stylist~” Meme-san mumbled vaguely while drawing the map for us. Hm, thinking back now, she was definitely not awake.

Stepping into the salon, we felt the welcome of only a breeze — from the fan set on weak sitting at the entrance.

“Welcome~ We do any cuts!”

The one who welcomed us was a beautiful woman with a dangerous business-like attitude.

Wearing a blue shirt, her skin was as pale as the autumn cloud itself. This lady, whose entire outfit seemed to mimic the clear sky, looked to be about twenty or so. The long hair that grew past her waist appears to be saying, 'it's hard for even a hairdresser to cut her own hair.' Is she the owner?

“All right, someone's here. Go inside.” She directed the little girl playing a child piano on the sofa. She's probably her daughter. “Hm~” the girl replied ambivalently, at the same time picking up the piano and trotted her way into the inner door. She glanced at us halfway, but sped away when our eyes met. For some reason, I felt guilty. The woman who appears to be the owner turned the seat in front of the mirror toward us, welcoming us with an innocent smile that raised the mysteriousness of her age:

“Please sit here~ Young couples. Are you both getting a haircut?”

“No, just her please.” I put my hand on Erio's head, entrusting the job of hair treatment to the owner. If I leave her alone, Erio might never make the first step; therefore, I nudged her lightly from the back.

If a head-start was given, she could at least walk up to someone else — this was the Erio now. Is it ok to have the first step to be the right? Or the left? She might make conscious effort on those parts in order to practice. Doing everything, whether big or small, with full attention must be really painful! It would be really hard to fall asleep if you have to pay attention to how you breath after getting into a bed!

“Come, sweetie.” Once the owner beckoned, Erio began her run and jumped into the seat. Then, her fixed expression remain lowered to her thighs, her face hidden. The owner was a bit surprised to see her behavior, but the smile lingered on her face: “Mm, what an interesting girl.”

The owner adjust the seat's direction toward the mirror: “At this time and day, just being a pretty girl is not enough: I love this kind of suspicious characteristics!”

Heeheehee~ Like a bully who's locked on on her target, the owner snickered with a grin all while preparing the barber cape. “But, I need your face up here!” Hearing the order, Erio quiveringly stiffened her back.

From the mirror, she met my stare… Mm~ Autonomity is important too. She herself probably wanted to get a haircut as well. In any case, I mouthed, “you can do it!' to encourage her, and walked toward the sofa where the little girl sat. Then, I looked around the salon.

In the middle of the table ahead was a glass plate filled with candies. Probably for bored kids. Around the plate scattered women magazine and manga. Neither were my forte, so I didn't reach for them. It's just that I've begin to think that, maybe I should start reading manga to catch up with friends of the same gender? Sigh, maybe not now.

Cable broadcast played in the store; the fan spun weakly. Also, modern art painting with kindness instead of artsiness hung from the wall — probably the school project of the kid from earlier. Obviously it was the pride of her mom, especially since it was hung with a frame. That's much better than idiot parents, anyhow.

“What kind of hair would you like?”

The owner wet Erio's hair with a water spray, asking her customer's desire while combing the strands. Asking Erio for specific opinions, it's just… I grimaced on the side. The heat from thinking dyed her ears crimson; after holding back her impulse to hide her face, her final request was: “S… Something good!” At least it was an answer better than something like 'not too bad' or 'okay.'

“Meaning I can do whatever I want?” Erio nodded. “A chance for me to show off, huh? But you're fine: just a little failure wouldn't ruin your cuteness.” As the owner finished, she made the motion of shaving her entire head. The space hamster shook her head frantically, probably taking the joke seriously.

“Oh my~ You are so cute!”

The owner leisurely enjoyed her customer's fearful reaction; that devilish grin really suited her.

From the mirror, I seemed to have witnessed her breezy proficiency and experience.

The owner's fingers circled around the scissors' round handle, as if pityingly feeling the hair behind Erio's head.

“What's your name?”

“Erio… Touwa.”

“Touwa? Isn't that Jojo-san's (女女) last name?”

“Jo-… Jojo… M-my mom.”

“Hoh~ You're Jojo-san's daughter? You're cute just like your mom!”

What a skillful owner~! I'm impressed. Was the reason why her words didn't sound sneering her personality? Once again, I experienced the accessibility that comes with the so-called beauty.

Accompanies with a light cutting sound, the scissors began fixing Erio's hair. The hip hop music from yesterday also ended passionately with a trumpet; the momentary silence lowered the bar for words.

“Your hair is really long.” I tried giving the owner an unoffensive thought.

“'Cuz it's really convenient for strangling, right?”

She proudly introduced me a chilling usage. Perhaps also thinking that it was funny, she added a laughter 'ahaha!' afterward. The way she laughs was not different from the way Meme-san does when she mentions the past.

“Um… Name...” Since the futon was taken off, she lost her furry shield; the fact that Erio was awkward with words was exposed. I think she should give up on the service industry.

“Hm, sorry, I didn't hear you.”

“Name… What's yours…?” Oh, she's really trying. Yet, every time she opens her mouth, the returning path to society becomes darker.

“Oh, me? I'm Ooi Tooe. My friends always call me Toeic!” The twenty-some year old smilingly introduced herself with an abnormally fitting teenager tone. The owner — Ooi-san briskly cut Erio's hair. Long hair that grew freely fell like Nagashi-soumen that were not picked up, drawing out on the floor extraterrestrial shapes.

Erio lowered her head to avoid the mirror, rendering her inner thought completely unreadable.

“...Mm?”

The door inside cracked open; the little girl from earlier peeked inside the salon. Her eyes were mostly on her mother's side face, unreservedly emitting rays of hope that her mother would accompany her. But her mother was absorbed with Erio's hair with no sign of noticing.

Instead, the child traded look with me. “Hmn~” Though she immediately went back, the same sound as before came. After a bit, I could hear from the inside piano keys orchestrating a weak and unskilled melody. Was that some sort of taunt for someone? Maybe also a way to get attention.

“What's the name of your boyfriend there?” Ooi-san abruptly indicated the third person's existence.

Erio stuffed her face into the cape covered in hair, attempting to hide her face. “Ugee!” Perhaps some hair got into her eyes, she made a strange screech. “Eh? What's the matter, Ecchan?”

The cause of the chaos, Ooi-san, expressed her confusion.

Yet this was the only time I understood Erio's perplexity.

Boyfriend? There? I hoped she would properly pinpoint the location.

In short, my reaction was to check the surrounding of the sofa where customers would wait. My eyes could see objects, but no subjects. Even the inconceivable person in the mirror's world… Nothing. I'm fairly certain that so far in this salon, there are only three people — me, Erio and Ooi-san — breathing out carbon dioxide. As for Ooi-san's daughter, I could not open my mouth and ask for her name. If I do that, the kid might end up sobbing, 'wahh~!'

Looks like if I were to give up on wondering around the destination, I seem to have to admit: boyfriend = me. The conclusion waited open mouth.

…Uh, hm? What was I feeling? Uh, I think… I think we shouldn't delve in too deeply.

“No, I'm her cousin, the kind that's not a boyfriend.” My speaking speed was especially fast probably because of the increasing pulse behind my ear and on my wrist that accelerated the rest of my body.

“Cousin… Ohh!” Ooi-san clapped her hands without letting go of the scissors: “So you're that Makoto-kun?”

“Eh...Ah, Meme… My aunt told you?”

“Yep… So, you're the infamous Makoto-kun who looks at your favourite aunt with slightly evil eyes?”

Has the gossip of that person accumulated so much that her lies have became the truth?

About two weeks ago, I was about to be too friendly with her name, and ended up correcting myself and accidentally calling her 'granny.' Was she still holding a grudge against me for that?

In any case, I couldn't stay anyway. My mood now was as if I was stuffed with all kind of rocks:

“I'm going out for a bit, please call if you need me.”

“Ah, there he goes.”

Ooi-san's tone was like after observing a raucous cicada that came into your room and left from the other window: she neither teased me with words, nor made me stay.

As I looked up, I saw Erio, who became a feather decoration with her eyebrows and other parts were covered in hair, sending me a distress signal. I, however, still mouthed her a 'you can do it!' and fled the scene. I'll pretend her journey of returning to society has already begun with a '1UP mushroom.'

To digest time and shame, I wondered outside the salon. At that moment, I noticed the colourful pictures stuck on the window that I glanced at earlier. There wasn't much around here that interested me, anyway.

A blonde model in sexy pose showing off her gorgeous outfit, hair and makeup went down the same path as the authors of school textbooks. In other words, she's been vandalized. Long hair grew from the model's nose, and continued into her mouth through the jaw.

Which grade schooler did this? Also, why do people think adding hair on faces is funny? I kind of pondered for a while. The other advertisement seemed to be irrelevant with a hair salon. The content wasn't particularly rich, but there were strange words written beneath the title. Who knows if it was an address or a cipher.

But what the hell was it? Was it like a presentation on something such as 'we sold medicine that could give your skin and hair as smooth as your age ÷ 2'? Even though I couldn't read anything. If it were Meme-san, she'd probably pounce the paper like a starved orca.

It's just that the hand-written heading 'for the you who isn't ready to grow up' seemed to plan on residing in my left eye. Of course, the landlord eyeball really wanted to stare at the newcomer as a way of welcoming, threatening him that 'this is borrowed; you will pay for the monthly rent on time, right?' It worked: tears with too much salt rolled from the corner of the eye into the mouth at precisely thirty seven degree Celsius.

Whatever, uh… Just kidding! Is that enough? What a drag! Perhaps affected by a novel I read before, I imagined an annoying article full of lies. Damn you what-his-face (I forgot his name).

“Was it too short?”

“Mm~ I think it's fine.”

The correct answer was— honestly, I couldn't even tell if this length was any different from the one before. Why do girls care so much about cutting too much hair?

“In any case, it's way more refreshed.” I remarked using the less problematic compliment.

“Refreshed~” Erio swung her head to check the hair; the tidied hair followed subtly.

Her behavior was no different than a grade schooler who is about to head into the pool after coming out from the changing room. I almost chuckled.

The cost was covered by Meme-san's five thousand yen military fund. “All right~ thanks! Next time I'll cut your hair too, so make sure you come back!” After Ooi-san gave me the change, she beamed at me a close-ranged smile. It made me think that a situation where a man would happily say 'keep the change~!' isn't completely unreasonable! I deduced: her husband must have been mesmerized by the same smile, huh.

Erio and I left the store after bowing in thanks. For reasons unknown, a fulfilling sense of accomplishment after a job well done surged, but I lightly brushed the feeling away. For Erio, the job is only about to start.

“Alright, let's go find a place for hire.”

“Mm.”

“But, where do you actually want to work?”

“Anything is good.”

“Hm… But just because you think can doesn't meant you can, right?”

I euphemistically implied that she shouldn't have any expectation, but Erio seemed to not comprehend.

She shakily climbed onto the bicycle, into the basket… Uh, should we start from fixing habits like this? I must properly teach her the correct knowledge of fitting back into society.

Yet this time, it might become an extreme rehab: just how much changed in the environment of Earth while Erio was out in space? Let her experience reality!

Because I thought I should respect Erio's positive spirit, I still stepped onto the bike even though a part of me wavered. I prayed that her spirit would not be crunched by the wheels.

The preparation for the job interview was already completed yesterday.

I brought Erio to the station to take her ID photo — I even wrote her resume! It was under my ceaseless push that Erio was able to call them up herself. Actually, I'm more like a guardian than a boyfriend. Meme-san and I occasionally help Erio, whose goal is to eventually walk under the sun without her 'craziness'… Crap, isn't this basically a relationship of a couple and their daughter?

“You can still go back to school if you don't go to work.”

Ever since she spoke her mind about going to work, I recommended many times for her to go back. Yet Erio stubbornly refused: “Since I left, there is no going back. No!” Then why do you leave that uniform hanging in the room?

...Oh well, I am the person who forced her to live as an earthling. Just how much am I allowed to intervene in the choices of Erio's future? I am still searching for the answer, and I have not found it.

But seriously, am I like Erio's dad now? I'm actually worrying about whether she should go back to school or get a job. Am I the right person for this kind of thing? Having adaptability is good, but being so easily swayed is also…

The shadow of Youth-points dwindled. A nostalgic brown dyed my school life, like a withered cherry blossom that reminds people of a sweet and sour past… Hold it, I'm not about to have my cheeks wet by nostalgic tears.

“Then… Let's go to the food joint by the street.”

“Mm.”

I remembered inadvertently seeing the hiring criteria of that place being under the age of forty, when I went there with Ryuushi-san last week. Since there isn't a minimum restriction, there shouldn't be a problem. As for whether she fits, that would be up to the interviewer to decide.

Moving forward on the bicycle, I tried to pick routes that wouldn't overlap with the ones Erio used to go to the sea with.

I only hope that… For the person who has lost what's most important to her life in this town, this could serve as an atonement.

The result of her leaving out the back door dejectedly after entering the office-like room inside the kitchen went according to my prediction. So of course I'd look away. As to what I should look at after turning ended up bothering me. I guess I'll have to stare at the tip of my shoes. It was pointless.

Erio briefly explained that the people downright rejected her instead of telling her 'we'll call you if if you're hired.' After that, she hid her face… with the ground. She squatted by the wall and literally stuck her face to the concrete ground. You're gonna get hurt! I almost opened my mouth to remind her, but I thought, maybe she's already hurt everywhere? Hence I stayed mute till the end. I also thought that it'd be better if Erio stopped this behavior.

The fact that she just got a hair cut and was dressed neatly created an even bigger gap between her act. I crouched next to Erio and stared at the grey building in front. I suspected that my eyes lost focus, making the white seemed turbid. I rubbed them, and lifted my eyelids up high to see — the building was still grey.

The Erio who was still rubbing her face against the ground suddenly shot her torso upward. Her nose had a scratch, red like in the winter cold.

From that wound I felt an unnamed guilt: like mixing a neatly placed tofu in a plate with a metal spoon.

Perhaps calm again, Erio choppily described the interview.

Their questions seemed to have nothing to do with the job.

'Aren't you that? The girl who walks around town with a futon.'

'Why did you do that?'

'Oh, you don't go to school? I thought so!'

'Is your hair natural? Eh? You didn't dye it? Oh~ ...Touwa… Erio? Are you a foreigner? Oh, you're not.'

'You're pretty well known in town! I thought you're pretty brave, walking in the streets like that! Hm~ but why are you so scared now?'

'Yeah! I know you want to work here… But, you wouldn't hire a weirdo, right? Listen: just imagine you're running a store — you would think people in futon are weird too, right?'

'Well, you are really cute, so that's not too bad.'

'I'm more concerned with whether it'd dangerous working with you, not with if you can do it. Because people would be worried!'

'So, I'm sorry, but, we can't hire you. I think other places will be just as difficult too, right?'

'Anyway, keep at it! I'll cheer you on!'

Above are the notes I've taken in this one-sided interview.

“Ah~...” So they knew? I even tried picking a place that's further away from the Touwa household.

Why did you choose us? Or, why do you want to work? They didn't even ask questions like these. Erio and I even brainstormed together beforehand and came up with realistic responses.

Would it be better to ask Maekawa-san, who shares the unique appearance but with a better sociability, for advices and places to work? In any case, we have to restart.

Erio stumbled on her first step back to society. Or rather, she hugged on the ground the ankles of society, and got kicked away cruelly. Her wish of returning to society might never be granted.

The fact that her starting line wasn't zero is also tricky. Just how many points in debt awaited her?

Even when I got up and called her name, her knees refused to straighten up. If we go back home like this, she'll just end up becoming a bamboo-blind girl and cease all activity in her room. I even worried that she might regress back to the state of futon girl. Falling down again in that outfit, Erio will definitely never stand up on her own again.

“…What a pain.” Or maybe I'm overprotective? I began to feel anxious.

Sigh, I just have to change her mood. I gave up on contemplating and spoke:

“Anything you want to buy?”

“Eh?” Erio, who fretfully tried to rub her frown away, lifted her chin.

“Or anywhere you want to go. Since we're already out, let's hang out for a bit before going back. It's almost noon anyway, so we can eat too.” As for the reason, it's because I smelled Youth-points.

Let's just pretend it is so.

I pulled on Erio's right wrist and guide her up. Erio didn't resist; she evolved from an amphibian to a human.

As I wiped her slightly messy face, she coughed heavily. The stiffness in her facial muscle seemed to be expelled along with the cough, and it became catalyst of her return to neutrality.

“Are you hungry?”

“Mm.”

“Uh, what do you want to eat?”

“Pizza.” So it is going to be that?

“Roger. Then… Let's go to a diner.”

Erio stuffed her lower body into the basket again. By now, I could only admit that that is Erio's standard behavior. Besides, if she hugged me from the seat behind, my spine as a guardian might deform. Maybe it'd better if we keep our distance. But from the angle of Youth-points, of course riding double is more… Well, what can I say?

Perhaps, or rather most certainly, Erio will wrap herself up right when she gets home. But I sensed that her level of depression had been ameliorated to a point that she will still crawl out from her bed when dinner comes. Erio is fine: she might be slower than a cow, but she will be back.

She is still holding on.

She has been pulled back bit by bit by the gravity of society, hence she declared her intention to work.

What proof do I have though? When all is said and done, with whom do I have comparison for her with this 'will'? Places in my head hurt as if bruised, but since I have no basis for a reply, I could only endure the pain.

Simply put, I am not negative, and rather believe in Erio optimistically. Because it was only that, I felt terribly generous.

From then till about three, Erio and I wandered around town. And thus, I experienced why the kanji of wandering (うろつ) and lost (さまよう) are the same (彷徨) with my waist and legs. Together, we became hobos in front of the station; 'You're going to be sore tomorrow.' The Erio who swung her legs in the basket so said. I pinched her cheek as punishment, and returned to the Touwa residence.

After dumping the bicycle into the storage and locking up, I came to the entrance. Erio's standard head-hanging disappeared, her expression the same as when she came out from the salon this morning.

“I'm home!” Since Meme-san's shoes sat at the entrance, I tried greeting. “I'm home~” Erio mimicked me, squeaking a weak voice into the empty hall.

No reaction of a family member appearing after biting the bait. Could she be hiding in the futon again to set a trap for another princess carry? Just like with squeezing a Youkan out of a bamboo, I wanted to tighten the futon and force Meme-san out.

Since she's not coming out, it'd be a waste of time just standing. And so I told Erio to come inside. I thought that she resembled a certain robot boy, waiting for other people's command and couldn't make up her mind otherwise. But, since checking status is not a simple task in real life, the difficulty has risen dramatically.

“We're having snack, go wash your hand.” I jokingly spoke in a kid-spoiling grandad voice. “Mm!” She nodded intently and ran along the hallway… Eh? No way, she bought it? Eri-chan is too innocent, grandpa is scared that you might get scammed out there. Family members who are against their kids getting a job, and are for their them to stay at home should be pretty rare.

The happy Erio stopped in front of the living room, her mouth wriggled. She seemed to be talking with someone inside, probably saying hi to Meme-san. She ran off toward the bathroom; the other person probably didn't even get to say anything. I just bought her chocolate crepe earlier though! As expected of a girl — does sweet not count as food for them? Instead of snacks belonging in a different stomach, I secretly theorized that maybe they are put into a different organ. I had a friend who advocated this: 'maybe girls have a sweets-sack? Like a fire-sack in those monster atlas. I thought of that when I saw how much my girlfriend likes chocolate.' This became a fuse. Of course, the others exploded out of jealousy.

The sound of a distant pipe becoming a highway came; I followed into the hall. In the living room, the lazy house owner was indeed in there. She was currently displaying the status between lax and waste.

Meme-san sat on a cushion, her legs freely extended toward the television. She looked oblivious, and her eyes only half focused. Maybe I was thinking too much, but her side face looked blushed.

As for clothing, it was a pajama that seemed all too early.

On the TV screen was the protagonist who swore to become a violin maker on a date with a girl. It was a movie that endangers all the idiot couples in this world: the content was highly inappropriate for the education of a bachelor. What a throwback~ I had to stop and stare at the TV. At that moment, Meme-san finally noticed my return: “Ah, welcome home… Yawn~” She tiredly lowered her head.

“I'm back. Are you sick?”

“No, no~ I'm just spacing out. Maybe I was in there for too long.”

Meme-san seemed to have cooked her tongue, vaguely explaining the situation.

Ohh, she took a bath! Now that she said it, I noticed the moisture on her hair, and her skin was extra smooth. Looks like she went into the bath before the sun went down to fully enjoy her day off. That maybe so, but she often works on the weekends too, even though she wasn't working today. What does she do for a living?

I sat down next to Meme-san and began my simple report.

“Erio got wiped at the interview.” “Yeah? I thought so.” “Me too.”

We calmly agreed with each others. It's no wonder~ Meme-san reservedly added with a bitter smile:

“She probably thought that going back to school would cost a fortune.”

“Ah. Is that right?” We talked while gazing at the TV ahead.

“Actually, she isn't wrong.” When the scene changed, the darkened plasma screen reflected Meme-san's face momentarily.

“Right.”

“And she's probably worried about being bullied, huh?”

“That's very possible.” In both imagination and reality.

“Do you get bullied at school, Mako-kun? Did anyone call you an aunt-lover (オバコン)? I'm worried.”

“Hah? You mean big foot (ヒバゴン)? Your stupid jokes made it all the way to the freakin' salon. Do you think that's bullying?”

“…...Eehee~” Meme-san ignored me. Her unmoved attitude was enough to make me wonder if she misheard me. Did she have some license-less doctor do a surgery on her that would automatically detach her ear drums when someone criticizes her?

“Is this a replay?” I suddenly change the topic.

“Nope, it's a tape. It's been gathering dust in the cabin, but I took it out out of nostalgia.”

Indeed I received a response. The suspicion of her eardrum surgery grew.

This was just a hunch, but I think nothing on the screen is being carried into Meme-san's brain. Her nerves and face were slacking off on the side of the road, making her side face appear apathetic.

Her indifferent attitude must have reasons other than over-bathing.

“Did something happen?”

“Hm? Uh, it's kind of like...” Her eyelids hung again.

Meme-san's hands swung, tracing the air aimlessly like butterflies in a mime play.

“Like always joking about how 'I'm a god~' and then someone actually came out and praised you like a god; it actually confounds you, you know?”

“...Did you meet a member of the fan club?”

What if you cunningly deceived guys who wanted to join the Erio fan club, and now there are five members? I said so while imagining and counting with my fingers.

“Dong!” Meme-san made an enigmatic sound that was irrelevant to my question, and lied down at the same time. Swoosh! Following the sound that was lighter than imagination, she came to occupy my thighs as a pillow.

“...Um, Oba-san.”

“Hm~” Her eyes rolled under her lightly shut eyelids. The hair slightly wet tickled on my legs. Under the warm object, I really thought there was a cat or a dog on my knees.

… The soft air of a lovely atmosphere floated around my eyes. Be gone! I swatted with my hands. If you have the time to spray this kind of particles, why don't you just go help Erio wash her hands.

According to the situation that should happen between a girl and a guy — not with his aunt — there seems to be a glitch in my destiny.

“How do you like your cuchie (キューティ) aunt lying on your knees?”

“Like having a clam on my knees.” Or more properly, juicy. (ジューシー)

“Lick!” “Eeeek!” The clam licked my knee. Cold saliva sunk into the clothes and onto the skin. I yelped and winced like a girl. Though I wanted to attack her temple with a knee attack, Meme-san began her next phase of attack before I made up my mind.

“Lick lick lick lick~!”

“Hey! You damn pervert!” I pushed her forehead back with my palm.

Rhythmically she drenched my knee with her drool.

“I got a little too excited.” Teheehee~ She mimicked F*jiya's P*ko-chan. 'How careless of me~' she planned to slip by like that. She probably doesn't even care about other people's loss of points. Well no, it'd be difficult for me too if she does. Meme-san's mental status has recovered! Who would actually be glad about that? Keeping this person in warm water for the rest of the year, and a peaceful and harmonious Touwa family might just be reality.

“How do you switch so fast from depression to excitement?”

I couldn't help but feel that she uses a different fuel than regular people to stimulate herself. Would there be petroleum in the result of her saliva analysis?

“Oh yeah, listen Makkyun.”

“A nickname of a nickname… What?”

Again with the ignoring. Well, I'm used to it. Just think of it as talking to someone on the TV, and it'll be like facing twice the emptiness. I don't even know how to deal with her.

“About where Erio could work, I have something. I'll tell you now, so you two can go tomorrow.”

“...Oh?” I'm kind of impressed by this surprising information, but… “Then you should have just told me!”

That way neither my knees nor Erio would have to be exhausted from having too much lactic acid.

“I just found out today!”

“And I thought the only job that people could find taking a bath is for little ducky toys.”

“Just ask Erio and she would know where.” I began telling me the store's name and the job.

“… Ah, I see. Comparing to somewhere normal… This might be better.”

I've heard of it too, but I've never been there.

“There might not be much in terms of pay, but I think it's a place that Erio could conform to.”

Somehow, she spoke with a sentimental voice. Not fit in, but conform to? Well, they're pretty much the same thing.

“Credit's rolling on the tape.” I pointed to the screen.

“Rewind~ Also do the same to my age for about twenty years.” I flip and continued rolling.

“If I could do that, I'll throw in a bonus of doubling that.”

“Oh yay!” She nonchalantly raised her hands and stabbed with me with her nails.

Pitter-patter~ Erio frantically rushed in from the hallway. After seeing Meme-san using my knees as pillow, she stiffened still for a bit. Meme-san was relatively soft, the example being her face.

“Wanna join me, Erio?” Please don't invite your daughter in disregard of the will of the pillow! Actually, if a person has to ask for her furniture’s permission to sleep, she might simply be a wacko.

Erio waved her hands furiously in refusal. Drops of water from her hand hit my face.

After motioning an item-moving gesture to show 'enough about that for now,' she asked with tilted head:

“Snack?”

“You are the snack~!”

Like a plant growing at three-thousands times the speed, Meme-san entangled Erio with her vines known as arms: “Uuwhoa~! Bouncy skins~! Let me absorb it~! In every way~!” If you accidentally took her age, then you'll be extra skip-the-rest, Oba-san!

Erio, ravaged to the ground, stuck her hand out for the possibility of a rescue:

“Cousin, s-save me.”

“Let me finish this first.”

I acted as if fixed to the TV, deciding to turn a blind eye on the scene of a happy family.

… Yet, a side glance would reveal a prideful mom and/or idiotic mom sucking on her daughter's cheek.

Is there a problem in this world that would trouble her indefinitely? I might end up having a fever myself wondering about this question.

The next morning, Erio had a tantrum. She hid in the futon… Uh, like actually under it, since she wasn't rolled up in it.

Like a student struggling till the last moment in his bed when the chicken replacement, his mom, launches an attack on his fortress in the winter's moment between dream and reality, she resisted. She either escaped without checking the direction, or kicked randomly.

“I rerly hervent slerp yet~!”

“Liar!” By the way, her vigorous claim was: “I really haven't slept yet~!”

The thoughts of the futon-made darkness 'Ohohoho~”: Erio slept before ten o'clock last night; the time was now ten in the morning.

“Eets dergerous becerse the werve of sperce will cerse rain terday!”

“If weather forecast does send a rain alert because of your space wave, then I will gladly accept it. Alright, now get out!” I tickled her feet. “Uwah!” A clear reaction, followed by a kick to my chin. And then Erio wormed like a caterpillar when I let go. Her escape wasn't completely despicable; it was more like a child throwing a tantrum.

Like an infant scarred for life after touching a stove for the first time, Erio displayed an act of denial for job interviews. What a lack of determination she's showing. Agh, I take back the words 'I believe in her.'

Ahh~ The back-to-society points are regressing in no time. Ugh, well, she's probably numbed from it since she's already so far in debt anyway.

Actually, she originally claimed to be an alien as an escape from the problem anyway: running away has to be her one expertise — no, it has to be her basic behavior. But things are different this time. 'It wers for the cersin that I cried.'

Shouldn't the one crying be your mom? I almost said it, but I thought Meme-san wouldn't react that way. She will always respect her daughter's will. Though she will help her on her way back to society, Meme-san will neither assent nor dissent; she will unconditionally accept what Erio says.

“Rersts are needed for work. Wrapped up in yer bed is the rerght way to live!”

On the other hand, my cousin emitted her craziness to her content.

After being treated with temporary nonreaction, Erio peeked out from the futon. She surveyed about and, for some reason, sighed in relief after seeing me.

Since it made no sense, I jumped over to hold her neck; Erio frantically pulled her head back and rolled in attempt to distance herself. “Ah!”

Peril filled Erio's path. But I didn't stop her.

Her ankle met the telescope's tripod that sat in the corner of the room. “Uwhoooa!” Super effective. Erio, who could only perform lateral movements, intensely moved vertically; the floor squeaked. Musty dust flew everywhere, and I felt uncomfortable.

“Kyah~hah~hah~hah~!” Struggling painfully, Erio choppily screamed with a sound that could become a hearty laugh with a bit of editing. Once she settled, I assumed persuasion mode:

“Looks like it's more dangerous indoor for you. This morning's fortune said Sagittarius have good luck with money, and their charm is a white umbrella. So, we're going outside to get collect some lucky-points!”

Even though I lied. But I don't even know what Erio's birthday is, and how else could I further promote this point system?

“Okay, game time's over! Put your toy (futon) back, we're leaving~”

Though I tried telling her with a gentle attitude fit for kids, she insisted on 'it's warm~' jumping occasionally 'Jumpy~' then 'sleepy~ sleep~' and finally stopped moving. After about two minutes, sounds like snoring broke the silence.

“...Hah~” I rubbed saliva on my head and began meditating. Dot, dot, dot, ding~

Alright, just carry her out! A motion last seen long ago: I carried the futon girl out of Erio's room. “Warmth~! Warmth~!” The time for protest is over. Her outfit is perfect for rain too.

If the sight of me carrying Erio was caught by a certain problematic person who would ask 'magic mirror on the wall, who is the youngest Meme-san in the Touwa family of this town~?' she might start yelling 'stop those fingers!' and request being princess carried, so I hurried to the entrance. Luckily, I wasn't caught. Maybe she went somewhere? I realized after checking the shoes at the entrance.

Because Meme-san said 'I know those people there, so it's fine,' I put sandals instead of shoes on Erio. As for her messy bed hair, I couldn't care less.

I opened the door after picking up a plastic umbrella. The outside today was like a preview to the raining season: a gloomy drizzle. Riding a bicycle on a day like this and sliding all the way to the destination would probably result in a shower of Youth-points. It's just that that would be pretty dangerous, and I've already been sick once.

I pulled the bicycle out from the storage and put the luggage named Erio into the basket. Holding her, I felt she was like a light and soft mortar. The basket clanked; Erio was now in her spot. Oh man, I'm seriously used to it. Does this mean my points are already negative?

Human adaptability is terrifying; my youth is also being trained in a negative way.

With how things were now, Erio seemed to have given up as well, showing her face and initiating a normal conversation:

“Good morning, cousin.” Her eyes weren't filled with hatred: it was just a flat greeting no different from the usual's.

“Oh~ Morning… Oh yeah, Erio, hold the umbrella for me.”

I wanted her to stick her hand out to hold the opened umbrella.

Wouldn't holding the umbrella from the basket cover both me and Erio from the rain? Discovering her surprising usefulness, I felt sunny for a moment.

“And then? Where are we going?” Ah, she's pouting unhappily. This fresh reaction was kind of cute. I looked up to the umbrella, and, as if reporting to grey sky made obscure by the transparent plastic, my mouth gaped.

At the same time I thought… Are the aliens watching us through the dense cloud?

“The grocery store that sells seventh-dimensional key chain. I heard that your job is to substitute for the granny there.”

'The old lady has been resting inside recently, you two can just walk in there.'

Since Meme-san said so yesterday, I decided to walk in directly.

The store's door and roof had a few red and other brightly-colored signs stuck on them — an appearance of a classic personal shop. I parked next to the entrance. After learning our destination, Erio's mind and face seemed to be mixed with joy.

I looked for the name buried in the signs and found that the it seemed to be called 'The Tamura Shop.' For a store that is known for its alien-loving granny, this was a name that even an Earthling like me could understand at a glance.

In front of the store was a bench that seemed to be jacked from a bus stop. Currently, Erio gestured to me explaining that she used to eat snacks with her friends here after school.

By the way, I had to exercise the use of force to take away the futon, which she was about to use as a coat.

“Hoh~?” Erio has friends! Uh, I mean, of course, but what do you call it — like imagining the childhood of your parents, it isn't easy to picture the past of a person before you two met. I may have seen a picture of Meme-san from twenty seven years ago, but it is only remembered in still image, and it will absolutely never move. I do feel that her personality probably hasn't changed.

I pushed the noticeably aged, wooden slide door open. Perhaps installed improperly, the door didn't move all the way until I put some strength into it. After I opened the door, Erio squeezed by and jubilantly ran into the store.

Right as she entered, an electronic buzzer rang inside the dim store as a red object flashed on the register. Looks like every time someone comes in, a sensor will react and inform the old lady inside: a similar device as those in a convenience store.

I roughly surveyed the store with its walls and shelves brimming with items.

The same style on the inside: instead of being more traditional, this store emphasized more on the owner's personal taste. There were instant ramen with the expiration date indeed being in the future, and hot water. Dessert-wise, there were snacks, and there were also commercial ice cream in the small fridge.

“Oh, is this it?”

I took the rumored seventh-dimension key chain off the wall and investigated… No matter how I looked, it still looks like a purple accessory with multiple polygons stacked together. Is seeing through three dimension the limit of my eyes? And for the key chain over there with the word 'determination', how many dimension is that? After all, this is the territory of the mind~ Hard to say~ How philosophical. I'll tell myself that.

If we want to have a serious discussion, we might end up delving deep into an investigation on 'what is determination (根性)?' so I stopped. After all, there is still the word nature (性根). Is this about the origin of personality?

In addition, there was a signature of an alien named something-something and a specimen of a Nozuchi. I'll pretend I didn't see those. I can't believe adults seriously let their kids in here!

“Are we… going in?” Erio asked, pointing to the darkness ahead. “Yeah.” I concluded the perusal, proceeded next to the register, took off my shoes and walked in. We entered the living quarter with Erio in lead.

The neighboring building connected to the store was wooden as well, but it was a sublime house that showed no sign of tipping. Rain dropped quietly, and a refreshing cool suffused in the air. Even though this was space of gloom and brown, conspicuous stains, I felt, for some reason, that I was in a blue cave. “Probably… Here.” Erio stopped her in the middle of the hall. At the wall was a room sealed by two slide doors.

I opened the doors yellowed by the light and age. In the center was a slightly bulging bedding. It would appear that the person is someone who sleeps with the sheet over her head, as I couldn't find any exposed skin.

“Obaa-chan.” Erio set next to the bedding, endearingly calling the bulge.

“Yes, yes, I was just about go to the store!” The person explained while poking her head out from the bed. Much blackness remained in her hair, but compared to Oba-chan, she had an overwhelming amount of wrinkles. The granny's cheeks were thinned, and her eyeballs protruding. Hm…? I think I've seen this face before. Must be my imagination.

Before looking at us, she asked, 'who are you again?' An appointment with memory loss.

“Obaa-chan, um… Morning, how are you? It's been a while.”

It would have sounded fine if she spoke slowly, but Erio hurriedly put everything into a sentence. Well, that was just like her style.

The granny, Tamura-san, stuck out her skinny arm, which had skin so tight that even the wrinkles didn't stand out. But her hand stopped without moving forward. “Ah~ Earth's gravity is becoming worse than before.” The granny spoke shocking words. Is the so-called gravity something that would change in years like the economy? I wasn't surprised though. Setting my personal expectation aside, I have already gotten used to this kind of talk.

I held Tamura-san's hand and guided it to her reading glasses. “Oh… Hm, thank you then.”

She mumbled vaguely and put the glasses in front of her eyes instead of putting them on. The object became the translator for her eyes, making outlines of the world correct.

“Oh~ Oh~ Elliot. You're Elliot, right?”

“No, I'm Erio.”

“Since you're Elliot and Meme's kid, Elliot is fine, hm?”

Contrasting her appearance, her tone was imposing. Forward and ahead, her speaking speed was like words were pushing each others ahead, and they were very understandable. This was a tone that reveals a strong nature, but disallows others to express their opinion.

According to the previous statement, Obaa-chan knows Erio's father?

“Being Meme's kid, you actually inherited Elliot's good points. You have a bright future!”

Tamura-san's left hand that seemed unable to defy gravity came out trembling from the bed. The hand stayed in the air as if planning on petting Erio's hair, but it went back halfway, probably thinking that it was too much work.

“What about you?” This time she pointed the frame of the glasses at me, and asked:

“An unfamiliar face. If I forget, then my apology. Well, that would never happen anyway!”

Perhaps her memory had yet to decline, she asserted that we've never met. That's correct, but then what about what she said earlier?

“Ah, I'm Niwa Makoto. Erio's cousin.”

“Yes, cousin.” Somehow, Erio reported with a happy face. Tamura-san moved her glasses to observe my face. Through the reading glasses, even her face becomes bigger for me.

“Oh~oh, is that so? You're Shouji's son, of course you'd look alike.”

“Ah… Yes, he's my father.”

“I know~ he's someone with a low threshold: an idiot like an introduction manual.”

When your father is being happily and easily insulted in someone else's reminiscing, what kind of a face do you put up as a son? Dad's impression on me has always been strict and stubborn — a father without vulnerability. Hence, this past story didn't seem real.

“He's someone who likes animals more than people, the opposite of Meme. Also recently—“

“Um...”

“What?” Perhaps because of the interruption, Obaa-san was ostensibly upset.

But we're not here to chat, so we have to conclude things first.

“So, Erio will be working here, or rather will be helping out...”

“Ah~ Ah, that's right. Correct: Meme's already told me, so I know. Now, since you're done, can I talk now? Hm?”

“...Please.” What an individualistic old lady.

“Animals.”

“Hah?”

As if mocking my dumbfound reaction, Tamura-san raised the corner of her lips:

“Did you know? The animals in town have been disappearing lately. They've been kidnapped, I tell you, kidnapped!”

“Ah, yes. I've only heard of rumors though, nothing specific.”

“Ahahaha!” This old lady doesn't fit well with a monotone laughter like 'heeheehee.'

“Yes, it has to be cattle mutilation .”

“……...”

As expected of the city of aliens: when things happen to animals, that's the first thing that comes to mind.

However, wasn't that proven as caused by nature or other animals?

Furthermore, there weren't corpses at the scene, so I always felt that this was not an appropriate name. Oh, well, it's fine if they were returned after being carried away for experiments by alien saucers, right? ...Hm? Why bother giving back?

“Then… I'm next!”

“Hm… Eh?” My contemplation was attacked unexpectedly; I almost choked at the moment of surprise.

“ Cattle mutilation is about to happen to me.”

Tamura-san confidently puffed her frail chest that looked like it could no longer hold anything. Another person like this? I looked to Erio's face.

Erio was not stupefied, but instead smiling as if she came in contact with something worthy of the reaction. Ah… this old lady is like that! It has to be that.

She's like the Erio during April who grew old.

“Ah. Is that right?”

I used the more polite, but disapproving reaction for facing adults.

...And like that, Erio began working at the Tamura store.

### 012. Chapter 3: Ryuu'ko'←(emphasis)san's, whatcha call it, trouble?

## Chapter 3 - Ryuu'ko'←(emphasis)san's, whatcha call it, trouble?

“Niwa-kun is like the right side of a crepe!”

“Eh?”

I reached for the onions rings and Niwa-kun, who sat on the opposite side, paused his hand on the fries.

“It has a light crusty taste, but that's it. It's, like, the parts with no filling.”

“Oh, meaning that I have to admit myself as a shallow paper-man with a 'yeah…'? I mean, I won't deny it, but my heart might get folded into a quarter. Maybe I'll just turn into a crane and jump out from the window!”

Niwa-kun scowled sadly and put a fry in his mouth, then he rubbed the salt off onto the tray.

“Oh no, I mean, like, there are people who like that stuff too. I think there musta be a lotta people who like the crusts.” I nodded and took a bite on the onion ring. Nom, nom, delicious~

“That's the first time I've seen someone eating onions so happily.”

“Hm? Ya don't like onions, Niwa-kun?”

“Not when it's just onions — especially when it's raw, 'cuz it's spicy.”

“Oh~ Are ya one of those who hate things before tasting them?”

“Uh, didn't I just tell you about the taste?”

Ah, he's right. Niwa-kun grimaced; I smiled embarrassingly.

“In the collective item known as 'crepe with filling,' do I fall under the needless parts? After all, if you all you want are the crispy parts, you just have to grill the middle parts.”

“But isn't is bad without those too? Like, ya can't hold the filling without the sides, and it isn't a crepe anymore.”

“Then… Right, just don't even have crepes! Burgers are in, anyway; just tell crepe shops to give up!”

“Ah, you're right! Niwa-kun, you're really good at being reasonable!”

“...This girl… Just when I wish she'd deny something, she'd give me a big smile.”

Bonk~ Niwa-kun collapsed… Hm? Did I… say something weird?

Niwa-kun is just that — interesting, but hard to get sometimes.

“Oh, I know!” I tried to snap… And failed. My fingers just rubbed together lamely.

“Hm?”

“I like the crust!”

“Puwah!”

“Oh oh! You look like a tipped fish tank!”

Did the Oolong tea and his windpipe play a prank on him?

...Mm, there was a day like that anyway.

That was in the beginning of June, about two weeks ago, when I had this conversation with Niwa-kun at the burger place.

You want to know how I felt? It's a bit difficult to say out loud! But it was the most recent happy time we had, so sometimes I think about it.

Mainly when I'm feeling tired and down.

Though I'm always sleepy in morning classes after practice, to the point where I miss my bed, the feeling of freedom will always come after club activity ends after school; I wouldn't want to go home directly, it's unbelievable.

For negative emotions, the feeling during class time is pretty important.

“Hey ya~ Ryuushi!”

When I was wiping the gym floor with a mop, Mikki, my club mate, came to my side and spoke. She's a girl cuter than Ryuushi who came from the city part of town.

“How can I help ya, ya naughty kid who got Ryuuko-san's name wrong?”

Just how widespread is this erroneous nickname of mine? Could it be the entire school? Jeez, Ryuushi-san is so famous; she's honest and flexible… Wait, now's not the time to feel happy!

“Before we head home, wanna go hang out at Tamura's?”

As for why this girl's nickname is Mikki, it's because she likes that one mouse in a certain park. Even though she's a girl, she's not M*nnie. Don't make me say the rest! By the way, she's a tough one who can go enjoy an amusement park on her own.

“Obaa-chan's store? Mm~...” I felt my tummy through the uniform to confirm multiple things: “Sure, it's been a while.” During the winter of first grade, I often went there after club activity.

“You're cooperative sometimes, Ryuushi~”

“I told ya it's Ryuuko! And no one ever says that!” Sigh, because… I've been hanging out with Niwa-kun recently.

But speaking of Niwa-kun, he's been having the habit of leaving as soon as school's out this week. Did something happen? My curiosity rolled like a ball in the bottom of my heart.

Was I too cruel refusing his offer? That's going to be… problematic~

Our job was finished after we wiped the floor. On our way to the changing room in the gym, we traded a 'good job guys~' with the volleyball team that we passed before leaving.

I opened up the cellphone left sitting in my bag to check for messages… Yay~ the battery is fully charged. Hahah… Hmph, I'm sick of seeing the black numbers in my calendar; I don't even have a day off. Seriously~ a birthday is a personal holiday, why not just take the day off? Just kidding— my birthday is at the end of month!

Today was the eighteenth of June. About ten more days. Mom always buys me delicious (but expensive) cake! I'm so excited!

“Hmm~” I stretched, my spine crackled and the elbows followed as if complaining. A surge what felt like energy came from my feet.

Tomorrow is Saturday, awesome! And that's why today's club ended on an especially high note. Even the weather was the rare sunny day during rainy season. The only problem was the humidity, like melting snow, sticking to the skin as if 'ah, it's going to rain!'

“Sorry for the wait, Ryuushi! Stripping so fast as usual, eh?”

Mikki, who came out later than I did, spat lines that would lead to misunderstanding and pat my shoulder.

“You're just slow! Whatever~ Let’s go.”

I pointed to the bicycle lot and strode forward proudly. Walk, walk, walk… Run, run, run. I switched to running halfway to catch to Mikki who outpaced me.

“You walk slow.”

With her usual expression of slight apathy, Mikki, who's my height, criticized me.

“A walk should be with a relaxed mind, s’what I believe.”

“But you're pretty fast at running!”

“Ya may call me Cheetah Ryuuko.” Just like a certain Jaguar someone!

“Is it cuz you don't strip?”

“Mikki, what you say sometimes go through time and space.”

And could ya stop making Ryuuko-san into some weird character?

Ah, but 'only sometimes go through time and space' sounds like an idiom!

Walk, walk, walk mixed with some run, run, run, we came to the lot. Kendo members who also just left club were also there, chatting while getting on their bikes.

After saying a few words with some friends there, I came to the side of my ride who waited patiently for her chance to shine.

“That reminds me, we haven’t seen the dog in a while.”

“Dog?”

“The stray dog with black fur. Doesn't he sometimes come around here, and even into the school?”

“Ah~ I remember. Hm~ Maybe… He was, um, kidnapped?”

“I guess so~”

I picked up and put on the helmet that was placed upside down in the basket. Mikki saw the scene and chuckled lightly:

“It's always hilarious to see you do that!”

“Do ya wanna try it? Rather than watching, it's more fun to do it!”

“No thanks. Ryuushi and helmet are born for each other!”

She laughed. Hmm~ … It was probably a compliment! Oh well~ I opened the bicycle lock and lift the body outside of the spot, clank~ I rode forward, and then was passed by Mikki. 'Uguu~' She slowed down for me, and subtly laughed her head off. Grr, she's a quick one!

“Also, you ride super slow.”

“I've always been the kid who can't do the three-legged race.”

Even Niwa-kun was able to let off his pent up frustration after getting a new bicycle. I jokingly told him off with an angry voice, and then he said 'then… I'll ride behind Ryuushi-san.' I'm happy and all, but I told ya I'm not Ryuushi!

We rode out the school gate toward the opposite direction of our home.

When I was little, my friends and I would always hang out at the store Tamura Obaa-san runs, which we were now heading to. Everyone's parents would tell him or her that 'don't believe in anything that old lady says!' She has always been a strange lady who likes to talk about aliens.

For example, she always says things like 'Aliens don't live in this world — they live outside of it.' She also always pet our heads and say stuff like 'I hope the aliens don't take you away~'

Because she treats the aliens like gods, I dunno… I think it's more like religious beliefs.

But even so, everyone loved Obaa-chan's weird stories. Compared to teachers' 'read your books! Do your works!' we like those more… Uh, of course! But at the time, I actually looked forward to them.

Under her influence, I even ran to the astronomy lab outside of town with everyone to look for aliens. In the end, I never saw one… Oh, but maybe that one time? And it was recent, from not too long ago. I met a self-proclaimed alien.

Did that boy properly return 'home?'

“Oh yeah, Ryuushi~ Heard you got a boyfriend now, is it true?”

“Wha?” I swirled, almost bumping into Mikki's bike.

“Ah, looking at your reaction, it must be true!” Mikki continued riding calmly.

“Ugh, no… I'm just surprised because I, the normal Ryuuko, have rumors!”

“That’s why you’re surprised?”

Mikki shot me a belittling look. How would you know as a basketball varsity member.

“But, boyfriends, huh… Hm~ I have no idea what ya mean.”

Oh, does she mean Niwa-kun? I only realized after speaking, so I didn't lie!

Is it because I eat lunch with him?

“You know what they say: 'there is no wave without wind.'

“Does that mean where there is no wave, the wind doesn't blow~?”

“Ryuushi, have you ever think about what you say?”

“Hmm~hm, never.” Hehehe, I tricked her.

After a bit of chatting, we were at the Tamura Shop. We parked next to the store; besides us, there was already a bicycle there. As if lining up, we put the bicycles into a row. Just when I took off the helmet and put it in the basket, Mikki laughed again.

Vending machine, bench with paint falling off its legs, tilted signs that was never changed, and the window that's blurred by age.

Under the push of nostalgia and my own past, I pulled open that wrongly installed slide door:

“Obaa-san, good afternoon~”

I consciously greeted the old lady who should always be sitting inside the store.

“Ah—“

The right hand I lifted petrified at the fingertip, because my prediction was way off.

Due to my stopping in the track, Mikki ran into me; I could even hear her complaining 'what are you doing~?' But my neck stiffened, unable to turn.

The other person was probably shocked as well: she dropped the bag of potato chips in her hands, and then hurriedly picked up the bag to her chest and stared over here.

“Oh, it's the thing inside of the futon roll.”

Mikki observed the inside over my shoulder, rudely pointing at the person. FYI, if someone points at M*ckey Mouse and tells her 'so the person in there…' she will give whomever said it a serious slap. Not that it's irrelevant.

Even Touwa Erio-san, whose history is like a flaw, began to reveal a suspicious reaction; she still lowered her head and nodded meaninglessly. I stared at the friend I came with.

“…...”

What is this awkwardness? Is it because I haven't seen her without the futon for a really long time?

No, there seemed to be reasons other than that.

Only, I think Touwa-san's and I were awkward for different reasons.

We gazed at each others uncomfortably with downcast eyes, and then…

“Touwa...E...rio-san.” I almost blurted something like Eru-rio.

“You're… Ryuushi...What's-her-face...” Just as her usual uncertain speech, her words did not contain the correct answer.

I said my name is Ryuuko!

“Looking at this bench, it looks like a bus would totally stop by.”

“*Breathing* (Seriously)!”

“Ah, if a cat bus comes, then it'll be purrfect~”

Meow~ Mikki had on an immodest face. She's very knowledgeable in that kind of things, addicted and even completely obedient to cute things. As for the same rule, I only half agree.

We sat on the Tamura Store's bench outside, sipping on the cup ramen we just bought. Mine was fried noodle, and Mikki's Ramen flavor. Ramen has soup, so would it make people fatter? Constantly worrying about this subtly, I always choose fried noodles. But I still eat Ramen when it's out of stock.

Though we talked, my gaze was mostly not on the noodles or Mikki, but floated into the store. Even if the store was dark, the light fortunately lit up the inside, so I could peek through the glass. I could only the right-half, but Touwa-san's interestingly colored hair will occasionally enter my sight, reflecting the scene of her cleaning. And thus, I stared continuously.

“What's wrong, Ryuushi?” Mikki slurped on the ramen, poking my side with her elbow.

“I said to call me Ryuuko, Mikki!”

“What, does Erio bother you that much?”

“Not really~”

“Hm, it's only natural. Why is she working at a place like this?!”

Mikki, who just ignored my words, tasted the shrimps in the cup and nodded. If it's just the second half, I too agree it is unbelievable. Now that I think about, the futon-roll hasn't been around lately~ I did thought so.

“But, like, wouldn't it be better if we don't come anymore?”

“Eh? Why?”

Suddenly hearing her say that we should avoid coming here, I looked to Mikki. She began her explanation only after sucking, chewing and swallowing a few noodles:

“Cuz Erio's here!”

“Hm, ok...”

“Now isn't the time to stop thinking, Ryuushi!”

“Ryuuko!”

“Think about what happened at school. I'm gonna be frank — Erio is mental. You don't want to be seen around her, right?”

“Ah...”

The roots of Mikki's idea sprouted from the mud; I had to agree.

I remember the scene when Touwa-san reappeared after missing for half a year. Even during class time, she didn't care… During lunch, she would even drive everyone out of the room… The situation at that time was really bad.

We weren't in the same class in first year, so I wasn't a complete victim. Seeing her wearing that futon around, I even thought 'that's pretty cute' so I didn't hate her.

But it's so complicated! Especially with Niwa-kun. N-no, Niwa-kun and I are just friends.

“Letting Erio welcome customers. Doesn't that seem more like unwelcoming them?”

“Uu… Oh! Isn't it cuz of that?”

“Because of what?”

“Because of the aliens— that's why she works with Tamura Obaa-san.”

“Oh, I see.” Mikki's reply was still filled with an attitude half of 'whatever.' “Now that you mentioned it, the old lady wasn't in the front. Is she inside?”

“Yeah, I hope she's doing ok!”

As if swayed by the topic, I stole another glance into the store. No signs of Touwa-san.

For a while we were wordless. Only the sound of sipping and drinking echoed on the damp bench.

Then, a man about forty — similar to my dad's age — came over on a bicycle and stopped a bit after the Tamura shop and us. He wore a suit, so probably a salary man? He spaced out looking up toward the store's roof. I secretly guessed, that if his one of the town's resident, he would have seen the futon weirdo. If he goes inside the shop and see the true face of the futon-roll Touwa-san, would he be surprised, or disgusted? The thought of those reactions upset me, but since the reason was also Touwa-san herself, I felt it was only natural, or not my business. In any case, emotions of all sorts blended together messily and lied in my heart. I don't hate Touwa-san, but it's kinda like 'hm…' Ah, but she did give me the nickname 'Ryuushi' in P.E so I have to take some points away.

According to Maekawa-san, Touwa-san is Niwa-kun's cousin, and they live together… Under the same roof, how shameless (ハレンチク)! If I was a disciplinary teacher, Niwa-kun would not have escaped the consequence of a shaved head. Heheh, fortunately I'm just a simple student, so he's lucky to be alive… I tried to bolster myself for a sec. Ahh~ Am I actually a very blessed girl? I dunno why, but my friends always say it~ They always call me a blessed person.

In the end, the man never walked inside and kept going forward in his bike. In the bicycle's basket there was a big cardboard box; perhaps of its weight, he struggled with jaw clenched to peddle. Mikki stopped her chopsticks as well, shooting her gaze at the man who had just left. I saw the box he was carrying. It was cola…I think? If the label on the box was right.

Oh! Ryuuko-san's English ability has finally appeared boldly for the sake of a chance! It might be hard to believe, but I am actually certified with level three English! But nothing for the Kanji examination that I took at the same time.

“Are those stolen?”

“Hard to say. Probably not.”

“Then it must be Otonakai!”

“Hm, Otonakai.”

Mikki and I traded looks and nodded, and both of us smiled for some reason.

“Are those all for himself?”

“Maybe he won it in some event, like a kid's party or something.”

“Mm… Maybe. Or maybe he's just a cola addict.”

“Mikki can read what's on the box! Tch~”

“Are you looking down on me?”

While laughing, we sucked on the remaining noodles.

“Also, did you see that guy's ear?” Mikki pointed to departed back and asked.

“Eh? Does he have big ears?”

“No~ I meant the thing he had on his ear. What was that?”

“Oh~...”

Mikki, who drank all of the soup, asked her question again just as I finished:

“I've actually talk to that guy before!”

“Eh?”

“He asked a lot about Erio, so I told him at my discretion.”

“Oh~...” So Touwa-san is someone dangerous enough to be followed by that guy?

Maybe Mikki's attitude of 'a true man will not stand beside a collapsing wall' is correct!

As of Niwa-kun… Hm~ Is it because he's not a true man?

“What do we do with the garbage?”

“Wuu...” If it were before, Obaa-chan will always say 'I'll take it' and take them for us.

I naturally looked inside the store.

...Ah, there was someone else besides Touwa-san. A male student stood next to her as if taking care of her.

Was he in there earlier? Also, the bike that was there… Kuh, the mystery has been solved.

“It's ok, just bring them back!” I waved my hands and said: “No!”

“Hm? Sure, I don't like letting Erio help me anyway.”

“Hmhm.”

I brushed her off with a sound and stood from the bench. Mikki got up as well.

We patted our skirts, circled into the store toward the bicycles.

Just before leaving, I looked back once. There was nothing inside.

“Oh right. Ryuushi, free tomorrow?”

“It's Ryuuko. What’s up?” I turned back while replying.

“Wanna go buy some accessories? I found some super cute stuff!”

“Tomorrow, huh...” Because it's a Saturday, there is no club, and the weather seemed good. “I’ve already made plan, sorry.”

What I saw in the store was way more important than hanging out with friends.

It is probably, for now.

When Niwa-kun first transferred here, I thought maybe he had become, to me, a kind of 'candy.' This is what I thought of when I ate alone during lunch.

How do I put it? Like the sort that is put on the side, when you wanna take a breather or if your mouth is a bit lonely, the candy that you'd want… Did I think of him like that? I wondered.

When we're alone, someone I can easily say hi to… That kind of feeling.

That's why sometimes when I'm alone, I feel stuffy.

I dunno why, but that's what I think.

Hmmmng. I start to realize how strange this whole thing is.

The rain got stronger as well. No doubt that this is the summer rain — rather than sinking into the body, it sticks onto your body along with things other than just water. Because of the humidity, clothes glued tightly on me.

Splatter, splatter… The sound of rain falling on the asphalt road and rooftops almost made me lose my calm. Every time it happens, I would concentrate by repeatedly closing and opening my eyes.

Uh, firstly… Let’s try to sort out the situation after coming here today.

Today was the day after yesterday, so Saturday. My reason for not hanging out with Mikki was, in simple terms, to keep an eye on the Tamura Shop. As for why, it's because yesterday… I discovered Niwa-kun in the store. How shameless! Well, I dunno why I'm so angry either.

Because Mikki, a potential bomb, was there yesterday, I just went home. However, if Niwa-kun does show up today, I will assault him with a 'bang!' I planned so and left home this morning.

Around ten o'clock in the morning, I rode to where the Tamura Shop is and hid in the corner to monitor the entrance — this was the so-called 'Tailing.' Who would have known that watching the alien headquarter — the astronomy lab — would become useful on day? I seemed to have gotten bored of it quickly then and played ball instead.

Looking back at past experience, I prepared beforehand a music player to let my favourite music absorb the boredom. At the same time, I stuck closely to a wall to quietly watch the store. The song that played in my ears was a drama or movie theme released a year ago by a female singer named 'Nijou Owari' (二条オワリ). The singer wrote in her history booklet that she was accidentally discovered while singing in front of a train station about six or seven years ago.

It also said that she likes dogs, which made me like her more. As for her songs, the lyrics and tones known for being 'pessimistic yet cheerful' don't provide a sense of straightforwardness. After listening, I agree with the review.

'I didn’t think it’d sell so well – this world is truly full of lies,' she said so with a naive smile on her first TV appearance — It left me with an impression, which is why I bought the CD and listened to it in times like now.

Mm, let’s not talk about this for now. In the middle of waiting for Niwa-kun, the weather worsened as well. The sunny day of the morning collapsed; the shapes of cloud gradually changed as well. Every time when the clouds moved, the sky was as if painted many times by a brush soaked in ink. In about twenty minutes, I successfully observed with my head the first rain of the day.

Just when I decided to move to somewhere with a cover… A problem appeared.

Ugh, it's like, there were other people watching this store. Two people, actually.

One of them looked like a woman of about thirty, and the other was the Cola guy from yesterday. Since the rain began scattering, the two of them moved as if they're being chased. The problem became more obvious: because of their locations, neither of the shuffling people noticed each other’s' existence — but I saw everything. I only moved after observing this scene; my shoulders were now a bit wet.

The omen of a plot loomed! Hmmm, I really don't get what I said either. Still, does everyone understand what I'm trying to say? There was some sort of a secret in this shop! Somethin' like that.

With the grocery store as the center, the female hid by the corner on the edge of the road. On the opposite side was me who hid half my body, and the cola guy. I could see the cola guy clearly, but if the woman moved a bit she'd completely disappear.

“Eh? A spotted cat sat anxiously by my legs. Was it hiding from the rain? Even when I met eyes with it, the cat didn't do anything but waited.

“Gah~” I tried to scare it with my arms raised… Ah, it actually ran away. Since when did I have the power to threaten cats? I felt a little guilty: “Come back~”

Splash~ Though I tried calling the silhouette back, my voice was drowned by the rain, unable to get its reaction.

I swallowed my tears and returned to observing the cola guy, as well as decided to be gentler next time when I meet a cat.

He wore the wrinkly suit today as well — something that has nothing to do with the weekend. There was indeed something on his ears… What are those? Things that looked like they're supposed to hang on a pet's ears. Cola guy slid his body in between the telephone pole and the wall, nervously looking left and right for something. What if, his target was also Niwa-kun…. Though I almost had this thought, I stopped in the middle. If he put on shades, he'd look like a spy from those cheesy movies. As for the Tamura Shop that's being watched by this kind of dude… The level of alien-ness suddenly rose. Was he the investigator of a certain alien department?

A certain File's mysteriousness also came from overseas. What is he here for? The signature of the alien? Maybe it hides the secret phrase that would lead to the next step of human-alien relationship. Or maybe, Nozuchi was the pet of an alien, but it was kidnapped during the recent stray animal abduction, and the guy has been looking for him all over the town. Mm~ Looks like I'm pretty wacky too. The world-view Obaa-chan planted in my head circulated like poison. If this keeps up, I might be suspected if I try to carry out my action of 'doubting common sense!'

Cola guy was still looking around. Even though I was hiding, he still didn't see me. His eyes didn't seem too good. Probably because my clothes and the wall had similar colours, so they looked like one thing? I could actually use camouflage to my advantage; maybe the infiltration four months ago was a useful experience. Hold~ Hold on~ Setting Earth aside, this atmosphere was as if I'm shouldering the burden that is the existence of this town. What would happen if I was found… Wait, no, why am I so excited?

Am I a space kid who is unfit to laugh at Touwa-san? I used to like the game of 'pretend.' This hand-sweating monitor that was gradually going off-course…

“Phoo~”

“Keewah!” Someone b-b-blew air, she did.

The sudden attack caused me to slide; just when I was about to land my butt on the drenched road, I was saved. The person who reach her hand out must have been the same who blew air at me. Held by another, I was able to resume my stance.

“What a close call!”

The smiling person who self-directed this crisis-and-rescue was none other than the woman I just saw. She wore a suit, and looking at her closely, there was actually some wrinkles on her face. But I don’t know how to describe it: her appearance still emits childishness. Even the umbrella she held was yellow… A color belonging to a grade schooler.

Did she see me and circled all the way behind me? Frankly speaking, what a weirdo!

“What are you doing at Tamura’s?”

“Eh? Ugh~ You are?”

“Me? You may call me the smooth-skinned sensei!”

She beamed at me an expectant smile. T-that aside, our conversations had been questions since earlier – are we running in circles?

“Here, do you want some?” The person who wished to be called smooth-skinned sensei handed me a half-finished cola. Though I took it without a second thought, I wouldn’t even think about drinking it. Because the education of my mom, who taught me ‘don’t take anything from strangers~’ is deeply seated in me. Ryuushi-san is actually considered a good kid. Well, about half… The bottle bobbed in my hand.

“Who are you waiting for with a toast in your mouth? How ambitious of you, even though it’s raining.”

“I’m here for a friend who is more important than my friends.”

“In adolescent terms, you’re worrying way too much for just a friend!”

“If I were ta think about question about where we stand, the place beneath my throat would feel stuffy.”

“Mmhm, It’s love”

“Is’t weird?”

“Ehh, not too different!”

“Really?”

We conversed in incomprehensible words. Because I had a feeling that I must not think too deeply, I’ve only replied shallowly:

“What about smooth-skinned sensei? Why are you playing spy?”

“I’m not ‘playing’!”

“Really?”

“Mm, it’s kind of like parent visit day?”

“Oh… Well, there’s actually a cola guy playing spy there too.”

“A guy?” Smooth-skinned sensei’s neck rolled softly. She stared at the person, ‘oh, oh’ed twice with a momentary, confused glance, but immediately declared: “That’s a space stalker.”

“What a large-scaled stalker.” It seemed like he can shoot laser beams while sneaking around?

“He is a fan of the smooth-skinned sensei – me!”

“Eh? If that’s so, then smooth-skinned sensei is a mochi from space?”

“The very same one that was flattened in Apollo 11!”

Just before I became the bad kid who talks with strangers, a bicycle’s brake screeched as if sliding in the rain. “Ah!” There he is!

Didn’t teachers tell us to not hold an umbrella on a bike? That boy is publically defying their teachings! “Then, I must get going!” I began preparing for a dash with some stretches. “Mm~? Ah, mm~” Smooth-skinned sensei shot the cola guy a glance and stared at me. After looking back and forth busily, she finally nodded in understanding.

“Then, I’m going!”

“Bye~”

She revealed a smile of habit for seeing someone off and waved.

Under smooth-skin sensei’s watch, I sprinted into the store at a speed too fast for an umbrella.

When it comes to running, I am super~duper~fast~!

### 013. Chapter 4: In the Rain of an Extraterrestrial Town

## Chapter 4 - In the Rain of an Extraterrestrial Town

"Yo! Been doing your job?" I hadn't even greeted the curled-up Erio, 'Hey~ Yeah!" when a loud Ryuushi-san in her casuals tackled me from the back.

Since today was the weekend, I went to bed late yesterday and overslept. When I woke up during noon, I spaced out for a while before deciding to visit Erio's work on the way for food. I slid my bike here in the rain. Erio never touches the bike on her own; she would only move on her two feet. Is it a habit? Or fear? Does she have PTSD with bicycles? I mean, I was there too... Though I don't want to think of it this way, but we did almost killed ourselves. Young people are just too rash.

That's it for boring things — just as I planned on entering the muggy store, Ryuushi-san, who dashed with all her might, appeared. Her hair seemed slightly wet, carrying a tiny bit of moisture.

Running into a girl classmate on the weekend… The situation should be the boiling point for youth; yet I noticed somehow that this meeting wasn't a coincidence, unable to press down on the calculator in my mind.

Since I have been occupied with the company of Erio on her ‘return to society and other things,’ they were sort of put to the side with the attitude of 'it's not really important right now.' Even so, I still remember about the existence of my Youth-points.

“H-hi~ Niwa-kun. Touwa-san too, mornin’!”

I raised my right hand like in the movie 'S*turday Night Fever' to greet her, and then put my plastic umbrella in the stand next to the store entrance.

“...Mornin'!”

Erio lifted her body and kept a half-crouched posture with her mouth slightly opened: “Cous...” This word was cut. With nowhere to go, it returned to the stomach along with air.

On her side laid her favourite Calamus futon. Was that especially carried from the Touwa house? Or did she walk here with it wrapped on? Erio probably planned to wear that thing during a break to kill some time. If I was there, forget about tidying up this outfit that challenges the line between freedom and eccentricity, I would probably have intervened. Speaking of the girl, she actually tried to welcome customers in a futon when Tamura Obaa-chan and I were talking inside the house. She silently approachrd the customers and scared the crap out of the old lady neighbor who came to get grocery. And the owner Tamura Obaa-san assented to that kind of behavior, even though she couldn't stand it either. As a side note, after seeing Erio's outfit, Tamura Obaa-chan actually said,

“Like father, like son; like mother, like daughter!”

Which side of Erio's parents was this comment for? And then Obaa-san went on: 'but of course! If blood goes backward, wouldn't people die? Really now! Things like going against the flow make no sense, since life is but a domino in destiny. Forget about standing out: if the flow stops, what would it even be?' Was that toward me, who sat next to her? Following my mute response, she intentionally humphed.

But now wasn't the time to ponder about the bedridden Tamura Obaa-chan. The problem was with Ryuushi-san, who came in energetically, yet subtly hostile.

“Uh… What business do you have with us today?” I rubbed my hands, querying het intent.

'That's my job!' I ignored Erio's protesting glace.

“What business do I have, of course… Um, I'm here to buy stuff! Shopping !”

She hummed, coiling her ankles toward the shelf. A flexible motion — I admired that her leg muscles were indeed trained. Shake, shake~ the fluid in the bottle Ryuushi-san held shook as well.

“Is that cola? You have that with you?” How dare she bring that evil drink? I despise carbonated beverage!

“This? Smooth-skinned sensei gave it ta me at the corner there earlier!”

“………” I felt like I've heard of that name before.

It's a Deja Feel! That's it! After the word’s creation, I felt 'what kind of name is that?!' So even for her, she'd still care about how her daughter is doing at work! She visited on Erio's first day, but was promptly given an embargo, so she snuck here. I see.

“Ah, Touwa-san...”

I don't know if Ryuushi-san knew it either, but she is currently talking with smooth-skinned sensei's offspring. Erio jumped, her shoulders wincing as if she would run into a dark corner to avoid Ryuushi-san at an instant.

Even though she stole glances of rescue at me, I decided to watch for any changes first. I'm interested in how these two would talk as well; besides, Erio wants to return to society, right?

“Uh, um… Um… Is Obaa-chan ok?”

“In… Inside.” There. With quivering fingers, Erio pointed out where Tamura Obaa-chan was. She rarely comes into the store. Or rather, she couldn't come? Her health seemed to require care.

“I see~ Uh~ Can I go say hi to her later~?”

Ryuushi-san glimpsed, her eyes alternating between me and Erio. What's going on with her today? She showed a strangeness different from the usual.

“Um!” Erio opened her mouth with a force that almost threw her forward.

“Eh?! W-what do ya want~!” Ya lookin' for a tussle~? She raised her cute fists onto her chest, readying her stance.

“We-...Wel...come.” Erio sincerely bowed down.

Do I call her serious? Or a dingus? Both? What a deep-seated problem.

And she's even giving me a smug of 'I didn't forget!' Um, if possible, do it when Ryuushi-san just came in, but I'll let it slide this time. After all, rather than coming through, Ryuushi-san assaulted the door.

“So, what's can we ge ya?” I turned to face the shelf on the right.

“Eh— Y-yup, I'm gettin' sumthin'!”

Ryuushi-san, who was quietly staring at the interaction between me and Erio, suddenly brightened her eyes. Was she just in a sleep mode like a computer? As if desperately trying to catch up with us, she hurriedly grabbed a snack off the shelf. It was a bag of chicken-flavoured potato chips. I haven't eaten this stuff lately, but apparently it's gotten more flavours now.

“Oh, right.” I noticed something and walked deeper into the shop. Following the hallway, I recycled something in the kitchen and returned.

Ryuushi-san was still in the same pose before I left.

“Here, for you.”

“Hmm?” Ryuushi-san tentatively took the towel I gave.

“Your hair and shoulders are kinda wet.” So I thought you could use a towel.

“O-oh. Oh!”

Ryuushi-san first shown a look of slight shock, then bloomed into a smile. Was my act of kindness really so out of her prediction?

I kind of wanted know how the girl in front of me thought of my action.

“Let me hold on to those for yoi.” I further piled on the kindness. This was totally not because I've decided to change my character from a normal high schooler to a kind high schooler (with indecent intention). Really.

After giving the chips and cola to me, Ryuushi-san picked up the towel with two hands. She first stroked her shoulders, then gently dried the droplet on her hair. She then sighed, holding on the bangs plastered to her forehead:

“Hair's gettin’ straight again, geez~ I hate it~”

“Plan on perming it again?”

“Mm~ Maybe it'd save more money if I just get an electrified-afro!”

Her tone and face didn't look like she was joking. You just can't underestimate her in this kind of situation!

Ryuushi-san's hands stopped; she looked up. Probably imagining herself with an afro. If this was a manga, there would definitely be onomatopoeia for warmth all around her — her relaxed face looked so.

“Would I look cool like a rock star?”

“Nope.” Feels like it'd be a fail of a healing character. A fierce criticism.

“Really~?” Tch. Ryuushi-san tutted. Just what on earth did she picture?

After wiping her neck with the towel, she finished with a shake of her head; water no longer flew from her hair.

“Ryuushi-san, totally dry now!”

“You're sparkling!” I meant to say her hair. Compared to when we just met, her hair indeed had become straighter.

“Even we have become dried (embarrassed)!”

“And what does that mean?”

“Thanks for the towel~” She stopped playing around and gave the towel back cutely.

“You're welcome.”

“Niwa-kun scored three Ryuuko-san points because you're attentive!”

And what are those points? Why does everyone make the same scoring guide? There are so many out there, I can't even keep track anymore.

“What do I get after getting those points?”

“After seven points, ya won't call me 'Ryuushi' anymore.”

“What a groundbreaking scoring that punishes you for doing well!”

Even scores for breaking traffic laws make more sense.

I returned the chips and cola in exchange for the towel. “Ung~” Despite of her mumbling, Ryuushi-san turned toward Erio. “I'm getting this.”

“Thank.. yer~” Erio's response failed as an imitation of a straightforward athlete; she received the chips and ran to the register. Her flip flops slapped, and as if pouncing the box full of money, she flew. “Hun-hundred twenty yen… About.” She clumsily clicked on the register while talking to Ryuushi-san. Witnessing Erio's all-out hospitality for a customer, Ryuushi-san took out her purse, cheeks twitching, and gave the proper amount of change. Erio collected the money with her smooth yet rigid fingers, gripping twice on the three coins in her hand.

Only her lips arced in a smile, showing satisfaction. Her expression bragged, similar to a child successfully accomplishing a task beyond her ability. Hm, after all, touching something that she had only watched from the side is an easily understood growth.

On a side note, Erio's job as a shop tender grants her a daily salary of five hundred yen — a coin. Even with whole month with no days-off, she'd only make about fifteen-thousand yen. For a sixteen year-old kid, it seems like a lot of allowance, but from a part-time view point, it is a sad number. It's just as shocking as the bleaching power of a new laundry detergent. That example may be a bit unintelligble, but in a store that runs on no more than 3000 yen a day, this amount of salary might actually be a generous treatment. I thought of this later. After all, hiring Erio is pretty much the same as letting the loss in profit be.

“Then, should I go visit Obaa-chan~?”

Ryuushi-san's gaze floated behind as if trying to peer into the back. She stared at Erio, seemingly wondering: ‘Can I?’

Erio first put the change into the register, then unhesitatingly replied:

“Ah, let me lead in you.” Erio spoke weirdly, and jubilantly kicked her sandals off. Looks like she was happy to have an excuse to not wear shoes. Hm~ jobs that would not need shoes… Jobs at home?

Ryuushi-san looked at my face for no reason, creating a mien of 'aren't ya coming?' I went with the flow, deciding to head to where Tamura Obaa-chan is. I see her often recently anyway. I would always go inside after checking up on Erio, and take care of her if she's not feeling well, as well as listen to some old stories of Erio's. I don't know if she likes it or not, but I talk about myself too, and occasionally I hear about Meme-san too. The most shocking truth was that, to summarise Meme-san's deeds when she's young, she's actually a slightly dumb, but honest and cute girl. Tamura Obaa-san herself even said 'Mm~ That's pretty much it, but her level of stupidity was really too much' as words of recognition. Was time and age too cruel, or did something else go wrong? Humans are truly fascinating.

With Erio in lead, Ryuushi-san in the middle, and me in the rear, the trio advanced along the hallway. With three people moving at once, the usually austere hallway bustled with sound. Was there a similar sound when Tamura Obaa-san's husband was still around? Meme-san said, though, that Tamura Obaa-san's husband passed away twenty years ago.

“Here.” Erio clarified for Ryuushi-san and opened the slide door in the hall. Inside was the usual: in the middle a slightly bulging futon. With a bit of focus, the bulge could be seen moving up and down along with its content's breathing. Obaa-chan sleeps with even her head under the sheet.

“Obaa-chan, Ryuushi is here.”

“I told ya I'm Ryuuko!”

Ryuushi-san protested against Erio's erroneous introduction, at the same time kneeling next to Tamura Obaa-san.

“Hah? What did you say? What -ko?”

Perhaps unable to hear well through the sheets, Tamura Obaa-san stuck her face out of the futon and asked sombero.

“It's Ryuuko. Hello, Obaa-chan!” Hi~ Ryuushi-san happily greeted with a raised hand.

Tamura Obaa-san looked up to her face and right hand, and closed her eyes as if defeated:

“Who?”

“Uwee! How could ya forget the super-special Ryuushi~! I am not that forgettable!”

As if fighting with an overhead object, Ryuushi-san's feeble fists waved in the air unreasonably.

“Of course it was just a boring joke; why are you so excited? You are Mifune Ryuuko, right?”

Tamura Obaa-san breathed out disapprovingly like a turtle mimic. “R-right… Ah, right, I was just pretending that ya tricked me, is all.” Ryuushi-san made an excuse with her face beet red.

“Makoto, glasses.” Tamura Obaa-san ordered me to hand her the glasses. Calling my name directly had been set! I calmly thought while retrieving the glasses and categorized:

Tamura Obaa-san → Makoto

Meme Oba-san → Mako-kun

Ryuushi-san → Niwa-kun

Maekawa-san → Transfer student

Erio → Cousin

Hmmm, it felt like how the further a rumor spreads, the more ridiculous it becomes. If the order could at least be reversed… Yep. Just as scary.

Tamura Obaa-san put on her reading glasses — more precisely, on her nose to have clearest image — and looked up to Ryuushi-san. As if understanding something, Tamura Obaa-san hid her chin back into the sheets with an 'ah, ah~' after seeing a coy Ryuushi-san:

“You're the kid who isn't one of Erio's friends, now I remember.”

“Ah~ Ugh, yes! Touwa-san and I went to different elementary school.”

Ryuushi-san shot Erio a glance after finishing; Erio nodded lightly in concurrence. Um, the air between these two seemed a bit estranged. From Ryuushi-san, I could tell that she didn't want to be acknowledged as Erio's friend.

“What, you are not friends?”

Sensing the atmosphere, Tamura-san bluntly crossed the line. Even though she looked like a defence-oriented shell, her offence did not have second thoughts. Tortoise shell combined with experience of age make the perfect team~ I absentmindedly enjoyed this misguided reverence. As for me, shutting up would be the wisest thing.

The wall existing between these two was likely related to Erio’s expulsion from school. And if that’s true, for an outsider, it’s a bit, you know, for me to interrupt.

“Ugh… No… We~ Are~ Friends…?”

Ryuushi-san’s ambivalent smile jovially slanted with the words that failed to combine, seemingly about to sink. Erio, too, was unsure and restless about the noun ‘friend.’ She requested helped from me with her eyes. What do you want me to do? I haven’t even decided if I should categorize you as a friend or whatever. The enigma of being relatives truly boggles me.

“Seriously, there is too many mixed signals here!” Tamura Obaa-san complained about the air:

“Listen well, I am changing the topic completely, so let the air breath!”

“M-mm.” “O-oh!” One of them nodded; the other raised her right fist.

“Cough!” Tamura Obaa-san cleared her throat convincingly, squeezing out a wrinkled yet gleeful voice. Looking at her like that, I thought it looked like a person who desperately sucked on an old bottle with few drops of sweet fluid inside.

“Your father is Naoya, correct? Is he doing okay?”

“Yep, he’s great! Dad just went mountain climbing last Sunday!”

Ryuushi-san reciprocated Tamura Obaa-san’s tone with her own cheery attitude. But I can’t deny that there was acting involved.

“How nostalgic! When he was in second grade, he ran into the store crying about UFO’s.”

Eheeheehee, a reminiscent smile climbed onto Tamura Obaa-san’s face. “Oh…” The momentum from earlier disappeared; Ryuushi-san accepted those words awkwardly. It was only natural, since it didn’t sound like her father’s brightest history, but something in the listing of a braggart.

“And then? And then?” Even though it was none of her business, Erio still pounced at the word ‘UFO.’ Compared to not having a hint of acting, her attitude was more like she had completely forgotten about the previous conversation. I might have almost forgotten, but Erio is that Meme-san’s daughter. Things like getting or giving information according to her personal needs might just be as natural as breathing.

“In the end someone found out that it was a lie, and he tasted his friends’ punishment. Of course: UFO aren’t that easy to find! Those bastards are extremely cautious!”

Like introducing a friend, Tamura Obaa-san described the secrecy of UFO’s.

“Yeah. You can’t even see them with binoculars.”

Erio complied. Normally, this isn't a topic discussed with a serious face!

Forced to listen to her father’s shameful history, Ryuushi-san lowered her head; to how easily this topic was carried, she could only give a bitter courtesy smile.

“Is it raining outside?” Tamura Obaa-san calmly listened and mumbled: “Lately, I’ve been not wanting to see the weather change.” Then she spoke those equivocal words that seemed like a complaint or else, eyes stared boringly at the ceiling.

The time of silence continued; Ryuushi-san and Erio awkwardly traded their glances. Looks like they both saw each other as aliens, investigating one another’s ecology.

And I stood about a step away from them, conducting my observation on the two.

“Hm? What, again?” Tamura Obaa-san’s mind returned ground from the weather as she asked bluntly.

Noticing our different positions – I don’t know how she saw it – she spoke:

“Listen, don’t you be thinking about all that stuff. I don’t want full-colours; no romantic comedy! If you’re doing that, go somewhere else!”

Shoo~! She seemed to drive us away with loathe from the bottom of her heart.

“This isn’t a romantic comedy! Ryuuko-san only does serious things!” Someone else hopped.

And thus we made it through the tension.

In general, I would never get into a pot full of so many Youth-points.

My daily life was basically white and black; vivid people occasionally appear in the frame and leave their faintly-coloured footprints. I will carefully save those fragments and name them ‘Youth-points.’

…Whatever, it was just some arbitrary thing I came up with Part 2 .

For a while after that, it was just Tamura Obaa-san talking and Ryuushi-san listening. Perhaps that’s how Tamura Obaa-san shows kindness, but she’s usually so talkative that I didn’t think it was any different.

When Ryuushi-san’s about to head home, I followed her toward the entrance; Erio sat still without moving. Ryuushi-san, too, when she held onto the slide door, gawking as if giving up on the chance to talk with Erio. She left never saying a word to the back that curled up.

I forced opened the hard-to-move slide door – which became even more so in the humidity – and went outside. The small rain grew into a medium rain (pronounced naka-same). Rain obstructed the sight of the wall across the street; splatters on the roof were more like the cacophony of construction rather than the splashes of droplets.

“Did you ride your bike here, Ryuushi-san?”

Standing next to me, Ryuushi-san nodded slightly melancholically:

“Mm, yeah. But my bike isn't around here.”

Huh? Strange, she didn’t add ‘I told ya I’m Ryuuko~’! For someone who’s grown addicted to that ‘I told ya~’ I am tempted by the dissatisfaction to run around Ryuushi-san and tell her ‘hey! You~ Are Ryuu~Shi!’ Just kidding.

Indifferent to my feeling, Ryuushi-san spoke, her hands twiddling on the grip of her umbrella:

“Touwa-san~ She’s a lot mellower now!”

The expression was just like using popcorn as filling for your teeth. You need to go talk to a real dentist to get a proper filling… I almost blurted out, but stopped because it made no sense. NO nonsense.

“Hmm, I guess. Pessimistic, maybe?” Or shy? In reference to the futon.

“She used ta be really mean and would never stop talking!”

“Really?” Verbally abusive I get, but I can’t picture her not shutting up. At most I could trace an expressionless Erio twirling her tongue.

If she hid in the shadow of the house of Tamura Obaa-san, she’d be a new breed of Youkai.

“Niwa-kun.”

As if severing something between us, Ryuushi-san exaggeratingly waved her umbrella, showing a serious attitude.

She straightened her back and stared at me unabashedly. I felt a little tingle on my face though.

With rain scattering in the background, a face to face with a girl — the scenery stirred the remnant of Youth-points like leaves in the wind. Yet the result of those fragments combining seemed unlikely this time.

“Saying something like this… Well, even I think it’s too mean…”

Ryuushi-san twirled her hair with a finger; rather than waiting to say the punchline, it’s more like she found it hard to unveil. “What is?” Under my nudging, she fearfully opened her mouth like dragging a numb foot. She even looked to the store midway through:

“Touwa-san is~ She’s got a bad name, especially in our school.”

“Mm.” I was neither involved nor familiar with it, so it didn’t seem real to me. But I nodded.

“So, if anyone knew I’m friends with her, people might shout ‘Hold it there!’ at me.” Saying so, Ryuushi-san suddenly reached out and slashed the umbrella at my side: “That might happen~ So Ryuuko-san is kinda worried about your future.”

“Mm, I see.” Meaning I won’t have any friends?

Indeed, the chance of something like that happening in a school is more than likely. After all, there is nothing else more controlling than ‘group mentality.’ If someone — especially a girl who’s the core of the class — who hates Erio appeared, the wave to ostracize me would spread like a virus.

Ryuushi-san awkwardly stared at her swinging feet, as if kicking some imaginary pebbles:

“I came here with my friend Mikki yesterday.”

“You’re friends with M*ckey?”

That’s quite a thing to say, Ryuushi-san. No, should I call you Ricky? Sounds like a rip-off!

“Ah, Mikki’s a friend in my club.” In other words, that person approached wearing the costume and asked ‘do you like basketball?’ …Ok, enough of the same joke. By the way, that whole manga was purchased one by one when I went shopping with Ryuushi-san in the bookstore. Currently I don’t plan on buying the whole set.

“How'd ya put it, Mikki doesn't wanna come here anymore because of Erio. So I thought, 'ah~ so that's what everybody thought~' For me, it's a bit complicated with Touwa-san in many ways, y'know~ But, like, is it normal to think like that at school?”

“...I guess.” Mikki-san's reaction was probably correct.

Covering for Erio isn't easy. Personal complication isn't an amnesty — rather than getting involved personally, might as well just make something up. It'll be better to just tell a story.

But between the two choices, the mere difference is 'the lower of low' and 'the higher of low.' Whatever the case is, Erio would be the latter. She did, after all, bothered everybody at school with her incomprehensible fits.

Hence for Erio, it doesn't matter whether it's not being hired or scaring others with her antics, everything was reasonable — it was her own making. Not even herself could deny it.

Life cannot be reset. No matter the age, it is impossible once shouldered with a lethal burden.

But it is still unclear whether Erio's past was the fatal wound for her.

“Um, y'know~” Ryuushi-san tugged on my shirt; my conscious was also pulled back.

“Hm?” When I realized, Ryuushi-san was unexpectedly close to me, sending me to a daze.

“Niwa-kun, do you… hate me now? Am I that despicable?”

She looked like meek and spoke with a slightly fawning voice… That's what I thought. But since I haven't received the certification of Ryuushi-san identifier, I couldn't tell the minor differences.

“Why?”

“Uh, cuz, I just am! Like, I've been trying all this time to make ya think I'm a good kid. So, y'know...” She muttered.

Ahh… Really? Hm, is that how it is? I get it, but I don't really think it's a problem.

“Not wanting to be friends with weirdos, and not wanting to be alone. These are all normal.”

“I-i-it's not normal! Ryuushi-san I have a thorny reputation because of my personality! Ya might get stabbed by me!”

“No, that's not what I mean!”

“I know~ Geez, I just can't stand serious topics all the sudden. I'm not very good with things like silica-gel. Mm.” Usually no one is. Also, you are responsible for being serious? Or rather, there wasn't anyone like that around me anyway.

Like there wouldn't be a doctor on an airplane. Not that I really know.

“So embarrassing~ ” After taking in a serious breath, Ryuushi-san seemed redden.

The rain poured on. Since I looked away, Ryuushi-san also turned back, letting the air of 'ah, then see ya later' slip in.

Ryuushi-san raised her umbrella toward the sky; the melody that played when droplets hit it circled in my eardrums:

“Thanks for the advice. I'll think about how to deal with Erio.”

“Eh. Ya wanna think — ah, but… I see, so that's what I meant. Wuu… Nnngg~ Ahhhhhh!” Ryuushi-san began struggling. She held her head and put the umbrella down; rain trickled down the inside of her neck. “Uh, Ryuushi-san? Do I need to throw you another towel?”

“Wuahhhhhh!”

She yelled abruptly and straight-up sprinted. She swung her arms dramatically; the umbrella were meaningless, or rather, an obstruction! She ran forward without balance, probably because of the umbrella's air resistance.

“I hate myself~! I know it~!”

Ryuushi-san kept screaming about something while sprinting in the rain. Even though she rides slow, she's pretty fast at running. Running in the rain without the protection of an umbrella — could she be looking for Youth-points…? Not that it looked like she was. I scratched the back of my head.

“Erio, huh…?” A mysterious name that sounded like the keyword.

Erio already left school.

Yet, the influence of Touwa Erio lingered.

It's unfair. My mouth moved for no reason.

“So why am I still here, after listening to all that...”

I was confused with why I returned next to Tamura Obaa-san's bed in her room without thinking. I even prepared a cushion, sitting on there with my hands holding my cheeks. Was I too relaxed?

“Your tea is not bad. At least better than Erio's.”

Sitting down and drinking with an old lady; I felt like I'm playing substitute grandpa.

We let the hot tea touch our tongues, sitting apart slightly from one another. Tamura Obaa-san trembled, but remained seated on the sheets; though the cup and the water within shook, she still enjoyed the tea.

My heart sinks every time I head into the kitchen to make tea.

There was only a blurred window with some cobwebs on the corner. It was also raining today; a darkness different from the night's filled the kitchen.

As if carpeted by coal ash, the room did not feel alive, like nobody has used it. Whether the diminutive stove worked was suspicious; the wares stacked on the shelf felt like they couldn't hold anything. A child's plate with bunny pattern was placed on the top, giving off an intense sorrow for some reason. Is it because I thought the plate held an important past for Tamura Obaa-san?

“A while ago I had Erio make some tea. The idiot almost burned herself.”

I grumbled with a voice bitterer than the tea.

“Just how much did Meme spoil her daughter?”

“How would I know? She suddenly rolled out with the futon. Is she throwing a tantrum?”

It was an objective analysis. Obaa-san could actually understand the emotion of that recluse Erio. Sigh, it's actually not hard to. Nobody in high spirits would ever hide in a futon, right?

“And then?”

“Hah?” I raised my head only after covering the cup.

“You are worried about something else, right?”

Tamura Obaa-san kept her left eye shut, turning only the right on me. Fortunately, it didn't look like she was winking.

“Can you manipulate people's heart when you're old?” I questioned first.

“Anyone could listening to you mumbling about things like 'why am I still…' Dimwit.”

Obaa-san arbitrarily censured me, in a way almost like spitting. And then, she looked to the ceiling wearily: “The rain has become louder.” Is she worried about a leak?

“May I talk this over with you?”

“If I'm only listening, then I will listen. As of whether it's worth talking over, it is not my business.”

Her attitude was pulling with one hand while pushing with another. Using modern terms to translate the unique quirk of old people, it'll probably be tsundere. How intriguing, I thought.

“If I don't listen to people talk occasionally, eventually no one would listen to me. This is what my stupid husband told me, but I basically follow it.”

Seemed like the target of Tamura Obaa-san's dere wasn't me, but her deceased husband. Good.

Actually, I kind of thought about whether it should be discussed with someone else. But after keeping my voice down in case anybody can hear it in the hallway, I began.

“It's actually about Erio, there's a bit...” More correctly, there a problem with yours truly who's always around her.

“Only 'a bit' when talking about her. Impressive of you.” As you've said.

“Ryuush… Ryuuko-san from earlier said that Erio is considered as a freak in town. To be frank, people hate her.”

“Oh? And then?” Tamura Obaa-san urged me to continue, somewhat disinterested.

“Because I'm Erio's cousin, we're pretty close. But if rumors spread in school, I'll be shunned. That's the advice I got.”

“Hm, one moment, let me drink my tea.”

Upon finishing, Tamura Obaa-san held up the tea quiveringly. With the sound of sipping noodles, she let the fluid rolled into her throat. Following her, I smoothed my mouth with some tea.

“Now, proceed.” Cough, Tamura Obaa-san lightly breathed out.

“So, I'm wondering about what I should do.” I personally think that it should be 'I am worrying.'

In truth, isolation at school is deadly to a student. There won't be any way to enjoy things like Youth-points; continuous mental stress builds up, and could potentially cause lasting damage.

Naturally, out-of-sight harassment exists in my school.

I don't want be in that spot. I honestly thought.

Only, was my brain thinking about that specifically? Doubtful, at best. It seemed that I've mindlessly accepted the current situation, unreasonably and wishfully thinking that it will continue forever.

The apprehension for such thoughts hid in my heart. Did I want to do nothing, without letting go of anything?

“Hm… I see, I see.” Tamura Obaa-san glancingly replied and nodded slowly.

“...” Sips.

“You'd only drown us both if you want me to help you. Don't think I can ever pull you out.”

You murderer of the old lady! I was reprimanded as if I've already committed the crime.

“'What should I do' is just searching for possibilities. People can only step on the ground of reality once they start worrying about what they will do. The so-called advices are things that you seek after that. Who would offer help for things in a person's head?”

She criticised me; the water in her cup shook. Faced with Tamura Obaa-san, I bluffed as well:

“Well, I've already decided that I will call the final shot.”

“Good. Even an idiot can think of something after contemplating.”

At that point, Tamura-san spat out some tea leaves as if she thought of something:

“Excluding gains and losses, an idiot's thought is basically correct. Idiots are simple, after all.”

This time, her cheeks and wrinkles relaxed elegantly, carrying a reminiscent kindness.

Was that an advice? Though the point is to think on my own, after talking with someone else, something deep down felt surprisingly easy. Like shoving extra luggage to someone else, it became lighter.

Then, let's think. Picture it: if Erio and I ceased all relation.

Even if Erio called me with her staccato of 'Cousin~' 'Cousin?' while approaching me, I could completely ignore her… Nope, probably not. It's already impossible, huh?

“If there is one thing I could clarify, it'd be… People can live without friends.”

Perhaps unable to stand even temporary silence, Tamura Obaa-san spoke on.

In the end, she still agreed to give me something like an advice. People who like to talk can never keep quiet.

I guess it's because she's a dishonest yet caring person? Must have been popular seventy years ago.

“Friends are neither oxygen nor water. If anything, they are a luxury: if they exist, people will naturally feel fulfilled, and if they don't, they'll find a way to make due. It isn't any different than coffee or tobacco, the existence of other people. Let's say a smoker: it's normal for him to not have smoke on him as well. There is no need to feel ashamed to have no friends; if you feel arrogant having many friends, then you're just a simple-minded fool, since that's synonymous to admitting that you're an addict. Sigh, it's good to be confident in your communication skills, but that's no different than being able to hold your liquor.”

Getting here with one breath, Tamura Obaa-san took a breath. Her shoulders slouched weakly, beginning the oxygenation of her lungs.

“In other words, don't be afraid of your friends now, or friends who might become your enemies in the future.”

“...” Hearing the word 'friends,' the first thing I thought was Ryuushi-san.

Even for her, would she point at me when everyone around has become the enemy? Were the frivolous things we said the first time we met at the parking lot all a big joke in the end?

“If you're scared of loneliness, don't live for too long. Just look at me: friends or husband, they're all dead. Aren't I the last person around?”

Those words were a complaint spoken with a cheerful determination — an oxymoron.

“I'm almost there myself. Lately, I think about how I'm the next every night. That's why I say the aliens will perform cattle mutilation on me.” Eheeheehee, Tamura Obaa-san concluded with her befitting laughter.

“Worry about it slowly! Worries are a thing that could be solved in a day! Rest well for the next 364 days.”

Tamura Obaa-san added one more thing, put the cup next to her pillows and tremblingly lay back on the futon.

Without the sheet, her back looked lonely — emaciated and vigourless.

“To think, and worry...” I looked up at the ceiling. The wood looked darker perhaps because of the seepage; drops of water seemed like they'd fall anytime. I stuck on tongue out, waiting for the drip that never came. I simply gawked stupidly.

My relation with Erio will affect those with other people.

For example, uhh… Ryuushi-san would one of them.

So what should I do?

Ignore the idiot rolling around in the hallway behind the slide door who emitted an air of 'give me attention~'

I can ignore the futon roll, but not Erio. This could be the key.

I stuck my tongue into the cup and touched the green surface.

The tea was lukewarm — the perfect temperature.

With one motion, I swallowed the entire cup of tea, enjoying the sensation of water swaying in my stomach.

☆

“Can I go to transfer student's house today?”

When I was sitting the school cafeteria eating a pork bowl, someone whispered in my ears: “I want to see your room...”

Of course it was a dramatic replay, but the conclusion was the same, right?

The event occurred on June 25th, Friday noon.

Maekawa-san, who sat opposite of me, requested after finishing talking about the flavour of pork bowl.

Gravity claimed the skin off the pork I held in chopsticks; only the meat stayed.

“Eh… Um, it's not my house...”

The sudden proposal shocked me into refuting an irrelevant detail.

“Oh, right, it's Touwa's house. So, can I?”

The 'can I' part somehow carried a hypnotizing charm. My ears are done, oh no!

“M-my parents won't be home today!”

“It's not like you live together anyway.”

“That's right.” That made no sense.

Maekawa-san picked up the pickled radish with her chopsticks, raising it to the light and spoke:

“Relax! I'll go home too; I won't eat you!”

Such adult declaration made my heart overly sensitive to the Maekawa-san who had on a teasing smirk. My head hurt:

“O-okay? To my house, huh?”

“Transfer student, you're not picking anything up. Your chopsticks are missing!”

“I've lost depth perception because I underestimated blue berries. Now my eyes are rebelling.”

Inviting a girl to my room. More specifically, a girl visiting. But it's worth three-points. I've gotten five-points, and considering four-points' are only in certain occasions, then isn't now the chance for the highest possible point in daily life? I made up these wordy definitions because I'm actually so nervous. Inviting a girl to my room — the last time I did it was in sixth grade.

“But why?”

“Just curious. I want to see what kind of room the transfer student lives in.”

And I have the day off — she added boredom as part of her motivations and bit down on the radish.

Having a… Tour? In my house with Maekawa-san after school. Not that I will find anything new, but oh well. Let my heart beat to a point where I can't focus in the afternoon lessons!

I tried to calmly grasp my excitement, almost vomiting:

“Having said that...”

“Hm?”

“Maekawa-san, do you have friends?”

Was the question surprising to her? Maekawa-san's eyes repeated performed a blinking action.

“ You are my friend.”

“Hm.” Touche, I thought.

With a pause, I asked another question:

“One more thing.”

“Hm.”

“What do you think of Erio?”

Hearing my query, Maekawa-san's not-so-big-eyes squinted even more.

Did I say something wrong? But since Maekawa-san already knew about me and Erio, it shouldn't be an issue.

Besides, this isn't a classroom; our chatter will be swallowed by the messy air before entering others' ears.

“Looking at Touwa, I couldn't help but think of one thing.” Maekawa-san spoke looking at the bowl.

“Which is?”

“If everyone belongs somewhere, where does Touwa belong?”

Maekawa-san stated solemnly while picking up the remaining rice with her chopsticks.

A place where Erio belongs.

In the futon… Not funny.

After picking out all the rice, Maekawa-san added:

“In any case, I think...”

“Hm.”

“The cafeteria lady needs to give up on the pork bowl and think about making a proper Oyakodon instead.”

You're completely right. I fully agreed, shoving the onions in my mouth.

☆

“Alright, lets go!”

Maekawa-san dragged her bag and came to my seat as soon as school was out.

The model-like classmate who usually leaves class after school's out actually walked to the window opposite to the door in a straight line. Her advance toward the transfer student's seat stole many eyes from the room.

Ryuushi-san, who melted into a crowd, was no exception. She jaunted toward us:

“Niwa-kun, where are ya goin'?”

She wore an extra bag aside from her school bag, slightly displeased to ask about my schedule today. I recently noticed that on the days when she carries that bag, she goes to club.

“I'm going to transfer student's house!”

“Wha-”

Hearing the destination, Ryuushi-san had a strange reaction. It was neither anger, nor envy.

Though the reply had a sound, it seemed lost as if a person wondering where to go.

I immediately realised where that expression came from.

Because my house equals to Erio's house. She's still worried about what happened six days ago.

“And we're gonna do all sorts of things.”

“Whuoa!”

But Maekawa-san's next line seemed to break her out of contemplation.

Rip the chains, be completely surprised, and charge forward… Oh.

“All sorts! Of things! Things… Sorts of things… Wu~!”

As if picturing something, Ryuushi-san eyed Maekawa-san from the feet up and began bouncing.

“Don't you think Ryuushi is surprisingly misinformed about things between guys and girls?”

Maekawa-san, with a big grin, asked bluntly for my assent. If I held her up by the collar it'd a simple harassment, so I only glared at her:

“Why do you only speak in confusing ways (語弊)?”

“How about dressing up like a gohei-mochi (五平餅) and speak in confusing ways (語弊)?”

“Did I ask you to hold a conference for costume-and-lame-jokes?”

“But won't it be boring just glaring at one another in a room? So I categorised possible activities like video games and Reversi into 'all sorts of things.'

“So you knew?”

“Hehehe, I told ya if you're ever in trouble, just find Maekawa.”

Did she really understand what she meant?

“Hey~!” Ryuushi-san tossed out the bag on her hand; the object flew through the opening between students, beautifully landing on the podium.

For some reason, she spun twice before smiling at me.

“Actually, Ryuushi-san doesn't have club today!”

“......”

I traded looks with Maekawa-san; I looked up, and she down.

'Either way is fine.' Her expression was both expectant and calm:

“My goal is to become the best support! Hm, this time.”

It's kind of rude to say this when she's so absorbed, but that's just some meaningless excuse to me.

Oh well, whatever!

It's settled.

Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san will visit the Touwa residence.

Hold on, part two.

### 014. Chapter 5: Cosplay Seventy-two — Maekawa-san and Work Status

## Chapter 5 - Cosplay Seventy-two — Maekawa-san and Work Status

May 20th. A cola-giving stalker appeared before me.

…Well, since I haven’t discover his true identity or grasp a complete understanding of the entire business, it might be too early to make the conclusion. Uhh, let’s focus on the direction of ‘thinking’ first.

In the Wagashi shop I work at, I discovered Poc*ri bottles filled with cola left by someone in the backdoor when I was throwing the trash out. There were five bottles. ‘It isn’t poisoned, just normal cola. I can’t drink soda, please take it.’ The memo with retro handwriting stuck under the bottles claimed so. It didn’t say if this was a present for xxx, or ‘I’m your fan, please keep up the cosplaying’ — things that could explain the source.

“…”

If we were to let the thing known as ‘the view of an educator’ function, I seem to need to find out the admirable things first. Isn’t the attitude of not dumping unfinished food into the sink important? I think so at least. Then don’t buy or take it. It’s kind of worth complaining, but what should I do?

The environment around hadn’t desertify to a point where I’d chug one of these bottles of suspicious fluid.

Although I thought about using them as bowling pins, I probably shouldn’t play around too much during work time. Since keeping these outside would probably attract more attention, I decided to bring the bottles inside. It’s heavy — like a third of Maekawa-san. Who the hell could lift all this crap?! Complaining as I did, I still completed the onerous process without falling over. “Ah, shoot.” After shuffling the bottles, lining and cleaning them, I realized. Mindlessly shaking bottles filled with carbonated drinks might not have been too bright.

“What are those?”

Komaki-san, the substitute manager, asked about the items I brought in while slowly stirring the pot’s content with a wooden scoop. She’s probably making some uiro-mochi.

I reported after sitting down on the chair with red-bean coloured covering: “It was left outside with a note.”

Komaki-san is a beauty older than me; she is also the substitute manager who works harder than our actual manager. Out of the people I know, she's considered the serious type. Though the part of her that's too confident is worth noting as well. The primary source of income from the Wagashi shop I work at comes from purchasing and reselling food made else where. But Komaki-san makes her own snack in the shop. She doesn't make too much, but she still puts them in the display case for sell. Customers aren't scarce, but I think the manager wouldn't really blame us for not selling anything. Perhaps because it's been running since long ago, this shop has a very deep bond with the locals; the majority of our income has always been regulars. Red and white manju for gifting or celebration, or funeral manju: we've a hand in all of them. I've only learned recently that even if we don't perform well, this shop won't just go broke. To be honest, I've been coming to observe the store since long ago. I've never seen people go in, so I've always thought it was unbelievable.

“What about the drinks?” Komaki-san looked back to the pot and spoke indifferently.

“Hand them to the police?”

“No, it's fine. Leave them in the fridge, I'll have them later.”

Her index finger pointed firmly at the refrigerator.

“Eh? You're gonna drink them? This stuff?”

“Well, we already took them in.”

“We don't even know where it's from though!”

Even though I spoke so, the perpetrator candidate still appeared in my head. 'Maybe…'

Someone's been shooting bottle rockets lately. Making one of those requires roughly five plastic bottles; it's surprisingly difficult to prepare one of those. For example, in the arts and craft class in elementary school, we'd go collect bottles before recycle day to avoid the trouble of collecting.

“It's fine. It's not going to kill me.”

Rather than with the cola, she appeared more absorbed with making pastries — even the way she spoke seem to be unconcerned.

“When the mix thickens… Mm.” Komaki-san cross-checked the book on the side with the content in the pot, and then stopped scoop's motion. Looks like she's about to proceed onto the next stage. As for me, it was about time to go back to work.

“So...”

“Yes?”

Komaki-san once again turned around. Chewing while staring at my stark-white body, she asked. The hint of doubt appeared around between her brows:

“What is that?”

“My goal is to become the store's mascot.”

Ah, forgot to mention, but my current outfit was a cosplay of a white dango.

“Hmng.” With a hand back on her chin, Komaki-san asked with a tilted head: “What's your name?”

“People call me Maekawa.”

“I see. Then, Maekawa, go clean the front.”

“With this thing on?”

“With that thing on.”

“Aye, aye sir!”

I picked up the broom and dustpan, and wobbled my way out of the kitchen.

“Eh, is she serious?” Though mumbling seemed to come behind me, I paid it no mind.

I decided to go check out the scene after school tomorrow if I see a rocket flying tomorrow.

Why shoot rockets in the afternoons of weekdays? I'm somewhat interested too.

☆

I usually eat lunch at the school cafeteria. Because if I ask for bento from my parents, it'd basically be the leftover from the store. My parents run a bar, as for what reason I don't know.

We eat the leftover for breakfast too. Plus when I help out in the pub, I have dinner there as well. Hence, it became possible for me to have the same thing for all three meals; therefore, I decided to have lunch at the school cafeteria. Also, for some reason, the transfer student sat across from me today.

“The oyakodon here is pretty good!”

Scooping up the oyakodon I recommended with a spoon, he happily described his thoughts. His right hand was still wrapped in cast. Unfortunately, he broke his arm last month.

“It's a bit too sweet though.”

“Really?” Hearing me, transfer student quizzically tilted his head. It would appear the transfer student likes food with a lot of flavor.

Not that it will ever be useful, I still took a mental note:

“What's the matter, transfer student? How come you're not eating with Ryuushi today?”

“I thought that I should try the school food sometimes. Also, I don't eat with her all the time. The girls in basket ball are having lunch together today too.”

Pouring the egg-and-rice into his mouth, he spoke quickly as if defending himself. He doesn't have be concerned for me — shouldn't he worry about Ryuushi instead?

Ryuushi seems to call him by last name… Uh… Miwa...san? Probably, I think.

“Oh, yeah.”

“Hm?” Spoon in his mouth, transfer student looked up to me. Oh, that's kinda cute!

Should I bring the transfer student along to the rocket site today?

The opponent will be, after all, a stranger suspected of being a stalker.

If the person is a burly man like one of those astronauts, would I become a substitute javelin, or be stuffed into a tube and squeezed out like at a performance for a banquet? I'm pretty scared, especially of the latter one, The fragile Maekawa-san (sounds like a joke just looking at my appearance, but an unfunny truth once you know) needs a reliable guy to protect her… But looking closely, the transfer student can't use his dominant hand. I don't want to lose sleep knowing that his injury got worse because I brought him to places. Hm~ but I don't know any other guys.

“Never mind, just forget it.”

“Hrm?” He replied with the spoon still in his mouth.

We departed without ever mentioning the after school plan.

“See ya, Miwa-kun.”

I called his last name when we parted. Before I got a response, though, he gave me a weird look with a twitch.

For just a second, he had a 'who the hell's that?' look when your name has been mixed with someone else's, or like 'what a shame!' kind of disappointed look. Maybe he's actually not Miwa-kun?

Either way, I don't think that suited me. I decided to still call him transfer student next time I see him.

My favourite food is the banana Swiss roll. Next time someone asks me that, I'm going to answer that.

“I love this~” Honestly, it's so good — so good that I regretted neglecting it every time I pass it in the super market.

After school on the 21st, I received one of these from my boss, Komaki-san. After casually eating it, I gladly complimented. Komaki-san lightly smiled after hearing me, and spoke with her chopsticks moving:

“Awesome.”

Today Komaki-san baked two pieces of pancakes for herself. She called them the replacement for lunch. Since there weren't knives or forks here, she cut the pancakes with disposable chopsticks. She was even drinking the cola from yesterday. Up until now, Komaki-san showed no signs of change: the only thing that bubbled was the cola.

“Now I wanna go work at a bread factory.”

“I won't say no.”

“Starting tomorrow, I will wear a banana costume.”

“Give up on that or give up your job.”

With warm exchange like such, I passed my meaningful time off school.

“Don't you have the day off today?”

“I do! But I came for some tea.”

“Then why are you eating in the store front?”

“'Cuz this is the best spot!” I won't be able to see the rockets inside the kitchen.

From the entrance of the store I could see the rocket flying through the sky clearly. Even though it's more than a hundred times smaller than the scale of a rocket shown on a TV screen, the projectile piqued my interest during work more than the birds or planes. I had pretty much pinpointed the location.

The place is the abandoned farm school not far away from here. The campus closed down around the time I became a middle-school third grade, so about two years ago? Hmm, I miss the fifteen-year old Maekawa-san… Setting that aside for now, I finished the banana Swiss roll. A bit got on my hand, so I licked the butter off when Komaki-san wasn't looking. Neither of us was eating food related to Wagashi! Now then, what was I saying? Oh, rockets. The topic almost went to space since the beginning.

'Bottle rockets should only be used in the field or an open space!' Grade school teachers once taught me that. But they've never told me to keep the room bright and keep a distance from it. Duh. I've learned that you can't see well if it's not bright enough, and people beside the one responsible for launching the rocket have to be away. It's just common knowledge.

In simple terms, what I'm trying to say is that the only place open enough that's not too far away from here would be the abandoned school. If the rocketeer is someone with common sense, then he must follow that rule.

If not, then it should have already been a big problem.

“Ah, a rocket!” Hearing Komaki-san's words, I lifted my chin. Above the house in front of the store, the rocket grew. It appeared suddenly and soared through the air.

“Why do they launch that?”

After catching wind of my mumble, Komaki-san paused the hands that were busily glazing the pancakes with maple syrup and gave an answer. Her eyes focused onto the bottle rocket:

“Maybe their target is space?”

“Even though it's water-powered?”

“I think the goal of anything going upward is space.”

“Really?” For some reason I imagined myself jumping in front of a mirror.

“To completely leave gravity, and fly out with a boom. But space isn't exactly friendly to live, so it's just make-believe in the end. Does this mean to emulate the real deal isn't any easier?”

With a mature sigh, Komaki-san sent a piece of pancake into her mouth.

Had there been a past event that made her resent gravity? However, I have no way of knowing that, since it's got nothing to do with what's happening, and I've no reason to ask.

Is it about time to go? It would be inconvenient if the rocketeer left.

“I'm going now. See ya.”

“Good bye~”

Waving the chopsticks in place of her hand, Komaki-san drank the cola again.

I thought to myself as I left… I hope Komaki-san doesn't get a stomachache and not show up tomorrow. The concern for a possible increase in work ached dully.

I parked my bike outside of the high school; without caution whatsoever, I went in through the gate.

From the surrounding greenhouse and field that been completely neglected, the remnant of the agriculture school reverberated. Since no one came to clean up, plastic bag for bread that was probably blown in from the outside pushed against leaves covered in dirt. About a year ago, people of the shopping district were concerned with hobos living here. Maybe someone still lives here?

Animal husbandry is an education too, I realized as I headed toward the field.

There was, naturally, a cow in the barn. It mooed, eating some grain. Was it abandoned here? Or maybe someone is feeding it? It might even be the rocketeer's pet.

The cattle tag on its ear signified it's identity as a livestock. The cow's name was Hana-chan. A girl?

“Moo~” I called out to it since it stared at me. But that's all it did.

I backed away three steps away from the barn. It's still staring; three more steps. Still doing it. Two more. Ah, there she goes.

Looks like I've exited the cow's alert zone. I'll try wearing a cow costume in front of it next time. I wrote the future prank into my mental notebook.

Other things I saw on the way include a black dog lying on the window of the second floor classroom… I think it was a dog, probably. It seemed to be panting with its tongue out. Did it take over the class for itself? ...Ah, could it be 'that?'

There's been an increase in stray animals disappearance recently. Could it be that someone's been feeding them here? Or is there now a special residence in this abandoned school for stray animals? If it's the former, and the purpose is abusive… I'll check it out later to see if there's a crime scene. If they're just living here, then I don't care if it's some weirdo's hobby, I won't get involved. It didn't seem like a bad thing, after all.

Maybe he just didn't have anywhere else to keep them.

I hurried across the campus and the runway for horses, entering the wastefully large field. Obviously it was bigger than the one at my school. I even thought that maybe everyone at school should just come here instead.

The first rocketeer revealed before the nation seemed to insist that he no longer needed to hide, sitting in the middle of the field. A guy wearing a suit sat cross-legged —the sight was somehow both the sign of freedom and umemployment.

Holding a blue hose connected to the drinking fountain, he sprayed freely at the ground. Like a burst dam, water squirted out from the pinched tube.

Laid on the side was a plastic bottle that's presumably used before — he must be the launcher himself. I closed in onto the back that was slightly curled up. Despite me getting so close, the rocketeer never looked back. Perhaps because the water's stream drowned my footsteps. I got extremely close to him, then walked three big steps away. After hesitating for a sec, I spoke:

“Yo.”

I used a greeting learned during the April of first year when I was being kicked around like a ball in sports clubs.

“Whoa!” The rocketeer flew up like a rocket himself — a classic expression of surprise. He twisted to look back, the water from the hose wet the ground in a semi-circular pattern. He kept the posture, looking up at me with his neck turned in an uncomfortable way, then was shocked.

“You are...” He shut his mouth at this point. I didn't think he'd be so surprised, and for a second I worried 'maybe he doesn't even know me?' But his apparent attitude was very different from fear of strangers, so that's impossible.

Must be that kind of people: the kind that you'd occasionally see on a walk in front of where I work.

“It seems that you know me, but I don't know who you are.”

“Of course you wouldn't. Eh, you don't? Uh, but no, that should be correct.”

For some reason, he questioned himself twice in that statement. Um, have I met this person before? Anyway, his mien didn't come across as a dangerous person, being thin and short.

“I've got questions for you, so I came.”

“Ahh. What is it?”

“Was it you who left the cola at the store?”

“Mm, I did.”

He admitted frankly. Looking at the way he nodded, it didn't seem that he thought he did something either virtuous or malicious.

“Did you drink it?”

“No, it's sketchy.”

I answered bluntly. “Sketchy?” The rocketeer appeared shocked at my response, resting the hose on the ground. As if replacing it, he hugged the rocket into his chest and onto his laps.

“Didn't I leave a note there?”

“Thanks to that, it became even more so.”

“Really?” Perhaps fairly confident in his own writing, he questioned the negative response frankly.

“Well, things of questionable origin are kinda...”

“When I was still a kid, we'd eat anything that looks like food.”

“Those generous days are well past over.”

Again, with a pause this time, the rocketeer mumbled: “I see...” His voice sounded even more austere.

Hm, however, the shopping district still has that kind of atmosphere to it. But it's kind of considered by the city folks as the obsolete and shunned part of the city. As for me, who lives in the city but works in the shopping district, the position is quite the special one. Not that I'm aware of it all the time.

Even in class we can find people who live in the old houses bullied in grade school.

But that has nothing to do with what's happening.

“Why me?”

“Because I'm your… Uh, yes, fan!”

The rocketeer attempted to rely on this eureka, on-the-spot answer to rationalize his action. Rubbing the bottle rocket lovingly, he exposed his loss of cool.

“...You're lying.” And you're even fishier now.

“No, I'm not kidding, seriously.” If seen from a certain angle, this might carry a certain connotation. Hm, indeed, however, when it comes to giving me something, besides personal attachment, I can't think of any other reasons. In that case, is he asking for prostitution? For the Maekawa-san who's inherited half the characteristics of the pure-hearted shopping district, if somebody ever asks me that, it'll be determined as sexual harassment!

The rocketeer spent an unusual amount of time eying me from the bottom to top, and smiled. It's better if you don't smile like that too often, so people might like you more. The thought drifted in my head, but I said nothing. Whether it's for his own good or not is currently irrelevant.

“You're not wearing a strange outfit today!”

“Now that's rude, calling me strange. I'm actually a serious cosplayer.”

“Oh, then my bad.” Confused, he apologized perfunctorily.

He's real sketchy, this guy~ Doesn't quite smell like a fan~ Or rather, he obviously wasn't one — this isn't how a Maekawa-san hobbyist speaks. Should I, therefore, relax? Or let this sense of danger further expand?

The reason of him giving me cola mystified again… Uh, hold on. Maybe it wasn't actually for me? Eliminating the suspicious possibility that he's my fan, the motives for gifting me also dissipates. There are also others working in the Wagashi shop… Maybe he's trying to shift focus or make an excuse by saying it's for me. Like, maybe the true target is Komaki-san or someone? Most likely.

I'm still unsure what the rocketeer thought of my astonished look; he raised the rocket in hand to his forehead:

“Did you see this rocket going upward?”

“Uh… Sure, yeah. So why the rockets?”

“Ah… Hm, it's just my interest. Since I can never launch a real rocket into space, I use this as a substitute to fly into the sky.” He rubbed the tip of the rocket.

“...Space, huh?” The word somehow soothes me in a conversation. This might be the sign of a critical condition.

“Space is great, right? The sea hides many secrets, so it is just as amazing.”

“Hm...” I exhaled to regain the posture of my excited stomach and face muscles.

He's born in this town, right? Now I understand, in every way possible. Here, plenty of weird cosmophiles exist. Like Touwa. But, there is rarely a bad person.

I feel that everyone holds some sort of dream for wonders and mysteries — parts like an innocent child — all while playing grown-up.

“You, uh, quite good with your hands, yes?” The rocketeer asked in a strangely fast speed.

“Hm… I guess. I've always gotten five for my crafting classes.”

But only one for P.E, and last place for marathon. 'Cuz of air resistance and stuff.

The rocketeer's face beamed. “Excellent.” He muttered the words and brought an abrupt request:

“Actually, I wish for you to help me make rockets.”

“Wha?”

“Have you made one before?”

“Yeah, during art class of elementary school.” Don't look down on modern kids, I can even sharpen a pencil using a knife!

During elementary school, I seemed to have sunk into the quagmire of repeatingly chiseling on pencils because I refused to use the sharpener like everyone else. Suddenly, it hit me as life — 'amendment is vital,' it was a divergence into the current personality of Maekawa-san. If I've never learned that, I might still be an overzealous person.

“Ah, I thought so too. It's been kept since our time!”

The weakness of nostalgia belonging to the guy's generation had been promptly hit; he smiled brilliantly. If I kept quite, I predicted that the cherry blossom of memory will bloom.

“But can't you make it yourself?” Instead of using my finger, I pointed with my eyes at the rocket on his knees.

“I can.” The rocketeer agreed, but stopped halfway and scratched the back of his head.

“Uh, it's, um, I'm busy both at work and private, so I can't dedicate all my time on my hobby.”

Yeah, just keep up the B.S. I almost said it outside. However, I had to keep silent.

Because after that, the rocketeer brought up the price of each rocket: it was enough to make my part time income seem like pocket change.

“I expect you to make more, but I also want you to bring each one as soon as it's complete, since I want to test-fly them.”

“Hm...” Hesitation was just an act, even I knew that.

As dubious as he was, he didn't seem like a bad person. More importantly was the attractiveness of this job.

To control the scale tipped with risk, the fastest way is to have reward on the other side.

“I understand, please let me make the rockets.”

I agreed to the job at night.

After all, when you're troubled, just find Maekawa.

### 015. Chapter 6: The Day That Will Become Someone's Memory

## Chapter 6 - The Day That Will Become Someone's Memory

And like so, the RPG team of a male player consisting of one guy and three girls headed toward the Touwa household after school. With a flower in each hand, I didn't even have another for the girl stuffed in the basket. I found her walking back home from work with no shoes on, so I picked her up. The tension between her and Ryuushi-san seemed to only exist for the latter though. As for Erio, she'd shown nothing but a blank face.

Ryuushi-san sighed on the way to the bicycle lot: “Ah~ Now the position of starters is further away from me~ I don't wanna be the secret weapon anymore~” The Touwa household isn't exactly a paradise of hope and dreams that's worth visiting. There is someone who can light firecrackers with her brain there though.

“Hoh~ So this is Touwa's house?”

Parking first into the front yard, Maekawa-san carefully observed that residence that should be a fairly normal house. Perhaps due to looking up for too long (like five seconds) she moaned, 'wuu~' almost stumbling. Although she seemed the type who won't give in to pressure, her body seems slave to her blood flow. She mentioned before that 'I've never been to a hospital;' if possible, I hope she could live on peacefully.

“Whoa~” With a helmet still on her head, Ryuushi-san awed at the building and trod to my side as if avoiding Erio: “I thought maybe the walls would be covered in futons, but it's just a pretty house!”

Ryuushi-san earnestly reported on the gap between her imagination and the real deal. Hearing the comment, Erio shot her a glance, but didn't dissent. She merely stared at her house. For her, she might have the terrifying thought of 'that's not bad at all.' She is, after all, the fanatic that would surprise people if she doesn't collect blanket catalogs.

“I thought it'd be covered by a white sheet.”

Maekawa-san, too, followed. I've seen this somewhere!

Bell signifying some sort of break resounded from an elementary school nearby. I've been there before: it's a school about ten minutes away from the Touwa residence. Erio attended there as well. Contradicting the problem that is the falling birthrate, the amount of students there seem to multiply like biscuits in a pocket. Currently, the school is undergoing renovation and expansion of classrooms. This probably means that couples get along well around here.

Affected by the bell, we moved toward the entrance like students at the field toward classrooms after lunch has ended. Judging strictly by her appearance, the warrior Maekawa-san took vanguard, followed by Ryuushi-san, me and Erio. Being in the middle of Ryuushi-san and Erio, I should feel proud. But for Erio, maybe she just wanted to 'prepare for an ambush.' What could she possibly be fighting against? The world has an apparent animosity for her, so she probably doesn't have many comrades. There's Meme-san and Tamura Oba-san.

And... me? At least for now. Would this be considered as indecisiveness?

“Hm, door's locked.” The leading Maekawa-san voiced her objection at the solidity of the door and the common sense of all households.

“Usually people lock their houses when they leave.” I took out the key and went next to Maekawa-san.

“We don't, more often than not.”

“For whom it may concern, did you hear that~?”

I ridiculed her and opened the door. “It's opening!” For some reason, Maekawa-san became excited. Pulling the door ajar, she seemed strangely cheerful, closing and opening it repeatedly. I decided to let her be.

Taking the key out, I glanced back, only to find Ryuushi-san and Erio fixed on their spot.

“And why are you two just standing there? Saving someone's spot?”

There isn't entrance limit, and no one will get mad if you cut the line.

“Since Niwa-kun is the third, I'm saving your spot as a healer.”

She maintained a cheery look; with a victory sign, she boasted.

You're the most healing thing here.

Yet from just a second ago, Nervousness— or rather, anxiety — crept up in my guts. Strictly speaking, this isn't my house, but the fact that two girls are coming into my room choked the top of my stomach.

Not one on one, but one vs. many. It's an anomalous situation. The Youth-points who thought their time has come froze, doubtful and without direction. I too wondered what would happen.

“We're coming in!” Finally tired of the toy that is the door, Maekawa-san entered the entrance with a casual greeting. “Excuse me, I'm coming in!” Ryuushi-san bashfully spoke, turning to Erio halfway through the sentence. As expected of the polite helmet girl.

And the last two said 'I'm home.' We even received the normal reaction of 'welcome!' Maekawa-san, who had speedily took off her flats, welcomed us kindly. A lot about this was questionable. She must have realized too, awkwardly scratching her head:

“I screwed up. That's for my house; it should have been welcome home.”

Seemed like she still couldn't amend the mistake completely. Hm, if I could trade the house owner with Maekawa-san, I will gladly toss that big kid out. Only, she would come back faster than a salmon.

“House? What does your family do, Maekawa-san?” Setting her shoes next to Maekawa-san's, Ryuushi-san inquired with a straight back. “Oh, you live in the city, so you don't know, huh. Ryuushi.”

“I told ya I'm Ryuuko.”

“My house runs a pub in the shopping district, so you have to come when you're old enough, Ryuushi… Given that if the pub is still runnin' by then!”

Ahahah~ Since I can't articulate any better, I'll just laugh. Maekawa-san's expression conveyed so.

“Anyhow, let's go to transfer student's room. Which floor?” Maekawa-san pointed toward the hallway.

“Second floor. But there's seriously nothing interesting in there.”

“What are you on about, transfer student? Using poker as an example, there's nothing fun about a single card: the point is how to use that card in an interesting way.”

She dauntlessly asserted the lack of fun of a room she's never been in. I couldn't help but feel that maybe I should have put something like a game console in my room, knowing that others will criticize my lack of entertainment value. I had one in my old home, but I think I sold it when I moved.

A person befitting of being a tour guide, Maekawa-san led us forward as if directing her family. With this kind of advance, the distance sound of a whistle was almost audible.

A guy mixed with three girls. This made me think of Sw*mmy for some reason. Man, I miss that! Speaking of which, wasn't there a story called “The Red Fruit Has Burst” in our textbook? What was it about? I thought it's about a girl going out to buy fishes… I think, but that's not the point of the story. But whatever with that.

Maekawa-san stepped onto the stairs, peeking inside Erio's room.

“Mm? This Touwa's room?”

“Yes.” A tiny confirmation from the back.

“I see~ It sure suits you… Ah, that's the school uniform. For cosplaying?”

“No, it is not.” Erio denied Maekawa-san's biased evaluation of the uniform.

Then why? I wanted Erio to spill the answer, but she simply looked down and grasped at her skirt, silencing the owner of the voice.

“Ah, it's Mr. Pluto!”

On the other hand, what piqued Ryuushi-san's attention was the tan-coloured doll sitting on the ball chair. It's a… creature (?) of roughly forty centimeters long. On it's head was a hair not unlike the parents of a certain Isono family, and he's even got a red ribbon. Pluto? Does it have anything to do with space? It is sitting in Erio's room. Um… Is the discovery of such creature on Pluto human's spearhead of discovery? NASA would drop their jaws.

It's a cute doll that girls seem to like. Ryuushi-san hurried into the room and hugged the doll that's strikingly larger than her face. “How cute~ Boing!” You are so damn cute, I thought as I peered at that face. Tug, tug. Erio pulled on my sleeve from behind. I only looked back.

“T-that's mine...”

She's like a little girl angry with her older sister who stole her toy, telling her mom.

“...Then tell her.” I am not your brother — we're practically the same age.

“Wuu.. Wu...”

Erio closed in onto Ryuushi-san and forcefully took the plushy away. Uh, back? It is hers, but her action was unreasonable.

“Eh? ...Ah?” Ryuushi-san's dreamy visage was torn by that momentum; her fingers quivered.

“H-he sits here.” Erio put the plushy back to where it was.

“S-sorry…?”

Ryuushi-san haltingly apologized like she'd just accidentally sat on a house made of match sticks.

Just like before, an enigmatic air twisted between the two. As if veiled by a thick cloth, they could never reach each others.

Why are these two so awkward? The girl who has the sensibility of the world (? Questionable, but I won't take it back now) just can't be friends with the futon roll who strayed from common sense?

Then the bystander Maekawa-san spoke her thought regarding the plushy:

“How childish of you, Ryuushi, satisfied with a doll of only that size.”

A giantess preached so. She even sighed disapprovingly. She also seemed to have misunderstood why Ryuushi-san was so happy.

“If it were me, a 179.9cm Mr. Pluto is totally possible.”

“Don't do it.” It would be a different breed of creature at that point.

“Hm. 'Kay, now, to the long-awaited room of Niwa-kun!”

Ryuushi-san went 'Oh~!' leading her feet out with her right arm. Becoming the leader, she traded place with Maekawa-san, increasing the distance from Erio by one more space. If we do the same thing again, would this team of four recombine like in old games, letting Ryuushi-san follow Erio next? I suddenly had the feeling. Is my brain also shorting out because of Meme-san's radiation? The thought worried me.

“Hoh~ So this is Niwa-kun's room?”

Ryuushi-san firstly peeked into my room, leaving phrases of impression.

“Hoh~ So this is the room where transfer student rolls around on the floor in.”

Maekawa-san described the space. Apparently even the way I use it was set.

“Hoh~ The cousin's room.” Why did you follow them, Erio? Don't you come here all the time?

From my point of view, it would be terrifying if things worth looking increased in my room. I sat on the chair pulled away from the desk, observing the two classmates wandering the room. Hmm, the usually boring room suddenly lit up.

As long as these two are in the room, they could even replace an air freshener.

Erio, finding nothing interesting in the room, jumped onto the bed; then as if rolling the futon on her, she spun to the side….

“What kinda prank is this?” I pulled on her right leg.

Extracted by me from the futon, Erio blinked as if wondering 'what's the problem?' head slightly cocked.

“What are you doing?”

“That is my question: what is the cousin doing?”

“I'm only doing what's natural as your cousin. Stop putting that on.”

“I am playing as the hardworking sixteen year old who wants to wear relaxing clothes at home.”

“Shut up.”

“My smell might get on it.”

“I. Don't. Care.”

I can't believe she remembered that irrelevant detail. The strange prediction-sketch of Erio turning into Meme-san in twenty four years has been penciled. Rough draft next?

“Hey… Hey~ Niwa-kun.” Ryuushi-san called. Slightly thorny in her enunciation, I reflexively straightened my slightly-hunched back.

“Hm? What is it?” The eyes that gazed lost their sharpness, round like always:

“Is this the deep-see animal atlas ya mentioned?”

Ryuushi-san, who had scanned the bookshelf, put her finger on the spine of a book.

“Yeah, that's it. There's a ton of picture in there. It's a lot cooler than the other books!”

“Hoh~” She retrieved the atlas and flipped through it: “Uwah, the naked photos of ugly-cute characters!” As usual, her impressions were kind of twisted.

If Ryuushi-san were brought to a zoo, would she accuse them of public display of indecency?

“Um, which do ya like, Niwa-kun?”

She sat directly on the floor, opening the atlas about the size of a hardcover book. Then Ryuushi-san beckoned, asking me to come to her side. “Coming.” I accepted the invite.

I kneeled on one knee next to Ryuushi-san's right. On the page that Ryuushi-san had open were four deep-sea octopuses. My favourite creature was not swimming in there.

“This is so cute!” She pointed at the Dumbo Octopus in the middle.

“I know!” I indulged her. It's not like it'd be a problem liking one more animal.

“Then which one do ya recommend the most?”

“Um, I would say~” Confirming the page on the bottom left, I calculated how many pages need to be flipped back. Sixteen pages later, I pointed at the picture on the bottom left.

“Helicolenus Hilgendorfii?” Ryuushi-san read its name.

“Yeah, isn't it pretty?”

A red fish with a white crown flung its tail fin.

“It is, even though it's around a buncha freaky animals.”

“I like the way it stands out.”

“Oh~ But Niwa-kun, you shouldn't stand out, okay?”

“Hm, of course...” Sensing a gaze on the top of my head, I looked up.

Erio sat on the bed, her eyes fixed on us. The moment our sight met, she seemingly intentionally hid into the futon. “Haa, really?” What does she want, my attention?

Damn kid. If this goes on, she might become a great big kid.

I loosened the curled leg and waist, moving toward Erio. I can fly ~ I lightly landed, and from the corner ripped the futon off. This was even more ungentlemanly than tono-sama's sash-pulling game!

“Oh~ no~” For some reason Maekawa-san provided a voice-over from behind. Speaking of which, what is Maekawa-san looking for around the room? I did have a prediction though.

Because the way she walked and scanned was just like a certain 39 years old child.

“This room lacks the colour of skin.”

What kind of thought was that? This isn't where a serial killer hides dead bodies.

“Hey~ Niwa-kun, c'mere~ c'mere!”

Ryuushi-san waved at me again with a warmer attitude. Am I a hot item or what?

What, has my time of being popular come? But don't let all of it out, drag this out forever!

Youth-points are thing that won't react if directly approached.

“I'm coming~” I held onto the corner of the blanket, stretching my body as far as I can toward Ryuushi-san. My neck extended to the maximum, peering over the atlas from the top. My head almost rammed into Ryuushi-san's.

“What else do ya like? ...Hey, why not just let go of the blanket?”

“Uh. Well, if I let go, a certain someone will become the local mascot.”

“Why not just tie her up? Let her roll around over there.”

Dammit, she's only so relaxed because she's not dealing with her. She even started pouting. Is she jealous? I'm gonna assume you are. Don't underestimated the power that is the delusion of a self-conscious highschooler. If that was true though, uh… The hell do I do? Crap, the solution known as 'experience' isn't doing it's job on guiding me. Because it doesn't exist!

“Hey~ Transfer student, look.”

“Hah?” I looked back to Maekawa-san's voice.

With half the blanket rolled on her, Erio hopped on my bed!

“Gah~!!” The dust's everywhere! What a waste, I'm going to have to vent the room now!

And why are you just sitting there elegantly with a smile, Maekawa-san?! Go find some porn!

“Niwa-kun, click, click!” As if to sooth me, who had left, Ryuushi-san summoned.

Am I a stray cat? Is this below or above being classmates?

In the end, I ran around the blanket between Erio and Ryuushi-san thirty times.

Drenched in sweat, I opened the window regretfully. The air of girls and the heat escaped outside.

Out of the window, the colour of dusk began to swallow the edge of the sky. The world was as if flipped.

Only one person would appear when trouble's amok. Everyone should know.

The person whose personality and other aspects vex people to no end — Touwa Meme-san. When the girls were about to take off, they bumped into the returning Meme-san. Incidentally, they both called her smooth-skinned sensei.

Looks like both Maekawa-san and Ryuushi-san had met Meme-san. Now that I mentioned it, Ryuushi-san seemed to have received cola from Ryuushi-san before, but Maekawa-san… What was it? I don't see their connection.

Meme-san whispered a few words to Maekawa-san, clapped her hand saying 'Okay~! It's settled!' first and then declared 'I'm heading out again;' Maekawa-san also claimed that she is heading home and put on her shoes. She said she was going to get something to bring back here… What on earth is going on?

If it were the usual, Meme-san shouldn't be baited by this kind of a festival. But she did look busy. Is she conniving something? It's hard to tell because she's always playing practical jokes.

Meme-san further proposed something similar to this: “Since I won't be home, how about the girls do some cooking?”

“Cough, cough, so I don't have to cook, cough cough.”

“I don't get why you coughed.”

After waves of disturbance, Ryuushi-san decided to call home first. Decided to stay in the Touwa household till later, she planned on going home after waiting for Maekawa-san, doing some activities; and cooking and eating.

And thus Meme-san and Maekawa-san left the house. Erio, Ryuushi-san and I remained.

…This is practically a development for 'let's build a love triangle.'

Well, it's because of the words Meme-san tossed us that muddled the air, making me and Ryuushi-san extra conscious of each others.

We stared at each other with a twisted smile. One of us moved first, and the other two followed behind. Step, step. Only the sound of footstep echoed lightly.

In the living room, with Erio as the apex, adding me and Ryuushi-san, we mimicked a triangle sitting in front of the table.

“…...” Erio, who rarely sat upright, said nothing. She rubbed her upper arm as if conveying her anxiety over bare skin. Her eyes oscillated.

“Ah, uh… I wonder what Maekawa-san's bringin'~”

Ryuushi-san faced me, talking to me instead of Erio.

“I have no idea. What could it be?.” Could be a costume. But I refrained from speaking.

“Hm, I wonder...” Voices trailed off, and the conversation paused here.

If it were only me and Erio, or only me and Ryuushi-san, then any sort of conversation could become lively, but at the moment… How strange.

The ticking of clock that should be the sound of a daily life did not resonate. The room was completely silent. Ringing in the ear proliferated. The chirping of crickets that starts in the beginning of autumn shared the same unpleasant feeling as the current situation.

My nose dried; the taste of burn permeated in my throat. This was the syndrome of boredom.

“Want to watch… TV?” Erio held the remote and peeked at my face. Is this the conclusion she reached to cope with idleness?

“Sure.” I agreed; the TV shone.

On the screen gradually lighting up, sushi appeared. It looked to be a show promoting shops with fresh and delicious high-class sushi. The reporter and celebrity whose name escapes me shoved tuna sushi into his mouth, yelling 'so good.' He said nothing else in terms of compliments.

Since the volume was set on loud, the initially silent room suddenly flooded with noise. The various sound effects and BGM forced into my eardrum, suffocating me.

Now we're even more anxious. The overfilling noise and the current status of the room was too different.

I couldn't stand it anymore and left the seat, taking my time in the kitchen making tea.

After preparing tea for three people, I returned to the living room. The two still bored holes into the TV.

“Here, some tea.”

I put the tea in front of Erio. She looked down on the tea, staring into her reflection within.

For reasons unknown, she pushed to slide the tea in front of Ryuushi-san. The rising steam followed after.

“Here, tea.”

Basing her conclusion on something, Ryuushi-san slid the cup of tea to me. Are we playing the game of 'the bar scene you always see in cowboy flicks'?

“… A cup of tea.”

I attempted to give the tea to Erio again. She unhesitatingly handed the tea to Ryuushi-san. “Here, tea.” Though frowning, Ryuushi-san still returned the cup of tea to me. As if annoyed with following behind, the steam occasionally moved to the side instead of wasting energy going up.

I thought the thirst of boredom seemed to moisten by the ascending steam.

After that, the cup of team circled endlessly on the table.

The remaining two cups of tea were ostracized from the table, slowly losing the steam that is the candle of life.

In the midst of it, I reminisced the day of being forced to do can-crushing during an activity of kid's day.

✩

After about forty minutes, Maekawa-san came back.

“I’m home!” Somehow, she announced her return with the manner of the patriarch of the house.

Yet, there isn’t anyone who could change the ambiance better than she. As expected of ‘when you’re troubled, just find her’ Maekawa-san.

The light steps unfitting of her height approached the living room.

The person who entered the room was a Santa in white carrying a bag with no dreams inside.

“Since I am taking up role of professor, I am returning to the basics: lab coat.”

With the height of 179.9cm (self-proclaimed) and a lab coat over her uniform, the infirmary doctor with glasses moved forward briskly, carrying on her shoulder a plastic bag. If she were to appear during play house, you’d worry about having your stomach cut open — that’s the anxiety caused by the sharp aura exuding from her.

Empty bottles filled the bag. In addition, things that resembled nozzles lied on the bottom.

“By the way, the glasses are fake. For fashion purposes.” She pushed the glasses up with her free hand.

“Whoa~ That’s so cool!” Ryuushi-san looked up in awe.

Indeed, with her complimentary height, the outfit beautifully conveyed the sense of coolness.

“Hehe.” Having her serious cosplay praised accordingly, Maekawa-san chuckled joyfully and said: “I’m taking this cup of tea.” Her long arm lifted the blue cup and dumped the tea in her mouth.

“What the? It’s at the perfect temperature!”

It didn’t sound like a protest against the cold tea, but a praise. Looks like Maekawa-san is afraid of heat.

“Okay, so what you got there?”

I queried for the three of us. “Oh.” The cup left Maekawa-san’s lips.

“We’re making bottle rockets! That’s smooth-skinned sensei’s request. She said to have Touwa and the transfer student make them. These are the material.”

Swoosh~ She lifted the bag. This was Meme-san’s malicious plan? Or a part of it?

“I got some for Ryuushi too — you’re joining us too, right?” Maekawa-san watched for Ryuushi-san’s reaction; she tilted her head with finger on her lips:

“Hmmm. I… donno how to make one. And I told ya I’m Ryuuko. Don’t go settling on that nickname.”

“No problem, I’ll teach you. I know the steps enough to teach.”

“Then I’ll try~ But why, all of the sudden? I mean Touwa-san’s mom.”

“Who knows?” Maekawa-san revealed a meaningful smile, dodging the question.

“Touwa or transfer student, one of you go get scissors and knives from Meme-san’s room… I mean, could you bring me to her room? I think the tools we need are in her room.”

“Then, follow me.” I stopped Erio halfway as she got up and left the living room with Maekawa-san.

Using the chance that we had walking in the hallway with lights brighter than the sun, I questioned Maekawa-san.

“Hey, Maekawa-san.”

“Hm? What is it? Also starting from now and throughout the bottle making, call me doctor.”

Hands in her white coat pocket, Maekawa-san requested a change in profession.

If only Ryuushi-san could change her name as easily as she.

“…Doctor Maekawa.” Rolled off the tongue easier than Meme-chan.

“Hm, hm!” Shoulders trembling, she smiled satisfactorily.

“The rockets from a while back — are they related to this?”

“Hoh, how keen of you!”

Mae… Doctor Maekawa whistled as if complimenting the exceptional answer from her student:

“But one does not need to know the language of flower to appreciate its beauty, transfer student.”

“What I’m concerned with is if this is somehow related to me and Erio.”

“Neither do I know the meaning of flower, unfortunately.”

Her metaphoric response blurred my comprehension.

“Oh, I know this: red spider lily means ‘sad recollection,’ ‘the desire to meet again,’ and ‘I miss only you.’”

“I think the topic is going into the wrong direction…”

“In any case, it’s not a big deal! They are just bottles.”

Ultimately, she brushed me off.

In the story that progressed elsewhere, what role do I exactly play?

“Alrighty. Doctor Maekawa’s class will now begin.”

In the living room sitting on the opposite side of the table, Doctor Maekawa declared the start of her crafting class.

On my sides were Erio and Ryuushi-san. The students were fully prepared. Only…

…Um, am I being used as a screen to separate the two?

Won’t it be better to have these two get along? Ryuushi-san seems to frequent Tamura shop anyway. But is it okay for me to be so nosy? This was the true question.

“Do you remember how to make them, Touwa?” Maekawa-san surveyed to see if Erio had the proper knowledge.

“…Don’t know.” My left neighbor hurriedly shook her head.

“You should have made them in art class before, since we went to the same school.”

“Um, I took it home to have mom help me, so…”

Erio shrunk embarrassedly and confessed. Have mom help probably actually meant ‘Meme-san made almost everything.’ Appeared to have noticed, Maekawa-san grimaced:

“Then we’ll say you have a permit! Alright, first grab a bottle.”

Following her direction, all three of us laid the bottles on the table. We had a total of five, which will all be used when we finished. I didn’t know that till today.

“Next, pick up the nozzles that was given beforehand and screw that onto the bottle.”

I screwed the nozzles that sat on the bottom tightly onto the neck of the bottle. Compare to me and Ryuushi-san, Erio had a bit of trouble, but still successfully completed the task.

“Now we’re done with that, set it aside. Prepare the second bottle.”

“Done, Doctor Maekawa!” Ryuushi-san feigned an innocent reply. She’s pretty good at being a student. Wait, she is a student.

“See that line on the lower half? Cut the bottom off with the box cutter. Since we only have one, we have to take turns.”

Like doing a demo, Maekawa-san adroitly cut off the butt: “The trick is to not move the knife, but rather spin the bottle forward to cut it — just like shaving an apple!”

After giving the advice, Maekawa-san passed the box cutter to Ryuushi-san. “Whacha call it, I miss crafting classes~” Ryuushi-san worked while humming a tune. I’m envious of how she could seemingly enjoy everything.

I too finished without any problem. As for Erio, everyone held his or her breath as we watched. Erio clamped the knife with strength enough to bruise her fingers. “Uh, relax a little. But do hold on to it.”

She slightly loosened the grip. Then she clawed the bottle, her fingers digging in. “This isn’t a disposal site… But do hold on to it.” She eased a bit. And so… screech, screech… the knife sunk into the bottle. She gingerly exerted enough force that might snap the blade. If the cutter slip off, a part of Erio along with the clothes might end up split apart. I prayed for her safety.

Perhaps it was answered: she cut opened the bottle safely. Is everyone going to be on the edge from now on when it’s Erio’s turn? I swallowed the epiphany like a stone.

“… Uh, well then. Next step is to cut the extra part below that line. The key is to start from the bottom…” And like so, the project proceed under Maekawa-san’s guidance.

Next was to use the third bottle to make the base. Again, a rough cut with the box cutter, and then finer detail with the scissors; thus the rocket was mostly complete.

“With the PE rocket head as the tip, the second bottle on the top, the first on the bottom, and the base last… Here we are, the completed body!”

Combined with their parts, the rockets without wing stood on the floor. Ryuushi-san and I both tried putting the rockets together while Erio cut away on the bottle.

Although I offered help, she insisted, ‘No need. I must do it this time.’ Hence I stared from the side. From the bystander’s view point, I was terrified. Now I understand why Meme-san is so protective of her.

“Apparently the rockets are undergoing test-flight tomorrow.” Maekawa-san spoke.

“Tomorrow?”

“Eleven of clock, the closest beach. Meme-san’s instruction.”

If she whispered the instructions of making rockets to Maekawa-san, then I imagine Meme-san must be related to this whole thing. The closest beach — is it the one Erio and I went on that night? Riding there takes at least an hour!

After Erio’s finished with her work, Maekawa-san shifted direction to the making of wings. The parts cut off from the bottles were flattened with a piece of wood. This was the only part Maekawa-san performed poorly on. After forcing it down for a while… “Gwahh…” This person planned on throwing her dignity away with the lab coat effect.

Pliers could be used to stabilize the ridges on the flattened wing prototype. Next, label it with a marker and cut it. Stick the two pieces together with double-sided tape and staple them. Finally, cover the staple mark with electric tapes. The wing is now finished.

Now to put the wings on in an X shape on the body (this was is the hardest part). Connect it to the rocket with electric tape, then you can yell ‘done!’ And then wait for Erio to finish. I knew it. Ryuushi-san’s and my rockets weren’t exactly artistic on the taping part, but they at least had the shape. I inspected it in my hand. The forgotten sense of achievement from making something alleviated the growing exhaustion that weighed my skull down, warming up my head.

I switched the TV that’s never been off onto the news to check the time. It was already past seven, almost eight. In other words, we spent about an hour and half on making rockets. On one hand, I understood starvation. On the other, I was shocked at how late city girls are allowed to stay out. If it were where I used to live, if there was someone outside after eight PM, they’d be considered suspicious. A lax night like this would be upon every family by now.

“The night is full.” Eyes glued on the TV, Maekawa-san mumbled. Eh? So the city uses the same standard?

“Yeah, it’s about time to go home.”

“We have to prepare dinner for Touwa and the transfer student first.”

Hearing Maekawa-san’s words, Ryuushi-san winced. She stared at me, while I her. Ugh, Meme-san’s words echoes in my head. Just like the person herself, they were annoying.

In the spare time, Maekawa-san even decorated the rockets. She coloured the thing white to imitate a certain stream-line creature with strange wings. She called it ‘ skyfish .’

“I’ve never seen the actual thing, so this is just referring to the manga.”

“Of course ya wouldn’t!”

Ryuushi-san’s sheepish eyes moved away from me, observing the rockets from all sorts of angles while replying to Maekawa-san.

But in this town, it is said that skyfish has been witnessed frequently. Maekawa-san spoke as if to herself:

“Since tomorrow is flight, we won’t have time for a test. Having all of them fly up gracefully would be impossible though. These rockets probably won’t be mistaken as UFO trails; they’ll just crash midway. Maybe my skyfish will end its life as a seafish .”

And then Maekawa-san looked askance at Erio, divulging a jeering grin:

“I guess the only way is to have a fishing line hang it from space, huh.”

Was Erio equipped with the sense to detect that she had just been the butt of a space joke?

She ceased the work on hand, slightly pouting. Maekawa-san, who looked from the side, relaxed her expression and squinted. Instead of a quip, it was more a subtle smile:

“I look forward to it, Touwa. Use your space power and send these rockets upward!”

Okay, class is over. Now to the self-provided lunch. Meme-san’s still not home.

Looking at it this way: having done an unusual project and cooked dinner, it’s like a summer camp or something. It’s rather exciting.

And I get to eat food made by girls. This was unquestionably a three-pointer. The food itself is trivial — what matters is the act.

The conclusion was that everyone including me had to make a dish. The maximum occupancy of the kitchen was two, so we decided to have Maekawa-san and Ryuushi-san go first, then me and Erio next.

Erio and I sat in the kitchen’s chairs, appreciating the beauty in front of us. Sitting from the back and seeing the classmates in apron, I savoured the taste of youth. Maekawa-san still had the lab coat though.

Not too long ago, Erio, whose mother remarked her cooking skill as ‘as long as it’s a ham sandwich, she can make it,’ seemed satisfied with the rocket she made. She went as far as carrying it here, unable to stop grinning at her own creation. The surface was painted black; the uneven texture further emphasized the handmade feeling.

“This is the third one ever made.”

“Oh? Meme-san made the other?”

Slumping as if her spine was shattered by shame, Erio shrunk her chin. But she sat up again. The black rocket danced in the air via human power, occupying my view.

“But this one is mine.”

“Yes, yes, very impressive.”

I casually rubbed her head.

Surprisingly, it wasn’t a bad feeling seeing her shook around happily.

Because of the knife that shone dimly on the hand of Ryuushi-san who looked back, I terminated my action swiftly. Um… She does look like she’s sulking! In other words, she is somewhat interested in me? Umm… This requires further inspection.

If Ryuushi-san’s target turns out to be Erio, then I will be mortified.

The complicated feeling of joy and confusion swelled in my chest; looking at the back of the girls, I awaited my debut. Occasionally I have to deal with the rocket girl neighbor; I even thought about having the hydro-powered rocket fly into space.

“It’s done!” In just about twenty minutes, Maekawa-san reported. Only, both of them hid their dishes behind. “Before the last dishes are done, they’re secret.” Ryuushi-san said coyly.

Following their wishes, I avoided looking at their food and simultaneously switched place with them. Erio ruefully put the rocket in the corner of the kitchen, stiffly taking from Ryuushi-san the apron. “Looks like you two need to be lubricated!” Maekawa-san teased. I thought the same thing too.

As I contemplated on what to make, Erio returned from the fridge with some ham, laid them on the cutting board and chopped — or battered — away. I thought of the zombie mom of a dead family who went inside an abandoned house and pretended to be alive by making sounds. What does she plan on making?

I just made something simple. I picked up two eggs, since making anything extraordinary was impossible.

And like so, Erio and my dishes were complete. We both set them on the table.

Four bowls embellished with food, the colour combination sufficiently covered by just grey scale.

“Why did everyone decide to have rice covered by things?”

“It’s easy.” “My specialty.” “Here, ham.”

I wanted to stamp ‘learn Japanese’ on the forehead of the last person.

“This is an Oyakodon. It got cold though.”

Maekawa-san began the introduction of her dish. Compared to the ones served at school café, hers had prettier egg, and better smell. Everyone wordlessly extended their chopsticks, screaming ‘so good!’ like the celebrity on TV. It wasn’t that we didn’t have the vocabulary, we just rather spend time eating than talking — compliments should only be mentioned after eating the meal.

Since Ryuushi-san avoided those chickens, I snatched them away.

But, shouldn’t the best be the last? From the half-full stomach, I pulled out a similar regret:

“But, hm, this definitely deserves three points.”

To secure the sudden points, dibs must be called. Since I’ve been taking care of Erio recently, I felt as if my Youth-points had been dropping.

“Points… Well, I take that as a compliment.”

Maekawa-san didn’t seem unaccepting, taking the cleaned bowl away.

Next up, Ryuushi-san raised the bowl with a smile of slight embarrassment and anticipation like when she showed me the doodling on her notebook:

“Mine is an Oyakodon with no chicken.”

So the ‘Oya’ part evaporated?

“Uh… Then it should be called Tamagodon?” I stared at the bowl with a question.

“But I heard that Niwa-kun likes Oyakodon!”

She grumbled. Where did that rumor come from? …Ah, from Maekawa-san? True, I remember praising the Oyakodon served at the school cafeteria a month ago. But that was just a comment on the school’s cooking, not for Oyakodon itself… Well, it isn’t too late to make this my favourite dish today.

Also, since it’s the same as Maekawa-san’s, she had meant it to be? Hmm, the smell of gunpowder.

“What’s the big deal~ Just try it. Here ya go~”

Ryuushi-san passed the bowl to my mouth; the other two crossed their chopsticks in the air. The atmosphere now does not permit food sharing.

Is Ryuushi-san’s food only for me (俺専用)? Or is it for folding (折れ専用)? Not knowing her intent, I wavered.

In the background, Maekawa-san grinned mischievously. Hm, eggs, hold up… There's something else in there. I rolled the object several times on my tongue. It's shaped like a carrot. Not chicken, but it's a bit soft. Oh well, I bit down on this mysteriously textured object. Then, sweet juice flowed between the teeth. One hundred percent fruit.

“...” I swallowed the thing first. “Hey, Ryuushi-san?” The after taste was just as mellifluous.

“How was it?”

Just like the 'how does it look?' after a girl tried on new clothes, it was a forceful rhetorical question.

However, before I critic the taste, I must point something out:

“Is there pineapple in here?”

“Mm.” She confirmed earnestly, the smile still intact.

“So Ryuushi-san likes the pineapple in sweet and sour porks, huh?”

The background with two people setting their chopsticks on the table and sipping their tea looked mighty alluring.

“I love it. Personally I love sweeter flavour.” I especially spoke with the volume audible to Maekawa-san while shoving the pineapple-don in my mouth.

“Um… Is it good? How's it taste?”

“Mom taught me to not talk with my mouth full.”

“Weren't ya just talking normally?”

Once people start asking about my thought on the taste, I gloss over with that phrase. In the end, I cleaned the entire bowl on my own.

My throat is so sweet. Upon downing the tea, a blurring bitterness suffused in my mouth, somehow nauseating me.

The next two entrees weren't interesting, so I'll introduce them both.

“Fried-egg don.” Mine. Referring to the cooking manga Meme-san has.

“Ham-don.” It was literally sliced ham slapped on steaming rice. Because of the remaining amount of rice in the steamer, there's wasn't much in there. This was of course Erio's product.

With nothing particularly worth noting, the four of us ate quietly. Not that I moved my chopsticks. Although toward the end everyone entered the mode of 'I'm tired of rice' and dropped his or her chopsticks, we finished laboriously.

“Thanks for the food...” The listless voices of thanks crawled in the kitchen.

Perhaps having eaten Maekawa-san's Oyakodon first was the right choice. In the end, my stomach was too filled to taste anything anymore.

Being too full, no one planned on leaving his or her seat. We merely waited lethargically.

Though the thought of cleaning dishes poked from the corner of my mind, the lower half of my body refused to move the encumbering torso.

“Ah, it's almost nine. Aren't ya heading back, Maekawa-san?”

Ryuushi-san seemed to probe her with a 'I won't leave before ya do!'

“Yep.” Maekawa-san nodded affirmatively, even smirking. But before anything came from her lips, Erio, sitting beside me, popped up:

“Um, staying… over?”

“Eh?” Maekawa-san and I both seized.

The shock wasn't just from the act of 'staying over' — it was from the act of Erio's proposal.

In addition, the only vegetarian in a sports club jumped at the words:

“W-w-w-what are ya saying~!!”

Ryuushi-san pecked furiously at Erio. She's pretty energetic after the meal.

“Uh… I mean… Is it not good? It's… dark out… and dangerous… Like, aliens… and stuff.”

Erio stuttered incoherently for excuses. But Erio, the androphobic girl, was suggesting others to stay.

Is she happy to be able to spend times with girls of her own age after so long?

Well, since she had the attitude of wanting to connect with others, her return-to-society points indeed increased… Uh, this might be the first and the last time it will ever increase along with my Youth-points.

Originally gawking, Maekawa-san quickly went along with Erio's proposal:

“If you insist. Meme-san did mention that we could stay if it took too long. I got clean clothes when I went to get bottles, so I'm all good!”

Ahaha! Maekawa-san laughed heartily; the lab coat fluttered.

In other words, I'm spending a night with Maekawa-san under the same roof? Ung… My heart seemed to be strangled on the top.

Ryuushi-san spun back to face us, for a second giving the illusion that only her head moved. “Absolutely shameless!” She had to give preface:

“What about Niwa-kun? Stop lazing around like a slime!”

“Hmm. I mean, what's the problem? As long as Meme-san and Erio agreed to it.”

“Whazzup with that indifferent reason?!”

“Well, this isn't exactly my house.” I am living under someone else's roof. Totally different story if it's my house though.

If a girl wanted to stay over, isn't the necessity to deny her non-existence?

“Right?” I casually sought agreement from Erio. “Right~” She parroted me. Wait, this is your house right? The persuasiveness of my statement plummeted, bring even my cognition down.

“T-t-then I'm staying over too?! W-w-what am I gonna do??”

“Ryuushi-san too… Isn't that okay though?” My heart accelerated. We're talking about living together!

“This is cheating before the graduation trip! As the disciplinary committee, I cannot over look this!”

“Oh, Ryuushi-san's disciplinary?”

While I was hospitalized during May, the class' committees had been decided; thus I was shoved into the spot of Class Meeting Committee — which no one picked. So far, I'm not thrilled by this leftover.

However, telling everyone at school that 'Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san lived at my house~' and turning the school life around awaits me! Disregarding the feeling of superiority of course.

“What about your change of clothes?” We don't have basketball club uniforms here.

“Uh, oh, I'll go grab em.” Ryuushi-san decided to sneak out of the kitchen.

“I'll lend you… mine?”

Erio once again suggested an unexpected assistance. I oh'ed, exhaling a short breath of admiration.

Ryuushi-san too, showed a look of surprise; but she nodded vaguely:

“Mm, please then?”

“Good. Goood~”

Perhaps her brain cells finally gave up, Erio replied innocently.

I could no longer deny the possibility of sleep invading her head. She usually sleeps around ten, after all.

Confused by Erio's airy mien, Ryuushi-san pulled a cellphone out of her skirt. She's calling someone, probably her parents.

“...Hello, mom. So...” Saying so, she proved my theory.

Only, the part where she contended 'I told ya I'm not running away this time~' stood out to me. Ryuushi-san ran away from home before, huh. Hearing her unexpected past, I breathed out. Yet, peering over at that soothing back, I could not make the connection with the rebellious act of running away.

Everyone has a past, sculpting him or her in ways unseen by others.

In my dreamy mind, a sense of reverence grew for only the most natural thing.

✩

Although it was the rain season of June, the air outside still chilled at the eleven of night.

Wrapping a towel on my head, I came to the yard to cool down.

Grass shuffling underneath the shoes pleased the ear. Only, a melancholy followed — 'tis time to pull the weed.

Embedded with the June rain, wet wind melted in the warm skin just out of bath. Like making up for lost moisture, the usually sticky air soothed the skin. But I guess in about ten minutes, it'd become the fuel of a disagreeable sensation.

I walked to where the two bikes were parked, peeking toward the sky.

Cloud veiled the firmament; neither stars nor the moon hung in the air. I eyed at the obscure lights flashing above the distant town.

I did successfully bath, but the girls seemed to have fought a war.

Just earlier, they caused a racket in the bathroom.

To further the atmosphere of a grad trip, the three girls decided to bath together. But soon after they entered the bathroom, unattractive screams of 'Uwah~!' or 'Gawah~!' returned.

And then, steps fueled by rage stomped in the hallway.

With her right hand covering Erio's tiny head, and the left dragging Maekawa-san, who passed out sitting in the tub, Ryuushi-san charged into the room. The only thing on her was a big towel.

It's quite rude to say this when she's gone mad, but is it really okay to give me so much Youth-points in one go? I looked straight at Ryuushi-san.

“Why is she in there with her clothes on?”

“I messed up.” Reported the Erio with water dripped off of her.

“She said she messed up.”

“On what?!”

Hearing the explanation that explained nothing, Ryuushi-san let her voice fly. But since Erio's always ran into the bathroom fully dressed, I'd already habituated as one of the Touwa residents. It's nothing to be surprised by. She did took baths with the futon on before, which resulted in her almost drowning in the tub.

“C-coordinates.” Rambling, Erio answered Ryuushi-san's question. She was a little scared, under Ryuushi-san's menacing pressure. “X or Y-axis?!” Ryuushi-san, too, threw a mindless tantrum and exacerbated the pandemonium.

“Then… What about over there?”

“Ughhhh.” Maekawa-san's hand was lifted by Ryuushi-san, her head hanging languidly.

“Why did she fry like an octopus in just a minute of sitting in the tub?!”

“Circulation was too good.”

“Not… Not enough blood...”

“That sounds like the worst combination!”

So something like that happened. From the view of the disciplinary committee, does this suffice as the preview of the graduation trip?

Meme-san came back in about thirty minutes later. She stormed in her room quickly, grumbling something about being busy tomorrow. Perhaps she was planning something about the beach tomorrow.

Depthless wind blew. Branches on the neighbor's wall shook like fans. Maekawa-san should have come outside: it could improve the cooling rate.

Should I tell her? I turned, but changed my mind again and remained outside.

More than Maekawa-san's moaning, I wanted to continue listening to the sound of wind. The gale that blew today sounded like the echoes in the mountains of my old home — as if something soared in the sky.

Probably because of the nearby Self Defense airbase, the area was used to the sound of aircraft gliding. Was something flying? Could it really be a UFO? Or a floating bicycle?

At that moment, I heard the clank of the entrance door. Turning slightly, I saw Ryuushi-san wearing the slippers Erio doesn't like wearing. She planned on coming outside. Our eyes met; she smiled as if relieved.

“Heya.” I called out.

“Hey ya~!” She waved both hands at me. Wearing the white-blue striped pajama Erio lent her, she looked even younger. Accompanied by the slapping of slippers, she headed toward me.

“I went back to take a quick shower. It's so hot~”

“Yeah? How's Maekawa-san doing?”

“Just chilling on the hall's floor.”

“Erio?”

“Cooling that Maekawa-san with a fan.”

“Hm.” Maybe those two get along well.

“Here ya go.” Ryuushi-san stood next to me and passed a cold can of juice.

“Oh, thanks.” I took the juice, pulled the tab up and poured it in my mouth. The sour of orange.

“What if it rains tomorrow?”

“Hm. Well, if that happens, we'll just ask Meme-san.”

“True.” Ryuushi-san put her own can to her lips: “Hm, awesome.”

She gently exhaled and smiled. My heart raced at the shape of her lips.

“It sounds like something's flying through the air.”

Ryuushi-san mumbled at the cloudy sky. It sure sounded like it.

“What if a meteor came down?”

“I heard those can be predicted years before happening.”

“Jeez~ Stop saying dreamless things.”

Jokingly pouting, Ryuushi-san scolded my comment.

Dreams, you said. If a meteor hits us, the human race would be finished! But maybe some people do wish for that.

At least for now, I don't wish for a meteor. Not before I finish talking with Ryuushi-san.

“Tomorrow is actually my birthday.”

“Eh?” Surprise jolted my body, enough to necessitate my rebalancing.

Like confessing to a tiny prank, Ryuush-san smiled demurely.

If I knew a bit earlier, I would have prepared something beforehand!

“Really? We're a day early, but should we celebrate now?”

I passed the can in front of Ryuushi-san; she did the same. “Cheers!” The cans bumped. Let's celebrate a bit like this. The not-so-sweet orange juice flowed in my throat.

“I still wish that something special would happen on my birthday! I hope a meteor would come down, and bang!”

Ryuushi-san gestured her very own wish.

“Hmm. When we're done with the beach tomorrow, should we all celebrate?”

“Celebrate?”

“Having others celebrate for you isn't special or anything, but I think it's pretty important.”

Ryuushi-san blinked incessantly, finally saying with a red face: “That sounds nice too.” A tiny smile: “Mm, maybe it'd be the best!”

Perhaps assenting as well, she nodded deeply. Her gaze darted around for a bit:

“Even though it's kinda spur of the moment, but it's still kinda embarrassing.”

Heheheh. Ryuushi-san rubbed the back of her right hand:

“I mean, staying over at… A boy's place.”

“Yeah?” I played stoic. If it were me living at Ryuushi-san's house though…

“Yeah!” Ryuushi-san lifted a fist in hope for certainty.

“Well, I have already seen Ryuushi-san's sleeping face in math class before.”

“Why did ya look?!” Her eyes widened in retaliation: “And I told ya I'm Ryuuko!”

Seriously! She contendingly drank the juice. The exaggerated way she bit on the can, or rather poured the drink, was a bit childish, but cute.

“It'd be different if we shared a room. Since we don't, I'm not really that curious.”

Cough! Ryuushi-san's throat bulged. After choking, she tremblingly asked with tears in her eyes:

“D-different room… Right? Me and Niwa-kun?” Now's my turn to choke.

“D-different room.”

“Y-you’re right, mm...”

Both of our voice shifted in tone; both looked at our own feet.

Zephyr turning cold refreshed our burning cheeks.

Ah, that's right. Might as well make things clear with her.

“Ryuushi-san. About the t-t-thing from before.” My voice cracked halfway.

“B-before?” Oh? She's wavering.

The two of us hurried for a deep breath, waiting for the quake inside to settle.

“Good now?”

“Good now.”

“This is my report at this specific point of time.”

“Mm?”

“Hypothetically, Erio is walking around town when her old classmates came to harass her. And I happened to witness it.”

“...Mm.”

“If that were to happen, I will stand by Erio.”

Ryuushi-san's eyelashes shook; she looked down melancholily.

Well, I think it's dumb too.

However, I don't want to be smart enough to leave Erio to die.

“Uh… Even if it isn't Erio, but Maekawa-san or Ryuushi-san, I will stand by you as well.” I mean, everyone is a pretty girl after all.

“…...” Ryuushi-san remained mute, her left eyelid occasionally jumped.

“Whenever I plan on helping Erio, and you happen to be walking home with me, just kick me really hard in the back.”

I can't have Ryuushi-san suffer for my action. If she does just that though, she won't be seen as my friend. If she doesn't, she might even be branded as the leader.

“Even being alone, I'll still think of ways to be happy. Don't worry about me then.”

Even with just a person, a broom can still be used to rock the world. Enjoy life !

Moving forward to youth without accessories might be fun as well.

And as long as I stand by Erio, she would naturally do the same for me too, wouldn’t she?

Hence I tried to explain my attitude toward Erio to Ryuushi-san in the most cheerful manner.

If it does end up like that, Youth-points will probably bite the dust, falling with no way of recovering — this simultaneous, depressing feeling churned deep down in my chest.

Ryuushi-san kept her head low, wording her reply directly:

“This is purely for this specific point in time.”

“...”

Ryuushi-san looked up. It is not as if her face conveyed no emotion — a serene, almost defeated look:

“In that case, I will not stand with Touwa-san.”

“Hm.”

“But...”

After a pause, Ryuushi-san stood a step away from me.

With hands behind her back, she timidly leaned forward:

“But, I think I will stand with Niwa-kun.”

Finished, Ryuushi-san froze at the spot.

We gazed at each other.

Together we felt embarrassed.

Our faces reddened.

“Uwah~!”

She ran off. Scrambling to the entrance, she darted into the house.

I wanted to run somewhere too. Mostly to escape the embarrassment and the heart that raced even faster.

Just as I thought of this, Ryuushi-san peeked out half her face from the entrance and called me by a new name: “Mako-chan~!”

“Wha~t?”

“Ya are gonna get a cold in the wind out there, be back soon!”

“I know~!”

First replying to the mom character with shaky legs, I scratched my cheeks.

A certain object tore through the air still. I looked up to the sky.

Meteors did not slash through the clouds.

We will definitely welcome tomorrow.

“… Four, points?”

From the sense of fulfillment, and the proud smile on my face.

The following day came.

Under the urges of Erio and Maekawa-san, who were both regular early-risers, I woke up on the Eight o'clock of a day-off.

“That's pretty sad, transfer student. Can't you wake up without the chickens?”

“Waking before noon is considered as healthy in my household.”

We had the Maekawa-san's egg sandwiches and Erio's ham sandwiches for breakfast.

We shared the food, leaving the house with rockets in hand after dressing up.

As a side note, Erio wore twin tails today for some reason.

After my query in front of the shoe cabin, she quietly answered: “Because… It made the cousin happy.”

Since when have I cheered for twin tails? Is my spot in the Touwa household heading toward some weird direction? Including the various things involving Meme-san, concern brood over my mind.

“I wasn't expecting my plan of heading to the beach with you to be carried out like this.”

Maekawa-san saddled on the bicycle, flinging these words out expectantly. “Beep, beep!” Ryuushi-san, who prohibited the beach because of the jelly fishes, whistled. The frequency of that whistle was beyond my ability.

Erio naturally docked in her proper (?) spot of bicycle basket.

Touwa, you're hilarious! Like talking about escaping an island with four people on a raft that could only carry three. “When you're leaving, have one of you be part of the raft by holding on to the wood. That's how it's done.”

The example Maekawa-san drew balanced on the line between logic and nonsense, difficult to have a response for.

Thus we set off for the designated beach.

Why did I listen to Meme-san's instruction? Questions spun with the wheels, but I still pedaled onward.

The trip that took two hours with the old bike took only a bit more than an hour today.

On the beach with no superficial connection with Erio.

Six bottle rockets lined up on the platform, pointed toward the sky.

A visitor came before us. He was a suit-wearing man preparing for the launch.

Noticing us, he stopped and headed here.

“Ah, the space stalker.”

“My fan!”

“Stranger.”

“Who?”

Four people assessed the middle-aged guy in front of us. What's up with the first two?

“You are...”

“Ah, hello.”

Maekawa-san greeted. Another one of her acquaintances? Counting Meme-san, is her secret of having so many connections her vertical length? Something spoken so rudely awed me.

“Hm.” The man looked at the rockets in ours hands, nodding:

“Did Touwa Meme asked you to come?”

“Yes.” The person reacting the fastest to her mother's name was none other than Erio.

‘Just as I thought.’ The man happily softened his expression:

“Then let's get going; not that there's anything left to be done, but you all should prepare to launch your own rockets. If you need to, I'll help too.”

He directed with a kind attitude, willing to lend a hand.

Seemingly unfamiliar with him, Erio cocked her head quizzically.

“Let's get ready early, since we don't know when Meme's showing up.”

The middle-aged man urged us, his hands preciously holding on to a crimson bottle rocket.

Perhaps noticing my stare, he ostentatiously raised the red device with a wry grin.

“This is just a bonus; I'll get ready myself so don't touch it.”

“Oh no!” Now that I think about it, I think I forgot to wake Meme-san up.

The man turned to face the beach — in just a moment, he mumbled:

“My youth's on you. Counting on ya.”

The words floated into my ears. And so I decided to help out.

I'm a total adolescent guy (青春男). It might look like it's pronounced Ao-Haru-O, but I emphasize:

It's pronounced Seishun Otoko. Earnest to the point of stupidity.

Honestly, I had no clue why things ended up like this.

Am I entwined with something? I don't know, but I am currently swept up with it. That's what I thought.

But, well, who cares about the little thing?

Occasionally helping others get Youth-points sounds good too.

Especially if it's a five pointer, I will share the same glory.

### 016. Chapter 7: The Prayer of Tsiolkovsky

## Chapter 7 - The Prayer of Tsiolkovsky

"He was brought away by the gods."

That's what Tamura Obaa-chan said twenty eight years ago, when her husband, the Ojii-chan, passed away.

I was only twelve at the time, about to attend middle school the following year.

"It was a cattle mutilation — it must have been.”

From the farewell ceremony, the interment till home, Obaa-chan never cried. At the time, her face could still be called 'Oba-chan,' and there were less wrinkles. But she cried till her face was like now… Of course that'd never happened. For us bystander, she looked unmoved.

Even though it's already dusk, she sat in front of the register and ran the store. The grown-ups all said she's traumatized and pitied her. My brother dragged me there, where we sat quietly and listened to Obaa-chan's story.

“The gods are terrible beings. Unlike with other animals, they never take away the organs, but only the souls of people before leaving the body. Jii-san's body was very much pristine.”

After going to sleep, Ojii-chan never woke up. His face was peaceful, even though he wasn't that old.

The cause of death was unknown. Doctors looked over him, but they never found the reason. Perhaps because of that, Obaa-chan thought he was taken by the gods.

“People are gods' toy, as well as guinea pigs — such cruelty.”

Nii-san silently ate his chocolate popsicle; because the stick didn't say 'freebie,' he frowned — at least that's what he wanted us to think.

Nii-san, who loved Ojii-chan the most, cried in his futon after making sure everyone else went to sleep. We pretended to be asleep, staring as he sobbed. No one joined him.

Obaa-chan looked up to the alien signature personally forged by Objii-chan. It looked just like the signatures of baseball players I've seen on TV. “Plagiarism.” Obaa-chan grumbled.

At then, I didn't know what to say to Obaa-chan.

Since I had no comment, I merely questioned like usual:

“Are gods aliens?”

Obaa-chan squeezed a face full of wrinkles, either crying or laughing:

“Yes, the gods are aliens. That's why so many things are beyond our control.”

On the day that I woke to that dream, I had turned forty. June 6th, an easily memorized birthday.

“Really...” I used to play the sister character pretty well too! Just kidding! “Uwoahh...” Stiff shoulder in the morning already.

To escape the ceiling of reality, I rolled over on the bed. Ughh, can't move. Must be because of the sore on my leg.

“Ow, ow...” In their competition, the sore of the leg seemed worse than the shoulders'. My calves refused to work, currently boycotting; as if to wake me up, the pain and heat rose higher and higher.

“Towel… Uwoah.” Can't raise my right arm. The upper arm ruined the team formation, obstructing all efforts. Who would have known that the capturing activity from two days ago would show its repercussion today?

“But!” My tongue and jaw doesn't hurt when I move. “I'm seriously getting old.” How could you say that!

“E-easy peasy!” One-legged hop, step, and hop. I lightly… crawled up. After a bit of effort, I rolled to the side and got up on the table. Ughh, my waist… Is this the result of bending my back while stalking forward? I'll take the day off. Ah, but I still have to go feed 'them.'

Perhaps exhausted, I seemed to have woken up at a time that's highly inappropriate for functional adults. Glancing at the clock, I learned that it's past eleven.

Slowly taking off my pajama, I pulled open the pink curtain. Clear lights rare during the rain season suffused outside: it was a sunny day. But the rain was sneaking up. In the forty years of my life, I became disliking of the month. Because, it symbolized the time of separation.

Elliot, Ojii-chan, and even Nii-san becoming a June's groom in a different town— they all counted as departure. Then, there's my age. Especially my age. “Heeyah~” I attempted to intimidate someone with a mantis pose. With nothing covering me, this might be too much for any young men.

“It'd be bad for Mako-kun's growth!” Mm, mm~ I stopped, playing as an educator. If Nii-san visits and gave me a 'I picked the wrong person…' it'd be troubling. So, I treat my niece like a cat.

Clothing finished. Makeup… Whatever. Just give it a good smudge before leaving.

I rummaged through the dressing table and found the pain relief patches. I've been using these too much recently, and I think the smell's transferring onto me. I peeled yesterday's off and slapped the new one on my leg. “Kyah~” The cold sensation made me jump; the feeling is almost becoming a high. Is this patch addiction?

“Okay~” I walked around the room. After getting used to it, I noticed it hurt more when I stand still.

Wandering around, I contemplated. Thinking — my essence, and my all.

Today is Meme-chin's birthday~ Laundry or cleaning, I'm not gonna do it~

“Uwoh~” Imagination. Telling Erio my birthday. “H-happy...” I'm not happy at all!

“Uwoh~” Imagination number two. Telling Mako-kun my birthday. “Oh, happy birthday.” I just said I'm not… Gah!

“Uwoh~” Imagination number three. A cake with forty candles. Because of the abundant candles, it looks like a mountain of swords for flower arrangement. When I blew on the candles 'fuu' the flame set Erio's hair on fire. She rolled in a panic. The table that's been knocked over. The turkey and everyone's faces are messed up. What a tragedy!

“Hnng~” I put my hand up against my chin. “Ow!” The scratches on the back of my hand stung still. I'm not too popular with animals other than humans! I've been bullied before in elementary school by a band of rabbits during feeding duty. My brother, on the other hand, could lead a band with chickens, rabbits and ducks behind him. Is it because of some smell on him? For me, the only smell he has is of home.

“Sniff, sniff...” I tried smelling myself. No old people smell yet. Of course not! Rude.

“Okay~!” Let's think about what to do. Cleaning, laundry, cooking, feeding, working, playing with Mako-kun and bugging people. How should I begin? Having so many chores to pick from, I almost cried.

Alright. I extended both arms like wings and bolted outside:

“First, tease Mako-kun!”

Then I'll think about today's stuff.

After harassing Mako-kun like I promised, I hummed my way out of his room but almost slid off the stairs. Both my mental and physical energy had been depleted; my body had reached its maximum. Due to overusing, my back was as if carrying the weight a bicycle front wheel has to endure. Both my leg and waist were in a pinch. This… is a little… I can't. I didn't want to go out today. It is my birthday, so they'll understand. Mm, I'll take the day off.

But I still have to go to the school… Ugh.

I'll just focus on making the rocket in my room. Prototype number 1 is about to be completed.

Since I've decided, I will now take my special leave. I picked up the phone speaker placed next to the entrance. “Beep, beep, beep.” Although the number's already registered, my fingers still keyed in the memorized digits.

I waited for the part-timer cutie who should be working now.

“...Hello? Looking at this number, is it the manager?”

“Yes~ Actually, I feel like there's something happening today, so I can't move.”

“From what I can understand in that sentence, I'm guessing you're just being lazy.”

“Marvelous! So you'll ace the literacy exam, won't you?”

“Mm~ Well, I think it should at least be better than math...”

“About work, just listen to the substitute manager.”

“… The backup being better than the starter is indeed something worth considering.”

“It's just a name; the management right just so happened to have fallen into my laps! Goodbye~!”

Clank, I hung up. Phew~ I was nervous like during middle school whenever I asked for a leave because I wanted to slack off.

Perhaps due to moving constantly, I've acclimated to the sluggishness of my leg. Now my arm's acting up and I can't get it higher than my heart. Yet I tried to hide the sore from the family. Why? Because it felt lame. For humans, appearance is vital! And not just the inside.

Mm~ An easy life without the usage of arms… Oh right! Bingo~ The bulb shone.

I just need to cover myself in futon. Hohoh, learning something from my daughter, I must be gettin— still young! My learning ability is still ripe! Yahoo! That’s it!

After seeing Mako-kun and Erio, who were going somewhere, off, I went back to my room where the futon was still inside. Then, with the laundry rope, I tied the futon and crawled inside. Perfect. It's warm. It's hot. And stuffy. Is this a sauna? I can't even see a thing.

No, I saw darkness. The remnant of light also drifted in my eyes. The perfect night was absent in the futon. I tried rolling. Easily done; hence I rolled ceaselessly, keeping the speed low out of fear of running into the wall. I thought more about things. But In the end, I ended up being an adult who had to shoulder these burdens.

“Forty~ Sigh...”

What did Tamura Obaa-chan think when she turned forty?

What did the fifteen-year old Erio see in this murk?

What I saw, was the small-scale replay of memories— a time machine.

✩

The afternoon on the following day, Nii-san and his wife called. Their target, needless to say, was their son Mako-kun. If the phone does ring, I doubt Erio, who has no social sense, would pick up. But if it went off during daytime on the days when no one is home, would she answer? If she does, and it's someone I know, how would I explain? I pondered about the scenarios.

Except for some relatives, I hid the existence of Erio. Adults, after all, have things to consider.

After exchanging with Mako-kun, I had him pass me the phone. A familiar breathing came into my ear. That stubborn forty-two years old even breathes with rules. How does he not suffocate?

“...Hm? Makoto?”

“Helo-ine! Coca-ine!” Let's do some drugs first, then do more!

“Sorry, wrong number. I'll check the number, date and person and call back later.”

“Ah, don't hang up! You're just like Mako-kun, hmph!”

“Listen… Are you giving my son a hard time?”

“You used to only talk with your girlfriend for forever, I've always wanted to beat the crap out of you...”

“You're just the same old, huh… It was your birthday yesterday, right?”

“You remember?”

“Of course.”

“So where's that birthday present?”

“Did you know? June 6th is Brother's day. Shouldn't you be giving me something instead?” (TL notes)

“You jerk, I'm gonna give your wife evidence of you cheating!”

“I'm hanging up.”

“Wait, I have a question for you.”

Timing when Erio left the entrance, I cut to the chase.

“Why do you always take so long to get to your point? What is it?”

“Nii-san, you used to scare women away, but not animals, right?”

“I'm hanging up.” Good, she's gone.

“Tell me the secrets to getting close with animals.”

“How would I know? Go feed them with bones or something.”

“You're so cold! Omigewdness!” (TL Notes: Acchonburike あっちょんぶりけ the catch phrase of Pinoko from Back Jack)

“You're so annoying. You have a pet cat or dog now?”

“I even have a pet wild weasel!”

“That's not even a pet! You just wanted animal therapy to avoid facing dying alone as a city grandma, right?”

“Your adorable son is in my hand right now. If you want him back as a virgin, don't mention my age again.” (TL notes: I thought about changing this, but nah)

“Then are you building a Meme animal kingdom? Ahh~… Secrets, huh. Secrets? Was there any?”

“Nii-san, stop thinking and actually say something.”

“You are just so infuriating when you make sense. How about having them open up to you?”

“Where do I open on them?”

“I don't know. Now I'm really lost. Anyway, in simple terms.”

“Mm.”

“Use your head.”

“You're really unfit to be a teacher. Didn't you contributed to national by getting booted off the teacher certification exam?”

“Isn't thinking what you're good at?”

“True, but people al~ways think that I'm not thinking.”

“Must be your face.”

“Ah, cuz everyone's so mesmerized?”

“… Thinking is one good thing you have — take care of it.”

“And the one bad thing you have, Nii-san, is looking down on your sister so much! Make sure you get better with that!”

“I'm hanging up.”

“Mm, I'm going to make dinner too. I'm going to fatten your adorable son and make foie gras out of him✩”

“Before you go, let me give you a bit of advice.” He sudden lowered his voice and sped up.

“Wh~at?”

“Burn the evidence.”

He hung up. Beep, beep, the speaker rung, trying to resonate Nii-san's words.

“I was just kidding.” I grinned satisfactorily.

What will the kindling in my hand burn?

But that's another story.

✩

June 8th, one more day passed. 206 days until New Year, and two days after my birthday.

In the morning, while eating a slightly early breakfast, Mako-kun reported that 'Erio said she wants to work.' I mixed the Natto, giving off the appearance that I was still asleep and pretended that I wasn't listening. What I considered wasn't the will that Erio wanted to work with, but how to get her work. As for the carrying out the act itself, I will hand it to Mako-kun for now.

“I'm heading out!” After eating and preparing, I hollered from the entrance. Erio, who had woken up, charged down the stairs to wave at me with a 'have a nice day.' Erio-chan is such a good girl. Complimenting her being like myself yesterday was the right choice~ Eeheehee. Of course I didn't think that — especially the latter part.

Leaving the door, I went into the storage. Faced with my love ride, my calves continued to twitch painfully; but I lightly brushed it off. Saddling onto the bicycle that was new four years ago, I began to pedal slowly.

Ring, ring! I rung on the bell to raise my morale. Ring ring~ Ring ring~ Ring ring~!

“Shut up!” My niece reminded me from the opened window on second floor. “Was that a whip of love?” With that question, he immediately answered with an indifferent 'It's a whip of death!' He sounded just like my brother when he's young.

“I'm heading out~” I looked to the cloudy sky and waved at him. “Yes, yes, please look ahead when you ride.” Mako-kun, too, lightly waved at me. Mm, Mako-kun's 'tsun' is really hard, just like the rice in our house. If he ever becomes 'dere,’ though, he will never let go. How exciting!

With enthusiasm as fuel, I pedaled toward the store I’ve missed for three days. This wasn’t just starting late because I’m on management, but the privilege of being able to come whenever I want. Thus I didn’t sulk, instead rode on with head held high. Like a bird dancing through the air, I almost gracefully flew into the warning sign of a construction site. Now was not the time for silly mistakes!

Penetrating through the workers and students who were on their way to work or school, I took the back alley to the shopping districts. I used to dash through here — and trip. Even though I was the fastest in the group, I was often also the most oblivious. Thanks to the fall, though, I never ran directly into the street and hence the scooters or trucks along the way. I like to think it's a good thing. Actually, the same applies now as well: the bicycle that moved slowly due to my sore leg just avoided running into an orange moped. We will never know what is truly auspicious for them. Every cloud has a silver lining — the same applies for Momo-tarou’s story. The grandma cried about ‘I don’t wanna go do laundry by the river. I don’t even wanna move! Your turn, old man. Might as well be naked, too! What do we got to lose at this age? Build a new house next to the river while you're at it!’ or something like so to emphasize her laziness; when she unwillingly went to the river, she found the peach. After ten years, the son or grandson born of the peach beat the crap out of the local monster, and they found themselves swimming in gold. What I mean is, the domino of destiny is very intriguing. (TL Notes: Story of Momo-tarou, in which a boy born of a peach flowing down a river defeated the demons on an island with a monkey, pheasant, and dog. His grand/parents are an old couple)

Riding down a short slope, I let my limbs free to enjoy the much anticipated autopilot. The wheels spun successfully today, leading me down the hill like on a slide. It was awesome. Usually, it would swirl around.

After taking the time that’s not even excusable for management, but ghost members, I arrived at the store. I parked the bicycles in the corner of the parking lot and went into the back door. I thought about sneaking in, but in the end I walked in with my chest high.

Inside the substitute manager was already preparing to open. Her dexterous movements dazzled, as if encouraging the eyes that followed her to train hard. Substitute manager, Komaki-chan, noticed my presence and bowed lightly. The hair that poured to her shoulder politely drooped with its owner.

“Good morning, manager. It’s been three days.”

“Yup, it’s been three days for me too. It’s weird, but I think we’re on equal ground!”

“I’m always surprised that your brain doesn’t disagree with how biased its usage is.”

Her tone seemed simply impressed. “Was that a compliment?”

“Absolutely.”

“Oh yay~!”

I tried cheering for it. Koma-chan disapprovingly stared at me as if saying ‘amazing.’ But it didn’t last long. She looked back to the work on hand. Because of the serious and dedicated person that she is, this store managed to survive. Or rather, am I still needed?

“Do you want to be the manager?’

Everything is worth a try, so I asked. “No thanks.” Koma-chan denied the promotion without raising a brow.

“The only reason people work hard is because you are the boss.”

You’re good as a negative example. My brother, who failed many of his job applications, complained to me before.

“Thanks to you, boss, the part timer from last month is also very hardworking.”

“Ah, what’s that pretty girl’s name? Uh… I don’t remember at all.”

“What was it?”

The girl’s overwhelming appearance trivialized her other relevant information.

“That aside… So, I’ll keep the title of manager…?”

“Yeah, you have a surprisingly strong presence. That’s not too bad, right? Being the mascot manager.”

“Heheh, then I will keep it. My ex also told me this: using the metaphor of a village with a hundred people for earth and humans, I think you are worth about five people.”

“Those five are definitely not humans.”

Koma-chan grinned wryly and began doing something else. She’s such a diligent sweetheart, yet she only wrote down ‘being sound-minded’ in the specialty part of her resume. “Well, I thought it over, but it’s seriously the only thing I could think of.”

I recall when she said that while scratching her cheek like it was yesterday.

“For someone who skipped work, you look tired. Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. But I’m still not going to work.”

That’s right. Koma-chan exaggeratedly nodded:

“So, a boy came here yesterday and asked a strange hypothetical question. Oh, he was a customer.”

“Mm? What was the question?”

“Hypothetically, if half the human were to be eliminated, are you confident that you will stay in the remaining half? He said it was taken straight from the afterword of a novel.”

“Huh. So what did you tell him?’

“’Thank you, please come again.’ Then I handed over what he bought.”

“Was he impressed with how professional we are?”

“Well, he did force a smile.”

I sat down on a chair, elbows on knees, and observed Koma-chan working. Stare~ Stare. “Jiiii~”

“Please don’t pretend to be a cicada indoor.” (TL Notes: the onomatopoeia for staring in Japanese is じいい)

Inspection complete! I am bored. I stood and knocked the chair away with my butt:

“I’m leaving for a bit~”

“Remember to be back before snack time!”

“Ahaha, I will work hard next month! I’m counting on ya~”

Swinging my handbag, I skipped out of the store. I wasn’t even there for ten minutes.

Jumping onto the unlocked bike that seemed to have predicted the outcome of things, I yelled ‘woohoo~!’ and flew onto the streets. The acceleration wasn’t too bad, but my legs were still too flaccid to keep up with the speed. After stabilizing, the wheels finally lost all their initial speed.

The destination, Tamura Shop. Ring ring, clank clank… Sigh~

✩

“Hah… Hah…” Panting heavily since the middle of the trip, I reached Obaa-chan’s house. When I got off, I stood on my toe for a second; like the sports injury drawn in hot-blooded sports manga, my left calve twitched intensively. Ultimately it was solved with a bit of cold sweat. Mm, good thing I didn’t work before coming here.

I looked back to the place that seemed to be the territory of that seemingly stray dog. I’ll find and capture him later.

Insisting on taking on the badly installed door on the right, I finally cracked open a slit that only a slim person like me could fit through after almost shaking the door out of its frame. Though my shoulders were almost stuck, I still forced my way through the opening. As usual, the siren-like doorbell screamed. I raised my head, looking down only after gawking for a bit.

“… Sigh.” Despite waiting, Obaa-chan never came to the front. Maybe she couldn’t. When her legs aren’t doing so good, she can’t get up from her bed; even if she managed to crawl out of the room, she could never make it to the bathroom… No matter how many times I suggested to have a care taker, she rejected the notion.

A hint of disappointment dragged my feet. I took off my shoes and entered the residence. As if the unseasonal snow that fell outside sucked all sounds away, the hallway was deathly silent. The air, too, was frigid, filled with the mien of ruin incompatible with human breathes.

I didn’t knock, directly pulling open the door in the middle of the hall. The pancake laid in the center bulged slightly. Seeing the tiny movement of breathing, I exhaled.

“I was about to go to the store!”

The usual words that sounded like an excuse made me smile. Obaa-chan’s shaky hand appeared on edge of the futon that covered even her head. She seemed to know who the visitor was without looking and said: “Meme, could you put my hand where the glasses are?”

“Yep.” How capricious of her, I smilingly slid next to the pillows. I held her hand and wrist — a thin, wrinkled and untoned wrist.

Despite my eyes deteriorating from age, I could still see clearly how emaciated her arm has become. Despite the bangs that draped and blocked my sight, reality was unabatedly displayed in front of me.

“Your hand.” She slightly squeezed back on my hand.

“Eh?’

“This is a blindfold riddle, right? Too easy.”

She happily guessed on her own, seemingly saying ‘don’t look down on me!’ This granny… Her mouth really doesn’t know the meaning of deterioration.

“Correct.” I praised her first before handing the reading glasses to her. I planned on letting go after putting her hand back into the futon. But Obaa-chan continued feeling my hand. For a second I thought she was writing something, but the trace contained no pattern.

“Obaa-chan?”

“Oh, your skin is still pretty smooth. Looks like you’re doing well.”

You could have just looked at my face!

After a while, Obaa-chan let go and put on her glasses, only peeking out from the futon.

Her lowered face grabbed my attention.

“Why did you come here?”

“To see you, Obaa-chan. Good morning.”

“Hmph, the same thing every time. Since when have you become such a boring kid?”

So from Obaa-chan’s view, I’m still a kid? No, wait! I think I’ve actually been branded the nickname of ‘big kid’ by other relatives! According to rumors anyway.

In other words, I’m still young! Woohoo! That’s right, woo!

“I’m already a grown-up.” But I still have to emphasize.

“Idiot. Grown-ups don’t play around at this time.”

“What about Obaa-chan?”

“Can't you tell I'm working at home?”

“Then I’m also running some errands.”

“You sure can run your mouth.”

Obaa-chan criticized me with the uncongenial attitude of both happy and cynical. She rustled both legs out of the futon, looking just like a turtle with front legs retracted.

“I’m going to do laundry, so I’ll take your clothes for you.”

“Fool, didn’t I tell you to go work instead of taking care of people?

“Or do you want to take a shower?”

“I’ll do that later. For now… Well, talk.”

“Talk…” The chatty Obaa-chan actually handed the job of talking to me.

“My tongue isn’t working too well today.”

Obaa-chan said so with a poker face. I hope it was just a joke.

“…Oh, the town’s animals seem to be disappearing recently.”

I shamelessly brought the topic up. “Wha?” Obaa-chan first scowled, and then understandingly looked away:

“I knew that from a week ago.”

“And it’s still happening! I heard that the stray cats and dogs all disappeared from the town.”

“Hmph. Cattle mutilation, huh.”

Obaa-chan mumbled amusingly. Those were muffled words difficult to understand.

“Oh, there wasn’t any body though!”

“The type that leave the bodies behind is already proven. Mysterious disappearance is always cattle mutilation, has to be.”

She hid both legs back into the futon. Obaa-chan’s smiling face, like that of a young prankster, was the collective of wrinkles. Not a solid sign of energy on there: like a kite, she was held together only by skin and bones. A kite floating in the daily breeze; if the wind were to pick up — and it doesn’t even need to be a gale — it will be torn into pieces, and crash.

“Are you excited?” My eyes hovered in the room as I spoke.

“For what?’

“Cattle Mutilation. The aliens might just be somewhere in this town.”

Obaa-chan laughed, like reacting to a kid saying 'I won't sleep till Santa is here!'

“Even if they are, you can’t see them!”

“Can you really declare something you’ve never seen as invisible?” Even though the phrasing is contradictory.

“They must be here right now. I bet you can’t see them.”

“If I were to rampage through this room, could I wipe them out?” I said so while rolling my sleeve up.

I was actually kind of serious. Perhaps noticing that, Obaa-chan casually pretended to have not hear me:

“It'll be my turn soon.”

“You’ve been saying that since twenty years ago. Is it still true?”

“Hmph… People who have expectation in fools must also be idiots themselves.”

“Uweh?”

“Stop making those disgusting sound. You really haven’t changed; both your face and personality are still off the hinge.”

“Oh yeah. Nii-san always said that I can emit Y*metaran radiation.” (TL Notes: Referring to Yametaran from the Ultraman TV series. Yametaran can emit a radiation that sedate people and make them lazy)

It’s about time for a new topic. I messed my bangs up, sorting out the uncertainly in my voice with a ‘ahh~’

“Obaa-chan.”

“Mm.”

“What did you think of when you turned forty?”

“Forty… Right, your birthday was last week?”

“Eh? Yes.” Before protesting to her about reminding me of my age, I was shocked with how she remembered.

And she even remembered my age.

Obaa-chan’s feet once again crept out of the futon. This time she tiptoed with her tiny feet, advancing slightly. The toes that pressed into the tatami allowed Obaa-chan to move another two centimeters. She planned to leave the room — took me two seconds to realize this.

“Obaa-chan, are you going to the restroom?” I stuck my hand beneath to support her.

“Stu~pid. I was going to give you a present. A snack of your choice on the house.”

“Haha, this brings me back!” Just like old time. Before I turned twelve, was I able to hop joyfully every year?

What’s different now is, I can no longer freely follow Obaa-chan's back.

I put Obaa-chan on my back. I intended to help her anyway.

“I can usually walk; today just happened to be a bad day.” Obaa-chan explained bitterly above my head.

“Yep, I know.” Her voice was raspy. The lips, unstable, felt just like her skins.

“Ah, it’s, uh, muscle sore. I tried to lift a box of cola yesterday, so my waist is sore.”

“What a coincidence! I left work early today because my legs are sore!”

“…You will never be someone who can walk on your own two feet.”

Obaa-chan was reprehensive; my heart only ached.

Even with pained muscle, I did not feel burdened carrying her — Obaa-chan has become so light.

The damp skin festered with pus.

I stopped. Eyes closed. With my tongue as guidance, I deeply, deeply breathed.

I refuse. Someone other than me wanted to use my mouth to say something.

“What? Are you tired? …A certain old man should have told you: where you lack strength and brain, make up with will! Well, not that your will is worth any expectation.”

“Obaa-chan.”

“Don’t tell me to get off, ahahah!” She lost her voice halfway through the laughter.

“I will defeat them.”

“What, your slacking tendencies?”

“No, those are my pets.” Nyahaha~ I glossed over with a laugh and opened my eyes.

Go forward. Then, I thought of something:

“Um… Obaa-chan?”

“Mm?”

“I want to send you a great worker…”

How about letting Erio work here? I think this time, it has to be the best idea.

✩

Weekend, ‘June Twelfth’ was completed. The rocket was simply and whimsically named after its day of completion. Just as bad as naming the kid Erio after her father Elliot. ‘That’s fine’ I’m currently looking for a man who could say the same. Actually, I don’t think I am.

“Yay~ It’s done~ Zoom~”

I lifted the newly-born rocket high with both hands and ran around the room. Ahh, being able to relive my youth… Ugh, the storm of complaints for me are as cruel as usual.

No. This is the gap that will excite everybody. Uh, I hope. Pshuu~ ...Mm, since this is a rocket, it should be silent after it reaches space. Though it is a little unromantic, flying with no sound.

“Test flight complete.” Next time, I'll use hydro power to test it.

Mako-kun and Erio both stepped out for their ill-prepared job hunt, so the house was devoid of noises and eyes. Since there's no need to be surreptitious, I just walked out with the rocket.

A clear day with patches of clouds; it might rain tonight though. In order to finish before they come back, I strapped the rocket tightly on the bicycle's back rack. As for work, I am of course running ‘errands’ outside again. I even forgot to put make up on, heheh!

I kicked off on the bicycle, in hope that it would finally rid my calves of sore that's finally let up. My destination: the abandoned farm school. I have to take care of the animals and test the rocket.

Ring, ring, clank, clank… Getting there is one thing, but why do I always ring the bell when I ride? Is this one of those 'everyone's seven habits?' (TL Note: The Japanese idiom無くて七癖, literally mean ' has to have seven habits,' which means 'everyone has his particular habits')

Parking the bicycle inside the school where the field with greenhouses is, I detached the rocket after locking up. “Yahoo~!” I charged forward, rocket in hand, like a surfer toward the beach.

First, break into the school from the door with broken lock. I left the rocket near the hallway's entrance to standby. Stepping barefoot on the lino floor, I felt a moisture that smoothed my feet.

Climbed up to the second floor in cold air like the one in Obaa-chan's house, I arrived at the office and opened its door. They really didn't care about this place, never locking up and all.

Even till now, I still disliked the musty air within. I picked up the animal feed on the table and left the way I came. Then I began the caring of animals that are each living luxuriously in their own room.

Each of them were full of spirit, baring their cute teeth at me unwelcomingly. “Open your mind~!” Gulped down with my brother's advice, I tried talking to them — to no avail. The advices simply lodged in my throat. I wasted more time and energy than needed feeding and cleaning the animals; finally, I moved onto the third floor. Up there was the new dog brought from around Obaa-chan's house. Perhaps he thought the classroom's smell was interesting, the dog sniffed everywhere.

On the way up the stairs, I almost heard Nii-san's laughter: “So this is what you 'thought of?” No, Nii-san, I am still thinking. This is only the process! I answered full of zeal.

Heyo~ I greeted the weasel and the dog, got nibbled by them, and then fed them.

Due to the food's cost exceeding the prediction, the war of attrition had been difficult. It's about time. With the thought in mind, I brought the rocket here today. The aliens are not in space — they hid in places closer to us.

I put the rest of the feed back in the reference room after taking care of all the animals; on the first floor, I scooped up the bottle rocket laying on the green hallway.

I put on my shoes and dashed to the track field. It may be our first time meeting, but I think it's safe to assume that he won’t bite me. I mean, he didn't look like a guy who will try and harm me!

Passing through the walkway between buildings, I moved toward the field where a factory-looking research building was visible. To the left was a dried swimming pool. When this school was still running, we would make up plans to sneak into the pool during night, and, like preparing for a field trip, we'd get super excited.

But in the end, we never did.

“Excuse me~”

In the middle of the field, the man again prepared for rocket launching today. I gregariously greeted him. Wearing a saggy suit that's never had a chance with an iron, he looked about my age… Whoa! This dude looks super young! A college senior? Looking for a first job?! If that were true, then I am, naturally, also a beautiful twenty-two years old college student… Shucks.

The man looked to be about thirty something, at least. On his right ear was a curious accessory; the 'failing-to-look-younger' fashion accessory drew my eyes, but ‘trendy’ is probably the least possible of what people would think of it.

“Whoa!” The rocketeer jumped, stopping his task of pumping the tire inflator. Though with no joy of 'a fellow rocketeer hath come!' he didn't actually appear fearful of a suspicious person — his reaction was comparable to a boy who was approached by a cute girl whom he didn't think he had a chance with.

“Nice meeting you! This is my—“ Ah, I wanted to use the business card. But it's something from thirty nine years old! It might end up as age forgery if I gave it to him. Not 'might,' but 'definitely.' Frustration grew.

“D-did you say 'nice meeting you'?” The rocketeer licked his lips while leaning forward peevishly.

“Yes?”

“No, I mean, you're joking, right?” His eyes blinked left and right.

“About what?”

“You're Meme, I mean— Touwa, right?”

Oops, he's got both first and last name right. An old friend?

“I lived here till middle school, so… Do you remember?”

The man fretfully gestured in a panic, begging recognition from my past. Why does he look like he's about to burst into tears? Does he want me to use a metaphoric bee on him? (TL Notes: Japanese idiom 泣きっつらに蜂. Literally translating to 'run into a bee while crying.' It's similar in meaning to a double whammy)

“Mm...” I placed a finger on my temple, eyes shut as if praying. Now playing memory. '”When was the last we met?”

“At least twenty years ago.”

“Mm, mm.” I reset the time and reminisced.

...Ah, could he be?

“Yamamoto-kun?”

“Wha—! Even with 'kun' added you didn't get a single syllable right!”

“But I probably remember now.”

“Not even my name was included in 'probably…' What exactly did you recall...?” Yamamoto-kun (subject to change) hung his head.

“No, I'm not kidding! I almost remember.”

“Ah, then do you still remember Seiji (星耳)?”

Looking up now, he asked in confirmation.

“Yeah, she's my friend.”

“I thought we were friends too…”

As for Seiji, she's a girl same age as I. She was a friend who moved elsewhere after revealing her pregnancy at highschool.

In the people I knew, she was the smartest who always played the famous detective in detective games.

“I heard she passed away, a long time ago too. Did you know?”

“No, I didn't. I see… She's gone, huh.” I felt surprised, but the acceptance came rather easily, not unlike mismatched wheels spinning.

I thought I shouldn’t have went to her funeral, but sighed in relief at the realization that I didn't have to see her in the coffin.

Whatever the case is, the gods are all morons!

“Since you know Seiji, we must be friends.”

“That's good enough for me. So, put all of your 'almost' together.”

“You are a friend who moved out of town twenty years ago.”

“That’s exactly what I just told you...”

He looked down dejectedly. I hope he doesn't guilt trip me so much next time.

“Did I just not stand out?”

Laughing weakly, he stared with anticipation. Should I just go along and laugh with him? It might end up being the fuse to make this Yamamoto-kun collapse in tears.

“Since when were you back here?”

I put up a nostalgic attitude and questioned. Considerate Meme, activate.

“Just last month. I quit my job and came home.”

Yamamot-kun grinned, tricked into a seemingly normal conversation. As if under the control of habit, he pressed on the inflator, once again pumping air into the bottles.

“Oh, by the way, I'm single.” Okay, so what?

Abruptly, a 'moo' echoed in the field. I turned to search for the origin, but no movements in sight matched the sound.

“An animal?” Still, It’s a little too loud to be them.

“Yeah, can you see the barn there? There’s a cow living there still.”

Yamamoto-kun pointed toward the campus at a direction that's different than where I usually come in. I had no idea. I have, however, seen the runways for horses there.

“Sometimes I feed it when I'm shooting rockets here. I’m actually starting to like it!”

“Yeah, it’s super healing!” Like, the biting and scratching.

“I think it’s the best when you can’t understand each other. Humans interaction is boring because it’s too easy to understand.”

He surmised like he's reached some peak of human relations, nodding contently:

“So what are you doing here? Don't you work?”

“I had little this and that. By the way, I want you to help me with this rocket.”

I came looking for the rocket-shooting weirdo; only, surprisingly, the other person (seemed to) knew me.

“Oh, sure. I'll give ya a hand.”

Yamamoto-kun stuck both hands out to catch it.

“So, why shoot rockets here?”

“Uh, eh… Oh, it's kinda like a hobby! Since I don't work anymore, I have a bit of time… So, uh...Hm.”

He put his own rocket on the side and took mine suspiciously:

“I love space, so I shoot these rockets. Yeah, that's it.”

“Oh~” As dubious as the motive seemed, I'm not particularly interested anyway, so I let him off.

“Oh yeah. I've never see her, but I heard your daughter is, uh, interested in space?”

“Eh? Yes, she is.”

So he even knew about my kid? With what he said about Seiji, he's pretty well-informed for someone who just came back last month.

“What a coincidence, me too.”

“You just told me that.” Does this Yamamoto think I'm senile?

“Just as I thought, there's a lot of people who like space here, huh.”

I don't. Not since the funeral twenty-eight years ago.

“So why are you shooting rockets too, Touwa? Are you interested in m— Uh, I mean, are you interested in it…?”

“It’s to defeat them.” Overlooking the field, I so declared.

Yamamoto-kun gawked at my forehead. He then patted his waist twice:

“Defeat… who?”

“The aliens.”

“...With a bottle rocket?” He looked down at the rocket he held.

“At least it'd do better than get rid of cats, right?” (TL Notes: A popular belief is that plastic bottles filled with water confuse or scare cats)

“These can't even hit airplanes though. Do these aliens ride around on birds?”

Yamamoto-kun smiled wryly with head cocked, but still agreed to help with the launching. His movement was concise, very practiced. He has always been nimble… Has he? Mm, I don't know.

He picked up the hose dragged from the water fountain and injected water into the bottle; he then suddenly pumped air energetically. So there's still running water here even though it's abandoned.

Yamamoto-kun finally finished preparation and kneeled down in front of the launch platform.

“You are… just far enough from the rocket, good.”

“Yep.”

“Then… Look closely, here we go.”

“Yep.”

“Three, two, one…!”

Zero. As I finished counting down inside, the rocket soared.

The shaken-carbonated drink burst, boiling and recoiling.

With the stream pushing, the bottle brought with it dust from the ground and drove toward the sky.

Its path wasn’t straight, wriggling left and right. Perhaps, that was why it never reached its apex.

Compared to Yamamoto-kun’s rockets, which I often peered at, the altitude wasn’t nearly enough.

However…

“It’s way faster than my Salamander (name I just gave for my bike)!”

Being able to see something going up at such a close audience, I was slightly taken aback.

“Ain’t it cool?”

Possibly because of sharing the same excitement with someone else, Yamamoto-kun grinned excessively. Mm, his smile is not quite composed enough though. I think a more collected face is manlier.

“But that rocket wasn’t very stable: the wing sizes were probably too different.”

While feeling joyous, Yamamoto-kun calmly observed me — he probably got used to watching me.

“Hoh, so I need to study a little more!” For the sake of assassinating the aliens.

I retrieved the rocket that, despite being blown around by the wind, finally landed in the campus. Yamamoto-kun, too, followed for some reason, his hands scratching the back of his head:

“Yeah, but someone actually makes better rockets than I do. In this town, I meant.”

“Oh~”

“So, uh… Where’s Elliot?”

“Elliot? He’s not here anymore. I don’t know where he is.” With his family, he moved again.

That reminds me, I’ve never met Elliot’s family. They had never come during parents visit days, and whenever I went to his house, he had always told me they were working or out shopping.

“I’ll make more rockets, so please shoot them for me!”

“Uh, sure, but…”

“Also, I have a favour I need to ask of you.” Good timing. It kind of felt like the guidance of fate.

“Oh, what is it? I can pretty much do anything for you! Yeah, whatever you want, just leave it to me.”

So just why did he fluster? It seemed like he was trying to convey how reliable he is with every word in that phrase. Question marks popped up in my head.

“Psst, psst…” After I requested the dubious Yamamoto-kun, ‘what?’ I met his upset face. “No?” I tried to push him further with a pathetic look.

“Well, uh… Fine! I get it. And it has to soon?”

“Yay~ Thanks! …Then, goodbye!”

“Yeah…”

We both waved vaguely at each other— “Touwa— I mean, Meme-cha—san!”

“Yes?” He hollered strangely as if calling me out for a duel. I turned.

“Uh, so… What I wanna say is… Would you… I mean, before… Or rather… Right, I have to be direct.”

He squirmed around like a girl, his toe drawing circles. Huh, that’s creepy. He’s like a bear pretending to a rabbit.

“…What is it, Yamamoto-kun?”

“I’m not Yamamoto!”

“Eh~ So what is your nam—“

“Marry me!”

“ W H A T ? “

My conscious was cut into eight separate lines. My, Meme didn’t understand a lick of it.

…Can’t I use ‘don’t understand’ to deal with this situation?

Without help of the setting sun, Yamamoto-kun lit up furiously. As for m-me...? How would I know!?

Disregard the cow mooing in the background.

Air circled my throat: I had nothing to say.

June 12th, eleven thirty, AM.

A man whose name I didn’t even know proposed to me.

✩

Except for before and after Ojii-chan’s funeral, I never went to the store with my brother anymore.

Nii-san made more school friends after he turned fourteen, and he couldn’t always come to the store. I’ve always thought that this was the line between being an elementary and middle school student. At the time I was in sixth grade, and I already had the hazy feeling that it was going to the last year I could keep going to the store. Elliot, too, was thinking the same thing, huh.

Elliot was a foreigner of my age. There was a huge house around where my family’s apartment was; he was the boy who lived there, and also almost every girl’s crush.

Elliot was a handsome boy; when he had just moved here, no one suspected him of a plastic surjer— surgery. He moved here with his family when he was six: he explained so when we just met. At the time, I thought he was the aliens that Tamura Obaa-chan and Ojii-chan were talking about.

His mysteriously colourless hair capable of reflecting all sorts of hue at different angles shot particles out lavishly — it was as if shining snow hid within. He had lucidly clear (although if it really was transparent, it'd be like a walking human anatomy model), pale skin, as well as defined and elegant features unlike the local's.

It's almost strange that he wasn't displayed in front of a train station like a statue.

Meme-chan, meaning me, fell in love with him on the first sight. I could rightfully say that he was my first love. Luckily, I became his first friend. Though we didn't get any further until a decade later. Interestingly and surprisingly, Elliot's first love didn't come to fruition.

I think the only person, in the past or the future, who could dump Elliot would be Seiji. According to her, Seiji said 'she disliked the part of Elliot that's like an alien' — hearing the comment, Elliot could only give a bitter smile of kindness.

Right after hearing that, I almost transformed into a monster, screaming every night: “Gwaahh! What a waste!” But twenty years since then, even I wonder about what sort of problem he had, considering that we aren't living together now. Well, I think I just couldn't see his flaw when we were young.

The twelve years old me and Elliot walked together to the grocery store. Just walking next to him was enough to make me lose calm. I had hoped that, maybe, if I absorb some of his bangs-particles, I'd become prettier. Heheh, not that I needed it! (Twenty-one year old me, debut!)

A month after Ojii-chan passed away, Obaa-chan restlessly ran her shop. A lot of older customers filled the store the week following Ojii-chan's funeral, but now was just the usual.

Seiji sat outside on the bench flipping through a novel. A bottle of ice water sat next to her, condensation covering it. Elliot happily talked to her while I quietly stared at the scene. As for the current me who's ruminating at the moment, it should just be deep contemplation.

I wonder— would Seiji still be alive, had she accepted Elliot's confession at the time and stayed here? But if that happened, Erio would never have been born, and that'd be problematic— my family, after all, is my main supplier of happiness points.

Entering the store, the siren-like device above the door would scream. I liked the feeling of secret base it created, so I always looked to it. “Welcome.” Obaa-chan coldly greeted. “Hello.” Erio and I responded together. I noticed, starting from that time, that Obaa-chan already didn't look well. Yet, I never brought it up with anyone else.

Elliot headed first to the drinks, while I the snack shelf. Since I promised dad that I'd only buy one snack a day, I deliberated. Spinning around the shelves, I nudged other people away. Eventually I casually made it to Elliot's side to eave drop on him, and, with some hope, join the conversation. Whenever I had the chance, I would always sneeeeak up next to Elliot.

He and a few other boys stood in front of the glass door of the fridge, pulling on each other while chatting.

“We make fireworks around here. Oh~ Well, meaning we sell fireworks! You've seen my dad's fireworks at last year's festival, right Elliot?”

“Yeah, I did.” Elliot nodded softly. And then, another boy followed:

“My parents sell flowers, especially for funeral stuff. Like when someone's grandpa died, I send flowers to them… Uh, that sounded bad.” Yep, it sure did!

Elliot replied with a confused smile. On the other hand, I noticed how both topics talked about flowers. (TL Notes: Firework 花火 literally translates to flower-fire)

It's then Elliot's turn to say what his family does, but he grinned, calling it a secret. “I don't really know either~” Once again he delivered smoothly, but it seemed like an excuse. Every time the topic of family is mentioned, Elliot would always gloss over like that. At times like such, even his distinctive presence would dissipate.

But forget about that; with Elliot as the center, the boys prattled. I could never butt in.

Ugh, it's one thing that boys are getting along, but I remember being rather infuriated. Though vexed, I still went back to pick my snack. Vent with sweets! I actually had no clue what that meant at the time, but eating delicious snack would always calm me down.

When I couldn't decide, I would usually pick smaller snacks. I don't remember the name, but I'd pick the pea-sized square candies. They were green or pink, and the texture was like mochi or gum while tasting sweet. I loved eating the little squares with the toothpick that came inside. (TL Notes: Kozakura mochi. Little square wagashi packaged like tablets)

With the plastic package in hand, I ran next to Obaa-chan. “I want this~” I handed it to her. “Alright, alright.” Obaa-chan then tapped on the register.

“Mm? What happened to your hand?”

Obaa-chan tilted her head questioningly after seeing my right hand. “Mm~?” I followed her to my finger tip. “Ah~” I remembered: “It was a cat. The grey one Nii-san brought home. It scratched me when I tried to touch it~”

“Hoh~ Again? Animals just hate you, don't they?”

“I know~ It's kinda funny.”

“I noticed that you always buy the same thing. Have you grown to be an idiot who likes to remember only one thing?”

“Eh~ I'm not an idiot. I got a hundred on a quiz last time.”

I paid before taking off my shoes and climbing next to Obaa-chan. She didn't say anything, only silently letting me sit there. Her wrinkled hands roughly rubbed my head:

“No, you are. All you need is to look at your parents' faces.”

“You're just being mean~” I opened the package casually sealed by a rubber band.

“Smart kids will never come here.”

As if deprecating herself, Obaa-chan spoke with a twisted smile:

“Kids come here because they're stupid— once they grew smart, they stopped coming. As for fools like Ojii-chan who never grew up, they inherit this kind of store. It's my parents' stores, so he could have just left it to close.”

“Aww!” I sensed that it sounded just like Nii-san; my spirit dampened: “I'll keep coming here! Even when I grow up, I'll still al~ways come.”

“Stupid. You have to work properly when you grow up… Well, it's my turn soon.”

“Turn? Do you want one too?” I skewered a piece and passed it to Obaa-chan's mouth.

'Don't want it' Obaa-chan brushed me off, and as if giving up, she mumbled:

“Cattle mutilation.”

A tiny explosion expanded in my eyes. I recalled— they were the words Obaa-chan mouthed after Ojii-chan's funeral. She had yet to cease her self-mocking tone:

“Your Ojii-chan and I are the same age. Following that order, shouldn't it be my turn soon?”

“Ehh~ But you can't!”

I pushed against Obaa-chan's hand, waving my hands raucously; the snacks fell everywhere.

“What do you want me to do…? Gods use alien technologies to hide themselves, so we can't see them; hence there is nothing I can do.”

Obaa-chan's words softened; rather than from kindness, it was more dejection.

Contrastingly, my emotion hopped from all sorts of places. I looked up, seeing the mustard-coloured face that lacked the circulation of health.

“Uwah, wuu~ I-I will take care of that cat-whatchamacallit!”

“Hoh~ How?”

Obaa-chan smiled maliciously as if asking a landmine-question.

My tiny brain couldn't think of anything, so I could only moan 'wu~wu~' and conclude. “I donno!” Due to brain cells being squashed, I gave up on thinking.

“See~ You are stupid.”

“But, I don't wanna Obaa-chan to be gone~ I~ don't~ wanna~!”

“Well thank you! Just stop kicking the floor, you're going to break it!”

Obaa-chan thanked hastily and patted my head. It wasn't my problem, but I almost cried. The imagination filled me with more loss than Ojii-chan's funeral.

“Mm, if you really want to do something, then think well. Think so well that even the toilet seats would move first. Even an idiot could come up with something after contemplating. Grandpa was also an idiot, but he'd always come up with some weird idea after two days of thinking.”

“...Wuu~”

“Why not just defeat them?”

The usually tranquil and calm voice interjected. It was Elliot.

Putting a bottled drink worth of coin on the register, he smiled at Obaa-chan and me.

Faced with the same smile, Obaa-chan hmphed, while my heart raced.

As though to confirm, Elliot said it again.

'Why not just defeat them?'

Maintaining that warm expression, he stated the simplest solution.

Then Elliot put the cola bottle next to his lips and chugged down.

Thinking about these things, I passed out in the bath.

A praposal, I mean, proposal. I escaped home and hid in the bathroom's tub. Why? I don't know why I hid in the tub. I was shaken, and before I realized it, I'm already viva non-non-ing in the hot water. (TL Notes: A reference to the song いい湯だな, nice hot water, of Japanese band 'The Drifters.' Viva non-non is chanted between verses)

I left the bathroom, boiled. Boiled~ spoiled~ spoiled. I lied down wearing nothing and crawled on the floor, enjoying the chilling sensation. It felt great on my burning skin, but the coolness left immediately, so I dragged slithered. Gecko crawl~ go back the way I came after reaching the entrance. The distance drew on and on~ Returning to the changing room, I stayed on the floor and put on my underwear and pajama.

“Gotta get up, gotta get up… Whoa~” Blinded by the eye patch that was my own hair, I finally stood up with my left eye covered. My soles singed the floor; my skin bloated by the water, feet shambling as if five or six bees were kept within. With my head rubbing against the wall, I dove into the living room. Wham~ While sliding inside, the tip of my nose burnt from the friction. Uh, my nose would be even flatter.

Out of such fear, I lifted only my head up with chin on the floor, mimicking Obaa-chan to propel myself forward with only my toes. Squiggle~ Having a longer-than-predicted reach is good, but my boobs hurt more than I had thought. Ow… Obaa-chan is flat as a— wait, what am I thinking?

Ultimately I crawled on my knees, grabbed the remote sitting on the table and collapsed on the floor again. Arm forward, press the button. 'Beep!' On a certain replayed film, a certain someone is about to marry a certain someone. Turn it off. Back on again, and change the channel. The show was about making a low-calorie fried pork-steak. I gawked at the golden hue of the meat; the worm in my stomach growled like a new species of animals.

“Ughh, I don't wanna cook.” As an emergency measure, I switched the channel. On the screen now was a teaching program; I joined the speech practice midway. “A~ B ~ C~ D~” Which reminds me: Elliot didn't speak anything besides Japanese, but his accent was still weird. No one knew where he came from.

“...Ugh~”

I dragged myself to open the cabinet. A moist wave of dust rose; the tapes were still stacked there. We don't have a machine for DVD in this house, so the tape will have to do the spinning.

Shoving the tape into the player, I picked up the VHS remote on top of the TV. “It's been a while!” I almost didn't even remember how to use it. After a few random clicks, the tape played successfully. I jellied again; affected by the still-present heat, my guts refused to settle. Even lying on the floor was a kind of hell.

The movie that we've only seen as children at the movie theater began playing on screen. I, Elliot, Seiji, and few others biked to see the movie. My brother was going to join us, but he got sick and stayed in our apartment. And when the film was broadcasted on TV, the entire family watched it together. I'll save this topic for another time.

Left eye glued to the floor's weavings, I watched the screen change with only my right. Yet whatever entered my brain was picture and darkness — my left eye saw nothing it was supposed to.

Please forgive me! I was kidding when I said I'm super popular! And now it’s actually happening. Uhh… Hnng… So, is this what Yamamoto-kun said?

“Marry me!”

I regurgitated the sickening consonants. I almost went mad from the embarrassment:

“...Are you kidding me?”

Thinking back, this was my first time proposed to. Of course I'm freaking out! How could I not be!

“Even if it's by some guy I don't know… Well, I probably knew him?” Not that I remember a thing.

How nerve wrecking! Should I just reject him? But more fundamentally, do I plan on getting married now? With whom? Yamamoto-kun? Elliot? No, not Elliot; I don't even know where he is. More importantly, I don't think it'd work out. Elliot is an abnormally exquisite art: he has a proper location, a fitting place to exist and a position right for him. In whatever case, that place is not here. Still, for me to just welcome Yamamoto-kun with open arms is just as impossible.

After all, I've only wanted to live with no one else but Erio. I don't have the confidence to let someone else in. As for Mako-kun, he's just like my kid. To treat an outsider like family — I am abnormally hesitant toward it. Wu~ My stomach is starting to hurt from the circular thinking.

Um… I was wondering about whether my happiness points are going up or down, right?

But I still have to think. Because, it is how I walked here all the way.

“...Sigh.”

What should I have done instead when Erio escaped into the futon?

Perhaps I should have told her: 'think.' Not just once, but as many times as I could.

If I had taught her well, she might still be in school now.

I've always lived in regret: even when I achieved something, I could never feel perfectly happy.

“...Meow~” I tried doing a duet with the cat on screen.

I can only hope to resolve the situation now without any remorse.

After a while, Mako-kun and Erio returned as my brain reached boiling point.

'Go find Obaa-chan!' I licked his knees after instructing so, finally regaining my spirit.

It's strange, but Mako-kun always motivates me!

...If I were to say that, I wonder if he'll let bygones be bygones?

The following week consisted of repeating days with the standard of June this year.

One day, I snuck into Tamura Shop to see how Erio's doing at work. Even though no one came on the first day, she's still freaking out. The moment I walked in, she bolted out frantically and tripped. Her nose started bleeding, so I wiped the blood away and stuffed her nose with a tissue paper.

What a worrisome child! That is, however, what made her so adorable.

After that happened, Erio prohibited me from coming into the store. 'Absolutely… no!'

'I'm… going back to… society!' She violently shook her head while saying 'don't come in… Don't come in… You can't!' Forming a barrier with her arms.

I thought about breaking this blockade by hugging it tightly, but this was no game for Erio. Hence, I decided to hold myself back — can't always try to interlope.

Even though the promise made it hard for me to see Obaa-chan, perhaps it is better this way before the preparation on this side is finished.

But knowing that Mako-kun could enter freely, I just had to bully them that night ☆

And, despite this being an information I happened upon on the following day, I heard that that Yamamoto-kun was purchasing a large amount of coke and visiting the store at a rather frequent rate. Knowing that before running into him was definitely helpful. So that, along with the hope for Erio, I decided to watch the store when nobody noticed. And I could also prepare for Yamamoto-kun meanwhile — two birds with one stone!

Then came the night when I shut myself in a room to make bottle rockets. Following Yamamoto-kun's advice, I adjusted the tail fins. To make the four wings equal in size, I had to trim carefully. Staplers, scissors; box cutter, double-sided tapes: the tools scattered on my desk were all purchased from Obaa-chan's store long ago. Do I cherish my things? Or maybe I just never used them?

Back when Erio was still in grade school, we made many rockets together; so without referring back to an instruction, my fingers did most of the steps. We also had some unused nozzles and PE rocket heads put away in the storage, so I didn't have to spend money. My Eri-chan has always been interested in flying objects since she wore diapers — she's quite full of wings and dreams! Uh, to a point where her brain was floating around for a while. Please do excuse her for that!

The most annoying part of making rockets had to be finding bottles. Even if you need only five bottles, our little Mako-kun doesn't like carbonated drinks: he wouldn't do his mission like a good little fairy if I were to leave those in the fridge.

How did Yamamoto-kun get his bottles? I didn't want to come across as a jerk, either, by having him test fire; so I've never progressed beyond making the rockets.

For the remaining time, I would occasionally show up to work at my own store. Yep, perfect. Just like summer vacation's daily schedule, it's never to be followed. I recall back in elementary, a classmate wrote 'stayin' alive' for all twenty four hours on his daily schedule. After turning that in, he got a detention and was scolded by the teacher. We didn't know till later that the kid was actually terminally ill and didn't have many days left; the teacher showed up at his door smeared with tears. The kid died… I think on the June the year after that. Everyone in class showed up for his funeral, so I remember. Ah, June again? Indeed the month of separation.

And so I stood near the Tamura Store on the Saturday of the following week as the sentimental Meme-san. For some reason, there were a lot of customers gathering today. I noticed two dubious shadows. A girl about Erio's age, and a middle-aged man living out his youth.

Including me, the three people hid in the shades to watch the Tamura Shop. Why did so many UFO show up in our peaceful town? Did someone with a human repellant drive these people out?

Just as the 19th of June sent an invitation to the rain, I blew air at the young girl's neck. It's more appropriate than with Yamamoto-kun, right? Under my goose bump-inducing breath, her entire person jumped with an amazing reaction. 'Keewah! She seemed completely oblivious of my presence.

The girl's boots gave, almost sending her butt-first into the puddle; I reached forward and helped her up. Her wrist pulsated quickly, and her eyebrows too blinked intensely.

I poked her soft cheeks — it was a very cute girl. I recognize her from somewhere. Was she Erio's friend? She didn't seem to know me though.

After introducing myself, I casually handed the cola I'd been sipping on to the girl. It would be a waste not to. Heheh, a successful transfer. I was about done with the taste of cola anyway. I don't like carbonated drink that much, because Meme was raised properly: I drank only barely tea when we lived in the apartment.

Without further ado, I asked the girl to tell me where Yamamoto-kun was while prattling. I told her that he was actually my fan, but perhaps he now wanted to observe Erio. Yamamoto-kun knew I have a daughter, so could he plan on getting on her good side? Is this slyness, or shamelessness? What on earth did he learn after leaving town?

After contemplating about the enigma of Smooth-skinned sensei, she yelped, 'ah!' with her pupil contracting. The girl looked toward the store as if she'd discovered something. To avoid Yamamoto-kun I hid myself more completely than she did, so I could not see the situation behind the concrete wall.

“Then, I must get going!” The girl bolted off after few stretches. “Bye~” I saw her off; Yamamoto-kun's silhouette replaced her.

“Uwah...” The orchestra of rain dripping off the yellow umbrella played out above my head.

Should I try talking to him to get friendly? No~no. Just thinking about that is going to make me collapse. On the embarrassment number scale, it's about 80. Usually I have about 3. Now, imagine using a decagon screwdriver on a tri-point screw. What I mean is, the number will break the roof.

And just standing around to talk is weird. Problem is, if I was invited to a cup of tea, I will be totally suspicious. Definitely. For the pure Meme-chan, she has no immunity to that kind of open relationship. I haven't even been vaccinated… Eh? The script? I'm supposed to say 'JK' here? Oh, just leave me alone, Manus Dei~. (TL Notes: Original text was 'the hand of god.' Manus Dei means the same thing in Latin)

“Wuu… Mmm~” Out of confusion, I started dancing. The rain poured and poured~

I've slightly regained composure. Thinking is vital, but there's only action after this point.

Yamamoto-kun looked around under his umbrella, appearing to be searching for something far away. Probably me. If it were Erio, he would have already entered the store.

I looked away from him. I'll give up on today's monitoring.

On the way home I found a cat. After abducting it into the school, I decided to go home.

A corner of my heart hoped to never see Yamamoto-kun again in town.

Rather than tea buddies, we were more like rocket comrades.

And we will duel on the field! Yes!

“...Hnm?”

Something seemed off, but I couldn't put my finger on it.

“Is it age?” I mumbled, as if tracing the parts I don't want to admit with the tip of the words.

I saw something in the grey sky — the scene of important things entering the morgue.

☆

On the day twenty-eight years ago that led to everything today.

Like divulging the secret of a magic, Elliot smilingly spoke.

To defeat what you can't see is actually very easy!

It was a smile that would look snide on others, but artistic only on Elliot.

“Defeat? How?”

I pulled my head away from Obaa-chan's palm and leaned forward. Though my hand crushed the green snack I dropped, the light pain was brushed aside when I questioned Elliot.

Obaa-chan looked at me in boredom, silent.

Elliot sipped the cola and asserted calmly.

The only way to touch which you can’t, is through faith.

'Face?' I shut myself up before saying a thing.

Ritual and prayers are needed to show faith.

Elliot claimed so maturely — the only time he seemed older than Nii-san.

“Ritual?”

Hearing the word only made me think of people in purple robes with only their eyes flashing red, hiding in dim room filled with incense, singing and dancing.

And prayer reminded me of the poor girl in W*rld Masterpiece Theater who had to sleep in the staple, but would never forget to pray every morning.

“Religion?”

So I asked, and he laughed. “I don't really understand either,” he shrugged: “I'm just observing to see if the things I see are really worth believing.”

With a grin pushing up his eyes, he stared. I felt like I was being devoured.

Goose bumps split the camouflage of skin, revealing the true nature. But of what? Of his — Elliot's eyes.

He has a gentle face, but all that contoured his features were straight lines. The natural existence of curvature was absent.

Obaa-chan's palm touched my frozen back and pushed lightly:

“More importantly, pick up your mess. Or you better pay up.”

“Aye, aye.” I imitated the cartoon character on TV and received a smack on the head.

Picking up the snack on the floor, I tossed them into my mouth.

“Don't eat off the ground, stupid!”

Pah! Another slap. “Owwu!” Though it didn't hurt, I still grabbed my head.

“Go wash them afterward. It's dirty here.”

“But this is your house, Obaa-chan!”

“Exactly.”

A flick on my forehead, but this time the nail hurt me.

“Obaa-chan, cut your nails!”

“Hmph, try again when you're older than I am.”

“How~!”

Seeing the exchange, Elliot beamed again. Seeing his squinting smile, my heart took the initiative to practice aerobics. “Hah, hah...” My chest hurt! It's more of an explosion than a jolt, like receiving a ball from a major league softball player.

“Oi, don't go all colourful here.”

“I-I'm always colourful!” (TL Notes: Original text indicated a Japanese proverb/idiom regarding first love, which apparently is synonymous with colouring. I could not find it as of yet)

I put the food back into its box and ran inside. Submerging the snack in water, I also rubbed and cooled my hand. “Phew~” I hate the feeling of heat; I like winter more than summer. At least, the cold I can stand.

And at the worst, I just have to roll around in a futon.

After cleaning up and drying off, I returned to Obaa-chan. “Oi, it's dripping.” The sharp-eyed Obaa-chan reminded me, but I still carelessly sat next to her while and ate away happily.

Nom, nom… After the wash, they tasted like gum with no flavour. It would seem that this kind of food only has flavouring on the outside!

“…...”

Even with the snack's flavour faded, the aftertaste of Elliot's statement lingered.

To touch what you can't see, you need faith. To show that faith, you need 'ritual and prayer.'

☆

I flipped the calendar; the number '25' shot into view.

Today was the twenty-fifth of June, the prep day of the ritual. It will be extremely busy… Well, not really.

How about treating the headache first? So I could keep my head up at the sky tomorrow.

“...But~ first~” I spun around in the living room, operating the remote.

First, set the channel onto the news program that we hardly watch. “Woosh~” As I began to feel the limit of my cochlea, and my lively twirl became 'Urwa, m-my head…' the forecast segment began. Toyed by my unruly eyes, I barely safe-landed in front of the TV screen. I rolled onto the ground and watched it with ringing in my ears.

Tomorrow's forecast was cloudy with a chance of sunshine. I was glad that it wasn't inverted. There's still a 30 percent chance of raining, but considering the season, this was more than acceptable. “Alright~' I raised my arm weakly. “… I'll stay like this for now.” Like a middle schooler set to stay home, I excused myself. I mean, I am going to see the person who proposed to me!

Mumble, mumble. Tumble, tumble. Trim my nails, tidy some things up, clean the window's edge already covered with dust. In about half an hour, I finally gave up on procrastinating. Pinched under my arms was the now yellow June 21st. It won't stop sounding like the number of a magazine. Due to a botched paint job, June 17th took the day off.

Just like last time, I rode, with the rocket behind me, on my favourite bike. Straddling onto the bicycle also known as 'ケッタ (ketta)' in the country side, I pedaled standing, heading toward the road decorated by the grey cloud that couldn't make up its mind.

The residential is located between the old town and the city that spread out like a squashed jellyfish; there are rarely people in the morning. Since it's a weekday, the buzzing of children was also kept in their schools, so the only ones barking were the dogs. A chocolate-coloured dog lives here, and every time when someone passes in front of the window it would reacted energetically. It's been barking since it was a pup — maybe that's his mission in life.

With no traffic on the road, I cut into the longer, straight road to test out my highest speed. I pumped strength into the thigh that grew stronger after the sore. Woosh~ the sight around stretched out. Wind resistance went from weak to medium.

My heart accelerated like when I first met Elliot.

Naturally, no matter how many turns the wheels had in store, I will never fly in the sky. The bicycle proceeded on the earth, finally delivering me to the house of animals and rockets.

“Thanks!” I rubbed the handles, showing my gratitude to its ten years of service. Is filling the tires next time enough for payment? I'll also throw in waxing for free.

After loosening the rope on the rocket, I lifted my arm to the highest point. I recalled running around in the room with a model airplane. Compare to then, would this rocket reach closer to the sky? Toward the sky, cloud and sun that seem touchable by hand.

Alright, here we go.

“Hi~ Shugoro.” (TL Notes: Yamamoto Shugoro 山本周五郎 is a Japanese novelist during the Showa Period)

Before reacting to me, he has to first be terrified. He's even shaking. And I thought I wasn't a furtive person. During his youth, though, Yamamoto-kun probably didn’t stand out much.

“That Yamamoto…? I mean, isn't it time to ditch 'Yamamoto'?”

“Really?” Back back back, I backed away.

“Not literally! Fine, I'll be Yamamoto… So please, stop running away.”

“Really?” Shuffle shuffle shuffle, I shuffled forward again.

Me and Yamamoto-kun stared at each other. I felt I couldn't be frank, though. So, the solution is to dance around the issue? Mm… Mm!

“Um… Uh, You, uh, here to shoot a rocket?”

He pointed at the rocket I held in my chest; his eyes darted about.

Just like a prey about to be devoured.

“Yeah. Also to turn you down.”

“Huh??”

Seeing the other side lose it, I managed to compose myself. How strange! It's like a scale.

More importantly, isn't the best time to tease him when he's flustered? We can't both be ruffled at the same time.

“Ah, I mean… What I said before… Not that I want you to just forget about it, but I was a little exited, or sudden… But, uh, sorry.”

“Well~ I wasn't really disgusted or anything. But I have to turn you down.”

Yamamoto-kun's eyes attempted to steal the base, but I picked him off to keep his eyes away.

“Turn me down, but— wait. Let me explain everything first!” Panic!

“Absolutely, please do so. But I will still have to refuse the offer.” Smile!

Though cowered, Yamamoto-kun still dropped the hose and displayed a truthfully bashful attitude. His legs, arms and head were bouncing around like a toy tangled by a spring.

“I've liked you since we were little.”

“Thank you.” That’s embarrassing! Especially when others mention old things!

“Well, uh… That's it.”

He picked up the hose, resignedly poured water around the field:

“After I quit my job and came back, I didn't have anything to do. Then I saw you riding by the train station. You looked so happy, like when you're little, riding like that. My eyes and, well… heart, was taken away by you. That's all.”

If you might lose to the embarrassment, just don't say embarrassing words!

He said I looked happy, possibly because my face seems happy all the time. At least I think that's why.

I'm almost always thinking about food when I ride to take my mind off the fatigue though.

“After coming back, the only friend I still have left here is just you, Touwa. That might be one of the reasons too… Aside from affection, I also wanted to interact with people.”

“…...” Not knowing what to say, I kept silent with an equivocal smile.

“Oh, right… What if it wasn't me — it could even be Elliot — do you plan on marrying anyone else?”

“No, I don't. Absolutely not.”

I tried my best to refute lightly; a hint of dejection appeared below Yamamoto-kun's eyes.

“Shame. You're still… um… so pretty.”

“Heheheh, I'm still young, so I don't wanna be tied down.”

“Elliot was the only thing you thought of when you're little though.”

“Let’s set the jokes aside.”

“Hm.”

“Me, my daughter, and my niece living together: that's plenty for me. Loving someone, or having someone love me… Well, frankly, I get my happiness points every day from my family. And in that family, a husband is not needed now.”

Mako-kun and I will be Erio's guardian. I'm surprised with how agreeable this turned out to be:

“I never married Elliot either, so I guess I will stay single forever.”

“I see… Hm.”

He directed the tube skyward, making a rainbow of water.

Yamamoto-kun smiled lightly as if all four corners of his emotion had been held down:

“I understand. I guess I'm just a little carried away since it's been so long since we spoke.”

“Making a decision for being 'a little carried away,' you sure have learned how to be reckless!”

“I'm usually mellower, being forty and all. I don't even have the energy to hop around anyway. Does that make sense?” Well, I almost hop around in home every day! Does that mean I'm actually not forty yet?

After rounding up… I’m about zero. In other words, me, Mako-kun and Erio are the same age. Despite being her mom, we're classmates — actually, I don't want any sci-fi gimmick, so if that were to happen, a lot of things would probably collapse.

Well, if I did say something like that, Mako-kun would probably give me the look. Oh boy~

“You're grown to be quite a sensible adult, Yamamoto-kun.”

“Well, I haven't quite given up yet, to be honest.”

“Unfortunately, I'm an extinct volcano.”

“How about we start as friends first?”

“Eh? I thought we are already friends?”

I played dumb. “That's… right.” Yamamoto-kun widened his eyes deliberately.

“You wanna shoot the rocket, right? Let me see it.”

“Thanks. Tomorrow is the official launch; I just want to do a last check-up.”

“Official launch?” Despite his eyes drifting askance, Yamamoto-kun still took the rocket.

“I told you, didn't I? I want to defeat the aliens.”

“With a PE rocket tip?”

“I want your help. After all, hadn't Tamura Obaa-chan taken care of you before?”

“I suppose so. I mean, I only met you after I started going to the store.”

Maybe he didn't realize his own words, but Yamamoto-kun's skin did not activate the production of red ginger.

“You want me to help, but specifically how? Shoot rockets?”

He poured water into the bottle through a funnel while asking with a disinteresting and professional tone.

“You know it.” I told him when and where.

“Okay. That’s you want me to help with?”

“Correct. How's it looking?”

“It's done. I did my best since you asked me to do it.”

Once again he casually and unabatedly stabbed the soft part of others' heart. Ugh, I could feel the goosebumps.

Yamamoto-kun looked away from the rocket; after scanning around, he shot me a glance:

“So, your daughter is really tall.”

“Eh?”

“I think she's at least 180, right? Is what you're feeding her that good?”

Yamamoto-kun mentioned 'daughter,' hoping for the mother me to respond… Hmn?

I crossed my arms, imagining and putting the model of Erio together. Paint gun… Okay, done. Now, let's think about this.

“Touwa, what's the matter?” I ignored Yamamoto-kun, the source of the question.

Just what is he talking about? Where do you find 180 on Erio…? Three sizes? No matter where, if it were shoved into this model, the shape is still too weird. Is it the sum of a number? If Yamamoto-kun knows how much her three-sizes adds up to, it's time to call the Popo.

Then, her IQ? Power level? Frequency? Whatever the correct answer is, my daughter stands out too much!

Well… About time to give up on escaping reality. Yamamoto-kun already said it from the start. Height. Over 180cm. Hence, the next question is 'who is he talking about?' The question crash landed… Oh? There's someone I knew that fit.

Around the same age as my daughter, and a height that fit that description. I think there's only one person like that in this town.

“Yamamoto-kun.”

“Yes, yes, I am Yamamoto, because that's my nickname. What is it?”

“You're mistaken.”

“Wha?” His hand twisted, a large amount of water poured onto the dirt.

“She's not my daughter.”

My Eri-chan isn't the white dango, but the futon girl!

Yamamoto-kun's eyes shrunk into a dot. Time passed while he connected the line:

“Eh… hah? That's her, right? The weirdly-dressed girl working at the Wagashi store?”

“That's the hardworking employee in my store.”

“But I've heard that your daughter was the girl that walked around town with some weird outfit.” Yep, you're correct!

“That part was indeed true — till this April.”

“April?”

“You said you came back during June, right? Then you probably missed futon Erio.”

“R-really? That wasn't her?”

“Yep.”

“…Well, I thought about how her height was never mentioned… Usually that's what people point out first. I thought something was off, since you don't look alike.”

Mm, indeed we don't. Maekawa-chan told me that she doesn't resemble her parents either. Well, not my business.

“That's quite presumptuous of you.”

“Yeah… But can you really blame me? If a girl walking around in Mr. Sat*rn's outfit isn't weird, I must be living my forty years of life backward!”

Yamamoto, what on earth did you think my daughter was?

“So your kid… What does she dress up like now?”

“Super normal and cute clothes! My daughter is quite dynamic!” Not referring to her evolution.

I'm so thankful of Mako-kun! I'm going to give him a peck on the cheek as thanks next time.

“… I was shooting rockets, hoping that your daughter would see them.”

Yamamoto-kun sighed, revealing the hope he had placed on the bottle rockets:

“I picked this place because I needed an open area where she could see the rockets from the front of that Wagashi store.”

“I see. Why?”

“I thought she's interested in space, so maybe that'll get her attention.”

“Ah, was that also part of the plan to find me?” Right after saying so, I gradually felt ashamed. Were my feelings numbed?

“Yes.”

“The label on your ear, too?”

“I thought she might like the whole cattle mutilation thing. Plus there's a cow around here.”

“I see. By the way, I like cow tongue.”

“She's a dairy cow...”

With the tube slipping from his hand, Yamamoto-kun barely answered my question, appearing as if he'd collapse any second.

Who would have known that the effect of Mako-kun taking off Erio's futon would be so far-reaching? That's the second volume for ya: you have to have the first to… Huh, what am I saying?

“So what? We united again thanks to the rockets!”

“I guess.”

Perhaps due to shock, Yamamoto-kun didn't react too strongly to my rare and embarrassing lines. He will definitively feel it after we split, when he's sitting in his house tub.

“So those leftover rockets, are they all for nothing?”

Yamamoto-kun stared at the warehouse-like building at the corner of the field.

“There's a pile of rockets there. I wanted to have an excuse as well as to get to know her; I asked that someone you mentioned to make a bunch of rockets. I even paid for the things… I guess it’s a graveyard at this point.”

“…...”

A bunch of rockets… Isn't that just what I need?

Like an army of locusts.

Like pigeons covering the sky.

Rituals must be carried out with fanfare and drums.

The signals Elliot sent me from who-knows-when shook my head; the muscles on my cheeks relaxed:

“Yamamoto-kun.”

“Hah? Ah yes, I am Yamamoto. Ahahaha...” It's not the time to give up!

Can't be helped. I lowered the spider's string for him:

“Aren't there a lot of platforms for launching rockets left?” (TL Notes: The Spider's Thread is a short story about Buddha letting a spider's string down into the depth of hell to attempt to rescue a single sinner. In the end, because of the sinner's selfishness, the string broke and he remained in hell)

“Wha? Hm, I did bought an entire set… My wallet's still aching.”

“Is it? To me, you have to be the best domino.”

I smiled at the old friend who bolstered my destiny.

Not just his face, Yamamoto-kun turned bright neck from his neck up. I decided I'll keep proud of my good looks. Awesome! The goal is now a gap-moe in ten years!

☆

On that night, the welcome at the entrance was about six times as rowdy as usual.

“Welcome home.” Four girls and boy filed down from second floor and greeted me in a row. Seeing Erio standing with girls her age, Meme teared up… Like this?

“You're Mako-kun's friends...” As my mouth opened, surprise shut it… Um?

“Ah!” I met eyes with the girl to the leftmost. Both of us realized we have met before.

Or rather, I know all four of them.

“Smooth-skinned sensei.”

“Smooth-skinned sensei?”

“S-smooth-skinned sensei.”

“…...”

Starting from the left, it's the soft-cheeked girl, the giant mistaken as my daughter; the daughter desperately trying to figure out what's going on, and the silent niece with a grim face. Everyone's eyes were askance on the niece.

“Cousin, are you not saying it?” Erio casually asked Mako-kun. Well done, Erio, just nonchalantly force Mako-kun to a dead end. As I thought, he appeared disgusted. Still, knowing he could not completely ignore us, he spoke.

“Isn't Meme-san just Meme-san?”

“Despite being under the strange gaze of a strange girl who's of world-class significant, Mako-kun's , like a self-satisfied main character, believes and accepts her as a normal girl, and thought he was being clever.”

“Meme-san just successfully delivered a third-person narrative, and thought she was being clever.”

“Mako-kun bitterly riposted, but he's worried that it didn't carry much weight.”

“Meme-san is about to realize that this whole narrative battle is pointless.”

“Then I'll stop.”

Mm, I shut my jaws. Mako-kun sighed while pressing his forehead, mumbling “I'm done.”

After standing there and witnessing our usual banter, soft-cheeked cutie (tentative) froze. “Uwah~ Ya both got some fast comebacks.” She's oddly impressed by something else. Next to her, Maekawa-san let out a snicker, “what~?' irking the cheek-girl. What a lovely environment, like have more daugh— no, sisters! (I asserted with wide eyes.)

“Surrounded by four cute girls, Mako-kun sure is lucky~”

“What’s the notation you used to get that number?”

“Are you embarrassed?”

“You should consider being that sometimes.”

“Ah, then—“ Just as I was about to sigh silently to the hostile Mako-kun, Erio scurried over. Perhaps since she's spent too much away from people, she had forgotten about the right time and place for doing things. Or maybe she just doesn't want to directly confront him. As I contemplated, Erio walked down the entrance barefooted. “Ah, hold it!” She even ignored Mako-kun and circled behind me.

“Without me, mom...” Erio nudged my back, exchanging me into the row. “Now there are three… cute girls. The number, fits.” With three fingers up, she smiled softly.

“Eri-chan...” How considerate she is for her mom! As long as she grew up kind, it doesn't matter if she's not great or rich. I felt like I may or may not have expected that. Well, still a good kid. From the side, though, it probably looked really sarcastic.

“I'm the daughter-certified 'cute girl', nice to meet you all!”

I shook hands with my neighbors. Both Maekawa and soft-cheeked cutie both gave a compromising smile of 'ah… Well, okay,' and held my hand. On the other side, though still looking at me disapprovingly under his eyelids, Mako-kun stuck his hand out. So I had to pull his entire person over and nibble on his neck. Oh my~ it was out of nowhere!

“Eeek!” As if bumping into a serial killer, Mako-kun slipped under sheer terror. Kicking frantically like a puppy, he fell flat on the floor. Even the back of his head rammed into the wall.

Ah~ That was refreshing. Mako-kun's reaction are supposed to be a bit over the top!

“Maekawa, c'mere, c'mere.”

“Yes?”

Since the warm welcoming has ended, I beckoned Maekawa, who stared at Mako-kun amusingly. Just like before, when the lanky, yam-looking girl leaned over, the overwhelming pressure hovered above. “I need your ear closer.” Simply asking her to bend down was enough to give the illusion of a monster-bird flying above.

I put my mouth closer to Maekawa's ear. “I will punch you if you bite my ear.” Kgh, she can read minds?

“Maekawa, I heard you are making bottle rockets?”

“Uh, yeah. So you knew. Do you know that man?”

“Grown-ups have quite the lateral connections! Since vertical gaps are too deep, naturally we grow sideways instead. That's the cruel truth of society, sniffle!”

“But where I work, the gap and bar between the manager and employees is so low, everyone got over it.”

“Because your manager is the type to want to stand and see with the employees!”

“Not~ even~ close. Under what kind of work ethic are you allowed to say that?”

“Geez~ Maekawa-chan, don't be so angry~ You should be smiling instead since you're rarely in such a cute uniform cosplay.”

“I already said this isn't a cosplay, boss. Are you actually not just Touwa's mom, but also transfer student's?”

“Erio and Mako-kun are actually siblings, and I'm actually the slightly-older sister. The theory has been flying around, mostly in my head though.”

“Sheesh. Enough, cut to the chase already.”

“Do you still have some left over stuff to make rockets with?”

“Yeah, I do.”

“And bottles?”

“There's still some. I got them right before recycle day.”

“Then, let Erio and Mako-kun make some tonight. We're going to fire them tomorrow.”

“Eh? Tonight?”

“If it took too long, you can stay.”

“Oh...”

“Okay~, it's settled!” Shifting away from her ear, I slapped my hands together.

What's happened? Doubtful glances fell on me, but I simply smiled to have them relax. Then, my feet once again entered the shoes that were about to be taken off. I saluted, soldier-style.

“I'm heading out again!”

“Eh? Where to?” Relieved from pain, Mako-kun queried.

“It's. A. Secret.” I pouted my lips. Is this what you call brevity? Maybe not.

“Why do you have to say it so irritatingly?”

“As for dinner. Right, how about the four of you make something? You can use whatever is in the fridge.”

I don't really remember what's in there though. In any case, since the fridge is not like a CD case, there's should probably be edible in there. Erio only knows how to make ham sandwiches, but since there are two other girls present, the blossom of cooking will definitely dance on the dining table.

“C-cooking?” Cheek-chan replied bemusedly.

“It's a fantastic chance to snipe your favourite guys!” I casually gave her an encouraging thumbs-up.

“Eeek!” Cheek-chan shrunk exaggeratedly, eyes bouncing about. Fufufu, I saw everything. Her eyes landed on Mako-kun for just a second.

“What do you mean guys? I thought I'm the only one here.”

Mako-kun carelessly nitpicked. Is he generous? Or just dumb? He's usually the high school boy who's all 'I wanna flirt with girls~' Maybe it's because he's not used to the actual doing of things, so he doesn't know how it feels? Nii-san was like a total stalker to his crush! He even confessed to the same girl five times, and was rejected four times. Was his wife not disgusted?

“Yeah, just Mako-kun.”

“So what you mean is… Uh, eh?” His pitch rose; he stared at Cheek-chan's face.

Finally noticed? The two of them even had a look-exchanging party.

Erio stood fixed in the middle of the two, a face of 'what does this have to do with me~?' I thought she was close to Mako-kun. I guess it’s just admiration for her guardian?

Hmng, I seemed to have planted the seed of chaos. So I guess I will just leave.

And also to look forward to the sorts of colour their relationship will be in when I get home.

“I'm also heading back. I'll be back soon.” Maekawa put on her shoes.

“Alright, let's go~ Maekawa-chan.”

“Ah… Mom, bye bye.”

“Yep, I'm going.” I've never thought that hearing Erio's greet will ever be normal again.

I savoured the taste of this springy happiness and head out with Maekawa. Outside was a murky sky with a layer of cloud; a slit of dusk sun hid between the masses, its dots of light painting the silhouettes of people faraway. The sun was setting.

When I was little, my parents would get angry with me if I haven't return home by this time. The curfew is earlier in my house; even with my friends, I've never been there when they split up for the day.

Just once, I ignored the curfew and stayed at my friend's house. Mother actually came to pick me up; for some reason, I was mortified. Face down, I held my mom's hand on the sunset way home. She wasn't angry — rather, she looked lonely.

Mom is no longer with us. She has never seen her granddaughter.

“What are we doing with the rockets?” Maekawa spoke, eyes on the soft twilight sun.

To defeat them! I swallowed the words and looked skyward.

“We are shooting them, of course! With prayers.”

Even though it’s right there when you look up…

It is untouchable by hands.

Send it flying, to the concept of space.

☆

After night, the darkness in Tamura Shop gathers.

The eyelids exposed to the freezing air twitched weakly, inducing sleep. I yawned.

I entered the store, but still waited by the entrance. Omitting the highly unlikely welcome, I headed inside the residence on my own. I pulled open the slide door in the hallway and entered Obaa-chan's room:

“Evening, Obaa-chan. How are you feeling?”

A barren light illuminated the room; compared to the dim hall, it was unnaturally bight. But Obaa-chan covered her entire body with the futon anyway, so it made no difference.

“Hmph, if I felt well, I would happily be outside instead of lying in this room.”

Obaa-chan flung a greet-and-retort with the sulking tone of a child. The futon rose gradually; she revealed half her face. Perhaps doing better today, she personally picked up her glasses from the side:

“Why are you here so late? Don't try to play grown-ups, you damn brat.”

“Obaa-chan, I am actually an adult now.”

I sat on the left of the futon, rebutting Obaa-chan's censuring.

“Oh? Where?” That taunting tone does sound youthful.

“For example, the inside.”

“How about you have someone dissect you?”

“Then, my boobs!”

“I will smack you, brat!”

This deep sound of scolding seemed to follow with it the act of eyeball gauging. Hard to believe she could say something like that to the person she's always treated like her own child.

Eh? Is Obaa-chan still bothered by her own lack of growth?

Uuu, I have the premonition that there will be a rival in the gap-moe candidates.

“Simply speaking, you only grew on the outside.”

“Wow~ I can't believe you just said that out loud!”

“An adult with the brain of a child. That has to be the worst thing.”

Obaa-chan swallowed the pill made of joy and amusement, laughing only after a long pause; the way she opened her mouth gave me the unacceptable feeling of relief. The feeling of loss has been oozing deeper into my heart, creating a thin, tepid film. Gingerly feeling the weight teetering like a hammock, I knocked lightly, wondering 'how much longer?' There is no response.

“Heave… ho!” Obaa-chan tried to get up with a limped push up.

“Just lie down, it's fine. I will be leaving soon anyway.”

“Shut it, I want to sit.” Obaa-chan answered crudely; she folded her dragging legs and kneeled on them.

She exhaled slowly, as if to make sure her torso will not break, before sitting upright. The palms on her knees trembled; her elbows seemed they would snap at any second.

With a sour expression, Obaa-chan completely straightened her back. Perhaps to escape the pain coming from deep within, she focused only on me. With a hmph, she breathed in.

“Indeed, the only thing that has grown is just your body.” The statement was without any sentiment.

“I think you've shrunk, Obaa-chan.”

“Of course! If you can grow, adults can shrink.”

“Huh...”

“I've also shrunk 3 centimeters compare to sixty years ago. Where on earth did it go?” She resentfully looked to a surprising direction. She's angry like a person who found her saved-up snack stolen by someone else in the house.

“Don't tell me, aliens can steal people's height?”

Aliens. My brows and cheek reacted to this sensitive word.

For Obaa-chan, the ‘aliens’ are the source of misfortune.

It is also known as 'fate' — or 'concession' — to others.

“How's Erio doing? Is she helping out?” I held the rudder, steering the conversation away.

“Just how much did you spoil her? You are too pampering!”

Is she telling me to insult someone when there's a problem? Ugh, that doesn't matter. The point is that Obaa-chan didn't really answer in order.

“Even I'm wondering how big my actual heart it, letting someone who can't even welcome customers work in the front!”

“I wonder.”

“You sent her here, right? She will be in all kinds of hell now.”

“I suppose.”

“Teach her how to be as dumb as you are, so she could maybe deal with hardship.”

Obaa-chan followed a bug flying by the light. I too, looked up. Yet, it had disappeared.

I first waited for Obaa-chan's eyes to come back, then I began.

Gee, I always say the important things last. It's not a good habit:

“Obaa-chan.”

“What, old brat?” Don't make me kick yer ass!

“Are you free tomorrow?”

“I don't want to, it's a pain.”

“…...”

“...Don't give me that look… Ahh~ fine! I'm kidding; I'm free. Asking someone who's always sleeping if she's free, it just sounds like a taunt! So, what do you want?”

“Mm.” I sat upright. In that stance, I asked solemnly while fixing my messy hair:

“Do you want to go the beach tomorrow?”

“Wha? A sea bath? I can't do something so devious, no.”

Shaking her skin and bones, she refused to go outside as if there was no room for debate.

“How could I go to the beach now?”

“Why not?”

“You should know.”

“Your health?”

“Idiot! I'm not confident with my shape!”

“Get your mind out of the gutter, you brown!”

“Hmph, don't get carried away because you have thicker fat, purple.” (TL Notes: Not quite sure why they called each other colours)

Hmph! We pointlessly battled with our eyes. That reminds me: how's Erio's chest growing?

“I'm going to be taken away soon anyway. Nothing means anything.”

Obaa-chan easily spoke her mind. I knew she didn't misspeak.

Because she has always been like this.

That's why I've been thinking since twenty eight years ago.

It matters not if it was incomplete or whatever. Like struggling in water, I waved my arms:

“Just for tomorrow, I beg you!”

I pleaded, and pleaded, with all my prayers.

The thread I've sewed with actions was close to tear.

Would it hold till the end? That would be out of anyone's grasp.

I prayed to an existence unrelated to fate.

Finally, a nostalgic word of refreshment appeared.

“I remember that!”

“Eh?”

“Shouji has always said that whenever he's asking a girl out. 'Just for tomorrow, just for tomorrow!' After the date, he would then proceed to ask 'can we do this again?' He would even say 'today's date ended today; next time's will end next time.' What a buffoon!”

Obaa-chan looked out the house, toward the town, peering as if laughing at Nii-san's silly face.

At the same time, she smiled peacefully, as though enjoying the tranquil breeze of the sea.

“How did you know?” I asked, looking up in astonishment.

“You're the one who ran here and told me everything.”

“Ah, that's right. You sure have a good memory.”

“Of course! It's what you told me, after all.”

As Obaa-chan so declared, her sickly face seemed dyed with some colour:

“I'm at a lost, but I will go. I'll close the store for a day.”

“...Okay! Thank you, Obaa-chan, for going along with my whims.”

“You've always been whimsical. You will lose your voice if you tried to thank me every time. Just forget about saying those kind of stuff.”

“Alright, then time to head home~” I stood up energetically.

“Oh~ Go home, then. I'm really tired.” Shoo, Obaa-chan attempted to drive me off.

“I'll pick you up tomorrow. Be sure to get up and be ready!”

“Ah~ I know, I know. You be sure to get here!”

“Aye, aye.” She won't hit my head now even if I mess around. That's good, for now.

I turned back, discovering the door had been open all this time.

“Meme.” This was the first time Obaa-chan called my name today.

Looking back from the hall, I saw Obaa-chan's laboured figure sitting there:

“Be careful on your way home — you are a mother now.”

“Mm, I know. I will see you tomorrow.”

I bowed deeply before shutting the door:

“...Pheeeeew.”

As if imitating Obaa-chan, I let out all the air in my lungs.

I rested my forehead on the door, eyes closed. In sixteen bits colour, droplets of returning memories flushed the darkness.

The illusion of a little girl running through the hall with snacks in hands echoed behind.

Just you wait, aliens.

We may not see you, but the rockets will still get you.

☆

“So after being too excited in the bed for the entire night, I woke up late.”

Hearing my shameless report, Obaa-chan did not look disappointed. 'I've seen this coming,’ she seemed to say.

“Really, now? I see you've an adult since long before: you haven't even change since three.”

“Yep, yep.”

“I will admit that you've grown enough to no look for excuses. Now, are we going to the beach? Take me there.”

As promised, Obaa-chan had on her outside clothes. She reached for me on the futon, and I took her hand over as if checking a ticket. I carried her up. Light, today as well. And she will still be light. I have, after all, became an adult… I'm forty. Argh!

“Hohoh~ You seemed tired!” Obaa-chan mocked at my undulating back.

“It's cuz I biked here as fast as I could. My knees are… a bit shaky.”

“You had no problem running around when you're young, and now you're playing old?”

Although it was unclear which part of that contained a compliment, Obaa-chan was somehow happy. People would always smile when they see someone they knew from long ago show up on the TV. In all the recent conversations I've had with Obaa-chan, I always felt so.

I went out the store front. For me, the true entrance to this house has always been the store. Obaa-chan, on the other hand, merely breathed lightly to my reflection.

As the forecast predicted, a stream of grey cloud covered the morning sky. Only if it would be sunny by the time we get there. I wished without expectation.

“It's not the same one.” Obaa-chan commented on the bicycle.

“That one broke long ago when I was still chasing Elliot around.”

“Oh.” And for some reason Obaa-chan looked away resentfully.

I let Obaa-chan sit on the back, had her hold onto my waist, and tied her hands together with a towel… Well, that was the plan, until — “No need, I will sit in the basket.” I was baffled for multiple reasons:

“Having you where the cargo is is kinda...” And the rocket's there too.

“Hush! I don't want to be tied up like a criminal.

“Just let me in.” She so stated, urging me from the back. A complex feeling like sputum in my throat bugged me; still, I seated Obaa-chan in the basket.

The transparently blue June 17th now sat in the back, strapped down by the towel brought for other reasons. 21st, the previously tested rocket, was better looking, but I chose this one today. Reason being that the lucky colour of the day was blue according to the morning fortune-reading program. So I thought, to affirm the unpredictable action that is a prayer, something just as unpredictable would suffice, right?

“How does it feel?”

“Worse than I imagined. I have no flesh on my hindquarter, so it hurts my tailbone.”

“So why don't you sit back here?”

“I refuse to.”

Obaa-chan shook her loose hair like a kid throwing a tantrum, turning down the offer to change seat. She never mentioned anything about the bottle rocket either, only maintaining the 'concise' attitude.

I first made sure both person and rocket were seated firmly, then straddled onto the bicycle as its driver. Kicking off the stand, I slowly gained balance while beginning to wind forward.

“Have you been there with Ojii-chan?”

“I swam in the river around here in the summer once. A brat fell in there, so I had to dive in the water. We didn't have cell phones, or people living around there, so we couldn't take the chances. I might have died too, had I been careless. Kids are such a handful!”

“Mm~ Obaa-chan is pretty hard to crack too!”

“What did you say? Seriously! Uwohh!” Every time when the basket bounced, Obaa-chan would look nauseous and complain about 'her butt hurting.' It seemed like to her, it would be too embarrassing if she didn't say anything. We began to enter streets where people frequent; perhaps that's how she chose to combat the awkwardness brought by this fact.

“Let me clarify beforehand.” Mixed in the wind, Obaa-chan's words flowed back.

“What is it?”

“I don't have a swim suit.”

Old people are clever, so out of self-defense, I remained silent.

Pedaling as hard as I could, I let the wind disperse all words.

As speed increased, that belief I had since childhood grew stronger.

If it were now, I might be able to fly. Again and again, I reminisced the wheels that spun, and climbed in the air.

☆

So was it the result of bringing today's lucky colour?

As we arrived at the beach after an hour of laborious biking, the sky drove the clouds away, letting pure sun shower the ground.

As if cut in half by a plethora of aircraft, the grey layers split. From the opening came the revered face of the sun that could never be directly viewed. My blood warmed to the skin touched by light.

“It's too hot. My nose is going to dry.”

Obaa-chan, who had been out of the sun for months, collected all the wrinkles around her nose, complaining at the sun. Her dried skin was as though raisin — as dry as it can be.

I parked the bicycle on a platform that rose like a hill. Then, I retrieved the rocket before helping Obaa-chan exit the basket. “What is that toy for? Are you going to play with it?” Obaa-chan didn't ask about the rocket till now; I simply twisted a grin. Picking her up again, I walked toward the platform to have her sit down. From here she should be able to see the ocean and the sky.

“Again with the uncomfortable seat.” Despite her grumbling, Obaa-chan still looked over the sea. From the wave-less sea came a breeze filled with the smell of tide.

Such rich wind even gave the illusion of sand entering the nostrils.

“Alright! Yamamoto-kun~!!” Next to Obaa-chan, I shouted toward the Yamamoto-kun who couldn't see me. “Oi~” From beneath returned the sound of sand shuffling, and a reply. Yamamoto-kun seemed used to the nickname, as well, not even responding.

With a dissatisfied scowl, Obaa-chan watched as things unfold.

“I'll leave this to you!” I tossed the plastic rocket toward the sky. On the bottle's way up, the sun penetrated it and shot a beam of azure into my eyes. The radiance was similar to the light shining down into the surface of the sea. For those drowning, it is both hope and death — a symbol to release them from the pain. I experienced the same light once, whenever I was too stubborn to lose to some friends when we went diving.

The rocket disappeared from my sight.

“Did you get it?”

“Somehow! Say something next time!”

Yamamoto-kun casually protested; his shuffling distanced away. Like with a cup of Ramen, we waited for a bit. I crossed my arms needlessly, standing showily against the sea.

“That voice. I’ve heard it before.” Obaa-chan mumbled apathetically.

“Really? Well, you might have met before.”

I answered; as though to enjoy the echo, I yelled at the top of my lungs: “Are you ready~?”

“Not ~yet~!” The soft-cheeked Cutie answered sluggishly.

“That one too. I think she was throwing a fit a while ago.”

“You sure know a lot of people, Obaa-chan.” And again: “Are you ready~?”

“Probably not~”

“Shouji’s son.” Perhaps for brevity’s sake, Obaa-chan revealed the answer.

“Are you ready~?”

“Not yet~” This time, Maekawa’s crisp voice.

“This one I don’t know.”

“There’s a new person, in case you are ever bored.”

Alright! Then… “Are you ready~?”

“R-ready~” Oh, that’s my daughter.

Deducing the answer to ‘what is this line-up?’ Obaa-chan squinted, elbows on her knees.

“What on earth is this about?” Face sitting on her palms, she commented with the tone of a bemused child.

A momentary pause appeared. I gazed at the waves washing away at the sand. I recall going to the beach with my family. Cold sweat beaded on my palm when I remembered the bouncy texture of the jelly fish. Then I remembered the day when Erio was brought back from the sea. Neither her person nor clothes were touched; she simply shivered in the winter sea donned in summer clothes — her lost memory of the past six months made me wonder if she traveled through time. Then at last, I see two Erio's — one sealed away in her futon, and another, standing on her own two feet — walking and standing together on the sand.

The memories appeared, like bubbling waves, and drifted away above the heart's surface.

Images of my first kiss with Elliot here — and I personally tore them apart with a smile.

Alright, alright~~ I stepped forward onto the edge and let my voice out.

Split, sea~~! With the same ambition, I yelled:

“Are you ready~~?”

The other side took a breath: a moment of delay. And then—

“””We are ready~!”””

“All right~ Let’s do it!!”

Answering my commanding arm, streams of water crashed into the sand.

Five plastic rockets broke free of gravity. The crux of recoil, water, continued to push; as if fishes in the sky, the rockets swam together into the air. An especially eye-catching, golden rocket lead vanguard into space.

With the altitude and volume less than that of a millionth of space, the fuel reached it limit. In terms of impact and everything else, it stood no chance.

Yet we still looked up to the genuine rockets that soared upward. Our eyes followed the trails, exhilarating us.

Dreams, hopes or prayers, those tiny frames carried all of that.

Obaa-chan wasn’t far behind, following the rockets with confusion. After confirming that with a side glance, I returned back onto the projectiles.

“Ah!” I sounded slightly disappointed. As each rocket reached its apex, they began to free fall.

Heads pointed at the horizon, the rockets took turn coming back. Pretending to be the tide, they did not refuse gravity on their way down, and disappeared from view.

“Urgh~ We’re not done yet!”

It is no time to be frustrated! You too, Obaa-chan, quit looking so lost!

Although it felt like forever, the second wave came in mere seconds. The second batch followed upward, again embellishing the sky. This, was the second squad of the rocket legion.

The mundane-looking black rocket fell behind his comrades, and swerved about. It might look like the most relaxed with its leisure flight; who made it? Must be someone clumsy!

“Obaa-chan, are you looking? Good!”

“Oi, what is…”

“Ah, here comes the next!”

Squad number three, the center. All rockets activated without hesitation, tracing out five different paths.

“Look! Look! That’s my June 17th! It’s flying!”

I shook Obaa-chan’s shoulders, pointing at the translucent-blue rocket in the front. Obaa-chan gawked, replying only with a ‘ahh.’

“How uninspired of you~” I laughed it off.

Perhaps because of its colour, my rocket carried out the longest distance, marking the record of the furthest in the air. Then it tipped at the peak and fell with its head first. I clamped down on my teeth, unwilling to let go of that sense of flight. Yet the rocket simply fell into retirement. Was that it? Any regrets? Fading away, it seemed to mock me so.

It overlapped with the feeling when Elliot had disappeared without a word. Something in me snapped.

“Elliot, you ass~!!” I yelled, hoping to reclaim my temper that way.

For the rockets, these might be the last.

They left, not because it is their job, but because it is their mission in life.

The most spectacular one flew the closest to the sea, but didn’t look like a bottle at all.

With accessories included, it was shaped deliberately like a fish. The rocket shot directly toward the sun; with the body of a pale Skyfish, it drew a white line across the sky.

It may not have flew the farthest, but anyone would remember the vigorous flight of its incongruous silhouette.

Like a dying Skyfish in its final moments, it must have wished for someone to see it.

“Meme.”

“Wait! There’s still one more…”

“Hah?”

The pivot of the ritual. I was restless, as though seconds were hours:

“Here it is!”

To break through the field of view, that object rose from below, floated into the air, and flew into the sky.

A red plastic bottle with ridiculous speed zoomed by.

A bit further, a bit more, and more.

With prayers and envy, I wanted to see it off to wherever it goes.

But I already knew its fate.

Get there. Get there. Get there! Hit the aliens! Punch him in the guts!

You wanna see some real flesh? Look at your own!

The words of prayer exited naturally.

With me!

“Yamamoto!!”

Flash, explosion and flame hatched on the distant sky.

“Whoaaa!!” Hahah, Obaa-chan jumped!

The rocket burst. According to my plan, and according to Yamamoto-kun’s design.

The firework scattered sparks. Red particles danced, as to pollinate themselves onto the earth, connecting the resonance of scarlet onto the tympanic membrane.

A breath of the gas electrified by the explosion seemed to awe even the lungs.

Raucous cheers came below, one after another. I guess Yamamoto-kun didn’t tell the others? I assume he had told everyone to keep away for the sake of safety.

Obaa-chan kept her head up, completely fixed on the spot. Her eyes remained glued to where the bottle had exploded; her eyelids had given up on blinking.

On the other hand, I was thrilled. Accomplishment and stomach acid boiled deep within my body.

Elliot, I… I did it!

I tried so hard and did it.

So, did I defeat them?

I waited quietly. The answer to my doubt formed.

A wind scattered everything, gradually ending the firework.

The overwhelming sense of achievement went down, spreading into the nooks and crannies via the capillaries.

My toes rustled; my skin almost softened in the heat.

“You… What…” Obaa-chan looked like she was talking without moving her lips. Or maybe she’s mortified by the fact that she screamed. Either way, she didn’t know where to look.

“Ahahah! That’s not made by some amateurs! The firework master’s son, what’s his face… Yamamoto-kun made that plastic rocket. According to him, he used gun powder as the fuel, and the body was carbonized.”

“Oh… Is that so? Then, that voice must have been Ashiro’s.”

Ah, so that’s his name! Ashiro-kun. I remember the job part because I’ve eavedropped on him and Elliot. In other words, I remember that because of Elliot!

Obaa-chan’s emotion seemed numbed from the tinnitus; her eyes balls spun, but received nothing. I felt that describing astonishment as 'bubble-eating' seemed fairly appropriate.

“How was it?”

“Scared the light out of me.” For Obaa-chan, it was a very frank and honest comment.

“Have the aliens let their guard down with the fake rockets, then finally send the real deal up there.”

Boom! I imitated the explosion to relive my senses to the impact:

“This have to have annihilated them.”

By aliens, I mean those around Obaa-chan.

“Of course!” Obaa-chan answered with a poker face, grumbling: “This is too much for an old person.” Probably due to calming down, she exclaimed again: “Ah~ that surprised me.”

“It would have been pointless if you weren’t!”

“What, you want me to die from shock”

“Well, do you feel alive? How long has it been?”

Were the aliens in Obaa-chan — the nihilist — defeated?

Even for just a moment — even if it cannot be measured.

Obaa-chan shut her opened mouth, her lips pursed.

Her spying eyes shone. Perhaps out of fatigue, she closed her eyelids tightly.

And so she returned her cheeks onto her wrists, pretended to be ambivalent:

“Mm, it does feel great being able to let go of the stupid little things.”

“Hahah!”

To my laughter, Obaa-chan sourly mumbled, “this is no joke.”

“Well, I didn’t think the explosion was going to be so big.”

“… So, that’s it?” Obaa-chan questioned.

“Yep, that’s it.” It’s over. The only thing left to do is to enjoy lingering taste.

“You thought of all this?”

“I thought of all this!”

“All this time?”

“All~ this time. The aliens who wanted to perform cattle mutilation on Obaa-chan are gone now. They could have just stick with animals. Why did they have to cross the line? A hare will bite when cornered, you know.”

“Hmph, you even had a hand in the missing animals. Great work.”

“Thank you~” With head held high. Needless to say, Obaa-chan was being ironic.

“Absolutely idiotic.” Obaa-chan shrugged.

“But it was so much work! I’m even used to muscle sore now.”

I spun my right shoulder. “That’s just you getting more muscle.” I guess that works too.

“Ah, but that means… You knew I abduct the animals?”

“Of course! Normally speaking, who in her right mind would be so happy to report something like that? Besides…”

As if to be dramatic, Obaa-chan stopped.

“Besides?”

“There was an obvious claw mark on the back of your hand. Was it a cat?”

“Mm.” Must have been about two weeks ago when Obaa-chan was checking out my hand.

I involuntarily look down at my hand. The wound had healed.

“Animals have hated your guts since you were little.”

“You remember a lot, Obaa-chan.”

Quit acting so high and mighty! The anger seemed to gather near her lips, yet Obaa-chan only looked away:

“I told you: I remember everything you told me.”

“Heheh, thanks.”

I showed my elation. And so, Obaa-chan turned 180 degree around. In other words, toward me.

I smiled, deeply touched by the unfriendly yet honest attitude of hers.

“I defeated them.”

With twenty eight years of my life, I’ve defeated Obaa-chan’s aliens.

“With that?”

“Yep. Didn’t the rockets take out those aliens spectacularly?”

Did they? I ignored Obaa-chan’s muttering and kept talking:

“What I’m saying is, they will not take my grandmother away yet.”

I even went as far as to accentuate my victory.

“Hmph, my stupid granddaughter knows nothing of the aliens.”

Obaa-chan’s maiden last name was Tamura. She hmphed at me; pieces of youth returned to her visage. (TL Notes: In Japan, and I suspect other cultures as well, the term 'grandmother' – or other terms such as uncles, aunt, sister, etc — are not necessarily used for only people of these age with actual blood tie with the speaker. For example, 'Onii-san' is commonly used to address young man in a friendly manner. In this particular case, it wasn't clear until this point that Tamura Obaa-san is actually Meme's actual grandmother)

She threw away her grim facade, revealing her true face.

I patted my chest in relief.

Peering from the top, I stared at the beach. There’s Mako-kun, surrounded by the girls; Erio, Maekawa-chan, and soft-cheeked Cutie. I held onto the Obaa-chan to let her see the view; we smiled at each other.

“For the son of that idiot Shouji, he’s in a rather envious place.”

“I know. The only reason Nii-san left town was for a girl!”

They basically eloped. Neither of their families were happy. And because of that, Nii-san rarely visited. Even with Mako-kun, I bet, he didn’t want me to be the guardian.

“Now I remember, Mako-kun is actually Obaa-chan’s great-grandson. So, how does it feel to finally meet him?”

“The first time he and Erio came, I thought it was you and Shouji.”

Obaa-chan shut her lips, as though remember the sour taste of nostalgia:

“After that, I’ve resolved to see the whole 'life-flashing-before-eyes' thing.”

“You really are a negative grandma~”

“I’ve been like this since your grandfather died. To keep it on the low, lest I crash and burn, I will have no strength for regrets.”

She grumbled forsakenly, and used it to dispel her pent-up grief:

“Even since I became alone, I blamed the gods and the aliens for my living for so long. All that lives dies, but the 'when' differs. If there is someone who decides our fate, then he can be hated.”

Like a machine gun, Obaa-chan spewed words that seemed to claw through the sound of waves.

On the other side, a shamble quartet came from the beach, singing ‘happy birthday to you.’ One of them is having a birthday?

“It’s easier that way: people cannot express hate or grief to that which they can neither see nor touch. This is how we come to term with reality. Even if we must swallow insanity and stuff it deep in the bowel, at least we can live on, thinking ‘it is what it is.’ It is complacent; it is painful, but at least you can retain the will to stay alive. Even when your grandfather is gone, or when your daughter is gone, or if I’m the only one who will see my great-grandson, nothing will change.”

Her tone was as if a hardened chunk of something in the rumen.

Even though it wouldn’t have been inappropriate with some mixed tears, Obaa-chan never cried.

Happy birthday Ryuushi~. My ears picked up the wacky lyrics. Ryuushi (粒子), like particles?

“But, you stupid granddaughter!” She glared. Just like a grandmother censuring her grandchild who had taken a prank too far.

“I’m sorry.” I lowered my head, apologizing to many people.

To Erio, for not being a perfect mother. To the animals, for forcing them to participate in a human’s business. To Yamamoto-kun, the friend who I used.

To Obaa-chan, for ignoring her will and projecting mine onto her.

…But, all I want is for her to stay for a while longer.

For my selfish wish, I wanted to defeat fate.

“There is nothing to apologize for.” Obaa-chan spoke again with a dried voice:

“Meme.”

“Yes?”

“Did you teach Erio ‘that’?”

“That? …Oh, you mean the futon? No, she figured that one out herself.”

“Mm… Wasn’t that what your grandfather did?”

She showed me a face of both sadness and joy:

“He too, hid in the futon when things go south. Like when he ate too much of the shop’s food, or when he was scolded for selling weird key chains to the kids, he would always hide in the futon.”

“Ahahah, it’s in the blood!” I clapped twice: “humans are truly mysterious!”

I felt the same thing when Obaa-chan wanted to ride in the bicycle’s basket.

Heritage, fate and the like connect us. Like a domino, one after another.

To resist it is as if to walk on water; however, I think it’s possible to change where the dominos fall. After what I did today, did I stop Obaa-chan’s dominos from falling toward the aliens?

“It is the same for me.”

“What is?”

Obaa-chan beamed the most brilliant smile at me, looking up toward the blue sky where the rocket flew:

“When your grandfather died, my health also deteriorated. Right, remember I told you I was close to dying? Yet twenty eight years later, the gods never came to pick me up despite my failing health. The doctor I knew told me fifteen years ago that ‘you don’t have long.’ Well, here I am.”

She said so while lying down, arms and legs spread like wings:

“The gods might actually be very tactile!”

“Hah? Tactile?”

“Maybe they were waiting for me. To defeat the aliens.” To defeat them.

“To defeat themselves?”

“Yep.”

“… Hmph, this isn’t some drama. They should have just killed me with a cross death-ray.” Denying as she did, she sounded fulfilled. Lying there, Obaa-chan gazed straight at my face. A long sigh, as if the evaporation of her thoughts.

After that cleansing sigh, tranquility triumphantly occupied Obaa-chan’s face.

“Stupid people truly are full of surprises.” Obaa-chan uttered a few more fading words. From her relaxing lips and eyes though, it probably wasn’t anything bad.

In any case, I replied to that first part:

“I am not an idiot: I just finished a game of sudoku on a magazine!”

Shut up, Obaa-chan whispered. “You’d be cuter if you were dumber.” She then said so:

“When I’m dead, hand that store to Erio.”

“…Really!” Again with those words. But I swallowed them back after Obaa-chan’s next line.

“But I’m not dying yet!”

She hurried added.

“Eh~ You’re so stingy~ Give some to your frequent customer me too~”

“Didn’t you get that pastry store from your mom?”

“That store is no longer in my hands!”

“Judging by your work ethic, it’s hard to say if it was ever.”

“Hey, Obaa-chan.”

“Mm.”

“Can we go somewhere before heading back?”

I suggested the continuation of our day out, watching for her reaction. Obaa-chan immediately responded:

“Mm, sure. Either way…”

At that moment, she slightly straightened her torso.

With elbows holding her up, she flexed her abdomen. Even behind the clothes, the changes were visible. The tightening of the corner of her eyes, the clamping of her jaw: they were signs of her holding on.

Exerted impulse drove Obaa-chan. It pushed her atrophied muscles, damaged bones, and brain that constantly struggled with the legs that could no longer stand. The disjointed limbs caused her to roll over. But she had not given up on the goal. I held my hand back, digging nails deep into the palm and waited quietly for the moment to come. Ryuushi’s birthday song paused; silence was upon us. Waves echoed faintly, as though guarding the space where something was about to happen.

And so, the effort was able to connect with the stubborn force of gravity.

That moment, I saw the particles appearing from Obaa-chan’s hair.

“Either way, the store’s closed for the day. What’s better than spending a day with your granddaughter?”

Obaa-chan’s hand stretched upward.

I cherishingly held it, gentling rubbing the back of her hand.

Let’s go see Ojii-chan.

I’ve already decided the first thing to tell him.

That is, even when separated from so many people, I am still alive.

I, have turned forty.

### 017. Chapter 8: The E.T's Workplace

## Chapter 8 - The E.T's Workplace

Why? For what reason? I questioned the ridiculous arrangement of a certain giant existence.

Did you just send me all your problems?

“Alright~ If you don't hurry up, the sun will make us old! Ugah~! I'm aging~! My skin is growing older every seven seconds~ It hurts! Sore! Muscles~!”

“Could you at least stop flailing around?”

While scolding the thirty-nine-plus-one years old person hugging my waist from behind, I tried speeding up according to her request: “Faster, faster, faster!”

My youth had burned and crashed; Meme-san's happiness point, however, looked like it was shooting toward the sky!

Why does it have to be her behind me all the time? Oba-chan's frequent visit is making me think that it's destiny — the unfortunate kind. My fate is being drained by something. I want to know what, not that it'd make a different.

Four days had passed since the beach-rocket event. It's the first of July — not having a schedule right after school could have been the cause of my downfall. Meme-san was waiting for me in front of the school.

“Hi~” She even waved once she saw me. If someone passing by asked me 'You into older ones?' I'm going to start, right then and there, my life as a hermit.

The black stray-dog roaming around the parking lot barked loudly at Meme-san from a distance. You sure are sharp. I complemented in my mind.

“...Why did you come here?”

I muttered quietly by the gate. I don't mind you popping out of nowhere, but at least know where to show up.

“Heheh.” She laughed mysterious for a bit, then raised her finger:

“Today is 'date with Oba-san' day!”

“Sounds like 'date with mom' day diluted 2000 times.”

I choked the bicycle grips and hoped to reach home earlier. Yet, she already circled behind the bike, moved the backpack and sat down on the rack.

“Alright, Oba-san is going to guide you hand-by-hand on how to be my hand.”

Hey, get you arms off me. Stop blowing into my ear. And don't change our position.

“Why is she the only one who's ever sat there...”

“With just three Happiness points, Meme-chan can pre-order the backseat.”

“I am seriously lost.” For me, it simply sounds like curse points.

Because of this, I was on a date with Oba-san after school.

The sun shone down, yet my heart was pitch black. Sure is amazing how it didn't pour. If it ever did, the umbrellas will be destroyed.

The destination: Tamura Shop. We were headed to peep on how Erio is doing:

“It's not fair that only Mako-kun can go in. I'm going to see Erio under the same condition too ~”

“Now that's bold, not trying to change your ways at all.”

Meme-san drags others down to make them see things the same way. But that's ok.

I noticed midway that the sun was shifting season: the light that weakened the moisture of rain heated the road and skin, creating a terrible dryness. The Sweat and lingering dampness — it was the season that people will fully realize how annoying perspiration really is.

My back, on which Meme-san squeezed tightly onto, naturally became the bed of heat and suffocation.

“…...”

So what happened?

No one told me the results of shooting those rockets at the beach. Meme-san, the space stalker/Maekawa-san fan, and even Tamura Obaa-san were there, but I still don't know what the rocket's explosion has cleared up.

Meme-san didn't look any different. She might take it for another meaning if I tell her; I cannot predict whether she will be pleased or not.

We arrived at the Tamura Shop. Backing up by kicking, I stopped in the front.

There wasn't a single rocket on our way here. Has it finished?

“Mako-kun is so cute; you're complaining, but still you hung out with me~”

“Am I to thank your happiness point for you being the only person to ever say that to me?”

Complaining as I did, when I turned her face was right there, and her embracing hands moved up. My heart sped up. Ok, I'm done. I'm a Obacon (snaps).

Letting Meme-san down first, I parked the bicycle. I left the backpack sitting in the basket after locking up and circled into the shop's entrance. Together, we stood by the bench and looked into the store.

“Mako-kun has been real friendly with Erio!” Meme-san, head peeking in, quietly asked.

“I don't think so.”

“When do you plan on becoming my honey?”

“When you're sourer.”

I pulled the properly-installed door open slightly to hear better.

In there, Touwa Erio held her fists tight, her voice trembling.

Amazingly, Tamura Obaa-san was in the store as well, perilously kneeling behind the register. From what I know, this was a first.

Meme-san stared at Obaa-san; she drew a sharp breath. She almost choked on her tongue.

Then she exhaled. Hah… Hah… Something buried under her heart followed her shaking breath.

I looked away from Meme-san's face and back into the store. I wonder: was she crying?

In a store with no customers played the voice lesson guided by Tamura Obaa-san.

“Wel...come...” The interior sucked Erio's tiny voice away.

“Unacceptable. One more time.” Tamura Obaa-san pointed out just where she was dissatisfied with and urged her to restart.

“Wel! ...come…” Erio burst and fell into pieces.

“That's not how people talk. Again.”

“Welcome...” As if poked with a needle, the end of her sentence deflated weakly.

“Ugh… Put more energy into it! Again!”

“Welcome…!”

Tamura Obaa-san finally pinpointed something abstract. She's still louder though.

Regardless, Erio was able to speak loudly in front of others now. On the path back to society, she took a firm step on the smooth road. Even though she needed a thousand steps just to stand back up; even though her speed is so slow it's hard to point out any progress, witnessing her growth was, because of so, so much more satisfying.

Erio's road back to society has just begun. Can this E.T successfully adapt to Earth?

“Listen well, Erio: if you can greet without any coma or period, I will give you double the salary.”

“Mm, I'll try. W...Welcome!”

“And before my throat dies.”

I sensed Tamura Obaa-san's shift in focus to solve the problem. So something did change on that beach? Perhaps that's why Meme-san was running around everywhere.

As I stared at Erio and Tamura Obaa-san, Oba-san silently hugged me from the side. Arms circling my left arm, she pressed onto me.

A-again… I almost froze. Upon sensing the air, however, I changed my attitude.

It was neither an embrace, nor an act of grovel — she merely leaned for support. Her face buried deep into my armpit, and her hair hung low with gravity; heels down from toes, she stood firm on the floor.

When Meme-san hid her face, her wrinkles, her everything. When she did all that, she looked just like a young girl.

“Happiness is the best!”

As though with teeth clamped, she uttered choppily.

The voice of a girl on her way back to a smooth, normal life echoed from the store, drowning those words. Following it was the sound of an old lady whose wrinkles were not wrinkling.

There seemed to be a cicada starting to cry on a tree far away.

Noises that were the breath of this town resonated, rippling continuously in my mind.

I thought I was restless; in fact, I felt goosebumps.

A feeling that was about to burst from the ground assaulted me.

As if to witness how the sensation was going to fly, I looked into the sky. From the crack on the ceiling, I saw the blue sky in which nothing flew by.

Cumulonimbus clouds stretched from faraway, waiting to devour the sun.

Since it was Meme-san to my side, my youth won't be lighted.

However.

Nonetheless.

“Yeah.” I muttered back.

How surprising.

I have come to accept this not-so-buggy fact.

The human will live on in this town of the aliens.

He will never find a UFO, and will keep looking at the sky.

## 03. Volume 3 ( Full Text )‎

### 001. Afterword

To replace an interesting postscript… I will be publishing a continuous novel.

This is number 1:

Not enough money. I noticed the fact as I began suckling on the ice tea after the meal. The colour of the lemon peel stuck onto the glass reminded of the not-so-transparent problem with my wallet. Before entering the store, I seemed to have forgotten the act of checking my funding.

Letting the straw out, I frantically look for my wallet. Inside is a single bill of one thousand yen. The lunch was exactly one thousand yen — without the tax, of course. In other words, I am short fifty yen.

Just fifty. A mere fifty. A single coin, yet impossible to produce out of thin air.

I am flabbergasted: I've no plan this entire life to be involved with the vernaculars of a dine-and-dash.

The tomato pasta had been devoured; the sides bread as well as salad sit in my stomach. Since the only thing that ate the food is my stomach, I simply have to leave that part of me in the store… That's simply out of question. But if the cute register girl tells me to do just that, I might just pass out from fear.

I read about this store in a magazine I picked up, and ended up in here without much thought — my downfall was already in motion then. I blame that magazine. But since I've already threw it in the trash can of a convenient store on the way, I couldn't use it as a rag either.

My nose dried, a sign of panic. To avoid drawing attention, I put the straw back into my mouth and began observing the interior. Lunch time had passed, and the customers gone, yet everyone seemed to be enjoying his or her tea or coffee. My glass, on the other hand, bubbled with my breath.

I had hoped that maybe a fifty yen coin was underneath the table, but all I saw were my dirty shoes. They won't even be pawned for fifty yen, would they?

Well then, I've thought of several solutions:

1. Escape from the window in the bathroom. It's the worst possible thing. And I don't even know if the bathroom has a window.

2. Utilize my cellular device to call a friend over. Sadly, I don't have one.

3. Ask another customer for some money… Is this the only choice?

Or to split the bill: locate another person whose' bill is also below a thousand yen, and have him split the amount with me. It's mightily difficult, but it's the only idea I could think of. I want to leave apologising to the restaurant as the final resort. Damn my need for appearance.

The candidate after much deliberation was the female sitting behind me to the right. She's appeared in my sight from a while ago, but she sat down only after I've taken a seat; she also only ordered a coffee.

I stand with two arms pushing against the table; after pinching the feet that seemed to want to escape, I steadily and sneakily approached the female… Hey, just go up and ask if you don't have an ulterior motive!

Let's get this out of the way first: ain't no way I am bowing down. I've never struck up a conversation with a stranger. My body trembled in fear. At least it's a bit better than admitting that I'm dining and dashing. Probably. No, definitely.

Courage is not needed if you're in the right. It's to support you at such lame times, does that bravery appear. That's my thought on the matter.

Now is one of such times. I move out with intrepidation. “'Scuse me, may I hit on you?'

“Hah?” The female emitted an off-tuned shriek of shock while looking up. I know I'm the one who did it, but this was the absolutely worst way to start a conversation. I belittled myself. The woman put her coffee down, her squinted brows suspecting my intent.

“Um, what I mean is...”

“...”

“So, this way I could...”

“Sorry, I'm busy. Excuse me.”

She apologized twice and squeezed the reason for her escape in between. Someone who was just reading a book while sipping coffee probably doesn't have anything to do with 'busy.' Nevertheless I couldn't muster the thought of persuading her to stay, due to the possibility of her screaming the moment I held her shoulder. Besides, why would I risk more suspicion than just dining and dashing?

The female puts the bag on her arm and races to the register with the check in hand. Though she turns back with a glance, I cannot return the look from shame. The other customers' stares hurt as well. I want to disappear.

I shift my eyes to my feet; something there catches my attention. It's the same magazine that I read earlier.

The female from earlier seems to have forgotten about it, or maybe she left it intentionally. I pick up the colourful papers and crush it without hesitation. The woman in yukata on the cover turned thin like the paper itself.

“Ah~~” I exhaled the last shard of courage. I feel myself deflating from being treated like a goblin. The bravery itself withered, like rotten skin, stuck to the bottom of my heart. No more, I raised my hands up in defeat.

If I come clean, maybe the store will let me go — it is just fifty yen. It's a little sad if I get saved that way, though. Sometimes, kindness is just as lethal as a weapon.

Once again I carefully inspect the content of my wallet. That reminds me: all of my changes were donated to a box in the book store dedicated for service dogs for blind people. I am unsure if that was stupid or not.

I leave the seat, head hanging and eyes staring at the bill. In a speed roughly six times slower than the female from earlier I walk toward the counter. She had already left at this point; the excellent attendant notices my approach and pre-emptively spoke, 'thank you so much~' A hole grew in my stomach.

After reaching the register, I hopelessly stick the bill out and open with a formless start that seem to melt in the seasonal heat.

“Uhh, so uh… I, uh, the money...”

“Oh, that must be this month's issue. Would you like to use the coupon?”

“Huh…?” Issue? I realise that I had been holding that abandoned magazine. “Coupon?” Bewildered, I hand the book to her.

“Thank you very much!” The attendant takes the magazine as though robbing me, swiftly opens the issue and flips through the pages; she then deftly tears the unused coupon from the magazine and re-adjusts the balance on the register.

“Wha-?”

The digits reduced by one. The number froze me on the spot. My vision shrinks; if it were now, my eye balls might just line up with the green electronic symbols.

“The coupon can take off two hundred yen; your total will now be eight hundred and forty yen.”

I feel that the entirety of my life's miracles had been used up by such a stupid thing. Hair stood on my skin.

Light should have filled my eyes, yet the focus will not align. Like a dream, bleary.

I take out the wrinkly thousand-yen bill from my wallet and guidedly hand it to the attendant. She once again energetically retrieves the cash. After tapping on the register, she gives my change.

“One hundred and sixty yen is your change! Thank you very much!”

“...Thanks.” I nod in agreement and take the change and receipt.

And like so, without being censured or kicked out, I leave the store in peace.

After coming outside, I wobble unsafely toward the crowd; I return to the train station.

The remaining one hundred sixty yen ended up in the boxes of the fundraisers asking for donation outside.

Karma truly is a wonderful thing~ I arbitrarily put the sentiment onto the changes leaving my hands.

The warm summer wind blows through my shirt; the cold sweat disappears from my back.

I stand amidst the crowd, spacing out at the entrance as calm as the eye of a storm and looking into the sky.

That was stupid, I thought.

End

### 002. Chapter 1 - Local-only Alien Incidents

Was it a ball or a strike? I had no idea, so I just swung.

In order to make maximum contact to the low-flying straight, I adjusted the degree.

It didn’t miss, but neither did it make a resounding hit to the centre — a roll to the third base. The third baseman, a businessman-looking guy with glasses, gingerly picked up the ball and tossed it to first base.

The unusually enthusiastic me was easily taken out. Sadly, my second batting ended there. I took off the helmet and jostled back to the resting area.

Well, whatever. The certain someone who was recruited to work as a bakery’s assistant might just be more beneficial to the team than I am.

…Like so, the second day of summer began. I immediately joined the amateur baseball team; after getting that invitation from Maekawa-san yesterday, I thought I should always try new things out. Because of that, I headed toward the river bank early this morning.

Within the first two days of break, I secretly went to a batting cage and practised catch-and-throw with a wall. Don’t tell anybody.

Since the sun was only peeking out, the time was perfect for doing outdoor things. I even saw sleepy grade schoolers on their way to do their radio callisthenic. Now that it’s been mentioned, it reminded me of waking up early during the summer when the activity was still half-mandatory — some such nostalgia swelled.

The bank had not have its pebbles and weed removed, so running was easy. If a ball were to ever fall into the river, it’d be considered a home run; since there was quite a distance from the outfield to the water, I don’t think any one of us amateurs could ever hit it that far. The ball might just end up in there if it could somehow miraculously fly along the foul line without any interruption.

Despite the sun being at a low angle, my scalps still perspired as the exercise proceeded. What reminded my skin during this time was not the searing heat of desert, but of the past rain season.

Returning from home base to the resting area, I heard the older people saying ‘good job,’ and stopped in the front of my acquaintance.

“What a shame, transfer student.”

Out of concern, I relented… Still, I took a seat next to Maekawa-san. She wasn’t personally participating in the game: she claimed that ‘she was the girl manager.’ If that’s the case, could you please have on the proper attire? I prayed.

“Are you making fun of me?”

“Nah, I think it’s pretty impressive even if you only chipped the ball.”

She shuffled the… left and right. I don’t want to expose what the ‘things’ are yet. If possible, I’d like to keep ignoring the fact and never mention it again; hence I kept Maekawa-san out of my sight and stared obliviously at the field.

Our opponent was the city side’s team. Since we, the shopping district, don’t get along well with them, both sides were fairly zealous… Well, not really: we were all just having fun. Though we were losing by two points, there hadn’t been complaints yet. In fact, you could even hear laughter. Excluding me and Maekawa-san, this is an old-men team with the youngest member being twenty five. I guess they don’t really care about winning or losing..

No uniforms either — everyone wore casuals.

“It’s only the third day anyway; nothing is set in stone. What matters, though, is in three weeks.” Even with her smile, I still failed to understand what Maekawa-san was saying.

In any case, the pitcher over there was a girl. She’s probably in high school like I am, but her pitch was rather strange: first, she twists her arm toward the left; then she curves it rightward to make an 8 shape. Finally, she released with an underhand. It looks like a softball pitch, but since I’ve only heard of the arm-spin style, I don’t know for sure. It’s just that it’s hard to time the swing, and I’m often too late.

From being struck out during my first batting, I tried swinging earlier. The result was a roll. At least, when compared to the 100kmph ball at the batting cage, her pitches are trickier.

By the way, about her wearing the uniform — it must have been tricky for the older guys too in a different way. Like the skirt fluttering. What stood out the most to me, though, was her rubbing her eyes listlessly, as if she was forced to show up. No, I’m not kidding. Still, what a masterpiece it is to see a girl in summer uniform bustling in a baseball field~ Credits will still be given where it’s due.

“She’s from our school, isn’t she?” Judging from the uniform.

“Yep. The captain of our softball club… I don’t remember her name. We’ve only met once last year when I joined for a while. I think she’s called Hana…zawa?”

Even though she was staring daggers at the person on that hill, her tone sounded equivocal.

“…Was that who your outfit reminded you of?”

“Yep.”

“……” The stance of ignorance has reached its limit. So, we shall talk about ‘it.’

Maekawa-san was wearing a fish costume today.

Since her face was poking out of the giant mouth, she looked like she was about to be devoured from the side.

At first, when I got here and saw her, I almost asked the fish store’s owner ‘what do ya think about this?’ But neither the shopping district people nor those of the city side paid any particular attention to Maekawa-san — they’re probably used to it. Maybe they see her as the mascot of a professional team?

Another pair of eyes followed us for a different reason… Maekawa-san didn’t care, so I followed suit.

“What do you call this outfit?”

“Katsuo.”

“……” I intentionally said nothing. It’s not like I’m Nakajima.

The fins seem to be where the arms are. Even though she flapped her arms about, I pretended to not see.

I know Maekawa-san is a little loose upstairs, but from our exams last semester I know she’s better than Ryuushi-san and I when it comes to academics. She’s also created a new historical record in the P.E exams — the kind you shouldn’t be proud of.

“This is the ‘one-handed-fishing’ type.”

“I don’t see what’s so different.” I can’t even fathom what the other kinds look like.

“What do you think of the match so far?”

“Weird. I feel like the girl in yukata from last time seemed to be more enthusiastic about this than I am.” I sensed extreme enjoyment of baseball from that girl.

“Girl, huh…?”

The face hiding inside the mouth grinned mischievously. The surreality of this whole thing pinnacled with the bonito’s inorganic eyes that focused nowhere.

The white ball flying out from the hand of Hanazawa-san (subject to change) shot toward the third batter (I was second)… Yamamoto-san? The rocket guy we met at the beach during June (he was the other helper brought by the man who owns the Yakitori shop). It went by the bat and landed in the catcher’s gloves gracefully. Top of fourth inning, 3 strikeouts on the third bat. In other words, no one made it to first base.

“Change~ Keep it up with the defence too.”

The fins encouraged me on the way out. If she could wearing something like a team uniform and sit at the resting area with arms crossed, instead of that out-of-place seafood outfit (that doesn’t mean I want her to wear river fish outfit though) she might have the air of a beautiful lady coach instead.

I thought it was wasteful, but also ‘well, it’s more Maekawa-esque this way, right?’ Thus begin the stage of acceptance. I struggled to put together a conclusion under the chaotic thoughts; grabbing the gloves lent to me, I stood from the bench.

“I suck at defence; don’t count on it.”

“Ahahah, you’re so pessimistic, transfer student. I bet you’re like an esper who refuses to go to a TV show but likes to point and yell at a TV screen.”

Getting to point Z from A. I had hoped that she would at least call me ‘humble,’ or that I have a clear understanding of how good I am: I’m just aware that I can’t fully rely on my hidden potential, and that’s worked out so far. That’s why when I first met Erio I… Well, it really doesn’t matter now.

As for the TV thing, it’s mostly correct, though I do try not to talk to myself. I was, therefore, shocked — Maekawa-san’s keen eye is not to be underestimated. Still, she should probably start reflecting about herself.

I jogged toward the infield and stood at first base. I actually wanted to be at this position the least — the chance of encountering the ball is, after all, the highest. For someone who rarely play catch ball, just when would I miss a throw, or simply fall backward? The anxiety was killing me.

Luckily, I can still perform the act of catching a ball. So far, no obvious mishaps.

Show me what you got! I knocked on the glove, waiting for it to end peacefully. By it, I don’t mean just one thing.

Continuing the last inning, the person standing on the hill would appear to be Maekawa-san’s ‘pops.’ According to prior observation, no one else could have been staring holes into me, who sat next to his daughter at the resting area. Just before the game, Maekawa-san introduced me to the team: “This is my friend. His name is, uh, Shiwa-kun.” I thought I said Niwa~! Ignore the horribly mistaken name that would seemingly make me thirty years older — a dad witnessing his daughter bringing a guy along: imagine how shocked he was. It’s no wonder he didn’t think I was ‘just a friend.’

His jaw looked like it would fall onto the ground. I didn’t know how to react, so I kept a dumbfound look on. That’s probably why the misunderstanding was so severe. My attitude was kinda like ‘the boyfriend who was suddenly introduced to his girlfriend’s dad,’ huh. Now that I'm thinking about it, I’m agonizing over my failure.

In the dad’s brain, the misunderstanding is going to transform like a three-stage monster: ‘friend -> boyfriend -> wuss.” The possibility was not entirely deniable.

And perhaps because of that whole thing, Maekawa-san’s dad had terrible control of his pitches. Maybe the batters were scared of almost being shot? It’s kind of funny how the score difference didn’t get any bigger — not so much when someone is glaring at me from the side.

Maekawa-san didn't seem to mind, though, kicking her flippers against the ground. After making eye contact with me, her already-sharp eyes squinted even more. Though difficult to tell from under the shade, she seemed to be smiling. I smiled back and lightly waved my left hand.

Stepping onto the first base from four balls, the boy who never swung his bat took off his helmet. He turned and glanced at me, unveiling a cordial smile.

It looks like the only high schoolers on that team were also just Hanazawa-san and this guy. He had a head of blonde hair, giving off the air of a cool bro-type person: in all, he seem like an amicable guy.

And I suppose that's why? Even when he spoke to me, who belonged on the other team, it seemed neither hostile nor startling.

“Did you know?” The guy I've never met before easily produced a sentence ending with a question mark.

“Know what?” I kept my eyes toward the batter while asking him to reveal the mystery.

“About our pitcher.”

“Hm.” Hanazawa-san, right?

“If you stand on the left side of the batter's box, you can see beneath her skirt.”

“...For real?” I had to turn around and ask.

“Course not.”

He displayed a free-flowing attitude and exposed the punchline.

...Oho, is this a ritual?

It's a way to ascertain whether the other person is a friend, or someone who can't be spoken freely with: students came up with it to see if they can get along. Simply put, it's a signal for me to make my move.

I put on a smile after receiving it. Youth can also be obtained from a guy friend.

“I'm Nakajima. You?”

There it is, Nakajima. He may be on the other team, but the sense of miraculous meeting with the perfect side characters diffused in my chest. Needless to say, he had no clue about my excitement behind the silence. Nakajima, who observed me without any lenses, suspiciously titled his head; frantically, I told him my name.

“Niwa Makoto.” I thought about calling myself Isono, but since there's already a Katsuo, I'm going to stop myself.

“I knew it — you're that transfer student.”

“Does that mean we go to the same school?”

“Yeah. Different class though.”

Nakajima reached his kind-looking right hand toward me; despite it being the middle of a match, I shook hand with him. If I remember correctly, the rules in baseball are that you're not supposed to be too friendly with your opponents. Well no, maybe just in some manga… Or maybe not? I thought while the two sweaty hands made contact. Nakajima had short fingers, but his palm was bigger than mine.

But wait, it's already been a semester since I transferred here. Yet the name 'transfer student' is still circulating. The expiration date of my well-known status is truly astonishing.

It’s not like the fact that I transferred here is enough to shock the school that much. Well, middle school aside, I guess it is rarer to transfer after high school. Besides, I do secretly hold the fuse to scandals.

Touwa Erio. If our relationship were to be divulged, yet another fire may rise among the class. The same metaphor applies even for how news spread in a school: in just the blink of an eye, you will no longer have an escape.

…Nothing much can be done to that, though. Either way, I already know my answer. Still, I’m apprehensive to the thought.

“What dragged ya here, transfer student?”

With a bit of a dialect, Nakakjima asked the reason of my presence. After making sure Maekawa Dad’s stiff pitch ended up as a strike, I spoke.

“Nothing. Maekawa-san told me to.”

“Oh~ You’re pretty close, huh,”

He gracefully painted his face full of obscene curiosity, arbitrarily postulating me and Maekawa-san’s friendship. I hope he’d stop: if it were to make it into Maekawa dad’s ears, he might just take the anger out on me.

“But I thought you were…?”

“Hm?”

“Oh, uh… Well, I just thought you are into weird girls.”

“I do not hold romantic feelings for sea creatures.”

Though I love deep sea fishes, it’s like viewing an artistic masterpiece… That’s still a bit too much though, since we’re talking animals. Similar to defining emotion, it is a situation that no amount of contemplation would yield an answer.

Like attempting to check your own back, only anxiety would culminate.

“Ohoh, is your magnanimity why you’re so popular, master?”

“That’s totally not what I said, but what about you? I really want to learn how to have a good-looking face like yours.”

Nakajima laughed, seemingly awkwardly, after my retort. Did I step on a landmine? Maybe he thinks his face isn’t good-looking at all… If he does then the other guys would probably stone him.

“You live around the shopping districts, right? Since you’re on that side…”

Nakajima moved the conversation along calmly. “I wonder~” While watching Maekawa Dad’s third pitch become a passed ball and the catcher franticly going after it, I gave an equivocal response.

“If we’re talking about where I live, then I’d say the city. However.”

“However?”

The Touwa would probably be on the same side as Tamura Obaa-san. But am I part of the Touwa family?

“My~ Silly Mako-kun! So polite and so shy! You have to make your heart the same as your eyes that screams ‘My’ instead of ‘Miss’ and become Touwa Makoto! Marriage YES!”

Some voice I’m hearing. It’s supposed to be just imagination, but the sound is really driving me nuts.

So there’s the whole shopping district vs city thing, huh?

Might as well ask the guy who seems mostly neutral.

“Is regional rivalry actually a thing here in this town?”

“A lot of people live here: there are those who do, but many don’t care either way.”

I’m probably the latter, Nakajima shrugged as he added. “There are kids at school who were bullied for that stuff though.” His tone was as though discussing other countries’ problems: lacking emotions, like a comment with no sense of reality. I, too, glossed over with a ‘oh.’

But I also think that if we can create a society free of discrimination, humans can at least survive for another 30,000 years. Or maybe because ‘bullying’ exists as an outlet, things around get done?

“But it’s the worst during the time between big events. Especially now.”

“Hm?”

“Because it’s a mess every year during the summer festival.”

That’s why we play ball, Nakajima mumbled enigmatically. I didn’t understand what he meant, so I’ll leave it for now. Summer festival — the dream of youth. The candidates for my partner… Three people? Erio included. If I were to say that the momentary thought didn’t contain any lies, I’d be helpless. Well actually, it wouldn’t be a problem, right? As usual, I will ignore the omen-like whisper. No, I can’t. For some mysterious reason, I just cannot accept the notion.

There are certain secrets and hidden thoughts.

I respect the heart that refuses to admit these things — even if it means the loss of youth points.

Pointlessly, I fought against something.

Spending time calculating the probability of Maekawa-san sincerely dressing up with a Yukata might just be… just as pointless.

“Oh, um.”

Still stuck at first base, Nakajima spoke slightly hesitantly.

“Hm?”

“I’m a little too polite, aren’t I?”

“Too polite… Hm, just a bit.” He certainly sounded distant.

“To be honest, I thought that if I started something too serious, I’d ruin whatever flow we got going.”

'But I still wanted to try.' Like a dishonest girl, Nakajima explained to me his motivation and the reason for his tone. Please don’t do this to me.

I had thought that the reason of such awkwardness is because we just met, but there seemed to be another reason.

“Don’t you have something you wanna say to me?” He might be interested in Maekawa-san.

“Don’t sweat it: the fun of choices is also in pretending the meeting by chance didn’t happen.”

As if peering at something bright, Nakajima squinted while glancing around.

“Our pitcher is really damn good, huh.”

Again with the mental gymnastic. Completely irrelevant. Do I not have the right to cast the die?

“I can never hit her pitches.”

As I declared my defeat, Nakajima shot me a stray smile and gunned toward the second base. What just happened?! My eyes followed him blindly. Well, it’s just a steal. A failed steal.

The catcher, guy who runs the flower shop, seemed prideful of his right shoulder. It must be rare for an amateur to stop a steal. He’s even hugging it out with Maekawa dad. It’s like the game’s over or something.

So this was an amateur game that allows for base stealing? Well, the kids’ rule of ‘five out-of-bounds equals strike’ should be a tell-tale sign of how liberal the rules are.

Nakajima beamed an embarrassed smile, mostly toward me, while moving closer to the resting area. I didn’t know how to react to that, so I simply smiled.

“…Sigh.” I exhaled, looking toward the ascending summer sun.

Like so, I played a game of baseball.

A random group competition nowhere close to sweat, tear and Koushi-en.

Will I list this as part of the daily life of summer? I’ve yet to decide.

In accordance the rules of the game, the competition ended at the sixth innings. The result: 3 — 0. A complete defeat on our part.

Or we can call it an utter wreckage, since not one of us made it onto a base, making it a perfect game.

Hanazawa-san had on her face still an inpatient look, apathetic to the result.

As for me, setting my batting record aside, I've gotten compliments from the old guys… My smile? Half and half of courtesy and sourness, maybe even a little awkward.

A couple of lame bow, and then we were done for the day… That would have been the idea, but the losers apparently have to clean the field out of tradition, so we're far from finished. According to the guys, 'we're gettin' better at cleanin' than baseballin'!' So they've been on a losing streak?

“See ya.” After packing up, Nakajima came to say bye before leaving the bank. “Bye.” Seeing my brief response, he scurried over to a bicycle. Was he being held up? Now that I think about it, I still don't get why he came by.

Following that, while I was cleaning the field with those one of those long-shafted tools, the rocket guy came to talk to me. It's Yamamoto-san. That's what Meme-san calls him, but is it really his name?

“Hey, you are… The boy living in Touwa Meme's house?'

“I am.” Space stalker + Maekawa-san's fan, as well as Meme-san's friend — quite a colourful resume. I think I would prefer to not know the full content of it though.

“How's Meme doing?”

“If you can call a forty year old women who acts like a five or six year old 'energetic,' then she is doing very well.”

She even eats the same thing as Erio and I, so just how efficient is her mileage? I could only think that she must have taken the energy drained from others and threw it into the burner.

“Did she, mention anything about me?”

With an anticipating and fidgety demeanour, he asked. Hey hey hey, is this dude...?

“Nope, nothing.”

Since whenever she won't shut up, I just ignore half of what she says; she might have mentioned Yamamoto-san somewhere along the line, but I have decided to not give hope with any false information. “I see.” Yamamoto-san clearly looked disappointed, shoulders slouching. Now I'm sure.

I didn't think he is so loyal to Meme-san… Their age is close, and I will admit Meme-san looks really young for a forty year old… Well, whatever. I'm not so dense as to ruin someone else's love life. My aunt sure is popular.

But I just couldn't imagine the sight of some guy next to Meme-san, sitting around the table in the Touwa Household.

Yamamoto-san shambled away like the summer heat, beginning the act of picking up rocks. What happened next was the sneaky… I didn't hear it or anything, but I felt it. By then I was already used to it. But I pretended to have not notice: please ask your own daughter about our relationship.

Clean up complete. With my arm, I swiped away more sweat than from during the game while leaving the field. Because Maekawa-san was still sitting in the resting area, I decided to go over with the intent of saying bye before heading home.

“Well done, transfer students.”

Maekawa-san gave me her consolation, at the same time handing three triangular objects wrapped in plastic wrap on her fin.

“What is this?”

“Rice balls.”

“No, I don't mean that.”

“I made these for your breakfast~”

“Oh~” I was quietly moved by the reward for joining this amateur baseball game.

I can't believe I got handmade breakfast from a classmate — truly, it was serendipity.

Visually speaking, it was like getting a pearl from a dolphin I saved. Despite knowing that Maekawa Dad will only glare harder, I still gratefully accepted them and peeled the wrap off, all the while taking a seat next to Maekawa-san.

Enjoying the classmate's — no, self-proclaimed manager's handmade rice balls after a baseball game: it's nothing innovative, but certainly a steady development of youth. I guess it's about +2 points.

Meanwhile I kept an eye on her father's watchful stares — perhaps things will actually go to a better direction. The joy of hiding behind grown-ups and enjoying the mischief flared.

In the first rice ball was a slightly-sweet sauce.

“Ah, it's eel.”

“Just some stuff left in the shop.”

“Haven't had it in a while.” Tastes good. “And there is this, uh, what do you call it, the eel dish here.”

“Hitsu-mabushi.”

“Yeah, that stuff.”

“I think it's actually something you can buy everywhere now.”

“Here.” Maekawa-san watched me eat, and handed a thermos to me. If the fin could be removed, everything would be perfect. “Thanks.” I took the bottle and poured the cold drink into my cup, before emptying it in one gulp. Ahh, a cup of tea after cleaning up tastes so good. So what was I planning on doing again?

“So why did you make rice balls for me?”

“It's thanks for your work. Rice (nice) job.”

“Work? You're kidding, right? All I did was roll the ball.”

“Nah, you made the ball roll forward.”

“Well yeah. If it went backward it would have been a foul.”

“That's not what I'm saying, transfer student. You're just too shy.”

Maekawa-san gently shut her eyes with the embracing smile of a guardian. If it weren't for the bonito's dead-eye, it would have been a praise-worthy sight.

You could say it's befitting of Maekawa-san though.

The content in my pocket shook, emitting a muffled synthetic sound. “Oh, a mail.”

“My guess is Ryuushi.”

“Not telling.” She’s probably correct though.

I shoved the last bit of the rice ball into my mouth before taking the phone out of my pocket. Today would probably be a day full of mails — I brought my phone under the assumption. I didn’t take it out during defence either: what would I do if I had to pounce to the sides? Despite it being my own issue, I thought of it from an outsider's view.

In the span of two days there were about thirty or so messages saved in the mailbox. Like fruits during a harvest, their chance of appearance exploded. I maximized the mail’s content.

‘Mornin’~ Are ya up yet, Niwa-kun? Soz if not. I just woke up~’

A trivial but cute message; a normal message that is the polar opposite of Meme-san’s overly abstract ‘shuu~ bang~’ message.

I checked the time as well: it’s just passed eight o’ clock. From the previous emails, it can be deduced that Ryuushi-san usually wakes up around this time during breaks.

Ryuushi-san never uses emoticons in her mails. The reason being ‘if everyone’s using it, it’s not hip any more~ Being a chara-hunta, that’s a big no-no.’

Or maybe because others girls have stopped using it too? I don’t have the galls to ask something like that. With a bit of effort, I replied firmly, ‘I’m up already. Good morning.’

“What a boring reply.”

“Uwah!” The fish on the side disapproved its entertainment value.

“Don’t you plan on writing something that would make Ryuushi laugh?”

“If I do, she would try to one-up me and crash and burn.”

Not even kidding — she lost about four hours of sleep a couple of days ago.

Upon hearing that, Maekawa-san raised the corner of her mouth amusedly.

“Fine. I guess it is a little too demanding to expect her to write well.”

She nonchalantly said something rude. I reached for the second rice ball and asked.

“Have you and Ryuushi-san texted each other at all?”

“Nope, none whatsoever. Ryuushi never sent me a thing.”

“Oh… Hm?”

I sensed a gaze different from Maekawa dad’s. Looking up, it was from Hanazawa-san, who had yet to return home, staring from a distance away. Actually, following her line of sight it was probably the rice ball on my hand. “Give me rice ball.” If her eyes could speak, the message would probably be summarized with these four words. Perhaps because of our eye contact, Hanazawa-san stepped toward this direction.

If this were a fairy tale, I’d probably have some good luck if I share a rice ball with her.

I looked over at Maekawa-san; she seemed to have noticed and gave a fast reply:

“It’s already yours, transfer student. It up to you to keep it or give it.”

“Hm~” She pushed the liability back to me. But to give Maekawa-san’s rice ball to someone else…

Meme-san’s breakfast awaits me when I return. If I refuse to sit down at the table, she’ll probably throw a tantrum. Or maybe she’d call my mother, saying stuff like ‘Mako-kun is so rebellious! He’s been holding back too hard on being an Oba-con and now he’s fallen to sniffing… Kyaah~!’ The hallucination is as strong as ever, I see.

I will probably be seen as a sniffer for the rest of my life in the Touwa family. A patch of darkness rose form my heart. Well, rest of my life meaning till I graduate high school, and after that… my parents will be back. Will I miss this place once I have to move back with my parents? Currently I am… unwilling, but not opposing.

I suppose that’s just how I am with things.

Enough about this.

Since I still have breakfast waiting for me later, two rice balls is probably enough. Even if I am in the time when I can eat a lot, I’m not some beefcake in a sports club; even that much was a little too much for me anyway.

I raised the third rice ball and beckoned. Hanazawa-san cautiously took the long road, coming from not the front but the side. Only she would know if the act was purposeful.

Looking closely, rather than Hanazawa-san, she’s more like ‘MAKO*O”. I’m not saying she looks like me, but that her short, auburn hair, and her uniform made her look like she could leap through time. Her tanned skin was also incomparable with Maekawa-san’s or mine.

“Can I?”

Her crisp, water-like whisper confirmed my conscience. Chewing the rice in my mouth, I nodded. I am a little curious about what’s in the rice ball though.

Despite being temporarily named that, she didn’t seem to have a tough personality.

“Please, Hanazawa-san.” I accidentally called her so without knowing her name.

“Thank you, Isono-san.”

The immediate reply indicated adaptability, what with the bonito on my side. So what does this make me? The guy with the long face… can’t remember his name, but the classmate that shows up every now and then.

“You should say that to my neighbour.”

I’m just the middle man. Hanazawa-san peeled the wrap away and bowed at Maekawa-san.

“Thanks, Maekawa.”

“Don’t mention it. So why are you wearing your uniform?”

“Yeah, I have club practice later.”

“Sounds rough.”

Maekawa-san earnestly sympathized; Hanazawa-san’s listless expression lowered even more.

“You can tell, huh?”

“Easily.” Maekawa-san nodded sharply. Looking at her, Hanazawa-san grinned weakly while shifting attention to me. As though explaining, she spoke.

“I don’t hate the club; it’s just too much work.”

“Oh…” With minimal reaction, I bit into the rice ball. It’s pickled eggplant this time.

Being a contrast to the sweet-and-spicy sauce from before, the taste of salt was even more accentuated.

Hanazawa-san also bit into her rice ball, chewing lightly while looking over me. Her sleeves occasionally flipped upward; the tan line could be easily seen. Am I a little weird feeling excited by this disparity of coffee and white?

“How’s the taste?”

Maeakawa-san asked for Hanazawa-san’s thought. “I might just marry into your family.”

“Mm~ that’s going to be a little hard without my dad divorcing.”

Sounded like she contemplated on that seriously.

Hanazawa stopped before the third bite; for a different reason, she opened her mouth.

“You are… Maekawa’s boyfriend?”

Cough, cough!

“Ahahahah! Hear that, transfer student?”

Am I supposed to show comprehension? I almost suffocated on the plum covered in rice. Is it really not abnormal for me to be with a fish? …That’s not the problem.

While choking on the rice, I made sure to look around. If Maekawa dad were around, I wouldn’t be too surprised if he loses his cool… Oh, he’s all the way out there. Good.

“I guess the days when the transfer student dresses up like a mackerel isn’t too far off.”

And here the daughter was, laughing at her own jokes insouciantly.

“That’s another level of bad compared to idiot couples and their matching outfits.”

“Isn’t that right. Also, the transfer student is like, um… The guy…” she rolled her eyes about. “Oh yeah! The guy who tried to drown himself.”

With fingers pointed to, I was now the suicide volunteer. “Hah?” I cocked my head quizzically, only to realize at the word ‘drown.’

Was she talking about that E.* thing that happened late April?

The day when I rode a rusty bicycle into the sea with Erio. So that’s the story that’s being passed around the school? Nakajima’s attitude makes sense now, since the name transfer student had been branded with that rumour before that status was gone.

Speaking of which, Ryuushi-san also tried to explain to me something about suicide when she visited. Well, shoot. While I was busy messing around with Ryuushi-san after school, being tricked by Maekawa-san, playing tono-san with Erio (stripping the futon off her) all while dealing with Meme-san, the rumour that I was a suicidal bastard spread in the school. I guess I slacked a little too much.

It’s fortunate that the fact that I ‘jumped with Erio’ was unmentioned, but without that I really seem straight-up done with life.

“Oh, I gotta go.” Hanazawa-san grumbled melancholily while eyeing the bike moving on the bank. “Thanks~” Jogging toward the road, she raised the rice ball in appreciation of me and Maekawa-san.

“Mhm.” Staring at her back, Maekawa-san nodded satisfactorily for some reason.

“If you don’t figure out how to deal with Hanazawa’s pitch, victory will ne’er come.”

“Um, isn’t that mission impossible?”

“The future of this team rests upon you, transfer student.”

“Um, no… Not possible. What’s an amateur like me gonna do?”

And we all are. With no regard to me, Maekawa-san smiled joyfully.

“Even if you suck, just fake it till you make it, am I right?”

I almost choked again listening to the statement that almost sounded like an indirect criticism; I took the tea Maekawa-san passed over and washed the rice down. After two more coughs, I replied.

“I just can’t do it.”

“I see. Makes sense.”

Maekawa-san’s jaw shrunk with the bonito’s costume.

“Seems like you’re the type of person who will refuse to start anything.”

She commented on my character, as though able to discern the essence of it. Bullseye — I could only reply with painful silence. As if she saw through me, Maekwa-san continued.

It's neither good nor bad about my personality.

“Will you still join us next time?”

Or rather, it had nothing to do with whatever she said earlier.

“Next time, the transfer student and his shocking development! — You can’t say for sure that that won’t happen next time, right?” The hell did she say?

Sure thing~ I could only mumble, unable to showed definite interest in joining.

Why did I join an amateur baseball team? I’m not some top player — just some guy who came to fill the spot.

Maekawa-san’s invitation was an extrinsic reason that had nothing to do with me.

Hm.

I have to use a different reason. And it’s true: a girl’s request is hard to refuse.

In the end.

“…Only if I can eat you handmade rice balls next time.”

I couldn’t say no to my materialistic desire.

As I closed to home, the cicadas were already screaming deafening noise along the road.

After pushing the bicycle into the Touwa’s, I saw Erio at the corner of the yard doing the radio callisthenic.

“Chang~ Chang~ Kachang~ Chawang~ Changi~ Chakachang~ Chang…”

Even though there wasn’t a radio. As expected of the delusional girl, who can easily replace a radio…? The melody that she sung to herself while happily exercising… Hmmm.

The movement and singing that brought out her tender qualities almost made me think her cute.

She wore a white one-piece today with no futon. The self-deception didn’t work today: the sun drove her away from that heat.

“Chang~ Chang chang~ Chang chang~ chang chang~”

Chang chang chang~ Even I hummed along. And she caught me. Erio flung her hair; traces of the particles shot out as she turned. Every time when they fade or reappear, the world around her will shimmer along.

“Yo.”

“Morning, cousin.”

Neither shied nor shaken. I would have been crushed by the embarrassment if we were flipped — I would have been able to sympathize with Erio’s hiding in futon.

Erio moved closer, stepping on the rampant weed on her bare feet. Ah~ she ran out again without her shoes. She’s already been a student, so why does she still refuse to wear shoes?

“Where have you been?”

“The river. We went to play baseball.”

“Baseball.”

A naive repetition. She increased the frequency of blinks, staring at me with flickering eyes. She’s not thinking ‘the cousin doesn’t go with baseball~’ right?

I gazed at her mysterious eyeballs; occasionally I think that maybe she could see things that I can’t, which is why the whole alien thing happened… Well, now’s not the time for those kind of dreams. “Well then.” Please go on with your exercise. I reminded her while pushing the bicycle.

The wheels cranked, the mud and grass it rolled over sung gently. Then the sound of footsteps came; I looked back, and an azure burned into my retina.

I thought the hair was water or waves, with fishes swimming within.

For some reason she pulled on my neck and called 'cousin.' You could have at least pulled on my sleeve or something! “What?”

“Tonight too.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know.”

I immediately realized her intention and replied quickly. Erio's request for this summer, particular during the night, is to star gaze. Since she came to me, it must mean that the weather will be clear the entire day. At the moment, Erio is the person most concerned about news right now. Unlike when we first met, she no longer tries to receive intelligence from white noises of the screen.

“Are you done?”

“Mm.” She flexed her biceps to visually assent that she's done… What a twig-looking arm.

Like a child who couldn't wait to see her favourite weekly show, Erio happily looked up to me with a big smile. Every time when I answer yes to helping her out with that summer-project-wannabe, she will unconditionally beam at me that heart-skipping particle grin. And every time, I would refuse to look straight at her.

Looking at her directly made me feel like a part of my head would spin uncontrollably.

My phone shook from the signal that hail from a distance. Is it Ryuushi-san's mail? ...It indeed was.

“What the heck! The breakfast was ham and egg! I am under a starving attack!”

There's a picture attached too: a white patternless plate with cherry tomatoes, scrambled eggs, ham laid out like the three kingdoms on the edge of the plate. From the blurry image, I could tell it's an alluring colour.

But for a self-proclaimed fruitarian, this must have been a difficult set up.

If — and I mean if — I get the chance to eat with Ryuushi-san during the break, I must pick the restaurant carefully. But I remember her saying something about noodles being okay.

As for my reply… “It's almost Obon, so the Wasteful Spirits will show up. Just try your best!” The text does feel a bit ad lib, but almost detached; yet, I sent it just the way it was.

“The cousin, likes baseball?”

I put the bicycle back into the storage; after coming out, I was flung an unexpected question by Erio who seemed to be blocking the entrance. Oh man. With the slight surprise of a parent enjoying his child's strange behaviour, I looked to Erio's eyes. She seemed upset, twiddling her hair while faced down.

I remember asking her the same question unwittingly before.

“Are you interested?”

Erio shook her head wildly; she then took a step back away from me.

“...Oh.”

I vaguely prodded. “Awuu, awuu!” She swung her head of long hair even faster, her face turning even redder.

She was just like someone who was embarrassed to be caught fallen asleep and somehow refuses to admit it.

So dishonest, the two of us. Is it because we're cousins?

In the end she ran away. Erio hid next to the wall and began the second part of the callisthenics, during which I kept looking. After seeing her glances, I went back into the Touwa household.

On the hallway extending from the entrance, Meme-san laid on the floor as though enjoying the coldness on the floor. Her pose was like an insincerely begging for forgiveness, with her butt up and face down. Hair spread every where on the floor, I thought it's 'now coming out from the television screen.'

If that guy saw the this scene, would his fanatically burning love freeze?

“Zzz~ Zzz~ ...Yay~ Meme-chin's won the young men's vote for the town's popularity poll… Zzz~”

“Um, I think it's only been a grand total of five second since voting started.” And you're the only one voting.

“Morning~ Mako-tan.”

With her face still kissing the floor, she asked with an obscure voice.

“...Please call me something normal.”

How come she's the only one who keeps calling me different names? Why couldn't it be my friends or Erio? It sure would suck if it's because I'm only getting along better with my aunt.

“Mako, Mako, tan-tan.”

“Sorry for making an impossible request for my abnormal aunt.”

Each person have things they can and cannot do. There are things that are inherently impossible though.

For example, flying with a bicycle.

Or arriving here from a different planet.

And me becoming a baseball game hero.

Being able to give up easily allows for a timely life with mental stability.

Suddenly, Meme-san snapped upright. The clear red marks on her face suited that airhead look of hers. It might even help cover the wrinkles — my throat will definitely be crushed if I said it.

According to Meme-san herself, she's normal about every three years. So as far as the time I will be spending here is concerned, it'll probably never happen. Just as I casually thought of a retort, Meme-san grinned tauntingly.

As though she had read my mind, she began chatting about some seemingly irrelevant things. I've gradually adapted to her unholy ability of connecting the dots. Not because this is where aliens live, but because Meme-san herself is just such a life form. My stress has gone down significantly ever since I started thinking this way.

“Hmhmhm, time actually flows differently for me.”

“I guess, since you can never get your age right.”

“How could it be! Two birthdays a year! Meaning, I'm only half my age! What~! I'm only twenty~ Aha!”

Dude! Logic! You're being too nice! Get outta there! Please send this forty year old back! You don't want to? Really?

“In, other, words! Normal Meme will be there in a year and a half, which is when Mako-kun is going to graduate! Meme's flower will once again bloom!”

“It's already faded.”

“I will steal your heart as we part!”

“I'm already ready to part.”

A (one-person)smile-filled, happy-looking (from the side) family.

Nighttime — if it were the country where I lived, it'd be the time when frogs cry.

Probably because of the lack of farm around here, other kinds of insects chirped about.

Reading a book Ryuushi-san lent me, I killed time under the suffocating heat. As the guest in the house, I refused to use the AC.

“…...” I've reached halfway.

Currently, I fear Australia: the southern hemisphere terrifies me. Reading a book like this deeply instilled a sense of regret in me, but at the same time, I've grown to learn how safe my life has been, being able to read a book in a room on a clean bed. Even though I am constantly harassed by a non-human like my aunt everyday, I would never trade this life away… And that'd be horrific if I can start seeing things that way. Personally, brainwashing should only be limited to being mesmerized by a girl.

I flipped over, grabbing onto the phone by the pillow. It's not like there's a new message, but I still checked the history every now and then; then, I'd grin smugly remembering the exchange between me and Ryuushi-san.

If there were mirrors scattered in this room, I'll probably be sick of my disgusting smile.

I opened up the reply to the message 'you can do it!' that I sent to her after she expressed her dissatisfaction with breakfast.

“Mom said the same thing. Are ya spyin' on the Mifune?”

Does she suspect me of planting a bug in her house?

Speaking of which, I haven't even been to Ryuushi-san's house. Only if I could visit in the future. Her room must be filled with the sweet scent of Ryuushi-san… I totally meant to say 'so what?'

Explaining kind of kills it, but what I meant to say it's tantalizing.

“Kousin.”

“Hah?” A familiar, futon-covered voice summoned me from the hall.

Despite it being the middle of a tropical night, the stifled-looking monster crept into the room, enveloped in her favourite Calamus-patterned futon. On the way in, half her body bumped into the unopened door along the wall, almost tipping her over.

“What's the matter, futon roll? Sports meet at the cemetery?”

An outfit that displays perseverance without the courage test, huh. Closing the book, I sat up.

“It is tiem for stergeyzing.”

I looked up to the clock, replying, “Ah~ right, it's already the time? So what's up with that getup?”

“Bug rehelant.”

“Bug repellant? Sure, keep it on.”

With no intent of pointing out the problem, I decided to head straight out. The telescope weighing over eight kilo was carried by me; Erio, who almost fell downstairs, was also transported along. The results of not being bound by futons for twenty four hours a day seemed to be the deterioration of sensation. What a useless skill she had accrued.

I held her back and made sure she put on the sandals before she flew out. The melanin-lacking skin that looked as it'd bleed when merely touched kept a strange cold… Wait, no. Why do I gotta baby her so much? It's not like we're princess and servant. Despite complaining, I did not let go of the foot in hand.

Gazing into the sky on a summer night — certainly a good development for Youth-points, yet not so much after having to take care of the cousin who's just as circuitous as her wrapped appearance… I'm not being a worry-wart, am I?

Putting on my sandals as well, I opened up the door. As far as the distance though, we're really just going outside to the yard — the yard that is crawling with a congregation of insects. The uncanny sound, when listened closely to, was as though the sight of pure whiteness will tear at the deep part of your memories. Motionless air held the remains of day, the warmth; even the sky was clear, perfect for stargazing. Though I have to admit the expression is kind of strange when the sun was absent.

Anywhere outside of the house was off-limit to Erio, the reason being Meme-san's certain orders.

It was a dialogue from a while ago. I'm guessing it was the second Sunday of May.

In the living room, Meme-san wagged her finger, 'tsk, tsk, tsk,' in front of Erio.

“You can't, Erio. When it's late in the city~” She paused and eyed over here for some reason. “There's a lotta hungry wolves waiting for a cute sheep like you~” I don't care if you want to scare her or something, but what was the look for, Oba(a)san?

“Wolf?”

Did she not understand the analogy? Erio cocked her head lightly. “Oh my~ Meme-san appeared ecstatic somehow.

“Ah~ You're just too darn pure! I just wanna to protect you!” She said so while squeezing Erio tightly. I would have pushed off right away, the weather being so damn hot, but Erio only seemed confused with a reddened face and didn't resist.

So Erio does love her mom, huh~ Is it because she only had a mom at home? Well, I guess for certain people the personality or appearance of a puppy is just their soft spot. But seriously… What an extreme niche.

Still, Erio is much more grounded now that her rebellious phase against the human race has passed, so at least she wouldn't disobey Meme Obaa-san anymore. No wonder she quietly accepted the curfew.

End flashback.

The stars in the sky could have only been observed with a telescope; their actual danger to her will not be on a physical level.

Truth to be told, that Erio, who has such good sleeping schedule after ditching her antic, probably wouldn't stay out late even after getting a little more confident. If I don't go with her then, hahaha… Uh, 'scue me? Why's the assumption that I have to do everything with her? Am I her legs?

With the rationale 'I'll deal with it later,' I tossed all sorts of worries aside before setting the telescope up. I'm not sure how I would feel carrying this humongous telescope on a hike anyhow, to be frank.

“Alright, alright, you're free to look at whatever you want.” Just not yourself.

“…...”

“...Hmghng!” Erio hopped about, twisting the entire futon around.

Looks like she had noticed how she is prevented from both the mosquitoes and actually looking at the stars. She should have realized the moment when she donned the thing.

According to herself, she's taking measures because she took too much damage from the bloodsuckers yesterday. Too bad she should have thought about using the bug spray.

I guess it's commendable to want to move forward by trying things on your own, but uh~ you can't see anything in that futon. Not exactly to be taken seriously when you can't even tell the directions.

Perhaps as a compromise, she stuck only her head out. People watching would probably think of water springing out of the ground like a flower or stem.

While maintaining the in-between of a youkai and a human, Erio took a deep breath. Whoever may be watching would definitely be able to enjoy her outlandish beauty; for Erio herself, she could enjoy the serenity that is being inside a futon, so it's a win-win situation for all. But, well, there was still a fundamental problem that still persist.

After her breathing exercise, Erio stared at the telescope, about to begin her next move.

“…...”

“...Hng~” She wriggle within the futon. It would appear that she has fallen into quite the struggle, unable to use either hands. Oh boy, the road to space proved to be difficult. Who would have thought that her futon would be an obstacle?

Who would be seen as the crazy one, me or Erio, if future researchers were told that?

“Just come out quietly from the futon.”

“The cousin forcefully demanded me to strip.”

“Oh wow, looks like your tongue's just as sharp as your moms. Fine, you don't have to take it off, I mean we could just look at the stars in the futon.” I mean, it's such a wonderful planetarium and all.

Erio halfheartedly emerged from the futon; after folding it neatly, she returned the mattress back into the entrance. Finally, she began the preparation for stargazing. From below the scope, she adjusted the focus, angle and direction. I've heard that it's an arduous process for beginners, even with auto-adjustment, yet Erio's deft hands appeared experienced. The same could be said about her work at the Tamura Shop: setting conversation aside, she's quite the shopkeeper now for the most part. I suppose she's skilled in learning by experience.

Like taste-testing, Erio checked out the starry sky first; 'mm', she moved away from the telescope and smiled at me.

“It's there again.”

Her smile was also there again… Let's forget about that thought.

Out of all the planets, Jupiter is what Erio's currently following. Apparently it's easy to spot it during this season. Every now and then she look through the scope, all while sketching away on the notebook. Perhaps already used to sketching, her strokes were the perfect balance between speed and detail.

I took a peak through the scope while Erio was drawing; an unfamiliar planet entered my vision. There wasn't much wind tonight, so the weather was perfect for stargazing. The telescope focused onto the sepia giant that would only appear slightly bigger than my eye if seen directly from Earth.

The spiral pattern on Jupiter's surface is called the 'Great Red Spot.' Erio told me so. Just what is the reason behind that whirl? She kind of explained in fragments on the first day, but I only remember half of it.

“Just a bit more; something cooler will show up.”

Erio interjected excitingly from the side.

“Oh~” Since I'm not the fanatic of space here, my response was only impassive.

I'm more of the deep-sea camp: compare to a surrealistically large world, I like the one that has an ending to the many mysteries — I guess for people like me, our dream has to be somewhat realistic.

Observing clearly a planet that no men has ever stepped on simply felt fantastical. I would even go as far as saying that it is no different than looking through a long tube that has pictures of Jupiter and its satellites printed and stuck on the end. Carelessly I blurted this out three days ago, promptly disappointing Erio; her obvious sigh seemed to convey 'what is this idiot saying?' Her upset expression while looking down on me was refreshing, and I guess a compliment like 'the cousin's lack of imagination is impressive' isn't exactly common either. The price to pay for not having a filter was the abundance of rare reactions.

I predicted the time when Erio stopped sketching, retracting my body like a hand during mochi-making. I am hanging out with her for sentimental purposes, but I have no love for the stars; still, it's not like I'd be doing much of anything aside from reading or watching TV if I were to refuse her offer — and I will definitely not be studying. So, from the point of 'meaningful' alone, my options don't necessarily differ.

As a side note, Meme-san joined us on the first stay, but she was annihilated by the mosquitoes, so while scratching and rubbing ointment on, she declared 'ahh, my pheromone is not only effective with Mako-kun, but with the bugs too… I'll repent for my sins!' Now she's staying indoor, lazing about where the AC's blasting.

As if unable to stand my spacing out, a synthetic ring tone squeaked from the open windows in my room on second floor. It sounded like a retro, rotary-styled phone, just shorter in duration. I realized immediately what it was.

Without looking away, Erio simply spoke.

“Phone call?”

“No, a mail.”

“From whom?”

She's being nosy somehow. “...Ryuushi-san.” Probably — most likely. Though it might also be Maekawa-san, she's also a person who'd rather call than type when she's got business. Besides, she probably wouldn't even call about the game until at least two days later.

And I've already agreed to play in the game in two days, thanks to the rice balls for breakfast and other things. And here I am thinking that kids who'd get kidnapped for food were extinct… Well, if men tricked by the feminine wile of women never disappear, than I will gladly change my thought on that.

“Ryuushi...”

She repeatedly mumbled the name, but only the pencils rustling on paper followed. It's only natural, seeing how she and Ryuushi-san had a bit of history. The danger of making friends with Erio while being in the local school — perhaps that's what she understood.

For Erio, I'm afraid it's simply withdrawal that's causing her to be so shy.

“Cousin.”

Without looking away from the telescope, Erio directly spoke my name. “Hm?”

“When will you be on TV?”

“Who are you talking about?”

It's pretty depressing that that response came before 'what are you talking about.' Do I not have any hope for myself on a TV debut? Like I said, I'm just… Hm, I think I said something along the line before…

“The cousin said, baseball in the morning.”

The conversation from this morning was revived from the graveyard of memories. Is she that interested in it? I refuted that thought right away.

“If they had time for some guys by the river, they'd probably go to the local high school team.” It's around the same time of year, too.

“Mm~” She pondered… Or at least, looked so. So that was just a way to cut into the actual topic?

“The cousin plays near the river. Amateur baseball?”

“Yeah, you've seen them before.” Erio nodded; her forehead knocked on the telescope. For the next moment she re-adjusted the angle before turning to face me. Her eyes, like the stars, glittered.

“The shopping district team?”

“Yep.” The city side probably don't want me anyway. They got enough people too.

And being on the different side with people I know is also kinda… I hadn't plan on wasting my morning hours on creating resentment or building walls.

Erio moved her face away from the telescope. From the stars above, her eyes returned onto the horizon — me. The eyes that gleamed like the surface of water made me thought that, even with heavy scrutiny, will reflect neither the scenery nor me.

She held tightly her tiny fists. On her face was the same expression when she declared her desire to work.

Next, Erio phrased the line.

“Next time, can I go too?”

The white ball tumbling to the third base replayed in my mind.

“...Baseball?”

“Is it yakyuu, or baseball? Base~ ball~?”

Why did she go as far as involving English? Wait, that's not the problem.

Erio… Wants to join team game. Is being surprised a fair reaction? What's happening?

An abstract feeling of anxiety. Like startled by the flapping of insect wings or screeches, my feet lost their holding. I feel like I want to go tell Meme-san myself. Why? Why do I feel this way?

It's not the same as the brain-numbing kind, but the guts-wrenching type. It was as if my bowel were filled with some unbelievable things.

Though not quite discomfort, this unknown sensation spreading across my body scared me.

Well, I don't have a reason to refuse. I can't say the same for others, however.

“I'll ask them. Well, um, hm, it's probably okay though. Yeah.”

“Thank you.”

The words of appreciation, that sounded like syllables put together and read separately. A voice like a text-to-speech, and a face like that — it's only natural that people thought she was an alien. If she never loudly proclaim herself as otherwise, wouldn't people all agree that she's an extraterrestrial life form? She is, in all seriousness, a person of many esoteric traits.

But setting all that aside.

Erio, she's…

Not just asking about baseball, right? There must be another reason. She's even asked to see if I was on the shopping district's team, and that must be related to that other reason.

I don't plan on getting to the bottom of it — I actually want to forget about all this, now that I might imagine of what Erio would look like standing next to that river bank. It's the only way I could hold back whatever that is coming out of my chest.

After that, Erio soundlessly gazed at Jupiter; the notebook, too, went untouched.

It ended. From her own will, Erio concluded the session.

Following the observation of Jupiter, we viewed the closest satellite — in other words, the moon. Much more interesting than Jupiter, it is my preference. When I'm done watching the moon, I'll probably retreat back into the Touwa household.

Erio will probably mess around with the stars for about an hour more afterward. Since I worry about the humidity of the night along with the bug bites, and also the feeling of being in her way, I will withdraw.

Erio set the telescope toward the moon. Watching her movement made me think of operating a machine gun or something. Meanwhile, I swatted at the bugs flying about.

“Done.” As always, reporting to me was Erio-san. “'Kay.” My nonchalant nod indicated comprehension. Now with a serious face, Erio looked at the telescope.

Then her eyes exploded.

The mouth that was shut tightly opened up, 'ah.'

“What's the matter?”

I mindlessly asked.

The next words didn't sound big or interesting.

At least for me, it's something that could be brushed aside with an 'oh.'

Yet, Erio…

As if spirited away, she slowly and firmly bit down on her mouth.

Like reuniting with a person lost amidst the city.

A soundless, formless surprise was upon us.

In the eyes that seem to imitate planet Earth, she drawled out the truth.

“Something, flashed by the moon.”

'Kay, two days later.

A battle for our burning youth… And the day of game that has nothing to do with any of that.

Erio, who woke up early, wrapped her upper body with a futon, standing in the middle of the hall like a statue.

“Poff, poff” She said something. I don't plan on translating so I'll just refer to it as 'poff, poff.'

“What's with the outfit?” Is it happening again?

“Ser er dern't hert if er gert hert.”

“So I don't hurt if I get hit?” It's easier to interpret this one, so I wanted to see if I could use it as practice for the English exam.

“Poff, poff.”

“You'll hurt other people's head. Strip!”

“Poff!”

She puffed up her chest (futon) in rebuttal. I used force to dismantle the futon. Shouldn't you have grown up? Is futon the only solution you have to problems? “Alright, there ya go.” After pulling the bedding off her, I nudged her down the stairs. “Uwah~” A dissatisfied Erio yearningly looked back at the futon, but her feet never stopped.

I will make sure she has her shoes on today. We're not racing in a grade schooler's fifty-meter, so we got to have shoes on. With that belief in mind I looked to her, yet she pouted in contempt, 'eh~?' while regarding the shoes next to her feet. I mean, I know she's someone who can casually walk outside when it rains — she doesn't even use an umbrella if she's alone. Does she not care about getting dirty?

It's a slightly different value from the common people. Well, part of it is also similar to others… No wait, that'd confirm the theory that Erio's an alien. As someone who denies the idea, I can't be doing this.

More basically, I am someone who doesn't believe in the supernatural unless something extraordinary happens.

The self-diagnose is probably correct. Despite it being about myself, it is still intriguing to know how little I actually understand.

Coming out to the yard, I dragged the bicycle out of the shack. Then, as though 'combining,' Erio sat into the basket; intentionally letting it slide, I moved the bike out. The pedals were heavier than two days ago; despite them being less than light, however, I somehow felt at ease.

We reached the bank with nothing in particular along the way. I first parked the bicycle a bit further away before walking down to the river where some of the shopping district team was.

Then.

“So, here's the person I wanted to bring over.”

I introduced her to everyone. Smack! I pushed lightly on Erio's back, putting her closer to them.

“P...Pleased to you…” She mumbled some words and snuffled. In her hands where a rule book 'Intro for Youth Baseball.' ...It might be a little better if you keep that hidden…

And you don't have to pretend you're the athletic kind. Erio ran behind me and watched carefully the reactions of the adults, Maekawa-san, and the opposing team. By the way, Maekawa-san was wearing a bigeye tuna outfit. Is fish trending this summer? In regard to the costume market.

However… Aside from Maekawa-san and Erio, there seemed to be something else today that captivated people's attention.

What's that? Can't be a decoration if it moves.

“It's Touwa's...” “Oh, the snack shop's...” “The person in the futon...” “Meme's daughter, huh…”

The owner of the last statement was obvious. After the commotion settled, the tanned guy in the middle took a step forward and spoke.

“Well, you play baseball?”

“I… I play right field.”

Don't bother pretending. “Not at all.” I pushed her upright head down, fixing her mistake. “Mm.” Captain tanned (Yakitori shop's manager) nodded.

“Then you take right field.” Not that he believed Erio, but probably because it is the least possible place for the ball to land in an amateur game.

Perhaps because they weren't directly involved, the adults weren't too resentful toward her.

Or maybe because for the adults, that certain 'thing' is more… Who knows.

I mean, 'it' is more for me. Once again my eyes drifted to the enemy team that's preparing for defense.

“Hmmm...”

There's someone in a space suit guarding the left field: a mysterious helper that was not here two days ago.

And it's not like she literally just returned from space.

The person capable of being Erio's toughest rival raised its gloved hand first.

“Who's that? Maekawa-san's cosplay buddy?”

“Nope, no idea who that is. Someone they found? Looks like she could jetpack to catch a home run.”

Maekawa-san remarked while staring blankly at the person. It's still a fellow cosplayer, even if they don't know each other — maybe she's just glad that another comrade showed up.

“That, is not a real space suit.” An intent Erio asserted.

“Of course not.” After all, those are pretty expensive — how would it even end up in a civilian's possession?

And even if it did, how much would it cost?

The outfit looked like it was just some similar cloth with specially painted patterns, without any real function. And there's no machine on it either. The helmet looked real, but did he make it himself? It does indeed look like a space suit from the outside.

A dude wearing a space suit, we'll abbreviate it to space man. Small framed, his movement seemed unexpectedly deft. The space suit (lookalike) and baseball mitt combination look unreal. A baseball game on the moon of Mars would probably look like that though. Strangeness instantly turned into mystery from that angle.

It might not be possible for me to pretend this to be something like 'predicting the future' with eyes shimmering like when going on a field trip to a science museum, but… Well, I don't think kids now-a-day get excited about going to places like that.

Maybe they don't care much for the unknown? I guess I still am… A kid…?

I glanced to the side at Erio; she seemed to be following the ball flying upward with the same eyes when stargazing.

“Looks like we can play a game without much problem.”

“Mm.”

Erio shut her slightly ajar mouth and nodded several time like a critter. I've never seen the TV broadcasting live baseball games when Erio's lazing around the living room, so I'm pretty sure she doesn't like baseball that much. Same goes for Meme-san.

By the way, after telling Meme-san about this. 'Alright~ Then Meme's going to play the beautiful manager!' 'No way.' What's wrong with her.

“Mm? I thought I didn't ask her to come?”

Uttering those words, Maekawa-san looked up at toward the bank; I too followed her.

A diminutive girl sat on a light motorcycle — wearing a red yukata and a pair of rubber sandals, and a construction helmet clearly in violation of many safety regulation, it's a young girl whose licensed status was dubious at best.

I recall seeing her playing ball here before. From her vehicle to clothing and appearance, a girl lacking in uniformity — much like a grade schooler's palette. Noticing Maekawa-san down below, she cast a smile.

Um, about the person sitting behind her.

“Eh~ It's Niwa-kun!”

Holding a basketball and attired with the whole set of gym clothes, Mifune Ryuushi-san, with a safety helmet on her head, was riding along on that bike.

“Yaho!” Ryuushi-san slid down the hill on her heels. “Oh man, this is gonna be good.” Maekawa-san looked over mischievously while Erio took a step back cautiously. I don't understand the intention either, but she pinched my arm lightly.

“What?” Even though I looked back at her face, our eyes didn't match. The pair of aqua-coloured eyes stared straight at Ryuushi-san.

“Hey? Is here fine?”

The girl in yukata on the bank confirmed with Ryuushi-san. “Yep! Thanks!” With a wave of hand, Ryuushi-san walked away. After that, the motorcycle left.

“Mmmm...” Ryuushi-san, whom I've not seen for five days, stood in front of me with overflowing displeasure. She might just threw the ball at me like at a wall. Or maybe dunk the ball on me. I got that she's mad, but why?

Maybe she dislikes sports that aren't basketball? No… She's more than excited about volley ball during PE. As I restart the thought, Ryuushi-san looked to Maekawa-san. She just stood with a grin; Ryuushi-san ignored the tuna with legs. Then those who are playing ball on the field: a total of two classmates. No youth here. Now she gets it. When she finally noticed Erio, for just a moment, her face twitched slightly; yet she starting pouting.

“Y'all are playing baseball.”

“Yeah, we are.”

“Maekawa-san's here, and, uh… Touwa-san too.”

“Yep, that's us.” She's more like Tunakawa-san at the moment.

“Niwa-kun's didn't invite me! Just me!”

Ryuushi-san flailed her hands around like she doesn't know who to pass the ball to — her upper half turned into an angry child.

Oh, is this what's happening? But since when did we have this unbalanced friend group? Felt like we're a four-people group looking for aliens. Maybe Ryuushi-san's a little confused about something? I was actually the only one who was invited originally, so accusing me of excluding anyone is just a little inaccurate. Just as I sent SOS to Maekawa-san, she's already moved on onto the space suit on the left field. She even exclaimed, 'Maybe I'll wear an Ali*n suit tomorrow.' Some sort of meaningless sense of rivalry in that monologue.

“No no no, I wasn't excluding you.” I'm going to have to explain it myself. “Hmph~” “That was meant to be special treatment.” The hell am I saying? A lie full of so much crap, and I just threw it at Ryuushi-san's face. And then Ryuushi-san… “Eh? I'm special?”

Wha? She took the bait? She just bit onto the word 'special?' As expected of Ryuushi-san and her complex for normalcy. With eyes wide open, her tanned face beamed with a grin.

“Doku doku.” An onomatopoeia for her state of mind… I hope it doesn't become real.

“Wasn't that an expression for things overflowing?”

“Doki doki + Waku waku.”

“Why does something so positive sound so bad?”

Ryuushi-san is above the laws of arithmetic.

“So, what made you come, Ryuushi-san?”

An equally prominent question was ‘who’s the girl in yukata?’ but this takes priority.

Ryuushi-san suddenly lowered her shoulders.

“Er, self-practice. There’s a basketball hoop there, ya see.”

Ryuushi-san’s finger pointed slowly toward where the motorcycle left. “Oh~” That’s pretty impressive — I had no clue that she’s so dedicated to her club that she’s willing to practice on her own.

“So who’s that?”

“A lady from around. She’s was on her way somewhere so she gave me a ride.”

“I see.” …A lady? “You’re pretty dedicated, huh.”

“Well, um, y’know… Uh...”

“Hm?”

Ryuushi-san wriggled about, her hands twisting the ball.” Mm~” She mumbled.

“I thought, ya know, if Niwa-kun’s gonna cheer for me, I gotta step up and stuff.”

“Oh…”

Debble Ofadorable Ness. That’s a typo from being so shaken. The devil of adorableness shone brightly, making me choke ceaselessly.

For just a moment, I was so impressed that I forgot to breath.

But it did not last long.

“The cousin, cheer?”

Erio, who was so far silent, interjected. “Hm.” I affirmed first before taking a side glance at Erio. No expression — something seemed a little off.

Ryuushi-san appeared to be taken aback by that attitude as well; just when she’s stuttering, about to ask Erio something ‘Um…’ the parts on her face froze.

Her eyes stuck to something behind me; the half-opened mouth and the tongue inside simultaneously drew a breath. At the same time of my bewilderment, I looked behind toward the field. Though there were plenty of people practising there, out of all of them only one was staring at something other than the ball, so it was easy to figure out.

It’s Nakajima. He stared past me, at Ryuushi-san. “Hi.” He smiled awkwardly and greeted with his gloved hand. Ryuushi-san too, stiffly raised her hand and frantically looked back and forth between me and him.

“Um… Is it complicated?” An ex? I choked before the words came out.

“F-friends, ‘cuz we’re both in basketball club, Nakajima-kun and I.

Ryuushi-san asserted emphatically, as though accentuating. It’s not a great feeling, when someone sounds like she’s making an excuse when she’s trying to hide something. Well, not like there’s any reason to explain to me anyway, so even I’m a little awkward now that she’s giving me special treatment.

Nakajima and Ryuushi-san looked away from each other unnaturally.

Silence loomed timely over the field.

The air around fought for warmth, wrapping me like a soft film.

Next to me were Ryuushi-san, Erio, and, even if I wanted to skip her… Maekawa-san.

Is this… The eye of the storm? A tempest seemed to prowl for a chance to lay waste on the field.

“…Oh boy.”

As though sucked in by a whirlpool, a plethora of people gathered at this amateur baseball game.

The worn-out field next to the river, filled with mysteries, fantasies, and idleness.

Holding tightly onto the Youth-points flying away, I looked skyward.

There’s a bit of cloud today: a comfortable weather unsuitable for star gazing.

--

I did think about what might end up happen, but the game proceeded without further problems. Bonk! The crisp sound reverberated one after another — of course that’d never happen: it’s still the usual gloomy routine. Whether it be Maekawa dad’s side-throw or Hanazawa-san’s softball style, the ball never met with the bat. Hanazawa-san aside, did Maekawa dad play baseball? I should ask him about it someday.

Because of these two’s pitching warfare, the ball never went the right field where Erio stood dumbfounded. Astronaut suit of the enemy team also did nothing at the left field. Both sides did show how beautiful a missed swing look, however.

After the fiasco, Ryuushi-san said nothing but pouted. With heavy steps (when her gait is uneven) she headed to practice basketball. ‘Imma make you cry during the game, Niwa-kun!’ I don’t know if it’s a taunt or a show of spirit, but somehow I’ve became her opponent. But am I despicable, shutting up despite knowing the fact that her upset was used as a façade to cover something up? It’s gotta have something to do with… Nakajima, right?

“I see…” Indeed, something worse would happen if I was upfront about it.

Nakajima stole a look here, so I smiled in courtesy.

Okay, on the second half of third inning, Touwa Erio assumed her first batting. On the opposing team, Nakajima and Hanazawa-san focused onto Erio. Sharply. Piercingly. Erio cowered in presence of those seemingly inevitable gazes, but she still put on the helmet and entered the batter’s box. Her ‘Baseball for Beginners’ lay on my hand in the resting area. She hunched her back; her overflowing hair covered her face, making me wonder if she could even see the ball. She reminded me of a rich kid from a certain manga.

Standing on the pitcher’s hill, Hanazawa-san squinted at Erio. Those were the eyes when you see something alien. Hanazawa-san must have been involved too. Her act of exhale of as though releasing something built up. Then came the first ball from that looped pitch. Erio obliviously watched the ball land without swinging the bat. The heavy thud was like the ball had stabbed into the mitt.

“Does Touwa know the rules?”

Next to me, Tunakawa-san watched the umpire’s exaggerated pose, while impassively tilting her head to the side. It’s a rhetorical question, but I still worried over the fact that I could only say ‘I wonder too.’

“Oh, I made some sandwiches for today.”

“Oh~” Much appreciated. I still think that if you at least made your dad’s portion as well, the predicament wouldn't be as bad.

I once again focused back onto the field.

Hanazawa-san’s second pitch. “Kyah!” Erio took an early step and threw her weight into the bat without any apparent analysis to the trajectory.

“Whoah!” I shot up — the bat connected. The bat’s tip grazed the ball and, albeit weakly, sent it flying back. This was the very first time in this game where the white ball was ever sent toward the outer field.

Regardless, it was just a typical and lacklustre ball that flew above the left field. Lightly running and closing the distance, the space man rose his left glove with ease, as if saying ‘I got this.’ Yet, just when I thought Erio’s done for; just when all hope’s been given up —

Bonk.

That ordinary, high-flying ball went by the glove and landed straight onto the space man’s face. Or, uh, that, um, helmet’s plastic part… The rim? I’ll figure it out later. Anyway, the ball was sucked into that spot, and the space man collapsed slowly. Like the practice target at a Hawaiian tourist shooting range, he fell backward with his face up. No sign of waking up. The man in charge of mid field frantically ran toward the space man the ball; Hanazawa-san, standing on the hill and watching where the ball went, did not react to her teammate’s mistake, merely swiping the sweat on her forehead.

Successfully arrived at first base, Erio seemed to also have noticed the incident and stopped. She tilted her head and froze, apparently confused by what’s happened. But from the shopping district’s side of the resting area came the shouting of ‘run, run!’ A stupefied Erio glanced between the resting area and the alien; baffled, she once again ran forward. As the space man continued to be dazed, Erio stepped over second base, than third base. At that precise moment, the mid fielder picked up the ball, while keeping an eye on the fallen space man, passed the ball back. Erio stopped at home plate.

On the other side, the space man was carried off into the resting area by two other players. Someone finally decided to remove the helmet, but the space man resisted.

The space man absolutely refused to show his face, choosing to maintain this surreal scene. Was it the same kind of dedication Erio has for her futon?

Perhaps worried that she’d hurt someone, Erio anxiously looked between the bench where the space man lay and my face— look, I’m not your guardian!

Fine. I concede that your actual guardian isn’t exactly useful outside of serious situations. I saw how she was playing mah-jong on her phone recently. “Meme wants summer va-cay too~!” She so exclaimed to the old lady at the Tamura shop, only to be riposted, ‘You seemed even dumber than when you’re young.’ Her fit was only further exacerbated. In a negative way, I suppose people around her really can’t tell her age.

My digression will end here. Due to Erio’s endless barrage of aid-seeking attacks, I stood up from my seat. “Transfer student?” “I’ll be right back.” Ignoring Maekawa-san’s gaze, I strode toward the opposite resting area. Affected by me, Erio too left third base and followed. Hey! You’re going to be outed! I thought that, but people who’d willing to make contact with Erio are probably few in number; hence she easily made it past the players of the other team.

“It’s not your fault. Probably.”

I comforted her first. “Mm…” Erio kept on a sad expression.

“…Ah.” Shoot. Upon the sudden realization I looked around. I can’t believe I so casually moved with Erio. Hanazawa-san and Nakajima are here, too. Just as I feared, the two of them stared wide-eyed at me and Erio. Within the eyes mixed with disquiet, I saw the darkness after summer.

I let my guard down. My habits took over. But wait, isn’t it more of a miracle that the rumour of Erio sitting inside my bicycle’s basket hasn’t become widespread?

Erio herself seemed to not care about the stares, trotting along behind me… Well, I’ve already made up my mind about this.

Without further doubt, I kept forward at the same pace.

We peeked into the resting area; the people surrounding let us in, so we closed in deeper.

Looking down by the bench; the alien lied there, limbs spread, but still reacted to us by turning his head.

He seems to be suffering from heat stroke, wearing that seemingly suffocating mask. Even with it on, people could tell the person inside is heaving heavily; perhaps dehydrated, he hacked several time with his entire body convulsing.

Probably guilt-tripped further by the tragic sight, Erio's eyes trembled.

“I'm… Sorry.”

A quivering Erio bowed apologetically. Despite being immobilized, the space man squeezed out a reply as if in labour.

“Do- not- wor-ry.”

“...Hah?”

From deep within his guts emitted a modified voice that sounded like it's to protect the speaker's identity. The degree of realism he reproduced made me wonder if there really was a machine inside. I don't understand why anyone would go as far this.

“…...” I couldn't help but look to Erio.

Erio froze too — not because she was moved to tears by the chance meeting with another extraterrestrial being. I am already used to this. It's not even a spectacle any more. Even if aliens were to show up and take over the town like, or if UFO's decide to destroy the town like a Fujiko F. Fujio comic, I wouldn't be surprised.

Why is this town filled with freaks? And you even come regularly. Are you guys mid bosses in a game?

“You got this! Ex-alien.” I testing nudged Erio, our ace, forward. “Cousin, um...” The sudden recommendation locked Erio up; she threw countless glances at me. “You can do it.” I forced her to have a face-to-face with him.

Would there be some chemical reaction? I had hope. And the evasive thought of 'please stop throwing people like this in my way.'

“What- is- this-?”

“A friend.”

“Friend?” He only hesitated for a moment, 'what- is- this-?' before starting to feel Erio's head. “Uwahwah!” Unused to people's touch, Erio reacted incomprehensibly like speaking without any teeth.

“Ph-ew.”

“I don't think you have to insist the pause in a 'phew.'”

Plus you need that air now.

The space man ignored my advice, staring at Erio's face. Just then…

“You- ap-pear- to- be- an- in-habi-tant- of- XXXXXX-”

“Wha?” “Eh?”

“Are- you- involved- in- the- case?”

The space man took off with the topic, leaving my and Erio's reaction in the dust.

What was that made-up word he said? Don't tell me: it was an alien language he made up? This is bad — he's not messing around. If he's sicker than Erio with her futon, I'm not going to be able to handle this.

Actually, I don't even have to listen to this guy: I just thought that somehow Erio will be dragged into this space man's fantasy. For my personal harmony, I'll pretend this never happened.

“What was that, just now?”

Naturally, I think, Erio didn't understand the space man's words, requesting a repeat. However, he continued on.

And for some reason his words and gaze directed to me.

“As- for- the- individual- there...” From that point on, a normal, somewhat raspy voice of a teenage girl surfaced. Wait, that's a girl in there? Well, I guess from her physique that should have been the assumption. “Ah, wait. Time out.” Her natural voice came out; she coughed violently with her right hand blocking Erio's eyes. Apparently that was too much for her, the voice. It's on the same level as forcing yourself to laugh like ke~ ke~ ke. In the end, while watching this whole thing play out with the help of humidity, I caved. The stupidity of trying to deal with her pierced my spine.

“Ah~ ah~” Sitting up now, the space girl who ignored the stale atmosphere surrounding her completed the adjustment of her voice. She stuck her thumb at her chest and boasted.

“Thanks- for- waiting. Come- at- me.” She'd recovered — and was getting on my nerve.

The space girl kept the mimicry while identifying herself.

“I- am- an- es-per.”

I'm an esper. I recalled the creature that had to karate-chop its own neck to speak like that.

A esper descends once again.

“Ahhh~”

It's been a while since I get to end with this. May I? I may. So, here it is.

“Oh, is that so?”

### 003. Chapter 2 - The Boy's Strange Summer

Around the time of fifth grade, I joined the local youth football team.

The team wasn't in a tournament or anything, and frankly speaking it's not too different than playing a game of kickballs after school.

At the time, football was all the rage among us boys who couldn't care less about trends. Even the girls who took joy in competing were mixed together with them, sending the ball here and there. Affected by the air of 'if you don't play, you have no friends' I naturally pretended to be interested and joined the them.

Since it's a team effort, my parents were often preparing drinks or snacks under the bridge, be it hot or cold. I bet they actually didn't want to do it — I now realized just how incredible they were.

Back then, I only cared about other things.

So, I joined a team. All's well — except, did I really try to play the sports? The answer, as obvious as it is, is simply a no.

I had totally no chance of appearing in a game when we were playing against other teams. The coach hated me. Just kidding: I just sucked.

In terms of practising, I consider myself dedicated. During the weekend, or when school's out, I spent most of my time training, as much as my friends did. But to admit the brutal truth, I was simply not cut out for the sport.

Little by little, I noticed that I wasn't as good as the other boys. Was it because my legs aren't as nimble? Who knows. In any case, I was no good: when I mimic others, my movement became rigid; the difference in our abilities made me wonder if I was dreaming.

Another possible reason was, perhaps, a common thing for youth football: rather than defence, most kids want to be in the forward position, resulting in more competition. Like going to a high school with low acceptance rate, I stood no chance.

After half a year, I was still a backup; my uniform was much cleaner than the others'.

My parents had to come all the way here for their kid who won't even be playing, and to take care of other children — I was mortified.

In the end, I left after a year.

Oh, there's another reason. I just didn't feel envy watching other people play on the field any more. Hm, I probably came to accept it long before.

I wonder if it was at that time that I've become hesitant to try things far beyond my own abilities.

And so I gave up on the athletic aspect and joined the arts and craft club in middle school.

...Why did I choose that club? Even for myself, it's a riddle yet to be solved.

After getting hit by Erio's ball, the space girl returned to the field. The old guy that appeared to be her caretaker tried to stop her, but gave in when she said something along the line of 'my esper power grants me invincibility.'

She looked okay, so I didn't want to be further involved. With that over, Erio and I left her to continue the game.

I went back to our resting area, and Erio to the third base.

With feet dragging, Erio never changed that gloomy look.

As a side note about the game, if we talk strictly about results, it'd be two losses in a row.

… And the day after Erio's first match in the amateur baseball game.

The girl who still wore the space suit look-a-like stood in the batter's box.

If she swung the bat, she might create a space rift — that's what the picture suggested. Standing on the pitcher's hill, Maekawa dad also seemed bemused, kicking at the dirt. He doesn't seem to be resilient to pressure, as the game suggested. Once someone made a hit, he messes up easily. In baseball video game term, it's like danger x or runner x… Still, being the ace, huh. That's badass.

And I guess, just like last time, Maekawa dad could sense the overwhelming aura emanating from that opaque visor.

The girl in space suit who descended to the river bank was rumoured to be an esper.

Oh wow, so cool. That explains nothing though.

“What is that?”

I asked Hanazawa-san, who's spacing out on first base after the fish store's owner messed up. A teammate might have some insight into this, right? At the peak of my excitement, she flatly said, 'dunno.'

Hanazawa-san's also in her uniform today. Needless to say, the men were always staring around her waist when she pitches.

“Nakamura-san — oh, he's our catcher — brought her yesterday. A relative or something. I heard other people say she was messed up the farm or she ran away from home.”

“...A relative?”

“Well, don't really know. Don't care either way.”

Still dubious of the space girl, Maekawa dad threw his first pitch to her. She put all her strength into the bat and swung directly into the air thirty centimetres above the ball. It was a bad miss on the same tier as Erio's. I've thought about this the other day too, but can she even see well through that helmet?

The entire time Hanazawa-san hadn't shown a speck of intention to leave the first base, only listlessly rubbing her head. She totally had no plan to steal the base, nor the will to move onto the next.

If she's so unmotivated, why did she come?

“That aside, what's your deal with that?”

Hanazawa-san crudely pointed with her chin. The direction she pointed to, on the far left field, was Erio with her gloved hand raised in preparation. Continuing from yesterday, she's also a baseball player today (self-appointed).

Since I've been seen together with Erio yesterday, there was no way I could just gloss it over today. If I were keep quiet or try to to hide it, our relationship might even end up being muddled. My school life started to crack.

“She's my cousin.”

“...Oh.” A slight delay before a disinterested reply. A gruelling pause before a boring reply. I'm not exaggerating — that really kind of sucked. Sure is nice that Erio wasn't around~ I distracted myself with the thought.

Hanazawa-san leaned forward to observe more closely. Erio didn't notice her gaze, busy adjusting her posture and her arm's angle… Oh, she's blocking the sun with her glove?

“You don't look alike. At all.” Hanazawa-san mumbled while looking at Erio's face.

“She's my cousin.”

“Cousins don't look alike?”

“It's kinda hard when you're only distantly related, you know?”

If I look like Erio, the amount of youth points would probably crack me up. It'd be a far cry from my current situation. Well, it isn't that bad now that I've met Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san. Or rather, I'm very glad about it.

“Oh… In other words, you're related to that?”

Hanazawa-san doesn't refer to Erio as 'Touwa' or 'Eriri.' Not that the latter is ever possible.

Seeing Maekawa dad's second pitch end up as a ball in the catcher's mitt, I shot a side glance at Hanazawa-san. She's already looked away from Erio, now at Maekawa dad's direction.

“I guess it is a turn off, huh.” Erio and I being related.

“A little. It's hard to treat someone fairly if he's related to a weirdo, you know? But if it's just 'being on the opposing team,' then it's not really a problem.”

After speaking without a single pause, she looked to the resting area. In that direction, we saw Maekawa-san, as she'd promised, in an alien costume.

“Maekawa is an exception though.”

“Are you going to tell people at school?” And just what did I expect her to say?

Hanazawa-san's face twisted slightly — it was definitely not a friendly sign.

On the pitcher's hill and in the batter's box, the third ball leading to a strike stirred up both a good and bad reaction.

“Not intentionally, but I might just if me and my friends ran out of things to say. Like, 'I've heard this from a little bird,' that kind of thing. So sorry, if that ever happens.”

“That's fine, I guess.” Realistically it isn't, but it's hard to deny her that right.

Meme-san said it too: it's probably only because Erio is cute that I, as a guy, care about her. I wonder if that's the case. A sense of self-deprecation poked out.

Hanazawa-san raised her chin and stared back at Erio. And then.

“I've only been in class with that for about two months though.”

“Hm?” She'd been calling Erio 'that' since the beginning, and that piqued my interest.

“To be honest, other girls have been jealous of her since way before then… Whether it's the hair, or her face.”

After seemingly talking to herself, she dashed out. Not toward the second base, but her own resting area. Looking carefully, the space girl had fallen right at the batter's box after being struck out. Oh, it's time to switch.

Not that it's important, but Nakajima wasn't among the other team.

I recall that Ryuushi-san's attitude yesterday wasn't as though 'it's super bad!' or anything. Neither did it seem like I have a match or something.

Erio, who had done nothing for defence, came running toward the resting area — no, me.

Like a puppy with a Frisbee in its mouth coming back to its owner.

I know, too, though that I was the only person she belonged with on this river bank

...Haah. Hmm? For some reason, both a bitter smile and a sigh covered my face.

“It's not hard to deal with, but...”

But it's just a pain, maintaining your social status. Those who can are certainly impressive.

Just like that, we lost again today. The shopping district is now on a 3-loss streak. The seedling of victory did not grow.

Hanazawa-san completed the match with no hits and no runners. It's a little too embarrassing even for an amateur game. She was the only one with the same ridiculous power like a baseball manga protagonist.

Unless Hanazawa-san quits or if we undergo enhancement surgery by some shady doctor, we don't have a chance of escaping the status quo. This position filled me with deja vu of the time when I played football, and to be honest I'm not fond of it.

“Transfer student.”

The xenom*rph arrived. It should have been a sight to flee from, but knowing the person inside is the embodiment of bean sprout, I stayed.

It's hot in the morning too, huh. Maekawa-san's face tinted red with heat radiating. 'Just take the thing off.' Is it not tactful to say that? And, is she even wearing anything inside? I wonder.

“What's up?” Without stopping the cleaning motion, I engaged her.

“I just came to say, good job today as well.”

“Thanks, but I still didn't hit the ball today.”

'I'm embarrassing as help' I jokingly said that out loud. As though she's seen through it, Maekawa-san quietly smiled. Having someone of my age do this to me was as if being pointed out how immature I am. Now, I'm actually embarrassed.

As I tried to cover it up by cleaning even harder, Maekawa-san began scrambling inside the xenom*rph and pulled something out. The object that came from a slightly unsettling place was…

“Here, your breakfast.”

“Oh hoh~” The primary reason of why I came. I received the package. Everything, aside from where it came from, was perfect.

Oh man. It's a rectangular item inside the silver aluminium foil wrap. Is it a sandwich?

In any case, it's a waste to give this to someone whose morning had been a blur.

“Um, Maekawa-san.”

I circled in front of Maekawa-san and stood straight. “Mm?” As if trying to understand the friendly alien, the xenom*rph tilted her head with a gentle smile.

“What is it? If you're being so proper.”

“Well, I'm just very happy. Thanks again.” I raised the food.

Something made by a girl. It's an indescribable sense of fulfilment — it might even be the last time ever.

...I hope not. It's pretty sad how I can't deny the possibility entirely.

“Yep.” Maekawa-san nodded readily, but I thought her face flushed ever redder. It was quite the occasion.

Was she embarrassed from being praised?

Seeing how I'm usually the one being played by her strange acts, this might just be a rare Maekawa-san.

I wanted take a bunch of pictures with my phone, but since the ratio of the xenom*rph to human will be higher, I gave up on that thought.

“I guess they didn't call you the womanising transfer student for nothing.”

“I felt like something terrible was very casually attached onto my name.”

“Forget that for now. Don't you have something to do?”

In a strangely cheery mood, the xenom*rph Maekawa-san changed the topic while pointing toward the outfield. “Ah.” I peaked behind Maekawa-san. “Uwah~!” Erio was being chased by the esper-space girl.

The space girl, who should have had nothing to do with cleaning up, chased behind Erio as if trying to befriend her. She caught up to Erio while keeping a low profile; her dexterous gaits were actually pretty amazing — as impressive as those of the folks on the street spreading words of their religions.

Unable to break off, Erio sent me glances for help; halfway through, she started mouthing words too. She's saying 'please help me, cousin.' She's too needy.

I hoped she'd never beg for help like that… Because then I would have to help.

Ahhh… But if I do, my youth points…

Futilely, I looked over to Maekawa-san.

“Do I have to?”

“Aren't you Erio's guardian?”

I'm her what? She gave me this disapproving look. Is this how people see me? Her actual guardian would never be present, so I guess it can't be helped.

Erio's SOS signal never ceased even as the excuses, or rather explanation, in my head spun.

“Sigh...” I let out a sigh inappropriate for such a fresh morning and redirected myself.

“Have fun~” Under the blessing of a dull cheer, I dragged the rake and jogged ahead. If possible, I would like to hurl this thing into the river.

It's not likely though, with these arms. Can any high schooler throw something like this perfectly?

To make sure I don't ruin my food, I steadied my movement while going toward Erio and the space girl. In an instant Erio's face cleared from gloom to bloom, and she fled this way; since she's still holding onto a rake, she looked tired with mouth shut tight.

The space girl also reacted to me and rushed over. This space-suit wearer stood against me and, uh, made sound.

“Ho- ho- ho- ho- ho.”

“Space ninja?” Does she plan on talking like that again? If we're betting under five hundred yen, I'd wager that her throat will die.

“We- are- esper.”

There's another one. “Oi. It's your friend.” I said so to Erio, but she frantically shook her head, as if saying they aren't the same. I thought she called herself an esper too some time ago.

There were some serious changes in these past four month, huh. As I stood there contemplating over this seemingly fuzzy emotion…

“Ow!” The plastic part of a helmet rammed into my throat.

“Hand- her- over. I- must- know- why- she- is- here.”

She pointed at me and demanded for Erio, who quickly hid behind me.

I have become the futon's replacement.

Imma pounce you then! (My brain's a little shaken from being knocked)

“Nope. She's not mine, so it's not up to me.”

I replied calmly. If she was asking for Meme-san instead, I might have just said 'if you would be so kind.' But that Erio might follow wherever her mom goes, so I guess the space girl still wins.

Too shoot the man, shoot his horse — is this what the phrase meant?

“Anyway, why do you want her? Is it because of her look?”

Or was it a revenge for yesterday?

“W-what do you mean my look?”

Erio pinched my back and asked for clarification. Is she not aware of how ridiculous her appearance is? Of course people would be jealous, even if she doesn't mean it.

“She- is- an- alien.”

“Was. And you forgot the 'self-proclaimed' part.”

“@#$%- Comrade.”

“Could you not mix foreign language in there if you insist on talking like that?”

“Actually- we- are- basically- family .”

“Hooray, we have a bigger family now.”

I stiffly reported to Erio, who shook her head crazily.

“My family. Only mom, and the cousin.” Eh? Me too? Well… That's fine?

As long as I am not married to Meme Obasan!

...Ahem. That aside.

This girl considered herself the same as Erio, that's why she's chasing her. Kind of like how Erio used to follow me around wrapped in futon. So, this must be karma.

It always comes back to bite you in the ass… The saying must have been created just for times like this.

“Hon-estly- I- don't- care- but- as- fe-llow- aliens- on- a- fo-reign- pla-net- shouldn't- we- all- be- friends?”

“Hah? I thought you're an esper? That has nothing to do with aliens.”

I feel a bit sad knowing that I am now used to dealing with people like her. Ahh~ Eri-chan taught me quite a few things back in April… Sigh, are there going to be more people like them pop out the longer I stay here? I dismayed at the thought.

The space girl froze for a moment, and then began moving again. Vivid movements ensued whenever her mouth opened, so it wasn't that draining; however, I never wanted to interact with her in the first place.

“Also- an- alien.”

“Your settings change easily.”

“It's not a settin—! It's- the- real- deal.”

“Did your teachers call you imaginative?”

“La- la- la- la- la.”

She's playing deaf while humming some tune. “Lalala~ la~ lalala~” Erio somehow continued and sang along quietly.

“What was that melody? Did you make that up?”

“It's- a- lull-aby- for- babies- with- tails.”

“Wha? ...Oh, that, huh.”

Erio knew where it was from that one tune? I'm amazed that she was able to understood that right away.

“Aren't you two just the best buds?” Alright, your turn now. I nudged Erio toward the space girl. “Ah! Cousin! Wah! Uwah!” Amidst the chaos, I pushed Erio out; she immediate turned around and attempted to circle back behind me. To prevent that, I counter-circled behind her.

Following each others' back, we spun like coffee cups.

Or trails left by firecrackers.

What the hell were we doing? Now we look like idiot couples shining lovey-dovey aura.

“Are- you- idiots?”

“I don't need that coming from you. Have you seen yourself in the mirror?”

“An- esper- does- not- have- reflection.”

What a setting. Where did she steal it? Or did she make it up?

“Actually, I heard that you ran away from home. Just go home.”

“Har- har- har- har.” Why the American laugh? “I- am- here- for- work- you- stupid-idiot. I- don't- really- care- but- they- forced- me- to— cough! Cough!”

She choked. Hmm~ work, huh? Just like Erio back in April.

She didn't look like someone with a mental trauma or anything. I think.

“Where did you even come from? The city?”

“I just said spac— I- just- said- space. Are- you- stupid? Must- I- repeat- myself?”

“Ohh, that's right, Earth is a part of space. Right… So, uh, your outfit. That's a suit human made to go into space.”

“The- hu-man- who- visit-ed- my- planet- wore- this- so- I- took- note- from- them- when- I- came.”

She proudly declared. I recalled the theory of 'astronauts keeping their meeting with aliens on moon secret.' Some people believed that — she must be of one of them.

“Oh, I see.”

“Why- do- you- sound- indifferent.”

Ohoh, she could tell? At least she's more hopeful than early Erio.

“So, why are you following Erio?”

“People- of- the- same- wave-lengths- attract- one- another.”

She stuck a finger at Erio and clearly announced comradeship. Erio was now completely behind me. Rather than mutual attraction, it was more like one of them was simply being a nuisance.

“I- was- merely- jesting.”

“Your jokes aren't applicable for normal people.”

“Somehow- she- is- related- to- work- so- I- just- wanted- to- investigate.”

“...Erio is related to your work?”

Does she plan on scouting a girl with red hair and another with purple hair so they can make a rainbow-coloured idol group? As if, hahahah… So, um, what about this girl?

“Listen, you.”

“What- stupid- idiot.” Nice Earthling-style insult there you little turd.

“You don't need a space ship — your head is already in space!”

I tried to be as gentlemen-like as I can to rephrase the words 'you're a mess.' She was very upset.

“You- do- not- believe- me.”

“Isn't it about time for you to stop talking like that? You're gonna suffocate.”

I didn't have to point it out anyway; she kneeled down. Probably getting too hot in there.

“Ugh- ugh.” She's even putting pauses between her moans. Well, still alive are we? I am surprised. Time to leave. Yo~ We're leaving! I beckoned at Erio, who dropped the tool in hand and trotted over here.

“You have a freak following you.”

“N-no...” I don't know if there was a reason, but she shook her heady violently.

Perhaps it was like watching herself from a year ago when she was spouting nonsense. It must be pretty cringey, having to go through this. Well, I guess it's kind of the same with having a pet rock.

“And you have to learn how to deal with her.”

“B-but I don't have my futon.”

Eh? Why did she give me that resentful glare? Oh yes, of course: I took it off. But I had never have anger directed at me for doing something like this. To be fair, though, meeting someone who's wrapped herself in a mattress was also a first for me. Well, normally it would be pretty much impossible.

“Please, futon is only for when you are sleeping.”

“T-then!” With clenched fists, she squeaked. “I will, count on the cousin.”

Ooph! Right into my strike zone. I couldn't even look at her. Thankfully, the sight of a xenom*rph Maekawa-san about to head home somehow calmed me down.

For some reason, strange things that people are used to could be soothing. How weird; how mysterious…

This town is truly filled with weirdos, huh. I guess, comparatively, the only normal person is Ryuushi-san.

“Y-you already rely too much on me.” I couldn't completely hide how shaken I was.

“Yep, so I must rely, more.”

Squeeze. She plastered her face onto my arm. An indescribable chill crawled straight into the back of my brain; goosebumps.

“Cousin's arm, kind of chilly.”

“That's, uh, from the sweat drying off.”

“Uwah.”

She just ran off like that. Oh well, if she kept holding onto me, something in me will be in danger too.

I took a mindless glance behind; the space girl lied there weakly. I was a bit worried for a second, but that mister someone from the other team rushed over to her, so I stopped looking.

Who would have thought that it's Erio's turn to be afflicted? How very sentimental.

After all, she's became the denizen of a made-up planet or land inside the head of that space girl. How… Unfortunate. I had only the most disingenuous sympathy.

Whatever. I'll leave her to Erio and tried my best to pretend to not see it.

Speaking of the space girl, I don't really care if she never comes back to Earth. She's a complete and total stranger, so she can do whatever she wants in space.

Reasons for me to intervene… None. I hope.

Yet, a reason might just appear in the near future. I must be cautious.

I don't care what anybody says, this summer will be filled with only youth.

Crazy girls, need not apply till I've graduated from high school.

Joining a sports team just to go with the flow — it might be the same now.

But, I couldn't even make it onto the stage before, and here I am now, playing first bat on an amateur baseball team.

Even a satire should have limits, you know? Or perhaps it's just bad karma?

In a blur, I finished up the cleaning and took my phone out.

Alright, here we go. Recipient: Ryuushi-san. There's no one else I could bother on a whim anyway.

There is a certain forty years old with a head full of dark blue hair who's telling me in my head 'I'm here, pen pal! Or pen-lover! I'm here!” With the same tricks to playing a game of whack-a-mole, I sunk the noise. Day after day, the delusion becomes more and more realistic. She's passed her disease onto me.

'Are you at the park again today?'

Sent. As though after an eternity, the mail quickly returned.

'Secret training-ing.'

Not so secret now. As expected of an airhead. I replied.

'I'm done with baseball. Can I go watch you secret training-ing?'

Another moment. When it's supposed to be ' Now Loading ,' the reply came back.

'I will be ready with neck washed.'

She seemed to have some incredible resolution.

Did she mistake that phrase's meaning for 'tidied up?' Her Japanese's scores are okay, right? I'm still wondering about many things, but at the very least I seemed to have gotten permission.

Why is it that I want to go see Ryuushi-san practice? Well, it's because I remembered thinking about Nakajima during the game… So I thought, hey, let's go see her.

I'm totally not worried about her and Nakajima though.

As I rationalized it to myself, Ryuushi-san sent something else over.

'Is Touwa-san coming too?'

“...” Something about that mail stopped my fingers.

Was there a universal answer that was correct for everyone present?

Uh, but she's got a point. What about Erio? If she has to go home alone, it's probably a little… The Esper's around too, right? I can't even imagine she wanting to be around her.

'What if, hypothetically, she's coming with me?' I decide to beat around the bush. It's kind of like passing a turn when playing cards. Since there wasn't any movement since earlier, I turned to look for Erio; she was already waiting by the bicycle. After meeting my eyes, she waved lightly at me. At the same time, she regarded the space girl who was once again laid on the bench.

Ryuushi-san's mail came; a little scared, I opened the text message.

'Touwa-san and I are good friends, so I am fine with that. However, I suddenly have business to take care of today, so I'm afraid we can't meet today.'

An uncanny terror emanated from the message that was no different from a stiffly-translated sentence from an English textbook. Why are you scaring me like that, Ryuushi-san? Are you this year's test of courage? Um… the reply will have to wait.

Same goes for Nakajima — this should be okay, right? It's not like anything has happened yet.

I began migrating to the bicycle; once I was close, Erio climbed into the bicycle's basket. I guess making her sit in the back is simply… futile.

“So.”

“Mm? What?”

“Is baseball fun?”

“It's… it's okay.”

Her reaction was apparently an attempt to hide her embarrassment; she even looked away.

“Is it?” Either way, I just asked on a whim.

But what if she said it was boring? What would I say? It would be quite troublesome.

And, I guess it's because of both playing and cleaning, my legs and waist were tired.

I don't wanna bike any more; just send me home with your super power~

...I'm kidding. Sigh, I'm exhausted.

After finishing my breakfast from Maekawa-san, I guess I will just sleep till noon. I bet as soon as I hit the bunk, I will fall asleep.

With a smile, I unlocked the padlock while imagining giving into my desire.

“Ah… Let's go home.”

“Mm!”

As if she'd heard good news, Erio hopped in the basket. 'Disease of civilization' — ignoring what it actually means — would be the perfect, literal description of Erio, who's dependent on the bicycle basket.

I pushed the bike above the bank before began pedalling.

If that self-titled esper-slash-alien (her settings' are too complicated) is anywhere close to what she claimed to be, she should just fly home on a bicycle.

And because they can't, people like her are 'self-proclaimed.'

That's just how it will always be in this town.

Then, we'll skip till this evening. Nothing worth writing about happened in the day anyway.

This isn't too different from last year: the only thing that changed was the place, and I'm even dubious as to whether I have changed. The one thing that concerned me, though, was the fact that I'm getting used to living here.

Today, again, we watched the stars from the Touwa's yard. 'Something even better will appear.' That's what Erio said, but as of what will be evolving remained to be seem. Being clueless, I didn't really care.

It wasn't a clear night… I know the expression is poor, but what I mean is it's not entirely cloud-less. Anyhow, the weather hindered tonight's session, and Erio showed her dissatisfaction; she had not given up on the sketching, though. It's not like she had to turn this in to someone — it's just a hobby, nothing obligatory. For someone who doesn't even do schoolwork willingly, I was indeed moved by Erio's enthusiasm. Deep sea fishes are just fun to watch, not something to be discussed from a scholarly angle. Besides, I was once made fun of because I made the attempt.

It might not have been jeering, but it was enough to traumatize my young mind. And it was mortifying.

I looked up at the cloud sifting through sky that seemed to mirror the dark sea while reminiscing.

It's unimaginable, but memories that excite and encourage us don't actually appear when we're thinking back; it's usually the painful ones that will never disappear from our mind, I thought to myself.

The wind did not chill the bone, but carried weight like the sea breeze. As comfortable as the air was, the cries of insects never calmed.

Resonating from faraway was the hollering of the ramen shop.

Meme-san mentioned to not stay out for too long, but I doubt the temperature would change that much tonight. Just for reference, what Meme-san said was as follow.

'Don't be out for too long! If Eri-chan get sick I'm going to cry! And I will skip work for you~!' Can you not use your daughter as an excuse to skip work?

She obviously really cares for Erio, but that last line just ruined everything else.

Erio looked away from the telescope and onto me, who's spacing out. Out of my sight! Erio would naturally never say that, but was she trying to encourage me?

She shut her sketchbook and held a fist in front of her chest — the sign of Erio about to announce something. Usually there would be a few seconds of pause before she speaks.

And as expected, it was five seconds this time; the melody of cries of insects and rustle of grass filled the intermittent space.

“Cousin...” After calling me that, she shook her head in refusal. “N...Niwa-kun!”

“Wha?”

Was she startled? Erio took a step back; she didn't run away. After bending forward to make our total distance further apart, she moved closer again.

“C-cousin's name, Niwa.”

“That's me all right, but what's the matter?”

“Uu… ah… Niwa-kun.”

“I know, but why? Are you trying to be like Ryuushi-san?”

Hearing that name, Erio shook her head hastily… Looks like I was right.

But what was the reason for calling me differently?

It wasn't anything out-of-the-world ridiculous, so I didn't know how to react.

Don't tell me — I am actually not her cousin! Is that the shocking truth she's trying to convey? Hm… That'd be problematic. If we weren't related, in other words adopted, that means a certain forty-some year old immersed in her hand-held video games is not my aunt.

We've accidentally discovered the legal forty-year-old route! ...I'm not that stupid.

“Did you dream up some setting you really like?”

Because of that space girl. As the older one, that's what I worry the most. Erio isn't going to have a remission, is she?

“I-it's not a setting… I think… A-awahwah!”

Erio flapped her arms in an attempt to relay something; however, she couldn't find the words. Perhaps that is what has been missing from the way she was raised.

This awkward situation in which we could not make eye contact stifled me. What's is up with the atmosphere? No one would be able to formulate a proper sentence here. Why do I have to face Erio like this? I'm going to get the wrong idea! I contemplated on suing a certain adult.

After the tension.

Did it know? Or did it shatter the air unknowingly?

Something wriggled. Conscience scattered from Erio; I looked onto the ground on which the object crawled.

Under the porch, a mysterious creature moved with the dark.

“...Hm? Hmm?”

Opening my eyes wider, it was a white object worming on the ground. Both Erio and I froze on the spot and waited for whatever entails.

UMA — the three letter word circled my mind. A nozuchi? The bounty in the department store is still valid, right? As my thought drifted in that direction, the true identity of that thing popped in my mind.

The truth behind that white object was the look-alike space suit.

“What the!”

“This is a very nice porch. I just couldn't help it. When the people of this planet visited us, they used the same cramped bedding like this in their spaceship. When in Rome, do as the Romans.”

The space girl proudly stood up and dusted herself off. Upon seeing her, Erio bolted back into the entrance.

“Ahhh! You're that Sir stupid idiot!”

She deliberated arched backward to display surprise, and acknowledged me in an extremely rude manner. Why do I have to deal with someone like this now? I thought, but considering I am the only male in this household, I have to step up.

“How can we help you~? If you have business please refer to the doorbell at the entrance.”

“I am a space wanderer seeking asylum. Please pay me no mind.”

How does one say something so painful so easily?

“Do you think you'd let a runaway person who's been rumoured to destroy farming fields free in your backyard?”

“You're a skeptic, aren't you? You must be unacquainted with the supernatural.”

Heheh~ she humphed from her nose haughtily. I see, so there's a nose in that helmet~ Boy am I glad that she has a face. Not!

“How did you get here?”

“My power of course. My superpower .”

“Are you stalking us?”

“Am I suppose to weep for how lowly your brain thinks?”

She's not planning on stealing from us, is she… If she were, she would have at least changed out of that, so I don't think she is.

What she did hold, however, was an issue in disjunction to the rumoured crime she committed.

“Oh yeah, you're talking normally.”

“I used too much of my energy this morning when I was trying to emulate my natural tongue.”

“Oh, your throat's messed up.” No wonder she sounded husky.

“Hmph. I have concluded that for an idiot like you who deny the existence of super power and the extraterrestrial, using my power would be a waste… But everyone seemed to react the same way anyway… And I thought I understood how aliens are treated here...”

Her mumbling near the end never reached my ear, blocked by the helmet. Ahh~ I hate dealing with this kind of people; I can't believe I was able to with Erio.

Oh, and she's back. Or more accurately, the local youkai with a futon torso returned. She was preparing to back me up… I think? In that bowling pin costume.

If she walked into an archery club, would they mistake her for a target and shoot?

“The hell is this?” Space girl was taken aback.

“A futon roll.”

“Ghosts live in your house?”

“Hmphf.”

Futon roll and space girl had a stare down. It was a cosplay battle that you will not have the chance to see even in a fictional world. I didn't want to back either side, but my position and personal circumstances dictated that I must stand with the futon roll.

“What, do you expect to battle with me in such gear?”

“Hmphf!” Ohoh, she had confidence — unfortunately, the fact that it is based only on 'being wrapped around by a futon' already destroyed the sense of any reliability.

“In terms of Time magic, I am Meteor; in terms of special skills, I am Throw Stone. That is my level, as an esper.”

Is she the destructor of Earth or the neighbourhood brat? Even her examples sounded like what the kids around would say. This was, of course, the thought of a human unable to levitate three meters of the ground.

“Hmphf, hmphf!” Erio did not retreat, sticking her chest out further.

“Or, if we were to use the PS* system to explain, I am Star St*rm.” (TL Note: Referring to the Star Storm skill in Mother 3)

The rock was in a pinch.

Moreover, is it even considered a power to just throw rocks at people? Even I can be an esper starting from tomorrow then. I guess I will start with bouncing rocks on the water.

“So what exactly is that?”

The space girl pointed at the telescope in the yard. Was she only pretending to not know?

“It's a telescope.” I replied frankly to see her reaction.

“A tele...scope.” She grumbled some words in that helmet.

“Is it for viewing the stars?”

“That's right.”

“Hm, which one of you? The one who's interested in this?”

She pointed back and forth at me and Erio. If I answer to her, she might consider me as a friend. This is one of those landmines in life, I guess.

“Hmphf, hmphf!”

Interrogated by the space girl, the futon roll stood out bravely.

“Hmm~ You, huh… I see now.”

“Hmphf, hmphf!”

Hmm, Erio seems to be more assertive when she has that thing on. Is this what they mean by psychological suggestion? Not that I really know what it means, but her confidence was truly amazing. As I ogled from the side, something changed between the two.

“Hah… Hah… hah…” “Ugh...” Both side seemed to suffer from the heat. I wanted to cry, remembering how I was actually hanging out with them.

“Why don't you just take off that helmet.” And you the futon.

“This is how I limit my power — I cannot take this off.”

“Sounds like something Futon Erio would come up with.”

“Do not compare me with that low-tier seal!”

“Mmf!”

Erio retaliated; she pounced toward the space girl and bravely tackled her. I thought maybe with the futon in between those two it would soften the impact, but the sound it made was unexpectedly heavy.

Wham! Both of them slammed into the ground.

It would appear both felt the brunt. The futon lied there with legs flailing. “Oh no, the futon's dirty...” I helped Erio up and glanced at the space girl.

“Owowow...” She pressed down on her head, moaning; the helmet that fell off when she was hit rolled on the side. My eye caught the space girl's face…

Speechless.

The self-proclaimed esper had her face exposed.

I, too, was blinded by that brilliance.

The person packaged in that space suit was a pale girl.

A head of rumpled, white hair that seemed to burn the eyes, like sun in the telescope; a luminescent paleness that seemed more like someone had forgotten to colour the painting caught my gaze. Not just particles, but a star that emitted the very light that danced aimlessly around itself — that's what I felt.

If we're talking about with humans or Erio, she is definitely related to the latter: an out-of-this-world beauty. The girl that emerged like Erio shouted scornfully.

“How dare you! You attacked me knowing that it would shorten your life span to this summer! Who the hell do you think I am?!”

Could you not play both the vice general and his friends? Protesting loudly, she grabbed her helmet and stood. Instead of sealing herself up again, she decided to have the wind cool her heated hair.

“Hmph… Fine. Since you are a fellow XXXXX, I will forgive your misconduct this time.”

Once again, as according to her back story, she pretended Erio to be an alien while excusing her for that reason. Next, her sharp eyes moved onto me.

“As for Thekousin, I will forgive you too based on your precarious future.”

“...Oi, I don't recall being related to you.”

“? Isn't your name Thekousin?”

The space girl spoke blankly in bemusement, confirming my name.

“No, my name is Makoto.”

“What!” She jumped exaggeratedly. Was it too shocking or what? Does my face look like it was made for the name 'Thekousin?”

In kanji, it'd be written as 糸子(Itoko). I wouldn't be surprised if there's a girl by that name.

“Hmmmm.” Hugging her head, the space girl shuffled left and right like she was trying to mix something.

“Strange, I thought that's what he was called… My memory is impeccable. It might be boring, but I must begin working as well… Ahh, um...” Ahem! After a few fake-coughs, she ceased speaking. I don't really care either way, but is this part of her character setting?

“I will consider you a proxy of the Earthling, then, and show you minimum respect. I will ask you just once: what is your name?”

She arrogantly demanded my name; without hesitation in her words or tone, she displayed the utmost insolence.

“I just told you a second ago.”

“Since I've asked you to, just say it. Don't you know etiquette?”

I couldn't even react to how cocky this brat is; though annoyed, I still began my meaningless introduction the second time.

“Niwa Makoto. And you are…?”

“Hoshimiya Yashiro. An authentic esper, slash alien! I have stopped here not for the sake of visiting, but business. Pleased to meet you!”

Esper, alien and traveler: the melting pot of a girl energetically shouted toward the night sky.

Of course it was somebody I didn't know. This was definitely the first time we've met.

She's supposed to be an alien, but no matter how she enunciated that name, it is undoubtedly a Japanese one. Clamoring from the local ramen shop, the wind sifting through grass and the mating call of insects.

My sigh dissipated in the symphony.

Once again, the sound resonated in the night.

I'm afraid this is where the summer of this year truly began.

The girl enigmatic from beginning till the end — this was my first time making contact with Hoshimiya Yashiro.

### 004. Chapter 3 - The Girl Under the Eave

On the night that bizarre summer began.

The stargazing had ended and that Yashiro, who somehow ended up under the Touwa's porch and refused to leave, had finally been driven out; the time was eleven o'clock.

In my room, the cellphone rung. The ringtone wasn't short, so it wasn't a text message.

I picked up the phone to check the caller ID. “Ohoh!” This had to be first phone call we've had.

Sitting on the bed, back against the wall, I prepared myself for a war of attrition and accepted the call.

The gentle voice that came was, as usual, soothing.

“Hello, is it Niwa-kun?”

“Ryuushi-san is speaking.”

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko.”

“Oh! Now it's definitely the real Ryuushi-san.” To my knowledge there isn't a fake one though.

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko~ Say Ryuuko!”

It might end up being a vicious cycle, so let's try changing the direction of our conversation.

“What about Mifune-san?”

“...”

“You don't like it?”

“If ya wanna call me that, might as well call me Ryuushi~ But my name is Ryuuko!”

“Got it, got it~ ...So, uh, what do you need?”

I broke the cycle. Ahem~ Ryuushi-san deliberately coughed a few times on her end, and I, too, adjusted my pose. The insects' cries from the open window appeared just a little like the ringtone.

“Mm~ Like, when ya just can't keep your eyes closed trying to sleep, y'know~ So I tried calling ya.”

“I don't see how they relate, but… Maybe you just slept too much during the day?”

“Wow, your thoughts sure are full of dream… Ah! 'I can't sleep for there is no dream'! Doesn't that sound super cool?”

“Clap, clap, clap.”

“Heheh~ Thank you, thank you… Actually, I'm a little nervous, in more ways than one.”

“Hm?”

“Like a pun, you peel me?”

“Before I correct your misusage of pun, I don't 'peel' you.”

“I just bit my tongue a little! Aww, it hurts~ I can taste the blood!”

The sound of rolling echoed. It would appear Ryuushi-san was lying on her bed as well. Ryuushi-san in her pajama…

I almost started imagining, but didn't I see her wearing one last month when she came over? Well, I guess it was Erio's pajama.

“Phew~ If a blood truck was around, nobody would be too upset.”

If you were bleeding so much, wouldn't it be better to go into the hospital instead of waiting for an ambulance to be around?

“So, what could possibly make you so nervous that your life is on the line?”

“Well~ Cuz… This is my first time calling you, Niwa-kun.”

“Hm, that's right.”

“That's enough to make me lose it!”

“I-is that right?” Now that she pointed it out, I'm feeling embarrassed too.

“Talking on the phone is, y'know, a little bit more embarrassing than the usual. Like, ya are right next to my ear and whispering to me and stuff, don't ya think?”

“Hm. Yeah, a little I guess.” I played tough, but hearing her say that, even I'm becoming conscious of it.

“Or like a hamster-sized Niwa-kun cuddling on my shoulder, heheh.”

“The fact that that sentence didn't end in a question concerns me.”

“Oh yeah, something else too.”

“Nice to see you hearing half of what I say as always.”

“My basketball club is actually having a game next week.”

“Wait, 'your' basket ball club?”

“What I mean is sometimes I feel like it's mine.”

“So you're the captain of the team, but only in your head.”

“Yep! That's exactly what I mean, Niwa-kun!”

Well, no, it was just a silly joke… Is that a normal thing for an athlete to dream about?

I guess so, since I too once yearned to become a football captain too.

“Then I'll go see you during the game.”

“Oh, but there lies the problem, missis! Ah, I mean, Niwa-kun!”

She's smacking something. Her pillow?

“Oh, just by the way, sorry about this morning. Something suddenly came up.”

“No, that's fine.” And I felt like it'd be trouble if she and Erio met anyway. “So, what is the problem?'

“Mm~” She grumbled. “Originally I was gonna practice till I was perfect so that I could be in more games… But if I did, forget about this summer, it'll probably be after I graduate! That's why I'm nervous.”

“Hm… I still don't see what the problem is though.”

“Well, y'know, if I'm not playing in the game I told you to go, isn't that just terrible? That's why I have to be sure.”

“So that's how it is… I see.”

I had the same experience too. Despite not wanting to, I recalled the parents that came all the way to watch a game that their son never got to play in, while helping to take care of other people's kids.

“That's what's been keeping me up. That's all!”

“Okay, I get it~ I understand now.”

But there is still nothing that I could do to help.

Even if there is nothing I can do, shouldn't I still say something to comfort her?

“Then I'll pray for you. I wish Ryuushi-san could play in a game.”

“Ahaha! If I can choose, I'd rather have you cheer for me! Prayers are for the gods, but I can hear you cheers, right?”

'And I told ya to call me Ryuuko!' Even through the phone, I could sense how relaxed she was with that usual phrase.

I've became a hopeless addict to that 'I told ya~'

“If I get to play and kick butts in the game, can I expect some rewards from ya? JK, heheh~”

With assured laughters, she decorate her request for something other than spiritual support.

“A reward, huh… Is there something you want? If it's something within my ability, that is.” You're gonna have to look deep to find that bar though.

And who'd wish for something so far in the negative? That's just how it is, hahah.

“Mm~ Then~ How's going to the festival together sound? It's getting a little awkward for me to go on my own~”

“Wouldn't that be a reward for me?”

“Eh?”

I kept my voice down and mumbled, so Ryuushi-san couldn't hear me.

“Oh, it's nothing. Not that I care about conveniency, but is the festival you're talking about held in this town?”

Even with the window open like that, I've never heard any festival music come in.

“Um, the biggest one is on the thirteenth of August, I think? I remember it being held on that day every year. I use to go there with the Onee-san from around, it was so fun~”

“Oh.” If it's the thirteenth, then it'd be in three weeks.

“Ugh~? Ya were playing baseball without knowing about this, Niwa-kun?”

“Know about what?”

“The last game of the amateur baseball decides whether the city or shopping district gets to conduct the event. I don't know who made the rule either, but apparently it was to avoid conflict or something. Dad told me if the city wins, it'd harder for the shopping district to go to the festival, and vice versa.”

But the city usually wins~ Ryuushi-san casually added.

The real deal in three weeks Maekawa-san was talking about — the match that has everything to do with the festival?

Ah~ So we're just doing practice games now? But it already seems like the shopping district has a high chance of losing this year too. And if that were the case, can I still go the festival on the thirteenth?

“Oh, soz. I know we're rolling around like a square, but...”

“Hm?” I guess I'm already used to Ryuushi-speech. I didn't even bother asking.

“About cheering. Touwa-san, would she show up? ...I'm just wondering.”

“...I don't think she will. Probably.”

Hm~ Ryuushi-san is oddly concerned with Erio. If I try to point this out, things might become more complicated.

And to keep whatever atmosphere we have going, I am always mindful of staying away from that. It isn't easy, but it is what I want to do.

“I see~ Then, okay. I know it sounds bad to say things like this, uh, um, sorry. I don't really know what I'm saying any more.”

“...Ahaha.” It's the wisest to not ask any further, right?

“Oh yeah~ Speaking of baseball, I wanna talk about Nakajima-kun.”

The conversation took an L turn right then. What we just talked about wasn't going to end up anywhere sunshine and butterfly, so I tried to end it. And now we're talking something I was personally very interested about, so I said nothing.

But from how startled she was then, I'd never guessed that Ryuushi-san would be the one to bring this up.

“So what's the matter?” I curled up in preparation for any comment.

Perhaps anxious, I heard she swallow. Then…

“Nakajima-kun… I asked him out this March, only he shot me down.”

...It's one of my predictions, but not one I had betted on.

“I see… That is… A shame.”

“Eh? For me?”

“No. For Nakajima.”

This is Ryuushi-san we're talking about here! She doesn't stand out, yeah, but she's certainly someone special amongst all these people.

“Ah... Wuu… Then, if it was for Niwa-kun… Um, uh…”

“Hah? What did you say?”

“Nothing~! And I thought we were gonna have the best summer ever, but we haven't done anything yet!”

“That's because you're always so busy~ But is that really so bad?”

“Mm~ But still...”

Then we talked everything about nothing until one of us finally yawned.

We talked about Ryuushi-san running away from home, and when I met an alien (lol).

These meaningless prattling faded, like stars in the dark sky.

The next morning followed.

Under the influence of having no baseball game and talking for too long, I woke up late.

Scratching my unkempt head, I walked down the stairs; I circled the entire house once, in case Meme-san was already up. Yet, someone who I shouldn't be able to see again sat naturally in the house, making me doubt my eyes.

In the living room, Yashiro chowed away at her breakfast, mouth filled with fried egg and grilled eel.

Like a bear stuffing itself before hibernation.

And instead of the space suit, she wore a shirt and skirt that probably belonged to Meme-san. Is this kid taunting me, like 'space ship launched! Totes carefree!'?

Whether it's her outfit, skin, or hair, they're of a pale colour expressible in just black and white.

Perhaps she took a shower earlier, her hair glistened with moisture. Enjoying the hotel service too, you little turd?

On the other side of the table, a smiling Meme-san sudden raised her head up from watching the voracious girl. “Good morning~ Mako-rin!”

“Who's the person even more abnormal than what you just called me?”

“Hm?” A scowling Yashiro with puffed up face turned over. The mysteriousness her almost silver hair and face exudes was reduced by sixty percent, while her friendliness increased… I would hope not. That aside.

I looked over to Meme-san to demand an explanation. She blinked crazily with her eyes, probably because dirt got into her eyes. In some interpretation it could also be winking, but I'd like to ignore this possibility.

“Mako-kun, if you don't eat now, someone's gonna eat 'em all~”

“Is it because there is someone eating my food?”

“You shouldn't be so mean to your friends, Mako-kun. Oh and by the way I think your 'tsun' for your aunt has been going on for a little too long. Your aunt has been charging for too long, now her power's leaking!”

Are you perhaps mistaking your ageing with something else?

“She's just a sketchy kid, not my friend.”

“I found her collapsed under the porch when I was doing laundry this morning.”

“I was sleeping.”

“So I brought her in.”

“Wahahahah!”

“Ahahahahah!”

Stop laughing! Stop being so chummy! And stop bringing kids in!

Are you one of those grandmas from the old stories? You shouldn't be so kind! Looking closely, the spacesuit costume hung on the laundry pole in the yard — the source of nightmare appeared to drift in the breeze.

I saw Erio too… Swinging a broom. What's she doing?

“We don't have a baseball bat for her to practice with, so that's the best we got.”

“Oh.” Baseball practice, huh. Does she like amateur baseball that much?

In the front, Erio; in the living room Meme Oba-san and Yashiro. What a strange sensation.

I hope I never get use to it.

It is as though we are now forced into the parallel world that 'Yashiro is a part of the Touwa family.' Is it because she fit so well in here? There's a force not to be reckoned with.

Meme-san squinted gently at Yashiro's symmetrically-split hair.

And when she almost chocked, she'd hand her a cup of barely tea like a loving mother.

...Um, isn't this a bit too much? Did she give up on her gap-moe in favour of mother-saint character?

To calm myself down, I sat on the chair on the right side of the desk while glaring at Meme-san.

“So, why did you let some fishy kid into the house?” At least be cautious around something like this!

Well, maybe she's a little more trustworthy than your child from some times ago, but still.

That's not saying a whole lot if you're comparing two people in the same negative, right?

Meme-san held her breath, skipping out on oxygen supply for a bit; when her cheeks turned red, she covered her mouth and looked away.

“I-I didn't let her in because she called me a Onee-san!”

“…” My head hurts. This morning is ruined.

“Fufufu, I've hypnotized this women. This, too, is thanks to my super power.”

Yashiro cockily added another lie.

“You're just kissing her ass, aren't you?” Don't you have any self respect?

“I mean, a weird old lady was coming on to me.”

“My! What do you mean weird!” Meme-san intercepted, but made no comment when her age was mentioned.

“So I had do it. 'Good day, Onee-san!'” She squeezed out a super fake cute voice. “The entrancing voice was needed. She became my subordinate after realizing my magnanimity.”

“I could totally see that happen.”

“But Meme is a not too bad — at least better than you.”

Did she concede because of the food? Skillfully insulting me, Yashiro also complimented Meme-san. The air she gave was like an abandoned puppy wary of humans, only getting close to them because of the food.

I thought about this occasionally, but is the interaction between human and alien not too different from that of human and animals? I can't be the only one who thought that.

Not that I'm equating Yashiro to an alien or a stray dog.

Mumbling something along the line of 'it takes a smart kid to see my true nature~' Meme-san dazed off.

“If it were me, I would extend no mercy to others, unless I have a penchant for them.”

Yashiro declared decisively and shot me a glance. Was she implying that if she were to find me under the porch, she wouldn't help either?

Meme-san blinked twice, and gave her the usual smile.

“Me too. I only helped you because I like you.”

“...Really.”

Timid by her standard, Yashiro looked down.

Her shutting up must be a sign that Meme-san's kindness has gotten to her.

Erio noticed me with a gloomy face and raised her right hand exaggeratedly at me; I waved back discreetly. From the corner of my eye, I saw Yashiro grimace.

“Was it due to her growing up here…? She doesn't appear to be aware of her nature as an extraterrestrial. Looks like she won't be able to become a comrade with a pure alien such as myself.”

That commentary was quite like a certain battle-oriented race!

“What, so you're going to stop messing with her?”

“The reason remained unknown, so I must investigate… But I find myself not wanting.”

Again, she grumbled with her incomprehensible talk of 'work.'

Meme-san opened her mouth too, as though joining the conversation while changing the channel randomly.

“It's really hot this morning. It's making me want to go into the fridge again.”

“I won't open it this time.” I'll even cover it with a blanket.

“Alrighty, time to make some breakfast for Mako-kun. Just give me a second.”

Given up on making conversation, Meme-san left the table. I wanted to follow her too, to ask her questions where Yashiro isn't nearby, but I didn't want to leave a non-family member alone in the living room either. Yet, once I see her stuffed cheeks and content smile (that disappeared as soon as we made eye contact) I stood up and left.

Tailing Meme-san in the hallway, I queried at her long, wavy hair.

“Are you actually fine with this?”

“What's the problem? Even if it's some girl I don't know, it's just letting her sleep for the day and giving her a meal. It's not too different than you or Erio inviting friends over.”

A nonchalant Meme-san kept her pace while announcing her lack of issues with Yashiro.

Setting how careless she was aside — if one of those naive girls in children's stories were to grow up to forty years old, I bet she'd be the perfect example.

Her character of never doubting anyone; her act of showing the good and bad parts of her in front of anyone. This must be why she became a 'big kid.'

“Plus I felt like I got another little sister.”

“Your understanding of the word sister is rather poor.” Confusing that with 'daughter.'

However.

“I can't believe how carefree you are.”

Aren't I an idiot for not loosening up?

A person who lives in a town that's more like a town than where I came from has a much broader interaction with people. There's a silly, laughable part in that fact — that is, people back home actually understand the rudimentary.

In the country side, there aren't many people. When there aren't people, you become more disinclined to interact with them.

Meme-san entered the kitchen, ignoring her niece's complaints of 'no, that's too much' and dunked more rice into the bowl with a grin. It's that special smile that only appears when she reminisces.

“There is indeed a personal reason.”

“Which is?” Because she wasn't called an old lady? No way.

Suddenly bashful like a young girl, and with a voice that seem to melt together with the morning sun, Meme-san quietly spelled out the truth.

“She looks just like Elliot when he was young. Of course I'd be nice to her.”

---

Okay, after the costume was dried.

I had to send Yashiro home for some reason.

...Where does she live?

I get that I was going to get Erio to work anyway, but…

“Not trying to disappoint you, but my bicycle doesn't fly.”

The one that flew now sleeps with the fishes. I wonder if the original is preserved somewhere. Namu Amida Butsu.

“Why would I expect you to accomplish such high-level act of kindness? I suppose I will allow you to find me a place of abode.”

“Place of abode?” What about your house? And then she immediately disregarded her previous sentence.

“Under the eave, that is. I must remain on this planet till my job is done.”

“Does that involve you putting it together?”

Purposefully being incongruent, I prevented her from rambling on.

As I headed toward the shed, a sight that flashed by my eyes ceased me.

“So hot~” Seeing us off, Meme-san, who was cooked the moment she stepped out, stood in front of Yashiro who hung her head. It's a strange expression unusual for her. With the space costume under her arm, she pinched and pulled her shirt forward.

“Are you sure I can have this?”

“Okay~” Meme-san's eyes looked bleary; the forty-year-old who proposed to her air conditioner appeared to have no resistance to heat.

“I won't give it back though.”

“It's fine, just take it~ Ugh.” Her tongue's melting.

“And you won't get anything in return.”

“If I wanted something, I would have given it to someone else~”

“What are you trying saying?”

“Exactly what I just said.”

“…Then I won't use my power on you.”

“Ahahah! Thank you very much.”

Yashiro turned abruptly away from Meme-san; the corner of her eyes met my gaze.

“The hell are you looking at?!”

“Oh, oops. My bad.” I just couldn't help but eavesdrop on this rare exchange.

“The day when you see the sun in the middle of the night will be your last!”

“How would that even be the middle of the night?”

My comment was ignored. To vent her frustration and embarrassment, Yashiro stomped on the ground and paced around the entrance. Looks just like a zoo monkey.

“Anyway, where is Erio?”

“Isn't she right there?” Meme-san pointed behind me.

“Hm?” I merely turned my head. “Hm.” There she was.

She seemed to have snuck up on me.

“I tried to get the cousin's back.”

“You're not being literal enough, sadly.”

Erio bafflingly tilted her head. There's no way you can ever mimic Meme-san. Better question is, what's going on with her?

Last night, she imitated the way Ryuushi-san called me too; what's gotten into her head?

At the sight of the bicycle being carried out of the shed, Yashiro humphed for some reason. Initially I thought maybe our great esper had complaints about the plebeian vehicle, but she did not open her mouth again.

Alright, Erio in the basket, and Yashiro… Behind me? Finally — despite it being a self-titled esper — the day I get another human being riding behind me aside from my own aunt. “Came...” I'm not set so that I could easily accept this kind of thing as fortunate.

Before getting on, Yashiro donned her space helmet. Of course. Why would I ever let a normal girl onto my bike? Well, below her head were an everyday shirt and skirt, so I guess I'm suppose to make do? With both of them being the helmet clan (?), her and Ryuushi-san's cuteness couldn't be any more different. In just an instant, I'd been sandwiched by two suspicious characters.

In the front a basket girl, the back a helmet girl. If this were a game of Reversi, even I would become the abnormal bicyclist.

“Careful~ Around Mako-kun!”

“Why don't you send them off yourself if you're going to warn them?”

“The rest is up to you young folks, sniffle… My youth… My dearest AC~!” The forty-year-old covered her face and retreated back into the house to heal her mental wound. I might be able to get her back here if I yell 'Meme-san is just as young,' but I'm not that great of a liar.

Checking Erio's seated properly and hearing Yashiro's jeer of 'hmph, a disfigured Xenom*rph mimicry?' I released the bike lock and straddled onto the seat. From the rack behind came the movement of a person jumping on.

For someone who's just tagging a ride on the way to Erio's work, she's quite an imprudent one.

Yashiro's thin arms choked my stomach, like I was some kind of tree meant to be roped. Arms sinking into my waist, it was a tasteless act of strangulation.

I even moaned from the pressure; my Youth-points also ceased their breathing. The rigid rim I felt on my back seemed to kill off the rest.

When Yashiro is around, my Youth-points get suck away.

The almost-midday sun beamed down, like a burning hat covering my bare hair. The humidity must be worse than yesterday's: instead of dryness, my skin felt a stickiness as the sun shone on it. The sign of sweat drops formed on my back.

The colour of the vegetation and sky seemed refreshing, yet the fact that the vividness blurred before my eyes depressed me.

I'm signing the marriage agreement with the AC… Ack!

As though linked with my heart, the wheels decelerated and rolled forward heavily. The beginning is the most likely time when the bike would fall over, so be careful.

The same, I suppose, could be said about Erio's return to normalcy.

And so far, there hasn't been any major setback.

“Off we go!” “O-off we roll...” Erio followed along and mumbled an old reference.

Don't these two get along well in a way?

I think espers should just stick with each others.

“Alright, here we are… Whoa!”

Must be because both my retina and consciousness had been destroyed by the heat, I braked too late. The bicycle stopped just after the Tamura Shop. A burnt smell permeated from between the hard-stopped tires and scorching road. A hallucination? Or did I actually smell it? I don't know. This heat seemed to even melt the differences between objects.

“What- is- this- crappy- building- without- any- eaves?”

“Is that how you judge a house? The eaves?”

With her tongue and throat rejuvenated, Yashiro scoffed at the exterior of Tamura Shop with that alien speech. 'Mmph,' perhaps upset because the store was insulted, Erio pouted glaringly; she left from the basket and walked in front of Yashiro instead of into the store.

“What, you wanna go?”

Yashiro got off the bike and prepared for battle. Erio won in terms of height, but she wasn't wearing her futon. “Wuu.”

She cowered. “Hmph.” Yashiro closed in. This image could have been interpreted as a Yashiro, with her face covered, robbing a girl in broad daylight. I looked around to see if there's anyone who could call the police or arrest her, but only hot air hung around.

Distressed, Erio ran off. She escaped behind me, using my body as a shield from Yashiro's eyes; standing still, she looked down regrettably. What a wimp.

Due to a lack of futon, she lost the stare-off — in what part of this country would this phrase make any sense?

“You- lost- because- you've- lived- complacently- on- this- planet.”

Triumphant after successfully intimidating the space-hamster, Yashiro, despite the heat, laughed loudly.

On the other hand, has Erio recovered from defeat? Head raised, her face was exposed to the sun.

Under the continuous, brilliant light, the particles still hid themselves.

“Cousin.” Aw, no more Niwa-kun? “Want to see, Obaa-chan?”

Erio gazed toward the shop's inside. Tamura Obaa-san? I haven't seen her since a week ago.

“Well...” Yashiro was still here too, and even if I'm not obligated to stay with her…

“I'll visit when I come to pick you up.”

“Okay. Obaa-chan, would be happy.”

“Really?”

It's not like she's the typical 'lonely but stubborn old people.'

Setting the physical aside, I thought she was, mentally, an independent person.

“Really. She likes the cousin.”

Erio smiled as though she was the one complimented; facing that neck-tingling smile, I could only give a half-courtesy half-bitter grin back.

“Then, I'm off to work.”

“Yep. Do your best.”

Only with her entire body did Erio pull open the deformed door.

With her disappearing inside the store, the only ones left in front of the door were me and Hoshimiya Yashiro.

If she were to stand alone on the road, the level of dreams and hope would inflate simply from the combination of the helmet and grey outfit. It would be like involuntarily watching something just a step away from reality.

Then why not just become an imaginary person, like swathing smoke?

But because we live in reality, we are normal. Well, if it's only in your head, then you're welcome to whatever.

“Where did you, uh, want to go?”

“A place to sleep.”

“Alright, well, it's hot and all, so good luck. Don't forget to stay hydrated.”

I let the wheels spin. “Hold up!” “Uwah!” Yashiro hugged me from the back; I stepped onto the ground and avoided falling to the right.

“What the hell are you doing?! That was close!”

“Abandoning you duty is a heinous crime, you bastard! Not that I follow mine...”

“I don't remember any 'duty' of helping you find a place free and illegally.”

You're just tagging along a ride for Erio, which was how you ended here. Please don't beg me to become your escort to wander around the town. It's hot, man.

Also, a place to sleep… I knew she was just a runaway who doesn't want to go home.

“Meme has ordered you, correct?”

“She only 'recommended;' she didn't ask me to help you with jack.”

That's not for a high schooler on vacation, but a real estate agency.

“And whatever happened with that guardian guy of yours?”

“Well… I don't wanna be a nuisance, so… Ugahh—“

Despite wailing in her helmet, Yashiro didn't throw any tantrum.

What she said was surprisingly Earth-y.

“Are you not Meme's son?”

“Nope.” The sudden turn in speech was unexpected, but I shook my head still.

“She's my aunt. Didn't you hear Erio call me 'cousin?'”

“Oh… Hmph.”

Yashiro hopped onto the bike rack and strangled my chest. It was like she's grabbing onto a piece of wood after falling into the sea. She seemed completely ignorant of what I'm made off, clawing at my flesh. The way she hugged me made me dubious whether she considered me as living.

“Aw— cut you damn nails!”

“I have a place I want to go. I'll tell you where.”

“...And you'll be happy if I send you there?”

“Mm, I'll… Let you off the hook.”

“Well, thank you very much for that.” Whatever, I'll play along till then.

Thanks to being a nice guy all the time, I felt the responsibility of not ditching a girl on the street.

The bicycle with one less person forged ahead with a squeak.

Every time the wheel spin, the sound that followed was twisted like that of an insect flapping its wings.

On the road were a lack of people and car. Was it because now was a time when both working people and students would rather stay inside?

Without Erio or Yashiro, I would probably stay in my room to chill as well.

How should a summer vacation be spent? Full of events, or, as the word vacation would suggest, used only on resting?

Being busy certainly has its merits, but that kind of defeats the purpose of 'vacation.' Three days of rest, then three days of business, and finally three days of rest… Is this the ideal…?

Enough with the bullcrap.

Yashiro's route appeared familiar.

I started to see the occasional students wearing school uniforms. Were they on the way to their clubs? Or were they merely walking home? Basically, that's the sort of people I saw. As I wondered how similar the road looked, turned out it's the other side of the path I usually take to school. In other words, I watched this very same scene every day from a different road.

If we keep going ahead, we may end up around my school.

After riding for a bit more, I spoke to Yashiro, who'd loosen her grip on me.

“Hey.”

“Hnwhat?” Passing out? A lethargic response.

“Why don't you take the helmet off?”

“Do you wish for the destruction of this planet, you sicko? You are unfit to be the denizen of this planet!”

“Ahh, please keep it down, will you? Fine, let me ask you something else.”

“Mm… Ah, mm.” If you're gonna forget then just stop acting.

“Do you really believe in super power?”

The air behind me tensed; affected, I shrunk my thoughts.

“You don't believe me anyway, right? So why did you bother asking? Idiot.”

“You don't pull punches when it comes to insult, do you?”

It's like Tamura Obaa-san, but at a much younger age.

“I've already given up on trying to convince people anyway. All of you are the same: you all blindly accepted that 'it's impossible,' and you deny any strange things as the super natural. Ah, take a right here.” I turned right. Oh, I know this place. We'd reach the school's gate if we keep straight.

“You all believe that 'it can't be real if I don't think it is.' I am tired of you all.”

As disappointed in people as she sounded, she again and again emphasized to me her esper identity. Why, though? A simple hypocrite? Or was I an exception to the rule?

I wouldn't be happy even if she thought me as hopeful.

“And what does a simple belief change?”

I retorted lightly. What does believing do anyway? Without a shard of practicality, that is.

Whether it's football or baseball, I can't become the best by just having faith.

But this Miss Yashiro seemed to have some great power. She must be on a different league, right? I didn't want to jab her like so, but in the end it didn't matter.

“You simply do not know that the world doesn't not revolve from a strictly physical sense.”

“...Really now?”

“And truth to be told, I've never thought of 'believing' in my super power.”

“Wha? Are you listening to yourself?” My exaggeratedly high-pitched voice vexed me.

“If it's what I posses, than it is nothing abnormal; therefore I don't have to question my confidence in it. Would you purposefully pray for your stomach's existence? Of course not. To me, my power is just another part of my body.”

Perhaps mused over this conversation countless times, Yashiro spoke clearly and persuasively. I didn't have the energy to debate her in this weather, so the words went in an ear and left the other.

“This is, at most, my thought. You simply cannot comprehend.”

“Okay? So why are you the only one with powers?”

“Hmph, to think that you do not believe in the possibility of it happening to just a selected few. This is why I hate you humans' typical way of thinking. Haven't you thought that maybe because you kicked a piece of rock on road ages ago, the world is like so? You might have shouldered a significant part in shaping this world.”

“...That's the thing about butterflies and wings right?”

“I meant humans are actually much greater than they thought they are. Likewise, I also disclose the possibility that anyone could be the bearer of an unnatural phenomenon.”

Now she's praising humanity? The ultimatum of super-power belief is, in the end, just a spiritual theory?

The only thing I understood from this exchange was that nothing could change Yashiro's unwavering dogma.

So far, there was no proof for her unnatural abilities.

We entered the road toward my school. Ryuushi-san might just be in the gym… “Oh! Stop !”

Yashiro's voice rose. What happened next ensues command; the bicycle slowed down as I realized the inconspicuous sign of disaster. I wasn't braking; the front wheel was still moving. If I separate the back end everything would have been fine, but the bike creaked as it struggled to stay up. “Whoa! Wait a—! Hold—!“

We fell.

I couldn't save it. The bicycle, as though sliding, crashed onto the concrete floor. Out of reflex I stuck my palm out, avoiding having my leg trapped and diced by the road and the bike.

After making sure the bicycle stopped further down, I looked back. Judging from Yashiro's rubbing of her feet, as well as her stiff expression, and the sudden deceleration of only the back wheel…

She stuck the tip of her shoe into the back wheel, trying to stop it.

I pulled the bicycle, the front wheel still spinning, up and screamed at Yashiro.

“W-what the hell are you doing, you dumbass?!”

“If you too have super powers, you wouldn't need a brake to slow down.”

That's only thanks to your endurance for pain, right? Her toes must hurt a lot!

“Then do please use yours!”

You don't have to destroy the world — just use it to help someone else!

“My abilities are far too great for this—“

“Right, yeah, whatever. So what's wrong with you?”

“Do you have fruits growing out of your eyes? Look! It's a water reservoir!”

The direction Yashiro pointed intently to was… My school. Yeah, that's right. I mean, it's where we were just passing by. As of this reservoir… “Wait, that's just a swimming pool.”

“Ahahaha!”

Ignoring my words, she dashed toward the school. As though impervious to her pain, the helmeted girl latched onto the fence surround the pool and scaled it nimbly. She'd definitely be arrested if Mr. Security catches her. Her skirt also fluttered defencelessly as if screaming 'it's summer!' More than the person herself, I was embarrassed.

“Ahahahahahah!” Stimulated by something, Yashiro clamoured mindlessly while climbing up, and jumped onto the empty poolside. Perhaps the impact numbed her feet, she kneeled down after landing.

“Hey! Is this where you wanted to go?”

I yelled at Yashiro from behind the fence. Now that I thought about it, I did hear that our school doesn't have a swim club, so the pool is usually open for students during the summer. Obviously no one was here because it's not open, but in the afternoon when club activities are out, people might show up.

“Correct! The humans are only remotely capable when it comes to this stuff! A puddle filled with cold water!”

Being stealthy since she's trespassing — Yashiro, screaming energetically, had no plan on doing that as she walked toward the edge of the pool. She then raised her arms parallel to the sides, stuck her chest out, and fell flat into the water. Her stiffness might have been mistaken as a suicide if this were elsewhere.

The splash was surprisingly small; her weak existence was as though a fish bait dropped into a pond. I couldn't see from where I was standing, so I had no clue what happened to Yashiro in the water. Only, as I stood encased by the cocoon known as the sun, she was embraced by cold, pool water. I'm a little annoyed, knowing that.

Oh, she surfaced. Like teleporting in a sci-fi movie, she slowly emerged with lines waving about. She probably took the helmet off in the water, letting her face exposed directly under the sun. Again, a person who shines even in the day.

“I'm gonna go home now. Remember to leave before the students catch you.”

After that extremely basic advice, I turned away from that pool. Just what the hell did I come here for? With so many questions for what I did, I couldn't even regret anything.

Since I'm already here, should I visit the gym? As I thought so while swiping at my forehead.

Something weird made contact with me. At the instant, I even thought I was stabbed in the back. Like having a block of salt shoved into my brain, it was a weighty and upsetting sensation.

Ringing set in, and my senses disoriented. To pull the feeling of disaster back, I tried concentrating on the heat… Agh! I pulled my hair hard; despite the growing fatigue, I managed to calm myself down. Finally, I got a grip.

The mysterious liquid dripping from my head and back turned out to be cold water.

The pool's water, apparently, splattered on me. But, the amount was odd. Was I covered by a whole bucket of water? Was there even a bucket near the pool?

Trembling, I turned around and glared at the perpetrator. Grabbing the fence and shaking it, I protested, “I almost had a heart attack! And I mean literally!”

Yet Yashiro was still… And I want to pause here for a second: she's floating on the water, quite a distance away from me. No bucket either. Or any one who could have been her accomplice.

Super pow—? No, no way.

“Well, well. Looks like there won't be any need for super power, Makoto.”

“Wha?”

“Get in here! Let your brain loose like a globe! Don't stop now!”

Yashiro raised her legs and kicked, splashing water toward the poolside. The water didn't hit me, and it dried quickly under the blazing sun.

I'm actually a student here, y'know? If they catch me, it will definitely stay on my record. A free and shameless creature like yourself is very different than me.

Aw, but dammit, it's still so hot.

And she's there splashing water.

Somewhere deep in my throat squirmed.

“Grow a bigger brain! And don't give up on what you can do, you stupid idiot!”

I did not know whether it was censure, jeering, or just raving.

Yashiro's existence in my mind distorted, like silhouette blurred in the heat.

Gripping the fence, with a deep, strained voice, I spoke.

“...Fine.”

I should have been a regular high school student looking for Youth-points.

Breaking into the pool at a time like this isn't like me. Besides, I don't want to be seen with a suspicious space girl.

Yet, with the excuse that I didn't want to go around, I put my hand onto the fence.

I struggled awkwardly climbing up.

With my body acting so irrationally, the inside of my head burned.

The students running on the track seemed to look over here, but I ignored the gazes. I decided to see them as people who are across the sea, in a country far, far away.

I landed by the pool; I took off my shoes and my socks, staring at the glittering water.

It's hot; I wanted to cool down. And so, I leave the natural desire during the summer, as well as the only solution, to the sight in front of me.

The AC didn't want to marry me, so water is my only comfort!

Pushed by this senseless motivation, I dashed mindlessly.

I got as far as I could away from the poolside.

The day when Erio and I flew into the sea surged in my mind; compare to then, I might be able to enjoy the dive a little more. The sea was cold, but the pool refreshing.

I dashed, for no one else's, but my own sake. This heat in my head finally imploded.

“Yooo~! Hoooo! GOO!!”

With a speed that would definitely get me in trouble with a life guard, I jumped into the pool.

The watery world, decorated by speed, undulated like rumpled paper.

My ears could feel it, the giant splash on the top of my head. But even that was short-lived. With that same momentum, I ended on the very bottom; with more air out of my body, I sunk continuously.

I breathed out more, getting rid of that lung-searing air. Embracing me like some sort of creature, the water soothed my limbs.

Even the sunshine seemed gentle in the water. I reached out; the wavering ray, like tails formed of light, appeared palpable, but escaped my grasp annoyingly.

Off with heat and sweat, I only swam up when the pain of suffocation settled in.

Upon surfacing, Yashiro welcomed me with giddy laughters. Shirts and skirts dampened, her skin showed through; it might have been tempting to stare, but I couldn't bring myself to. Still, I did just that.

Unaware of my impure intent, Yashiro grinned satisfactorily.

“I knew you weren't hopeless.”

Just spare me with that.

We frolicked.

We probably end up using twenty different special moves.

Kamehame-ha being the most common. Even an alien knows about that manga, huh.

Just for your information, no one caught us. According to Yashiro, it's because 'a barrier made of light rendered us…' (discontinued), but in reality it's simply because we're lucky, and that the students around didn't care enough.

Strange that all it took for me to cheer up was jumping into a pool of cold water. And I'm not exaggerating.

I will admit though, that it felt pretty gross when I came out from the pool with wet clothes sticking onto the skin.

Tired after swimming, Yashiro headed toward the shade under the school's storage shed; without drying her hair, she plopped down and fell asleep.

“Hey, are you sure this is fine?” Even if it's not an eave?

“Yep...”

A slow nod from her. Then, her wet shirt changed angle or something, and the scene started sparkling. I scratched my cheek reflexively. That's just how being young is — I so told myself to gloss over the heightened heart rate.

“Just… Leave me… Thank you ...”

With what was either sleep talk or just perfunctoriness, Yashiro's conscious sunk. The water dripping still from her wet the ground. Unsure what to do with her, I decided, in the end, to respect her decision. There was not much, after all, that I can do now anyway.

“...Well, I guess there is something.” I flipped open Yashiro's space suit and used it like a blanket to cover her up. Hm, this could more or less limit the light coming off of her, so she wouldn't be discovered by people right away. I think. Plus she didn't even dry herself off, so this should be okay for keeping the cold out.

Finally I put the helmet next to her and bid a single-sided farewell to her.

Under the sun, my clothes dried instantly. Even the moisture on my skin was pulled away; while my temperature was still kept down by the pool, I aimed to head back to the Touwa household.

And on the way back, sitting outside of Tamura Shop on the bench was Erio. She had a bottle of barley tea in her hands. Legs dangling, she stared obliviously at the wall in front. The sight, as though the horror tale of 'the girl who's waiting for the bus that will never come,' seemed surreal. Erio and the colour of summer — the two seemed to mix in an odd way.

Her head titled left in reaction to my bike's brake. The foci of her eyes gradually met mine.

“Ah. The cousin.”

“Yo. How's today?”

“No one came, so I'm… Attracting?”

“Oh? And how's that coming along?”

“I caught the cousin.”

Erio happily pointed at me. Is the simple joke a sign of her growth?”

“Did the cousin change head?”

“I'm not some bread man, how could I?”

Well it'd be nice to get a better version of my brain of face… Just kidding.

“Oops. I meant, hair.”

“Hair?” I felt a bit of moisture on my hair. “Oh. It got wet earlier.”

“Wet? Rain?”

“Nope. It's too hot, so I dove into a pool.”

“Sounds fun.”

Erio squinted enviously. Then, her mouth opened.

“I like pool, more than the sea.”

“...You want me to take you there?” That's what your eyes are saying.

“Very much.”

“In a while then.”

It'd be inconvenient to hang out with Ryuushi-san if Erio were around, and vice versa.

Knees curled, Erio rocked herself up; she took a sip from the bottle and asked.

“Want to see Obaa-chan?”

She asked me the same thing this morning. What is this, a marriage arrangement?

...Well, not like I'm doing anything later. I'll go see our tsundere grandma.

“Hm, I guess I will.”

“Mm. Let's go, cousin.”

“Yep.”

I went in from the front door. As if warning against an invader, the alarm atop the entrance rung. Inside was empty, lacking the form of that not-so-reliable person.

“Is Tamura Obaa-san inside?”

“Yep. She thinks it's too hot, so she's inside sleeping.”

“That's kinda like Meme-san.”

Hearing my honest thought, Erio smiled meaningfully.

I headed toward the residence, where the solemnly silent hallway that not even the cries of cicada could infiltrate resided.

Every time I visit, this calming air like a cave with blue walls welcomes me.

At the end of the hall that stretched, light from the window delineated a cross.

...Stiffly, I spoke to the back walking in front of me.

“Erio.”

“Mm?”

“You got a little tanned.”

The Earth rotated on, and noon was once again upon us.

### 005. Chapter 4 - The Noisy Summer

Baseball in the morning, stargaze in the night.

In days like these, daytime was the most boring.

Erio's working at Tamura Shop. Meme-san is working, kind of. Ryuushi-san's working hard for her club. They may not all be busy, but they're all doing something.

The only free and bored soul was me.

I was the only person home when noon arrived. Since morning I lay on the bed, eyes shut, and waited for the sleep that never came; I sighed. Half-conscious, I picked up the reference book with heavy eyes. After a few pages, I would put it down and shut my eyes again. Repeating that, two hours passed.

No one was home, and since it's been so hot, my instinct overcame me. Letting what could be called the peak of civilization, the AC, run, I sealed the room up. Because of the light shooting in from outside, I closed the blinds on the window as well. Strange, considering I used the AC all the time back home.

"Ughh~" In the first three minutes, only a tepid, mouldy air came out of the machine. After a while, a cool atmosphere capable of keeping the room comfy was established. 'The appliance you want to marry the most in summer' — the title was once again unchallenged. A fan might be a far second. During the winter, the kotestu would be a tough rival.

Now, I can ignore the stickiness on my skin. Contented, I plopped back down on the bed.

What came next replaced this irksome heat.

Time: when I'm doing nothing.

“Sigh~” I covered my face with the book, lamenting on how useless I was.

I felt my Youth-points evaporate every time when I fell asleep doing nothing. I'm not in a club: during time such as summer when school isn't in session, the chance of me interacting with another person is greatly reduced.

Youth-point is a thing only nourishable with another human being. I mean, it's too late, though, to say this anyway.

Even if I wanted to go out with one of my classmates, I just couldn't find the motivation — must be because I don't know them long enough. Being a transfer student is kind of awkward, like being an outsider.

The only person left I know is Maekawa-san, but we're not so chummy that I can just ask her out on a whim. She's a girl too, and much haughtier than Ryuushi-san. Is it her hobby, or her height? Or maybe the pressure from her dad? Furthermore, she might pass out twice being outside in this sun.

Plus, I don't think she's doing nothing. She might be working too. Didn't she say she wanted a motorcycle license? Because of that Onee-chan in a yukata?

“So it's just me?” Someone with nothing to do.

Is freedom merely being unconfined for twenty-four hours? Can’t believe I thought about taking a nap when I'm forced to do stupid things with the others.

I heard the faint noise of some people; but it disappeared, as though the AC had snared it away.

Trapped in this room, with nowhere else to go, were the cries of cicada and the whirling of the AC.

“...Ugah~”

Just exactly how the hell did I manage to stay in my room for the entire summer last year?

As I recalled, it felt more like I was looking into another person's private life.

I decided to head out for lunch, so I grabbed my phone and wallet. “Uwah...”

The sun cutting into the door instantly dulled my resolve. Nifuram. I tipped forward and almost fell backward. The linguistic may be vague, but do try to understand this on a metaphysical level. I almost scurried back home.

What if AC's had legs? Then it'd be mobile and stuff. Or maybe everything should just come into my room instead! These selfish thoughts hovered in my head as I considered a way to counter this heat.

“Of course!” I just have to carry the AC! Hot damn, Mako-kun's a genius!

After the idiotic thoughts sublimed, I walked toward the bicycle. The terrifying heat seemed able to burn off even the nutrient in the head, causing thoughts to become incredibly one-dimensional. I might just judge a book by its cover and start seeking Erio's affection. This might be a complete meltdown.

Slowly dragging the bike out, I rode forward shakily. Sweat spewing from the neck, and the sun pressing down heavily, I wondered maybe I was possessed by something.

Concerned that the bike's frame might melt, I started wandering. Where should I go? I don't want to go to the station, neither do I want to explore the local cuisine.

I hate to say this, but Meme-san's food is just to my taste. “It's love! Lovey Love, together Love, beach love!” Shame about her how she speaks, really.

So that leaves one choice… “Let's go to the Tamura Shop.” And I could check on Erio too.

Though it's only been three days since I last went. Erio seems to be doing fine these days, and Tamura Obaa-san's recovered enough that she could go into the store, so even Meme-san's relaxed.

I didn't have to change route — maybe I subconsciously wanted to go there? With that in mind, I sped up slightly. Rather than staying longer in this heat, I wanted to go into that cave-like house. My brain demanded, and I agreed.

“Hm?”

As I passed between the residence, I saw a familiar face; I braked and looked back.

She appeared to have noticed too; the sun hit the slightly crooked grin.

“Yo, transfer student.”

It's Maekawa-san. With a black parasol in hand, she walked forward. Something's off about that attire. Only, Maekawa-san's normal outfit only counts when we're talking about costumes.

She wore blue jeans and a blouse, a getup perfect for walking to a nearby store; however, both pieces seemed too small, as much of her skin showed.

“Where are you heading?”

“I wanted to grab a bite somewhere. You?”

“On my way home after an errand. Unfortunately, one of my family member stole my bike.”

With that explanation, she mumbled something about lunch. The umbrella cast a light shade on her face. I felt obligated to stay before she came to a conclusion; despite of the heat beating down on my brow, I endured in the middle of the street. Not a single car passed. Maybe people would melt if they walked on the road, I thought.

Finally, light returned to Maekawa-san's face.

“That's it. Why don't we go to my place? I'll make you lunch.”

“Eh?” Maekawa-san's house? Girl House? It's hard to deny that I didn't want to pounce at the invitation. I could feel the Youth-points. I'm going to a girl's house! And during a vacation!

Maekawa-san, on the other hand, didn't seem bothered; she pointed at the basket on my bicycle.

“So, can I get a ride in this basket?”

“...Hah?”

“If Touwa likes it so much, it must be pretty darn good.”

Hmhm, she nodded smugly. Maekawa-san, lanky as she was, clung onto the bike like a spider and stuffed her lower half into the basket. “Wow, it's tight.”

She grudgingly accepted the condition and reported to me. I don't need to hear this. And, once again, the dream of riding double drifted further and further away from me. I expected no less from this alien-protected town that only allow its girls to do this E.T style riding… Maybe the aliens are protecting them because they like these girls?

“Well, I'm in ya hands.” Maekawa-san spun her parasol and commanded joyously. And what can I do? I scratched my burning scalp, but seeing her like that, my doubt vanished.

She's willing to spend her day-off with me: she can sit however she wants.

It's a weekday too, so Maekawa Dad must be working.

Once again I pedalled onward. Compare to Erio, Maekawa-san was comparatively lighter.

“How are you feeling?”

“Like a shipped-off cow in a cart.”

“I bet you do.”

Should I pretend I'm the young Elliot? Like, 'Here we go~! Fly~!'

Maekawa-san lives in the corner of the residential district. It's newly constructed and close to the shopping district.

“Let me out~” I held Maekawa-san's flailing arms and pulled her out of the basket. “My butt hurts.” Hands rubbing her rump, she hopped toward the entrance.

Maekawa-san checked if the slide door was locked first before reaching for her key. “Are they picking up new stocks? Oh, did I ever mention my parents run a bar?”

“It's a bit hazy but I think you did.”

We chatted while moving in; the bike was parked in front of the storage in the yard. The current weather indicated I shouldn't worry about a surprise downpour. In fact, I kind of wanted to pray for some rain to cool this town down.

Maekawa-san opened the door and went in first; I trailed behind. “Welcome~” As though following a certain rule, she greeted before leading me into the living room.

“One sec, I'm going to prepare.”

“Hm.” Prepare? Oh, lunch? Isn't it a little shameless to have her make lunch for me? Pretty hypocritical considering my stomach growled as I pondered; hence I decided to ignore that thought.

Sitting in the living room and enjoying the air conditioner — not many things could beat this.

After about two minutes passed.

Wearing a pink T-shirt and a blue camo skirt, Maekawa-san appeared with a doughnut in hand. Then she made a strange sound of 'Nom, nom nom.' before eating the doughnut.

“…?”

“Somebody said that I didn't need to get a new haircut, so I wanted to try this once.”

“???” I searched in my shallow knowledge what this is referring to… I don't get it. “Wow, you don't read manga, do you? Not very competitive, transfer student.”

“Well, I picked a few up recently.” It's helpful when I'm talking with guys too.

She finished the doughnut and disappeared quickly. Um… Was that a cosplay? From the sound of it she was playing a manga character, but I thought she graduated from that already?

Looking down, I lost my thought in the garden projected in the window. “...” Having handmade lunch by a classmate. Typically, that'd be +2, but since now I've had all three meals made by Maekawa-san, I'll throw in an extra +3 rating. Like so, I pondered about things unrelated to the garden.

Just then, two Niwa-kun's (丹羽) appeared in the garden (にわ)… As I came up with something Ryuushi-san would, that 'thing' leapt out from beneath. I jolted away from the window, almost falling back, 'Uwah!'. Actually, I only did half of both actions described, merely ducking down a little.

Having a window between us was reassuring, but I actually thought it was a mass of white snakes.

Something crawled out into the garden. As though the law of nature, the pale object appeared.

Strange. It's so nice in here, but I'm about to pass out.

Why the hell is she here?

The oh-so-sneaky Hoshimiya Yashiro was trying to pilfer the ripened tomatoes in the Maekawas’ garden. Still wearing the things Meme-san gifted, she did not forget to don the helmet. Such a shady character. After seeing her again since we parted at the school's storage, I was at ease knowing that she's fine. On the other hand, I also wondered why she's still in town.

It's a bit wasteful, but I opened the glass screen.

“Oi.” You're quite sneaky for a thief, but are you a critter? Or a farm burglar?

“Eave teleportation!”

She immediately shouted the name of an almost-ability. She appeared to recognize my voice and didn't look surprised.

“Hm-hm-hm, I- already- knew- you- would— Sorry, I can't do this any more, my throat hurts.”

“Could you not play pretend when you're not feeling well? And why did you break into another person's house again?! You're also a tomato thief now!”

“T-this… Is a tomahto.”

“I don't care how you say it! That’s it: you have to go home now!”

“What made you think I can if I'm here? Why don't you try making a rocket that can send me to Mars in a day, huh?”

...What the hell? Not to be a jerk, but she's kind of being a nuisance now; however, if she were to starve to death here, it would leave a pretty terrible décor in Maekawa-san's house.

“Alright, fine. You, stay right there.”

Even I question why I do the things I do, but I just can't stand ignoring people I know. Leaving the living room, I easily arrived to the kitchen; it wasn't a particularly difficult house to navigate, after all.

“Hm? Transfer student, did hunger get to you? Couldn't you wait a bit?”

Stirring something in the frying pan, Maekawa-san looked back. With her slender figure and the apron, she left a distinct impression of 'a capable girl.' She wore it so well I almost wanted to change my impression of her.

Basically, her apron form was in my strike zone.

“Um, would you mind I take some tomatoes?” Despite my thumping heart, I requested with a straight face.

“Hm?” Maekawa-san tilted her head confusedly at my request.

“Uhh, there's a starving cat in your garden asking for some tomatoes.”

“Oh… It's okay, I guess. I thought maybe you're becoming Ryuushi or something.”

Maekawa-san handed me two tomatoes. I wanted to pay, but she just laughed it off, 'quit joking around.' Hmm, she's indeed quite a respectable lady. Too bad she's made of paper Mache.

After thanking her, I returned to the living room. “Here.” I handed the tomatoes to Yashiro. It's still a loss to the Maekawa household, but it's probably better than having them stolen.

Yashiro took her helmet off, revealing her face before accepting the red fruits. On her face was slight bemusement, like the type when you are least expecting kindness.

If she could take off that helmet more often, then people would definitely be friendlier toward her.

Oh~ But her superpower would explode, wouldn't it? I won't forget to add that (lol) after the message.

Yashiro stared intently at the tomatoes; her head bowed deeply.

“Thank you, dream.”

“How about thanking someone more specific?”

Is it really that unreal for me to be nice?

“Dung dung dung ~ dung! Danger evasion UP! Makoto's HP increased by five.”

“And none of that stupid game, please.”

Just leave me out of it! Is what I really meant.

Yashiro bit into the tomato. “Uwee~” Her cheek twitched from the sourness; she quickly finished the two tomatoes without stopping. It made me think that when her identity is revealed, her hunger increases — could that be her real power?

...Well, it is true that whatever you eat becomes nutrient. Anyone could tell you as much, but it's quite a mystery to wonder about if that common knowledge was to be erased.

Most organisms maintain life by 'ingestion.' Perhaps, to aliens of a different biology in a planet faraway, it could be seen as a form of super power.

But forget that: seeing Yashiro finish, I worried she would ask for another one. “If you're done, get out of here already!” I ordered the intruder.

Yashiro scoffed and put her helmet back on.

“I will see to the return of this favour. Remember to thank me then.”

“Oh yes, I am truly honoured.” I didn't even feel appreciated. It's rare when you don't feel rewarded helping someone.

With cheeky laughter, Yashiro left.

Perhaps instead of recovered, she had her brain melted in this heat.

Still, what's the deal with her? I've always thought she's wherever me and Erio are.

I shut the screen and ended the wasting of AC. I sat down in front of the table, anxious and expectant, waiting for Maekawa-san's handmade meal.

“Here we are.”

Holding a plate with both hands, Maekawa-san and the smell of soy sauce entered the room. Even better was the apron that hung from her still. Excited, I involuntarily sat upright.

“Was that enough for the cat?”

“Yep, it was.”

“Awesome. Alright, go ahead.” The item in the plate was stir-fired Udon.

“Ohoh~”

“I wanted to make fried rice, but I didn't have the ingredients for that.”

She put the obviously larger portion in front of me.

I was also able to get a glass of barely tea. Dried from the activity outside earlier, my throat greedily thirsted for water; I downed half the glass in one go. With the heat stolen, my innards shrunk.

They twitched with the trickling fluid. I will see this as a demand for solid food. I'm already on it~ I put my hands together and faced Maekawa-san.

“Well, I'm digging in.”

“Yep, go ahead.” She hurried me like a mom.

I picked up the chopsticks and started slurping the noodles.

“How's the taste?”

“Hmm… This rich… Whatdya call it? The cooking manga I read before called it something.”

There's a pile of cooking manga in Meme-san's room, so I borrowed some when I had time.

“Uh, just something normal is fine.”

“Oh, okay. Then in that case, it's delicious — it’s amazing.”

My comment seemed to have assured Maekawa-san; she smiled. Then, she began picking up her own noodle too.

Hm… “So, there’s really nothing else you called me here for, huh?”

“Yep. I guess you could call having lunch together something though, right?”

“Yeah.” Well, that’s not bad either.

I still thought that my impression earlier was too mundane — Ryuushi-san would definitely be ticked off by it. She’s always been flexible. I don’t really know what that word means though.

“Now I get why Hanazawa-san wanted to marry into your family.”

“Cough!”

Maekawa-san spat out the udon in her mouth; with force that could shoot stuff out of her nose, she struggled. “Uh… You, doing alright?”

The moment I asked, she shot me a begrudging look.

For Maekawa-san to be shaken over something other than her height, I think I just witnessed a rare event.

…But did I even say anything that shocking?

After we’re both satiated with the noodles, Maekawa-san made a proposal:

“Wanna play some games? Only got some old stuff though.”

“Oh, you play video games too, Maekawa-san?”

“A lot, too, before I got this tall. At the time, I had a… Hm, nothing.”

She just left it as is. “Well, anyway, let’s go.” Maekawa-san got up and shut off the AC in the living room. She’s keeping a secret, but knowing that it’s got nothing to do with me, I got up without questioning. Onto the second floor, we officially enter the domain of Maekawa-san’s room.

“…Hmm.”

I didn’t expect it to be a girly room, but there wasn’t even a thing to surprise me in there.

In the room were wooden furniture of the same tone, and a few souvenir figures placed on the shelves; on her desk rested her bag and books, and not a single item related to cosplay was seen.

A plain room contradictory to the usual biology of Maekawa-san. It wasn't until I saw the sweetfish costume laying on her bed was I able to sigh in relief.

“The closet in there is the door to your wildest dream. Want to take a look?”

“No thanks.”

I had a feeling she’d make me try them. She will most likely be more aggressive than a store clerk.

“Um… Around here… There it is.”

Dusty and its colour yellowed, the gaming console Maekawa-san pulled out was indeed ancient. It must have been top-notch years ago: I remember seeing it on TV long ago.

She laid a few cartridges, their finishing also faded, onto the carpet.

In the end, we agreed to play the racing game. I chose to play as the walking mushroom, and Maekawa-san the green dinosaur. Neither of us picked the human protagonists.

Sitting from a distance away, we stared at the TV.

When it’s Maekawa-san, I become less conscious with the idea of ‘being alone with another girl.”

Was it due to seeing her cosplay all the time?

We selected the track and began racing.

“…You seem like you’re quick to give up, transfer student.”

I failed and started last; Maekawa-san graciously took the spot of first.

“Eh? What do you mean?”

I don’t really know how to play, having only tried a little at my friend’s place. I chased the back of seventh place. Did she mean I should give up on trying to win the game?

“Well, you’re the type that usually gives up beforehand, so I thought that that must be the case.”

Since I’m in last place, the items would usually be good… Until I got a banana peel.

How fortunate.

“You think? There are things I wouldn’t give up too, though.”

Like Youth-points and such. As well as first place, for this game. I hit sixth place.

“For instance, you’ve already given up on ever hitting Hanazawa’s pitches.”

“Oh~ that. Yeah. Well, isn’t it too much to ask, expecting an amateur to hit those throws?”

A football landed on the ground in my mind; I tried to send it flying, but end up falling on the ground.

“It's gonna be difficult to go to the festival if we lose… You’ve heard, right? Whoever wins the last games gets to host the event.”

“Yeah, I heard from Ryuushi-san.”

“Don’t you want to go with her or Touwa?”

“Ah… Well, Erio aside, yeah, it certainly would be nice. What about you, Maekawa-san?”

“I have to help out at the booth. And if we lose next week, I guess I will watch the firework from my yard.”

Oh, it’s next week? But, we’re going to lose anyway, right? Since they have an actual player there.

“I digress, but you might be surprised to hear that I could easily let go of things.”

Maekawa-san successfully led the race. Her words and rank don’t match — was she mocking me? I glanced at her screen, remembering that I just have to drift through corners. What’s the button again?

“I’m already through hiding my height. Not much you can do when you’re already 179.9 cm tall.”

“Dontcha think you’ve been awfully persistent with that number?” And you sound a little rude too.

“But I did accept the fact that I’m tall.”

Maekawa-san grimaced, twisting her controller like an actual car. That would probably result in the vehicle ramming into the wall in real life.

In the virtual world, she kept first despite having a less-than-smooth path.

“To give up is to approve of your opponent, so I don’t think it’s all bad.”

“That’s not a bad way to make friends.”

My rank rose to fifth. We reached a tunnel.

“Only, recently.”

“Recently?”

“I should be giving up, but it's getting harder.”

“Hm?”

I tried to remember the shortcut, only to fail miserably and ended up in last place; Maekawa-san, too, tried to challenge the same route and dropped down to seventh.

“I'm wondering, 'how could this be?!', y'know, transfer student?”

“Ah. Like losing your lead because you were too stubborn.”

“I guess I'm in no place to poke fun of anyone.”

“Yeah. You’ll end up last if I catch up.”

So ended the first lap. With two more to go, I climbed to fifth while Maekawa-san forth.

“Are you having fun, transfer student?”

“Yeah, I am.”

I’d already gotten used to the track; my hands, too, adapted to the control.

“Good. Then, I won’t give up either.”

“It's still the first lap though: you don’t have to be so pessimistic.”

I saw that bitter grin again from the corner of my eyes.

“Yeah, I guess… My point is, some things are just hard to give up.”

“Oh… I’m still not sure what you’re getting at though.”

It’d a zero if she was giving me a test.

“The right answer is never so easily understood. Like a modern Japanese exam.”

“Huh…”

I glossed over, ‘giving up’ on trying to understand… Oh, I see. Her assessment for my personality seemed accurate.

But I think I also wanted to ignore that because I didn’t want to disturb the atmosphere we have playing games.

We finished second lap — I took over Maekawa-san’s avatar.

“So, I’m still transfer student, huh.”

“Hm?”

“Oh, uh, my name, that is. I think we’re near the expiration date for that name.”

I successfully reached second on the last lap; Maekawa-san shifted between fourth and fifth.

The AC moaned on the side.

“I’ve called you that since we met. Isn’t it a little weird to change now?”

“Why’s that?”

“No reason. I have pride too, you know.”

For a long while, the room filled with only clicks of the controllers.

The voices of human only appeared alongside the small victory poses, at the end of the games, in the form of ‘yay!’ or ‘tch.’

Despite it being silent, it was an appeasing atmosphere.

After about an hour, as I got bored playing normally and was driving backward on the tracks, Maekawa-san suddenly opened her mouth:

“Oh yeah. I got a little question.”

“Hm?”

“As a sniffer, do you like Touwa or Ryuushi’s smell better?”

“Gahh!”

As she prefaced, this irrelevant question jabbed deeply between my ribs.

Obviously, this was an indirect abuse from Meme-san.

Was this an act of vengeance for earlier, Maekawa-san?

The green dinosaur easily surpassed the idle mushroom.

When it was about evening, I decided to leave the Maekawa household.

“You wanna to have dinner here too?”

“No, no. That’s too much. Besides, I think my aunt’s cooking… Probably.”

The kitchen’s been too hot lately, so she’s been looking for excuses to stay away from there.

Meme-san seemed to also find ways out of the town’s annual drain cleaning. That’s on the same level as a kid running away from cram school.

She might never lose that spirit even when she hit Tamura Obaa-san’s age. In a way, maybe being able to see like a child makes her an excellent teacher.

“Alright. Then, do say hi to Meme-san and Touwa for me.”

“You should do the same for me to your parents too… That's not an issue, right?”

“Actually, I’ve been thinking about introducing you to my dad.”

“Please, anything but that.” My face will end up catching a ball.

“Ahaha, it’s just a joke. And, uh~”

Ahem! Maekawa-san coughed. What followed was rare for Maekawa-san — she looked down, almost bashful.

“Can I, invite you again sometimes? …Kiwa-kun.”

“Only if you don’t call me that. What about Ryuushi-san or Erio?”

“Ah~ Nah… I only got two controllers, you see.”

“…? Hm, I guess, but… Hmm~?”

“Don’t think too much about that, got it? Basically, I’m just glad that someone said my food was good.”

“Oh~ I see.”

She went on about this controller thing, but I somehow accepted her explanation. This was the first time in a long while since I complimented that she could be a model. I’ll treasure this moment.

“Then, bye.”

“Hm. I will see you tomorrow.”

Let’s meet again tomorrow, when you’re in your fish form.

I bid farewell to Maekawa-san, who waved her hand, and stepped onto the pedals.

Since the time was right, I’ll go pick Erio up too.

The sky held onto the light still, casting a golden hue across town. No longer stinging, the sun had this softness, as though making a compromise.

“Haah.”

Feeling overly fulfilled, I gradually let out the excess.

Even with no comprehension of what happened, I felt satisfied.

I could call it an uneventful day: I think it wasn’t spent any differently than just cosying up in my room.

Nothing in particular happened when I went to Maekawa-san’s house.

But the way I spent the time there couldn’t be any more interesting.

In a day where nothing happened, where nothing was added — it is amazing to think how it was a one-eighty from the regular days.

Since times long ago, human interaction has always been the manifestation of mystery.

I rung the bell twice meaninglessly — I was that excited.

Yet, it was a suspiciously normal day in a town like this.

I once again realized that If she doesn’t do weird cosplays, she’d be a tall and sensible beauty.

“In any case.” It was a great day. No one could say otherwise.

“Dung dung dung~ dung, Youth-points UP, 3 points!”

### 006. Chapter 5 - In this summer: Basketball, Superpower, Stargazing, Festival, Baseball and Meme-san (Omitted)

Fifty kilo, that’s like tying Maekawa-san on you… Um, maybe the analogy works. Well, I don’t really know how much Maekawa-san weigh anyway.

Hm… Would Maekawa-san mind if someone asked her? I had a feeling she wouldn’t.

“Well, ya better be ready to see the true face of Ryuuko-san tomorrow!”

True face, huh… I’m a little worried that it’d be scarier than her true ability. Maybe she just used the wrong word?

“Then I’ll look forward to cheering for ya.”

“Haah~”

“Was that a sigh? Or a deep breath?”

“Both. I’m, like, a million times more nervous than last time. ‘Cuz it’s not just any game this time!”

“Hm… Is there like a, bet or something?”

“No no no… ‘Cuz someone's watching…”

“Eh? What did you say?”

“Ughh… Are ya the heroine of a shoujo manga~?!”

“Ahahah…” Lost as I was, I laughed at Ryuushi-san’s hilarious response.

“Cousin~ Stargaze time~”

Spring in her steps, Erio joyously skipped into my room. In her hands was a blue, creasy notebook. I’ve always thought that she appeared in the least convenient times.

Not that I could point out specifically what inconvenient means.

“Cousin~?”

Erio hopped closer. It made me want to tell her to leave like a parent to his kid ‘I’m making a very important call right now, okay? Can you let me finish first?” …But I couldn’t do that.

“Niwa-kun? What’s the matter? Ya are all quiet…”

“Yes, I would try my best to handle it, but…”

For the time being, I just came up with something to resolve the situation. Ryuushi-san didn’t hear Erio; Erio further encroached despise me being on the phone.

“Be quiet!” Huh? Me? “Eh~? Oh wait. Attention please! Uhhh~ One sec, Imma get the dictionary.” Was she trying to say, in English, ‘keep talking to me!’?

Erio climbed onto my bed on her four, shortening the distance between us. I’d try to back off, but I was already leaning against the wall in the first place. Without some super power to break the wall with, I had no escape.

Actually, teleportation would have been a much better ability. I wanted to slap the brain that thought of something so pointless at such a time. Erio changed course, staring at my face.

Like an animal, assessing whether the object she found was edible or not.

“Phone call?” Yep. I nodded silently. “Who?” No, I… How do I convey that with my chin?

“Sniff, sniff.” You can tell by the smell? “Something Ryuushi.” Someone’s an esper! “I was right.”

Erio pouted as though this was a gag manga.

“Wait a minute~? Is there someone else there, Niwa-kun?” Uh oh, she noticed too.

She’s got me ☆ (giving up).

“It’s, uh… The cousin I live with.”

“Touwa-san~? Hmph, hmph~!”

“Eh? What kind of reaction was that?”

“Cousin, the star…” Erio slid the notebook across my face; she sat in front me and begged with upturned eyes. “Okay, okay, I will go out with you when I’m done talking.”

“G-go out with her?!” Ryuushi-san’s pitch changed. A shocking sound followed. Did she drop her dictionary?

“No, you must be confused, Ryuushi-san!”

“Nope! Ya are too flirty, Niwa-kun! I dub thee Mr. Flirt (Flower-さん)!”

“That sounds like a nickname for Hanao-san(花尾)!”

“Grr… I hafta get my charger!”

“The phone bill is on your side, so I can’t say I’m okay with that…”

“Oh no, my phone is actually dy—“ And we lost connection. Looks like her battery actually died.

“What were you talking about?”

Covering the lower half of her face with the book, Erio questioned disinterestedly. Busy with the charger, I answered without hesitation.

“We’re talking about me going to cheer for her basketball game tomorrow.”

Following that, Erio’s eyes sunk. Was it something she doesn’t like hearing? Why?

She won’t come with me, right? Ryuushi-san said so too, but that’s not my decision to make.

“Do you want to come too?” Therefore, I still asked for her opinion.

“No.” She rolled herself up in my blanket like the stuffing in a sushi; she fell off the edge and made a resounding thud.

Due to the blanket’s thinness, only minimal damage was absorbed. “Uuu…” She moaned from beneath.

“You okay?”

“…Not going.”

Ignoring my question, Erio once again emphasized her previous assertion.

“I don’t like school, anyway.”

Unlike with the futon, her words clearly reached my ears — only, that wasn't so helpful this time.

Oh. I understand her attitude now. She left a lot of resentment, and with the third-years leaving after this summer, everyone who remained at school is the same age as she.

If she returned, in her futon, she will stick out even more. I imagined with a somewhat bitter grin.

Hmm~ If I can smile at Erio’s futon form, I guess it's also game over for me.

“Want to go see some stars now?”

Just like before heading out to the train station, on our journey toward space.

With no doubt in mind, I invited Erio to the stars.

It was in no way me comforting her — It is, after all, just homework.

The blanket roll, like wrapping for a bouquet, spun to the entrance of the room.

“Now.”

Good. And leave the blanket here.

…Oh, but before then.

Tomorrow, baseball game in the morning. We’re about ten days away from the festival host-right game… I think.

So ends the memorized lines from now on.

The usual uninterested expression lacked consistency with her hand.

During a game few days ago, Hanazawa-san once grumbled, ‘baseball doesn’t feel right.’ Still, met with the ball that seemed to indicate those words as nothing but bluffs, I missed both my swings.

Apparently unwilling to go easy even with amateurs, Hanazawa-san threw a breaking ball that changed speed drastically. She’s also responsible with the pitch sequences; Nakamura-san, the catcher, appeared to only catch the balls. Considering that he took care of Yashiro, he must an overly-nice person.

Until the sixth inning, there were only two people on base; one of them was Erio somehow. By just standing there obliviously, she managed to get four balls. Despite following her example, my performance wasn’t looking too well.

Yashiro was not seen today at the left field today. Nakajima stood there instead; I met his glance, and we both smiled courteously. The girls’ basketball game was this afternoon. Would Nakajima go do some practice in the gym too? What should I do if he starts speaking with me?

“Ah.” Hanazawa-san wound up, and soon the ball exited from her right hand. The hurriedly-swung bat swiped at the top of the ball, sending it out over the foul line.

“……” That was quite an unbelievable hit.

I had a déjà vu moment. Is it going to happen again? No, no. I have to focus on this next pitch.

Even if I hold the bat a bit closer, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was only making changes on the decimal points. Was it a more fundamental issue? What surprised me was that perhaps Erio, in spite of her appearance, may actually be very dextrous.

I adjusted my grip once more; I assumed the stance and, without looking away, faced Hanazawa-san.

Even though I’ve already given up. I never had the chance, anyway.

If I hit it, it’s gonna fly far, isn’t it~? Expectantly, I swung the bat with my all.

Beautifully, it cut through the air. The sensation felt better, so I considered it as good enough.

That marked my third strike for the day. I made a ball go toward second base though.

…Wait. I just realized I've never made it onto a single base since I started playing.

It isn’t conclusive whether indoor sports depend on the weather, but it’s clear that today was an annoyingly sunny day.

This level of heat made me want to just go through the entire gym, and ride straight into the swimming pool. Affected by the thought, I subconsciously looked to where the pool was. I didn’t see the shadow of an excitable white helmet. Where did she go after Maekawa-san’s porch?

I parked in the lot between the gym and the kendoujou. According to Ryuushi-san, it’s usually not open during school days. The place was stuffed with bikes, as though it was the ones in front of a train station. Without any roofing, the bikes warmed up gradually.

I delighted at the sight of that yellow safety helmet among countless bicycles.

Circumventing the wall, I approached and entered the gym that echoed the sounds of balls rebounding and sneakers squeaking. In the space that harboured more heat than outside, sounds that scream youth reverberated within.

Sure is nice being young~ I’m not going to become a youthful grandpa that could only dream about this. Maekawa-san would probably pass out if she took a few breaths in here.

There were two zones in the basketball court; the right side appeared to be where the away team was preparing. A bunch of unfamiliar girls lined up there, practising layup.

If there were three guys here watching, every time when a girl rushed beneath the basket, they’d be making dangerous comments like, ‘X,’ ‘Y,’ ‘Y, but her boobs are Z.’ Yet, being alone here… Don’t I just look like some shady person?

Now, left side. Looking up, I could see the platform that the principals makes his appearance from. There were already some people sitting there not in uniforms. Audiences? Shouldn’t I sit there too? Still, I wouldn’t know where to sit, seeing how they are all girls.

“Hey~ Ya~! Niwa-kun!”

Following that odd yelling, the owner called to me. Adjusting the angle of my neck, I peered at the origin of the voice: Ryuushi-san, in her team uniform, waved at me. She stood at the left court, under the hoop, with a ball in her hands. She wore two pig tails, tied to the back. For sports, huh? Hm… Including the uniform, this was an instance of cuteness impossible to witness during regular class days.

I walked, while Ryuushi-san jogged; in just a moment, the distance between us disappeared. We even almost bumped our heads together. Ryuushi-san was, as always, filled with energy.

She cracked a grin, greeting me with the usual soothing smile.

“It’s been a week, hasn’t it?”

“Yeah. I’m here to see you kick some butts today.”

“Someone’s here to see me~! Oh yeah~!” She posed. A gesture mixing Saturday and Night. She stopped in just a second from the embarrassment, cupping her cheeks with hands, ‘heheheh,’ and wriggled.

“Ugh! This pressure is killin’ me!”

“You look like you’re in a fever though!”

“No way~ It’s cuz I’m under so much pressure…” She squeezed the ball tightly with both palms. “And it’s all ‘Kablooey!’ now!”

“Oh~ If you say so.”

It’s a little scary to ask what exploded, so I just circumvented around the topic.

Ryuushi-san raised the ball above her head, and beamed a pure smile. The softness exhibited similar to the embrace of spring was unfitting in this summer air.

“Thank ya for comin’ today~ Though I’m not the one of the starters… Mm~ I’ll definitely be playing though! I'm not gonna give up today!” As if showing off her spirit, she waved the ball around.

'Not gonna give up,' huh? That’s quite the opposite from my summer this time.

I thought of Ryuushi-san covered in golden glitters, struggling and yelling ‘Give me a hand~’ Uh, in a complimenting way, of course.

“Oh, is this the rumoured boyfriend, Ryuushi?”

Then appeared a girl who almost latched entirely onto Ryuushi-san’s back. She had a head of black hair, and stood about as tall as Ryuushi-san. My first impression was that she’s more refined than the other girls.

“W-w-w-what? That’s nawt it!”

Ryuushi-san turned in attempt to throw her off, meanwhile, uh, yelping.

“What is ‘nawt-eet?’”

“Not it.”

“Hahaha! You’re freaking out!”

Um, I think this is no different than the usual Ryuushi-san though. “Mmm~” The girl, perhaps her best friend, openly and literally gave me the ‘elevator eyes.’

“You’re that transfer student right? Mm~ So Ryuushi likes them imported, huh?”

She boldly assessed me. Also, since when did I come from not only a different prefecture, but an entirely different country? Or, maybe since this is an alien’s town, anyone from anywhere else is automatically ‘shipped’ here… And who’s gonna buy that?

“This is Mikki.” Ryuushi-san whispered while pointing slightly at the girl’s face. Ohoh, so this is the legendary Mikki…

Where’s the mouse element? Or maybe she’s supposed to be M*nnie? Okay, whatever. I guess the name came from her last name: probably something like ‘Miki’ or ‘Mikimoto.’

“Ya are mistaken, Mikki.”

“Am I?” Mikki watched for my reaction with a mischievous smile. Her air reminded me of a term I saw long ago while flipping through a magazine. It was a word written cutely, and a bit dumbly — ‘devilish girl.’

I’m afraid, for a usage example, that the word was used incorrectly.

“The name’s all wrong! He’s Ryuushi-san, and I’m Ryuuko-san!”

Uhh~ Why are you involving me? Now we sound like a twin or some kind of partners.

“Oh, relax, Ryuushi! You’re old enough! High school’s the season of love, the time to bloom! Having a boyfriend isn’t that weird, don’t you think? Plus it’s better to wear it on your sleeve!”

Mikki tapped on Ryuushi-san’s shoulder. “I only care about club stuff!” Ryuushi-san objected with chest sticking out.

“Bull! Even you skip practice sometimes to hang out with this transfer student!”

“W-w-what! Ya do the same too!”

“I’m just playing hooky for the sake of playing hooky!”

“Why are ya so smug?!”

What a comedic back-and-forth. But, her boyfriend, huh~?

Mikki’s misunderstanding — or perhaps, light tease at Ryuushi-san, is nothing more than for fun. But it didn’t bother me, or, rather, it’s kinda making my heart beat. A lot. More than just a simple jolt.

“So what’s up? Here to see Ryuushi?”

“The game~!” Ryuushi-san corrected with hands waving wildly.

“I get it now~”

Mikki ignored Ryuushi-san and nodded deeply. Hehehe, she snickered, and cupped her hands around her mouth. Then she turned around, walked forward and…

“Sensei~! Ryuushi’s boyfriend is here today, so she’s wondering if you could let her play~!”

“Ahhh~! I’ll get that on my own! So stop it, Mikki~!”

The two shouted on their way back. Some people stared with wide eyes, while others laughed. From a bystander’s view, I am envious of this type of interactions between friends.

They certainly are good friends~ I saw them off with a smile. “Don’t laugh~!” Being so loud before the game, Ryuushi-san was truly invigorated.

“Boyfriend, huh…” Hmhmhm, I’m not at all shaken. My chest just feels a little tight.

I wonder how many have been on the path of ‘gotten serious because of some little things, and the misunderstanding deepened and finally shattered’? I have to be cautious.

Anyway, I’ll find a spot to sit first.

“Uh.”

Something deplorable appeared.

A suspicious person wearing a space custome sat at the corner of the gym, hugging her knees. She was wearing the entire outfit today. As if a tiny universe had taken form, the otherworldly corruption surrounded her, forming a dark miasma.

Everyone pretended to not see. Actually, listening closely, I unexpectedly heard a few girls gossiping things like ‘gross’ ‘should we tell someone?’ ‘what about the teachers?’ ‘Is that the Touwa Erio girl?’

“…Sigh.” If the game was cancelled because of her appearance, Ryuushi-san would be disappointed. Such lame reason appeared in my head instantly, but my feet already pointed themselves toward her before any tangent reasons formed.

To avoid the eyes of the girls, I waited for them to look away before approaching Yashiro; she noticed me immediately.

‘Good- day- earth-ling’ she spewed out an idiotic line; I kept silent and smiled, and pulled her helmet off.

“No~!” How did she make that sound earlier?

“Unfortunately, dear customer, the policy of this gym is the same as a store or bank: no helmet.”

“It’s gonna blow!”

Pop, I took the helmet off.

Instantly the dark corner of the gym saturated with light; the air took an 180 change. Perhaps because it occurred in the corner, the clamours were contained. Besides, with the lack of guys, it wasn’t that glaring.

Still, she attracted a decent amount of stare, with what could not be denied as a striking appearance.

“Ughhh.” She felt her neck while looking resentfully at me. With her helmet off, Yashiro revealed her pale, snake-like skin unaffected by the sun.

Crisp as though it would make a refreshing sound every time they fall, the strands of her hair shone like the stars. Unable to be tanned by the sun — she could use that as one of her jokes.

“It would be your fault if this planet explodes.”

“Yes, yes, I’m the most terrible, nefarious human beings to have lived. What are you planning to do here?”

“I am just watching. While contemplating on the future of my work.”

“Work this and work that. Why don’t you just go and do it?”

Without throwing a child-like tantrum, Yashiro gave a twisted smile.

“It’s not that simple… No, maybe because it’s too simple. Should I do it, or not? I’ve tried many things to avoid it, but frankly speaking I’m a little sick of it. I’m not exactly interested in finishing the job.”

“So why not just give up?

Hearing that, Yashiro opened her eyes wide. She smirked evilly.

“Hoh~ Now that I’ve been given permission, I shouldn’t be responsible if I fail. Ah~ Now I’m safe.”

“Hah?”

“Oh, right. I saw another human with potential while observing here. And I also discovered that this activity called basketball is a lot more interesting than I imagined.”

She shifted topic in the blink of an eye. “Ok.” I replied flatly and sunk.

Because I think I realized long ago that I’d asked a bunch of needless question without any deeper motives.

“Hmph… Are you dissatisfied that I did not appear under an eave?”

“To be honest, I want to bury you under one.”

Yashrio gave a snarky and meaningful smile, tracing the basketball travelling between the floor and hands. The girl dribbling that ball ran toward here and successfully made the shot after a jump.

“…So why, exactly, did you join the baseball game?”

Erio, too. Is baseball in for those with extraterrestrial traits?

“Why do you ask?”

“No reason. I thought maybe there’s a hint about your super power in there somewhere?”

Or of why you insist on calling yourself an ‘esper.’

Yashiro stared at me coldly, but ultimately looked away.

“Because it’s work.”

“Helping out for an amateur baseball game is work?” Even with that broad a standard, you’ve not done anything remotely close to the word suggested, right?

“Fact is, it’s just a means to an end. I won’t deny that it’s probably a poor choice, however.”

Though ridding the fatigue in her body and mind, Yashiro hung her head and sighed.

At that moment. “…It happened on a starry night.” She began with an suspicious preface. “I came to this planet.”

“Wait! A more basic question: Why — uh, ‘this planet’ right? Why did you come to this planet?”

“Eh?”

“Why do you obviously seem like you’ve never considered this question?”

“…Cease your baseless accusation. I was simply taken aback from the likes of you asking a question such as this. Listen well: the reason I came here, is because it is my fate.”

“…That’s not a reason.”

“Three days soon passed after my initial landing. With the environment desolated and undeveloped, I struggled to adapt; on foot, I dragged my battered body around. Unsure what the vile crime the violent inhabitant of this planet would commit should they discover me, I avoided any contact.”

“I can’t believe you’re going to just keep yapping.”

“Due to the creed, I cannot easily utilize my power; I do not stand a chance against these savages with under such atrophied conditions. After serious consideration, I had no choice but to accept the gifts of this land.”

“Oh.”

“Despite the planet being ravaged by its malevolent inhabitants, the local cuisine is one of the few things praise-worthy. In the plough land, there grew a round fruit used as food; thus I attempted to obtain that nutrient to recuperate.”

“Water melon theft?”

“I was intercepted, however, as the patrol of this planet finally discovered and attempted to arrest me.”

“Good work, Mr. Police!”

“The dire situation rendered me needing to unlock parts of my power: I threw mud at his face and ran.”

“You’re a little turd.”

“During the chase, another being joined the hunt — an unknown creature more ruthless and cunning than the previous: a barking quadruped.”

“Don’t you know what dogs are?”

“Despite being able to continue the battle, I feared that the planet patrol would soon catch up. So I jumped into the river; I swam, following the flow.”

“You might make a better ninja.”

“Finally I hit shore on the riverbank; while maintaining stealth from the savages, I reached the building next to the park — and the eave.”

“An eave isn’t some kind of gadget, you know.”

“It was there when I reached my limit.”

“You’re also clearly a Japanese.”

“It was no easy task, but I managed to fit half my frame into the eave and fell asleep.”

“Why not your entire body?? This is why you’re both a horror and freak show!”

“I woke up — only, two days have passed.”

“Wha?”

“I slept not under the eave, but in a bed. It would appear I had been taken in by the male creature by the name Nakamura, who lived in that edifice meant to worship the savages’ idols.”

“Hmm, so it was the shrine?”

“Nakamura revered me: his friendliness indicated that he intended to seek favour from me.”

“Wow~ What a terrifying man.”

“Oh? Are you too? Is that masochistic way of life a trait of this planet’s males? Serving me sustenance, Nakamura expressed his fond interest in the extraterrestrials.”

“Nakamura-san is a good man. Did you thank him?”

“Of course I did — are you stupid? After making sure I ate the food, he proposed a trade. How lamentable.”

“Don’t you think trying to eat a free meal is more lamentable?”

“Are you not in a similar position?”

“Hm? Well yeah… How the hell did you know that?!”

“Nakamura claimed that, in return for the food, I must partake in an athletic competition present only in an undeveloped planet such as this. Something about not enough people. As uncivilised a deal as it was, with the condition of continuous provision, I must accept the terms, or risk survival in a world without super powers. From the stand point of ensuring my life, I determine that to be a wise judgement.”

“I see. So, in other words…”

'I ran away from home, and came here after three days. Because I was starving, on a starlit night I decided to burglarize a farm to steal some watermelons. After failing and being chased by a stray dog, thanks to Nakamura-san, I managed to survive. Nakamura-san was a nice guy, who not only gave me food, but promised to provide lunch if I join the baseball game; thus, I gladly accepted.'

“In the form of a dissertation, that’s what happened, right?”

“You idiotic fool!”

Yashiro began attacking me with her right hand; though the fist landed on my shoulder, it didn’t even sting. Part of the reason must be because the costume was thick enough to cover her hands, but her right arm must be extremely weak. Even with her power I doubt she can lift a bag of rice.

“How dare you disgrace my story with such trite discussion: this is in itself a form of talent!”

It was mere description of the events that happened — nothing to do with super powers.

“Anyway, who is this potential human you’re talking about?”

“That one.” The person Yashiro pointed at — “Hey! Who’s that~! Ryuuko-san’s jaw is dropping from how flirty you are, Niwa-kun!” was bouncing around with a ball. Crap — I was found! With no other choice, I waved at her with a smile and yelled, ‘I’m cheering for ya~!’

“Hmpf~!” Which only worsened her attitude.

“So you know her, Makoto.”

“She’s my friend… But, what, you’re saying she’s also an esper?”

Well, whatever; in some way she indeed is. For example, her ability to accelerate my heartbeat. Also, the power to make me smile like a creep. I guess rather than calling it super power, maybe a lot of girls are just magicians.

And that would make that forty-years old a witch. The spells she cast on me aren’t so innocuous though.

“She’s not bad. I’ve watched for days now; she holds high potential for evolution: she’s one of the few who can go the last few centimetres.”

“Huh… What are you even saying?”

Again with the superpower theory monologue? I prepared to block my ears. Yet, Yashiro asked a relevant question instead of droning on:

“Do you know the rules of this game?”

“Uh, only a bit. Not exactly knowledgeable.” From sheer suddenness, I stuttered.

I’m not at all familiar with basketball, but I know stuff like centre or point guard. The other three positions I simply don’t remember. It’s common with people who don’t play, but that’s the level of knowledge I have.

Speaking of which, what position does Ryuushi-san play? She had a pretty good aim when she threw that empty can into the trash can.

So… Shooting star? No, that’s off. It’s close but I know that’s not right.

“Oh? Transfer student.”

A couple entered from the left entrance of the gym. The guy spoke with an amicable voice; I raised my head.

At the same time, the beam shooting in from the second floor window also pierced my eyes, making me squint.

Moving in that brilliant ray was Nakajima-san and Hanazawa-san. The two young members from the city team. Both of them wore uniform and each carried a bag over their shoulders. Perhaps they’re on their way home after club, but why are they…?

“The girl there… Uh, judging for the getup… I’m guessing she’s from the game…?” Nakajima expressed exaggeratedly his surprise, as though he’d just seen an alien, and pointed at Yashiro.

“Hmph.”

Yashiro scoffed dismissively, grumbling, ‘here comes unpromising one.’ If there’s one merit to her, it’s that even when insulting, she never let the other party know. More than anger, it rouses confusion.

“Whoa~ She’s freaking cute! This is bad, man. For you too, transfer student~” As though cheering, Nakajima continued with the ‘this is bad.’ He’s like a grade schooler making fun of someone else.

Hanazawa-san smacked Nakajima’s back. “Ow~” Even with an eye squinting painfully, Nakajima kept his smile. “Hi.” With him out of the way, Hanazawa-san greeted me briefly. I replied with a ‘hm.’ Not copying Erio, but it’s actually quite a useful reply to use. Even if you’re not thinking anything, it can be used as a response.

For some odd reason, they sat down next to me. Hmmm… The air dampened. Was my heart actually feeling gravity beyond what is normal?

The two seemed to be using me as a wall to avoid contact with Yashiro; neither did Yashiro even so much as glanced as them.

“Here to watch the game?”

“Hm? Aw, there was a game this morning, and we’re gonna have lunch out. We’re not doing anything now anyway… Soo, I guess you can call this a game-date?”

“Yep~ I’m with ‘im…” Perhaps too lazy to even talk, Hanazawa-san added languidly. From her closing her mouth before finishing, her sentence ended ambiguously.

“A date?”

“Uh, we are, well, dating.”

Bashfully, Nakajima answered what seemed like a notice of marriage. “Yep~” Hanazawa-san raised her hand without changing her expression.

“What!” Nakajima’s with Hanazawa, what has come to this world?

When did they start dating? I desperately looked for Isono, wondering if he’s crying in the dark somewhere.

In any case, I see that Nakajima is more of a Hanazawa-san fan than a Ryuushi-san fan… What poor taste. I can’t be the only one who thinks that, right?

Preparing on the court, Ryuushi-san dribbled the ball while mouthing a slapping sound. “She looks hyped, but that was just two dribble.” Nakajima pointed out; Hanazawa-san rested her head on his shoulder, her eyes drooping as if tired.

Ryuushi-san darted back and forth on the court; she ran, but the ball was never with her. She ran, with disregard to where the ball was. “Hey, Mifune looks out of breath.” Shocked, Nakajima reported to me. I can see that, you know. “She’s really in it, man. Is it because you’re here?”

“Uh, I guess.” Judging from what’s happened so far. But her stamina’s running out.

“As expected, she has potential.”

Strangely satisfied, Yashrio stared at Ryuushi-san. How does she judge someone? I’m not interested, just curious. As hypocritical as I am, that’s how I see Yashiro.

Nakajima shot me a side glance; with a moment of hesitation on his face, he began. It was a meek voice unsuitable of his sunny look.

“You know, back in first year, Mifune actually asked me—”

“Oh, I heard already.”

“I see… Hm~ So, you like Mifune?”

“I think she’s cute.”

“That’s not saying much… Are you that, uh, Touwa Erio’s someone?”

“Did Hanazawa-san tell you anything?”

“No, not at all. We would never talk about Touwa Erio anyway, you know?”

Then don’t talk about her with me either! I shot him a look with that thought. Whether he comprehended is beyond me, but he didn’t inquire any further.

It’s hot. Said one of us. True that. The other three assented silently.

“She’s gotten cuter. Mifune, I mean.” Nakajima tossed a weird topic over.

“Dude, your girlfriend is right there.”

“It’s fine, she’s sleeping.”

“I’m not.” Hanazawa-san pinched his elbow.

“Owowowowow.”

Despite the joke, Nakajima’s pain was real.

Damn this guy. I want to be pinched too~! …I’m just joking.

Practice ended; both team put the balls back and gathered around their coaches. Running ahead, Ryuushi-san peeked at me. Noticing the person next to me, the smile momentarily faded; then she looked to Nakajima, then Hanazawa-san leaning on him. She looked shaken. Yet, Ryuushi-san focused back on me a beamed again. She then gave a victory pose before regrouping with her teammates. “Looking good, Ryuushi-san~!” The compliment that was used some time ago once again exited my mouth.

“Did you just notice? How parochial of you.”

Yashiro commented on my soliloquy. She sounded as if she noticed a manga artist’s potential before his work exploded in popularity.

“And you seem to have a high opinion of her.”

“Hmhmm~” She did not answer clearly, instead laughing haughtily and suspiciously. I reminded myself that I would be careful not to put Ryuushi-san onto the path of an esper.

“However, only if she is with you.”

“Hm? What?”

“You will see soon enough.”

With those cryptic words, Yashiro ended with that cliffhanger.

I felt it wasn’t something needing to be clarified, so I desisted as well.

Losing focus from the summer heat, I waited a few minutes quietly. The pre-game pep talk appeared to be over as players scattered on the court.

As the backup, Ryuushi-san sat on the gym floor, hugging her knees with a frustrated expression.

And Mikki was one of the starters, huh? An iconic character is always guaranteed to get the main role, as well as dividing into five people on the stage simultaneously. Ignore those dangerous words for now. From then on, a rift formed between Mikki and Ryuushi-san’s friendship… There was no sign of that.

Like so, without Ryuushi-san on the court, the game begun… Nothing in particular needs to be noted. I’m not a big fan of basketball anyway.

I came to see Ryuushi-san. And that Ryuushi-san was like a starved dog on a leash. “Grrr~” Her clenched fists trembled on her knees.

Yashiro looked uninspired as well. Did she only have eyes for Ryuushi-san in this entire club?

Both team had little differences in score, and the game continued in that manner. If that team was tying with a bad team, they must be just as terrible, huh. Oh, Mikki just got a foul.

“Is Mifune gonna play?”

Nakajima asked, a trace of smile on his face. He’s actually enjoying the game.

“What’s the point? For a game like this.”

Hanazawa-san mumbled. Was her sleepiness chased away by the noise of the game and the cheering? She had a bitter look. Whether it’s about this game or not, her words were obviously poignant.

“What do you mean ‘what’s the point?’” Over Nakajima, I questioned.

“It’s the same for the softball club.”

Hanazawa-san spilled her inner thought.

“I always tried my best during games. But we never win. Our team just can’t win one more points than the other. We’re never far off, so I try even harder, only to lose again. It’s frustrating, but I have no one but me to blame.”

“……”

Was it the listlessness, or the heat? Either way, Hanazawa-san blew her steam.

She once said club activity was too much work. Is this what she was referring to? It is only natural to have so much expectation placed on you if you’re too good.

“Hahahah, she’s just a lil tired.” Nakajima stroked Hanazawa-san’s hair, assuaging her. Certainly is nice to have someone comfort you right away. Only if there’s someone for Meme-san as well.

“Hmpf.” Behind me, Yashiro scoffed from her nose. Apparently she wasn’t too thrilled with Hanazawa-san’s comment.

…Does she, perhaps, dislike people who gave up?

“She’s not playing right away? These people lack insight.”

Disappointingly, Yashiro criticized the coach.

“What part of Ryuushi-san do you like so much?” It’d be apparent if you’re a guy though.

“Because she is someone who is capable of moving forward, even if it’s unobvious.”

“And what does that mean? You’re not dragging her into anything weird, by the way.”

“Anything weird…? True, for a stubborn person like yourself, it is probably considered weird.”

“Thanks for the nice words.”

“Listen up.” With that as the lead, she circled in front of me.

Directly facing me, she seemed to impart something critical.

Her fascinating appearance closed to my face, driving both my eyes and mind anxious.

Yashiro ignored the game, letting loose her words in the gym.

“People, no matter who, are capable of awakening their power, as long as they keep moving forward.”

As though condensing her philosophies into this one sentence, she solemnly declared.

Within those words were some elements that somehow infused into my body; I felt as though cold water had poured down my back. I remembered few days ago, that moment when an unbelievable amount of pool water drenched me.

Within the gym engrossed by this cotton-candy-like heat, a single person shivered at this fleeting chill.

Yashrio sat back next to me, and pointed her straightened arm forward.

“Those who believed and understood their latent power in their normal lives will eventually bloom into those with superpower. It is physically unreachable, beyond your furthest reach, by a few centimetres. That power, never connected to you directly, is what you consider as abnormal phenomenon. Yet…”

She paused, tutting. Then, as though giving me a look, she glanced sideways at me before continuing.

“Once you come into contact with it, it will spread and ripple outward. People on my planet were more capable with it — the power held within this vessel is the proof of it.”

“…But, still…”

“For instance, in a sports competition, there are many of those who suddenly exploded in their abilities, right? That, would be the proof of them reaching that essence of power about five centimetres away from themselves. People with faster speed than others, who also reached their pinnacle of power — this is the true form of what is commonly referred to as the people with potential.”

Yashiro’s claim had no uncertainty; it is assertive, and meant to repel all. She kept talking.

“Most earthlings will never fill those few centimetres, even in their entire lifetime.”

Her shoulder’s shrugged. ‘And that’s why you troglodytes are…’ she added a few more insults before resuming.

“No matter who, as long as they can get close — to this distance as short as cold air coming out of a fridge — as long as they’re fortunate enough, the so-called ‘geniuses’ will never cease to exist. Such amazing power, yet almost no one here could reach it. People who have given up on these few, yet distant centimetres, are one of the reasons as to why this is so.”

“……” I shot Hanazawa-san a look. Using Nakajima’s laps as her pillow, she laid down.

“Oi, Makoto. Who’s the backup, that person with potential?”

“Ryuushi-san.” I told her what sounded like a typical lie.

“That Ryuushi is slow: about half as fast as everyone else. She could spend a whole day, and no one would notice her move. Yet she hasn’t given up: it is not an easy task to push onward, not knowing what awaits at the end. That’s why she holds the possibility of unlocking her powers.”

“…That’s quite a compliment to say.”

“It is merely a proper assessment.”

And then, Yashiro looked over at me with a rare, but warming smile.

“You’re surrounded by many who have the potential to wield their power, Makoto.”

“Oh, please.” I waved my hand in front of my face, as well as shook my head; sweat drops flew from my hair.

I could comprehend her explanation, and I also agree with parts of it. But those aren’t convincing.

As for why, it would be because nothing tangible has appeared.

“Show me your power. That way, everything you said will be proven as true.”

Without proofs, she’s just another person here — a nutjob.

“Mm.” Yashiro did not rebuke violently, only displaying a pondering face. She then raised her head:

“All right. If I feel like it, I will show you in the next week or two. You will do well to pray for it.”

Is this something on the same level as ‘deciding the grocery day’?

“Besides, even without me, you have a chance to witness it in this game.”

At first, Yashiro’s prediction sounded like reckless bravery, like she just said things without thinking with her head.

As I began to retort, I noticed someone staring; I turned to my right.

Nakajima gaped at my face. Looks like he listened in on our conversation.

“Man, whatever you guys were saying was too deep, I couldn’t follow.”

Farewell~ He jokingly waved us goodbye. I palmed my forehead and sighed.

“Don’t wave me off too.”

Was all I could say.

Alright.

Let’s skip all description of the game until Ryuushi-san’s debut.

“……”

The game ended. Just messing with you. The second half was almost ending, however. Score-wise, the opponent had 39 points, while us 35. I don’t know if whether this is considered good or bad.

“I’m surprised with how many points both team got, seeing how their aiming was always off.”

‘Interesting~’ Nakajima remarked. ‘Is it because both sides suck at defence?’ he again added. He’s actually watching the game rather intently. I’m not saying it’s anything praise-worthy though.

When the last quarter began, my eyes focused onto the shape that walked out.

“Whoa~!” I stuck my body out.

“So she’s finally up?” Yashiro expressed her satisfaction.

Out of the five people that walked out, Mifune Ryuushi-san was the last.

“At last, huh? It’s gonna be hard for her to do much, though.”

Nakajima grimaced, calming assessing Ryuushi-san’s situation.

“You know, it’s Mifune’s first time playing.”

“Ah.” It’s going to a wall to scale. Even from here I could see her stiffness, like her flesh had been displaced by stone; her legs, too, quivered, like a new-born fawn.

Rather than describing her as serious, it’s more fitting to say ‘whatever space between her fluffiness has been filled with tension.’

Mikki tapped Ryuushi-san’s shoulders, trying to appease her nerve. Seems like Mikki will be having a sequel. Despite her nod, Ryuushi-san hooked her eyes on the floor without moving.

“‘She’s being overly conscious. It might have been better if I wasn’t here’ — that’s what’s you’re thinking, right?” Yashiro mimicked my voice, taunting a provocation.

She’s right. I could say nothing back.

Soon after the quarter began, Ryuushi-san got the ball; she frantically bounced the ball, but perhaps with too much strength, it returned much faster than anticipated. Unable to catch the ball, it hit her jaw. What followed was not cheers, but laughter.

“Oh god.” Nakajima covered his eyes. I wanted to do that too, but I’m here to see Ryuushi-san. Whether this was what she wanted me to see is another matter.

Getting back up, Ryuushi-san did not even have time to be embarrassed; she simply chased the ball, without any apparent reaction. She’s so serious, she couldn’t even laugh it off.

…If it was me from before, would I also end up like this if I managed to get into a game?

Almost as if I was watching that ‘if,’ I lost my collectivedness.

Ryuushi-san continued to make mistakes: she attempted a steal, only to hit the hand and fouled; she charged head first, only to trip in front of the hoop and almost kicking an opponent in the face.

It’s unwatchable.

I don’t know if the coach or advisor of the club sent her in because of Mikki’s words, but at this rate it wouldn’t be strange if she was taken off court.

…And so.

When she accrued three fouls, somehow the other side made a foul under the hoop.

Although no matter how I looked, it’s Ryuushi-san, who was attempting a shot, bumping into the other person, the referee called it so. There were no complaints, and despite the other team looking unhappy, they were neither hostile or upset since they probably thought Ryuushi-san was just a joke.

Here come the free throws. Yet, Ryuushi-san was wavered, her eyes swaying about.

There was no way for her to make that shot like she did with the juice can.

At that moment, as though she’d been waiting for that exact second, Yashiro grabbed my shirt and tugged.

“Wha? Me?”

I didn’t know what to do when I’m suddenly handed the hot potato. “Dumbass.” Yashiro grinned.

“Be it a cliché line or whatever, use your power on Ryuushi.”

“What are you saying??”

“Shout with your voice! Squeeze your throat and tighten your guts. Are you just here to sit and watch? Are you an idiot? If you came all the way here, you must be here to do something! Step up! Move forward! You’re also a slow, but steady person on your way to power, are you not?!”

Yashiro jeeringly chucked her frustration at me. The responsibility to showing off power was suddenly on me.

I almost wanted to ask her ‘what about your power?!’ But asking me to do something… What could I, a non-player, do at this point?

“……”

I did have an idea. But I needed some courage. For a moment, I hesitated.

But.

“Moving forward with your own will, and pushing others with it — Is that not the very first power bestowed upon humans?”

I hate to admit it, but those were the words that tipped me forward.

I stood up. In this corner of the gym, no one would notice — which is why, what entailed will captivate everyone.

I will split asunder this silent gym.

The me who had already given up will never stand on a football field again.

Yet Ryuushi-san, who had not given up, should stay there.

The value of super natural phenomenon lies in that it is able to maintain dreams, filling them with endless possibilities.

I scratched my head; after sucking in and holding the breath, I turned to face the court.

Putting my hands around my mouth, I shouted as to drain all air inside my lungs:

“You can do it! Ryuushi-san!!”

All eyes instantly fell upon me; the gazes transformed into terror.

Thinking carefully, I’ve never lived as a conspicuous child, much like everyone else.

However.

Even so.

I could agree that, once I get it going, it isn’t so bad every once in a while.

If I make up my mind, I could ‘give up’ this spot of being inconsequential.

Even more so, it’s not enough.

I once again drew in more air, firmly filling my body:

“You can do it! Even though I know it’s hard! I couldn’t do it! And no one cheered for me! I could only look down, and wonder why anyone else could cheer for the guys playing! To be honest I still don’t get how! But who cares?! Who cares about looking down or cheering?! If you got time for that, why not go practice?! You just gotta work hard! I didn’t like it all that much anyway! But I still can’t forget about it! So I’m rooting for you, Ryuushi-san! If you work hard, you won’t have to give up on many things! I want you to work so hard, that others feel bad for it! So work hard! I’m never saying things like don’t force yourself too much!!”

The things supposedly coming out of my mouth did not reach my brain.

I was probably just venting some broken, baffling thoughts.

My temperature rose, and senses melted.

Just how feverish of a cheer did I accomplish in a practice game?

Perhaps making too much sound, I lost my breath and choked. Even my ears drums were dimmed, unable to calm down. Aside from the weather, my skin heated up from another element.

I looked down and scratched my cheek, enduring the embarrassment without sitting down.

Finally, the temporary stare dissolved and reactions followed.

“That was badass~” Nakajima mumbled. “Comedy girl and loyal guy…” On his laps, Hanazawa-san exhaled.

As for Ryuushi-san.

She laughed. Like she had completely forgotten about me, she focused on me, cracking up. She also mouthed many times, ‘I told ya I’m Ryuushi.’

Just like so.

We saved each other.

“Hoh~ oh!” Following that odd yell, she gathered herself and repositioned the ball.

Ryuushi-san then nonchalantly made two shots.

“Ah, wasn’t her favourite character Mitchi?”

The rigidness left her motion; her graceful steps carried her.

Seeing that, I sat back down and coughed a few more times.

Yashiro and I traded looks; we laughed cathartically.

“That wasn’t too bad.”

“Don’t you mean, it felt great?”

It did.

“Now, let us interview Mifune Ryuuko-san, on her first-game-slash-first-victory!”

“……”

“Hint, hint.”

“Ah? Me? Uh, how do you feel right now, Ryuushi-san?”

“I said I’m Ryuuko!”

“What a great interview.”

“Hold it right there!”

After the game, Ryuushi-san bounced around angrily in that tranquillized gym.

Regardless of the intense game, Ryuushi-san still seem filled with vigour.

She stayed in the court for the remainder of the game, keeping up with both defence and offence. In the end, though, I still don’t know what position she played.

Without the opposing team, people dispersed from the gym; it could be just me, but the heat seemed to have dissipated as well.

“You were badass, Ryuushi-san~”

“You too, Niwa-kun.”

“Huh? …Aw, that?”

“Like, how do I put it… It was soo embarrassing that it ended up calming me down, y’know?”

For some reason she expressed that with her fingers fanning out. So, her nervousness exploded?

Than the yelling was worth it. The awkwardness consumed me though.

“Oh, hey, um~” Ryuushi-san put both hands behind her and wriggled her body.

“Could ya, wait for me till we’re done?”

“Hm. Of course.”

“Then, wanna go home together?”

“Don’t you think it’s a little sad to just head straight home?”

“Then, let’s go somewhere!”

“Yeah, let’s go somewhere!”

“Woo~! Yay!” Ryuushi-san raised her hand, and spun as though dancing.

“Ya heard him, Mikki! I’m ditching ya!”

“I never asked for you anyway~ Not going to waste my energy with you today, Ryuushi!”

Ryuushi-san skipped to where her team was waiting.

I stayed, savouring the taste of this strange situation while seeing her off.

There wasn’t anyone else left. Nakajima and Hanazawa left right away, and Yashiro disappeared from the gym. Did she leave to look for another eave?

Arriving at the back of the gym, I leaned my head onto the wall, staring obliviously into the track field. Are the people running there part of the track team? I couldn’t help but follow the guy sprinting the fastest.

Veiled partly by the cloud, the sun finally appeared; the new light flashed by my eyes, squeezing drops of tears out of my eyes. “Dammit~” It’s like my eyes were squashed from deep within. Perhaps I was too focused at the game, or more precisely at Ryuushi-san, so my eyes were worn out?

“Phew… That was too much youth.” You can OD on this stuff: that was one of the symptoms.

My visions were blear, as though in a dream. The ground, the shoe lockers and even the blue skies were blended together.

It was a formless sight impossible to reproduce, yet here I was thinking I’ve seen it before.

The canvas recalled a memory, of something that does not exist in reality — a ‘dream.’

“Oh yeah.”

That dream from last night, before that scribbled chapter title.

With this sight as the fuse, it resurfaced on the inside of my eyelids.

“Uh…”

If I remember correctly—

### 007. Chapter 6 - 0.00000000198cm Per Second

If, hypothetically, there exists telepathy.

If that is true, then we can know what each other want. No matter how you see it, that should be a good thing.

…Well, it is just hypothetically speaking: humans don’t have any powers in the first place.

Hence the phrase ‘super power,’ to differentiate from ‘talents.’

Let’s ignored what I just said — something else is far more troubling.

‘The ability to read mind’ — what if it’s applied to oneself?

We are aware of what we want, be it tangible or otherwise: everything is exposed and completely grasped. Yet, if we wish for it all to come true, it isn't possible. How could it, anyway?

Even if I were to know all questions before hand, scoring a hundred percent on a test isn’t that simple.

At least for me, I don’t have that ability to fill out all the spaces in that given amount of time.

Things that must be given up piled up like a hill — no, — like a mountain.

So much so that I bet I can make it into a tourism spot if I named it.

Therefore, at the time, leaving the youth football team wasn’t a difficult choice, but a natural course of action.

I still think so, to this day. Even in the future, I will not regret it. My parents said nothing as well.

The money (which came from two-years’ worth of my allowance) spent on uniforms and cleats were wasted, but otherwise my life went on unchanged.

Emotions like a sense of inferiority, or frustration shrunk, flattening entirely.

I didn’t have to head to the field under that bridge with my parents on the weekends any more, so suddenly I’m met with free times. Too much free time. So I started playing games for entire days. It’s fun in its own way, I guess.

Knowing there is another way to spend time besides playing football, I rejoiced.

What remained was the ‘barrier.’

Me and my friends didn’t play football after school any more. Subconscious avoidance, as well as me telling them ‘I’m just done with it’ with shrugged shoulders worked like water and oil: close but never together.

And perhaps because of that, I became withdrawn. My skin turned pale, and I stopped getting hurt. Probably due to lose exercise, I ate less too and lost weight. The environment changed, like chameleons from their emotions. The initial bizarre feeling from the changes faded, eventually disappearing.

After since, I started to use ‘giving up’ as a way to move on.

In other words, I took the path of least resistance.

…Yet.

Just as I lived with such a way, for some reason, during the summer this year, this strange thing showed up.

A crazy, gibberish-spouting and self-talking girl in space suit: Hoshimiya Yashiro.

She said I have ‘potential.’

Another way to put it is someone close to obtaining super power.

From where on me has she determined that quality?

What Yashiro professed as a forward motion invisible to the eyes, impossible to discern.

I could not catch up to even a speed like that.

“So, the real game is tomorrow. It’s gonna be the big one.”

“Yeah?”

“Are you joining us, transfer student?”

Maekawa-san spoke tauntingly; a tiny needle stabbed into my left ear.

“I’m not doing a thing, as usual… But, is there a point to it?”

“And what do you mean by that?”

“Uh, I mean we’ve lost every game so far. I just don’t think we have a chance.”

“Well, frankly speaking we’ve only been practising so far. I predict that Hanazawa will leave halfway through the game~”

‘She doesn’t look too thrilled~’ So that’s the extent of Maekawa-san’s accuracy.

August 8th, evening. The official game was tomorrow, the day when the city side and shopping district will compete for victory.

If it rains, no game. Refer to the Tamura Shop if you want snacks, and the minimum spending is 300 yen! Dang, I’m quite the merchant!

Since the imagination was in the voice of Tamura Obaa-san instead of Meme-san, I scared myself a little. Well, maybe she’s the hardworking type when she was young.

Perhaps because of the rain this morning, cool air pervaded the afternoon despite the cleared sky. The night, too, was chilly when we came to the yard. It might have been due to the dampened grass under our feet. Even the cicadas were reticent tonight.

“I mean, it’s just a festival. Why does it matter where it’s held?”

“For those grown ups it matters in all sorts of way. So… That’s a yes for you?”

“Hm… Yes.”

“And Touwa?”

Erio delighted at the cloudless sky, happily observing Pluto next to me. But at the moment, she seemed to be piqued by the phone, occasionally shooting me a glance.

Just like that — like playing a game of Stoplight, she would peek at me, only to look away quickly when we make eye contact. I grabbed her by the back of her collar, ‘Uwah.’ ‘Erio, you wanna play baseball tomorrow?’ and asked. Unlike with basketball, she moved her chin downward.

“She’s coming.” I let go; her stiffened back instantly collapsed as she scurried away. She then jumped back to the telescope like she was going to bite it, once again watching the sky from below.

“Alright. I suppose I will have to get in the proper attire tomorrow!”

“Are you going to wear your secret giant squid outfit?”

“There’s gonna be a fantastic ‘surprise!’”

“We’re not going to a hobby goup, you know.”

We both laughed, and finally hung up. I put the phone back into my pocket and sat closer to Erio. Her hair waved left and right, while she enthusiastically sketched on the notebook. Looks like this will continue till the end of the summer break.

“Cousin, are you done with phone?”

“Hm.” I acknowledged.

“Then, watch the stars.” She emptied up the spot to the telescope for me.

Well, since I’m already here, I might as well do some stargazing… Whoa~ I was slightly awed. Even a casual glance could reveal that the scenery is different every day. Pluto moves fast, apparently.

If the changes that occur every day is as obvious as this, then living must be much more motivating and fulfilling.

According to Yashiro, people would spend decades to move just a few centimetres.

Normally, we would cower at that.

“Hey.” I walk over to the opposite side, asking a question to a smiling Erio.

“Mm?”

“Why do you play baseball with us?”

Erio jolted; she shut her lips into a line. Perhaps realizing that she couldn’t talk this way, she frantically opened the seal again:

“It’s… It’s a secret.” She pursed her lips again.

“…Well, whatever.”

Ending the conversation, I looked up at Pluto again.

Is Nakajima, Hanazawa-san and Hoshimiya Yashiro coming as well?

The impending day of battle.

Rather than worrying about that, I was more concerned with the fact that the summer is halfway over.

“Chang~ chang~ Kachang~ Chang~”

“Chang~ Chang~ Kachang~ Chang~”

“Chang~ Chang chang~ Chang chang~ Chang chang chang chang~”

Somebody watching from the side might be wondering, ‘what kind of family is this?’

August 9th. On the morning when the sun was barely poking out of the horizon. Rays projecting from between the buildings were still faint, and without the usual ferocity of the current season. Gales blew, carrying away a proper amount of heat from the skin — Indeed it was a weather fitting for sports.

On that morning, the three members of the Touwa Household lined up in the yard and did the radio callisthenics diligently… While adding their own music. Starting from the right were Erio, Me and Meme-san.

Usually hiding in the bed or lying down on the hallway at this time, Meme-san was for some reason awoke this morning, joining us in the exercise. She looked like she spent a night outside, with that tired look, messy hair and untidy shirt.

“Chang~ Chang~ Chang Chang~ Chang~ Chang~ Lala~ Lala~”

Erio performed with a blank look, beginning stretching her arms.

But I was doing my legs, while Meme-san worked her waist.

The three of us occasionally lost our unity. Everyone had forgotten about the order. After all, the last time me and Erio did this was four years ago, and Meme-san must have been I will say no more.

Despite being sloppy, the warm-up forcibly continued. I’ve witnessed three times when Meme-san was just doing random things. Looks like she has the tendency of just doing whatever when she forget.

The final breathing part was when all three of us finished together. “Ah. Someone has to go stamp on the card.” Meme-san mumbled sleepily and drifted back home. Is she okay?

Well, I question her sanity even when she’s awake, so what’s the point of asking now?

“Well, let’s get ready to go.”

“Ready to go~” Erio repeated after me like a little girl. If she’s able to put more intonation in her normal speech, she’d be wonderful like a regular human.

I entered before Erio. After taking my sandals off I stopped her with a gesture. “Mmm~” Ignoring her strange growl, I proceeded into the kitchen. I had to give her a wet rag for her feet. The moment I told her to not go out barefoot, she sprinted outside. Unlike a teenager’s rebellious phase, it was closer to a child throwing a tantrum.

“I’m grabbing a rag.”

“Oh.” After a brief exchange with Meme-san, who was washing her face in the kitchen, I returned to the entrance with a dampened rag. “Here.” I tossed it to Erio. She grabbed it and, without hiding her resentment, gave two careless scrubs under her feet.

“Clean!”

“No, It’s not.”

“The galaxy is weeping from your bullying!”

“I see we have graduated from the U.S. now.”

I’m the one cleaning the floor this summer, you know. You’re more than welcomed to help out, ex-chore helper. Though It will be a disaster if she’s responsible for that.

“Sorry for the wait~” Someone was waiting? I turned with the question in mind.

Finished with tidying herself up, Meme-san exited from the kitchen. Her sleepiness disappeared, and she’s even showing her motherliness with foil-wrapped rice balls in her hands; I almost thought it was someone else.

Just FYI, she was actually wearing the attendance card on her neck. Isn’t that the card for collecting points during the spring bread festival?

“Here you are. Lunch. I woke up just to make you this.”

“I will gladly accept it.” I involuntarily answered like a subordinate to a boss.

Maybe it’s because Meme-san was suddenly doing something, so it’s only natural that I was taken aback. Had she changed due to the lack of appearance?

“You have to have lunch if you’re going to play, right? I used to make lots of food for Eri-chan too!”

“It’s true. I spent a whole day eating at the beach.”

Continuing from Meme-san’s recollection, Erio joyfully ascribed the ins-and-out of the story. Was that when Erio was still normal? For her, it was probably one of the most cherished memories.

“Do you want to save it till we’re there?”

“Mm.” Erio nodded while hugging the rice balls carefully. “It’s a bento.” She’s not wrong.

I let Erio, who claimed to have cleaned her feet, put on her shoes. Shoes aren’t meant to be put on her feet, I thought while looking down. I too changed into my shoes and grabbed the key to my padlock from the shelf.

“We’re going now.”

“Going~”

“Now~”

The three of us shared a mysterious greet. Well, mine’s pretty normal, but I felt like I would be considered as one of them anyway. Sad, really.

Once again we exited from the entrance. I headed toward the shed for my bike. Meme-san mentioned that she wanted to clean the storage during summer, so she asked me to; but I’d completely forgotten about that. Anyway, I moved the bicycle outside into the yard. I’ve gotten used to it, and now I can actually do a wheelie.

With a dislike for the empty backseat, Erio hopped into her spot in the basket. I still baffle at the mentality. According to Maekawa-san’s previous report, her butt hurt. So what does Erio think? Asking if a girl’s feet hurt is acceptable, but not so much when it comes to their butt. What a strange world we live in. Hmmm, but do I even see Erio as a girl?

Is it really okay to see my cousin Eri-chan as a girl~? I thought.

I straddled onto the seat, and began the plain, normal routine of saying ‘here we go.’ ‘Go~’

We headed out. But, at that precise moment.

Instead of seeing us off from the door with a ‘ride safely~’ Meme-san shouted and ran over ‘wait~’

Strapped across her back was a bag of unknown content.

“Oh~ I guess I am tagging along after all~”

“Wait, you’re coming with us?” My judgement said what you meant was to leave without you.

“I wanna see Erio and Mako-kun play~!”

“Okay I get it, fine — so stop screwing around!” And don’t choke my neck!

Meme-san hugged my waist and hopped onto the rack. The bicycle tipped leftward from the impact.

“Whoah, oh~” Even Erio hurriedly held onto the basket’s rim.

The long-awaited Touwa trio rode together. Letting Erio and Meme-san sit on the bike, I proceeded to the river side.

Occasionally I want to palm my face for not considering anything wrong with this picture.

Yet, even this sigh of regret seemed to be washed away by the water of forgetting. With the way things are now, the destruction of doubt is but an issue of time, slowly approaching me.

Meme-san actually has her own bicycle, so why doesn’t she use it?

…I asked myself in the corner of my mind.

Riverbank. During weekends, people were usually seen playing rugby with their kids. Is soccer not that popular with kids now? It’s a good thing, I think.

I left my bicycle and walked down the bank. The sun had yet shone onto this riverside field at dawn.

The horizon of the rising sun expanded, casting a shadow on the ground.

A few people were practising defence on the field as warmup. They were the old guys on the shopping district team. Yamamoto-san was among them. Were they finally getting ready for the official game?

Oh, a high school girl was already sitting on the bench of our resting area. A familiar girl, at that.

“Hey~ ya~”

A calming tone and a naïve wave. In a cute casual outfit, she covered her hair with a safety helmet.

Mifune Ryuushi-san beckoned at me. Unless I was wrong, she probably wasn’t waving at the Erio a step behind me. Noticing Ryuushi-san’s presence, Erio retreated.

I had realized the possibility of being trapped in this pickle between Erio and Ryuushi-san, but I approached the resting area fearlessly. “Yo~” I raised my hand lightly and began probing. “What’s going on today?”

“The Onee-san from around told me about the game, so I came here to cheer for Niwa-kun!”

She smiled widely, swinging her dangling legs back and forth. I appreciate her coming all the way here.

After that, a shade cast on Ryuushi-san’s smile. The focus of her eyes moved to Erio.

“Uh… Touwa-san too… Um… Good mornin’.”

Despite her stare drifting off, Ryuushi-san greeted Erio courteously.

Why did she hesitate? I guess, from her appearance, Erio does seem more fitting with an English line.

“G-good… Morninging.”

Erio, too, awkwardly responded colloquially. It was probably not because she stuttered that she repeated herself. I think. Then she scanned about, mumbling something she had discovered.

“Mom, is gone.”

Ah, she is. We rode here together, but what happened afterwards escaped me… What a strange incidence that a forty-year old with such conspicuous presence could vanish. I looked up the bank to see if she was there. “Ah.”

Instead I noticed a different creature. The thing riding on a bicycle nimbly in that outfit, though hard to identify from a distance, is undoubtedly Maekawa-san. What a terrifying sight.

If fishes never stop evolving, would they perhaps traverse the land like that?

The creature that got off her bicycle and trod over on her fins… What the hell is that?

Wrapped in an enigmatic costume with a daikon-like colour, Maekawa-san raised her hand (fin).

“Yo, aren’t you early. You too, Ryuushi.”

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko…” Oh man, she’s confused! Even Ryuushi-san was disconcerted.

“Maekawa-san… What, is that?” I asked in lieu of the three of us.

“A dugong.” I’m a mermaid~ She posed after flicking her bangs.

“…” Despite having seeing it once in an aquarium.

Do dugongs have leg fins? No — they don’t even have legs.

“Oi~” At then, shouting came from the field. “Do you want to practice~?” Yamamoto-san called to us. “I’m coming~” I waved back.

Since Ryuushi-san came for me, I figured the least I could do was to show her my best.

As for the bento, I’ll save till practice is over.

“Can you hold on to this for me?” I rest the rice balls onto Maekawa-san’s fins.

“Sure. Who made these?”

“My aunt.”

I put the baseball cap left on the corner of the bench.

“Here, glove.” Ryuushi-san handed something she casually found to me.

“Thanks.” I put my left hand in it… Isn’t this for the catcher? Whatever.

“Do you best, Niwa-kun~!”

Ryuushi-san waved gently. Yep, that’s how a manager should be.

As for the Miss Fishy who attended to that role prior — as much as I appreciated the food… She’s not the manager, but our mascot.

Now we can say that the Maekawa Dugong is, beyond any doubt, our official mascot; she had transcended from being a fish to a mammal! …Wait.

“Ryuushi-san, aren’t you supposed to cheer for the city team?” I had to be sure.

“Hey, now~ Did ya already forget, Niwa-kun~?”

She stuck her thumb out and grinned a toothy smile.

“I’m with ya, Niwa-kun!”

She blushed. We blushed too. She said such embarrassing thing in front of all these people we know. Erio looked displeased, and even Maekawa-san… What kind of face was that? She hid in the costume.

“Dang~ now that’s being young~”

“Why must Ryuushi-san also play as the cheering audience?”

“’Cuz I’m embarrassed! Like, kaboom!”

I didn’t get it. Flustered, I could not look at the resting area. I ran toward the field to wait for my turn.

“Cousin, is the rice ball good?”

“Hm, it is. What, it’s not like you made it, Erio.”

“I know.” But she’s still glad. As though she herself had been complimented, Erio beamed with a smile.

She really loves her mom. Is it because Meme-san spoils her too much? Or is it because Erio loves her mom so much that she couldn’t help but spoil her? These two are just like the chicken and the egg.

Eating our breakfast together, Erio and I waited for the time to come.

Our opponents were a little late, but they still gathered just enough people before the match. Naturally, Nakajima and Hanazawa-san were among them. Even the space-girl who guards the left field was standing in front of the shopping district team.

…I didn’t consider Yashiro as a threat, since she’s never done anything exceptional. Similar to me, she’s just there to fill the number.

“Rice ball~”

“Falling down~”

Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san watched me and Erio eat. We couldn’t finish all this food, so I raised one of the rice balls up in the air. A hand and a fin began battling. The hand won easily. “Ahh~”

The dugong passed out from the intense exercise. Being able to make it here was already a miracle on its own. I’m not just kidding — I am genuinely concerned for the human being known as Maekawa-san, since she already struggles so much living as one.

Perhaps due to the food being made by her mother, Erio attempted to stuff them in her mouth. “Urgh.” You’re a light weight, so don’t be so reckless. it’d be terrible if your glove catches something out of your mouth instead.

In any case, we’re fed and ready. Everyone on the shopping district team besides Maekawa dad gathered.

“Where’s your dad?” I asked the daughter.

“He ran off from the pressure.” She calmly stated, rousing the crowd. Who’s going to pitch now?

When the noise failed to cease, before the game started, ‘she’ walked over from the river. With what itinerary did it result with her coming from there? I don’t want to know. But we came from the same house, using the same bike, and she somehow ended up there. Did she take a long route?

Touwa Meme-san made her debut in a different outfit.

“What are you wearing?”

“Hmhm~ I changed by the river. Ah~ What a shame, Mako-kun! You could have seen me change if you went there! Is your libido radar working, young man?!”

“I think it’s working just fine.” Since I successfully ignored you.

“Wahahah! I almost thought I had no chance of appearing now that it’s almost ending, so I struck first! If the final boss of a crappy game isn’t as tenacious as I am, he is just a waste of pixels!”

The words pouring out of Meme-san’s mouth were largely broken, echoing loudly. Meme-san, who had returned, changed into a baseball uniform. From what school is that from?

Must have been what was in that bag, but more fundamentally: how did she get it?

“And so, I gave up on being the beautiful manager, and am now the beautiful coach!”

“You’ve misplaced the ‘gave up’ there.”

This person… She’s more of a ‘forty-years old ★’ than a ‘forty-years old.’

“Mm~ I don’t really know much about the rules in baseball, but I guess I will work on cheering everyone up!”

There’s really only one person who’d get cheered up by her in this team: the rocket guy. I glanced over, seeing him staring obliviously at Meme-san. I dread the ageing of eyes.

Maekawa-san came to my side; I rudely pointed at the laughing Meme-san and asked.

“The hell is wrong with her?”

“Uh~ A surprise?”

“This is too much.”

“Ahahah.” What a phony laugh. “Nothing wrong with a little fun before the festival, right?’

Maekawa-san is too good at adapting. And what kind of festival is this? I know the saying ‘a party starts in the morning,’ but I guarantee you that it never works in real life.

“Team, gather up!”

The self-named beautiful coach knocked on the bench and summon everyone.

“This is everyone, coach.”

Let’s observe for now. There were folks who aren’t kids who still need the reminder.

“But Maekawa ain’t here.”

“Yeah~ So who’s pitchin’?”

“Are we lettin’ the youngins throw?”

“Who played baseball here?”

“If only it’s croquet.”

“Or pool.”

“This ain’t sumthing’ you can do just because it’s a ball!”

“Ah~ah~ Please quiet down, everyone.”

Meme-san suppressed the adults’ clamouring and focused their attention.

Rather, the team didn’t express any apparent disdain or disagreement, seeing Meme-san as their coach.

Is this alright? Setting the nervous Yamamoto-san aside, as I the only one who’s fatigued and generally pessimistic?

Erio, on the other hand, admired her mother who had undertaken the role of leader.

Meme-san scanned to confirm our undivided attention, nodding satisfyingly. Even with the referee shouting at us to line up, our coach paid him no mind.

Ryuushi-san, who had backed off after the uproar, returned to me and whispered.

“Isn’t that Mochi-mochi sensei?”

“Hm.” I almost asked ‘who’s that?’ “That’s Erio’s mom.”

“So she’s Niwa-kun’s Aunt… I have to call her Oba-sama!”

“She’ll kill you for that, so you shouldn’t.” And why the honorific?

Meme-san coughed, adjusting her tone before speaking out.

“Ahem, listen up, everyone!”

“That’s from a different genre.”

“Mako-kun has a soft spot for a girl’s aroma. Keep a close eye on him for your socks.”

“I’m so going to kill you.”

See? I was right. I’m no god of death, yet all of my most unfortunate premonition came true. Actually, since I live with Meme-san, there’s something that bothered me.

“I have a question, coach.” I raised my arm for permission to speak.

“Okay, Mako-kun is coming clean.”

Is it really something I can come clean to? Unless she’s implying something else?

“You usually complain about extended coverage for baseball on TV: do you really know how to play baseball?”

“If we’re talking about passion, then I won’t lose to anyone!”

“Where’s the passion in that?! Shouldn’t we be more worried now?!”

“Hey! You’re sitting out for talking back to your coach, Mako-kun! Or better yet, you’re going to become my chair!”

“Are you the devil?!” Or a brat?!

“Setting that aside, coach, we have a bigger problem.” Maekawa dugong stepped up as the advisor.

“Mm, and what could that be, cutie part-timer?” Part time? For what?

“We’ve ran into a serious problem: there’s a severe lack of pitchers after my dad left.”

“Pitchers…? Why do we need water for baseball?”

“We don’t need you either!”

“Then, we can have Eri-chan play as that pitcher thing!”

“What~?!” How did that lead to this?!

“The coach’s orders are absolute~! Listen up: get in line!”

Our overly-reliable coach booted us out. Like bees swarming out of a fallen hive, we scrambled onto the field. Our steps were thing in ‘a line.’

Shoved into a position by her mother who had no understanding of, Erio almost literally foamed herself.

“You got this, Ace!” I nudged her forward. “Wuwuwu…” Her face was pale as though pushed into a river: “D-do you want to switch, cousin?” “Sorry, but I only do football.” A long time ago, anyway. Besides, I actually thought that having Erio as the pitcher might work unexpectedly well. I seriously doubt that Meme-san had any thoughts other than ‘my kid is the best’ though.

Erio looked like she was about to go steal a futon from somewhere; I dragged her as we joined the shopping district team. The city team was already in a line, and — not just annoyed — downright furious waiting for us. Couldn’t be helped. Falling in line with Meme-san’s logic, she’d insist it’s ‘Operation Ganryuu-jima.’

I faced Yashiro when we lined up. Did she have that mysteriously confident smug inside that helmet? I felt our gaze meeting.

The man playing as the referee declared ‘game start.’

We bowed. As my head lowered, I caught a glance of Nakajima — he was smiling.

Let’s do this! I clenched my fist unwittingly.

Going second, the players of the shopping district spread in the field. Coming to our defensive positions, we checked where the sun was as well as the condition of the ground. Even the adults seemed slightly more serious than before. And Erio was, indeed, the pitcher.

She quivered, like a baby deer, atop the pitcher’s mound.

But she’s the only one.

I’d stopped counting after our eighth consecutive defeat.

We’ve been on a losing streak.

This time, things weren’t as simple.

It’s going to be a critical battle.

Defeat x Youth x Denpa — the game will unveil here.

“Too bad, Mako-kun is just a backup.”

“What? I thought you were kidding.”

“Game start!”

“You’re seriously going to sit on me?!”

Actually sitting in the resting area, I asked Meme-san about my mission. Well, I mean, I know I wouldn’t be much help anyway, but Ryuushi-san came all the way here for me.

Now I won’t have to embarrass myself — It was, in some way, a type of salvation.

“I would like you, Mako-kun, to go look for the missing dad of Maekawa.”

The coach’s order was to search for our Ace. “Oh…” I shook my head ambiguously… Wait, I’m going to look for Maekawa dad? Face to face?

“Maekawa-chan is going to cover for you when you’re gone.”

Right there~ Maekawa-san pointed at the dugong standing at first base, like she’s looking at a fish in a water tank. Even with the fin stuffed in her glove, she insisted on wearing the outfit. I didn’t know you can play in that getup — goes to show how lax the rules are for the game. If anyone had a problem, we can retort with the space suit too. Was that why nobody said a thing? Um, I digress.

“Why me? Isn’t is easier to have his daughter do that instead?”

And it’s ‘me.’ Having me, whom Maekawa dad was already wary of, find him would only exacerbate the misunderstanding.

“Mm~” Meme-san looked over to the field, smiling like a mother. I didn’t know precisely what of it seemed that way, yet her cheeks and eyes had the same delineation as many other mothers would have.

“Because, if you were to go…”

“If I were to go?”

“It would be quite interesting.”

“…Look.”

She’s actually hoping things would get worse. How could she say something so childish with an expression like that? But that’s part of Meme-san’s ‘charm~’ Could you not fill in the blank for me?!

“You don’t want to?”

“It’d be a pain.”

“No way, no how?”

“Yep.”

“Everyone~ Mako-kun could sniff her aunt’s bed sheet, but he can’t look for his friend’s dad. What an honest —“

“Okay I get it! Please, let me look for him.” Feels like this damn joke will stick with me forever.

And I will never forgive the me from April.

“I just love that part of Mako-kun~”

“And I must surrender to that part of you, Oba-san…” My heart had signalled defeat.

“First thing first: there’re a few spots where Maekawa-chan’s dad would be.”

“That is, quite helpful…” Hold up, is this guy a frequent escapee?

Meme-san gestured (and most of that unhelpful) and explained to me Maekawa dad’s escape. There’s a few I’d never been to, but I didn’t really have a choice. As for why Meme-san knew where he went, I pretended to never have the question.

Even if the question was delved into, there probably won’t be another convincing reason other than ‘cuz, she’s Meme-san.’ That’s the type of person my aunt is — and I’m not complimenting her.

Still, looking for someone… Was it necessary to have me do that? I mean, there’s no denying that if I were to run off, the team wouldn’t take too much of a hit, but… Is running an errand better than sitting on the bench?

“Speaking of which, that soft-cheeked cutie there looks upset. I wonder what’s wrong?”

With me in the middle, Meme-san stared at a bored-looking Ryuushi-san. Soft-cheeked cutie… She does look that from the side. What a spot-on nickname from Meme-san. I wanted to poke her face.

“I’m here to see Niwa-kun play.”

Yet he’s not playing~ Ryuuko is troubled~! She said so with a distraught look.

“Fufufu, just you watch. Mako-kun will be back at when we need him the most, and he’ll show ‘em.”

Not just toward Ryuushi-san, but also me, Meme-san comforted us so.

“So before then, just sit and wait.” I thought you’re the coach though?

“Um, I dunno much about baseball. Ya just smack the ball far, right?”

“That’s correct.” I interrupted.

“Mm, mm.” As though affected, Meme-san too nodded.

“And, if ya hit someone standing you’re out.”

“…Right.” That sounds a little problematic though.

“And ya switch after nine people are out!”

“This isn’t darts.”

Man~ I got up from the bench and skimmed the field once.

Erio and the catcher guy were having a secret discussion on the pitcher’s mound. Only, Erio was looking down at the cover of her ‘Intro to Baseball.’

“What can ya throw?”

“Mm, ball.”

“No, no, what I mean is…”

“Remote, pizza, rags, books. No telescopes… Mm?”

“Stay sharp~!”

I won’t claim that that’s what they said, but the catcher dashed back to the outside of the infield with hopeless gaits.

Setting the book down where the talc powder bags would be on the mound, she shouted flatly “Uwoh~” to raise moral, before throwing out the first pitch to Nakamura-san.

Alongside with a deflating yell, the ball flying out of Erio’s hand traced out a fittingly-flat trajectory. Having to hit Maekawa dad’s fast pitches for so long, however, this proved to be challenging to hit. Without adjusting his speed, Nakamura-san swung the bat early. The missed swing threw him off balance; the ball landed into the catcher’s glove.

“Kyah~ Eri-chan is so cool~!”!

Meme-san bounced around in the resting area with a bit — my bad, a very shrill voice, cheering her daughter. Embarrassed as she was, Erio, her long haired tied into a tail exiting from the back of the baseball cap, still smiled bashfully at her mother’s voice. She seemed more relaxed now.

…It took me that much effort to squeeze out a peep, yet Meme-san easily cheered for Erio. Her voice was ridiculously loud. Her courageousness was truly amazing. I stared, in awe, at the coach who hopped as though still doing her radio callisthenics,

Was it that? The way you lose things with skills when you get older? I’m not quite there yet.

The only thing left inside was regret.

Erio faced the second batter Nakajima with the same slow-speed. But that wasn’t the only thing: aside from her velocity, Erio had perfect control of the ball. That somehow became our ace in the sleeve.

I guess so, huh. Cringe surged before any sign of being impressed.

She was able to accomplish to strange act of ‘tossing a pizza to the futon roll’s upper part.’ She might have learned the proper stance from then. From the standpoint of the basics though, it’s quite the annoying kind, like those meaningless special training in a sports manga.

Looks like it’s applicable for even amateur baseball.

Despite the lack of speed, it had control.

‘Counter strength with grace:’ it’s a quality often attached onto the protagonists of recent baseball manga.

Or I guess it’s already been done before, like a certain manga with hands held high or some Lycaon teams.

“…You can do it.”

Toward a trembling Erio, I voiced out my support that likely never reached her.

Then I walked toward the bicycle parked on top of the bank.

Unable to become a hero, I once again could only struggle on the side of the stage.

It’s both a search for the missing Maekawa dad, as well as a time to buffer for myself.

If I take a little more time, I might even miss the entire game. It’s not like I would be doing that intentionally.

Even if someone came to cheer me on, I can’t meet their expectation — so I ‘gave up’. I could even say I was ‘forced into it.’ No matter how anyone says it, I have impeccable excuses.

I was a backup when I played football, and there’s nothing I could do to escape my parents’ eyes. With that in mind, I suppose I am luckier this time around.

My opponent was Hanazawa-san. Playing will just embarrass me. I don’t practise every day like Ryuushi-san — despite the both of us being backups, It’s just not possible.

So I’ll run. It’s the big game today, so there’s no next time, right? Give up now, and Ryuushi-san will never get the chance to watch me again.

You’ve always been complacent, haven’t you?

Let’s say you got the chance to play back then, did you have the gall to say you will be kicking some ass? You’ll just fail more miserably in a physical sense, in front of your parents, would you not? Being a benchwarmer was just a hideout someone else set up for you. You’re just given an easier way out this time now that you’re older.

Isn’t that right, Mr. Niwa?

I tried to convince the lasts of the neurons in my head, droning on the revelation I’ve just received.

I indeed listened and assented quietly to this lecture to myself.

“……”

Even so, I pedalled till sweat drenched me on this cool morning.

While wondering where my thought should go, I arrived at the third location.

Following a shambling Maekawa dad, I slowed down to avoid getting ahead, as well as to appear less menacing.

Truth to be told, I already found him, but he’d been running away. Things had been like this for a quite a while.

Maekawa dad was just about to enter one of the locations, the theatre next to the manga café in front of the station; after discovering me, he disappeared almost as soon as my mouth opened. Chasing after him was my only choice.

At the moment, Maekawa dad toiled up the hill that Ryuushi-san and I often part at, where the sky bridge is. He climbed, breathless, as though he might vomit at any moment.

People might mistake him as a boxer put under a weight loss regime, and I the specialist riding on a bike placed to train him.

“Wh… why are you following me~?”

Holding his scattered breathes, he inquired behind him.

“Uh, cuz you’re running, so…”

“I’m not running. I’m just doing a little soul searching~!”

“What are you going to find around where you live?”

Phew~ Phew! Even with different intermit, Maekawa dad and I exhaled the same kind of air.

Nausea plastered my skull, and my head hurt even more. The battle had commenced on the riverside, yet here I am sweating somewhere else. With that being one of the reason, I almost passed out.

On top of the bridge, at the tolling station, Maekawa dad collapsed.

“This… This is more tiring… Than the game…”

“Me… Too…”

I dropped next to Maekawa dad on my bike. The below and arm rubbed painfully against the asphalt road, yet nothing else delighted me more than lying still. The contrast between my burning flesh and the slight warmth in the road almost gave me the impression that it was comfortable.

“Are… Are you sure it’s fine for you to be here…?”

Turning from face up to face down, Maekawa dad moaned a question. I worried that the passers-by would mistake us as a father and a son passing out from the heat.

“I… I’m the bench… Your daughter, is filling-in for me.”

The dugong that must be the star of a certain aquarium must be out playing on the field as the one-day player (like a one-day director). Oi~! Guys~! Let’s go back to the river now! …Calm down, me. Come on now, brain cells.

“Is… Is that right? My daughter’s… Pitchin’?”

“No, Erio’s pitching… You’re our ace, sir, yet you ran off.”

And making me come get you all the way out here. As though matching the descriptor ‘rise and shine,’ the sun roasted us on top of the bridge. If we were to lose consciousness, we’d probably dream about being grilled.

“How rude... It’s because... it’s the official game that I’m carefully planning out my game.”

“Weren’t you about to head into the theatre...?”

“That wasn’t… Hold on. Let’s catch our breathes first.”

“Yes.” To solve the difficulty that was not having even the air to say a simple phrase, I shut my mouth and repeatedly breathed deeply.

The wind blew more violently than usual on the bridge; the air we so needed was more than abundant. Only, it was hot almost to a point of burning even the mouth and the nostril. In no time my throat dried, and my eyes painful. I don’t know if it’s just me, but my face hurts whenever I’m dehydrated.

While the problem of hydration has surfaced, our breathing had reached a point where we could be less than unsightly.

We both got up and sat on the rocks on the bridge. “You good?” “Yep.”

Perhaps Maekawa dad was staring at me with the idea that I’m his daughter’s something, his gazes were pointed.

That reminded me of the football coach I had.

“So why exactly are you here?”

“I’m here to get you back, sir.”

“I don’t wanna!”

Maekawa dad followed the cars passing by and refused. His fingers curled up, making him look like a girl too shy to speak.

“That girl’s pitch is too good! We ain’t winnin’ that!”

“For the most part I agree.” Makes me wonder that she’s in the wrong story.

“Think about it from my shoes: I have to play against someone like that! We’re gonna lose anyway, yet I have to keep pitchin’! And if we lose, it’s my fault as the pitcher! I’ve had enough.”

Maekawa dad expanded his arms and stuck his chest forward, as if releasing something. Battered by the wind, his lanky form almost fell back into the road. If a car drove by then, Maekawa dad would need an ambulance and actually say bye-bye to the river bank.

“No one is saying it’s anyone’s fault.” Everyone’s mostly good folks.

“But I bet they’re all taking behind my back…” What a persecution complex.

In the back, huh…? I wondered around the time, too, that everyone’s secretly bullying me, and the coach wanted to keep the group together and knowingly disallowed me to play.

“But that’s exactly what the other pitcher is thinking.”

“Hah?”

“Hanazawa-san too said her team is always losing.”

Did he know who Hanazawa-san is? I used the name anyway. Maekawa dad probably recognized who that is from earlier, and he grumbled. “Is that right… I guess it’s hard for her too when there’s lotsa folks above her.”

The adult expressed his sympathy in a tone that sounded as though a shared sentiment.

“Why does the girl wanna play amateur baseball?”

“Probably to vent.”

“Oh, I see. That’s great. So where do I go to vent?”

Shifting his focus onto the tolling station’s electronic voice, Maekawa dad mumbled to himself.

My ears, however, were captivated by the sound of the zephyr. The atmosphere rumbled, sweeping like waves hitting against the sandy beach. Sweat dried gradually from the breeze; I closed my eyes and breathed.

What to say… Not that there’s many choices. Only a few words can be used, and there’s only one truly fitting.

Quoting is such a convenient thing.

“Hanazawa-san even said that if she were to play, the team always think they have a chance of winning, that’s why she hates playing.”

Maekawa dad looked back. “Now that’s something I’d rather worry about.”

“Same here… But, that’s not so bad either, don’t you think?”

“…Hm?”

“That’s basically saying, when you’re playing, sir, we have the same kind of hope.”

Maekawa dad’s expression twisted into a lopsided one. It’s the type that can only be done subconsciously.

I’ve never thought I could use this phrase to describe something other than the battle with the enemies of the world.

“Like, even if you’re sure that people can never fly on a bicycle…”

I paused here, letting out an awkward laughter from my dried throat.

But I was certain with my next line.

“Yet you can never say that making people think they can fly is definitely a bad thing.

The ever-so-familiar aqua-blue particles danced inside in my eyes.

My lachrymal glands hardened, preventing the sort of reminiscing sentiment from flowing out.

Well done! I congratulated while looking skyward.

“There is no question that you're the one holding the team up, sir.”

You might not be the shiniest, but you've always been the best. So far, we haven't had a game with such big gaps between scores.

“I...”

I've always admired you, standing on that mound.

The words that followed tumbled in my mouth, and was swallowed with the wind.

The main character.

A talent recognized by all.

A hero.

I, too, wanted to be someone like that.

But I've given up on the hardship.

To be acknowledged, it's the only way.

Maekawa dad sniffed. He wasn't moved to tear or anything, right? I took notice, but it would appear to be that something just flew into his nose. Well, then don't suck it in! I backed off a few steps. Without noticing me, Maekawa dad stood up, tidied his sloppy shirt and brushed off the sweat dripping from his hair.

“I dunno why, but I've always been running away.”

It's the same as I: I've never forgotten why, though.

“The only things I didn't run away from are when I proposed, when I decided to open a bar, and when I fought with my wife about the name of our daughter.”

“…...”

Maekawa-san's name, huh… It's yet to be revealed. Does it contain some earth-shattering secret in it?

Hmm~ Maybe she's actually called Maekawa San?

As if dragging my slipping focus back from the mystery, Maekawa dad's glance pierced my temple.

“That's why I'm here to check on my escape route.”

“Hm?”

“Even if I were to go there now, it's not my problem if we don't make it.”

He apparently gave up on running. It's great that he's convinced, but…

“Oh yea, I guess that's true.” We spent quite sometimes running around.

The game might already be over. If that's the case, I… I will find a bat.

And play some baseball with Ryuushi-san, right? Okay, that settles it.

...Even so.

I peeked at Maekawa dad; hint of anxiety flashed.

Even if I drag him back, can he play? He looked terrible.

Maekawa dad drifted onto my bike rack and held onto my waist.

Another dark spot stained my bike's history.

Forty years old, space suit, my friend's dad. There are plenty of 'high school girls' around, so what's the deal?

“So, what are you to my daughter?”

Maekawa dad murmured behind my shoulder. The chill shot up my spine.

“Uh, um… Just a normal cosplay buddy.”

“Don't you lie to me, boy!”

He jabbed my waist. I ain't lying… Okay yeah that was a lie I guess.

If he could just accept that with a 'yeah, I thought so,' then he wouldn't be Maekawa dad! But setting that strange assumption aside.

“Ahh it hurts~” I moaned while pushing the bike forward. My legs are also shaking from fatigue.

“You better come clean if we win the game!”

“Ahh~ Yeah, yeah, I will.” He wants to win now, isn't that something?

If I were to be completely honest… I've been to your daughter's room before, and naturally it was just the two of us, hahah… Now we'll switch role — I will do the running away.

For some reason I pictured not just Maekawa dad, but also Ryuushi-san coming after me. What am I, the phantom thief?

“But, I did try to run away… Won't the guys be mad at me? They're not going to beat me up, are they?”

There he goes freaking out again.

“I want to puke my hands out.”

“What does that even mean?”

It's already hot and humid like in a sauna, please don't throw in the mopy thoughts.

So… “It's a-okay!”

I rung the bell, laughing off the idea with a cheerful attitude.

Because...

“Heroes only show up at the last moment!”

When we returned, the game's already at the second half of the fourth innings. We were losing, 0 to 2.

Erio's control ensured that the other team could never get four fouls. In other words, they'd gotten use to her slow flying ball. Still, being able to maintain the score difference at two was quite impressive. I have the confidence of losing five points in one round as the pitcher.

I scanned — we're now offence, with people on first, second base and one out. It would appear that those were not hits, but rather errors and walks. Standing on first base spacing out was Erio.

Ah, we saw each other. She waved, so I did the same with the thought of 'job well done!' to compliment her work so far. Too bad she won't receive all that information.

And then, as though attracted by our back-and-forth, Meme-san, noticing me and Maekawa dad's return, turned around and rested the aluminium bat from her shoulder. She welcomed us with a benevolent smile.

“Looks like I won't be substituting today.”

“Coach, aren't you having too much action?”

“Mako-kun, substitute batter.”

“Wha?”

She just piled all the responsibilities on someone who just came back.

Billboards pointing toward the road of heroes rose everywhere.

With a jublilant voice, Meme-san called out to the umpire standing at the batter's box.

“Hey~ Umpire, our Mako-kun is now the hero, so let him in!”

“Um...” I was going to say there's no such role in baseball.

“You came back at the best time, Mako-kun.”

“Oh, um...” I had no words. I didn't know how to act or what to do.

An anxiety bloated, like being called to the staff room from the school intercom unexpectedly.

“You too — you're playing next innings, so go um… Do what… Right, go turn your shoulders or something.”

Like a professional coach in speech and behaviour, Meme-san directed Maekawa dad. “Got it.” Though defiant in look, Maekawa dad heeded to her order and retrieved his glove.

Then she gently nudged my chest.

“Isn't this the best time to go? Go win a game for us now.”

The aluminium bat she hugged was placed softly into my right hand.

“...Um~” I wanted to say something, but I wasn't sure where it would go. As I stood conflicted, Ryuushi-san, standing next to me, patted on my shoulder. What was it? Before I could turn and face her —

“I'm rootin' for ya~! Ni~ Wa~ Kun~!!”

“My… Ear...”

The exploding cheer erupting next to my face delivered a direct impact into my brain.

“Wuwu, I'm sho embarrassed...”

She paid no mind to the others' painful reaction. I expected no less from a young girl: being bashful was almost her job… Hold on.

“Um, you should be a little further away before yelling.”

“Whacha sayin'! Ya can't hear if I'm not closer!”

I heard it so well, that my cochlea rung still.

Wanting to shut the part that thought 'I don't wanna be cheered,' I sighed.

“...Fine, I get it.”

I get it; my grip tightened on the bat.

Hoshimiya Yashiro.

I will face it directly.

“Be safe~”

“Yeah, yeah~”

Who was that just spoke? Meme-san? Or Ryuushi-san? Well, either is fine with me.

Having any one cheering for an eternal bench warmer — I should really be laughing.

One out; runners on first and second. On this moment that is only a step away from two outs with full bases.

Step forward, toward the unknown of 0.00000000198 centimetre per second.

“...Alright!”

With the bat resting on my shoulder, I sped ahead.

Finally, I will chase after that with a speed that can never reach. From now.

Again, and again.

This time.

“I guess I'll go for a little home run!”

Standing on the batting zone with the bat still on my shoulder, I adjusted my feet.

First time betting today, and I'm afraid there will not be a second. If I don't score here, we lose.

I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't nervous with this scenario.

My gaze pitted against Hanazawa-san's. Her defence at this river bank wan't just on the level of impressive — she could even be a little cocky about it.

Dust blew into my eyes, and I rubbed. It's windy today. Sure would be great if I could have the wind make my ball into a home run. Unfortunately that won't be the case. Without bleachers of some sort, the distance for a home run is far too long — it would be quite difficult with my strength and skills.

Despite wanting to get our runners back, it would be hard to even send the ball to the outfield. Ultimately I reseated my helmet and raised the bat, sending a glance at Nakajima's courtesy smile on second base.

Hiding under her cap without movement, Erio stared holes into me. She wasn't preparing to run, as though conveying her plan to simply walk to home base. Hey now, I grinned bitterly.

On the left field, Yashiro too stood still with arms crossed — 'why doncha show me?' — she seemed to say. Perhaps she already knew that the ball won't fly toward her. What's strange is that the ball typically flies to her — I felt I've seen this scene in a manga.

The tiny fruition of being destroyed and outed was, for some reason, the gradual understanding of Hanazawa-san's play.

I cannot read the future, nor do I have any powers, so I rely on my own ability to win. I haven't wasted the last twenty or so chances I had to strike back. Since I have yet remembered the feeling of a hit, I still have spaces for memory: I saw the pattern in Hanazawa-san's pitch.

Still, I was not certain. What's crucial is that it is only one ball. If I had the ability to comprehend the entirety without any data, I would have long been in a team.

The first pitch. The only ball of any possibility. I know the type of pitch Hanazawa-san throws.

A straight, slightly toward the lower end of middle. That's Hanazawa-san's favourite spot. Usually she aims there, toward the end of the strike zone where it is hard to see. It's the only chance I have.

As usual, Hanazawa-san raised her arm. Since few actually make it onto base, I do not have enough experience of her typical stance. But I can only swing.

The ball exited from Hanazawa-san's hand. I believed it will come, and began putting all strength into the bat.

Here it is!

My muscles trembled.

Though I swung as soon as the ball came, I was too late.

My kinetic vision isn't too outstanding. I guess I don't have the talent for baseball?

Still.

Just for now — just for once.

Even without that talent, I need the result.

As if but of naturally, the bat I held too far out in anticipation of a hit moved too late. Yet.

Like clinging onto a clothe with a finger nail.

Like never letting go of someone else's hands.

Like betting eighty years of life to fill five centimetres worth of distance.

My bat caught the escaping ball on its lower right.

Between where my jaws meet creaked; as if to answer the bulging eyes, the sound of blood vessels clenching emitted from the temples, and sweat exploded from my back. Never wanting to let go of this sensation, I moved even my legs, firming planting myself.

“$#%$&!!”

From my mouth came a deep groan straight from the depth of hell.

I bit down, as if trying to encapsulate the death rattle from escaping between my teeth.

Time stopped as though to capture the moment when the bat struck the ball. The sight of the ball changing shape, bending inward reflected in my eyes. How heavy. The weighty sensation spread across my hands. Between the flesh of my fingers and the bat, nails dug in deeply, their form almost lost. It hurt.

I couldn't swing the bat out. The ball was still glued on. I bit down further; crack, the teeth slip apart, and the goosebumps popped out. My scalp twitched, as if the hair had fallen out.

Once more, I applied more pressure onto the teeth that were on brink of breaking; keep going, move those arms more.

And then.

The grey arc created from the aluminium bat drew across, sending the ball flying.

It should have been an impossible sequence.

The speed of sound arrived later than all other.

For the first time, the metallic bat echoed a resounding hit.

A field of white painted my vision, like being embraced by Yashiro's hair. This too was only for a moment.

In the sight that returned, I could not see my accomplishment.

Numbness from my arms tightened my expression; I followed the path of the ball. Where? I ditched the bat, running forward with legs that almost tied up. More, sprint forward. The wind deafened me, and the cheer far away.

Hanazawa-san's eyes expanded, shocked. Terrific! A short-lived pleasure lifted the corner of my lips. A comeback against a pro. The football on the ground. A short time passed before I let go of the almost crazed glee.

Where is the ball? I turned toward where people's foci were at.

There it was.

The white ball flew toward the right field. Hit by a late swing, the ball did not have momentum carrying forward. It merely floated in the sky, in the direction it was hit.

It would probably land immediately into the right fielder's hand as soon as it loses even that. The old guy with the crooked shoulder guarding that field was casually getting ready, standing below the ball.

“...Ah.”

The disappointment was worse than expected, and I almost stopped going.

I sprinted with numbed hands. In the end, it's still just a ball? Not even a sacrifice fly. It was still dubious if it'd make a difference: simply put, it might as well be a freebie.

Hanazawa-san sighed, looking down at the mound and flattening the sand. So she'd already predicted the ending. The sense of defeat sank, dragging my feet into the ground.

Only Yashiro, standing in the left field, followed the ball with her eyes.

As if she was filled with conviction.

To have an enemy who trusted me the most.

And almost as though guided by her, I did not look toward Erio, but further into the sky.

“Ah.”

A gale blew from behind.

My eyes grew.

Something that forced everyone's attention back in the sky happened.

The wind carried the ball away, since it was so high up. Even Hanazawa-san had to crack open her eyes away from the mound to follow the ball. The scale immediately tipped in favour of the shopping district's team.

The right fielder frantically lowered his hand and ran backward. Staring at the ball, he showed no sign of stopping. Don't stop. Don't stop now.

I restrained myself from running toward the ball while eyes still fixed on it.

Though in a diametrically different position than the rocket scientists, we share the same wishes.

Fly, fly, and fly higher.

It inched forward as it fell.

The destination of the ball.

Plastered against the boundary line — the side of the river flowed.

“Ah… Ah… Ah...”

The resting area was pretty far away — the gasp from there played hopscotch in my ears. I prayed, unsure if my footing was even proper. I prayed, and prayed. Please, just five more centimetres.

Please grant me the miracle travelling at five cm per second.

And then—

And,

And.

“Ah—!”

The ball so luckily blown away by the wind was not baptised, but simply landed in the river.

“It's a little off from my prediction.”

“Is that how you're covering your embarrassment?”

Dugongkawa-san, who welcomed me, slapped my back. After circling the entire field gleefully, I was received with cheers. The adults crudely rubbed my head; to the celebration I grinned painfully. Despite being jabbed and shoved about, it wasn't unpleasant.

There were two more innings after this game. The other side were already demoralized, however.

Okay, we will definitely win. We'll bet everything on Maekawa dad's right arm. “Right?”

I directed the conversation at Maekawa dad, who stayed a step away from the centre of the raucity. He must had been keeping distance from the other adults because he ran off.

“Looks like we're gonna win, so I'll try and keep up.”

A not so friendly, circumventing way of saying he'll try his best. “And ya better not forget about my daughter!” To his additional comment, I could only smile vaguely.

“From henceforth, Niwa-kun will be known as Miracle-kun!”

Ryuushi-san's words were frequently incomprehensible when she speaks excitedly. And so she gave me an unfitting name. I would hate it if she starts calling me that tomorrow, I thought. I'm the type to get nervous when I say a long sentence, however, so I refrained.

Erio raised both hands to her shoulders and smiled admiringly.

Like a child sharing a victorious moment after a successful prank.

“Cousin, very cool~”

“...Thanks.” That's all I could do.

I slapped my hands together; though not of many words, we traded our blessings.

It was a result from coincidence and extraordinary luck; when people congratulated me, the embarrassment grew as well.

Still, I kept my head up.

Coach Meme-san waited at the end of the line. A face full of smile, she stood ahead of me as if blocking my path.

“I expected no less from the lessons of a famous coach.”

“Please don't flatter yourself pretending someone else said that.” Yes, there goes the water. It's settled.

Meme-san's face erased the indescribable feelings in my mind.

So be it. I quietly observed with a grin. It was, after all, a miracle achieved by something other than just my own power.

Help me spread the same accomplishment to my other aides.

“And so~ Time for the goddess' reward!”

“Is that the short hand for the goddess of ricefishes?”

“Smooch.” My face was kissed. “…” “Smoooch~” It's being sucked. In the plebian world, this was known as a kiss… “Uwahhhhhh!”

“Wha04:31, 25 December 2016 (CET)!”

“Hey zWei ( talk ) 04:31, 25 December 2016 (CET)!”

“Kyah.”

“Whoa.”

The last two people were too calm!

### 008. Chapter 7 - The Midnight Sun

"Nya~waniwa~ nyowa-kun~!"

The first second, I thought it was just an odd sound that stood out in the noise.

The second second, I was lost in the joy of knowing that this wait was worth some points itself.

It was until the third second that I realized, from the owner of this voice, that I was a part of this.

In other words, I realized whoever called was referring to me.

“Lets meet up at the third street light from the festival's street” — Under this specific location, I peered at the couples in yukata or groups of girls pass by. It was just after dusk.

August 13th, about halfway through the summer break, was the night of the festival.

Niwa Makoto, his goal as the adolescent guy, will never do such disgraceful action as to skip the occasion. Similar, the event of having only guys in a big group walking around the stalls will accent only the sour part of youth.

Unfortunately, that awful taste from a year ago lasted till today.

Even walking alone in the road permeated by the hazy lights of lanterns could have a sort of elegance to it, so it wouldn't be too bad.

Yet, this year, it was the time for the sweet development of meeting with a girl.

The girl who made the promise with me was a girl I hoped from the bottom of my heart — Mifune Ryuuko-san.

It used to be that I was forced to see her after losing a bet… Nah, just kidding.

“Nya~waniwa~nyowa-kun! Sorry if I kept ya waitin'!”

Stepping on the asphalt road with her feet in getas, she trotted over.

The result of closely inspecting the direction and the atmosphere was that that had to be my name.

“Nah, I just got here.” That's the typical answer, regardless of truth. But since it's a cliché at this point, do people still buy it? I realized that it actually doesn't matter, and moved on from this topic. Reminder that this isn't actually that weightless of a question.

“I don't remember getting a rapper's name.”

“Well, y'know, I thought the same ol' name was getting a lil stale and stuff~”

Clad in her festival outfit of blue yukata with a teal sash, Ryuushi-san answered bashfully. Having a brain capable of thinking such an astonishing name, her fluffiness is simply wonderful~ (oblivious mode still engaged)

If she were Meme-san, than the brain must be about to bloom with flower.

Still, it wasn't part of the promise for Ryuushi-san to be in her yukata — it was a miscalculation I'd gladly accept.

“How's the yukata?” She pulled the sleeves up and inquired about my thought.

“Marvelous!” I complemented with a thumbs-up. Ryuushi-san's face lit up.

I'm just talking about the yukata, not whoever was wearing it~ Albeit not something I often do, I almost had the impulse to tease her. If I just said 'cute,' would Ryuushi-san be upset? Or embarrassed?

“I went to borrow the neighbour Onee-san's yukata, and had her help me put it on.”

Oh, that tiny Onee-san? How old is she anyway?

“I see… But, why the helmet?”

“My hair's actin' up.”

She adjusted the hat. Aw, she's worried about her straight hair? Not like anything's wrong with it. It's also weird to have it on.

“Now I'm ready for that beam attack from above!”

“What's the point of that attack if a helmet could block it?”

It's still cute in its own way… Hm, love sees no fault.

“Mm~”

Ryuushi-san retracted her smile and looked left and right.

“What's wrong?”

“Uh, um, I was just thinking that we can't see the moon tonight.”

She was obviously looking at the sides of the road.

As though sidestepping my question, she beamed again.

“Well, let's go have some fun!”

“Whoa.” Ryuushi-san circled behind me, 'there, there!' and pushed on my back. Am I a Mikoshi? I wouldn't mind just hugging Ryuushi-san (redacted). “Mm? Ya have an interesting smell, Niwa-kun.”

“I put on a lotta bug repellant.” Your speech is just as interesting.

With that happy humming from behind as the BGM, I looked up toward the night sky.

Indeed, the moon was not present. That might be better, I recalled in the daze.

Without any wind throughout the day, there wasn't a shard of cloud in the sky either now. I feel cooler than during the day, yet warmer than in the morning. With the right preparation against the bugs, the climate's entering a tolerable phase.

Yet as we entered the street of the shopping district, the heat coming off from the iron plates almost tricked me into thinking it's the rain season again. The smell of grilled food pervaded in the air too: it was the smell of dried sauce. “I really like this smell.”

Leaving my back and walking on my side, Ryuushi-san exaggeratedly stuck her sniffing nose out. I laughed; Ryuushi-san too bloomed a smile. It was a slightly embarrassing exchange.

“Fruitarians don't eat grilled squids or takoyaki, do they?”

“Well~ Soba with a little less meat is fine. I can also do candied apple, eggettes, also cotton candies… Otherwise...” She looked toward the neatly-placed stands. “Ah, goldfishing also sounds pretty good.”

Since it followed a list of foods, I almost agreed with the thought 'Oh, so she can eat goldfishes too?” Meanwhile, I remembered a street performer swallowing an entire goldfish.

“Feels like a lotta of our classmates came too”

“Yeah.” I saw a few while waiting.

“If somebody saw us, y'know, wouldn't it be a little… Y'knyow?”

Ryuushi-san acted all embarrassed; even her gait followed, shrivelling up like her body.

“What do you mean?”

“Umm, like, 'Niwa-kun you cutie~' 'Ryuuko is a hoe~' Ya know?”

“…...” I'm even more confused now.

In other words, people might mistake our relationship if they saw us?

But we already eat lunch together, so now is a little…

“What if Mikki saw us?”

Why not just have her take a picture as commemoration? Ah, speaking of that… I took my phone out to check the time… Should be enough time.

“Mmm, is there something you need to keep an eye on for?”

“That's my line: you've been looking for something, right? Like someone?”

I dodged the question. Could it be Nakajima? No way. Or rather, can that guy even come? Perhaps the shopping district's victory also meant the city folks will have a harder time showing up.

Having her suspicious behaviour pointed out, Ryuushi-san let out a manga-like chuckle and looked down sheepishly. Has she given up? She didn't make an excuse.

“Well, I was just wondering that, maybe, ya wanted to hang out with Touwa-san for the festival… So maybe she was around… Kuhaha.”

Why did she laugh like a gang boss? It's a sunny and oddly cute tone. If it were Ryuushi-san, even a 'Kuhaha' or 'Kekehehehaha' befitting only for a gangster wouldn't be unpleasant.

Yet this Ryuushi-san doesn't seem like she could handle Erio. I'm likely part of the reason, so I couldn't just say anything… As far as I know anyway. I could be just thinking too much.

“Erio is with Meme-san… Her mom, for the festival.”

“Oh~ Is she? Touwa-san and her mom...” Why did she seem so happy?

Compared to before, her smile had widened. Her cheeks, mouth and eyes almost popped out to make a happy expression. Yet to that countenance, I could only grin awkwardly.

Well, she did hit the nail on the head; thus, I changed the topic and looked to the stands lined on the side. It's a little petty how my sight always drifted to the price tag.

“What do you want? It's on me.”

“Eh?”

“Think of it as celebrating for your big game.”

“What!” Ryuushi-san hopped a little. Is my generosity really that far-fetched? Is there something to my usual behaviour I need to re-evaluate on?

“I am deeply indebted to you.” She bowed down and thanked me in an old-fashioned manner.

“Don't be. Well, what do you fancy?” I asked while moving closer to the food stands.

Ryuushi-san would probably stop by in front of whatever she wanted. So I handed the decision-making to her while moving ahead. The smell intensified.. More precisely, since we closed in, the originally-mixed smell now each distinguished themselves. The aroma of heated sugar and soy sauce tingled my growling guts.

With her finger tip, Ryuushi-san tickling with tapped my shoulder.

“I'mma go with the candied apple.”

“Hm.” I nodded in a very Erio-esque way. “Well, let's get one.”

Peeking into the targeted stand, Ryuushi-san smiled warmly and gestured a finger at the old lady inside.

“I would like one… Ah, would you like one too, Niwa-kun?”

“I'm okay.”

“Okie dokie~ Just one please.”

The number did change halfway through the conversation, but I didn't think it's something to be mindful of.

“Here ya go~ Come again~” Like someone working at a super market, the old lady took the money from me. 300 yen per pop. I thought it was 50 yen before, from the stand in front of the train station. This must be what is known as the festival price.

At about her third bite, Ryuushi-san paused.

“It's a little embarrassing with ya staring.”

“Is it? Guess I will keep staring.”

“Wuu. Ya are gonna be like that, huh. Niwa-kun is surprisingly mean~”

We grinned jovially at one another. Submerged in the festivity, we savoured the relaxing atmosphere.

Even the old lady over by the stand smiled, affected by us.

Since Ryuushi-san began eating, I waited quietly while looking around.

I noticed a familiar face in the crowd. Her pale skin stood out and was easily picked up.

Ooi… Tooe-san? The owner of the hair salon, with her daughter on her shoulder, passed by. Was the man on her side the husband? We're not exactly close enough to warrant a hello, so I merely watched.

The girl sitting on her shoulders, was she worried from being so high? She shrivelled and shrunk onto her mother's head.

Mouth ajar, she seemed to be whining, though the distance between us meant it wasn't clearly heard.

“Wanna bite? Niwa-kun.”

Ryuushi-san passed the half-eaten candy to me. It was such an innocent act that I actually recoiled from the confusion. It's an indirect kiss no matter how you look at it: is it really okay? I don't even think Ryuushi-san herself was completely aware of anything of the sort.

Is it really okay to just do this when I had my guard down? I had this meaningless, chivalrous thought. Perhaps I had some subtle feeling of guilt.

“N-no thanks.” Wavered, I painfully turned her down. “Tch.” Ryuushi-san smilingly tutted and returned the candy. See no evil, hear no evil… Not. Hm. Hmm.

In the end only I regretted. Am I lacking something in terms of moral? Or is this actually normal for a high school teenager?

During my struggle, Ryuushi-san finished her apple. “Shoulda walked around.” She just now said it. Was she maybe sorry for making me wait?

“Why not? We can take our time.”

Plus we didn't have anything specific to do for this festival anyway. I guess there is the fireworks. “Oh yeah, thanks for treating me.” Ryuushi-san clasped her hands and thanked me and the old lady.

“”Thank you.”” We both waved our hands in unison. That's a little saddening.

The leftover chopstick was taken away by the shop keep.

Looking at the scene, I took my phone out to check the time. Wouldn't want to be late.

“Okay, Niwa-kun's next.”

As we returned to the crowd, Ryuushi-san said something interesting.

“Eh?” I genuinely felt a little disgusted at myself after imitating her.

“A present for your home run! I'll treat ya!”

Ryuushi-san pulled her sleeve up and for some reason showed her biceps. Trying to show her reliableness? “...Really?” Ryuushi-san's treating me? Well, I'm not that surprised.

Still, I was truly overjoyed.

“Thanks. I'll take you up on that.”

“Yeah! C'mon~ What ya fancy?”

Like a TV show's lady, she hurried me.

“Hm!...” What's better? I scanned around while looking for something that struck me.

Then, my sight landed on that booth. I suppose most folks passing by would have looked again just to make sure.

“Anyone buying? Anyone~?”

A female wearing an eel costume, selling a grilled version of her kins… How fitting.

Felt like something you might find in a theme park. Is there even an eel park?

“Yo~ Unagikawa-san.”

We visited that stall in order to chat with Maekawa-san, busy skewering the eels.

Drenching with sweat, Maekawa-san seemed like she would pass out at any given time.

Hearing us, she looked up. Her usual smug was complete covered by the costume.

Actually, that might even be a gill costume. I thought.

“Transfer student and Ryuushi? That's an expected line-up.”

What an unnecessary comment. Asking me to change myself… With the final destination being Meme-san, though, I'm very hesitant.

“I told ya it's Ryuuko. Maekawa-san, are ya… working~?”

A little scared, Ryuushi-san asked. “A payless job.” She seemed to say so self-mockingly.

“I'm helping out my family stall. Re-heat the packaged eels, and sell them off 500 yen each.”

“Ah, that reminds me of what I use to have in the elementary school lunch. It's something we'd have near the end of semester.”

Ryuushi-san nodded, as though comprehending. With a blank face, Maekawa-san focused on her hands without looking up at Ryuushi-san. It was then I realized that, perhaps, her quietness was result from the dizzying heat. She's wobbling too.

“500 yen huh, that's not exactly even with the apple.”

“That's fine! Ryuuko Onee-san will spoil ya!”

“Then, I will gladly accept.” And run straight up into her bossom… The difficulty in this world was not being able to do what you want.

With fingers pinching the skewer sticks, Maekawa-san continued spacing out.

“Still, eel suits you.”

“Rice eel and congers are up my valley too.” Ah, there's a reflexive reaction from her drifting eyes.

“Moray eels seems passable too.”

As long as it's skinny and lengthy it'll work. Even earth worms or crickets… Ah, is that no good?

“Niwa-kun, would ya like the eels?”

As expected for a fruitarian to be discontent with my decision. But, um, from a friend's position, that should be the expected thing to do, I thought.

“Hm, can I?”

“Yep. One skewer, please.”

Thank you~ Maekawa-san mumbled listlessly and picked up a finished skewer from the corner. She passed it to Ryuushi-san. I watched the two hands in contact. Maekawa-san's hands were white and long, and a bit rough. Ryuushi-san's were like children's, smooth and without flaws.

People's hands reflect their lives. How do my hands look?

Ryuushi-san took the food, and passed the eel skewer to me like a flower.

“Here, Nya~ Nyaa~ Niwa… Wait? Who?”

“Wha~ Are you the amnesiac main character now?” Actually, even if that wasn't a spontaneous event I'd be terrified.

“Oh no. What did I call ya? Nyawa~niwawa...”

“Just the normal, please.” Also, the correct answer is Nyawaniwa~Nyowa… Hm?

I transformed into a troubled girl. “Mmmm.” I received the food from a grumbling Ryuushi-san.

“Actually, I'll take one more. This one is on me.” I ordered another one in realization.

“Are ya really that hungry, Niwa-kun? Or are ya a slimey-lover?”

“Well, I guess the former is more correct.” Actually, Ryuushi-san hadn't pay yet, had she?

The current Maekawa-san might even let us go if we didn't pay.

Yet as we chatted on, Maekawa-san's face changed dramatically: light returned to her face. Though glaring, her eyes had focused onto me.

Oh hoh! Unagikawa-san had came back from the dead. Truth to be told, however, it's already a miracle that she's alive above ground during this season. I guess from that angle Maekawa-san isn't too different from the eels.

“Heh~” She grinned, eyes squinting, as though noticing something. “I see.”

“What do you see?”

“Nah, I just caught on something when I see you add another order.”

“W-what are you babbling about?! Secret?! Are you a certain detective?!”

“People call me the frail, and pretty smart Maekawa-san.”

She stretched her eyes, making them as big as possible in display of her power. Then she immediately faltered, 'ugh, my head hurts from yelling…' and kneeled down. Intelligence aside, her brain doesn't seem too durable.

But she probably did notice from just that exchange. Impressive, her observation and ability to connect the dots.

If the next volume were to be made into a mystery novel starring Maekawa-san as the protagonist, I wouldn't be too shocked. After all, I feel like I would become the first victim before the big reveal.

“Intercept~!” For some reason Ryuushi-san interrupted. Her skilful arms pushed me back.

“Why did you shove me out of the frame?”

“On a tactical standpoint, we're currently doing a 1 on 1. Excuse me.”

“Why?”

“Cuz my summer has just begun!”

What good would it do making this the last volume? I don't have much backup.

“Five, hundred, yen!”

Without a doubt, she passed the five coins in her hand in front of a recovered Maekawa-san.

“Then me too...”

When I planned to pay for the second eel, Unagikawa-san's head wobbled as if snickering.

“Hehehe, just Ryuushi's five hundred is fine. And the other one… Right, think of it as your inaugural gift.”

Uwah, she knew. “I told ya to call me Ryuuko~ So what are ya on about?”

“Not telling. Also, please call me Maekawa the Clairvoyant.”

“Thanks for that then. I'll pay you back in banana cake rolls, so let's call it even.”

“Sure but… Isn't that kind of rare in a super market?”

“Hey~ Hey~ What are ya two saying? Don't just leave me out~! Ryuuko-san shoots beams from her hands when she's all alone~” That's not normal for human.

“I'll explain on the way.”

Taking the second skewer from Unagikawa-san, I distanced myself from the booth. I don't belong in that cruel world where a moment of being seen-through would be the death of one, so I chose escape.

Well, since it's Maekawa-san, she might just collapse without anyone watching, so I'm a little worried.

“Thank you very much~ Hope you have a wonderful night.”

Under the watchful eyes of Maekawa-san, whose ability to voice returned, we mixed into the people.

“So, what was that about~?” Mildly upset, Ryuushi-san started throwing tantrum like a child unable to follow her friends' conversation.

“I'll have ya explain till I'm satisfied! Explain ya self, dangit!”

She jabbed with her elbow multiple time in my sides. Coach, this is cheating.

Yet there is not coach in life. I must, therefore, decide what was right on my own.

“Money can't buy lives, yet here I am using currency to purchase the part of an eel. I am beyond condemned… Maekawa-san saw through me.”

I scared even myself with the unending lies. For a moment I even thought maybe a spirit had possessed me. Bon festival is just around the corner, too, so that must be why.

“So that's what's troubling ya... Ah! A foreshadowing of Niwa-kun's fruitarian route!”

Our colourful Ryuushi-san seemed to have understood something she shouldn't have.

I have been dreading the next time when I will be dragged into another vegetarian buffet.

Nevertheless, the ridiculous story seemed to have amended Ryuushi-san's discontent.

Despite the fragments of guilt laid about my feet.

What's left is not flowers in each hands, but an eel in both.

Now that's a headache — I can't hold my girlfriend's hand if both hands are filled! I wish I could be in a position to think like so. So far the only female I've held hands with since coming here… Meme-san. The only female to have sat behind me on a bike… Meme-san. Someone who hugged me on her own… Meme-san. A kiss on my cheek… Meme-gahhhhhhhhhhhh!

A nuclear war waged through my youth. The apocalypse came. Looking from the outside sucks. Aside from hand-holding, everything had been taken by my aunt. Is she the devil following me? Instead of the succubus of every guy's dream?

As I continue the motion of moving my feet forward with Maekawa-san-like dead fish eyes. “Ah.”

“What?”

“It's Hanazawa-san.” I purposefully did not name the male next to him.

With shades and a cap on, like a sneaky celebrity, the inadvertently-made-conspicuous Hanazawa-san & Nakajima were looking at something at a booth. The items they seemed to be looking at appeared to be accessories.

They must have came here in disguise because they lost the game.

“Do city people not want to come now?”

I mumbled my doubt. Though unexpectant, a response came from the side.

“Mm~ I guess. Some people do care a lot.”

“But you're here, Ryuushi-san.”

“Well~ y'know, I did say I'm with ya!”

With that bashful yet happy look, she tossed me words that made me secretly joyful.

Then she added the line of 'And I told ya I'm Ryuuko~' I was even more elated.

I turned around abruptly.

The place we passed filled with bliss and footsteps, like candies had rained from the sky.

Only a part of this town celebrated the festivities tonight.

Yet, so many came.

“How do I put this.” I turned my head back to report the sentiment permeating in my chest.

“Mm.”

“There's so many people here — I'm a little moved.

Afternoons in the summer. The roads were never so full of life.

But now, the emotions people poured in here might just become a river of its own.

“It is really cool~”

As if expressing how genuine she was, Ryuushi-san nodded deeply.

“Also.”

With a bit of accent, she smiled meaningfully and looked up to my face. Those eyes looked like they saw something worth praising, making me blush. Unsure of her intention, I did not know what to say, only able to squeeze a twisted smile.

“Ahaha!” She thought my reaction funny.

Then, Ryuushi-san hopped into the road like she did last time in the rain.

She landed in the middle, stretching her arms as far out as she could.

“Everything here~! It's all on ya, Niwa-kun!”

“...Eh?”

Being treated like the saviour of the planet was less embarrassing and more baffling.

“Me? No, no, I'm run the shops or anything, neither am I running the events, right?”

“But, if ya didn't hit that home run, we won't be having the festival here.”

“Oh, yeah.” That's true.

The ace I once dreamed of becoming.

Once I became it, I realized how flimsy the position was, and could not felt completely glad.

I guess not having the basics down is still not good.

Because of the occasion. Because of luck, I got it without using real abilities.

I can't be placed in the same category as Ryuushi-san, who worked so hard to where she was.

...Still, no other values other than self-satisfaction embody this so-called 'cause.'

Call it what you like — talent, hard work, or fortune.

Only, after the results, there is no such thing as choosing what the means was.

Just like no matter how assiduous I was, I could never participate in a football game.

Even so.

What else can I do but assent? I am, after all, the best at 'giving up.'

“That's right~! I AM the mastermind behind the festival~!”

I tried to be an idiot in the crowd. Surprising felt great throwing away your shame.

“Whoa~! Niwa-kun's the hero of the galaxy~! Land of Light~!”

We both flailed our arms like birds with their wings.

Perhaps it wasn't Ryuushi-san's intent, but I'm afraid we're… Considered as brainless couples in the eyes of the passers-by.

“But that home run must also be why some people can't come now.” I sulked.

“Who cares about that?”

Go away~ Looked like she just threw the entire thing out.

“Ya became a hero this summer, Niwa-kun!”

Heheh! Ryuushi-san proudly thrust her chest forward like she's the star.

“Well, a hero on a small scale. Like, 'the neighbour who's really good at baseball' tier.”

“So what! The hero of this town can change the world little by little!”

Seemingly throwing an entire something out, Ryuushi-san praised me with arms raised.

Summer-only hero… huh.

First, I would like to change the condition of 'the only intimacy comes from my aunt.'

That aside.

The world might be like so now because of a piece of pebble you kicked on the road long ago.

When the wind blows, the barrel merchant gets rich. Butterfly Effect Fish Story.

The words that I should have ignored long ago emerged once again.

Furthermore, they stepped into my future with a taunting smile.

“...Now that's annoying.”

Having to bend to those words.

With arms out on the sides still, Ryuushi-san skipped back.

“So, Mr. Hero, when do you plan on staying till?”

“Uh, yeah, um, actually...” I stuttered. No, it will only worsen if I stop now. With a breath, I determined to finish.

“I have a little rendezvous after this.”

One who chases two hares shall get neither.

I know! Please don't remind me of that now!

Rendezvous. As the words exit my mouth, Ryuushi-san froze. However.

“Niwa-kun.”

Like having a high class chocolate hanging from her lips, she called my name with a bright grin.

Cold sweat formed on my back from the illusion of having hot iron branded on me.

“I won't ask ya who you're meeting up with. I prefer the slow strangulation by cotton, but...”

“Gulp.” This was neither acting nor playing along — I genuinely could not breath.

Ryuushi-san thrust her index finger forward; the nail poked the tip of my nose.

“Ya owe me one hundred.”

“...Yes.”

“Plus interest.”

“I'll do my best.”

Mhm, Ryuushi-san nodded approvingly… But she still ran off like that time in the rain while crying, 'wuah! I lied! I'm really useless! I couldn't even try to be mad!” Until her silhouette faded into the night, I watched her go; I sighed, angrily rubbing my bangs.

...I'll receive divine retribution one day for doing such a terrible thing. I'll find Ryuushi-san later and apologise to her more.

But, there was nothing I could do about a promise made during same time… I suppose it's not something I could just wave off by saying that. But, well, it is the only way the me now knows.

To be on time, I passed through the road filled with booths leading to the shrine.

It took quite some effort to pass the crowd: I'm not as good at cutting in as someone from the basketball club.

Ascend the ladder; Touwa Erio awaited in front of the shrine. Meme-san was not seen anywhere.

Though I felt there would be five or six people hiding in the bush or behind the offering box, I made it to Erio without springing any such traps.

Wearing her usual outfit, Erio emitted the smell of bug repellent we sprayed on each others before heading out.

“Cousin, you came.”

As if expressing her affection, she shook my right arm as hard as she could. It hurt.

“Of course: I promised I'd came. Where's Meme-san?”

“She went to buy a ton of snacks and takoyaki, then left to Tamura Obaa-chan's. She wanted a festival for just two.”

“Really.” Her usual behaviour came back to bite her, huh.

But since she herself seem happy, I guess no one could stop her either.

“So, why did you want me here at this time?”

“Secret.”

“Really? I'm going to see the fireworks then.”

I re-turned (combination of turning and returning). “Wu~! Wu~!” Erio grabbed my arm and pinched. It's gonna bruise. Let go, my cousin.

“Okay, okay! I'm just messing with you, so let go!”

“Wu~” Perhaps distrustful of me, she kept her grip.

“Is something going to happen? What's going to happen?”

“A little more.” Without checking the time, Erio asserted.

“Fine, we'll wait.” Going back now would also be… Seeing what happened with Ryuushi-san.

“Mm.” Finally assured, she let go of my flesh.

“Have this while we wait.”

“Mm?”

Erio stiffly received the grilled eel I passed over.

“The late inaugural gift, said Maekawa-san.”

I ended up putting it that way, instead of saying I bought it for her.

“Maekawa...” Erio looked to the corner of her eyes in rumination. Couldn't put the name on a face?

“The giant girl who spent a night at your house.”

“Oh~” She seemed to understand, knocking her fist on her palm several times.

Erio then raised the skewer parallel to her eyes; with a 'thank' she bowed toward the lights of the festival.

We decided to sit within the shrine while waiting for Erio's much-anticipated time.

Only cicada cries could be heard, perhaps because woods surrounded us. The usually irritating sound now made the festival more exciting. That's a laughable sentiment.

“It's so much cooler up here.”

Away from the people, the steam, and the bulbs, the night retained its original form.

The sight of festivities below was actually not bad for atmosphere.

“Nom!” Erio bit into the eel while nodding; she looked at the sky meanwhile.

The moment she's waiting for must be related to an astronomical phenomenon.

“You don't have binoculars today.”

“Nope.”

She shook her head. “Delicious.” Apparently also content with the taste.

The… Stars?

I never thought if I liked or hated it. In other words, I'm not interested.

The correct response should be neither like nor hate. But actually, is that an answer?

Before I could reply, Erio popped off.

“It's here!”

Still holding the bamboo sticks from the finished food, Erio sprinted out.

She stopped in the middle of the shrine, and then turned her head around.

I followed; I stood next to her.

“Something you want to see?”

“Mm!”

Since nothing else concrete came out of her mouth, I sought the hints in the sky.

In about a minute, I too saw the thing that cut through the sky.

“Comet?”

“Yep. The Perseids.”

“This is the most prolific meteor shower during the summer, the others include...”

She seemed to be saying something, but it sounded mostly like self-mumbling. The rest of the words were unheard from the excitement of the sight.

“...Oh, I see.”

I finally understood.

A meteor shower.

Erio wanted to join the baseball game because she wanted to to see it from here during the night.

Riding the coat tail of festivals, she was able to stay after curfew. Basically, she took the long way around to not defy her mother.

And this must be the best place to see the shower. I finally realized.

I remember hearing this from one of Erio's star gazing lectures.

On a windless day close to a new moon, it is the best for meteor shower viewing due to the lack of moonlight and atmospheric movement. Maybe Erio does have good luck… Or perhaps the universe had embraced her.

She gawked at the night sky — this must be what she looked forward to the most.

“Everything we've done this summer seems like the side dish for tonight.”

We should be glad if we could see a star pass every two minutes.

It definitely wasn't anything dramatic, yet Erio, as though in love with the stars, was drunk in the sight.

At the spur of the moment, I pulled away from Erio.

From that spot, I stared at her. Head lowered, she seemed to pray.

“...Wow~”

Regretfully, the aqua-blue girl watching the stars looked very much like a painting.

Filled with molecules and mystery, the scene had all the rights to be the final curtain of the festival night.

“Hey, now. Don't lose your head.” I palmed my face.

With a bitter grin, I continued gazing into the show.

There was still time before the fireworks.

Playing baseball and watching the stars was correct for this summer.

...Yet, it was still early for a change of scenery.

Like spreading the curtain that slowly descends onto the stage.

Something crawled out from beneath the eaves.

The story did not end there.

“Good evening from beneath the shrine. Call me Belowthe Eaves.”

So she finally admitted it? And I knew she would show up in front of us again.

How dense is she?

The final boss could, of course, judge where my story was going.

“I've known your fate here since the dawn of time.”

Hoshimiya Yashiro.

“Your being here was predetermined.”

She was wearing neither the space suit nor Meme-san's blouse, but a white yukata that was probably borrowed from the shrine. I might not have known where she got the outfit, but it looked like an inauspicious burial dress. She donned even that infamous helmet, bringing her level of dubiousity up to the level of burglars.

If Erio were to scream out, 'Ah~! A thief!” people would likely side with her.

“P-hew.”

“Don't pause between breaths too.”

“Hmhmhmhm.”

Yashiro stood up shakily, unconcerned with the dirtied clothes and assumed her stance.

Then she threw her helmet off.

“Hold it.” She tossed it to Erio; she caught it without looking away from the sky. It would appear she's reveled in the stars and completely uninterested in the Yashiro.

Though I could not deny the possibility of her outright purposefully ignoring Yashiro. That's the right kind of attitude.

Hehe~ Yashio smirked at the sight and spoke.

“I was going to skip town from this troublesome job, but I changed my mind.”

“Wha?”

“Well, why don't I show you a bit of my power.”

“Oh man...” Here we go again.

“But before then, back up three steps.”

“Why?

“Why don't you just show me!” I spoke maliciously.

Just like when we first met, the request remain unchanged.

Only, Yashiro agreed with my request. “Fine.”

With lips titled, she seemed to convey her anticipation for those words.

...That reminded me about last week.

She promised to show me her powers.

“You once said, what is the point of just believing, correct?”

I did. Subconsciously, I nodded.

As if hypnotised, I was sucked into her mien.

“Have all five of your senses remember, what believing does.”

Then.

Yashiro.

“ Hello! And Goodbye! ”

Raising her stick-like arm, she seemingly summoned something.

Then, the fireworks bloomed in the sky.

The blinding, yet mesmerizing vestiges of black powder.

A red as striking as the tomatoes.

It's the fireworks. The depiction of summer uncoiled my anxiety.

“What is this?”

That's it? She's not planning on saying that she communicated with the firework technician telepathically, is she?

Disappointment, relief and laughters mixed in my chest; the moment I decided to look back onto Yashiro—

In just moments.

From inside the fireworks, something more brilliant entered my vision.

A gigantic orb.

The midnight sun.

A light that stabbed into the eye like a prick.

Then, with the other aurora still glittering, the giant fireball…

It burst with a sound that would entail the end of the world.

Scattered pieces of the stone steps and the summer air exploded in a deafening noise.

I wondered if the sky had fallen down. Or if a miscalibrated had landed. No, maybe lightning was a better fit? The ringing never stopped.

Once I recovered, I had already fallen from the impact.

“Aw…”

A pain both smaller and later than the shock earlier nagged at me.

I looked to the source of the signal, my right arm.

A streak of flesh was missing from the arm; burnt mark traced the indentation.

After scraping my arm, it fell to the ground.

Just that was enough to create such a wound.

“...Ah.”

Rigidly I looked back to inspect the crater.

I couldn't see the object's true form: hidden by the dark of night, the matter did not stand out.

Yet something did indeed fall from the sky.

It came from above.

There was only one thing I could think of.

She couldn't have summoned it, could she?

Yashiro? With that gesture?

Hypothetically, if I had not backed off when I did.

I felt the noise from beneath the temple seem to have grew.

The next firework didn't follow either.

Even Erio, who stood a little away from me, and her gasps became exceptionally audible.

The ringing in my ears persisted.

Lingering images from the moment occupied my vision.

No matter how much time passed.

Afterward, the words that began sprouting out—

Super

Power?

“How is this possible?”

It wasn't a coincidence, a miracle, or destiny. It had nothing to do with me, yet here it is.

Was it her? Telekinesis? Meteor? Rock throw? Star Stream? Home run?

Believe because you have the ability? She's been telling the truth?

If that's the case, her self-proclamation was real? Hoshimiya Yashiro— an esper?

Who was the boy crying wolf?

I tugged at my head, because of the intense noise encroaching in my head.

Even though it was dark, the light that branded itself into my retina danced in algi-like colours.

I sunk into the hallucination that my entire being had been crushed.

The sensation of Youth-Points being shattered into a million pieces.

To seek the truth behind the event, I abruptly looked to the back.

As if only naturally, the girl who summoned the star had already disappeared from the shrine.

“...Ah”

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

Speech can no longer continue — It's been filled, by the most basic of sounds.

I could not stand up; my face buried into the ground.

Neither did I have the courage to search under the eaves.

The real deal appeared in my face.

I literally couldn't even breath from the confusion.

As though reality had combined with this occasion, the night of festivities and meteors began falling apart.

My vision melted as if acids had poured out of my eyes; cracks filled my vision.

The sight twisted; my ear drums were already crazed. The cicadas screamed, encircling the whirl.

Under the terror, I shut my eyes, only to realize that Earth had turned completely in just two seconds.

In the space devoid of common sense, I could not grasp the proof that it was all but an illusion.

The wound from my arm ached. Drip, drop, it tearfully tugged at my pang.

This is super power! It seemed to scream so; I felt tears forming in my eyes.

Covering it with my left hand, I sensed the wet blood drenching my palm.

“Ah… Ah...”

“Ah.” It ended. The voice that wanted to entail could not exit from the lack of moisture.

My sight was corroded by the lights.

My nose shut by the singed smell of the ground.

My throat silenced by the dryness.

My ears ravaged by the cacophony.

My skin trembled from the blood.

All senses carried with them reverence, and concession to 'that.'

Reality descended upon me.

I could never reach, nor understand that truth.

A small star had crossed the boundary line between super power and coincidence.

After ward.

I still didn't know if it was a strike, or a foul. I could only look up, and stare at the stars in the sky.

### 009. Chapter 8 - How Many Shining Stars Are There?

(Q) Was it telepathy that summoned the meteor here?

(A) More fundamentally, there was no evidence that it was 'summoned.'

(Q) If it were a coincidence, was it possible to have such an accurate timing?

(A) Perhaps it was just dumb luck.

(Q) Why a meteor?

(A) I dunno.

(Q) Highway St*r?

(A) What's that? (TL Notes: A stand from Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, part 4)

(Q) Is Hoshimya Yashiro an esper?

(A) Inconclusive from a single incident.

(Q) Is she an alien?

(A) I don't know how to differentiate the two, so I can't say.

(Q) Then what is Hoshimiya Yashiro to herself?

(A) No answer.

The fallen object was a meteor.

The pea-sized rock that embedded itself in the shrine ground created a crater with a diameter over 30 cm.

It seemed to say that shooting stars are not to be looked at.

I dazed through the next five days.

Knocking on the back of my head, I questioned the mind: 'Are you doing your job?'

The falling meteor became a tiny story on the news tomorrow. On T.V., net, and even radio.

It's an occurrence that many will forget on the following day. Events like someone dying from a fall, or an accidental discovery of a body — if they have nothing to do with us, we easily toss that to the back of our heads after a day. So this is the kind of things shown on T.V? Just something that had nothing to do with people who aren't involved.

Even if it were just for a day, I wouldn't want to be put on camera as 'the first people to find the meteor;' thus I fled the scene with Erio. And because of that, I no longer know what became of it.

Lets say I did stay: it's not like I was going to find a fly from the future or an alien in white tights. (TL Notes: From Earthbound 2)

As if it was bound to happen, Hoshimiya Yashiro did not claim herself to be the discover — in fact, I never saw her around since then.

The only thing left were the helmet bestowed to Erio and a scar that will stay with me forever.

There can't be more than a handful of people who's been hit by a meteor.

Obviously it's not 'normal.' Ryuushi-san might be moved to tear by the event.

"......"

I still felt the ringing in my ears.

Oh, one more thing. Erio retrieved half of the rock from the site and brought it back. She said something about making it into a necklace.

Lying in my bed, I changed the T.V channel. Appeared in the screen was a show proving super powers; my fingers stopped. Two boxes, and two people.

It was a test of both x-ray vision and clairvoyance. The man who can see through objects must draw out the appearance of the person inside the box; the woman with 'clairvoyant' as her title, on the other hand, must write down to what degree the man could see her.

It made sense. I understood the purpose of the test, so I began viewing the experiment. As I stared at the skulls of the audience, a thought went off:

"Clairvoyance."

I thought of the possibility that Yashiro's 'power' may not have been telekinesis, but an ability to see into the future. Uh, from the angle of her so-called job, that is.

For example, if Yashiro moved to this planet for vocational reasons — hypothetically speaking, of course — and her job was to save me, who was destined to be killed on that day by a meteor. What if she already knew that, and that was the prevention? Many things make sense if that were the case.

Assuming she predicted the meteor, Erio was the most probable in inviting me to go see the meteor shower; therefore Yashiro went and harassed her. Considering, of course, that Erio could possibly invite me to the shrine.

On the other hand, it's a bit of roundabout if that were the case. Yashiro chose to be involved by playing ball. If the city-side were to win, the festival would have moved, and Erio would have chosen a different place to see the meteor shower, and I by extension would lose connection with the rock.

Well, did she even know Erio that well? I'm doubtful of that. Perhaps she truly just wanted to return the favour to Nakamura-san for the meal.

She once said that she herself was part of the reason why.

In other words, Yashiro's being here and joining the baseball game caused some form of changes in my heart.

And so I hit a homerun and won the game, and ended up at the shrine... Is this what she was alluding to?

So why, then, the roundabout method?

It might be because, according to herself anyway, that having superpowers is too conspicuous of an existence, so by talking ceaselessly about her power, others are less likely to believe her…?

Or maybe because I just don't believe in superpowers in the first place that she couldn't find a way to convince me.

So in the end, she chose to show it to me? Just to throw it in my face?

But, didn't she explain the reason for the spectacle before?

“As thanks for the tomatoes?”

I mumbled while in thought; chuckles escaped my lips: do I seriously believe that the rock had something to do with Hoshimiya Yashiro?

Indeed, she had already declared before. “Meteor, Rock-throw, Star Stream” — not including the last one, the first two are both abilities to control rocks.

Since the very beginning, Hoshimiya Yashiro had talk of meteors hanging around her neck. Magic? Coincidence? Or a power? I cannot prove a thing. Yet, it was not an illusion that scarred my right arm.

As the closest proof, the rock left a laceration on my arm. Perhaps due to my tanning, that thin white line stood out.

“...A punishment?” Not being able to avoid the meteor entirely.

For making a promise with both Erio and Ryuushi-san, as well as hoping I can satisfy both. I truly am sorry for what I did to Ryuushi-san, so if this somehow absolves the issue then I will happily accept.

If I was five cm off, it might have went through my arm. Maybe if I didn't step backward, it would have hit me in the centre mass. Thanks to Yashiro, I was spared from either.

“…...”

It hit me: her joining the game, sleeping underneath the Touwa's eaves, playing with me in the pool… The actions weren't meaningless. Without those events, even if Yashiro were to show up and ordered me to 'back up,' I don't think I would have listened.

To put it another way, what she called a roundabout plan was, from just the results, a success.

Well, these are merely my speculation. I have no way of attaining the right answer. Either way.

“It's too risky to my liking.”

Grumbling to myself, I changed the channel again. Special! How to make delicious fried steak! Change. Questionnaire show. Change.

Visiting really old people's home. Change. Baseball broadcast. Stop. An unfamiliar team and a team I couldn't care for; one of them won, not sure which.

I shut the screen off. Thinking of which, I have no confidence on how the inner mechanics of a television works. No specific knowledges, just a scratch of the surface. From a typical high schooler's view, it doesn't matter what, any thing could seem like 'magic.' Just how many more mysteries exist inside this cramped room?

Being so clueless, I think I can never defeat the individual known as 'Hoshimiya Yashiro.'

After a little research out of boredom, I learned that Hoshimiya Yashiro was the name of a shrine around the city. The area of the shrine was known for having a record of many fallen meteors.

In other words, it was a pseudonym deliberately used with those statistics in mind. What a dramatic result. Anyone would doubt an alien that started out with introducing herself by name, I guess.

Because having a name sheds a layer of enigma. Just having that tint of realism — if her feet could touch ground, then there is a chance to hold her down. Yet, I've been played.

So I failed to rebuke Hoshimiya Yashiro… No, if I were to dispense that mitigating tone, I would have to admit more than just 'failed…'

It would have been a loss to this battle between us.

I had been annihilated by Hoshimiya Yashiro, utterly and comprehensively.

Being attacked by a rock that might not have been three cm in diameter, my common sense, rationality, and even beliefs—

“And I thought I won in the game~”

An honour-less victory — such described the situation perfectly.

I turned with head in hands. Next to my pillow was Erio's stargazing journal. Aside from personal interests, she seemed to have wanted to share her passion for the stars with me.

“Hmm...” I skimmed. To be frank, the enthusiastically-drawn pictures and records reminded me of Erio's impassioned silhouette more. I couldn't help but smile at the image.

“...Stars, huh.”

I was too hasty to judge Hoshimiya Yashiro's words as an escape from reality. Yet till the very end she perpetuated her way as the right way. I can longer reject her.

In fact, I support her.

I made a wish at the shrine that night. I wanted to see it while having my query affirmed. I said, 'show it to me.'

After that, the so-called superpower wasn't treated as 'fanatic superstition,' 'mysteries' or any such ambiguous concept; it manifested as naturally as it could. On that day, I was guided by Hoshimiya Yashiro toward the meteor-lit sky.

“So lame...” I denied it indiscriminatingly before, and here I am tasting defeat.

The hidden light amid the fireworks dazzled my denial of the unknown. It's not something to be trifled with — it's a thing created to ensure the existence of the human dreams. Still, it is something with the precondition of 'unreachable even with outstretched hands.' To put it differently, it's like your desires in a television.

That said, the pang of touching the television screen after reaching in still nagged at me. Did I feel someone else's 'few centimetre away' ability? The not-so-exciting miracle burned still on my scar.

Just what is the matter with her? My cousin who once again sought the star in the front yard.

Touwa Erio's extraordinary look.

Touwa Erio's blank past.

The me who denied Touwa Erio of her escape.

Was it truly an escape? Was it the right thing to deny the possibility of her contact with the extraterrestrials? Am I fit to be the judge for that?

Just as a powerless person cannot deny a power.

I am no expert of the aliens.

“What a pain~!”

My limit was to vent by throwing a tantrum in bed. Like Meme-san once, or rather everyday, did, I thrashed my limbs about and kicked the dust up.

Just where did the dust that exist quietly yet never appeared to the naked eyes come from?

Whether it'd be dust or rocks, I doubt I can find their origin, no matter how long, with just my 'eyes.'

As I paused for a breath, my phone rang. I put it on the desk — honestly I didn't want to bother, but I still crawled on the floor. Despite the ache from my side, I reached for the phone and held it in my hand. My face burned from sliding onto the floor; I put my phone on the prickling spot.

“This is Touwa… I mean, Niwa.”

“Judging for just that, can I assumed you've finally married?”

“No, I'm just used to the name from home phone… Can I help you, Maekawa-san?”

“Good evening, transfer student. I know it's only been five days, but somehow I'm feeling a little nostalgic.”

Maekawa-san's voice was as usual: Calm and polished. As though capable of cooling down the skin, the stone-like voice soothed my ears; the ringing faded.

“Same here; I wonder why… Well, what do you want?”

“What else? Baseball. You coming for tomorrow's game?”

“Baseball...” The image of an astronaut suit branded in my head. “I'll think about it.”

“Understood. You can reply with a mail, and if you don't, I'll just assume you aren’t.”

“Hm… Maekawa-san, uh, I think I probably asked you this before too.”

“Hm?”

“Do you believe in aliens?”

“Nope.”

An immediate response. A wise and timely judgement, so quick that I wonder if I've lost seconds of my consciousness.

“A question with fifty-fifty answers is better answered with the first one, transfer student.”

“...Is that your secret to getting good scores?”

“Heheheh, you're welcome to try.”

With a satisfied laughter, she hung up.

“...Ah.” Sitting on the floor, I let my head fall onto the side of the bed.

If I had to add a few more things onto this meteor event.

There was indeed an unclear sense of awe.

Kind of like playing ten of those movies that can move the entire American population to tears, and then forcing yourself to watch all of them. It's an unfathomable feeling of wonder that follows strange phenomena in the cochlea.

The emotions mixed like a pan of stirred food were stuffed like a sardine can, with nowhere to go.

Screaming with dried throats, in hope of finding the place where they belong in the heart.

Will I be able to feel this scar, one day, when I have everything sorted out? Gingerly, easily, and reverently.

I threw the phone on my pillow. Then I popped the window open with a crisp sound, and looked out. Finally, I peered into the yard.

Protected by the particles, Erio could be seen observing the sky with her star-lit telescope. Perhaps because of my lying in bed, Erio did not fetch me; naturally I didn't watch Jupiter with her either.

Noticing my gaze, Erio turned the telescope toward me and raised her arm.

“Cousin, want to see the stars?”

Despite being a question, Erio's hands beckoned at me slightly. What did Erio think of the meteor that seemed to have gone astray from the shower?

Just like before, she too chased after the stars today.

I pressed onto my brow, as if trying to block the pus of thoughts from running through my head.

Cough! After swallowing the pressure back into guts several times, I finally replied.

“Coming.” Waving at her, I shut the window. No, Ryuushi-san might text me, so I re-opened the window. I operated the phone, found the text history and sent a simple message of 'I'm going.'

I dropped the phone again, and lied down in a twisted manner.

Hugging the pillow, I squeezed my body toward the centre as much as possible while dying my view with pitch darkness.

Summer this year, just play amateur baseball and watch the sky.

So now, let's go see the stars with Erio in the yard.

And so, I sought for an answer on the other side of the telescope.

The shine that would melt me like that meteor.

And then.

I will hold the metal bat again tomorrow.

Wake up in the morning and march onto the river bank with just a hint of sleepiness.

First, I will pray for something, and focus my sight onto the left field.

The summer will leave me in a daze for a while longer.

To ensure that the boiling head of mine will never calm down.

By the heat.

By the cicadas. By the glimmer of the countless stars shining in the star.

### 010. Prologue - Summer This Year

This special sense of relief is universal to any school — actually, it’s probably true for the entire nation.

Then according to the same train of thought, the end of semester ceremony must be the most exciting aspect to a student’s life. Whether good or bad, the final exams are over, and we already know the results: nothing could possibly shackle the anticipation of students. Personally, it is as thrilling as extracurricular activities. From the standpoint of Youth-points, school festival is one of the three most prominent school events; unfortunately, it is unclear how this school think. Is it enthusiastic? Or indifferent?

Apparently, the school festival is usually held in early October before the tiger of autumn loosen its grips. I am looking forward to it — I so concluded while glancing about. After the teacher had finished lecturing, noise filled the class. Students were among their circles and chatting away fervently. About twenty percent of the class immediately vanished from the class; the rest bathed in the relaxation after the teacher’s departure, forming some sort of sense of festivity.

An atmosphere that’s like during the preparation phase of a school festival — I don’t dislike it, for it is the incubator of Youth-points. My previous school had an obligatory attitude — or rather, a trend of distaste for any zealous behaviour — and hence had a boring event. There were probably five different stands and everyone just lazed around in the empty classrooms and hoped that the end would come sooner.

If possible, I wish my class this year would welcome the festival with more unity.

…My reverie gradually faded. About time to refocus back to onto summer.

Okay, since we are on the topic of Niwa Makoto, me, who dawdled in this yet-to-be-silent class.

I don’t actually belong to any circles.

“Man~ It’s the summer~ I was so excited I didn’t sleep well last night!”

Eheheheh, the expectedly delightful normal human— I mean, classmate — with a bashful smile, is our well-known Mifune Ryuushi-san. After the lecture was over, she came to my seat, where we traded the flowers of words. Since it was the first semester I spent here, I decided to give one Youth-point accordingly to this particular exchange.

Swarms of cicadas cried on the trees outside. If they were kids, it’d probably be a case of abuse— and I’ll contact the respective organization. To be honest, even if they are just cicadas, it’s still loud enough for me to want to report them. Undisturbed by the cicadas, Ryuushi-san sat in front of me with the same smile.

“Hey~ Niwa-kun, do ya have your phone today?”

Ryuushi-san flipped through the backpack placed on my desk and retrieved her phone. The neon-pink cell phone that she so proudly displayed deflected the burning sunlight into my face.

“I do.”

Even though it rarely has the chance to play its ringtone. Must be because I’m so clumsy with it, hahahah (don’t wanna admit it). No, but I still get those ridiculous newly-wed mails from Meme-san.

I’m at the age and position to give up on all sorts of points when it comes to that person.

A frigid wind contrary to the heat outside engulfed my heart. I took the cell phone out. Ryuushi-san, in her summer uniform, stared my hand and nodded confirmingly. “Mm.”

“Let’s trade numbers and mail address~”

The phone, a cute key chain with what looks like a pig mascot of a restaurant, and a cute— uh, mouse, accessory shook with Ryuushi-san’s hand. I don’t want to anger a certain world-famous Mr. Mouse by giving a thorough description. I’ll shoulder the pain alone. In any case, that’s not the important thing here. )

“Let’s do it.” I naturally agreed without another word.

That reminds me: I was going to exchange number with Ryuushi-san when she visited me in the hospital during early May. The eggplant came at the last moment, though, so it never happened.

As a side note, the eggplant is also known as our classmate Maekawa-san. If you don’t know who that is, please go back and re-read. Just for your information, she can even turn into a dango. Most people tend to mistake her for a voracious Bake-danuki that could shapeshift.

Regarding Maekawa-san, she fainted in the gym today from anaemia. “It’s nothing~ It happens all the time during summer.” Apparently she stoutly stated so with a grin on her face as she was carried away into the infirmary. As for those around her, we once again were forced to choose an attitude between ‘shock’ and ‘unbearable.’

“Beep beep~” Ryuushi-san hummed the sound effects as the she entered the numbers I gave. After about two seconds, my phone rung with a high-pitched, monotonous buzz. An unregistered number of a classmate/high school girl showed up on the plasma display. Candy to my eyes.

“Mm, mm.” Ryuushi-san, who induced the ringing, seemed pleased as well.

“What is it?”

“Looks like ya didn’t give a fake number.”

“Cough!” I almost choked from her cuteness. Under what kind of circumstance would anyone lie about this? I thought.

We traded mail address as well. Looks like her phone doesn’t support infrared. The first email she sent me was, ‘let’s have fun during the summer!’ It was a firework-esque service that signalled the beginning of a more exciting summer.

I only hope that it wasn’t some courtesy words.

With a genuine smile, I replied after a declaration.

“Ok, here it is!”

Just as I spoke, Ryuushi-san grabbed my phone. After checking the name I put in, she smiled like she was about to reached into a bento with her chopsticks, and clicked on the screen.

“I told ya: call me Ryuuko~!”

“Beep, beep.” Once again she operated the phone with an animated voice, then she threw it back. The name has been corrected to ‘Ryuu’ko, all in emphatic parenthesis. “Phew~” Ryuushi-san breathed out and wiped away the non-existent sweat on her forehead.

Oh, I see.

“Ryuushi-san.”

“Hey! I said it’s Ryuuko!”

I like this reaction better though.

“It’s getting straight, your hair.”

“… Wuu~”

Ryuushi-san curled up to my comment. She pulled a binder poking out of the corner of her bag and tried to cover her hair clumsily.

“Wuu, don’t look~ …Ah, I’m so sad.”

“I think straight hair is also good.” And it’s cute, too.

“That’s against the Ryuuko-san spirit. No straight hair, no reason. Curly is the best.”

“Oh…” A girl’s insistence on a style is hard to grasp for those around her, but it is not to be trivialized. I’ve learned to handle it, at least. But as for her passion for a certain diet… Hmm. During exam week, Ryuushi brought me to a buffet of fruits and vegetable. “Just leave it ta me if you wanna get your mind off things!” I just can’t. For a person who had accepted ‘the modern way of eating is to stuff yourself with what you paid for,’ does this not qualify as a difficult challenge? I just can’t do it.

Faced with the joyous girl who easily devoured thirty or more cherry tomatoes, I reached my limit as I watched, with estranged eye, her nibble on an apple.

“Ahh~ Should I get it done~? But my wallet is like Australia now.”

Uweh~ she comically lied on the desk with her legs out. I don’t mind having a million of them stuck on me, as long as the flattened thing was this adorable girl.

With off-topic thoughts, I smilingly watched her hair and fluffy face. Then, something drifted into the corner of my eyes. I casually turned over. People might think I’ve been waiting for a long time if I looked too over-the-top.

Coming from the infirmary, Maekawa-san had returned with a pale face… Nothing out of the ordinary, but somehow she was steaming today. Her general mien was like an icicle about to disappear amidst the heat and cicada cries of the summer.

She went by the health committee girl, probably to say thanks for when she passed out, before coming here. Now we have a circle… Not that it matters. So why is she here?

Becoming friends with Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san might just be the greatest accomplishment I have this semester. My dazed mind carelessly summarised this past four months.

“Yo~ ‘Just call her when the teachers won’t shut up’ Maekawa-san has made her return.”

True: when Maekawa-san was taken away, the assembly was adjourned. Not many teachers could continue once the students started complaining about the heat in the gym making someone pass out. After all, they still have to keep their reputation.

“Are you alright?”

“My balance isn’t, but I am.”

As to her report, her steps were slightly awkward. Maekawa-san, with her eyes slightly bleary, lightly tightened her face muscle to display her usual cheeky smile.

“I’m apparently really good at heat conservation. Both sauna and a long bath are my arch nemesis.”

Is there a season that exists for her to be active? I noticed that despite looking feverish, Maekawa-san was not sweating. Besides her appearance and an interest in dressing up, Maekawa-san is kind of like an old, simple household electronic: concise and to the point.

If that’s the case, her imposing height must exist solely for the purpose of intimidation, like a snake with aggressive camouflage. She’s just standing next to me now, but her presence was still terrifying.

Like I’m about to be flooded by muddy water ready to burst.

On the other hand, Ryuushi-san reclaimed her posture and grin. Actually, she didn’t look amused at all… Am I thinking too much? I had the feeling that it would be wise to pretend that it’s all a mirage and the Tengu did it.

“What are you guys doing with your phone? Some new experiment? Or is it a certain ritual between only two people?”

Is there a rule that demands the people living in this town of the aliens to ‘put what makes the most sense as the last explanation’?

“We’re just exchanging numbers.” Though a bit late for how long we’ve known each other.

“Oh— Then do it with me too.”

Maekawa-san went back to her seat and took a blue phone out of her pack. For someone so tall, her hands aren’t very wide — with something to compare to, I noticed that her fingers were very long; if it were put on someone’s wrist, it would look like a silver handcuff that’s enough to replace a bracelet.

I told her my number. “What an awkward number to have a mnemonic for.” Maekawa-san so commented before calling the number. The same followed for the mail. In that mail address was the cosplayer name I heard on that one night. “Uu~” Then the slow and unenthusiastic Ryuushi-san exchanged number with her as well. Why was she so upset?

Though only for the day, I was drunk with the triumphant feeling of adding two girls’ phone numbers into my contact list. This must be ‘Youth-points, get!”

“Oh yeah, doesn’t Touwa have a cellphone or something?”

Sitting across from me, Maekawa-san queried while mindlessly playing on her phone.

“Um, well, I don't think so.” I could only reply so, being asked something I’ve never thought of.

She probably has her own signals though — I never said the joke out loud.

“Hoh~ That’s good.”

Ryuushi-san joined in as well. Is my thinking that it was spoken with relief just a maladjustment of ear drums? “Wu!” Realizing her blunder, Ryuushi-san swapped on a serious look. “That doesn’t count! The meanie Ryuuko doesn’t count! Forget the past now~!” Then she swung her hands above my head as though severing something connecting to it. Can Ryuushi-san see those marshmallow-like chat bubbles? Well, I didn’t actually think much of what she said.

“Sure is tough for you too, Ryuushi.”

With an understanding — or rather, onlooking — angle, Maekawa-san remarked on Ryuushi-san’s attitude; she even bit down slightly on her lower lip so she wouldn’t crack up.

“…I told ya, it’s Ryuuko.” Even that familiar phrase sounded lethargic.

“Could it be that for an athlete like yourself, you are even more motivated when there’s a challenge?”

“W-w-what are you talking about! Ah, I mean! Whatta ya on about~!”

Ryuushi-san flustered to Maekawa-san’s teasing words. She kicked the chair down with the back of her knees, standing on her toes as if challenging Maekawa-san. Neither of them seemed too firm though. More so with Maekawa-san, who, despite standing still, seemed lopsided.

On the other hand, I… Well, I thought they’re discussing something that I have no say in. It’s got the kind of ‘the hell you know about this?’ feeling.

Anyway, being sequestered, I shifted my attention back onto the cries of cicadas. I decided that imagining things would be the only thing to do.

How about Ryuushi-san’s rival? For example, his name would be Shi-ryuu. Something that sounds like a minor character from a fighting manga. He’s about as strong as Ryuushi-san… No go? I guess not since Ryuushi-san seemed to be just a bench warmer.

“He’s a tough one to crack. It will be like Ak*gi VS K*wata! And since it’s the summer, the time you spent with him will be a lot more! It’s gonna be very one-sided!”

Some such conversation occurred on the side. Looks like Maekawa-san was still provoking Ryuushi-san.

“Wuu~! How dare you tease your elder, Maekawa-san! Explain yourself!”

“Elder? You?” The tilted head of Maekawa-san suggested that she probably thought of the opposite.

“Yes, I’m already seventeen as of last month! What about you?”

“I’ll be nice and tell you: I’m a March baby.”

For some reason she stuck her chest out with arms akimbo. Ryuushi-san, too, realizing her age superiority, humphed twice smugly and raised her head… As the saying goes, gentleness is strength: Ryuushi-san emerged victorious. The world is certainly enigmatic. Both my eyes were locked onto the mystery that is adolescence. If you know what I mean.

If I have to express it with a word, it’d be ‘dream.’ The type that all healthy guy of this time and age think of.

Also, my birthday is the tenth of October. Not that anyone would care.

Watching the discourse, or rather, dissent of these two, I defused the situation by suggesting to Ryuushi-san, ‘we should head home soon,’ and leaving the room. As I exited, I felt the guys' glares of resentment stabbing my back; I, however, didn’t look back. I merely immersed myself in the sense of superiority as I headed out.

Out in the hall wasn’t the mere level of ‘the sun is here,’ but a full-on fire-ablaze. Just being close to the window was enough to roast, and even my hair seemed to be singed.

I like it, for it is a complete, hardcore summer. Maybe because it’s also a break, summer has always been more filled with hope than the other seasons. The atmosphere of summer holds something that speaks to the heart: it is the season that is most suited to be a painting, when walking alone under the sky — could I be the only one with such thoughts?

As we left the shoe lockers, I thought maybe Maekawa-san will pass out again. It must have been terrible for her when she’s young, having such a physique. She might be safer if she kept herself in a pool at all time.

Speaking of pool, the school doesn’t have a swim team. Apparently during summer the pool is open for other clubs’ members. I heard that there are a lot of people who would only leave school after taking a dip in the pool (according to Ryuushi-san). I’ve even heard that the pool would be split in half, and the girls and guys would swim in their designated areas, like a bath. At least I know the guys are using the pool for something besides to relax.

We ducked into the parking lot’s roofing to escape the boiling heat. Once inside the shade, the smell of burning and dryness became more evident; because the temperature never dropped, it was even more unpleasant.

After taking her bike out, Maekawa-san shrugged and spoke.

“Unfortunately, something or someone has disallowed me to go home with the transfer student today.”

With a smirk, she stared provocatively at Ryuushi-san, who’s about to put on her safety helmet, while declaring her dubious intention. But no one ever said anything about going home with her.

The self-proclaimed elder was once again annoyed. From the sideline, I don’t know how angry she really was, but this kind of ‘pouty hmph-hmph’ actually eases me. Rather than being displeasing, the bickering put a smile on my face.

Ahh~~ I want to poke her face. Stealing glances from her charming face, I held my fist tightly.

We finally split with Maekawa-san after leaving the school entrance. Direction-wise, that’s the ‘shopping district’ side. The town we live in has a rapidly-developing city side, and the olden shopping district. Between these two is a subtle ‘wall’ — someone from a while ago explained to me. I’ve also heard that the general sentiment of the city is that it seems to treat the shopping district as the town’s disgrace for no particular reason. Apparently Maekawa-san has an odd position because though she lives in the city parts, her parents run a pub in the shopping districts. As a side note, Ryuushi-san is purely city.

Ryuushi-san and I both rode along the sides of the road. Clank clank, the wheels spun. Every time when the tires cross with the road, the smell of burning rubber would pester my nose. Maybe the tires did actually melt from the heat of the cement.

“It really feels like summer is finally here when school’s out.”

“Hm. And it’s like, ‘how long till the end of August?’ at first, and suddenly it’s ending when you did a whole lot of nothing.”

It’s been like that every year. At most I go to the festival briefly or go visit my grandparents — I was just moving out of obligation, as opposed to free will. All exchanges worthy of points that are rare in school life have been completely cut off. For Youth-points, summer was a drought.

But I suspect this is just ‘up to this point.’ It’s going to different this year. I think.

“I got club and stuff though. Mm, yes, I’m very different from those people who have nothing to do all day and have no life~”

“I see.” She might be a little weaker when it comes to out-of-club activities though.

“And I might even play in a game~ Ryuuko-san might just end up playing on the team this year.”

“Yeah? Nice going!” Basketball team often swaps players around, so the possibility might be higher than with, say, a softball or kendo team. “If you end up playing, I might go watch.” I tried saying what’s on my mind.

At the moment, the line Ryuushi-san’s bicycle drew twisted. The front wheel slid precariously on the road with an incomplete 8. Is this a telltale sign that my support isn’t helpful at all?

“Y-y-you might go? Ah, uh, cheering? For me?”

Ryuushi-san adjusted the depth of her helmet and peered up at me. She looked more surprised than troubled… Uh, well, as long as it wasn’t disgust. I let it drop. Maybe she thought it would be embarrassing if she ended up not playing?

“Yeah, I might. But maybe not if it’s too far away.”

“Wuu… Time out. Ryuuko, you’re up~ Trade with Mikki… Wuu, wuu~”

Somehow she seemed worried. Yeah, there goes the almost right-infringing name again, but was she emulating what’s going to happen when she plays? I waited for the result silently.

Students passing by in the scenery entered my conscious after I shut up and looked forward. There were white, sturdy-looking buildings around us; the only movement was the undulation of wet clothes swaying in the yard. Without those, I might never suspect anything of living in there.

Children going home filled the creek that flowed alongside the road. They’re fishing for something — probably crayfishes. Where I lived, you can easily find a ton of them if you dig into the mud around the rivers.

“…Hm.” Somehow I reminisced about that place. Not to the point of homesickness though.

It was a peaceful town. Although I have heard that things happened many years ago in the neighboring towns, nothing ever made it there — the town merely stagnated.

Am I like now because of how simple the world was? The pursuit of Youth-points, I mean. If there’s such a way to unearth them, shouldn’t everyone carry around with them a card of collecting Youth-points in order to revitalize the place?

Not possible, huh. My head spun from the scorching sun, and I lost direction.

The only thing unchanged from the last summer.

The inescapable heat.

Riding outside for so long, I even had the illusion that my clothes were getting heavier from the sweat.

“Niwa-kun.” Someone called my name; I looked to the left. Awkwardly, Ryuushi-san spoke.

“I-I might have a chance of playing so if you can, please come watch.”

“Okay.”

I will choose to believe in that slightly-stiff-on-the-left expression.

“O~kay, so… Enough about that. So listenen.”

Slap! She clapped to end the topic. Wasn’t there an extra ‘en’ in there?

“So do ya mind if someone were to write lotsa mails to ya?”

Mails… Oh, the phone? We finally have each other’s number, after all.

“I would simply be glad.” Even better if it was my wonderful classmate. Not so much for a certain big kid though.

“Then I will do my best to maily-mail you lotsa of things. Ya are also welcome to send me lotsa things!”

Lots of enigmatic words there, but I got what she was saying. Was the chest bumped by her fist unsteady, or ample? The usage of ‘or’ might be mistaken here, but who cares? Just like Ryuushi-san’s way of speech: as long as it carries the message, it’s perfect.

“Ok~ I will also do the same… Not that I have many things to talk about, but I will still try.”

“Oh no, doncha underestimate me. Individualistic and full of hobbies, I have lotsa things to talk about! Let’s begin the investigation of the Value of Ryuuko-san this summer!”

I couldn’t help but grin at her baseless confidence — perhaps it’s the same as seeing small animals.

When the time comes to next year, before the college exams, I don’t think we’d be able to talk like this anymore. The kind of over-thinking melancholy drifted in and out of my head; even so, I came to the conclusion: just enjoy this year.

After reaching the imposing semi-circle bridge before the crossroad, I bid Ryuushi-san farewell. Just like always, Ryuushi-san stared at the bridge that she must pedal up; with her tongue sticking out, she yelled, ‘uwoh~’ as she heaved up. From since club activities ended a week before the exams, I’ve grown accustomed to watching this.

As we parted, Ryuushi-san bloomed at me a smile so wide her eyes squinted to a line.

“Let’s have fun during the summer, Niwa-kun.”

Just like when we first met, her voice has always chimed ‘spring.’

“Ma~ko~to~chwan~!”

I was unfortunately attacked the moment I got home. Evasive maneuver. “Chwan~Chwan~!” The assault persisted. Backstep. “Yes, yes!” Shield up with the bike. “Babuu~!” Even my head was about to collapse under this combined attack with heat. As for the forty-year old standing in front me, it would appear that her brain was still festering.

What the hell kind of treatment involves standing outside of your own house after cycling through this weather?

And here we have Meme-san, who, despite her age, is the walking symbol of high spirit. Stomping on the ground animatedly, she stretched her hands uniformly toward me. On her were a sleeveless shirt and short shorts — the kind that’s suitable only in your own house. ‘Could you please consider your age?’ was what came to mind.

“Guwasi!”

“That’s the Makoto you’re talking about?” She actually did it. What an impressive aunt I have.

Still doing the Guwasi pose, she inched closer to me. I was of course still carrying the bike while backing off. Am I going to back out of my own abode again after finally making it in here?

And how could I let my aunt hug me every time? ‘Can only be hugged by his aunt.’ The void within me grew from such a setting.

“My~ Mako-kun is always so~ cold~! Why are you so cold? Are you trying to chill? But that’s just sad if your life is a like a test of courage… Sobs.”

Are you complaining to or sympathizing with me? I’d like to reject both, but at least punctuate your sentences.

“Listen, Meme-san.”

“What~?” Please stop acting cutesy.

“Sorry to kill your buzz, but since you were too active in the past month, you won’t have any appearances this time.”

“W-what~?”

That reaction was just as bad as learning that the human race is doomed. But take this into consideration:

Last time, she was moving at an intense speed that was like getting five or six 6’s with a dice; this time, therefore, she should balance it out with a turtling pace. Please, please don’t expect more scenes during this summer.

Tossing aside the other young, cute girls in favour of the forty-year old aunt just doesn’t make sense.

And whose genius plan was this? There are, in this world, nonsensical things that either make no difference or are absolutely problematic. I want to write a complaint to a certain existence in this world… Wait, then I will become just like my cousin.

Speaking of this cousin, Touwa Erio: what is she doing today?

Just as I was about to look up to the second floor of the Touwa household, the shotgun speech of Meme-san carpeted me:

“Then my plan of ‘going to the summer festival, leaning into him on the night road coloured in a fantastic orange, eating chocolate banana, cotton candy, candy apple, cupcakes, tako-yaki, miso buns, candied fruit, and finally seduce him’ is hindered — no, ruined~!”

“Keep dreaming that grand delusion of yours.”

And aren’t you just eating the entire time? Am I paying for all that? Just what kind of expectation does this adult have for a highschooler who doesn’t even have a job?

… Summer festival, huh? If possible, I want to go with a ‘girl.’ The tide of Youth-points await me — I must dive into it.

“……”

I was just immersed in my reverie. As for who the girl walking next to me was… I’ll leave that to your imagination (I can, however, swear to the gods that it was most definitely not Meme-san).

“Hmph! Then the melodramatic story of Meme-san doing everything behind the scene will be on again!”

“Just stay home and relax, geez.”

“Hoo hoo hoo hoo~”

Meme-san made the noise of the cutest ape in the world (this isn’t a compliment please think again), apparently ready to run back into the air-conditioned room. I have to be really careful about telling her what to do — she truly is a nosy big kid.

“Oh~ Also get the laundry on your way in~”

Some such instruction replacing ‘welcome back’ was flung out of the house. Looks like that’s why she came outside. But she probably got lazy after playing (more like messing) with me. “Alright~” With a casual reply, I re-grasped the analog sticks of the bicycle (is that a correct term?). Well, I suppose it is true that I am living under her care, so it would be rude to not do it.

“Hm?” The object in my right pocket vibrated. Am I receiving a call? After checking the plasma display on my cellphone, it would appear that it was the classmate whom I only know half the name of.

It was a mail from Maekawa-san, with whom I have just traded number with. She’s really fast~ I thought while reading the message.

‘Let’s play baseball!’

The title texts already conveyed the message. Blank filled the content page.

“...Why?”

The phone rung right after as though answering my question. It's Maekawa-san. I answered.

“Hello?”

“Did you get that mail?”

Through the speaker, I had a different impression of her voice. Just a little bit, her voice changed.

“I did. Are you checking to see if I got it?”

“I'm seeing if you gave me the correct address. So quick question: do you like baseball?”

“Uh… I played a bit in elementary school. I don't even watch it on the TV now though.”

“Really? Well, we don't really mind beginners either. I was just wondering to see if you're up for some amateur baseball.”

“...Hm.” I rung the bicycle bell. “Are you a recruiter, Maekawa-san?”

“Only in the summer, actually. And you don't have to play every game: I was just trying to see if I can get someone to fill the spot. So… How do you feel about a bit of a mornin' sweat?”

“In the morning, huh.”

“It's also bit more than just baseball though.”

“Hm? What do you mean?”

“I mean it's more than just playing the game. The shopping district's team only has six members, so of course the last three has to be volunteers. Now hiring! High schoolers!”

“I feel like the notice will expose how bad the team is actually doing right now.”

“So, what do you say? I was just wondering since it’s a day before the game. You're more than welcome to say no.”

“Hm~ Well… Why not? If I feel like it I'll go. I’m a total noob though, are you sure?”

“I'm positive. Thanks for the help then. Entry fee is that you have to invite another person.”

“Sure feels like recruiting for new club members. But how come you didn't just ask me at school? Did you forget?”

“Come on, transfer student. I'm not gonna ask you that in front of Ryuushi.”

“Okay…?” I don't see the connection between Ryuushi-san and baseball, so the reply was just obligatory.

Ahahaha! With that, Maekawa-san hung up. She's one of those with a strange ecology. I still think her degree of alien-ness is second only to Erio. Ryuushi-san is just a normal human. I like that impression better, even though I know she'd be mad if I were to say that. Her NG word is 'no personality.'

Well, I think being too conspicuous is an issue too. E.G, my cousin.

I took a left at front of the entrance, toward the storage.

In front of the shed was a certain someone cleaning her telescope. Carrying that dusty thing hiding in the corner of her room all the way out into the yard, she diligently wiped at it. Perhaps noticing me behind her, she stuffed the rag into the bucket next to her feet. She spun around, scattering light.

“Yo.” I raised a hand to her. She's off-work today?

“Yo.” She imitated. Still sounds like a stiff vocal practice till this day.

This she was Touwa Erio, the daughter of the forty year old from earlier. Her profession… Freelancer?

Her hair was as though blended with blue dye number one — azure, as if governed by transparency and secrecy. Her eyes too: perhaps sharing the similarly unique irises. In all, she doesn't have the colour of a human. Despite her being a pretty girl emitting particles, I cannot candidly accept that brilliance and quality.

Was it due to the first impression? Or because I've categorized her appearance as wine glass? For your information, she has a terrible reputation in the town; she is, however, responsible for at least half of that.

Though exposing just as much skin as Meme-san was with her sagging one-piece dress, I found myself accepting the getup naturally. This must be what they call the cruelty of age: the inevitability.

These two sure are similar when it comes to never tanning — their skin is white like table salt.

“Not wearing the futon today?” I half-jokingly jabbed at her.

“Mm.” She pointed. Oh, I see her favourite futon getting a sunbath.

Erio then gazed up at me with her water-like eyes. She seemed like she wanted to say something, unwilling to look away; her hands traced the water in the bucket, as if frolicking.

“What about work?”

Currently, Erio is employed in the Tamura Shop. As of recent, her daily pay has been increased from five hundred to five hundred fifty yen — she personally came and explained to me rather excitedly.

“After this.”

Unchanged was her broken way of speaking. As clear as the words were, it was difficult to connect them into a sentence. Like about to shoot out a beam, Erio fixed her eyes on me still.

“Um… Do you, want to tell me something?” I had to ask her.

“Mm.” Now I'm sure. Erio's one hand pinched the rag and scooped it up; she watched intently as the absorbed water fell down. With her free hand, she pointed at the telescope's body.

“Telescope.”

“Okay.”

“Sky.” She raised her arm toward the sky.

“Oh, I think I get the gist of it.”

“Note.” She picked up the notebook with her wet hand.

Erio gently slapped the notebook with 'use for record' written rigidly on it. A satisfied nod.

“Summer, stargazing.”

“Oh.” I knew it. Well, she did prepare the telescope and all, so I already thought so. The concept of vacation is far gone for you. As that was very insensitive, I didn't say anything.

The moment before she said anything else, something changed on Erio's so-far expressionless face.

I might not be able to grasp every detail of her emotion, but, for analogy's sake, it's like a child who can't be honest about wanting to play with someone else: she'd run next to her target and starts playing with her toys, so the other person would give the initiative — it is the feeling of almost palpable expectation.

“The cousin, too?”

Erio's hand squished tightly at the rag. Like observing the situation, she tossed player two's controller to me.

“So what you're saying is you want me to hang out with you?”

Apparently she'd been anticipating, Erio nodded twice intensely. I don't mind the beach, but what about the reason for this? I've never once expressed interest in astronomy.

The reason, huh… Maybe she's grown attached to me? The premise being Erio having no other friends.

“Fine, sure. If I have time then we'll hang out.”

“...Ah.”

For just a second, I fell in the particles that dance and traced about Erio like comet tails. The tail wagged left and right, like that of a dog's. In the end, they dissipated into the air.

“Welcome.”

“Why are you handing out a rag to welcome someone?”

Or is it like shaking hands? Is it? I can only touch the rag?

I rejected her tribute. Even Erio unveiled her occasional defenseless smile; she turned back to cleaning the telescope. Compare to before, it was about fifty percent faster… What's up with that?

Basketball game, amateur baseball and stargazing. Even if I were to disregard the part about the summer festival…

Oh man~ Mako-kun is super popular~ ...Am I allowed to say that? Something felt off, though. Might be because I'm still not used to having a life that involves people other than me. Anxiety was stronger than the cordiality.

“...Well, whatever.”

I mumbled the conclusion to myself. Acceptance came slow, like flow in the water, gradually melting and diffusing.

Something will come along eventually; I will solve things as I see fit.

Before heading into the shed.

Hands on the bicycle handles, I looked up toward the sky.

The only conscious torso split from within — a suffocating sensation overwhelmed me.

No rain clouds — the cobalt scenery painted with water colour caught my eyes.

Blocked by the rooftop, the sun that appeared like the halfmoon stiffened my face.

I've been here for four months already. Seasons changed from spring to the summer.

Even in the town of aliens, the season's order is unchanged. What kind of Youth-point could I possibly find in the first summer out of my hometown?

“In any case...”

This summer will be spent with baseball and stargazing!

… Wait, seriously?

### 011. Prologue: Summer This Year

## Prologue - Summer This Year

This special sense of relief is universal to any school — actually, it’s probably true for the entire nation.

Then according to the same train of thought, the end of semester ceremony must be the most exciting aspect to a student’s life. Whether good or bad, the final exams are over, and we already know the results: nothing could possibly shackle the anticipation of students. Personally, it is as thrilling as extracurricular activities. From the standpoint of Youth-points, school festival is one of the three most prominent school events; unfortunately, it is unclear how this school think. Is it enthusiastic? Or indifferent?

Apparently, the school festival is usually held in early October before the tiger of autumn loosen its grips. I am looking forward to it — I so concluded while glancing about. After the teacher had finished lecturing, noise filled the class. Students were among their circles and chatting away fervently. About twenty percent of the class immediately vanished from the class; the rest bathed in the relaxation after the teacher’s departure, forming some sort of sense of festivity.

An atmosphere that’s like during the preparation phase of a school festival — I don’t dislike it, for it is the incubator of Youth-points. My previous school had an obligatory attitude — or rather, a trend of distaste for any zealous behaviour — and hence had a boring event. There were probably five different stands and everyone just lazed around in the empty classrooms and hoped that the end would come sooner.

If possible, I wish my class this year would welcome the festival with more unity.

…My reverie gradually faded. About time to refocus back to onto summer.

Okay, since we are on the topic of Niwa Makoto, me, who dawdled in this yet-to-be-silent class.

I don’t actually belong to any circles.

“Man~ It’s the summer~ I was so excited I didn’t sleep well last night!”

Eheheheh, the expectedly delightful normal human— I mean, classmate — with a bashful smile, is our well-known Mifune Ryuushi-san. After the lecture was over, she came to my seat, where we traded the flowers of words. Since it was the first semester I spent here, I decided to give one Youth-point accordingly to this particular exchange.

Swarms of cicadas cried on the trees outside. If they were kids, it’d probably be a case of abuse— and I’ll contact the respective organization. To be honest, even if they are just cicadas, it’s still loud enough for me to want to report them. Undisturbed by the cicadas, Ryuushi-san sat in front of me with the same smile.

“Hey~ Niwa-kun, do ya have your phone today?”

Ryuushi-san flipped through the backpack placed on my desk and retrieved her phone. The neon-pink cell phone that she so proudly displayed deflected the burning sunlight into my face.

“I do.”

Even though it rarely has the chance to play its ringtone. Must be because I’m so clumsy with it, hahahah (don’t wanna admit it). No, but I still get those ridiculous newly-wed mails from Meme-san.

I’m at the age and position to give up on all sorts of points when it comes to that person.

A frigid wind contrary to the heat outside engulfed my heart. I took the cell phone out. Ryuushi-san, in her summer uniform, stared my hand and nodded confirmingly. “Mm.”

“Let’s trade numbers and mail address~”

The phone, a cute key chain with what looks like a pig mascot of a restaurant, and a cute— uh, mouse, accessory shook with Ryuushi-san’s hand. I don’t want to anger a certain world-famous Mr. Mouse by giving a thorough description. I’ll shoulder the pain alone. In any case, that’s not the important thing here. )

“Let’s do it.” I naturally agreed without another word.

That reminds me: I was going to exchange number with Ryuushi-san when she visited me in the hospital during early May. The eggplant came at the last moment, though, so it never happened.

As a side note, the eggplant is also known as our classmate Maekawa-san. If you don’t know who that is, please go back and re-read. Just for your information, she can even turn into a dango. Most people tend to mistake her for a voracious Bake-danuki that could shapeshift.

Regarding Maekawa-san, she fainted in the gym today from anaemia. “It’s nothing~ It happens all the time during summer.” Apparently she stoutly stated so with a grin on her face as she was carried away into the infirmary. As for those around her, we once again were forced to choose an attitude between ‘shock’ and ‘unbearable.’

“Beep beep~” Ryuushi-san hummed the sound effects as the she entered the numbers I gave. After about two seconds, my phone rung with a high-pitched, monotonous buzz. An unregistered number of a classmate/high school girl showed up on the plasma display. Candy to my eyes.

“Mm, mm.” Ryuushi-san, who induced the ringing, seemed pleased as well.

“What is it?”

“Looks like ya didn’t give a fake number.”

“Cough!” I almost choked from her cuteness. Under what kind of circumstance would anyone lie about this? I thought.

We traded mail address as well. Looks like her phone doesn’t support infrared. The first email she sent me was, ‘let’s have fun during the summer!’ It was a firework-esque service that signalled the beginning of a more exciting summer.

I only hope that it wasn’t some courtesy words.

With a genuine smile, I replied after a declaration.

“Ok, here it is!”

Just as I spoke, Ryuushi-san grabbed my phone. After checking the name I put in, she smiled like she was about to reached into a bento with her chopsticks, and clicked on the screen.

“I told ya: call me Ryuuko~!”

“Beep, beep.” Once again she operated the phone with an animated voice, then she threw it back. The name has been corrected to ‘Ryuu’ko, all in emphatic parenthesis. “Phew~” Ryuushi-san breathed out and wiped away the non-existent sweat on her forehead.

Oh, I see.

“Ryuushi-san.”

“Hey! I said it’s Ryuuko!”

I like this reaction better though.

“It’s getting straight, your hair.”

“… Wuu~”

Ryuushi-san curled up to my comment. She pulled a binder poking out of the corner of her bag and tried to cover her hair clumsily.

“Wuu, don’t look~ …Ah, I’m so sad.”

“I think straight hair is also good.” And it’s cute, too.

“That’s against the Ryuuko-san spirit. No straight hair, no reason. Curly is the best.”

“Oh…” A girl’s insistence on a style is hard to grasp for those around her, but it is not to be trivialized. I’ve learned to handle it, at least. But as for her passion for a certain diet… Hmm. During exam week, Ryuushi brought me to a buffet of fruits and vegetable. “Just leave it ta me if you wanna get your mind off things!” I just can’t. For a person who had accepted ‘the modern way of eating is to stuff yourself with what you paid for,’ does this not qualify as a difficult challenge? I just can’t do it.

Faced with the joyous girl who easily devoured thirty or more cherry tomatoes, I reached my limit as I watched, with estranged eye, her nibble on an apple.

“Ahh~ Should I get it done~? But my wallet is like Australia now.”

Uweh~ she comically lied on the desk with her legs out. I don’t mind having a million of them stuck on me, as long as the flattened thing was this adorable girl.

With off-topic thoughts, I smilingly watched her hair and fluffy face. Then, something drifted into the corner of my eyes. I casually turned over. People might think I’ve been waiting for a long time if I looked too over-the-top.

Coming from the infirmary, Maekawa-san had returned with a pale face… Nothing out of the ordinary, but somehow she was steaming today. Her general mien was like an icicle about to disappear amidst the heat and cicada cries of the summer.

She went by the health committee girl, probably to say thanks for when she passed out, before coming here. Now we have a circle… Not that it matters. So why is she here?

Becoming friends with Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san might just be the greatest accomplishment I have this semester. My dazed mind carelessly summarised this past four months.

“Yo~ ‘Just call her when the teachers won’t shut up’ Maekawa-san has made her return.”

True: when Maekawa-san was taken away, the assembly was adjourned. Not many teachers could continue once the students started complaining about the heat in the gym making someone pass out. After all, they still have to keep their reputation.

“Are you alright?”

“My balance isn’t, but I am.”

As to her report, her steps were slightly awkward. Maekawa-san, with her eyes slightly bleary, lightly tightened her face muscle to display her usual cheeky smile.

“I’m apparently really good at heat conservation. Both sauna and a long bath are my arch nemesis.”

Is there a season that exists for her to be active? I noticed that despite looking feverish, Maekawa-san was not sweating. Besides her appearance and an interest in dressing up, Maekawa-san is kind of like an old, simple household electronic: concise and to the point.

If that’s the case, her imposing height must exist solely for the purpose of intimidation, like a snake with aggressive camouflage. She’s just standing next to me now, but her presence was still terrifying.

Like I’m about to be flooded by muddy water ready to burst.

On the other hand, Ryuushi-san reclaimed her posture and grin. Actually, she didn’t look amused at all… Am I thinking too much? I had the feeling that it would be wise to pretend that it’s all a mirage and the Tengu did it.

“What are you guys doing with your phone? Some new experiment? Or is it a certain ritual between only two people?”

Is there a rule that demands the people living in this town of the aliens to ‘put what makes the most sense as the last explanation’?

“We’re just exchanging numbers.” Though a bit late for how long we’ve known each other.

“Oh— Then do it with me too.”

Maekawa-san went back to her seat and took a blue phone out of her pack. For someone so tall, her hands aren’t very wide — with something to compare to, I noticed that her fingers were very long; if it were put on someone’s wrist, it would look like a silver handcuff that’s enough to replace a bracelet.

I told her my number. “What an awkward number to have a mnemonic for.” Maekawa-san so commented before calling the number. The same followed for the mail. In that mail address was the cosplayer name I heard on that one night. “Uu~” Then the slow and unenthusiastic Ryuushi-san exchanged number with her as well. Why was she so upset?

Though only for the day, I was drunk with the triumphant feeling of adding two girls’ phone numbers into my contact list. This must be ‘Youth-points, get!”

“Oh yeah, doesn’t Touwa have a cellphone or something?”

Sitting across from me, Maekawa-san queried while mindlessly playing on her phone.

“Um, well, I don't think so.” I could only reply so, being asked something I’ve never thought of.

She probably has her own signals though — I never said the joke out loud.

“Hoh~ That’s good.”

Ryuushi-san joined in as well. Is my thinking that it was spoken with relief just a maladjustment of ear drums? “Wu!” Realizing her blunder, Ryuushi-san swapped on a serious look. “That doesn’t count! The meanie Ryuuko doesn’t count! Forget the past now~!” Then she swung her hands above my head as though severing something connecting to it. Can Ryuushi-san see those marshmallow-like chat bubbles? Well, I didn’t actually think much of what she said.

“Sure is tough for you too, Ryuushi.”

With an understanding — or rather, onlooking — angle, Maekawa-san remarked on Ryuushi-san’s attitude; she even bit down slightly on her lower lip so she wouldn’t crack up.

“…I told ya, it’s Ryuuko.” Even that familiar phrase sounded lethargic.

“Could it be that for an athlete like yourself, you are even more motivated when there’s a challenge?”

“W-w-what are you talking about! Ah, I mean! Whatta ya on about~!”

Ryuushi-san flustered to Maekawa-san’s teasing words. She kicked the chair down with the back of her knees, standing on her toes as if challenging Maekawa-san. Neither of them seemed too firm though. More so with Maekawa-san, who, despite standing still, seemed lopsided.

On the other hand, I… Well, I thought they’re discussing something that I have no say in. It’s got the kind of ‘the hell you know about this?’ feeling.

Anyway, being sequestered, I shifted my attention back onto the cries of cicadas. I decided that imagining things would be the only thing to do.

How about Ryuushi-san’s rival? For example, his name would be Shi-ryuu. Something that sounds like a minor character from a fighting manga. He’s about as strong as Ryuushi-san… No go? I guess not since Ryuushi-san seemed to be just a bench warmer.

“He’s a tough one to crack. It will be like Ak*gi VS K*wata! And since it’s the summer, the time you spent with him will be a lot more! It’s gonna be very one-sided!”

Some such conversation occurred on the side. Looks like Maekawa-san was still provoking Ryuushi-san.

“Wuu~! How dare you tease your elder, Maekawa-san! Explain yourself!”

“Elder? You?” The tilted head of Maekawa-san suggested that she probably thought of the opposite.

“Yes, I’m already seventeen as of last month! What about you?”

“I’ll be nice and tell you: I’m a March baby.”

For some reason she stuck her chest out with arms akimbo. Ryuushi-san, too, realizing her age superiority, humphed twice smugly and raised her head… As the saying goes, gentleness is strength: Ryuushi-san emerged victorious. The world is certainly enigmatic. Both my eyes were locked onto the mystery that is adolescence. If you know what I mean.

If I have to express it with a word, it’d be ‘dream.’ The type that all healthy guy of this time and age think of.

Also, my birthday is the tenth of October. Not that anyone would care.

Watching the discourse, or rather, dissent of these two, I defused the situation by suggesting to Ryuushi-san, ‘we should head home soon,’ and leaving the room. As I exited, I felt the guys' glares of resentment stabbing my back; I, however, didn’t look back. I merely immersed myself in the sense of superiority as I headed out.

Out in the hall wasn’t the mere level of ‘the sun is here,’ but a full-on fire-ablaze. Just being close to the window was enough to roast, and even my hair seemed to be singed.

I like it, for it is a complete, hardcore summer. Maybe because it’s also a break, summer has always been more filled with hope than the other seasons. The atmosphere of summer holds something that speaks to the heart: it is the season that is most suited to be a painting, when walking alone under the sky — could I be the only one with such thoughts?

As we left the shoe lockers, I thought maybe Maekawa-san will pass out again. It must have been terrible for her when she’s young, having such a physique. She might be safer if she kept herself in a pool at all time.

Speaking of pool, the school doesn’t have a swim team. Apparently during summer the pool is open for other clubs’ members. I heard that there are a lot of people who would only leave school after taking a dip in the pool (according to Ryuushi-san). I’ve even heard that the pool would be split in half, and the girls and guys would swim in their designated areas, like a bath. At least I know the guys are using the pool for something besides to relax.

We ducked into the parking lot’s roofing to escape the boiling heat. Once inside the shade, the smell of burning and dryness became more evident; because the temperature never dropped, it was even more unpleasant.

After taking her bike out, Maekawa-san shrugged and spoke.

“Unfortunately, something or someone has disallowed me to go home with the transfer student today.”

With a smirk, she stared provocatively at Ryuushi-san, who’s about to put on her safety helmet, while declaring her dubious intention. But no one ever said anything about going home with her.

The self-proclaimed elder was once again annoyed. From the sideline, I don’t know how angry she really was, but this kind of ‘pouty hmph-hmph’ actually eases me. Rather than being displeasing, the bickering put a smile on my face.

Ahh~~ I want to poke her face. Stealing glances from her charming face, I held my fist tightly.

We finally split with Maekawa-san after leaving the school entrance. Direction-wise, that’s the ‘shopping district’ side. The town we live in has a rapidly-developing city side, and the olden shopping district. Between these two is a subtle ‘wall’ — someone from a while ago explained to me. I’ve also heard that the general sentiment of the city is that it seems to treat the shopping district as the town’s disgrace for no particular reason. Apparently Maekawa-san has an odd position because though she lives in the city parts, her parents run a pub in the shopping districts. As a side note, Ryuushi-san is purely city.

Ryuushi-san and I both rode along the sides of the road. Clank clank, the wheels spun. Every time when the tires cross with the road, the smell of burning rubber would pester my nose. Maybe the tires did actually melt from the heat of the cement.

“It really feels like summer is finally here when school’s out.”

“Hm. And it’s like, ‘how long till the end of August?’ at first, and suddenly it’s ending when you did a whole lot of nothing.”

It’s been like that every year. At most I go to the festival briefly or go visit my grandparents — I was just moving out of obligation, as opposed to free will. All exchanges worthy of points that are rare in school life have been completely cut off. For Youth-points, summer was a drought.

But I suspect this is just ‘up to this point.’ It’s going to different this year. I think.

“I got club and stuff though. Mm, yes, I’m very different from those people who have nothing to do all day and have no life~”

“I see.” She might be a little weaker when it comes to out-of-club activities though.

“And I might even play in a game~ Ryuuko-san might just end up playing on the team this year.”

“Yeah? Nice going!” Basketball team often swaps players around, so the possibility might be higher than with, say, a softball or kendo team. “If you end up playing, I might go watch.” I tried saying what’s on my mind.

At the moment, the line Ryuushi-san’s bicycle drew twisted. The front wheel slid precariously on the road with an incomplete 8. Is this a telltale sign that my support isn’t helpful at all?

“Y-y-you might go? Ah, uh, cheering? For me?”

Ryuushi-san adjusted the depth of her helmet and peered up at me. She looked more surprised than troubled… Uh, well, as long as it wasn’t disgust. I let it drop. Maybe she thought it would be embarrassing if she ended up not playing?

“Yeah, I might. But maybe not if it’s too far away.”

“Wuu… Time out. Ryuuko, you’re up~ Trade with Mikki… Wuu, wuu~”

Somehow she seemed worried. Yeah, there goes the almost right-infringing name again, but was she emulating what’s going to happen when she plays? I waited for the result silently.

Students passing by in the scenery entered my conscious after I shut up and looked forward. There were white, sturdy-looking buildings around us; the only movement was the undulation of wet clothes swaying in the yard. Without those, I might never suspect anything of living in there.

Children going home filled the creek that flowed alongside the road. They’re fishing for something — probably crayfishes. Where I lived, you can easily find a ton of them if you dig into the mud around the rivers.

“…Hm.” Somehow I reminisced about that place. Not to the point of homesickness though.

It was a peaceful town. Although I have heard that things happened many years ago in the neighboring towns, nothing ever made it there — the town merely stagnated.

Am I like now because of how simple the world was? The pursuit of Youth-points, I mean. If there’s such a way to unearth them, shouldn’t everyone carry around with them a card of collecting Youth-points in order to revitalize the place?

Not possible, huh. My head spun from the scorching sun, and I lost direction.

The only thing unchanged from the last summer.

The inescapable heat.

Riding outside for so long, I even had the illusion that my clothes were getting heavier from the sweat.

“Niwa-kun.” Someone called my name; I looked to the left. Awkwardly, Ryuushi-san spoke.

“I-I might have a chance of playing so if you can, please come watch.”

“Okay.”

I will choose to believe in that slightly-stiff-on-the-left expression.

“O~kay, so… Enough about that. So listenen.”

Slap! She clapped to end the topic. Wasn’t there an extra ‘en’ in there?

“So do ya mind if someone were to write lotsa mails to ya?”

Mails… Oh, the phone? We finally have each other’s number, after all.

“I would simply be glad.” Even better if it was my wonderful classmate. Not so much for a certain big kid though.

“Then I will do my best to maily-mail you lotsa of things. Ya are also welcome to send me lotsa things!”

Lots of enigmatic words there, but I got what she was saying. Was the chest bumped by her fist unsteady, or ample? The usage of ‘or’ might be mistaken here, but who cares? Just like Ryuushi-san’s way of speech: as long as it carries the message, it’s perfect.

“Ok~ I will also do the same… Not that I have many things to talk about, but I will still try.”

“Oh no, doncha underestimate me. Individualistic and full of hobbies, I have lotsa things to talk about! Let’s begin the investigation of the Value of Ryuuko-san this summer!”

I couldn’t help but grin at her baseless confidence — perhaps it’s the same as seeing small animals.

When the time comes to next year, before the college exams, I don’t think we’d be able to talk like this anymore. The kind of over-thinking melancholy drifted in and out of my head; even so, I came to the conclusion: just enjoy this year.

After reaching the imposing semi-circle bridge before the crossroad, I bid Ryuushi-san farewell. Just like always, Ryuushi-san stared at the bridge that she must pedal up; with her tongue sticking out, she yelled, ‘uwoh~’ as she heaved up. From since club activities ended a week before the exams, I’ve grown accustomed to watching this.

As we parted, Ryuushi-san bloomed at me a smile so wide her eyes squinted to a line.

“Let’s have fun during the summer, Niwa-kun.”

Just like when we first met, her voice has always chimed ‘spring.’

“Ma~ko~to~chwan~!”

I was unfortunately attacked the moment I got home. Evasive maneuver. “Chwan~Chwan~!” The assault persisted. Backstep. “Yes, yes!” Shield up with the bike. “Babuu~!” Even my head was about to collapse under this combined attack with heat. As for the forty-year old standing in front me, it would appear that her brain was still festering.

What the hell kind of treatment involves standing outside of your own house after cycling through this weather?

And here we have Meme-san, who, despite her age, is the walking symbol of high spirit. Stomping on the ground animatedly, she stretched her hands uniformly toward me. On her were a sleeveless shirt and short shorts — the kind that’s suitable only in your own house. ‘Could you please consider your age?’ was what came to mind.

“Guwasi!”

“That’s the Makoto you’re talking about?” She actually did it. What an impressive aunt I have.

Still doing the Guwasi pose, she inched closer to me. I was of course still carrying the bike while backing off. Am I going to back out of my own abode again after finally making it in here?

And how could I let my aunt hug me every time? ‘Can only be hugged by his aunt.’ The void within me grew from such a setting.

“My~ Mako-kun is always so~ cold~! Why are you so cold? Are you trying to chill? But that’s just sad if your life is a like a test of courage… Sobs.”

Are you complaining to or sympathizing with me? I’d like to reject both, but at least punctuate your sentences.

“Listen, Meme-san.”

“What~?” Please stop acting cutesy.

“Sorry to kill your buzz, but since you were too active in the past month, you won’t have any appearances this time.”

“W-what~?”

That reaction was just as bad as learning that the human race is doomed. But take this into consideration:

Last time, she was moving at an intense speed that was like getting five or six 6’s with a dice; this time, therefore, she should balance it out with a turtling pace. Please, please don’t expect more scenes during this summer.

Tossing aside the other young, cute girls in favour of the forty-year old aunt just doesn’t make sense.

And whose genius plan was this? There are, in this world, nonsensical things that either make no difference or are absolutely problematic. I want to write a complaint to a certain existence in this world… Wait, then I will become just like my cousin.

Speaking of this cousin, Touwa Erio: what is she doing today?

Just as I was about to look up to the second floor of the Touwa household, the shotgun speech of Meme-san carpeted me:

“Then my plan of ‘going to the summer festival, leaning into him on the night road coloured in a fantastic orange, eating chocolate banana, cotton candy, candy apple, cupcakes, tako-yaki, miso buns, candied fruit, and finally seduce him’ is hindered — no, ruined~!”

“Keep dreaming that grand delusion of yours.”

And aren’t you just eating the entire time? Am I paying for all that? Just what kind of expectation does this adult have for a highschooler who doesn’t even have a job?

… Summer festival, huh? If possible, I want to go with a ‘girl.’ The tide of Youth-points await me — I must dive into it.

“……”

I was just immersed in my reverie. As for who the girl walking next to me was… I’ll leave that to your imagination (I can, however, swear to the gods that it was most definitely not Meme-san).

“Hmph! Then the melodramatic story of Meme-san doing everything behind the scene will be on again!”

“Just stay home and relax, geez.”

“Hoo hoo hoo hoo~”

Meme-san made the noise of the cutest ape in the world (this isn’t a compliment please think again), apparently ready to run back into the air-conditioned room. I have to be really careful about telling her what to do — she truly is a nosy big kid.

“Oh~ Also get the laundry on your way in~”

Some such instruction replacing ‘welcome back’ was flung out of the house. Looks like that’s why she came outside. But she probably got lazy after playing (more like messing) with me. “Alright~” With a casual reply, I re-grasped the analog sticks of the bicycle (is that a correct term?). Well, I suppose it is true that I am living under her care, so it would be rude to not do it.

“Hm?” The object in my right pocket vibrated. Am I receiving a call? After checking the plasma display on my cellphone, it would appear that it was the classmate whom I only know half the name of.

It was a mail from Maekawa-san, with whom I have just traded number with. She’s really fast~ I thought while reading the message.

‘Let’s play baseball!’

The title texts already conveyed the message. Blank filled the content page.

“...Why?”

The phone rung right after as though answering my question. It's Maekawa-san. I answered.

“Hello?”

“Did you get that mail?”

Through the speaker, I had a different impression of her voice. Just a little bit, her voice changed.

“I did. Are you checking to see if I got it?”

“I'm seeing if you gave me the correct address. So quick question: do you like baseball?”

“Uh… I played a bit in elementary school. I don't even watch it on the TV now though.”

“Really? Well, we don't really mind beginners either. I was just wondering to see if you're up for some amateur baseball.”

“...Hm.” I rung the bicycle bell. “Are you a recruiter, Maekawa-san?”

“Only in the summer, actually. And you don't have to play every game: I was just trying to see if I can get someone to fill the spot. So… How do you feel about a bit of a mornin' sweat?”

“In the morning, huh.”

“It's also bit more than just baseball though.”

“Hm? What do you mean?”

“I mean it's more than just playing the game. The shopping district's team only has six members, so of course the last three has to be volunteers. Now hiring! High schoolers!”

“I feel like the notice will expose how bad the team is actually doing right now.”

“So, what do you say? I was just wondering since it’s a day before the game. You're more than welcome to say no.”

“Hm~ Well… Why not? If I feel like it I'll go. I’m a total noob though, are you sure?”

“I'm positive. Thanks for the help then. Entry fee is that you have to invite another person.”

“Sure feels like recruiting for new club members. But how come you didn't just ask me at school? Did you forget?”

“Come on, transfer student. I'm not gonna ask you that in front of Ryuushi.”

“Okay…?” I don't see the connection between Ryuushi-san and baseball, so the reply was just obligatory.

Ahahaha! With that, Maekawa-san hung up. She's one of those with a strange ecology. I still think her degree of alien-ness is second only to Erio. Ryuushi-san is just a normal human. I like that impression better, even though I know she'd be mad if I were to say that. Her NG word is 'no personality.'

Well, I think being too conspicuous is an issue too. E.G, my cousin.

I took a left at front of the entrance, toward the storage.

In front of the shed was a certain someone cleaning her telescope. Carrying that dusty thing hiding in the corner of her room all the way out into the yard, she diligently wiped at it. Perhaps noticing me behind her, she stuffed the rag into the bucket next to her feet. She spun around, scattering light.

“Yo.” I raised a hand to her. She's off-work today?

“Yo.” She imitated. Still sounds like a stiff vocal practice till this day.

This she was Touwa Erio, the daughter of the forty year old from earlier. Her profession… Freelancer?

Her hair was as though blended with blue dye number one — azure, as if governed by transparency and secrecy. Her eyes too: perhaps sharing the similarly unique irises. In all, she doesn't have the colour of a human. Despite her being a pretty girl emitting particles, I cannot candidly accept that brilliance and quality.

Was it due to the first impression? Or because I've categorized her appearance as wine glass? For your information, she has a terrible reputation in the town; she is, however, responsible for at least half of that.

Though exposing just as much skin as Meme-san was with her sagging one-piece dress, I found myself accepting the getup naturally. This must be what they call the cruelty of age: the inevitability.

These two sure are similar when it comes to never tanning — their skin is white like table salt.

“Not wearing the futon today?” I half-jokingly jabbed at her.

“Mm.” She pointed. Oh, I see her favourite futon getting a sunbath.

Erio then gazed up at me with her water-like eyes. She seemed like she wanted to say something, unwilling to look away; her hands traced the water in the bucket, as if frolicking.

“What about work?”

Currently, Erio is employed in the Tamura Shop. As of recent, her daily pay has been increased from five hundred to five hundred fifty yen — she personally came and explained to me rather excitedly.

“After this.”

Unchanged was her broken way of speaking. As clear as the words were, it was difficult to connect them into a sentence. Like about to shoot out a beam, Erio fixed her eyes on me still.

“Um… Do you, want to tell me something?” I had to ask her.

“Mm.” Now I'm sure. Erio's one hand pinched the rag and scooped it up; she watched intently as the absorbed water fell down. With her free hand, she pointed at the telescope's body.

“Telescope.”

“Okay.”

“Sky.” She raised her arm toward the sky.

“Oh, I think I get the gist of it.”

“Note.” She picked up the notebook with her wet hand.

Erio gently slapped the notebook with 'use for record' written rigidly on it. A satisfied nod.

“Summer, stargazing.”

“Oh.” I knew it. Well, she did prepare the telescope and all, so I already thought so. The concept of vacation is far gone for you. As that was very insensitive, I didn't say anything.

The moment before she said anything else, something changed on Erio's so-far expressionless face.

I might not be able to grasp every detail of her emotion, but, for analogy's sake, it's like a child who can't be honest about wanting to play with someone else: she'd run next to her target and starts playing with her toys, so the other person would give the initiative — it is the feeling of almost palpable expectation.

“The cousin, too?”

Erio's hand squished tightly at the rag. Like observing the situation, she tossed player two's controller to me.

“So what you're saying is you want me to hang out with you?”

Apparently she'd been anticipating, Erio nodded twice intensely. I don't mind the beach, but what about the reason for this? I've never once expressed interest in astronomy.

The reason, huh… Maybe she's grown attached to me? The premise being Erio having no other friends.

“Fine, sure. If I have time then we'll hang out.”

“...Ah.”

For just a second, I fell in the particles that dance and traced about Erio like comet tails. The tail wagged left and right, like that of a dog's. In the end, they dissipated into the air.

“Welcome.”

“Why are you handing out a rag to welcome someone?”

Or is it like shaking hands? Is it? I can only touch the rag?

I rejected her tribute. Even Erio unveiled her occasional defenseless smile; she turned back to cleaning the telescope. Compare to before, it was about fifty percent faster… What's up with that?

Basketball game, amateur baseball and stargazing. Even if I were to disregard the part about the summer festival…

Oh man~ Mako-kun is super popular~ ...Am I allowed to say that? Something felt off, though. Might be because I'm still not used to having a life that involves people other than me. Anxiety was stronger than the cordiality.

“...Well, whatever.”

I mumbled the conclusion to myself. Acceptance came slow, like flow in the water, gradually melting and diffusing.

Something will come along eventually; I will solve things as I see fit.

Before heading into the shed.

Hands on the bicycle handles, I looked up toward the sky.

The only conscious torso split from within — a suffocating sensation overwhelmed me.

No rain clouds — the cobalt scenery painted with water colour caught my eyes.

Blocked by the rooftop, the sun that appeared like the halfmoon stiffened my face.

I've been here for four months already. Seasons changed from spring to the summer.

Even in the town of aliens, the season's order is unchanged. What kind of Youth-point could I possibly find in the first summer out of my hometown?

“In any case...”

This summer will be spent with baseball and stargazing!

… Wait, seriously?

### 012. Chapter 1: Local-only Alien Incident

## Chapter 1 - Local-only Alien Incidents

Was it a ball or a strike? I had no idea, so I just swung.

In order to make maximum contact to the low-flying straight, I adjusted the degree.

It didn’t miss, but neither did it make a resounding hit to the centre — a roll to the third base. The third baseman, a businessman-looking guy with glasses, gingerly picked up the ball and tossed it to first base.

The unusually enthusiastic me was easily taken out. Sadly, my second batting ended there. I took off the helmet and jostled back to the resting area.

Well, whatever. The certain someone who was recruited to work as a bakery’s assistant might just be more beneficial to the team than I am.

…Like so, the second day of summer began. I immediately joined the amateur baseball team; after getting that invitation from Maekawa-san yesterday, I thought I should always try new things out. Because of that, I headed toward the river bank early this morning.

Within the first two days of break, I secretly went to a batting cage and practised catch-and-throw with a wall. Don’t tell anybody.

Since the sun was only peeking out, the time was perfect for doing outdoor things. I even saw sleepy grade schoolers on their way to do their radio callisthenic. Now that it’s been mentioned, it reminded me of waking up early during the summer when the activity was still half-mandatory — some such nostalgia swelled.

The bank had not have its pebbles and weed removed, so running was easy. If a ball were to ever fall into the river, it’d be considered a home run; since there was quite a distance from the outfield to the water, I don’t think any one of us amateurs could ever hit it that far. The ball might just end up in there if it could somehow miraculously fly along the foul line without any interruption.

Despite the sun being at a low angle, my scalps still perspired as the exercise proceeded. What reminded my skin during this time was not the searing heat of desert, but of the past rain season.

Returning from home base to the resting area, I heard the older people saying ‘good job,’ and stopped in the front of my acquaintance.

“What a shame, transfer student.”

Out of concern, I relented… Still, I took a seat next to Maekawa-san. She wasn’t personally participating in the game: she claimed that ‘she was the girl manager.’ If that’s the case, could you please have on the proper attire? I prayed.

“Are you making fun of me?”

“Nah, I think it’s pretty impressive even if you only chipped the ball.”

She shuffled the… left and right. I don’t want to expose what the ‘things’ are yet. If possible, I’d like to keep ignoring the fact and never mention it again; hence I kept Maekawa-san out of my sight and stared obliviously at the field.

Our opponent was the city side’s team. Since we, the shopping district, don’t get along well with them, both sides were fairly zealous… Well, not really: we were all just having fun. Though we were losing by two points, there hadn’t been complaints yet. In fact, you could even hear laughter. Excluding me and Maekawa-san, this is an old-men team with the youngest member being twenty five. I guess they don’t really care about winning or losing..

No uniforms either — everyone wore casuals.

“It’s only the third day anyway; nothing is set in stone. What matters, though, is in three weeks.” Even with her smile, I still failed to understand what Maekawa-san was saying.

In any case, the pitcher over there was a girl. She’s probably in high school like I am, but her pitch was rather strange: first, she twists her arm toward the left; then she curves it rightward to make an 8 shape. Finally, she released with an underhand. It looks like a softball pitch, but since I’ve only heard of the arm-spin style, I don’t know for sure. It’s just that it’s hard to time the swing, and I’m often too late.

From being struck out during my first batting, I tried swinging earlier. The result was a roll. At least, when compared to the 100kmph ball at the batting cage, her pitches are trickier.

By the way, about her wearing the uniform — it must have been tricky for the older guys too in a different way. Like the skirt fluttering. What stood out the most to me, though, was her rubbing her eyes listlessly, as if she was forced to show up. No, I’m not kidding. Still, what a masterpiece it is to see a girl in summer uniform bustling in a baseball field~ Credits will still be given where it’s due.

“She’s from our school, isn’t she?” Judging from the uniform.

“Yep. The captain of our softball club… I don’t remember her name. We’ve only met once last year when I joined for a while. I think she’s called Hana…zawa?”

Even though she was staring daggers at the person on that hill, her tone sounded equivocal.

“…Was that who your outfit reminded you of?”

“Yep.”

“……” The stance of ignorance has reached its limit. So, we shall talk about ‘it.’

Maekawa-san was wearing a fish costume today.

Since her face was poking out of the giant mouth, she looked like she was about to be devoured from the side.

At first, when I got here and saw her, I almost asked the fish store’s owner ‘what do ya think about this?’ But neither the shopping district people nor those of the city side paid any particular attention to Maekawa-san — they’re probably used to it. Maybe they see her as the mascot of a professional team?

Another pair of eyes followed us for a different reason… Maekawa-san didn’t care, so I followed suit.

“What do you call this outfit?”

“Katsuo.”

“……” I intentionally said nothing. It’s not like I’m Nakajima.

The fins seem to be where the arms are. Even though she flapped her arms about, I pretended to not see.

I know Maekawa-san is a little loose upstairs, but from our exams last semester I know she’s better than Ryuushi-san and I when it comes to academics. She’s also created a new historical record in the P.E exams — the kind you shouldn’t be proud of.

“This is the ‘one-handed-fishing’ type.”

“I don’t see what’s so different.” I can’t even fathom what the other kinds look like.

“What do you think of the match so far?”

“Weird. I feel like the girl in yukata from last time seemed to be more enthusiastic about this than I am.” I sensed extreme enjoyment of baseball from that girl.

“Girl, huh…?”

The face hiding inside the mouth grinned mischievously. The surreality of this whole thing pinnacled with the bonito’s inorganic eyes that focused nowhere.

The white ball flying out from the hand of Hanazawa-san (subject to change) shot toward the third batter (I was second)… Yamamoto-san? The rocket guy we met at the beach during June (he was the other helper brought by the man who owns the Yakitori shop). It went by the bat and landed in the catcher’s gloves gracefully. Top of fourth inning, 3 strikeouts on the third bat. In other words, no one made it to first base.

“Change~ Keep it up with the defence too.”

The fins encouraged me on the way out. If she could wearing something like a team uniform and sit at the resting area with arms crossed, instead of that out-of-place seafood outfit (that doesn’t mean I want her to wear river fish outfit though) she might have the air of a beautiful lady coach instead.

I thought it was wasteful, but also ‘well, it’s more Maekawa-esque this way, right?’ Thus begin the stage of acceptance. I struggled to put together a conclusion under the chaotic thoughts; grabbing the gloves lent to me, I stood from the bench.

“I suck at defence; don’t count on it.”

“Ahahah, you’re so pessimistic, transfer student. I bet you’re like an esper who refuses to go to a TV show but likes to point and yell at a TV screen.”

Getting to point Z from A. I had hoped that she would at least call me ‘humble,’ or that I have a clear understanding of how good I am: I’m just aware that I can’t fully rely on my hidden potential, and that’s worked out so far. That’s why when I first met Erio I… Well, it really doesn’t matter now.

As for the TV thing, it’s mostly correct, though I do try not to talk to myself. I was, therefore, shocked — Maekawa-san’s keen eye is not to be underestimated. Still, she should probably start reflecting about herself.

I jogged toward the infield and stood at first base. I actually wanted to be at this position the least — the chance of encountering the ball is, after all, the highest. For someone who rarely play catch ball, just when would I miss a throw, or simply fall backward? The anxiety was killing me.

Luckily, I can still perform the act of catching a ball. So far, no obvious mishaps.

Show me what you got! I knocked on the glove, waiting for it to end peacefully. By it, I don’t mean just one thing.

Continuing the last inning, the person standing on the hill would appear to be Maekawa-san’s ‘pops.’ According to prior observation, no one else could have been staring holes into me, who sat next to his daughter at the resting area. Just before the game, Maekawa-san introduced me to the team: “This is my friend. His name is, uh, Shiwa-kun.” I thought I said Niwa~! Ignore the horribly mistaken name that would seemingly make me thirty years older — a dad witnessing his daughter bringing a guy along: imagine how shocked he was. It’s no wonder he didn’t think I was ‘just a friend.’

His jaw looked like it would fall onto the ground. I didn’t know how to react, so I kept a dumbfound look on. That’s probably why the misunderstanding was so severe. My attitude was kinda like ‘the boyfriend who was suddenly introduced to his girlfriend’s dad,’ huh. Now that I'm thinking about it, I’m agonizing over my failure.

In the dad’s brain, the misunderstanding is going to transform like a three-stage monster: ‘friend -> boyfriend -> wuss.” The possibility was not entirely deniable.

And perhaps because of that whole thing, Maekawa-san’s dad had terrible control of his pitches. Maybe the batters were scared of almost being shot? It’s kind of funny how the score difference didn’t get any bigger — not so much when someone is glaring at me from the side.

Maekawa-san didn't seem to mind, though, kicking her flippers against the ground. After making eye contact with me, her already-sharp eyes squinted even more. Though difficult to tell from under the shade, she seemed to be smiling. I smiled back and lightly waved my left hand.

Stepping onto the first base from four balls, the boy who never swung his bat took off his helmet. He turned and glanced at me, unveiling a cordial smile.

It looks like the only high schoolers on that team were also just Hanazawa-san and this guy. He had a head of blonde hair, giving off the air of a cool bro-type person: in all, he seem like an amicable guy.

And I suppose that's why? Even when he spoke to me, who belonged on the other team, it seemed neither hostile nor startling.

“Did you know?” The guy I've never met before easily produced a sentence ending with a question mark.

“Know what?” I kept my eyes toward the batter while asking him to reveal the mystery.

“About our pitcher.”

“Hm.” Hanazawa-san, right?

“If you stand on the left side of the batter's box, you can see beneath her skirt.”

“...For real?” I had to turn around and ask.

“Course not.”

He displayed a free-flowing attitude and exposed the punchline.

...Oho, is this a ritual?

It's a way to ascertain whether the other person is a friend, or someone who can't be spoken freely with: students came up with it to see if they can get along. Simply put, it's a signal for me to make my move.

I put on a smile after receiving it. Youth can also be obtained from a guy friend.

“I'm Nakajima. You?”

There it is, Nakajima. He may be on the other team, but the sense of miraculous meeting with the perfect side characters diffused in my chest. Needless to say, he had no clue about my excitement behind the silence. Nakajima, who observed me without any lenses, suspiciously titled his head; frantically, I told him my name.

“Niwa Makoto.” I thought about calling myself Isono, but since there's already a Katsuo, I'm going to stop myself.

“I knew it — you're that transfer student.”

“Does that mean we go to the same school?”

“Yeah. Different class though.”

Nakajima reached his kind-looking right hand toward me; despite it being the middle of a match, I shook hand with him. If I remember correctly, the rules in baseball are that you're not supposed to be too friendly with your opponents. Well no, maybe just in some manga… Or maybe not? I thought while the two sweaty hands made contact. Nakajima had short fingers, but his palm was bigger than mine.

But wait, it's already been a semester since I transferred here. Yet the name 'transfer student' is still circulating. The expiration date of my well-known status is truly astonishing.

It’s not like the fact that I transferred here is enough to shock the school that much. Well, middle school aside, I guess it is rarer to transfer after high school. Besides, I do secretly hold the fuse to scandals.

Touwa Erio. If our relationship were to be divulged, yet another fire may rise among the class. The same metaphor applies even for how news spread in a school: in just the blink of an eye, you will no longer have an escape.

…Nothing much can be done to that, though. Either way, I already know my answer. Still, I’m apprehensive to the thought.

“What dragged ya here, transfer student?”

With a bit of a dialect, Nakakjima asked the reason of my presence. After making sure Maekawa Dad’s stiff pitch ended up as a strike, I spoke.

“Nothing. Maekawa-san told me to.”

“Oh~ You’re pretty close, huh,”

He gracefully painted his face full of obscene curiosity, arbitrarily postulating me and Maekawa-san’s friendship. I hope he’d stop: if it were to make it into Maekawa dad’s ears, he might just take the anger out on me.

“But I thought you were…?”

“Hm?”

“Oh, uh… Well, I just thought you are into weird girls.”

“I do not hold romantic feelings for sea creatures.”

Though I love deep sea fishes, it’s like viewing an artistic masterpiece… That’s still a bit too much though, since we’re talking animals. Similar to defining emotion, it is a situation that no amount of contemplation would yield an answer.

Like attempting to check your own back, only anxiety would culminate.

“Ohoh, is your magnanimity why you’re so popular, master?”

“That’s totally not what I said, but what about you? I really want to learn how to have a good-looking face like yours.”

Nakajima laughed, seemingly awkwardly, after my retort. Did I step on a landmine? Maybe he thinks his face isn’t good-looking at all… If he does then the other guys would probably stone him.

“You live around the shopping districts, right? Since you’re on that side…”

Nakajima moved the conversation along calmly. “I wonder~” While watching Maekawa Dad’s third pitch become a passed ball and the catcher franticly going after it, I gave an equivocal response.

“If we’re talking about where I live, then I’d say the city. However.”

“However?”

The Touwa would probably be on the same side as Tamura Obaa-san. But am I part of the Touwa family?

“My~ Silly Mako-kun! So polite and so shy! You have to make your heart the same as your eyes that screams ‘My’ instead of ‘Miss’ and become Touwa Makoto! Marriage YES!”

Some voice I’m hearing. It’s supposed to be just imagination, but the sound is really driving me nuts.

So there’s the whole shopping district vs city thing, huh?

Might as well ask the guy who seems mostly neutral.

“Is regional rivalry actually a thing here in this town?”

“A lot of people live here: there are those who do, but many don’t care either way.”

I’m probably the latter, Nakajima shrugged as he added. “There are kids at school who were bullied for that stuff though.” His tone was as though discussing other countries’ problems: lacking emotions, like a comment with no sense of reality. I, too, glossed over with a ‘oh.’

But I also think that if we can create a society free of discrimination, humans can at least survive for another 30,000 years. Or maybe because ‘bullying’ exists as an outlet, things around get done?

“But it’s the worst during the time between big events. Especially now.”

“Hm?”

“Because it’s a mess every year during the summer festival.”

That’s why we play ball, Nakajima mumbled enigmatically. I didn’t understand what he meant, so I’ll leave it for now. Summer festival — the dream of youth. The candidates for my partner… Three people? Erio included. If I were to say that the momentary thought didn’t contain any lies, I’d be helpless. Well actually, it wouldn’t be a problem, right? As usual, I will ignore the omen-like whisper. No, I can’t. For some mysterious reason, I just cannot accept the notion.

There are certain secrets and hidden thoughts.

I respect the heart that refuses to admit these things — even if it means the loss of youth points.

Pointlessly, I fought against something.

Spending time calculating the probability of Maekawa-san sincerely dressing up with a Yukata might just be… just as pointless.

“Oh, um.”

Still stuck at first base, Nakajima spoke slightly hesitantly.

“Hm?”

“I’m a little too polite, aren’t I?”

“Too polite… Hm, just a bit.” He certainly sounded distant.

“To be honest, I thought that if I started something too serious, I’d ruin whatever flow we got going.”

'But I still wanted to try.' Like a dishonest girl, Nakajima explained to me his motivation and the reason for his tone. Please don’t do this to me.

I had thought that the reason of such awkwardness is because we just met, but there seemed to be another reason.

“Don’t you have something you wanna say to me?” He might be interested in Maekawa-san.

“Don’t sweat it: the fun of choices is also in pretending the meeting by chance didn’t happen.”

As if peering at something bright, Nakajima squinted while glancing around.

“Our pitcher is really damn good, huh.”

Again with the mental gymnastic. Completely irrelevant. Do I not have the right to cast the die?

“I can never hit her pitches.”

As I declared my defeat, Nakajima shot me a stray smile and gunned toward the second base. What just happened?! My eyes followed him blindly. Well, it’s just a steal. A failed steal.

The catcher, guy who runs the flower shop, seemed prideful of his right shoulder. It must be rare for an amateur to stop a steal. He’s even hugging it out with Maekawa dad. It’s like the game’s over or something.

So this was an amateur game that allows for base stealing? Well, the kids’ rule of ‘five out-of-bounds equals strike’ should be a tell-tale sign of how liberal the rules are.

Nakajima beamed an embarrassed smile, mostly toward me, while moving closer to the resting area. I didn’t know how to react to that, so I simply smiled.

“…Sigh.” I exhaled, looking toward the ascending summer sun.

Like so, I played a game of baseball.

A random group competition nowhere close to sweat, tear and Koushi-en.

Will I list this as part of the daily life of summer? I’ve yet to decide.

In accordance the rules of the game, the competition ended at the sixth innings. The result: 3 — 0. A complete defeat on our part.

Or we can call it an utter wreckage, since not one of us made it onto a base, making it a perfect game.

Hanazawa-san had on her face still an inpatient look, apathetic to the result.

As for me, setting my batting record aside, I've gotten compliments from the old guys… My smile? Half and half of courtesy and sourness, maybe even a little awkward.

A couple of lame bow, and then we were done for the day… That would have been the idea, but the losers apparently have to clean the field out of tradition, so we're far from finished. According to the guys, 'we're gettin' better at cleanin' than baseballin'!' So they've been on a losing streak?

“See ya.” After packing up, Nakajima came to say bye before leaving the bank. “Bye.” Seeing my brief response, he scurried over to a bicycle. Was he being held up? Now that I think about it, I still don't get why he came by.

Following that, while I was cleaning the field with those one of those long-shafted tools, the rocket guy came to talk to me. It's Yamamoto-san. That's what Meme-san calls him, but is it really his name?

“Hey, you are… The boy living in Touwa Meme's house?'

“I am.” Space stalker + Maekawa-san's fan, as well as Meme-san's friend — quite a colourful resume. I think I would prefer to not know the full content of it though.

“How's Meme doing?”

“If you can call a forty year old women who acts like a five or six year old 'energetic,' then she is doing very well.”

She even eats the same thing as Erio and I, so just how efficient is her mileage? I could only think that she must have taken the energy drained from others and threw it into the burner.

“Did she, mention anything about me?”

With an anticipating and fidgety demeanour, he asked. Hey hey hey, is this dude...?

“Nope, nothing.”

Since whenever she won't shut up, I just ignore half of what she says; she might have mentioned Yamamoto-san somewhere along the line, but I have decided to not give hope with any false information. “I see.” Yamamoto-san clearly looked disappointed, shoulders slouching. Now I'm sure.

I didn't think he is so loyal to Meme-san… Their age is close, and I will admit Meme-san looks really young for a forty year old… Well, whatever. I'm not so dense as to ruin someone else's love life. My aunt sure is popular.

But I just couldn't imagine the sight of some guy next to Meme-san, sitting around the table in the Touwa Household.

Yamamoto-san shambled away like the summer heat, beginning the act of picking up rocks. What happened next was the sneaky… I didn't hear it or anything, but I felt it. By then I was already used to it. But I pretended to have not notice: please ask your own daughter about our relationship.

Clean up complete. With my arm, I swiped away more sweat than from during the game while leaving the field. Because Maekawa-san was still sitting in the resting area, I decided to go over with the intent of saying bye before heading home.

“Well done, transfer students.”

Maekawa-san gave me her consolation, at the same time handing three triangular objects wrapped in plastic wrap on her fin.

“What is this?”

“Rice balls.”

“No, I don't mean that.”

“I made these for your breakfast~”

“Oh~” I was quietly moved by the reward for joining this amateur baseball game.

I can't believe I got handmade breakfast from a classmate — truly, it was serendipity.

Visually speaking, it was like getting a pearl from a dolphin I saved. Despite knowing that Maekawa Dad will only glare harder, I still gratefully accepted them and peeled the wrap off, all the while taking a seat next to Maekawa-san.

Enjoying the classmate's — no, self-proclaimed manager's handmade rice balls after a baseball game: it's nothing innovative, but certainly a steady development of youth. I guess it's about +2 points.

Meanwhile I kept an eye on her father's watchful stares — perhaps things will actually go to a better direction. The joy of hiding behind grown-ups and enjoying the mischief flared.

In the first rice ball was a slightly-sweet sauce.

“Ah, it's eel.”

“Just some stuff left in the shop.”

“Haven't had it in a while.” Tastes good. “And there is this, uh, what do you call it, the eel dish here.”

“Hitsu-mabushi.”

“Yeah, that stuff.”

“I think it's actually something you can buy everywhere now.”

“Here.” Maekawa-san watched me eat, and handed a thermos to me. If the fin could be removed, everything would be perfect. “Thanks.” I took the bottle and poured the cold drink into my cup, before emptying it in one gulp. Ahh, a cup of tea after cleaning up tastes so good. So what was I planning on doing again?

“So why did you make rice balls for me?”

“It's thanks for your work. Rice (nice) job.”

“Work? You're kidding, right? All I did was roll the ball.”

“Nah, you made the ball roll forward.”

“Well yeah. If it went backward it would have been a foul.”

“That's not what I'm saying, transfer student. You're just too shy.”

Maekawa-san gently shut her eyes with the embracing smile of a guardian. If it weren't for the bonito's dead-eye, it would have been a praise-worthy sight.

You could say it's befitting of Maekawa-san though.

The content in my pocket shook, emitting a muffled synthetic sound. “Oh, a mail.”

“My guess is Ryuushi.”

“Not telling.” She’s probably correct though.

I shoved the last bit of the rice ball into my mouth before taking the phone out of my pocket. Today would probably be a day full of mails — I brought my phone under the assumption. I didn’t take it out during defence either: what would I do if I had to pounce to the sides? Despite it being my own issue, I thought of it from an outsider's view.

In the span of two days there were about thirty or so messages saved in the mailbox. Like fruits during a harvest, their chance of appearance exploded. I maximized the mail’s content.

‘Mornin’~ Are ya up yet, Niwa-kun? Soz if not. I just woke up~’

A trivial but cute message; a normal message that is the polar opposite of Meme-san’s overly abstract ‘shuu~ bang~’ message.

I checked the time as well: it’s just passed eight o’ clock. From the previous emails, it can be deduced that Ryuushi-san usually wakes up around this time during breaks.

Ryuushi-san never uses emoticons in her mails. The reason being ‘if everyone’s using it, it’s not hip any more~ Being a chara-hunta, that’s a big no-no.’

Or maybe because others girls have stopped using it too? I don’t have the galls to ask something like that. With a bit of effort, I replied firmly, ‘I’m up already. Good morning.’

“What a boring reply.”

“Uwah!” The fish on the side disapproved its entertainment value.

“Don’t you plan on writing something that would make Ryuushi laugh?”

“If I do, she would try to one-up me and crash and burn.”

Not even kidding — she lost about four hours of sleep a couple of days ago.

Upon hearing that, Maekawa-san raised the corner of her mouth amusedly.

“Fine. I guess it is a little too demanding to expect her to write well.”

She nonchalantly said something rude. I reached for the second rice ball and asked.

“Have you and Ryuushi-san texted each other at all?”

“Nope, none whatsoever. Ryuushi never sent me a thing.”

“Oh… Hm?”

I sensed a gaze different from Maekawa dad’s. Looking up, it was from Hanazawa-san, who had yet to return home, staring from a distance away. Actually, following her line of sight it was probably the rice ball on my hand. “Give me rice ball.” If her eyes could speak, the message would probably be summarized with these four words. Perhaps because of our eye contact, Hanazawa-san stepped toward this direction.

If this were a fairy tale, I’d probably have some good luck if I share a rice ball with her.

I looked over at Maekawa-san; she seemed to have noticed and gave a fast reply:

“It’s already yours, transfer student. It up to you to keep it or give it.”

“Hm~” She pushed the liability back to me. But to give Maekawa-san’s rice ball to someone else…

Meme-san’s breakfast awaits me when I return. If I refuse to sit down at the table, she’ll probably throw a tantrum. Or maybe she’d call my mother, saying stuff like ‘Mako-kun is so rebellious! He’s been holding back too hard on being an Oba-con and now he’s fallen to sniffing… Kyaah~!’ The hallucination is as strong as ever, I see.

I will probably be seen as a sniffer for the rest of my life in the Touwa family. A patch of darkness rose form my heart. Well, rest of my life meaning till I graduate high school, and after that… my parents will be back. Will I miss this place once I have to move back with my parents? Currently I am… unwilling, but not opposing.

I suppose that’s just how I am with things.

Enough about this.

Since I still have breakfast waiting for me later, two rice balls is probably enough. Even if I am in the time when I can eat a lot, I’m not some beefcake in a sports club; even that much was a little too much for me anyway.

I raised the third rice ball and beckoned. Hanazawa-san cautiously took the long road, coming from not the front but the side. Only she would know if the act was purposeful.

Looking closely, rather than Hanazawa-san, she’s more like ‘MAKO*O”. I’m not saying she looks like me, but that her short, auburn hair, and her uniform made her look like she could leap through time. Her tanned skin was also incomparable with Maekawa-san’s or mine.

“Can I?”

Her crisp, water-like whisper confirmed my conscience. Chewing the rice in my mouth, I nodded. I am a little curious about what’s in the rice ball though.

Despite being temporarily named that, she didn’t seem to have a tough personality.

“Please, Hanazawa-san.” I accidentally called her so without knowing her name.

“Thank you, Isono-san.”

The immediate reply indicated adaptability, what with the bonito on my side. So what does this make me? The guy with the long face… can’t remember his name, but the classmate that shows up every now and then.

“You should say that to my neighbour.”

I’m just the middle man. Hanazawa-san peeled the wrap away and bowed at Maekawa-san.

“Thanks, Maekawa.”

“Don’t mention it. So why are you wearing your uniform?”

“Yeah, I have club practice later.”

“Sounds rough.”

Maekawa-san earnestly sympathized; Hanazawa-san’s listless expression lowered even more.

“You can tell, huh?”

“Easily.” Maekawa-san nodded sharply. Looking at her, Hanazawa-san grinned weakly while shifting attention to me. As though explaining, she spoke.

“I don’t hate the club; it’s just too much work.”

“Oh…” With minimal reaction, I bit into the rice ball. It’s pickled eggplant this time.

Being a contrast to the sweet-and-spicy sauce from before, the taste of salt was even more accentuated.

Hanazawa-san also bit into her rice ball, chewing lightly while looking over me. Her sleeves occasionally flipped upward; the tan line could be easily seen. Am I a little weird feeling excited by this disparity of coffee and white?

“How’s the taste?”

Maeakawa-san asked for Hanazawa-san’s thought. “I might just marry into your family.”

“Mm~ that’s going to be a little hard without my dad divorcing.”

Sounded like she contemplated on that seriously.

Hanazawa stopped before the third bite; for a different reason, she opened her mouth.

“You are… Maekawa’s boyfriend?”

Cough, cough!

“Ahahahah! Hear that, transfer student?”

Am I supposed to show comprehension? I almost suffocated on the plum covered in rice. Is it really not abnormal for me to be with a fish? …That’s not the problem.

While choking on the rice, I made sure to look around. If Maekawa dad were around, I wouldn’t be too surprised if he loses his cool… Oh, he’s all the way out there. Good.

“I guess the days when the transfer student dresses up like a mackerel isn’t too far off.”

And here the daughter was, laughing at her own jokes insouciantly.

“That’s another level of bad compared to idiot couples and their matching outfits.”

“Isn’t that right. Also, the transfer student is like, um… The guy…” she rolled her eyes about. “Oh yeah! The guy who tried to drown himself.”

With fingers pointed to, I was now the suicide volunteer. “Hah?” I cocked my head quizzically, only to realize at the word ‘drown.’

Was she talking about that E.* thing that happened late April?

The day when I rode a rusty bicycle into the sea with Erio. So that’s the story that’s being passed around the school? Nakajima’s attitude makes sense now, since the name transfer student had been branded with that rumour before that status was gone.

Speaking of which, Ryuushi-san also tried to explain to me something about suicide when she visited. Well, shoot. While I was busy messing around with Ryuushi-san after school, being tricked by Maekawa-san, playing tono-san with Erio (stripping the futon off her) all while dealing with Meme-san, the rumour that I was a suicidal bastard spread in the school. I guess I slacked a little too much.

It’s fortunate that the fact that I ‘jumped with Erio’ was unmentioned, but without that I really seem straight-up done with life.

“Oh, I gotta go.” Hanazawa-san grumbled melancholily while eyeing the bike moving on the bank. “Thanks~” Jogging toward the road, she raised the rice ball in appreciation of me and Maekawa-san.

“Mhm.” Staring at her back, Maekawa-san nodded satisfactorily for some reason.

“If you don’t figure out how to deal with Hanazawa’s pitch, victory will ne’er come.”

“Um, isn’t that mission impossible?”

“The future of this team rests upon you, transfer student.”

“Um, no… Not possible. What’s an amateur like me gonna do?”

And we all are. With no regard to me, Maekawa-san smiled joyfully.

“Even if you suck, just fake it till you make it, am I right?”

I almost choked again listening to the statement that almost sounded like an indirect criticism; I took the tea Maekawa-san passed over and washed the rice down. After two more coughs, I replied.

“I just can’t do it.”

“I see. Makes sense.”

Maekawa-san’s jaw shrunk with the bonito’s costume.

“Seems like you’re the type of person who will refuse to start anything.”

She commented on my character, as though able to discern the essence of it. Bullseye — I could only reply with painful silence. As if she saw through me, Maekwa-san continued.

It's neither good nor bad about my personality.

“Will you still join us next time?”

Or rather, it had nothing to do with whatever she said earlier.

“Next time, the transfer student and his shocking development! — You can’t say for sure that that won’t happen next time, right?” The hell did she say?

Sure thing~ I could only mumble, unable to showed definite interest in joining.

Why did I join an amateur baseball team? I’m not some top player — just some guy who came to fill the spot.

Maekawa-san’s invitation was an extrinsic reason that had nothing to do with me.

Hm.

I have to use a different reason. And it’s true: a girl’s request is hard to refuse.

In the end.

“…Only if I can eat you handmade rice balls next time.”

I couldn’t say no to my materialistic desire.

As I closed to home, the cicadas were already screaming deafening noise along the road.

After pushing the bicycle into the Touwa’s, I saw Erio at the corner of the yard doing the radio callisthenic.

“Chang~ Chang~ Kachang~ Chawang~ Changi~ Chakachang~ Chang…”

Even though there wasn’t a radio. As expected of the delusional girl, who can easily replace a radio…? The melody that she sung to herself while happily exercising… Hmmm.

The movement and singing that brought out her tender qualities almost made me think her cute.

She wore a white one-piece today with no futon. The self-deception didn’t work today: the sun drove her away from that heat.

“Chang~ Chang chang~ Chang chang~ chang chang~”

Chang chang chang~ Even I hummed along. And she caught me. Erio flung her hair; traces of the particles shot out as she turned. Every time when they fade or reappear, the world around her will shimmer along.

“Yo.”

“Morning, cousin.”

Neither shied nor shaken. I would have been crushed by the embarrassment if we were flipped — I would have been able to sympathize with Erio’s hiding in futon.

Erio moved closer, stepping on the rampant weed on her bare feet. Ah~ she ran out again without her shoes. She’s already been a student, so why does she still refuse to wear shoes?

“Where have you been?”

“The river. We went to play baseball.”

“Baseball.”

A naive repetition. She increased the frequency of blinks, staring at me with flickering eyes. She’s not thinking ‘the cousin doesn’t go with baseball~’ right?

I gazed at her mysterious eyeballs; occasionally I think that maybe she could see things that I can’t, which is why the whole alien thing happened… Well, now’s not the time for those kind of dreams. “Well then.” Please go on with your exercise. I reminded her while pushing the bicycle.

The wheels cranked, the mud and grass it rolled over sung gently. Then the sound of footsteps came; I looked back, and an azure burned into my retina.

I thought the hair was water or waves, with fishes swimming within.

For some reason she pulled on my neck and called 'cousin.' You could have at least pulled on my sleeve or something! “What?”

“Tonight too.”

“Yeah, yeah, I know.”

I immediately realized her intention and replied quickly. Erio's request for this summer, particular during the night, is to star gaze. Since she came to me, it must mean that the weather will be clear the entire day. At the moment, Erio is the person most concerned about news right now. Unlike when we first met, she no longer tries to receive intelligence from white noises of the screen.

“Are you done?”

“Mm.” She flexed her biceps to visually assent that she's done… What a twig-looking arm.

Like a child who couldn't wait to see her favourite weekly show, Erio happily looked up to me with a big smile. Every time when I answer yes to helping her out with that summer-project-wannabe, she will unconditionally beam at me that heart-skipping particle grin. And every time, I would refuse to look straight at her.

Looking at her directly made me feel like a part of my head would spin uncontrollably.

My phone shook from the signal that hail from a distance. Is it Ryuushi-san's mail? ...It indeed was.

“What the heck! The breakfast was ham and egg! I am under a starving attack!”

There's a picture attached too: a white patternless plate with cherry tomatoes, scrambled eggs, ham laid out like the three kingdoms on the edge of the plate. From the blurry image, I could tell it's an alluring colour.

But for a self-proclaimed fruitarian, this must have been a difficult set up.

If — and I mean if — I get the chance to eat with Ryuushi-san during the break, I must pick the restaurant carefully. But I remember her saying something about noodles being okay.

As for my reply… “It's almost Obon, so the Wasteful Spirits will show up. Just try your best!” The text does feel a bit ad lib, but almost detached; yet, I sent it just the way it was.

“The cousin, likes baseball?”

I put the bicycle back into the storage; after coming out, I was flung an unexpected question by Erio who seemed to be blocking the entrance. Oh man. With the slight surprise of a parent enjoying his child's strange behaviour, I looked to Erio's eyes. She seemed upset, twiddling her hair while faced down.

I remember asking her the same question unwittingly before.

“Are you interested?”

Erio shook her head wildly; she then took a step back away from me.

“...Oh.”

I vaguely prodded. “Awuu, awuu!” She swung her head of long hair even faster, her face turning even redder.

She was just like someone who was embarrassed to be caught fallen asleep and somehow refuses to admit it.

So dishonest, the two of us. Is it because we're cousins?

In the end she ran away. Erio hid next to the wall and began the second part of the callisthenics, during which I kept looking. After seeing her glances, I went back into the Touwa household.

On the hallway extending from the entrance, Meme-san laid on the floor as though enjoying the coldness on the floor. Her pose was like an insincerely begging for forgiveness, with her butt up and face down. Hair spread every where on the floor, I thought it's 'now coming out from the television screen.'

If that guy saw the this scene, would his fanatically burning love freeze?

“Zzz~ Zzz~ ...Yay~ Meme-chin's won the young men's vote for the town's popularity poll… Zzz~”

“Um, I think it's only been a grand total of five second since voting started.” And you're the only one voting.

“Morning~ Mako-tan.”

With her face still kissing the floor, she asked with an obscure voice.

“...Please call me something normal.”

How come she's the only one who keeps calling me different names? Why couldn't it be my friends or Erio? It sure would suck if it's because I'm only getting along better with my aunt.

“Mako, Mako, tan-tan.”

“Sorry for making an impossible request for my abnormal aunt.”

Each person have things they can and cannot do. There are things that are inherently impossible though.

For example, flying with a bicycle.

Or arriving here from a different planet.

And me becoming a baseball game hero.

Being able to give up easily allows for a timely life with mental stability.

Suddenly, Meme-san snapped upright. The clear red marks on her face suited that airhead look of hers. It might even help cover the wrinkles — my throat will definitely be crushed if I said it.

According to Meme-san herself, she's normal about every three years. So as far as the time I will be spending here is concerned, it'll probably never happen. Just as I casually thought of a retort, Meme-san grinned tauntingly.

As though she had read my mind, she began chatting about some seemingly irrelevant things. I've gradually adapted to her unholy ability of connecting the dots. Not because this is where aliens live, but because Meme-san herself is just such a life form. My stress has gone down significantly ever since I started thinking this way.

“Hmhmhm, time actually flows differently for me.”

“I guess, since you can never get your age right.”

“How could it be! Two birthdays a year! Meaning, I'm only half my age! What~! I'm only twenty~ Aha!”

Dude! Logic! You're being too nice! Get outta there! Please send this forty year old back! You don't want to? Really?

“In, other, words! Normal Meme will be there in a year and a half, which is when Mako-kun is going to graduate! Meme's flower will once again bloom!”

“It's already faded.”

“I will steal your heart as we part!”

“I'm already ready to part.”

A (one-person)smile-filled, happy-looking (from the side) family.

Nighttime — if it were the country where I lived, it'd be the time when frogs cry.

Probably because of the lack of farm around here, other kinds of insects chirped about.

Reading a book Ryuushi-san lent me, I killed time under the suffocating heat. As the guest in the house, I refused to use the AC.

“…...” I've reached halfway.

Currently, I fear Australia: the southern hemisphere terrifies me. Reading a book like this deeply instilled a sense of regret in me, but at the same time, I've grown to learn how safe my life has been, being able to read a book in a room on a clean bed. Even though I am constantly harassed by a non-human like my aunt everyday, I would never trade this life away… And that'd be horrific if I can start seeing things that way. Personally, brainwashing should only be limited to being mesmerized by a girl.

I flipped over, grabbing onto the phone by the pillow. It's not like there's a new message, but I still checked the history every now and then; then, I'd grin smugly remembering the exchange between me and Ryuushi-san.

If there were mirrors scattered in this room, I'll probably be sick of my disgusting smile.

I opened up the reply to the message 'you can do it!' that I sent to her after she expressed her dissatisfaction with breakfast.

“Mom said the same thing. Are ya spyin' on the Mifune?”

Does she suspect me of planting a bug in her house?

Speaking of which, I haven't even been to Ryuushi-san's house. Only if I could visit in the future. Her room must be filled with the sweet scent of Ryuushi-san… I totally meant to say 'so what?'

Explaining kind of kills it, but what I meant to say it's tantalizing.

“Kousin.”

“Hah?” A familiar, futon-covered voice summoned me from the hall.

Despite it being the middle of a tropical night, the stifled-looking monster crept into the room, enveloped in her favourite Calamus-patterned futon. On the way in, half her body bumped into the unopened door along the wall, almost tipping her over.

“What's the matter, futon roll? Sports meet at the cemetery?”

An outfit that displays perseverance without the courage test, huh. Closing the book, I sat up.

“It is tiem for stergeyzing.”

I looked up to the clock, replying, “Ah~ right, it's already the time? So what's up with that getup?”

“Bug rehelant.”

“Bug repellant? Sure, keep it on.”

With no intent of pointing out the problem, I decided to head straight out. The telescope weighing over eight kilo was carried by me; Erio, who almost fell downstairs, was also transported along. The results of not being bound by futons for twenty four hours a day seemed to be the deterioration of sensation. What a useless skill she had accrued.

I held her back and made sure she put on the sandals before she flew out. The melanin-lacking skin that looked as it'd bleed when merely touched kept a strange cold… Wait, no. Why do I gotta baby her so much? It's not like we're princess and servant. Despite complaining, I did not let go of the foot in hand.

Gazing into the sky on a summer night — certainly a good development for Youth-points, yet not so much after having to take care of the cousin who's just as circuitous as her wrapped appearance… I'm not being a worry-wart, am I?

Putting on my sandals as well, I opened up the door. As far as the distance though, we're really just going outside to the yard — the yard that is crawling with a congregation of insects. The uncanny sound, when listened closely to, was as though the sight of pure whiteness will tear at the deep part of your memories. Motionless air held the remains of day, the warmth; even the sky was clear, perfect for stargazing. Though I have to admit the expression is kind of strange when the sun was absent.

Anywhere outside of the house was off-limit to Erio, the reason being Meme-san's certain orders.

It was a dialogue from a while ago. I'm guessing it was the second Sunday of May.

In the living room, Meme-san wagged her finger, 'tsk, tsk, tsk,' in front of Erio.

“You can't, Erio. When it's late in the city~” She paused and eyed over here for some reason. “There's a lotta hungry wolves waiting for a cute sheep like you~” I don't care if you want to scare her or something, but what was the look for, Oba(a)san?

“Wolf?”

Did she not understand the analogy? Erio cocked her head lightly. “Oh my~ Meme-san appeared ecstatic somehow.

“Ah~ You're just too darn pure! I just wanna to protect you!” She said so while squeezing Erio tightly. I would have pushed off right away, the weather being so damn hot, but Erio only seemed confused with a reddened face and didn't resist.

So Erio does love her mom, huh~ Is it because she only had a mom at home? Well, I guess for certain people the personality or appearance of a puppy is just their soft spot. But seriously… What an extreme niche.

Still, Erio is much more grounded now that her rebellious phase against the human race has passed, so at least she wouldn't disobey Meme Obaa-san anymore. No wonder she quietly accepted the curfew.

End flashback.

The stars in the sky could have only been observed with a telescope; their actual danger to her will not be on a physical level.

Truth to be told, that Erio, who has such good sleeping schedule after ditching her antic, probably wouldn't stay out late even after getting a little more confident. If I don't go with her then, hahaha… Uh, 'scue me? Why's the assumption that I have to do everything with her? Am I her legs?

With the rationale 'I'll deal with it later,' I tossed all sorts of worries aside before setting the telescope up. I'm not sure how I would feel carrying this humongous telescope on a hike anyhow, to be frank.

“Alright, alright, you're free to look at whatever you want.” Just not yourself.

“…...”

“...Hmghng!” Erio hopped about, twisting the entire futon around.

Looks like she had noticed how she is prevented from both the mosquitoes and actually looking at the stars. She should have realized the moment when she donned the thing.

According to herself, she's taking measures because she took too much damage from the bloodsuckers yesterday. Too bad she should have thought about using the bug spray.

I guess it's commendable to want to move forward by trying things on your own, but uh~ you can't see anything in that futon. Not exactly to be taken seriously when you can't even tell the directions.

Perhaps as a compromise, she stuck only her head out. People watching would probably think of water springing out of the ground like a flower or stem.

While maintaining the in-between of a youkai and a human, Erio took a deep breath. Whoever may be watching would definitely be able to enjoy her outlandish beauty; for Erio herself, she could enjoy the serenity that is being inside a futon, so it's a win-win situation for all. But, well, there was still a fundamental problem that still persist.

After her breathing exercise, Erio stared at the telescope, about to begin her next move.

“…...”

“...Hng~” She wriggle within the futon. It would appear that she has fallen into quite the struggle, unable to use either hands. Oh boy, the road to space proved to be difficult. Who would have thought that her futon would be an obstacle?

Who would be seen as the crazy one, me or Erio, if future researchers were told that?

“Just come out quietly from the futon.”

“The cousin forcefully demanded me to strip.”

“Oh wow, looks like your tongue's just as sharp as your moms. Fine, you don't have to take it off, I mean we could just look at the stars in the futon.” I mean, it's such a wonderful planetarium and all.

Erio halfheartedly emerged from the futon; after folding it neatly, she returned the mattress back into the entrance. Finally, she began the preparation for stargazing. From below the scope, she adjusted the focus, angle and direction. I've heard that it's an arduous process for beginners, even with auto-adjustment, yet Erio's deft hands appeared experienced. The same could be said about her work at the Tamura Shop: setting conversation aside, she's quite the shopkeeper now for the most part. I suppose she's skilled in learning by experience.

Like taste-testing, Erio checked out the starry sky first; 'mm', she moved away from the telescope and smiled at me.

“It's there again.”

Her smile was also there again… Let's forget about that thought.

Out of all the planets, Jupiter is what Erio's currently following. Apparently it's easy to spot it during this season. Every now and then she look through the scope, all while sketching away on the notebook. Perhaps already used to sketching, her strokes were the perfect balance between speed and detail.

I took a peak through the scope while Erio was drawing; an unfamiliar planet entered my vision. There wasn't much wind tonight, so the weather was perfect for stargazing. The telescope focused onto the sepia giant that would only appear slightly bigger than my eye if seen directly from Earth.

The spiral pattern on Jupiter's surface is called the 'Great Red Spot.' Erio told me so. Just what is the reason behind that whirl? She kind of explained in fragments on the first day, but I only remember half of it.

“Just a bit more; something cooler will show up.”

Erio interjected excitingly from the side.

“Oh~” Since I'm not the fanatic of space here, my response was only impassive.

I'm more of the deep-sea camp: compare to a surrealistically large world, I like the one that has an ending to the many mysteries — I guess for people like me, our dream has to be somewhat realistic.

Observing clearly a planet that no men has ever stepped on simply felt fantastical. I would even go as far as saying that it is no different than looking through a long tube that has pictures of Jupiter and its satellites printed and stuck on the end. Carelessly I blurted this out three days ago, promptly disappointing Erio; her obvious sigh seemed to convey 'what is this idiot saying?' Her upset expression while looking down on me was refreshing, and I guess a compliment like 'the cousin's lack of imagination is impressive' isn't exactly common either. The price to pay for not having a filter was the abundance of rare reactions.

I predicted the time when Erio stopped sketching, retracting my body like a hand during mochi-making. I am hanging out with her for sentimental purposes, but I have no love for the stars; still, it's not like I'd be doing much of anything aside from reading or watching TV if I were to refuse her offer — and I will definitely not be studying. So, from the point of 'meaningful' alone, my options don't necessarily differ.

As a side note, Meme-san joined us on the first stay, but she was annihilated by the mosquitoes, so while scratching and rubbing ointment on, she declared 'ahh, my pheromone is not only effective with Mako-kun, but with the bugs too… I'll repent for my sins!' Now she's staying indoor, lazing about where the AC's blasting.

As if unable to stand my spacing out, a synthetic ring tone squeaked from the open windows in my room on second floor. It sounded like a retro, rotary-styled phone, just shorter in duration. I realized immediately what it was.

Without looking away, Erio simply spoke.

“Phone call?”

“No, a mail.”

“From whom?”

She's being nosy somehow. “...Ryuushi-san.” Probably — most likely. Though it might also be Maekawa-san, she's also a person who'd rather call than type when she's got business. Besides, she probably wouldn't even call about the game until at least two days later.

And I've already agreed to play in the game in two days, thanks to the rice balls for breakfast and other things. And here I am thinking that kids who'd get kidnapped for food were extinct… Well, if men tricked by the feminine wile of women never disappear, than I will gladly change my thought on that.

“Ryuushi...”

She repeatedly mumbled the name, but only the pencils rustling on paper followed. It's only natural, seeing how she and Ryuushi-san had a bit of history. The danger of making friends with Erio while being in the local school — perhaps that's what she understood.

For Erio, I'm afraid it's simply withdrawal that's causing her to be so shy.

“Cousin.”

Without looking away from the telescope, Erio directly spoke my name. “Hm?”

“When will you be on TV?”

“Who are you talking about?”

It's pretty depressing that that response came before 'what are you talking about.' Do I not have any hope for myself on a TV debut? Like I said, I'm just… Hm, I think I said something along the line before…

“The cousin said, baseball in the morning.”

The conversation from this morning was revived from the graveyard of memories. Is she that interested in it? I refuted that thought right away.

“If they had time for some guys by the river, they'd probably go to the local high school team.” It's around the same time of year, too.

“Mm~” She pondered… Or at least, looked so. So that was just a way to cut into the actual topic?

“The cousin plays near the river. Amateur baseball?”

“Yeah, you've seen them before.” Erio nodded; her forehead knocked on the telescope. For the next moment she re-adjusted the angle before turning to face me. Her eyes, like the stars, glittered.

“The shopping district team?”

“Yep.” The city side probably don't want me anyway. They got enough people too.

And being on the different side with people I know is also kinda… I hadn't plan on wasting my morning hours on creating resentment or building walls.

Erio moved her face away from the telescope. From the stars above, her eyes returned onto the horizon — me. The eyes that gleamed like the surface of water made me thought that, even with heavy scrutiny, will reflect neither the scenery nor me.

She held tightly her tiny fists. On her face was the same expression when she declared her desire to work.

Next, Erio phrased the line.

“Next time, can I go too?”

The white ball tumbling to the third base replayed in my mind.

“...Baseball?”

“Is it yakyuu, or baseball? Base~ ball~?”

Why did she go as far as involving English? Wait, that's not the problem.

Erio… Wants to join team game. Is being surprised a fair reaction? What's happening?

An abstract feeling of anxiety. Like startled by the flapping of insect wings or screeches, my feet lost their holding. I feel like I want to go tell Meme-san myself. Why? Why do I feel this way?

It's not the same as the brain-numbing kind, but the guts-wrenching type. It was as if my bowel were filled with some unbelievable things.

Though not quite discomfort, this unknown sensation spreading across my body scared me.

Well, I don't have a reason to refuse. I can't say the same for others, however.

“I'll ask them. Well, um, hm, it's probably okay though. Yeah.”

“Thank you.”

The words of appreciation, that sounded like syllables put together and read separately. A voice like a text-to-speech, and a face like that — it's only natural that people thought she was an alien. If she never loudly proclaim herself as otherwise, wouldn't people all agree that she's an extraterrestrial life form? She is, in all seriousness, a person of many esoteric traits.

But setting all that aside.

Erio, she's…

Not just asking about baseball, right? There must be another reason. She's even asked to see if I was on the shopping district's team, and that must be related to that other reason.

I don't plan on getting to the bottom of it — I actually want to forget about all this, now that I might imagine of what Erio would look like standing next to that river bank. It's the only way I could hold back whatever that is coming out of my chest.

After that, Erio soundlessly gazed at Jupiter; the notebook, too, went untouched.

It ended. From her own will, Erio concluded the session.

Following the observation of Jupiter, we viewed the closest satellite — in other words, the moon. Much more interesting than Jupiter, it is my preference. When I'm done watching the moon, I'll probably retreat back into the Touwa household.

Erio will probably mess around with the stars for about an hour more afterward. Since I worry about the humidity of the night along with the bug bites, and also the feeling of being in her way, I will withdraw.

Erio set the telescope toward the moon. Watching her movement made me think of operating a machine gun or something. Meanwhile, I swatted at the bugs flying about.

“Done.” As always, reporting to me was Erio-san. “'Kay.” My nonchalant nod indicated comprehension. Now with a serious face, Erio looked at the telescope.

Then her eyes exploded.

The mouth that was shut tightly opened up, 'ah.'

“What's the matter?”

I mindlessly asked.

The next words didn't sound big or interesting.

At least for me, it's something that could be brushed aside with an 'oh.'

Yet, Erio…

As if spirited away, she slowly and firmly bit down on her mouth.

Like reuniting with a person lost amidst the city.

A soundless, formless surprise was upon us.

In the eyes that seem to imitate planet Earth, she drawled out the truth.

“Something, flashed by the moon.”

'Kay, two days later.

A battle for our burning youth… And the day of game that has nothing to do with any of that.

Erio, who woke up early, wrapped her upper body with a futon, standing in the middle of the hall like a statue.

“Poff, poff” She said something. I don't plan on translating so I'll just refer to it as 'poff, poff.'

“What's with the outfit?” Is it happening again?

“Ser er dern't hert if er gert hert.”

“So I don't hurt if I get hit?” It's easier to interpret this one, so I wanted to see if I could use it as practice for the English exam.

“Poff, poff.”

“You'll hurt other people's head. Strip!”

“Poff!”

She puffed up her chest (futon) in rebuttal. I used force to dismantle the futon. Shouldn't you have grown up? Is futon the only solution you have to problems? “Alright, there ya go.” After pulling the bedding off her, I nudged her down the stairs. “Uwah~” A dissatisfied Erio yearningly looked back at the futon, but her feet never stopped.

I will make sure she has her shoes on today. We're not racing in a grade schooler's fifty-meter, so we got to have shoes on. With that belief in mind I looked to her, yet she pouted in contempt, 'eh~?' while regarding the shoes next to her feet. I mean, I know she's someone who can casually walk outside when it rains — she doesn't even use an umbrella if she's alone. Does she not care about getting dirty?

It's a slightly different value from the common people. Well, part of it is also similar to others… No wait, that'd confirm the theory that Erio's an alien. As someone who denies the idea, I can't be doing this.

More basically, I am someone who doesn't believe in the supernatural unless something extraordinary happens.

The self-diagnose is probably correct. Despite it being about myself, it is still intriguing to know how little I actually understand.

Coming out to the yard, I dragged the bicycle out of the shack. Then, as though 'combining,' Erio sat into the basket; intentionally letting it slide, I moved the bike out. The pedals were heavier than two days ago; despite them being less than light, however, I somehow felt at ease.

We reached the bank with nothing in particular along the way. I first parked the bicycle a bit further away before walking down to the river where some of the shopping district team was.

Then.

“So, here's the person I wanted to bring over.”

I introduced her to everyone. Smack! I pushed lightly on Erio's back, putting her closer to them.

“P...Pleased to you…” She mumbled some words and snuffled. In her hands where a rule book 'Intro for Youth Baseball.' ...It might be a little better if you keep that hidden…

And you don't have to pretend you're the athletic kind. Erio ran behind me and watched carefully the reactions of the adults, Maekawa-san, and the opposing team. By the way, Maekawa-san was wearing a bigeye tuna outfit. Is fish trending this summer? In regard to the costume market.

However… Aside from Maekawa-san and Erio, there seemed to be something else today that captivated people's attention.

What's that? Can't be a decoration if it moves.

“It's Touwa's...” “Oh, the snack shop's...” “The person in the futon...” “Meme's daughter, huh…”

The owner of the last statement was obvious. After the commotion settled, the tanned guy in the middle took a step forward and spoke.

“Well, you play baseball?”

“I… I play right field.”

Don't bother pretending. “Not at all.” I pushed her upright head down, fixing her mistake. “Mm.” Captain tanned (Yakitori shop's manager) nodded.

“Then you take right field.” Not that he believed Erio, but probably because it is the least possible place for the ball to land in an amateur game.

Perhaps because they weren't directly involved, the adults weren't too resentful toward her.

Or maybe because for the adults, that certain 'thing' is more… Who knows.

I mean, 'it' is more for me. Once again my eyes drifted to the enemy team that's preparing for defense.

“Hmmm...”

There's someone in a space suit guarding the left field: a mysterious helper that was not here two days ago.

And it's not like she literally just returned from space.

The person capable of being Erio's toughest rival raised its gloved hand first.

“Who's that? Maekawa-san's cosplay buddy?”

“Nope, no idea who that is. Someone they found? Looks like she could jetpack to catch a home run.”

Maekawa-san remarked while staring blankly at the person. It's still a fellow cosplayer, even if they don't know each other — maybe she's just glad that another comrade showed up.

“That, is not a real space suit.” An intent Erio asserted.

“Of course not.” After all, those are pretty expensive — how would it even end up in a civilian's possession?

And even if it did, how much would it cost?

The outfit looked like it was just some similar cloth with specially painted patterns, without any real function. And there's no machine on it either. The helmet looked real, but did he make it himself? It does indeed look like a space suit from the outside.

A dude wearing a space suit, we'll abbreviate it to space man. Small framed, his movement seemed unexpectedly deft. The space suit (lookalike) and baseball mitt combination look unreal. A baseball game on the moon of Mars would probably look like that though. Strangeness instantly turned into mystery from that angle.

It might not be possible for me to pretend this to be something like 'predicting the future' with eyes shimmering like when going on a field trip to a science museum, but… Well, I don't think kids now-a-day get excited about going to places like that.

Maybe they don't care much for the unknown? I guess I still am… A kid…?

I glanced to the side at Erio; she seemed to be following the ball flying upward with the same eyes when stargazing.

“Looks like we can play a game without much problem.”

“Mm.”

Erio shut her slightly ajar mouth and nodded several time like a critter. I've never seen the TV broadcasting live baseball games when Erio's lazing around the living room, so I'm pretty sure she doesn't like baseball that much. Same goes for Meme-san.

By the way, after telling Meme-san about this. 'Alright~ Then Meme's going to play the beautiful manager!' 'No way.' What's wrong with her.

“Mm? I thought I didn't ask her to come?”

Uttering those words, Maekawa-san looked up at toward the bank; I too followed her.

A diminutive girl sat on a light motorcycle — wearing a red yukata and a pair of rubber sandals, and a construction helmet clearly in violation of many safety regulation, it's a young girl whose licensed status was dubious at best.

I recall seeing her playing ball here before. From her vehicle to clothing and appearance, a girl lacking in uniformity — much like a grade schooler's palette. Noticing Maekawa-san down below, she cast a smile.

Um, about the person sitting behind her.

“Eh~ It's Niwa-kun!”

Holding a basketball and attired with the whole set of gym clothes, Mifune Ryuushi-san, with a safety helmet on her head, was riding along on that bike.

“Yaho!” Ryuushi-san slid down the hill on her heels. “Oh man, this is gonna be good.” Maekawa-san looked over mischievously while Erio took a step back cautiously. I don't understand the intention either, but she pinched my arm lightly.

“What?” Even though I looked back at her face, our eyes didn't match. The pair of aqua-coloured eyes stared straight at Ryuushi-san.

“Hey? Is here fine?”

The girl in yukata on the bank confirmed with Ryuushi-san. “Yep! Thanks!” With a wave of hand, Ryuushi-san walked away. After that, the motorcycle left.

“Mmmm...” Ryuushi-san, whom I've not seen for five days, stood in front of me with overflowing displeasure. She might just threw the ball at me like at a wall. Or maybe dunk the ball on me. I got that she's mad, but why?

Maybe she dislikes sports that aren't basketball? No… She's more than excited about volley ball during PE. As I restart the thought, Ryuushi-san looked to Maekawa-san. She just stood with a grin; Ryuushi-san ignored the tuna with legs. Then those who are playing ball on the field: a total of two classmates. No youth here. Now she gets it. When she finally noticed Erio, for just a moment, her face twitched slightly; yet she starting pouting.

“Y'all are playing baseball.”

“Yeah, we are.”

“Maekawa-san's here, and, uh… Touwa-san too.”

“Yep, that's us.” She's more like Tunakawa-san at the moment.

“Niwa-kun's didn't invite me! Just me!”

Ryuushi-san flailed her hands around like she doesn't know who to pass the ball to — her upper half turned into an angry child.

Oh, is this what's happening? But since when did we have this unbalanced friend group? Felt like we're a four-people group looking for aliens. Maybe Ryuushi-san's a little confused about something? I was actually the only one who was invited originally, so accusing me of excluding anyone is just a little inaccurate. Just as I sent SOS to Maekawa-san, she's already moved on onto the space suit on the left field. She even exclaimed, 'Maybe I'll wear an Ali*n suit tomorrow.' Some sort of meaningless sense of rivalry in that monologue.

“No no no, I wasn't excluding you.” I'm going to have to explain it myself. “Hmph~” “That was meant to be special treatment.” The hell am I saying? A lie full of so much crap, and I just threw it at Ryuushi-san's face. And then Ryuushi-san… “Eh? I'm special?”

Wha? She took the bait? She just bit onto the word 'special?' As expected of Ryuushi-san and her complex for normalcy. With eyes wide open, her tanned face beamed with a grin.

“Doku doku.” An onomatopoeia for her state of mind… I hope it doesn't become real.

“Wasn't that an expression for things overflowing?”

“Doki doki + Waku waku.”

“Why does something so positive sound so bad?”

Ryuushi-san is above the laws of arithmetic.

“So, what made you come, Ryuushi-san?”

An equally prominent question was ‘who’s the girl in yukata?’ but this takes priority.

Ryuushi-san suddenly lowered her shoulders.

“Er, self-practice. There’s a basketball hoop there, ya see.”

Ryuushi-san’s finger pointed slowly toward where the motorcycle left. “Oh~” That’s pretty impressive — I had no clue that she’s so dedicated to her club that she’s willing to practice on her own.

“So who’s that?”

“A lady from around. She’s was on her way somewhere so she gave me a ride.”

“I see.” …A lady? “You’re pretty dedicated, huh.”

“Well, um, y’know… Uh...”

“Hm?”

Ryuushi-san wriggled about, her hands twisting the ball.” Mm~” She mumbled.

“I thought, ya know, if Niwa-kun’s gonna cheer for me, I gotta step up and stuff.”

“Oh…”

Debble Ofadorable Ness. That’s a typo from being so shaken. The devil of adorableness shone brightly, making me choke ceaselessly.

For just a moment, I was so impressed that I forgot to breath.

But it did not last long.

“The cousin, cheer?”

Erio, who was so far silent, interjected. “Hm.” I affirmed first before taking a side glance at Erio. No expression — something seemed a little off.

Ryuushi-san appeared to be taken aback by that attitude as well; just when she’s stuttering, about to ask Erio something ‘Um…’ the parts on her face froze.

Her eyes stuck to something behind me; the half-opened mouth and the tongue inside simultaneously drew a breath. At the same time of my bewilderment, I looked behind toward the field. Though there were plenty of people practising there, out of all of them only one was staring at something other than the ball, so it was easy to figure out.

It’s Nakajima. He stared past me, at Ryuushi-san. “Hi.” He smiled awkwardly and greeted with his gloved hand. Ryuushi-san too, stiffly raised her hand and frantically looked back and forth between me and him.

“Um… Is it complicated?” An ex? I choked before the words came out.

“F-friends, ‘cuz we’re both in basketball club, Nakajima-kun and I.

Ryuushi-san asserted emphatically, as though accentuating. It’s not a great feeling, when someone sounds like she’s making an excuse when she’s trying to hide something. Well, not like there’s any reason to explain to me anyway, so even I’m a little awkward now that she’s giving me special treatment.

Nakajima and Ryuushi-san looked away from each other unnaturally.

Silence loomed timely over the field.

The air around fought for warmth, wrapping me like a soft film.

Next to me were Ryuushi-san, Erio, and, even if I wanted to skip her… Maekawa-san.

Is this… The eye of the storm? A tempest seemed to prowl for a chance to lay waste on the field.

“…Oh boy.”

As though sucked in by a whirlpool, a plethora of people gathered at this amateur baseball game.

The worn-out field next to the river, filled with mysteries, fantasies, and idleness.

Holding tightly onto the Youth-points flying away, I looked skyward.

There’s a bit of cloud today: a comfortable weather unsuitable for star gazing.

--

I did think about what might end up happen, but the game proceeded without further problems. Bonk! The crisp sound reverberated one after another — of course that’d never happen: it’s still the usual gloomy routine. Whether it be Maekawa dad’s side-throw or Hanazawa-san’s softball style, the ball never met with the bat. Hanazawa-san aside, did Maekawa dad play baseball? I should ask him about it someday.

Because of these two’s pitching warfare, the ball never went the right field where Erio stood dumbfounded. Astronaut suit of the enemy team also did nothing at the left field. Both sides did show how beautiful a missed swing look, however.

After the fiasco, Ryuushi-san said nothing but pouted. With heavy steps (when her gait is uneven) she headed to practice basketball. ‘Imma make you cry during the game, Niwa-kun!’ I don’t know if it’s a taunt or a show of spirit, but somehow I’ve became her opponent. But am I despicable, shutting up despite knowing the fact that her upset was used as a façade to cover something up? It’s gotta have something to do with… Nakajima, right?

“I see…” Indeed, something worse would happen if I was upfront about it.

Nakajima stole a look here, so I smiled in courtesy.

Okay, on the second half of third inning, Touwa Erio assumed her first batting. On the opposing team, Nakajima and Hanazawa-san focused onto Erio. Sharply. Piercingly. Erio cowered in presence of those seemingly inevitable gazes, but she still put on the helmet and entered the batter’s box. Her ‘Baseball for Beginners’ lay on my hand in the resting area. She hunched her back; her overflowing hair covered her face, making me wonder if she could even see the ball. She reminded me of a rich kid from a certain manga.

Standing on the pitcher’s hill, Hanazawa-san squinted at Erio. Those were the eyes when you see something alien. Hanazawa-san must have been involved too. Her act of exhale of as though releasing something built up. Then came the first ball from that looped pitch. Erio obliviously watched the ball land without swinging the bat. The heavy thud was like the ball had stabbed into the mitt.

“Does Touwa know the rules?”

Next to me, Tunakawa-san watched the umpire’s exaggerated pose, while impassively tilting her head to the side. It’s a rhetorical question, but I still worried over the fact that I could only say ‘I wonder too.’

“Oh, I made some sandwiches for today.”

“Oh~” Much appreciated. I still think that if you at least made your dad’s portion as well, the predicament wouldn't be as bad.

I once again focused back onto the field.

Hanazawa-san’s second pitch. “Kyah!” Erio took an early step and threw her weight into the bat without any apparent analysis to the trajectory.

“Whoah!” I shot up — the bat connected. The bat’s tip grazed the ball and, albeit weakly, sent it flying back. This was the very first time in this game where the white ball was ever sent toward the outer field.

Regardless, it was just a typical and lacklustre ball that flew above the left field. Lightly running and closing the distance, the space man rose his left glove with ease, as if saying ‘I got this.’ Yet, just when I thought Erio’s done for; just when all hope’s been given up —

Bonk.

That ordinary, high-flying ball went by the glove and landed straight onto the space man’s face. Or, uh, that, um, helmet’s plastic part… The rim? I’ll figure it out later. Anyway, the ball was sucked into that spot, and the space man collapsed slowly. Like the practice target at a Hawaiian tourist shooting range, he fell backward with his face up. No sign of waking up. The man in charge of mid field frantically ran toward the space man the ball; Hanazawa-san, standing on the hill and watching where the ball went, did not react to her teammate’s mistake, merely swiping the sweat on her forehead.

Successfully arrived at first base, Erio seemed to also have noticed the incident and stopped. She tilted her head and froze, apparently confused by what’s happened. But from the shopping district’s side of the resting area came the shouting of ‘run, run!’ A stupefied Erio glanced between the resting area and the alien; baffled, she once again ran forward. As the space man continued to be dazed, Erio stepped over second base, than third base. At that precise moment, the mid fielder picked up the ball, while keeping an eye on the fallen space man, passed the ball back. Erio stopped at home plate.

On the other side, the space man was carried off into the resting area by two other players. Someone finally decided to remove the helmet, but the space man resisted.

The space man absolutely refused to show his face, choosing to maintain this surreal scene. Was it the same kind of dedication Erio has for her futon?

Perhaps worried that she’d hurt someone, Erio anxiously looked between the bench where the space man lay and my face— look, I’m not your guardian!

Fine. I concede that your actual guardian isn’t exactly useful outside of serious situations. I saw how she was playing mah-jong on her phone recently. “Meme wants summer va-cay too~!” She so exclaimed to the old lady at the Tamura shop, only to be riposted, ‘You seemed even dumber than when you’re young.’ Her fit was only further exacerbated. In a negative way, I suppose people around her really can’t tell her age.

My digression will end here. Due to Erio’s endless barrage of aid-seeking attacks, I stood up from my seat. “Transfer student?” “I’ll be right back.” Ignoring Maekawa-san’s gaze, I strode toward the opposite resting area. Affected by me, Erio too left third base and followed. Hey! You’re going to be outed! I thought that, but people who’d willing to make contact with Erio are probably few in number; hence she easily made it past the players of the other team.

“It’s not your fault. Probably.”

I comforted her first. “Mm…” Erio kept on a sad expression.

“…Ah.” Shoot. Upon the sudden realization I looked around. I can’t believe I so casually moved with Erio. Hanazawa-san and Nakajima are here, too. Just as I feared, the two of them stared wide-eyed at me and Erio. Within the eyes mixed with disquiet, I saw the darkness after summer.

I let my guard down. My habits took over. But wait, isn’t it more of a miracle that the rumour of Erio sitting inside my bicycle’s basket hasn’t become widespread?

Erio herself seemed to not care about the stares, trotting along behind me… Well, I’ve already made up my mind about this.

Without further doubt, I kept forward at the same pace.

We peeked into the resting area; the people surrounding let us in, so we closed in deeper.

Looking down by the bench; the alien lied there, limbs spread, but still reacted to us by turning his head.

He seems to be suffering from heat stroke, wearing that seemingly suffocating mask. Even with it on, people could tell the person inside is heaving heavily; perhaps dehydrated, he hacked several time with his entire body convulsing.

Probably guilt-tripped further by the tragic sight, Erio's eyes trembled.

“I'm… Sorry.”

A quivering Erio bowed apologetically. Despite being immobilized, the space man squeezed out a reply as if in labour.

“Do- not- wor-ry.”

“...Hah?”

From deep within his guts emitted a modified voice that sounded like it's to protect the speaker's identity. The degree of realism he reproduced made me wonder if there really was a machine inside. I don't understand why anyone would go as far this.

“…...” I couldn't help but look to Erio.

Erio froze too — not because she was moved to tears by the chance meeting with another extraterrestrial being. I am already used to this. It's not even a spectacle any more. Even if aliens were to show up and take over the town like, or if UFO's decide to destroy the town like a Fujiko F. Fujio comic, I wouldn't be surprised.

Why is this town filled with freaks? And you even come regularly. Are you guys mid bosses in a game?

“You got this! Ex-alien.” I testing nudged Erio, our ace, forward. “Cousin, um...” The sudden recommendation locked Erio up; she threw countless glances at me. “You can do it.” I forced her to have a face-to-face with him.

Would there be some chemical reaction? I had hope. And the evasive thought of 'please stop throwing people like this in my way.'

“What- is- this-?”

“A friend.”

“Friend?” He only hesitated for a moment, 'what- is- this-?' before starting to feel Erio's head. “Uwahwah!” Unused to people's touch, Erio reacted incomprehensibly like speaking without any teeth.

“Ph-ew.”

“I don't think you have to insist the pause in a 'phew.'”

Plus you need that air now.

The space man ignored my advice, staring at Erio's face. Just then…

“You- ap-pear- to- be- an- in-habi-tant- of- XXXXXX-”

“Wha?” “Eh?”

“Are- you- involved- in- the- case?”

The space man took off with the topic, leaving my and Erio's reaction in the dust.

What was that made-up word he said? Don't tell me: it was an alien language he made up? This is bad — he's not messing around. If he's sicker than Erio with her futon, I'm not going to be able to handle this.

Actually, I don't even have to listen to this guy: I just thought that somehow Erio will be dragged into this space man's fantasy. For my personal harmony, I'll pretend this never happened.

“What was that, just now?”

Naturally, I think, Erio didn't understand the space man's words, requesting a repeat. However, he continued on.

And for some reason his words and gaze directed to me.

“As- for- the- individual- there...” From that point on, a normal, somewhat raspy voice of a teenage girl surfaced. Wait, that's a girl in there? Well, I guess from her physique that should have been the assumption. “Ah, wait. Time out.” Her natural voice came out; she coughed violently with her right hand blocking Erio's eyes. Apparently that was too much for her, the voice. It's on the same level as forcing yourself to laugh like ke~ ke~ ke. In the end, while watching this whole thing play out with the help of humidity, I caved. The stupidity of trying to deal with her pierced my spine.

“Ah~ ah~” Sitting up now, the space girl who ignored the stale atmosphere surrounding her completed the adjustment of her voice. She stuck her thumb at her chest and boasted.

“Thanks- for- waiting. Come- at- me.” She'd recovered — and was getting on my nerve.

The space girl kept the mimicry while identifying herself.

“I- am- an- es-per.”

I'm an esper. I recalled the creature that had to karate-chop its own neck to speak like that.

A esper descends once again.

“Ahhh~”

It's been a while since I get to end with this. May I? I may. So, here it is.

“Oh, is that so?”

### 013. Chapter 2: The Boy's Strange Summer

## Chapter 2 - The Boy's Strange Summer

Around the time of fifth grade, I joined the local youth football team.

The team wasn't in a tournament or anything, and frankly speaking it's not too different than playing a game of kickballs after school.

At the time, football was all the rage among us boys who couldn't care less about trends. Even the girls who took joy in competing were mixed together with them, sending the ball here and there. Affected by the air of 'if you don't play, you have no friends' I naturally pretended to be interested and joined the them.

Since it's a team effort, my parents were often preparing drinks or snacks under the bridge, be it hot or cold. I bet they actually didn't want to do it — I now realized just how incredible they were.

Back then, I only cared about other things.

So, I joined a team. All's well — except, did I really try to play the sports? The answer, as obvious as it is, is simply a no.

I had totally no chance of appearing in a game when we were playing against other teams. The coach hated me. Just kidding: I just sucked.

In terms of practising, I consider myself dedicated. During the weekend, or when school's out, I spent most of my time training, as much as my friends did. But to admit the brutal truth, I was simply not cut out for the sport.

Little by little, I noticed that I wasn't as good as the other boys. Was it because my legs aren't as nimble? Who knows. In any case, I was no good: when I mimic others, my movement became rigid; the difference in our abilities made me wonder if I was dreaming.

Another possible reason was, perhaps, a common thing for youth football: rather than defence, most kids want to be in the forward position, resulting in more competition. Like going to a high school with low acceptance rate, I stood no chance.

After half a year, I was still a backup; my uniform was much cleaner than the others'.

My parents had to come all the way here for their kid who won't even be playing, and to take care of other children — I was mortified.

In the end, I left after a year.

Oh, there's another reason. I just didn't feel envy watching other people play on the field any more. Hm, I probably came to accept it long before.

I wonder if it was at that time that I've become hesitant to try things far beyond my own abilities.

And so I gave up on the athletic aspect and joined the arts and craft club in middle school.

...Why did I choose that club? Even for myself, it's a riddle yet to be solved.

After getting hit by Erio's ball, the space girl returned to the field. The old guy that appeared to be her caretaker tried to stop her, but gave in when she said something along the line of 'my esper power grants me invincibility.'

She looked okay, so I didn't want to be further involved. With that over, Erio and I left her to continue the game.

I went back to our resting area, and Erio to the third base.

With feet dragging, Erio never changed that gloomy look.

As a side note about the game, if we talk strictly about results, it'd be two losses in a row.

… And the day after Erio's first match in the amateur baseball game.

The girl who still wore the space suit look-a-like stood in the batter's box.

If she swung the bat, she might create a space rift — that's what the picture suggested. Standing on the pitcher's hill, Maekawa dad also seemed bemused, kicking at the dirt. He doesn't seem to be resilient to pressure, as the game suggested. Once someone made a hit, he messes up easily. In baseball video game term, it's like danger x or runner x… Still, being the ace, huh. That's badass.

And I guess, just like last time, Maekawa dad could sense the overwhelming aura emanating from that opaque visor.

The girl in space suit who descended to the river bank was rumoured to be an esper.

Oh wow, so cool. That explains nothing though.

“What is that?”

I asked Hanazawa-san, who's spacing out on first base after the fish store's owner messed up. A teammate might have some insight into this, right? At the peak of my excitement, she flatly said, 'dunno.'

Hanazawa-san's also in her uniform today. Needless to say, the men were always staring around her waist when she pitches.

“Nakamura-san — oh, he's our catcher — brought her yesterday. A relative or something. I heard other people say she was messed up the farm or she ran away from home.”

“...A relative?”

“Well, don't really know. Don't care either way.”

Still dubious of the space girl, Maekawa dad threw his first pitch to her. She put all her strength into the bat and swung directly into the air thirty centimetres above the ball. It was a bad miss on the same tier as Erio's. I've thought about this the other day too, but can she even see well through that helmet?

The entire time Hanazawa-san hadn't shown a speck of intention to leave the first base, only listlessly rubbing her head. She totally had no plan to steal the base, nor the will to move onto the next.

If she's so unmotivated, why did she come?

“That aside, what's your deal with that?”

Hanazawa-san crudely pointed with her chin. The direction she pointed to, on the far left field, was Erio with her gloved hand raised in preparation. Continuing from yesterday, she's also a baseball player today (self-appointed).

Since I've been seen together with Erio yesterday, there was no way I could just gloss it over today. If I were keep quiet or try to to hide it, our relationship might even end up being muddled. My school life started to crack.

“She's my cousin.”

“...Oh.” A slight delay before a disinterested reply. A gruelling pause before a boring reply. I'm not exaggerating — that really kind of sucked. Sure is nice that Erio wasn't around~ I distracted myself with the thought.

Hanazawa-san leaned forward to observe more closely. Erio didn't notice her gaze, busy adjusting her posture and her arm's angle… Oh, she's blocking the sun with her glove?

“You don't look alike. At all.” Hanazawa-san mumbled while looking at Erio's face.

“She's my cousin.”

“Cousins don't look alike?”

“It's kinda hard when you're only distantly related, you know?”

If I look like Erio, the amount of youth points would probably crack me up. It'd be a far cry from my current situation. Well, it isn't that bad now that I've met Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san. Or rather, I'm very glad about it.

“Oh… In other words, you're related to that?”

Hanazawa-san doesn't refer to Erio as 'Touwa' or 'Eriri.' Not that the latter is ever possible.

Seeing Maekawa dad's second pitch end up as a ball in the catcher's mitt, I shot a side glance at Hanazawa-san. She's already looked away from Erio, now at Maekawa dad's direction.

“I guess it is a turn off, huh.” Erio and I being related.

“A little. It's hard to treat someone fairly if he's related to a weirdo, you know? But if it's just 'being on the opposing team,' then it's not really a problem.”

After speaking without a single pause, she looked to the resting area. In that direction, we saw Maekawa-san, as she'd promised, in an alien costume.

“Maekawa is an exception though.”

“Are you going to tell people at school?” And just what did I expect her to say?

Hanazawa-san's face twisted slightly — it was definitely not a friendly sign.

On the pitcher's hill and in the batter's box, the third ball leading to a strike stirred up both a good and bad reaction.

“Not intentionally, but I might just if me and my friends ran out of things to say. Like, 'I've heard this from a little bird,' that kind of thing. So sorry, if that ever happens.”

“That's fine, I guess.” Realistically it isn't, but it's hard to deny her that right.

Meme-san said it too: it's probably only because Erio is cute that I, as a guy, care about her. I wonder if that's the case. A sense of self-deprecation poked out.

Hanazawa-san raised her chin and stared back at Erio. And then.

“I've only been in class with that for about two months though.”

“Hm?” She'd been calling Erio 'that' since the beginning, and that piqued my interest.

“To be honest, other girls have been jealous of her since way before then… Whether it's the hair, or her face.”

After seemingly talking to herself, she dashed out. Not toward the second base, but her own resting area. Looking carefully, the space girl had fallen right at the batter's box after being struck out. Oh, it's time to switch.

Not that it's important, but Nakajima wasn't among the other team.

I recall that Ryuushi-san's attitude yesterday wasn't as though 'it's super bad!' or anything. Neither did it seem like I have a match or something.

Erio, who had done nothing for defence, came running toward the resting area — no, me.

Like a puppy with a Frisbee in its mouth coming back to its owner.

I know, too, though that I was the only person she belonged with on this river bank

...Haah. Hmm? For some reason, both a bitter smile and a sigh covered my face.

“It's not hard to deal with, but...”

But it's just a pain, maintaining your social status. Those who can are certainly impressive.

Just like that, we lost again today. The shopping district is now on a 3-loss streak. The seedling of victory did not grow.

Hanazawa-san completed the match with no hits and no runners. It's a little too embarrassing even for an amateur game. She was the only one with the same ridiculous power like a baseball manga protagonist.

Unless Hanazawa-san quits or if we undergo enhancement surgery by some shady doctor, we don't have a chance of escaping the status quo. This position filled me with deja vu of the time when I played football, and to be honest I'm not fond of it.

“Transfer student.”

The xenom*rph arrived. It should have been a sight to flee from, but knowing the person inside is the embodiment of bean sprout, I stayed.

It's hot in the morning too, huh. Maekawa-san's face tinted red with heat radiating. 'Just take the thing off.' Is it not tactful to say that? And, is she even wearing anything inside? I wonder.

“What's up?” Without stopping the cleaning motion, I engaged her.

“I just came to say, good job today as well.”

“Thanks, but I still didn't hit the ball today.”

'I'm embarrassing as help' I jokingly said that out loud. As though she's seen through it, Maekawa-san quietly smiled. Having someone of my age do this to me was as if being pointed out how immature I am. Now, I'm actually embarrassed.

As I tried to cover it up by cleaning even harder, Maekawa-san began scrambling inside the xenom*rph and pulled something out. The object that came from a slightly unsettling place was…

“Here, your breakfast.”

“Oh hoh~” The primary reason of why I came. I received the package. Everything, aside from where it came from, was perfect.

Oh man. It's a rectangular item inside the silver aluminium foil wrap. Is it a sandwich?

In any case, it's a waste to give this to someone whose morning had been a blur.

“Um, Maekawa-san.”

I circled in front of Maekawa-san and stood straight. “Mm?” As if trying to understand the friendly alien, the xenom*rph tilted her head with a gentle smile.

“What is it? If you're being so proper.”

“Well, I'm just very happy. Thanks again.” I raised the food.

Something made by a girl. It's an indescribable sense of fulfilment — it might even be the last time ever.

...I hope not. It's pretty sad how I can't deny the possibility entirely.

“Yep.” Maekawa-san nodded readily, but I thought her face flushed ever redder. It was quite the occasion.

Was she embarrassed from being praised?

Seeing how I'm usually the one being played by her strange acts, this might just be a rare Maekawa-san.

I wanted take a bunch of pictures with my phone, but since the ratio of the xenom*rph to human will be higher, I gave up on that thought.

“I guess they didn't call you the womanising transfer student for nothing.”

“I felt like something terrible was very casually attached onto my name.”

“Forget that for now. Don't you have something to do?”

In a strangely cheery mood, the xenom*rph Maekawa-san changed the topic while pointing toward the outfield. “Ah.” I peaked behind Maekawa-san. “Uwah~!” Erio was being chased by the esper-space girl.

The space girl, who should have had nothing to do with cleaning up, chased behind Erio as if trying to befriend her. She caught up to Erio while keeping a low profile; her dexterous gaits were actually pretty amazing — as impressive as those of the folks on the street spreading words of their religions.

Unable to break off, Erio sent me glances for help; halfway through, she started mouthing words too. She's saying 'please help me, cousin.' She's too needy.

I hoped she'd never beg for help like that… Because then I would have to help.

Ahhh… But if I do, my youth points…

Futilely, I looked over to Maekawa-san.

“Do I have to?”

“Aren't you Erio's guardian?”

I'm her what? She gave me this disapproving look. Is this how people see me? Her actual guardian would never be present, so I guess it can't be helped.

Erio's SOS signal never ceased even as the excuses, or rather explanation, in my head spun.

“Sigh...” I let out a sigh inappropriate for such a fresh morning and redirected myself.

“Have fun~” Under the blessing of a dull cheer, I dragged the rake and jogged ahead. If possible, I would like to hurl this thing into the river.

It's not likely though, with these arms. Can any high schooler throw something like this perfectly?

To make sure I don't ruin my food, I steadied my movement while going toward Erio and the space girl. In an instant Erio's face cleared from gloom to bloom, and she fled this way; since she's still holding onto a rake, she looked tired with mouth shut tight.

The space girl also reacted to me and rushed over. This space-suit wearer stood against me and, uh, made sound.

“Ho- ho- ho- ho- ho.”

“Space ninja?” Does she plan on talking like that again? If we're betting under five hundred yen, I'd wager that her throat will die.

“We- are- esper.”

There's another one. “Oi. It's your friend.” I said so to Erio, but she frantically shook her head, as if saying they aren't the same. I thought she called herself an esper too some time ago.

There were some serious changes in these past four month, huh. As I stood there contemplating over this seemingly fuzzy emotion…

“Ow!” The plastic part of a helmet rammed into my throat.

“Hand- her- over. I- must- know- why- she- is- here.”

She pointed at me and demanded for Erio, who quickly hid behind me.

I have become the futon's replacement.

Imma pounce you then! (My brain's a little shaken from being knocked)

“Nope. She's not mine, so it's not up to me.”

I replied calmly. If she was asking for Meme-san instead, I might have just said 'if you would be so kind.' But that Erio might follow wherever her mom goes, so I guess the space girl still wins.

Too shoot the man, shoot his horse — is this what the phrase meant?

“Anyway, why do you want her? Is it because of her look?”

Or was it a revenge for yesterday?

“W-what do you mean my look?”

Erio pinched my back and asked for clarification. Is she not aware of how ridiculous her appearance is? Of course people would be jealous, even if she doesn't mean it.

“She- is- an- alien.”

“Was. And you forgot the 'self-proclaimed' part.”

“@#$%- Comrade.”

“Could you not mix foreign language in there if you insist on talking like that?”

“Actually- we- are- basically- family .”

“Hooray, we have a bigger family now.”

I stiffly reported to Erio, who shook her head crazily.

“My family. Only mom, and the cousin.” Eh? Me too? Well… That's fine?

As long as I am not married to Meme Obasan!

...Ahem. That aside.

This girl considered herself the same as Erio, that's why she's chasing her. Kind of like how Erio used to follow me around wrapped in futon. So, this must be karma.

It always comes back to bite you in the ass… The saying must have been created just for times like this.

“Hon-estly- I- don't- care- but- as- fe-llow- aliens- on- a- fo-reign- pla-net- shouldn't- we- all- be- friends?”

“Hah? I thought you're an esper? That has nothing to do with aliens.”

I feel a bit sad knowing that I am now used to dealing with people like her. Ahh~ Eri-chan taught me quite a few things back in April… Sigh, are there going to be more people like them pop out the longer I stay here? I dismayed at the thought.

The space girl froze for a moment, and then began moving again. Vivid movements ensued whenever her mouth opened, so it wasn't that draining; however, I never wanted to interact with her in the first place.

“Also- an- alien.”

“Your settings change easily.”

“It's not a settin—! It's- the- real- deal.”

“Did your teachers call you imaginative?”

“La- la- la- la- la.”

She's playing deaf while humming some tune. “Lalala~ la~ lalala~” Erio somehow continued and sang along quietly.

“What was that melody? Did you make that up?”

“It's- a- lull-aby- for- babies- with- tails.”

“Wha? ...Oh, that, huh.”

Erio knew where it was from that one tune? I'm amazed that she was able to understood that right away.

“Aren't you two just the best buds?” Alright, your turn now. I nudged Erio toward the space girl. “Ah! Cousin! Wah! Uwah!” Amidst the chaos, I pushed Erio out; she immediate turned around and attempted to circle back behind me. To prevent that, I counter-circled behind her.

Following each others' back, we spun like coffee cups.

Or trails left by firecrackers.

What the hell were we doing? Now we look like idiot couples shining lovey-dovey aura.

“Are- you- idiots?”

“I don't need that coming from you. Have you seen yourself in the mirror?”

“An- esper- does- not- have- reflection.”

What a setting. Where did she steal it? Or did she make it up?

“Actually, I heard that you ran away from home. Just go home.”

“Har- har- har- har.” Why the American laugh? “I- am- here- for- work- you- stupid-idiot. I- don't- really- care- but- they- forced- me- to— cough! Cough!”

She choked. Hmm~ work, huh? Just like Erio back in April.

She didn't look like someone with a mental trauma or anything. I think.

“Where did you even come from? The city?”

“I just said spac— I- just- said- space. Are- you- stupid? Must- I- repeat- myself?”

“Ohh, that's right, Earth is a part of space. Right… So, uh, your outfit. That's a suit human made to go into space.”

“The- hu-man- who- visit-ed- my- planet- wore- this- so- I- took- note- from- them- when- I- came.”

She proudly declared. I recalled the theory of 'astronauts keeping their meeting with aliens on moon secret.' Some people believed that — she must be of one of them.

“Oh, I see.”

“Why- do- you- sound- indifferent.”

Ohoh, she could tell? At least she's more hopeful than early Erio.

“So, why are you following Erio?”

“People- of- the- same- wave-lengths- attract- one- another.”

She stuck a finger at Erio and clearly announced comradeship. Erio was now completely behind me. Rather than mutual attraction, it was more like one of them was simply being a nuisance.

“I- was- merely- jesting.”

“Your jokes aren't applicable for normal people.”

“Somehow- she- is- related- to- work- so- I- just- wanted- to- investigate.”

“...Erio is related to your work?”

Does she plan on scouting a girl with red hair and another with purple hair so they can make a rainbow-coloured idol group? As if, hahahah… So, um, what about this girl?

“Listen, you.”

“What- stupid- idiot.” Nice Earthling-style insult there you little turd.

“You don't need a space ship — your head is already in space!”

I tried to be as gentlemen-like as I can to rephrase the words 'you're a mess.' She was very upset.

“You- do- not- believe- me.”

“Isn't it about time for you to stop talking like that? You're gonna suffocate.”

I didn't have to point it out anyway; she kneeled down. Probably getting too hot in there.

“Ugh- ugh.” She's even putting pauses between her moans. Well, still alive are we? I am surprised. Time to leave. Yo~ We're leaving! I beckoned at Erio, who dropped the tool in hand and trotted over here.

“You have a freak following you.”

“N-no...” I don't know if there was a reason, but she shook her heady violently.

Perhaps it was like watching herself from a year ago when she was spouting nonsense. It must be pretty cringey, having to go through this. Well, I guess it's kind of the same with having a pet rock.

“And you have to learn how to deal with her.”

“B-but I don't have my futon.”

Eh? Why did she give me that resentful glare? Oh yes, of course: I took it off. But I had never have anger directed at me for doing something like this. To be fair, though, meeting someone who's wrapped herself in a mattress was also a first for me. Well, normally it would be pretty much impossible.

“Please, futon is only for when you are sleeping.”

“T-then!” With clenched fists, she squeaked. “I will, count on the cousin.”

Ooph! Right into my strike zone. I couldn't even look at her. Thankfully, the sight of a xenom*rph Maekawa-san about to head home somehow calmed me down.

For some reason, strange things that people are used to could be soothing. How weird; how mysterious…

This town is truly filled with weirdos, huh. I guess, comparatively, the only normal person is Ryuushi-san.

“Y-you already rely too much on me.” I couldn't completely hide how shaken I was.

“Yep, so I must rely, more.”

Squeeze. She plastered her face onto my arm. An indescribable chill crawled straight into the back of my brain; goosebumps.

“Cousin's arm, kind of chilly.”

“That's, uh, from the sweat drying off.”

“Uwah.”

She just ran off like that. Oh well, if she kept holding onto me, something in me will be in danger too.

I took a mindless glance behind; the space girl lied there weakly. I was a bit worried for a second, but that mister someone from the other team rushed over to her, so I stopped looking.

Who would have thought that it's Erio's turn to be afflicted? How very sentimental.

After all, she's became the denizen of a made-up planet or land inside the head of that space girl. How… Unfortunate. I had only the most disingenuous sympathy.

Whatever. I'll leave her to Erio and tried my best to pretend to not see it.

Speaking of the space girl, I don't really care if she never comes back to Earth. She's a complete and total stranger, so she can do whatever she wants in space.

Reasons for me to intervene… None. I hope.

Yet, a reason might just appear in the near future. I must be cautious.

I don't care what anybody says, this summer will be filled with only youth.

Crazy girls, need not apply till I've graduated from high school.

Joining a sports team just to go with the flow — it might be the same now.

But, I couldn't even make it onto the stage before, and here I am now, playing first bat on an amateur baseball team.

Even a satire should have limits, you know? Or perhaps it's just bad karma?

In a blur, I finished up the cleaning and took my phone out.

Alright, here we go. Recipient: Ryuushi-san. There's no one else I could bother on a whim anyway.

There is a certain forty years old with a head full of dark blue hair who's telling me in my head 'I'm here, pen pal! Or pen-lover! I'm here!” With the same tricks to playing a game of whack-a-mole, I sunk the noise. Day after day, the delusion becomes more and more realistic. She's passed her disease onto me.

'Are you at the park again today?'

Sent. As though after an eternity, the mail quickly returned.

'Secret training-ing.'

Not so secret now. As expected of an airhead. I replied.

'I'm done with baseball. Can I go watch you secret training-ing?'

Another moment. When it's supposed to be ' Now Loading ,' the reply came back.

'I will be ready with neck washed.'

She seemed to have some incredible resolution.

Did she mistake that phrase's meaning for 'tidied up?' Her Japanese's scores are okay, right? I'm still wondering about many things, but at the very least I seemed to have gotten permission.

Why is it that I want to go see Ryuushi-san practice? Well, it's because I remembered thinking about Nakajima during the game… So I thought, hey, let's go see her.

I'm totally not worried about her and Nakajima though.

As I rationalized it to myself, Ryuushi-san sent something else over.

'Is Touwa-san coming too?'

“...” Something about that mail stopped my fingers.

Was there a universal answer that was correct for everyone present?

Uh, but she's got a point. What about Erio? If she has to go home alone, it's probably a little… The Esper's around too, right? I can't even imagine she wanting to be around her.

'What if, hypothetically, she's coming with me?' I decide to beat around the bush. It's kind of like passing a turn when playing cards. Since there wasn't any movement since earlier, I turned to look for Erio; she was already waiting by the bicycle. After meeting my eyes, she waved lightly at me. At the same time, she regarded the space girl who was once again laid on the bench.

Ryuushi-san's mail came; a little scared, I opened the text message.

'Touwa-san and I are good friends, so I am fine with that. However, I suddenly have business to take care of today, so I'm afraid we can't meet today.'

An uncanny terror emanated from the message that was no different from a stiffly-translated sentence from an English textbook. Why are you scaring me like that, Ryuushi-san? Are you this year's test of courage? Um… the reply will have to wait.

Same goes for Nakajima — this should be okay, right? It's not like anything has happened yet.

I began migrating to the bicycle; once I was close, Erio climbed into the bicycle's basket. I guess making her sit in the back is simply… futile.

“So.”

“Mm? What?”

“Is baseball fun?”

“It's… it's okay.”

Her reaction was apparently an attempt to hide her embarrassment; she even looked away.

“Is it?” Either way, I just asked on a whim.

But what if she said it was boring? What would I say? It would be quite troublesome.

And, I guess it's because of both playing and cleaning, my legs and waist were tired.

I don't wanna bike any more; just send me home with your super power~

...I'm kidding. Sigh, I'm exhausted.

After finishing my breakfast from Maekawa-san, I guess I will just sleep till noon. I bet as soon as I hit the bunk, I will fall asleep.

With a smile, I unlocked the padlock while imagining giving into my desire.

“Ah… Let's go home.”

“Mm!”

As if she'd heard good news, Erio hopped in the basket. 'Disease of civilization' — ignoring what it actually means — would be the perfect, literal description of Erio, who's dependent on the bicycle basket.

I pushed the bike above the bank before began pedalling.

If that self-titled esper-slash-alien (her settings' are too complicated) is anywhere close to what she claimed to be, she should just fly home on a bicycle.

And because they can't, people like her are 'self-proclaimed.'

That's just how it will always be in this town.

Then, we'll skip till this evening. Nothing worth writing about happened in the day anyway.

This isn't too different from last year: the only thing that changed was the place, and I'm even dubious as to whether I have changed. The one thing that concerned me, though, was the fact that I'm getting used to living here.

Today, again, we watched the stars from the Touwa's yard. 'Something even better will appear.' That's what Erio said, but as of what will be evolving remained to be seem. Being clueless, I didn't really care.

It wasn't a clear night… I know the expression is poor, but what I mean is it's not entirely cloud-less. Anyhow, the weather hindered tonight's session, and Erio showed her dissatisfaction; she had not given up on the sketching, though. It's not like she had to turn this in to someone — it's just a hobby, nothing obligatory. For someone who doesn't even do schoolwork willingly, I was indeed moved by Erio's enthusiasm. Deep sea fishes are just fun to watch, not something to be discussed from a scholarly angle. Besides, I was once made fun of because I made the attempt.

It might not have been jeering, but it was enough to traumatize my young mind. And it was mortifying.

I looked up at the cloud sifting through sky that seemed to mirror the dark sea while reminiscing.

It's unimaginable, but memories that excite and encourage us don't actually appear when we're thinking back; it's usually the painful ones that will never disappear from our mind, I thought to myself.

The wind did not chill the bone, but carried weight like the sea breeze. As comfortable as the air was, the cries of insects never calmed.

Resonating from faraway was the hollering of the ramen shop.

Meme-san mentioned to not stay out for too long, but I doubt the temperature would change that much tonight. Just for reference, what Meme-san said was as follow.

'Don't be out for too long! If Eri-chan get sick I'm going to cry! And I will skip work for you~!' Can you not use your daughter as an excuse to skip work?

She obviously really cares for Erio, but that last line just ruined everything else.

Erio looked away from the telescope and onto me, who's spacing out. Out of my sight! Erio would naturally never say that, but was she trying to encourage me?

She shut her sketchbook and held a fist in front of her chest — the sign of Erio about to announce something. Usually there would be a few seconds of pause before she speaks.

And as expected, it was five seconds this time; the melody of cries of insects and rustle of grass filled the intermittent space.

“Cousin...” After calling me that, she shook her head in refusal. “N...Niwa-kun!”

“Wha?”

Was she startled? Erio took a step back; she didn't run away. After bending forward to make our total distance further apart, she moved closer again.

“C-cousin's name, Niwa.”

“That's me all right, but what's the matter?”

“Uu… ah… Niwa-kun.”

“I know, but why? Are you trying to be like Ryuushi-san?”

Hearing that name, Erio shook her head hastily… Looks like I was right.

But what was the reason for calling me differently?

It wasn't anything out-of-the-world ridiculous, so I didn't know how to react.

Don't tell me — I am actually not her cousin! Is that the shocking truth she's trying to convey? Hm… That'd be problematic. If we weren't related, in other words adopted, that means a certain forty-some year old immersed in her hand-held video games is not my aunt.

We've accidentally discovered the legal forty-year-old route! ...I'm not that stupid.

“Did you dream up some setting you really like?”

Because of that space girl. As the older one, that's what I worry the most. Erio isn't going to have a remission, is she?

“I-it's not a setting… I think… A-awahwah!”

Erio flapped her arms in an attempt to relay something; however, she couldn't find the words. Perhaps that is what has been missing from the way she was raised.

This awkward situation in which we could not make eye contact stifled me. What's is up with the atmosphere? No one would be able to formulate a proper sentence here. Why do I have to face Erio like this? I'm going to get the wrong idea! I contemplated on suing a certain adult.

After the tension.

Did it know? Or did it shatter the air unknowingly?

Something wriggled. Conscience scattered from Erio; I looked onto the ground on which the object crawled.

Under the porch, a mysterious creature moved with the dark.

“...Hm? Hmm?”

Opening my eyes wider, it was a white object worming on the ground. Both Erio and I froze on the spot and waited for whatever entails.

UMA — the three letter word circled my mind. A nozuchi? The bounty in the department store is still valid, right? As my thought drifted in that direction, the true identity of that thing popped in my mind.

The truth behind that white object was the look-alike space suit.

“What the!”

“This is a very nice porch. I just couldn't help it. When the people of this planet visited us, they used the same cramped bedding like this in their spaceship. When in Rome, do as the Romans.”

The space girl proudly stood up and dusted herself off. Upon seeing her, Erio bolted back into the entrance.

“Ahhh! You're that Sir stupid idiot!”

She deliberated arched backward to display surprise, and acknowledged me in an extremely rude manner. Why do I have to deal with someone like this now? I thought, but considering I am the only male in this household, I have to step up.

“How can we help you~? If you have business please refer to the doorbell at the entrance.”

“I am a space wanderer seeking asylum. Please pay me no mind.”

How does one say something so painful so easily?

“Do you think you'd let a runaway person who's been rumoured to destroy farming fields free in your backyard?”

“You're a skeptic, aren't you? You must be unacquainted with the supernatural.”

Heheh~ she humphed from her nose haughtily. I see, so there's a nose in that helmet~ Boy am I glad that she has a face. Not!

“How did you get here?”

“My power of course. My superpower .”

“Are you stalking us?”

“Am I suppose to weep for how lowly your brain thinks?”

She's not planning on stealing from us, is she… If she were, she would have at least changed out of that, so I don't think she is.

What she did hold, however, was an issue in disjunction to the rumoured crime she committed.

“Oh yeah, you're talking normally.”

“I used too much of my energy this morning when I was trying to emulate my natural tongue.”

“Oh, your throat's messed up.” No wonder she sounded husky.

“Hmph. I have concluded that for an idiot like you who deny the existence of super power and the extraterrestrial, using my power would be a waste… But everyone seemed to react the same way anyway… And I thought I understood how aliens are treated here...”

Her mumbling near the end never reached my ear, blocked by the helmet. Ahh~ I hate dealing with this kind of people; I can't believe I was able to with Erio.

Oh, and she's back. Or more accurately, the local youkai with a futon torso returned. She was preparing to back me up… I think? In that bowling pin costume.

If she walked into an archery club, would they mistake her for a target and shoot?

“The hell is this?” Space girl was taken aback.

“A futon roll.”

“Ghosts live in your house?”

“Hmphf.”

Futon roll and space girl had a stare down. It was a cosplay battle that you will not have the chance to see even in a fictional world. I didn't want to back either side, but my position and personal circumstances dictated that I must stand with the futon roll.

“What, do you expect to battle with me in such gear?”

“Hmphf!” Ohoh, she had confidence — unfortunately, the fact that it is based only on 'being wrapped around by a futon' already destroyed the sense of any reliability.

“In terms of Time magic, I am Meteor; in terms of special skills, I am Throw Stone. That is my level, as an esper.”

Is she the destructor of Earth or the neighbourhood brat? Even her examples sounded like what the kids around would say. This was, of course, the thought of a human unable to levitate three meters of the ground.

“Hmphf, hmphf!” Erio did not retreat, sticking her chest out further.

“Or, if we were to use the PS* system to explain, I am Star St*rm.” (TL Note: Referring to the Star Storm skill in Mother 3)

The rock was in a pinch.

Moreover, is it even considered a power to just throw rocks at people? Even I can be an esper starting from tomorrow then. I guess I will start with bouncing rocks on the water.

“So what exactly is that?”

The space girl pointed at the telescope in the yard. Was she only pretending to not know?

“It's a telescope.” I replied frankly to see her reaction.

“A tele...scope.” She grumbled some words in that helmet.

“Is it for viewing the stars?”

“That's right.”

“Hm, which one of you? The one who's interested in this?”

She pointed back and forth at me and Erio. If I answer to her, she might consider me as a friend. This is one of those landmines in life, I guess.

“Hmphf, hmphf!”

Interrogated by the space girl, the futon roll stood out bravely.

“Hmm~ You, huh… I see now.”

“Hmphf, hmphf!”

Hmm, Erio seems to be more assertive when she has that thing on. Is this what they mean by psychological suggestion? Not that I really know what it means, but her confidence was truly amazing. As I ogled from the side, something changed between the two.

“Hah… Hah… hah…” “Ugh...” Both side seemed to suffer from the heat. I wanted to cry, remembering how I was actually hanging out with them.

“Why don't you just take off that helmet.” And you the futon.

“This is how I limit my power — I cannot take this off.”

“Sounds like something Futon Erio would come up with.”

“Do not compare me with that low-tier seal!”

“Mmf!”

Erio retaliated; she pounced toward the space girl and bravely tackled her. I thought maybe with the futon in between those two it would soften the impact, but the sound it made was unexpectedly heavy.

Wham! Both of them slammed into the ground.

It would appear both felt the brunt. The futon lied there with legs flailing. “Oh no, the futon's dirty...” I helped Erio up and glanced at the space girl.

“Owowow...” She pressed down on her head, moaning; the helmet that fell off when she was hit rolled on the side. My eye caught the space girl's face…

Speechless.

The self-proclaimed esper had her face exposed.

I, too, was blinded by that brilliance.

The person packaged in that space suit was a pale girl.

A head of rumpled, white hair that seemed to burn the eyes, like sun in the telescope; a luminescent paleness that seemed more like someone had forgotten to colour the painting caught my gaze. Not just particles, but a star that emitted the very light that danced aimlessly around itself — that's what I felt.

If we're talking about with humans or Erio, she is definitely related to the latter: an out-of-this-world beauty. The girl that emerged like Erio shouted scornfully.

“How dare you! You attacked me knowing that it would shorten your life span to this summer! Who the hell do you think I am?!”

Could you not play both the vice general and his friends? Protesting loudly, she grabbed her helmet and stood. Instead of sealing herself up again, she decided to have the wind cool her heated hair.

“Hmph… Fine. Since you are a fellow XXXXX, I will forgive your misconduct this time.”

Once again, as according to her back story, she pretended Erio to be an alien while excusing her for that reason. Next, her sharp eyes moved onto me.

“As for Thekousin, I will forgive you too based on your precarious future.”

“...Oi, I don't recall being related to you.”

“? Isn't your name Thekousin?”

The space girl spoke blankly in bemusement, confirming my name.

“No, my name is Makoto.”

“What!” She jumped exaggeratedly. Was it too shocking or what? Does my face look like it was made for the name 'Thekousin?”

In kanji, it'd be written as 糸子(Itoko). I wouldn't be surprised if there's a girl by that name.

“Hmmmm.” Hugging her head, the space girl shuffled left and right like she was trying to mix something.

“Strange, I thought that's what he was called… My memory is impeccable. It might be boring, but I must begin working as well… Ahh, um...” Ahem! After a few fake-coughs, she ceased speaking. I don't really care either way, but is this part of her character setting?

“I will consider you a proxy of the Earthling, then, and show you minimum respect. I will ask you just once: what is your name?”

She arrogantly demanded my name; without hesitation in her words or tone, she displayed the utmost insolence.

“I just told you a second ago.”

“Since I've asked you to, just say it. Don't you know etiquette?”

I couldn't even react to how cocky this brat is; though annoyed, I still began my meaningless introduction the second time.

“Niwa Makoto. And you are…?”

“Hoshimiya Yashiro. An authentic esper, slash alien! I have stopped here not for the sake of visiting, but business. Pleased to meet you!”

Esper, alien and traveler: the melting pot of a girl energetically shouted toward the night sky.

Of course it was somebody I didn't know. This was definitely the first time we've met.

She's supposed to be an alien, but no matter how she enunciated that name, it is undoubtedly a Japanese one. Clamoring from the local ramen shop, the wind sifting through grass and the mating call of insects.

My sigh dissipated in the symphony.

Once again, the sound resonated in the night.

I'm afraid this is where the summer of this year truly began.

The girl enigmatic from beginning till the end — this was my first time making contact with Hoshimiya Yashiro.

### 014. Chapter 3: The Girl Under the Eave

## Chapter 3 - The Girl Under the Eave

On the night that bizarre summer began.

The stargazing had ended and that Yashiro, who somehow ended up under the Touwa's porch and refused to leave, had finally been driven out; the time was eleven o'clock.

In my room, the cellphone rung. The ringtone wasn't short, so it wasn't a text message.

I picked up the phone to check the caller ID. “Ohoh!” This had to be first phone call we've had.

Sitting on the bed, back against the wall, I prepared myself for a war of attrition and accepted the call.

The gentle voice that came was, as usual, soothing.

“Hello, is it Niwa-kun?”

“Ryuushi-san is speaking.”

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko.”

“Oh! Now it's definitely the real Ryuushi-san.” To my knowledge there isn't a fake one though.

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko~ Say Ryuuko!”

It might end up being a vicious cycle, so let's try changing the direction of our conversation.

“What about Mifune-san?”

“...”

“You don't like it?”

“If ya wanna call me that, might as well call me Ryuushi~ But my name is Ryuuko!”

“Got it, got it~ ...So, uh, what do you need?”

I broke the cycle. Ahem~ Ryuushi-san deliberately coughed a few times on her end, and I, too, adjusted my pose. The insects' cries from the open window appeared just a little like the ringtone.

“Mm~ Like, when ya just can't keep your eyes closed trying to sleep, y'know~ So I tried calling ya.”

“I don't see how they relate, but… Maybe you just slept too much during the day?”

“Wow, your thoughts sure are full of dream… Ah! 'I can't sleep for there is no dream'! Doesn't that sound super cool?”

“Clap, clap, clap.”

“Heheh~ Thank you, thank you… Actually, I'm a little nervous, in more ways than one.”

“Hm?”

“Like a pun, you peel me?”

“Before I correct your misusage of pun, I don't 'peel' you.”

“I just bit my tongue a little! Aww, it hurts~ I can taste the blood!”

The sound of rolling echoed. It would appear Ryuushi-san was lying on her bed as well. Ryuushi-san in her pajama…

I almost started imagining, but didn't I see her wearing one last month when she came over? Well, I guess it was Erio's pajama.

“Phew~ If a blood truck was around, nobody would be too upset.”

If you were bleeding so much, wouldn't it be better to go into the hospital instead of waiting for an ambulance to be around?

“So, what could possibly make you so nervous that your life is on the line?”

“Well~ Cuz… This is my first time calling you, Niwa-kun.”

“Hm, that's right.”

“That's enough to make me lose it!”

“I-is that right?” Now that she pointed it out, I'm feeling embarrassed too.

“Talking on the phone is, y'know, a little bit more embarrassing than the usual. Like, ya are right next to my ear and whispering to me and stuff, don't ya think?”

“Hm. Yeah, a little I guess.” I played tough, but hearing her say that, even I'm becoming conscious of it.

“Or like a hamster-sized Niwa-kun cuddling on my shoulder, heheh.”

“The fact that that sentence didn't end in a question concerns me.”

“Oh yeah, something else too.”

“Nice to see you hearing half of what I say as always.”

“My basketball club is actually having a game next week.”

“Wait, 'your' basket ball club?”

“What I mean is sometimes I feel like it's mine.”

“So you're the captain of the team, but only in your head.”

“Yep! That's exactly what I mean, Niwa-kun!”

Well, no, it was just a silly joke… Is that a normal thing for an athlete to dream about?

I guess so, since I too once yearned to become a football captain too.

“Then I'll go see you during the game.”

“Oh, but there lies the problem, missis! Ah, I mean, Niwa-kun!”

She's smacking something. Her pillow?

“Oh, just by the way, sorry about this morning. Something suddenly came up.”

“No, that's fine.” And I felt like it'd be trouble if she and Erio met anyway. “So, what is the problem?'

“Mm~” She grumbled. “Originally I was gonna practice till I was perfect so that I could be in more games… But if I did, forget about this summer, it'll probably be after I graduate! That's why I'm nervous.”

“Hm… I still don't see what the problem is though.”

“Well, y'know, if I'm not playing in the game I told you to go, isn't that just terrible? That's why I have to be sure.”

“So that's how it is… I see.”

I had the same experience too. Despite not wanting to, I recalled the parents that came all the way to watch a game that their son never got to play in, while helping to take care of other people's kids.

“That's what's been keeping me up. That's all!”

“Okay, I get it~ I understand now.”

But there is still nothing that I could do to help.

Even if there is nothing I can do, shouldn't I still say something to comfort her?

“Then I'll pray for you. I wish Ryuushi-san could play in a game.”

“Ahaha! If I can choose, I'd rather have you cheer for me! Prayers are for the gods, but I can hear you cheers, right?”

'And I told ya to call me Ryuuko!' Even through the phone, I could sense how relaxed she was with that usual phrase.

I've became a hopeless addict to that 'I told ya~'

“If I get to play and kick butts in the game, can I expect some rewards from ya? JK, heheh~”

With assured laughters, she decorate her request for something other than spiritual support.

“A reward, huh… Is there something you want? If it's something within my ability, that is.” You're gonna have to look deep to find that bar though.

And who'd wish for something so far in the negative? That's just how it is, hahah.

“Mm~ Then~ How's going to the festival together sound? It's getting a little awkward for me to go on my own~”

“Wouldn't that be a reward for me?”

“Eh?”

I kept my voice down and mumbled, so Ryuushi-san couldn't hear me.

“Oh, it's nothing. Not that I care about conveniency, but is the festival you're talking about held in this town?”

Even with the window open like that, I've never heard any festival music come in.

“Um, the biggest one is on the thirteenth of August, I think? I remember it being held on that day every year. I use to go there with the Onee-san from around, it was so fun~”

“Oh.” If it's the thirteenth, then it'd be in three weeks.

“Ugh~? Ya were playing baseball without knowing about this, Niwa-kun?”

“Know about what?”

“The last game of the amateur baseball decides whether the city or shopping district gets to conduct the event. I don't know who made the rule either, but apparently it was to avoid conflict or something. Dad told me if the city wins, it'd harder for the shopping district to go to the festival, and vice versa.”

But the city usually wins~ Ryuushi-san casually added.

The real deal in three weeks Maekawa-san was talking about — the match that has everything to do with the festival?

Ah~ So we're just doing practice games now? But it already seems like the shopping district has a high chance of losing this year too. And if that were the case, can I still go the festival on the thirteenth?

“Oh, soz. I know we're rolling around like a square, but...”

“Hm?” I guess I'm already used to Ryuushi-speech. I didn't even bother asking.

“About cheering. Touwa-san, would she show up? ...I'm just wondering.”

“...I don't think she will. Probably.”

Hm~ Ryuushi-san is oddly concerned with Erio. If I try to point this out, things might become more complicated.

And to keep whatever atmosphere we have going, I am always mindful of staying away from that. It isn't easy, but it is what I want to do.

“I see~ Then, okay. I know it sounds bad to say things like this, uh, um, sorry. I don't really know what I'm saying any more.”

“...Ahaha.” It's the wisest to not ask any further, right?

“Oh yeah~ Speaking of baseball, I wanna talk about Nakajima-kun.”

The conversation took an L turn right then. What we just talked about wasn't going to end up anywhere sunshine and butterfly, so I tried to end it. And now we're talking something I was personally very interested about, so I said nothing.

But from how startled she was then, I'd never guessed that Ryuushi-san would be the one to bring this up.

“So what's the matter?” I curled up in preparation for any comment.

Perhaps anxious, I heard she swallow. Then…

“Nakajima-kun… I asked him out this March, only he shot me down.”

...It's one of my predictions, but not one I had betted on.

“I see… That is… A shame.”

“Eh? For me?”

“No. For Nakajima.”

This is Ryuushi-san we're talking about here! She doesn't stand out, yeah, but she's certainly someone special amongst all these people.

“Ah... Wuu… Then, if it was for Niwa-kun… Um, uh…”

“Hah? What did you say?”

“Nothing~! And I thought we were gonna have the best summer ever, but we haven't done anything yet!”

“That's because you're always so busy~ But is that really so bad?”

“Mm~ But still...”

Then we talked everything about nothing until one of us finally yawned.

We talked about Ryuushi-san running away from home, and when I met an alien (lol).

These meaningless prattling faded, like stars in the dark sky.

The next morning followed.

Under the influence of having no baseball game and talking for too long, I woke up late.

Scratching my unkempt head, I walked down the stairs; I circled the entire house once, in case Meme-san was already up. Yet, someone who I shouldn't be able to see again sat naturally in the house, making me doubt my eyes.

In the living room, Yashiro chowed away at her breakfast, mouth filled with fried egg and grilled eel.

Like a bear stuffing itself before hibernation.

And instead of the space suit, she wore a shirt and skirt that probably belonged to Meme-san. Is this kid taunting me, like 'space ship launched! Totes carefree!'?

Whether it's her outfit, skin, or hair, they're of a pale colour expressible in just black and white.

Perhaps she took a shower earlier, her hair glistened with moisture. Enjoying the hotel service too, you little turd?

On the other side of the table, a smiling Meme-san sudden raised her head up from watching the voracious girl. “Good morning~ Mako-rin!”

“Who's the person even more abnormal than what you just called me?”

“Hm?” A scowling Yashiro with puffed up face turned over. The mysteriousness her almost silver hair and face exudes was reduced by sixty percent, while her friendliness increased… I would hope not. That aside.

I looked over to Meme-san to demand an explanation. She blinked crazily with her eyes, probably because dirt got into her eyes. In some interpretation it could also be winking, but I'd like to ignore this possibility.

“Mako-kun, if you don't eat now, someone's gonna eat 'em all~”

“Is it because there is someone eating my food?”

“You shouldn't be so mean to your friends, Mako-kun. Oh and by the way I think your 'tsun' for your aunt has been going on for a little too long. Your aunt has been charging for too long, now her power's leaking!”

Are you perhaps mistaking your ageing with something else?

“She's just a sketchy kid, not my friend.”

“I found her collapsed under the porch when I was doing laundry this morning.”

“I was sleeping.”

“So I brought her in.”

“Wahahahah!”

“Ahahahahah!”

Stop laughing! Stop being so chummy! And stop bringing kids in!

Are you one of those grandmas from the old stories? You shouldn't be so kind! Looking closely, the spacesuit costume hung on the laundry pole in the yard — the source of nightmare appeared to drift in the breeze.

I saw Erio too… Swinging a broom. What's she doing?

“We don't have a baseball bat for her to practice with, so that's the best we got.”

“Oh.” Baseball practice, huh. Does she like amateur baseball that much?

In the front, Erio; in the living room Meme Oba-san and Yashiro. What a strange sensation.

I hope I never get use to it.

It is as though we are now forced into the parallel world that 'Yashiro is a part of the Touwa family.' Is it because she fit so well in here? There's a force not to be reckoned with.

Meme-san squinted gently at Yashiro's symmetrically-split hair.

And when she almost chocked, she'd hand her a cup of barely tea like a loving mother.

...Um, isn't this a bit too much? Did she give up on her gap-moe in favour of mother-saint character?

To calm myself down, I sat on the chair on the right side of the desk while glaring at Meme-san.

“So, why did you let some fishy kid into the house?” At least be cautious around something like this!

Well, maybe she's a little more trustworthy than your child from some times ago, but still.

That's not saying a whole lot if you're comparing two people in the same negative, right?

Meme-san held her breath, skipping out on oxygen supply for a bit; when her cheeks turned red, she covered her mouth and looked away.

“I-I didn't let her in because she called me a Onee-san!”

“…” My head hurts. This morning is ruined.

“Fufufu, I've hypnotized this women. This, too, is thanks to my super power.”

Yashiro cockily added another lie.

“You're just kissing her ass, aren't you?” Don't you have any self respect?

“I mean, a weird old lady was coming on to me.”

“My! What do you mean weird!” Meme-san intercepted, but made no comment when her age was mentioned.

“So I had do it. 'Good day, Onee-san!'” She squeezed out a super fake cute voice. “The entrancing voice was needed. She became my subordinate after realizing my magnanimity.”

“I could totally see that happen.”

“But Meme is a not too bad — at least better than you.”

Did she concede because of the food? Skillfully insulting me, Yashiro also complimented Meme-san. The air she gave was like an abandoned puppy wary of humans, only getting close to them because of the food.

I thought about this occasionally, but is the interaction between human and alien not too different from that of human and animals? I can't be the only one who thought that.

Not that I'm equating Yashiro to an alien or a stray dog.

Mumbling something along the line of 'it takes a smart kid to see my true nature~' Meme-san dazed off.

“If it were me, I would extend no mercy to others, unless I have a penchant for them.”

Yashiro declared decisively and shot me a glance. Was she implying that if she were to find me under the porch, she wouldn't help either?

Meme-san blinked twice, and gave her the usual smile.

“Me too. I only helped you because I like you.”

“...Really.”

Timid by her standard, Yashiro looked down.

Her shutting up must be a sign that Meme-san's kindness has gotten to her.

Erio noticed me with a gloomy face and raised her right hand exaggeratedly at me; I waved back discreetly. From the corner of my eye, I saw Yashiro grimace.

“Was it due to her growing up here…? She doesn't appear to be aware of her nature as an extraterrestrial. Looks like she won't be able to become a comrade with a pure alien such as myself.”

That commentary was quite like a certain battle-oriented race!

“What, so you're going to stop messing with her?”

“The reason remained unknown, so I must investigate… But I find myself not wanting.”

Again, she grumbled with her incomprehensible talk of 'work.'

Meme-san opened her mouth too, as though joining the conversation while changing the channel randomly.

“It's really hot this morning. It's making me want to go into the fridge again.”

“I won't open it this time.” I'll even cover it with a blanket.

“Alrighty, time to make some breakfast for Mako-kun. Just give me a second.”

Given up on making conversation, Meme-san left the table. I wanted to follow her too, to ask her questions where Yashiro isn't nearby, but I didn't want to leave a non-family member alone in the living room either. Yet, once I see her stuffed cheeks and content smile (that disappeared as soon as we made eye contact) I stood up and left.

Tailing Meme-san in the hallway, I queried at her long, wavy hair.

“Are you actually fine with this?”

“What's the problem? Even if it's some girl I don't know, it's just letting her sleep for the day and giving her a meal. It's not too different than you or Erio inviting friends over.”

A nonchalant Meme-san kept her pace while announcing her lack of issues with Yashiro.

Setting how careless she was aside — if one of those naive girls in children's stories were to grow up to forty years old, I bet she'd be the perfect example.

Her character of never doubting anyone; her act of showing the good and bad parts of her in front of anyone. This must be why she became a 'big kid.'

“Plus I felt like I got another little sister.”

“Your understanding of the word sister is rather poor.” Confusing that with 'daughter.'

However.

“I can't believe how carefree you are.”

Aren't I an idiot for not loosening up?

A person who lives in a town that's more like a town than where I came from has a much broader interaction with people. There's a silly, laughable part in that fact — that is, people back home actually understand the rudimentary.

In the country side, there aren't many people. When there aren't people, you become more disinclined to interact with them.

Meme-san entered the kitchen, ignoring her niece's complaints of 'no, that's too much' and dunked more rice into the bowl with a grin. It's that special smile that only appears when she reminisces.

“There is indeed a personal reason.”

“Which is?” Because she wasn't called an old lady? No way.

Suddenly bashful like a young girl, and with a voice that seem to melt together with the morning sun, Meme-san quietly spelled out the truth.

“She looks just like Elliot when he was young. Of course I'd be nice to her.”

---

Okay, after the costume was dried.

I had to send Yashiro home for some reason.

...Where does she live?

I get that I was going to get Erio to work anyway, but…

“Not trying to disappoint you, but my bicycle doesn't fly.”

The one that flew now sleeps with the fishes. I wonder if the original is preserved somewhere. Namu Amida Butsu.

“Why would I expect you to accomplish such high-level act of kindness? I suppose I will allow you to find me a place of abode.”

“Place of abode?” What about your house? And then she immediately disregarded her previous sentence.

“Under the eave, that is. I must remain on this planet till my job is done.”

“Does that involve you putting it together?”

Purposefully being incongruent, I prevented her from rambling on.

As I headed toward the shed, a sight that flashed by my eyes ceased me.

“So hot~” Seeing us off, Meme-san, who was cooked the moment she stepped out, stood in front of Yashiro who hung her head. It's a strange expression unusual for her. With the space costume under her arm, she pinched and pulled her shirt forward.

“Are you sure I can have this?”

“Okay~” Meme-san's eyes looked bleary; the forty-year-old who proposed to her air conditioner appeared to have no resistance to heat.

“I won't give it back though.”

“It's fine, just take it~ Ugh.” Her tongue's melting.

“And you won't get anything in return.”

“If I wanted something, I would have given it to someone else~”

“What are you trying saying?”

“Exactly what I just said.”

“…Then I won't use my power on you.”

“Ahahah! Thank you very much.”

Yashiro turned abruptly away from Meme-san; the corner of her eyes met my gaze.

“The hell are you looking at?!”

“Oh, oops. My bad.” I just couldn't help but eavesdrop on this rare exchange.

“The day when you see the sun in the middle of the night will be your last!”

“How would that even be the middle of the night?”

My comment was ignored. To vent her frustration and embarrassment, Yashiro stomped on the ground and paced around the entrance. Looks just like a zoo monkey.

“Anyway, where is Erio?”

“Isn't she right there?” Meme-san pointed behind me.

“Hm?” I merely turned my head. “Hm.” There she was.

She seemed to have snuck up on me.

“I tried to get the cousin's back.”

“You're not being literal enough, sadly.”

Erio bafflingly tilted her head. There's no way you can ever mimic Meme-san. Better question is, what's going on with her?

Last night, she imitated the way Ryuushi-san called me too; what's gotten into her head?

At the sight of the bicycle being carried out of the shed, Yashiro humphed for some reason. Initially I thought maybe our great esper had complaints about the plebeian vehicle, but she did not open her mouth again.

Alright, Erio in the basket, and Yashiro… Behind me? Finally — despite it being a self-titled esper — the day I get another human being riding behind me aside from my own aunt. “Came...” I'm not set so that I could easily accept this kind of thing as fortunate.

Before getting on, Yashiro donned her space helmet. Of course. Why would I ever let a normal girl onto my bike? Well, below her head were an everyday shirt and skirt, so I guess I'm suppose to make do? With both of them being the helmet clan (?), her and Ryuushi-san's cuteness couldn't be any more different. In just an instant, I'd been sandwiched by two suspicious characters.

In the front a basket girl, the back a helmet girl. If this were a game of Reversi, even I would become the abnormal bicyclist.

“Careful~ Around Mako-kun!”

“Why don't you send them off yourself if you're going to warn them?”

“The rest is up to you young folks, sniffle… My youth… My dearest AC~!” The forty-year-old covered her face and retreated back into the house to heal her mental wound. I might be able to get her back here if I yell 'Meme-san is just as young,' but I'm not that great of a liar.

Checking Erio's seated properly and hearing Yashiro's jeer of 'hmph, a disfigured Xenom*rph mimicry?' I released the bike lock and straddled onto the seat. From the rack behind came the movement of a person jumping on.

For someone who's just tagging a ride on the way to Erio's work, she's quite an imprudent one.

Yashiro's thin arms choked my stomach, like I was some kind of tree meant to be roped. Arms sinking into my waist, it was a tasteless act of strangulation.

I even moaned from the pressure; my Youth-points also ceased their breathing. The rigid rim I felt on my back seemed to kill off the rest.

When Yashiro is around, my Youth-points get suck away.

The almost-midday sun beamed down, like a burning hat covering my bare hair. The humidity must be worse than yesterday's: instead of dryness, my skin felt a stickiness as the sun shone on it. The sign of sweat drops formed on my back.

The colour of the vegetation and sky seemed refreshing, yet the fact that the vividness blurred before my eyes depressed me.

I'm signing the marriage agreement with the AC… Ack!

As though linked with my heart, the wheels decelerated and rolled forward heavily. The beginning is the most likely time when the bike would fall over, so be careful.

The same, I suppose, could be said about Erio's return to normalcy.

And so far, there hasn't been any major setback.

“Off we go!” “O-off we roll...” Erio followed along and mumbled an old reference.

Don't these two get along well in a way?

I think espers should just stick with each others.

“Alright, here we are… Whoa!”

Must be because both my retina and consciousness had been destroyed by the heat, I braked too late. The bicycle stopped just after the Tamura Shop. A burnt smell permeated from between the hard-stopped tires and scorching road. A hallucination? Or did I actually smell it? I don't know. This heat seemed to even melt the differences between objects.

“What- is- this- crappy- building- without- any- eaves?”

“Is that how you judge a house? The eaves?”

With her tongue and throat rejuvenated, Yashiro scoffed at the exterior of Tamura Shop with that alien speech. 'Mmph,' perhaps upset because the store was insulted, Erio pouted glaringly; she left from the basket and walked in front of Yashiro instead of into the store.

“What, you wanna go?”

Yashiro got off the bike and prepared for battle. Erio won in terms of height, but she wasn't wearing her futon. “Wuu.”

She cowered. “Hmph.” Yashiro closed in. This image could have been interpreted as a Yashiro, with her face covered, robbing a girl in broad daylight. I looked around to see if there's anyone who could call the police or arrest her, but only hot air hung around.

Distressed, Erio ran off. She escaped behind me, using my body as a shield from Yashiro's eyes; standing still, she looked down regrettably. What a wimp.

Due to a lack of futon, she lost the stare-off — in what part of this country would this phrase make any sense?

“You- lost- because- you've- lived- complacently- on- this- planet.”

Triumphant after successfully intimidating the space-hamster, Yashiro, despite the heat, laughed loudly.

On the other hand, has Erio recovered from defeat? Head raised, her face was exposed to the sun.

Under the continuous, brilliant light, the particles still hid themselves.

“Cousin.” Aw, no more Niwa-kun? “Want to see, Obaa-chan?”

Erio gazed toward the shop's inside. Tamura Obaa-san? I haven't seen her since a week ago.

“Well...” Yashiro was still here too, and even if I'm not obligated to stay with her…

“I'll visit when I come to pick you up.”

“Okay. Obaa-chan, would be happy.”

“Really?”

It's not like she's the typical 'lonely but stubborn old people.'

Setting the physical aside, I thought she was, mentally, an independent person.

“Really. She likes the cousin.”

Erio smiled as though she was the one complimented; facing that neck-tingling smile, I could only give a half-courtesy half-bitter grin back.

“Then, I'm off to work.”

“Yep. Do your best.”

Only with her entire body did Erio pull open the deformed door.

With her disappearing inside the store, the only ones left in front of the door were me and Hoshimiya Yashiro.

If she were to stand alone on the road, the level of dreams and hope would inflate simply from the combination of the helmet and grey outfit. It would be like involuntarily watching something just a step away from reality.

Then why not just become an imaginary person, like swathing smoke?

But because we live in reality, we are normal. Well, if it's only in your head, then you're welcome to whatever.

“Where did you, uh, want to go?”

“A place to sleep.”

“Alright, well, it's hot and all, so good luck. Don't forget to stay hydrated.”

I let the wheels spin. “Hold up!” “Uwah!” Yashiro hugged me from the back; I stepped onto the ground and avoided falling to the right.

“What the hell are you doing?! That was close!”

“Abandoning you duty is a heinous crime, you bastard! Not that I follow mine...”

“I don't remember any 'duty' of helping you find a place free and illegally.”

You're just tagging along a ride for Erio, which was how you ended here. Please don't beg me to become your escort to wander around the town. It's hot, man.

Also, a place to sleep… I knew she was just a runaway who doesn't want to go home.

“Meme has ordered you, correct?”

“She only 'recommended;' she didn't ask me to help you with jack.”

That's not for a high schooler on vacation, but a real estate agency.

“And whatever happened with that guardian guy of yours?”

“Well… I don't wanna be a nuisance, so… Ugahh—“

Despite wailing in her helmet, Yashiro didn't throw any tantrum.

What she said was surprisingly Earth-y.

“Are you not Meme's son?”

“Nope.” The sudden turn in speech was unexpected, but I shook my head still.

“She's my aunt. Didn't you hear Erio call me 'cousin?'”

“Oh… Hmph.”

Yashiro hopped onto the bike rack and strangled my chest. It was like she's grabbing onto a piece of wood after falling into the sea. She seemed completely ignorant of what I'm made off, clawing at my flesh. The way she hugged me made me dubious whether she considered me as living.

“Aw— cut you damn nails!”

“I have a place I want to go. I'll tell you where.”

“...And you'll be happy if I send you there?”

“Mm, I'll… Let you off the hook.”

“Well, thank you very much for that.” Whatever, I'll play along till then.

Thanks to being a nice guy all the time, I felt the responsibility of not ditching a girl on the street.

The bicycle with one less person forged ahead with a squeak.

Every time the wheel spin, the sound that followed was twisted like that of an insect flapping its wings.

On the road were a lack of people and car. Was it because now was a time when both working people and students would rather stay inside?

Without Erio or Yashiro, I would probably stay in my room to chill as well.

How should a summer vacation be spent? Full of events, or, as the word vacation would suggest, used only on resting?

Being busy certainly has its merits, but that kind of defeats the purpose of 'vacation.' Three days of rest, then three days of business, and finally three days of rest… Is this the ideal…?

Enough with the bullcrap.

Yashiro's route appeared familiar.

I started to see the occasional students wearing school uniforms. Were they on the way to their clubs? Or were they merely walking home? Basically, that's the sort of people I saw. As I wondered how similar the road looked, turned out it's the other side of the path I usually take to school. In other words, I watched this very same scene every day from a different road.

If we keep going ahead, we may end up around my school.

After riding for a bit more, I spoke to Yashiro, who'd loosen her grip on me.

“Hey.”

“Hnwhat?” Passing out? A lethargic response.

“Why don't you take the helmet off?”

“Do you wish for the destruction of this planet, you sicko? You are unfit to be the denizen of this planet!”

“Ahh, please keep it down, will you? Fine, let me ask you something else.”

“Mm… Ah, mm.” If you're gonna forget then just stop acting.

“Do you really believe in super power?”

The air behind me tensed; affected, I shrunk my thoughts.

“You don't believe me anyway, right? So why did you bother asking? Idiot.”

“You don't pull punches when it comes to insult, do you?”

It's like Tamura Obaa-san, but at a much younger age.

“I've already given up on trying to convince people anyway. All of you are the same: you all blindly accepted that 'it's impossible,' and you deny any strange things as the super natural. Ah, take a right here.” I turned right. Oh, I know this place. We'd reach the school's gate if we keep straight.

“You all believe that 'it can't be real if I don't think it is.' I am tired of you all.”

As disappointed in people as she sounded, she again and again emphasized to me her esper identity. Why, though? A simple hypocrite? Or was I an exception to the rule?

I wouldn't be happy even if she thought me as hopeful.

“And what does a simple belief change?”

I retorted lightly. What does believing do anyway? Without a shard of practicality, that is.

Whether it's football or baseball, I can't become the best by just having faith.

But this Miss Yashiro seemed to have some great power. She must be on a different league, right? I didn't want to jab her like so, but in the end it didn't matter.

“You simply do not know that the world doesn't not revolve from a strictly physical sense.”

“...Really now?”

“And truth to be told, I've never thought of 'believing' in my super power.”

“Wha? Are you listening to yourself?” My exaggeratedly high-pitched voice vexed me.

“If it's what I posses, than it is nothing abnormal; therefore I don't have to question my confidence in it. Would you purposefully pray for your stomach's existence? Of course not. To me, my power is just another part of my body.”

Perhaps mused over this conversation countless times, Yashiro spoke clearly and persuasively. I didn't have the energy to debate her in this weather, so the words went in an ear and left the other.

“This is, at most, my thought. You simply cannot comprehend.”

“Okay? So why are you the only one with powers?”

“Hmph, to think that you do not believe in the possibility of it happening to just a selected few. This is why I hate you humans' typical way of thinking. Haven't you thought that maybe because you kicked a piece of rock on road ages ago, the world is like so? You might have shouldered a significant part in shaping this world.”

“...That's the thing about butterflies and wings right?”

“I meant humans are actually much greater than they thought they are. Likewise, I also disclose the possibility that anyone could be the bearer of an unnatural phenomenon.”

Now she's praising humanity? The ultimatum of super-power belief is, in the end, just a spiritual theory?

The only thing I understood from this exchange was that nothing could change Yashiro's unwavering dogma.

So far, there was no proof for her unnatural abilities.

We entered the road toward my school. Ryuushi-san might just be in the gym… “Oh! Stop !”

Yashiro's voice rose. What happened next ensues command; the bicycle slowed down as I realized the inconspicuous sign of disaster. I wasn't braking; the front wheel was still moving. If I separate the back end everything would have been fine, but the bike creaked as it struggled to stay up. “Whoa! Wait a—! Hold—!“

We fell.

I couldn't save it. The bicycle, as though sliding, crashed onto the concrete floor. Out of reflex I stuck my palm out, avoiding having my leg trapped and diced by the road and the bike.

After making sure the bicycle stopped further down, I looked back. Judging from Yashiro's rubbing of her feet, as well as her stiff expression, and the sudden deceleration of only the back wheel…

She stuck the tip of her shoe into the back wheel, trying to stop it.

I pulled the bicycle, the front wheel still spinning, up and screamed at Yashiro.

“W-what the hell are you doing, you dumbass?!”

“If you too have super powers, you wouldn't need a brake to slow down.”

That's only thanks to your endurance for pain, right? Her toes must hurt a lot!

“Then do please use yours!”

You don't have to destroy the world — just use it to help someone else!

“My abilities are far too great for this—“

“Right, yeah, whatever. So what's wrong with you?”

“Do you have fruits growing out of your eyes? Look! It's a water reservoir!”

The direction Yashiro pointed intently to was… My school. Yeah, that's right. I mean, it's where we were just passing by. As of this reservoir… “Wait, that's just a swimming pool.”

“Ahahaha!”

Ignoring my words, she dashed toward the school. As though impervious to her pain, the helmeted girl latched onto the fence surround the pool and scaled it nimbly. She'd definitely be arrested if Mr. Security catches her. Her skirt also fluttered defencelessly as if screaming 'it's summer!' More than the person herself, I was embarrassed.

“Ahahahahahah!” Stimulated by something, Yashiro clamoured mindlessly while climbing up, and jumped onto the empty poolside. Perhaps the impact numbed her feet, she kneeled down after landing.

“Hey! Is this where you wanted to go?”

I yelled at Yashiro from behind the fence. Now that I thought about it, I did hear that our school doesn't have a swim club, so the pool is usually open for students during the summer. Obviously no one was here because it's not open, but in the afternoon when club activities are out, people might show up.

“Correct! The humans are only remotely capable when it comes to this stuff! A puddle filled with cold water!”

Being stealthy since she's trespassing — Yashiro, screaming energetically, had no plan on doing that as she walked toward the edge of the pool. She then raised her arms parallel to the sides, stuck her chest out, and fell flat into the water. Her stiffness might have been mistaken as a suicide if this were elsewhere.

The splash was surprisingly small; her weak existence was as though a fish bait dropped into a pond. I couldn't see from where I was standing, so I had no clue what happened to Yashiro in the water. Only, as I stood encased by the cocoon known as the sun, she was embraced by cold, pool water. I'm a little annoyed, knowing that.

Oh, she surfaced. Like teleporting in a sci-fi movie, she slowly emerged with lines waving about. She probably took the helmet off in the water, letting her face exposed directly under the sun. Again, a person who shines even in the day.

“I'm gonna go home now. Remember to leave before the students catch you.”

After that extremely basic advice, I turned away from that pool. Just what the hell did I come here for? With so many questions for what I did, I couldn't even regret anything.

Since I'm already here, should I visit the gym? As I thought so while swiping at my forehead.

Something weird made contact with me. At the instant, I even thought I was stabbed in the back. Like having a block of salt shoved into my brain, it was a weighty and upsetting sensation.

Ringing set in, and my senses disoriented. To pull the feeling of disaster back, I tried concentrating on the heat… Agh! I pulled my hair hard; despite the growing fatigue, I managed to calm myself down. Finally, I got a grip.

The mysterious liquid dripping from my head and back turned out to be cold water.

The pool's water, apparently, splattered on me. But, the amount was odd. Was I covered by a whole bucket of water? Was there even a bucket near the pool?

Trembling, I turned around and glared at the perpetrator. Grabbing the fence and shaking it, I protested, “I almost had a heart attack! And I mean literally!”

Yet Yashiro was still… And I want to pause here for a second: she's floating on the water, quite a distance away from me. No bucket either. Or any one who could have been her accomplice.

Super pow—? No, no way.

“Well, well. Looks like there won't be any need for super power, Makoto.”

“Wha?”

“Get in here! Let your brain loose like a globe! Don't stop now!”

Yashiro raised her legs and kicked, splashing water toward the poolside. The water didn't hit me, and it dried quickly under the blazing sun.

I'm actually a student here, y'know? If they catch me, it will definitely stay on my record. A free and shameless creature like yourself is very different than me.

Aw, but dammit, it's still so hot.

And she's there splashing water.

Somewhere deep in my throat squirmed.

“Grow a bigger brain! And don't give up on what you can do, you stupid idiot!”

I did not know whether it was censure, jeering, or just raving.

Yashiro's existence in my mind distorted, like silhouette blurred in the heat.

Gripping the fence, with a deep, strained voice, I spoke.

“...Fine.”

I should have been a regular high school student looking for Youth-points.

Breaking into the pool at a time like this isn't like me. Besides, I don't want to be seen with a suspicious space girl.

Yet, with the excuse that I didn't want to go around, I put my hand onto the fence.

I struggled awkwardly climbing up.

With my body acting so irrationally, the inside of my head burned.

The students running on the track seemed to look over here, but I ignored the gazes. I decided to see them as people who are across the sea, in a country far, far away.

I landed by the pool; I took off my shoes and my socks, staring at the glittering water.

It's hot; I wanted to cool down. And so, I leave the natural desire during the summer, as well as the only solution, to the sight in front of me.

The AC didn't want to marry me, so water is my only comfort!

Pushed by this senseless motivation, I dashed mindlessly.

I got as far as I could away from the poolside.

The day when Erio and I flew into the sea surged in my mind; compare to then, I might be able to enjoy the dive a little more. The sea was cold, but the pool refreshing.

I dashed, for no one else's, but my own sake. This heat in my head finally imploded.

“Yooo~! Hoooo! GOO!!”

With a speed that would definitely get me in trouble with a life guard, I jumped into the pool.

The watery world, decorated by speed, undulated like rumpled paper.

My ears could feel it, the giant splash on the top of my head. But even that was short-lived. With that same momentum, I ended on the very bottom; with more air out of my body, I sunk continuously.

I breathed out more, getting rid of that lung-searing air. Embracing me like some sort of creature, the water soothed my limbs.

Even the sunshine seemed gentle in the water. I reached out; the wavering ray, like tails formed of light, appeared palpable, but escaped my grasp annoyingly.

Off with heat and sweat, I only swam up when the pain of suffocation settled in.

Upon surfacing, Yashiro welcomed me with giddy laughters. Shirts and skirts dampened, her skin showed through; it might have been tempting to stare, but I couldn't bring myself to. Still, I did just that.

Unaware of my impure intent, Yashiro grinned satisfactorily.

“I knew you weren't hopeless.”

Just spare me with that.

We frolicked.

We probably end up using twenty different special moves.

Kamehame-ha being the most common. Even an alien knows about that manga, huh.

Just for your information, no one caught us. According to Yashiro, it's because 'a barrier made of light rendered us…' (discontinued), but in reality it's simply because we're lucky, and that the students around didn't care enough.

Strange that all it took for me to cheer up was jumping into a pool of cold water. And I'm not exaggerating.

I will admit though, that it felt pretty gross when I came out from the pool with wet clothes sticking onto the skin.

Tired after swimming, Yashiro headed toward the shade under the school's storage shed; without drying her hair, she plopped down and fell asleep.

“Hey, are you sure this is fine?” Even if it's not an eave?

“Yep...”

A slow nod from her. Then, her wet shirt changed angle or something, and the scene started sparkling. I scratched my cheek reflexively. That's just how being young is — I so told myself to gloss over the heightened heart rate.

“Just… Leave me… Thank you ...”

With what was either sleep talk or just perfunctoriness, Yashiro's conscious sunk. The water dripping still from her wet the ground. Unsure what to do with her, I decided, in the end, to respect her decision. There was not much, after all, that I can do now anyway.

“...Well, I guess there is something.” I flipped open Yashiro's space suit and used it like a blanket to cover her up. Hm, this could more or less limit the light coming off of her, so she wouldn't be discovered by people right away. I think. Plus she didn't even dry herself off, so this should be okay for keeping the cold out.

Finally I put the helmet next to her and bid a single-sided farewell to her.

Under the sun, my clothes dried instantly. Even the moisture on my skin was pulled away; while my temperature was still kept down by the pool, I aimed to head back to the Touwa household.

And on the way back, sitting outside of Tamura Shop on the bench was Erio. She had a bottle of barley tea in her hands. Legs dangling, she stared obliviously at the wall in front. The sight, as though the horror tale of 'the girl who's waiting for the bus that will never come,' seemed surreal. Erio and the colour of summer — the two seemed to mix in an odd way.

Her head titled left in reaction to my bike's brake. The foci of her eyes gradually met mine.

“Ah. The cousin.”

“Yo. How's today?”

“No one came, so I'm… Attracting?”

“Oh? And how's that coming along?”

“I caught the cousin.”

Erio happily pointed at me. Is the simple joke a sign of her growth?”

“Did the cousin change head?”

“I'm not some bread man, how could I?”

Well it'd be nice to get a better version of my brain of face… Just kidding.

“Oops. I meant, hair.”

“Hair?” I felt a bit of moisture on my hair. “Oh. It got wet earlier.”

“Wet? Rain?”

“Nope. It's too hot, so I dove into a pool.”

“Sounds fun.”

Erio squinted enviously. Then, her mouth opened.

“I like pool, more than the sea.”

“...You want me to take you there?” That's what your eyes are saying.

“Very much.”

“In a while then.”

It'd be inconvenient to hang out with Ryuushi-san if Erio were around, and vice versa.

Knees curled, Erio rocked herself up; she took a sip from the bottle and asked.

“Want to see Obaa-chan?”

She asked me the same thing this morning. What is this, a marriage arrangement?

...Well, not like I'm doing anything later. I'll go see our tsundere grandma.

“Hm, I guess I will.”

“Mm. Let's go, cousin.”

“Yep.”

I went in from the front door. As if warning against an invader, the alarm atop the entrance rung. Inside was empty, lacking the form of that not-so-reliable person.

“Is Tamura Obaa-san inside?”

“Yep. She thinks it's too hot, so she's inside sleeping.”

“That's kinda like Meme-san.”

Hearing my honest thought, Erio smiled meaningfully.

I headed toward the residence, where the solemnly silent hallway that not even the cries of cicada could infiltrate resided.

Every time I visit, this calming air like a cave with blue walls welcomes me.

At the end of the hall that stretched, light from the window delineated a cross.

...Stiffly, I spoke to the back walking in front of me.

“Erio.”

“Mm?”

“You got a little tanned.”

The Earth rotated on, and noon was once again upon us.

### 015. Chapter 4: The Noisy Summer

## Chapter 4 - The Noisy Summer

Baseball in the morning, stargaze in the night.

In days like these, daytime was the most boring.

Erio's working at Tamura Shop. Meme-san is working, kind of. Ryuushi-san's working hard for her club. They may not all be busy, but they're all doing something.

The only free and bored soul was me.

I was the only person home when noon arrived. Since morning I lay on the bed, eyes shut, and waited for the sleep that never came; I sighed. Half-conscious, I picked up the reference book with heavy eyes. After a few pages, I would put it down and shut my eyes again. Repeating that, two hours passed.

No one was home, and since it's been so hot, my instinct overcame me. Letting what could be called the peak of civilization, the AC, run, I sealed the room up. Because of the light shooting in from outside, I closed the blinds on the window as well. Strange, considering I used the AC all the time back home.

"Ughh~" In the first three minutes, only a tepid, mouldy air came out of the machine. After a while, a cool atmosphere capable of keeping the room comfy was established. 'The appliance you want to marry the most in summer' — the title was once again unchallenged. A fan might be a far second. During the winter, the kotestu would be a tough rival.

Now, I can ignore the stickiness on my skin. Contented, I plopped back down on the bed.

What came next replaced this irksome heat.

Time: when I'm doing nothing.

“Sigh~” I covered my face with the book, lamenting on how useless I was.

I felt my Youth-points evaporate every time when I fell asleep doing nothing. I'm not in a club: during time such as summer when school isn't in session, the chance of me interacting with another person is greatly reduced.

Youth-point is a thing only nourishable with another human being. I mean, it's too late, though, to say this anyway.

Even if I wanted to go out with one of my classmates, I just couldn't find the motivation — must be because I don't know them long enough. Being a transfer student is kind of awkward, like being an outsider.

The only person left I know is Maekawa-san, but we're not so chummy that I can just ask her out on a whim. She's a girl too, and much haughtier than Ryuushi-san. Is it her hobby, or her height? Or maybe the pressure from her dad? Furthermore, she might pass out twice being outside in this sun.

Plus, I don't think she's doing nothing. She might be working too. Didn't she say she wanted a motorcycle license? Because of that Onee-chan in a yukata?

“So it's just me?” Someone with nothing to do.

Is freedom merely being unconfined for twenty-four hours? Can’t believe I thought about taking a nap when I'm forced to do stupid things with the others.

I heard the faint noise of some people; but it disappeared, as though the AC had snared it away.

Trapped in this room, with nowhere else to go, were the cries of cicada and the whirling of the AC.

“...Ugah~”

Just exactly how the hell did I manage to stay in my room for the entire summer last year?

As I recalled, it felt more like I was looking into another person's private life.

I decided to head out for lunch, so I grabbed my phone and wallet. “Uwah...”

The sun cutting into the door instantly dulled my resolve. Nifuram. I tipped forward and almost fell backward. The linguistic may be vague, but do try to understand this on a metaphysical level. I almost scurried back home.

What if AC's had legs? Then it'd be mobile and stuff. Or maybe everything should just come into my room instead! These selfish thoughts hovered in my head as I considered a way to counter this heat.

“Of course!” I just have to carry the AC! Hot damn, Mako-kun's a genius!

After the idiotic thoughts sublimed, I walked toward the bicycle. The terrifying heat seemed able to burn off even the nutrient in the head, causing thoughts to become incredibly one-dimensional. I might just judge a book by its cover and start seeking Erio's affection. This might be a complete meltdown.

Slowly dragging the bike out, I rode forward shakily. Sweat spewing from the neck, and the sun pressing down heavily, I wondered maybe I was possessed by something.

Concerned that the bike's frame might melt, I started wandering. Where should I go? I don't want to go to the station, neither do I want to explore the local cuisine.

I hate to say this, but Meme-san's food is just to my taste. “It's love! Lovey Love, together Love, beach love!” Shame about her how she speaks, really.

So that leaves one choice… “Let's go to the Tamura Shop.” And I could check on Erio too.

Though it's only been three days since I last went. Erio seems to be doing fine these days, and Tamura Obaa-san's recovered enough that she could go into the store, so even Meme-san's relaxed.

I didn't have to change route — maybe I subconsciously wanted to go there? With that in mind, I sped up slightly. Rather than staying longer in this heat, I wanted to go into that cave-like house. My brain demanded, and I agreed.

“Hm?”

As I passed between the residence, I saw a familiar face; I braked and looked back.

She appeared to have noticed too; the sun hit the slightly crooked grin.

“Yo, transfer student.”

It's Maekawa-san. With a black parasol in hand, she walked forward. Something's off about that attire. Only, Maekawa-san's normal outfit only counts when we're talking about costumes.

She wore blue jeans and a blouse, a getup perfect for walking to a nearby store; however, both pieces seemed too small, as much of her skin showed.

“Where are you heading?”

“I wanted to grab a bite somewhere. You?”

“On my way home after an errand. Unfortunately, one of my family member stole my bike.”

With that explanation, she mumbled something about lunch. The umbrella cast a light shade on her face. I felt obligated to stay before she came to a conclusion; despite of the heat beating down on my brow, I endured in the middle of the street. Not a single car passed. Maybe people would melt if they walked on the road, I thought.

Finally, light returned to Maekawa-san's face.

“That's it. Why don't we go to my place? I'll make you lunch.”

“Eh?” Maekawa-san's house? Girl House? It's hard to deny that I didn't want to pounce at the invitation. I could feel the Youth-points. I'm going to a girl's house! And during a vacation!

Maekawa-san, on the other hand, didn't seem bothered; she pointed at the basket on my bicycle.

“So, can I get a ride in this basket?”

“...Hah?”

“If Touwa likes it so much, it must be pretty darn good.”

Hmhm, she nodded smugly. Maekawa-san, lanky as she was, clung onto the bike like a spider and stuffed her lower half into the basket. “Wow, it's tight.”

She grudgingly accepted the condition and reported to me. I don't need to hear this. And, once again, the dream of riding double drifted further and further away from me. I expected no less from this alien-protected town that only allow its girls to do this E.T style riding… Maybe the aliens are protecting them because they like these girls?

“Well, I'm in ya hands.” Maekawa-san spun her parasol and commanded joyously. And what can I do? I scratched my burning scalp, but seeing her like that, my doubt vanished.

She's willing to spend her day-off with me: she can sit however she wants.

It's a weekday too, so Maekawa Dad must be working.

Once again I pedalled onward. Compare to Erio, Maekawa-san was comparatively lighter.

“How are you feeling?”

“Like a shipped-off cow in a cart.”

“I bet you do.”

Should I pretend I'm the young Elliot? Like, 'Here we go~! Fly~!'

Maekawa-san lives in the corner of the residential district. It's newly constructed and close to the shopping district.

“Let me out~” I held Maekawa-san's flailing arms and pulled her out of the basket. “My butt hurts.” Hands rubbing her rump, she hopped toward the entrance.

Maekawa-san checked if the slide door was locked first before reaching for her key. “Are they picking up new stocks? Oh, did I ever mention my parents run a bar?”

“It's a bit hazy but I think you did.”

We chatted while moving in; the bike was parked in front of the storage in the yard. The current weather indicated I shouldn't worry about a surprise downpour. In fact, I kind of wanted to pray for some rain to cool this town down.

Maekawa-san opened the door and went in first; I trailed behind. “Welcome~” As though following a certain rule, she greeted before leading me into the living room.

“One sec, I'm going to prepare.”

“Hm.” Prepare? Oh, lunch? Isn't it a little shameless to have her make lunch for me? Pretty hypocritical considering my stomach growled as I pondered; hence I decided to ignore that thought.

Sitting in the living room and enjoying the air conditioner — not many things could beat this.

After about two minutes passed.

Wearing a pink T-shirt and a blue camo skirt, Maekawa-san appeared with a doughnut in hand. Then she made a strange sound of 'Nom, nom nom.' before eating the doughnut.

“…?”

“Somebody said that I didn't need to get a new haircut, so I wanted to try this once.”

“???” I searched in my shallow knowledge what this is referring to… I don't get it. “Wow, you don't read manga, do you? Not very competitive, transfer student.”

“Well, I picked a few up recently.” It's helpful when I'm talking with guys too.

She finished the doughnut and disappeared quickly. Um… Was that a cosplay? From the sound of it she was playing a manga character, but I thought she graduated from that already?

Looking down, I lost my thought in the garden projected in the window. “...” Having handmade lunch by a classmate. Typically, that'd be +2, but since now I've had all three meals made by Maekawa-san, I'll throw in an extra +3 rating. Like so, I pondered about things unrelated to the garden.

Just then, two Niwa-kun's (丹羽) appeared in the garden (にわ)… As I came up with something Ryuushi-san would, that 'thing' leapt out from beneath. I jolted away from the window, almost falling back, 'Uwah!'. Actually, I only did half of both actions described, merely ducking down a little.

Having a window between us was reassuring, but I actually thought it was a mass of white snakes.

Something crawled out into the garden. As though the law of nature, the pale object appeared.

Strange. It's so nice in here, but I'm about to pass out.

Why the hell is she here?

The oh-so-sneaky Hoshimiya Yashiro was trying to pilfer the ripened tomatoes in the Maekawas’ garden. Still wearing the things Meme-san gifted, she did not forget to don the helmet. Such a shady character. After seeing her again since we parted at the school's storage, I was at ease knowing that she's fine. On the other hand, I also wondered why she's still in town.

It's a bit wasteful, but I opened the glass screen.

“Oi.” You're quite sneaky for a thief, but are you a critter? Or a farm burglar?

“Eave teleportation!”

She immediately shouted the name of an almost-ability. She appeared to recognize my voice and didn't look surprised.

“Hm-hm-hm, I- already- knew- you- would— Sorry, I can't do this any more, my throat hurts.”

“Could you not play pretend when you're not feeling well? And why did you break into another person's house again?! You're also a tomato thief now!”

“T-this… Is a tomahto.”

“I don't care how you say it! That’s it: you have to go home now!”

“What made you think I can if I'm here? Why don't you try making a rocket that can send me to Mars in a day, huh?”

...What the hell? Not to be a jerk, but she's kind of being a nuisance now; however, if she were to starve to death here, it would leave a pretty terrible décor in Maekawa-san's house.

“Alright, fine. You, stay right there.”

Even I question why I do the things I do, but I just can't stand ignoring people I know. Leaving the living room, I easily arrived to the kitchen; it wasn't a particularly difficult house to navigate, after all.

“Hm? Transfer student, did hunger get to you? Couldn't you wait a bit?”

Stirring something in the frying pan, Maekawa-san looked back. With her slender figure and the apron, she left a distinct impression of 'a capable girl.' She wore it so well I almost wanted to change my impression of her.

Basically, her apron form was in my strike zone.

“Um, would you mind I take some tomatoes?” Despite my thumping heart, I requested with a straight face.

“Hm?” Maekawa-san tilted her head confusedly at my request.

“Uhh, there's a starving cat in your garden asking for some tomatoes.”

“Oh… It's okay, I guess. I thought maybe you're becoming Ryuushi or something.”

Maekawa-san handed me two tomatoes. I wanted to pay, but she just laughed it off, 'quit joking around.' Hmm, she's indeed quite a respectable lady. Too bad she's made of paper Mache.

After thanking her, I returned to the living room. “Here.” I handed the tomatoes to Yashiro. It's still a loss to the Maekawa household, but it's probably better than having them stolen.

Yashiro took her helmet off, revealing her face before accepting the red fruits. On her face was slight bemusement, like the type when you are least expecting kindness.

If she could take off that helmet more often, then people would definitely be friendlier toward her.

Oh~ But her superpower would explode, wouldn't it? I won't forget to add that (lol) after the message.

Yashiro stared intently at the tomatoes; her head bowed deeply.

“Thank you, dream.”

“How about thanking someone more specific?”

Is it really that unreal for me to be nice?

“Dung dung dung ~ dung! Danger evasion UP! Makoto's HP increased by five.”

“And none of that stupid game, please.”

Just leave me out of it! Is what I really meant.

Yashiro bit into the tomato. “Uwee~” Her cheek twitched from the sourness; she quickly finished the two tomatoes without stopping. It made me think that when her identity is revealed, her hunger increases — could that be her real power?

...Well, it is true that whatever you eat becomes nutrient. Anyone could tell you as much, but it's quite a mystery to wonder about if that common knowledge was to be erased.

Most organisms maintain life by 'ingestion.' Perhaps, to aliens of a different biology in a planet faraway, it could be seen as a form of super power.

But forget that: seeing Yashiro finish, I worried she would ask for another one. “If you're done, get out of here already!” I ordered the intruder.

Yashiro scoffed and put her helmet back on.

“I will see to the return of this favour. Remember to thank me then.”

“Oh yes, I am truly honoured.” I didn't even feel appreciated. It's rare when you don't feel rewarded helping someone.

With cheeky laughter, Yashiro left.

Perhaps instead of recovered, she had her brain melted in this heat.

Still, what's the deal with her? I've always thought she's wherever me and Erio are.

I shut the screen and ended the wasting of AC. I sat down in front of the table, anxious and expectant, waiting for Maekawa-san's handmade meal.

“Here we are.”

Holding a plate with both hands, Maekawa-san and the smell of soy sauce entered the room. Even better was the apron that hung from her still. Excited, I involuntarily sat upright.

“Was that enough for the cat?”

“Yep, it was.”

“Awesome. Alright, go ahead.” The item in the plate was stir-fired Udon.

“Ohoh~”

“I wanted to make fried rice, but I didn't have the ingredients for that.”

She put the obviously larger portion in front of me.

I was also able to get a glass of barely tea. Dried from the activity outside earlier, my throat greedily thirsted for water; I downed half the glass in one go. With the heat stolen, my innards shrunk.

They twitched with the trickling fluid. I will see this as a demand for solid food. I'm already on it~ I put my hands together and faced Maekawa-san.

“Well, I'm digging in.”

“Yep, go ahead.” She hurried me like a mom.

I picked up the chopsticks and started slurping the noodles.

“How's the taste?”

“Hmm… This rich… Whatdya call it? The cooking manga I read before called it something.”

There's a pile of cooking manga in Meme-san's room, so I borrowed some when I had time.

“Uh, just something normal is fine.”

“Oh, okay. Then in that case, it's delicious — it’s amazing.”

My comment seemed to have assured Maekawa-san; she smiled. Then, she began picking up her own noodle too.

Hm… “So, there’s really nothing else you called me here for, huh?”

“Yep. I guess you could call having lunch together something though, right?”

“Yeah.” Well, that’s not bad either.

I still thought that my impression earlier was too mundane — Ryuushi-san would definitely be ticked off by it. She’s always been flexible. I don’t really know what that word means though.

“Now I get why Hanazawa-san wanted to marry into your family.”

“Cough!”

Maekawa-san spat out the udon in her mouth; with force that could shoot stuff out of her nose, she struggled. “Uh… You, doing alright?”

The moment I asked, she shot me a begrudging look.

For Maekawa-san to be shaken over something other than her height, I think I just witnessed a rare event.

…But did I even say anything that shocking?

After we’re both satiated with the noodles, Maekawa-san made a proposal:

“Wanna play some games? Only got some old stuff though.”

“Oh, you play video games too, Maekawa-san?”

“A lot, too, before I got this tall. At the time, I had a… Hm, nothing.”

She just left it as is. “Well, anyway, let’s go.” Maekawa-san got up and shut off the AC in the living room. She’s keeping a secret, but knowing that it’s got nothing to do with me, I got up without questioning. Onto the second floor, we officially enter the domain of Maekawa-san’s room.

“…Hmm.”

I didn’t expect it to be a girly room, but there wasn’t even a thing to surprise me in there.

In the room were wooden furniture of the same tone, and a few souvenir figures placed on the shelves; on her desk rested her bag and books, and not a single item related to cosplay was seen.

A plain room contradictory to the usual biology of Maekawa-san. It wasn't until I saw the sweetfish costume laying on her bed was I able to sigh in relief.

“The closet in there is the door to your wildest dream. Want to take a look?”

“No thanks.”

I had a feeling she’d make me try them. She will most likely be more aggressive than a store clerk.

“Um… Around here… There it is.”

Dusty and its colour yellowed, the gaming console Maekawa-san pulled out was indeed ancient. It must have been top-notch years ago: I remember seeing it on TV long ago.

She laid a few cartridges, their finishing also faded, onto the carpet.

In the end, we agreed to play the racing game. I chose to play as the walking mushroom, and Maekawa-san the green dinosaur. Neither of us picked the human protagonists.

Sitting from a distance away, we stared at the TV.

When it’s Maekawa-san, I become less conscious with the idea of ‘being alone with another girl.”

Was it due to seeing her cosplay all the time?

We selected the track and began racing.

“…You seem like you’re quick to give up, transfer student.”

I failed and started last; Maekawa-san graciously took the spot of first.

“Eh? What do you mean?”

I don’t really know how to play, having only tried a little at my friend’s place. I chased the back of seventh place. Did she mean I should give up on trying to win the game?

“Well, you’re the type that usually gives up beforehand, so I thought that that must be the case.”

Since I’m in last place, the items would usually be good… Until I got a banana peel.

How fortunate.

“You think? There are things I wouldn’t give up too, though.”

Like Youth-points and such. As well as first place, for this game. I hit sixth place.

“For instance, you’ve already given up on ever hitting Hanazawa’s pitches.”

“Oh~ that. Yeah. Well, isn’t it too much to ask, expecting an amateur to hit those throws?”

A football landed on the ground in my mind; I tried to send it flying, but end up falling on the ground.

“It's gonna be difficult to go to the festival if we lose… You’ve heard, right? Whoever wins the last games gets to host the event.”

“Yeah, I heard from Ryuushi-san.”

“Don’t you want to go with her or Touwa?”

“Ah… Well, Erio aside, yeah, it certainly would be nice. What about you, Maekawa-san?”

“I have to help out at the booth. And if we lose next week, I guess I will watch the firework from my yard.”

Oh, it’s next week? But, we’re going to lose anyway, right? Since they have an actual player there.

“I digress, but you might be surprised to hear that I could easily let go of things.”

Maekawa-san successfully led the race. Her words and rank don’t match — was she mocking me? I glanced at her screen, remembering that I just have to drift through corners. What’s the button again?

“I’m already through hiding my height. Not much you can do when you’re already 179.9 cm tall.”

“Dontcha think you’ve been awfully persistent with that number?” And you sound a little rude too.

“But I did accept the fact that I’m tall.”

Maekawa-san grimaced, twisting her controller like an actual car. That would probably result in the vehicle ramming into the wall in real life.

In the virtual world, she kept first despite having a less-than-smooth path.

“To give up is to approve of your opponent, so I don’t think it’s all bad.”

“That’s not a bad way to make friends.”

My rank rose to fifth. We reached a tunnel.

“Only, recently.”

“Recently?”

“I should be giving up, but it's getting harder.”

“Hm?”

I tried to remember the shortcut, only to fail miserably and ended up in last place; Maekawa-san, too, tried to challenge the same route and dropped down to seventh.

“I'm wondering, 'how could this be?!', y'know, transfer student?”

“Ah. Like losing your lead because you were too stubborn.”

“I guess I'm in no place to poke fun of anyone.”

“Yeah. You’ll end up last if I catch up.”

So ended the first lap. With two more to go, I climbed to fifth while Maekawa-san forth.

“Are you having fun, transfer student?”

“Yeah, I am.”

I’d already gotten used to the track; my hands, too, adapted to the control.

“Good. Then, I won’t give up either.”

“It's still the first lap though: you don’t have to be so pessimistic.”

I saw that bitter grin again from the corner of my eyes.

“Yeah, I guess… My point is, some things are just hard to give up.”

“Oh… I’m still not sure what you’re getting at though.”

It’d a zero if she was giving me a test.

“The right answer is never so easily understood. Like a modern Japanese exam.”

“Huh…”

I glossed over, ‘giving up’ on trying to understand… Oh, I see. Her assessment for my personality seemed accurate.

But I think I also wanted to ignore that because I didn’t want to disturb the atmosphere we have playing games.

We finished second lap — I took over Maekawa-san’s avatar.

“So, I’m still transfer student, huh.”

“Hm?”

“Oh, uh, my name, that is. I think we’re near the expiration date for that name.”

I successfully reached second on the last lap; Maekawa-san shifted between fourth and fifth.

The AC moaned on the side.

“I’ve called you that since we met. Isn’t it a little weird to change now?”

“Why’s that?”

“No reason. I have pride too, you know.”

For a long while, the room filled with only clicks of the controllers.

The voices of human only appeared alongside the small victory poses, at the end of the games, in the form of ‘yay!’ or ‘tch.’

Despite it being silent, it was an appeasing atmosphere.

After about an hour, as I got bored playing normally and was driving backward on the tracks, Maekawa-san suddenly opened her mouth:

“Oh yeah. I got a little question.”

“Hm?”

“As a sniffer, do you like Touwa or Ryuushi’s smell better?”

“Gahh!”

As she prefaced, this irrelevant question jabbed deeply between my ribs.

Obviously, this was an indirect abuse from Meme-san.

Was this an act of vengeance for earlier, Maekawa-san?

The green dinosaur easily surpassed the idle mushroom.

When it was about evening, I decided to leave the Maekawa household.

“You wanna to have dinner here too?”

“No, no. That’s too much. Besides, I think my aunt’s cooking… Probably.”

The kitchen’s been too hot lately, so she’s been looking for excuses to stay away from there.

Meme-san seemed to also find ways out of the town’s annual drain cleaning. That’s on the same level as a kid running away from cram school.

She might never lose that spirit even when she hit Tamura Obaa-san’s age. In a way, maybe being able to see like a child makes her an excellent teacher.

“Alright. Then, do say hi to Meme-san and Touwa for me.”

“You should do the same for me to your parents too… That's not an issue, right?”

“Actually, I’ve been thinking about introducing you to my dad.”

“Please, anything but that.” My face will end up catching a ball.

“Ahaha, it’s just a joke. And, uh~”

Ahem! Maekawa-san coughed. What followed was rare for Maekawa-san — she looked down, almost bashful.

“Can I, invite you again sometimes? …Kiwa-kun.”

“Only if you don’t call me that. What about Ryuushi-san or Erio?”

“Ah~ Nah… I only got two controllers, you see.”

“…? Hm, I guess, but… Hmm~?”

“Don’t think too much about that, got it? Basically, I’m just glad that someone said my food was good.”

“Oh~ I see.”

She went on about this controller thing, but I somehow accepted her explanation. This was the first time in a long while since I complimented that she could be a model. I’ll treasure this moment.

“Then, bye.”

“Hm. I will see you tomorrow.”

Let’s meet again tomorrow, when you’re in your fish form.

I bid farewell to Maekawa-san, who waved her hand, and stepped onto the pedals.

Since the time was right, I’ll go pick Erio up too.

The sky held onto the light still, casting a golden hue across town. No longer stinging, the sun had this softness, as though making a compromise.

“Haah.”

Feeling overly fulfilled, I gradually let out the excess.

Even with no comprehension of what happened, I felt satisfied.

I could call it an uneventful day: I think it wasn’t spent any differently than just cosying up in my room.

Nothing in particular happened when I went to Maekawa-san’s house.

But the way I spent the time there couldn’t be any more interesting.

In a day where nothing happened, where nothing was added — it is amazing to think how it was a one-eighty from the regular days.

Since times long ago, human interaction has always been the manifestation of mystery.

I rung the bell twice meaninglessly — I was that excited.

Yet, it was a suspiciously normal day in a town like this.

I once again realized that If she doesn’t do weird cosplays, she’d be a tall and sensible beauty.

“In any case.” It was a great day. No one could say otherwise.

“Dung dung dung~ dung, Youth-points UP, 3 points!”

### 016. Chapter 5: In This Summer: Basketball, Superpower, Stargazing, Festival, Baseball and Meme-san (discontinue)

## Chapter 5 - In this summer: Basketball, Superpower, Stargazing, Festival, Baseball and Meme-san (Omitted)

Fifty kilo, that’s like tying Maekawa-san on you… Um, maybe the analogy works. Well, I don’t really know how much Maekawa-san weigh anyway.

Hm… Would Maekawa-san mind if someone asked her? I had a feeling she wouldn’t.

“Well, ya better be ready to see the true face of Ryuuko-san tomorrow!”

True face, huh… I’m a little worried that it’d be scarier than her true ability. Maybe she just used the wrong word?

“Then I’ll look forward to cheering for ya.”

“Haah~”

“Was that a sigh? Or a deep breath?”

“Both. I’m, like, a million times more nervous than last time. ‘Cuz it’s not just any game this time!”

“Hm… Is there like a, bet or something?”

“No no no… ‘Cuz someone's watching…”

“Eh? What did you say?”

“Ughh… Are ya the heroine of a shoujo manga~?!”

“Ahahah…” Lost as I was, I laughed at Ryuushi-san’s hilarious response.

“Cousin~ Stargaze time~”

Spring in her steps, Erio joyously skipped into my room. In her hands was a blue, creasy notebook. I’ve always thought that she appeared in the least convenient times.

Not that I could point out specifically what inconvenient means.

“Cousin~?”

Erio hopped closer. It made me want to tell her to leave like a parent to his kid ‘I’m making a very important call right now, okay? Can you let me finish first?” …But I couldn’t do that.

“Niwa-kun? What’s the matter? Ya are all quiet…”

“Yes, I would try my best to handle it, but…”

For the time being, I just came up with something to resolve the situation. Ryuushi-san didn’t hear Erio; Erio further encroached despise me being on the phone.

“Be quiet!” Huh? Me? “Eh~? Oh wait. Attention please! Uhhh~ One sec, Imma get the dictionary.” Was she trying to say, in English, ‘keep talking to me!’?

Erio climbed onto my bed on her four, shortening the distance between us. I’d try to back off, but I was already leaning against the wall in the first place. Without some super power to break the wall with, I had no escape.

Actually, teleportation would have been a much better ability. I wanted to slap the brain that thought of something so pointless at such a time. Erio changed course, staring at my face.

Like an animal, assessing whether the object she found was edible or not.

“Phone call?” Yep. I nodded silently. “Who?” No, I… How do I convey that with my chin?

“Sniff, sniff.” You can tell by the smell? “Something Ryuushi.” Someone’s an esper! “I was right.”

Erio pouted as though this was a gag manga.

“Wait a minute~? Is there someone else there, Niwa-kun?” Uh oh, she noticed too.

She’s got me ☆ (giving up).

“It’s, uh… The cousin I live with.”

“Touwa-san~? Hmph, hmph~!”

“Eh? What kind of reaction was that?”

“Cousin, the star…” Erio slid the notebook across my face; she sat in front me and begged with upturned eyes. “Okay, okay, I will go out with you when I’m done talking.”

“G-go out with her?!” Ryuushi-san’s pitch changed. A shocking sound followed. Did she drop her dictionary?

“No, you must be confused, Ryuushi-san!”

“Nope! Ya are too flirty, Niwa-kun! I dub thee Mr. Flirt (Flower-さん)!”

“That sounds like a nickname for Hanao-san(花尾)!”

“Grr… I hafta get my charger!”

“The phone bill is on your side, so I can’t say I’m okay with that…”

“Oh no, my phone is actually dy—“ And we lost connection. Looks like her battery actually died.

“What were you talking about?”

Covering the lower half of her face with the book, Erio questioned disinterestedly. Busy with the charger, I answered without hesitation.

“We’re talking about me going to cheer for her basketball game tomorrow.”

Following that, Erio’s eyes sunk. Was it something she doesn’t like hearing? Why?

She won’t come with me, right? Ryuushi-san said so too, but that’s not my decision to make.

“Do you want to come too?” Therefore, I still asked for her opinion.

“No.” She rolled herself up in my blanket like the stuffing in a sushi; she fell off the edge and made a resounding thud.

Due to the blanket’s thinness, only minimal damage was absorbed. “Uuu…” She moaned from beneath.

“You okay?”

“…Not going.”

Ignoring my question, Erio once again emphasized her previous assertion.

“I don’t like school, anyway.”

Unlike with the futon, her words clearly reached my ears — only, that wasn't so helpful this time.

Oh. I understand her attitude now. She left a lot of resentment, and with the third-years leaving after this summer, everyone who remained at school is the same age as she.

If she returned, in her futon, she will stick out even more. I imagined with a somewhat bitter grin.

Hmm~ If I can smile at Erio’s futon form, I guess it's also game over for me.

“Want to go see some stars now?”

Just like before heading out to the train station, on our journey toward space.

With no doubt in mind, I invited Erio to the stars.

It was in no way me comforting her — It is, after all, just homework.

The blanket roll, like wrapping for a bouquet, spun to the entrance of the room.

“Now.”

Good. And leave the blanket here.

…Oh, but before then.

Tomorrow, baseball game in the morning. We’re about ten days away from the festival host-right game… I think.

So ends the memorized lines from now on.

The usual uninterested expression lacked consistency with her hand.

During a game few days ago, Hanazawa-san once grumbled, ‘baseball doesn’t feel right.’ Still, met with the ball that seemed to indicate those words as nothing but bluffs, I missed both my swings.

Apparently unwilling to go easy even with amateurs, Hanazawa-san threw a breaking ball that changed speed drastically. She’s also responsible with the pitch sequences; Nakamura-san, the catcher, appeared to only catch the balls. Considering that he took care of Yashiro, he must an overly-nice person.

Until the sixth inning, there were only two people on base; one of them was Erio somehow. By just standing there obliviously, she managed to get four balls. Despite following her example, my performance wasn’t looking too well.

Yashiro was not seen today at the left field today. Nakajima stood there instead; I met his glance, and we both smiled courteously. The girls’ basketball game was this afternoon. Would Nakajima go do some practice in the gym too? What should I do if he starts speaking with me?

“Ah.” Hanazawa-san wound up, and soon the ball exited from her right hand. The hurriedly-swung bat swiped at the top of the ball, sending it out over the foul line.

“……” That was quite an unbelievable hit.

I had a déjà vu moment. Is it going to happen again? No, no. I have to focus on this next pitch.

Even if I hold the bat a bit closer, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was only making changes on the decimal points. Was it a more fundamental issue? What surprised me was that perhaps Erio, in spite of her appearance, may actually be very dextrous.

I adjusted my grip once more; I assumed the stance and, without looking away, faced Hanazawa-san.

Even though I’ve already given up. I never had the chance, anyway.

If I hit it, it’s gonna fly far, isn’t it~? Expectantly, I swung the bat with my all.

Beautifully, it cut through the air. The sensation felt better, so I considered it as good enough.

That marked my third strike for the day. I made a ball go toward second base though.

…Wait. I just realized I've never made it onto a single base since I started playing.

It isn’t conclusive whether indoor sports depend on the weather, but it’s clear that today was an annoyingly sunny day.

This level of heat made me want to just go through the entire gym, and ride straight into the swimming pool. Affected by the thought, I subconsciously looked to where the pool was. I didn’t see the shadow of an excitable white helmet. Where did she go after Maekawa-san’s porch?

I parked in the lot between the gym and the kendoujou. According to Ryuushi-san, it’s usually not open during school days. The place was stuffed with bikes, as though it was the ones in front of a train station. Without any roofing, the bikes warmed up gradually.

I delighted at the sight of that yellow safety helmet among countless bicycles.

Circumventing the wall, I approached and entered the gym that echoed the sounds of balls rebounding and sneakers squeaking. In the space that harboured more heat than outside, sounds that scream youth reverberated within.

Sure is nice being young~ I’m not going to become a youthful grandpa that could only dream about this. Maekawa-san would probably pass out if she took a few breaths in here.

There were two zones in the basketball court; the right side appeared to be where the away team was preparing. A bunch of unfamiliar girls lined up there, practising layup.

If there were three guys here watching, every time when a girl rushed beneath the basket, they’d be making dangerous comments like, ‘X,’ ‘Y,’ ‘Y, but her boobs are Z.’ Yet, being alone here… Don’t I just look like some shady person?

Now, left side. Looking up, I could see the platform that the principals makes his appearance from. There were already some people sitting there not in uniforms. Audiences? Shouldn’t I sit there too? Still, I wouldn’t know where to sit, seeing how they are all girls.

“Hey~ Ya~! Niwa-kun!”

Following that odd yelling, the owner called to me. Adjusting the angle of my neck, I peered at the origin of the voice: Ryuushi-san, in her team uniform, waved at me. She stood at the left court, under the hoop, with a ball in her hands. She wore two pig tails, tied to the back. For sports, huh? Hm… Including the uniform, this was an instance of cuteness impossible to witness during regular class days.

I walked, while Ryuushi-san jogged; in just a moment, the distance between us disappeared. We even almost bumped our heads together. Ryuushi-san was, as always, filled with energy.

She cracked a grin, greeting me with the usual soothing smile.

“It’s been a week, hasn’t it?”

“Yeah. I’m here to see you kick some butts today.”

“Someone’s here to see me~! Oh yeah~!” She posed. A gesture mixing Saturday and Night. She stopped in just a second from the embarrassment, cupping her cheeks with hands, ‘heheheh,’ and wriggled.

“Ugh! This pressure is killin’ me!”

“You look like you’re in a fever though!”

“No way~ It’s cuz I’m under so much pressure…” She squeezed the ball tightly with both palms. “And it’s all ‘Kablooey!’ now!”

“Oh~ If you say so.”

It’s a little scary to ask what exploded, so I just circumvented around the topic.

Ryuushi-san raised the ball above her head, and beamed a pure smile. The softness exhibited similar to the embrace of spring was unfitting in this summer air.

“Thank ya for comin’ today~ Though I’m not the one of the starters… Mm~ I’ll definitely be playing though! I'm not gonna give up today!” As if showing off her spirit, she waved the ball around.

'Not gonna give up,' huh? That’s quite the opposite from my summer this time.

I thought of Ryuushi-san covered in golden glitters, struggling and yelling ‘Give me a hand~’ Uh, in a complimenting way, of course.

“Oh, is this the rumoured boyfriend, Ryuushi?”

Then appeared a girl who almost latched entirely onto Ryuushi-san’s back. She had a head of black hair, and stood about as tall as Ryuushi-san. My first impression was that she’s more refined than the other girls.

“W-w-w-what? That’s nawt it!”

Ryuushi-san turned in attempt to throw her off, meanwhile, uh, yelping.

“What is ‘nawt-eet?’”

“Not it.”

“Hahaha! You’re freaking out!”

Um, I think this is no different than the usual Ryuushi-san though. “Mmm~” The girl, perhaps her best friend, openly and literally gave me the ‘elevator eyes.’

“You’re that transfer student right? Mm~ So Ryuushi likes them imported, huh?”

She boldly assessed me. Also, since when did I come from not only a different prefecture, but an entirely different country? Or, maybe since this is an alien’s town, anyone from anywhere else is automatically ‘shipped’ here… And who’s gonna buy that?

“This is Mikki.” Ryuushi-san whispered while pointing slightly at the girl’s face. Ohoh, so this is the legendary Mikki…

Where’s the mouse element? Or maybe she’s supposed to be M*nnie? Okay, whatever. I guess the name came from her last name: probably something like ‘Miki’ or ‘Mikimoto.’

“Ya are mistaken, Mikki.”

“Am I?” Mikki watched for my reaction with a mischievous smile. Her air reminded me of a term I saw long ago while flipping through a magazine. It was a word written cutely, and a bit dumbly — ‘devilish girl.’

I’m afraid, for a usage example, that the word was used incorrectly.

“The name’s all wrong! He’s Ryuushi-san, and I’m Ryuuko-san!”

Uhh~ Why are you involving me? Now we sound like a twin or some kind of partners.

“Oh, relax, Ryuushi! You’re old enough! High school’s the season of love, the time to bloom! Having a boyfriend isn’t that weird, don’t you think? Plus it’s better to wear it on your sleeve!”

Mikki tapped on Ryuushi-san’s shoulder. “I only care about club stuff!” Ryuushi-san objected with chest sticking out.

“Bull! Even you skip practice sometimes to hang out with this transfer student!”

“W-w-what! Ya do the same too!”

“I’m just playing hooky for the sake of playing hooky!”

“Why are ya so smug?!”

What a comedic back-and-forth. But, her boyfriend, huh~?

Mikki’s misunderstanding — or perhaps, light tease at Ryuushi-san, is nothing more than for fun. But it didn’t bother me, or, rather, it’s kinda making my heart beat. A lot. More than just a simple jolt.

“So what’s up? Here to see Ryuushi?”

“The game~!” Ryuushi-san corrected with hands waving wildly.

“I get it now~”

Mikki ignored Ryuushi-san and nodded deeply. Hehehe, she snickered, and cupped her hands around her mouth. Then she turned around, walked forward and…

“Sensei~! Ryuushi’s boyfriend is here today, so she’s wondering if you could let her play~!”

“Ahhh~! I’ll get that on my own! So stop it, Mikki~!”

The two shouted on their way back. Some people stared with wide eyes, while others laughed. From a bystander’s view, I am envious of this type of interactions between friends.

They certainly are good friends~ I saw them off with a smile. “Don’t laugh~!” Being so loud before the game, Ryuushi-san was truly invigorated.

“Boyfriend, huh…” Hmhmhm, I’m not at all shaken. My chest just feels a little tight.

I wonder how many have been on the path of ‘gotten serious because of some little things, and the misunderstanding deepened and finally shattered’? I have to be cautious.

Anyway, I’ll find a spot to sit first.

“Uh.”

Something deplorable appeared.

A suspicious person wearing a space custome sat at the corner of the gym, hugging her knees. She was wearing the entire outfit today. As if a tiny universe had taken form, the otherworldly corruption surrounded her, forming a dark miasma.

Everyone pretended to not see. Actually, listening closely, I unexpectedly heard a few girls gossiping things like ‘gross’ ‘should we tell someone?’ ‘what about the teachers?’ ‘Is that the Touwa Erio girl?’

“…Sigh.” If the game was cancelled because of her appearance, Ryuushi-san would be disappointed. Such lame reason appeared in my head instantly, but my feet already pointed themselves toward her before any tangent reasons formed.

To avoid the eyes of the girls, I waited for them to look away before approaching Yashiro; she noticed me immediately.

‘Good- day- earth-ling’ she spewed out an idiotic line; I kept silent and smiled, and pulled her helmet off.

“No~!” How did she make that sound earlier?

“Unfortunately, dear customer, the policy of this gym is the same as a store or bank: no helmet.”

“It’s gonna blow!”

Pop, I took the helmet off.

Instantly the dark corner of the gym saturated with light; the air took an 180 change. Perhaps because it occurred in the corner, the clamours were contained. Besides, with the lack of guys, it wasn’t that glaring.

Still, she attracted a decent amount of stare, with what could not be denied as a striking appearance.

“Ughhh.” She felt her neck while looking resentfully at me. With her helmet off, Yashiro revealed her pale, snake-like skin unaffected by the sun.

Crisp as though it would make a refreshing sound every time they fall, the strands of her hair shone like the stars. Unable to be tanned by the sun — she could use that as one of her jokes.

“It would be your fault if this planet explodes.”

“Yes, yes, I’m the most terrible, nefarious human beings to have lived. What are you planning to do here?”

“I am just watching. While contemplating on the future of my work.”

“Work this and work that. Why don’t you just go and do it?”

Without throwing a child-like tantrum, Yashiro gave a twisted smile.

“It’s not that simple… No, maybe because it’s too simple. Should I do it, or not? I’ve tried many things to avoid it, but frankly speaking I’m a little sick of it. I’m not exactly interested in finishing the job.”

“So why not just give up?

Hearing that, Yashiro opened her eyes wide. She smirked evilly.

“Hoh~ Now that I’ve been given permission, I shouldn’t be responsible if I fail. Ah~ Now I’m safe.”

“Hah?”

“Oh, right. I saw another human with potential while observing here. And I also discovered that this activity called basketball is a lot more interesting than I imagined.”

She shifted topic in the blink of an eye. “Ok.” I replied flatly and sunk.

Because I think I realized long ago that I’d asked a bunch of needless question without any deeper motives.

“Hmph… Are you dissatisfied that I did not appear under an eave?”

“To be honest, I want to bury you under one.”

Yashrio gave a snarky and meaningful smile, tracing the basketball travelling between the floor and hands. The girl dribbling that ball ran toward here and successfully made the shot after a jump.

“…So why, exactly, did you join the baseball game?”

Erio, too. Is baseball in for those with extraterrestrial traits?

“Why do you ask?”

“No reason. I thought maybe there’s a hint about your super power in there somewhere?”

Or of why you insist on calling yourself an ‘esper.’

Yashiro stared at me coldly, but ultimately looked away.

“Because it’s work.”

“Helping out for an amateur baseball game is work?” Even with that broad a standard, you’ve not done anything remotely close to the word suggested, right?

“Fact is, it’s just a means to an end. I won’t deny that it’s probably a poor choice, however.”

Though ridding the fatigue in her body and mind, Yashiro hung her head and sighed.

At that moment. “…It happened on a starry night.” She began with an suspicious preface. “I came to this planet.”

“Wait! A more basic question: Why — uh, ‘this planet’ right? Why did you come to this planet?”

“Eh?”

“Why do you obviously seem like you’ve never considered this question?”

“…Cease your baseless accusation. I was simply taken aback from the likes of you asking a question such as this. Listen well: the reason I came here, is because it is my fate.”

“…That’s not a reason.”

“Three days soon passed after my initial landing. With the environment desolated and undeveloped, I struggled to adapt; on foot, I dragged my battered body around. Unsure what the vile crime the violent inhabitant of this planet would commit should they discover me, I avoided any contact.”

“I can’t believe you’re going to just keep yapping.”

“Due to the creed, I cannot easily utilize my power; I do not stand a chance against these savages with under such atrophied conditions. After serious consideration, I had no choice but to accept the gifts of this land.”

“Oh.”

“Despite the planet being ravaged by its malevolent inhabitants, the local cuisine is one of the few things praise-worthy. In the plough land, there grew a round fruit used as food; thus I attempted to obtain that nutrient to recuperate.”

“Water melon theft?”

“I was intercepted, however, as the patrol of this planet finally discovered and attempted to arrest me.”

“Good work, Mr. Police!”

“The dire situation rendered me needing to unlock parts of my power: I threw mud at his face and ran.”

“You’re a little turd.”

“During the chase, another being joined the hunt — an unknown creature more ruthless and cunning than the previous: a barking quadruped.”

“Don’t you know what dogs are?”

“Despite being able to continue the battle, I feared that the planet patrol would soon catch up. So I jumped into the river; I swam, following the flow.”

“You might make a better ninja.”

“Finally I hit shore on the riverbank; while maintaining stealth from the savages, I reached the building next to the park — and the eave.”

“An eave isn’t some kind of gadget, you know.”

“It was there when I reached my limit.”

“You’re also clearly a Japanese.”

“It was no easy task, but I managed to fit half my frame into the eave and fell asleep.”

“Why not your entire body?? This is why you’re both a horror and freak show!”

“I woke up — only, two days have passed.”

“Wha?”

“I slept not under the eave, but in a bed. It would appear I had been taken in by the male creature by the name Nakamura, who lived in that edifice meant to worship the savages’ idols.”

“Hmm, so it was the shrine?”

“Nakamura revered me: his friendliness indicated that he intended to seek favour from me.”

“Wow~ What a terrifying man.”

“Oh? Are you too? Is that masochistic way of life a trait of this planet’s males? Serving me sustenance, Nakamura expressed his fond interest in the extraterrestrials.”

“Nakamura-san is a good man. Did you thank him?”

“Of course I did — are you stupid? After making sure I ate the food, he proposed a trade. How lamentable.”

“Don’t you think trying to eat a free meal is more lamentable?”

“Are you not in a similar position?”

“Hm? Well yeah… How the hell did you know that?!”

“Nakamura claimed that, in return for the food, I must partake in an athletic competition present only in an undeveloped planet such as this. Something about not enough people. As uncivilised a deal as it was, with the condition of continuous provision, I must accept the terms, or risk survival in a world without super powers. From the stand point of ensuring my life, I determine that to be a wise judgement.”

“I see. So, in other words…”

'I ran away from home, and came here after three days. Because I was starving, on a starlit night I decided to burglarize a farm to steal some watermelons. After failing and being chased by a stray dog, thanks to Nakamura-san, I managed to survive. Nakamura-san was a nice guy, who not only gave me food, but promised to provide lunch if I join the baseball game; thus, I gladly accepted.'

“In the form of a dissertation, that’s what happened, right?”

“You idiotic fool!”

Yashiro began attacking me with her right hand; though the fist landed on my shoulder, it didn’t even sting. Part of the reason must be because the costume was thick enough to cover her hands, but her right arm must be extremely weak. Even with her power I doubt she can lift a bag of rice.

“How dare you disgrace my story with such trite discussion: this is in itself a form of talent!”

It was mere description of the events that happened — nothing to do with super powers.

“Anyway, who is this potential human you’re talking about?”

“That one.” The person Yashiro pointed at — “Hey! Who’s that~! Ryuuko-san’s jaw is dropping from how flirty you are, Niwa-kun!” was bouncing around with a ball. Crap — I was found! With no other choice, I waved at her with a smile and yelled, ‘I’m cheering for ya~!’

“Hmpf~!” Which only worsened her attitude.

“So you know her, Makoto.”

“She’s my friend… But, what, you’re saying she’s also an esper?”

Well, whatever; in some way she indeed is. For example, her ability to accelerate my heartbeat. Also, the power to make me smile like a creep. I guess rather than calling it super power, maybe a lot of girls are just magicians.

And that would make that forty-years old a witch. The spells she cast on me aren’t so innocuous though.

“She’s not bad. I’ve watched for days now; she holds high potential for evolution: she’s one of the few who can go the last few centimetres.”

“Huh… What are you even saying?”

Again with the superpower theory monologue? I prepared to block my ears. Yet, Yashiro asked a relevant question instead of droning on:

“Do you know the rules of this game?”

“Uh, only a bit. Not exactly knowledgeable.” From sheer suddenness, I stuttered.

I’m not at all familiar with basketball, but I know stuff like centre or point guard. The other three positions I simply don’t remember. It’s common with people who don’t play, but that’s the level of knowledge I have.

Speaking of which, what position does Ryuushi-san play? She had a pretty good aim when she threw that empty can into the trash can.

So… Shooting star? No, that’s off. It’s close but I know that’s not right.

“Oh? Transfer student.”

A couple entered from the left entrance of the gym. The guy spoke with an amicable voice; I raised my head.

At the same time, the beam shooting in from the second floor window also pierced my eyes, making me squint.

Moving in that brilliant ray was Nakajima-san and Hanazawa-san. The two young members from the city team. Both of them wore uniform and each carried a bag over their shoulders. Perhaps they’re on their way home after club, but why are they…?

“The girl there… Uh, judging for the getup… I’m guessing she’s from the game…?” Nakajima expressed exaggeratedly his surprise, as though he’d just seen an alien, and pointed at Yashiro.

“Hmph.”

Yashiro scoffed dismissively, grumbling, ‘here comes unpromising one.’ If there’s one merit to her, it’s that even when insulting, she never let the other party know. More than anger, it rouses confusion.

“Whoa~ She’s freaking cute! This is bad, man. For you too, transfer student~” As though cheering, Nakajima continued with the ‘this is bad.’ He’s like a grade schooler making fun of someone else.

Hanazawa-san smacked Nakajima’s back. “Ow~” Even with an eye squinting painfully, Nakajima kept his smile. “Hi.” With him out of the way, Hanazawa-san greeted me briefly. I replied with a ‘hm.’ Not copying Erio, but it’s actually quite a useful reply to use. Even if you’re not thinking anything, it can be used as a response.

For some odd reason, they sat down next to me. Hmmm… The air dampened. Was my heart actually feeling gravity beyond what is normal?

The two seemed to be using me as a wall to avoid contact with Yashiro; neither did Yashiro even so much as glanced as them.

“Here to watch the game?”

“Hm? Aw, there was a game this morning, and we’re gonna have lunch out. We’re not doing anything now anyway… Soo, I guess you can call this a game-date?”

“Yep~ I’m with ‘im…” Perhaps too lazy to even talk, Hanazawa-san added languidly. From her closing her mouth before finishing, her sentence ended ambiguously.

“A date?”

“Uh, we are, well, dating.”

Bashfully, Nakajima answered what seemed like a notice of marriage. “Yep~” Hanazawa-san raised her hand without changing her expression.

“What!” Nakajima’s with Hanazawa, what has come to this world?

When did they start dating? I desperately looked for Isono, wondering if he’s crying in the dark somewhere.

In any case, I see that Nakajima is more of a Hanazawa-san fan than a Ryuushi-san fan… What poor taste. I can’t be the only one who thinks that, right?

Preparing on the court, Ryuushi-san dribbled the ball while mouthing a slapping sound. “She looks hyped, but that was just two dribble.” Nakajima pointed out; Hanazawa-san rested her head on his shoulder, her eyes drooping as if tired.

Ryuushi-san darted back and forth on the court; she ran, but the ball was never with her. She ran, with disregard to where the ball was. “Hey, Mifune looks out of breath.” Shocked, Nakajima reported to me. I can see that, you know. “She’s really in it, man. Is it because you’re here?”

“Uh, I guess.” Judging from what’s happened so far. But her stamina’s running out.

“As expected, she has potential.”

Strangely satisfied, Yashrio stared at Ryuushi-san. How does she judge someone? I’m not interested, just curious. As hypocritical as I am, that’s how I see Yashiro.

Nakajima shot me a side glance; with a moment of hesitation on his face, he began. It was a meek voice unsuitable of his sunny look.

“You know, back in first year, Mifune actually asked me—”

“Oh, I heard already.”

“I see… Hm~ So, you like Mifune?”

“I think she’s cute.”

“That’s not saying much… Are you that, uh, Touwa Erio’s someone?”

“Did Hanazawa-san tell you anything?”

“No, not at all. We would never talk about Touwa Erio anyway, you know?”

Then don’t talk about her with me either! I shot him a look with that thought. Whether he comprehended is beyond me, but he didn’t inquire any further.

It’s hot. Said one of us. True that. The other three assented silently.

“She’s gotten cuter. Mifune, I mean.” Nakajima tossed a weird topic over.

“Dude, your girlfriend is right there.”

“It’s fine, she’s sleeping.”

“I’m not.” Hanazawa-san pinched his elbow.

“Owowowowow.”

Despite the joke, Nakajima’s pain was real.

Damn this guy. I want to be pinched too~! …I’m just joking.

Practice ended; both team put the balls back and gathered around their coaches. Running ahead, Ryuushi-san peeked at me. Noticing the person next to me, the smile momentarily faded; then she looked to Nakajima, then Hanazawa-san leaning on him. She looked shaken. Yet, Ryuushi-san focused back on me a beamed again. She then gave a victory pose before regrouping with her teammates. “Looking good, Ryuushi-san~!” The compliment that was used some time ago once again exited my mouth.

“Did you just notice? How parochial of you.”

Yashiro commented on my soliloquy. She sounded as if she noticed a manga artist’s potential before his work exploded in popularity.

“And you seem to have a high opinion of her.”

“Hmhmm~” She did not answer clearly, instead laughing haughtily and suspiciously. I reminded myself that I would be careful not to put Ryuushi-san onto the path of an esper.

“However, only if she is with you.”

“Hm? What?”

“You will see soon enough.”

With those cryptic words, Yashiro ended with that cliffhanger.

I felt it wasn’t something needing to be clarified, so I desisted as well.

Losing focus from the summer heat, I waited a few minutes quietly. The pre-game pep talk appeared to be over as players scattered on the court.

As the backup, Ryuushi-san sat on the gym floor, hugging her knees with a frustrated expression.

And Mikki was one of the starters, huh? An iconic character is always guaranteed to get the main role, as well as dividing into five people on the stage simultaneously. Ignore those dangerous words for now. From then on, a rift formed between Mikki and Ryuushi-san’s friendship… There was no sign of that.

Like so, without Ryuushi-san on the court, the game begun… Nothing in particular needs to be noted. I’m not a big fan of basketball anyway.

I came to see Ryuushi-san. And that Ryuushi-san was like a starved dog on a leash. “Grrr~” Her clenched fists trembled on her knees.

Yashiro looked uninspired as well. Did she only have eyes for Ryuushi-san in this entire club?

Both team had little differences in score, and the game continued in that manner. If that team was tying with a bad team, they must be just as terrible, huh. Oh, Mikki just got a foul.

“Is Mifune gonna play?”

Nakajima asked, a trace of smile on his face. He’s actually enjoying the game.

“What’s the point? For a game like this.”

Hanazawa-san mumbled. Was her sleepiness chased away by the noise of the game and the cheering? She had a bitter look. Whether it’s about this game or not, her words were obviously poignant.

“What do you mean ‘what’s the point?’” Over Nakajima, I questioned.

“It’s the same for the softball club.”

Hanazawa-san spilled her inner thought.

“I always tried my best during games. But we never win. Our team just can’t win one more points than the other. We’re never far off, so I try even harder, only to lose again. It’s frustrating, but I have no one but me to blame.”

“……”

Was it the listlessness, or the heat? Either way, Hanazawa-san blew her steam.

She once said club activity was too much work. Is this what she was referring to? It is only natural to have so much expectation placed on you if you’re too good.

“Hahahah, she’s just a lil tired.” Nakajima stroked Hanazawa-san’s hair, assuaging her. Certainly is nice to have someone comfort you right away. Only if there’s someone for Meme-san as well.

“Hmpf.” Behind me, Yashiro scoffed from her nose. Apparently she wasn’t too thrilled with Hanazawa-san’s comment.

…Does she, perhaps, dislike people who gave up?

“She’s not playing right away? These people lack insight.”

Disappointingly, Yashiro criticized the coach.

“What part of Ryuushi-san do you like so much?” It’d be apparent if you’re a guy though.

“Because she is someone who is capable of moving forward, even if it’s unobvious.”

“And what does that mean? You’re not dragging her into anything weird, by the way.”

“Anything weird…? True, for a stubborn person like yourself, it is probably considered weird.”

“Thanks for the nice words.”

“Listen up.” With that as the lead, she circled in front of me.

Directly facing me, she seemed to impart something critical.

Her fascinating appearance closed to my face, driving both my eyes and mind anxious.

Yashiro ignored the game, letting loose her words in the gym.

“People, no matter who, are capable of awakening their power, as long as they keep moving forward.”

As though condensing her philosophies into this one sentence, she solemnly declared.

Within those words were some elements that somehow infused into my body; I felt as though cold water had poured down my back. I remembered few days ago, that moment when an unbelievable amount of pool water drenched me.

Within the gym engrossed by this cotton-candy-like heat, a single person shivered at this fleeting chill.

Yashrio sat back next to me, and pointed her straightened arm forward.

“Those who believed and understood their latent power in their normal lives will eventually bloom into those with superpower. It is physically unreachable, beyond your furthest reach, by a few centimetres. That power, never connected to you directly, is what you consider as abnormal phenomenon. Yet…”

She paused, tutting. Then, as though giving me a look, she glanced sideways at me before continuing.

“Once you come into contact with it, it will spread and ripple outward. People on my planet were more capable with it — the power held within this vessel is the proof of it.”

“…But, still…”

“For instance, in a sports competition, there are many of those who suddenly exploded in their abilities, right? That, would be the proof of them reaching that essence of power about five centimetres away from themselves. People with faster speed than others, who also reached their pinnacle of power — this is the true form of what is commonly referred to as the people with potential.”

Yashiro’s claim had no uncertainty; it is assertive, and meant to repel all. She kept talking.

“Most earthlings will never fill those few centimetres, even in their entire lifetime.”

Her shoulder’s shrugged. ‘And that’s why you troglodytes are…’ she added a few more insults before resuming.

“No matter who, as long as they can get close — to this distance as short as cold air coming out of a fridge — as long as they’re fortunate enough, the so-called ‘geniuses’ will never cease to exist. Such amazing power, yet almost no one here could reach it. People who have given up on these few, yet distant centimetres, are one of the reasons as to why this is so.”

“……” I shot Hanazawa-san a look. Using Nakajima’s laps as her pillow, she laid down.

“Oi, Makoto. Who’s the backup, that person with potential?”

“Ryuushi-san.” I told her what sounded like a typical lie.

“That Ryuushi is slow: about half as fast as everyone else. She could spend a whole day, and no one would notice her move. Yet she hasn’t given up: it is not an easy task to push onward, not knowing what awaits at the end. That’s why she holds the possibility of unlocking her powers.”

“…That’s quite a compliment to say.”

“It is merely a proper assessment.”

And then, Yashiro looked over at me with a rare, but warming smile.

“You’re surrounded by many who have the potential to wield their power, Makoto.”

“Oh, please.” I waved my hand in front of my face, as well as shook my head; sweat drops flew from my hair.

I could comprehend her explanation, and I also agree with parts of it. But those aren’t convincing.

As for why, it would be because nothing tangible has appeared.

“Show me your power. That way, everything you said will be proven as true.”

Without proofs, she’s just another person here — a nutjob.

“Mm.” Yashiro did not rebuke violently, only displaying a pondering face. She then raised her head:

“All right. If I feel like it, I will show you in the next week or two. You will do well to pray for it.”

Is this something on the same level as ‘deciding the grocery day’?

“Besides, even without me, you have a chance to witness it in this game.”

At first, Yashiro’s prediction sounded like reckless bravery, like she just said things without thinking with her head.

As I began to retort, I noticed someone staring; I turned to my right.

Nakajima gaped at my face. Looks like he listened in on our conversation.

“Man, whatever you guys were saying was too deep, I couldn’t follow.”

Farewell~ He jokingly waved us goodbye. I palmed my forehead and sighed.

“Don’t wave me off too.”

Was all I could say.

Alright.

Let’s skip all description of the game until Ryuushi-san’s debut.

“……”

The game ended. Just messing with you. The second half was almost ending, however. Score-wise, the opponent had 39 points, while us 35. I don’t know if whether this is considered good or bad.

“I’m surprised with how many points both team got, seeing how their aiming was always off.”

‘Interesting~’ Nakajima remarked. ‘Is it because both sides suck at defence?’ he again added. He’s actually watching the game rather intently. I’m not saying it’s anything praise-worthy though.

When the last quarter began, my eyes focused onto the shape that walked out.

“Whoa~!” I stuck my body out.

“So she’s finally up?” Yashiro expressed her satisfaction.

Out of the five people that walked out, Mifune Ryuushi-san was the last.

“At last, huh? It’s gonna be hard for her to do much, though.”

Nakajima grimaced, calming assessing Ryuushi-san’s situation.

“You know, it’s Mifune’s first time playing.”

“Ah.” It’s going to a wall to scale. Even from here I could see her stiffness, like her flesh had been displaced by stone; her legs, too, quivered, like a new-born fawn.

Rather than describing her as serious, it’s more fitting to say ‘whatever space between her fluffiness has been filled with tension.’

Mikki tapped Ryuushi-san’s shoulders, trying to appease her nerve. Seems like Mikki will be having a sequel. Despite her nod, Ryuushi-san hooked her eyes on the floor without moving.

“‘She’s being overly conscious. It might have been better if I wasn’t here’ — that’s what’s you’re thinking, right?” Yashiro mimicked my voice, taunting a provocation.

She’s right. I could say nothing back.

Soon after the quarter began, Ryuushi-san got the ball; she frantically bounced the ball, but perhaps with too much strength, it returned much faster than anticipated. Unable to catch the ball, it hit her jaw. What followed was not cheers, but laughter.

“Oh god.” Nakajima covered his eyes. I wanted to do that too, but I’m here to see Ryuushi-san. Whether this was what she wanted me to see is another matter.

Getting back up, Ryuushi-san did not even have time to be embarrassed; she simply chased the ball, without any apparent reaction. She’s so serious, she couldn’t even laugh it off.

…If it was me from before, would I also end up like this if I managed to get into a game?

Almost as if I was watching that ‘if,’ I lost my collectivedness.

Ryuushi-san continued to make mistakes: she attempted a steal, only to hit the hand and fouled; she charged head first, only to trip in front of the hoop and almost kicking an opponent in the face.

It’s unwatchable.

I don’t know if the coach or advisor of the club sent her in because of Mikki’s words, but at this rate it wouldn’t be strange if she was taken off court.

…And so.

When she accrued three fouls, somehow the other side made a foul under the hoop.

Although no matter how I looked, it’s Ryuushi-san, who was attempting a shot, bumping into the other person, the referee called it so. There were no complaints, and despite the other team looking unhappy, they were neither hostile or upset since they probably thought Ryuushi-san was just a joke.

Here come the free throws. Yet, Ryuushi-san was wavered, her eyes swaying about.

There was no way for her to make that shot like she did with the juice can.

At that moment, as though she’d been waiting for that exact second, Yashiro grabbed my shirt and tugged.

“Wha? Me?”

I didn’t know what to do when I’m suddenly handed the hot potato. “Dumbass.” Yashiro grinned.

“Be it a cliché line or whatever, use your power on Ryuushi.”

“What are you saying??”

“Shout with your voice! Squeeze your throat and tighten your guts. Are you just here to sit and watch? Are you an idiot? If you came all the way here, you must be here to do something! Step up! Move forward! You’re also a slow, but steady person on your way to power, are you not?!”

Yashiro jeeringly chucked her frustration at me. The responsibility to showing off power was suddenly on me.

I almost wanted to ask her ‘what about your power?!’ But asking me to do something… What could I, a non-player, do at this point?

“……”

I did have an idea. But I needed some courage. For a moment, I hesitated.

But.

“Moving forward with your own will, and pushing others with it — Is that not the very first power bestowed upon humans?”

I hate to admit it, but those were the words that tipped me forward.

I stood up. In this corner of the gym, no one would notice — which is why, what entailed will captivate everyone.

I will split asunder this silent gym.

The me who had already given up will never stand on a football field again.

Yet Ryuushi-san, who had not given up, should stay there.

The value of super natural phenomenon lies in that it is able to maintain dreams, filling them with endless possibilities.

I scratched my head; after sucking in and holding the breath, I turned to face the court.

Putting my hands around my mouth, I shouted as to drain all air inside my lungs:

“You can do it! Ryuushi-san!!”

All eyes instantly fell upon me; the gazes transformed into terror.

Thinking carefully, I’ve never lived as a conspicuous child, much like everyone else.

However.

Even so.

I could agree that, once I get it going, it isn’t so bad every once in a while.

If I make up my mind, I could ‘give up’ this spot of being inconsequential.

Even more so, it’s not enough.

I once again drew in more air, firmly filling my body:

“You can do it! Even though I know it’s hard! I couldn’t do it! And no one cheered for me! I could only look down, and wonder why anyone else could cheer for the guys playing! To be honest I still don’t get how! But who cares?! Who cares about looking down or cheering?! If you got time for that, why not go practice?! You just gotta work hard! I didn’t like it all that much anyway! But I still can’t forget about it! So I’m rooting for you, Ryuushi-san! If you work hard, you won’t have to give up on many things! I want you to work so hard, that others feel bad for it! So work hard! I’m never saying things like don’t force yourself too much!!”

The things supposedly coming out of my mouth did not reach my brain.

I was probably just venting some broken, baffling thoughts.

My temperature rose, and senses melted.

Just how feverish of a cheer did I accomplish in a practice game?

Perhaps making too much sound, I lost my breath and choked. Even my ears drums were dimmed, unable to calm down. Aside from the weather, my skin heated up from another element.

I looked down and scratched my cheek, enduring the embarrassment without sitting down.

Finally, the temporary stare dissolved and reactions followed.

“That was badass~” Nakajima mumbled. “Comedy girl and loyal guy…” On his laps, Hanazawa-san exhaled.

As for Ryuushi-san.

She laughed. Like she had completely forgotten about me, she focused on me, cracking up. She also mouthed many times, ‘I told ya I’m Ryuushi.’

Just like so.

We saved each other.

“Hoh~ oh!” Following that odd yell, she gathered herself and repositioned the ball.

Ryuushi-san then nonchalantly made two shots.

“Ah, wasn’t her favourite character Mitchi?”

The rigidness left her motion; her graceful steps carried her.

Seeing that, I sat back down and coughed a few more times.

Yashiro and I traded looks; we laughed cathartically.

“That wasn’t too bad.”

“Don’t you mean, it felt great?”

It did.

“Now, let us interview Mifune Ryuuko-san, on her first-game-slash-first-victory!”

“……”

“Hint, hint.”

“Ah? Me? Uh, how do you feel right now, Ryuushi-san?”

“I said I’m Ryuuko!”

“What a great interview.”

“Hold it right there!”

After the game, Ryuushi-san bounced around angrily in that tranquillized gym.

Regardless of the intense game, Ryuushi-san still seem filled with vigour.

She stayed in the court for the remainder of the game, keeping up with both defence and offence. In the end, though, I still don’t know what position she played.

Without the opposing team, people dispersed from the gym; it could be just me, but the heat seemed to have dissipated as well.

“You were badass, Ryuushi-san~”

“You too, Niwa-kun.”

“Huh? …Aw, that?”

“Like, how do I put it… It was soo embarrassing that it ended up calming me down, y’know?”

For some reason she expressed that with her fingers fanning out. So, her nervousness exploded?

Than the yelling was worth it. The awkwardness consumed me though.

“Oh, hey, um~” Ryuushi-san put both hands behind her and wriggled her body.

“Could ya, wait for me till we’re done?”

“Hm. Of course.”

“Then, wanna go home together?”

“Don’t you think it’s a little sad to just head straight home?”

“Then, let’s go somewhere!”

“Yeah, let’s go somewhere!”

“Woo~! Yay!” Ryuushi-san raised her hand, and spun as though dancing.

“Ya heard him, Mikki! I’m ditching ya!”

“I never asked for you anyway~ Not going to waste my energy with you today, Ryuushi!”

Ryuushi-san skipped to where her team was waiting.

I stayed, savouring the taste of this strange situation while seeing her off.

There wasn’t anyone else left. Nakajima and Hanazawa left right away, and Yashiro disappeared from the gym. Did she leave to look for another eave?

Arriving at the back of the gym, I leaned my head onto the wall, staring obliviously into the track field. Are the people running there part of the track team? I couldn’t help but follow the guy sprinting the fastest.

Veiled partly by the cloud, the sun finally appeared; the new light flashed by my eyes, squeezing drops of tears out of my eyes. “Dammit~” It’s like my eyes were squashed from deep within. Perhaps I was too focused at the game, or more precisely at Ryuushi-san, so my eyes were worn out?

“Phew… That was too much youth.” You can OD on this stuff: that was one of the symptoms.

My visions were blear, as though in a dream. The ground, the shoe lockers and even the blue skies were blended together.

It was a formless sight impossible to reproduce, yet here I was thinking I’ve seen it before.

The canvas recalled a memory, of something that does not exist in reality — a ‘dream.’

“Oh yeah.”

That dream from last night, before that scribbled chapter title.

With this sight as the fuse, it resurfaced on the inside of my eyelids.

“Uh…”

If I remember correctly—

### 017. Chapter 6: 0.00000000198cm Per Second

## Chapter 6 - 0.00000000198cm Per Second

If, hypothetically, there exists telepathy.

If that is true, then we can know what each other want. No matter how you see it, that should be a good thing.

…Well, it is just hypothetically speaking: humans don’t have any powers in the first place.

Hence the phrase ‘super power,’ to differentiate from ‘talents.’

Let’s ignored what I just said — something else is far more troubling.

‘The ability to read mind’ — what if it’s applied to oneself?

We are aware of what we want, be it tangible or otherwise: everything is exposed and completely grasped. Yet, if we wish for it all to come true, it isn't possible. How could it, anyway?

Even if I were to know all questions before hand, scoring a hundred percent on a test isn’t that simple.

At least for me, I don’t have that ability to fill out all the spaces in that given amount of time.

Things that must be given up piled up like a hill — no, — like a mountain.

So much so that I bet I can make it into a tourism spot if I named it.

Therefore, at the time, leaving the youth football team wasn’t a difficult choice, but a natural course of action.

I still think so, to this day. Even in the future, I will not regret it. My parents said nothing as well.

The money (which came from two-years’ worth of my allowance) spent on uniforms and cleats were wasted, but otherwise my life went on unchanged.

Emotions like a sense of inferiority, or frustration shrunk, flattening entirely.

I didn’t have to head to the field under that bridge with my parents on the weekends any more, so suddenly I’m met with free times. Too much free time. So I started playing games for entire days. It’s fun in its own way, I guess.

Knowing there is another way to spend time besides playing football, I rejoiced.

What remained was the ‘barrier.’

Me and my friends didn’t play football after school any more. Subconscious avoidance, as well as me telling them ‘I’m just done with it’ with shrugged shoulders worked like water and oil: close but never together.

And perhaps because of that, I became withdrawn. My skin turned pale, and I stopped getting hurt. Probably due to lose exercise, I ate less too and lost weight. The environment changed, like chameleons from their emotions. The initial bizarre feeling from the changes faded, eventually disappearing.

After since, I started to use ‘giving up’ as a way to move on.

In other words, I took the path of least resistance.

…Yet.

Just as I lived with such a way, for some reason, during the summer this year, this strange thing showed up.

A crazy, gibberish-spouting and self-talking girl in space suit: Hoshimiya Yashiro.

She said I have ‘potential.’

Another way to put it is someone close to obtaining super power.

From where on me has she determined that quality?

What Yashiro professed as a forward motion invisible to the eyes, impossible to discern.

I could not catch up to even a speed like that.

“So, the real game is tomorrow. It’s gonna be the big one.”

“Yeah?”

“Are you joining us, transfer student?”

Maekawa-san spoke tauntingly; a tiny needle stabbed into my left ear.

“I’m not doing a thing, as usual… But, is there a point to it?”

“And what do you mean by that?”

“Uh, I mean we’ve lost every game so far. I just don’t think we have a chance.”

“Well, frankly speaking we’ve only been practising so far. I predict that Hanazawa will leave halfway through the game~”

‘She doesn’t look too thrilled~’ So that’s the extent of Maekawa-san’s accuracy.

August 8th, evening. The official game was tomorrow, the day when the city side and shopping district will compete for victory.

If it rains, no game. Refer to the Tamura Shop if you want snacks, and the minimum spending is 300 yen! Dang, I’m quite the merchant!

Since the imagination was in the voice of Tamura Obaa-san instead of Meme-san, I scared myself a little. Well, maybe she’s the hardworking type when she was young.

Perhaps because of the rain this morning, cool air pervaded the afternoon despite the cleared sky. The night, too, was chilly when we came to the yard. It might have been due to the dampened grass under our feet. Even the cicadas were reticent tonight.

“I mean, it’s just a festival. Why does it matter where it’s held?”

“For those grown ups it matters in all sorts of way. So… That’s a yes for you?”

“Hm… Yes.”

“And Touwa?”

Erio delighted at the cloudless sky, happily observing Pluto next to me. But at the moment, she seemed to be piqued by the phone, occasionally shooting me a glance.

Just like that — like playing a game of Stoplight, she would peek at me, only to look away quickly when we make eye contact. I grabbed her by the back of her collar, ‘Uwah.’ ‘Erio, you wanna play baseball tomorrow?’ and asked. Unlike with basketball, she moved her chin downward.

“She’s coming.” I let go; her stiffened back instantly collapsed as she scurried away. She then jumped back to the telescope like she was going to bite it, once again watching the sky from below.

“Alright. I suppose I will have to get in the proper attire tomorrow!”

“Are you going to wear your secret giant squid outfit?”

“There’s gonna be a fantastic ‘surprise!’”

“We’re not going to a hobby goup, you know.”

We both laughed, and finally hung up. I put the phone back into my pocket and sat closer to Erio. Her hair waved left and right, while she enthusiastically sketched on the notebook. Looks like this will continue till the end of the summer break.

“Cousin, are you done with phone?”

“Hm.” I acknowledged.

“Then, watch the stars.” She emptied up the spot to the telescope for me.

Well, since I’m already here, I might as well do some stargazing… Whoa~ I was slightly awed. Even a casual glance could reveal that the scenery is different every day. Pluto moves fast, apparently.

If the changes that occur every day is as obvious as this, then living must be much more motivating and fulfilling.

According to Yashiro, people would spend decades to move just a few centimetres.

Normally, we would cower at that.

“Hey.” I walk over to the opposite side, asking a question to a smiling Erio.

“Mm?”

“Why do you play baseball with us?”

Erio jolted; she shut her lips into a line. Perhaps realizing that she couldn’t talk this way, she frantically opened the seal again:

“It’s… It’s a secret.” She pursed her lips again.

“…Well, whatever.”

Ending the conversation, I looked up at Pluto again.

Is Nakajima, Hanazawa-san and Hoshimiya Yashiro coming as well?

The impending day of battle.

Rather than worrying about that, I was more concerned with the fact that the summer is halfway over.

“Chang~ chang~ Kachang~ Chang~”

“Chang~ Chang~ Kachang~ Chang~”

“Chang~ Chang chang~ Chang chang~ Chang chang chang chang~”

Somebody watching from the side might be wondering, ‘what kind of family is this?’

August 9th. On the morning when the sun was barely poking out of the horizon. Rays projecting from between the buildings were still faint, and without the usual ferocity of the current season. Gales blew, carrying away a proper amount of heat from the skin — Indeed it was a weather fitting for sports.

On that morning, the three members of the Touwa Household lined up in the yard and did the radio callisthenics diligently… While adding their own music. Starting from the right were Erio, Me and Meme-san.

Usually hiding in the bed or lying down on the hallway at this time, Meme-san was for some reason awoke this morning, joining us in the exercise. She looked like she spent a night outside, with that tired look, messy hair and untidy shirt.

“Chang~ Chang~ Chang Chang~ Chang~ Chang~ Lala~ Lala~”

Erio performed with a blank look, beginning stretching her arms.

But I was doing my legs, while Meme-san worked her waist.

The three of us occasionally lost our unity. Everyone had forgotten about the order. After all, the last time me and Erio did this was four years ago, and Meme-san must have been I will say no more.

Despite being sloppy, the warm-up forcibly continued. I’ve witnessed three times when Meme-san was just doing random things. Looks like she has the tendency of just doing whatever when she forget.

The final breathing part was when all three of us finished together. “Ah. Someone has to go stamp on the card.” Meme-san mumbled sleepily and drifted back home. Is she okay?

Well, I question her sanity even when she’s awake, so what’s the point of asking now?

“Well, let’s get ready to go.”

“Ready to go~” Erio repeated after me like a little girl. If she’s able to put more intonation in her normal speech, she’d be wonderful like a regular human.

I entered before Erio. After taking my sandals off I stopped her with a gesture. “Mmm~” Ignoring her strange growl, I proceeded into the kitchen. I had to give her a wet rag for her feet. The moment I told her to not go out barefoot, she sprinted outside. Unlike a teenager’s rebellious phase, it was closer to a child throwing a tantrum.

“I’m grabbing a rag.”

“Oh.” After a brief exchange with Meme-san, who was washing her face in the kitchen, I returned to the entrance with a dampened rag. “Here.” I tossed it to Erio. She grabbed it and, without hiding her resentment, gave two careless scrubs under her feet.

“Clean!”

“No, It’s not.”

“The galaxy is weeping from your bullying!”

“I see we have graduated from the U.S. now.”

I’m the one cleaning the floor this summer, you know. You’re more than welcomed to help out, ex-chore helper. Though It will be a disaster if she’s responsible for that.

“Sorry for the wait~” Someone was waiting? I turned with the question in mind.

Finished with tidying herself up, Meme-san exited from the kitchen. Her sleepiness disappeared, and she’s even showing her motherliness with foil-wrapped rice balls in her hands; I almost thought it was someone else.

Just FYI, she was actually wearing the attendance card on her neck. Isn’t that the card for collecting points during the spring bread festival?

“Here you are. Lunch. I woke up just to make you this.”

“I will gladly accept it.” I involuntarily answered like a subordinate to a boss.

Maybe it’s because Meme-san was suddenly doing something, so it’s only natural that I was taken aback. Had she changed due to the lack of appearance?

“You have to have lunch if you’re going to play, right? I used to make lots of food for Eri-chan too!”

“It’s true. I spent a whole day eating at the beach.”

Continuing from Meme-san’s recollection, Erio joyfully ascribed the ins-and-out of the story. Was that when Erio was still normal? For her, it was probably one of the most cherished memories.

“Do you want to save it till we’re there?”

“Mm.” Erio nodded while hugging the rice balls carefully. “It’s a bento.” She’s not wrong.

I let Erio, who claimed to have cleaned her feet, put on her shoes. Shoes aren’t meant to be put on her feet, I thought while looking down. I too changed into my shoes and grabbed the key to my padlock from the shelf.

“We’re going now.”

“Going~”

“Now~”

The three of us shared a mysterious greet. Well, mine’s pretty normal, but I felt like I would be considered as one of them anyway. Sad, really.

Once again we exited from the entrance. I headed toward the shed for my bike. Meme-san mentioned that she wanted to clean the storage during summer, so she asked me to; but I’d completely forgotten about that. Anyway, I moved the bicycle outside into the yard. I’ve gotten used to it, and now I can actually do a wheelie.

With a dislike for the empty backseat, Erio hopped into her spot in the basket. I still baffle at the mentality. According to Maekawa-san’s previous report, her butt hurt. So what does Erio think? Asking if a girl’s feet hurt is acceptable, but not so much when it comes to their butt. What a strange world we live in. Hmmm, but do I even see Erio as a girl?

Is it really okay to see my cousin Eri-chan as a girl~? I thought.

I straddled onto the seat, and began the plain, normal routine of saying ‘here we go.’ ‘Go~’

We headed out. But, at that precise moment.

Instead of seeing us off from the door with a ‘ride safely~’ Meme-san shouted and ran over ‘wait~’

Strapped across her back was a bag of unknown content.

“Oh~ I guess I am tagging along after all~”

“Wait, you’re coming with us?” My judgement said what you meant was to leave without you.

“I wanna see Erio and Mako-kun play~!”

“Okay I get it, fine — so stop screwing around!” And don’t choke my neck!

Meme-san hugged my waist and hopped onto the rack. The bicycle tipped leftward from the impact.

“Whoah, oh~” Even Erio hurriedly held onto the basket’s rim.

The long-awaited Touwa trio rode together. Letting Erio and Meme-san sit on the bike, I proceeded to the river side.

Occasionally I want to palm my face for not considering anything wrong with this picture.

Yet, even this sigh of regret seemed to be washed away by the water of forgetting. With the way things are now, the destruction of doubt is but an issue of time, slowly approaching me.

Meme-san actually has her own bicycle, so why doesn’t she use it?

…I asked myself in the corner of my mind.

Riverbank. During weekends, people were usually seen playing rugby with their kids. Is soccer not that popular with kids now? It’s a good thing, I think.

I left my bicycle and walked down the bank. The sun had yet shone onto this riverside field at dawn.

The horizon of the rising sun expanded, casting a shadow on the ground.

A few people were practising defence on the field as warmup. They were the old guys on the shopping district team. Yamamoto-san was among them. Were they finally getting ready for the official game?

Oh, a high school girl was already sitting on the bench of our resting area. A familiar girl, at that.

“Hey~ ya~”

A calming tone and a naïve wave. In a cute casual outfit, she covered her hair with a safety helmet.

Mifune Ryuushi-san beckoned at me. Unless I was wrong, she probably wasn’t waving at the Erio a step behind me. Noticing Ryuushi-san’s presence, Erio retreated.

I had realized the possibility of being trapped in this pickle between Erio and Ryuushi-san, but I approached the resting area fearlessly. “Yo~” I raised my hand lightly and began probing. “What’s going on today?”

“The Onee-san from around told me about the game, so I came here to cheer for Niwa-kun!”

She smiled widely, swinging her dangling legs back and forth. I appreciate her coming all the way here.

After that, a shade cast on Ryuushi-san’s smile. The focus of her eyes moved to Erio.

“Uh… Touwa-san too… Um… Good mornin’.”

Despite her stare drifting off, Ryuushi-san greeted Erio courteously.

Why did she hesitate? I guess, from her appearance, Erio does seem more fitting with an English line.

“G-good… Morninging.”

Erio, too, awkwardly responded colloquially. It was probably not because she stuttered that she repeated herself. I think. Then she scanned about, mumbling something she had discovered.

“Mom, is gone.”

Ah, she is. We rode here together, but what happened afterwards escaped me… What a strange incidence that a forty-year old with such conspicuous presence could vanish. I looked up the bank to see if she was there. “Ah.”

Instead I noticed a different creature. The thing riding on a bicycle nimbly in that outfit, though hard to identify from a distance, is undoubtedly Maekawa-san. What a terrifying sight.

If fishes never stop evolving, would they perhaps traverse the land like that?

The creature that got off her bicycle and trod over on her fins… What the hell is that?

Wrapped in an enigmatic costume with a daikon-like colour, Maekawa-san raised her hand (fin).

“Yo, aren’t you early. You too, Ryuushi.”

“I told ya to call me Ryuuko…” Oh man, she’s confused! Even Ryuushi-san was disconcerted.

“Maekawa-san… What, is that?” I asked in lieu of the three of us.

“A dugong.” I’m a mermaid~ She posed after flicking her bangs.

“…” Despite having seeing it once in an aquarium.

Do dugongs have leg fins? No — they don’t even have legs.

“Oi~” At then, shouting came from the field. “Do you want to practice~?” Yamamoto-san called to us. “I’m coming~” I waved back.

Since Ryuushi-san came for me, I figured the least I could do was to show her my best.

As for the bento, I’ll save till practice is over.

“Can you hold on to this for me?” I rest the rice balls onto Maekawa-san’s fins.

“Sure. Who made these?”

“My aunt.”

I put the baseball cap left on the corner of the bench.

“Here, glove.” Ryuushi-san handed something she casually found to me.

“Thanks.” I put my left hand in it… Isn’t this for the catcher? Whatever.

“Do you best, Niwa-kun~!”

Ryuushi-san waved gently. Yep, that’s how a manager should be.

As for the Miss Fishy who attended to that role prior — as much as I appreciated the food… She’s not the manager, but our mascot.

Now we can say that the Maekawa Dugong is, beyond any doubt, our official mascot; she had transcended from being a fish to a mammal! …Wait.

“Ryuushi-san, aren’t you supposed to cheer for the city team?” I had to be sure.

“Hey, now~ Did ya already forget, Niwa-kun~?”

She stuck her thumb out and grinned a toothy smile.

“I’m with ya, Niwa-kun!”

She blushed. We blushed too. She said such embarrassing thing in front of all these people we know. Erio looked displeased, and even Maekawa-san… What kind of face was that? She hid in the costume.

“Dang~ now that’s being young~”

“Why must Ryuushi-san also play as the cheering audience?”

“’Cuz I’m embarrassed! Like, kaboom!”

I didn’t get it. Flustered, I could not look at the resting area. I ran toward the field to wait for my turn.

“Cousin, is the rice ball good?”

“Hm, it is. What, it’s not like you made it, Erio.”

“I know.” But she’s still glad. As though she herself had been complimented, Erio beamed with a smile.

She really loves her mom. Is it because Meme-san spoils her too much? Or is it because Erio loves her mom so much that she couldn’t help but spoil her? These two are just like the chicken and the egg.

Eating our breakfast together, Erio and I waited for the time to come.

Our opponents were a little late, but they still gathered just enough people before the match. Naturally, Nakajima and Hanazawa-san were among them. Even the space-girl who guards the left field was standing in front of the shopping district team.

…I didn’t consider Yashiro as a threat, since she’s never done anything exceptional. Similar to me, she’s just there to fill the number.

“Rice ball~”

“Falling down~”

Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san watched me and Erio eat. We couldn’t finish all this food, so I raised one of the rice balls up in the air. A hand and a fin began battling. The hand won easily. “Ahh~”

The dugong passed out from the intense exercise. Being able to make it here was already a miracle on its own. I’m not just kidding — I am genuinely concerned for the human being known as Maekawa-san, since she already struggles so much living as one.

Perhaps due to the food being made by her mother, Erio attempted to stuff them in her mouth. “Urgh.” You’re a light weight, so don’t be so reckless. it’d be terrible if your glove catches something out of your mouth instead.

In any case, we’re fed and ready. Everyone on the shopping district team besides Maekawa dad gathered.

“Where’s your dad?” I asked the daughter.

“He ran off from the pressure.” She calmly stated, rousing the crowd. Who’s going to pitch now?

When the noise failed to cease, before the game started, ‘she’ walked over from the river. With what itinerary did it result with her coming from there? I don’t want to know. But we came from the same house, using the same bike, and she somehow ended up there. Did she take a long route?

Touwa Meme-san made her debut in a different outfit.

“What are you wearing?”

“Hmhm~ I changed by the river. Ah~ What a shame, Mako-kun! You could have seen me change if you went there! Is your libido radar working, young man?!”

“I think it’s working just fine.” Since I successfully ignored you.

“Wahahah! I almost thought I had no chance of appearing now that it’s almost ending, so I struck first! If the final boss of a crappy game isn’t as tenacious as I am, he is just a waste of pixels!”

The words pouring out of Meme-san’s mouth were largely broken, echoing loudly. Meme-san, who had returned, changed into a baseball uniform. From what school is that from?

Must have been what was in that bag, but more fundamentally: how did she get it?

“And so, I gave up on being the beautiful manager, and am now the beautiful coach!”

“You’ve misplaced the ‘gave up’ there.”

This person… She’s more of a ‘forty-years old ★’ than a ‘forty-years old.’

“Mm~ I don’t really know much about the rules in baseball, but I guess I will work on cheering everyone up!”

There’s really only one person who’d get cheered up by her in this team: the rocket guy. I glanced over, seeing him staring obliviously at Meme-san. I dread the ageing of eyes.

Maekawa-san came to my side; I rudely pointed at the laughing Meme-san and asked.

“The hell is wrong with her?”

“Uh~ A surprise?”

“This is too much.”

“Ahahah.” What a phony laugh. “Nothing wrong with a little fun before the festival, right?’

Maekawa-san is too good at adapting. And what kind of festival is this? I know the saying ‘a party starts in the morning,’ but I guarantee you that it never works in real life.

“Team, gather up!”

The self-named beautiful coach knocked on the bench and summon everyone.

“This is everyone, coach.”

Let’s observe for now. There were folks who aren’t kids who still need the reminder.

“But Maekawa ain’t here.”

“Yeah~ So who’s pitchin’?”

“Are we lettin’ the youngins throw?”

“Who played baseball here?”

“If only it’s croquet.”

“Or pool.”

“This ain’t sumthing’ you can do just because it’s a ball!”

“Ah~ah~ Please quiet down, everyone.”

Meme-san suppressed the adults’ clamouring and focused their attention.

Rather, the team didn’t express any apparent disdain or disagreement, seeing Meme-san as their coach.

Is this alright? Setting the nervous Yamamoto-san aside, as I the only one who’s fatigued and generally pessimistic?

Erio, on the other hand, admired her mother who had undertaken the role of leader.

Meme-san scanned to confirm our undivided attention, nodding satisfyingly. Even with the referee shouting at us to line up, our coach paid him no mind.

Ryuushi-san, who had backed off after the uproar, returned to me and whispered.

“Isn’t that Mochi-mochi sensei?”

“Hm.” I almost asked ‘who’s that?’ “That’s Erio’s mom.”

“So she’s Niwa-kun’s Aunt… I have to call her Oba-sama!”

“She’ll kill you for that, so you shouldn’t.” And why the honorific?

Meme-san coughed, adjusting her tone before speaking out.

“Ahem, listen up, everyone!”

“That’s from a different genre.”

“Mako-kun has a soft spot for a girl’s aroma. Keep a close eye on him for your socks.”

“I’m so going to kill you.”

See? I was right. I’m no god of death, yet all of my most unfortunate premonition came true. Actually, since I live with Meme-san, there’s something that bothered me.

“I have a question, coach.” I raised my arm for permission to speak.

“Okay, Mako-kun is coming clean.”

Is it really something I can come clean to? Unless she’s implying something else?

“You usually complain about extended coverage for baseball on TV: do you really know how to play baseball?”

“If we’re talking about passion, then I won’t lose to anyone!”

“Where’s the passion in that?! Shouldn’t we be more worried now?!”

“Hey! You’re sitting out for talking back to your coach, Mako-kun! Or better yet, you’re going to become my chair!”

“Are you the devil?!” Or a brat?!

“Setting that aside, coach, we have a bigger problem.” Maekawa dugong stepped up as the advisor.

“Mm, and what could that be, cutie part-timer?” Part time? For what?

“We’ve ran into a serious problem: there’s a severe lack of pitchers after my dad left.”

“Pitchers…? Why do we need water for baseball?”

“We don’t need you either!”

“Then, we can have Eri-chan play as that pitcher thing!”

“What~?!” How did that lead to this?!

“The coach’s orders are absolute~! Listen up: get in line!”

Our overly-reliable coach booted us out. Like bees swarming out of a fallen hive, we scrambled onto the field. Our steps were thing in ‘a line.’

Shoved into a position by her mother who had no understanding of, Erio almost literally foamed herself.

“You got this, Ace!” I nudged her forward. “Wuwuwu…” Her face was pale as though pushed into a river: “D-do you want to switch, cousin?” “Sorry, but I only do football.” A long time ago, anyway. Besides, I actually thought that having Erio as the pitcher might work unexpectedly well. I seriously doubt that Meme-san had any thoughts other than ‘my kid is the best’ though.

Erio looked like she was about to go steal a futon from somewhere; I dragged her as we joined the shopping district team. The city team was already in a line, and — not just annoyed — downright furious waiting for us. Couldn’t be helped. Falling in line with Meme-san’s logic, she’d insist it’s ‘Operation Ganryuu-jima.’

I faced Yashiro when we lined up. Did she have that mysteriously confident smug inside that helmet? I felt our gaze meeting.

The man playing as the referee declared ‘game start.’

We bowed. As my head lowered, I caught a glance of Nakajima — he was smiling.

Let’s do this! I clenched my fist unwittingly.

Going second, the players of the shopping district spread in the field. Coming to our defensive positions, we checked where the sun was as well as the condition of the ground. Even the adults seemed slightly more serious than before. And Erio was, indeed, the pitcher.

She quivered, like a baby deer, atop the pitcher’s mound.

But she’s the only one.

I’d stopped counting after our eighth consecutive defeat.

We’ve been on a losing streak.

This time, things weren’t as simple.

It’s going to be a critical battle.

Defeat x Youth x Denpa — the game will unveil here.

“Too bad, Mako-kun is just a backup.”

“What? I thought you were kidding.”

“Game start!”

“You’re seriously going to sit on me?!”

Actually sitting in the resting area, I asked Meme-san about my mission. Well, I mean, I know I wouldn’t be much help anyway, but Ryuushi-san came all the way here for me.

Now I won’t have to embarrass myself — It was, in some way, a type of salvation.

“I would like you, Mako-kun, to go look for the missing dad of Maekawa.”

The coach’s order was to search for our Ace. “Oh…” I shook my head ambiguously… Wait, I’m going to look for Maekawa dad? Face to face?

“Maekawa-chan is going to cover for you when you’re gone.”

Right there~ Maekawa-san pointed at the dugong standing at first base, like she’s looking at a fish in a water tank. Even with the fin stuffed in her glove, she insisted on wearing the outfit. I didn’t know you can play in that getup — goes to show how lax the rules are for the game. If anyone had a problem, we can retort with the space suit too. Was that why nobody said a thing? Um, I digress.

“Why me? Isn’t is easier to have his daughter do that instead?”

And it’s ‘me.’ Having me, whom Maekawa dad was already wary of, find him would only exacerbate the misunderstanding.

“Mm~” Meme-san looked over to the field, smiling like a mother. I didn’t know precisely what of it seemed that way, yet her cheeks and eyes had the same delineation as many other mothers would have.

“Because, if you were to go…”

“If I were to go?”

“It would be quite interesting.”

“…Look.”

She’s actually hoping things would get worse. How could she say something so childish with an expression like that? But that’s part of Meme-san’s ‘charm~’ Could you not fill in the blank for me?!

“You don’t want to?”

“It’d be a pain.”

“No way, no how?”

“Yep.”

“Everyone~ Mako-kun could sniff her aunt’s bed sheet, but he can’t look for his friend’s dad. What an honest —“

“Okay I get it! Please, let me look for him.” Feels like this damn joke will stick with me forever.

And I will never forgive the me from April.

“I just love that part of Mako-kun~”

“And I must surrender to that part of you, Oba-san…” My heart had signalled defeat.

“First thing first: there’re a few spots where Maekawa-chan’s dad would be.”

“That is, quite helpful…” Hold up, is this guy a frequent escapee?

Meme-san gestured (and most of that unhelpful) and explained to me Maekawa dad’s escape. There’s a few I’d never been to, but I didn’t really have a choice. As for why Meme-san knew where he went, I pretended to never have the question.

Even if the question was delved into, there probably won’t be another convincing reason other than ‘cuz, she’s Meme-san.’ That’s the type of person my aunt is — and I’m not complimenting her.

Still, looking for someone… Was it necessary to have me do that? I mean, there’s no denying that if I were to run off, the team wouldn’t take too much of a hit, but… Is running an errand better than sitting on the bench?

“Speaking of which, that soft-cheeked cutie there looks upset. I wonder what’s wrong?”

With me in the middle, Meme-san stared at a bored-looking Ryuushi-san. Soft-cheeked cutie… She does look that from the side. What a spot-on nickname from Meme-san. I wanted to poke her face.

“I’m here to see Niwa-kun play.”

Yet he’s not playing~ Ryuuko is troubled~! She said so with a distraught look.

“Fufufu, just you watch. Mako-kun will be back at when we need him the most, and he’ll show ‘em.”

Not just toward Ryuushi-san, but also me, Meme-san comforted us so.

“So before then, just sit and wait.” I thought you’re the coach though?

“Um, I dunno much about baseball. Ya just smack the ball far, right?”

“That’s correct.” I interrupted.

“Mm, mm.” As though affected, Meme-san too nodded.

“And, if ya hit someone standing you’re out.”

“…Right.” That sounds a little problematic though.

“And ya switch after nine people are out!”

“This isn’t darts.”

Man~ I got up from the bench and skimmed the field once.

Erio and the catcher guy were having a secret discussion on the pitcher’s mound. Only, Erio was looking down at the cover of her ‘Intro to Baseball.’

“What can ya throw?”

“Mm, ball.”

“No, no, what I mean is…”

“Remote, pizza, rags, books. No telescopes… Mm?”

“Stay sharp~!”

I won’t claim that that’s what they said, but the catcher dashed back to the outside of the infield with hopeless gaits.

Setting the book down where the talc powder bags would be on the mound, she shouted flatly “Uwoh~” to raise moral, before throwing out the first pitch to Nakamura-san.

Alongside with a deflating yell, the ball flying out of Erio’s hand traced out a fittingly-flat trajectory. Having to hit Maekawa dad’s fast pitches for so long, however, this proved to be challenging to hit. Without adjusting his speed, Nakamura-san swung the bat early. The missed swing threw him off balance; the ball landed into the catcher’s glove.

“Kyah~ Eri-chan is so cool~!”!

Meme-san bounced around in the resting area with a bit — my bad, a very shrill voice, cheering her daughter. Embarrassed as she was, Erio, her long haired tied into a tail exiting from the back of the baseball cap, still smiled bashfully at her mother’s voice. She seemed more relaxed now.

…It took me that much effort to squeeze out a peep, yet Meme-san easily cheered for Erio. Her voice was ridiculously loud. Her courageousness was truly amazing. I stared, in awe, at the coach who hopped as though still doing her radio callisthenics,

Was it that? The way you lose things with skills when you get older? I’m not quite there yet.

The only thing left inside was regret.

Erio faced the second batter Nakajima with the same slow-speed. But that wasn’t the only thing: aside from her velocity, Erio had perfect control of the ball. That somehow became our ace in the sleeve.

I guess so, huh. Cringe surged before any sign of being impressed.

She was able to accomplish to strange act of ‘tossing a pizza to the futon roll’s upper part.’ She might have learned the proper stance from then. From the standpoint of the basics though, it’s quite the annoying kind, like those meaningless special training in a sports manga.

Looks like it’s applicable for even amateur baseball.

Despite the lack of speed, it had control.

‘Counter strength with grace:’ it’s a quality often attached onto the protagonists of recent baseball manga.

Or I guess it’s already been done before, like a certain manga with hands held high or some Lycaon teams.

“…You can do it.”

Toward a trembling Erio, I voiced out my support that likely never reached her.

Then I walked toward the bicycle parked on top of the bank.

Unable to become a hero, I once again could only struggle on the side of the stage.

It’s both a search for the missing Maekawa dad, as well as a time to buffer for myself.

If I take a little more time, I might even miss the entire game. It’s not like I would be doing that intentionally.

Even if someone came to cheer me on, I can’t meet their expectation — so I ‘gave up’. I could even say I was ‘forced into it.’ No matter how anyone says it, I have impeccable excuses.

I was a backup when I played football, and there’s nothing I could do to escape my parents’ eyes. With that in mind, I suppose I am luckier this time around.

My opponent was Hanazawa-san. Playing will just embarrass me. I don’t practise every day like Ryuushi-san — despite the both of us being backups, It’s just not possible.

So I’ll run. It’s the big game today, so there’s no next time, right? Give up now, and Ryuushi-san will never get the chance to watch me again.

You’ve always been complacent, haven’t you?

Let’s say you got the chance to play back then, did you have the gall to say you will be kicking some ass? You’ll just fail more miserably in a physical sense, in front of your parents, would you not? Being a benchwarmer was just a hideout someone else set up for you. You’re just given an easier way out this time now that you’re older.

Isn’t that right, Mr. Niwa?

I tried to convince the lasts of the neurons in my head, droning on the revelation I’ve just received.

I indeed listened and assented quietly to this lecture to myself.

“……”

Even so, I pedalled till sweat drenched me on this cool morning.

While wondering where my thought should go, I arrived at the third location.

Following a shambling Maekawa dad, I slowed down to avoid getting ahead, as well as to appear less menacing.

Truth to be told, I already found him, but he’d been running away. Things had been like this for a quite a while.

Maekawa dad was just about to enter one of the locations, the theatre next to the manga café in front of the station; after discovering me, he disappeared almost as soon as my mouth opened. Chasing after him was my only choice.

At the moment, Maekawa dad toiled up the hill that Ryuushi-san and I often part at, where the sky bridge is. He climbed, breathless, as though he might vomit at any moment.

People might mistake him as a boxer put under a weight loss regime, and I the specialist riding on a bike placed to train him.

“Wh… why are you following me~?”

Holding his scattered breathes, he inquired behind him.

“Uh, cuz you’re running, so…”

“I’m not running. I’m just doing a little soul searching~!”

“What are you going to find around where you live?”

Phew~ Phew! Even with different intermit, Maekawa dad and I exhaled the same kind of air.

Nausea plastered my skull, and my head hurt even more. The battle had commenced on the riverside, yet here I am sweating somewhere else. With that being one of the reason, I almost passed out.

On top of the bridge, at the tolling station, Maekawa dad collapsed.

“This… This is more tiring… Than the game…”

“Me… Too…”

I dropped next to Maekawa dad on my bike. The below and arm rubbed painfully against the asphalt road, yet nothing else delighted me more than lying still. The contrast between my burning flesh and the slight warmth in the road almost gave me the impression that it was comfortable.

“Are… Are you sure it’s fine for you to be here…?”

Turning from face up to face down, Maekawa dad moaned a question. I worried that the passers-by would mistake us as a father and a son passing out from the heat.

“I… I’m the bench… Your daughter, is filling-in for me.”

The dugong that must be the star of a certain aquarium must be out playing on the field as the one-day player (like a one-day director). Oi~! Guys~! Let’s go back to the river now! …Calm down, me. Come on now, brain cells.

“Is… Is that right? My daughter’s… Pitchin’?”

“No, Erio’s pitching… You’re our ace, sir, yet you ran off.”

And making me come get you all the way out here. As though matching the descriptor ‘rise and shine,’ the sun roasted us on top of the bridge. If we were to lose consciousness, we’d probably dream about being grilled.

“How rude... It’s because... it’s the official game that I’m carefully planning out my game.”

“Weren’t you about to head into the theatre...?”

“That wasn’t… Hold on. Let’s catch our breathes first.”

“Yes.” To solve the difficulty that was not having even the air to say a simple phrase, I shut my mouth and repeatedly breathed deeply.

The wind blew more violently than usual on the bridge; the air we so needed was more than abundant. Only, it was hot almost to a point of burning even the mouth and the nostril. In no time my throat dried, and my eyes painful. I don’t know if it’s just me, but my face hurts whenever I’m dehydrated.

While the problem of hydration has surfaced, our breathing had reached a point where we could be less than unsightly.

We both got up and sat on the rocks on the bridge. “You good?” “Yep.”

Perhaps Maekawa dad was staring at me with the idea that I’m his daughter’s something, his gazes were pointed.

That reminded me of the football coach I had.

“So why exactly are you here?”

“I’m here to get you back, sir.”

“I don’t wanna!”

Maekawa dad followed the cars passing by and refused. His fingers curled up, making him look like a girl too shy to speak.

“That girl’s pitch is too good! We ain’t winnin’ that!”

“For the most part I agree.” Makes me wonder that she’s in the wrong story.

“Think about it from my shoes: I have to play against someone like that! We’re gonna lose anyway, yet I have to keep pitchin’! And if we lose, it’s my fault as the pitcher! I’ve had enough.”

Maekawa dad expanded his arms and stuck his chest forward, as if releasing something. Battered by the wind, his lanky form almost fell back into the road. If a car drove by then, Maekawa dad would need an ambulance and actually say bye-bye to the river bank.

“No one is saying it’s anyone’s fault.” Everyone’s mostly good folks.

“But I bet they’re all taking behind my back…” What a persecution complex.

In the back, huh…? I wondered around the time, too, that everyone’s secretly bullying me, and the coach wanted to keep the group together and knowingly disallowed me to play.

“But that’s exactly what the other pitcher is thinking.”

“Hah?”

“Hanazawa-san too said her team is always losing.”

Did he know who Hanazawa-san is? I used the name anyway. Maekawa dad probably recognized who that is from earlier, and he grumbled. “Is that right… I guess it’s hard for her too when there’s lotsa folks above her.”

The adult expressed his sympathy in a tone that sounded as though a shared sentiment.

“Why does the girl wanna play amateur baseball?”

“Probably to vent.”

“Oh, I see. That’s great. So where do I go to vent?”

Shifting his focus onto the tolling station’s electronic voice, Maekawa dad mumbled to himself.

My ears, however, were captivated by the sound of the zephyr. The atmosphere rumbled, sweeping like waves hitting against the sandy beach. Sweat dried gradually from the breeze; I closed my eyes and breathed.

What to say… Not that there’s many choices. Only a few words can be used, and there’s only one truly fitting.

Quoting is such a convenient thing.

“Hanazawa-san even said that if she were to play, the team always think they have a chance of winning, that’s why she hates playing.”

Maekawa dad looked back. “Now that’s something I’d rather worry about.”

“Same here… But, that’s not so bad either, don’t you think?”

“…Hm?”

“That’s basically saying, when you’re playing, sir, we have the same kind of hope.”

Maekawa dad’s expression twisted into a lopsided one. It’s the type that can only be done subconsciously.

I’ve never thought I could use this phrase to describe something other than the battle with the enemies of the world.

“Like, even if you’re sure that people can never fly on a bicycle…”

I paused here, letting out an awkward laughter from my dried throat.

But I was certain with my next line.

“Yet you can never say that making people think they can fly is definitely a bad thing.

The ever-so-familiar aqua-blue particles danced inside in my eyes.

My lachrymal glands hardened, preventing the sort of reminiscing sentiment from flowing out.

Well done! I congratulated while looking skyward.

“There is no question that you're the one holding the team up, sir.”

You might not be the shiniest, but you've always been the best. So far, we haven't had a game with such big gaps between scores.

“I...”

I've always admired you, standing on that mound.

The words that followed tumbled in my mouth, and was swallowed with the wind.

The main character.

A talent recognized by all.

A hero.

I, too, wanted to be someone like that.

But I've given up on the hardship.

To be acknowledged, it's the only way.

Maekawa dad sniffed. He wasn't moved to tear or anything, right? I took notice, but it would appear to be that something just flew into his nose. Well, then don't suck it in! I backed off a few steps. Without noticing me, Maekawa dad stood up, tidied his sloppy shirt and brushed off the sweat dripping from his hair.

“I dunno why, but I've always been running away.”

It's the same as I: I've never forgotten why, though.

“The only things I didn't run away from are when I proposed, when I decided to open a bar, and when I fought with my wife about the name of our daughter.”

“…...”

Maekawa-san's name, huh… It's yet to be revealed. Does it contain some earth-shattering secret in it?

Hmm~ Maybe she's actually called Maekawa San?

As if dragging my slipping focus back from the mystery, Maekawa dad's glance pierced my temple.

“That's why I'm here to check on my escape route.”

“Hm?”

“Even if I were to go there now, it's not my problem if we don't make it.”

He apparently gave up on running. It's great that he's convinced, but…

“Oh yea, I guess that's true.” We spent quite sometimes running around.

The game might already be over. If that's the case, I… I will find a bat.

And play some baseball with Ryuushi-san, right? Okay, that settles it.

...Even so.

I peeked at Maekawa dad; hint of anxiety flashed.

Even if I drag him back, can he play? He looked terrible.

Maekawa dad drifted onto my bike rack and held onto my waist.

Another dark spot stained my bike's history.

Forty years old, space suit, my friend's dad. There are plenty of 'high school girls' around, so what's the deal?

“So, what are you to my daughter?”

Maekawa dad murmured behind my shoulder. The chill shot up my spine.

“Uh, um… Just a normal cosplay buddy.”

“Don't you lie to me, boy!”

He jabbed my waist. I ain't lying… Okay yeah that was a lie I guess.

If he could just accept that with a 'yeah, I thought so,' then he wouldn't be Maekawa dad! But setting that strange assumption aside.

“Ahh it hurts~” I moaned while pushing the bike forward. My legs are also shaking from fatigue.

“You better come clean if we win the game!”

“Ahh~ Yeah, yeah, I will.” He wants to win now, isn't that something?

If I were to be completely honest… I've been to your daughter's room before, and naturally it was just the two of us, hahah… Now we'll switch role — I will do the running away.

For some reason I pictured not just Maekawa dad, but also Ryuushi-san coming after me. What am I, the phantom thief?

“But, I did try to run away… Won't the guys be mad at me? They're not going to beat me up, are they?”

There he goes freaking out again.

“I want to puke my hands out.”

“What does that even mean?”

It's already hot and humid like in a sauna, please don't throw in the mopy thoughts.

So… “It's a-okay!”

I rung the bell, laughing off the idea with a cheerful attitude.

Because...

“Heroes only show up at the last moment!”

When we returned, the game's already at the second half of the fourth innings. We were losing, 0 to 2.

Erio's control ensured that the other team could never get four fouls. In other words, they'd gotten use to her slow flying ball. Still, being able to maintain the score difference at two was quite impressive. I have the confidence of losing five points in one round as the pitcher.

I scanned — we're now offence, with people on first, second base and one out. It would appear that those were not hits, but rather errors and walks. Standing on first base spacing out was Erio.

Ah, we saw each other. She waved, so I did the same with the thought of 'job well done!' to compliment her work so far. Too bad she won't receive all that information.

And then, as though attracted by our back-and-forth, Meme-san, noticing me and Maekawa dad's return, turned around and rested the aluminium bat from her shoulder. She welcomed us with a benevolent smile.

“Looks like I won't be substituting today.”

“Coach, aren't you having too much action?”

“Mako-kun, substitute batter.”

“Wha?”

She just piled all the responsibilities on someone who just came back.

Billboards pointing toward the road of heroes rose everywhere.

With a jublilant voice, Meme-san called out to the umpire standing at the batter's box.

“Hey~ Umpire, our Mako-kun is now the hero, so let him in!”

“Um...” I was going to say there's no such role in baseball.

“You came back at the best time, Mako-kun.”

“Oh, um...” I had no words. I didn't know how to act or what to do.

An anxiety bloated, like being called to the staff room from the school intercom unexpectedly.

“You too — you're playing next innings, so go um… Do what… Right, go turn your shoulders or something.”

Like a professional coach in speech and behaviour, Meme-san directed Maekawa dad. “Got it.” Though defiant in look, Maekawa dad heeded to her order and retrieved his glove.

Then she gently nudged my chest.

“Isn't this the best time to go? Go win a game for us now.”

The aluminium bat she hugged was placed softly into my right hand.

“...Um~” I wanted to say something, but I wasn't sure where it would go. As I stood conflicted, Ryuushi-san, standing next to me, patted on my shoulder. What was it? Before I could turn and face her —

“I'm rootin' for ya~! Ni~ Wa~ Kun~!!”

“My… Ear...”

The exploding cheer erupting next to my face delivered a direct impact into my brain.

“Wuwu, I'm sho embarrassed...”

She paid no mind to the others' painful reaction. I expected no less from a young girl: being bashful was almost her job… Hold on.

“Um, you should be a little further away before yelling.”

“Whacha sayin'! Ya can't hear if I'm not closer!”

I heard it so well, that my cochlea rung still.

Wanting to shut the part that thought 'I don't wanna be cheered,' I sighed.

“...Fine, I get it.”

I get it; my grip tightened on the bat.

Hoshimiya Yashiro.

I will face it directly.

“Be safe~”

“Yeah, yeah~”

Who was that just spoke? Meme-san? Or Ryuushi-san? Well, either is fine with me.

Having any one cheering for an eternal bench warmer — I should really be laughing.

One out; runners on first and second. On this moment that is only a step away from two outs with full bases.

Step forward, toward the unknown of 0.00000000198 centimetre per second.

“...Alright!”

With the bat resting on my shoulder, I sped ahead.

Finally, I will chase after that with a speed that can never reach. From now.

Again, and again.

This time.

“I guess I'll go for a little home run!”

Standing on the batting zone with the bat still on my shoulder, I adjusted my feet.

First time betting today, and I'm afraid there will not be a second. If I don't score here, we lose.

I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't nervous with this scenario.

My gaze pitted against Hanazawa-san's. Her defence at this river bank wan't just on the level of impressive — she could even be a little cocky about it.

Dust blew into my eyes, and I rubbed. It's windy today. Sure would be great if I could have the wind make my ball into a home run. Unfortunately that won't be the case. Without bleachers of some sort, the distance for a home run is far too long — it would be quite difficult with my strength and skills.

Despite wanting to get our runners back, it would be hard to even send the ball to the outfield. Ultimately I reseated my helmet and raised the bat, sending a glance at Nakajima's courtesy smile on second base.

Hiding under her cap without movement, Erio stared holes into me. She wasn't preparing to run, as though conveying her plan to simply walk to home base. Hey now, I grinned bitterly.

On the left field, Yashiro too stood still with arms crossed — 'why doncha show me?' — she seemed to say. Perhaps she already knew that the ball won't fly toward her. What's strange is that the ball typically flies to her — I felt I've seen this scene in a manga.

The tiny fruition of being destroyed and outed was, for some reason, the gradual understanding of Hanazawa-san's play.

I cannot read the future, nor do I have any powers, so I rely on my own ability to win. I haven't wasted the last twenty or so chances I had to strike back. Since I have yet remembered the feeling of a hit, I still have spaces for memory: I saw the pattern in Hanazawa-san's pitch.

Still, I was not certain. What's crucial is that it is only one ball. If I had the ability to comprehend the entirety without any data, I would have long been in a team.

The first pitch. The only ball of any possibility. I know the type of pitch Hanazawa-san throws.

A straight, slightly toward the lower end of middle. That's Hanazawa-san's favourite spot. Usually she aims there, toward the end of the strike zone where it is hard to see. It's the only chance I have.

As usual, Hanazawa-san raised her arm. Since few actually make it onto base, I do not have enough experience of her typical stance. But I can only swing.

The ball exited from Hanazawa-san's hand. I believed it will come, and began putting all strength into the bat.

Here it is!

My muscles trembled.

Though I swung as soon as the ball came, I was too late.

My kinetic vision isn't too outstanding. I guess I don't have the talent for baseball?

Still.

Just for now — just for once.

Even without that talent, I need the result.

As if but of naturally, the bat I held too far out in anticipation of a hit moved too late. Yet.

Like clinging onto a clothe with a finger nail.

Like never letting go of someone else's hands.

Like betting eighty years of life to fill five centimetres worth of distance.

My bat caught the escaping ball on its lower right.

Between where my jaws meet creaked; as if to answer the bulging eyes, the sound of blood vessels clenching emitted from the temples, and sweat exploded from my back. Never wanting to let go of this sensation, I moved even my legs, firming planting myself.

“$#%$&!!”

From my mouth came a deep groan straight from the depth of hell.

I bit down, as if trying to encapsulate the death rattle from escaping between my teeth.

Time stopped as though to capture the moment when the bat struck the ball. The sight of the ball changing shape, bending inward reflected in my eyes. How heavy. The weighty sensation spread across my hands. Between the flesh of my fingers and the bat, nails dug in deeply, their form almost lost. It hurt.

I couldn't swing the bat out. The ball was still glued on. I bit down further; crack, the teeth slip apart, and the goosebumps popped out. My scalp twitched, as if the hair had fallen out.

Once more, I applied more pressure onto the teeth that were on brink of breaking; keep going, move those arms more.

And then.

The grey arc created from the aluminium bat drew across, sending the ball flying.

It should have been an impossible sequence.

The speed of sound arrived later than all other.

For the first time, the metallic bat echoed a resounding hit.

A field of white painted my vision, like being embraced by Yashiro's hair. This too was only for a moment.

In the sight that returned, I could not see my accomplishment.

Numbness from my arms tightened my expression; I followed the path of the ball. Where? I ditched the bat, running forward with legs that almost tied up. More, sprint forward. The wind deafened me, and the cheer far away.

Hanazawa-san's eyes expanded, shocked. Terrific! A short-lived pleasure lifted the corner of my lips. A comeback against a pro. The football on the ground. A short time passed before I let go of the almost crazed glee.

Where is the ball? I turned toward where people's foci were at.

There it was.

The white ball flew toward the right field. Hit by a late swing, the ball did not have momentum carrying forward. It merely floated in the sky, in the direction it was hit.

It would probably land immediately into the right fielder's hand as soon as it loses even that. The old guy with the crooked shoulder guarding that field was casually getting ready, standing below the ball.

“...Ah.”

The disappointment was worse than expected, and I almost stopped going.

I sprinted with numbed hands. In the end, it's still just a ball? Not even a sacrifice fly. It was still dubious if it'd make a difference: simply put, it might as well be a freebie.

Hanazawa-san sighed, looking down at the mound and flattening the sand. So she'd already predicted the ending. The sense of defeat sank, dragging my feet into the ground.

Only Yashiro, standing in the left field, followed the ball with her eyes.

As if she was filled with conviction.

To have an enemy who trusted me the most.

And almost as though guided by her, I did not look toward Erio, but further into the sky.

“Ah.”

A gale blew from behind.

My eyes grew.

Something that forced everyone's attention back in the sky happened.

The wind carried the ball away, since it was so high up. Even Hanazawa-san had to crack open her eyes away from the mound to follow the ball. The scale immediately tipped in favour of the shopping district's team.

The right fielder frantically lowered his hand and ran backward. Staring at the ball, he showed no sign of stopping. Don't stop. Don't stop now.

I restrained myself from running toward the ball while eyes still fixed on it.

Though in a diametrically different position than the rocket scientists, we share the same wishes.

Fly, fly, and fly higher.

It inched forward as it fell.

The destination of the ball.

Plastered against the boundary line — the side of the river flowed.

“Ah… Ah… Ah...”

The resting area was pretty far away — the gasp from there played hopscotch in my ears. I prayed, unsure if my footing was even proper. I prayed, and prayed. Please, just five more centimetres.

Please grant me the miracle travelling at five cm per second.

And then—

And,

And.

“Ah—!”

The ball so luckily blown away by the wind was not baptised, but simply landed in the river.

“It's a little off from my prediction.”

“Is that how you're covering your embarrassment?”

Dugongkawa-san, who welcomed me, slapped my back. After circling the entire field gleefully, I was received with cheers. The adults crudely rubbed my head; to the celebration I grinned painfully. Despite being jabbed and shoved about, it wasn't unpleasant.

There were two more innings after this game. The other side were already demoralized, however.

Okay, we will definitely win. We'll bet everything on Maekawa dad's right arm. “Right?”

I directed the conversation at Maekawa dad, who stayed a step away from the centre of the raucity. He must had been keeping distance from the other adults because he ran off.

“Looks like we're gonna win, so I'll try and keep up.”

A not so friendly, circumventing way of saying he'll try his best. “And ya better not forget about my daughter!” To his additional comment, I could only smile vaguely.

“From henceforth, Niwa-kun will be known as Miracle-kun!”

Ryuushi-san's words were frequently incomprehensible when she speaks excitedly. And so she gave me an unfitting name. I would hate it if she starts calling me that tomorrow, I thought. I'm the type to get nervous when I say a long sentence, however, so I refrained.

Erio raised both hands to her shoulders and smiled admiringly.

Like a child sharing a victorious moment after a successful prank.

“Cousin, very cool~”

“...Thanks.” That's all I could do.

I slapped my hands together; though not of many words, we traded our blessings.

It was a result from coincidence and extraordinary luck; when people congratulated me, the embarrassment grew as well.

Still, I kept my head up.

Coach Meme-san waited at the end of the line. A face full of smile, she stood ahead of me as if blocking my path.

“I expected no less from the lessons of a famous coach.”

“Please don't flatter yourself pretending someone else said that.” Yes, there goes the water. It's settled.

Meme-san's face erased the indescribable feelings in my mind.

So be it. I quietly observed with a grin. It was, after all, a miracle achieved by something other than just my own power.

Help me spread the same accomplishment to my other aides.

“And so~ Time for the goddess' reward!”

“Is that the short hand for the goddess of ricefishes?”

“Smooch.” My face was kissed. “…” “Smoooch~” It's being sucked. In the plebian world, this was known as a kiss… “Uwahhhhhh!”

“Wha04:31, 25 December 2016 (CET)!”

“Hey zWei ( talk ) 04:31, 25 December 2016 (CET)!”

“Kyah.”

“Whoa.”

The last two people were too calm!

### 018. Chapter 7: The Midnight Sun

## Chapter 7 - The Midnight Sun

"Nya~waniwa~ nyowa-kun~!"

The first second, I thought it was just an odd sound that stood out in the noise.

The second second, I was lost in the joy of knowing that this wait was worth some points itself.

It was until the third second that I realized, from the owner of this voice, that I was a part of this.

In other words, I realized whoever called was referring to me.

“Lets meet up at the third street light from the festival's street” — Under this specific location, I peered at the couples in yukata or groups of girls pass by. It was just after dusk.

August 13th, about halfway through the summer break, was the night of the festival.

Niwa Makoto, his goal as the adolescent guy, will never do such disgraceful action as to skip the occasion. Similar, the event of having only guys in a big group walking around the stalls will accent only the sour part of youth.

Unfortunately, that awful taste from a year ago lasted till today.

Even walking alone in the road permeated by the hazy lights of lanterns could have a sort of elegance to it, so it wouldn't be too bad.

Yet, this year, it was the time for the sweet development of meeting with a girl.

The girl who made the promise with me was a girl I hoped from the bottom of my heart — Mifune Ryuuko-san.

It used to be that I was forced to see her after losing a bet… Nah, just kidding.

“Nya~waniwa~nyowa-kun! Sorry if I kept ya waitin'!”

Stepping on the asphalt road with her feet in getas, she trotted over.

The result of closely inspecting the direction and the atmosphere was that that had to be my name.

“Nah, I just got here.” That's the typical answer, regardless of truth. But since it's a cliché at this point, do people still buy it? I realized that it actually doesn't matter, and moved on from this topic. Reminder that this isn't actually that weightless of a question.

“I don't remember getting a rapper's name.”

“Well, y'know, I thought the same ol' name was getting a lil stale and stuff~”

Clad in her festival outfit of blue yukata with a teal sash, Ryuushi-san answered bashfully. Having a brain capable of thinking such an astonishing name, her fluffiness is simply wonderful~ (oblivious mode still engaged)

If she were Meme-san, than the brain must be about to bloom with flower.

Still, it wasn't part of the promise for Ryuushi-san to be in her yukata — it was a miscalculation I'd gladly accept.

“How's the yukata?” She pulled the sleeves up and inquired about my thought.

“Marvelous!” I complemented with a thumbs-up. Ryuushi-san's face lit up.

I'm just talking about the yukata, not whoever was wearing it~ Albeit not something I often do, I almost had the impulse to tease her. If I just said 'cute,' would Ryuushi-san be upset? Or embarrassed?

“I went to borrow the neighbour Onee-san's yukata, and had her help me put it on.”

Oh, that tiny Onee-san? How old is she anyway?

“I see… But, why the helmet?”

“My hair's actin' up.”

She adjusted the hat. Aw, she's worried about her straight hair? Not like anything's wrong with it. It's also weird to have it on.

“Now I'm ready for that beam attack from above!”

“What's the point of that attack if a helmet could block it?”

It's still cute in its own way… Hm, love sees no fault.

“Mm~”

Ryuushi-san retracted her smile and looked left and right.

“What's wrong?”

“Uh, um, I was just thinking that we can't see the moon tonight.”

She was obviously looking at the sides of the road.

As though sidestepping my question, she beamed again.

“Well, let's go have some fun!”

“Whoa.” Ryuushi-san circled behind me, 'there, there!' and pushed on my back. Am I a Mikoshi? I wouldn't mind just hugging Ryuushi-san (redacted). “Mm? Ya have an interesting smell, Niwa-kun.”

“I put on a lotta bug repellant.” Your speech is just as interesting.

With that happy humming from behind as the BGM, I looked up toward the night sky.

Indeed, the moon was not present. That might be better, I recalled in the daze.

Without any wind throughout the day, there wasn't a shard of cloud in the sky either now. I feel cooler than during the day, yet warmer than in the morning. With the right preparation against the bugs, the climate's entering a tolerable phase.

Yet as we entered the street of the shopping district, the heat coming off from the iron plates almost tricked me into thinking it's the rain season again. The smell of grilled food pervaded in the air too: it was the smell of dried sauce. “I really like this smell.”

Leaving my back and walking on my side, Ryuushi-san exaggeratedly stuck her sniffing nose out. I laughed; Ryuushi-san too bloomed a smile. It was a slightly embarrassing exchange.

“Fruitarians don't eat grilled squids or takoyaki, do they?”

“Well~ Soba with a little less meat is fine. I can also do candied apple, eggettes, also cotton candies… Otherwise...” She looked toward the neatly-placed stands. “Ah, goldfishing also sounds pretty good.”

Since it followed a list of foods, I almost agreed with the thought 'Oh, so she can eat goldfishes too?” Meanwhile, I remembered a street performer swallowing an entire goldfish.

“Feels like a lotta of our classmates came too”

“Yeah.” I saw a few while waiting.

“If somebody saw us, y'know, wouldn't it be a little… Y'knyow?”

Ryuushi-san acted all embarrassed; even her gait followed, shrivelling up like her body.

“What do you mean?”

“Umm, like, 'Niwa-kun you cutie~' 'Ryuuko is a hoe~' Ya know?”

“…...” I'm even more confused now.

In other words, people might mistake our relationship if they saw us?

But we already eat lunch together, so now is a little…

“What if Mikki saw us?”

Why not just have her take a picture as commemoration? Ah, speaking of that… I took my phone out to check the time… Should be enough time.

“Mmm, is there something you need to keep an eye on for?”

“That's my line: you've been looking for something, right? Like someone?”

I dodged the question. Could it be Nakajima? No way. Or rather, can that guy even come? Perhaps the shopping district's victory also meant the city folks will have a harder time showing up.

Having her suspicious behaviour pointed out, Ryuushi-san let out a manga-like chuckle and looked down sheepishly. Has she given up? She didn't make an excuse.

“Well, I was just wondering that, maybe, ya wanted to hang out with Touwa-san for the festival… So maybe she was around… Kuhaha.”

Why did she laugh like a gang boss? It's a sunny and oddly cute tone. If it were Ryuushi-san, even a 'Kuhaha' or 'Kekehehehaha' befitting only for a gangster wouldn't be unpleasant.

Yet this Ryuushi-san doesn't seem like she could handle Erio. I'm likely part of the reason, so I couldn't just say anything… As far as I know anyway. I could be just thinking too much.

“Erio is with Meme-san… Her mom, for the festival.”

“Oh~ Is she? Touwa-san and her mom...” Why did she seem so happy?

Compared to before, her smile had widened. Her cheeks, mouth and eyes almost popped out to make a happy expression. Yet to that countenance, I could only grin awkwardly.

Well, she did hit the nail on the head; thus, I changed the topic and looked to the stands lined on the side. It's a little petty how my sight always drifted to the price tag.

“What do you want? It's on me.”

“Eh?”

“Think of it as celebrating for your big game.”

“What!” Ryuushi-san hopped a little. Is my generosity really that far-fetched? Is there something to my usual behaviour I need to re-evaluate on?

“I am deeply indebted to you.” She bowed down and thanked me in an old-fashioned manner.

“Don't be. Well, what do you fancy?” I asked while moving closer to the food stands.

Ryuushi-san would probably stop by in front of whatever she wanted. So I handed the decision-making to her while moving ahead. The smell intensified.. More precisely, since we closed in, the originally-mixed smell now each distinguished themselves. The aroma of heated sugar and soy sauce tingled my growling guts.

With her finger tip, Ryuushi-san tickling with tapped my shoulder.

“I'mma go with the candied apple.”

“Hm.” I nodded in a very Erio-esque way. “Well, let's get one.”

Peeking into the targeted stand, Ryuushi-san smiled warmly and gestured a finger at the old lady inside.

“I would like one… Ah, would you like one too, Niwa-kun?”

“I'm okay.”

“Okie dokie~ Just one please.”

The number did change halfway through the conversation, but I didn't think it's something to be mindful of.

“Here ya go~ Come again~” Like someone working at a super market, the old lady took the money from me. 300 yen per pop. I thought it was 50 yen before, from the stand in front of the train station. This must be what is known as the festival price.

At about her third bite, Ryuushi-san paused.

“It's a little embarrassing with ya staring.”

“Is it? Guess I will keep staring.”

“Wuu. Ya are gonna be like that, huh. Niwa-kun is surprisingly mean~”

We grinned jovially at one another. Submerged in the festivity, we savoured the relaxing atmosphere.

Even the old lady over by the stand smiled, affected by us.

Since Ryuushi-san began eating, I waited quietly while looking around.

I noticed a familiar face in the crowd. Her pale skin stood out and was easily picked up.

Ooi… Tooe-san? The owner of the hair salon, with her daughter on her shoulder, passed by. Was the man on her side the husband? We're not exactly close enough to warrant a hello, so I merely watched.

The girl sitting on her shoulders, was she worried from being so high? She shrivelled and shrunk onto her mother's head.

Mouth ajar, she seemed to be whining, though the distance between us meant it wasn't clearly heard.

“Wanna bite? Niwa-kun.”

Ryuushi-san passed the half-eaten candy to me. It was such an innocent act that I actually recoiled from the confusion. It's an indirect kiss no matter how you look at it: is it really okay? I don't even think Ryuushi-san herself was completely aware of anything of the sort.

Is it really okay to just do this when I had my guard down? I had this meaningless, chivalrous thought. Perhaps I had some subtle feeling of guilt.

“N-no thanks.” Wavered, I painfully turned her down. “Tch.” Ryuushi-san smilingly tutted and returned the candy. See no evil, hear no evil… Not. Hm. Hmm.

In the end only I regretted. Am I lacking something in terms of moral? Or is this actually normal for a high school teenager?

During my struggle, Ryuushi-san finished her apple. “Shoulda walked around.” She just now said it. Was she maybe sorry for making me wait?

“Why not? We can take our time.”

Plus we didn't have anything specific to do for this festival anyway. I guess there is the fireworks. “Oh yeah, thanks for treating me.” Ryuushi-san clasped her hands and thanked me and the old lady.

“”Thank you.”” We both waved our hands in unison. That's a little saddening.

The leftover chopstick was taken away by the shop keep.

Looking at the scene, I took my phone out to check the time. Wouldn't want to be late.

“Okay, Niwa-kun's next.”

As we returned to the crowd, Ryuushi-san said something interesting.

“Eh?” I genuinely felt a little disgusted at myself after imitating her.

“A present for your home run! I'll treat ya!”

Ryuushi-san pulled her sleeve up and for some reason showed her biceps. Trying to show her reliableness? “...Really?” Ryuushi-san's treating me? Well, I'm not that surprised.

Still, I was truly overjoyed.

“Thanks. I'll take you up on that.”

“Yeah! C'mon~ What ya fancy?”

Like a TV show's lady, she hurried me.

“Hm!...” What's better? I scanned around while looking for something that struck me.

Then, my sight landed on that booth. I suppose most folks passing by would have looked again just to make sure.

“Anyone buying? Anyone~?”

A female wearing an eel costume, selling a grilled version of her kins… How fitting.

Felt like something you might find in a theme park. Is there even an eel park?

“Yo~ Unagikawa-san.”

We visited that stall in order to chat with Maekawa-san, busy skewering the eels.

Drenching with sweat, Maekawa-san seemed like she would pass out at any given time.

Hearing us, she looked up. Her usual smug was complete covered by the costume.

Actually, that might even be a gill costume. I thought.

“Transfer student and Ryuushi? That's an expected line-up.”

What an unnecessary comment. Asking me to change myself… With the final destination being Meme-san, though, I'm very hesitant.

“I told ya it's Ryuuko. Maekawa-san, are ya… working~?”

A little scared, Ryuushi-san asked. “A payless job.” She seemed to say so self-mockingly.

“I'm helping out my family stall. Re-heat the packaged eels, and sell them off 500 yen each.”

“Ah, that reminds me of what I use to have in the elementary school lunch. It's something we'd have near the end of semester.”

Ryuushi-san nodded, as though comprehending. With a blank face, Maekawa-san focused on her hands without looking up at Ryuushi-san. It was then I realized that, perhaps, her quietness was result from the dizzying heat. She's wobbling too.

“500 yen huh, that's not exactly even with the apple.”

“That's fine! Ryuuko Onee-san will spoil ya!”

“Then, I will gladly accept.” And run straight up into her bossom… The difficulty in this world was not being able to do what you want.

With fingers pinching the skewer sticks, Maekawa-san continued spacing out.

“Still, eel suits you.”

“Rice eel and congers are up my valley too.” Ah, there's a reflexive reaction from her drifting eyes.

“Moray eels seems passable too.”

As long as it's skinny and lengthy it'll work. Even earth worms or crickets… Ah, is that no good?

“Niwa-kun, would ya like the eels?”

As expected for a fruitarian to be discontent with my decision. But, um, from a friend's position, that should be the expected thing to do, I thought.

“Hm, can I?”

“Yep. One skewer, please.”

Thank you~ Maekawa-san mumbled listlessly and picked up a finished skewer from the corner. She passed it to Ryuushi-san. I watched the two hands in contact. Maekawa-san's hands were white and long, and a bit rough. Ryuushi-san's were like children's, smooth and without flaws.

People's hands reflect their lives. How do my hands look?

Ryuushi-san took the food, and passed the eel skewer to me like a flower.

“Here, Nya~ Nyaa~ Niwa… Wait? Who?”

“Wha~ Are you the amnesiac main character now?” Actually, even if that wasn't a spontaneous event I'd be terrified.

“Oh no. What did I call ya? Nyawa~niwawa...”

“Just the normal, please.” Also, the correct answer is Nyawaniwa~Nyowa… Hm?

I transformed into a troubled girl. “Mmmm.” I received the food from a grumbling Ryuushi-san.

“Actually, I'll take one more. This one is on me.” I ordered another one in realization.

“Are ya really that hungry, Niwa-kun? Or are ya a slimey-lover?”

“Well, I guess the former is more correct.” Actually, Ryuushi-san hadn't pay yet, had she?

The current Maekawa-san might even let us go if we didn't pay.

Yet as we chatted on, Maekawa-san's face changed dramatically: light returned to her face. Though glaring, her eyes had focused onto me.

Oh hoh! Unagikawa-san had came back from the dead. Truth to be told, however, it's already a miracle that she's alive above ground during this season. I guess from that angle Maekawa-san isn't too different from the eels.

“Heh~” She grinned, eyes squinting, as though noticing something. “I see.”

“What do you see?”

“Nah, I just caught on something when I see you add another order.”

“W-what are you babbling about?! Secret?! Are you a certain detective?!”

“People call me the frail, and pretty smart Maekawa-san.”

She stretched her eyes, making them as big as possible in display of her power. Then she immediately faltered, 'ugh, my head hurts from yelling…' and kneeled down. Intelligence aside, her brain doesn't seem too durable.

But she probably did notice from just that exchange. Impressive, her observation and ability to connect the dots.

If the next volume were to be made into a mystery novel starring Maekawa-san as the protagonist, I wouldn't be too shocked. After all, I feel like I would become the first victim before the big reveal.

“Intercept~!” For some reason Ryuushi-san interrupted. Her skilful arms pushed me back.

“Why did you shove me out of the frame?”

“On a tactical standpoint, we're currently doing a 1 on 1. Excuse me.”

“Why?”

“Cuz my summer has just begun!”

What good would it do making this the last volume? I don't have much backup.

“Five, hundred, yen!”

Without a doubt, she passed the five coins in her hand in front of a recovered Maekawa-san.

“Then me too...”

When I planned to pay for the second eel, Unagikawa-san's head wobbled as if snickering.

“Hehehe, just Ryuushi's five hundred is fine. And the other one… Right, think of it as your inaugural gift.”

Uwah, she knew. “I told ya to call me Ryuuko~ So what are ya on about?”

“Not telling. Also, please call me Maekawa the Clairvoyant.”

“Thanks for that then. I'll pay you back in banana cake rolls, so let's call it even.”

“Sure but… Isn't that kind of rare in a super market?”

“Hey~ Hey~ What are ya two saying? Don't just leave me out~! Ryuuko-san shoots beams from her hands when she's all alone~” That's not normal for human.

“I'll explain on the way.”

Taking the second skewer from Unagikawa-san, I distanced myself from the booth. I don't belong in that cruel world where a moment of being seen-through would be the death of one, so I chose escape.

Well, since it's Maekawa-san, she might just collapse without anyone watching, so I'm a little worried.

“Thank you very much~ Hope you have a wonderful night.”

Under the watchful eyes of Maekawa-san, whose ability to voice returned, we mixed into the people.

“So, what was that about~?” Mildly upset, Ryuushi-san started throwing tantrum like a child unable to follow her friends' conversation.

“I'll have ya explain till I'm satisfied! Explain ya self, dangit!”

She jabbed with her elbow multiple time in my sides. Coach, this is cheating.

Yet there is not coach in life. I must, therefore, decide what was right on my own.

“Money can't buy lives, yet here I am using currency to purchase the part of an eel. I am beyond condemned… Maekawa-san saw through me.”

I scared even myself with the unending lies. For a moment I even thought maybe a spirit had possessed me. Bon festival is just around the corner, too, so that must be why.

“So that's what's troubling ya... Ah! A foreshadowing of Niwa-kun's fruitarian route!”

Our colourful Ryuushi-san seemed to have understood something she shouldn't have.

I have been dreading the next time when I will be dragged into another vegetarian buffet.

Nevertheless, the ridiculous story seemed to have amended Ryuushi-san's discontent.

Despite the fragments of guilt laid about my feet.

What's left is not flowers in each hands, but an eel in both.

Now that's a headache — I can't hold my girlfriend's hand if both hands are filled! I wish I could be in a position to think like so. So far the only female I've held hands with since coming here… Meme-san. The only female to have sat behind me on a bike… Meme-san. Someone who hugged me on her own… Meme-san. A kiss on my cheek… Meme-gahhhhhhhhhhhh!

A nuclear war waged through my youth. The apocalypse came. Looking from the outside sucks. Aside from hand-holding, everything had been taken by my aunt. Is she the devil following me? Instead of the succubus of every guy's dream?

As I continue the motion of moving my feet forward with Maekawa-san-like dead fish eyes. “Ah.”

“What?”

“It's Hanazawa-san.” I purposefully did not name the male next to him.

With shades and a cap on, like a sneaky celebrity, the inadvertently-made-conspicuous Hanazawa-san & Nakajima were looking at something at a booth. The items they seemed to be looking at appeared to be accessories.

They must have came here in disguise because they lost the game.

“Do city people not want to come now?”

I mumbled my doubt. Though unexpectant, a response came from the side.

“Mm~ I guess. Some people do care a lot.”

“But you're here, Ryuushi-san.”

“Well~ y'know, I did say I'm with ya!”

With that bashful yet happy look, she tossed me words that made me secretly joyful.

Then she added the line of 'And I told ya I'm Ryuuko~' I was even more elated.

I turned around abruptly.

The place we passed filled with bliss and footsteps, like candies had rained from the sky.

Only a part of this town celebrated the festivities tonight.

Yet, so many came.

“How do I put this.” I turned my head back to report the sentiment permeating in my chest.

“Mm.”

“There's so many people here — I'm a little moved.

Afternoons in the summer. The roads were never so full of life.

But now, the emotions people poured in here might just become a river of its own.

“It is really cool~”

As if expressing how genuine she was, Ryuushi-san nodded deeply.

“Also.”

With a bit of accent, she smiled meaningfully and looked up to my face. Those eyes looked like they saw something worth praising, making me blush. Unsure of her intention, I did not know what to say, only able to squeeze a twisted smile.

“Ahaha!” She thought my reaction funny.

Then, Ryuushi-san hopped into the road like she did last time in the rain.

She landed in the middle, stretching her arms as far out as she could.

“Everything here~! It's all on ya, Niwa-kun!”

“...Eh?”

Being treated like the saviour of the planet was less embarrassing and more baffling.

“Me? No, no, I'm run the shops or anything, neither am I running the events, right?”

“But, if ya didn't hit that home run, we won't be having the festival here.”

“Oh, yeah.” That's true.

The ace I once dreamed of becoming.

Once I became it, I realized how flimsy the position was, and could not felt completely glad.

I guess not having the basics down is still not good.

Because of the occasion. Because of luck, I got it without using real abilities.

I can't be placed in the same category as Ryuushi-san, who worked so hard to where she was.

...Still, no other values other than self-satisfaction embody this so-called 'cause.'

Call it what you like — talent, hard work, or fortune.

Only, after the results, there is no such thing as choosing what the means was.

Just like no matter how assiduous I was, I could never participate in a football game.

Even so.

What else can I do but assent? I am, after all, the best at 'giving up.'

“That's right~! I AM the mastermind behind the festival~!”

I tried to be an idiot in the crowd. Surprising felt great throwing away your shame.

“Whoa~! Niwa-kun's the hero of the galaxy~! Land of Light~!”

We both flailed our arms like birds with their wings.

Perhaps it wasn't Ryuushi-san's intent, but I'm afraid we're… Considered as brainless couples in the eyes of the passers-by.

“But that home run must also be why some people can't come now.” I sulked.

“Who cares about that?”

Go away~ Looked like she just threw the entire thing out.

“Ya became a hero this summer, Niwa-kun!”

Heheh! Ryuushi-san proudly thrust her chest forward like she's the star.

“Well, a hero on a small scale. Like, 'the neighbour who's really good at baseball' tier.”

“So what! The hero of this town can change the world little by little!”

Seemingly throwing an entire something out, Ryuushi-san praised me with arms raised.

Summer-only hero… huh.

First, I would like to change the condition of 'the only intimacy comes from my aunt.'

That aside.

The world might be like so now because of a piece of pebble you kicked on the road long ago.

When the wind blows, the barrel merchant gets rich. Butterfly Effect Fish Story.

The words that I should have ignored long ago emerged once again.

Furthermore, they stepped into my future with a taunting smile.

“...Now that's annoying.”

Having to bend to those words.

With arms out on the sides still, Ryuushi-san skipped back.

“So, Mr. Hero, when do you plan on staying till?”

“Uh, yeah, um, actually...” I stuttered. No, it will only worsen if I stop now. With a breath, I determined to finish.

“I have a little rendezvous after this.”

One who chases two hares shall get neither.

I know! Please don't remind me of that now!

Rendezvous. As the words exit my mouth, Ryuushi-san froze. However.

“Niwa-kun.”

Like having a high class chocolate hanging from her lips, she called my name with a bright grin.

Cold sweat formed on my back from the illusion of having hot iron branded on me.

“I won't ask ya who you're meeting up with. I prefer the slow strangulation by cotton, but...”

“Gulp.” This was neither acting nor playing along — I genuinely could not breath.

Ryuushi-san thrust her index finger forward; the nail poked the tip of my nose.

“Ya owe me one hundred.”

“...Yes.”

“Plus interest.”

“I'll do my best.”

Mhm, Ryuushi-san nodded approvingly… But she still ran off like that time in the rain while crying, 'wuah! I lied! I'm really useless! I couldn't even try to be mad!” Until her silhouette faded into the night, I watched her go; I sighed, angrily rubbing my bangs.

...I'll receive divine retribution one day for doing such a terrible thing. I'll find Ryuushi-san later and apologise to her more.

But, there was nothing I could do about a promise made during same time… I suppose it's not something I could just wave off by saying that. But, well, it is the only way the me now knows.

To be on time, I passed through the road filled with booths leading to the shrine.

It took quite some effort to pass the crowd: I'm not as good at cutting in as someone from the basketball club.

Ascend the ladder; Touwa Erio awaited in front of the shrine. Meme-san was not seen anywhere.

Though I felt there would be five or six people hiding in the bush or behind the offering box, I made it to Erio without springing any such traps.

Wearing her usual outfit, Erio emitted the smell of bug repellent we sprayed on each others before heading out.

“Cousin, you came.”

As if expressing her affection, she shook my right arm as hard as she could. It hurt.

“Of course: I promised I'd came. Where's Meme-san?”

“She went to buy a ton of snacks and takoyaki, then left to Tamura Obaa-chan's. She wanted a festival for just two.”

“Really.” Her usual behaviour came back to bite her, huh.

But since she herself seem happy, I guess no one could stop her either.

“So, why did you want me here at this time?”

“Secret.”

“Really? I'm going to see the fireworks then.”

I re-turned (combination of turning and returning). “Wu~! Wu~!” Erio grabbed my arm and pinched. It's gonna bruise. Let go, my cousin.

“Okay, okay! I'm just messing with you, so let go!”

“Wu~” Perhaps distrustful of me, she kept her grip.

“Is something going to happen? What's going to happen?”

“A little more.” Without checking the time, Erio asserted.

“Fine, we'll wait.” Going back now would also be… Seeing what happened with Ryuushi-san.

“Mm.” Finally assured, she let go of my flesh.

“Have this while we wait.”

“Mm?”

Erio stiffly received the grilled eel I passed over.

“The late inaugural gift, said Maekawa-san.”

I ended up putting it that way, instead of saying I bought it for her.

“Maekawa...” Erio looked to the corner of her eyes in rumination. Couldn't put the name on a face?

“The giant girl who spent a night at your house.”

“Oh~” She seemed to understand, knocking her fist on her palm several times.

Erio then raised the skewer parallel to her eyes; with a 'thank' she bowed toward the lights of the festival.

We decided to sit within the shrine while waiting for Erio's much-anticipated time.

Only cicada cries could be heard, perhaps because woods surrounded us. The usually irritating sound now made the festival more exciting. That's a laughable sentiment.

“It's so much cooler up here.”

Away from the people, the steam, and the bulbs, the night retained its original form.

The sight of festivities below was actually not bad for atmosphere.

“Nom!” Erio bit into the eel while nodding; she looked at the sky meanwhile.

The moment she's waiting for must be related to an astronomical phenomenon.

“You don't have binoculars today.”

“Nope.”

She shook her head. “Delicious.” Apparently also content with the taste.

The… Stars?

I never thought if I liked or hated it. In other words, I'm not interested.

The correct response should be neither like nor hate. But actually, is that an answer?

Before I could reply, Erio popped off.

“It's here!”

Still holding the bamboo sticks from the finished food, Erio sprinted out.

She stopped in the middle of the shrine, and then turned her head around.

I followed; I stood next to her.

“Something you want to see?”

“Mm!”

Since nothing else concrete came out of her mouth, I sought the hints in the sky.

In about a minute, I too saw the thing that cut through the sky.

“Comet?”

“Yep. The Perseids.”

“This is the most prolific meteor shower during the summer, the others include...”

She seemed to be saying something, but it sounded mostly like self-mumbling. The rest of the words were unheard from the excitement of the sight.

“...Oh, I see.”

I finally understood.

A meteor shower.

Erio wanted to join the baseball game because she wanted to to see it from here during the night.

Riding the coat tail of festivals, she was able to stay after curfew. Basically, she took the long way around to not defy her mother.

And this must be the best place to see the shower. I finally realized.

I remember hearing this from one of Erio's star gazing lectures.

On a windless day close to a new moon, it is the best for meteor shower viewing due to the lack of moonlight and atmospheric movement. Maybe Erio does have good luck… Or perhaps the universe had embraced her.

She gawked at the night sky — this must be what she looked forward to the most.

“Everything we've done this summer seems like the side dish for tonight.”

We should be glad if we could see a star pass every two minutes.

It definitely wasn't anything dramatic, yet Erio, as though in love with the stars, was drunk in the sight.

At the spur of the moment, I pulled away from Erio.

From that spot, I stared at her. Head lowered, she seemed to pray.

“...Wow~”

Regretfully, the aqua-blue girl watching the stars looked very much like a painting.

Filled with molecules and mystery, the scene had all the rights to be the final curtain of the festival night.

“Hey, now. Don't lose your head.” I palmed my face.

With a bitter grin, I continued gazing into the show.

There was still time before the fireworks.

Playing baseball and watching the stars was correct for this summer.

...Yet, it was still early for a change of scenery.

Like spreading the curtain that slowly descends onto the stage.

Something crawled out from beneath the eaves.

The story did not end there.

“Good evening from beneath the shrine. Call me Belowthe Eaves.”

So she finally admitted it? And I knew she would show up in front of us again.

How dense is she?

The final boss could, of course, judge where my story was going.

“I've known your fate here since the dawn of time.”

Hoshimiya Yashiro.

“Your being here was predetermined.”

She was wearing neither the space suit nor Meme-san's blouse, but a white yukata that was probably borrowed from the shrine. I might not have known where she got the outfit, but it looked like an inauspicious burial dress. She donned even that infamous helmet, bringing her level of dubiousity up to the level of burglars.

If Erio were to scream out, 'Ah~! A thief!” people would likely side with her.

“P-hew.”

“Don't pause between breaths too.”

“Hmhmhmhm.”

Yashiro stood up shakily, unconcerned with the dirtied clothes and assumed her stance.

Then she threw her helmet off.

“Hold it.” She tossed it to Erio; she caught it without looking away from the sky. It would appear she's reveled in the stars and completely uninterested in the Yashiro.

Though I could not deny the possibility of her outright purposefully ignoring Yashiro. That's the right kind of attitude.

Hehe~ Yashio smirked at the sight and spoke.

“I was going to skip town from this troublesome job, but I changed my mind.”

“Wha?”

“Well, why don't I show you a bit of my power.”

“Oh man...” Here we go again.

“But before then, back up three steps.”

“Why?

“Why don't you just show me!” I spoke maliciously.

Just like when we first met, the request remain unchanged.

Only, Yashiro agreed with my request. “Fine.”

With lips titled, she seemed to convey her anticipation for those words.

...That reminded me about last week.

She promised to show me her powers.

“You once said, what is the point of just believing, correct?”

I did. Subconsciously, I nodded.

As if hypnotised, I was sucked into her mien.

“Have all five of your senses remember, what believing does.”

Then.

Yashiro.

“ Hello! And Goodbye! ”

Raising her stick-like arm, she seemingly summoned something.

Then, the fireworks bloomed in the sky.

The blinding, yet mesmerizing vestiges of black powder.

A red as striking as the tomatoes.

It's the fireworks. The depiction of summer uncoiled my anxiety.

“What is this?”

That's it? She's not planning on saying that she communicated with the firework technician telepathically, is she?

Disappointment, relief and laughters mixed in my chest; the moment I decided to look back onto Yashiro—

In just moments.

From inside the fireworks, something more brilliant entered my vision.

A gigantic orb.

The midnight sun.

A light that stabbed into the eye like a prick.

Then, with the other aurora still glittering, the giant fireball…

It burst with a sound that would entail the end of the world.

Scattered pieces of the stone steps and the summer air exploded in a deafening noise.

I wondered if the sky had fallen down. Or if a miscalibrated had landed. No, maybe lightning was a better fit? The ringing never stopped.

Once I recovered, I had already fallen from the impact.

“Aw…”

A pain both smaller and later than the shock earlier nagged at me.

I looked to the source of the signal, my right arm.

A streak of flesh was missing from the arm; burnt mark traced the indentation.

After scraping my arm, it fell to the ground.

Just that was enough to create such a wound.

“...Ah.”

Rigidly I looked back to inspect the crater.

I couldn't see the object's true form: hidden by the dark of night, the matter did not stand out.

Yet something did indeed fall from the sky.

It came from above.

There was only one thing I could think of.

She couldn't have summoned it, could she?

Yashiro? With that gesture?

Hypothetically, if I had not backed off when I did.

I felt the noise from beneath the temple seem to have grew.

The next firework didn't follow either.

Even Erio, who stood a little away from me, and her gasps became exceptionally audible.

The ringing in my ears persisted.

Lingering images from the moment occupied my vision.

No matter how much time passed.

Afterward, the words that began sprouting out—

Super

Power?

“How is this possible?”

It wasn't a coincidence, a miracle, or destiny. It had nothing to do with me, yet here it is.

Was it her? Telekinesis? Meteor? Rock throw? Star Stream? Home run?

Believe because you have the ability? She's been telling the truth?

If that's the case, her self-proclamation was real? Hoshimiya Yashiro— an esper?

Who was the boy crying wolf?

I tugged at my head, because of the intense noise encroaching in my head.

Even though it was dark, the light that branded itself into my retina danced in algi-like colours.

I sunk into the hallucination that my entire being had been crushed.

The sensation of Youth-Points being shattered into a million pieces.

To seek the truth behind the event, I abruptly looked to the back.

As if only naturally, the girl who summoned the star had already disappeared from the shrine.

“...Ah”

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

Speech can no longer continue — It's been filled, by the most basic of sounds.

I could not stand up; my face buried into the ground.

Neither did I have the courage to search under the eaves.

The real deal appeared in my face.

I literally couldn't even breath from the confusion.

As though reality had combined with this occasion, the night of festivities and meteors began falling apart.

My vision melted as if acids had poured out of my eyes; cracks filled my vision.

The sight twisted; my ear drums were already crazed. The cicadas screamed, encircling the whirl.

Under the terror, I shut my eyes, only to realize that Earth had turned completely in just two seconds.

In the space devoid of common sense, I could not grasp the proof that it was all but an illusion.

The wound from my arm ached. Drip, drop, it tearfully tugged at my pang.

This is super power! It seemed to scream so; I felt tears forming in my eyes.

Covering it with my left hand, I sensed the wet blood drenching my palm.

“Ah… Ah...”

“Ah.” It ended. The voice that wanted to entail could not exit from the lack of moisture.

My sight was corroded by the lights.

My nose shut by the singed smell of the ground.

My throat silenced by the dryness.

My ears ravaged by the cacophony.

My skin trembled from the blood.

All senses carried with them reverence, and concession to 'that.'

Reality descended upon me.

I could never reach, nor understand that truth.

A small star had crossed the boundary line between super power and coincidence.

After ward.

I still didn't know if it was a strike, or a foul. I could only look up, and stare at the stars in the sky.

### 019. Chapter 8: How Many Shining Stars Are There?

## Chapter 8 - How Many Shining Stars Are There?

(Q) Was it telepathy that summoned the meteor here?

(A) More fundamentally, there was no evidence that it was 'summoned.'

(Q) If it were a coincidence, was it possible to have such an accurate timing?

(A) Perhaps it was just dumb luck.

(Q) Why a meteor?

(A) I dunno.

(Q) Highway St*r?

(A) What's that? (TL Notes: A stand from Jojo's Bizarre Adventure, part 4)

(Q) Is Hoshimya Yashiro an esper?

(A) Inconclusive from a single incident.

(Q) Is she an alien?

(A) I don't know how to differentiate the two, so I can't say.

(Q) Then what is Hoshimiya Yashiro to herself?

(A) No answer.

The fallen object was a meteor.

The pea-sized rock that embedded itself in the shrine ground created a crater with a diameter over 30 cm.

It seemed to say that shooting stars are not to be looked at.

I dazed through the next five days.

Knocking on the back of my head, I questioned the mind: 'Are you doing your job?'

The falling meteor became a tiny story on the news tomorrow. On T.V., net, and even radio.

It's an occurrence that many will forget on the following day. Events like someone dying from a fall, or an accidental discovery of a body — if they have nothing to do with us, we easily toss that to the back of our heads after a day. So this is the kind of things shown on T.V? Just something that had nothing to do with people who aren't involved.

Even if it were just for a day, I wouldn't want to be put on camera as 'the first people to find the meteor;' thus I fled the scene with Erio. And because of that, I no longer know what became of it.

Lets say I did stay: it's not like I was going to find a fly from the future or an alien in white tights. (TL Notes: From Earthbound 2)

As if it was bound to happen, Hoshimiya Yashiro did not claim herself to be the discover — in fact, I never saw her around since then.

The only thing left were the helmet bestowed to Erio and a scar that will stay with me forever.

There can't be more than a handful of people who's been hit by a meteor.

Obviously it's not 'normal.' Ryuushi-san might be moved to tear by the event.

"......"

I still felt the ringing in my ears.

Oh, one more thing. Erio retrieved half of the rock from the site and brought it back. She said something about making it into a necklace.

Lying in my bed, I changed the T.V channel. Appeared in the screen was a show proving super powers; my fingers stopped. Two boxes, and two people.

It was a test of both x-ray vision and clairvoyance. The man who can see through objects must draw out the appearance of the person inside the box; the woman with 'clairvoyant' as her title, on the other hand, must write down to what degree the man could see her.

It made sense. I understood the purpose of the test, so I began viewing the experiment. As I stared at the skulls of the audience, a thought went off:

"Clairvoyance."

I thought of the possibility that Yashiro's 'power' may not have been telekinesis, but an ability to see into the future. Uh, from the angle of her so-called job, that is.

For example, if Yashiro moved to this planet for vocational reasons — hypothetically speaking, of course — and her job was to save me, who was destined to be killed on that day by a meteor. What if she already knew that, and that was the prevention? Many things make sense if that were the case.

Assuming she predicted the meteor, Erio was the most probable in inviting me to go see the meteor shower; therefore Yashiro went and harassed her. Considering, of course, that Erio could possibly invite me to the shrine.

On the other hand, it's a bit of roundabout if that were the case. Yashiro chose to be involved by playing ball. If the city-side were to win, the festival would have moved, and Erio would have chosen a different place to see the meteor shower, and I by extension would lose connection with the rock.

Well, did she even know Erio that well? I'm doubtful of that. Perhaps she truly just wanted to return the favour to Nakamura-san for the meal.

She once said that she herself was part of the reason why.

In other words, Yashiro's being here and joining the baseball game caused some form of changes in my heart.

And so I hit a homerun and won the game, and ended up at the shrine... Is this what she was alluding to?

So why, then, the roundabout method?

It might be because, according to herself anyway, that having superpowers is too conspicuous of an existence, so by talking ceaselessly about her power, others are less likely to believe her…?

Or maybe because I just don't believe in superpowers in the first place that she couldn't find a way to convince me.

So in the end, she chose to show it to me? Just to throw it in my face?

But, didn't she explain the reason for the spectacle before?

“As thanks for the tomatoes?”

I mumbled while in thought; chuckles escaped my lips: do I seriously believe that the rock had something to do with Hoshimiya Yashiro?

Indeed, she had already declared before. “Meteor, Rock-throw, Star Stream” — not including the last one, the first two are both abilities to control rocks.

Since the very beginning, Hoshimiya Yashiro had talk of meteors hanging around her neck. Magic? Coincidence? Or a power? I cannot prove a thing. Yet, it was not an illusion that scarred my right arm.

As the closest proof, the rock left a laceration on my arm. Perhaps due to my tanning, that thin white line stood out.

“...A punishment?” Not being able to avoid the meteor entirely.

For making a promise with both Erio and Ryuushi-san, as well as hoping I can satisfy both. I truly am sorry for what I did to Ryuushi-san, so if this somehow absolves the issue then I will happily accept.

If I was five cm off, it might have went through my arm. Maybe if I didn't step backward, it would have hit me in the centre mass. Thanks to Yashiro, I was spared from either.

“…...”

It hit me: her joining the game, sleeping underneath the Touwa's eaves, playing with me in the pool… The actions weren't meaningless. Without those events, even if Yashiro were to show up and ordered me to 'back up,' I don't think I would have listened.

To put it another way, what she called a roundabout plan was, from just the results, a success.

Well, these are merely my speculation. I have no way of attaining the right answer. Either way.

“It's too risky to my liking.”

Grumbling to myself, I changed the channel again. Special! How to make delicious fried steak! Change. Questionnaire show. Change.

Visiting really old people's home. Change. Baseball broadcast. Stop. An unfamiliar team and a team I couldn't care for; one of them won, not sure which.

I shut the screen off. Thinking of which, I have no confidence on how the inner mechanics of a television works. No specific knowledges, just a scratch of the surface. From a typical high schooler's view, it doesn't matter what, any thing could seem like 'magic.' Just how many more mysteries exist inside this cramped room?

Being so clueless, I think I can never defeat the individual known as 'Hoshimiya Yashiro.'

After a little research out of boredom, I learned that Hoshimiya Yashiro was the name of a shrine around the city. The area of the shrine was known for having a record of many fallen meteors.

In other words, it was a pseudonym deliberately used with those statistics in mind. What a dramatic result. Anyone would doubt an alien that started out with introducing herself by name, I guess.

Because having a name sheds a layer of enigma. Just having that tint of realism — if her feet could touch ground, then there is a chance to hold her down. Yet, I've been played.

So I failed to rebuke Hoshimiya Yashiro… No, if I were to dispense that mitigating tone, I would have to admit more than just 'failed…'

It would have been a loss to this battle between us.

I had been annihilated by Hoshimiya Yashiro, utterly and comprehensively.

Being attacked by a rock that might not have been three cm in diameter, my common sense, rationality, and even beliefs—

“And I thought I won in the game~”

An honour-less victory — such described the situation perfectly.

I turned with head in hands. Next to my pillow was Erio's stargazing journal. Aside from personal interests, she seemed to have wanted to share her passion for the stars with me.

“Hmm...” I skimmed. To be frank, the enthusiastically-drawn pictures and records reminded me of Erio's impassioned silhouette more. I couldn't help but smile at the image.

“...Stars, huh.”

I was too hasty to judge Hoshimiya Yashiro's words as an escape from reality. Yet till the very end she perpetuated her way as the right way. I can longer reject her.

In fact, I support her.

I made a wish at the shrine that night. I wanted to see it while having my query affirmed. I said, 'show it to me.'

After that, the so-called superpower wasn't treated as 'fanatic superstition,' 'mysteries' or any such ambiguous concept; it manifested as naturally as it could. On that day, I was guided by Hoshimiya Yashiro toward the meteor-lit sky.

“So lame...” I denied it indiscriminatingly before, and here I am tasting defeat.

The hidden light amid the fireworks dazzled my denial of the unknown. It's not something to be trifled with — it's a thing created to ensure the existence of the human dreams. Still, it is something with the precondition of 'unreachable even with outstretched hands.' To put it differently, it's like your desires in a television.

That said, the pang of touching the television screen after reaching in still nagged at me. Did I feel someone else's 'few centimetre away' ability? The not-so-exciting miracle burned still on my scar.

Just what is the matter with her? My cousin who once again sought the star in the front yard.

Touwa Erio's extraordinary look.

Touwa Erio's blank past.

The me who denied Touwa Erio of her escape.

Was it truly an escape? Was it the right thing to deny the possibility of her contact with the extraterrestrials? Am I fit to be the judge for that?

Just as a powerless person cannot deny a power.

I am no expert of the aliens.

“What a pain~!”

My limit was to vent by throwing a tantrum in bed. Like Meme-san once, or rather everyday, did, I thrashed my limbs about and kicked the dust up.

Just where did the dust that exist quietly yet never appeared to the naked eyes come from?

Whether it'd be dust or rocks, I doubt I can find their origin, no matter how long, with just my 'eyes.'

As I paused for a breath, my phone rang. I put it on the desk — honestly I didn't want to bother, but I still crawled on the floor. Despite the ache from my side, I reached for the phone and held it in my hand. My face burned from sliding onto the floor; I put my phone on the prickling spot.

“This is Touwa… I mean, Niwa.”

“Judging for just that, can I assumed you've finally married?”

“No, I'm just used to the name from home phone… Can I help you, Maekawa-san?”

“Good evening, transfer student. I know it's only been five days, but somehow I'm feeling a little nostalgic.”

Maekawa-san's voice was as usual: Calm and polished. As though capable of cooling down the skin, the stone-like voice soothed my ears; the ringing faded.

“Same here; I wonder why… Well, what do you want?”

“What else? Baseball. You coming for tomorrow's game?”

“Baseball...” The image of an astronaut suit branded in my head. “I'll think about it.”

“Understood. You can reply with a mail, and if you don't, I'll just assume you aren’t.”

“Hm… Maekawa-san, uh, I think I probably asked you this before too.”

“Hm?”

“Do you believe in aliens?”

“Nope.”

An immediate response. A wise and timely judgement, so quick that I wonder if I've lost seconds of my consciousness.

“A question with fifty-fifty answers is better answered with the first one, transfer student.”

“...Is that your secret to getting good scores?”

“Heheheh, you're welcome to try.”

With a satisfied laughter, she hung up.

“...Ah.” Sitting on the floor, I let my head fall onto the side of the bed.

If I had to add a few more things onto this meteor event.

There was indeed an unclear sense of awe.

Kind of like playing ten of those movies that can move the entire American population to tears, and then forcing yourself to watch all of them. It's an unfathomable feeling of wonder that follows strange phenomena in the cochlea.

The emotions mixed like a pan of stirred food were stuffed like a sardine can, with nowhere to go.

Screaming with dried throats, in hope of finding the place where they belong in the heart.

Will I be able to feel this scar, one day, when I have everything sorted out? Gingerly, easily, and reverently.

I threw the phone on my pillow. Then I popped the window open with a crisp sound, and looked out. Finally, I peered into the yard.

Protected by the particles, Erio could be seen observing the sky with her star-lit telescope. Perhaps because of my lying in bed, Erio did not fetch me; naturally I didn't watch Jupiter with her either.

Noticing my gaze, Erio turned the telescope toward me and raised her arm.

“Cousin, want to see the stars?”

Despite being a question, Erio's hands beckoned at me slightly. What did Erio think of the meteor that seemed to have gone astray from the shower?

Just like before, she too chased after the stars today.

I pressed onto my brow, as if trying to block the pus of thoughts from running through my head.

Cough! After swallowing the pressure back into guts several times, I finally replied.

“Coming.” Waving at her, I shut the window. No, Ryuushi-san might text me, so I re-opened the window. I operated the phone, found the text history and sent a simple message of 'I'm going.'

I dropped the phone again, and lied down in a twisted manner.

Hugging the pillow, I squeezed my body toward the centre as much as possible while dying my view with pitch darkness.

Summer this year, just play amateur baseball and watch the sky.

So now, let's go see the stars with Erio in the yard.

And so, I sought for an answer on the other side of the telescope.

The shine that would melt me like that meteor.

And then.

I will hold the metal bat again tomorrow.

Wake up in the morning and march onto the river bank with just a hint of sleepiness.

First, I will pray for something, and focus my sight onto the left field.

The summer will leave me in a daze for a while longer.

To ensure that the boiling head of mine will never calm down.

By the heat.

By the cicadas. By the glimmer of the countless stars shining in the star.

## 04. Volume 4 ( Full Text )‎

### 001. Afterword

My favourite short-manga series as of recent would be Dead Man's Q.

As for myself, it'd be my often dreaming and my father visiting my house, asking, 'any fan mails for me?'

Something like a novel, the third instalment:

I must hurry, I say so to myself on the way dashing out of the store's back door. I have a few stores to run to today, so speed is of the essence. Usually one would have to rely on the tools of civilisation like the mass transport or a vehicle, but it was an inopportune time.

My personal bicycle was, perhaps by some brats who snuck out during the night, in a disarray – the front tire was punctured. In the end, I had to walk my way to a restaurant downtown.

I get that people who don't finish their manuscript before the deadline are awful, but I admit that going to pick up the manuscript on the last day isn't any better. In that spirit, I never once expressed displeasure when I went to retrieve it.

As my breath became shallower, I noticed my chin raised while my feet dash in the middle of downtown. People look as though they are mannequins when I realised how comedic my arm-swinging was.

I seem to be the only one trying to survive here, and it isn't pretty. If it were five or six years ago, the university me would have laughed at the me now. But that's how it is: procrastination can only be cleaned up like so.

It's possibly the best phrase to describe life. If only I tried a little harder during uni, then I would have…

“You're using time wrong!”

“Whoa!” A female's face pops into view.

Because of her abrupt appearance, I cannot brake in time. The female's forehead knocked into mine. The sound of bones contacting one another condensed into a deep thud. A momentary darkness with the impact. As though ripped open, my eyelids snapped; along with the laboured breathing, colour and shape returned to my sight.

“Damn… That hurt… Ugh...”

Like being poisoned, the site radiated with pang. Numberless needles pierced the deepest end of my bones; the pain did not spread, and it screamed without ever leaving. I worry that my skull is cracked.

After seeing to myself, I went to the woman who suddenly popped out. As if she has been practising, the woman stood there with a smile with disregard to her reddened forehead. It's the same woman who came out from the road. How she manages to phase in and out unsettled me.

“Let's talk abut happiness.”

“What?”

“We can discuss about happiness, or I can read your palm. I wanted to make you stop and change how you live.”

With a grin, she stretches her arms out to block my way, undeterred by the possibility of getting in people's way. The words that fell from her mouth sounded as if her brain was screwed on backward.

I froze; sweat dripped from my confused scowl.

She beamed continuously.

Was she born with a brain defect? A missionary? Probably both, since it's so hard to differentiate the two. Though from the way she spouted happiness, she's probably the latter. With that bright smile, however, it was quite terrifying.

The female has slightly long hair, and her skin a bit tanned; she dyed her hair brown to match her complexion. A young appearance, and on the cute side too. Everything she wore is the Sh*mamura brand, like a certain housewife-editor of a magazine. The clothes on her were light, fitting of summer. On her neck was a talisman in the shape of ivy.

“Sorry, I'm in a hurry.”

“That's where you're wrong. You have to be in a hurry — with purpose.”

“I am seriously in a hurry.”

I try to walk around her, but she catches my arm. The female's temperature and the early summer latches onto me, but somehow all I feel is a chill. Don't tell me her passion is stolen from other people's temperature?

“All I'm saying is you're hurrying in the wrong way. Please listen.”

Even as I try to get her grip off, the only thing happening was her arms shaking up and down.

“What's so wrong?” Your head is wrong. I thought. As I quit moving, the mannequins surrounding us began their motion. I turn for some help, but nobody looks this way.

The female is the only one looking with spirited eyes. Like the faces on those people in the station who really wanted to read my palm.

“Something big is happening soon. The Master said so.”

“Mas… Master? Really now...” Damn, it's one of those. She's going to mess me up.

“The time is upon us, but people are wrong with how they hurry. In order to assist the Master and his salvation, we pray on the roads like this to keep the mass from leaving astray.”

If you're praying, do you really have to grab my arm? Are you from the cult of pliers?

I'm a little pissed from how brusque their salvation is. If you're planning to save me, help me get my manuscript.

“You just said something is happening, but what, specifically? And what will you do then? What do you want me to do? You've never thought about it, just following every word your boss says.”

“If you're interested, you must come to Master's speech!”

Despite my heated response befitting of this summer, she simply talks over me. She tugs at my arm. I cannot stand bluntness; I thought of begrudgingly telling her to not do that till it's winter.

I focus on how to break free of her grip. Safely, and without her further meddles. The wrist that is held by what cannot possibly be human strength began to bruise.

“The power of the individual may be weak, but as long as we work together to spread the words of the master around, we might just avoid the event. Let me ask: what could you possibly change by hurrying in the wrong way before you ran into me?”

With the rapid firing of words of spit, she ascribes to me the triviality of humanity.

Her last words hit me. Naturally, as a small-time magazine editor, someone would take my place even if I was never born.

It won't be the same without me. How often does one encounter something like that?

But you're no different. Even your master is the same.

You cannot differentiate the pawns on a chess board. The realisation of that is why, even if you lament many things, you try the hardest despite it being the smallest things.

An anger grows within me, and anxiety appears. If I try to seriously convince her with logics, I might just get dragged into a dark place unknowingly to see her so-called Master's light.

I begin my stride forward. The female latched onto my arm moves as well. Seeing that, I nodded, and began moving toward the road. 'Eh?' I drag the surprised female and stand in the middle of the road.

Naturally, it's the road that cars run on.

“What are you doing!?”

And I'll send those words right back.

The female let go as a car approached, running raggedly to the sidewalk. I do not celebrate my new freedom, instead following her frantically. The vehicle honked. Sorry.

Fear and surprise spread her eyes wide as the female returned to the sidewalk; laboured breathing from the scare has her shoulders rising up and down.

Her bit of sanity moves me just a little.

It's the first time, as odd as it is, that I've smiled after meeting the female. And so I run by the female's side.

“Do you really not care!? You'll regret it when the time comes!”

“Shut it! Who doesn't have regrets!”

I leave the female with those words. She's the one who needs to change the way she hurries in life. That's why she will forever get rejected and regret over it.

However, living a hurried life when you're still young and energetic might just be a way of life.

In any case I'm running late — gotta hurry.

“Um… Where do I go?”

The memories are blurry after that bump, so I have to check to be sure. I rest onto the wall after making the corner, whispering my schedule.

Thanks to that woman, I have to stop and waste my time like this.

How irritating.

From now on, no matter how difficult or meaningless the path I walk, I will only think of this when I remember this cultist woman taking up my time:

“I pray that wasn't the most meaningless time I spent today.”

Same goes to that woman earlier. Clap, I end my prayer.

### 002. Chapter 1 - Runaway Hideout

Q: Select the appropriate words to fill in the blank

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Getting hit on in a comic store]

[Mifune Ryuuko]

[A runaway highschool girl]

[It's not 'cuz I straightened my hair!]

[A boy who emits particles]

[Self-proclaimed alien]

[Shoes in a basket]

[Space Observatory]

[Mysterious Experience during Spring break]

Clank clank! I hafta try and make something in my heart match the wheels. Bang bang bang, the onomatopoeia surrounded me!

Running away! Get Out To Home! Y'know what I mean!

I felt like I was passing in the centre of a highway while passing by the sidewalk. The wheels occasionally squeaked, as if they symbolized... I dunno? Love, hate and sadness. It's like eating a mouthful of sand after having shellfish.

In the town at dawn, devoid of even the bustling of trains, the only thing moving was me. It was darker than midnight, and some pubs and stores had their lights on still.

I thought I heard the sound of basketball bouncing on the gym floor; whatever sleepiness I had was blown away by the freezing air.

The third semester. Ending ceremony. March 25th. Yesterday.

I, Mifune Ryuuoko, was dumped by a guy not even my boyfriend. Sorry, that was a lie. I just wanted to make it sound dramatic.

He was almost just a classmate. We were equal, like a parallel line. Completely, horizon. Not even a hill!

Clank clank clank! The wheel of my mind spun as well. Ka-dung, Ka-dung (Train simulation). Sugars drained from my head from all the suppression — nay, repairing of emotions. It's a strange feeling of being disheartened and motivated. Glucose don't come flying, do they? Actually, why did I even run away from home?!

The cause of the future was in the past. Not that either of them were that far off!

Behind the school yard, I used my 'I like you beam!' on one of the boys in the basketball club! Pow pow! With the exact same sound, I emitted about thirty times the usual power! But that was my very first! Since high school started! And he said 'I'm sorry!'

A multiplying effect, primarily negative, was observed upon the deflection.

In other words not love, but self-loathing: the opposite of narcissism.

A deep pang ached in me. The bones of my feet seemed to collapsed without me knowing. I had no idea of how I got home on the day that's too far away from the warmth of spring, yet steeped by the tail of winter. By the time I realized, it was already around three of clock in the afternoon; I rolled around on my bed, troubled. Somehow I still had my helmet on, which hurt every time I flipped. The rhythmic pain was my revelation! Which resulted in me losing control.

Assume that I enter a university, in the sixth of the seven spring breaks. March 26th. Today. First day of being heartbroken.

I left a memo on the desk, shoved some clothes and change into my bag (almost brought my phone), and snuck out of the house a little before four o'clock.

Since it was my first ever runaway, my chest expanded rapidly from the beating heart! I didn't have the luxury of expecting something like that to happen; the words he rejected me with echoed in my head. Ring~ Ring~! Like knocking on a bell, it shook my ear drums endlessly.

Had I fallen asleep everything would have fell apart, so I held out until it was time to go. My face felt like it was someone who just returned from space: heavy. Since I've been riding against the wind, however, I should be able to make it to the place without falling asleep.

First, find a place to sleep. Right, and, um... Go on a journey to find myself?

Because the me here is useless! She belongs in a parade! I have to go find a different me! I have to find a fancier me! Because a person is her face! At least seventy or eighty percent anyway!

Skipping club on the first day of spring break — the journey began.

"There's no way I can go!!"

The guy who rejected me practises right next to us!

"The 25th will keep wrecking my head!"

Since no one would react to whatever I do, I did whatever I wanted.

I think I understand now just a little what goes through the head of the drunk men screaming and passing by my house.

First I entered the comic store in front of the station that I've designated as my abode; I went into the room with three hours on the clock.

I slept for about twelve hours — they took a lot of late fees for that.

The sun set on the first day of running away. Sitting on the dilapidated bench outside of the comic store, I watched the road, buildings and vending machine. Cars aside, I thought the other things were also avoiding me. Was I still dreaming?

The sun sunk; I couldn't tell if its path was the same as the orange sky, and my motivation burnt away as well. The right leg that cramped while I was riding didn't hurt as long as I kept moving. Since I fell asleep, however, my overworked brain tensed up. Especially the right hemisphere, it probably looked like Italy. The left brain would be Shikoku.

I yelled, like 'Geebee~' But I think it came out like a weird moan 'Bogehh~' I was able to transform into a strange being using the girl-power I've saved up. In a way, I got a lot of that stuff from yesterday.

The town I live in ranks about sixty in the urban-ness scale. There's no need to ride a train to buy grocery like the country side, but it's still a little different than your typical city.

People often report seeing aliens here. It's like the Rosswell of Japan. And it's not just UFO — people emphasise that they saw real, breathing aliens.

And so the souvenir stores often sell wormhole honey cakes, space pancakes etc. I would totally buy a cute Grey doll though.

After I followed the high school couples riding doubt on bicycle with my eyes, I returned to the comic store. Just like before, the blonde attendant chatted on with the other clerks. After paying about five times the usual fee for being late, I again order three more hours. At this point, about thirty percent of my tiny allowance was devoured by this register in front of me.

Getting my hair done two days ago pretty much killed my wallet. I went and curled it up as preparation for the confession. I feel more murdered now after that.

Hunger, thirst, depression and other similarly terrible things appeared, so I decided to take care of things as soon as possible. Before entering the room, I bought a cup Ramen at the vending machine and added the complementary hot water. Since the store doesn't sell vegetables, I had to make due with noodles. After filling the paper cup with Oolong tea, I entered booth 14.

A Television, a computer and a video game console. There was no shortage of equipment there. I did not turn on anything, however, instead setting my bag down onto the floor.

Head on my knees, I awaited for the three minutes of cooking.

"......"

It's kinda like watching the candle on a birthday cake like I used to do.

Staring at the cover of the noodles, I felt my sight blur.

My bubbling organs felt slow, and my pain dulled.

So now's a good time to ask: Why did I runaway?

I could try to ignore him, but I know that won't work. It's just his head, and that awkward grin. That's the face he had when he rejected me.

There's no way I could just be, like, 'Heya!' and go into the club gleefully.

I didn't want to mope in a room or try to get ride of the gloominess. I want to feel easier: I want to be more positive. That much I know at least.

So for that purpose, what should I do before heading back? Mm~ I didn't think that far ahead, so dunno. 'Not thinking far ahead' simply meant, 'I didn't think at all, but here's what I have.'

I'm so dumb.

Despite leaving home, I didn't go anywhere unfamiliar on a train or anything. I stayed in this town I know, because I'm scared. I don't leave town often.

I don't have money to live in a hotel, and camping is... Well, it's asking too much for a city kid.

Mm... Doesn't this feel more like going out, rather than running away?

Gulp, gulp... The thought disappeared with the tea.

Putting the paper cup onto the desk, I stared at the me inside of that grey screen.

Her gaze wasn't warm, like the emotion was still with the yet-ended winter air.

I looked for things to do. Since I was in a comic store, I spaced out reading some manga.

I'm a rather normal person, without any remarkable characteristics. I even failed on making he notice me, and my brain only has two halves... Ugh, self-harming fouled against esteem five times, so she's out of the game.

All in all I just couldn't stay away from the words 'comic store.' I just sat here, reading manga, all while mixing a whole buncha drinks.

If something interesting, like, totally captures my eyes, then I'll feel slightly better for myself, like I'm the one who did it. Sadly, Ryuuko is not that good at practical problems. I rolled up on the chair. Squirm~ I look just like a panel in my comic.

As I finished the fifth book in a row, I decided to return them. It was eleven o'clock outside now, and the road outside of the window shone with lights of the passing cars. Mm... It's a station known for accidents. It's not too far from where I live... Well, it is basically where I live.

An officer probably won't need twenty minutes to find me. And there would go the game of hide and seek. My parents are pretty lenient though, or maybe they just don't care... My head filled with selfish thoughts.

Walking in the hall, I passed by other customers and the attendant lazily mopping the floor. Even this late in the night, many kinds of people were in.

For example, the couples who couldn't be older than high schoolers, and the such... And the such... Okay, I feel empty inside, so that's all I will say. Actually, pretty sure that the store said that minors couldn't be in here after ten o'clock.

I'm a sixteen years old young'n too. Wow, how flexible. Someone used that as a catch phrase before. It was an expression of shock, but I forget his name or even the meaning of the words. Oh well, two years before the exams anyway.

I walked through the magazines, drinks and vending machines and arrived at the young adult section.

It was then I saw a striking (eye-catching?) person at the section of the books I just marathoned through. "Whoa..." I subtly exhaled before sucking the breath back in.

A striking boy with long, long hair that seemed to have fragments of light falling from it stood.

From the slits between his bangs he looked up the shelf, seemingly searching with an open hand for the place the books he held in his hand. He stepped on his shoes, without socks on.

He was a super hot guy. Like, literally the most beautiful person on planet earth, made by the aliens.

Not sayin' I have proofs or anything, but fairies seemed to live on his head to give him this dramatic glow. Also, some sort of the prettiest butterflies must inhabit the same place too, so he wouldn't need a light in the dark.

If it were before I got dumped, I would have fell hard for him. That's how hot he was.

He's probably a little younger than I. About half a head taller than I was, he emanated from his brows or cheeks a youthful aura. Ah... That must be the youth I've lost... A middle schooler? But isn't that bad for him to be out here instead of home? I was both at a lost and in disbelief. It is surprising, compare to me when I was at the age.. Ah... That must be the youth I've lost... A middle schooler? But isn't that bad for him to be out here instead of home? I was both at a lost and in disbelief. It is surprising, compare to me when I was at the age.

Since my spot was near the boy, I went up to him. With a glance, he noticed my intention and moved to the side. His sight, however, did not move, and instead followed my hand.

"Ah, that's the volumes I'm looking for. Onee-san, you're reading it? Are you putting them back?"

He spoke in a clingy way. Must be because he's still developing, his voice's pitch changed when he speaks. Sounded synthetic. He leaned forward, face closing onto my hand. Usually I don't say anything to strangers passing by, so this put me off.

"Ah... Yeah. Here ya.. go."

I stiffly handed the books stacked on my hands to him. The boy thanked me lightly and traded the comic on his hand with me. I took it.

I know I said we traded, by I wonder why he put the book back into my hand instead of the shelf.

"See ya~" The handsome boy waved and walked off with laughable footsteps. I swear there were still lights lingering from where he stood.

Once I breathed deeply again, the sheen slipped away from between the pages of the book.

"Why?" Why did he hand the book to me? I came for the next volumes, so why would I take the previous ones?

Ah, a lady passing by (an OL, I think. An older woman with professional attire) just turned her head. That's pretty much glaring at this point. The guy, on the other hand, didn't even bat an eye and continued on until he disappeared at the corner. Mm... Guess my standard of beauty is just normal.

Grade, normal. Mien, normal. Look, b-better than average, I think! Basically I am just normal.

What is normal? The question boggles me, but if I had to ask myself, I'll probably just stop working with my head tilted.

I never had the chance to stand out. The person I confessed is at most 'some guy I talk to occasionally,' and our relationship can pretty much be summarized by a bunch of random words. So I couldn't whine or anything, only get depressed.

I want to have something. I want to be treated differently. It's a childish thought, but it's almost what I really want.

To me, a good-looking guy like him will actually incur my jealousy across the gender! Dangit! I'm clutching my pearls! I want to curse at someone!

Then I went back ('cuz I'm a Ryuushi 粒子) to my room to read my book.

It's a pretty funny series, but since I didn't use my head, the flower known as my purpose withered.

I kept reading till the next day; as I went to take a shower, I bumped into that boy again.

Again, in front of that shelf, he stood there with his shoes on.

It's not like I was trying to avoid this so-called conversation with him, but I still couldn't ignore him completely. I am actually quite the stoic person. Seriously: I'm so hardcore that I prefer harder rice too.

“Hey? We meet again.”

Like a hardcore person, he turned abruptly; he initiated the conversation after coming up to me. He had one more book, so I ended up here first.

Why did he speak to me? If he's the type of guy who likes to cling onto girls with his voice and words, than he'd probably hit on the OL lady (temporary name) too, right? She was clearly entranced by him.

Maybe I attract aliens like this guy. Yet my destiny will never notice me.

I know another person who can produce light and can sharpened the lens of people's eyeballs. She was my classmate; a girl who was a friend until a time I don't remember. She's now a mattress expert.

In a way she was untouchable. Nothing could make it into that futon.

“Could you recommend me anything else?”

His kind tone was as if we were friends for many years, so I pretended to wonder, 'Well…' to scout him out. Every time his neck turned, his bangs would follow; the particles of light would fall like harvest.

Mm…

First time meeting → Never met him before → He talked to me → Ah!

Conclusion.

Is this… the rumoured… H-hitting on girls?

Ya are late by a day… Ah, two days. Cough, cough. I felt my once-in-the-life chance's late arrival!

Too slow! Ya are way too slow! Can't ya learn a thing or two from Santa?

“Um? You don't have anything?”

“I-I do! One just popped out!”

“What? Just popped out?”

Thanks to reality and my thoughts combining, I confused the situation even more.

“No way. That's not the name, is it?” He kept the smile, but the blinking increased.

“Don't mind me. Uh, um… The, uh, comic...” What do you want?

My cheeks burnt from reasons other than being tempted, and I wondered. It's our first time meeting, so it's hard to ask these first-time questions. I couldn't shoot him a mean glance, asking him 'what dya want?' I'm a weak person like that.

In some way, this boy was a resident of a different world.

I wasn't drawn to 'special' people like him, since I am aware of how normal I am. If some were to say that, I'd rebuke right away. People get upset when the truth is pointed out. Back to what I was saying. How do I put it? It's a matter of compatibility.

Even if a black white television suddenly get a patch of colour, it's still considered broken.

It's a little rude to the person who might like me, but I like people who are more normal.

His lashes are very long. Every time he blinks it's like they'd fall into his eyes and tear him up.

“Right, I was gonna ask you about something...”

Like an easy-to-chew mochi, his manner was opposite to mine.

“Mm?” It's gonna be hard to leave now that he's so nice to me.

“Onee-san, how long have you been here?”

The boy suddenly tried to invade into my mind with words.

My focus blurred, but I still looked up to him.

From the side, his slightly curved upper lip made him seem somewhat inhuman.

“Don't look so spooked, it's too obvious.”

“…….” He went from hitting on me to a creepy stalker.

Things have been cut short to my height! Jk.

“Well, as you can see I have a little more height here. I could see a little inside the booths. You've been sleeping since this morning, haven't you, Onee-san?”

The transition into a smile fit this guy. It's a relaxing smile that squints the eyes into lines. The moment I saw his face made me wonder if he was wearing a fox mask.

“Ya are a bad boy for peeking into a lady's room.”

I teased him first. I was going to scream 'pervert!!' at five times the volume, but thinking about it calmly, there's nothing funny about that.

“If I wasn't peeking, can I just look?”

If he could see into the room from above, that means it's not just him, but many others saw me sleeping too. Gah… Now that's embarrassing…

“You came here to sleep in the morning; you didn't go home last night either, so what are you up to? This isn't somewhere a minor can be in late.”

“Same goes for ya, right?'

“Hm?”

“If ya saw me in the morning, that means ya were also here in the morning.”

Using the same evidence, I turned the table all while putting the comic back.

The boy went 'Ah!' while scratching his chin. His skin was very pale, and clear.

“Yep, that's right. I see.”

He looked not at me, but the spines of the book listed on the shelf, and lightly retracted his chin. Mm… So he's in the same boat as I? A.k.a another runaway boy. He was rejected too… I'm just being bitter.

Also, 'he looks young, but is in fact twenty years old' theory has disappeared. Let it go.

“Onee-san, you're not… running away from home, are you?”

He got me first. I wanted to ask, 'you too, eh?' but I ended up looking at him silently. This guy's grin could affect any who looked his way.

“You look a little young to be a jobless refugee. Rather… Are you even an Onee-san?”

Between the first and the last part of his line, he clearly had on a different expression.

It's like it was courtesy words at the beginning, then pure doubt near the end. What was he projecting onto?

How did this kid, with his eyes covered by his hair, end up thinking this way?

“I'm a… sixteen year old-looking eighteen years old.”

There are ears behind the wall, and attendants by the register. Adult's world is filled with lies.

The boy chuckled; 'I see,' he whispered.

“Didn't think you're the same as I. I'm eighteen too, but I can probably get a middle school discount at a theater with this look.” He opened his hands to express his age.

“My, we're both young, aren't we? I thought you looked young… Must be my maternal instinct!”

“Right? Guess I will be calling you Onee-san.”

Hahaha, we're already buddies just by appearance.

“What about you?” It was time to do the questioning.

“What do you mean?” Still laughing, he did not resist.

“Runaway boy. Whatever you used on me, I can use on you.”

Due to my marathoning of the comics about people who's mind and body were not in sync, I obtained traits of a detective. I will steal the mushrooms growing behind the people.

Since until just now, I had been lying down on the chair; I grew tire just standing. I felt stiff from head to toe; lying down was my only respite. I've successfully degenerated.

I was supposed to grow from leaving my home though.

“Me? I'm actually just an alien. Came from the Hair Constellation.”

He introduced himself with a joking and light-hearted manner. I knew it was meant to make his opponent drop interest, or to laugh it off. For me, however, this reminded me of something. I am, after all, someone who goes to a certain high school here.

“Mmmm~”

“What? Why the silence? Was it that lame?” His smile disappeared. The boy looked away with a slightly sombre look.

“Nah. I was just thinking that maybe a perfect person just has an obligation to call himself an alien.”

“Wha~?”

He shrugged and scratched the back of his head. He looked good doing anything. If he were to fall asleep and wake up in class with a dumbstruck look, nobody would hate him.

“Oh yeah. Did you leave home just to read comics, Onee-san?”

He went on despite me never confirming his accusation. “Well? Well?” He so exhorted me, staring me on the tip of the nose.

I felt my skin heating up from also the heater.

“Mm~ If that could get me there, can you blame me?”

My goal is to find a way to go from painting my room 'Blue~ Blue' to 'Happy~ Happy~' Reflect the vector. The arrow's age of rebellion. If it's an antimatter that could help me get there, I don't care what it is or what it does.

For example, this guy right here. So far, he managed to remind me of that friend, but nothing positive.

“You're stuttering. So you've not done what you set out to do?”

“Wouldn't I be home if I did?”

“That's true, but I only left so I can go home.”

He said such an incomprehensible and easily-misunderstood thing.

“Onee-san, are you bored?”

“Mm~ Well… I guess.” It doesn't carry much weight when you ran away from home home.

It's spring break, and I couldn't go enjoy my youth in the club (I forgot about this), so even if I was home I'd probably just laze like a worm.

The boy grinned as though he'd heard something interesting — a mischievous smile. He really only knows how to smile, the darn happy face. Was I envious or jealous? Probably both.

“Ah… How about this? It's getting hot in here, so why don't we...”

He bent down and match his eyes with mine.

It's like he's dealing with a kid… His soft smile appeared before I could think even that.

Looking closely at his face, I thought again, 'Gee, the world isn't fair.'

Lights danced by my skin, spreading like fireworks in the sky.

For a moment I thought I was a heroine in a shoujo manga.

“...Sneak into the place closest to the stars in this town?”

“Wha?”

This city plus alien way of picking up girls is way too avant-garde for me.

I left the comic rental with the boy.

Five hours of the special eight-hour deal was wasted by us walking in the dark.

I asked where we were going later, and though I thought that maybe it's dangerous if he was a bad person trying to bring me somewhere no one is… After some consideration, I figured I just got rejected two days ago and nobody would pay me any heed, and thus lowered my guard for my own needs.

Another mysterious impetus was the boy's strange mien. He's not like me, and I thought he was someone on a mission. Hazily I wished to be the sidekick of another special being. As for the main character… I gave up after a little thought.

This guy's intention intrigued me… I was a little excited.

It reminded me of childhood.

I circled to the side of the store. The theatre next door that had just closed down already lost all lights of people and lives; the vending machine shone as the only lumination to the road.

Placed there was a bicycle lot used by few. Next to the building within was what seemed to be an abandoned bicycle. The paint, as well as the basket in front, fell off long ago.

“Oh… You ride a bicycle, Onee-san?”

“Yeah, comes in handy.”

I rode the same bike that was gifted to me in celebration to graduating into middle school. The inspection sticker given during that time was still stuck on the back wheel.

The bike was unlocked and prepared. Mm… Really not trying to hide my trace or anything, having a bike with my name on it parked outside.

Yet the guy just stood there, shaking as though regretting his thin clothes.

“Mm… Where's your bike?” Is that a place we can walk to? We're not changing destination, are we?

“I walk… Well, I just don't have a bike. Walking, huh… Guess we can ride together.”

An undisguised look of anticipation. To prevent the possible sparks between our eyes, I looked to the sides. To see if there were officers out patrolling.

“Then are we riding double? I only have a helmet for myself. It's really scary, y'know.”

I reminded him like I was his senior and put on and adjusted the helmet.

Oh, right… I'm a second year now, so I'll have juniors in the club now.

“What's so scary? Do people in blue shoot you if you don't wear helmet in this town?”

“No, it's so that if a boar runs into ya, your scalps will not be destroyed.”

“I see. So just don't fall.”

He dismissed the notion with a pained expression before straddling onto the luggage rack.

Mm… Such reckless bravery is youth. Wait, am I pedalling?

As I imagined, he hugged my waist as soon as I sat on the seat. From the tip of my toes I felt all sense of calm leaving, like a hamster wheel inside of me had begin spinning.

Ah, my heart accelerated on its own. Don't waste my life! I couldn't take a shower earlier, does he not mind the smell or whatever? Plus having physical contact with a guy is already rare for me. Feels like a dream, riding a bike together.

But since holding onto my shoulder meant skin-to-skin contact, so it actually made me a little more relaxed, then I thought, oh well, this is okay.

“Whoa! You're thin! Are you eating enough?”

The end of his sentence rose in pitch like a mom's; he's skin and bone too, so I wondered if his mom said the same thing. I didn't say it though since I didn't want to hear about another alien.

“Onee-san, why did you run away from home? You're not one of those 'self-searching' people, right? Don't tell me you had an argument with your parents.”

“Reason?” I inadvertently shut my eyes from the sudden darkness.

Swish~ Darkness entered the depth of my head; I exhaled deeply.

'Cuz I was dumped. I was cut in half. That's why I said I was on a journey of life. I'm not even brave enough to do a double-dribble. But how does this fit into the equation? Well…

“Scar.”

“Hm?”

“A scar like a knife wound doesn't recover well if it's cut in the same place a lot, right?”

“Hmm? Is this a metaphor?”

“Heheh, that's how it is if ya wanna be smart.” I put up a smug expression to brag to the boy who thought we were the same age.

“It does sound elegant if you put it so jadedly. Hmm. Did someone hurt you?”

“Most people who leave home have been.”

“Do you hate someone now?”

“I don't. Because I don't want to make others hate me too.”

It is true that I left because I was hurt.

Because I thought about him in the room, and even put his name down on the note when we're studying.

“We'll leave this for later. Let's go, Onee-san. I have this funny feeling that an alien of high status had told others to start navigating.”

He'd fit right in in this town, but we already have a futon person here… Therefore he needs the tin foil. Roasted, too. I'm drooling… Since I'd been awake I am hungry now. My stomach might growl if I kept still, so I frantically began moving forward; the sound of wind grew beside the ears.

Headwind blew beneath the earlobes like waves.

My breath, though, exited intermittently and shallowly.

What was my goal? What was I after? The silhouette blurred. I didn't even have a real reason to hang around this guy: at most I just went along with him. It's unclear if it's something I should feel proud about.

But I won't deny that I followed him because this handsome guy hit on me.

Mm~ that's still not all of it. I cannot rebuke one-hundred percent.

Maybe I'm just a girl who wanted someone to spoil me? I hope not.

I don't want just anybody… Well, until yesterday.

Was it anticipation, mindfulness, laziness, or hopefullness?

Which was the primary motivation to keep me from stopping?

In the dark, I searched for the cause while pedalling.

The well-kept light that drove the darkness away elated me.

When I was a child much more naive than I am now, there was much around that was as terrifying as they were fascinating.

There was that empty lot behind the super market. Even if nothing was there, for some reason it's always been scary. I saw a wild cat living there years later.

There's also the underground stair case behind my elementary school. It led to a room that we're not suppose to go in. Putting your ear onto the door revealed whirling of machines behind.

The world has many places my hands and knowledge cannot yet reach. I thoughts every grown-ups knew about that, and believe that there are many more out in the world.

And because I wanted to learn more, I gathered the kids around to discover and investigate the town. There are a lot of strange facilities around here, so everywhere had something that both intrigued and scared us. I guess it's probably because of that one strange old lady in a shop who lies to the kids with a straight face.

Us kids used this so-called snack store as our secret hideout. The adults didn't like that too much because the store openly displayed the taxidermy of a tsuchinoko and a signature of an alien.

The most mysterious had to be the observatory though. Some kids called it the bathroom, but observatory sounded more exciting with the 'beep beep' (sfx) and 'boop boop' (electronic sounds), so most kids called it that.

It had a huge plot of land and several concrete buildings; like a JSDF base, even the wall carried a heavy aura. I recalled us mistaking the place as a rocket launch site and getting all excited for it.

Placed in the courtyard-like location was a giant telescope most popular as a school trip destination, free for anyone to visit. I've seen it several times before. I thought that the universe itself existed in the scope, since that's where the stars can be seen clearly. Still, the kids weren't interested in the scope, but the places forbidden to trespass.

Everyone spoke of the existence of aliens in the facilities. Or that it was the alien's hideout, mmm…and that people were brought there to be experimented on. There was also a T.V. special of alien dissection video tape and such; we were probably more terrified because of all that.

I personally think the staffs' lab coats are frightening: It must be from the memories I had from dentists, or doctors giving me a shot. I still hold a bias against people in scrubs and glasses, wary that they're secretly doing some experiments or making new drugs. Back to what I was saying. I don't really know what I was saying, but as I was saying!

“Whoa! W-why did you go hands-free?! This isn't safe when you have a passenger!”

“Hey! Hah! Heya! Hoh!” Please imagine my zigzag line with just the line itself.

“Why are you raising your arms? Ventura?”

“Pay no mind!” With a calm voice like a video game notification, I said.

Cough… So, in other words… The place we were headed was the space observatory.

The boy said he was going to 'discover a way back.' He sounded just like that old lady from the snack shop; laughter escaped my lips when I heard that.

'Cuz… A boy who was younger than I am is desperately trying to pick me up… It sounds cute when I put it that way, but that's not what it was: It had a strange mien, but also a little serious. I wanted to know the kind of person he was, so I followed behind.

We began infiltrating that impenetrable place.

Mm… I wanted to play ninja while eating chikuwa. The old team was three guys and three girls. People used to laugh when boys and girls played together; it's a common sight, but fortunately our group was, in a good way, separated from everyone else in our little space. In the end we went our own ways after an awkward fight.

Uwah~ I got lotsa bad memories with people. We almost ran straight into the road. “Gah!” I'll leave it up to you to imagine whose scream that was, but we almost got hit by a scooter. Maybe I'll just give up on thinking, wouldn't wanna be on the news.

But, just one last thing.

Our group wanted to sneak into the staff's building; it was all yes for the three boys, and no for the girls. The girls thought their parents would get mad at them so they didn't want to go. I didn't think my parents would get that angry, but I was afraid of the researchers capturing and doing operations to make me into Ryuushi V2.

Truth is I really wanted to play ninja, so now's the perfect time for me to realise my childhood dream!

Since my parents are going to yell at me for running off anyway, might as well do a lil sumthing before the sun comes up. Let's go, to make up for the two traumas by sneaking in!

It's only about twenty minutes on bike from where I live, and the traffic so little we could ignore the lights. We successfully arrived. This must be what a leaf in a river feels like. Six bicycles came by here everyday during my childhood to scout this familiar road; perhaps because it was the first time done in the dark, nostalgia did not wake. It was practically a different road.

But the destination remained unchanged.

“Whoa...” I'd agree with that if I came here before the night.

Faint light diffused from the building's windows; the telescope watched the sky motionlessly. The trees hid its shape, and the atmosphere dead silent. The smell disjointed from the living seemed to drift over in line with uncanny experiments.

What an unsettling smell. The territory of science, yet formless and eerie.

An old excitement rose, possibly wiping off a little of the melancholy.

First I parked the bike near the farm field just a road away from the wall of the research facility. 'Here we are~' I said while wiping my forehead. In truth, due to the chill brought in by the winter, even the people who live here could feel this cold that froze even the season spring. Plus it's not like it's far enough to get me sweating.

I took out my jacket and wore it. The boy wore his own over a mere shirt, but his face showed no sign of discomfort; he's obviously okay.

Guess being cold isn't a problem in space anyway. Gotta hand it to the so-called alien.

“Aight, let's go.” I held the key to my bike lock in my mouth. What if I swallow it?

“Hey, aren't you going to take off that useless helmet?”

“I don't feel safe empty-handed.”

Actually my hair just gets messy after I take off the helmet.

“What is that, some kind of setting? Alien and ninja do sound good together though.”

“Ya are not supposed to say that...” That signalled the end of the character-change.

I'd changed in ten years of time; I'd lost my compatriots, and only my sense of shame grew.

Around the facility was — rare even for this town — farm fields. Not many lived near, reinforcing further the sense of isolation and mysticism. There's no convenient store around either, so the guys inside probably don't like that too much.

“Could there really be alien fossils or mummies?”

“Onee-san, there's one right here. You're really hyped though.”

“Mm? You…? Ya have pupils, and ya aren't glowing either so ya don't count.”

“I'm not some cat alien. Frankly your expectation is a little too much.”

He said so lightheartedly while walking along the building's wall. After about a quarter of the parameter, he shifted from chatting to questioning.

“You look like you know your way around. Don't tell me: You come here all the time?”

“Hmhmhm. It's like a backyard for people who grew up here.” I crossed my arms proudly.

But this might be a Tsuchinoko territory. So it's more like a backyard that's not well-maintained.

“I see. You wouldn't know the people inside, would you?” He scratched his cheek while asking.

“Well, maybe not that far. But we once had this guy come up to us all gleefully. We ran away 'cuz we thought he was lying and was gonna kidnap us!”

The only one who thought it was truly dangerous was me, but we all bolted. It's the only way to make our bodies, or rather, things move forward. It's actually pretty boring just staring; we even got so tired we ended up playing dodge ball in the field.

That must be why the boys wanted to open that forbidden door.

“Oh yeah. This isn't a midnight stroll, right? Ya got business here?”

This door should be shut closed during this time, and only staffs can enter. There were also security at what seemed like the backdoor; they're the reason why us kids thought the place was suspicious.

“Yeah, I do.”

He answered cheerfully with a crisp smile. I almost thought the frigid air was going to freeze his lips there — it was that cold.

And I was still starving, so that might have made it colder. I also lost my handwarmer. After another quarter circle, we stopped at the exact opposite place to where the bicycle was parked; the boy then said, 'it's around here' and started feeling the wall. Like a salamander he fiddled the vertical part. I wanted to interrupt him by hitting the wall, but in the end I decided to wait quietly.

I don't wanna be too normal, but normal is what I do. Normal people don't trespass though… Not that it's something to be proud of.

“Here, found it.” He pulled away a part of the wall and revealed a passage. Looks like he merely removed the cover disguising the broken part of the parameter.

The boy looked back smugly, 'the way's opened.'

“Did ya do this beforehand?”

“Nope, it was the staffs inside. The front door's too far away so they made this shortcut. Heard it was convenient when you're running late.”

“Really? Ya know quite a bit. Do you work here?”

“I can't just ignore the Japanese branch office of the Alien's planetary invasion.”

He spoke in a way matching my own to hide his identity as well as his involvement. “Let's go.”

The boy crawled into the hole first. Once inside, I'd be totally trespassing. Mm, I'd be able to go ahead if I still was an impulsive youth, but I came here with this sense of listlessness. I sometimes find myself unaware of my feet's movement, especially during repetition exercise, when we're training. It's kinda like that now, right? My body clearly wasn't listening.

“Mm? What's up? Gonna give up?”

The boy who was about to enter paused looking back with his right leg raised. It's kinda like that lil white guy on the emergency exit sign (that's what I called the man made of a circle and rectangles).

“It's more like there's a few things that I'm worried about.”

“I hope you figure out soon, because someone might come.”

He looked around several times and hurried me. I know, but I wanna get things cleared up so I don't feel unmotivated. That's what live taught me.

“Why me? And don't ya joke about how ya fell in love at first sight.”

I drew the line first. At least that way he'd forget about thinking me as a hopeless girl who was expecting something to happen. I hope. I'm not the same person I was yesterday, but mostly in a bad way.

“Hm? Because I think it's a good opportunity.”

He took another big step to keep his balance.

“Isn't it boring to have a home to go back to when you're running away? With a backup and all, even if you don't an income, you'd live for a few days. That's why I thought you'd come with me.”

“…...” He pointed out how immature the way I do things is.

He might have jabbed where it hurt, but it's just a vibration to my numbed heart.

And he's probably just brushing me off.

“Ok, I'll set that aside for now, but is there no other reason why you wanted me here?”

“Hm? That's because I'm scared of going in alone.”

His voice was calm, but since it was dark, neither of us could see each others' face. Thankfully no one saw us; he sighed.

“I'm serious. I'm a sad alien who can't do anything on my own.”

I thought about recommending him learning super powers like an E.T. then come back.

“Who knows what they'd do to me in the underground lab if they caught me here.”

“Right… Ya are an alien.” Hahah… I laughed weakly. It's different than tiredly.

“Wait, you believe me now?” He raised his leg further up like he was about to do a backflip.

“I'm one of those who believe aliens 'can exist,' so I don't think much of it. It's whatever, really, but can I ask another question?”

“Sure. Make it quick though, if you can.”

“Why are you really here for?”

“Onee-san, why did you come with me?”

It's like having a mail that hasn't been read sent straight back to you. That's pretty annoying. There wasn't strength left in my tummy to rebuke this guy though. The empty stomach protested something else.

“I'm, uh… Whacha call it? I'd probably be happy just seeing the inside.”

Not sure if I will wake up from the dream or be glad from achieving my goal. But if possible, I want to at least be happy for a bit.

But I was both out of breath and without a recipient. Uwah, do I actually want someone to be with? My reason of being sad hasn't change since long ago. Back then too… If the boys and girls who liked each others were evenly split up, we might have been better friends.

“Sigh, for realsies...” I palmed my face, sneaking a glance at the past between my fingers.

If it's hard for me to forget, I will jump over it.

Just make something up when there's nothing; just pretend the opportunity is already upon me.

Bet everything here.

It's a little dramatic, but this will be the start of everything.

Just for a moment, I returned to being the six year old Mifune Ryuuko.

'If you don't wanna be scolded, just don't get caught!'

Yep, that's what boy B said at that time. Great thinking, but that's isn't the reason why I liked him!

And so I crossed the wall and trespassed.

The guy can finally rest his right leg.

Then I snapped. I mean, gave up. This was my decision: I ripped the strings of rejection from my back and sprinted like a 100 meter dasher. Step, step… I started doing time mark for some reason. A pleasant rustle came beneath from the grass. This might have been the sound of footstep that I've not noticed outside of a gym in a long, long time.

“Not sure if you're just pent up or something.”

“All right!” Ignoring the boy I smacked my cheeks. Didn't like that sound, so here's another. Smack! Smack! Sounded off, so one more! Not this time because my skin's foundation didn't feel too good! I can dreams too! Smack!

“Awww~” Hurts. Sleepiness and laziness both died like the thing you slap with a slipper. The edge of my eyes flashed and hurt; eye lashes felt like hedgehogs.

“Um… Onee-san, you trying to wake up? Or just hurting yourself?”

He pulled up; the building shimmered, emanating his silhouette.

“What? I'm just trynna get rid of my Shoujo points from my head. You might turn inta girl if ya stay too close.”

With a daring expression, I suavely (No idea what that means) warned him. Crossing the wall itself is pretty much half of what I came for, and the rest is all bonus.

So I don't care what else happens.

“And what would happen if I am?”

“Yer eyes get oogly.” Or something like that. “Or you get puffy eyelashes” and such. “You shoot particles out.” Kinda like salmon eggs.

All those apply for me already… Dangit… A naive girl and self-appointed runaway alien boy. This is not one of those word fillers you see in a school essay.

“Why the stare?”

“Ding ding ding~ I'm rebellious like that?”

“…...”

He's giving me the 'wow if she's normal, she's just an idiot' look. I also couldn't call him a pervert, not with that cold stare he's giving me.

But he still resumed the conversation with me.

“I was a little worried why you're suddenly so giddy, but now you got my attention too. Onee-san, you've got a lovely smile.”

Hehe~ Wink~ This is known as crab (heart going sideways).

“Mm...”

“What? Trying to hide with a growl?”

“Don't gimme that good looking face just 'cuz ya are good lookin'!”

“S-sorry?” The boy backed off.

“I'm like a black-n-white television! I don't needa learn to hide my presence! Hahaha!” And so I charged into the building close by. This was where the door with the warning was; we'd seen it so many times that I am confident I could make it with my eyes closed.

The boy trailed along and came to my side with a wry grin.

“Onee-san, you too must have a lot of… Well, wonders around you.”

“Wu… Wu… Wu...”

“Like making crabs fall for you.”

“You tellin' me to go back to the sea?”

“The river is fine too.”

Splash! I sunk. Sunk into the depth of heart; sunk into the abyss. My grief rippled outward.

“Right, infiltration successful thus far.”

“Oh, she's back.”

“Keep eyes on not just around ya, but also above ya.”

“You don't have to be so 3D about it, do you? What are we looking out for?'

“It's a space facility, so if a rock or laser beam came I got my helmet to protect me! It's ta make sure my scalp is safe!”

“Onee-san, your space's got scale but not much power.”

“Peace is the best.” Whether it be Earth or mind. My wallet is staying skinny for the next two months though.

The boy and I stepped through the grass and pebbles, approaching the grey, iron door with 'No Trespassing' written on. A mysterious machine surrounded by a metallic fence hummed on the side. What appeared to be tubings connected into the interior of the building tastefully.

Just like the outside brother of my house's AC — every adult's delusion is to use their myopic understanding when faced with facts.

“Wow! This is intense! To be honest… This door was my first love.”

“I see.”

“Uh, could ya not rain on my parade? Ya are supposed to react to my joke. It's already so cold, ya dig?”

It's not like I was wrong or anything, so this lack of reaction embarrassed me so much.

In a broader sense, the word 'Trespassing' was what moved me.

But this guy wasn't even hyped for anything — he even seemed tired. His eyes were fidgeting though.

“What's up? Wanna bit of my hype?”

“It's fine, I'm just a little nervous. I'll try to be like you... Actually no, I like my own brain.”

“I see. We will become balance-partners then! Let's go!”

I finally felt the right to hold this door knob, so I squeezed. “Gawah!” The static trap activated. Felt like getting cut by a nail clipper beneath your nail.

Darn this dry air… I cupped my mouth and checked if there was movements around. Mm, don't think so.

Once again, with breath held, I turned the knob.

A terrible sound of metallic parts grinding against one another emitted from the door; it opened like the door to the library.

I pushed with my shoulder and plastered my back to the wall. Fuu… Fuu… I carefully masked my breathing, and warned the boy who came in normally.

“Careful: there must be infrared scanner on the wall.” Whisper… Whisper…

Please pretend our conversation was carried out telepathically.

“Infra...red?”

“Mm… What cha call it? It's, um… A lotta colours put together and ya can see people.”

“Right, you can see temperature with that.”

“Right. What are ya talking about?”

“Um...” We pondered. Thinking and thinking… The Heisei board of education has failed.

After the atmosphere of spreading your arms out and surrounded by wind on an open field had passed, the air assumed it's gloomy and unnoticeable stance again. The hall, supported by thin lights, allowed me to see its entirety.

A hallway silent, yet solidly build by man-made material. Deeper in was a dark orange, or rather, an unassuming wall with a warm hue. A plant pot sat quietly by the corner, single-sidedly thinking the earth as its friend. I too grinned embarrassedly at my phony behaviours.

The interior was no different than the free-to-enter building decorated with descriptions of the stars or telescope. My opinion made my brain think otherwise of the atmosphere, however.

Something flowing out of my guts rang in my ear. It's like having a machine going in and out of your ear canal. This proved the nervous trembling beneath my stomach, churning the acid and souring my mouth.

As someone who's never walked in campus during night, I now stood in the building that I used to stared curiously and warily at. Within the darkness lights diffused out of the rooms.

My sight sharpened with the excitement. The dark means nothing to me! My prefrontal cortex coiled, so much that it hurt my brain; my throat managed to hold my impulse of moaning and collapsing back. If this goes on, I'll metamorphose into an insect from the anxiousness.

I must complete the mission and escape before such things happen… What's the mission? Was there one?

Hiyah! I stepped forward. The sound of a foot hitting the hard floor dispersed at 340 meters per second.

I froze, like I was some kind of ballet dancer standing on her toes, and turned to look at the boy. He had a 'hm?' face. It would appear my ear drums had become so sensitised that it's a little feralised. Disregard that I wanna go T#rzan in the concrete jungle.

Then I slowly rest my sole down; only after my heel touched ground did I exhale in relief.

“Mm, it's probably okay if we just walk quietly.”

“Whoa… It's like that's the only thing we do when we run into trouble.”

“Guess I'm done with what I came for. I'm leavin'.”

“You're not a runaway Onee-san any more: you're now a night stroller.”

Man, I forgot. I'm not in a position to go anywhere.

I'll just have to move on aimlessly.

“You know, I find it a little harder to think of you as my older.”

“'S that out of love?”

“Nope, just worried that someone is lying about her age.”

That's troubling. But I'm pretending we're the same age anyway, so I didn't care.

I don't mind being a little reckless as thanks for his willingness to be involved with me.

Hands on the wall with thought of leaving my footsteps behind, I secretly proceeded. I thought maybe that sneaking around would be easier, but I noticed something as I felt a cramp building up in my foot: I had shoes on. I turned, and saw the boy was the same and even left foot prints.

I frantically take the shoes off and put them in my bag. 'You too,' I lipped. The boy noticed and casually kicked his shoes off. Bare feet.

“Cold?”

“I levitate about 3 millimetres from the ground anyway, so I don't know.”

“That's not an alien — that's a futurstic robot.”

We chatted while going forward.

Dun dun~ Dun dun~ Dundundundun~ dundundundundun~

The music leaked out in my head. Sneaking about in a research building in the night — just hearing those words would put anyone in suspense.

But faint sounds of footsteps came from behind, so I'm a little scared. It's not the levitating kind either.

We passed and held off on the stairs and continued deeper into the hallway. I looked back in front of the room with lights seeping through the frosted glass.

“Heads up, someone's there.”

“Why have you occasionally used manly words since earlier?'

“If we get found… Mm… Are we gonna get mad at?”

“No, we'd get tortured. Shocked for sure.”

“Shoot… I'd get an afro. Will the helmet help?”

“No, but button mashing may help. Who knows.”

“”Hmm.””

Troubled teens X 2. After imagining the electrocution, we bent our waist down.

We kept a posture like a baseball player about to go for a slide to carefully erase our footsteps while passing by. I heard slippers or something inside, how boring. Felt pretty realistic though. We could only keep our gait strictly at a one-two order. A slow-mo recap of the end of a one-hundred meter dash would probably look like me now.

Meanwhile the boy nonchalantly passed me with calm steps and overcame this challenge of a door. He placed a hand onto the wall, watching while waiting.

I was going to yell at him for being so cocky, but I was in front of door so I had to quietly go through the rebar in my mind. Keep still.. Keep still… Keep still… I'd like to erase the periods, but reality is a cruel mistress.

After spending five hundred percent more time than the boy, I rested from just a little away from the door. By slapping the trembling knees I attempted to train them.

“No tricks allowed.”

“You're the one who acted alone.”

“No talking back either.”

As a person about to enter second year, I am able to educate my juniors. That's my plan on not being looked down by the young'uns. During middle school… Now's the time to turn failure into drive.

The boy moved behind and let me lead; it seems that the lecture worked. If only my juniors are obedient like he.

We progressed slowly, with a half-crouching pose that seemed to sooth the nerve.

As we closed onto the wall at the end.

A sound came from the door we were just at; I spun my head around. The boy also leaned back to stare at the door. Time slowly drifted, but to no one's assurance.

The door opened; when I saw the handholding the knob appeared, I let my knees touch the ground. I thought if we were to run the footsteps would expose us, so I didn't move.

On the side of the hallway I silently curled up. Just in case I could run, I pushed my toes against the floor to ease the weight off the legs.

Slightly afloat the legs, and become a chair, a stick… There's a lot of thing I could be, but I mostly want to be a rock.

Almost like an old man hiding in a Tanuki costume — a round and pink creature. I want to mould into a stone to hide my already thin presence.

Movement grew everywhere; from the epicentre of the heart, places like beneath the chin, neck, side of the stomach started beating like a school child banging mindlessly on a castanet. I wanna move.

Pitter, patter… The sound of slipper dragging on the floor joined us in the hall.

The forehead plastered onto the floor could almost feel the footstep distancing from us. I don't blame my shoulders slacking, but I kept the same pose.

“I think we're good.” I raised my hat and sat down after the boy shook my shoulders.

“Phew~ My life's just got shorter.”

“Same. Thankfully they weren't coming this way.”

“Actually, since we didn't get caught, our lives actually grew.”

“That's optimistic. So why did you runaway?”

Leave me alone. Even without facing backward, sad things were still coming from the front.

I stood up and dusted my butt, all while letting the cramp building in my legs out.

That person may have been going to the second floor, as the echoes of staircase resonated in the long hall. Now our steps could be disguised, going forward would be easier. Yet since we knew someone is with us, the tension grew.

“Foot...step… With the sound of hard floor, and the unreliable light of the hand torch...”

“Dust floating about, and the pungent smell grew stronger. The floor gathered with ashes left footprints other than our own.”

“The report of alien lifeforms left by the vanished researchers had its date stopped from weeks ago...”

“Well, not everyone alien look like freaks.”

He looked intrigued too, and you can tell from just his mien; but his changed the attitude just to disagree with me.

The corner was ahead. I moved slowly with wall to my back. Something kept bumping onto me so it hurt, but we arrived.

I leaned to see the deep end. Whoa ho…

“I've spotted the stairs to the hidden facility. We did it, Jeff.”

“Really? Give me the details, Paula.”

We arbitrarily gave each others spy names. Now we're on the same page.

Mm? Oh yeah, we'd never introduced ourselves, never mind the names.

But we've been doing things, and even came here together. It's pretty amazing from a bystander point of view. In a way it's a space-class interaction — something strange that shouldn't exist in my daily life.

“Mm? I see something below that has the name. I can't see from the lack of vitamin A though.”

“What I could see that the cowardly Onee-san couldn't seems to be the storage for materials.”

Mm… Material of the aliens? There might even be UFO artefact or element XYZ in there gathering dust.

That or something that cannot be publicised because it's an alien production plant. In order to improve the numbers that the natural breed lack, they want to appeal to the public with cheap, tube-grown type… This isn't about fishes, by the way. Oh yeah, natural beef is hard to find too, but since I don't like it I don't care.

“Alright, let's check it out.”

“Finally, to save my imprisoned brethren.”

“Mm…?” Was that the setting?

Walking along the wall I moved closer to the stair, still confused. I began sneaking down the stairs.

After about three steps down, the distant footstep disappeared. From the dispersal of the sound, the uneasiness faded; I moved my tongue.

“Mr. Alien.”

“What's wrong, Earthling Onee-san?”

“Are ya a tea-buddy with the alien that's supposed ta be in this underground facility?”

“He usually makes Nikujaga and shares with me.”

“For real? I didn't think potatoes are the hots in space. Potatoes are pretty cool then.”

“So...”

“Mm?”

“Do you believe in the existence of aliens?”

He asked me something that's didn't bother me too much, and quite earnestly.

I paused in the middle of the staircase while staring at the boy. On his strange expression were eyes that seemed to store energy drinks, bobbing back and forth and looking mighty drinkable.

“Mm… Well, I do… But I don't think they're here.”

I ended up denying the boy's insistence that he's an alien. It didn't work.

“Correct, I am actually a real alien.”

“…...” What was I to do to such a serious face.

“A lot of aliens came here and never returned. I've came to investigate.”

“Uh, that's what we're rolling with?”

He smiled emptily to my question. It should have felt weak, but from the darkness and his own handsomeness, it looked pretty cool.

“I also happened to have been given whatever they failed to accomplish. It's pretty cliché, but we were supposed to investigate how Earthlings live. Top brass wanted us to figure out if you were good or bad.

Ahahah… I laughed lightly. Calm thyself. Be at least a little scared.

The old lady used to have us come up closely to her and tell us about this kind of things. I cringed as the wind of common sense blew onto my skin.

My old friend always end up ignoring others when she couldn't win a debate. Was that why she ended up wrapping herself in a futon? It looks like a giant asparagus roll-up.

I'm drooling…

“If humans kept capturing aliens to conduct experiments, then we probably can't be friends.”

“Oh? So that's why you came here. Great work...”

“It's okay.” He paid no mind to it. Tough guy, this one.

“So were you lying about looking for a way to go home here?”

“No. I really don't know how. For some reason I can't.”

He shrugged. Um, can I really handle this guy? It's gonna take a bit to crack this one.

“So what happens when ya decide we're all bad? Make a meteor hit us?”

I immediately held my helmet. I wasn't concerned with me being the only survivor: There should be other good kids who ride their bikes correctly.

And I will lead those children to rebuild Japan. I plan on becoming the worker of the new world.

“Even if they're not friendly, we don't plan on harming them. You'll probably end up killing yourselves if we leave you be anyway. We think if there's a possibility, we'd take the chance to be friends though.”

“Oh~ That's kinda willy nilly.”

Although the gaze from above bothered me, I've figured something out.

Mm… I see where he's coming from.

“Mm, I get it. I know your name now.”

“What?”

“You're Echoes, right? Mm!”

Heheh, that brings me back. When I was still in grade school, we loved that stuff. During Autumn, we have reading time before the morning classes, and that was my favourite books at the time.

“Echoes? What do you mean?” He replied with a stiff smile.

“Mm? Is that not from your time? I was for sure that that was where ya got your inspiration...”

“Inspiration… Ahaha… You don't believe me.”

The sad grin appeared disappointed. It's not real, but I wonder how much of that was the truth.

“Don't be so sad. So do ya like Earth?”

“Um~ I like you, Onee-san, so I guess I like it.”

“Oh? Like Japanophiles?”

“I guess.”

His expression recovered along with a kind smile.

Hehe! I've captivated a cutie who I don't like. It's a strange happiness that is nonetheless better than none.

After the stairs was a room even more uncanny than the strange facility.

I'd finally arrived within five meter radius of an alien. If I told those five people about this, 'oh~ We did play that kinda game before. You're still doing that, Ryuushi?”

I'm not Ryuushi.

“Mm...” I curled my knees and observed the object hiding in the dark.

A light oozed from between the door; it was so weak that it could hardly be seen unless from close by.

“They should have all left by now.”

“Wanna take a peek inside?”

“Hm? That's a great but dangerous idea.”

“Uwoh!!” The edge of the door and wall flattened my face. My face was remodelled into a pout, but now's not the time for shipping. This meant the door opened from the inside.

“Gahhhhh!”

The staff in there freaked out. Well, we did sneak in here knowing that people are in here, but they would think we're some ghosts.

I didn't realize that until I pulled my face out and started running. But it wasn't the time to calmly assess the situation.

I hit beneath my shin on the top of the stairs, flailing and almost tripped.

Because of that the shoes in my bag fell down the stairs.

“Ah! Shoes! Pain! But my shoes… Ugh… Gosh! Seriously!”

I stopped myself there, and ran back upstairs after giving up.

“W-w-what do we do! Where do we go! Are we running?! We're running, right?!”

I spoke at twice the usual speed and didn't even stop when I bit my tongue. Some said words are weightless, but I definitely felt it on my tongue. It tastes of metal, and bitterness.

“No, I'm going to the second floor too!”

“Wha dya say?!” A lot was mixed up in this moment of crisis.

In any case we ran to the stairwell we were just at. What if an alarm went off? The lungs weren't working amidst the strange happening.

The guy really wanted to go upstairs, so he turned left midway. I hurriedly grabbed his arm. It's a twig. Of course it'd be a twig on a handsome guy! Err, or is it because he's skinny he's good looking? Huh? I donno!

“We've been walking straight, so why are ya lost?! We're only 2D here!”

“Unlike you, I still have something I have to do.”

“Get lost, alien!” I chopped his forehead. It landed beautifully on his hairline.

The boy showed a pained face with a grin joyfully. At this kind of time!

“You still don't buy my story: you're the perfect example of a xenophobic Japanese. This is going to be the last, so I might as well show you.”

“Shut it and run!”

“Do you really want to run, Onee-san? After all that work?”

“Huh?” His counter questioning shocked me.

Was he making me run up here with the possibility of dying looking for aliens?

If I believed in that, I would have listened to everything you had to say.

Um… So? I didn't find the answer behind me even after broadening my spectrum.

The six year old me who had yet grown to hate my straight hair kicked me above the waist.

She's trying so hard with her tiny legs to force me to see this alien. I experienced being the parents who were forced to an amusement park by their children. What do I do?

How did dad handle a child as capricious as me?

Mm…

There's an inverted age limit here.

I have a lot of things I want to do now.

The dreams that I had when I was young contained little.

My first love was also not with me any more.

They all disappeared once I realized.

Even the last straw had withered, with nothing left to show.

I have to go back: I can't stay at a place with nothing.

But you can stay.

I looked down and felt my bangs, letting myself grow up.

I let go of the boy's hand and waved mine next to my face.

“Sorry. I want to go.”

I have to run away from the researchers in scrubs, and the young me. I want to run to a place with something.

“Hm… That so.”

He looked down sentimentally. But I was already ready to run because of the circumstance.

I'd already begun bidding him farewell from up close.

“Thank you for coming along with me! Thank you for sending me here! I'll tell my boss about this, Onee-san, and I will arrange some help to your friends in the future! See you!”

As if those were the last words, he showed that middle schooler's smile that fits his face so well. While it banished the unique mysteriousness, something else replaced and highlighted his charm.

“Got it! Bye bye!”

I sent off the boy, who was hopping at two stairs a step, with a voice loud enough to be heard from the deepest depth of the hall with an exaggerated gesture.

Until his silhouette disappeared from the corner of the stair case, I kept an eye on his intrepid advance. New footsteps echoed from further in in the hallway, so it was my time to leave.

Ok. How am I suppose to find excess energy from outside my stomach?

A power came from my feet and kicked me off the floor.

I left the boy and the six year old me back there.

The sixteen year old me ran to the curious outside world.

“Phew… Phew… Phew...”

When I'm nervous, I get this fatigue that's unrelated with my usual health.

My heart is tired. The wound from yesterday has yet heal.

I came to the field outside, heaving and out of breath, and I wanted to lie down to let the fatigue in my mind fill with blood. Phew… Phew… I heard only my breathes.

Head lowered with arms on my knees, I dragged my feet to turn toward the research building. No one's following me or after me. Even though I do have a partner.

“Phew… Phew… Phew...”

I chewed on my breath trying to stop the heaving. Air seeped from between my teeth, kind of disgusting. If someone saw me they'd think I'm here to dig to find subterraneans.

“Ahem!” I gave up on that to indulge in breathing.

Once my panting settled, I looked to the light coming from the windows.

“Mm… He's okay, right?”

We didn't infiltrate a military base, so it shouldn't be too bad, but that mysteriousness that I felt when I was young still incited my anxiousness. Ugh, stomach hurts.

Ah, I never asked his name. Mm? What a rude way of interacting.

Though hard to let go (m-my curled hair, that is), I returned to my bike traversing on the rigid soil. “Oh! It's cold.” Was it angry? The seat was freezing; this harmed my self esteem as a bench player in the club. Mm?

“Eh?”

I yelped strangely with widened eyes. Mm, It'd be embarrassing to imagine the actual image.

The shoes I lost sat unassumingly in the basket.

“No way!” I looked closer. The subtle wear on the tip, the size, the colour and lack of sheen… They're my shoes, no doubt about it. Did they run off from their master and came back?

“No… way...” Could it be that the alien's elementary technology is teleportation…? “I don't think so either...”

My lower half froze from the phenomenon, but I still rigidly picked up the shoes.

Mm… There's only one other person who would know these are mine…

With that conclusion I naturally scanned around. There was nothing. No one was here to harvest the skinny carrots, or a person with sharp eyes floating in the air with white tights and a mysterious aura. Did the boy already leave? He was the one who brought them back. It's the only possibility.

But how? He went upstairs while I ran out. Was he operating at a speed that beat even mine? Maybe he's actually a Ninja (the American kind).

“Or maybe...” He threw the shoes down when he's going home on an UFO?

I looked for a note in the shoes, but they only end up becoming my gloves. I smacked the shoes together before taking my hands out. I realised I still had mud on my feet, so I just put them on.

“Haha… Haha… Haha…”

I inadvertently laughed at myself. It's so funny I hugged my belly.

The aliens weren't captured here. It has to be a lie.

He's just wondering, so he came here with the Earth representative, me, and found nothing.

The loss of drive and the misunderstanding drove me beet red.

So that's why the boy returned what I lost to me.

He wanted to use that as a cover for his slip-up, so he wouldn't badmouth us when he's reporting.

I must have saved Earth itself.

“Oh? So I'mma hero. I wonder if a questionnaire will ask this?”

Of course, I won't question anything even if he wasn't levitating from three millemetres above ground.

Even if he just explained to the staffs, and then ran off as fast as he could, passed me and tossed my shoes in there, and then ran off almost like a human.

It doesn't matter if he walked on land, or returned to space from the endless sky.

As long as we appreciate the destination, there's a home we can go back to.

“I hope other aliens are just like ya.”

Being in contact with other people gave me a proper sense of pain and passion.

Mm~ That's the best kind of things.

I will for sure fall in love with someone else in second year.

And I will make the person I liked yesterday a scar in my memory.

Ryuuko's night, the spring break of UMA, has just begun! So I must hurry back home.

My runaway trip ended in two days.

I straddled onto the bicycle's seat and adjusted my helmet.

And began peddling slowly.

The night on the brink of winter's end chilled the air that blew on my face.

But I clearly saw the road.

I stepped hard and accelerated. Even if it's the usual speed, I will keep the wheels turning to orchestrate that sound.

I tried to let this possibly invisible alien catch up.

The messy hair and wind cutting by became my speedometer.

To leave the self-deprecation that chased me behind, I sought to have my speed higher than my temperature.

### 003. Chapter 2 - Peering at First Love

Q: Select the appropriate words to fill in the blank

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Maekawa-san]

[Childhood friend Yoshino]

[Princess Kaguya]

[Written charms]

[Dyed hair]

[Going places on a scooter in a storm!]

[Continue to cosplay]

[Lady at the beauty salon]

[179.9cm]

[Memory of a summer]

Let's dye my hair. The sudden thought popped in my head.

So let's head to the hair salon after lunch without studying first, on the Sunday before the final exams of the first semester. I usually ask the neighbourhood old lady for a five-hundred-yen haircut, but since she's the type who doesn't even like dying white hair black, I couldn't put my trust on her — I had no intention to go there from the start.

“Come on in~ I can do all cuts~”

A person who appeared to be the kind owner greeted me weirdly. She was in fact the only one inside. She's cleaning the hair off the floor, presumably from the previous customer.

“Do you guys only do appointment?” I so asked, to which she replied, for some reason, cheerfully. 'Hahah, that's kinda like being ask by the cashier if you're going to eat all thirty burgers on your own~

“It's all right. Just sit anywhere you want.”

Under the lure of her bright but slightly childish voice, I walked in, avoiding the hair while looking around the somewhat cramp store.

The wall and ceiling had white a base, and the decorations were quite tasteful. What looked like the cable television played quietly in the corner; air conditioning rendered the time in this salon to pass slowly. Compared with the heat in my house, I thought it'd be worth it to just spend my time and money here and wait it out. There’s only a fan in my room.

I sunk into the chair and stared at the me reflected onto the mirror ahead. Oh… I think I forgot my contacts. Everything is blurry and I looked scary. Beams could come out of my eyes.

The female owner who occasionally appeared in the mirror with a broom and dustpan appeared to be about twenty-two, three or four years old. As though she had just shed, her skin showed no sign of birthmarks or tan; she's so pale we might not be the same kind of breed. Her hair touched her waist; I had thought it could be used like a carpet if it were to completely cut off. Straight jeans and a t-shirt with rolled-up sleeves, as well as a hat hanging from her neck, she would fit right under the summer sky while watering the sun flower field. The sound of her plastic slippers only aided the youthful aura she emanated, as well as her beauty that is as if the world's unfairness and fate's mischief themselves. Her height of roughly 160cm was also a source of my admiration. I didn't know there existed another person who attracted eyes in a different way than I, like a collection of people's envy.

I picked up several girl magazines in front of the mirror to kill time. I wondered if many of the models on display were taller than I am.

After the cable TV ended on a song, the lady came behind me with a little cart filled with tools. 'Thanks for waiting.”

She gently brushed my head after clipping my hair up and dressing me up like a Teru-teru Bouzu. She complimented on my hair, 'you have good follicles,' making me nod embarrassedly. (TL Note: Teru-teru bouzu 照る照る坊主are believed to bring good weather, and are hung often during rainy days. In Japan they are often made with tissues or handkerchiefs like a little person in robe)

“You must be new here. You're very tall!” She seemed in awe. It's the usual comment I hear meeting someone, so I blankly replied, 'yeah.'

“Must be pretty handy when you're stealing people's fruit.”

“…...” That would be the first time someone had said that. And so, I inadvertently looked at the owner's face with the mirror. What kind of life in these twenty or so years did she go through can she bring such exquisitely chiselled smile?

“What do you go by? And… are you a student?”

I revealed my name while introducing myself as a middle school senior.

“Mm… Maekawa, huh. That's a good last name.” She nodded proudly. Just my last name?

And… it went like that again. For some reason, almost no one calls me by my name. Aside from my parents, people who were good friends… and they exist, but he also calls me Maekawa since I was young. It's not like my name is hard to say; I never understood why. It is a very small secret, in contrast to my height.

“So, what would you like today?” The snipping of scissors came from the mirror.

“Hair dye. I want blonde.”

“No way?”

She squealed unbelievably. My eardrum shook, kind of like when I'm dry coughing; I thought she would proceed without a word. I turned around rigidly to look at her.

“You're going to look like the Kinkaku-ji. I don't think you should.” (TL Note: The temple in Kyoto plastered in gold)

The owner denied my request while spinning her scissors. She even rebuked me with what may or may not even be an analogy, so I didn't feel convinced. Who knew that going to an amusement park with animal mascots in Chiba instead of Kyoto or Nara would have such terrible repercussion… It'd be difficult to have this kind of regret.

“Maekawa, I seriously think black is the best for you.”

“But that's the real colour.” She's telling me to just leave like this. Does she not want business?

“Yep. I recommend you to keep it this way.” She put her hand on my shoulder.

“Nope, let's do blonde.” I don't want the 'status quo' anymore.

“What about brown?”

“No, and no silver either.”

“Mm… I understand.”

Still smiling, she easily retracted her advice and began preparation.

“Oh yes, would you like to trim a bit before the dye?”

“Yes, please.”

“Alright.”

She wet my hair with the sprayer and began cutting my hair skilfully. It'd be bad if she wasn't, so I was at ease.

During the process, she casually asked many questions. Rather than alleviating my boredom, I think it's more about satisfying her curiosity. For example, she asked what's in for middle schoolers, if I liked persimmon, what the boy I like looks in number (Pff!). Her bombardment of questions made me think that perhaps her mouth was nimbler than her hands.

After answering all her questions earnestly, she commented that I 'keep up with my appearance.' I nodded slightly in agreement.

As we prepared for the dye, she asked. Finally, I thought.

“Why are you dying your hair? It's your first time, isn't it?” She asked in the most nonchalant way possible.

“I just do, because I want to become a different me.” There went the reason that wasn't a complete lie.

“Really? You'll still be ‘you' afterward, though. You really want to go through with this?” She replied easily.

Because of what seemed like a metal bowl landing on my head, I pretended to not hear. Sometimes, an adult's wise opinion is just a road too smooth for the youth. I think.

And so she's done.

A me who didn't seem to absorb much light appeared in the mirror.

“What do you think? Like a rip-off of Kinkaku-ji?”

“I guess...” Doesn't she care about her customers? Can't you just give a compliment?

I could admit that my head looked like Ashikaga Takauji's, though. I have a few wigs for cosplaying, but this would be my first time dying my hair. Hm~ so this is what a new me looked like. (TL Note: Ashikaga Takauji was the first shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate)

The teru-teru bouzu had turned into a shiny girl, but I didn't feel any differences. At most I began imagining about my mother's and others reaction to my delinquency. When I sit uneasily and depressingly in class before the test starts. I might be mistaken as a decoration with gold plating, I thought detachedly.

“You like it?”

“A tourist attraction is still better than an oversized dummy.”

I divulged my thoughts honestly and stood from the chair. As if guided by her, I walked up to the counter, face to face with the owner.

After looking at the fee chart written on the penguin-shaped board, I withdrew several bills and some coins from my purse.

'Thank you,' the owner said after giving half of the exact cash back to me.

“Just half is fine.”

“Why?” The causeless pity put me on guard.

“I'm not about to do business malpractice.” Cha-ching, she voiced the register machine.

“I don't understand.” Now I'm worried about modern Japanese tomorrow.

“I just don't think 1 times 1 is 2.”

The owner left with her iconic, spirited toothy smile. She picked up the broom and dustpan leaning on the wall, thinking to herself, 'what if I don't have time to clean up with all these people coming in?'

I didn't want to lose more confidence before testing, so even if I didn't want to, I still put the money she returned back into my wallet and pushed the door out.

“Thank you.”

“You're welcome. Hope to see you again.”

She waved with the broom. I bowed and walked out.

The moment I exited, the air touching my skin rose in heat; the dampness grew in my heart, adding that much weight onto me.

“Whoa… I can see the light.”

Looking up, the hair on my forehead melted into the sun, its existence almost gone.

Let's go home… and study.

As if holding a golden umbrella, I followed the swaying of that colour I've yet gotten used to on the way back.

I wanted to dye my hair.

There are many reasons why, and they rose their hands in me.

“Are you actually a bamboo?”

Kiiko once asked while we were eating school lunch.

We both stopped the motion of tearing and ingesting the rye bread and looked at each other. Kiiko's eyes were smiling, and mine were… hm… at least squinty. I couldn't see very clearly.

“Are you saying I'm Princess Kaguya? That's quite the compliment, but I don't have any dresses so fancy.”

I knew she's joking, but I had to try and play dumb. I reached for the milk carton to divert my sight, and started sucking on the straw.

“I remember you being the third from the last when we were lining up in sixth grade.”

The girl who was taller than the average height by 2 cm in seventh grade is now being mentioned the time when she was shorter than the average sixth grade at sixth grade.

“Uh… really? I'm used to this height now so I don't remember.” I made a joke along that line.

“Now you will still be the last in line if we lined every girl up in this school up. Now that's scary.”

“I guess our school lunch is just that good.”

“What, are you making fun of me for having left over? That's rude, Maekawa!”

“No, I'm just saying I eat too much.”

When this conversation took place, in other words during the December of my second year in middle school, my height was still around 170cm.

At that time, there were still a few boys who were taller than my line of sight.

And now.

Middle school third year, summer in terms of both the calendar and temperature, July.

I'm already over 180cm. Obviously the genetic engineering was a success. I was like a Jingu staff that could only grow one way. Frankly I'm both shocked and troubled.

A lot of problems followed my sudden spurt of growth.

First is the exacerbation of joint pain; my leg cramp increased from once a day to twice a day. I grew taller, to a point that my bones and muscles were pulled to their limit. When my legs seize up in the night, I don't even have a chance to cry as my face struggled in pain. I wanted to wail to this unreasonable world and the parts above my shoulder uncontrolled by me.

All clothes including uniform had to be re-bought. And because of my hobby from since late elementary school — cosplay — I had to change everything.

Since my appearance strayed further and further from my ideal, my dream had been demolished since the woman inside the mirror became a giantess. I no longer strive to become 'a different me,' but rather 'the thing after I've changed a little.' I'll be the Onigiri boy (Katsuobushi flavoured).

Those are two bad things. Actually, there's more.

The times of which I've been branded with 'disappointment' by those around me increased. Naturally, such height should be associated with physical capability. But I implore everyone to look closely: I don't have any lateral growth; I'm just a skinny beansprout, so don't expect anything out of me during sports festivals. For instance, I would run out of energy after throwing two balls. I end up as the rope in tug of war. I have problems such as… wind resistance during a baton race.

My family had me help clean the windows in my house. After raising my arms for ten seconds, I passed out like I have anaemia.

It's terrible, really. I now have to be careful when I'm entering or leaving a car, and the only real advantage I have is when I'm waiting for someone. I stuck out, you know.

Aside from my incongruent height, the blonde hair began covering me on the Monday of early July, when exams began. The stare-attack I was so used to assaulted me once again.

On the way from the lot to class, I ran into several acquaintances; their glances seldom came with words. Was it too intimidating? Not many people have blonde hair, but there are still plenty people like me.

A wave of noise rippled after I entered the classroom that was twice as gloomy as usual. Classmates desperately clenching onto their books looked up and observed me before the first class began.

I scratched my cheek; after I've confirmed that 'he's' not here yet, I walked to my seat. Putting my backpack onto the hook next to the table, I rest my face on my palm. There seemed to be no desks or chairs that fit my size. It was cramped, and even resting my legs beneath proved to be challenging. When I lean forward to lie down, half of my head goes out of the table. As a side note, my growing feet also frustrated me.

Whether she heard or saw, Kiiko came running with a math textbook still in hand. She'd ran here from a separate class, how diligent. “Wha? Wha~” She marvelled at me and circled about, like a monkey in a zoo. And I'm the monkey? How sad.

“What's going on? Amazing. Is it a wig?” She poked the side of my head.

“Hm… I dyed it.” I answered coldly. It's not like I'm a polite person anyway, but that's not me bragging.

“Really? I thought maybe your dad's gene finally appeared now that you're all grown up, and you’re now blonde and powered-up.” Her words from then on were like birds chirping; without a care she continued remarking with what sounded like Japanese. The person who dubbed her Kiiko was the infamous Touwa Erio.

Her hair was something of a mystery, far more impressive than my blonde hair. I also heard that it's her real hair. Apparently she was the only member of the astronomy club, and a space enthusiast who even brought a telescope to watch the stars on the school rooftop.

But we weren't friends, and we weren't in the same class in middle school. What's strange was that people use whatever she called others with. Perhaps she had the power of linguistics.

I don't deny unscientific things, but only if they somehow benefit me. I guess it could be because I live here. “Chirp chirp, chirp.” Kiiko's words just didn't stand out… So I just changed her voices. I did want to do some last-minute cram, so I just made her go away.

In the end the irritating bird girl left, giggling, without ever spanning her wings.

I flipped through the textbook. After finding a random page to start, I begin going through the formulas and reading the texts. I was a little uneasy, and found myself sneaking peeks at the class' doorway.

Am I an idiot? I scolded myself for underestimating the test yesterday, then my eyes moved on their own.

It's Yoshino. Yoshino Takeshi. He lives in an apartment, five minutes and twenty-three seconds away with a seven-year old's footstep, and one minute and thirty-six seconds with the gait of a gigantic, 180cm girl. Hm… He's a certain boy.

Odd how I put it. Oh well. What I mean to say is… we're childhood friends.

He's the type of athlete who'd find time to practice on his own before coming to class, when club activities are suspended during testing period.

As usual he sucked on a bottle of milk on his way to school.

Without batting an eye he sat down in the seat four rows ahead of me to the right and opened his backpack.

I thought he'd at least look at me once, so I was ready to show him my new look, squeezing my textbook. It was for nothing though.

Honestly it's fine, since the hair was just a proof of my change.

Uh… Wow… I was using the book to hid my face, but at the same time I wondered if I actually did that.

I felt that I just couldn't conceal the entirety of my body.

When I was little, I used to look up at Yoshino from his side.

We made a promise, so he became enamoured with the laughably small Maekawa-san.

However…

The friends have become strangers. Our eyes used to be close and met one another's, but now mine could see the distant view.

Vertical and lateral distance left even my lanky arms helpless.

Without me even able to lament about the result of my first day of exam, it went from day to night.

“You shouldn't worry about your height! Crocs and sharks are so much bigger! A whale would swallow you in a bite!”

“I'm more on the mammalian team.”

While dealing with a slightly obstructive customer chewing on grilled squid in the corner of the store, I picked up the plates and utensils; occasionally I wash these things, take orders, and say 'welcome' to customers passing through the door. It's quite a handful actually. But if I get paid, my speed increases by fifty percent.

Due to 'after deducting cost of labour, if the bar's not running well, our live is affected too,' sometimes I get forced into helping the family business too.

'If you practise regularly you shouldn't worry about a test.' That's the view my parents have when it comes to last-minute cramming. As long as I get the result, however, I couldn't care how.

Perhaps my parents are serious, or just quite ethical?

In this boisterous restaurant unrelated with the word sophistication, giant cotton candies of the summer heat smothered me. By the two electric fans next to the TV and on the ceiling blowing at their hardest, the warmth and alluring smell of the food were pushed out of the front.

The aroma would make any hungry person moan; to a regular office worker we're just nuisance and loud noises. Plus the smell sticks on your clothes.

My family runs a skewer pub. The restaurant sits in the shopping district known for its desolated state. Since our neighbour is a Western style restaurant, it's more than a little misplaced. No, maybe it's fair to even say that this shopping district itself is like a patch of moss growing on this beauty city of a rock. It existed before the city's development, and was abandoned; its people, thanks to a conscientious beautifying effort, were more likely ostracised.

And those who live in places livelier simply view this part of town as a tiny slum.

I understand what they mean by standing out… But thanks to the surface of the city being renovated, the dirty little secrets had to be sequestered.

I thought this place functions perfectly as a way to contain the messy and chaotic elements.

People also often report sighting of UFO, so I'm sceptical whether a 'prideful' city can even be achieved. To this day I am still in awe.

Let's keep the name of the store a secret. After all, my name is written clearly on the red curtain, so you may check that out instead. What? You can't? Let's see then… Call me 'Maekawa-san.”

For some reason, even the customers started calling me -san recently. When I was still running around as the store mascot in elementary school, they referred me as '-chan.'

Now that I am the mascot girl, naturally I wore the sign on both front and back — now that's the real mascot girl. But due to the poor range of motion, my parents didn't like it too much, and the customers didn't react well to it.

Why? The joke wasn't received well. Perhaps along with my growth, I've become too avant garde?

But every now and then someone would still laugh, so I consider this a pretty good country. Now I'm assured.

One of the very few people would be that person considered as a regular sitting in the corner chewing on a squid. She calls herself the real Princess Kaguya.

She often wore a red yukata, a pair of black flip flops; her long hair only had the bangs straightened out, and she always wore a red safety helmet when she's on the move with a scooter without a care to the traffic law. Such a lifeform exists in this town.

But supposedly she's never been yelled by the police. According to herself, 'how could the Earth's law apply for an alien?' The law aside, I hope she'd follow common sense at least; whenever I mocked her so, she would just smile.

The self-proclaimed twenty-four year old stood only at 147cm. What that meant is that even with a 30cm ruler attached to her head, she wouldn't surpass me. She looks just like a Zashiki-warash when she sits in her corner; when I pointed that out, she just laughed and said, 'good, then I guess I'm perfectly in sync with the Japanese aesthetic.'

Looks like this princess is always on the opposite end.

“Why Princess Kaguya? You own a place on the moon?”

“Mm? Well, let's see… Ah… I don't have enough fingers, but I think it was six years ago? Something amazing happened back in my home town. Since then We've always been Princess Kaguya!” It could have been the alcohol, or maybe it's just how she is, but the strange phrase was thrown onto the table. (TL Note: Since I do not have the Japanese text, I could only surmise that the word used here is わたくし, which is very formal way to address oneself. Whatever the case is, it's a dignified pronoun meant to also indicate humbleness, hence the usage of We)

“Sweet. Then head on home.”

“You're right. Gotta go back on the next full moon.”

“That long? I mean now!”

“You're so mean!”

“That how things work here!”

I drove out the financially unhelpful midget who stayed for two hours here on just a squid and beer.

While still complaining, she overheard the TV forecast on the typhoon that will, in a few days, arrive on mainland; she drunkenly muttered 'oh no~ I have to go back now,' worrying about something on a different time scale.

A total drunkard who couldn't tell from her front to back. 'Eheheh,' she laughed creepily and paid the exact amount at the register before leaving shakily. 'Bye bye~'

Since she shows up twice every week, my parents would always send her off with a smile. I don't: I'm actually worried. I know she's already working, but is Japan's future really in safe hands?

A lot of adults are a little odd in this town. I just have the feeling. The person in the salon from yesterday too, she's just like another one of the locals… Right, I felt this sense of 'alien' on her.

I'm not big on the extraterrestrial, or power of the universe, but I know that the inhabitants of this town are mixed with something strange. And it seems that the alien-invasion-talk works in every family — what a strange place.

I always thought about going to a different place if I were to go to a university… Even if it were in the sticks, I wouldn't mind if it's far away — I never fit in here.

And so I spaced out delivering plates slowly and sadly, occasionally cooking, and once it's ten, my mother let me go. While taking the apron and sign off, I wondered if she letting me off an hour early was due to the test.

Our house is in a different location. The restaurant is in the shopping district, while the house in the residential area. I'm so afraid of being attacked in the night road… That's a line I can only say if I were 30cm shorter, I think.

Take a shower and study for the test. Something else besides fatigue slowed my pace down; with tired gaits different than the princess from before, I left through the backdoor. I wound up in the middle of the street.

In front of the store was Princess Kaguya's favourite carriage of a scooter, made in the moon. It's not an abnormal sight. She typically rides her scooter here, only to leave it here when she goes home drunk. The following morning before work she would come and retrieve it. It's a pain, but according to herself, 'I'm cool with it, so it's fine,' so it's never been changed.

She's actually older than I am. Must be because we've known each other for so long, sometimes I don't bother watching my words with her. That's also why I forget about that fact sometimes.

I swatted at the moths flying under light outside, and began the anaemia routine, 'ugh~' I gave up; I took off the lock to our family bicycle. My parents enjoy walking hand in hand in the dark of night, so they don't need these wheels. They'll find their way back to their nest with love. As their daughter, I'd like to do nothing less than throw pebbles at them.

Guess I'll wear the eggshell I recently bought instead of the signboard tomorrow.

It's an outfit that has a cracked egg on the top and bottom; it separates when you're standing, and it becomes an egg when you sit. The exposed legs are hilarious, and there are even fruit versions.

Cosplay is great, because it attracts others' attention, in a good way. That's what I like.

I couldn't see the moon amongst the not-so-tall three-storeys buildings lining the shopping; the bike moved forward. With a tap on the ground to start, I stepped deep into the pedals.

The middle schooler given the duty of wearing a helmet, me, allowed the night to freely see my blonde hair (please overlook this). I wondered blankly: comparing me to that scooter princess who, surprisingly, wears a helmet while riding, who's more illegal? Still pedalling, I eyed the lights permeating from people's houses.

The closer I was to my house, the weight sitting in my stomach grew bigger. My breath reeked of acid.

More precisely, I worried about my neighbourhood. My eyes were darting about. If a police officer were to see me now, he’s going to think I'm some thief who forgot her makeup looking for her mark. As far as I know that's how fishy I was. Ahahah (stiffy laughter).

My childhood friend Yoshino might just appear! (Think of it as using an exclamation to hide your embarrassment) If we ran into each other right now, he couldn't possibly just ignore me. Don't even mention my butt — I won't even be able to hide my face. What would Yoshino do? My heart accelerated.

It's not wishful thinking, that we're so conscious of each other… At least I believe so.

But not for the same reason. I could follow Yoshino with my eyes and stride, and this gigantic body could easily enter his vision. Yoohoo! But that must be also why my life is so difficult. Yoohoo!

Yet Yoshino seemed to be deliberately ignoring me.

It must take quite a bit of effort to not think about me, or pretend to not see me. I will applaud him for that. Clap, clap clap~

And so whether it's in the class, morning, period, afternoon and then after school.

Yoshino refused to talk with or look at me. But I've grown used to it.

Still…

‘You dyed your hair.’ After he said so, he grew upward and pulled my hair.

Somewhere inside of me had hoped that it would lead to a conversation. Am I an idiot?

Yoshino was a big bully. I spun my mechanical pencil; like a compass or a hard disk, it led to my rumination.

I couldn't recall an English vocabulary during the test, but the memory easily replayed itself.

The sound of mechanical pencils and paper shuffling that would fill a classroom became the sound effect.

In the summer when Yoshino still wore shorts, he was timid, mindful of other's eyes, and banal. He looked down on me, who was smaller than the giant doll in my hands, and pulled on my hair. Ah… here we go.

I don't know if the cicadas were crying in the real world or my head. I couldn't know — I didn't need to know, because either way it was just perception.

Yoshino was the only kid around my age; naturally I didn't want to play with a boy, and stuck to talking with my dolls. Suddenly, a falsified report appears. Of course that wasn't the case: Yoshino dragged me everywhere. Be it summer, winter or fall, I'd look at the sky.

Because he'd pull my hair from the top, obviously I would.

When there's nothing to talk about, he'd turn around and shout, 'heh! Troll Doll!' And when I would look down, troubled, he'd say, 'Ah… Uh… You're really tiny.'

But I don't hate Yoshino; the opposite actually. I'm not saying I'm an extreme masochist though, because he protected me in all sorts of ways. When other kids called me a midget, Yoshino would hit them.

It would end up as a brawl, and he never held back. Without a doubt, there are times of wins and losses.

The reason wasn't that he couldn't tolerate others making fun of me, but that he hated others for having the same intention as he did. It's a childish thought. That's what he told me, and perhaps, when he would look away, he had other reasons. Of course, I had no clue at the time.

Yoshino dragged me around and fought with other people. But I was the chosen one. I felt that 'he' needed me. And I was glad, and blushed about it. So whether it was him hogging me or pulling my hair, I never resisted beyond saying 'that hurt, stop that.'

But I learned later that it's only because I was smaller than Yoshino. I'll push that thought into the back of my head first. The most profound memory I have with Yoshino is… Oh, here it is.

We discovered a shrine deep inside the forest. Shielded from the elements by the surround trees, the building stood solemnly without much dilapidation. An ancient paragraph described whatever was worshipped here, but for two kids who had only wrote first grade Kanji, it was beyond us. Even with my level 4 certification, I still don't believe I could read it. Though that might be more of an issue with my eyesight.

I recall catching cicadas there. Because of my fear of flying cicadas, Yoshino wanted to catch one to show it to me. I didn't want to go, but I still did. Then we found the shrine. It was dirty, possibly because no one cleaned the place regularly.

We walked around the shrine; it's not like I knew, but I thought it was a shrine or something along the line. I figured I would make a wish. I don't know why, but I wrote down on the wishing charm for Tanabata that 'I wanted to grow up,' and tied the thing on an old tree that's nowhere close to being a bamboo. I couldn't reach it, so I had Yoshino put it there for me. The payment was my hair being pulled. Nothing unusual. (TL Note: Tanabata is a Japanese festival originating from the Chinese one with the same name. It's to celebrate Orihime and Hikoboshi's annual reunion, which falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. In the Japanese festival, paper strips known as 短冊 tanzaku would be written and tied onto bamboo with wished written on them)

I don't know if the charm worked, but if it did, it only worked now seven years later. As if a surgery had taken place, I grew exponentially during the second year of middle school.

There's actually an ending to this incident: My parents couldn't stand their daughter's pain for being so short, so they secretly injected some growth accelerant during my sleep. When I first heard about this two months ago, I somehow thought, 'no wonder Santa always visited me in my dreams,' and accepted the surreal explanation. Should I hate them? Or thank them for their concern? And when does the genuine Santa visit? The conditions are too vague, so maybe I should just get my good kid card stamped, and wait for Santa to arrive?

In any case, my dreams were fulfilled.

Despite calling me a troll doll, he never called me a she-troll.

When I told him that I was taller than he, he didn't grow taller to pull my hair. He didn't do anything; he stared with eyes calmer than water, like the surface of a road.

Our distance grew as fast as my height stretched.

End of replay. It could be said that it ended because of the sleepiness thanks to this heat.

My memories with Yoshino always took stage in the summer. Possibly because it was during summer vacation when we spent the most time together. Human’s ability to retain fond memories marvels me.

There has to be times when you are more empowered by something that's not physical nutrient.

What? The test? Hahaha… Need I say more?

White with a red score. Wonderful that red could coexist with white.

On the last day of the exams, I ran into Yoshino.

I could never dream of the day when Yoshino, who was called an idiot for channelling so much of his energy into sports, coming directly to the bicycle parking lot without stopping by the field. It took me completely by surprise when he did.

I froze first; the person who followed almost fell from his bike and frantically balanced himself. Time stopped. Other students were happily going for their bikes with a cathartic expression after the tests have ended.

The earth was spinning, but we fought against it. Cicada's cry circled us. Nostalgia. I remembered when I wrote down the wish; Yoshino must have written something there too. What was it? The sun blinded me while I tried to recall, but I stopped myself — I had to decide how to deal with the Yoshino standing in front of me first.

I had to think of something while he stood there. 'Why' Why was he avoiding me, and why did I assume he was? 'Height' Height… Yoshino grew a lot too. 'Um' Um… Do you even remember me?

Sound could not formulate into words. Under the unclear and incomplete squeal, it might just pass the expiration date.

My voice crumbled within seconds, unable to weave into anything and melted into the tasteless summer sun.

“Uh...” Yoshino seemed to speak, but his eyes moved before his mouth. What is it? A hope grew. I wished he would lead me like he used to before. That's right, my hands strained.

But the tension remained. Yoshino squinted, despite facing away from the sun, and began pushing his bike with a grimace. A great amount of time in order to ignore me again.

He looked so small that I could easily place my chin atop his head.

The me now could easily pull his short hair.

Without the courage to grab his head to stop him, I balled my hands.

He passed me and kicked at the ground. The whirling of bicycle wheels faded in a straight line.

My head turned slightly from inertia and yearning.

Almost making eye contact with me, Yoshino hurried looked back to the front.

With both legs on the pedals, he only stepped rigidly with his left; the bicycle wobblingly disappeared from the gate.

Strength drained from my shoulders.

Was it from disappointment? Or from relief?

“I...” I talked to myself while shaking the bicycle.

I wish I know.

What is it that I sought from Yoshino?

The day after the exams, Saturday, I wandered about. I wanted to be carried off by the wind, so I dress up like dollar bill, and a 1000 yen one, at that. Though it's rectangular, since it's clothe, it's hard to replicate the same light feeling. The mug printed on it was from an older bill… Who's the hell is this? As a modern child I might not have even seen the real thing. How knowledgeable of me~ My brain's so empty~ I'm going with the wind~

Money circulates in this world, so I thought I would wander the town while contemplating on whether I was even worth a thousand yen.

Both the tests and the weather were impeccable… Maybe not, since it's drizzling outside. Forecast this morning mentioned the typhoon I heard from few days ago closing in onto this city. According to them it will arrive sometimes between tonight and next morning, and leave in two days after ravaging the area.

I thought that if I just dress up like this and stand in the yard, the wind would just carry me off into a town I've never seen before. And people would just… run away from this giant cash bill. Hm.

The wind wasn’t huge, and the rain just drench the money. It'd fall apart it were paper, but clothe does get humid after absorbing a certain degree of water. It's a pretty terrible feeling.

My bangs dripped with water and hid half my sight.

Oh yeah, I'm blonde now. I remembered the changes.

But the exotic factor waned, and the changes I gave myself burnt its life away. I wanted to be a different me; just what is this ideal me required to accomplish?

The scooter I recognised sat there. I know the helmet resting on the seat too. I was interested too thanks to a certain salon, so I revealed my lowered face.

Quietly, and with back slouching, I opened the door and looked inward. Could be the dampness, but it was colder. Before I could feel the frigidness, the sound of scissor blades crossing echoed once again.

“Ah, come on in. Young people's hair sure grow fast… Is that outfit meant to be a pun of hair (髪) and paper(紙)?”

The owner was glad about the half-baked reciprocal nature of teenagers nowadays… That couldn't be it.

Without stopping her hands, she welcomed me with a smile. She froze for a second after seeing my outfit.

“Oh uh, it just… The red bi— I mean, scooter, belongs to someone, I think, so I just...” I don’t know why I had to change the sentence.

Perhaps I'm the rare few who considered ‘that person’ as an adult.

“Scooter? Oh, do you know Kaguya?”

She said so while pointing toward the sofa meant for customers. Princess Kaguya was playing trump on there.

With her sandals off, she kneeled on the sofa, facing off with a little girl. Well, both were little.

Upon seeing me, she happily said, ‘Maekawa, I see you’re still as tall as the average Dutch girls. What are you wearing?’ I felt like she’s a kid staring excitingly as the giant amuse park ride. ‘You looked like you came out from a mattress compressor, too.’

Since the two of them occupied the sofa, I merely stood. People outside would probably mistake me as a talking scarecrow. After what seemed to be either an imagination or words of deprecation, I looked down.

“You’re friends with the owner?’ I realised I still didn’t know either of their names.

“Mm… Since before I moved here.”

Even with eyes glued onto her cards, she correctly pointed at the owner’s back.

The owner did not look back, simply replying, ‘that’s right, I’m friend with an alien.”

She’s still working. The female appearing to be thirty or so in age cut away at the hair with an ambivalent look.

I don’t know if it’s because it’s a dream, or because it’s her appearance. The slightly curled lips and face were incredible adorable, unfitting for her age. Weird, I’ve seen her… Hm… No, I’ve seen someone like her before. No, it can’t be anyone I know. What I should pay attention now to is… I looked down and saw the child, enveloped by the shadow I’ve created. ‘Ugh… Ughh…” She moaned strangely while backing up. The princess in her red yukata saw this and laughed heartily.

“Ahahah! Maekawa’s really scary, but not really dignified!” She so interjected.

“It’s just my outfit.”

“Ran-chan, this is Maekawa. She’s our customer, and she just became my friend.”

The owner, whose smile went unconcealed in the mirror, sent help.

“Ran-chan?”

“My daughter. You write it as blue, and read it as Ran.” (TL Note: 藍 means blue, and can be read as Ran)

Oh~ I wrote in my mind the Kanji I don’t quite remember.

“My husband said it feels really fast if you read it in English… I am the one picked the character though.”

“Oh~” I replied, marvelling at the fact that she’s already married. There’s no tangible reason, but I had assumed her to be single. It’s a bit shocking, but since she felt so mature, it’s not that strange either. Lots of feelings were mended.

Then Ran met my eyes. She stared at me with these glossy eyes. Um… Felt like I was bullying her. “Ran-chan, this Onee-chan— uh, you are right? Right. This Onee-chan would like to sit down, so you should come here a little.”

The princess pulled Ran-chan to her side to give me room to sit down. Ran-chan still looked a little apprehensive after moving; she just wouldn’t look at me. I felt so sorry for her. Guess I will dress up like an anpan or toast next time.

I tried sitting as close as I could to the edge; I didn’t really come here for anything, so I looked at my fingers.

After hearing the princess’ voice for a while, someone spoke to me.

“Maekawa, are you down?” From the mirror, the owner asked me.

“What? Um… Why? Err…” Was I seen through? I put myself on guard for some reason.

“You’ve been looking down.”

That’s it? I’m a little weirded out.

“Hm? What? Are you sad?” Even the princess joined. She pulled a card from the kid’s hand and smiled. Looks like they’re playing the Old Maid.

“Not really.” I so responded, but it was largely ignored; they started, ‘I see~ Kids are really intense with their emotions. Good! My friend, why not go ahead and play this salon’s secondary job, as councillor?’ Something along that line. The owner looked slightly troubled, but she grinned still.

“Reading someone else’s heart… That’s easier than done.”

“Who cares? Just say something interesting and throw in some philosophy or some words of wisdom. Do you best.” The encouraging speaker herself went back to focus on her game.

Why do I feel like I get lumped in with the problematic crowd? Yet here I am not saying anything…

“Something interesting, huh? I would say she’s has more than I do.”

She held up a strand of the hair of a customer who fell asleep and pointed at her with it. That must be the owner’s acquaintance… or perhaps one of the regulars?

“Well… Okay, why don’t I tell the story of me becoming a hair dresser?

“it’s not super interesting, but it’s a fond memory.”

As if tossing in a bonus, the owner gave a youthful smile.

“Sure.” Half of the affirmation was deference, and the other personal interest.

“Long time ago… Haha, it’s really been long, but that’s detail. Before I moved here, I fell in love with a boy. He had a head of messy hair. He hated it when people touch his hair, so I thought that if I became a hair dresser, I would be able to cut his hair for him. That must be why I became a hair dresser.”

She stopped neither her tongue nor her hands.

The face of the owner as she spoke of the story was not that of nostalgia, but the devious smile of a child who had played a prank. Eyes squinted, as though toying with the person who had yet notice her intent.

“And what happened with you and the boy?”

“Mm? Never seen him again. I didn’t go find him, and he never came to me. I did send a letter to him as a way to inform him where I live, but he never replied.

She stuck her tongue out. Looks like that mischievous smile never left her.

“Are you still waiting for him?” A little surprising, but maybe not.

“Mm? Of course I am. I’m expecting it maybe soon, or maybe in some strange time like ten years from now on.”

“I see…”

“But I’m not expecting much.”

She easily toppled her previous statement like humming a song.

“So which is it?”

“Hahah… It’s because I did a terrible job writing the letter. And sending two letters in a row is also just weird… Maekawa, I’m telling you this because I’ve made the same mistake. It’s better to say what’s on your mind while you remember. Feelings change, you know. What you have with the other person might just end tomorrow, so I think one should just try hard and end today’s business today.”

“I feel like you guys have already established what my troubles are before I even said anything.”

“Well~ A girl’s trouble has always gotta be with love. That’s just how it is.”

“Hahah…” She’s right. I got dumped because I’m a giant. It’s too late now, I feel. Shrinking will be pretty hard.

“That’s right! Acknowledge what you want first before thinking about it, and you’ll be a heck lot happier!”

The princess interrupted from the side, shouting some words of what may or may not be life advice. When she fluttered her sleeve like that, I pictured a butterfly with red wings dancing. She then casually tossed the card away, seemingly returning to her game.

Acknowledgment before reasons. I thought I’ve heard that just recently.

“Oh yeah. About the letter: Don’t mention that in front of my husband. He’ll so angry about my first love.”

“Okay.” I wanted to keep to the minimum dealing with this love-dovey stuff. Sure is great for couples beyond their adolescent.

“Ran-chan, you too.”

She turned to remind her daughter sitting on the couch.

“Uweh?” “Uweh~” Pinching each other’s cheeks, the princess and the daughter both replied displeasedly. I almost blurted out ‘Which one’s yours?’

“Alright, Jojo-san, we’re done here. Oh boy, she’s passed out. And drooling, too.”

A smiling face mouthing an expression of wonder reflected in the mirror; Jojo-san…? Anyway, snoring as she did, she only moved a little when poked in the face.

“Should we let her sleep outside? I feel like she’s gonna wake up. That or she’s gonna bloat.”

Looks like the princess’ means of solving problems has no separation between peaceful and violent.

“Well~ I don’t really mind. But just what does she do anyway? I heard she came here halfway during work. I’m kind of jealous that she could come to a salon to take a nap, even if it’s at my store.”

“I know right~” I felt like the princess should be asked the query too. She must live quite the colourful life if she could be playing around with the salon owner’s daughter.

The sight here would be what I believe is the common picture of a rural place. A napping customer, a hair dresser cleaning up the hair. A girl meowing and a princess threatening the kid.

As the only troubled person, I didn’t fit in here. I’m not a customer anyway, so why was I here?

“Haha…”

Now is not the time to be deride that yukata customer who frequents our pub, I mockingly told myself.

The typhoon came. My house wasn’t in ruin, but my classmates’ plan of going out this Sunday certain was.

Me on the other hand had been playing the role of player 2 blonde Maekawa-san, lazing around in my room. It felt terrible; a somewhat sad somnolence struck periodically.

Ever since my height surpassed 180cm, I’ve almost never had a good day. Perhaps because of that, sometimes my stomach ache — It must have become a source of my stress. The best proof to that would be the continued existence of the hobby known as cosplay that manifested at that time.

“I’m coming in.” The paper door opened without being knocked on. It was my mother. Since I didn’t help out in the store yesterday, we haven’t met in almost half a day. I heard her walking up the stairs, so I wasn’t caught off guard.

“What?” I flipped into the direction opposite to the door, displaying my disinterest with the back of my head. When mom saw my hair, she muttered, ‘if only that will raise your English score.’

I agreed.

“Blonde doesn’t look good on you.”

Mom said so while circling to my front to sit down.

“Leave me alone.”

“Princess came to the store yesterday.”

“Doesn’t she do that all the time?”

“She brought a friend. The girl from the salon.”

“Oh… Misses Owner.” I didn’t catch her name.

“Yeah, her.” Neither did mom.

After looking the trembling window, she proceeded…

“After they’re a few bottles deep, they told me that my daughter seemed depressed.”

Sigh… They just had to stick their nose in. I hopped on the floor like a sea elephant or seal, as a way of retaliation.

“Did you come here to comfort me for the words of a couple drunks?”

“Yep. ‘You should believe most of your friends’ advices, but not entirely.’”

“Everyone lies, and if they’re your friends, you have to see through the lies and live happily.’” That’s what my parents taught me, right?

“That’s it.” Mom nodded contently, her head bobbing left and right.

She inspected from my fingers to my hair.

“Thankfully your body is the only thing that didn’t grow taller.”

“Must be because my parents kept me so well-fed.”

Heheh~ I said so with just a little spite. Right, I told my friends that, thanks to modern medicine, I managed to grow so tall. But somehow Yoshino heard the rumour, and he gave me this super mean look. Now that was truly unnecessary.

“Mm… So that really was it.”

“What really was it?”

“After talking about this in the pub, we concluded that you must be troubled by your height again.”

“I’m not even…” I’m still growing though. So much that my stomach hurts, like a pregnant woman.

I curled up in my knees, like a snake in an animal show.

“Really? You’re a strange one to hate a model body. If I were you, I’d dress up like in one of those fashion magazines. Yet here you are, dressed up like you’re going to some school presentation.”

“I can’t even play a tree if I wanted.” I would pass out after raising both hands while standing.

It hurt too when nobody could just ad lib and pretend I’ve been blown over.

“Must be true when they say parents just don’t get their kids.”

“Yeah. You grown-ups have heart as wide as a desert. Of course it’d be hard to find whatever thought you had as a child there.” I threw out what sounded like words of enlightenment.

“So, even if it’s going to do the opposite, I’ve come to apologise to you.”

“Hah?” I could not comprehend and reacted strangely.

The picture of my mom being affected was nothing clear. She opened her mouth ajar, her voice sublimed into words effortlessly.

As though telling a story, she told me the truth.

“Huh?” A cute question unfitting for my size dangled in the air.

Common sense and rationality crumbled. Hurry, pick up the piece before they’re lost in the abyss by my feet. Put them back together. The emptiness grew; like a windcock, I spun in the centre of it.

A chemical reaction exploded. The words the owner said to me yesterday mixed with my body.

The blood circulated faster. Vessels meant to efficiently deliver blood supply to the body displayed their team work, pulsing, as if to inform my lack of blood.

It bubbled and boiled; though fitting, it was in fact the knocking of the wind from the outside. Yes, the typhoon had landed. And there’s a place I want to go.

What would happen if I were to go there? Something will change me. This premonition pressurised my vessels.

And so, I must destroy my favourite memories.

Nothing was forced out of my mind with words such as ‘too late,’ or ‘it’s over.’

It’s not too late. End today’s business today, that way my feelings can always be true to me.

Logically that’s not possibly now though. I’ll give it a few days since there’s no point in going out today.

Yet this feeling bursting forth exists in the me now.

“Don’t look down on us tall people!” Uhh… Typhoon!

I sprinted down and hopped off the stair, kicking off the floor of the hallway. Ignoring the shakes and anaemia kicking in, I focused my eyes. Mom said something from behind, but because of certain feelings I couldn’t care.

I slapped on the umbrella that I thought was proper for this weather and rushed out of the house.

“So, I’ve heard everything!”

What appeared to be a child standing outside of my yard yelled. Her sleeves were going crazy, like a red carp flag. Rather than her holding the scooter, it’s more like the scooter was her paperweight.

“Are you here to destroy humanity?” I spoke first.

“Nope, that’s still under discussion with us aliens. We plan on sending an agent soon!”

With a carefree expression, she lied about her background again. A princess from space should be allowed to join, right? It’s not my interest to leave remarks like that, but I couldn’t care less now.

I am now going to pinch the nose of this event that I’m not sure whether common sense or science fit better.

“Why are you here?” The gale behind her howled.

“I came to check on the location that could be changed by our power.”

“I see.” To make up for lost time I began walking.

“Actually, I left my ride at your pub. It’s not like it’s the first time, but the typhoon is coming. A human-powered tow truck known as your parents kindly move it to the storage. You came out when I came to pick the scooter up.”

I stopped this time since she was being serious. All I could say though was ‘I see.”

“Where are you headed?”

“The shrine.”

“The shrine? What’s that?” She spun the scooter around, making it face me. “I’m no expert, but hop on. I’ll go with you.” She smacked the seat.

“Why are you being so nosy?” I looked at her with suspicious eyes.

“It’d be a fond memory when I go back to the moon.”

She stuck her nose up and played the mature adult.

Sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong, again? As I parted my lips, rain water flew in. The words never came. I regained my grip on the rationality that returned to appease me.

“I’m in your hands.”

After calmly assessing myself, I realised that it might take a long time for me to reach my destination alone in the typhoon. I might lose this thought in me during.

Being a giant is not enough.

“Wow~ Being polite is not your thing!”

She spoke with a smile that was impervious to the wind. I followed her onto the scooter.

The storm assaulted us; even the strength to keep our mouths shut was sapped away.

“Jokes aside, why are you doing this?” It’s odd to speak so politely with this person.

“Well…” She squinted her eyes slightly, almost as if disinterested, to keep the rain out. I circled her tiny body with my drenched arm; the inside of the yukata robe almost seemed ethereal.

“Isn’t it an adult’s job to help a lost child in tears? Aliens are kind of like this to humans. Everyone knows that it’s too naïve though.”

What she said in the end was not a complaint, but it was mixed with censure.

She’s completely in her role. I was actually concerned.

“Freedom stems not from only reason, but from acknowledgement! Reason is the line, and acknowledgement is the points! So even if the process was never connected, just hop on the dots! The rules of that ‘speed is right’ is correct! Ye love not a bicycle, but a scooter!”

Princess Kaguya shouted toward the stormy clouds with disregard to the riverbed — the forefront of the upcoming typhoon.

“Ugh… I drank some water.” With that heaving motion, she once again opened her mouth.

“Listen well, Maekawa! What you’re doing now makes no sense! The typhoon is coming, and here you are heading into the shrine in that forest! The storm is coming! It’s came; it’s upon us! The alarm’s going off! Because you acknowledged yourself! But that’s the spirit! Same as when you’re playing M#rio kart! Shortcuts are more challenging, but that’s why they feel so good! Even if you lost because you keep trying, it’s still great! Listen! This is what people refer to as freedom! Only that those people are aliens!”

“Thanks for the explanation! But it’s sounds pretty human to me!”

“That’s because it’s been twenty years since I moved here! Where do we go now!”

“Right!” And since when have you lived outside of this planet! I yelled! But the wind erased my voice. The gust almost blew the scooter away, but the princess kept it perfectly balanced.

“We’ll probably die if we fall into the bank.”

“Is that something to be so calm about?”

“And you don’t even have a helmet. The officers won’t like that too much.”

“The police won’t be around in this storm, just drive.”

“Yep, and that’s why we can go without eyes looking.”

Was that why she tagged along? I almost commended her for that.

A person of 180cm height holding onto a 147cm driver; no matter the angle or presentation, anyone would find the sight amusing. Since the rain that could cover embarrassment and unnecessary words poured, I held onto the princess and left all movement up to her.

Summer — my visions were poor, like when I was dragged by Yoshino through the words. The terrible weather imbued the environ grey — a sunless world was born.

In this picture, a crimson and reliable silhouette easily distinguished itself from the surrounding.

We chased the shadows of Yoshino and my past; with the superfast shortcut version of that, we arrived at the forest’s entrance. The woods fanned menacingly.

“We have to walk from here on. The environmentalists are an annoying bunch. I’ll have you know more aliens are advocates for mother nature than humans.”

“I see.”

The wind helped me through this topic. I got off and thanked her, all while looking at the countless entrances between the trees. I pictured the image from before to re-discover our entry point.

The fourth tree on the right looking from the road… Ah… there it is. I entered from where Yoshino charged directly into; from the same location, I invaded into the forest in hope of finding the place we stumbled upon.

Footsteps were step… step… step… and step step step. Suddenly it was duet of an oddly light tempo.

I found her there after turning my head.

“Why are you following me?”

“I couldn’t find a reason not to.”

She lost me. I had no strength to either rebuke or welcome her, so I proceeded silently. Halfway through I realised this object plastered on my back became a windbreaker.

“Oh yeah, what’s this shrine?”

“What?”

“Oh... I mean, why are you going to this shrine?”

‘Would you like to equip this?’ The way she ended her sentence sounded like such a question; I think she also hid something from me. The grown-up asked something critical, but since she desisted from the query, I was at ease. I don’t really know why, but I had this feeling that this shrine was something more than just a building.

“We’re going to destroy it.”

“What? With this storm around I don’t even think we need to do anything.”

I won’t be satisfied by that.

The memories, the shadows, and the cherished things — the charm that’s the conglomerate of all.

I want to rip off the charm that I tied on that tree. That is my display of valour for the day.

“Sigh! If height is considered a talent, than it really isn’t for me!”

Other than valour, I also shouted something else in the middle (unsure) of the forest. I’m no giraffe, so there’s no reason to grow this tall. Still, it was now a part of me.

I guess I was mad. It was something that I refused to lose to the storm to — it’s everything to me. I wanted something to change, and I believe the possibilities were hidden in the dark of the woods.

“Boys only don’t like tall girls because we’re so few! If everyone just drank their milk and eat their meat it won’t be a problem!”

“Have you been drinking, Maekawa?”

“We run a bar! Of course liquor is in my blood!” I’m not even sure about that either!

And so, I traversed the forest, charging inward without knowing for certain if I was lost.

Upon arrive the shrine, I was dismayed.

Look around. Walk around. Try to remember. I did everything, but no one responded to even my voice. I checked inside too, yet—

Nothing.

I saw nothing.

I couldn’t find what I came for. The fan-shaped leaves fluttered. Their accessories were gone: I couldn’t even see the shadow of my charm. Only the shrine remained to be destroyed by the gale.

“Why?” No one should have been here.

“This is not right.” I leaned in. As if immersed in water, the clothes sunk down with weight. With what seemed like swimming strokes, I advanced slowly.

“Oi~ Maekawa, are you alright?”

“Nothing is alright!” Don’t screw with me! It has nothing to with anything?! Then why am I so tall?!

I must dig it out. Then rip it, throw it, burn it, soak it — it must disappear.

“Calm down. Tell me what’s going on.”

“It’s gone! It’s all wrong!” Because of that! It’s because of that that Yoshino and I ended up like this! I know I can’t go back to the past; that’s why I must at least destroy it. It’s the only way I can move on, or I will crumble on the way forward.

“More! Further! Further!” I cut through the woods, sending dust and mud flying. I could see what’s ahead, and I searched while closing in; but I couldn’t move forward: my limbs struggled laughably, and then—

“Relax.” Someone touched my head, and with the tiny hand that the red sleeves flowed from.

I was kneeling in the mud. Splash! The knees that were splattered with muck were as cold as floor in the winter.

“So what if it’s gone? Let it go.”

Her tone was not dissimilar from correcting a misremembered math formula.

Stroke and stroke, she firmly felt my hair. The bangs covered my forehead and eyes; even looking up couldn’t reveal her face.

“If all you needed to grant a wish was to hang a piece of a paper on a tree, earth would have never advanced this far. Listen carefully: Don’t expect your prayers to be answered, even if it looked like they worked. Wishes are meant for someone more specific; not the gods, but someone who could help you.”

She hit my forehead with the bottom of her palm, pushing me away on between the eyes.

Wham! I jammed my elbow into the mud and collapsed. Felt like a golem reverting to its material. I had this wild dream, that if it kept raining, would I drown in a water no deeper than 10cm? ‘Heheh,’ I laughed at myself.

“What am I going to do with you?” Princess Kaguya walked toward the shrine with this annoyed expression. Her dauntless gaits reminded me of Yoshino when he was young.

She somehow took out a stack of ancient charms that seem too frail to be touched. She then produced a brush and began the motion of writing. As I pulled my face from the mud to see what she wrote, she stingily hid it. When I stood up, she left quickly and tied the charm on a nearby tree.

“Look, I made another one for you. Don’t break this one now.”

“The charm—”

“’I wish Maekawa would be 179.9cm.’ But here’s the thing: It’s not a prayer to the gods. I can use a magic… no, sorcery, to make people smaller. Mmm, as the Japanese would put it, I can use sorcery. Since I’m an alien. Yeah. Not just laser beams, I can even do telekinesis from my hands, like a 3D picture book. Get it?”

“I don’t.”

“That’s just cruel.”

Her face twisted together. I guess in a way she’s the type to never back down on what’s important to her.

Still…

To so easily liberate someone, ‘that’s an adult for ya.’

“Why say that now? There are giant brats and tiny adults too, you know? Like an adult brain in a child body.”

“Something in there sounded funny.”

She gave a smile indicating her intention.

I dropped my guard and almost caved.

Ahh… I don’t need to look for an excuse anymore. She told me I just had to acknowledge myself. Not everything needs to have a definite reason. It’s extremely difficult to carry out without getting used to it though.

My heart was in contrast with the weather, and neither showed no sign of waning. That’s right, the storm is coming.

My life is about to begin as well… I thought.

So, let’s quickly escape from this gloomy forest.

I dragged my drenched body, peppered with wound and covered with snout, back to the scooter.

“Sorry, but I want to make a stop along the way.”

“Along the way? You mean you want to go? Life doesn’t have ‘stopping along the way.’ That would mean you don’t have a place to go.”

“Ok… I want to go somewhere.”

“No prob.” She raised her right hand while driving. Hey.

Perhaps she noticed how dangerous that was and immediately stopped; I once again hugged her in relief.

This time, the body that was almost mistaken as an illusion undeniably existed.

Through the cloth with my cheek, I assuredly felt the firm spirit of an adult through my bones.

The place I asked Princess Kaguya to go was Yoshino’s house.

“Hurry.” She urged me from the back, still straddling the scooter. I looked down, and ran up to Yoshino’s doorbell knowing that it would stir quite the something up. The bell that used to need me to stretch taller was easily reached.

It’s so short now that it might even strain my shoulders if I were to press this every day.

In a short while, the person inside opened the door unsuspectingly without even using the intercom. Due to the wind blowing against it, the door appeared difficult to open. The person who pushed the door out with both hands was Yoshino himself.

“Uh… Huh?” The door shut itself on Yoshino’s shoulder; he gawked in shock.

It could be because a soaked giant stood in front of the door, or maybe because I picked the day before the typhoon to come and scare Yoshino, to run him in circles.

“Yo!” Voice morphed into words, and transmitted to Yoshino’s ears.

How many years has it been?

“Uh… Oh…”

Affected by a formless chaos, he stood there affixed.

I could laugh at how stiff he looked.

“I’m a hundred-percent natural.”

“What?”

“My parents didn’t do anything to me. Meaning, my parents thought that you were scared because I grew so much. They just told me that trying to comfort me.”

“W-what?”

“That’s how it is.”

I reached out.

My fingers grasped Yoshino’s short hair more easily than I’d expected, and tugged on it.

Rip, rip… The sound of hair leaving the skin.

“……” Tears formed in a silent Yoshino’s eyes.

I might have overdone it. Casually I tossed the hair aside and exhaled.

Even without Yoshino in front of me, I could still stride forward. Because the long legs of a giant could leave anyone behind; even from afar, they will see me.

Don’t fear being distanced. Even if the past with Yoshino is devoured by ambiguity.

In this forest, before the storm arrived, a tiny grown-up taught me the way to walk.

Before he could retaliate.

Before I could regret.

I turned away.

“Good bye.”

I made up my mind to leave.

And to change myself.

I turned like a kite, walking away from Yoshino in this storm.

“Oh? Done?”

“Princess.”

“What’s up?”

“How old do I have to be to get a scooter license?”

☆

“She’s the daughter of the CEO of a furniture company. She lives in a huge house, which is why people called her Princess Kaguya (家具屋).”

I later learned the truth from the hair salon. It wasn’t even told by the person herself, but the owner.

The daughter of a furniture company sitting on the couch added, ‘actually, it’s more than just that.’ ‘Oh yeah, that’s right. It’s was quite a bit of time ago.’ The owner remembered and grinned somewhat devilishly. Mm~ She may have been a bully before.

“Here we are. Back to normal, Maekawa.”

“Thanks.” I stroked at the black bangs while saying so. I dyed my hair back — the old Maekawa-san had returned.

The teru-teru bouzu that appeared momentarily in the mirror looked pretty good even with just black and white, I thought proudly. Seeing that smile, the owner asked amusedly, ‘what’s wrong?’ and removed the cape.

Finally I walked toward the register, and like before, with a word of ‘thanks.’ As I reached for the dwindling allowance in my purse, the owner said, ‘just half is fine.’ Similar to last time, she gave half of it back.

“Ah…” I see. I gave in this time and took it back.

So she’s a clairvoyant, and an ethical business owner.

I looked at the hair dresser, considering her now to be someone who places acknowledgement before reasons.

“I’ll take the rest of the money. Hahah, now you really wasted your money.”

“Yeah.” I nodded deeply. I also wasted a lot of my life.

From now on I want to live efficiently.

“Okay, I’m heading back too.” Princess fluttered her wings toward the entrance.

She spun to wave lightly at the owner.

“Good bye, Tooe~ You should study your English for your name sake!”

“Haha. Sadly, that’s the type of hard work I hate the most. I’m wasting my life, after all.”

With a smile, she shooed the princess away. ‘Everyone is trying to get rid of me,’ Princess Kaguya laughed, disappearing as if swapping place with the door.

I wanted to see the scooter off; I acknowledged the hair dresser who bid me farewell and headed out. She was just about to put on her safety helmet, and her scooter was positioned to go.

“See ya, Maekawa. Next time, bring me the shell of a swallow.”

“I won’t keep you. You may go back to the moon now.”

“I will.” She tauntingly throttled and let the scooter gain speed.

Princess Kaguya, with her illegal helmet, rode energetically in the road again.

Wondering if she could get there with a scooter when even the bullet train can’t, I saw her off.

The battered frame of her scooter disappeared around the corner.

I could see only the pure, aqua-blue sky after the typhoon had passed.

Naturally, with the cloud gone, the scorching sun beamed down. “Phew.”

I almost melted when I stepped on the asphalt road — I was like vanilla ice cream in this weather.

Thanks to the hair attracting heat, my brain gradually disintegrated.

To more efficiently transmit themselves, the thoughts about to dissipate motivated me.

I started walking.

While ruminating the phrase, ‘the meaning of life is to create someone else’ life.’

My neurons worked to imagine what I was to Yoshino in his story.

It’s been half a year since I recovered to an eggplant.

April sixth, a breezy entrance ceremony. As a high school freshman, I passed through the gate of an unfamiliar school.

I never spoke to Yoshino again in the second and third semester after the summer, and I never needed to avoid eye contact with him. We chose a different high school, so I don’t have to be careful anymore.

The gazes of my soon-to-be classmates who came to join the ceremony were upon me. Was she held back? Or a girl standing on another girl pretending to be ‘me?’ They stood from afar and watched closely.

Since I didn’t think of a place to hide, I deliberately walked in the middle of the campus road. I grasped at my hair and looked upward; a blend of pink and traditional Japanese girl colour took the sky.

Though my hair was now black, the student ID still used the old blonde girl picture. Objectively, only my hair looked different.

But I’m Maekawa-san, a giant who everyone, be it the seniors or classmates, had to call me -san. Now that I can’t become someone else, I just have to grow fond of those words. A one-way road for my feelings.

Thankfully a lot people liked me, my height, and even my hobby (No way!). Even the owner of the hair salon said this: ‘you can be the perfect fruit thief.’ Princess Kaguya too would beg me, ‘let me ride on your shoulder~ I wanna play super fighter bros~’ The place that I worked part-time at during December told me, ‘sorry, we’re closing next March’ and let me have a costume as the final payment. I took the eggplant. It’s not like I didn’t always walk around selling vegetable croquette wearing this thing. My co-worker dressed up as K#rosuke, but I don’t do that stuff anymore.

Back to the topic at hand. It’s a strange ting to talk about, but I’ve made up my mind to live every day of my live from this height.

Perhaps some will be deceived by my superficial height. I bet every club would want me in. Though I will miss my old height, I learned the fact that being tall is indeed a source of charm in others’ eyes. Yoshino liked me before, but I’m the me now. I don’t rely on that anymore.

I’m fortunate to have grown so big. Anywhere I reach for, I could hold onto something.

“Hng~”

This pretentious body of mine appeared even better while I stretch.

Now, let’s go disappoint some more people.

### 004. Chapter 3 - Skyward Tomorrow

Q: Please select the appropriate words to fill in the blanks.

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Touwa Erio]

[Old Guy]

[Astronaut]

[A grade schooler human]

[My amazing mom]

[Kashiwagi the environment destroyer]

[Training at the park!]

[Okay, fine.]

[Need to work hard at scavenger hunt]

[The same thing]

I fought with my classmates a lot.

But this was the first time the teachers and mom found out. I tried to not let my face get hurt, but the other person happened to have longer nails; she left some scratches on my face. Thanks to that, I was summoned to the staff office.

Sitting in his chair, the teacher interrogated with crossed arms. We called him Baldie behind his back. He always has a blank look, and he never hid his bias for students he liked, so almost everyone hated him. The kids he liked would try to fit in, saying how annoying he was. Grade schoolers were terrifying.

The girl sitting next to me lowered her battered head, her mouth shut with tears almost falling out. She started it, so it should have been a simple matter. She kept quiet, apparently comprehensive of the situation. Behind her was her mother with both hands on her shoulders, who seemed to have been called to school for the first time ever. With an anxious look, she appeared mindful of other teachers’ gazes, lowering her face every time when someone looked.

Mr. Baldie sighed, and then he glared this way. He demanded an explanation from me with the expression. I wanted to look away, but I held it in and glared right back.

There were plenty reasons for the fight. She called me a bastard child, my eyes and hair disgusting, and then she pulled my hair. But I didn’t want to say anything, and kept my mouth closed.

Of course I couldn’t say anything — not with mom here.

Mom too didn’t say a thing. But she wasn’t looking around either; she paid attention only to the scratches on my face. The look she had, the ‘Gosh! How dare she hurt my Erio’s face! I’m going to steal some skin from that kid and put it back on her face!’ vibe. It’s a little embarrassing getting stared at like this. Mom unsettled me far more than the teachers did.

The teachers asked with a deep voice, ‘we won’t know unless you say something,’ to intimidate us. The other girl shuddered, looking at her own mother for help. Her mom was troubled by the eyes of the angry voice; she urged with a look. But like something’s stuck in her throat, the girl glared at me with teary eyes.

It’s never gonna end. I was bored out my mind, wondering if it would end sooner.

This really is minuscule compared to the universe itself.

Calling our moms over just because of a fight, they ought to stop overreacting. This is why Baldie is so unpopular. I hate him, because he made fun of my family being single-parented. So I talked back, and we’ve never been friendly since then.

By the way, I also hate the dad that I took after.

“Um…”

Mom’s hand up popped off, in contrast to her humble voice. The teacher was baffled by mom’s abrupt comment, but asked her to speak up anyway.

Upon hearing that, mom smiled slightly.

“I’m making dinner right now. Can we go home now?”

All three people except me were speechless. I wonder what’s for dinner.

That’s just how mom is. There’s nothing surprising there.

When no one moves, she does — that’s what my mom’s like. It’s a bit childish, but speaking up to get things done and hating unnecessary stuff is what I love about her the most.

‘No can do, I want to listen to what they have to say,’ the teacher said so strictly to deny mom of her request. ‘Mm~’ she moaned quietly.

“Mm… All right…”

Oh, she’s totally not listening. When she nods like that, she’s never listening. That’s just how mom is: She never listens to the other person if it doesn’t help her.

But that’s what I love her (you already know). How my-mother of her.

“Then punish them both. See ya.”

With a grin, mom pulled me up from the chair. As I looked up, she joyfully rubbed my head, ‘we haven’t walked home together since parent visit day.’

Holding my hand, she led me outside of the office. Still smiling, she paid no mind to the teacher’s yelling. I expected no less from my mom.

My grades are going to look horrible this quarter, but that’s fine.

Onto the hallway, mom looked down with eyes only slightly ajar; she never stopped beaming. I thought she would scold me despite sounding so gentle; my teeth clenched, and my lips pursed.

As though waiting for me, she spoke shortly after.

“You’re good at fighting, aren’t you, Erio.”

Her hand began swaying with those words.

Her grin seemed proud.

My preparation was for nothing.

Regardless, I don’t know why, but tears burst out as I sniffled to hold them in.

“Uuu…” I tried.

I am Touwa Erio.

A human grade schooler with hair and eyes from out of this world.

Stars in the expansive sky covered my every dream.

And they are there, every night, in the great heaven seen from my yard. I could almost sense the depth of it, standing in the autumn breeze. Clouds thin like pie crust scattered lazily: It wasn’t a night perfect for stargazing.

“Don’t be out for too long. Erio being sick = Mom not working.”

“Okay.” I answered mom, whose head poke out of the living room.

Almost every morning she complains ‘Ugh… My head hurts. It hurts so bad it’s like a superpower is going to split it’ ‘My tummy hurts~ I’m staying home’ like a stubborn kid. I think that’s why Tamura Obaa-chan always treated her like a kid.

Mom neither yelled at me nor asked why we fought. She put a bandaid on my face, and that was it.

She would probably listen if I were to speak up, but I didn’t want to. I talked about the music test instead during dinner. The recorder’s sound that I made, the clam soup in my lunch having sand, and some such prattling.

I always sit across from my mom when we eat in the kitchen. There’s no one else, but that’s okay. It’s always been like this, and I love mom too. She often talks about her job; she runs a snack shop and that’s awesome.

“I just hired a part timer today. She’s so young that not even the whole Zodiac would put her on my age. Eek, that’s scary!”

My house is always so rowdy because Mom is as loud as five people (according to Obaa-chan).

We had ginger grilled-pork for dinner. It was great.

“Back to business.”

Stargazing resumed. That sounded poetic.

I thought that the sky was covered by earth during the day, and space during the night. Currently it was the universe.

Staring at the firmament filled with my dreams and goals never bores me.

I must go there one day, I thought passionately.

“Hooah!”

My hand pointed to the brightest star.

I want to be an astronaut. Not many are like this, but this town is an exception.

The universe seemed to tangle itself in this place we live — it’s even been called the town of aliens. Thanks to that, people treat me like an extraterrestrial. I don’t like it either, but there’s nothing I could do about it.

‘You’ve grown so much,’ is how mom might put it.

My hair, carried by the wind like a pendulum, stroked my ears. I shook a little from the tickling.

“Erio, come on in if you’re getting cold.” Mom slid the window open and spoke. I turned around startlingly. S-she’s watching this entire time.

“Mom will warm you up with some cuddles. Come on in.”

She beckoned, and squeezed at an invisible me.

“Mm~ Just a little more.”

“Erio’s is already rebellious! Mm… It’s still too early. I don’t remember using an accelerant...”

Mom’s head retracted into the windows; she shut the window and rolled over to the corner of the room. Her dark, indigo hair mimicked her rolling about. I walked a few steps forward, eyes tracking her head. As mom rammed her head onto the wall, my right hand landed on the window. In the light of the living room, my blurry face appeared on the glass.

“Mm…” I imitated mom in the staff office.

I picked up the hair that’s recently been cut.

“It might be a little too short…”

I cut my hair because it was difficult to move around with. But that’s not what I was concerned about.

My eyes stared at the colour of the hair and eye cast on the glass.

Azure blue.

There was no one else in the school with this hair colour — It drew everyone’s attention.

A lot of people who’d met me said ‘you look like an alien.’

The phrase baffled me more than the colour itself.

Space isn’t aqua-blue, so why do people think my eyes or hair look alien? Does such a thing exist in the human genome? Had previous humans encounter aliens before? Were those aliens emanating aquatic light? I’d like to meet them then.

But there’re only humans around me.

When the time is right, though, I’ll find them myself.

“If that were to case…”

The problem right now would be—

My life on this planet had recently became a little rougher.

I run to school every day.

It’s essential for any aspiring astronaut, the lady at the science museum told me, to have stamina. So I ran — sprinted.

“I’m going!”

As I was on my way outside this morning, mom peeked her head out from the depth of the hallway and said something other than ‘careful on your way there.’

“How about if mom gave you a ride there?”

“Okay.”

Some days — usually when mom overslept — are like this.

I braked on my shoes, stepping stationarily while waiting for mom. It was a good day out: A blue day without much cloud — Tonight should be perfect for stargazing.

“I’m excited.”

“Seriously, you’re too excited on a weekday, Eri.”

As I began standing on my toes periodically, mom yelled at me. It’s not the kind of anger that I should feel bad for though.

Mom dragged the bicycle out of the shed. On days when I go to friends’ houses or whatever, I change the bike’s seat height and use it too.

The coloured bicycle named Legend Colour was the birthday present I asked for last year. I heard astronauts need to speak English fluently too, so for the sake of my English I speak it often now.

Mom straddled onto the seat before handing me the yellow helmet inside the basket. The school mandates all students to wear them when biking, not that anyone really listens. Still, I couldn’t just say no when my mom handed it to me.

I quietly put on the oversized helmet and adjusted the strap. Mm… If it could cover my hair, then it should be perfect. I recalled the fight; I thought how uncomfortable sitting quietly was. Pain rippled from my cheek when I went to scratch it. Oh yeah, I got hurt on my face. The bandaid must be stuck on my pillow after I rolled over last night.

I let my backpack into the basket and sat down on the rack behind mom; my arms reached around her stomach. She’s has a very slim waist. I have to say that everytime. We kids have it rough too.

“Where to, dear customer?”

Before we head out, mom jokingly asked with her foot on the pedal.

“Mm~” I contemplated on a cool or funny line, but nothing came to mind. I would totally hop into the basket and yell ‘I wanna fly!’ but I couldn’t stand the embarrassment.

The basket isn’t a place for a human.

“Uu~ Uu~ Uu~”

I pondered so hard that I even groaned.

“Mind if you leave it to me, dear customer?”

“Mm…”

Not only did she play taxi, Mom also played boatman. I felt like I was the king of all transports.

She began moving; our bicycle gradually accelerated. The wheels played out a light tune.

“Ahh~ The weather’s so nice. I wanna travel somewhere instead of working.”

Mom looked around, her eyes squinting from the sun.

“Didn’t we just go?”

We had a five-days break two weeks ago, and we went to a sea-side hotel. That was the end of September, and mom insisted on going to swim in the sea. After about three minutes of free-styling she crawled back up, freezing.

‘The sea is a demon’ escaped from her clattering teeth.

“Meme-chan loves traveling, so of course I’d go when I have the chance to.”

Lulala~ Lula~ Lalala! Lulu~La~La~ La~ She sang. What’s amazing about mom is her ability to not care about what the neighbours we passed think. She’s so cool. I don’t really get what she’s saying though, but I guess that’s what you call ‘grown-up talk.’

I rubbed mom’s back with the cheek that’s not scratched. Though I felt only the clothe from her back, I felt that no matter how hard I press onto her back, she would always hold me up. I was overjoyed.

“Eri, where do you want to go?”

Mom, stopping her song halfway, asked while turning the bicycle right, away from where she works.

“But Mr. Money went away, so I guess we can’t go anywhere for a while… Hehehe…. Ahem…”

“Mm?” I wasn’t thinking about something clever this time.

I had a place in mind, but I hesitated to say it.

And I too wondered if I could even go there.

“Space.”

“What~ There’s no hot spring there.”

Mom pouted disappointedly. Looks like she wants to go to a hot spring this time. I could easily imagine my mom swimming in the bath when no one else is around.

After the right turn, the straightway connects to the main road. It’s a real road where cars drive on, not like the one in front of my house that only has bicycles. It’s hard to picture the two streets being connected.

The main road is where elementary school kids, middle schoolers and high schoolers could see each other. It’s a convenient road, but apparently a lot of car accidents happen here. The teachers occasionally put out notices for us to be careful.

This was actually not the way I take to school, but it’s fine since mom is with me.

“Erio.”

As we sped past the cross walk when the light began flashing, mom spoke to me.

“Mm?”

“Are you going to fight again today?”

I paused my fussing. As if silently confirming the voice from mom, I put my ear onto her back.

She must have personally brought me to school because she wanted to talk about this.

“If you’re gonna fight, leave it to after school. Mom will help.”

She cheerfully declared, and rang the bicycle bell. No one was in front of us.

“Mm…”

We passed the sidewalk; I didn’t know how to respond, so I let out an ambivalent moan.

“Heheh, how could any grade schooler survive Meme-chan’s straights?”

“Tokiwa-san from sixth grade apparently is over 170cm.”

“Still not a problem!”

She let go of the handlebars, reaching both hands forward. You’re not fighting anyone and please stop shaking it’s really scary.

I am in fifth grade. It’s a bit embarrassing as an older student because of my frequent scuffles: It’s not like I enjoyed fighting.

We passed a few people I know on the main road. After meeting eyes, my lips curled up a bit. They waved at me when they saw.

Most people didn’t cause trouble.

Only a few earthlings made fun of me in class.

“……”

Sometimes mom says outlandish things.

But she’s absolutely a human.

So I am too, I think.

And who knows about dad.

I belonged in class three of the fifth grade, in the room of the deepest part of third floor. We had two buildings in the campus; the one closer to the school gate was for first and second year. I went there two years ago; faculty room and infirmary were also situated there.

Mom and I said bye at the gate. I promised that I won’t fight today; I told myself that I must follow it through. I took a deep breath and charged into the building. After changing shoes, I sprinted all the way onto the third floor! It was easy because my mom brought me here. Take it easy .

I ran three floors up without stopping, continuing onto the waxed hallway that people weren’t supposed to run on; I found the classroom furthest inside and entered from the back door.

Few of the students who got there early stared at me; I said hi to some of my friends there. A lot of people live a bit further away from the school, so they come here earlier. Typically it’s students who live right behind the school who barely arrive on time.

I walked toward the third seat from the back in the middle column — that’s my seat this semester. Our arrangement was done by Gojuuon order last semester, but it was by drawing name this time.

To be honest, I didn’t care where to sit. Others seemed to think otherwise though. They also liked drawing the lots too, but I guess they just wanted to hang out with their friends.

Though I had friends, I didn’t really understand the appeal with having a clique.

Before sitting down, I checked out everyone else in the room. Nice, the girl that I fought with yesterday isn’t here.

I set my backpack on the desk; the girl next to me reacted to the sound. She simply said ‘morning.’ It was weird since we didn’t talk a lot, but I still said ‘morning’ to her awkwardly.

She’s a tiny girl; her desk was massive compared to her. It’s not like I was bigger than she was though. I think her name was Maekawa-san. Her eyes are kind of scary.

After saying hi, Maekawa-san went back to her book. It was probably just a polite gesture; following suit, I sat down quietly.

Hand propping my head up, I spaced out staring at the clock above the blackboard. It was only eight. We’re about twenty minutes away from the hygiene committee person asking how we’re doing and the teacher announcing today’s schedule.

“Mm, twenty more minutes of this?”

This is terrible. I don’t read books like Maekawa-san does. I looked around to find some friends to talk with, but I saw that they were already with somebody else, so I couldn’t go in. To me, a friend of a friend is just a classmate.

Too bad. I lied on the desk. The morning played out by the sun seeping into the class room and the chilly air dissipated — A night all to myself.

Tip of my nose pushed against the table’s grain. The disgusting smell of eraser shavings.

I wondered if I could sleep till home room begins, so I closed my eyes in anticipation to my own night.

“Zzz~ zzz~” I snored. Zzz… Zzz… “Uwah.”

Twitch, my head shot up to my body jolting. I wiped my mouth thinking that there might be drool while looking around. “Oh~’ A lot of people gathered.

The room that allowed even the bird’s chirping to be heard was suddenly as raucous as the city. Shrill screams of prepubescent boys, and even laughter of the girls; I peeked at the clock, seeing that the long hand was pointing at 15.

It seemed that I was the only one unaware of the atmosphere, so I panicked. Maybe fifteen minutes of my memory disappeared, and the sudden change in this room scared me. It was as though I suddenly realised that I was elsewhere, or that I just leaped through time. I turned, searching for a clue.

I saw that girl that I fought with — Kashiwagi — had already arrived, chatting with her friends. At first I thought she would purposefully put a giant bandage over her head, but she didn’t. Her seat was two seats ahead of mine on the left; if she were to focus in class, we won’t see each other. But I had a feeling that if we did, she’d glare me down.

Even now I felt she’d suddenly turn my way and stare resentfully, so I faced toward the hallway, away from the windows to let time pass. The girls centring Kashiwagi were the people causing my misery on this planet — these were the environment destroyers.

Their senseless harassment toward me and my life upset me. I waited for the teacher to arrive.

After a while our teacher Mr. Baldie entered the room with his usual displeased look.

Bag and handouts under his arm pits, he passed through the classroom and violently tossed all those things on his desk. A deep thud echoed from the papers and the bag.

The teacher began scanning the room from his podium, showing a stern look only when looking at me. I, too, looked back as if shooting beam from my eyes. I’m not aggressive; I just hate looking weak in front of people I hate.

He looked away disinterestedly, onto Kashiwagi this time. She cowered, and her body became almost part of the chair. Kashiwagi is just a normal kid who’s afraid of the teachers, so why did she pull my hair? I thought she said my hair and eyes were gross.

The teacher finally looked away from us, back to the entire class. He then passed out the handouts while reminding us about the suspicious person appearing around town and going back home on time after school. That was it. I thought Kashiwagi and I will get called into the office, but he didn’t say anything else in front of the class.

After the teacher stepped off, the hygiene committee boy went up and opened up his health survey made from cardboard. ‘Anyone feeling sick~’ he asked lazily while his eyes drifted toward the windows. Kashiwagi was still shrivelled up. Good.

Our first class today, P.E, would be taking place under the blue sky.

The sports festival was next Sunday, so we spent most of the time in P.E classes practicing either running or tug-of-war.

Since I trained myself every day, I took first place in the 50 metres race last year to show off to mom.

This year’s glory will also be mine.

There are still merits on the difficult road of becoming an astronaut.

‘Hey!’ I tossed about ten balls into the basket. ‘Hey!’ I pulled the arm of the classmate in front of me when we’re having a tug of war. After it was all over, I nodded off during second period’s math from working too hard. Third period’s science class was alright. Fourth period’s social study I took some notes. Liver in the lunch’s curry grossed me out. Worked hard during cleanup, and half the class after that I slept through.

So ended the time of being locked in the school. Since nothing important happened I’ll skip a few things. An elementary school kid’s day doesn’t begin till after school.

Baldie didn’t call me to his office, which means my grade was in serious trouble.

I promised to mom, so I didn’t fight with Kashiwagi today. I could tell she’s avoiding me, though. She would glare at me from far away sometimes, so she hadn’t given up yet. She might be holding back while the storm passes, but I think she’ll probably hold out for three days like usual.

She seemed to have chosen the beginning of second semester as reason to harass me.

I remember her not saying much before then. At most we say ‘good morning’ to each others at the shoe locker. But she started destroying the environment. I don’t know why. She and her lackeys claimed that I was gross. They once shouted together, calling me alien and stuff. Shut up, stupid.

When they called me names, I said nothing. But when she pulled my hair, I blew up and hit her. I made a fist and smacked her head like in a questionnaire show, She was laughing when I hit her, so her teeth banged into one another, making this loud noise. She groaned, holding her chin. It wasn’t my intent, but the way she was hurting made me feel bad. So I said sorry. And she just swung back at me. The nails on her hand scratched me, and all my guilt went away.

I was so mad, and by the time I realised we’re already grabbing each other’s clothes. When that happened, Kashiwagi’s lackeys ran off, probably afraid of being scolded. She’s pretty lonely too, huh. I only have mom too.

That’s what happened yesterday. I did hit her a lot more, but it is what it is. You don’t count in a fight like you do in a gym.

I shoved my books and the handout from this morning into my backpack; I don’t know how early I was, but I ran out. Naturally, I kicked my way through the hall. Passing the classmates walking leisurely, I jumped off the stairs. I couldn’t go home like my classmates; I couldn’t go to their homes either.

Because the universe is so far away.

If I relax too much, I would never make it there. After throwing my slippers into the locker, I put on my shoes and dashed off to the training ground.

The time after school was when I secretly train myself. I headed toward the main gate.

If mom was waiting outside, I’d call it a day. But she wasn’t! As per my original plan, I took a right. It was , however, a little disappointing.

“Is she working hard today?”

I pondered about my mom while dashing.

My destination was the park next to the temple located near the residential district. If you ask why, it would be because my path to the aliens was there, in that dim place surrounded by trees. Oh, it’s the road that opens to my secret base.

The park was my own: save for the old man who cleans the temple occasionally, not many comes near here. Though there were the birds, and the cicadas in the summer, and even the hobo who once lived here, they all disappeared recently.

That’s a good thing. You can’t let people see you train – that’s what I learned from comic books.

There’s also no sound in space, so it’s good practice to get used to that. Silence shall become the fuel to my passion for space. I hope.

“……”

I looked upward while running. Dusk was still ways away.

Sometimes I ask myself:

Do I admire space so much because I am from there?

“No…”

It’s because I am from Earth that I yearn so much for a place with no ground. If I were an alien, I shouldn’t be so excited about the scenery that I’m already so used to seeing.

After about ten minutes of running, I arrived at the shrine. Since I ran all the way here from the classroom, my breath was ragged. But knowing that I used to need to rest halfway running this distance, this pleasant fatigue filled me up with a sense of accomplishment. I began walking through the park.

The park was dark from the dense woods blocking out the sun; the wind was colder here than on the outside. I then understood why the hobo would disappear shortly before winter season.

Usually I put my backpack onto the park equipment that is half a tire made to look buried underground before I start training. I do stuff like pull-ups on the rusty bar, and running circles in the park. I didn’t really have a routine.

It’s possible that I’d run into some unexpected emergencies in space, so instead of a manual, I’ll rely on wittiness! That’s probably not right, but a manual is too much trouble to make.

Just like I always do, I swiped on the surface of the yellow tyre before resting my backpack there. The old man who cleans up won’t come today. ‘So lazy~’ I said so while leaving my stuff for a run. I don’t think I’ve ran enough for the day.

I couldn’t train yesterday because Kashiwagi provoked me. I have to make up for that today. “Mm…?” As I began running, something caught by the lower corner of my eye stopped me in track.

Pitter, patter, I made my way to the jungle gym where I spotted that thing. Sticking my neck in to see the structure composed for light-green iron bars, I realised that my sight was right.

An old guy was sleeping in the jungle gym with a cat.

“……”

The cat lied peacefully on the old guy’s stomach; the old guy rested between the cracks in the jungle gym with a slightly pained expression. He didn’t seem to want to move.

Then why not just sleep somewhere else. Then I thought that maybe this old guy had a reason. Could this be his house? There’s no blanket or a bedroom, so I don’t want to live there. Ah, he woke up. He opened his eyes lazily.

My presence seemed to have woke him up; with bleary eyes he looked at me.

“Oh… Hi there, kiddo.”

Mm… He greeted me roughly. Confirmed that he’s a human.

“Hello, old guy.”

Mom praised me last time for being polite, so I said hi back. The old guy didn’t seem so impressed, pouting.

“At least call me mister. Same syllables too.”

“Mister old guy.”

“That’s not the same kind of polite.”

“It’s just a few more syllables, don’t let it bother you.”

“What a mouthy kid.”

The old guy smiled happily after saying so. Still, he remained with the cat.

He rubbed his tired eyes and yawned. The old guy was skinny, and for a hobo (I think) he’s pretty clean. His clothes were not tattered, and they were of better taste than Mr. Baldie’s. Is he new to the hobo business?

“Ah. Are you a bad person, old guy?”

I thought of what the teacher said this morning and asked him outright.

The old guy who’d been accused as a bad person frowned. ‘Hm.’ He appeared to contemplate on an answer. I have the same expression when I get called up to solve a hard math question.

“I guess? I don’t really know either, since there is a lot of bad people.”

“A bad person just said something that made sense.”

“So are you going to just chat away with a bad person?”

The old man with ‘things he had no right to say, part 2’ asked.

Mm! Yep. Even mom would be angry if I talk with some strange man. But I can’t really care for some old guy in my secret training facility, so it’s okay if it’s a little dangerous.

“Since you’re lying down in there, I’ll just run when you try to get out.”

My legs are very fast. If I lose to some middle aged old man like him, don’t even mention space, I’d have trouble leaving Japan.

“As long as you don’t come out, I am safe when I speak with you.”

“What am I, Gulliver?”

The old guy grimaced wryly. Perhaps in sync with his chuckles, the cat got up. It was a yellow and slightly chubby cat; it didn’t seem feral. The way it slept with its belly up gave a sense of leisure that contradicts the old man’s.

“Is this where you play, the park? I’ll leave if you want.”

The old guy stuck in the bars (sounds like a picture book’s name) looked up toward the thick forest while asking me. Now’s a good time for me to claim ownership.

“Yeah, this is where I train.”

“Train? That’s amazing. Sounds nice.”

The old guy laughed. Hahaha, the cat slipped off from his belly onto the ground. Upset that it had to stand on its feet, the cat meowed resentfully. It looked up to me.

I traded glance with the cat, discovering its trait – its eyes had no light, like those of the wrapped-up fishes in the super market. Staring at those eyes, I thought I might think of cats as not creatures, but created.

“Old guy, is this your cat?”

I just had to ask amidst the talk of training and exclusive rights. ‘Hm?’ He looked at the thing he hugged; after confirming where the cat was, a smile formed on his face, ‘oh.’

“Am I feeding this cat, or is this cat feeding me?”

“Mm?” I don’t understand abstract things.

“This guy helps me find food. It’s been a godsend.”

The old man tried to pat the cat, but it didn’t want any of it and ran outside the tower. It was nimble despite being fat.

Seeing the cat run off, he chuckled; his gaze moved toward me.

“Training… aside. Are you in grade school?”

“Yes. I’m in fifth grade.”

I opened my palm, showing five fingers.

“Really. Kids nowadays sure have some interesting hair colour.”

“Wu…”

Of course he saw that. I’ve never seen anyone with hair colour like mine though.

Mom said that my dad and I share the same hair. They call it genetic inheritance.

“Is your hair real?” He pushed on mercilessly.

Facing with this seemingly slow and nice man, I couldn’t put up a menacing front.

“Mm… People always say I look like an alien.”

“I could see where they’re coming from.”

He casually agreed. Couldn’t you tell from my expression? As I lamented, the old guy’s smile faded away like waves after the tide.

Then he said something that, never mind an old guy in a jungle gym, a regular old guy would never say.

“But there aren’t any aliens out there as cute as you.”

From his perspective, it’s probably something little more than a joke.

But his words were enough to intrigue me.

Mindlessly I kneeled to speak with the old guy.

“Mister, what do you know of the universe? Have you been there? Seen the aliens?”

Perhaps afraid of my overwhelming interest in space, the old guy shrivelled up. But then a smug look appeared, and he baited so:

“About that… I’ve seen it with my own eyes.”

With that, he laughed contently. That’s no different than the boys in my class bragging about catching a rare monster in their games.

“You are trying to trick me!”

Why does an old guy who’d seen space live inside this jungle gym?!

“Hold on, I’m not… I did go there before.”

He sounded so casual that it sounded like the truth. There wouldn’t be a point had he lied anyway. Deceiving a grade schooler like me when we just met wouldn’t do much.

“Really?”

I still don’t believe him. Kids nowadays have to be more cautious or we won’t survive in this harsh environment. But the moment I started talking to this man I already put myself in a lot of danger.

“Yeah. Just once though.”

He claimed; there’s a distant look in his eyes, yet the corner of his lips raised.

“Are you an astronaut?”

“No, no way I was someone so impressive. I… That’s right, I…”

Enough with the emphasis. It’s space. Space. Space! He went to space. I guess even people like him exist in this town. A few red dots appeared in my mind, but no line connected them. That’s too bad. The cats darting around near the edge of my vision did not serve to calm me down.

“Astronauts do what they do out of passion. I spent hard cold cash to get there. It was great.”

The old guy sounded derisive, contradicting whatever he showed outwardly. But I haven’t sorted my own feelings and all this information — all he did was confuse me even more.

Besides, though not apparent, he just didn’t seem overall too excited talking about space.

“So why are you lying here?”

If you loved space, you wouldn’t be doing this. I thought. Maybe he likes Earth a lot more.

The cat seemed to agree; after meowing, it beckoned the old man.

“Well, that’s because…”

The old guy ceased talking as though glossing over. Whatever came after was anything but that.

“It’s over.”

“What is?”

Instead of answering me, he merely smiled.

But even that expression disappeared right away.

“By the time I got there, my life was already over. I got what I wanted.”

He said, all the while staring at the trees through the slits between the iron bars, perhaps regretting over something in space.

Affected by him, I peered at the ceiling of this Earth.

The sky was blue, and still covered by a limited ‘Earth.’

I stared at the black screen of a television. It’s not that I found a channel with no feed: This T.V simply could not receive signals. A tiny sound emitted from the T.V set. It sounded like it was getting a signal from space. It was so cool that I listened for a while.

After meeting the old man, I came home and stared at the T.V.

I wanted to listen to his story about space, but he left with the cat saying it’s time for dinner. It’s like he just ran off. I had thought of following him, but mom would be worried if I went and hung out with a strange man, so I went home. And it’s not like I totally trusted this guy, so I kept my guard up. In any case, it’s been a while since I last skipped out on two days of training.

“……”

My ears perked. A sound much quieter than what the T.V volume was set to transmitted. A woman spoke. It could be news from another channel, but hearing it come from a pitch-black screen always felt a little more mysterious. It was soothing.

The old guy lying in the jungle gym remained in my vision. He seemed so far away, and so surreal. It made me feel that the space that I aimed for everyday when I run is right next to me.

To me, he’s the being known as an alien. He came down, to the city where I live… Even though he looked nothing special, it was still exhilarating to me.

Could it be just a coincidence that this man appeared in the town protected by the extraterrestrials?

I wanted to see him again, to hear him speak more about space. Will he be there in the playground tomorrow?

Besides…

He said that people like me don’t exist in space, and that made me happy. Somebody’s who had been there said that to me.

I am from this planet, after all. Stupid Kashiwagi.

“I~~ AM~~ HOME~~!”

Mom’s shouting followed the slam of the door; I walked out into the hall. Kicking her shoes off, mom had on her usual smile.

“Your mom was caught hiding in the comic store! I had to work really hard today! Yay~! Oh, and it’s gonna rain tomorrow!”

Mom waved her hands like she was asking for complements while running toward me. She then yelled, ‘hey!’ pouncing me. Before she could reach me, she tripped. Her forehead crashed into the floor, and mom ceased moving. Lying there, she did not budge.

“Are… Are you okay?”

“I’m okay!”

“Uwah!”

She got me. Mom’s arms wrapped around me tightly, flailing me about. Though her head flushed with redness, she didn’t seem pained at all.

“Eri~ Gimme some sugar~:

She kissed my cheeks multiple time and even sucked on my face.

“W-what are you doing? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong!”

Mom, possibly perfectly fine, did not waver.

Her confidence is also why she’s so cool, I thought.

Something unexpected occurred on the following day. Kashiwagi made her move.

I sprinted all the way from my house to school that morning, and made it there five minutes later than the day before. Like yesterday there was hardly anyone there, but the people were different. That made me sad. Today was a gloomy day too, so I won’t see the stars tonight either. Mom’s weather forecast was never to be dismissed.

Kashiwagi was there. The moment I walked in she stood up and came over. Her group of disloyal friends weren’t there, but I sensed troubles brooding.

I did not stop; in fact I tried my best not to while making way to my own seat. Kashiwagi refused to let this slide. ‘Hey! Alien!’ She spoke crudely. I’m a human, so I didn’t care. She ended up pulling my hair; I turned.

She just doesn’t learn. As I spun around, I swung my hand back. My hand landed on her neck. Smack! The crispy sound of a clean hit on her neck drew the attention of everyone in the class.

“Ow!” Kashiwagi’s shrill cry of pain ensued her loosened grip on my hair. She felt her neck. Looking at her, I felt glad that I didn’t promise mom to not fight today.

“What?”

As funny as it was hitting her first, I asked anyway. Kashiwagi’s eyes lit up, perhaps displeased with being hit. Her eyes were already slender; her mouth crooked to the side, making her look extra creepy. It wasn’t a cute look. Also since I had my hand on her so many times, I knew how oddly shaped her skull was. Kind of like a potato.

“Go back to your space, alien! Stay away from here!”

“No. Go away, Kashiwagi. You want the teacher to make you cry again?”

I shooed with my hand. I was already used to being called an alien every time by her. It’s not something I like to hear, but it doesn’t anger me anymore.

“I didn’t cry! Stupid!”

She retaliated with a cantankerous look. Being so impulsive, she’s easily provoked. It’s not like I was picking a fight, but I hated how she does exactly that every time. Time to end this quickly.

“But I saw you cry.”

I tauntingly pointed out the fact; Kashiwagi turned red. She was on the verge of breaking down, but judging by how irritated she was, I guess she did end up bawling when her mom yelled at her at home. Kashiwagi made her move.

My elbow met Kashiwagi’s hand, which reached for my hair. What should be my next move on her defenceless body? Not going to lie, I’ve never lost once in a fight with Kashiwagi. Still, I never felt like I’ve truly won. The thought stopped me short of hitting her, so I instead pinched her lips and twist it like a water faucet knob.

“Baw! Baw! Baw!”

It would appear she’s screaming ‘ow,’ but she was out of breath. Noticing the changes in her groan, I let her lips free. Kashiwagi held her mouth, her body bent forward; Kashiwagi, taller than I was, suddenly turned into a midget. She might still be taller than Maekawa-san though.

Though not teary, she glared with blood-shot eyes. Because of the pinching, it looked like it was her nose that got punched. I felt guilty, feeling like I was the bad guy.

She backed away; I thought she’d run out to the hallway, but she merely escaped to her own seat. Aside from her lips, her right hand that was pushed away seemed to be hurt, too; she pressed onto her lips with her left.

“Stupid alien, die!”

“Okay, jeez.”

I returned to my spot after leaving something for her to chew on. Hanging my backpack onto the side of the table, I looked to see others’ reactions. A few of the people standing around talking met my eyes, but only shortly before averting their gaze unnaturally. They looked to Kashiwagi, with an almost sympathetic look, as opposed to the terrified look to me.

Wouldn’t it be the other way around usually?

“Jeez!”

Why do I have to be in a fight this early in the day and feel like I was bullying her?

I went to the playground straight after school. Usually it’s for training purposes, but not today. I slacked off for two days, so I was initially going to train properly too, but this time, it’s just a convenient cause.

I wanted to meet that old guy in the jungle gym. While thinking about little things like how suspicious ‘old guy at the jungle gym’ sounded, I flew through the way.

The backpack’s strap met the risings of my body, sinking into my shoulders. We had arts and craft for second period today, so there weren’t a lot of books; however, the paint for the canvas made the pack heavier. I noticed my centre of gravity was leaning right, but I paid it no mind on the way to the playground.

If I don’t hurry up, the old guy might leave to look for food with the cat. Because of an unexpected event, I left late.

I had to escape the Kashiwagi gang. I don’t know how Kashiwagi, someone who lacks so much loyalty and cooperation, could possibly convince her lackeys, but they ambushed me to try and gang up on me.

Doing something so lowly after I commended her, how useless is this Kashiwagi. To avoid her net, I circled about in the school. First, I lost Kashiwagi in the classroom; I then saw Underling A camping out in the hallway (Class mate. Has long face). I gripped her hand, but before she could let an attack out, I crushed her right hand. Once the pained wailing began, I escaped easily. As I ran in the hallway, students from other classrooms swarmed; I was ahead of the crowd. And then, I discovered Underling B (pale girl) waiting in front of the staircase.

With my fist clenched, I raised my arm while sprinting. Underling B immediately covered her face in a stance of non-aggression. Using the opening I jumped down the flight of stairs. Why are you helping a fight if you don’t want to get hit? Well, I don’t like being hit either. I hate Kashiwagi.

There’s not a single cute girl in Kashiwagi’s gang. It’s like a bowl of potatoes in an iron pan.

I hurried down the last stairs; as I began panting, Kashiwagi appeared.

A four-on-one wouldn’t be good to me; I had to avoid the shoe lockers and make my way to the hallway connecting to the other building. What a pain, at some point the thought formulated.

I made my way out of the first-year’s building; it would be a lot easier if I could run barefooted, but I didn’t want mom to be worried. It wouldn’t be good. I had to rely on our differences in stamina and speed to spread them out, then defeat them individually. That’s the kind of trouble I had to deal with. I felt that I had to thank my skipping out on trainings for my nimbleness.

“That’s what happened!”

“You kids sure are lively.”

The old guy had on a homesick smile on his face after hearing my animated story.

He’s still in the jungle gym today, but he wasn’t lying down this time: Limbs twisted, he was like the thing inside a tooth paste tube, sitting down in the spaces between the bars with his arms and legs through them.

He looked like a puppet tied up by its own strings. Gross. I expected no less from the old guy.

The cat curled outside the gym, trying to catch its own tail. It turned lazily on its back.

My mom looks like that on weekends.

“It’s too much. I’m not a radical.”

The old guy laughed my rant off.

“Maybe they’re just jealous of your look.”

“Oh? Really? Am I cute?”

“I don’t usually look at kids face that much, but I guess you’re pretty good.”

“Thanks.”

I rarely looked at my face, because of the hair and eyes.

So that’s why Kashiwagi wants me to die so badly. She’s really hitting that puberty.

“Oh well, I don’t care about Kashiwagi. Tell me more about space, old guy.”

This is what I escaped Kashiwagi’s company for. Say it. Tell me about space, old guy.

“Well… What do you want me to talk about?”

“Like, the universe is like this! Or it’s so big! You know.”

My arms flew out, anticipating the many things he’d tell me. Perhaps he found it amusing; his shoulders shook from the chuckling.

“What? Old guy, were you really lying about going to space?”

“No, that’s not it. I just thought of myself ten years ago: I was just like you.”

He laughed, twitching in there. Of course it’s tight on space in there. The cat came out first.

Smart cat. I kneeled to greet the cat, but it didn’t even bat an eye. It seemed absorbed in its tail.

“Ten years ago… That’d make you a young old guy?”

“Wow, don’t kids nowadays not know what ‘young man’ means? I am i a young old guy. I was a young man who was too old for anything, and basically useless.”

He had a nostalgic look; it’s befitting of people his age, but even mom sometimes have this look when she spaces out looking at the yard. I may be a kid, but I knew she’s either thinking about dad or Oba-chan.

“I don’t get it. You’re too abstract, old guy.”

“You’ll get it in twenty years.”

“Just make it so I can understand it now!”

The old guy posed like a mannequin left in a garbage dump laughed, ‘what an honest kid.’ So gross. I personally wanted to kick him in the stomach to straighten him up, so he’d look like a flower in a vase. Since I hadn’t heard anything about space yet, I held it in. If all this about going to space was a lie though, I will definitely do it.

“I wasn’t this into space when I was your age. It was after I turned thirty.”

“How old are you, old guy?”

“Forty two.”

“Four two.”

“Shut up. It’s basically impossible to become an astronaut at that age.”

The old guy put his hands up in surrender, but because of the iron bars, he could only stretch in other directions. ‘Ugh,’ he groaned. Again the bars made him go elsewhere... After another minute, he settled down. Throughout the minute, the cat had grown tired of its tail and began strolling in the playground. He didn’t stop the cat.

“It’s impossible to start working out and relearn my English at that point. Impossible, really. Besides, there weren’t even that many Japanese astronaut then, so I didn’t think I could become an astronaut.”

“So how did you get there?”

“With this.”

The old guy had his palm up and made a circle with his thumb and index finger. I thought with my head tilted, ‘A monk or Jizouposatsu?’ ‘Money,’ the old man said.

“I spent a lot of money to have a trip to space. If there’s something I had, it was money. Doing jobs that had nothing to do with space, I crawled around this earth to make some money.”

His creepy laughter resonated in the park. The old guy then looked upward, toward the ceiling-like trees that no birds would fly out from.

“But space travel scam was a big thing back then… Before I could find the real thing, I used up almost all my money. I did end up in space thought.

‘I was exhilarated,’ he whispered as though he was ruminating the taste of his favourite dish. I was envious of people like this old guy. We couldn’t afford anything like that in my house. I’ve never seen mom win a lottery, so it was my only choice to become an astronaut.

Thinking that, I became more spirited. I wanted to run as much as I could, but the old guy wasn’t done. Too bad. I wish my torso could stay here while my legs do something else. That way I could listen and train at the same time.

“I invested all my wealth and got into a rocket for three… No, two and half minutes. In that amount of time, I experienced a zero-g world. I was too nervous though; I couldn’t enjoy it as much as I should have.”

“Two and a half minutes… Wow… Zero-g is so cool…”

“Wahahah, be more jealous.”

He’s obviously proud. This sucks. If an old guy who doesn’t even have a house outside of this jungle gym could go to space, then mom and I should be able to go there easily since we have a house.

But this old guy looked penny-less, so once I thought of going to space regardless, I was no longer frustrated.

“But why did you go to space?”

“Hm?”

The old guy raised his head off the iron bar. I looked at him, then the cat. He squinted; his eyes were a lot smaller than when he smiles.

“Because I thought once I go there, my life would be over.”

“What?”

“I went to space, and that was my life-long goal. I believed that my life would then end at that point. In fact, it would be great if life were to end upon achieving that something. There’s no more game after winning the Koshien championship. It should end there.”

The old guy described himself in a passionate way unfitting for October. I couldn’t comprehend his abstract speech, but I knew it was about ‘ending.’

“Once I got there, I felt a change— actually, something did change, and it was the peak of my life. It’s all over, but my life wasn’t. I lost everything and came back here. Strange, I thought, when I stepped onto the ground after getting out of the rocket.”

“……”

“And now, ten years after that, I’m still alive on this Earth. Strange.”

Like tears were falling out of his eyes, his voice trembled as if crying. The old guy was merely looking skyward, trapped in the jungle gym. It was as though he was amazed with how here he is, alive on Earth.

“Don’t you want to come back here?”

“Mm?”

I thought the scratch on my face iteche; I covered my cheek.

“Do you want to become an alien after you go there?”

“I don’t know… That doesn’t sound so bad though. It’s okay even if I’m not a human. I just want it to…”

‘End like that.’ After saying so, the old guy shut his eyes and let his body limp. It might look as if he would never wake up, but I somehow knew that he will open his eyes again, seconds, minutes or even hours later.

He’s already been to where he wanted to be, so here he is, waiting for his life to end.

“Oh? You’re in the scavenger hunt, Erio?”

“Yep.”

“Leave it to your beautiful sister. Oh, I can help if you want to borrow a cute girl. Or a beautiful girl, too. Anything that has anything to do with beautiful or ‘beauty,’ you just come hit Meme-chan up.”

“Mom is so cool~”

Several hours after meeting with the old guy. By the time the sun had set, I was chatting happily with mom about the sports festival over dinner. Primarily it was mom who’s happy.

We decided on what everyone was doing in the sports meet during homeroom today. I was going to join the scavenger hunt. An endurance race that I would shine in wasn’t part of the meet. There were two people who were faster than I since I became a fifth grader, so I couldn’t join the fifty-meter race anymore.

And so I, who’s considered as fairly fast, would be joining a peculiar activity amongst the racing category. Since it’s a game that’s heavily dependent on luck, so it’s hard to say if I could show off in front of mom. This sucks.

I stabbed at the potato-meat stew mom made. How did she make this when she’s at work? Mm~ Weird.

“……”

Like the potato I picked up, covered in onion and pork.

My mind was in a jumble. Mostly because of that old guy.

Space is great, naturally same goes for the people who went there. But the old guy, lying inside that iron gym, made it all sound like a failure,.

It’s odd. What is going to space? The question threw me into disarray.

“……”

That old guy can’t be a good person if he could just go ahead and ruin a kid’s dream.

“Erio?” Mom called. She noticed my chopsticks stopping. ‘It’s delicious,’ I added.

Her smile faded; she looked into my aquatic eyes. Mom’s colour was between black and violet, different from mine.

“Were you in a fight?”

“No.”

It was one-sided, so it wasn’t a fight.

“Oh yeah. The school said something about a weird guy, so I’ll be careful.”

I changed the topic stiffly. Mom opened her mouth, wanting to talk about the fight. Still, she waved her chopsticks like a baton, and the smile emerged from her face again.

“The newbie at my store said she saw some weird old guy.”

“Okay…” So that’s where the old guy and his cat went.

“While Meme-chan was doing her best making potato stew.”

Oh, so she cooked it in the store. I remember her saying that there’s nothing for her to do even if she went there. I guess’s mom never wastes time… Wait?

“If some weird guy talks to you, never go with him. Eri is too cute. If I was an old guy I’d pick you too.”

Where did that confidence come from, especially the latter part?

“I’ll pick you now, too!”

“Wagh!”

Mom went around the table and lunged at me. Even though we’re in the middle of supper, mom and I screamed while rolling around the floor. “Wagh!” It’s just like jumping into a pool right after a big meal. We tossed about and even hit the wall and the door. Mostly just mom though.

“Oww! But I will protect Eri!” Said mom coolly.

“That’s my line!”

My entirety still spun like I was thrown into a blender. Mom’s embrace was still a lot better than the jungle gym though.

“Eri, you can sleep with me today!”

“Ah~ah~”

I thought while spinning in the house with centrifugal force.

The whole thing with Kashiwagi is miniscule compared to traveling to space. And I’ve the difficulty of going to space. Like the old guy when he’s young, I yearned for space.

I never considered what might come afterward.

What is the universe, to an Earthling like me?

It would seem that it isn’t enough to just have astronaut as my goal if I want to overcome hardships.

Rather sentimentally, I realised that I am no different than a regular human from this point of view.

Two days passed. It’s now Friday. My life wasn’t any different during that time.

Kashiwagi was there too during school on weekdays. Since I beat the crap out of her, she did not come directly to provoke me. At most she loudly discussed aliens with her friends in class when she’s a bit away in class, sitting in her seat. She’d then end it with ‘aliens should just die.’ That did nothing to me though. It’s the usual elementary school life.

My afterschool time, however, had been different since four days ago. The old guy was always in the jungle gym with his cat. He’s always trapped in there, while the cat dawdled around the playground. Sometimes it chased its tail. How peaceful.

Even when I asked the old guy about space, he’d always brush me off, ‘there’s nothing more to say.’ If he’d nothing to do with space, he meant nothing to me. So I never talked with him about anything that’s not space-related, and continued with my training at the playground. Sometimes I go for the cat. It’s very nimble.

Three days passed without much.

We had to prepare for the sports meet during third period today. Setting up tents, drawing lines on the field etc were not necessary till the day before the event next week, but there were still a lot to do. For examples, making the pamphlet for the sports schedule and preparing the props for the games.

My team was told to make the list for the scavenger hunt. First we cut papers into the size of rectangle slips, then we write items’ name on them. That was our job.

‘Is it really okay for contestants to make these?’ I pondered as my marker froze in the air. What should I put down?

Whoever is responsible for the slips can write anything, but this depends highly on his or her wisdom as well. Everyone cut out the required amount of paper first before stopping to wonder, or to discuss with his or her friends. What are some interesting yet challenging things? Or something that could be easily lent like glasses or hats? The teachers did not tell us the procedures.

What I’d wrote so far were still boring things like ‘dog,’ ‘cup,’ and ‘red balloon.’ I thought of astronomy telescope, but no one could find one. And if I draw this one, I will definitely end up in the last place in front of mom.

“This is hard.”

After muttering so, I tipped my chair backward. The front of my chair was off the ground, with only the back wobbling back and forth. I watched the clamorous classroom while maintaining balance.

I ended up making eye contact with Kashiwagi, who’s responsible for making the flower decoration on the sports meet entrance. Was she staring at me the entire time if we saw each other so easily? She smiled maliciously while looking. It’s a scheming expression, but most likely she’d rather come at me directly, so it’s probably nothing more than just that. That was just her default state.

She could stick her tongue out at me, or have on an obviously contemptible look, but she would always just look away with that annoying smile. I don’t know which is which anymore. When does our fight stop?

She’s always like that, so I don’t know. What do I do?

“A closure, huh…”

The words of that old guy still dangled in my mind.

He was looking for a closure. Same as I with Kashiwagi.

For example, pushing her off the window… That’d would end the fights.

But if that were to happen, I would then have to live like the old guy. It’s too fast, and thus too empty — I’d end up like him.

It will be like only holding down the tips of a spring. If that happens, I will have to stay an uncertain human like the old guy. That’s not why I want to end the fights.

Will I keep arguing with Kashiwagi? That’s not right either.

I’m not saying I will drag this on. Not everything could be ended by just insisting that I’m a human and not an alien. Then do I ask myself, or the old guy, about what to do? Neither of us will have a good answer.

If this keeps up, I will solve neither space, Kashiwagi, nor the scavenger hunt.

Will I end up like the old guy if I rushed things? Having to do what you hate might just mean you have to carry that weight forever. Whether it’s doing what I like or hate, either way will be failure.

Does that mean that life tastes better if it’s stewed slowly to perfection?

“Mm… Don’t get it.”

I rest the chair back down, all while holding down the remaining paper slips. Head on my palms, I stared blankly at the others. I expected someone to be done by now.

Naturally, no one did. The other students were already talking amongst themselves, despite it being halfway through class. Mr. Baldie said nothing, sitting in his corner grading some tests. He’s younger than the old guy, but if it were him sitting in that jungle gym I’d lose all respect for him.

The old guy seemed to have lost much after going to space.

He must be in pain because he couldn’t find closure for all the things he’d lost.

“……”

I came to a conclusion after much thought.

It had nothing to do with being an astronaut or spending money on a trip.

Time and motivations were the issue.

I think that’s why he didn’t sense closure.

“Old guy, when did you start squatting here?”

I left and went to the playground behind the shrine. My classmates who were told to stay behind because we couldn’t finish making the props in an hour probably wasn’t too pleased.

Does the old man who come and clean the shrine never see him? The rumour of here having a strange guy had not spread in town yet. And I don’t want people to find out where I train, so that’s fine.

“Mm? I think it’s about time. Staying too long in one place is usually leads to problems… The weather’s changing too so I have to go down south.”

His words carried little weight — like light paint in words. I could tell that that wasn’t why. He seems to be someone who pretends to have seen it all. He lied in the jungle gym again today. Doesn’t that hurt?

“Weren’t you born here?”

Because he knows space. But this town knows space too.

“Nope. I came from a town deep in the mountains.”

“Oh… The cat too?”

“Yeah. Oh yeah, he went to space with me too. It was kind of like an experiment.”

“Really?”

I held the cat up with both hands. Kinda heavy. Perhaps because it disliked its feet leaving ground, it struggled momentarily. So this cat’s has more space experience than I do. ‘Mm~’ What is this sense of defeat?

“Is there still space-travel now…? What if it was all a dream?”

Saying so, the old guy smiled emptily, like a girl who’d just been dumped. It’s not a particularly attractive face for an old guy.

“Old guy, I’m a little worried about going to space now after what you said.”

I asserted my displeasure from the side; the old guy put away his kind-of ugly smile.

“Oh? Why?”

“I don’t wanna end up like you if I ever go to space.”

I said so earnestly after resting the cat down. ‘Ah,’ the old guy avoided my eyes in embarrassment without ceasing his words.

“Maybe I was just having an unreal expectation for space. You shouldn’t listen to me.”

“But…”

“It’s a far, far away place that you couldn’t touch by conventional methods. If you are lost, you’re never gonna get there, kiddo.”

The old guy half-jokingly cheered me on. He’s right. Any more than this and the problem won’t be about whether or not I’d go to space.

“Do you believe in aliens, old guy?”

I changed topic. ‘Hmm~’ he groaned, his eyes trailing the passing birds.

“It’s dreamier to say they do. But I guess it’d be hard for them to exist in reality.”

“What if I were to say my dad is an alien?”

“Would an alien be so interested in space like you?”

He’s right, but what he said afterward almost had me saying something.

“Contrastingly, wouldn’t an alien feel confused or intrigued by life on Earth, too?”

‘Like you now, old guy?’ I retracted those words and kneeled down, troubled.

What is defined as an alien? If they’re from space? Or if they went to space? Then would the old guy be considered as an alien? Then, are all astronauts aliens?

Why would I, who’d never been to space, be called an Earthling?

Not even the old guy could answer these questions, I bet. It’s something that only the person herself could decide. Being called an alien probably only sounds so bad because Kashiwagi treats me as someone different.

“Uwah…”

Both the old guy and I pondered. Whenever you feel like this, the best thing to do is to run as fast as you could in a big place; but if you’re just running, all you’d get is fatigue.

Luckily, I know of a place where I could run as much as I want. It’s somewhere I will be in the near future.

“Mm…”

He can’t run there, but he could see someone else run there.

And…

The person closest to being an ‘alien’ was this old guy.

“We have a sports festival next Sunday… Would you like to come?”

“What?”

He raised his head. Like tossing a letter into a mail box, I passed the festival pamphlet to him through the iron pipes.

It’s for me and mom. The pamphlet meant for students and parents was being given to the old guy. He didn’t take it right away, merely tilting his head.

“Why me?”

“To thank you for your space stories.”

There’s something more to what I said, I think. It’s a vague reason; something that is indescribable.

The old guy scratched his head; he took the papers casually and flipped through the content. ‘Oh~ This school, huh,’ he noted.

“You just said I was ruining your dreams, and here you are thanking me.”

“Don’t mind the detail. If you’re not coming, give the pamphlet back.”

My arm remained in the jungle gym. ‘Ah~ Hm...’ The old guy struggled with the response. He raised his entire body; he nimbly navigated through the pipes with just his torso. Picking up the pamphlet, he stroked his goatee.

“I’m not married or anything, but is this what it feels like to be invited by your kid to a sports festival?”

“I don’t know.”

I’ve never invited my dad either.

“If I’m free… Which I always am. I’ll go if I want to go.”

“Okay.”

I nodded; the old guy more intently, but he went back to being limp.

There was another reason why I invited him, but it’s a secret.

The sports festival was held on an October Sunday that had little to do with Health and Sports Day.

‘It used to be held on weekdays. Time’s changed,’ mom said. It’s always been either a Saturday or a Sunday since I was in kindergarten, so I’m not sure about before.

I showed mom the pamphlet on the morning of the event. ‘I’ll show up before scavenger hunt starts in the afternoon,’ she said prior to leaving for work. She moaned about not having Sundays off since she’s working in a store, but she’s also complaining about something. She also takes days-off at weird times. Mom will always be a mysterious person no matter how old I get. I like mysterious.

The sky was grey, with a possible chance of sunshine in the afternoon. Since it’s easier to move around when it’s cloudy, I prayed that it will be like this till the event’s over. Though I’m the only one for scavenger hunt, I had to join for other team competitions as well. Every grade level had Team Rally and Tug-of-war.

I only have Tug-of-war in the morning. I can’t pull very well, so I’m glad that mom will see me for scavenger hunt and rally.

It’s been a year since I last wore P.E uniform to school. I saw many others like me on the way to school. A lot of them carried their water bottles on their shoulders. The water jar dangled along my light steps. I’m like an athlete who gets pumped up for sports meets, except I’m not an athlete.

I sat my bag down first thing arriving at the school. Students would typically take their own chairs along with the pamphlet to the field. I already gave mine to the old guy, so I had only the chair. I wondered about carrying the water bottle, but, since it’s cloudy out, decided to leave it there… Mm, wait. What if Kashiwagi or someone destroys my lunch? I don’t think she’s quite that low (she’s never made a move on my books or backpack), but maybe her friends would… But it’s probably fine…

As usual, I reached the classroom early; there were more people in there than there normally would. Two of them were Kashiwagi’s friends, but she’s absent now. I left my backpack and water bottle in class, taking only my chair with me. Some might have wanted to stay till it’s time to go, but I wanted to leave before Kashiwagi gets here.

I put on the shoes I had just taken off at the school locker and entered the field. The welcoming frame decorated with the blue and red flowers Kashiwagi made last week had been set on the field.

“We should just use alien hair instead of making this stuff.”

I recalled Kashiwagi saying something along that line when she’s working. I would have said, ‘why don’t you get some at the barber’s,’ but I didn’t. Maybe she should have.

I placed the chair at the fifth grade’s resting area marked with white lines. I’m on red team; there are also white and blue. It wouldn’t have been strange if I was put into blue for my hair colour. It wouldn’t have made me happy though. Aside from the girls, there’s a few boys sitting in the resting area too. They said hi as they saw me, so I waved at them too. “Morning.”

I sat down on my chair. There’s no one in the parent area on the opposite end. Not surprising.

“……”

Will the old guy come? I suddenly became aware of something trivial.

With the tail of summer still sweeping, I waited for the sports meet to begin in this damp heat.

Something slowly drained from my back; boredom overwhelmed me.

It was not until my second yawn did all the students gather to begin the opening ceremony. We even did warm-ups. I didn’t need to since I ran all the way here, but Mr. Baldie won’t be too happy if I don’t, so I moved a little.

When I twisted my waist to look backward, Kashiwagi, whose height landed her just slightly behind me, met eyes with me. She grimaced; I could only frown every time I see that expression.

Parents began arriving during warm-up and the principle’s monotonous speech. In no time they filled the parents’ section.

As though that was the cue, the first event — ball rolling — began, while I sat on my chair.

I’d spent almost the entire morning chatting with my friends, or staring blankly with head on my hands.

To be honest I was falling asleep. I glanced to see if the old guy and his cat were on the opposite side, but, at least where I could see, I didn’t see them. Mom hadn’t come either. She’d wave impetuously.

Oh, but if the old guy and his cat showed up, people might call the police on them. What do I do? Well, I wouldn’t blame them. It should be fine… I think.

A few moms were seemingly discussing about something about seeing my hair and eyes. It’s not an uncommon sight, but when they start talking to their husbands, I get upset.

Not much happened besides that until the game before lunch — Tug-or-war. Students who’d done nothing but talk gradually entered the welcoming door when it’s time for the fifth graders. Those who hate sports meet, who also happened to not like moving during P.E, carried a nasty scowl. Did their moms not come?

We lined ourselves up based on height and entered; everyone grabbed onto the rope laid on the field. I felt the parents’ gaze upon my hair. I wanted to shout, ‘stop staring, stupid!’

“Watch yourself, alien.”

Behind me, Kashiwagi tauntingly warned me in her special way. I didn’t pay her any mind then, but as soon as the game began, I pulled hard and lied down on her. ‘Ah~’ she yelped as I squashed her into the ground.

After the somewhat interesting tug-of-war match came lunch break. Since the school had decided that it’s fine to eat anywhere, some people went to the parents’ section. I knew ahead of time mom won’t show up, so I went to my classroom.

“No~! If only the part timer didn’t ask for the day off! I would have left work for Eri~!”

Mom slapped on the floor like a capricious child yesterday while grudgingly said so. That was all it took for me to be glad of mom.

I stuck a tongue out — and I don’t need dad.

Currently blue team had the highest score. I don’t care for winning at the least, but now red was last, and with a bit of distance behind white. That really doesn’t matter though.

After entering the school building, I looked back at the parents’ seats. Neither mom, the old guy nor the cat was there. I felt no disappointment after confirming that fact as I went into the classroom.

I prepared myself as I took my lunchbox out of my pack. The food inside was untouched. Thank goodness. I was right to believe in Kashiwagi. Though I did kinda lay on her during the tug-of-war.

The water jug wasn’t poisoned or peppered with eraser shaving — now I’m relieved. Due to my almost wanting to change my view on Kashiwagi, I searched for her in the room; she was just about to leave with her jug and backpack. Perhaps because we met eyes, she grinned creepily.

It’s almost like Kashiwagi and I are just two friends who only fight each other — it’s not a great feeling. To ease the thought, I began eating mom’s dish. “So good~” I’m going to tell mom how good the food was later.

After lunch, I left the classroom right away, heading for my seat. Mom could already be here, so I hurried down the stairs.

Putting my shoes on frantically, I returned to the field. I sprinted toward the field; the sun peeked itself from the crevices between the clouds. Like playing musical chair, I sat down as fast as I could. Hand on my forehead, I searched for mom.

“Ah…”

Mom wasn’t there — but the old guy was. With the cat on his shoulder, he stood there wearing casuals. Sandwiched between two families, he had on a difficult expression. We locked eyes.

He smiled sheepishly, rubbing his cat’s head. Something in my head clicked as I witnessed the old guy standing there:

“Is this what having your dad at the sports festival like?”

But I hate dad. I don’t like the old guy that much, either. Was that why I overlapped the old guy with the dad I’ve never seen? It’s a world that someone who’s never seen him outside of old photos could understand. The person known as my father was an existence even further than Jupiter.

We traded look for a while, but since the afternoon games were about to begin, I had to disengage. And I was about to go; mom should be here now, so I decided to look for her first.

“Is mom still not here?”

This was far more nerve-wrecking than waiting for the meteor shower on a summer night. Probably because the only way for me to show mom how great I am was in this sports festival. Mm…

Mom still had not arrived — maybe she’s unusually busy today. While waiting, ball-toss had begun. Since scavenger hunt was next, I had to leave my spot.

“Ugh…” With mom’s absence was still on my mind, I haplessly moved toward the entrance.

As I arrived to line myself up based on height, I check the parent’s section again.

“Ah!”

There was mom. She hopped exaggeratedly on the last row, waving; I could easily spot her within a second. Once we saw each other, her motion intensified. I knew it was gonna happen, but I still felt embarrassed. ‘Woo! Eri!’ I heard the exhilarated clamour. I thought that perhaps even parents of first graders wouldn’t get so excited seeing their kids. As expected of my mom. I don’t know why, but she’s just different than the other adults.

I waved a little, and sensed my face turn team red.

After ball toss had ended, and the balls and baskets taken away, we jogged into the field’s track. Then we sat there, waiting to be arranged for the scavenger hunt.

First year, second year, third year… We had to go in this order, so it would be a while before us fifth graders. Two people on red team, two on white, two more on blue. Six people in a row; at first, the first graders began running along the tracks. Since the first graders had to run shorter distance than we, they immediately arrived at where the papers with the items written on were. Seeing their item names, they ran in disarray toward either the parents’ section or their resting area. I looked for a bit, but turned away from boredom. My eyes drifted to where mom was.

I had to wave occasionally at mom, whose jumping around was causing a bit of an inconvenience to the parents around, and sometimes look at the old guy who claimed he couldn’t find his conclusion. Both had on complicated expressions. I began running, for the sake of destroying these complications with a ballistic path.

It was finally my row’s turn. Since fifth graders had to run half a lap to the goal, the distance was 150 metres. The catch was that we have to go scavenge for our item halfway there.

That’s how simple the game was. I glanced at my opponents — I should be able to make it there first. The issue was my object. The students in charge of the papers laid six slips of rectangular paper on the track. Once they left, the game began.

I stomped onto the ground, arching my body slightly forward. I’d never learned how to run, so I just move as hard as I could going forward.

This is the battle between grade schoolers, as well as the standard procedure of running on planet Earth.

I peered at the parental section, then the goal on the other side.

Once I reached there, will I be closer to space?

No, I don’t think so…

The moment I thought so while looking back, the gun went off. My feet went forward beautifully at the sound of the gun.

Upon my first kickoff, I knew it was a great start: the forward motion was good, enough to make my body feel lighter. Sometimes I could run like this.

As though the Earth had lost three percent of its gravitational force, I felt no pain as my feet trampled the ground. No other footsteps were heard beyond my own. Everything was going well.

Accompanied by my own footsteps, on my own track, I accelerated more with the cheering of the crowd and the music broadcasting. If it were the hundred metres race I’d be crowned the hero right away, but such folly is why human could never fly on a bicycle.

I charged forward, preparing myself as I picked up the paper laid on the track.

After seeing the word written across the slip, I could feel my face turn hot.

Ah, of course.

The thing I had to look for, scribbled in a terrible font, ‘an alien.’

I had no doubt it was written by Kashiwagi.

I shot a look at Kashiwagi at the fifth grade’s area. On her ugly face was an irritating grin; the paper was crumbled inadvertently by my hands.

How did she do it? Was someone in charge of writing the papers part of her goons? It seemed that she even had friends in the people who put the slits down. I guess her exasperating smile for the past few days where an omen to this. What the heck! Mom’s watching today — why’d she thought of something so ridiculous? Even a first grader would come up with something less nonsensical! This jerk!

What do I do? I can’t just run to the goal because people call me alien, can I? Of course not. That’s just cheating!

That stupid Kashiwagi!

…Just kidding. Ms. Kashiwagi, is this all that you could do?

“Hahaha!”

I’d predicted this from a week ago! I’d fought with her for so long, I know what she would probably do! Kashiwagi’s weakness is that she could never be downright dirty when it comes to messing with me!

I’ve long expected this, and I already found an ‘alien.’

That’s why I handed the pamphlet to the old guy.

You’re too naïve, Kashiwagi — I’ve already made contact with an alien.

I ran toward the old guy without a doubt. He remained where he was since the beginning, so I located him right away. The cat was still on his shoulder.

My running toward him must have spooked him; he leaned back. The cat slid off, landing smoothly on the ground.

Mom flailed her arms still at the parents’ section, but she seemed to question where I was running toward. Sorry, mom, but my subject wasn’t ‘a beautiful lady,’

“Old guy!”

“W-what? You’re not looking for an old guy, are you? Oh… The cat?”

The flabbergasted old guy held his cat in front of me. Perhaps anxious that its legs were off ground, the cat wagged its tail and legs worriedly. The mom and dad next to the old guy seemed shocked by my running toward the man.

“No. You, old guy.”

Since the topic was limited to just humans, I don’t need the cat.

“I can understand if you want the cat, but aren’t there plenty more old guys around?”

He looked around. That’s not what I’m looking for. I hopped over the rope sequestering the parental section and grabbed the old guy’s hand. “Whoa…” The old guy seemed to moan.

“This is what I’m looking for.”

I showed the paper with ‘alien’ written on it to him. A strange expression immediately entailed, and he moved away from the paper. To get closer to his face, I pretended to grow.

“Couldn’t you pretend you’re no longer a human, but an alien?”

“……”

“Old guy, it’s not the end yet. Give up on flying and start running.”

I tugged his hand. Hurry up, you idiot. The others will win if you don’t.

“Let’s go, old guy.”

I hopped over the rope as I dragged him along. He stopped to untangle himself from the rope, but after a while, he came over to grab my hand, staring at the end of the runway.

“Thanks, kiddo.”

His thank had no appreciation in it.

In return, I put up a proud front, to hide my own embarrassment.

“I cannot abandon a space-lover in arm.”

“Sorry, I guess.”

He awkwardly crossed the rope, and swung his legs in the same manner. He ran, in a shamble like he had forgotten how to tread on ground. I had no way of winning first place with the way he ran— even now the other contestants were overtaking us.

But that’s fine.

Because I felt that as long as we reached the destination together, something will be accomplished.

This must be the first time that I’ve held the hand of an adult who’s not my mom. We ran toward the goal.

“You could go to space again if you get a running start.”

“I hope so.”

I ran with the old alien toward the goal.

Not a bike, the moon or the sky. Just kicking of the ground.

I pulled the old guy who’s in need of exercise, toward the goal that I, a human being, could run to.

I ended up as fourth place in the scavenger hunt.

“Who’s this?”

“I borrowed him. He’s an alien.”

“A what?”

“He’s been to space, so he’s an alien.”

“Okay…”

Such a conversation occurred at the goal where the teacher would check items brought by students.

I was disqualified… Or rather, somebody messed with my paper slit, so it’s hard to say what my rank was. The result didn’t even matter, because fourth place gets no points.

Nothing matters to me anymore. I stared at the old guy who’d returned to the parents’ section with his cat. Hot breath escaped my throat; the old guy smiled troubledly.

Mom seemed to have spoken to him. Something along the line of ‘why the hell are you hanging around my daughter?’ was heard. He could only play along with a wry smile.

Kashiwagi glared at me from the fifth-grade section.

It’s possible that she’s upset that I did not panic around the field from the topic like she had hoped. Her cheeks were on the verge of exploding. I felt a smile creep up on my face when I saw her.

“That’s what you get.” I had not laughed at Kashiwagi like this in a while.

Few days passed after the sports festival. The old guy disappeared from the park. It was getting cold, he said, so he migrated south.

“The sports festival was nice. I want to try again after seeing you kids. I’m thankful that you brought me there.”

“Ehehe~”

I will run as hard as I could on the ground, and fly into the sky.

After hearing me say so, the old guy said, ‘I’m looking forward to it.’ They did not sound like perfunctory words.

“I made money before anyway, so I can still do it… I think.”

He left the jungle gym with a sheepish smile.

‘If it were just one last time, then I might go to space again,’ he left those words.

The old guy didn’t bring the cat.

“It likes the place.”

He explained, but I’m positive he doesn’t speak cat.

But if it stays here, then it’ll have to deal with the winter that drove even the old guy away, so I felt bad for it. Mom said we couldn’t keep a pet, so she put up notices in front of the store. Unfortunately, I know mom’s Wagashi shop doesn’t get much traffic, so I’m a little worried.

My worries disappeared the following day.

The part timer at the Wagashi shop adopted the cat. The lady that appeared to be in high school came to the park to check out the cat.

“Mm… Not bad, it’s cute.”

She smiled somewhat mischievously, poking the back of the cat. The cat, curled up in a ball, did not put up a fight.

“Do you like it?”

“Mm… It’s the exact image of a cat, and it seems noble.”

The lady nodded in admiration.

“I used to like how boys are like cats.”

She seemed to recall something, gently staring with downcast eyes at the cat.

“What are you going to call it?”

“A name… Let’s go with ‘Liar.’”

The cat meowed at the calling of, uh, its name, ‘liar,’ like it knew it was its name. Its tail wagged, like barely in the dusk. It seemed to like the name. But why ‘liar?’

She kept calling the cat she hugged ‘little liar,’ all while petting its head.

The cat was a female.

“Nng…”

In the morning of a hot summer day, I dreamt something nostalgic while wrapped in sheets. Though my mind unclear, like blended with dreams or perhaps a slideshow, I think that was pretty much the gist of it all. The scar that had disappeared from my face long ago twitched, reminding me of how it felt.

I almost forgot that I’ve met the lady from the hair salon before. But she doesn’t seem to remember either anyway.

“Mm…”

The dream I held at that time wasn’t something that would shine in the darkness of the sheets. Only the darkest of clouds and nights will stay forever apart from space. Though the sweat on my forehead does stick.

Even if the stars I see now were real, I no longer reach for them.

Along with the six months when I disappeared in the first year of high school, my dream was lost. Touwa Erio, who had wanted to fly as an astronaut, could not graduate from high school.

I fell. And because the word sounds similar, I’ve failed, too. I did something shocking, sending out my freakiness. I did even more embarrassing things that I’d want to hide in space for.

Just like the old guy from before, I probably won’t be able to look at my dreams any more. Yet, in a different sense than the old guy, I could no longer let go.

But as I lay in the sheets, wrapped up, I regret nothing.

I’d made up my mind — I can let go now.

Maybe I can’t leave Earth in a rocket, but it’s the same thing.

It’s the tallest peak I could aim for now.

Because I can fly into the distant sky on a bicycle.

Because another human is willing to accompany me.

That’s why I was able to come back to this home, as a human.

“Mm…”

“Oh, so that’s where you are…”

Speaking of the devil.

Because of the sheets, my sight was bleared; I could recognise that voice right away.

The cousin that started living with us since April; the cousin known for his love for smell, and the feeling and footsteps he emanates when he enters. He would have appeared to have stopped next to my head.

“You’re looking real hot in that.”

The cousin commented rudely. He often plays my chaperone, despite being the same age as me. He’s always losing his cool when he’s talking or getting messed with mom. The cousin is still a kid, like I am.

“Mm…”

“Alright, pipe down, or I’m gonna ask somebody to use you for archery practice.”

The cousin continued with his crass words, and reached under me and the sheets. He put me on my feet.

“Mm…”

I protested, ‘what are you doing? I’m trying to stay safe here.’ Though I couldn’t see his face directly, I had a feeling what kind of attitude he had.

“Okay~” He’s probably just dealing with me perfunctorily now.

But…

Because he’s willing to deal with me at all, he’s great.

Something is just… Great.

“The pizza’s here, let’s go.”

“Mm!”

In this home on earth, the smell of pizza that I call ‘family’ is always special.

### 005. Chapter 4 - Distance Between My and Her Moon

Q: Select the appropriate words to fill in the blank:

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Niwa Makoto]

[Hoshinaka Ko’umi]

[Her boyfriend]

[Christmas Eve]

[‘What’s this Youth-Point?]

[In the park at night, coffee in hand]

[Get punched]

[Preparing for exams is hard]

[Two people alone in the library]

[A faint first love?]

[This would be three Youth-Points]

“What’s this Youth-Point?”

Words that obviously just sprung out from her mind escaped Hoshinaka’s mouth. Sitting next to her on the bench, I merely grinned wryly; white breath exited my lips. Seeing what could qualify as signal smoke coming out from my mouth, I shivered at the renewed realisation of the coldness. Unable to resist any longer, I stood from the worn-down wooden bench that could have easily been mistaken as ice.

“Niwacchi?”

I ignored Hoshinaka’s call, proceeding in the dense air that enveloped the night. Even by just inhaling the frigid air was enough to give me the illusion of being filled up.

As I left the bench, I saw, for just a moment, a picture: A hallucination of a child, playing by himself in the sandpit next to the seesaw. It might have been a much younger me, but seeing oneself playing is not much of a possibility.

The freezing wind attacked me unrelentingly; my nose and lips were paralysed as if detached from my face. I adjusted the scarf warped around my neck, as to cover my lower face.

My goal was by the entrance of the park — the thing which continued casting its light in the darkness. Thank goodness vending machines run on 24/7 basis. Convenience stores in the countryside had already given up on doing so.

I stuck my half-frozen fingers into the pocket of my coat. It took a while to open my palm, which was stuck in a fist. After a bit of searching, I felt a few coins on the tip of my fingers. Fortunately, the changes from a while ago was in there. Would have been real depressing if I didn’t have any money.

Since there were only three 100-yen coins in my pocket, I put all my investment into the coin slot. Beep~ Clank ~ Beep~ Clank~ Beep~ Clank~ Like so, the machine tailed along, recognising the 300 yen. Red lights appeared from the buttons beneath the cans. I turned to look at the bench where Hoshinaka sat; I wondered what she’d like. Going back was too much of a hassle, so I stood there, blinking in contemplation. In the end, I chose a coffee that had a lot of sugar. I don’t drink unsweetened coffee, hence the choice.

After pushing the button twice, I kneeled to retrieve my drinks. Two of the light bulbs were broken. They were separate, but I thought maybe they were looking at one another. Perhaps they’re the two who stuck together because they didn’t fit in anywhere else.

“Oops.” Because I pressed too quickly, the two cans of coffee were stuck in the depository. The white words ‘please retrieve your items one by one’ where printed on the plastic cover of the exit. Following my movement, the cover squeaked at the axel.

“You could have written it anywhere else.”

I stuck my arm in there, attempting to get the coffee out. When I got hold of the can that showed only half of its ugly design, I felt the warm on my frozen hand. Simple thing like feeling the temperature go up was able to bring my morale back up, in this park that’s filled with nothing but bad memories. It would have been an otherwise intolerable heat, were my palms not frozen. Actually, it’s getting there. I pulled hard and produced the coffee.

Perhaps because my fingertips weren’t as responsive, I easily retrieved the drinks. Though the vending machine whined as though it was being damaged, the lights on it shone still. I exhaled in relief. As soon as I picked up the second can, I straightened my knees.

An ache struck my head as I stood. Thanks to the recent lack of sleep, migraine became well acquainted with me. Preparing for exams is definitely not a healthy thing, but purportedly it’s all for the sake of a better future. The future and now are both part of life — Sometimes, I felt like we’re putting the cart before the horse.

With the coffee as my handwarmers, I returned to the bench where Hoshinaka was at. I looked up as I walked. I’ve enjoyed a clear night sky for as long as I remember. Due to the absence of the sun, the shape of the sky and the movement of clouds were easily traced. It’s like the depth of the sky could be seen and felt.

Plus the moon is usually visible on a clear night like this. Looking at the moon, I could feel the distance between me and Hoshinaka. It’s an analogy that only I knew, so I bet no one else could understand.

Her hands between her butt and the bench, Hoshinaka, with legs outstretched, looked up when she discovered my return. She sniffled with a grin; perhaps because of her scarf, hat and clothing, the usually diminutive Hoshinaka appeared chubby. ‘I thought you left.’

I made no effort to reply; I merely stared at the long hair that waved in the breeze.

“Your hands.”

“Mm?”

“Give me your hands.”

“Ok.” She earnestly pulled her hands out from beneath her, dangling them above her shoulders.

“Hm…” I nodded ambiguously and tossed the can over with a perfect arc. ‘Whoa!’ She cried as she followed the can and moved her hands to where it would land. With a subtle lean forward, she caught the coffee with the tips of her fingers.

I worried about her fingers being hurt, but seeing the smile on her face, I ceased all concern. As though seeking warmth, I put my now-free hands around my canned coffee.

Moments later, I sat a little away from where Hoshinaka was.

I once again was embraced by this lonely night.

“Niwacchi, you’re awfully nice today.”

“I always am. I show up whenever you call me up.”

“That’s why I said you’re nice today, too.”

Without a second thought, she chugged the coffee down her tiny throat. My can remained closed, continuously providing my hands with warmth. It was then that I leaned into my knees, elbows on the thighs.

“Ahh… Thanks. Want your money back?”

“That’s alright.”

I shook my head. Every time I did that, my ears mingled with the night painfully. Even tiny movement was filled with agony — I now understood what hibernating animals go through. Unwilling to move, I naturally didn’t look up into the sky.

“Are you studying for the tests?”

Hoshinaka picked something we had in common to talk about. With no desire to move, I answered ‘yeah’ without looking at her. Moments later, I added, ‘you?’

“Mm? I guess. Not as much as you, though.”

“Me (僕) too… I mean, me (俺) too.” I realised just how embarrassing it was to correct myself like that. Hoshinaka lowered her head, trying not to laugh.

“Niwacchi, you still say ‘me.’”

“Shut up. Just don’t notice it.”

After she pointed that out, I shrunk even more. In the same pose, I asked the question that’s been saved up:

“Why did you call me out?”

I seem to recall some sort of explanation when we’re on the phone, but I’ve already forgotten as I was studying English at the same time.

Perhaps because of the coffee, she spoke with a voice much warmer than before.

“I thought I’d come out and take a look at the sky when I’m free.”

Can’t you do that in your room?

From a glance, I could see her focused on none other than the coffee in her hands. Ever since we came here, Hoshinaka’d been staring straight ahead.

“Couldn’t you come by yourself?”

I shot a glimpse at the two bikes resting next to the bench.

“It’s too sad to be alone.”

“Then couldn’t you get your boyfriend?”

“He didn’t want to because it’s too cold.”

So I’m the backup, huh. A dark feeling roused, surpassing the coldness. I shot her a look, finding her lips touching the can’s opening, and her eyes straight ahead. Her stare was on somewhere far away, where I don’t exist.

Was she missing her boyfriend, who’s presumably in the warmth of his house? The thought soothed my emotion; I looked down again. I didn’t even have the strength to complain, possibly because of this weather.

“This is some sweet coffee.”

She commented on something no one asked for. I had not drunk mine, so I could neither assent nor rebuke her thought. There’s still something else to be said.

“You’re welcome to not drink it if you’re gonna complain.”

“You’re really no good with unsweetened coffee, Niwacchi.”

The lines that do not reciprocate one another stood side by side. It’s slightly annoying to be treated like a kid by someone your own age. Even though I was already a bit on the down side, this felt like my ankles were shaved off by the frozen ground. Keeping my head low, I turned to face her.

There she was, without a particular emotion on her face and coffee pressed against her cheek. After meeting eyes, I at least felt a bit awkward. When it comes to Hoshinaka, there’s this feeling that’s neither hatred nor annoyance, but still something I want to reject. I should be glad that it’s not a question that will be included in the exams.

She smiled hurriedly, and spoke with a cheery, yet seemingly masquerading voice…

“Sure smells like Youth here.”

“Who cares about ‘youth…?’”

The sound of that phrase embarrassed me.

To my unabashed criticism, Hoshinaka replied, ‘your heart has withered.’

The cloud that I saw early must have already disappeared.

It was December.

A time for exam preparation.

We weren’t in a position to be out at night.

Yet there I was, sitting on the bench with Hoshinaka.

The only thing we shared were runny noses, and the cans of coffee gradually losing their warmth in our hands.

Hoshinaka refers to me as ‘Niwacchi.’ It’s a shorthand for ‘Niwacchi-kun.’ No one else called me by that though, and most called me by my surname. Oh yeah. My name is Niwa Makoto, currently in third year of middle school.

I might be a little on the aloof side, but it’s not abnormal to have people like me in a middle school. I’m what you’d call a regular, a-dime-in-a-dozen teenager.

Mom gave me a tongue lashing for sneaking out last night. Her self-righteous punishment was for my allowance to be cut in half until I graduate middle school.

That’s why I showed up to class, bummed out. Actually, I’ve been feeling pretty strange in class recently. Still, I showed up to face the teacher and the blackboard. It isn’t just me: Everyone else looked exhausted.

Because of the impending exams, both the atmosphere in the room and people’s health were deteriorating. It was a claustrophobic feeling, that one moment you are able to roam freely in the plaza, and then the next you are thrown into a giant test tube. While the heater from the back was able to provide an arid heat, it also dried our throat and eyes, distracting us all.

Even being released from school was not enough. It’s like being told to finish an unsolved puzzle tomorrow. There’s no relaxing until we finish our tests — looks like we can only endure it.

Outside the warm classroom, the cold, December hallway only seemed gloomier. The ash-like cloud blocked out the sun; the field outside the window had an otherworldly hue.

The grey triggered a dark feeling unlike when the night’s arrived. I could not find myself walking energetically through these halls. While yawning, I dragged my feet forward.

Migraine from prolonged sleep deprivation and somnolence assaulted my brain. I often wondered if I’d nap a little after dinner when I get home. Most of the time, however, my conscious wouldn’t fade completely as I lie in bed. It all ends in hours wasted as I roll about, a sense of refusing to rest almost bursting out of my body. That was how stretched my mind was.

The dreary air of the classroom sunk into my blood, forcing me to stay in front of the desk to study. It’s not like the high school I’m heading into is a prestigious one, but even a regular student would be anxious first time taking an entrance exam. With every solved math problem, the worries attenuate. You could think of it as a nosy tutor.

I saw a familiar face in the hall appear from a different classroom. I couldn’t help but shut an eye — It was Hoshinaka. She had on an extra coat over her uniform, with no scarf or cap on today.

Hoshinaka was two classes away from mine. We were in the same class last year, which is also how we became acquainted. With neither her boyfriend or friends, Hoshinaka approached my direction. Though facing the window, I knew from her gaze the sky wasn’t her object of wonder.

As she passed, Hoshinaka noticed me. She gave a peace sign and a smile, which was not the same to that shown with friends. I backed up promptly, mindful of the surrounding eyes. It’s astonishing how small a school is, and how fast rumour spreads. It would not take too long for her boyfriend to hear about this peace sign if a particularly gossipy girl witnessed it.

Luckily, everyone in the hall was looking down, seemingly disinterested in others. I sighed in relief. ‘Oops, sorry.’ Hoshinaka bumped her shoulder into me. As I wondered in disbelief of her intent, she had already drifted away.

“Uh…” I wanted to say a few things, but the thoughts could not form into words.

When I came to it, I discovered a piece of ripped notebook paper between my fingers. There’s no need to think about the perpetrator — Who else but the one who ran into me? If not a prank, it must be a message to me.

I unfolded the paper. A few rounded fonts in blue were printed there.

“Come to the library if you’re free.”

“……”

The thought ‘why not just say it’ did not cross my mind.

I never really considered what went through my head.

It’s not a test, after all.

And so, without looking toward the window, I turned back and muttered, ‘Heck no.’

But she definitely couldn’t hear it.

Standing at around 150 centimetres and having a tiny face, Hoshinaka gave off a petite mien. A low nose and pair of large eyes, she was like a character from a shoujo manga with a realistic touch. Nobody probably would see her as a shy girl upon their first meeting, because she was the manifestation of amicability.

No guys, including me, thought ill of Hoshinaka when they first meet her.

Warmth from the library AC welcomed me as I entered. The devices are usually installed in facilities such as the infirmary or staff room, with the remote control within the reach of students. Naturally, we change the temperature arbitrarily. Still, compared to the winter, the upcoming rain season of June will be far worse.

I was able to immediately locate Hoshinaka in the library — because she was the only one playing her phone, without even a book or notes in front of her. Seemingly considerate of those around her, she fiddled with her phone quietly, what with the careful motions.

I wanted to leave when I saw that, but she spotted me frozen there when she looked up from her phone. Hoshinaka beckoned, and even took the coat hanging from a chair off to give me a spot. Affected by her act of preparation, I moved soundlessly. Why did I go somewhere other than the shoe lockers, despite saying not wanting to come? My head must hurt more than usual.

I pulled out a chair next to Hoshinaka; the metal frame of the chair was just a little more comfortable than the wooden ones in classroom. Right away my tired head fell onto my hands. While unable to fall asleep, the fatigue wrapped around my skull drove me sick.

“You continue to be a great guy today, Niwacchi.”

She rested her phone on the table, beaming a smile.

“Just by not calling me out late in the night, you’ve already improved, Hoshinaka.”

I countered, to which she shrugged humorously, ‘that’s just harsh.’ I, on the other hand, became overcame with sadness: I’m not one to study right after getting home, but I didn’t want to see Hoshinaka either.

“You seem a little blue.”

“My allowance was cut in half. For sneaking out in the last night.”

“Ouch… That’s bad.”

“So? What do you want? We’re not here to stare at the ceiling, are we?”

With a bored jab, I questioned her. Since when was the distance between me and Hosinaka so awkwardly long? We easily held conversations last year.

“Well… A little something just went down.”

She prefaced with a confusing and mysterious sentence. She continued.

“Someone saw us going to the park.”

My blinking stopped. Like having no lead come out from a mechanical pencil despite numerous clicking, the stagnancy worried me.

“Who heard?” I held onto the hope that perhaps my chance of survival will increase by that question.

“My boyfriend.”

Of course. Who else aside from him would it be problematic? After confirming the truth I already know, the storm came. I unlocked my supporting arm; my face slid onto the desk.

“Please spare me from this.” I looked at Hoshinaka with only an eye.

“He hasn’t come after you yet, has he? He might be waiting for you at the shoe locker.”

She didn’t have on a difficult face, just a casual, downcast look.

“Please don’t involve me (僕)… I mean, me (俺).”

“Oh, cut the tough guy talk. Just say ‘me,’ won’t ya?”

Shut up. I (僕) doesn’t suit me (俺), I think. I don’t feel like I’m playing adult, but does feel like wearing shoes an extra size of my feet and almost tripping.

I’ll be able to use ‘me’ (俺) one day, I think.

“He just hung up when I called him, but he apparently changed his mind and called back. He knew I snuck out, and he went around to ask people. Some girl told me she saw me with you.”

I should have known and not walk her home… ‘The road to home is dangerous’ just had a different meaning to me. Warm air from the AC blew by my face.

I looked elsewhere, onto the paper stuck on the wall. Written on the paper was the return dates for loaned books It’s December, nearly the end of the second semester. ‘Please remember to return your books by winter break’ it says. Right, it’s almost winter break, and Christmas… But it’s not relevant to a student preparing for exams.

“So, well, my boyfriend yelled at me.”

She ended the report on a swift note. I don’t know why, but as the warmth left me, the air I’d been holding escaped me. My chest and stomach lost their shape, making me wonder if I was a just filled with air.

“And you’re telling me this why? Shouldn’t you be talking to your boyfriend instead?”

“I guess. But I’m a little scared of him.”

That’s not a proper answer to my concern. It’s like ‘maybe’ on a true-false question.

“Aren’t you a little too relaxed?”

“What do you mean? Who is?”

“I mean you lovebirds. I can’t believe you have the time to be doing this kind of stuff.”

My words were half sardonic and half jealous, but spoken in a way that only the former could be felt. She wouldn’t understand why I’m jealous, anyway.

Hoshinaka froze for a moment. She recovered soon, blinking, and nodded as she gathered herself.

“Gotta get those Youth Points, you know?”

“You don’t get what I’m saying, do you?” She definitely didn’t understand me.

She puts her hands under her head, shortening our distance.

“Y’know.”

“Hm…” I sniffled.

“If I incarnated a hundred times, and meet you every time, I’d probably date you 40 times.”

A little sudden.

But also a little late.

My voice was lost upon those words. Only a flat, toneless sound came.

“Meaning… You’d go for the other guy 60 times.”

What are you expecting me to feel?

“That’s it.”

“Okay…”

The superficial comment ended there. Still, something stuck to my heart; like a turtle in an aquarium tank, it tried to crawl its way out. It wasn’t a funny sensation, and certainly not something I’d want pity over.

“I’m leaving.” With the declaration, I stood up. Pain struck as I got a hold of my backpack; I winced.

Without waiting for Hoshinaka’s response, I headed toward the exit. To the person who didn’t touch the page of a book, the student at the counter gave me a ‘the hell did he come in for?’ look. I wonder, too.

“Sorry, Niwacchi.”

She spoke in a voice that everyone in the room could have heard, to which I couldn’t help but pause in my track.

“It’s too late now…”

I don’t even know why she’s apologizing. Without looking back, I ventured back into the hallway.

The slide door was shut till it would not move anymore.

“I don’t want to enjoy this ‘youth…’”

I cannot become a normal friend with Hoshinaka, and our proper distance was lost.

It’s unfortunate for either of us… I should not have started thinking about this.

If someone were to ask if I like Hoshinaka, I would likely ponder for a while. If I do like her, I would have tried a lot harder last year.

Romantic feelings like sort of like an UFO: It’s not a concrete thing to be found, yet many seek it. Hoping to find a person of admiration or wanting to go further in a single-sided love is correct, just as it is to look for a mysterious flying object.

The issue lies in ‘what was between me and Hoshinaka?’. If we were to discuss the topic of romance before addressing the question, it’d presume that such a thing existed between us. That’s hardly a possibility, I think.

After we became third years, Hoshinaka somehow got a boyfriend. She also went to a different class, and we no longer talked. Even last night was a sudden invitation from her.

Because of that long window, the relationship between me and Hoshinaka was like the season itself, characterised by coldness. Instead of digging up my frozen sentiments, I merely hugged my knees to fight the chill. I even forgot to look at this night sky we shared.

I think, between me and her, there’s a moon.

It’s like the forty times that Hoshinaka spoke of: A person can’t just fly to the moon. He could only look, up at it as it hangs faraway in the sky.

There’s no way she and I could have something like love, and nothing more could be transmitted.

Up until I climbed back up after being socked by Hoshinaka’s boyfriend, that was all that was on my mind. A flash in my memory reminded that he wasn’t waiting by the shoe lockers, but the school’s entrance.

As I noticed him approach, I lamented not having taken the backdoor. I just didn’t want to take the long way home. That’s just how I am, giving up so easily.

Also, calling him ‘boyfriend’ makes it sound like I’m his girlfriend, so I refrained from doing so, instead thinking of his name. Hoshinaka’s never properly introduced him to me, so I don’t really remember. Still, hand caressing my punched cheek, I muttered vaguely what I thought was his name.

“Takimoto.”

“Hah?” His reaction was as short as the time it took for him to recognise me. Judging from that, I called the right name. From then I start to use the name ‘Takimoto.’ Half a head taller than I am, Takimoto took a step back after straightening his knees, refocusing his glare at me. The right fist that landed on my face was still there; apparently, he’s still upset.

The inside of my mouth must have been cut when he punched me. The taste of blood permeated through my nostril. It hurt, but it seemed to have blown away my fatigue as well as my melancholy. Unfortunately, I was merely thinking too much.

Some students were just about to leave. They stared as they passed; it was embarrassing, but thankfully they moved on as I met their look.

“Could you not punch people out of the blue?”

I thought it was a sensible comment, but it was only so before leaving my mouth. The stern look remained on Takimoto’s face — it was like that of a rat drawn on an encyclopaedia.

“What if I asked nicely?” He retorted.

“I’m gonna tell the teachers.”

Though petty a reply, it’s probably the correct one. At least it’s better than raising my fists in retaliation and getting both of us punished. Besides, Takimoto is considered a large guy, and I’m not a fighter. It would be unfair if I managed to land two hits with my twig arms while taking ten from his trunk-like arms, and still get the same punishment.

“Stay the hell away for Ko’umi.”

He ordered. For a moment I pondered what sea this Ko’umi is, then I realised it was Hoshinaka’s name. I’ve long forgotten since I’ve never used it.

“She was the one who called me out.”

“She won’t again, so you better stay clear of her.”

Takimoto, who’d just decided on his own who would be Hoshinaka’s friends, knocked his leg with a fist. Is that like how a horse would kick its back leg?

“Ugh…” Pain finally seeped through my swollen cheek.

Hoshinaka-san is now a princess, and Takimoto her knight. Is that how the characters are put together now?

What does this jerk who seems like he’d get a lot of Youth Points want? Is he gonna pummel me for some EXP? Why don’t you try by spending time with Hoshinaka? This guy is totally wrong.

Something about this is even funnier. I get why he wouldn’t punch his girlfriend, and I agree, but you could at least yell at her. Getting punched by the boyfriend after being invited out by a girl. It’s like a honey trap. I want no more of this.

Hoshinaka aside, it was a waste of time at least with Takimoto.

“Uh oh…” I looked to right, which only had a dried-up tree. As I confirmed that he’d been deceived, I sprung up.

I ran as fast as I could to through the road next to Takimoto. Evidently, he had been played, what with the slow reaction. Was he earnest, or simply dumb? He finally swung his trunk-like arm as I passed; though the back swing hit my back, I casually passed the gate.

The school only allowed students living outside of its district to ride bicycles, so I didn’t have to worry about him catching up to me on one. Naturally, I had to rely on my legs to escape to safety.

I was going to give a wise crack to Takimoto as he followed me out, but with little time to think I simply shouted.

“Perverted kid! Think about your test!”

Whatever I just thought of sounded like a simple complaint. The sentiment of reaping what I sowed, as well as being humiliated flooded; I would have loved to correct myself, but I was already on the road back home under the supposedly-red sky. Takimoto said a few things, but pretending that the cold had my ears trembling, I refused to listen.

My breathing became more erratic; I raised my chin. The sight that welcomed me was, despite it being dusk, the faint silhouette of the moon hanging in the sky. Cutting through the cloud and sunken in the crimson, the moon gave off a weak light that had a different impression. If I reached forward, I might just steal a touch.

But I couldn’t do that.

Giving up was my specialty. My dream of becoming a professional football player was curtailed in elementary school. Though I’ve regretted many things later, I never wanted to challenge anything anymore.

There’s a lot more things in life that I must do before flying to the moon. Probably, yeah…

When I first met Hoshinaka, I (俺) was more like ‘me’ (僕). It was a more natural pronoun, and I had principles. In another year, after breathing the air of a new class, Hoshinaka spoke to me with the force and at a time that was enough to suffocate me. Not that I was trying to play along with her, but I did choke.

“Yo, Niwacchi-kun!”

“Niwa… Cchi-kun?:

I saw her face and tried to remember her, but even if it’s someone I knew, no one had ever called me that. She was merely a classmate I just met. I remember being bashful when the girl called my name; even the tingle of blood surging into my face remains clear in my memory.

I had just become a middle school second year.

“You’re the paper model club president, right? I saw your name on the orientation pamphlet.”

Hoshinaka, with the rolled-up pamphlet on her shoulder, beamed a toothy grin. I nodded as I recall the photo of the school’s entrance printed on the papers.

“I was made that only because we had four members.”

On the second day of joining the senior-less club, I greeted our advising teacher, who then ordered, ‘find a president.’ Club attendance was mandatory in our school, so the four (including me) who joined this empty club pushed about the title of president.

And that’s what happened. I don’t think writing ‘club president’ on my transcript has much use.

“I can’t believe you wrote ‘looking for a club president.’ That’s hilarious. And kinda sad.”

She spoke on with the same smile. Though my smile froze, she seemed to not mind.

“It’s true — I’m no leader material.”

“You said you don’t care who does it, so I guess you’re up, Niwacchi-kun.”

The name ‘Niwacchi-kun’ is so strange that I cannot face her.

Right, what club is Hoshinaka in?

“Oh yeah, Niwacchi-kun.”

“Yeah?”

“What’s paper model? It’s not Origami, is it?”

“I’ll look it up next time.”

“Now that’s a president.”

Because of these small talk, I was able to chat with Hoshinaka even more. After a little investigation, I was able to begin my club life, as trivial as that is.

Hoshinaka and I got along well, and we ended up as good friends. We usually get to talk during cleaning, each with a rag or broom in hand. People who saw us would leave quietly, and that’s how we were. We don’t prioritise one another, but we were always together whenever possible. That’s the kind of natural relationship we had. It wasn’t anything suffocating, sort of like being able to feel the floor under the water.

Still, as friendly as we were, I could never do something as bold as calling her by her first name. She calls me ‘Niwacchi,’ a strange nickname. It would be a lie to say I didn’t see her as a girl then. It’s definitely a feeling of attraction, but not quite love. I think.

Like admiring the stars, but never having the passion to build a rocket.

The distance between me and her which can never be shortened was easy and comfortable. It changed, gradually. Instead of closer, it grew further apart.

It moved apart, slowly, like the moon and the Earth.

By the time I realised, our distance was like that between planets.

I ruminated on these things, rolling around in bed. The sun had gone. Someone called for me from downstairs. Doesn’t this seem like when I got beat up by Takimoto? I could not stand how simple my thought process was, and got up. The strange sensation on my left cheek prompted me to touch it; my brows furrowed at the resulting sting. Right, Takimoto punched me. Wasn’t I just thinking about this?

“Damn!” If I forget my English vocabularies or math formulas because of that, before I could feel anxious during the actual test, I’d wonder if all that time spend studying was wasted. It’s both depressing and annoying to have the make that judgement. I remember some Tachibana guy once wrote, ‘A completed manuscript may not be rejected, but it sucks when it does.’ I don’t remember where it’s from or what his name was though.

“Makoto~” Mother called again from downstairs. “Coming!” The incessant calls annoyed me, so I dashed out. The repercussion of running into the wall ached from the side of my head, but I continued downward. I jumped off from the last three steps, landing on the hallway.

A surge of pang flashed through my head. “Agh…” A sense of vertigo, the pain and pulse went in and out as if respiring.

The hallway was different than my warm room: Cold is after all not advised for headaches.

“What are you doing?”

Seemingly irked, my mother, who was waiting by the hallway, spoke. I lifted my head, which felt much heavier than usual, to see her holding the telephone in her chest. A tiny frame and a somewhat youthful appearance, my mother stood there presumptuously and comedically.

“Why do you have to be in such a hurry? It’s not safe.”

Then don’t call me twice. “What is it?” She often calls me for things like sliced apples, so I thought perhaps it’s something similar this time.

“It’s a call for you: A girl is asking if a ‘Niwacchi-kun’ is here. That’s you, right?”

Hoshinaka. Here comes the name that nailed my stomach together. She’s calling me again after yesterday. She’s not asking me to go in her stead to meet Takimoto in the park, is she? I already begged her to not in the library, guess it didn’t work.

Hehehe… My mother had an infuriating grin on her face.

“If it’s not school related, then she’s your girlfriend? You can’t go on a night date, though. Actually, you can’t go out in the night at all.”

“Shut up, I know.”

I just happened to have picked up the phone yesterday, but I’m a little embarrassed this time to have my mother answer and call for me instead.

“’Niwacchi-kun’ could have been dad, you know. It might be whoever he’s an affair with.”

“If that’s who he’s sleeping with, then the police would have arrested him long before I laid my hands on him.”

She’s not wrong. I stole the phone away from my obviously excited mother. “Here come the police~” Making my escape from my mother, whatever horrible cries she’s emitting, I went upstairs. There was an urge to just toss the machine down the stairs, but instead of getting yelled at by Hoshinaka, I’d risk the wrath of my mother, so I endured.

“What? Can’t you at least use my name when you call?”

“Sorry? I forgot.”

The voice on the other end was not that of whoever dad’s having an affair with, but of my acquaintance Hoshinaka. Her cheerful voice was not like the traffic light, of which the lights would dim and brighten at moment’s notice.

“Was that your mom? Or your sister?”

“That’s my mother. It’s obvious from the way she talks, isn’t it?”

I could feel the warmth mixed with the cold as soon as I walked upstairs. Due to the door being open, the AC escaped out onto the hallway. Hurryingly, I shut the door as I entered.

“So, what do you want this time? I’m not going to the library or the park.”

I warned her first — This is retribution for stabbing my stomach. Hoshinaka just laughed awkwardly.

“Well… I just wanted to know what happened after you left.”

What? I don’t get what’s she getting at. If our literature exams are filled with similar questions, then my mock exam score will probably just barely dodge a bullet.

Still, this should be good practise for communicating with others.

And the question itself would mean she doesn’t know about Takimoto punching me yet.

“Not a whole lot. Just that Takimoto punched me in the face when he saw me.”

I spoke a bit sarcastically, but the other end did not give me my sense of satisfaction.

“Takimoto? Niwacchi, isn’t that, like, assault? You need to find better friends.”

Ignore the latter half, but from her questioning tone of the first half I could tell I’ve gotten her boyfriend’s name wrong. I got socked by some guy whose name I don’t even know. My student life isn’t this radical, if I recall correctly. The tests must be messing with my mind.

“Actually, you can’t exactly call that a friend, can you.”

“Yeah, so, anyway, it’s all good. All’s fine and dandy.”

“Very well. Tis good, then.”

With a strange and almost theatrical accent, she replied. I should have told her to end the conversation entailing that.

The air and silence tortured my ears and tongue, disallowing me to just hang up.

And so, I delayed moving the phone downstairs for later and sat down on my bed. Puff! Dust from the sheets and the tepid AC air filled my lungs. I submerged myself into what felt like warm liquid pouring into my body — including the temperature, it’s not at all comfortable.

“So then… Uh… You still there?”

Perhaps because of my silence, Hoshinaka, unsure what to say, checked for my presence.

We probably were able to feel one another’s existence.

“I am.”

“Thank goodness.” What do you mean?

“Your boyfriend is gonna be mad again if he heard about you calling me.”

My complaint was poignant, but correct. ‘Wuu,’ she held her breath after what sounded like having someone stabbed you in the chest with a finger. With nothing else to say I waited for her to speak.

“He was really mad. I even wondered if that’s why they call it ‘the fire of rage.’”

“Of course he would be.”

Somehow, I could agree with that statemen — not so much with being punched.

“Why would he be?”

“A girl you’re going out with went to see a different guy at night, that doesn’t sound too good.”

What does she want a bachelor to say? That’s why’s the end of my reply wasn’t at all persuasive. Dissatisfied with my answer, Hoshinaka gave an example.

“Then, if my boyfriend were to go see another girl on the weekend, can I get mad too and not study for the test?”

“I guess. Taki— I mean, your boyfriend isn’t actually that smooth, is he?”

He does look like he’s one of with the ratmen. Can’t argue with how well rats multiply either.

“Probably not. It’s just an analogy.”

Then why don’t you take your analogy to him instead of me. He, of course, wouldn’t agree so easily. Plus talking about this is useless.

We could probably talk about something else.

“Um… Well…”

“Well?”

“No, nothing.” I’m just beating around the bush.

Why are you calling me?

Do you like me?

Even if it were through the phone, asking something like that would have made me an amazing person long ago. It’s likely a misunderstanding. This time, however, I believe both she and I have mistaken one another for something. It’s rare, and certainly not a good thing.

Hoshinaka must not comprehend the thing which exists between me and her. It’s futile even if I told her it’s the moon. There might be an alien hideout on the dark side of the moon… No, of course not.

Damn, I don’t know what I’m saying anymore. This has nothing to do with the aliens.

“Just… Don’t call me so often.”

“Aw, don’t sweat the small stuff. Just Youth it!”

She spoke like it was with a thumb’s up.

“I have no idea what you’re on about.”

I don’t know what this ‘youth’ is, aside from what the dictionary has to say about it.

“And could you please go find your boyfriend for this kind of stuff instead?”

I shot a glance at the desk. The reference books and practise questions piled there like in a bookstore. It saddens me to know that the money spent on those were supposed to go to my deep-sea creature encyclopaedia collection.

It’s absolutely awful to prepare for exams. Same goes to the me, who’s preparing to take on such things. Because it’s so awful that you start to lose things around you. Things in my heart, naturally, were taken on a whim.

Allowance. Leisure. Time. Health. If it could be taken gradually like a charity donation to keep me on the treacherous road of exam preparation, then could they decide my position based on how much I’ve given? From the standpoint of my mock exam scores, though, it will be quite difficult.

“My boyfriend… It’s fine. Of course I love him.”

I sniffed hard when she spoke. Though unintentional, it was the noise that drowned that part of her words.

“But, I don’t know, whenever I thought of being young, you’re what shows up in my head.”

“That doesn’t quite fit my image.”

“I know. I know how often you update your ‘time spent single’ status.”

“Shut up.”

As much as I denied it, I could understand a little of what she meant. That’s why I couldn’t just hang up on her when she called.

“But I’m still looking for Youth from you.”

“What do you propose me to do?”

“So just go and enjoy Youth!”

“And what is this youth…?”

I turned my head while listening to the receiver. Cleaning my already impeccable room, I looked for what qualifies as ‘youth.’ Oh… There it is. It’s not mine, but there’s something outside that emanated just that.

“I see. Enjoy, huh…”

“Niwacchi?”

“Here’s what I’m gonna do.”

“Mm?”

“I’m gonna stare at the sky from my room. You should join me, Hoshinaka.”

I could see the moon. We usually communicate through the celestial body that hanged high in the evening sky.

To string the line on the moon and make a long-distance call.

We might not be able feel one another, but our abstract thoughts will appear.

In any case, I stared at the clear sky from the window.

Even if looking at the deep sea is a mere pipe dream, it’s not so bad looking at the dark sky that resembles it.

“I can’t. My phone’s on my house’s shoebox.”

She dumped the bucket of water on me. The silhouette of the moon seemed to die a little.

“Is there a reason why you never want to stargaze?”

I asked curiously. ‘Let’s go stargazing at the park,’ she said so yesterday. She never once looked up.

Upon the query, a faint laughter came from the receiver.

“You should save stargazing with someone else. It’s an ace for Youth points, you know?”

“Hah? So what exactly is this ‘Youth Point?’”

If that’s a vocab for modern literature, I need to at least know its meaning.

“Well… Nothing, really. It’s just something I made up.”

Demanding someone else to do something that she won’t. There’s a lot of say about that. Plus, what she does isn’t what my common sense could tolerate.

Could it be that Hoshinaka sees that hypocritical or irrational thinking ‘Youth?’

But it’s only going to cause problems for either of us if you seek that from me. Do not expect anything dramatic between me and her. The only conclusion is like the calm of water passing.

Even if something were to happen, it’s only going to be a little bit of nothing.

“So you get it? Don’t call me again if your boyfriend doesn’t know.”

For the sake of hanging up on her, I told her in a roundabout manner.

But if her boyfriend knew and let her do it, I’d feel even more insulted.

“I know. I will do that if I feel like it.”

“Hey now…”

“Thanks for spending time with me again. Goodbye.”

With that as the closing, she hung up. I listened for a bit, letting the beeping of our severed call fill my ear drums.

I was obviously confounded. Will I be able to focus on studying tonight?

“I guess this is also a form of pervert, isn’t it?”

I lied down after putting the phone down on my desk. ‘Hm~’ I hugged my arms.

Was the light hitting my eyelids from the bulb, or the moon?

Two days passed without me being attacked by Takimoto (which is wrong, but it’s easier to use that name) or receiving a call from Hoshinaka. Since he’s not a radical, the former shouldn’t come to my house after the weekend.

He’s probably also preparing for his exams. I bet he also aspires to go the same school Hoshinaka is going.

“How lovely.”

I leaned back into the chair in my room while quietly whispering his goal that I just made up. It was now a frigid Sunday morning too difficult to be lazy on. Sun saturated outside the window, yet could not breach into the room.

My other friends are probably also giving up their day-off for the tests while staring at this cold sun.

The back of the mechanical pencil in between my teeth, I took a breather staring at the ceiling. I was sick of writing more Kanji. Graphite had darkened my right hand which had plastered the notebook. The whole situation reminded me when I was practising Kanji during grade school. What I mean is I didn’t skip out on doing those.

“But, is passing the certification test going to affect my grade at all?”

The school made us take the test, and I did. Having an award in the room is quite nice as a decoration, I suppose. I didn’t get that perfect attendance reward in grade school though.

And that’s how I slacked off while making the ancient chair squeak. As I continued putting off work, the phone rang downstairs. I straightened the chair, irritated as though someone had just woken me up from an afternoon nap. Putting the pencil down first, I stood.

My parents were already gone when I went downstairs after getting up, so it was up to me to pick it up. While regretting about the fact that the phone wasn’t on the second floor, I ran into the hall and down the stairs yelling, ‘coming!’ Again, at the last few flights, I jumped. It’s a habit at this point.

It’s still ringing. Déjà vu, as I put the phone to my ear.

“Niwa residence.” I was full prepared to hear ‘Niwacchi,’ but the voice called me ‘Niwa.’ It was even a man’s, and a familiar one at that.

“Oh, it’s you, Aihara. What’s up?” Hearing the voice of a friend I’ve known since grade school, my face relaxed.

“Not much. I was just wondering if you’re free. Wanna go out for a bit if you are?”

“Aihara, what do you think a day-off before exams is for?”

“Yet here I am, somehow very bored.”

“Right. Of course you are.”

It’s almost with certainty that Aihara will be recommended into a private high school. In the gloomy classroom, he’s one of the few cheery people. He does, however, promptly banishes himself from the classroom after school’s out.

“I’m not gonna make ya, unless you’re really free.”

“Going out, huh… Got a place in mind?”

“Nope. Let’s go for burgers.”

“Why not find a girl if you’re going for lunch?”

“Mako-chan, if I had one I wouldn’t be asking you.”

“Don’t call me that.”

An ominous disgust crept up to me for some reason.

“Well?”

I turned to look at the kitchen. I don’t recall a meal made for me.

“Alright, I’ll go. Not for too long though.”

“Oh~ Not bad. That’s the kind of guy you are?”

“I don’t plan on staying wishy-washy.”

“You sound a little stressed, man. Whatever. Let’s meet up at the store on the way to school, shall we?”

“Right. Got it.”

“I’m waiting for ya, Kikuchi~”

“Yeah, yeah. We’ll talk about that graduation trip.”

It’s a joke that only works because he’s Aihara. Can’t believe he knows the series too. I rested the receiver. On the back of the advertisement pamphlet left next to the phone as notes, I wrote down about going out.

After leaving that note, I turned.

I ran upstairs for my wallet.

Though dubious of how much insulation the clothes will provide, I’m not about to test them out one by one in this weather. I put my utter faith in them. It’s so cold — Even with the heavy covers my skin had already declared defeat.

Fortunately, before beginning to regret not eating cup ramen at home, I’ve arrived at our rendezvous. Then I searched the people passing by.

“Oh? There you are.”

He found me first. Aihara, with just as much cover as I had, approached. Since both of us lived nearby, neither rode a bike here.

I greeted him with lips shut tightly against the wind. “Hey.”

“You’re as forgettable as ever.”

“That stupid face of yours is not good sign on a day off.”

I’ll leave it up to you to decide who said what. After meeting up, we went into the burger shop. As a side note, I’ve always thought this ‘burger shop’ word is weird.

Perhaps because it’s midday on a weekend, there’re many families with children in there. In addition, the new merchandise displayed on the register was on sale, which is also probably why so many came.

After lining up, we finished our order and paid separately. Instead of the regular dining tables, we chose the seats near the windows to wait for our food to come.

“I asked two people first before calling you, Niwa. They weren’t up for it.”

He opened his mouth; I replied while taking the scarf off.

“Okay.”

“One of ‘em was a chick.”

“So you were already shut down by one.”

Guess he didn’t need my advice. I actually thought he did something impressive. It takes quite a bit of courage to ask out a girl on a weekend as a country-side middle schooler.

“How’s the studying going, master?”

He half-joking asked. That’s what you call courtesy words.

“It’s going.”

“Whatever that means~”

He laughed drily. Not like there’s much we have in common, anyway.

“Oh yeah, I heard you were in a fight. Is that true?”

“Hm? Oh…” He meant with Takimoto’s fist. So it’s spread, huh.

“Is that why you called me up?”

Hehehe… Aihara laughed as though getting a dirty joke. Bingo.

“I gotta find some guy who can give me a little excitement, you know?”

“Right. Too bad you’re gonna be disappointed. It wasn’t even a fight.”

“Really? I heard you fought a big dude for some girl.”

I smiled bitterly at the strange rumour.

Leaning forward, I rested my chin on the table.

“I just got beat up. The bruise’s already gone.”

“So you did get socked. Now that’s youth.”

He laughed at my injury. That’s what you call ‘youth?’ This isn’t boxing, you know.

“What is this ‘youth?’”

“It’s about dating, making memories at the cultural festival and stuff.”

Without mincing words, he replied rather weakly. Whoa! So that’s Youth.

And it seems like it’s got nothing to do with me. None of those applied for my experience.

“Oh?”

Just as I began the game of knocking the table with my chin, I saw some familiar faces.

It’s Hoshinaka and Takimoto. Regardless of what that guy’s name is, I know the first name to be right. Hoho! A date. How free of them. How lovely, I referred to the same phrase spoken in that reverie earlier.

But looking closely, they seemed to be exchanging their feelings in an odd manner. They stared at one another in the alley from across, discussing something. Oh… And they split up.

Takimoto this way, while Hoshinaka the other. A fight?

“What’s wrong?”

Aihara squinted at the road. He either didn’t see them, or flat out doesn’t know them. ‘Nothing,’ I said, despite of the complicated feelings building up.

Can’t believe I’d see the source of my headache when I came out for a stroll. Perhaps the world is created by things we least expected it to be. But ignore who it is created by.

Hoshinaka’s silhouette is just about to fade from my sight.

“Hahh…” With a deep sigh I wrapped the scarf back on.

“Sorry, mind if I head out for a bit?”

“Hm? Sure. Can I have your food?”

“Of course not. And I’m not leaving. Be right back!”

I stood up and dashed out of the store. Light’s green, and I crossed the road.

In order to avoid Takimoto, I went out of the way to search for Hoshinaka, who was about fade into the crowd. I don’t know why either, so it felt empty.

By either turning or raising my arms, I cut between the crowd and fast approached her. As I closed, I wondered how I should address her. So I kept my arm toward her back, temporarily keeping pace with her. I must have looked strange to the bystanders.

“Um… Ahem! Ahem!”

I tried coughing. It looked like an excuse, but it worked. Hoshinaka stopped and turned around.

“Niwacchi…” She called me first, then her eyes grew. A reversed surprise reaction, how unique.

We stopped in the road where people were bumping each other constantly. We did not move — from the meaning alone, it’s the right image.

“What’s the matter?”

That line was as if she’d finally sorted out the questions on her mind.

“I was out for walk when I saw you. Felt like I should at least say hi.”

“Oh?”

She didn’t appear convinced. She probably doesn’t know that it is me who is constantly chasing after her; perhaps finally settled, Hoshinaka walked to the side of the walkway. I followed.

“This must be the first time I’ve seen you on a weekday, Niwacchi.”

“I guess. Where’s the boyfriend?”

I tried to play dumb. Hoshinaka shot a glance at me, seemingly worried with her lips shut. After calming down, she replied casually.

“I was just with him. But he got mad and left.”

“Oh? That’s too bad.”

Unsure what to say, I could only play along.

She exhaled slowly and explained concisely the cause.

“I heard that he punched you, so I told him he shouldn’t have.”

Guess he finally told her. It isn’t exactly something you can say with a grin, though.

It’s probably also not worth bragging about beating me up.

“That’s why you fought?”

“Mm…”

She nodded. Leaning against the building, her gaze appeared tired.

“Is it wrong to say violence is bad?”

“Depends on when and where.”

“Are you fine with being punched, Niwacchi?”

Hell no. Because of how rhetorical the question was, I answered with silence.

She did not press on, instead looking toward the road. With those cold eyes she captured the scenery; I merely stared at her. From those tightly-shut lips she revealed her teeth, as if words would come out. Yet, she swallowed them.

“I have to go. Sorry.”

With that declaration, we are now in a completely reversed position a few days ago in the library.

It’s not like I want a date with her, but hearing her say that, I decided I had to see her off silently. Hoshinaka seemed apologetic, turning her head back many times. But her feet never stopped.

She went further and further away. Visually seeing how she’s disappear in the distance — It’s better this way.

At least when compared to the distance between us which faded without anyone’s knowledge.

Like me now, left to stand there on the sidewalk, but without Aihara waiting for me in the restaurant, and talking to myself.

“Thing’s really crappy recently.”

A nameless something pulled me and Hoshinaka together and fixed us there. Distance is a fine thing: It will never be properly set if you ignore it.

Is that why Hoshinaka asked me out to the park that night?

Yet I couldn’t reach the moon, merely exacerbating the pain of struggle.

“……”

Ah…

This is it.

I don’t know what this youth is, but any more of this…

Nothing will end, and nothing can begin.

No matter in what form.

No matter how big or small, or if the result will depress me somehow.

I have to put an end to this.

It’s the only way for me to focus on the exam.

The exams are truly terrible. It’s all their fault.

Next week, I studied on Monday.

Tuesday I studied.

Wednesday too.

Thursday omitted.

Friday.

I stopped Hoshinaka after school…

“Let’s go out tonight.”

It’s Christmas.

I don’t recall signing a paper about never leaving at night.

So I accepted going out this time. It’s quite an optimistic thought for the me as of late. Clank, clank, the bike emitted a sound like something’s missing.

The night of Christmas. On a weekday, there’s no such thing as lit-up skyscrapers in the sticks. It might be a little more raucous in downtown, but sadly I was going by the fields. Not a single soul was partying in the farm.

I never see anyone happy after school either. Perhaps in the countryside, it’s too early even for people my age to be spending Christmas together. Or maybe it’s just the age when one would want to avoid appearing happy for the holiday. You kind of need to be a little hot-blooded to truly enjoy middle school.

White breath trailed behind. As my finger felt my face, I could sense a bit of warmth. I almost feel the bottom of my nose falling off after a few sniffles. I could never get used to this cold.

I checked again to see if she’s following. Indeed there’s a bike rolling along.

Hoshinaka was behind me. She agreed without a second thought after I had invited her. The conversation followed.

“Let’s go out tonight.”

“What?”

I told her so just as we’re about to pass one another in the after-school hallway. Hoshinaka froze. Naturally it wasn’t just me and her in the hallway, what with the students exiting from their classes.

It’s was the replay of me and her in the middle of the road that weekend.

“Niwacchi, what did you say?”

She spoke collectedly, but on her face was a serious countenance.

In order to keep my face up, I bluffed by raising my nose.

“Well… I’m inviting you out.”

After forcing her to come with me, I then explained that I was inviting her out. That’s just laughable. The initial on-the-spot comment weakened me, and embarrassment rushed into my neck like blood.

“Are you asking me out, Niwacchi?”

Hoshinaka pointed at her chin with a finger.

“Yep.”

Her eyes waved as if the surface of water.

“Because it’s Christmas?”

“That’s one of the reasons.”

I knew my face must be red from ear to jaw, so I shut my eyes. Because no matter what, my face will be reflected and seen by my own eyes.

In the limited field of vision, only the voice of Hoshinaka guided my ears.

“Okay. Sure.”

That was it. Now I can’t yell at her for not asking her boyfriend first.

But why should her boyfriend even hear about this? I thought.

Hoshinaka followed me without a word, but she couldn’t hold it in anymore. She spoke.

“Where are we headed?”

“The mountain.”

I answered precisely while keeping ahead. The clanking of the wheel was like voices thrown in.

“The mountain? That’s a little strange, Niwacchi.”

“No~ No~ Yes. Mountain.”

“We’re gonna die if we go hiking in weather like this.”

“It’s fine. We’re not going anywhere high anyway.”

There’s no mountain that high here anyway. At most we got something a little taller than a hill.

And that’s where we were headed on our bikes.

Nothing in particular happens in this town — that’s why we have to be more proactive. I am now about to go live a life that’s not written in the exam preparation books.

I have not been to this hill since I was a grade schooler. And it wasn’t because I had business there: I merely passed by it to visit another place.

No lights from cars zoomed by, as though the in-name-only state road had nothing to do with the month of December. Only the headlights of two bicycles carved through the darkness consuming the path. We wordlessly hinted ourselves of our next three months in school.

I remembered a little something: I remember going as fast as I could, trying to break the record of highest speed on a bicycle. I was on a straight road just like this one, peddling on my bike. I crashed in the end.

The wheel broke, and I cried my way home. Just why was I trying so hard?

“Ah… Take a right here.”

“Um… Niwacchi? Why are you taking me into the mountain?”

“We’re gonna do whatever you want.”

“I wish to be eating a bean paste bun at the store.”

“Alright, stop whining.”

Let’s go find that on the mountain.

Though pretty sure convenient stores on the mountains are all homes of bandits or whatever.

With the metal tower with red lights shining as the goal, I turned right. Hoshinaka followed — she must have thought that going back now would be a waste of energy. Thankfully she wasn’t complaining all the time.

“You aren’t planning on having a Christmas party in a shrine there, are you?”

“Ask your boyfriend tomorrow if that’s what you want.”

We entered a road with multiple forks. I don’t plan on walking through the hiking trails: We are going the entire way on the road. It’s ‘more like it’ this way.

As I am still a third year in middle school, I believe in my way. We rode, on the mountainous path that seemed like it’s been cut abruptly into the environment. It had no lanes, and snaked along the ground. It was so small that if a truck carrying stuff were to come from the other side, we’d be flattened. The last time I was here, we were on a field trip.

“It’d be a little problematic if I don’t make it home tonight.”

“You will. Relax.”

Just running out here tonight is already too much for me. If I stayed out my parents would murder me. Actually, Takimoto would probably do that first.

Shuffling of the grass swaying in the wind came from around. They stood, perfunctorily blocking our way. Their vigour were as if they would devour us if we somehow become entangled.

We made it pass the prairie-like zone and continued upward. Gradually the incline grew, and so did the burdens of the pedals. It was rough, and I bet it must be even more so for Hoshinaka, who didn’t know where we were going. I’ve actually already decided on where to go, just that I haven’t decided where it will be.

That’s why I decided that until one of us said he or she couldn’t do it anymore that we’d keep going. I also kept track of whether we can make it home safely. On that note, we’re pretty much at the limit.

“Alright, almost there.”

I tried a sudden proclamation. Hoshinaka exhaled in relief, ‘finally.’

We entered a path slightly off the paved road. The overgrown snagging onto the wheels almost stopped them, but we made it eventually. After gingerly traversing the woods, we came upon a slightly open area. The wind blew, to which I shut my eye.

It’s a tall, almost cliff-life place. A misstep would fill the night with screams.

I parked my bike; Hoshinaka too stopped hers half a wheel away from mine. She looked toward me.

“This is where you wanted to go?”

She asked, slightly out of breath. While I am too, I moved my slightly-raised jaw downward. The motion blocked my throat for a bit, almost stopping my breathing.

“Oh yeah. Didn’t your boyfriend ask you out today?”

Before the real deal, I started casually. I could hear the grass being stepped on after I put my left foot down.

Man-made noises couldn’t reach here. The only thing clear here is the wind’s howl. And the cold.

“No. We fought, so it wasn’t exactly the mood. He probably won’t call me today, either.”

Hoshinaka answered with what could be attributed as a lonely reply. The wind’s howl that sounded like escaped air came from somewhere, diving above our heads. For a moment, I saw the movement of air on the cables.

“…Well, it doesn’t matter either way.”

After that extended inhale, I breathed out — the real deal.

The stars are far, and I have not the strength to take the moon. With no ways to fly up, there was no chance for me to close our distance.

So I could make as much noise here, as to hope it would spread to the moon.

It’s the most I could do.

“I think we should call it good.”

“What do you mean?”

“Let’s let go of what we’re holding onto.”

I lazily pointed at the world that exist above, far, far away.

“Isn’t stargazing the ace of youth?”

Now’s the time.

“Come on, look up.”

“Ah…”

The phone,

The wall,

The coffee can. Without those distractions in the way, Hoshinaka listened obediently to my words.

In a motion that I thought delicate, she slowly peered up.

Finally satisfied, I too looked upward.

In the dark sky, that which both she and I expected glittered.

“Whoa…”

The sky, as though breathing, decorated itself with clouds. A few stars scattered themselves in and between the white bodies.

Breathtakingly beautiful objects, gathered together and shined with only their distance from the Earth in common.

As if to drill into us how alive the sky truly was, the wind would sometimes nudge us gently.

I asked for her thought without batting an eye.

“Here’s that Youth action you’ve been asking for. What do you think of the way I put it?”

Her reply was a question. That’s a guaranteed zero on the literature exam.

“Niwacchi, were you always so romantic?”

“I’m about three times more than the usual. It is Christmas, after all.”

It’s a bit of a destructive self-assurance.

Because we’re all from the middle of nowhere, I think of it as a bit lame and was embarrassed by it.

“It’s a bit dark tonight. Or, I should say, the night’s thick.”

“Of course.”

Hearing my doubtless answer, Hoshinaka had the exact response I’d predicted.

“Why?”

Here comes the information I didn’t get myself.

“Because it’s a new moon tonight. It’s pretty rare on a Christmas.”

Hoshinaka chuckled a little upon hearing my report.

“A moon-less Christmas… Isn’t that quite an omen?”

“Quiet you. Who cares.”

I rested my torso on the bike’s handlebars, and my chin onto my arms. My right foot rested on the pedal, tapping it like a horse, while my left on the grass.

“Since the moon is gone, who cares.”

After I said so, Hoshinaka, who sat properly on her bike, tilted her head inquisitively. Because of the moon, our distance can never be closed. Naturally, it is all gone today. The stars — they’re why the moon’s gone.

“Is this enough for your so-called, ‘my youth?’”

I intentionally held the answer back, making sure Hoshinaka’s satisfied. She said nothing, however.

“Forget about me already. Stay with your boyfriend, won’t you?”

“You know I can’t just do that, hahah.”

She tried to play it off with a dumb laughter, but I know the topic is not quite ready to end.

But…

Whatever mysterious thing that existed between us should end now.

“You know, when I think about us.”

“Mm…”

“I think it would be great if we could stargaze when we’re much closer.”

I did feel resentful of the truth I spoke. It is the kind of resentment, the useless kind that faded into the mountain.

But before it all left my lung and body, the regret continued.

“Then we would have been in those forty times.”

Before looking back at the stars, I turned to Hoshinaka to see how she was. Her breath was already back to normal, and she smiled quietly. It was, however, the kind that was frozen in the wind.

“Is it too late?”

She questioned softly. I nodded deeply. My eyes, nose and mouth felt the wind.

“Yes. It’s too late. Not even a sky like this could fix this gap between me and you now.”

A balloon that’s flown out of hand’s reach.

We just now saw that it was still floating today.

And we have to see to it that it’s the last thing we do, and end the act of looking back.

It sucks.

It doesn’t do much.

It is not possible to witness a miracle in the country side.

Because that’s how I carefully experience Youth, in a way suitable for me.

“Let’s end this.”

So that we may get along in the future.

I’m not quite ready to make the trip to moon yet.

“Mm…” She assented lightly. I asked her in a slightly nostalgic tone.

“Do you really agree with what I’m saying?”

“I do. Don’t you feel lonely now, Niwacchi.”

“I’ll be fine. Don’t call me on the phone anymore, alright?”

“I know. What about a New year card?”

“That I will gladly take.”

Sometimes I wish for double-digit amount of postcards.

I ignored the spreading glows of Christmas light beneath the mountain.

“Niwacchi.”

“Hm?”

“It’s cool to stargaze, but it’s pretty boring.”

“You just have to say it…”

Can’t you conceal whatever is on your mind with that youth whatever? Because even I’m feeling it.

It’s like going to watch the sea but end up getting tired of it.

“You’ll never enjoy Youth to the most if you keep this up.”

Strange words escaped her lips.

“So what do you propose?”

“This.”

Hoshinaka’s hand approached. It was not on its way to reach the stars, merely extending horizontally.

The cold fingers lightly touched my hand. I looked at her. Silently moving her bike forward, she rolled up next to me without looking my way, eyes focusing at only the sky.

Perhaps because a little numb, Hoshinaka’s fingers gripped tightly onto mine. The joints rubbed against each other. It hurt, but not a single finger was left to break her grip.

“The moon’s hiding tonight.”

She spoke briefly, as if to erase that usual sense of distance I felt.

Naturally those were words to hide her own embarrassment.

This was the last time me and Hoshinaka were together, trying, bashfully, to warm each other’s hands up.

“What are you, a poet?”

“Oh, shut up. Weren’t you embarrassed too just then?”

“Shut up.” She’s right.

I haven’t held a girl’s hand like this since kindergarten.

I never considered apologising to Takimoto, neither did I feel guilt.

I held hands with Hoshinaka, not for love or friendship, but for farewell.

Through the tips of our fingers, we conveyed what existed in the past, with regrets almost spawning from the touch. With everything ended, we could only share this moment of embarrassment.

But the only way to make up our mind and go forward to the unknown, is to have a steel-like past, so that we may never escape. Hoshinaka and I must move on. No, we wish we can move on.

So that one day, we may be able to traverse the moon with someone else.

To put off some of the awkwardness, I spoke to the person on the other side of my fingers.

“How many points would this be? To your Youth Point.”

“Five!”

How many points is that out of anyway?

“Niwacchi, which way is to your house?”

“I really don’t get what you’re saying.”

I commented on the words Hoshinaka let out when we’re riding on the road.

“Where, pray tell, does gentle Niwacchi-kun reside?”

“Oh~ The next turn on this road.”

“Guess we’re saying bye here, then.”

Hoshinaka braked on her bicycle. The wheels stopped spinning, making a screeching noise. While I didn’t have to, out of courtesy I stopped as well.

I looked back at her from slightly ahead. Her smile was a little more uncanny than usual. Her eyes darted, unsure what the grin meant.

“I live the other way.”

Without looking, she pointed backward.

“Why didn’t you say so from the start?”

“I just needed come, so I can go too.”

Her smile finally settled as she said so, like the moon finally revealing herself from the cloud.

“Niwacchi, I don’t hate you!”

“Me too!”

“Today was the first I’ve spent Christmas with someone else! Bye!”

She raised the front end of her bike, and, turning the bike on its rear wheel, began cycling. The melody of wheels spinning in the serene darkness shook every inch of my ear drum more so than the intermittent noise of cars from the road far away.

Pale air leaked from my teeth. It spread, like wings, in the winter breeze. All sorts of pain assaulted my senses as the wind smacked into my dried face and eyes.

“Me too.”

I said so to the back that drew further away.

My parents will definitely give me an earful when I get home. Will they take all my allowances away?

Just that was enough for me to be regretful of tonight’s action.

If more things I approve of appear, it’d be worth it.

Following Hoshinaka’s example, I began a steady trip back.

And the dumbass spending his Christmas alone on a bike shouted at the sky.

“I wanna girlfriend, dammit!”

What did my first ever Christmas spent with a non-family member bring? I am not befitted to analyse such a thing. So I’ll leave it like that. I should just believe that it gave me the drive to live on.

It’d been a whole year since I spend that Christmas with Hoshinaka. I managed to get into my choice of school, and despite having a phone, I still don’t have a girlfriend. I can’t blame the tests anymore, so that’s a little painful. It’s all so laughable, even the me who cursed the tests for everything.

I still run into Hoshinaka sometimes on the way to school. Since she was always with her boyfriend, however, we never stopped and talked when we pass each other by. The moon between Hoshinaka and me, except for that night of new moon, never disappeared. I mean, not much I can do about the sixty times.

It was now the January of me becoming a High School first year. After new year, my parents told me about their job relocation and transferring. I don’t know if shocking is the appropriate word for describing this, because whatever knowledge I’ve acquired for the tests at that time were all gone. I was taken aback, but also overjoyed.

A life of almost-independence was appealing to me. I’ve never met the aunt I will be spending time with, but since she’s the sister of my stoic father, she must be someone of similar calibre. Because she works, she probably won’t bother me too much — it’s the perfect environment for me.

And what do I mean by perfect? Youth Points of course. It matters not who came up with it, but I decided to invest my youth onto the increase of said points. Kind of like picking up where Hoshinaka left off, if you will.

What existed between me and Hoshinaka then was Youth. I don’t think it was love or friendship: We weren’t mature, and we didn’t think of others or even each other. We merely stuck our hands out clumsily, like sitting next to one another, yet reaching for the moon high up in the sky.

And, without recognising it, we made fools of each other. Without knowing our distance, we believed that all we had to do was to hold hands. At that age, we were driven by something that could only be created then. So we tried, as hard as we could. This so-called youth isn’t referring to being young or having the vigour — it’s to be able to fulfill ‘the wishes of any given moment.’

From that viewpoint, me and Hoshinaka had our moments of youth — even if it was just the forty times that brushed our shoulders. We may have given up and even took the long way, but we got that special ‘+4’ in our heart. It might have been a 5 point for her, but I don’t mind lowering it.

The perfect Youth Score is a five for me, so it’s a bit stricter.

So, well, not even the transfer is a big deal.

Because I will be able to delineate my own Youth in the upcoming year and get even more points.

This year has been filled with setbacks, though. The place I’m going will be livelier than here.

“Once I get to the city, uh… I wanna go to the beach with a girl. Maybe we’ll jump into the sea together.”

I cheerfully packed my stuff on the Sunday before leaving. For once, I was truly happy.

My mind was filled with Youth Points that would be enough for me to reach the moon of my yet-to-exist girlfriend.

### 006. Chapter 5 - E.R.O

Q: Select the appropriate words for the following equation:

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Niwa Makoto]

[Sudden awakening to carnal desires]

[Trip to the bookstore]

[Running into female classmates]

On a certain blazing summer afternoon.

A certain man on planet earth had a moment.

“My life as a high schooler is rather chaste.”

The half-read novel slipped from the pillow and onto the ground.

Oh… Greetings. Name’s Niwa Makoto. A wholesome high school sophomore. Excuse the strange soliloquy. Must be because of that manga Ryuushi-san recommended me. I rolled over after picking up the book. Ahh… The AC feels so nice. This is paradise itself. You cicadas on the outside, you deserve nothing less. Chirr, Chirr…

“A supposed monochrome book looks pink.”

Is this the terminal stage to my sickness? Am I at the point where my aggregated Youth-Points were roasted and consumed? There’s no questioning to that. Is my speech less interesting now? I rose, unconsciously scratching my head for comfort.

I closed the book, its corner now slightly bent, without marking the page. Perhaps because of lying for so long, both pain and freedom filled my spine.

The second Tuesday of July. Though the tests were over, the results are coming back tomorrow. Still, it’s a rather relaxing day-off. A desire that rode on this laze seemed to surge from within. I twisted my waist; the sound of popping. “Ah.” I yelped. “Ah~ Ah~” The moaning never seized while I cracked my back.

I kept doing so until I was satisfied — or, until that something left me. And for some reason I began hopping. Vertical jumps. Because I couldn’t stand the feeling of my feet being planted all the time.

After a few hops, I could feel the inside of my eyes splitting and drifting apart. So I fixated myself onto the ground, hands on the knees, leaning forward to face this demon in me.

The cries of cicadas seemed to remind me; my conscious was present, but its off running in a grassy plain faraway. To the small image in the corner of my eyes, I whispered.

“What I need now is some lewds.”

Having someone hear this analysis would be the most humiliating thing. And only for me.

As of recent, or should I say, after I moved here, all of my money was spent on transit. It’s something to be glad of, and certainly considered the rudiment of Youth-Points. But that’s not the point: A healthy high school sophomore, living such a wholesome life — how’s he supposed to maintain sanity?

It’s no good as a guy to keep up with the perfunctory rules of 18+ only, and naturally no high schoolers can do just that. Us guys are motivated by such needs — that’s why we can burn so brightly. And to do away with the difficult phrases: pornography.

“But not everything in life will go your way, won’t it?”

There wasn’t a thing in this room that could satisfy my desire. In this room of the Touwa household where nothing is hidden, it could even be said that the tree of youth had withered. A barren land.

I still lament my throwing away of all ‘private’ items when I moved here — all for the sake of saving faces, of course. There’s nothing I’d want more than to go back and beat myself up. I’d even ask him, ‘are ya trying ta be a saint before yer get yerself wet? Huh?” I wondered if all I thought about was getting more Youth-Points and regretted so. “Are ya a dummy, Niwacchi? And ya know how much? Like those kids who make fun of Ryuushi-san’s helmet!”

I scolded myself in imitation of my wonderful classmate, Ryuushi-san. That was actually pretty disgusting. How do girls manage to make such vile sounds?

As I was saying… What was I saying? Right. The importance of the lewds.

Some might claim that I have no need for such things since I already hang out with Ryuushi-san, Maekawa-san and the cousin with whom I live with.

But I can say without a doubt that they are wrong. Or that their youth is far gone.

This is this, and that’s that. As cleaning is different than laundry, even if the purpose is to purify something, the process cannot be any more different. No high schooler can claim to have truly lived youth if it’s entirely wholesome!

“Hold on… Chill.”

I almost shot my leg at the wall with a shout because of my pent-up youth. That would certainly lead to my Kanji certification falling from the wall, as well as danger for my leg.

Almost consumed by my now filth-ridden brain, I looked to the ceiling.

Something like this doesn’t happen without a reason: It was during the exam period when I went to sleep after a serious study session.

First, I dreamt of Erio completely naked underneath the futon, to which I realised I’ve reached my limit. The next day it was of me peeping at Ryuushi-san when she’s changing for club. It’s over. Finally, it was Maekawa-san’s nude cosplay. There’s nothing else to say — that’s not even cosplay any more.

Just yesterday, I saw Meme-san being followed by the words ‘forty years old’ that appeared to have been written professionally in caligraphy. She took off on her bicycle, drawing a storm of dust behind, despite being on concrete. There’s nothing Meme-san can’t do, though I don’t mean that in a flattering way.

I suppose not seeing her naked was my rationality at work.

“That aside.”

I put my hands out in deference. Perhaps because of Meme-san’s face, my impulse waned. Could it be that my aunt scares even this violent desire of mine?

“Just like a middle schooler, huh…”

The momentary decline was soon relit. I paced about in the room, coughing as I inhaled the flowing dust. How do I reach my nirvana?

Neither I nor the Touwa Household had the peak of civilisation — a computer — so the easiest route was ruled out. I was also not trained enough to call and ask my guy friends to straight up ask, ‘I need something hardcore, now.’ I’m left to go out and buy something for the sake of retaining my balance.

I do have a cell phone, but the tiny screen is no good for my fantasy.

“Well, well. Shame I only get motivated for something like this.”

While my lips chattered away something like an excuse, I checked the wallet left inside my backpack on the desk. I can probably buy a book.

Eating a vegetarian buffet with Ryuushi-san gave my wallet a good beating. She might have had a good tomato meal, but all I had were apples. But since I had a great time chatting with Ryuushi-san, it’s all good.

Dirty mags are readily available and at a bargain price at the local convenient store. But that is not the issue here — In other words, it is too mundane and boring a process from an adolescent’s perspective.

Even I am aware of how odd it is to bring about the topic of Youth-point at a time like this, but that’s just how I am. One’s youth is something that is without flavour unless he is conscious of it; I’ve come to the realisation, looking at both the people who couldn’t enjoy themselves more, and those who were bored out of their mind at the school festival.

Perhaps it’s luck: I was the only one home today. Erio did not need me to see her to the Tamura Shop; Meme-san, with a worn-out face from the heat, shambled her way out somewhere.

The time is now to head to the bookstore and come back right away. So, what of spending the afternoon after doing this and that? One has to be especially considerate especially if his cousin lives in the neighbouring room. I must act while she's gone.

The lazy afternoon suddenly shifted into high gear. While the motive was worthy, I wondered I could simply add a point — if it were three guys, then that’s for certain. At times, just a group of friends doing something together weighs far more than the action itself.

“Alright. Let’s go find something.”

I spoke calmly and flatly with a stretch — something I didn’t even bother doing before the sports festival.

While the genre hadn’t been selected, I thought I’ll decide when I get there. The one problem was that I must be quick on my feet, lest I lose my spine after a while in the adult section. Such is the nature of going to the nearby school: you might just run into a friend. And tragedy awaits if it were Meme-san. I wouldn’t want Maekawa-san to see me either, and if Ryuushi-san saw, she’d gladly bestow upon me in front of everyone the name of ‘Shameless-san.’ The summer had just begun, yet if that were to happen, my high school junior year would burn to a cinder.

I shut my eyes while enjoying the last breath of cool air after the AC's been turned off.

As though the melting of snow, I let out a sigh once the heat and the cries of cicadas enveloped me.

'The act of buying a porno mag is merely a game to spend my afternoon.' And so I warned myself before grabbing the wallet and the key to my bike lock.

With another exhale, I slowly bent down to gather the strength to sprint.

‘That's it!’ I commanded my body — Niwa Makoto, for the sake of his youth, dashed out into the summer streets.

While ashamed that my movements were twofold my usual nimbleness, strength swelled.

The July sky was not stingy with its sun, so much so that I was on the verge of shouting a few words along the sound of the bicycle exiting the storage. Still, the pedalling feet did not cease from full speed.

Any more delay will trigger another form of heat from within. No doubt the pincer attack will melt my skin and bones. While the phrase ‘boiling passion’ sounds great, it is simply laughable where mine came from.

Despite it being the afternoon, the sun blazed down; my retina felt as though seared just from facing it, and I do not question the severity of my grimace. Even with my vision limited, without cars roaming in the residential districts, movement was not impeded. Sweat drops seemed unable to form as well, until the bike stops. But perhaps they were waiting for that precise moment — a chance to strike.

I proceeded to the train station, and to the bookstore that I frequent. It is possible that it’s the longer way from the Touwa household, but it’s the only route I know, and it’s the one Ryuushi-san taught me. I continued my journey through the station that had more cobweb than people.

While dubious of how helpful my hurrying was, I did not meet any familiar faces on my way to the store. There was the store’s yellow rooftop, and under it baskets and baskets of magazines. With its front facing the road, the bookstore doesn’t have a parking lot for cars of bicycles. I shoved my bike in the alleyway next to the building.

It was then the accumulating sweat appeared; with the shirt sticking to my skin, disgust came.

Once in a while Ryuushi-san and I visit this store after school. Maekawa-san, too, but only by coincidence. Ryuushi-san recommends me manga, while Maekawa-san novels. The former likes the shounen genre, and the latter sci-fi.

Naturally, I do not pay the nudity section any mind when I’m with either of them.

After locking the bike up, I walked through the store’s front door. As the automatic door opens, frigid air breathed by my neck; the remnant of sweat exited at once, and my temperature dropped instantly. This coldness that surpassed pleasure sent my torso into a tremble, and as if sucking the sweat back in, goose bumps swelled.

The spaciousness of this store’s interior is unimaginable from the tiny door. Even though the area is only half of that of the underground store at the station, for a country boy like me it is more than big enough. Actually, there was a two-story bookstore where I lived. Problem is, it was the only bookstore.

But that’s not important. I must swiftly execute my plan, and even more so when leaving.

Without a moment of doubt I entered, ignoring the weekly magazines and new arrival section, and went straight into the deepest end. The adult section lay there in wait, in the furthest corner. Next to the game strategy section, the wholesome idol photography. With each stride forward I prayed that no one was there… Damn, someone’s there. I paused in response.

What appeared to be a couple of high schoolers were messing around in front of the adult section. The two of them squealed, shoving a dirty mag between each other. The hell? Is this part of the stress relief service of the store? Can I stone these two? Such thoughts appeared in my mind.

The idiot couple appeared to be an older girl and a guy my age. I heard fragments of ‘Tamago-nee’ or ‘Kashi.’ Wonder if they run a chicken farm. But who cares: They’re in my way.

What do I do? I turned to scout the store, but in truth I only looked to a specific place. No one is going to stop this idiot couple. Never mind the girl, the guy is clearly underage. The attendants should say something! I cursed them without any self consciousness.

I wanted to go near the bathroom by the adult section to observe this idiot couple, but instead I ended up killing time at another section to wait for their leave. In truth I had no time, yet something warned me of being rash. Disregarding the possibility that I’m simply a coward I left the strategy section.

This must be the situation in which nothing can sooth the mind. Since I’m also low on money, I had to make the right decision. If a classmate were to see me hunched over at the here, it would be one of the few times that I’m shamed in life. With that in mind, I placed my weight to the right and entered the novel section. A sudden ‘Oh? Transfer student?’ almost sent me flying.

Because of my screaming, everyone from the customers to the attendants stared at me in the silent store. Unlike me, who had shrunken into an embarrassed mess, Maekawa-san approached me composedly. She was in a school uniform. One that I’ve never seen before. On a Sunday.

“What kind of cosplay is this?”

“This is my uniform from middle school. I’m surprised it still fits.”

Maekawa-san laughed flatly. I was in no form of sharing the sentiment. With the heartbeat quickened, my eyes drifted and the scenery changed.

Maekawa-san. She’s here. I bumped into her when I came to grab a dirty mag. It’s a coincidence without any malice. If we didn’t run into one another here, we would still be friends who do not know each other deeply. Why are you here? Why?

I suppose not meeting her in front of the adult section was a blessing in disguise.

“You here for a book too, transfer student? Sure got a lot of free time, eh?”

“Oh… Yeah, I’m not doing much…”

Shoot, my voice cracked near the end. I even started getting the hiccups.

“Mm?” Seeing my strange behaviour, Maekawa-san tilted her head with a grin. Dammit, if she started doubting me, I might just end up as ‘shameless-san.’ So, uh… What do I do?

I pinched my nose in an effort to stop the hiccup; I looked up to Maekawa-san — she’s really lanky.

Nothing stood out with Maekawa-san in her middle school uniform. The clothes were just the right length, meaning she’s been this tall since middle school. Must have been quite eye catching, like when she falls.

Considering herhistory of cosplay, it’s not too odd an outfit —perhaps even normal. Compared to a sandwich or a manju, it is at least a human getup.

“Why the stare? Don’t tell me you have a thing for middle schooler.”

Of course not, I shook my head. How long does it take to stop hiccups? Actually now’s not the time for that. Running into Maekawa-san had just formed a difficult obstacle to scale in this scenario.

“Oh~ You’re trying to stop your hiccup?”

Maekawa-san realised my predicament after a look. With the exception to outfits, the well-known clairvoyance of Maekawa-san worked wondrously. She seemed to be waiting for my recovery, shifting her attention back to the novel with her mouth shut. I appreciate how she handles things. And so I continued, trying my darnedest to stop the hiccups. Just holding my breath like so reminded me the stifling innards of a futon roll.

In fact, I’ve done it once. Despite not being tied tightly, it’s quite stuffy; because your breath comes back to you, it gets really warm around the mouth. Truth to be told I didn’t think I was even in the same dimension.

Anyone who can stay in there for an extended amount of time must be a freak. Thankfully no one like that exists.

“Phew… I think it stopped.”

Following my report Maekawa-san lifted her head up; she smilingly whispered ‘Yeah.’ Hm, very cool of her. Still can’t believe this is the same person who’d get her energy sucked out of her the moment she raise her arms up.

Well…

The problem remained.

Some issues had been amended, but I was far from where I was when I just set foot in here. I was still stuck in a rut. What must I do in order to return to that oh-so-great adult section? For some reason, my tear glands felt weak at the thought. Life is tough for a high school junior, more so than a final exam.

“Uh… So, what brought you here, Maekawa-san?”

Hahahahah. The hell am I saying? And the laughter only made it worse. She squinted her eyes; the friendly smile on Maekawa-san’s face faded.

It didn’t help that my eyes were bouncing around to keep watch of the store. Dammit, stop staring. It’s all over if Maekawa-san notices. No doubt she will follow me and jab me with words like ‘Oh~ so that’s your kink, huh.’ A-actually, that sounds nice too… N-no! I must not be fooled.

“Transfer student, are you burnt out from the exam?”

An apparent shock. If that’s what she thinks, sure; but Maekawa-san is quite sharp. It’s possible that she’ll find out from just that suspicion — Nothing ever ends well when she starts asking questions.

“Oh~ Probably. I guess I lost a few points of IQ over the break.”

So I played along to avoid being interrogated. Perhaps never curious to begin with, Maekawa-san noted with a short ‘oh’ before looking away. As though she was observing the store itself, she looked about and rested her chin in her hand.

“Mm… Mm…”

“Uh, what’s the matter?”

“Oh, I was just thinking that you’d be hanging with Touwa or Ryuushi.”

“Uh, I’m all alone actually.”

“I see… That’s unusual for a playboy like you.

'Unfortunate,' she said. It did not appear, from her grin, however, that she’s at all displeased. Such an envious insult doesn’t fit me, you know. I am, though, around girls often as of recent.

Ryuushi-san san aside, Erio is more of a… A fledgling near it its mother.

“Oh yeah. You sound a little twitchy. What’s got you on edge?”

Ugh… She once again prodded without a hint of fear. I choked, almost started hiccupping again. I sounded nervous. Huh, didn’t know that.

“Uh… I don’t… I think.”

I paused, but all it did was make it sound intentional. Annoyingly, sweat poured from my back. And because of that, I wanted to pinch my neck and back. Did they turn down the AC? I looked toward the ceiling.

“And you’re always saying ‘uh.’”

“Uh… Ahaha…”

This must be what a suspect feels during an investigation. A fear of the ground behind you disappearing: This must be what they call despair.

“You’re hiding something… And not something you are hiding well.”

She looked down with a smile. It was an expression of finding something more interesting than a book. Others probably saw me as a cowardly high school kid getting bullied by a huge woman. But since nobody would give me a helping hand, I remained hopeless.

If it were for something else I’d have given up already, but this wasn’t something that could be so easily settled. Especially since I’m familiar with her. My pride will never allow for this.

Though there are possible repercussions following my trump card, here I go.

“I must be in your way! Take your time!”

“Way to change the topic.”

I simply gave up on talking. It was the only way.

“Hit me up again if you found another novel! Bye!”

“Ah, there he goes… Transfer student, wait~”

I escaped into the manga section without heeding to the enfeebled voice that lagged behind me. I’ll wonder about what to do with her tomorrow later — what’s important is now.

It’s not like the school sells something like a dirty mag, so anything beats getting nothing and still have to deal with her tomorrow. “Eh? Niwacchi~” Crap.

T-this distinctively laid-back voice… I looked up slowly. It had to be Ryuushi-san. Perhaps just finished with her club, she had her backpack slung over a uniform, standing in font of the comic section. Please, stop putting these obstacles in my life.

I coughed from the dust that was driven up by my ceaseless challenges.

“Oh no~ NIwacchi, what’s wrong? A summer flu?”

No one else could sound so relaxed and have such round eyes. There’s Ryuushi-san in the bookstore. Yes: fate had been seized. The certainty known as coincidence was preventing me from getting a lewd mag.

“Oh, uh, I was just so shocked by this funny thing known as fate. I’m a big bag of surprises after all.”

Naturally a point is given whenever one runs into a girl classmate on a day-off, but in such circumstance I felt only bleakness.

“I had no idea, Niwacchi. So if I, Ryuuko, go inta a parallel universe and grab another Niwacchi, ya would be real surprised.”

Any one would be.

“Still, what a coincidence. What a wonderful coincidence.”

“Hahahah… Sure.” It had to be predestined.

This stroke of fate smells like Youth-points! I will kick whoever says that.

“What are ya here for, Niwacchi?”

She asked with a smile while showing the cover of the manga she’s holding. Uh, what do I say… I’m here for a book that gets you excited only when you’re alone! Hah! Yeah right.

I tried to buy time with a gross laugh. ‘No… It can’t be…” Ryuushi-san spoke with a dramatic tone and an exaggerated pose.

“Ya are here to buy those nudies books!”

!@#$. Aghhh, my heart yelped, but thankfully I did not. That would reveal the painful truth.

Ryuushi-san recovered with a refreshed smile.

“Jay~ Kay.”

“J-jay, kay~”

“Oh? Ya don’t look so good, Niwacchi. Yer face’s all mushed up.”

The pain. My chest hurts. The test of courage is fitting for the summer, but I need my heart for the rest of the year, too.

I turned to the sensation of a stare — there was Maekawa-san from behind the shelf. She didn’t budge, possibly from seeing Ryuushi-san; hiding back into the shadow, she disappeared with that meaningful grin.

“Mm?” Ryuushi-san was intrigued by my actions, meaning she did not notice Maekawa-san. It is not my concern what she will do in this circumstance. But what is the circumstance, indeed? Let us analyse. I felt my chest.

Firstly, Ryuushi-san, who’d just finished club activity, is in the manga section. Presently she’s comparing the book prices next to me, all with a scowl on her face. Such a manner in contemplation revealed to me what the phrase ‘Money Niagara Fall’ meant — she must be quite hand-tied.

Maekawa-san, in her middle school uniform, is in the novel section. Oh, there’s her head from behind the shelf. We met eyes; she snickered. ‘So you were totally hanging out with Ryuushi,’ she seemed to radiate. It’s a misunderstanding, of course, but our distance made any explanations impossible.

That aside, with the total of four eyeballs on me, I am basically being monitored by a camera. I shouldn’t expect them to completely ignore a classmate they ran into at a store. Ryuushi-san, especially, was emitting an aura of ‘let’s go home together!’ or ‘Wanna go for some tea at the coffee store?’ Normally I’d thrilled, but now would be disastrous. I comprehended deeply that time and place do matter.

What’s worse was the idiot couple in the adult section. I squinted at the distance to see that they’re still there. The hell are they doing? How much time are they going to waste just standing in a place where you can’t open the books? Idiot couples lost in their world is absolutely a public nuisance.

Fine, I won’t see them as the worst problem. I will just ignore them and find the book I want, and go straight to the counter. That was the plan, but because of other factors it won’t be that easy any more. It was a mistake to have hesitated earlier. I could only grimace at this kind of life lesson with a sigh.

Hurry, think.

Think of a way — A way that would avoid the eyes of both Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san.

If there’s anything of relief, it’d be the fact that the Touwa’s weren’t here. Now those are of a different territory, and far more destructive. Erio would follow me incessantly while yelling ‘cousin,’ while Meme-san would possible led me by the hand to the adult section, ‘this way, bro!’ Thank goodness.

But I must hurry. A premonition told me that those two will eventually join us; as the air chilled me, the feeling came.

“Niwacchi, ya are spacing out. Ya alright? Feelin’ sick?”

“Oh!” There’s Ryuushi-san staring from up close. Her face was in a spot where I could easily touch her lips, if I were to look down like to greet my paper model club president from middle school. I fretted and backed off a step. Damn my cowardice for backing off. Can I not control my legs?

“Oh… Ya are really jumpy today, Niwacchi.”

Ryuushi-san, oblivious to her own careless actions, clapped her hands joyously. Dammit, she’s so adorable. Her cuteness and ditz are making this difficult. What do I do? What can I do? Damn, I wish I knew. And so, I complimented Ryuushi-san in the backward and non-sensical way.

“Niwacchi, are ya here to buy some manga too?”

“What? Manga what? Oh, uh… Manga. Yeah, what should I get?”

I actually don’t even want to get any: anything extra would prevent me from accomplishing my goal. Naturally I could only refuse Maekawa-san’s recommendation, but that won’t make things easier.

‘So what are you here for?’ They’d ask about my actions. Maekawa-san, especially, loves to tease me when I’m vulnerable. As for Ryuushi-san, I can probably just fool her. Seeing how puffy her cheeks are, I grew confident. Ahh, I wanna poke them. Why do girls all look so soft? Is it the glycoprotein? It’s the glycoprotein, right? Does it bubble?

“Oh… Uh… Huh?”

“Uh…” My finger already sunk itself inside of Ryuushi-san’s face.

I had no recollection of what transpired. Like the Smiling Salesman himself I stuck my index finger into Ryuushi-san’s cheek. Uh oh. I tried to endure, but to do something so strange right after letting my guard down, can I even live through this one? Poke, poke.

Ryuushi-san stared blankly. She’s spacing out. Uh, what kind of reaction is this? As I pondered, Ryuushi-san shouted as though immolated. ‘Uwahhh!” Despite the glares from the others, she bounced about.

“W-w-what are ya doing! Niwacchi, what, uhh, what are ya doing!”

She exploded, flapping her arms like wings; the spot that was poke blushed faintly, but was now no different than the rest of her face.

Her face was beet red.

“R-Ryuushi-san, keep your voice down!”

“It’s Ryuuko! And, uh, uhhh, what are ya doing!”

“W-well, I just thought… Your cheek looked soft…”

“What!? Doncha have something more ta say? D-doncha know what control is?”

Since she’d only being saying ‘what are ya doing,’ I think it’s settled.

“Seriously… Wuu…”

She felt her cheeks while squirming, whispering ‘Ryuuko’s embarrassed’ before covering her entire face. I was flustered as well. Maekawa-san definitely saw this, and the other people must have decided that we’re the most annoying people here. Guess we won’t be coming to this store for a while.

Now I absolutely must get the goods. While Ryuushi-san’s looking down, I stuck my neck out to see the shelf behind her.

Oh, the chicken feeder couples left. With faces the colour of ripe persimmon, they left stuck to one another. The porn that they were shoving to each other earlier was for some reason now in the hand of the girl. As they passed us on the way to the register, I heard a little of what they said.

Basically it sounded like ‘if we don’t buy it, you will come here to buy it anyway, Kashi-kun. Onee-san will go ahead and buy it to make sure that doesn’t happen.’

So Kashi’s his last name. Not that I care. The idiot couple is gone, with no one else in front of the adult section. It’s come — judgement day.

Think. Think!

“……”

Nothing. There was no strategy to buying the lewd magazine. Being a high schooler is truly suffering. Since it's come to this, I shall trust my instinct. It doesn’t matter if it’s this or that, just play along with this or that.

Any further activities with Ryuushi-san will incur more embarrassment or a stupid grin on my face, so I turned around and walked away with ridiculous strides.

“N-Niwacchi? Where ya going?”

“Just something.”

I went over to the entrance; after exiting the automatic door, I began moving as if gathering the humid air outside. From the magazines laid inside the baskets by the door, I picked up two book in the pile and returned. As abashed as she was, Ryuushi-san followed; with a rigid smile, I silently moved toward the novel section.

“Hi, Maekawa-san.”

I spoke up to Maekawa-san, who was now kneeling by the novel section. I wasn’t, of course, thinking proudly about how I didn’t start my sentence with a ‘uhh.’

Letting Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san see each other, and then sneaking out to buy a dirty mag. It was no strategy — but a test of luck.

The interaction, however, of these two is never something to be taken lightly of. If there’s anything I’ve learned from the past, this would be it. And so I will see how far this will go.

“Eh? Niwacchi, you came with Maekawa-san?”

Ryuushi-san appeared surprised after knowing the existence of her classmate (are they friends?). Shock turned into displeasure. As for Maekawa-san, her lips hooked upward like the usual.

“What about you? Wasn’t there a certain annoying idiot couple around here?”

With a sarcastic and teasing voice, she inquired our being together as coincidence or intentional.

“I… I’m not an idiot! And we’re not a couple!”

Ryuushi-san flapped her wings about. Hmm… This pose… The time is now. I moved as soon as I see Maekawa-san absorbed in Ryuushi-san’s reaction.

“Uh, I’m going to the toilet.”

I departed as soon as I whispered the words. ‘Oh… Alright’ Maekawa-san nodded lightly. Ryuushi-san couldn’t hear it over the flapping, but at the very least she did not notice me leaving.

The bathroom was located inside the bookstore. And the adult books are in front of the bathroom. What a wonderful arrangement: There is nothing suspicious about me going there. As though motivated by a filled bladder I strode toward the toilets; with every steps, my heart and pulse accelerated.

I shot a glance toward the store entrance; the rowdy idiot couples were poking each other while exiting. Still staring, I prayed for their misfortune.

With disregard to the adult section I paced into the stalls. After entering, I rested my back on the door. With a thumb measuring my pulse, I waited for my time.

Too short, it’d be suspicious; too long, Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san might begin wandering around after the former calms down. I must time myself to quickly obtain my stuff. It’s almost a competition, but with just myself.

While the bathroom was clean, due to the lack of AC inside, sweat began dripping. This heat drowned me like the rising sea, suffocating me. Phew… Haa… I was thirsty, and the dryness drove me nuts. It smelled as though burnt. The moisture in my nose~ This dehydration and my own nervousness made the perfect torture. I shook my head and pushed the door outward.

The numbness crawling up my limbs was just like when I was getting ready for a football game in grade school. This anxiety will eventually corrode my finger, I thought.

It’s a feeling that one couldn’t help but feel during a test. I had never thought I’d feel the same buying a porn mag, but it’s a good sign. It’s not the same as not being able to move — it allows for the relaxation of the body. While the fluid in my guts pained me, I could easily manoeuvre in this state.

Experience tells me I work best like this. I suppose a proper amount of pressure and tension serves to lubricate the gears of life.

After the longest thirty seconds in my life, I exhaled the dry air and took a deep breath.

I bit down onto the burnt-tasting air.

It’s time to go. I rushed out of the bathroom door.

Two steps, and I reached the middle of the adult section. I pried my eyes open, searching for the right book cover. I had no time for the those in the shelves: Taking the books in and out will take too much time. Not a single second could be wasted, and I cannot afford to stall. My back was extremely sensitive from not wanting to be seen by them. Each cover had alluring arts, and if possible, I’d rather spend about two hours to find the right one. Unfortunately, I can only settle for a good option instead of the best.

I heard girly laughter from behind. Driven by the sound, I hunched over to pick up a book. ‘Alright!’ I turned around after checking the cover.

The girl on the cover looked like Ryuushi-san. It’s one of the coincidences in all the recent one that didn’t matter too much. I totally didn’t pick the book because of that.

My ears and sides of the face brightened as I handed the porn to the store clerk. It felt like handing a love letter to an admired senior.

The old lady, whose makeup was coming off, stared at the book on the counter, then me.

I froze from worrying her asking for my age, but she began tapping on the register without a word; I relaxed. She’s probably just displeased with Ryuushi-san’s yelling earlier.

She coldly stated the price, to which I almost bit my tongue upon replying. I took a thousand yen bill out; the jingles of the register came.

The amount of change could be described as the tears of a sparrow. This book cost me all abilities to visit stores. Well, I guess I could still buy some snacks.

After shoving the book into a bag, the attendant gave me the goods and along the receipt.

I took the bag with shaky hands. As I gripped onto it, the sense of conviction and accomplishment swelled into my hands, my nails even digging into my palm.

Considering that the bag of this store was semi-transparent, I sandwiched the porn between the magazines from earlier. No one would be able to see behind the bold colour of tan.

Despite wanting to bathe in my victory with a fist raised, I left the register calmly in order to keep low. With one more exhalation, I went to meet up with Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san at the novel section. Hopefully they didn’t see me.

“Hey, kept you waiting.” That sounded phony.

Even I felt my waving was empty.

“Ah, Niwacchi. Where did ya go? Ryuuko had it rough trying to explain myself.”

“Sorry, I was in the restroom. Aren’t you two buying something?”

“Huh, you’re awfully polite, transfer student.”

“Not at all. You should get your books though.”

I egged them on to keep things rolling. Their height differed so much, yet Maekawa-san was somehow easier to push. How strange.

“Aww~ What are ya doing?”

Though she wasn’t entirely willing, she wasn’t putting up much a fight compared to when I poked her cheeks. Perhaps because of the clothes in between, my guilt-ridden heart wasn’t filled with hopes.

“Get this, Niwacchi, Maekawa-san was all like…”

“Okay, okay~”

Upon hearing my perfunctory reply, Maekaw-san — not Ryuushi-san — chuckled.

As if she’s discovered something… No, that’s just not possible.

I was on edge the entire time while waiting for them. I pictured myself taking the plastic bag out and hiding it behind me, but I cringed at just how desperate I was being.

But that’s youth for ya. The weight in my hand reminded elated me so. I smirked.

After they were done, we left the store together.

On the way back, Ryuushi-san, with a hand shielding her eyes from the sun, asked:

“What did ya get, Niwacchi?”

“Hm? A stiff book.”

The cover was stiffer than a comic book's. True story.

Giving my exhaustion to the sun and the singed air, I slowly closed my eyes.

In the darkness, I nonchalantly and lovingly counted my pulses.

“Hm?”

I pondered. In my room. Alone, of course. Sitting on my bed, arms crossed. Like a scientist encountering a difficult issue or a student a test, I moaned while staring down at the dirty mag. My finger tip lifted a page.

My brain and the inside of my eye spun.

I could almost hear its sound inside my perverted mind.

“No! No! No!” I tumbled about. “Ugh…” I seized up with what sounded like a weep. “Argh…” I reached into the air.

“My pink night!” My simple evening seemed to sink like the usual.

Wisdom, bravery and perversion: with these three traits, I returned victoriously from the battle at the bookstore. The only person who knew what I bought should be just the clerk. And so what? I should returned with the triumph of winning at life. That is, until I saw the cover.

“Dammit… I can’t get it out of my head… It must be them.”

Yep, there’s the porn magazine. Let’s pop it open and see those fleshy colours. And then the girl’s face. Yet, the eyes and brain that should be enjoying themselves had a mysterious chemical change. I could only see Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san’s naked body! I cannot do this! This unpredictable yet meaningless guilt assaulted. Aghhhh… I squirmed with deep sighs. Like a teenage girl I burrowed my face into the pillow and kicked my feet.

“Hmm… This is also youth. Hahah~” Shut up, ya idiot!

I bounced on the bed, my breath now a mess. After failing to get up, I mumbled to myself — rather than to being tranquillised, I was exhausted.

“Damn… It’s too peaceful.”

There I was, troubled by a problem that was hundreds of billions of times smaller than the continuous existence of this planet. Well, I suppose I am one of those billions of people, so relatively speaking, it’s probably a big deal.

Erio’s got her own issues (e.g. the beast of futon roll). Ryuushi-san’s got her own problems (e.g. call me Ryuuko). Maekawa-san’s got her own mysteries (what is her name?). We live day by day, guided by something.

“Is now the best time to be pretentious?”

I moaned. ‘Ugh…’ and stuck my hand toward the dirty mag with more trepidation than with a reference book. Thinking that I’d conquered my fear, I flipped the page open with the tip of my finger.

“Aghh!”

Perhaps because of the page’s background being a blue sky, Erio popped into my mind. This isn’t good… Even more so with Erio! She’s the beast of futon! That’s kinda weak as a reason!

And it’s not even a real reason! And it’s not why I’m rejecting this book! A man isn’t a man if he says no to porn! Alright! I got this! Here I go: I’m going to casually flip through the book, elegantly view it, and enjoy my night—

“I’m home, cousin~” Pitter patter!

A voice as loud as the stomps in the hallway escaped my throat as I jumped. The terrifying realisation of me floating in the air froze a part of my brain.

I couldn’t even hide the book because only my time was stopped.

“Cousin?”

As the voice came with Erio's entrance, I finally was able to move my hand to hide the book under my sheets. The cover aside, she saw the entirety of my motion.

“Mm?”

“Welcome home (お帰り).”

I greeted flatly with a pun.

It escaped me that Erio had returned. I did not hear the door opening or her climbing up the stairs. It’s probably because I was too occupied with my troubles.

Tears almost erupted. Could it be that she heard the noises I made earlier? She stared at my pillow with her head cocked. Naturally, it was where I hid the dirty magazine.

“Cousin. You’re hiding something.”

“No, there’s nothing in the sheets.”

Shouldn’t I be glad that it wasn’t Meme-san who saw? It wouldn’t take her seconds to see through me. I raise my cup to Erio’s naivete.

I was finally able to use the book too. But because my neighbour, who’s still technically a female, had returned, not much can be done. In other words, I won't be enjoying it.

She should be more considerate for the high schooler living here.

“Mm… Mm…” She turned her head left and right in attempt to peek under the sheet.

“Hmm…” And I blocked her with my body.

Like a metronome we shook our heads. Erio desperately tried to see my bed, and I guarded it.

“Sunday special: Cousin’s secret.”

“How about you try to raise your hourly wage instead of doing something so boring?”

Erio moved in. Damn, how contemptible! Not that there’s a rule against it. What happens if Erio sees the book? It’s confirmed that Meme-san will make fun of me for about a month, but what of this girl? Hmm… Embarrassment? Or curiousity? It’s all unknown territory. And one that I don’t care for.

“I! Am! Home!”

It’s one thing if it were rescue, but the unfitting voice was that of my forty-year-old aunt. It was closer to the shouts of the grade schoolers from across the streets.

“Meme-san is back.”

My finger pointed toward the hallway from aside Erio’s face.

“Mm.” She nodded, yet her approach persisted. Rather than keeping up with this futile defence, I got off the bed. Erio turned about, and I shoved her out.

“Go see your favourite mom.”

“The mission of a TV ratings hunter is to discover the cousin’s secret.”

“Your mom probably has more than I do.”

“Twenty years ago~ Twenty years old~ Lala~”

A mysterious song came from outside.

“She’s probably singing along with an air-guitar solo. Go on.”

“Mm…”

Pushed out of the door, Erio looked back with a dissatisfied pout. She coveted the hiding place of the pornography. Seriously! Just stick with your futon!

“If we live till four hundred~ Then forty is like eight~”

Lala? Her singing sounded worse than that of the drunk old men at a Karaoke competition. A little more sentimental, I suppose.

I nudged Erio out of my room. Either bored or desisted, she looked back at not the bed, but me.

“Please look forward to next week’s Sunday Special.”

“It’s not a special any more if its weekly.”

With that final nudge on her back, I sent Erio down the stairs. Phew…

I stayed to make sure she didn’t fake me out before gunning back into the room. If Erio went back to her room next door, I won’t be able to use the book well — I must do what I must do now.

While that was my thought…

“She… That forty-year-old might appear in my fantasy…”

Perhaps because of her shouting, I sense Meme-san’s presence growing ever stronger. It will be a lost cause if she appears. My rational defence will collapse, and I will forever be traumatised. Why must I be horrified during my times of pleasure seeking?

In the end, I lamented at how crappy of a day off this was. The book remained unused in my possession.

And I now must live an apprehensive life like just now with my neighbour.

The thing in my hand only served to shackle me.

“Sigh…”

I’d given up on counting my points.

“In the end…”

I probably won’t be having a good dream.

With the prayer that I won’t see Meme-san, I shut the lights off.

Good night, and good bye. I’ll face this tiny problem tomorrow.

### 007. Chapter 1: Runaway Base

## Chapter 1 - Runaway Hideout

Q: Select the appropriate words to fill in the blank

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Getting hit on in a comic store]

[Mifune Ryuuko]

[A runaway highschool girl]

[It's not 'cuz I straightened my hair!]

[A boy who emits particles]

[Self-proclaimed alien]

[Shoes in a basket]

[Space Observatory]

[Mysterious Experience during Spring break]

Clank clank! I hafta try and make something in my heart match the wheels. Bang bang bang, the onomatopoeia surrounded me!

Running away! Get Out To Home! Y'know what I mean!

I felt like I was passing in the centre of a highway while passing by the sidewalk. The wheels occasionally squeaked, as if they symbolized... I dunno? Love, hate and sadness. It's like eating a mouthful of sand after having shellfish.

In the town at dawn, devoid of even the bustling of trains, the only thing moving was me. It was darker than midnight, and some pubs and stores had their lights on still.

I thought I heard the sound of basketball bouncing on the gym floor; whatever sleepiness I had was blown away by the freezing air.

The third semester. Ending ceremony. March 25th. Yesterday.

I, Mifune Ryuuoko, was dumped by a guy not even my boyfriend. Sorry, that was a lie. I just wanted to make it sound dramatic.

He was almost just a classmate. We were equal, like a parallel line. Completely, horizon. Not even a hill!

Clank clank clank! The wheel of my mind spun as well. Ka-dung, Ka-dung (Train simulation). Sugars drained from my head from all the suppression — nay, repairing of emotions. It's a strange feeling of being disheartened and motivated. Glucose don't come flying, do they? Actually, why did I even run away from home?!

The cause of the future was in the past. Not that either of them were that far off!

Behind the school yard, I used my 'I like you beam!' on one of the boys in the basketball club! Pow pow! With the exact same sound, I emitted about thirty times the usual power! But that was my very first! Since high school started! And he said 'I'm sorry!'

A multiplying effect, primarily negative, was observed upon the deflection.

In other words not love, but self-loathing: the opposite of narcissism.

A deep pang ached in me. The bones of my feet seemed to collapsed without me knowing. I had no idea of how I got home on the day that's too far away from the warmth of spring, yet steeped by the tail of winter. By the time I realized, it was already around three of clock in the afternoon; I rolled around on my bed, troubled. Somehow I still had my helmet on, which hurt every time I flipped. The rhythmic pain was my revelation! Which resulted in me losing control.

Assume that I enter a university, in the sixth of the seven spring breaks. March 26th. Today. First day of being heartbroken.

I left a memo on the desk, shoved some clothes and change into my bag (almost brought my phone), and snuck out of the house a little before four o'clock.

Since it was my first ever runaway, my chest expanded rapidly from the beating heart! I didn't have the luxury of expecting something like that to happen; the words he rejected me with echoed in my head. Ring~ Ring~! Like knocking on a bell, it shook my ear drums endlessly.

Had I fallen asleep everything would have fell apart, so I held out until it was time to go. My face felt like it was someone who just returned from space: heavy. Since I've been riding against the wind, however, I should be able to make it to the place without falling asleep.

First, find a place to sleep. Right, and, um... Go on a journey to find myself?

Because the me here is useless! She belongs in a parade! I have to go find a different me! I have to find a fancier me! Because a person is her face! At least seventy or eighty percent anyway!

Skipping club on the first day of spring break — the journey began.

"There's no way I can go!!"

The guy who rejected me practises right next to us!

"The 25th will keep wrecking my head!"

Since no one would react to whatever I do, I did whatever I wanted.

I think I understand now just a little what goes through the head of the drunk men screaming and passing by my house.

First I entered the comic store in front of the station that I've designated as my abode; I went into the room with three hours on the clock.

I slept for about twelve hours — they took a lot of late fees for that.

The sun set on the first day of running away. Sitting on the dilapidated bench outside of the comic store, I watched the road, buildings and vending machine. Cars aside, I thought the other things were also avoiding me. Was I still dreaming?

The sun sunk; I couldn't tell if its path was the same as the orange sky, and my motivation burnt away as well. The right leg that cramped while I was riding didn't hurt as long as I kept moving. Since I fell asleep, however, my overworked brain tensed up. Especially the right hemisphere, it probably looked like Italy. The left brain would be Shikoku.

I yelled, like 'Geebee~' But I think it came out like a weird moan 'Bogehh~' I was able to transform into a strange being using the girl-power I've saved up. In a way, I got a lot of that stuff from yesterday.

The town I live in ranks about sixty in the urban-ness scale. There's no need to ride a train to buy grocery like the country side, but it's still a little different than your typical city.

People often report seeing aliens here. It's like the Rosswell of Japan. And it's not just UFO — people emphasise that they saw real, breathing aliens.

And so the souvenir stores often sell wormhole honey cakes, space pancakes etc. I would totally buy a cute Grey doll though.

After I followed the high school couples riding doubt on bicycle with my eyes, I returned to the comic store. Just like before, the blonde attendant chatted on with the other clerks. After paying about five times the usual fee for being late, I again order three more hours. At this point, about thirty percent of my tiny allowance was devoured by this register in front of me.

Getting my hair done two days ago pretty much killed my wallet. I went and curled it up as preparation for the confession. I feel more murdered now after that.

Hunger, thirst, depression and other similarly terrible things appeared, so I decided to take care of things as soon as possible. Before entering the room, I bought a cup Ramen at the vending machine and added the complementary hot water. Since the store doesn't sell vegetables, I had to make due with noodles. After filling the paper cup with Oolong tea, I entered booth 14.

A Television, a computer and a video game console. There was no shortage of equipment there. I did not turn on anything, however, instead setting my bag down onto the floor.

Head on my knees, I awaited for the three minutes of cooking.

"......"

It's kinda like watching the candle on a birthday cake like I used to do.

Staring at the cover of the noodles, I felt my sight blur.

My bubbling organs felt slow, and my pain dulled.

So now's a good time to ask: Why did I runaway?

I could try to ignore him, but I know that won't work. It's just his head, and that awkward grin. That's the face he had when he rejected me.

There's no way I could just be, like, 'Heya!' and go into the club gleefully.

I didn't want to mope in a room or try to get ride of the gloominess. I want to feel easier: I want to be more positive. That much I know at least.

So for that purpose, what should I do before heading back? Mm~ I didn't think that far ahead, so dunno. 'Not thinking far ahead' simply meant, 'I didn't think at all, but here's what I have.'

I'm so dumb.

Despite leaving home, I didn't go anywhere unfamiliar on a train or anything. I stayed in this town I know, because I'm scared. I don't leave town often.

I don't have money to live in a hotel, and camping is... Well, it's asking too much for a city kid.

Mm... Doesn't this feel more like going out, rather than running away?

Gulp, gulp... The thought disappeared with the tea.

Putting the paper cup onto the desk, I stared at the me inside of that grey screen.

Her gaze wasn't warm, like the emotion was still with the yet-ended winter air.

I looked for things to do. Since I was in a comic store, I spaced out reading some manga.

I'm a rather normal person, without any remarkable characteristics. I even failed on making he notice me, and my brain only has two halves... Ugh, self-harming fouled against esteem five times, so she's out of the game.

All in all I just couldn't stay away from the words 'comic store.' I just sat here, reading manga, all while mixing a whole buncha drinks.

If something interesting, like, totally captures my eyes, then I'll feel slightly better for myself, like I'm the one who did it. Sadly, Ryuuko is not that good at practical problems. I rolled up on the chair. Squirm~ I look just like a panel in my comic.

As I finished the fifth book in a row, I decided to return them. It was eleven o'clock outside now, and the road outside of the window shone with lights of the passing cars. Mm... It's a station known for accidents. It's not too far from where I live... Well, it is basically where I live.

An officer probably won't need twenty minutes to find me. And there would go the game of hide and seek. My parents are pretty lenient though, or maybe they just don't care... My head filled with selfish thoughts.

Walking in the hall, I passed by other customers and the attendant lazily mopping the floor. Even this late in the night, many kinds of people were in.

For example, the couples who couldn't be older than high schoolers, and the such... And the such... Okay, I feel empty inside, so that's all I will say. Actually, pretty sure that the store said that minors couldn't be in here after ten o'clock.

I'm a sixteen years old young'n too. Wow, how flexible. Someone used that as a catch phrase before. It was an expression of shock, but I forget his name or even the meaning of the words. Oh well, two years before the exams anyway.

I walked through the magazines, drinks and vending machines and arrived at the young adult section.

It was then I saw a striking (eye-catching?) person at the section of the books I just marathoned through. "Whoa..." I subtly exhaled before sucking the breath back in.

A striking boy with long, long hair that seemed to have fragments of light falling from it stood.

From the slits between his bangs he looked up the shelf, seemingly searching with an open hand for the place the books he held in his hand. He stepped on his shoes, without socks on.

He was a super hot guy. Like, literally the most beautiful person on planet earth, made by the aliens.

Not sayin' I have proofs or anything, but fairies seemed to live on his head to give him this dramatic glow. Also, some sort of the prettiest butterflies must inhabit the same place too, so he wouldn't need a light in the dark.

If it were before I got dumped, I would have fell hard for him. That's how hot he was.

He's probably a little younger than I. About half a head taller than I was, he emanated from his brows or cheeks a youthful aura. Ah... That must be the youth I've lost... A middle schooler? But isn't that bad for him to be out here instead of home? I was both at a lost and in disbelief. It is surprising, compare to me when I was at the age.. Ah... That must be the youth I've lost... A middle schooler? But isn't that bad for him to be out here instead of home? I was both at a lost and in disbelief. It is surprising, compare to me when I was at the age.

Since my spot was near the boy, I went up to him. With a glance, he noticed my intention and moved to the side. His sight, however, did not move, and instead followed my hand.

"Ah, that's the volumes I'm looking for. Onee-san, you're reading it? Are you putting them back?"

He spoke in a clingy way. Must be because he's still developing, his voice's pitch changed when he speaks. Sounded synthetic. He leaned forward, face closing onto my hand. Usually I don't say anything to strangers passing by, so this put me off.

"Ah... Yeah. Here ya.. go."

I stiffly handed the books stacked on my hands to him. The boy thanked me lightly and traded the comic on his hand with me. I took it.

I know I said we traded, by I wonder why he put the book back into my hand instead of the shelf.

"See ya~" The handsome boy waved and walked off with laughable footsteps. I swear there were still lights lingering from where he stood.

Once I breathed deeply again, the sheen slipped away from between the pages of the book.

"Why?" Why did he hand the book to me? I came for the next volumes, so why would I take the previous ones?

Ah, a lady passing by (an OL, I think. An older woman with professional attire) just turned her head. That's pretty much glaring at this point. The guy, on the other hand, didn't even bat an eye and continued on until he disappeared at the corner. Mm... Guess my standard of beauty is just normal.

Grade, normal. Mien, normal. Look, b-better than average, I think! Basically I am just normal.

What is normal? The question boggles me, but if I had to ask myself, I'll probably just stop working with my head tilted.

I never had the chance to stand out. The person I confessed is at most 'some guy I talk to occasionally,' and our relationship can pretty much be summarized by a bunch of random words. So I couldn't whine or anything, only get depressed.

I want to have something. I want to be treated differently. It's a childish thought, but it's almost what I really want.

To me, a good-looking guy like him will actually incur my jealousy across the gender! Dangit! I'm clutching my pearls! I want to curse at someone!

Then I went back ('cuz I'm a Ryuushi 粒子) to my room to read my book.

It's a pretty funny series, but since I didn't use my head, the flower known as my purpose withered.

I kept reading till the next day; as I went to take a shower, I bumped into that boy again.

Again, in front of that shelf, he stood there with his shoes on.

It's not like I was trying to avoid this so-called conversation with him, but I still couldn't ignore him completely. I am actually quite the stoic person. Seriously: I'm so hardcore that I prefer harder rice too.

“Hey? We meet again.”

Like a hardcore person, he turned abruptly; he initiated the conversation after coming up to me. He had one more book, so I ended up here first.

Why did he speak to me? If he's the type of guy who likes to cling onto girls with his voice and words, than he'd probably hit on the OL lady (temporary name) too, right? She was clearly entranced by him.

Maybe I attract aliens like this guy. Yet my destiny will never notice me.

I know another person who can produce light and can sharpened the lens of people's eyeballs. She was my classmate; a girl who was a friend until a time I don't remember. She's now a mattress expert.

In a way she was untouchable. Nothing could make it into that futon.

“Could you recommend me anything else?”

His kind tone was as if we were friends for many years, so I pretended to wonder, 'Well…' to scout him out. Every time his neck turned, his bangs would follow; the particles of light would fall like harvest.

Mm…

First time meeting → Never met him before → He talked to me → Ah!

Conclusion.

Is this… the rumoured… H-hitting on girls?

Ya are late by a day… Ah, two days. Cough, cough. I felt my once-in-the-life chance's late arrival!

Too slow! Ya are way too slow! Can't ya learn a thing or two from Santa?

“Um? You don't have anything?”

“I-I do! One just popped out!”

“What? Just popped out?”

Thanks to reality and my thoughts combining, I confused the situation even more.

“No way. That's not the name, is it?” He kept the smile, but the blinking increased.

“Don't mind me. Uh, um… The, uh, comic...” What do you want?

My cheeks burnt from reasons other than being tempted, and I wondered. It's our first time meeting, so it's hard to ask these first-time questions. I couldn't shoot him a mean glance, asking him 'what dya want?' I'm a weak person like that.

In some way, this boy was a resident of a different world.

I wasn't drawn to 'special' people like him, since I am aware of how normal I am. If some were to say that, I'd rebuke right away. People get upset when the truth is pointed out. Back to what I was saying. How do I put it? It's a matter of compatibility.

Even if a black white television suddenly get a patch of colour, it's still considered broken.

It's a little rude to the person who might like me, but I like people who are more normal.

His lashes are very long. Every time he blinks it's like they'd fall into his eyes and tear him up.

“Right, I was gonna ask you about something...”

Like an easy-to-chew mochi, his manner was opposite to mine.

“Mm?” It's gonna be hard to leave now that he's so nice to me.

“Onee-san, how long have you been here?”

The boy suddenly tried to invade into my mind with words.

My focus blurred, but I still looked up to him.

From the side, his slightly curved upper lip made him seem somewhat inhuman.

“Don't look so spooked, it's too obvious.”

“…….” He went from hitting on me to a creepy stalker.

Things have been cut short to my height! Jk.

“Well, as you can see I have a little more height here. I could see a little inside the booths. You've been sleeping since this morning, haven't you, Onee-san?”

The transition into a smile fit this guy. It's a relaxing smile that squints the eyes into lines. The moment I saw his face made me wonder if he was wearing a fox mask.

“Ya are a bad boy for peeking into a lady's room.”

I teased him first. I was going to scream 'pervert!!' at five times the volume, but thinking about it calmly, there's nothing funny about that.

“If I wasn't peeking, can I just look?”

If he could see into the room from above, that means it's not just him, but many others saw me sleeping too. Gah… Now that's embarrassing…

“You came here to sleep in the morning; you didn't go home last night either, so what are you up to? This isn't somewhere a minor can be in late.”

“Same goes for ya, right?'

“Hm?”

“If ya saw me in the morning, that means ya were also here in the morning.”

Using the same evidence, I turned the table all while putting the comic back.

The boy went 'Ah!' while scratching his chin. His skin was very pale, and clear.

“Yep, that's right. I see.”

He looked not at me, but the spines of the book listed on the shelf, and lightly retracted his chin. Mm… So he's in the same boat as I? A.k.a another runaway boy. He was rejected too… I'm just being bitter.

Also, 'he looks young, but is in fact twenty years old' theory has disappeared. Let it go.

“Onee-san, you're not… running away from home, are you?”

He got me first. I wanted to ask, 'you too, eh?' but I ended up looking at him silently. This guy's grin could affect any who looked his way.

“You look a little young to be a jobless refugee. Rather… Are you even an Onee-san?”

Between the first and the last part of his line, he clearly had on a different expression.

It's like it was courtesy words at the beginning, then pure doubt near the end. What was he projecting onto?

How did this kid, with his eyes covered by his hair, end up thinking this way?

“I'm a… sixteen year old-looking eighteen years old.”

There are ears behind the wall, and attendants by the register. Adult's world is filled with lies.

The boy chuckled; 'I see,' he whispered.

“Didn't think you're the same as I. I'm eighteen too, but I can probably get a middle school discount at a theater with this look.” He opened his hands to express his age.

“My, we're both young, aren't we? I thought you looked young… Must be my maternal instinct!”

“Right? Guess I will be calling you Onee-san.”

Hahaha, we're already buddies just by appearance.

“What about you?” It was time to do the questioning.

“What do you mean?” Still laughing, he did not resist.

“Runaway boy. Whatever you used on me, I can use on you.”

Due to my marathoning of the comics about people who's mind and body were not in sync, I obtained traits of a detective. I will steal the mushrooms growing behind the people.

Since until just now, I had been lying down on the chair; I grew tire just standing. I felt stiff from head to toe; lying down was my only respite. I've successfully degenerated.

I was supposed to grow from leaving my home though.

“Me? I'm actually just an alien. Came from the Hair Constellation.”

He introduced himself with a joking and light-hearted manner. I knew it was meant to make his opponent drop interest, or to laugh it off. For me, however, this reminded me of something. I am, after all, someone who goes to a certain high school here.

“Mmmm~”

“What? Why the silence? Was it that lame?” His smile disappeared. The boy looked away with a slightly sombre look.

“Nah. I was just thinking that maybe a perfect person just has an obligation to call himself an alien.”

“Wha~?”

He shrugged and scratched the back of his head. He looked good doing anything. If he were to fall asleep and wake up in class with a dumbstruck look, nobody would hate him.

“Oh yeah. Did you leave home just to read comics, Onee-san?”

He went on despite me never confirming his accusation. “Well? Well?” He so exhorted me, staring me on the tip of the nose.

I felt my skin heating up from also the heater.

“Mm~ If that could get me there, can you blame me?”

My goal is to find a way to go from painting my room 'Blue~ Blue' to 'Happy~ Happy~' Reflect the vector. The arrow's age of rebellion. If it's an antimatter that could help me get there, I don't care what it is or what it does.

For example, this guy right here. So far, he managed to remind me of that friend, but nothing positive.

“You're stuttering. So you've not done what you set out to do?”

“Wouldn't I be home if I did?”

“That's true, but I only left so I can go home.”

He said such an incomprehensible and easily-misunderstood thing.

“Onee-san, are you bored?”

“Mm~ Well… I guess.” It doesn't carry much weight when you ran away from home home.

It's spring break, and I couldn't go enjoy my youth in the club (I forgot about this), so even if I was home I'd probably just laze like a worm.

The boy grinned as though he'd heard something interesting — a mischievous smile. He really only knows how to smile, the darn happy face. Was I envious or jealous? Probably both.

“Ah… How about this? It's getting hot in here, so why don't we...”

He bent down and match his eyes with mine.

It's like he's dealing with a kid… His soft smile appeared before I could think even that.

Looking closely at his face, I thought again, 'Gee, the world isn't fair.'

Lights danced by my skin, spreading like fireworks in the sky.

For a moment I thought I was a heroine in a shoujo manga.

“...Sneak into the place closest to the stars in this town?”

“Wha?”

This city plus alien way of picking up girls is way too avant-garde for me.

I left the comic rental with the boy.

Five hours of the special eight-hour deal was wasted by us walking in the dark.

I asked where we were going later, and though I thought that maybe it's dangerous if he was a bad person trying to bring me somewhere no one is… After some consideration, I figured I just got rejected two days ago and nobody would pay me any heed, and thus lowered my guard for my own needs.

Another mysterious impetus was the boy's strange mien. He's not like me, and I thought he was someone on a mission. Hazily I wished to be the sidekick of another special being. As for the main character… I gave up after a little thought.

This guy's intention intrigued me… I was a little excited.

It reminded me of childhood.

I circled to the side of the store. The theatre next door that had just closed down already lost all lights of people and lives; the vending machine shone as the only lumination to the road.

Placed there was a bicycle lot used by few. Next to the building within was what seemed to be an abandoned bicycle. The paint, as well as the basket in front, fell off long ago.

“Oh… You ride a bicycle, Onee-san?”

“Yeah, comes in handy.”

I rode the same bike that was gifted to me in celebration to graduating into middle school. The inspection sticker given during that time was still stuck on the back wheel.

The bike was unlocked and prepared. Mm… Really not trying to hide my trace or anything, having a bike with my name on it parked outside.

Yet the guy just stood there, shaking as though regretting his thin clothes.

“Mm… Where's your bike?” Is that a place we can walk to? We're not changing destination, are we?

“I walk… Well, I just don't have a bike. Walking, huh… Guess we can ride together.”

An undisguised look of anticipation. To prevent the possible sparks between our eyes, I looked to the sides. To see if there were officers out patrolling.

“Then are we riding double? I only have a helmet for myself. It's really scary, y'know.”

I reminded him like I was his senior and put on and adjusted the helmet.

Oh, right… I'm a second year now, so I'll have juniors in the club now.

“What's so scary? Do people in blue shoot you if you don't wear helmet in this town?”

“No, it's so that if a boar runs into ya, your scalps will not be destroyed.”

“I see. So just don't fall.”

He dismissed the notion with a pained expression before straddling onto the luggage rack.

Mm… Such reckless bravery is youth. Wait, am I pedalling?

As I imagined, he hugged my waist as soon as I sat on the seat. From the tip of my toes I felt all sense of calm leaving, like a hamster wheel inside of me had begin spinning.

Ah, my heart accelerated on its own. Don't waste my life! I couldn't take a shower earlier, does he not mind the smell or whatever? Plus having physical contact with a guy is already rare for me. Feels like a dream, riding a bike together.

But since holding onto my shoulder meant skin-to-skin contact, so it actually made me a little more relaxed, then I thought, oh well, this is okay.

“Whoa! You're thin! Are you eating enough?”

The end of his sentence rose in pitch like a mom's; he's skin and bone too, so I wondered if his mom said the same thing. I didn't say it though since I didn't want to hear about another alien.

“Onee-san, why did you run away from home? You're not one of those 'self-searching' people, right? Don't tell me you had an argument with your parents.”

“Reason?” I inadvertently shut my eyes from the sudden darkness.

Swish~ Darkness entered the depth of my head; I exhaled deeply.

'Cuz I was dumped. I was cut in half. That's why I said I was on a journey of life. I'm not even brave enough to do a double-dribble. But how does this fit into the equation? Well…

“Scar.”

“Hm?”

“A scar like a knife wound doesn't recover well if it's cut in the same place a lot, right?”

“Hmm? Is this a metaphor?”

“Heheh, that's how it is if ya wanna be smart.” I put up a smug expression to brag to the boy who thought we were the same age.

“It does sound elegant if you put it so jadedly. Hmm. Did someone hurt you?”

“Most people who leave home have been.”

“Do you hate someone now?”

“I don't. Because I don't want to make others hate me too.”

It is true that I left because I was hurt.

Because I thought about him in the room, and even put his name down on the note when we're studying.

“We'll leave this for later. Let's go, Onee-san. I have this funny feeling that an alien of high status had told others to start navigating.”

He'd fit right in in this town, but we already have a futon person here… Therefore he needs the tin foil. Roasted, too. I'm drooling… Since I'd been awake I am hungry now. My stomach might growl if I kept still, so I frantically began moving forward; the sound of wind grew beside the ears.

Headwind blew beneath the earlobes like waves.

My breath, though, exited intermittently and shallowly.

What was my goal? What was I after? The silhouette blurred. I didn't even have a real reason to hang around this guy: at most I just went along with him. It's unclear if it's something I should feel proud about.

But I won't deny that I followed him because this handsome guy hit on me.

Mm~ that's still not all of it. I cannot rebuke one-hundred percent.

Maybe I'm just a girl who wanted someone to spoil me? I hope not.

I don't want just anybody… Well, until yesterday.

Was it anticipation, mindfulness, laziness, or hopefullness?

Which was the primary motivation to keep me from stopping?

In the dark, I searched for the cause while pedalling.

The well-kept light that drove the darkness away elated me.

When I was a child much more naive than I am now, there was much around that was as terrifying as they were fascinating.

There was that empty lot behind the super market. Even if nothing was there, for some reason it's always been scary. I saw a wild cat living there years later.

There's also the underground stair case behind my elementary school. It led to a room that we're not suppose to go in. Putting your ear onto the door revealed whirling of machines behind.

The world has many places my hands and knowledge cannot yet reach. I thoughts every grown-ups knew about that, and believe that there are many more out in the world.

And because I wanted to learn more, I gathered the kids around to discover and investigate the town. There are a lot of strange facilities around here, so everywhere had something that both intrigued and scared us. I guess it's probably because of that one strange old lady in a shop who lies to the kids with a straight face.

Us kids used this so-called snack store as our secret hideout. The adults didn't like that too much because the store openly displayed the taxidermy of a tsuchinoko and a signature of an alien.

The most mysterious had to be the observatory though. Some kids called it the bathroom, but observatory sounded more exciting with the 'beep beep' (sfx) and 'boop boop' (electronic sounds), so most kids called it that.

It had a huge plot of land and several concrete buildings; like a JSDF base, even the wall carried a heavy aura. I recalled us mistaking the place as a rocket launch site and getting all excited for it.

Placed in the courtyard-like location was a giant telescope most popular as a school trip destination, free for anyone to visit. I've seen it several times before. I thought that the universe itself existed in the scope, since that's where the stars can be seen clearly. Still, the kids weren't interested in the scope, but the places forbidden to trespass.

Everyone spoke of the existence of aliens in the facilities. Or that it was the alien's hideout, mmm…and that people were brought there to be experimented on. There was also a T.V. special of alien dissection video tape and such; we were probably more terrified because of all that.

I personally think the staffs' lab coats are frightening: It must be from the memories I had from dentists, or doctors giving me a shot. I still hold a bias against people in scrubs and glasses, wary that they're secretly doing some experiments or making new drugs. Back to what I was saying. I don't really know what I was saying, but as I was saying!

“Whoa! W-why did you go hands-free?! This isn't safe when you have a passenger!”

“Hey! Hah! Heya! Hoh!” Please imagine my zigzag line with just the line itself.

“Why are you raising your arms? Ventura?”

“Pay no mind!” With a calm voice like a video game notification, I said.

Cough… So, in other words… The place we were headed was the space observatory.

The boy said he was going to 'discover a way back.' He sounded just like that old lady from the snack shop; laughter escaped my lips when I heard that.

'Cuz… A boy who was younger than I am is desperately trying to pick me up… It sounds cute when I put it that way, but that's not what it was: It had a strange mien, but also a little serious. I wanted to know the kind of person he was, so I followed behind.

We began infiltrating that impenetrable place.

Mm… I wanted to play ninja while eating chikuwa. The old team was three guys and three girls. People used to laugh when boys and girls played together; it's a common sight, but fortunately our group was, in a good way, separated from everyone else in our little space. In the end we went our own ways after an awkward fight.

Uwah~ I got lotsa bad memories with people. We almost ran straight into the road. “Gah!” I'll leave it up to you to imagine whose scream that was, but we almost got hit by a scooter. Maybe I'll just give up on thinking, wouldn't wanna be on the news.

But, just one last thing.

Our group wanted to sneak into the staff's building; it was all yes for the three boys, and no for the girls. The girls thought their parents would get mad at them so they didn't want to go. I didn't think my parents would get that angry, but I was afraid of the researchers capturing and doing operations to make me into Ryuushi V2.

Truth is I really wanted to play ninja, so now's the perfect time for me to realise my childhood dream!

Since my parents are going to yell at me for running off anyway, might as well do a lil sumthing before the sun comes up. Let's go, to make up for the two traumas by sneaking in!

It's only about twenty minutes on bike from where I live, and the traffic so little we could ignore the lights. We successfully arrived. This must be what a leaf in a river feels like. Six bicycles came by here everyday during my childhood to scout this familiar road; perhaps because it was the first time done in the dark, nostalgia did not wake. It was practically a different road.

But the destination remained unchanged.

“Whoa...” I'd agree with that if I came here before the night.

Faint light diffused from the building's windows; the telescope watched the sky motionlessly. The trees hid its shape, and the atmosphere dead silent. The smell disjointed from the living seemed to drift over in line with uncanny experiments.

What an unsettling smell. The territory of science, yet formless and eerie.

An old excitement rose, possibly wiping off a little of the melancholy.

First I parked the bike near the farm field just a road away from the wall of the research facility. 'Here we are~' I said while wiping my forehead. In truth, due to the chill brought in by the winter, even the people who live here could feel this cold that froze even the season spring. Plus it's not like it's far enough to get me sweating.

I took out my jacket and wore it. The boy wore his own over a mere shirt, but his face showed no sign of discomfort; he's obviously okay.

Guess being cold isn't a problem in space anyway. Gotta hand it to the so-called alien.

“Aight, let's go.” I held the key to my bike lock in my mouth. What if I swallow it?

“Hey, aren't you going to take off that useless helmet?”

“I don't feel safe empty-handed.”

Actually my hair just gets messy after I take off the helmet.

“What is that, some kind of setting? Alien and ninja do sound good together though.”

“Ya are not supposed to say that...” That signalled the end of the character-change.

I'd changed in ten years of time; I'd lost my compatriots, and only my sense of shame grew.

Around the facility was — rare even for this town — farm fields. Not many lived near, reinforcing further the sense of isolation and mysticism. There's no convenient store around either, so the guys inside probably don't like that too much.

“Could there really be alien fossils or mummies?”

“Onee-san, there's one right here. You're really hyped though.”

“Mm? You…? Ya have pupils, and ya aren't glowing either so ya don't count.”

“I'm not some cat alien. Frankly your expectation is a little too much.”

He said so lightheartedly while walking along the building's wall. After about a quarter of the parameter, he shifted from chatting to questioning.

“You look like you know your way around. Don't tell me: You come here all the time?”

“Hmhmhm. It's like a backyard for people who grew up here.” I crossed my arms proudly.

But this might be a Tsuchinoko territory. So it's more like a backyard that's not well-maintained.

“I see. You wouldn't know the people inside, would you?” He scratched his cheek while asking.

“Well, maybe not that far. But we once had this guy come up to us all gleefully. We ran away 'cuz we thought he was lying and was gonna kidnap us!”

The only one who thought it was truly dangerous was me, but we all bolted. It's the only way to make our bodies, or rather, things move forward. It's actually pretty boring just staring; we even got so tired we ended up playing dodge ball in the field.

That must be why the boys wanted to open that forbidden door.

“Oh yeah. This isn't a midnight stroll, right? Ya got business here?”

This door should be shut closed during this time, and only staffs can enter. There were also security at what seemed like the backdoor; they're the reason why us kids thought the place was suspicious.

“Yeah, I do.”

He answered cheerfully with a crisp smile. I almost thought the frigid air was going to freeze his lips there — it was that cold.

And I was still starving, so that might have made it colder. I also lost my handwarmer. After another quarter circle, we stopped at the exact opposite place to where the bicycle was parked; the boy then said, 'it's around here' and started feeling the wall. Like a salamander he fiddled the vertical part. I wanted to interrupt him by hitting the wall, but in the end I decided to wait quietly.

I don't wanna be too normal, but normal is what I do. Normal people don't trespass though… Not that it's something to be proud of.

“Here, found it.” He pulled away a part of the wall and revealed a passage. Looks like he merely removed the cover disguising the broken part of the parameter.

The boy looked back smugly, 'the way's opened.'

“Did ya do this beforehand?”

“Nope, it was the staffs inside. The front door's too far away so they made this shortcut. Heard it was convenient when you're running late.”

“Really? Ya know quite a bit. Do you work here?”

“I can't just ignore the Japanese branch office of the Alien's planetary invasion.”

He spoke in a way matching my own to hide his identity as well as his involvement. “Let's go.”

The boy crawled into the hole first. Once inside, I'd be totally trespassing. Mm, I'd be able to go ahead if I still was an impulsive youth, but I came here with this sense of listlessness. I sometimes find myself unaware of my feet's movement, especially during repetition exercise, when we're training. It's kinda like that now, right? My body clearly wasn't listening.

“Mm? What's up? Gonna give up?”

The boy who was about to enter paused looking back with his right leg raised. It's kinda like that lil white guy on the emergency exit sign (that's what I called the man made of a circle and rectangles).

“It's more like there's a few things that I'm worried about.”

“I hope you figure out soon, because someone might come.”

He looked around several times and hurried me. I know, but I wanna get things cleared up so I don't feel unmotivated. That's what live taught me.

“Why me? And don't ya joke about how ya fell in love at first sight.”

I drew the line first. At least that way he'd forget about thinking me as a hopeless girl who was expecting something to happen. I hope. I'm not the same person I was yesterday, but mostly in a bad way.

“Hm? Because I think it's a good opportunity.”

He took another big step to keep his balance.

“Isn't it boring to have a home to go back to when you're running away? With a backup and all, even if you don't an income, you'd live for a few days. That's why I thought you'd come with me.”

“…...” He pointed out how immature the way I do things is.

He might have jabbed where it hurt, but it's just a vibration to my numbed heart.

And he's probably just brushing me off.

“Ok, I'll set that aside for now, but is there no other reason why you wanted me here?”

“Hm? That's because I'm scared of going in alone.”

His voice was calm, but since it was dark, neither of us could see each others' face. Thankfully no one saw us; he sighed.

“I'm serious. I'm a sad alien who can't do anything on my own.”

I thought about recommending him learning super powers like an E.T. then come back.

“Who knows what they'd do to me in the underground lab if they caught me here.”

“Right… Ya are an alien.” Hahah… I laughed weakly. It's different than tiredly.

“Wait, you believe me now?” He raised his leg further up like he was about to do a backflip.

“I'm one of those who believe aliens 'can exist,' so I don't think much of it. It's whatever, really, but can I ask another question?”

“Sure. Make it quick though, if you can.”

“Why are you really here for?”

“Onee-san, why did you come with me?”

It's like having a mail that hasn't been read sent straight back to you. That's pretty annoying. There wasn't strength left in my tummy to rebuke this guy though. The empty stomach protested something else.

“I'm, uh… Whacha call it? I'd probably be happy just seeing the inside.”

Not sure if I will wake up from the dream or be glad from achieving my goal. But if possible, I want to at least be happy for a bit.

But I was both out of breath and without a recipient. Uwah, do I actually want someone to be with? My reason of being sad hasn't change since long ago. Back then too… If the boys and girls who liked each others were evenly split up, we might have been better friends.

“Sigh, for realsies...” I palmed my face, sneaking a glance at the past between my fingers.

If it's hard for me to forget, I will jump over it.

Just make something up when there's nothing; just pretend the opportunity is already upon me.

Bet everything here.

It's a little dramatic, but this will be the start of everything.

Just for a moment, I returned to being the six year old Mifune Ryuuko.

'If you don't wanna be scolded, just don't get caught!'

Yep, that's what boy B said at that time. Great thinking, but that's isn't the reason why I liked him!

And so I crossed the wall and trespassed.

The guy can finally rest his right leg.

Then I snapped. I mean, gave up. This was my decision: I ripped the strings of rejection from my back and sprinted like a 100 meter dasher. Step, step… I started doing time mark for some reason. A pleasant rustle came beneath from the grass. This might have been the sound of footstep that I've not noticed outside of a gym in a long, long time.

“Not sure if you're just pent up or something.”

“All right!” Ignoring the boy I smacked my cheeks. Didn't like that sound, so here's another. Smack! Smack! Sounded off, so one more! Not this time because my skin's foundation didn't feel too good! I can dreams too! Smack!

“Awww~” Hurts. Sleepiness and laziness both died like the thing you slap with a slipper. The edge of my eyes flashed and hurt; eye lashes felt like hedgehogs.

“Um… Onee-san, you trying to wake up? Or just hurting yourself?”

He pulled up; the building shimmered, emanating his silhouette.

“What? I'm just trynna get rid of my Shoujo points from my head. You might turn inta girl if ya stay too close.”

With a daring expression, I suavely (No idea what that means) warned him. Crossing the wall itself is pretty much half of what I came for, and the rest is all bonus.

So I don't care what else happens.

“And what would happen if I am?”

“Yer eyes get oogly.” Or something like that. “Or you get puffy eyelashes” and such. “You shoot particles out.” Kinda like salmon eggs.

All those apply for me already… Dangit… A naive girl and self-appointed runaway alien boy. This is not one of those word fillers you see in a school essay.

“Why the stare?”

“Ding ding ding~ I'm rebellious like that?”

“…...”

He's giving me the 'wow if she's normal, she's just an idiot' look. I also couldn't call him a pervert, not with that cold stare he's giving me.

But he still resumed the conversation with me.

“I was a little worried why you're suddenly so giddy, but now you got my attention too. Onee-san, you've got a lovely smile.”

Hehe~ Wink~ This is known as crab (heart going sideways).

“Mm...”

“What? Trying to hide with a growl?”

“Don't gimme that good looking face just 'cuz ya are good lookin'!”

“S-sorry?” The boy backed off.

“I'm like a black-n-white television! I don't needa learn to hide my presence! Hahaha!” And so I charged into the building close by. This was where the door with the warning was; we'd seen it so many times that I am confident I could make it with my eyes closed.

The boy trailed along and came to my side with a wry grin.

“Onee-san, you too must have a lot of… Well, wonders around you.”

“Wu… Wu… Wu...”

“Like making crabs fall for you.”

“You tellin' me to go back to the sea?”

“The river is fine too.”

Splash! I sunk. Sunk into the depth of heart; sunk into the abyss. My grief rippled outward.

“Right, infiltration successful thus far.”

“Oh, she's back.”

“Keep eyes on not just around ya, but also above ya.”

“You don't have to be so 3D about it, do you? What are we looking out for?'

“It's a space facility, so if a rock or laser beam came I got my helmet to protect me! It's ta make sure my scalp is safe!”

“Onee-san, your space's got scale but not much power.”

“Peace is the best.” Whether it be Earth or mind. My wallet is staying skinny for the next two months though.

The boy and I stepped through the grass and pebbles, approaching the grey, iron door with 'No Trespassing' written on. A mysterious machine surrounded by a metallic fence hummed on the side. What appeared to be tubings connected into the interior of the building tastefully.

Just like the outside brother of my house's AC — every adult's delusion is to use their myopic understanding when faced with facts.

“Wow! This is intense! To be honest… This door was my first love.”

“I see.”

“Uh, could ya not rain on my parade? Ya are supposed to react to my joke. It's already so cold, ya dig?”

It's not like I was wrong or anything, so this lack of reaction embarrassed me so much.

In a broader sense, the word 'Trespassing' was what moved me.

But this guy wasn't even hyped for anything — he even seemed tired. His eyes were fidgeting though.

“What's up? Wanna bit of my hype?”

“It's fine, I'm just a little nervous. I'll try to be like you... Actually no, I like my own brain.”

“I see. We will become balance-partners then! Let's go!”

I finally felt the right to hold this door knob, so I squeezed. “Gawah!” The static trap activated. Felt like getting cut by a nail clipper beneath your nail.

Darn this dry air… I cupped my mouth and checked if there was movements around. Mm, don't think so.

Once again, with breath held, I turned the knob.

A terrible sound of metallic parts grinding against one another emitted from the door; it opened like the door to the library.

I pushed with my shoulder and plastered my back to the wall. Fuu… Fuu… I carefully masked my breathing, and warned the boy who came in normally.

“Careful: there must be infrared scanner on the wall.” Whisper… Whisper…

Please pretend our conversation was carried out telepathically.

“Infra...red?”

“Mm… What cha call it? It's, um… A lotta colours put together and ya can see people.”

“Right, you can see temperature with that.”

“Right. What are ya talking about?”

“Um...” We pondered. Thinking and thinking… The Heisei board of education has failed.

After the atmosphere of spreading your arms out and surrounded by wind on an open field had passed, the air assumed it's gloomy and unnoticeable stance again. The hall, supported by thin lights, allowed me to see its entirety.

A hallway silent, yet solidly build by man-made material. Deeper in was a dark orange, or rather, an unassuming wall with a warm hue. A plant pot sat quietly by the corner, single-sidedly thinking the earth as its friend. I too grinned embarrassedly at my phony behaviours.

The interior was no different than the free-to-enter building decorated with descriptions of the stars or telescope. My opinion made my brain think otherwise of the atmosphere, however.

Something flowing out of my guts rang in my ear. It's like having a machine going in and out of your ear canal. This proved the nervous trembling beneath my stomach, churning the acid and souring my mouth.

As someone who's never walked in campus during night, I now stood in the building that I used to stared curiously and warily at. Within the darkness lights diffused out of the rooms.

My sight sharpened with the excitement. The dark means nothing to me! My prefrontal cortex coiled, so much that it hurt my brain; my throat managed to hold my impulse of moaning and collapsing back. If this goes on, I'll metamorphose into an insect from the anxiousness.

I must complete the mission and escape before such things happen… What's the mission? Was there one?

Hiyah! I stepped forward. The sound of a foot hitting the hard floor dispersed at 340 meters per second.

I froze, like I was some kind of ballet dancer standing on her toes, and turned to look at the boy. He had a 'hm?' face. It would appear my ear drums had become so sensitised that it's a little feralised. Disregard that I wanna go T#rzan in the concrete jungle.

Then I slowly rest my sole down; only after my heel touched ground did I exhale in relief.

“Mm, it's probably okay if we just walk quietly.”

“Whoa… It's like that's the only thing we do when we run into trouble.”

“Guess I'm done with what I came for. I'm leavin'.”

“You're not a runaway Onee-san any more: you're now a night stroller.”

Man, I forgot. I'm not in a position to go anywhere.

I'll just have to move on aimlessly.

“You know, I find it a little harder to think of you as my older.”

“'S that out of love?”

“Nope, just worried that someone is lying about her age.”

That's troubling. But I'm pretending we're the same age anyway, so I didn't care.

I don't mind being a little reckless as thanks for his willingness to be involved with me.

Hands on the wall with thought of leaving my footsteps behind, I secretly proceeded. I thought maybe that sneaking around would be easier, but I noticed something as I felt a cramp building up in my foot: I had shoes on. I turned, and saw the boy was the same and even left foot prints.

I frantically take the shoes off and put them in my bag. 'You too,' I lipped. The boy noticed and casually kicked his shoes off. Bare feet.

“Cold?”

“I levitate about 3 millimetres from the ground anyway, so I don't know.”

“That's not an alien — that's a futurstic robot.”

We chatted while going forward.

Dun dun~ Dun dun~ Dundundundun~ dundundundundun~

The music leaked out in my head. Sneaking about in a research building in the night — just hearing those words would put anyone in suspense.

But faint sounds of footsteps came from behind, so I'm a little scared. It's not the levitating kind either.

We passed and held off on the stairs and continued deeper into the hallway. I looked back in front of the room with lights seeping through the frosted glass.

“Heads up, someone's there.”

“Why have you occasionally used manly words since earlier?'

“If we get found… Mm… Are we gonna get mad at?”

“No, we'd get tortured. Shocked for sure.”

“Shoot… I'd get an afro. Will the helmet help?”

“No, but button mashing may help. Who knows.”

“”Hmm.””

Troubled teens X 2. After imagining the electrocution, we bent our waist down.

We kept a posture like a baseball player about to go for a slide to carefully erase our footsteps while passing by. I heard slippers or something inside, how boring. Felt pretty realistic though. We could only keep our gait strictly at a one-two order. A slow-mo recap of the end of a one-hundred meter dash would probably look like me now.

Meanwhile the boy nonchalantly passed me with calm steps and overcame this challenge of a door. He placed a hand onto the wall, watching while waiting.

I was going to yell at him for being so cocky, but I was in front of door so I had to quietly go through the rebar in my mind. Keep still.. Keep still… Keep still… I'd like to erase the periods, but reality is a cruel mistress.

After spending five hundred percent more time than the boy, I rested from just a little away from the door. By slapping the trembling knees I attempted to train them.

“No tricks allowed.”

“You're the one who acted alone.”

“No talking back either.”

As a person about to enter second year, I am able to educate my juniors. That's my plan on not being looked down by the young'uns. During middle school… Now's the time to turn failure into drive.

The boy moved behind and let me lead; it seems that the lecture worked. If only my juniors are obedient like he.

We progressed slowly, with a half-crouching pose that seemed to sooth the nerve.

As we closed onto the wall at the end.

A sound came from the door we were just at; I spun my head around. The boy also leaned back to stare at the door. Time slowly drifted, but to no one's assurance.

The door opened; when I saw the handholding the knob appeared, I let my knees touch the ground. I thought if we were to run the footsteps would expose us, so I didn't move.

On the side of the hallway I silently curled up. Just in case I could run, I pushed my toes against the floor to ease the weight off the legs.

Slightly afloat the legs, and become a chair, a stick… There's a lot of thing I could be, but I mostly want to be a rock.

Almost like an old man hiding in a Tanuki costume — a round and pink creature. I want to mould into a stone to hide my already thin presence.

Movement grew everywhere; from the epicentre of the heart, places like beneath the chin, neck, side of the stomach started beating like a school child banging mindlessly on a castanet. I wanna move.

Pitter, patter… The sound of slipper dragging on the floor joined us in the hall.

The forehead plastered onto the floor could almost feel the footstep distancing from us. I don't blame my shoulders slacking, but I kept the same pose.

“I think we're good.” I raised my hat and sat down after the boy shook my shoulders.

“Phew~ My life's just got shorter.”

“Same. Thankfully they weren't coming this way.”

“Actually, since we didn't get caught, our lives actually grew.”

“That's optimistic. So why did you runaway?”

Leave me alone. Even without facing backward, sad things were still coming from the front.

I stood up and dusted my butt, all while letting the cramp building in my legs out.

That person may have been going to the second floor, as the echoes of staircase resonated in the long hall. Now our steps could be disguised, going forward would be easier. Yet since we knew someone is with us, the tension grew.

“Foot...step… With the sound of hard floor, and the unreliable light of the hand torch...”

“Dust floating about, and the pungent smell grew stronger. The floor gathered with ashes left footprints other than our own.”

“The report of alien lifeforms left by the vanished researchers had its date stopped from weeks ago...”

“Well, not everyone alien look like freaks.”

He looked intrigued too, and you can tell from just his mien; but his changed the attitude just to disagree with me.

The corner was ahead. I moved slowly with wall to my back. Something kept bumping onto me so it hurt, but we arrived.

I leaned to see the deep end. Whoa ho…

“I've spotted the stairs to the hidden facility. We did it, Jeff.”

“Really? Give me the details, Paula.”

We arbitrarily gave each others spy names. Now we're on the same page.

Mm? Oh yeah, we'd never introduced ourselves, never mind the names.

But we've been doing things, and even came here together. It's pretty amazing from a bystander point of view. In a way it's a space-class interaction — something strange that shouldn't exist in my daily life.

“Mm? I see something below that has the name. I can't see from the lack of vitamin A though.”

“What I could see that the cowardly Onee-san couldn't seems to be the storage for materials.”

Mm… Material of the aliens? There might even be UFO artefact or element XYZ in there gathering dust.

That or something that cannot be publicised because it's an alien production plant. In order to improve the numbers that the natural breed lack, they want to appeal to the public with cheap, tube-grown type… This isn't about fishes, by the way. Oh yeah, natural beef is hard to find too, but since I don't like it I don't care.

“Alright, let's check it out.”

“Finally, to save my imprisoned brethren.”

“Mm…?” Was that the setting?

Walking along the wall I moved closer to the stair, still confused. I began sneaking down the stairs.

After about three steps down, the distant footstep disappeared. From the dispersal of the sound, the uneasiness faded; I moved my tongue.

“Mr. Alien.”

“What's wrong, Earthling Onee-san?”

“Are ya a tea-buddy with the alien that's supposed ta be in this underground facility?”

“He usually makes Nikujaga and shares with me.”

“For real? I didn't think potatoes are the hots in space. Potatoes are pretty cool then.”

“So...”

“Mm?”

“Do you believe in the existence of aliens?”

He asked me something that's didn't bother me too much, and quite earnestly.

I paused in the middle of the staircase while staring at the boy. On his strange expression were eyes that seemed to store energy drinks, bobbing back and forth and looking mighty drinkable.

“Mm… Well, I do… But I don't think they're here.”

I ended up denying the boy's insistence that he's an alien. It didn't work.

“Correct, I am actually a real alien.”

“…...” What was I to do to such a serious face.

“A lot of aliens came here and never returned. I've came to investigate.”

“Uh, that's what we're rolling with?”

He smiled emptily to my question. It should have felt weak, but from the darkness and his own handsomeness, it looked pretty cool.

“I also happened to have been given whatever they failed to accomplish. It's pretty cliché, but we were supposed to investigate how Earthlings live. Top brass wanted us to figure out if you were good or bad.

Ahahah… I laughed lightly. Calm thyself. Be at least a little scared.

The old lady used to have us come up closely to her and tell us about this kind of things. I cringed as the wind of common sense blew onto my skin.

My old friend always end up ignoring others when she couldn't win a debate. Was that why she ended up wrapping herself in a futon? It looks like a giant asparagus roll-up.

I'm drooling…

“If humans kept capturing aliens to conduct experiments, then we probably can't be friends.”

“Oh? So that's why you came here. Great work...”

“It's okay.” He paid no mind to it. Tough guy, this one.

“So were you lying about looking for a way to go home here?”

“No. I really don't know how. For some reason I can't.”

He shrugged. Um, can I really handle this guy? It's gonna take a bit to crack this one.

“So what happens when ya decide we're all bad? Make a meteor hit us?”

I immediately held my helmet. I wasn't concerned with me being the only survivor: There should be other good kids who ride their bikes correctly.

And I will lead those children to rebuild Japan. I plan on becoming the worker of the new world.

“Even if they're not friendly, we don't plan on harming them. You'll probably end up killing yourselves if we leave you be anyway. We think if there's a possibility, we'd take the chance to be friends though.”

“Oh~ That's kinda willy nilly.”

Although the gaze from above bothered me, I've figured something out.

Mm… I see where he's coming from.

“Mm, I get it. I know your name now.”

“What?”

“You're Echoes, right? Mm!”

Heheh, that brings me back. When I was still in grade school, we loved that stuff. During Autumn, we have reading time before the morning classes, and that was my favourite books at the time.

“Echoes? What do you mean?” He replied with a stiff smile.

“Mm? Is that not from your time? I was for sure that that was where ya got your inspiration...”

“Inspiration… Ahaha… You don't believe me.”

The sad grin appeared disappointed. It's not real, but I wonder how much of that was the truth.

“Don't be so sad. So do ya like Earth?”

“Um~ I like you, Onee-san, so I guess I like it.”

“Oh? Like Japanophiles?”

“I guess.”

His expression recovered along with a kind smile.

Hehe! I've captivated a cutie who I don't like. It's a strange happiness that is nonetheless better than none.

After the stairs was a room even more uncanny than the strange facility.

I'd finally arrived within five meter radius of an alien. If I told those five people about this, 'oh~ We did play that kinda game before. You're still doing that, Ryuushi?”

I'm not Ryuushi.

“Mm...” I curled my knees and observed the object hiding in the dark.

A light oozed from between the door; it was so weak that it could hardly be seen unless from close by.

“They should have all left by now.”

“Wanna take a peek inside?”

“Hm? That's a great but dangerous idea.”

“Uwoh!!” The edge of the door and wall flattened my face. My face was remodelled into a pout, but now's not the time for shipping. This meant the door opened from the inside.

“Gahhhhh!”

The staff in there freaked out. Well, we did sneak in here knowing that people are in here, but they would think we're some ghosts.

I didn't realize that until I pulled my face out and started running. But it wasn't the time to calmly assess the situation.

I hit beneath my shin on the top of the stairs, flailing and almost tripped.

Because of that the shoes in my bag fell down the stairs.

“Ah! Shoes! Pain! But my shoes… Ugh… Gosh! Seriously!”

I stopped myself there, and ran back upstairs after giving up.

“W-w-what do we do! Where do we go! Are we running?! We're running, right?!”

I spoke at twice the usual speed and didn't even stop when I bit my tongue. Some said words are weightless, but I definitely felt it on my tongue. It tastes of metal, and bitterness.

“No, I'm going to the second floor too!”

“Wha dya say?!” A lot was mixed up in this moment of crisis.

In any case we ran to the stairwell we were just at. What if an alarm went off? The lungs weren't working amidst the strange happening.

The guy really wanted to go upstairs, so he turned left midway. I hurriedly grabbed his arm. It's a twig. Of course it'd be a twig on a handsome guy! Err, or is it because he's skinny he's good looking? Huh? I donno!

“We've been walking straight, so why are ya lost?! We're only 2D here!”

“Unlike you, I still have something I have to do.”

“Get lost, alien!” I chopped his forehead. It landed beautifully on his hairline.

The boy showed a pained face with a grin joyfully. At this kind of time!

“You still don't buy my story: you're the perfect example of a xenophobic Japanese. This is going to be the last, so I might as well show you.”

“Shut it and run!”

“Do you really want to run, Onee-san? After all that work?”

“Huh?” His counter questioning shocked me.

Was he making me run up here with the possibility of dying looking for aliens?

If I believed in that, I would have listened to everything you had to say.

Um… So? I didn't find the answer behind me even after broadening my spectrum.

The six year old me who had yet grown to hate my straight hair kicked me above the waist.

She's trying so hard with her tiny legs to force me to see this alien. I experienced being the parents who were forced to an amusement park by their children. What do I do?

How did dad handle a child as capricious as me?

Mm…

There's an inverted age limit here.

I have a lot of things I want to do now.

The dreams that I had when I was young contained little.

My first love was also not with me any more.

They all disappeared once I realized.

Even the last straw had withered, with nothing left to show.

I have to go back: I can't stay at a place with nothing.

But you can stay.

I looked down and felt my bangs, letting myself grow up.

I let go of the boy's hand and waved mine next to my face.

“Sorry. I want to go.”

I have to run away from the researchers in scrubs, and the young me. I want to run to a place with something.

“Hm… That so.”

He looked down sentimentally. But I was already ready to run because of the circumstance.

I'd already begun bidding him farewell from up close.

“Thank you for coming along with me! Thank you for sending me here! I'll tell my boss about this, Onee-san, and I will arrange some help to your friends in the future! See you!”

As if those were the last words, he showed that middle schooler's smile that fits his face so well. While it banished the unique mysteriousness, something else replaced and highlighted his charm.

“Got it! Bye bye!”

I sent off the boy, who was hopping at two stairs a step, with a voice loud enough to be heard from the deepest depth of the hall with an exaggerated gesture.

Until his silhouette disappeared from the corner of the stair case, I kept an eye on his intrepid advance. New footsteps echoed from further in in the hallway, so it was my time to leave.

Ok. How am I suppose to find excess energy from outside my stomach?

A power came from my feet and kicked me off the floor.

I left the boy and the six year old me back there.

The sixteen year old me ran to the curious outside world.

“Phew… Phew… Phew...”

When I'm nervous, I get this fatigue that's unrelated with my usual health.

My heart is tired. The wound from yesterday has yet heal.

I came to the field outside, heaving and out of breath, and I wanted to lie down to let the fatigue in my mind fill with blood. Phew… Phew… I heard only my breathes.

Head lowered with arms on my knees, I dragged my feet to turn toward the research building. No one's following me or after me. Even though I do have a partner.

“Phew… Phew… Phew...”

I chewed on my breath trying to stop the heaving. Air seeped from between my teeth, kind of disgusting. If someone saw me they'd think I'm here to dig to find subterraneans.

“Ahem!” I gave up on that to indulge in breathing.

Once my panting settled, I looked to the light coming from the windows.

“Mm… He's okay, right?”

We didn't infiltrate a military base, so it shouldn't be too bad, but that mysteriousness that I felt when I was young still incited my anxiousness. Ugh, stomach hurts.

Ah, I never asked his name. Mm? What a rude way of interacting.

Though hard to let go (m-my curled hair, that is), I returned to my bike traversing on the rigid soil. “Oh! It's cold.” Was it angry? The seat was freezing; this harmed my self esteem as a bench player in the club. Mm?

“Eh?”

I yelped strangely with widened eyes. Mm, It'd be embarrassing to imagine the actual image.

The shoes I lost sat unassumingly in the basket.

“No way!” I looked closer. The subtle wear on the tip, the size, the colour and lack of sheen… They're my shoes, no doubt about it. Did they run off from their master and came back?

“No… way...” Could it be that the alien's elementary technology is teleportation…? “I don't think so either...”

My lower half froze from the phenomenon, but I still rigidly picked up the shoes.

Mm… There's only one other person who would know these are mine…

With that conclusion I naturally scanned around. There was nothing. No one was here to harvest the skinny carrots, or a person with sharp eyes floating in the air with white tights and a mysterious aura. Did the boy already leave? He was the one who brought them back. It's the only possibility.

But how? He went upstairs while I ran out. Was he operating at a speed that beat even mine? Maybe he's actually a Ninja (the American kind).

“Or maybe...” He threw the shoes down when he's going home on an UFO?

I looked for a note in the shoes, but they only end up becoming my gloves. I smacked the shoes together before taking my hands out. I realised I still had mud on my feet, so I just put them on.

“Haha… Haha… Haha…”

I inadvertently laughed at myself. It's so funny I hugged my belly.

The aliens weren't captured here. It has to be a lie.

He's just wondering, so he came here with the Earth representative, me, and found nothing.

The loss of drive and the misunderstanding drove me beet red.

So that's why the boy returned what I lost to me.

He wanted to use that as a cover for his slip-up, so he wouldn't badmouth us when he's reporting.

I must have saved Earth itself.

“Oh? So I'mma hero. I wonder if a questionnaire will ask this?”

Of course, I won't question anything even if he wasn't levitating from three millemetres above ground.

Even if he just explained to the staffs, and then ran off as fast as he could, passed me and tossed my shoes in there, and then ran off almost like a human.

It doesn't matter if he walked on land, or returned to space from the endless sky.

As long as we appreciate the destination, there's a home we can go back to.

“I hope other aliens are just like ya.”

Being in contact with other people gave me a proper sense of pain and passion.

Mm~ That's the best kind of things.

I will for sure fall in love with someone else in second year.

And I will make the person I liked yesterday a scar in my memory.

Ryuuko's night, the spring break of UMA, has just begun! So I must hurry back home.

My runaway trip ended in two days.

I straddled onto the bicycle's seat and adjusted my helmet.

And began peddling slowly.

The night on the brink of winter's end chilled the air that blew on my face.

But I clearly saw the road.

I stepped hard and accelerated. Even if it's the usual speed, I will keep the wheels turning to orchestrate that sound.

I tried to let this possibly invisible alien catch up.

The messy hair and wind cutting by became my speedometer.

To leave the self-deprecation that chased me behind, I sought to have my speed higher than my temperature.

### 008. Chapter 2: Peering at First Love

## Chapter 2 - Peering at First Love

Q: Select the appropriate words to fill in the blank

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Maekawa-san]

[Childhood friend Yoshino]

[Princess Kaguya]

[Written charms]

[Dyed hair]

[Going places on a scooter in a storm!]

[Continue to cosplay]

[Lady at the beauty salon]

[179.9cm]

[Memory of a summer]

Let's dye my hair. The sudden thought popped in my head.

So let's head to the hair salon after lunch without studying first, on the Sunday before the final exams of the first semester. I usually ask the neighbourhood old lady for a five-hundred-yen haircut, but since she's the type who doesn't even like dying white hair black, I couldn't put my trust on her — I had no intention to go there from the start.

“Come on in~ I can do all cuts~”

A person who appeared to be the kind owner greeted me weirdly. She was in fact the only one inside. She's cleaning the hair off the floor, presumably from the previous customer.

“Do you guys only do appointment?” I so asked, to which she replied, for some reason, cheerfully. 'Hahah, that's kinda like being ask by the cashier if you're going to eat all thirty burgers on your own~

“It's all right. Just sit anywhere you want.”

Under the lure of her bright but slightly childish voice, I walked in, avoiding the hair while looking around the somewhat cramp store.

The wall and ceiling had white a base, and the decorations were quite tasteful. What looked like the cable television played quietly in the corner; air conditioning rendered the time in this salon to pass slowly. Compared with the heat in my house, I thought it'd be worth it to just spend my time and money here and wait it out. There’s only a fan in my room.

I sunk into the chair and stared at the me reflected onto the mirror ahead. Oh… I think I forgot my contacts. Everything is blurry and I looked scary. Beams could come out of my eyes.

The female owner who occasionally appeared in the mirror with a broom and dustpan appeared to be about twenty-two, three or four years old. As though she had just shed, her skin showed no sign of birthmarks or tan; she's so pale we might not be the same kind of breed. Her hair touched her waist; I had thought it could be used like a carpet if it were to completely cut off. Straight jeans and a t-shirt with rolled-up sleeves, as well as a hat hanging from her neck, she would fit right under the summer sky while watering the sun flower field. The sound of her plastic slippers only aided the youthful aura she emanated, as well as her beauty that is as if the world's unfairness and fate's mischief themselves. Her height of roughly 160cm was also a source of my admiration. I didn't know there existed another person who attracted eyes in a different way than I, like a collection of people's envy.

I picked up several girl magazines in front of the mirror to kill time. I wondered if many of the models on display were taller than I am.

After the cable TV ended on a song, the lady came behind me with a little cart filled with tools. 'Thanks for waiting.”

She gently brushed my head after clipping my hair up and dressing me up like a Teru-teru Bouzu. She complimented on my hair, 'you have good follicles,' making me nod embarrassedly. (TL Note: Teru-teru bouzu 照る照る坊主are believed to bring good weather, and are hung often during rainy days. In Japan they are often made with tissues or handkerchiefs like a little person in robe)

“You must be new here. You're very tall!” She seemed in awe. It's the usual comment I hear meeting someone, so I blankly replied, 'yeah.'

“Must be pretty handy when you're stealing people's fruit.”

“…...” That would be the first time someone had said that. And so, I inadvertently looked at the owner's face with the mirror. What kind of life in these twenty or so years did she go through can she bring such exquisitely chiselled smile?

“What do you go by? And… are you a student?”

I revealed my name while introducing myself as a middle school senior.

“Mm… Maekawa, huh. That's a good last name.” She nodded proudly. Just my last name?

And… it went like that again. For some reason, almost no one calls me by my name. Aside from my parents, people who were good friends… and they exist, but he also calls me Maekawa since I was young. It's not like my name is hard to say; I never understood why. It is a very small secret, in contrast to my height.

“So, what would you like today?” The snipping of scissors came from the mirror.

“Hair dye. I want blonde.”

“No way?”

She squealed unbelievably. My eardrum shook, kind of like when I'm dry coughing; I thought she would proceed without a word. I turned around rigidly to look at her.

“You're going to look like the Kinkaku-ji. I don't think you should.” (TL Note: The temple in Kyoto plastered in gold)

The owner denied my request while spinning her scissors. She even rebuked me with what may or may not even be an analogy, so I didn't feel convinced. Who knew that going to an amusement park with animal mascots in Chiba instead of Kyoto or Nara would have such terrible repercussion… It'd be difficult to have this kind of regret.

“Maekawa, I seriously think black is the best for you.”

“But that's the real colour.” She's telling me to just leave like this. Does she not want business?

“Yep. I recommend you to keep it this way.” She put her hand on my shoulder.

“Nope, let's do blonde.” I don't want the 'status quo' anymore.

“What about brown?”

“No, and no silver either.”

“Mm… I understand.”

Still smiling, she easily retracted her advice and began preparation.

“Oh yes, would you like to trim a bit before the dye?”

“Yes, please.”

“Alright.”

She wet my hair with the sprayer and began cutting my hair skilfully. It'd be bad if she wasn't, so I was at ease.

During the process, she casually asked many questions. Rather than alleviating my boredom, I think it's more about satisfying her curiosity. For example, she asked what's in for middle schoolers, if I liked persimmon, what the boy I like looks in number (Pff!). Her bombardment of questions made me think that perhaps her mouth was nimbler than her hands.

After answering all her questions earnestly, she commented that I 'keep up with my appearance.' I nodded slightly in agreement.

As we prepared for the dye, she asked. Finally, I thought.

“Why are you dying your hair? It's your first time, isn't it?” She asked in the most nonchalant way possible.

“I just do, because I want to become a different me.” There went the reason that wasn't a complete lie.

“Really? You'll still be ‘you' afterward, though. You really want to go through with this?” She replied easily.

Because of what seemed like a metal bowl landing on my head, I pretended to not hear. Sometimes, an adult's wise opinion is just a road too smooth for the youth. I think.

And so she's done.

A me who didn't seem to absorb much light appeared in the mirror.

“What do you think? Like a rip-off of Kinkaku-ji?”

“I guess...” Doesn't she care about her customers? Can't you just give a compliment?

I could admit that my head looked like Ashikaga Takauji's, though. I have a few wigs for cosplaying, but this would be my first time dying my hair. Hm~ so this is what a new me looked like. (TL Note: Ashikaga Takauji was the first shogun of the Ashikaga shogunate)

The teru-teru bouzu had turned into a shiny girl, but I didn't feel any differences. At most I began imagining about my mother's and others reaction to my delinquency. When I sit uneasily and depressingly in class before the test starts. I might be mistaken as a decoration with gold plating, I thought detachedly.

“You like it?”

“A tourist attraction is still better than an oversized dummy.”

I divulged my thoughts honestly and stood from the chair. As if guided by her, I walked up to the counter, face to face with the owner.

After looking at the fee chart written on the penguin-shaped board, I withdrew several bills and some coins from my purse.

'Thank you,' the owner said after giving half of the exact cash back to me.

“Just half is fine.”

“Why?” The causeless pity put me on guard.

“I'm not about to do business malpractice.” Cha-ching, she voiced the register machine.

“I don't understand.” Now I'm worried about modern Japanese tomorrow.

“I just don't think 1 times 1 is 2.”

The owner left with her iconic, spirited toothy smile. She picked up the broom and dustpan leaning on the wall, thinking to herself, 'what if I don't have time to clean up with all these people coming in?'

I didn't want to lose more confidence before testing, so even if I didn't want to, I still put the money she returned back into my wallet and pushed the door out.

“Thank you.”

“You're welcome. Hope to see you again.”

She waved with the broom. I bowed and walked out.

The moment I exited, the air touching my skin rose in heat; the dampness grew in my heart, adding that much weight onto me.

“Whoa… I can see the light.”

Looking up, the hair on my forehead melted into the sun, its existence almost gone.

Let's go home… and study.

As if holding a golden umbrella, I followed the swaying of that colour I've yet gotten used to on the way back.

I wanted to dye my hair.

There are many reasons why, and they rose their hands in me.

“Are you actually a bamboo?”

Kiiko once asked while we were eating school lunch.

We both stopped the motion of tearing and ingesting the rye bread and looked at each other. Kiiko's eyes were smiling, and mine were… hm… at least squinty. I couldn't see very clearly.

“Are you saying I'm Princess Kaguya? That's quite the compliment, but I don't have any dresses so fancy.”

I knew she's joking, but I had to try and play dumb. I reached for the milk carton to divert my sight, and started sucking on the straw.

“I remember you being the third from the last when we were lining up in sixth grade.”

The girl who was taller than the average height by 2 cm in seventh grade is now being mentioned the time when she was shorter than the average sixth grade at sixth grade.

“Uh… really? I'm used to this height now so I don't remember.” I made a joke along that line.

“Now you will still be the last in line if we lined every girl up in this school up. Now that's scary.”

“I guess our school lunch is just that good.”

“What, are you making fun of me for having left over? That's rude, Maekawa!”

“No, I'm just saying I eat too much.”

When this conversation took place, in other words during the December of my second year in middle school, my height was still around 170cm.

At that time, there were still a few boys who were taller than my line of sight.

And now.

Middle school third year, summer in terms of both the calendar and temperature, July.

I'm already over 180cm. Obviously the genetic engineering was a success. I was like a Jingu staff that could only grow one way. Frankly I'm both shocked and troubled.

A lot of problems followed my sudden spurt of growth.

First is the exacerbation of joint pain; my leg cramp increased from once a day to twice a day. I grew taller, to a point that my bones and muscles were pulled to their limit. When my legs seize up in the night, I don't even have a chance to cry as my face struggled in pain. I wanted to wail to this unreasonable world and the parts above my shoulder uncontrolled by me.

All clothes including uniform had to be re-bought. And because of my hobby from since late elementary school — cosplay — I had to change everything.

Since my appearance strayed further and further from my ideal, my dream had been demolished since the woman inside the mirror became a giantess. I no longer strive to become 'a different me,' but rather 'the thing after I've changed a little.' I'll be the Onigiri boy (Katsuobushi flavoured).

Those are two bad things. Actually, there's more.

The times of which I've been branded with 'disappointment' by those around me increased. Naturally, such height should be associated with physical capability. But I implore everyone to look closely: I don't have any lateral growth; I'm just a skinny beansprout, so don't expect anything out of me during sports festivals. For instance, I would run out of energy after throwing two balls. I end up as the rope in tug of war. I have problems such as… wind resistance during a baton race.

My family had me help clean the windows in my house. After raising my arms for ten seconds, I passed out like I have anaemia.

It's terrible, really. I now have to be careful when I'm entering or leaving a car, and the only real advantage I have is when I'm waiting for someone. I stuck out, you know.

Aside from my incongruent height, the blonde hair began covering me on the Monday of early July, when exams began. The stare-attack I was so used to assaulted me once again.

On the way from the lot to class, I ran into several acquaintances; their glances seldom came with words. Was it too intimidating? Not many people have blonde hair, but there are still plenty people like me.

A wave of noise rippled after I entered the classroom that was twice as gloomy as usual. Classmates desperately clenching onto their books looked up and observed me before the first class began.

I scratched my cheek; after I've confirmed that 'he's' not here yet, I walked to my seat. Putting my backpack onto the hook next to the table, I rest my face on my palm. There seemed to be no desks or chairs that fit my size. It was cramped, and even resting my legs beneath proved to be challenging. When I lean forward to lie down, half of my head goes out of the table. As a side note, my growing feet also frustrated me.

Whether she heard or saw, Kiiko came running with a math textbook still in hand. She'd ran here from a separate class, how diligent. “Wha? Wha~” She marvelled at me and circled about, like a monkey in a zoo. And I'm the monkey? How sad.

“What's going on? Amazing. Is it a wig?” She poked the side of my head.

“Hm… I dyed it.” I answered coldly. It's not like I'm a polite person anyway, but that's not me bragging.

“Really? I thought maybe your dad's gene finally appeared now that you're all grown up, and you’re now blonde and powered-up.” Her words from then on were like birds chirping; without a care she continued remarking with what sounded like Japanese. The person who dubbed her Kiiko was the infamous Touwa Erio.

Her hair was something of a mystery, far more impressive than my blonde hair. I also heard that it's her real hair. Apparently she was the only member of the astronomy club, and a space enthusiast who even brought a telescope to watch the stars on the school rooftop.

But we weren't friends, and we weren't in the same class in middle school. What's strange was that people use whatever she called others with. Perhaps she had the power of linguistics.

I don't deny unscientific things, but only if they somehow benefit me. I guess it could be because I live here. “Chirp chirp, chirp.” Kiiko's words just didn't stand out… So I just changed her voices. I did want to do some last-minute cram, so I just made her go away.

In the end the irritating bird girl left, giggling, without ever spanning her wings.

I flipped through the textbook. After finding a random page to start, I begin going through the formulas and reading the texts. I was a little uneasy, and found myself sneaking peeks at the class' doorway.

Am I an idiot? I scolded myself for underestimating the test yesterday, then my eyes moved on their own.

It's Yoshino. Yoshino Takeshi. He lives in an apartment, five minutes and twenty-three seconds away with a seven-year old's footstep, and one minute and thirty-six seconds with the gait of a gigantic, 180cm girl. Hm… He's a certain boy.

Odd how I put it. Oh well. What I mean to say is… we're childhood friends.

He's the type of athlete who'd find time to practice on his own before coming to class, when club activities are suspended during testing period.

As usual he sucked on a bottle of milk on his way to school.

Without batting an eye he sat down in the seat four rows ahead of me to the right and opened his backpack.

I thought he'd at least look at me once, so I was ready to show him my new look, squeezing my textbook. It was for nothing though.

Honestly it's fine, since the hair was just a proof of my change.

Uh… Wow… I was using the book to hid my face, but at the same time I wondered if I actually did that.

I felt that I just couldn't conceal the entirety of my body.

When I was little, I used to look up at Yoshino from his side.

We made a promise, so he became enamoured with the laughably small Maekawa-san.

However…

The friends have become strangers. Our eyes used to be close and met one another's, but now mine could see the distant view.

Vertical and lateral distance left even my lanky arms helpless.

Without me even able to lament about the result of my first day of exam, it went from day to night.

“You shouldn't worry about your height! Crocs and sharks are so much bigger! A whale would swallow you in a bite!”

“I'm more on the mammalian team.”

While dealing with a slightly obstructive customer chewing on grilled squid in the corner of the store, I picked up the plates and utensils; occasionally I wash these things, take orders, and say 'welcome' to customers passing through the door. It's quite a handful actually. But if I get paid, my speed increases by fifty percent.

Due to 'after deducting cost of labour, if the bar's not running well, our live is affected too,' sometimes I get forced into helping the family business too.

'If you practise regularly you shouldn't worry about a test.' That's the view my parents have when it comes to last-minute cramming. As long as I get the result, however, I couldn't care how.

Perhaps my parents are serious, or just quite ethical?

In this boisterous restaurant unrelated with the word sophistication, giant cotton candies of the summer heat smothered me. By the two electric fans next to the TV and on the ceiling blowing at their hardest, the warmth and alluring smell of the food were pushed out of the front.

The aroma would make any hungry person moan; to a regular office worker we're just nuisance and loud noises. Plus the smell sticks on your clothes.

My family runs a skewer pub. The restaurant sits in the shopping district known for its desolated state. Since our neighbour is a Western style restaurant, it's more than a little misplaced. No, maybe it's fair to even say that this shopping district itself is like a patch of moss growing on this beauty city of a rock. It existed before the city's development, and was abandoned; its people, thanks to a conscientious beautifying effort, were more likely ostracised.

And those who live in places livelier simply view this part of town as a tiny slum.

I understand what they mean by standing out… But thanks to the surface of the city being renovated, the dirty little secrets had to be sequestered.

I thought this place functions perfectly as a way to contain the messy and chaotic elements.

People also often report sighting of UFO, so I'm sceptical whether a 'prideful' city can even be achieved. To this day I am still in awe.

Let's keep the name of the store a secret. After all, my name is written clearly on the red curtain, so you may check that out instead. What? You can't? Let's see then… Call me 'Maekawa-san.”

For some reason, even the customers started calling me -san recently. When I was still running around as the store mascot in elementary school, they referred me as '-chan.'

Now that I am the mascot girl, naturally I wore the sign on both front and back — now that's the real mascot girl. But due to the poor range of motion, my parents didn't like it too much, and the customers didn't react well to it.

Why? The joke wasn't received well. Perhaps along with my growth, I've become too avant garde?

But every now and then someone would still laugh, so I consider this a pretty good country. Now I'm assured.

One of the very few people would be that person considered as a regular sitting in the corner chewing on a squid. She calls herself the real Princess Kaguya.

She often wore a red yukata, a pair of black flip flops; her long hair only had the bangs straightened out, and she always wore a red safety helmet when she's on the move with a scooter without a care to the traffic law. Such a lifeform exists in this town.

But supposedly she's never been yelled by the police. According to herself, 'how could the Earth's law apply for an alien?' The law aside, I hope she'd follow common sense at least; whenever I mocked her so, she would just smile.

The self-proclaimed twenty-four year old stood only at 147cm. What that meant is that even with a 30cm ruler attached to her head, she wouldn't surpass me. She looks just like a Zashiki-warash when she sits in her corner; when I pointed that out, she just laughed and said, 'good, then I guess I'm perfectly in sync with the Japanese aesthetic.'

Looks like this princess is always on the opposite end.

“Why Princess Kaguya? You own a place on the moon?”

“Mm? Well, let's see… Ah… I don't have enough fingers, but I think it was six years ago? Something amazing happened back in my home town. Since then We've always been Princess Kaguya!” It could have been the alcohol, or maybe it's just how she is, but the strange phrase was thrown onto the table. (TL Note: Since I do not have the Japanese text, I could only surmise that the word used here is わたくし, which is very formal way to address oneself. Whatever the case is, it's a dignified pronoun meant to also indicate humbleness, hence the usage of We)

“Sweet. Then head on home.”

“You're right. Gotta go back on the next full moon.”

“That long? I mean now!”

“You're so mean!”

“That how things work here!”

I drove out the financially unhelpful midget who stayed for two hours here on just a squid and beer.

While still complaining, she overheard the TV forecast on the typhoon that will, in a few days, arrive on mainland; she drunkenly muttered 'oh no~ I have to go back now,' worrying about something on a different time scale.

A total drunkard who couldn't tell from her front to back. 'Eheheh,' she laughed creepily and paid the exact amount at the register before leaving shakily. 'Bye bye~'

Since she shows up twice every week, my parents would always send her off with a smile. I don't: I'm actually worried. I know she's already working, but is Japan's future really in safe hands?

A lot of adults are a little odd in this town. I just have the feeling. The person in the salon from yesterday too, she's just like another one of the locals… Right, I felt this sense of 'alien' on her.

I'm not big on the extraterrestrial, or power of the universe, but I know that the inhabitants of this town are mixed with something strange. And it seems that the alien-invasion-talk works in every family — what a strange place.

I always thought about going to a different place if I were to go to a university… Even if it were in the sticks, I wouldn't mind if it's far away — I never fit in here.

And so I spaced out delivering plates slowly and sadly, occasionally cooking, and once it's ten, my mother let me go. While taking the apron and sign off, I wondered if she letting me off an hour early was due to the test.

Our house is in a different location. The restaurant is in the shopping district, while the house in the residential area. I'm so afraid of being attacked in the night road… That's a line I can only say if I were 30cm shorter, I think.

Take a shower and study for the test. Something else besides fatigue slowed my pace down; with tired gaits different than the princess from before, I left through the backdoor. I wound up in the middle of the street.

In front of the store was Princess Kaguya's favourite carriage of a scooter, made in the moon. It's not an abnormal sight. She typically rides her scooter here, only to leave it here when she goes home drunk. The following morning before work she would come and retrieve it. It's a pain, but according to herself, 'I'm cool with it, so it's fine,' so it's never been changed.

She's actually older than I am. Must be because we've known each other for so long, sometimes I don't bother watching my words with her. That's also why I forget about that fact sometimes.

I swatted at the moths flying under light outside, and began the anaemia routine, 'ugh~' I gave up; I took off the lock to our family bicycle. My parents enjoy walking hand in hand in the dark of night, so they don't need these wheels. They'll find their way back to their nest with love. As their daughter, I'd like to do nothing less than throw pebbles at them.

Guess I'll wear the eggshell I recently bought instead of the signboard tomorrow.

It's an outfit that has a cracked egg on the top and bottom; it separates when you're standing, and it becomes an egg when you sit. The exposed legs are hilarious, and there are even fruit versions.

Cosplay is great, because it attracts others' attention, in a good way. That's what I like.

I couldn't see the moon amongst the not-so-tall three-storeys buildings lining the shopping; the bike moved forward. With a tap on the ground to start, I stepped deep into the pedals.

The middle schooler given the duty of wearing a helmet, me, allowed the night to freely see my blonde hair (please overlook this). I wondered blankly: comparing me to that scooter princess who, surprisingly, wears a helmet while riding, who's more illegal? Still pedalling, I eyed the lights permeating from people's houses.

The closer I was to my house, the weight sitting in my stomach grew bigger. My breath reeked of acid.

More precisely, I worried about my neighbourhood. My eyes were darting about. If a police officer were to see me now, he’s going to think I'm some thief who forgot her makeup looking for her mark. As far as I know that's how fishy I was. Ahahah (stiffy laughter).

My childhood friend Yoshino might just appear! (Think of it as using an exclamation to hide your embarrassment) If we ran into each other right now, he couldn't possibly just ignore me. Don't even mention my butt — I won't even be able to hide my face. What would Yoshino do? My heart accelerated.

It's not wishful thinking, that we're so conscious of each other… At least I believe so.

But not for the same reason. I could follow Yoshino with my eyes and stride, and this gigantic body could easily enter his vision. Yoohoo! But that must be also why my life is so difficult. Yoohoo!

Yet Yoshino seemed to be deliberately ignoring me.

It must take quite a bit of effort to not think about me, or pretend to not see me. I will applaud him for that. Clap, clap clap~

And so whether it's in the class, morning, period, afternoon and then after school.

Yoshino refused to talk with or look at me. But I've grown used to it.

Still…

‘You dyed your hair.’ After he said so, he grew upward and pulled my hair.

Somewhere inside of me had hoped that it would lead to a conversation. Am I an idiot?

Yoshino was a big bully. I spun my mechanical pencil; like a compass or a hard disk, it led to my rumination.

I couldn't recall an English vocabulary during the test, but the memory easily replayed itself.

The sound of mechanical pencils and paper shuffling that would fill a classroom became the sound effect.

In the summer when Yoshino still wore shorts, he was timid, mindful of other's eyes, and banal. He looked down on me, who was smaller than the giant doll in my hands, and pulled on my hair. Ah… here we go.

I don't know if the cicadas were crying in the real world or my head. I couldn't know — I didn't need to know, because either way it was just perception.

Yoshino was the only kid around my age; naturally I didn't want to play with a boy, and stuck to talking with my dolls. Suddenly, a falsified report appears. Of course that wasn't the case: Yoshino dragged me everywhere. Be it summer, winter or fall, I'd look at the sky.

Because he'd pull my hair from the top, obviously I would.

When there's nothing to talk about, he'd turn around and shout, 'heh! Troll Doll!' And when I would look down, troubled, he'd say, 'Ah… Uh… You're really tiny.'

But I don't hate Yoshino; the opposite actually. I'm not saying I'm an extreme masochist though, because he protected me in all sorts of ways. When other kids called me a midget, Yoshino would hit them.

It would end up as a brawl, and he never held back. Without a doubt, there are times of wins and losses.

The reason wasn't that he couldn't tolerate others making fun of me, but that he hated others for having the same intention as he did. It's a childish thought. That's what he told me, and perhaps, when he would look away, he had other reasons. Of course, I had no clue at the time.

Yoshino dragged me around and fought with other people. But I was the chosen one. I felt that 'he' needed me. And I was glad, and blushed about it. So whether it was him hogging me or pulling my hair, I never resisted beyond saying 'that hurt, stop that.'

But I learned later that it's only because I was smaller than Yoshino. I'll push that thought into the back of my head first. The most profound memory I have with Yoshino is… Oh, here it is.

We discovered a shrine deep inside the forest. Shielded from the elements by the surround trees, the building stood solemnly without much dilapidation. An ancient paragraph described whatever was worshipped here, but for two kids who had only wrote first grade Kanji, it was beyond us. Even with my level 4 certification, I still don't believe I could read it. Though that might be more of an issue with my eyesight.

I recall catching cicadas there. Because of my fear of flying cicadas, Yoshino wanted to catch one to show it to me. I didn't want to go, but I still did. Then we found the shrine. It was dirty, possibly because no one cleaned the place regularly.

We walked around the shrine; it's not like I knew, but I thought it was a shrine or something along the line. I figured I would make a wish. I don't know why, but I wrote down on the wishing charm for Tanabata that 'I wanted to grow up,' and tied the thing on an old tree that's nowhere close to being a bamboo. I couldn't reach it, so I had Yoshino put it there for me. The payment was my hair being pulled. Nothing unusual. (TL Note: Tanabata is a Japanese festival originating from the Chinese one with the same name. It's to celebrate Orihime and Hikoboshi's annual reunion, which falls on the seventh day of the seventh lunar month. In the Japanese festival, paper strips known as 短冊 tanzaku would be written and tied onto bamboo with wished written on them)

I don't know if the charm worked, but if it did, it only worked now seven years later. As if a surgery had taken place, I grew exponentially during the second year of middle school.

There's actually an ending to this incident: My parents couldn't stand their daughter's pain for being so short, so they secretly injected some growth accelerant during my sleep. When I first heard about this two months ago, I somehow thought, 'no wonder Santa always visited me in my dreams,' and accepted the surreal explanation. Should I hate them? Or thank them for their concern? And when does the genuine Santa visit? The conditions are too vague, so maybe I should just get my good kid card stamped, and wait for Santa to arrive?

In any case, my dreams were fulfilled.

Despite calling me a troll doll, he never called me a she-troll.

When I told him that I was taller than he, he didn't grow taller to pull my hair. He didn't do anything; he stared with eyes calmer than water, like the surface of a road.

Our distance grew as fast as my height stretched.

End of replay. It could be said that it ended because of the sleepiness thanks to this heat.

My memories with Yoshino always took stage in the summer. Possibly because it was during summer vacation when we spent the most time together. Human’s ability to retain fond memories marvels me.

There has to be times when you are more empowered by something that's not physical nutrient.

What? The test? Hahaha… Need I say more?

White with a red score. Wonderful that red could coexist with white.

On the last day of the exams, I ran into Yoshino.

I could never dream of the day when Yoshino, who was called an idiot for channelling so much of his energy into sports, coming directly to the bicycle parking lot without stopping by the field. It took me completely by surprise when he did.

I froze first; the person who followed almost fell from his bike and frantically balanced himself. Time stopped. Other students were happily going for their bikes with a cathartic expression after the tests have ended.

The earth was spinning, but we fought against it. Cicada's cry circled us. Nostalgia. I remembered when I wrote down the wish; Yoshino must have written something there too. What was it? The sun blinded me while I tried to recall, but I stopped myself — I had to decide how to deal with the Yoshino standing in front of me first.

I had to think of something while he stood there. 'Why' Why was he avoiding me, and why did I assume he was? 'Height' Height… Yoshino grew a lot too. 'Um' Um… Do you even remember me?

Sound could not formulate into words. Under the unclear and incomplete squeal, it might just pass the expiration date.

My voice crumbled within seconds, unable to weave into anything and melted into the tasteless summer sun.

“Uh...” Yoshino seemed to speak, but his eyes moved before his mouth. What is it? A hope grew. I wished he would lead me like he used to before. That's right, my hands strained.

But the tension remained. Yoshino squinted, despite facing away from the sun, and began pushing his bike with a grimace. A great amount of time in order to ignore me again.

He looked so small that I could easily place my chin atop his head.

The me now could easily pull his short hair.

Without the courage to grab his head to stop him, I balled my hands.

He passed me and kicked at the ground. The whirling of bicycle wheels faded in a straight line.

My head turned slightly from inertia and yearning.

Almost making eye contact with me, Yoshino hurried looked back to the front.

With both legs on the pedals, he only stepped rigidly with his left; the bicycle wobblingly disappeared from the gate.

Strength drained from my shoulders.

Was it from disappointment? Or from relief?

“I...” I talked to myself while shaking the bicycle.

I wish I know.

What is it that I sought from Yoshino?

The day after the exams, Saturday, I wandered about. I wanted to be carried off by the wind, so I dress up like dollar bill, and a 1000 yen one, at that. Though it's rectangular, since it's clothe, it's hard to replicate the same light feeling. The mug printed on it was from an older bill… Who's the hell is this? As a modern child I might not have even seen the real thing. How knowledgeable of me~ My brain's so empty~ I'm going with the wind~

Money circulates in this world, so I thought I would wander the town while contemplating on whether I was even worth a thousand yen.

Both the tests and the weather were impeccable… Maybe not, since it's drizzling outside. Forecast this morning mentioned the typhoon I heard from few days ago closing in onto this city. According to them it will arrive sometimes between tonight and next morning, and leave in two days after ravaging the area.

I thought that if I just dress up like this and stand in the yard, the wind would just carry me off into a town I've never seen before. And people would just… run away from this giant cash bill. Hm.

The wind wasn’t huge, and the rain just drench the money. It'd fall apart it were paper, but clothe does get humid after absorbing a certain degree of water. It's a pretty terrible feeling.

My bangs dripped with water and hid half my sight.

Oh yeah, I'm blonde now. I remembered the changes.

But the exotic factor waned, and the changes I gave myself burnt its life away. I wanted to be a different me; just what is this ideal me required to accomplish?

The scooter I recognised sat there. I know the helmet resting on the seat too. I was interested too thanks to a certain salon, so I revealed my lowered face.

Quietly, and with back slouching, I opened the door and looked inward. Could be the dampness, but it was colder. Before I could feel the frigidness, the sound of scissor blades crossing echoed once again.

“Ah, come on in. Young people's hair sure grow fast… Is that outfit meant to be a pun of hair (髪) and paper(紙)?”

The owner was glad about the half-baked reciprocal nature of teenagers nowadays… That couldn't be it.

Without stopping her hands, she welcomed me with a smile. She froze for a second after seeing my outfit.

“Oh uh, it just… The red bi— I mean, scooter, belongs to someone, I think, so I just...” I don’t know why I had to change the sentence.

Perhaps I'm the rare few who considered ‘that person’ as an adult.

“Scooter? Oh, do you know Kaguya?”

She said so while pointing toward the sofa meant for customers. Princess Kaguya was playing trump on there.

With her sandals off, she kneeled on the sofa, facing off with a little girl. Well, both were little.

Upon seeing me, she happily said, ‘Maekawa, I see you’re still as tall as the average Dutch girls. What are you wearing?’ I felt like she’s a kid staring excitingly as the giant amuse park ride. ‘You looked like you came out from a mattress compressor, too.’

Since the two of them occupied the sofa, I merely stood. People outside would probably mistake me as a talking scarecrow. After what seemed to be either an imagination or words of deprecation, I looked down.

“You’re friends with the owner?’ I realised I still didn’t know either of their names.

“Mm… Since before I moved here.”

Even with eyes glued onto her cards, she correctly pointed at the owner’s back.

The owner did not look back, simply replying, ‘that’s right, I’m friend with an alien.”

She’s still working. The female appearing to be thirty or so in age cut away at the hair with an ambivalent look.

I don’t know if it’s because it’s a dream, or because it’s her appearance. The slightly curled lips and face were incredible adorable, unfitting for her age. Weird, I’ve seen her… Hm… No, I’ve seen someone like her before. No, it can’t be anyone I know. What I should pay attention now to is… I looked down and saw the child, enveloped by the shadow I’ve created. ‘Ugh… Ughh…” She moaned strangely while backing up. The princess in her red yukata saw this and laughed heartily.

“Ahahah! Maekawa’s really scary, but not really dignified!” She so interjected.

“It’s just my outfit.”

“Ran-chan, this is Maekawa. She’s our customer, and she just became my friend.”

The owner, whose smile went unconcealed in the mirror, sent help.

“Ran-chan?”

“My daughter. You write it as blue, and read it as Ran.” (TL Note: 藍 means blue, and can be read as Ran)

Oh~ I wrote in my mind the Kanji I don’t quite remember.

“My husband said it feels really fast if you read it in English… I am the one picked the character though.”

“Oh~” I replied, marvelling at the fact that she’s already married. There’s no tangible reason, but I had assumed her to be single. It’s a bit shocking, but since she felt so mature, it’s not that strange either. Lots of feelings were mended.

Then Ran met my eyes. She stared at me with these glossy eyes. Um… Felt like I was bullying her. “Ran-chan, this Onee-chan— uh, you are right? Right. This Onee-chan would like to sit down, so you should come here a little.”

The princess pulled Ran-chan to her side to give me room to sit down. Ran-chan still looked a little apprehensive after moving; she just wouldn’t look at me. I felt so sorry for her. Guess I will dress up like an anpan or toast next time.

I tried sitting as close as I could to the edge; I didn’t really come here for anything, so I looked at my fingers.

After hearing the princess’ voice for a while, someone spoke to me.

“Maekawa, are you down?” From the mirror, the owner asked me.

“What? Um… Why? Err…” Was I seen through? I put myself on guard for some reason.

“You’ve been looking down.”

That’s it? I’m a little weirded out.

“Hm? What? Are you sad?” Even the princess joined. She pulled a card from the kid’s hand and smiled. Looks like they’re playing the Old Maid.

“Not really.” I so responded, but it was largely ignored; they started, ‘I see~ Kids are really intense with their emotions. Good! My friend, why not go ahead and play this salon’s secondary job, as councillor?’ Something along that line. The owner looked slightly troubled, but she grinned still.

“Reading someone else’s heart… That’s easier than done.”

“Who cares? Just say something interesting and throw in some philosophy or some words of wisdom. Do you best.” The encouraging speaker herself went back to focus on her game.

Why do I feel like I get lumped in with the problematic crowd? Yet here I am not saying anything…

“Something interesting, huh? I would say she’s has more than I do.”

She held up a strand of the hair of a customer who fell asleep and pointed at her with it. That must be the owner’s acquaintance… or perhaps one of the regulars?

“Well… Okay, why don’t I tell the story of me becoming a hair dresser?

“it’s not super interesting, but it’s a fond memory.”

As if tossing in a bonus, the owner gave a youthful smile.

“Sure.” Half of the affirmation was deference, and the other personal interest.

“Long time ago… Haha, it’s really been long, but that’s detail. Before I moved here, I fell in love with a boy. He had a head of messy hair. He hated it when people touch his hair, so I thought that if I became a hair dresser, I would be able to cut his hair for him. That must be why I became a hair dresser.”

She stopped neither her tongue nor her hands.

The face of the owner as she spoke of the story was not that of nostalgia, but the devious smile of a child who had played a prank. Eyes squinted, as though toying with the person who had yet notice her intent.

“And what happened with you and the boy?”

“Mm? Never seen him again. I didn’t go find him, and he never came to me. I did send a letter to him as a way to inform him where I live, but he never replied.

She stuck her tongue out. Looks like that mischievous smile never left her.

“Are you still waiting for him?” A little surprising, but maybe not.

“Mm? Of course I am. I’m expecting it maybe soon, or maybe in some strange time like ten years from now on.”

“I see…”

“But I’m not expecting much.”

She easily toppled her previous statement like humming a song.

“So which is it?”

“Hahah… It’s because I did a terrible job writing the letter. And sending two letters in a row is also just weird… Maekawa, I’m telling you this because I’ve made the same mistake. It’s better to say what’s on your mind while you remember. Feelings change, you know. What you have with the other person might just end tomorrow, so I think one should just try hard and end today’s business today.”

“I feel like you guys have already established what my troubles are before I even said anything.”

“Well~ A girl’s trouble has always gotta be with love. That’s just how it is.”

“Hahah…” She’s right. I got dumped because I’m a giant. It’s too late now, I feel. Shrinking will be pretty hard.

“That’s right! Acknowledge what you want first before thinking about it, and you’ll be a heck lot happier!”

The princess interrupted from the side, shouting some words of what may or may not be life advice. When she fluttered her sleeve like that, I pictured a butterfly with red wings dancing. She then casually tossed the card away, seemingly returning to her game.

Acknowledgment before reasons. I thought I’ve heard that just recently.

“Oh yeah. About the letter: Don’t mention that in front of my husband. He’ll so angry about my first love.”

“Okay.” I wanted to keep to the minimum dealing with this love-dovey stuff. Sure is great for couples beyond their adolescent.

“Ran-chan, you too.”

She turned to remind her daughter sitting on the couch.

“Uweh?” “Uweh~” Pinching each other’s cheeks, the princess and the daughter both replied displeasedly. I almost blurted out ‘Which one’s yours?’

“Alright, Jojo-san, we’re done here. Oh boy, she’s passed out. And drooling, too.”

A smiling face mouthing an expression of wonder reflected in the mirror; Jojo-san…? Anyway, snoring as she did, she only moved a little when poked in the face.

“Should we let her sleep outside? I feel like she’s gonna wake up. That or she’s gonna bloat.”

Looks like the princess’ means of solving problems has no separation between peaceful and violent.

“Well~ I don’t really mind. But just what does she do anyway? I heard she came here halfway during work. I’m kind of jealous that she could come to a salon to take a nap, even if it’s at my store.”

“I know right~” I felt like the princess should be asked the query too. She must live quite the colourful life if she could be playing around with the salon owner’s daughter.

The sight here would be what I believe is the common picture of a rural place. A napping customer, a hair dresser cleaning up the hair. A girl meowing and a princess threatening the kid.

As the only troubled person, I didn’t fit in here. I’m not a customer anyway, so why was I here?

“Haha…”

Now is not the time to be deride that yukata customer who frequents our pub, I mockingly told myself.

The typhoon came. My house wasn’t in ruin, but my classmates’ plan of going out this Sunday certain was.

Me on the other hand had been playing the role of player 2 blonde Maekawa-san, lazing around in my room. It felt terrible; a somewhat sad somnolence struck periodically.

Ever since my height surpassed 180cm, I’ve almost never had a good day. Perhaps because of that, sometimes my stomach ache — It must have become a source of my stress. The best proof to that would be the continued existence of the hobby known as cosplay that manifested at that time.

“I’m coming in.” The paper door opened without being knocked on. It was my mother. Since I didn’t help out in the store yesterday, we haven’t met in almost half a day. I heard her walking up the stairs, so I wasn’t caught off guard.

“What?” I flipped into the direction opposite to the door, displaying my disinterest with the back of my head. When mom saw my hair, she muttered, ‘if only that will raise your English score.’

I agreed.

“Blonde doesn’t look good on you.”

Mom said so while circling to my front to sit down.

“Leave me alone.”

“Princess came to the store yesterday.”

“Doesn’t she do that all the time?”

“She brought a friend. The girl from the salon.”

“Oh… Misses Owner.” I didn’t catch her name.

“Yeah, her.” Neither did mom.

After looking the trembling window, she proceeded…

“After they’re a few bottles deep, they told me that my daughter seemed depressed.”

Sigh… They just had to stick their nose in. I hopped on the floor like a sea elephant or seal, as a way of retaliation.

“Did you come here to comfort me for the words of a couple drunks?”

“Yep. ‘You should believe most of your friends’ advices, but not entirely.’”

“Everyone lies, and if they’re your friends, you have to see through the lies and live happily.’” That’s what my parents taught me, right?

“That’s it.” Mom nodded contently, her head bobbing left and right.

She inspected from my fingers to my hair.

“Thankfully your body is the only thing that didn’t grow taller.”

“Must be because my parents kept me so well-fed.”

Heheh~ I said so with just a little spite. Right, I told my friends that, thanks to modern medicine, I managed to grow so tall. But somehow Yoshino heard the rumour, and he gave me this super mean look. Now that was truly unnecessary.

“Mm… So that really was it.”

“What really was it?”

“After talking about this in the pub, we concluded that you must be troubled by your height again.”

“I’m not even…” I’m still growing though. So much that my stomach hurts, like a pregnant woman.

I curled up in my knees, like a snake in an animal show.

“Really? You’re a strange one to hate a model body. If I were you, I’d dress up like in one of those fashion magazines. Yet here you are, dressed up like you’re going to some school presentation.”

“I can’t even play a tree if I wanted.” I would pass out after raising both hands while standing.

It hurt too when nobody could just ad lib and pretend I’ve been blown over.

“Must be true when they say parents just don’t get their kids.”

“Yeah. You grown-ups have heart as wide as a desert. Of course it’d be hard to find whatever thought you had as a child there.” I threw out what sounded like words of enlightenment.

“So, even if it’s going to do the opposite, I’ve come to apologise to you.”

“Hah?” I could not comprehend and reacted strangely.

The picture of my mom being affected was nothing clear. She opened her mouth ajar, her voice sublimed into words effortlessly.

As though telling a story, she told me the truth.

“Huh?” A cute question unfitting for my size dangled in the air.

Common sense and rationality crumbled. Hurry, pick up the piece before they’re lost in the abyss by my feet. Put them back together. The emptiness grew; like a windcock, I spun in the centre of it.

A chemical reaction exploded. The words the owner said to me yesterday mixed with my body.

The blood circulated faster. Vessels meant to efficiently deliver blood supply to the body displayed their team work, pulsing, as if to inform my lack of blood.

It bubbled and boiled; though fitting, it was in fact the knocking of the wind from the outside. Yes, the typhoon had landed. And there’s a place I want to go.

What would happen if I were to go there? Something will change me. This premonition pressurised my vessels.

And so, I must destroy my favourite memories.

Nothing was forced out of my mind with words such as ‘too late,’ or ‘it’s over.’

It’s not too late. End today’s business today, that way my feelings can always be true to me.

Logically that’s not possibly now though. I’ll give it a few days since there’s no point in going out today.

Yet this feeling bursting forth exists in the me now.

“Don’t look down on us tall people!” Uhh… Typhoon!

I sprinted down and hopped off the stair, kicking off the floor of the hallway. Ignoring the shakes and anaemia kicking in, I focused my eyes. Mom said something from behind, but because of certain feelings I couldn’t care.

I slapped on the umbrella that I thought was proper for this weather and rushed out of the house.

“So, I’ve heard everything!”

What appeared to be a child standing outside of my yard yelled. Her sleeves were going crazy, like a red carp flag. Rather than her holding the scooter, it’s more like the scooter was her paperweight.

“Are you here to destroy humanity?” I spoke first.

“Nope, that’s still under discussion with us aliens. We plan on sending an agent soon!”

With a carefree expression, she lied about her background again. A princess from space should be allowed to join, right? It’s not my interest to leave remarks like that, but I couldn’t care less now.

I am now going to pinch the nose of this event that I’m not sure whether common sense or science fit better.

“Why are you here?” The gale behind her howled.

“I came to check on the location that could be changed by our power.”

“I see.” To make up for lost time I began walking.

“Actually, I left my ride at your pub. It’s not like it’s the first time, but the typhoon is coming. A human-powered tow truck known as your parents kindly move it to the storage. You came out when I came to pick the scooter up.”

I stopped this time since she was being serious. All I could say though was ‘I see.”

“Where are you headed?”

“The shrine.”

“The shrine? What’s that?” She spun the scooter around, making it face me. “I’m no expert, but hop on. I’ll go with you.” She smacked the seat.

“Why are you being so nosy?” I looked at her with suspicious eyes.

“It’d be a fond memory when I go back to the moon.”

She stuck her nose up and played the mature adult.

Sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong, again? As I parted my lips, rain water flew in. The words never came. I regained my grip on the rationality that returned to appease me.

“I’m in your hands.”

After calmly assessing myself, I realised that it might take a long time for me to reach my destination alone in the typhoon. I might lose this thought in me during.

Being a giant is not enough.

“Wow~ Being polite is not your thing!”

She spoke with a smile that was impervious to the wind. I followed her onto the scooter.

The storm assaulted us; even the strength to keep our mouths shut was sapped away.

“Jokes aside, why are you doing this?” It’s odd to speak so politely with this person.

“Well…” She squinted her eyes slightly, almost as if disinterested, to keep the rain out. I circled her tiny body with my drenched arm; the inside of the yukata robe almost seemed ethereal.

“Isn’t it an adult’s job to help a lost child in tears? Aliens are kind of like this to humans. Everyone knows that it’s too naïve though.”

What she said in the end was not a complaint, but it was mixed with censure.

She’s completely in her role. I was actually concerned.

“Freedom stems not from only reason, but from acknowledgement! Reason is the line, and acknowledgement is the points! So even if the process was never connected, just hop on the dots! The rules of that ‘speed is right’ is correct! Ye love not a bicycle, but a scooter!”

Princess Kaguya shouted toward the stormy clouds with disregard to the riverbed — the forefront of the upcoming typhoon.

“Ugh… I drank some water.” With that heaving motion, she once again opened her mouth.

“Listen well, Maekawa! What you’re doing now makes no sense! The typhoon is coming, and here you are heading into the shrine in that forest! The storm is coming! It’s came; it’s upon us! The alarm’s going off! Because you acknowledged yourself! But that’s the spirit! Same as when you’re playing M#rio kart! Shortcuts are more challenging, but that’s why they feel so good! Even if you lost because you keep trying, it’s still great! Listen! This is what people refer to as freedom! Only that those people are aliens!”

“Thanks for the explanation! But it’s sounds pretty human to me!”

“That’s because it’s been twenty years since I moved here! Where do we go now!”

“Right!” And since when have you lived outside of this planet! I yelled! But the wind erased my voice. The gust almost blew the scooter away, but the princess kept it perfectly balanced.

“We’ll probably die if we fall into the bank.”

“Is that something to be so calm about?”

“And you don’t even have a helmet. The officers won’t like that too much.”

“The police won’t be around in this storm, just drive.”

“Yep, and that’s why we can go without eyes looking.”

Was that why she tagged along? I almost commended her for that.

A person of 180cm height holding onto a 147cm driver; no matter the angle or presentation, anyone would find the sight amusing. Since the rain that could cover embarrassment and unnecessary words poured, I held onto the princess and left all movement up to her.

Summer — my visions were poor, like when I was dragged by Yoshino through the words. The terrible weather imbued the environ grey — a sunless world was born.

In this picture, a crimson and reliable silhouette easily distinguished itself from the surrounding.

We chased the shadows of Yoshino and my past; with the superfast shortcut version of that, we arrived at the forest’s entrance. The woods fanned menacingly.

“We have to walk from here on. The environmentalists are an annoying bunch. I’ll have you know more aliens are advocates for mother nature than humans.”

“I see.”

The wind helped me through this topic. I got off and thanked her, all while looking at the countless entrances between the trees. I pictured the image from before to re-discover our entry point.

The fourth tree on the right looking from the road… Ah… there it is. I entered from where Yoshino charged directly into; from the same location, I invaded into the forest in hope of finding the place we stumbled upon.

Footsteps were step… step… step… and step step step. Suddenly it was duet of an oddly light tempo.

I found her there after turning my head.

“Why are you following me?”

“I couldn’t find a reason not to.”

She lost me. I had no strength to either rebuke or welcome her, so I proceeded silently. Halfway through I realised this object plastered on my back became a windbreaker.

“Oh yeah, what’s this shrine?”

“What?”

“Oh... I mean, why are you going to this shrine?”

‘Would you like to equip this?’ The way she ended her sentence sounded like such a question; I think she also hid something from me. The grown-up asked something critical, but since she desisted from the query, I was at ease. I don’t really know why, but I had this feeling that this shrine was something more than just a building.

“We’re going to destroy it.”

“What? With this storm around I don’t even think we need to do anything.”

I won’t be satisfied by that.

The memories, the shadows, and the cherished things — the charm that’s the conglomerate of all.

I want to rip off the charm that I tied on that tree. That is my display of valour for the day.

“Sigh! If height is considered a talent, than it really isn’t for me!”

Other than valour, I also shouted something else in the middle (unsure) of the forest. I’m no giraffe, so there’s no reason to grow this tall. Still, it was now a part of me.

I guess I was mad. It was something that I refused to lose to the storm to — it’s everything to me. I wanted something to change, and I believe the possibilities were hidden in the dark of the woods.

“Boys only don’t like tall girls because we’re so few! If everyone just drank their milk and eat their meat it won’t be a problem!”

“Have you been drinking, Maekawa?”

“We run a bar! Of course liquor is in my blood!” I’m not even sure about that either!

And so, I traversed the forest, charging inward without knowing for certain if I was lost.

Upon arrive the shrine, I was dismayed.

Look around. Walk around. Try to remember. I did everything, but no one responded to even my voice. I checked inside too, yet—

Nothing.

I saw nothing.

I couldn’t find what I came for. The fan-shaped leaves fluttered. Their accessories were gone: I couldn’t even see the shadow of my charm. Only the shrine remained to be destroyed by the gale.

“Why?” No one should have been here.

“This is not right.” I leaned in. As if immersed in water, the clothes sunk down with weight. With what seemed like swimming strokes, I advanced slowly.

“Oi~ Maekawa, are you alright?”

“Nothing is alright!” Don’t screw with me! It has nothing to with anything?! Then why am I so tall?!

I must dig it out. Then rip it, throw it, burn it, soak it — it must disappear.

“Calm down. Tell me what’s going on.”

“It’s gone! It’s all wrong!” Because of that! It’s because of that that Yoshino and I ended up like this! I know I can’t go back to the past; that’s why I must at least destroy it. It’s the only way I can move on, or I will crumble on the way forward.

“More! Further! Further!” I cut through the woods, sending dust and mud flying. I could see what’s ahead, and I searched while closing in; but I couldn’t move forward: my limbs struggled laughably, and then—

“Relax.” Someone touched my head, and with the tiny hand that the red sleeves flowed from.

I was kneeling in the mud. Splash! The knees that were splattered with muck were as cold as floor in the winter.

“So what if it’s gone? Let it go.”

Her tone was not dissimilar from correcting a misremembered math formula.

Stroke and stroke, she firmly felt my hair. The bangs covered my forehead and eyes; even looking up couldn’t reveal her face.

“If all you needed to grant a wish was to hang a piece of a paper on a tree, earth would have never advanced this far. Listen carefully: Don’t expect your prayers to be answered, even if it looked like they worked. Wishes are meant for someone more specific; not the gods, but someone who could help you.”

She hit my forehead with the bottom of her palm, pushing me away on between the eyes.

Wham! I jammed my elbow into the mud and collapsed. Felt like a golem reverting to its material. I had this wild dream, that if it kept raining, would I drown in a water no deeper than 10cm? ‘Heheh,’ I laughed at myself.

“What am I going to do with you?” Princess Kaguya walked toward the shrine with this annoyed expression. Her dauntless gaits reminded me of Yoshino when he was young.

She somehow took out a stack of ancient charms that seem too frail to be touched. She then produced a brush and began the motion of writing. As I pulled my face from the mud to see what she wrote, she stingily hid it. When I stood up, she left quickly and tied the charm on a nearby tree.

“Look, I made another one for you. Don’t break this one now.”

“The charm—”

“’I wish Maekawa would be 179.9cm.’ But here’s the thing: It’s not a prayer to the gods. I can use a magic… no, sorcery, to make people smaller. Mmm, as the Japanese would put it, I can use sorcery. Since I’m an alien. Yeah. Not just laser beams, I can even do telekinesis from my hands, like a 3D picture book. Get it?”

“I don’t.”

“That’s just cruel.”

Her face twisted together. I guess in a way she’s the type to never back down on what’s important to her.

Still…

To so easily liberate someone, ‘that’s an adult for ya.’

“Why say that now? There are giant brats and tiny adults too, you know? Like an adult brain in a child body.”

“Something in there sounded funny.”

She gave a smile indicating her intention.

I dropped my guard and almost caved.

Ahh… I don’t need to look for an excuse anymore. She told me I just had to acknowledge myself. Not everything needs to have a definite reason. It’s extremely difficult to carry out without getting used to it though.

My heart was in contrast with the weather, and neither showed no sign of waning. That’s right, the storm is coming.

My life is about to begin as well… I thought.

So, let’s quickly escape from this gloomy forest.

I dragged my drenched body, peppered with wound and covered with snout, back to the scooter.

“Sorry, but I want to make a stop along the way.”

“Along the way? You mean you want to go? Life doesn’t have ‘stopping along the way.’ That would mean you don’t have a place to go.”

“Ok… I want to go somewhere.”

“No prob.” She raised her right hand while driving. Hey.

Perhaps she noticed how dangerous that was and immediately stopped; I once again hugged her in relief.

This time, the body that was almost mistaken as an illusion undeniably existed.

Through the cloth with my cheek, I assuredly felt the firm spirit of an adult through my bones.

The place I asked Princess Kaguya to go was Yoshino’s house.

“Hurry.” She urged me from the back, still straddling the scooter. I looked down, and ran up to Yoshino’s doorbell knowing that it would stir quite the something up. The bell that used to need me to stretch taller was easily reached.

It’s so short now that it might even strain my shoulders if I were to press this every day.

In a short while, the person inside opened the door unsuspectingly without even using the intercom. Due to the wind blowing against it, the door appeared difficult to open. The person who pushed the door out with both hands was Yoshino himself.

“Uh… Huh?” The door shut itself on Yoshino’s shoulder; he gawked in shock.

It could be because a soaked giant stood in front of the door, or maybe because I picked the day before the typhoon to come and scare Yoshino, to run him in circles.

“Yo!” Voice morphed into words, and transmitted to Yoshino’s ears.

How many years has it been?

“Uh… Oh…”

Affected by a formless chaos, he stood there affixed.

I could laugh at how stiff he looked.

“I’m a hundred-percent natural.”

“What?”

“My parents didn’t do anything to me. Meaning, my parents thought that you were scared because I grew so much. They just told me that trying to comfort me.”

“W-what?”

“That’s how it is.”

I reached out.

My fingers grasped Yoshino’s short hair more easily than I’d expected, and tugged on it.

Rip, rip… The sound of hair leaving the skin.

“……” Tears formed in a silent Yoshino’s eyes.

I might have overdone it. Casually I tossed the hair aside and exhaled.

Even without Yoshino in front of me, I could still stride forward. Because the long legs of a giant could leave anyone behind; even from afar, they will see me.

Don’t fear being distanced. Even if the past with Yoshino is devoured by ambiguity.

In this forest, before the storm arrived, a tiny grown-up taught me the way to walk.

Before he could retaliate.

Before I could regret.

I turned away.

“Good bye.”

I made up my mind to leave.

And to change myself.

I turned like a kite, walking away from Yoshino in this storm.

“Oh? Done?”

“Princess.”

“What’s up?”

“How old do I have to be to get a scooter license?”

☆

“She’s the daughter of the CEO of a furniture company. She lives in a huge house, which is why people called her Princess Kaguya (家具屋).”

I later learned the truth from the hair salon. It wasn’t even told by the person herself, but the owner.

The daughter of a furniture company sitting on the couch added, ‘actually, it’s more than just that.’ ‘Oh yeah, that’s right. It’s was quite a bit of time ago.’ The owner remembered and grinned somewhat devilishly. Mm~ She may have been a bully before.

“Here we are. Back to normal, Maekawa.”

“Thanks.” I stroked at the black bangs while saying so. I dyed my hair back — the old Maekawa-san had returned.

The teru-teru bouzu that appeared momentarily in the mirror looked pretty good even with just black and white, I thought proudly. Seeing that smile, the owner asked amusedly, ‘what’s wrong?’ and removed the cape.

Finally I walked toward the register, and like before, with a word of ‘thanks.’ As I reached for the dwindling allowance in my purse, the owner said, ‘just half is fine.’ Similar to last time, she gave half of it back.

“Ah…” I see. I gave in this time and took it back.

So she’s a clairvoyant, and an ethical business owner.

I looked at the hair dresser, considering her now to be someone who places acknowledgement before reasons.

“I’ll take the rest of the money. Hahah, now you really wasted your money.”

“Yeah.” I nodded deeply. I also wasted a lot of my life.

From now on I want to live efficiently.

“Okay, I’m heading back too.” Princess fluttered her wings toward the entrance.

She spun to wave lightly at the owner.

“Good bye, Tooe~ You should study your English for your name sake!”

“Haha. Sadly, that’s the type of hard work I hate the most. I’m wasting my life, after all.”

With a smile, she shooed the princess away. ‘Everyone is trying to get rid of me,’ Princess Kaguya laughed, disappearing as if swapping place with the door.

I wanted to see the scooter off; I acknowledged the hair dresser who bid me farewell and headed out. She was just about to put on her safety helmet, and her scooter was positioned to go.

“See ya, Maekawa. Next time, bring me the shell of a swallow.”

“I won’t keep you. You may go back to the moon now.”

“I will.” She tauntingly throttled and let the scooter gain speed.

Princess Kaguya, with her illegal helmet, rode energetically in the road again.

Wondering if she could get there with a scooter when even the bullet train can’t, I saw her off.

The battered frame of her scooter disappeared around the corner.

I could see only the pure, aqua-blue sky after the typhoon had passed.

Naturally, with the cloud gone, the scorching sun beamed down. “Phew.”

I almost melted when I stepped on the asphalt road — I was like vanilla ice cream in this weather.

Thanks to the hair attracting heat, my brain gradually disintegrated.

To more efficiently transmit themselves, the thoughts about to dissipate motivated me.

I started walking.

While ruminating the phrase, ‘the meaning of life is to create someone else’ life.’

My neurons worked to imagine what I was to Yoshino in his story.

It’s been half a year since I recovered to an eggplant.

April sixth, a breezy entrance ceremony. As a high school freshman, I passed through the gate of an unfamiliar school.

I never spoke to Yoshino again in the second and third semester after the summer, and I never needed to avoid eye contact with him. We chose a different high school, so I don’t have to be careful anymore.

The gazes of my soon-to-be classmates who came to join the ceremony were upon me. Was she held back? Or a girl standing on another girl pretending to be ‘me?’ They stood from afar and watched closely.

Since I didn’t think of a place to hide, I deliberately walked in the middle of the campus road. I grasped at my hair and looked upward; a blend of pink and traditional Japanese girl colour took the sky.

Though my hair was now black, the student ID still used the old blonde girl picture. Objectively, only my hair looked different.

But I’m Maekawa-san, a giant who everyone, be it the seniors or classmates, had to call me -san. Now that I can’t become someone else, I just have to grow fond of those words. A one-way road for my feelings.

Thankfully a lot people liked me, my height, and even my hobby (No way!). Even the owner of the hair salon said this: ‘you can be the perfect fruit thief.’ Princess Kaguya too would beg me, ‘let me ride on your shoulder~ I wanna play super fighter bros~’ The place that I worked part-time at during December told me, ‘sorry, we’re closing next March’ and let me have a costume as the final payment. I took the eggplant. It’s not like I didn’t always walk around selling vegetable croquette wearing this thing. My co-worker dressed up as K#rosuke, but I don’t do that stuff anymore.

Back to the topic at hand. It’s a strange ting to talk about, but I’ve made up my mind to live every day of my live from this height.

Perhaps some will be deceived by my superficial height. I bet every club would want me in. Though I will miss my old height, I learned the fact that being tall is indeed a source of charm in others’ eyes. Yoshino liked me before, but I’m the me now. I don’t rely on that anymore.

I’m fortunate to have grown so big. Anywhere I reach for, I could hold onto something.

“Hng~”

This pretentious body of mine appeared even better while I stretch.

Now, let’s go disappoint some more people.

### 009. Chapter 3: Skyward Tomorrow

## Chapter 3 - Skyward Tomorrow

Q: Please select the appropriate words to fill in the blanks.

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Touwa Erio]

[Old Guy]

[Astronaut]

[A grade schooler human]

[My amazing mom]

[Kashiwagi the environment destroyer]

[Training at the park!]

[Okay, fine.]

[Need to work hard at scavenger hunt]

[The same thing]

I fought with my classmates a lot.

But this was the first time the teachers and mom found out. I tried to not let my face get hurt, but the other person happened to have longer nails; she left some scratches on my face. Thanks to that, I was summoned to the staff office.

Sitting in his chair, the teacher interrogated with crossed arms. We called him Baldie behind his back. He always has a blank look, and he never hid his bias for students he liked, so almost everyone hated him. The kids he liked would try to fit in, saying how annoying he was. Grade schoolers were terrifying.

The girl sitting next to me lowered her battered head, her mouth shut with tears almost falling out. She started it, so it should have been a simple matter. She kept quiet, apparently comprehensive of the situation. Behind her was her mother with both hands on her shoulders, who seemed to have been called to school for the first time ever. With an anxious look, she appeared mindful of other teachers’ gazes, lowering her face every time when someone looked.

Mr. Baldie sighed, and then he glared this way. He demanded an explanation from me with the expression. I wanted to look away, but I held it in and glared right back.

There were plenty reasons for the fight. She called me a bastard child, my eyes and hair disgusting, and then she pulled my hair. But I didn’t want to say anything, and kept my mouth closed.

Of course I couldn’t say anything — not with mom here.

Mom too didn’t say a thing. But she wasn’t looking around either; she paid attention only to the scratches on my face. The look she had, the ‘Gosh! How dare she hurt my Erio’s face! I’m going to steal some skin from that kid and put it back on her face!’ vibe. It’s a little embarrassing getting stared at like this. Mom unsettled me far more than the teachers did.

The teachers asked with a deep voice, ‘we won’t know unless you say something,’ to intimidate us. The other girl shuddered, looking at her own mother for help. Her mom was troubled by the eyes of the angry voice; she urged with a look. But like something’s stuck in her throat, the girl glared at me with teary eyes.

It’s never gonna end. I was bored out my mind, wondering if it would end sooner.

This really is minuscule compared to the universe itself.

Calling our moms over just because of a fight, they ought to stop overreacting. This is why Baldie is so unpopular. I hate him, because he made fun of my family being single-parented. So I talked back, and we’ve never been friendly since then.

By the way, I also hate the dad that I took after.

“Um…”

Mom’s hand up popped off, in contrast to her humble voice. The teacher was baffled by mom’s abrupt comment, but asked her to speak up anyway.

Upon hearing that, mom smiled slightly.

“I’m making dinner right now. Can we go home now?”

All three people except me were speechless. I wonder what’s for dinner.

That’s just how mom is. There’s nothing surprising there.

When no one moves, she does — that’s what my mom’s like. It’s a bit childish, but speaking up to get things done and hating unnecessary stuff is what I love about her the most.

‘No can do, I want to listen to what they have to say,’ the teacher said so strictly to deny mom of her request. ‘Mm~’ she moaned quietly.

“Mm… All right…”

Oh, she’s totally not listening. When she nods like that, she’s never listening. That’s just how mom is: She never listens to the other person if it doesn’t help her.

But that’s what I love her (you already know). How my-mother of her.

“Then punish them both. See ya.”

With a grin, mom pulled me up from the chair. As I looked up, she joyfully rubbed my head, ‘we haven’t walked home together since parent visit day.’

Holding my hand, she led me outside of the office. Still smiling, she paid no mind to the teacher’s yelling. I expected no less from my mom.

My grades are going to look horrible this quarter, but that’s fine.

Onto the hallway, mom looked down with eyes only slightly ajar; she never stopped beaming. I thought she would scold me despite sounding so gentle; my teeth clenched, and my lips pursed.

As though waiting for me, she spoke shortly after.

“You’re good at fighting, aren’t you, Erio.”

Her hand began swaying with those words.

Her grin seemed proud.

My preparation was for nothing.

Regardless, I don’t know why, but tears burst out as I sniffled to hold them in.

“Uuu…” I tried.

I am Touwa Erio.

A human grade schooler with hair and eyes from out of this world.

Stars in the expansive sky covered my every dream.

And they are there, every night, in the great heaven seen from my yard. I could almost sense the depth of it, standing in the autumn breeze. Clouds thin like pie crust scattered lazily: It wasn’t a night perfect for stargazing.

“Don’t be out for too long. Erio being sick = Mom not working.”

“Okay.” I answered mom, whose head poke out of the living room.

Almost every morning she complains ‘Ugh… My head hurts. It hurts so bad it’s like a superpower is going to split it’ ‘My tummy hurts~ I’m staying home’ like a stubborn kid. I think that’s why Tamura Obaa-chan always treated her like a kid.

Mom neither yelled at me nor asked why we fought. She put a bandaid on my face, and that was it.

She would probably listen if I were to speak up, but I didn’t want to. I talked about the music test instead during dinner. The recorder’s sound that I made, the clam soup in my lunch having sand, and some such prattling.

I always sit across from my mom when we eat in the kitchen. There’s no one else, but that’s okay. It’s always been like this, and I love mom too. She often talks about her job; she runs a snack shop and that’s awesome.

“I just hired a part timer today. She’s so young that not even the whole Zodiac would put her on my age. Eek, that’s scary!”

My house is always so rowdy because Mom is as loud as five people (according to Obaa-chan).

We had ginger grilled-pork for dinner. It was great.

“Back to business.”

Stargazing resumed. That sounded poetic.

I thought that the sky was covered by earth during the day, and space during the night. Currently it was the universe.

Staring at the firmament filled with my dreams and goals never bores me.

I must go there one day, I thought passionately.

“Hooah!”

My hand pointed to the brightest star.

I want to be an astronaut. Not many are like this, but this town is an exception.

The universe seemed to tangle itself in this place we live — it’s even been called the town of aliens. Thanks to that, people treat me like an extraterrestrial. I don’t like it either, but there’s nothing I could do about it.

‘You’ve grown so much,’ is how mom might put it.

My hair, carried by the wind like a pendulum, stroked my ears. I shook a little from the tickling.

“Erio, come on in if you’re getting cold.” Mom slid the window open and spoke. I turned around startlingly. S-she’s watching this entire time.

“Mom will warm you up with some cuddles. Come on in.”

She beckoned, and squeezed at an invisible me.

“Mm~ Just a little more.”

“Erio’s is already rebellious! Mm… It’s still too early. I don’t remember using an accelerant...”

Mom’s head retracted into the windows; she shut the window and rolled over to the corner of the room. Her dark, indigo hair mimicked her rolling about. I walked a few steps forward, eyes tracking her head. As mom rammed her head onto the wall, my right hand landed on the window. In the light of the living room, my blurry face appeared on the glass.

“Mm…” I imitated mom in the staff office.

I picked up the hair that’s recently been cut.

“It might be a little too short…”

I cut my hair because it was difficult to move around with. But that’s not what I was concerned about.

My eyes stared at the colour of the hair and eye cast on the glass.

Azure blue.

There was no one else in the school with this hair colour — It drew everyone’s attention.

A lot of people who’d met me said ‘you look like an alien.’

The phrase baffled me more than the colour itself.

Space isn’t aqua-blue, so why do people think my eyes or hair look alien? Does such a thing exist in the human genome? Had previous humans encounter aliens before? Were those aliens emanating aquatic light? I’d like to meet them then.

But there’re only humans around me.

When the time is right, though, I’ll find them myself.

“If that were to case…”

The problem right now would be—

My life on this planet had recently became a little rougher.

I run to school every day.

It’s essential for any aspiring astronaut, the lady at the science museum told me, to have stamina. So I ran — sprinted.

“I’m going!”

As I was on my way outside this morning, mom peeked her head out from the depth of the hallway and said something other than ‘careful on your way there.’

“How about if mom gave you a ride there?”

“Okay.”

Some days — usually when mom overslept — are like this.

I braked on my shoes, stepping stationarily while waiting for mom. It was a good day out: A blue day without much cloud — Tonight should be perfect for stargazing.

“I’m excited.”

“Seriously, you’re too excited on a weekday, Eri.”

As I began standing on my toes periodically, mom yelled at me. It’s not the kind of anger that I should feel bad for though.

Mom dragged the bicycle out of the shed. On days when I go to friends’ houses or whatever, I change the bike’s seat height and use it too.

The coloured bicycle named Legend Colour was the birthday present I asked for last year. I heard astronauts need to speak English fluently too, so for the sake of my English I speak it often now.

Mom straddled onto the seat before handing me the yellow helmet inside the basket. The school mandates all students to wear them when biking, not that anyone really listens. Still, I couldn’t just say no when my mom handed it to me.

I quietly put on the oversized helmet and adjusted the strap. Mm… If it could cover my hair, then it should be perfect. I recalled the fight; I thought how uncomfortable sitting quietly was. Pain rippled from my cheek when I went to scratch it. Oh yeah, I got hurt on my face. The bandaid must be stuck on my pillow after I rolled over last night.

I let my backpack into the basket and sat down on the rack behind mom; my arms reached around her stomach. She’s has a very slim waist. I have to say that everytime. We kids have it rough too.

“Where to, dear customer?”

Before we head out, mom jokingly asked with her foot on the pedal.

“Mm~” I contemplated on a cool or funny line, but nothing came to mind. I would totally hop into the basket and yell ‘I wanna fly!’ but I couldn’t stand the embarrassment.

The basket isn’t a place for a human.

“Uu~ Uu~ Uu~”

I pondered so hard that I even groaned.

“Mind if you leave it to me, dear customer?”

“Mm…”

Not only did she play taxi, Mom also played boatman. I felt like I was the king of all transports.

She began moving; our bicycle gradually accelerated. The wheels played out a light tune.

“Ahh~ The weather’s so nice. I wanna travel somewhere instead of working.”

Mom looked around, her eyes squinting from the sun.

“Didn’t we just go?”

We had a five-days break two weeks ago, and we went to a sea-side hotel. That was the end of September, and mom insisted on going to swim in the sea. After about three minutes of free-styling she crawled back up, freezing.

‘The sea is a demon’ escaped from her clattering teeth.

“Meme-chan loves traveling, so of course I’d go when I have the chance to.”

Lulala~ Lula~ Lalala! Lulu~La~La~ La~ She sang. What’s amazing about mom is her ability to not care about what the neighbours we passed think. She’s so cool. I don’t really get what she’s saying though, but I guess that’s what you call ‘grown-up talk.’

I rubbed mom’s back with the cheek that’s not scratched. Though I felt only the clothe from her back, I felt that no matter how hard I press onto her back, she would always hold me up. I was overjoyed.

“Eri, where do you want to go?”

Mom, stopping her song halfway, asked while turning the bicycle right, away from where she works.

“But Mr. Money went away, so I guess we can’t go anywhere for a while… Hehehe…. Ahem…”

“Mm?” I wasn’t thinking about something clever this time.

I had a place in mind, but I hesitated to say it.

And I too wondered if I could even go there.

“Space.”

“What~ There’s no hot spring there.”

Mom pouted disappointedly. Looks like she wants to go to a hot spring this time. I could easily imagine my mom swimming in the bath when no one else is around.

After the right turn, the straightway connects to the main road. It’s a real road where cars drive on, not like the one in front of my house that only has bicycles. It’s hard to picture the two streets being connected.

The main road is where elementary school kids, middle schoolers and high schoolers could see each other. It’s a convenient road, but apparently a lot of car accidents happen here. The teachers occasionally put out notices for us to be careful.

This was actually not the way I take to school, but it’s fine since mom is with me.

“Erio.”

As we sped past the cross walk when the light began flashing, mom spoke to me.

“Mm?”

“Are you going to fight again today?”

I paused my fussing. As if silently confirming the voice from mom, I put my ear onto her back.

She must have personally brought me to school because she wanted to talk about this.

“If you’re gonna fight, leave it to after school. Mom will help.”

She cheerfully declared, and rang the bicycle bell. No one was in front of us.

“Mm…”

We passed the sidewalk; I didn’t know how to respond, so I let out an ambivalent moan.

“Heheh, how could any grade schooler survive Meme-chan’s straights?”

“Tokiwa-san from sixth grade apparently is over 170cm.”

“Still not a problem!”

She let go of the handlebars, reaching both hands forward. You’re not fighting anyone and please stop shaking it’s really scary.

I am in fifth grade. It’s a bit embarrassing as an older student because of my frequent scuffles: It’s not like I enjoyed fighting.

We passed a few people I know on the main road. After meeting eyes, my lips curled up a bit. They waved at me when they saw.

Most people didn’t cause trouble.

Only a few earthlings made fun of me in class.

“……”

Sometimes mom says outlandish things.

But she’s absolutely a human.

So I am too, I think.

And who knows about dad.

I belonged in class three of the fifth grade, in the room of the deepest part of third floor. We had two buildings in the campus; the one closer to the school gate was for first and second year. I went there two years ago; faculty room and infirmary were also situated there.

Mom and I said bye at the gate. I promised that I won’t fight today; I told myself that I must follow it through. I took a deep breath and charged into the building. After changing shoes, I sprinted all the way onto the third floor! It was easy because my mom brought me here. Take it easy .

I ran three floors up without stopping, continuing onto the waxed hallway that people weren’t supposed to run on; I found the classroom furthest inside and entered from the back door.

Few of the students who got there early stared at me; I said hi to some of my friends there. A lot of people live a bit further away from the school, so they come here earlier. Typically it’s students who live right behind the school who barely arrive on time.

I walked toward the third seat from the back in the middle column — that’s my seat this semester. Our arrangement was done by Gojuuon order last semester, but it was by drawing name this time.

To be honest, I didn’t care where to sit. Others seemed to think otherwise though. They also liked drawing the lots too, but I guess they just wanted to hang out with their friends.

Though I had friends, I didn’t really understand the appeal with having a clique.

Before sitting down, I checked out everyone else in the room. Nice, the girl that I fought with yesterday isn’t here.

I set my backpack on the desk; the girl next to me reacted to the sound. She simply said ‘morning.’ It was weird since we didn’t talk a lot, but I still said ‘morning’ to her awkwardly.

She’s a tiny girl; her desk was massive compared to her. It’s not like I was bigger than she was though. I think her name was Maekawa-san. Her eyes are kind of scary.

After saying hi, Maekawa-san went back to her book. It was probably just a polite gesture; following suit, I sat down quietly.

Hand propping my head up, I spaced out staring at the clock above the blackboard. It was only eight. We’re about twenty minutes away from the hygiene committee person asking how we’re doing and the teacher announcing today’s schedule.

“Mm, twenty more minutes of this?”

This is terrible. I don’t read books like Maekawa-san does. I looked around to find some friends to talk with, but I saw that they were already with somebody else, so I couldn’t go in. To me, a friend of a friend is just a classmate.

Too bad. I lied on the desk. The morning played out by the sun seeping into the class room and the chilly air dissipated — A night all to myself.

Tip of my nose pushed against the table’s grain. The disgusting smell of eraser shavings.

I wondered if I could sleep till home room begins, so I closed my eyes in anticipation to my own night.

“Zzz~ zzz~” I snored. Zzz… Zzz… “Uwah.”

Twitch, my head shot up to my body jolting. I wiped my mouth thinking that there might be drool while looking around. “Oh~’ A lot of people gathered.

The room that allowed even the bird’s chirping to be heard was suddenly as raucous as the city. Shrill screams of prepubescent boys, and even laughter of the girls; I peeked at the clock, seeing that the long hand was pointing at 15.

It seemed that I was the only one unaware of the atmosphere, so I panicked. Maybe fifteen minutes of my memory disappeared, and the sudden change in this room scared me. It was as though I suddenly realised that I was elsewhere, or that I just leaped through time. I turned, searching for a clue.

I saw that girl that I fought with — Kashiwagi — had already arrived, chatting with her friends. At first I thought she would purposefully put a giant bandage over her head, but she didn’t. Her seat was two seats ahead of mine on the left; if she were to focus in class, we won’t see each other. But I had a feeling that if we did, she’d glare me down.

Even now I felt she’d suddenly turn my way and stare resentfully, so I faced toward the hallway, away from the windows to let time pass. The girls centring Kashiwagi were the people causing my misery on this planet — these were the environment destroyers.

Their senseless harassment toward me and my life upset me. I waited for the teacher to arrive.

After a while our teacher Mr. Baldie entered the room with his usual displeased look.

Bag and handouts under his arm pits, he passed through the classroom and violently tossed all those things on his desk. A deep thud echoed from the papers and the bag.

The teacher began scanning the room from his podium, showing a stern look only when looking at me. I, too, looked back as if shooting beam from my eyes. I’m not aggressive; I just hate looking weak in front of people I hate.

He looked away disinterestedly, onto Kashiwagi this time. She cowered, and her body became almost part of the chair. Kashiwagi is just a normal kid who’s afraid of the teachers, so why did she pull my hair? I thought she said my hair and eyes were gross.

The teacher finally looked away from us, back to the entire class. He then passed out the handouts while reminding us about the suspicious person appearing around town and going back home on time after school. That was it. I thought Kashiwagi and I will get called into the office, but he didn’t say anything else in front of the class.

After the teacher stepped off, the hygiene committee boy went up and opened up his health survey made from cardboard. ‘Anyone feeling sick~’ he asked lazily while his eyes drifted toward the windows. Kashiwagi was still shrivelled up. Good.

Our first class today, P.E, would be taking place under the blue sky.

The sports festival was next Sunday, so we spent most of the time in P.E classes practicing either running or tug-of-war.

Since I trained myself every day, I took first place in the 50 metres race last year to show off to mom.

This year’s glory will also be mine.

There are still merits on the difficult road of becoming an astronaut.

‘Hey!’ I tossed about ten balls into the basket. ‘Hey!’ I pulled the arm of the classmate in front of me when we’re having a tug of war. After it was all over, I nodded off during second period’s math from working too hard. Third period’s science class was alright. Fourth period’s social study I took some notes. Liver in the lunch’s curry grossed me out. Worked hard during cleanup, and half the class after that I slept through.

So ended the time of being locked in the school. Since nothing important happened I’ll skip a few things. An elementary school kid’s day doesn’t begin till after school.

Baldie didn’t call me to his office, which means my grade was in serious trouble.

I promised to mom, so I didn’t fight with Kashiwagi today. I could tell she’s avoiding me, though. She would glare at me from far away sometimes, so she hadn’t given up yet. She might be holding back while the storm passes, but I think she’ll probably hold out for three days like usual.

She seemed to have chosen the beginning of second semester as reason to harass me.

I remember her not saying much before then. At most we say ‘good morning’ to each others at the shoe locker. But she started destroying the environment. I don’t know why. She and her lackeys claimed that I was gross. They once shouted together, calling me alien and stuff. Shut up, stupid.

When they called me names, I said nothing. But when she pulled my hair, I blew up and hit her. I made a fist and smacked her head like in a questionnaire show, She was laughing when I hit her, so her teeth banged into one another, making this loud noise. She groaned, holding her chin. It wasn’t my intent, but the way she was hurting made me feel bad. So I said sorry. And she just swung back at me. The nails on her hand scratched me, and all my guilt went away.

I was so mad, and by the time I realised we’re already grabbing each other’s clothes. When that happened, Kashiwagi’s lackeys ran off, probably afraid of being scolded. She’s pretty lonely too, huh. I only have mom too.

That’s what happened yesterday. I did hit her a lot more, but it is what it is. You don’t count in a fight like you do in a gym.

I shoved my books and the handout from this morning into my backpack; I don’t know how early I was, but I ran out. Naturally, I kicked my way through the hall. Passing the classmates walking leisurely, I jumped off the stairs. I couldn’t go home like my classmates; I couldn’t go to their homes either.

Because the universe is so far away.

If I relax too much, I would never make it there. After throwing my slippers into the locker, I put on my shoes and dashed off to the training ground.

The time after school was when I secretly train myself. I headed toward the main gate.

If mom was waiting outside, I’d call it a day. But she wasn’t! As per my original plan, I took a right. It was , however, a little disappointing.

“Is she working hard today?”

I pondered about my mom while dashing.

My destination was the park next to the temple located near the residential district. If you ask why, it would be because my path to the aliens was there, in that dim place surrounded by trees. Oh, it’s the road that opens to my secret base.

The park was my own: save for the old man who cleans the temple occasionally, not many comes near here. Though there were the birds, and the cicadas in the summer, and even the hobo who once lived here, they all disappeared recently.

That’s a good thing. You can’t let people see you train – that’s what I learned from comic books.

There’s also no sound in space, so it’s good practice to get used to that. Silence shall become the fuel to my passion for space. I hope.

“……”

I looked upward while running. Dusk was still ways away.

Sometimes I ask myself:

Do I admire space so much because I am from there?

“No…”

It’s because I am from Earth that I yearn so much for a place with no ground. If I were an alien, I shouldn’t be so excited about the scenery that I’m already so used to seeing.

After about ten minutes of running, I arrived at the shrine. Since I ran all the way here from the classroom, my breath was ragged. But knowing that I used to need to rest halfway running this distance, this pleasant fatigue filled me up with a sense of accomplishment. I began walking through the park.

The park was dark from the dense woods blocking out the sun; the wind was colder here than on the outside. I then understood why the hobo would disappear shortly before winter season.

Usually I put my backpack onto the park equipment that is half a tire made to look buried underground before I start training. I do stuff like pull-ups on the rusty bar, and running circles in the park. I didn’t really have a routine.

It’s possible that I’d run into some unexpected emergencies in space, so instead of a manual, I’ll rely on wittiness! That’s probably not right, but a manual is too much trouble to make.

Just like I always do, I swiped on the surface of the yellow tyre before resting my backpack there. The old man who cleans up won’t come today. ‘So lazy~’ I said so while leaving my stuff for a run. I don’t think I’ve ran enough for the day.

I couldn’t train yesterday because Kashiwagi provoked me. I have to make up for that today. “Mm…?” As I began running, something caught by the lower corner of my eye stopped me in track.

Pitter, patter, I made my way to the jungle gym where I spotted that thing. Sticking my neck in to see the structure composed for light-green iron bars, I realised that my sight was right.

An old guy was sleeping in the jungle gym with a cat.

“……”

The cat lied peacefully on the old guy’s stomach; the old guy rested between the cracks in the jungle gym with a slightly pained expression. He didn’t seem to want to move.

Then why not just sleep somewhere else. Then I thought that maybe this old guy had a reason. Could this be his house? There’s no blanket or a bedroom, so I don’t want to live there. Ah, he woke up. He opened his eyes lazily.

My presence seemed to have woke him up; with bleary eyes he looked at me.

“Oh… Hi there, kiddo.”

Mm… He greeted me roughly. Confirmed that he’s a human.

“Hello, old guy.”

Mom praised me last time for being polite, so I said hi back. The old guy didn’t seem so impressed, pouting.

“At least call me mister. Same syllables too.”

“Mister old guy.”

“That’s not the same kind of polite.”

“It’s just a few more syllables, don’t let it bother you.”

“What a mouthy kid.”

The old guy smiled happily after saying so. Still, he remained with the cat.

He rubbed his tired eyes and yawned. The old guy was skinny, and for a hobo (I think) he’s pretty clean. His clothes were not tattered, and they were of better taste than Mr. Baldie’s. Is he new to the hobo business?

“Ah. Are you a bad person, old guy?”

I thought of what the teacher said this morning and asked him outright.

The old guy who’d been accused as a bad person frowned. ‘Hm.’ He appeared to contemplate on an answer. I have the same expression when I get called up to solve a hard math question.

“I guess? I don’t really know either, since there is a lot of bad people.”

“A bad person just said something that made sense.”

“So are you going to just chat away with a bad person?”

The old man with ‘things he had no right to say, part 2’ asked.

Mm! Yep. Even mom would be angry if I talk with some strange man. But I can’t really care for some old guy in my secret training facility, so it’s okay if it’s a little dangerous.

“Since you’re lying down in there, I’ll just run when you try to get out.”

My legs are very fast. If I lose to some middle aged old man like him, don’t even mention space, I’d have trouble leaving Japan.

“As long as you don’t come out, I am safe when I speak with you.”

“What am I, Gulliver?”

The old guy grimaced wryly. Perhaps in sync with his chuckles, the cat got up. It was a yellow and slightly chubby cat; it didn’t seem feral. The way it slept with its belly up gave a sense of leisure that contradicts the old man’s.

“Is this where you play, the park? I’ll leave if you want.”

The old guy stuck in the bars (sounds like a picture book’s name) looked up toward the thick forest while asking me. Now’s a good time for me to claim ownership.

“Yeah, this is where I train.”

“Train? That’s amazing. Sounds nice.”

The old guy laughed. Hahaha, the cat slipped off from his belly onto the ground. Upset that it had to stand on its feet, the cat meowed resentfully. It looked up to me.

I traded glance with the cat, discovering its trait – its eyes had no light, like those of the wrapped-up fishes in the super market. Staring at those eyes, I thought I might think of cats as not creatures, but created.

“Old guy, is this your cat?”

I just had to ask amidst the talk of training and exclusive rights. ‘Hm?’ He looked at the thing he hugged; after confirming where the cat was, a smile formed on his face, ‘oh.’

“Am I feeding this cat, or is this cat feeding me?”

“Mm?” I don’t understand abstract things.

“This guy helps me find food. It’s been a godsend.”

The old man tried to pat the cat, but it didn’t want any of it and ran outside the tower. It was nimble despite being fat.

Seeing the cat run off, he chuckled; his gaze moved toward me.

“Training… aside. Are you in grade school?”

“Yes. I’m in fifth grade.”

I opened my palm, showing five fingers.

“Really. Kids nowadays sure have some interesting hair colour.”

“Wu…”

Of course he saw that. I’ve never seen anyone with hair colour like mine though.

Mom said that my dad and I share the same hair. They call it genetic inheritance.

“Is your hair real?” He pushed on mercilessly.

Facing with this seemingly slow and nice man, I couldn’t put up a menacing front.

“Mm… People always say I look like an alien.”

“I could see where they’re coming from.”

He casually agreed. Couldn’t you tell from my expression? As I lamented, the old guy’s smile faded away like waves after the tide.

Then he said something that, never mind an old guy in a jungle gym, a regular old guy would never say.

“But there aren’t any aliens out there as cute as you.”

From his perspective, it’s probably something little more than a joke.

But his words were enough to intrigue me.

Mindlessly I kneeled to speak with the old guy.

“Mister, what do you know of the universe? Have you been there? Seen the aliens?”

Perhaps afraid of my overwhelming interest in space, the old guy shrivelled up. But then a smug look appeared, and he baited so:

“About that… I’ve seen it with my own eyes.”

With that, he laughed contently. That’s no different than the boys in my class bragging about catching a rare monster in their games.

“You are trying to trick me!”

Why does an old guy who’d seen space live inside this jungle gym?!

“Hold on, I’m not… I did go there before.”

He sounded so casual that it sounded like the truth. There wouldn’t be a point had he lied anyway. Deceiving a grade schooler like me when we just met wouldn’t do much.

“Really?”

I still don’t believe him. Kids nowadays have to be more cautious or we won’t survive in this harsh environment. But the moment I started talking to this man I already put myself in a lot of danger.

“Yeah. Just once though.”

He claimed; there’s a distant look in his eyes, yet the corner of his lips raised.

“Are you an astronaut?”

“No, no way I was someone so impressive. I… That’s right, I…”

Enough with the emphasis. It’s space. Space. Space! He went to space. I guess even people like him exist in this town. A few red dots appeared in my mind, but no line connected them. That’s too bad. The cats darting around near the edge of my vision did not serve to calm me down.

“Astronauts do what they do out of passion. I spent hard cold cash to get there. It was great.”

The old guy sounded derisive, contradicting whatever he showed outwardly. But I haven’t sorted my own feelings and all this information — all he did was confuse me even more.

Besides, though not apparent, he just didn’t seem overall too excited talking about space.

“So why are you lying here?”

If you loved space, you wouldn’t be doing this. I thought. Maybe he likes Earth a lot more.

The cat seemed to agree; after meowing, it beckoned the old man.

“Well, that’s because…”

The old guy ceased talking as though glossing over. Whatever came after was anything but that.

“It’s over.”

“What is?”

Instead of answering me, he merely smiled.

But even that expression disappeared right away.

“By the time I got there, my life was already over. I got what I wanted.”

He said, all the while staring at the trees through the slits between the iron bars, perhaps regretting over something in space.

Affected by him, I peered at the ceiling of this Earth.

The sky was blue, and still covered by a limited ‘Earth.’

I stared at the black screen of a television. It’s not that I found a channel with no feed: This T.V simply could not receive signals. A tiny sound emitted from the T.V set. It sounded like it was getting a signal from space. It was so cool that I listened for a while.

After meeting the old man, I came home and stared at the T.V.

I wanted to listen to his story about space, but he left with the cat saying it’s time for dinner. It’s like he just ran off. I had thought of following him, but mom would be worried if I went and hung out with a strange man, so I went home. And it’s not like I totally trusted this guy, so I kept my guard up. In any case, it’s been a while since I last skipped out on two days of training.

“……”

My ears perked. A sound much quieter than what the T.V volume was set to transmitted. A woman spoke. It could be news from another channel, but hearing it come from a pitch-black screen always felt a little more mysterious. It was soothing.

The old guy lying in the jungle gym remained in my vision. He seemed so far away, and so surreal. It made me feel that the space that I aimed for everyday when I run is right next to me.

To me, he’s the being known as an alien. He came down, to the city where I live… Even though he looked nothing special, it was still exhilarating to me.

Could it be just a coincidence that this man appeared in the town protected by the extraterrestrials?

I wanted to see him again, to hear him speak more about space. Will he be there in the playground tomorrow?

Besides…

He said that people like me don’t exist in space, and that made me happy. Somebody’s who had been there said that to me.

I am from this planet, after all. Stupid Kashiwagi.

“I~~ AM~~ HOME~~!”

Mom’s shouting followed the slam of the door; I walked out into the hall. Kicking her shoes off, mom had on her usual smile.

“Your mom was caught hiding in the comic store! I had to work really hard today! Yay~! Oh, and it’s gonna rain tomorrow!”

Mom waved her hands like she was asking for complements while running toward me. She then yelled, ‘hey!’ pouncing me. Before she could reach me, she tripped. Her forehead crashed into the floor, and mom ceased moving. Lying there, she did not budge.

“Are… Are you okay?”

“I’m okay!”

“Uwah!”

She got me. Mom’s arms wrapped around me tightly, flailing me about. Though her head flushed with redness, she didn’t seem pained at all.

“Eri~ Gimme some sugar~:

She kissed my cheeks multiple time and even sucked on my face.

“W-what are you doing? What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong!”

Mom, possibly perfectly fine, did not waver.

Her confidence is also why she’s so cool, I thought.

Something unexpected occurred on the following day. Kashiwagi made her move.

I sprinted all the way from my house to school that morning, and made it there five minutes later than the day before. Like yesterday there was hardly anyone there, but the people were different. That made me sad. Today was a gloomy day too, so I won’t see the stars tonight either. Mom’s weather forecast was never to be dismissed.

Kashiwagi was there. The moment I walked in she stood up and came over. Her group of disloyal friends weren’t there, but I sensed troubles brooding.

I did not stop; in fact I tried my best not to while making way to my own seat. Kashiwagi refused to let this slide. ‘Hey! Alien!’ She spoke crudely. I’m a human, so I didn’t care. She ended up pulling my hair; I turned.

She just doesn’t learn. As I spun around, I swung my hand back. My hand landed on her neck. Smack! The crispy sound of a clean hit on her neck drew the attention of everyone in the class.

“Ow!” Kashiwagi’s shrill cry of pain ensued her loosened grip on my hair. She felt her neck. Looking at her, I felt glad that I didn’t promise mom to not fight today.

“What?”

As funny as it was hitting her first, I asked anyway. Kashiwagi’s eyes lit up, perhaps displeased with being hit. Her eyes were already slender; her mouth crooked to the side, making her look extra creepy. It wasn’t a cute look. Also since I had my hand on her so many times, I knew how oddly shaped her skull was. Kind of like a potato.

“Go back to your space, alien! Stay away from here!”

“No. Go away, Kashiwagi. You want the teacher to make you cry again?”

I shooed with my hand. I was already used to being called an alien every time by her. It’s not something I like to hear, but it doesn’t anger me anymore.

“I didn’t cry! Stupid!”

She retaliated with a cantankerous look. Being so impulsive, she’s easily provoked. It’s not like I was picking a fight, but I hated how she does exactly that every time. Time to end this quickly.

“But I saw you cry.”

I tauntingly pointed out the fact; Kashiwagi turned red. She was on the verge of breaking down, but judging by how irritated she was, I guess she did end up bawling when her mom yelled at her at home. Kashiwagi made her move.

My elbow met Kashiwagi’s hand, which reached for my hair. What should be my next move on her defenceless body? Not going to lie, I’ve never lost once in a fight with Kashiwagi. Still, I never felt like I’ve truly won. The thought stopped me short of hitting her, so I instead pinched her lips and twist it like a water faucet knob.

“Baw! Baw! Baw!”

It would appear she’s screaming ‘ow,’ but she was out of breath. Noticing the changes in her groan, I let her lips free. Kashiwagi held her mouth, her body bent forward; Kashiwagi, taller than I was, suddenly turned into a midget. She might still be taller than Maekawa-san though.

Though not teary, she glared with blood-shot eyes. Because of the pinching, it looked like it was her nose that got punched. I felt guilty, feeling like I was the bad guy.

She backed away; I thought she’d run out to the hallway, but she merely escaped to her own seat. Aside from her lips, her right hand that was pushed away seemed to be hurt, too; she pressed onto her lips with her left.

“Stupid alien, die!”

“Okay, jeez.”

I returned to my spot after leaving something for her to chew on. Hanging my backpack onto the side of the table, I looked to see others’ reactions. A few of the people standing around talking met my eyes, but only shortly before averting their gaze unnaturally. They looked to Kashiwagi, with an almost sympathetic look, as opposed to the terrified look to me.

Wouldn’t it be the other way around usually?

“Jeez!”

Why do I have to be in a fight this early in the day and feel like I was bullying her?

I went to the playground straight after school. Usually it’s for training purposes, but not today. I slacked off for two days, so I was initially going to train properly too, but this time, it’s just a convenient cause.

I wanted to meet that old guy in the jungle gym. While thinking about little things like how suspicious ‘old guy at the jungle gym’ sounded, I flew through the way.

The backpack’s strap met the risings of my body, sinking into my shoulders. We had arts and craft for second period today, so there weren’t a lot of books; however, the paint for the canvas made the pack heavier. I noticed my centre of gravity was leaning right, but I paid it no mind on the way to the playground.

If I don’t hurry up, the old guy might leave to look for food with the cat. Because of an unexpected event, I left late.

I had to escape the Kashiwagi gang. I don’t know how Kashiwagi, someone who lacks so much loyalty and cooperation, could possibly convince her lackeys, but they ambushed me to try and gang up on me.

Doing something so lowly after I commended her, how useless is this Kashiwagi. To avoid her net, I circled about in the school. First, I lost Kashiwagi in the classroom; I then saw Underling A camping out in the hallway (Class mate. Has long face). I gripped her hand, but before she could let an attack out, I crushed her right hand. Once the pained wailing began, I escaped easily. As I ran in the hallway, students from other classrooms swarmed; I was ahead of the crowd. And then, I discovered Underling B (pale girl) waiting in front of the staircase.

With my fist clenched, I raised my arm while sprinting. Underling B immediately covered her face in a stance of non-aggression. Using the opening I jumped down the flight of stairs. Why are you helping a fight if you don’t want to get hit? Well, I don’t like being hit either. I hate Kashiwagi.

There’s not a single cute girl in Kashiwagi’s gang. It’s like a bowl of potatoes in an iron pan.

I hurried down the last stairs; as I began panting, Kashiwagi appeared.

A four-on-one wouldn’t be good to me; I had to avoid the shoe lockers and make my way to the hallway connecting to the other building. What a pain, at some point the thought formulated.

I made my way out of the first-year’s building; it would be a lot easier if I could run barefooted, but I didn’t want mom to be worried. It wouldn’t be good. I had to rely on our differences in stamina and speed to spread them out, then defeat them individually. That’s the kind of trouble I had to deal with. I felt that I had to thank my skipping out on trainings for my nimbleness.

“That’s what happened!”

“You kids sure are lively.”

The old guy had on a homesick smile on his face after hearing my animated story.

He’s still in the jungle gym today, but he wasn’t lying down this time: Limbs twisted, he was like the thing inside a tooth paste tube, sitting down in the spaces between the bars with his arms and legs through them.

He looked like a puppet tied up by its own strings. Gross. I expected no less from the old guy.

The cat curled outside the gym, trying to catch its own tail. It turned lazily on its back.

My mom looks like that on weekends.

“It’s too much. I’m not a radical.”

The old guy laughed my rant off.

“Maybe they’re just jealous of your look.”

“Oh? Really? Am I cute?”

“I don’t usually look at kids face that much, but I guess you’re pretty good.”

“Thanks.”

I rarely looked at my face, because of the hair and eyes.

So that’s why Kashiwagi wants me to die so badly. She’s really hitting that puberty.

“Oh well, I don’t care about Kashiwagi. Tell me more about space, old guy.”

This is what I escaped Kashiwagi’s company for. Say it. Tell me about space, old guy.

“Well… What do you want me to talk about?”

“Like, the universe is like this! Or it’s so big! You know.”

My arms flew out, anticipating the many things he’d tell me. Perhaps he found it amusing; his shoulders shook from the chuckling.

“What? Old guy, were you really lying about going to space?”

“No, that’s not it. I just thought of myself ten years ago: I was just like you.”

He laughed, twitching in there. Of course it’s tight on space in there. The cat came out first.

Smart cat. I kneeled to greet the cat, but it didn’t even bat an eye. It seemed absorbed in its tail.

“Ten years ago… That’d make you a young old guy?”

“Wow, don’t kids nowadays not know what ‘young man’ means? I am i a young old guy. I was a young man who was too old for anything, and basically useless.”

He had a nostalgic look; it’s befitting of people his age, but even mom sometimes have this look when she spaces out looking at the yard. I may be a kid, but I knew she’s either thinking about dad or Oba-chan.

“I don’t get it. You’re too abstract, old guy.”

“You’ll get it in twenty years.”

“Just make it so I can understand it now!”

The old guy posed like a mannequin left in a garbage dump laughed, ‘what an honest kid.’ So gross. I personally wanted to kick him in the stomach to straighten him up, so he’d look like a flower in a vase. Since I hadn’t heard anything about space yet, I held it in. If all this about going to space was a lie though, I will definitely do it.

“I wasn’t this into space when I was your age. It was after I turned thirty.”

“How old are you, old guy?”

“Forty two.”

“Four two.”

“Shut up. It’s basically impossible to become an astronaut at that age.”

The old guy put his hands up in surrender, but because of the iron bars, he could only stretch in other directions. ‘Ugh,’ he groaned. Again the bars made him go elsewhere... After another minute, he settled down. Throughout the minute, the cat had grown tired of its tail and began strolling in the playground. He didn’t stop the cat.

“It’s impossible to start working out and relearn my English at that point. Impossible, really. Besides, there weren’t even that many Japanese astronaut then, so I didn’t think I could become an astronaut.”

“So how did you get there?”

“With this.”

The old guy had his palm up and made a circle with his thumb and index finger. I thought with my head tilted, ‘A monk or Jizouposatsu?’ ‘Money,’ the old man said.

“I spent a lot of money to have a trip to space. If there’s something I had, it was money. Doing jobs that had nothing to do with space, I crawled around this earth to make some money.”

His creepy laughter resonated in the park. The old guy then looked upward, toward the ceiling-like trees that no birds would fly out from.

“But space travel scam was a big thing back then… Before I could find the real thing, I used up almost all my money. I did end up in space thought.

‘I was exhilarated,’ he whispered as though he was ruminating the taste of his favourite dish. I was envious of people like this old guy. We couldn’t afford anything like that in my house. I’ve never seen mom win a lottery, so it was my only choice to become an astronaut.

Thinking that, I became more spirited. I wanted to run as much as I could, but the old guy wasn’t done. Too bad. I wish my torso could stay here while my legs do something else. That way I could listen and train at the same time.

“I invested all my wealth and got into a rocket for three… No, two and half minutes. In that amount of time, I experienced a zero-g world. I was too nervous though; I couldn’t enjoy it as much as I should have.”

“Two and a half minutes… Wow… Zero-g is so cool…”

“Wahahah, be more jealous.”

He’s obviously proud. This sucks. If an old guy who doesn’t even have a house outside of this jungle gym could go to space, then mom and I should be able to go there easily since we have a house.

But this old guy looked penny-less, so once I thought of going to space regardless, I was no longer frustrated.

“But why did you go to space?”

“Hm?”

The old guy raised his head off the iron bar. I looked at him, then the cat. He squinted; his eyes were a lot smaller than when he smiles.

“Because I thought once I go there, my life would be over.”

“What?”

“I went to space, and that was my life-long goal. I believed that my life would then end at that point. In fact, it would be great if life were to end upon achieving that something. There’s no more game after winning the Koshien championship. It should end there.”

The old guy described himself in a passionate way unfitting for October. I couldn’t comprehend his abstract speech, but I knew it was about ‘ending.’

“Once I got there, I felt a change— actually, something did change, and it was the peak of my life. It’s all over, but my life wasn’t. I lost everything and came back here. Strange, I thought, when I stepped onto the ground after getting out of the rocket.”

“……”

“And now, ten years after that, I’m still alive on this Earth. Strange.”

Like tears were falling out of his eyes, his voice trembled as if crying. The old guy was merely looking skyward, trapped in the jungle gym. It was as though he was amazed with how here he is, alive on Earth.

“Don’t you want to come back here?”

“Mm?”

I thought the scratch on my face iteche; I covered my cheek.

“Do you want to become an alien after you go there?”

“I don’t know… That doesn’t sound so bad though. It’s okay even if I’m not a human. I just want it to…”

‘End like that.’ After saying so, the old guy shut his eyes and let his body limp. It might look as if he would never wake up, but I somehow knew that he will open his eyes again, seconds, minutes or even hours later.

He’s already been to where he wanted to be, so here he is, waiting for his life to end.

“Oh? You’re in the scavenger hunt, Erio?”

“Yep.”

“Leave it to your beautiful sister. Oh, I can help if you want to borrow a cute girl. Or a beautiful girl, too. Anything that has anything to do with beautiful or ‘beauty,’ you just come hit Meme-chan up.”

“Mom is so cool~”

Several hours after meeting with the old guy. By the time the sun had set, I was chatting happily with mom about the sports festival over dinner. Primarily it was mom who’s happy.

We decided on what everyone was doing in the sports meet during homeroom today. I was going to join the scavenger hunt. An endurance race that I would shine in wasn’t part of the meet. There were two people who were faster than I since I became a fifth grader, so I couldn’t join the fifty-meter race anymore.

And so I, who’s considered as fairly fast, would be joining a peculiar activity amongst the racing category. Since it’s a game that’s heavily dependent on luck, so it’s hard to say if I could show off in front of mom. This sucks.

I stabbed at the potato-meat stew mom made. How did she make this when she’s at work? Mm~ Weird.

“……”

Like the potato I picked up, covered in onion and pork.

My mind was in a jumble. Mostly because of that old guy.

Space is great, naturally same goes for the people who went there. But the old guy, lying inside that iron gym, made it all sound like a failure,.

It’s odd. What is going to space? The question threw me into disarray.

“……”

That old guy can’t be a good person if he could just go ahead and ruin a kid’s dream.

“Erio?” Mom called. She noticed my chopsticks stopping. ‘It’s delicious,’ I added.

Her smile faded; she looked into my aquatic eyes. Mom’s colour was between black and violet, different from mine.

“Were you in a fight?”

“No.”

It was one-sided, so it wasn’t a fight.

“Oh yeah. The school said something about a weird guy, so I’ll be careful.”

I changed the topic stiffly. Mom opened her mouth, wanting to talk about the fight. Still, she waved her chopsticks like a baton, and the smile emerged from her face again.

“The newbie at my store said she saw some weird old guy.”

“Okay…” So that’s where the old guy and his cat went.

“While Meme-chan was doing her best making potato stew.”

Oh, so she cooked it in the store. I remember her saying that there’s nothing for her to do even if she went there. I guess’s mom never wastes time… Wait?

“If some weird guy talks to you, never go with him. Eri is too cute. If I was an old guy I’d pick you too.”

Where did that confidence come from, especially the latter part?

“I’ll pick you now, too!”

“Wagh!”

Mom went around the table and lunged at me. Even though we’re in the middle of supper, mom and I screamed while rolling around the floor. “Wagh!” It’s just like jumping into a pool right after a big meal. We tossed about and even hit the wall and the door. Mostly just mom though.

“Oww! But I will protect Eri!” Said mom coolly.

“That’s my line!”

My entirety still spun like I was thrown into a blender. Mom’s embrace was still a lot better than the jungle gym though.

“Eri, you can sleep with me today!”

“Ah~ah~”

I thought while spinning in the house with centrifugal force.

The whole thing with Kashiwagi is miniscule compared to traveling to space. And I’ve the difficulty of going to space. Like the old guy when he’s young, I yearned for space.

I never considered what might come afterward.

What is the universe, to an Earthling like me?

It would seem that it isn’t enough to just have astronaut as my goal if I want to overcome hardships.

Rather sentimentally, I realised that I am no different than a regular human from this point of view.

Two days passed. It’s now Friday. My life wasn’t any different during that time.

Kashiwagi was there too during school on weekdays. Since I beat the crap out of her, she did not come directly to provoke me. At most she loudly discussed aliens with her friends in class when she’s a bit away in class, sitting in her seat. She’d then end it with ‘aliens should just die.’ That did nothing to me though. It’s the usual elementary school life.

My afterschool time, however, had been different since four days ago. The old guy was always in the jungle gym with his cat. He’s always trapped in there, while the cat dawdled around the playground. Sometimes it chased its tail. How peaceful.

Even when I asked the old guy about space, he’d always brush me off, ‘there’s nothing more to say.’ If he’d nothing to do with space, he meant nothing to me. So I never talked with him about anything that’s not space-related, and continued with my training at the playground. Sometimes I go for the cat. It’s very nimble.

Three days passed without much.

We had to prepare for the sports meet during third period today. Setting up tents, drawing lines on the field etc were not necessary till the day before the event next week, but there were still a lot to do. For examples, making the pamphlet for the sports schedule and preparing the props for the games.

My team was told to make the list for the scavenger hunt. First we cut papers into the size of rectangle slips, then we write items’ name on them. That was our job.

‘Is it really okay for contestants to make these?’ I pondered as my marker froze in the air. What should I put down?

Whoever is responsible for the slips can write anything, but this depends highly on his or her wisdom as well. Everyone cut out the required amount of paper first before stopping to wonder, or to discuss with his or her friends. What are some interesting yet challenging things? Or something that could be easily lent like glasses or hats? The teachers did not tell us the procedures.

What I’d wrote so far were still boring things like ‘dog,’ ‘cup,’ and ‘red balloon.’ I thought of astronomy telescope, but no one could find one. And if I draw this one, I will definitely end up in the last place in front of mom.

“This is hard.”

After muttering so, I tipped my chair backward. The front of my chair was off the ground, with only the back wobbling back and forth. I watched the clamorous classroom while maintaining balance.

I ended up making eye contact with Kashiwagi, who’s responsible for making the flower decoration on the sports meet entrance. Was she staring at me the entire time if we saw each other so easily? She smiled maliciously while looking. It’s a scheming expression, but most likely she’d rather come at me directly, so it’s probably nothing more than just that. That was just her default state.

She could stick her tongue out at me, or have on an obviously contemptible look, but she would always just look away with that annoying smile. I don’t know which is which anymore. When does our fight stop?

She’s always like that, so I don’t know. What do I do?

“A closure, huh…”

The words of that old guy still dangled in my mind.

He was looking for a closure. Same as I with Kashiwagi.

For example, pushing her off the window… That’d would end the fights.

But if that were to happen, I would then have to live like the old guy. It’s too fast, and thus too empty — I’d end up like him.

It will be like only holding down the tips of a spring. If that happens, I will have to stay an uncertain human like the old guy. That’s not why I want to end the fights.

Will I keep arguing with Kashiwagi? That’s not right either.

I’m not saying I will drag this on. Not everything could be ended by just insisting that I’m a human and not an alien. Then do I ask myself, or the old guy, about what to do? Neither of us will have a good answer.

If this keeps up, I will solve neither space, Kashiwagi, nor the scavenger hunt.

Will I end up like the old guy if I rushed things? Having to do what you hate might just mean you have to carry that weight forever. Whether it’s doing what I like or hate, either way will be failure.

Does that mean that life tastes better if it’s stewed slowly to perfection?

“Mm… Don’t get it.”

I rest the chair back down, all while holding down the remaining paper slips. Head on my palms, I stared blankly at the others. I expected someone to be done by now.

Naturally, no one did. The other students were already talking amongst themselves, despite it being halfway through class. Mr. Baldie said nothing, sitting in his corner grading some tests. He’s younger than the old guy, but if it were him sitting in that jungle gym I’d lose all respect for him.

The old guy seemed to have lost much after going to space.

He must be in pain because he couldn’t find closure for all the things he’d lost.

“……”

I came to a conclusion after much thought.

It had nothing to do with being an astronaut or spending money on a trip.

Time and motivations were the issue.

I think that’s why he didn’t sense closure.

“Old guy, when did you start squatting here?”

I left and went to the playground behind the shrine. My classmates who were told to stay behind because we couldn’t finish making the props in an hour probably wasn’t too pleased.

Does the old man who come and clean the shrine never see him? The rumour of here having a strange guy had not spread in town yet. And I don’t want people to find out where I train, so that’s fine.

“Mm? I think it’s about time. Staying too long in one place is usually leads to problems… The weather’s changing too so I have to go down south.”

His words carried little weight — like light paint in words. I could tell that that wasn’t why. He seems to be someone who pretends to have seen it all. He lied in the jungle gym again today. Doesn’t that hurt?

“Weren’t you born here?”

Because he knows space. But this town knows space too.

“Nope. I came from a town deep in the mountains.”

“Oh… The cat too?”

“Yeah. Oh yeah, he went to space with me too. It was kind of like an experiment.”

“Really?”

I held the cat up with both hands. Kinda heavy. Perhaps because it disliked its feet leaving ground, it struggled momentarily. So this cat’s has more space experience than I do. ‘Mm~’ What is this sense of defeat?

“Is there still space-travel now…? What if it was all a dream?”

Saying so, the old guy smiled emptily, like a girl who’d just been dumped. It’s not a particularly attractive face for an old guy.

“Old guy, I’m a little worried about going to space now after what you said.”

I asserted my displeasure from the side; the old guy put away his kind-of ugly smile.

“Oh? Why?”

“I don’t wanna end up like you if I ever go to space.”

I said so earnestly after resting the cat down. ‘Ah,’ the old guy avoided my eyes in embarrassment without ceasing his words.

“Maybe I was just having an unreal expectation for space. You shouldn’t listen to me.”

“But…”

“It’s a far, far away place that you couldn’t touch by conventional methods. If you are lost, you’re never gonna get there, kiddo.”

The old guy half-jokingly cheered me on. He’s right. Any more than this and the problem won’t be about whether or not I’d go to space.

“Do you believe in aliens, old guy?”

I changed topic. ‘Hmm~’ he groaned, his eyes trailing the passing birds.

“It’s dreamier to say they do. But I guess it’d be hard for them to exist in reality.”

“What if I were to say my dad is an alien?”

“Would an alien be so interested in space like you?”

He’s right, but what he said afterward almost had me saying something.

“Contrastingly, wouldn’t an alien feel confused or intrigued by life on Earth, too?”

‘Like you now, old guy?’ I retracted those words and kneeled down, troubled.

What is defined as an alien? If they’re from space? Or if they went to space? Then would the old guy be considered as an alien? Then, are all astronauts aliens?

Why would I, who’d never been to space, be called an Earthling?

Not even the old guy could answer these questions, I bet. It’s something that only the person herself could decide. Being called an alien probably only sounds so bad because Kashiwagi treats me as someone different.

“Uwah…”

Both the old guy and I pondered. Whenever you feel like this, the best thing to do is to run as fast as you could in a big place; but if you’re just running, all you’d get is fatigue.

Luckily, I know of a place where I could run as much as I want. It’s somewhere I will be in the near future.

“Mm…”

He can’t run there, but he could see someone else run there.

And…

The person closest to being an ‘alien’ was this old guy.

“We have a sports festival next Sunday… Would you like to come?”

“What?”

He raised his head. Like tossing a letter into a mail box, I passed the festival pamphlet to him through the iron pipes.

It’s for me and mom. The pamphlet meant for students and parents was being given to the old guy. He didn’t take it right away, merely tilting his head.

“Why me?”

“To thank you for your space stories.”

There’s something more to what I said, I think. It’s a vague reason; something that is indescribable.

The old guy scratched his head; he took the papers casually and flipped through the content. ‘Oh~ This school, huh,’ he noted.

“You just said I was ruining your dreams, and here you are thanking me.”

“Don’t mind the detail. If you’re not coming, give the pamphlet back.”

My arm remained in the jungle gym. ‘Ah~ Hm...’ The old guy struggled with the response. He raised his entire body; he nimbly navigated through the pipes with just his torso. Picking up the pamphlet, he stroked his goatee.

“I’m not married or anything, but is this what it feels like to be invited by your kid to a sports festival?”

“I don’t know.”

I’ve never invited my dad either.

“If I’m free… Which I always am. I’ll go if I want to go.”

“Okay.”

I nodded; the old guy more intently, but he went back to being limp.

There was another reason why I invited him, but it’s a secret.

The sports festival was held on an October Sunday that had little to do with Health and Sports Day.

‘It used to be held on weekdays. Time’s changed,’ mom said. It’s always been either a Saturday or a Sunday since I was in kindergarten, so I’m not sure about before.

I showed mom the pamphlet on the morning of the event. ‘I’ll show up before scavenger hunt starts in the afternoon,’ she said prior to leaving for work. She moaned about not having Sundays off since she’s working in a store, but she’s also complaining about something. She also takes days-off at weird times. Mom will always be a mysterious person no matter how old I get. I like mysterious.

The sky was grey, with a possible chance of sunshine in the afternoon. Since it’s easier to move around when it’s cloudy, I prayed that it will be like this till the event’s over. Though I’m the only one for scavenger hunt, I had to join for other team competitions as well. Every grade level had Team Rally and Tug-of-war.

I only have Tug-of-war in the morning. I can’t pull very well, so I’m glad that mom will see me for scavenger hunt and rally.

It’s been a year since I last wore P.E uniform to school. I saw many others like me on the way to school. A lot of them carried their water bottles on their shoulders. The water jar dangled along my light steps. I’m like an athlete who gets pumped up for sports meets, except I’m not an athlete.

I sat my bag down first thing arriving at the school. Students would typically take their own chairs along with the pamphlet to the field. I already gave mine to the old guy, so I had only the chair. I wondered about carrying the water bottle, but, since it’s cloudy out, decided to leave it there… Mm, wait. What if Kashiwagi or someone destroys my lunch? I don’t think she’s quite that low (she’s never made a move on my books or backpack), but maybe her friends would… But it’s probably fine…

As usual, I reached the classroom early; there were more people in there than there normally would. Two of them were Kashiwagi’s friends, but she’s absent now. I left my backpack and water bottle in class, taking only my chair with me. Some might have wanted to stay till it’s time to go, but I wanted to leave before Kashiwagi gets here.

I put on the shoes I had just taken off at the school locker and entered the field. The welcoming frame decorated with the blue and red flowers Kashiwagi made last week had been set on the field.

“We should just use alien hair instead of making this stuff.”

I recalled Kashiwagi saying something along that line when she’s working. I would have said, ‘why don’t you get some at the barber’s,’ but I didn’t. Maybe she should have.

I placed the chair at the fifth grade’s resting area marked with white lines. I’m on red team; there are also white and blue. It wouldn’t have been strange if I was put into blue for my hair colour. It wouldn’t have made me happy though. Aside from the girls, there’s a few boys sitting in the resting area too. They said hi as they saw me, so I waved at them too. “Morning.”

I sat down on my chair. There’s no one in the parent area on the opposite end. Not surprising.

“……”

Will the old guy come? I suddenly became aware of something trivial.

With the tail of summer still sweeping, I waited for the sports meet to begin in this damp heat.

Something slowly drained from my back; boredom overwhelmed me.

It was not until my second yawn did all the students gather to begin the opening ceremony. We even did warm-ups. I didn’t need to since I ran all the way here, but Mr. Baldie won’t be too happy if I don’t, so I moved a little.

When I twisted my waist to look backward, Kashiwagi, whose height landed her just slightly behind me, met eyes with me. She grimaced; I could only frown every time I see that expression.

Parents began arriving during warm-up and the principle’s monotonous speech. In no time they filled the parents’ section.

As though that was the cue, the first event — ball rolling — began, while I sat on my chair.

I’d spent almost the entire morning chatting with my friends, or staring blankly with head on my hands.

To be honest I was falling asleep. I glanced to see if the old guy and his cat were on the opposite side, but, at least where I could see, I didn’t see them. Mom hadn’t come either. She’d wave impetuously.

Oh, but if the old guy and his cat showed up, people might call the police on them. What do I do? Well, I wouldn’t blame them. It should be fine… I think.

A few moms were seemingly discussing about something about seeing my hair and eyes. It’s not an uncommon sight, but when they start talking to their husbands, I get upset.

Not much happened besides that until the game before lunch — Tug-or-war. Students who’d done nothing but talk gradually entered the welcoming door when it’s time for the fifth graders. Those who hate sports meet, who also happened to not like moving during P.E, carried a nasty scowl. Did their moms not come?

We lined ourselves up based on height and entered; everyone grabbed onto the rope laid on the field. I felt the parents’ gaze upon my hair. I wanted to shout, ‘stop staring, stupid!’

“Watch yourself, alien.”

Behind me, Kashiwagi tauntingly warned me in her special way. I didn’t pay her any mind then, but as soon as the game began, I pulled hard and lied down on her. ‘Ah~’ she yelped as I squashed her into the ground.

After the somewhat interesting tug-of-war match came lunch break. Since the school had decided that it’s fine to eat anywhere, some people went to the parents’ section. I knew ahead of time mom won’t show up, so I went to my classroom.

“No~! If only the part timer didn’t ask for the day off! I would have left work for Eri~!”

Mom slapped on the floor like a capricious child yesterday while grudgingly said so. That was all it took for me to be glad of mom.

I stuck a tongue out — and I don’t need dad.

Currently blue team had the highest score. I don’t care for winning at the least, but now red was last, and with a bit of distance behind white. That really doesn’t matter though.

After entering the school building, I looked back at the parents’ seats. Neither mom, the old guy nor the cat was there. I felt no disappointment after confirming that fact as I went into the classroom.

I prepared myself as I took my lunchbox out of my pack. The food inside was untouched. Thank goodness. I was right to believe in Kashiwagi. Though I did kinda lay on her during the tug-of-war.

The water jug wasn’t poisoned or peppered with eraser shaving — now I’m relieved. Due to my almost wanting to change my view on Kashiwagi, I searched for her in the room; she was just about to leave with her jug and backpack. Perhaps because we met eyes, she grinned creepily.

It’s almost like Kashiwagi and I are just two friends who only fight each other — it’s not a great feeling. To ease the thought, I began eating mom’s dish. “So good~” I’m going to tell mom how good the food was later.

After lunch, I left the classroom right away, heading for my seat. Mom could already be here, so I hurried down the stairs.

Putting my shoes on frantically, I returned to the field. I sprinted toward the field; the sun peeked itself from the crevices between the clouds. Like playing musical chair, I sat down as fast as I could. Hand on my forehead, I searched for mom.

“Ah…”

Mom wasn’t there — but the old guy was. With the cat on his shoulder, he stood there wearing casuals. Sandwiched between two families, he had on a difficult expression. We locked eyes.

He smiled sheepishly, rubbing his cat’s head. Something in my head clicked as I witnessed the old guy standing there:

“Is this what having your dad at the sports festival like?”

But I hate dad. I don’t like the old guy that much, either. Was that why I overlapped the old guy with the dad I’ve never seen? It’s a world that someone who’s never seen him outside of old photos could understand. The person known as my father was an existence even further than Jupiter.

We traded look for a while, but since the afternoon games were about to begin, I had to disengage. And I was about to go; mom should be here now, so I decided to look for her first.

“Is mom still not here?”

This was far more nerve-wrecking than waiting for the meteor shower on a summer night. Probably because the only way for me to show mom how great I am was in this sports festival. Mm…

Mom still had not arrived — maybe she’s unusually busy today. While waiting, ball-toss had begun. Since scavenger hunt was next, I had to leave my spot.

“Ugh…” With mom’s absence was still on my mind, I haplessly moved toward the entrance.

As I arrived to line myself up based on height, I check the parent’s section again.

“Ah!”

There was mom. She hopped exaggeratedly on the last row, waving; I could easily spot her within a second. Once we saw each other, her motion intensified. I knew it was gonna happen, but I still felt embarrassed. ‘Woo! Eri!’ I heard the exhilarated clamour. I thought that perhaps even parents of first graders wouldn’t get so excited seeing their kids. As expected of my mom. I don’t know why, but she’s just different than the other adults.

I waved a little, and sensed my face turn team red.

After ball toss had ended, and the balls and baskets taken away, we jogged into the field’s track. Then we sat there, waiting to be arranged for the scavenger hunt.

First year, second year, third year… We had to go in this order, so it would be a while before us fifth graders. Two people on red team, two on white, two more on blue. Six people in a row; at first, the first graders began running along the tracks. Since the first graders had to run shorter distance than we, they immediately arrived at where the papers with the items written on were. Seeing their item names, they ran in disarray toward either the parents’ section or their resting area. I looked for a bit, but turned away from boredom. My eyes drifted to where mom was.

I had to wave occasionally at mom, whose jumping around was causing a bit of an inconvenience to the parents around, and sometimes look at the old guy who claimed he couldn’t find his conclusion. Both had on complicated expressions. I began running, for the sake of destroying these complications with a ballistic path.

It was finally my row’s turn. Since fifth graders had to run half a lap to the goal, the distance was 150 metres. The catch was that we have to go scavenge for our item halfway there.

That’s how simple the game was. I glanced at my opponents — I should be able to make it there first. The issue was my object. The students in charge of the papers laid six slips of rectangular paper on the track. Once they left, the game began.

I stomped onto the ground, arching my body slightly forward. I’d never learned how to run, so I just move as hard as I could going forward.

This is the battle between grade schoolers, as well as the standard procedure of running on planet Earth.

I peered at the parental section, then the goal on the other side.

Once I reached there, will I be closer to space?

No, I don’t think so…

The moment I thought so while looking back, the gun went off. My feet went forward beautifully at the sound of the gun.

Upon my first kickoff, I knew it was a great start: the forward motion was good, enough to make my body feel lighter. Sometimes I could run like this.

As though the Earth had lost three percent of its gravitational force, I felt no pain as my feet trampled the ground. No other footsteps were heard beyond my own. Everything was going well.

Accompanied by my own footsteps, on my own track, I accelerated more with the cheering of the crowd and the music broadcasting. If it were the hundred metres race I’d be crowned the hero right away, but such folly is why human could never fly on a bicycle.

I charged forward, preparing myself as I picked up the paper laid on the track.

After seeing the word written across the slip, I could feel my face turn hot.

Ah, of course.

The thing I had to look for, scribbled in a terrible font, ‘an alien.’

I had no doubt it was written by Kashiwagi.

I shot a look at Kashiwagi at the fifth grade’s area. On her ugly face was an irritating grin; the paper was crumbled inadvertently by my hands.

How did she do it? Was someone in charge of writing the papers part of her goons? It seemed that she even had friends in the people who put the slits down. I guess her exasperating smile for the past few days where an omen to this. What the heck! Mom’s watching today — why’d she thought of something so ridiculous? Even a first grader would come up with something less nonsensical! This jerk!

What do I do? I can’t just run to the goal because people call me alien, can I? Of course not. That’s just cheating!

That stupid Kashiwagi!

…Just kidding. Ms. Kashiwagi, is this all that you could do?

“Hahaha!”

I’d predicted this from a week ago! I’d fought with her for so long, I know what she would probably do! Kashiwagi’s weakness is that she could never be downright dirty when it comes to messing with me!

I’ve long expected this, and I already found an ‘alien.’

That’s why I handed the pamphlet to the old guy.

You’re too naïve, Kashiwagi — I’ve already made contact with an alien.

I ran toward the old guy without a doubt. He remained where he was since the beginning, so I located him right away. The cat was still on his shoulder.

My running toward him must have spooked him; he leaned back. The cat slid off, landing smoothly on the ground.

Mom flailed her arms still at the parents’ section, but she seemed to question where I was running toward. Sorry, mom, but my subject wasn’t ‘a beautiful lady,’

“Old guy!”

“W-what? You’re not looking for an old guy, are you? Oh… The cat?”

The flabbergasted old guy held his cat in front of me. Perhaps anxious that its legs were off ground, the cat wagged its tail and legs worriedly. The mom and dad next to the old guy seemed shocked by my running toward the man.

“No. You, old guy.”

Since the topic was limited to just humans, I don’t need the cat.

“I can understand if you want the cat, but aren’t there plenty more old guys around?”

He looked around. That’s not what I’m looking for. I hopped over the rope sequestering the parental section and grabbed the old guy’s hand. “Whoa…” The old guy seemed to moan.

“This is what I’m looking for.”

I showed the paper with ‘alien’ written on it to him. A strange expression immediately entailed, and he moved away from the paper. To get closer to his face, I pretended to grow.

“Couldn’t you pretend you’re no longer a human, but an alien?”

“……”

“Old guy, it’s not the end yet. Give up on flying and start running.”

I tugged his hand. Hurry up, you idiot. The others will win if you don’t.

“Let’s go, old guy.”

I hopped over the rope as I dragged him along. He stopped to untangle himself from the rope, but after a while, he came over to grab my hand, staring at the end of the runway.

“Thanks, kiddo.”

His thank had no appreciation in it.

In return, I put up a proud front, to hide my own embarrassment.

“I cannot abandon a space-lover in arm.”

“Sorry, I guess.”

He awkwardly crossed the rope, and swung his legs in the same manner. He ran, in a shamble like he had forgotten how to tread on ground. I had no way of winning first place with the way he ran— even now the other contestants were overtaking us.

But that’s fine.

Because I felt that as long as we reached the destination together, something will be accomplished.

This must be the first time that I’ve held the hand of an adult who’s not my mom. We ran toward the goal.

“You could go to space again if you get a running start.”

“I hope so.”

I ran with the old alien toward the goal.

Not a bike, the moon or the sky. Just kicking of the ground.

I pulled the old guy who’s in need of exercise, toward the goal that I, a human being, could run to.

I ended up as fourth place in the scavenger hunt.

“Who’s this?”

“I borrowed him. He’s an alien.”

“A what?”

“He’s been to space, so he’s an alien.”

“Okay…”

Such a conversation occurred at the goal where the teacher would check items brought by students.

I was disqualified… Or rather, somebody messed with my paper slit, so it’s hard to say what my rank was. The result didn’t even matter, because fourth place gets no points.

Nothing matters to me anymore. I stared at the old guy who’d returned to the parents’ section with his cat. Hot breath escaped my throat; the old guy smiled troubledly.

Mom seemed to have spoken to him. Something along the line of ‘why the hell are you hanging around my daughter?’ was heard. He could only play along with a wry smile.

Kashiwagi glared at me from the fifth-grade section.

It’s possible that she’s upset that I did not panic around the field from the topic like she had hoped. Her cheeks were on the verge of exploding. I felt a smile creep up on my face when I saw her.

“That’s what you get.” I had not laughed at Kashiwagi like this in a while.

Few days passed after the sports festival. The old guy disappeared from the park. It was getting cold, he said, so he migrated south.

“The sports festival was nice. I want to try again after seeing you kids. I’m thankful that you brought me there.”

“Ehehe~”

I will run as hard as I could on the ground, and fly into the sky.

After hearing me say so, the old guy said, ‘I’m looking forward to it.’ They did not sound like perfunctory words.

“I made money before anyway, so I can still do it… I think.”

He left the jungle gym with a sheepish smile.

‘If it were just one last time, then I might go to space again,’ he left those words.

The old guy didn’t bring the cat.

“It likes the place.”

He explained, but I’m positive he doesn’t speak cat.

But if it stays here, then it’ll have to deal with the winter that drove even the old guy away, so I felt bad for it. Mom said we couldn’t keep a pet, so she put up notices in front of the store. Unfortunately, I know mom’s Wagashi shop doesn’t get much traffic, so I’m a little worried.

My worries disappeared the following day.

The part timer at the Wagashi shop adopted the cat. The lady that appeared to be in high school came to the park to check out the cat.

“Mm… Not bad, it’s cute.”

She smiled somewhat mischievously, poking the back of the cat. The cat, curled up in a ball, did not put up a fight.

“Do you like it?”

“Mm… It’s the exact image of a cat, and it seems noble.”

The lady nodded in admiration.

“I used to like how boys are like cats.”

She seemed to recall something, gently staring with downcast eyes at the cat.

“What are you going to call it?”

“A name… Let’s go with ‘Liar.’”

The cat meowed at the calling of, uh, its name, ‘liar,’ like it knew it was its name. Its tail wagged, like barely in the dusk. It seemed to like the name. But why ‘liar?’

She kept calling the cat she hugged ‘little liar,’ all while petting its head.

The cat was a female.

“Nng…”

In the morning of a hot summer day, I dreamt something nostalgic while wrapped in sheets. Though my mind unclear, like blended with dreams or perhaps a slideshow, I think that was pretty much the gist of it all. The scar that had disappeared from my face long ago twitched, reminding me of how it felt.

I almost forgot that I’ve met the lady from the hair salon before. But she doesn’t seem to remember either anyway.

“Mm…”

The dream I held at that time wasn’t something that would shine in the darkness of the sheets. Only the darkest of clouds and nights will stay forever apart from space. Though the sweat on my forehead does stick.

Even if the stars I see now were real, I no longer reach for them.

Along with the six months when I disappeared in the first year of high school, my dream was lost. Touwa Erio, who had wanted to fly as an astronaut, could not graduate from high school.

I fell. And because the word sounds similar, I’ve failed, too. I did something shocking, sending out my freakiness. I did even more embarrassing things that I’d want to hide in space for.

Just like the old guy from before, I probably won’t be able to look at my dreams any more. Yet, in a different sense than the old guy, I could no longer let go.

But as I lay in the sheets, wrapped up, I regret nothing.

I’d made up my mind — I can let go now.

Maybe I can’t leave Earth in a rocket, but it’s the same thing.

It’s the tallest peak I could aim for now.

Because I can fly into the distant sky on a bicycle.

Because another human is willing to accompany me.

That’s why I was able to come back to this home, as a human.

“Mm…”

“Oh, so that’s where you are…”

Speaking of the devil.

Because of the sheets, my sight was bleared; I could recognise that voice right away.

The cousin that started living with us since April; the cousin known for his love for smell, and the feeling and footsteps he emanates when he enters. He would have appeared to have stopped next to my head.

“You’re looking real hot in that.”

The cousin commented rudely. He often plays my chaperone, despite being the same age as me. He’s always losing his cool when he’s talking or getting messed with mom. The cousin is still a kid, like I am.

“Mm…”

“Alright, pipe down, or I’m gonna ask somebody to use you for archery practice.”

The cousin continued with his crass words, and reached under me and the sheets. He put me on my feet.

“Mm…”

I protested, ‘what are you doing? I’m trying to stay safe here.’ Though I couldn’t see his face directly, I had a feeling what kind of attitude he had.

“Okay~” He’s probably just dealing with me perfunctorily now.

But…

Because he’s willing to deal with me at all, he’s great.

Something is just… Great.

“The pizza’s here, let’s go.”

“Mm!”

In this home on earth, the smell of pizza that I call ‘family’ is always special.

### 010. Chapter 4: The Distance Between My and Her Moon

## Chapter 4 - Distance Between My and Her Moon

Q: Select the appropriate words to fill in the blank:

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Niwa Makoto]

[Hoshinaka Ko’umi]

[Her boyfriend]

[Christmas Eve]

[‘What’s this Youth-Point?]

[In the park at night, coffee in hand]

[Get punched]

[Preparing for exams is hard]

[Two people alone in the library]

[A faint first love?]

[This would be three Youth-Points]

“What’s this Youth-Point?”

Words that obviously just sprung out from her mind escaped Hoshinaka’s mouth. Sitting next to her on the bench, I merely grinned wryly; white breath exited my lips. Seeing what could qualify as signal smoke coming out from my mouth, I shivered at the renewed realisation of the coldness. Unable to resist any longer, I stood from the worn-down wooden bench that could have easily been mistaken as ice.

“Niwacchi?”

I ignored Hoshinaka’s call, proceeding in the dense air that enveloped the night. Even by just inhaling the frigid air was enough to give me the illusion of being filled up.

As I left the bench, I saw, for just a moment, a picture: A hallucination of a child, playing by himself in the sandpit next to the seesaw. It might have been a much younger me, but seeing oneself playing is not much of a possibility.

The freezing wind attacked me unrelentingly; my nose and lips were paralysed as if detached from my face. I adjusted the scarf warped around my neck, as to cover my lower face.

My goal was by the entrance of the park — the thing which continued casting its light in the darkness. Thank goodness vending machines run on 24/7 basis. Convenience stores in the countryside had already given up on doing so.

I stuck my half-frozen fingers into the pocket of my coat. It took a while to open my palm, which was stuck in a fist. After a bit of searching, I felt a few coins on the tip of my fingers. Fortunately, the changes from a while ago was in there. Would have been real depressing if I didn’t have any money.

Since there were only three 100-yen coins in my pocket, I put all my investment into the coin slot. Beep~ Clank ~ Beep~ Clank~ Beep~ Clank~ Like so, the machine tailed along, recognising the 300 yen. Red lights appeared from the buttons beneath the cans. I turned to look at the bench where Hoshinaka sat; I wondered what she’d like. Going back was too much of a hassle, so I stood there, blinking in contemplation. In the end, I chose a coffee that had a lot of sugar. I don’t drink unsweetened coffee, hence the choice.

After pushing the button twice, I kneeled to retrieve my drinks. Two of the light bulbs were broken. They were separate, but I thought maybe they were looking at one another. Perhaps they’re the two who stuck together because they didn’t fit in anywhere else.

“Oops.” Because I pressed too quickly, the two cans of coffee were stuck in the depository. The white words ‘please retrieve your items one by one’ where printed on the plastic cover of the exit. Following my movement, the cover squeaked at the axel.

“You could have written it anywhere else.”

I stuck my arm in there, attempting to get the coffee out. When I got hold of the can that showed only half of its ugly design, I felt the warm on my frozen hand. Simple thing like feeling the temperature go up was able to bring my morale back up, in this park that’s filled with nothing but bad memories. It would have been an otherwise intolerable heat, were my palms not frozen. Actually, it’s getting there. I pulled hard and produced the coffee.

Perhaps because my fingertips weren’t as responsive, I easily retrieved the drinks. Though the vending machine whined as though it was being damaged, the lights on it shone still. I exhaled in relief. As soon as I picked up the second can, I straightened my knees.

An ache struck my head as I stood. Thanks to the recent lack of sleep, migraine became well acquainted with me. Preparing for exams is definitely not a healthy thing, but purportedly it’s all for the sake of a better future. The future and now are both part of life — Sometimes, I felt like we’re putting the cart before the horse.

With the coffee as my handwarmers, I returned to the bench where Hoshinaka was at. I looked up as I walked. I’ve enjoyed a clear night sky for as long as I remember. Due to the absence of the sun, the shape of the sky and the movement of clouds were easily traced. It’s like the depth of the sky could be seen and felt.

Plus the moon is usually visible on a clear night like this. Looking at the moon, I could feel the distance between me and Hoshinaka. It’s an analogy that only I knew, so I bet no one else could understand.

Her hands between her butt and the bench, Hoshinaka, with legs outstretched, looked up when she discovered my return. She sniffled with a grin; perhaps because of her scarf, hat and clothing, the usually diminutive Hoshinaka appeared chubby. ‘I thought you left.’

I made no effort to reply; I merely stared at the long hair that waved in the breeze.

“Your hands.”

“Mm?”

“Give me your hands.”

“Ok.” She earnestly pulled her hands out from beneath her, dangling them above her shoulders.

“Hm…” I nodded ambiguously and tossed the can over with a perfect arc. ‘Whoa!’ She cried as she followed the can and moved her hands to where it would land. With a subtle lean forward, she caught the coffee with the tips of her fingers.

I worried about her fingers being hurt, but seeing the smile on her face, I ceased all concern. As though seeking warmth, I put my now-free hands around my canned coffee.

Moments later, I sat a little away from where Hoshinaka was.

I once again was embraced by this lonely night.

“Niwacchi, you’re awfully nice today.”

“I always am. I show up whenever you call me up.”

“That’s why I said you’re nice today, too.”

Without a second thought, she chugged the coffee down her tiny throat. My can remained closed, continuously providing my hands with warmth. It was then that I leaned into my knees, elbows on the thighs.

“Ahh… Thanks. Want your money back?”

“That’s alright.”

I shook my head. Every time I did that, my ears mingled with the night painfully. Even tiny movement was filled with agony — I now understood what hibernating animals go through. Unwilling to move, I naturally didn’t look up into the sky.

“Are you studying for the tests?”

Hoshinaka picked something we had in common to talk about. With no desire to move, I answered ‘yeah’ without looking at her. Moments later, I added, ‘you?’

“Mm? I guess. Not as much as you, though.”

“Me (僕) too… I mean, me (俺) too.” I realised just how embarrassing it was to correct myself like that. Hoshinaka lowered her head, trying not to laugh.

“Niwacchi, you still say ‘me.’”

“Shut up. Just don’t notice it.”

After she pointed that out, I shrunk even more. In the same pose, I asked the question that’s been saved up:

“Why did you call me out?”

I seem to recall some sort of explanation when we’re on the phone, but I’ve already forgotten as I was studying English at the same time.

Perhaps because of the coffee, she spoke with a voice much warmer than before.

“I thought I’d come out and take a look at the sky when I’m free.”

Can’t you do that in your room?

From a glance, I could see her focused on none other than the coffee in her hands. Ever since we came here, Hoshinaka’d been staring straight ahead.

“Couldn’t you come by yourself?”

I shot a glimpse at the two bikes resting next to the bench.

“It’s too sad to be alone.”

“Then couldn’t you get your boyfriend?”

“He didn’t want to because it’s too cold.”

So I’m the backup, huh. A dark feeling roused, surpassing the coldness. I shot her a look, finding her lips touching the can’s opening, and her eyes straight ahead. Her stare was on somewhere far away, where I don’t exist.

Was she missing her boyfriend, who’s presumably in the warmth of his house? The thought soothed my emotion; I looked down again. I didn’t even have the strength to complain, possibly because of this weather.

“This is some sweet coffee.”

She commented on something no one asked for. I had not drunk mine, so I could neither assent nor rebuke her thought. There’s still something else to be said.

“You’re welcome to not drink it if you’re gonna complain.”

“You’re really no good with unsweetened coffee, Niwacchi.”

The lines that do not reciprocate one another stood side by side. It’s slightly annoying to be treated like a kid by someone your own age. Even though I was already a bit on the down side, this felt like my ankles were shaved off by the frozen ground. Keeping my head low, I turned to face her.

There she was, without a particular emotion on her face and coffee pressed against her cheek. After meeting eyes, I at least felt a bit awkward. When it comes to Hoshinaka, there’s this feeling that’s neither hatred nor annoyance, but still something I want to reject. I should be glad that it’s not a question that will be included in the exams.

She smiled hurriedly, and spoke with a cheery, yet seemingly masquerading voice…

“Sure smells like Youth here.”

“Who cares about ‘youth…?’”

The sound of that phrase embarrassed me.

To my unabashed criticism, Hoshinaka replied, ‘your heart has withered.’

The cloud that I saw early must have already disappeared.

It was December.

A time for exam preparation.

We weren’t in a position to be out at night.

Yet there I was, sitting on the bench with Hoshinaka.

The only thing we shared were runny noses, and the cans of coffee gradually losing their warmth in our hands.

Hoshinaka refers to me as ‘Niwacchi.’ It’s a shorthand for ‘Niwacchi-kun.’ No one else called me by that though, and most called me by my surname. Oh yeah. My name is Niwa Makoto, currently in third year of middle school.

I might be a little on the aloof side, but it’s not abnormal to have people like me in a middle school. I’m what you’d call a regular, a-dime-in-a-dozen teenager.

Mom gave me a tongue lashing for sneaking out last night. Her self-righteous punishment was for my allowance to be cut in half until I graduate middle school.

That’s why I showed up to class, bummed out. Actually, I’ve been feeling pretty strange in class recently. Still, I showed up to face the teacher and the blackboard. It isn’t just me: Everyone else looked exhausted.

Because of the impending exams, both the atmosphere in the room and people’s health were deteriorating. It was a claustrophobic feeling, that one moment you are able to roam freely in the plaza, and then the next you are thrown into a giant test tube. While the heater from the back was able to provide an arid heat, it also dried our throat and eyes, distracting us all.

Even being released from school was not enough. It’s like being told to finish an unsolved puzzle tomorrow. There’s no relaxing until we finish our tests — looks like we can only endure it.

Outside the warm classroom, the cold, December hallway only seemed gloomier. The ash-like cloud blocked out the sun; the field outside the window had an otherworldly hue.

The grey triggered a dark feeling unlike when the night’s arrived. I could not find myself walking energetically through these halls. While yawning, I dragged my feet forward.

Migraine from prolonged sleep deprivation and somnolence assaulted my brain. I often wondered if I’d nap a little after dinner when I get home. Most of the time, however, my conscious wouldn’t fade completely as I lie in bed. It all ends in hours wasted as I roll about, a sense of refusing to rest almost bursting out of my body. That was how stretched my mind was.

The dreary air of the classroom sunk into my blood, forcing me to stay in front of the desk to study. It’s not like the high school I’m heading into is a prestigious one, but even a regular student would be anxious first time taking an entrance exam. With every solved math problem, the worries attenuate. You could think of it as a nosy tutor.

I saw a familiar face in the hall appear from a different classroom. I couldn’t help but shut an eye — It was Hoshinaka. She had on an extra coat over her uniform, with no scarf or cap on today.

Hoshinaka was two classes away from mine. We were in the same class last year, which is also how we became acquainted. With neither her boyfriend or friends, Hoshinaka approached my direction. Though facing the window, I knew from her gaze the sky wasn’t her object of wonder.

As she passed, Hoshinaka noticed me. She gave a peace sign and a smile, which was not the same to that shown with friends. I backed up promptly, mindful of the surrounding eyes. It’s astonishing how small a school is, and how fast rumour spreads. It would not take too long for her boyfriend to hear about this peace sign if a particularly gossipy girl witnessed it.

Luckily, everyone in the hall was looking down, seemingly disinterested in others. I sighed in relief. ‘Oops, sorry.’ Hoshinaka bumped her shoulder into me. As I wondered in disbelief of her intent, she had already drifted away.

“Uh…” I wanted to say a few things, but the thoughts could not form into words.

When I came to it, I discovered a piece of ripped notebook paper between my fingers. There’s no need to think about the perpetrator — Who else but the one who ran into me? If not a prank, it must be a message to me.

I unfolded the paper. A few rounded fonts in blue were printed there.

“Come to the library if you’re free.”

“……”

The thought ‘why not just say it’ did not cross my mind.

I never really considered what went through my head.

It’s not a test, after all.

And so, without looking toward the window, I turned back and muttered, ‘Heck no.’

But she definitely couldn’t hear it.

Standing at around 150 centimetres and having a tiny face, Hoshinaka gave off a petite mien. A low nose and pair of large eyes, she was like a character from a shoujo manga with a realistic touch. Nobody probably would see her as a shy girl upon their first meeting, because she was the manifestation of amicability.

No guys, including me, thought ill of Hoshinaka when they first meet her.

Warmth from the library AC welcomed me as I entered. The devices are usually installed in facilities such as the infirmary or staff room, with the remote control within the reach of students. Naturally, we change the temperature arbitrarily. Still, compared to the winter, the upcoming rain season of June will be far worse.

I was able to immediately locate Hoshinaka in the library — because she was the only one playing her phone, without even a book or notes in front of her. Seemingly considerate of those around her, she fiddled with her phone quietly, what with the careful motions.

I wanted to leave when I saw that, but she spotted me frozen there when she looked up from her phone. Hoshinaka beckoned, and even took the coat hanging from a chair off to give me a spot. Affected by her act of preparation, I moved soundlessly. Why did I go somewhere other than the shoe lockers, despite saying not wanting to come? My head must hurt more than usual.

I pulled out a chair next to Hoshinaka; the metal frame of the chair was just a little more comfortable than the wooden ones in classroom. Right away my tired head fell onto my hands. While unable to fall asleep, the fatigue wrapped around my skull drove me sick.

“You continue to be a great guy today, Niwacchi.”

She rested her phone on the table, beaming a smile.

“Just by not calling me out late in the night, you’ve already improved, Hoshinaka.”

I countered, to which she shrugged humorously, ‘that’s just harsh.’ I, on the other hand, became overcame with sadness: I’m not one to study right after getting home, but I didn’t want to see Hoshinaka either.

“You seem a little blue.”

“My allowance was cut in half. For sneaking out in the last night.”

“Ouch… That’s bad.”

“So? What do you want? We’re not here to stare at the ceiling, are we?”

With a bored jab, I questioned her. Since when was the distance between me and Hosinaka so awkwardly long? We easily held conversations last year.

“Well… A little something just went down.”

She prefaced with a confusing and mysterious sentence. She continued.

“Someone saw us going to the park.”

My blinking stopped. Like having no lead come out from a mechanical pencil despite numerous clicking, the stagnancy worried me.

“Who heard?” I held onto the hope that perhaps my chance of survival will increase by that question.

“My boyfriend.”

Of course. Who else aside from him would it be problematic? After confirming the truth I already know, the storm came. I unlocked my supporting arm; my face slid onto the desk.

“Please spare me from this.” I looked at Hoshinaka with only an eye.

“He hasn’t come after you yet, has he? He might be waiting for you at the shoe locker.”

She didn’t have on a difficult face, just a casual, downcast look.

“Please don’t involve me (僕)… I mean, me (俺).”

“Oh, cut the tough guy talk. Just say ‘me,’ won’t ya?”

Shut up. I (僕) doesn’t suit me (俺), I think. I don’t feel like I’m playing adult, but does feel like wearing shoes an extra size of my feet and almost tripping.

I’ll be able to use ‘me’ (俺) one day, I think.

“He just hung up when I called him, but he apparently changed his mind and called back. He knew I snuck out, and he went around to ask people. Some girl told me she saw me with you.”

I should have known and not walk her home… ‘The road to home is dangerous’ just had a different meaning to me. Warm air from the AC blew by my face.

I looked elsewhere, onto the paper stuck on the wall. Written on the paper was the return dates for loaned books It’s December, nearly the end of the second semester. ‘Please remember to return your books by winter break’ it says. Right, it’s almost winter break, and Christmas… But it’s not relevant to a student preparing for exams.

“So, well, my boyfriend yelled at me.”

She ended the report on a swift note. I don’t know why, but as the warmth left me, the air I’d been holding escaped me. My chest and stomach lost their shape, making me wonder if I was a just filled with air.

“And you’re telling me this why? Shouldn’t you be talking to your boyfriend instead?”

“I guess. But I’m a little scared of him.”

That’s not a proper answer to my concern. It’s like ‘maybe’ on a true-false question.

“Aren’t you a little too relaxed?”

“What do you mean? Who is?”

“I mean you lovebirds. I can’t believe you have the time to be doing this kind of stuff.”

My words were half sardonic and half jealous, but spoken in a way that only the former could be felt. She wouldn’t understand why I’m jealous, anyway.

Hoshinaka froze for a moment. She recovered soon, blinking, and nodded as she gathered herself.

“Gotta get those Youth Points, you know?”

“You don’t get what I’m saying, do you?” She definitely didn’t understand me.

She puts her hands under her head, shortening our distance.

“Y’know.”

“Hm…” I sniffled.

“If I incarnated a hundred times, and meet you every time, I’d probably date you 40 times.”

A little sudden.

But also a little late.

My voice was lost upon those words. Only a flat, toneless sound came.

“Meaning… You’d go for the other guy 60 times.”

What are you expecting me to feel?

“That’s it.”

“Okay…”

The superficial comment ended there. Still, something stuck to my heart; like a turtle in an aquarium tank, it tried to crawl its way out. It wasn’t a funny sensation, and certainly not something I’d want pity over.

“I’m leaving.” With the declaration, I stood up. Pain struck as I got a hold of my backpack; I winced.

Without waiting for Hoshinaka’s response, I headed toward the exit. To the person who didn’t touch the page of a book, the student at the counter gave me a ‘the hell did he come in for?’ look. I wonder, too.

“Sorry, Niwacchi.”

She spoke in a voice that everyone in the room could have heard, to which I couldn’t help but pause in my track.

“It’s too late now…”

I don’t even know why she’s apologizing. Without looking back, I ventured back into the hallway.

The slide door was shut till it would not move anymore.

“I don’t want to enjoy this ‘youth…’”

I cannot become a normal friend with Hoshinaka, and our proper distance was lost.

It’s unfortunate for either of us… I should not have started thinking about this.

If someone were to ask if I like Hoshinaka, I would likely ponder for a while. If I do like her, I would have tried a lot harder last year.

Romantic feelings like sort of like an UFO: It’s not a concrete thing to be found, yet many seek it. Hoping to find a person of admiration or wanting to go further in a single-sided love is correct, just as it is to look for a mysterious flying object.

The issue lies in ‘what was between me and Hoshinaka?’. If we were to discuss the topic of romance before addressing the question, it’d presume that such a thing existed between us. That’s hardly a possibility, I think.

After we became third years, Hoshinaka somehow got a boyfriend. She also went to a different class, and we no longer talked. Even last night was a sudden invitation from her.

Because of that long window, the relationship between me and Hoshinaka was like the season itself, characterised by coldness. Instead of digging up my frozen sentiments, I merely hugged my knees to fight the chill. I even forgot to look at this night sky we shared.

I think, between me and her, there’s a moon.

It’s like the forty times that Hoshinaka spoke of: A person can’t just fly to the moon. He could only look, up at it as it hangs faraway in the sky.

There’s no way she and I could have something like love, and nothing more could be transmitted.

Up until I climbed back up after being socked by Hoshinaka’s boyfriend, that was all that was on my mind. A flash in my memory reminded that he wasn’t waiting by the shoe lockers, but the school’s entrance.

As I noticed him approach, I lamented not having taken the backdoor. I just didn’t want to take the long way home. That’s just how I am, giving up so easily.

Also, calling him ‘boyfriend’ makes it sound like I’m his girlfriend, so I refrained from doing so, instead thinking of his name. Hoshinaka’s never properly introduced him to me, so I don’t really remember. Still, hand caressing my punched cheek, I muttered vaguely what I thought was his name.

“Takimoto.”

“Hah?” His reaction was as short as the time it took for him to recognise me. Judging from that, I called the right name. From then I start to use the name ‘Takimoto.’ Half a head taller than I am, Takimoto took a step back after straightening his knees, refocusing his glare at me. The right fist that landed on my face was still there; apparently, he’s still upset.

The inside of my mouth must have been cut when he punched me. The taste of blood permeated through my nostril. It hurt, but it seemed to have blown away my fatigue as well as my melancholy. Unfortunately, I was merely thinking too much.

Some students were just about to leave. They stared as they passed; it was embarrassing, but thankfully they moved on as I met their look.

“Could you not punch people out of the blue?”

I thought it was a sensible comment, but it was only so before leaving my mouth. The stern look remained on Takimoto’s face — it was like that of a rat drawn on an encyclopaedia.

“What if I asked nicely?” He retorted.

“I’m gonna tell the teachers.”

Though petty a reply, it’s probably the correct one. At least it’s better than raising my fists in retaliation and getting both of us punished. Besides, Takimoto is considered a large guy, and I’m not a fighter. It would be unfair if I managed to land two hits with my twig arms while taking ten from his trunk-like arms, and still get the same punishment.

“Stay the hell away for Ko’umi.”

He ordered. For a moment I pondered what sea this Ko’umi is, then I realised it was Hoshinaka’s name. I’ve long forgotten since I’ve never used it.

“She was the one who called me out.”

“She won’t again, so you better stay clear of her.”

Takimoto, who’d just decided on his own who would be Hoshinaka’s friends, knocked his leg with a fist. Is that like how a horse would kick its back leg?

“Ugh…” Pain finally seeped through my swollen cheek.

Hoshinaka-san is now a princess, and Takimoto her knight. Is that how the characters are put together now?

What does this jerk who seems like he’d get a lot of Youth Points want? Is he gonna pummel me for some EXP? Why don’t you try by spending time with Hoshinaka? This guy is totally wrong.

Something about this is even funnier. I get why he wouldn’t punch his girlfriend, and I agree, but you could at least yell at her. Getting punched by the boyfriend after being invited out by a girl. It’s like a honey trap. I want no more of this.

Hoshinaka aside, it was a waste of time at least with Takimoto.

“Uh oh…” I looked to right, which only had a dried-up tree. As I confirmed that he’d been deceived, I sprung up.

I ran as fast as I could to through the road next to Takimoto. Evidently, he had been played, what with the slow reaction. Was he earnest, or simply dumb? He finally swung his trunk-like arm as I passed; though the back swing hit my back, I casually passed the gate.

The school only allowed students living outside of its district to ride bicycles, so I didn’t have to worry about him catching up to me on one. Naturally, I had to rely on my legs to escape to safety.

I was going to give a wise crack to Takimoto as he followed me out, but with little time to think I simply shouted.

“Perverted kid! Think about your test!”

Whatever I just thought of sounded like a simple complaint. The sentiment of reaping what I sowed, as well as being humiliated flooded; I would have loved to correct myself, but I was already on the road back home under the supposedly-red sky. Takimoto said a few things, but pretending that the cold had my ears trembling, I refused to listen.

My breathing became more erratic; I raised my chin. The sight that welcomed me was, despite it being dusk, the faint silhouette of the moon hanging in the sky. Cutting through the cloud and sunken in the crimson, the moon gave off a weak light that had a different impression. If I reached forward, I might just steal a touch.

But I couldn’t do that.

Giving up was my specialty. My dream of becoming a professional football player was curtailed in elementary school. Though I’ve regretted many things later, I never wanted to challenge anything anymore.

There’s a lot more things in life that I must do before flying to the moon. Probably, yeah…

When I first met Hoshinaka, I (俺) was more like ‘me’ (僕). It was a more natural pronoun, and I had principles. In another year, after breathing the air of a new class, Hoshinaka spoke to me with the force and at a time that was enough to suffocate me. Not that I was trying to play along with her, but I did choke.

“Yo, Niwacchi-kun!”

“Niwa… Cchi-kun?:

I saw her face and tried to remember her, but even if it’s someone I knew, no one had ever called me that. She was merely a classmate I just met. I remember being bashful when the girl called my name; even the tingle of blood surging into my face remains clear in my memory.

I had just become a middle school second year.

“You’re the paper model club president, right? I saw your name on the orientation pamphlet.”

Hoshinaka, with the rolled-up pamphlet on her shoulder, beamed a toothy grin. I nodded as I recall the photo of the school’s entrance printed on the papers.

“I was made that only because we had four members.”

On the second day of joining the senior-less club, I greeted our advising teacher, who then ordered, ‘find a president.’ Club attendance was mandatory in our school, so the four (including me) who joined this empty club pushed about the title of president.

And that’s what happened. I don’t think writing ‘club president’ on my transcript has much use.

“I can’t believe you wrote ‘looking for a club president.’ That’s hilarious. And kinda sad.”

She spoke on with the same smile. Though my smile froze, she seemed to not mind.

“It’s true — I’m no leader material.”

“You said you don’t care who does it, so I guess you’re up, Niwacchi-kun.”

The name ‘Niwacchi-kun’ is so strange that I cannot face her.

Right, what club is Hoshinaka in?

“Oh yeah, Niwacchi-kun.”

“Yeah?”

“What’s paper model? It’s not Origami, is it?”

“I’ll look it up next time.”

“Now that’s a president.”

Because of these small talk, I was able to chat with Hoshinaka even more. After a little investigation, I was able to begin my club life, as trivial as that is.

Hoshinaka and I got along well, and we ended up as good friends. We usually get to talk during cleaning, each with a rag or broom in hand. People who saw us would leave quietly, and that’s how we were. We don’t prioritise one another, but we were always together whenever possible. That’s the kind of natural relationship we had. It wasn’t anything suffocating, sort of like being able to feel the floor under the water.

Still, as friendly as we were, I could never do something as bold as calling her by her first name. She calls me ‘Niwacchi,’ a strange nickname. It would be a lie to say I didn’t see her as a girl then. It’s definitely a feeling of attraction, but not quite love. I think.

Like admiring the stars, but never having the passion to build a rocket.

The distance between me and her which can never be shortened was easy and comfortable. It changed, gradually. Instead of closer, it grew further apart.

It moved apart, slowly, like the moon and the Earth.

By the time I realised, our distance was like that between planets.

I ruminated on these things, rolling around in bed. The sun had gone. Someone called for me from downstairs. Doesn’t this seem like when I got beat up by Takimoto? I could not stand how simple my thought process was, and got up. The strange sensation on my left cheek prompted me to touch it; my brows furrowed at the resulting sting. Right, Takimoto punched me. Wasn’t I just thinking about this?

“Damn!” If I forget my English vocabularies or math formulas because of that, before I could feel anxious during the actual test, I’d wonder if all that time spend studying was wasted. It’s both depressing and annoying to have the make that judgement. I remember some Tachibana guy once wrote, ‘A completed manuscript may not be rejected, but it sucks when it does.’ I don’t remember where it’s from or what his name was though.

“Makoto~” Mother called again from downstairs. “Coming!” The incessant calls annoyed me, so I dashed out. The repercussion of running into the wall ached from the side of my head, but I continued downward. I jumped off from the last three steps, landing on the hallway.

A surge of pang flashed through my head. “Agh…” A sense of vertigo, the pain and pulse went in and out as if respiring.

The hallway was different than my warm room: Cold is after all not advised for headaches.

“What are you doing?”

Seemingly irked, my mother, who was waiting by the hallway, spoke. I lifted my head, which felt much heavier than usual, to see her holding the telephone in her chest. A tiny frame and a somewhat youthful appearance, my mother stood there presumptuously and comedically.

“Why do you have to be in such a hurry? It’s not safe.”

Then don’t call me twice. “What is it?” She often calls me for things like sliced apples, so I thought perhaps it’s something similar this time.

“It’s a call for you: A girl is asking if a ‘Niwacchi-kun’ is here. That’s you, right?”

Hoshinaka. Here comes the name that nailed my stomach together. She’s calling me again after yesterday. She’s not asking me to go in her stead to meet Takimoto in the park, is she? I already begged her to not in the library, guess it didn’t work.

Hehehe… My mother had an infuriating grin on her face.

“If it’s not school related, then she’s your girlfriend? You can’t go on a night date, though. Actually, you can’t go out in the night at all.”

“Shut up, I know.”

I just happened to have picked up the phone yesterday, but I’m a little embarrassed this time to have my mother answer and call for me instead.

“’Niwacchi-kun’ could have been dad, you know. It might be whoever he’s an affair with.”

“If that’s who he’s sleeping with, then the police would have arrested him long before I laid my hands on him.”

She’s not wrong. I stole the phone away from my obviously excited mother. “Here come the police~” Making my escape from my mother, whatever horrible cries she’s emitting, I went upstairs. There was an urge to just toss the machine down the stairs, but instead of getting yelled at by Hoshinaka, I’d risk the wrath of my mother, so I endured.

“What? Can’t you at least use my name when you call?”

“Sorry? I forgot.”

The voice on the other end was not that of whoever dad’s having an affair with, but of my acquaintance Hoshinaka. Her cheerful voice was not like the traffic light, of which the lights would dim and brighten at moment’s notice.

“Was that your mom? Or your sister?”

“That’s my mother. It’s obvious from the way she talks, isn’t it?”

I could feel the warmth mixed with the cold as soon as I walked upstairs. Due to the door being open, the AC escaped out onto the hallway. Hurryingly, I shut the door as I entered.

“So, what do you want this time? I’m not going to the library or the park.”

I warned her first — This is retribution for stabbing my stomach. Hoshinaka just laughed awkwardly.

“Well… I just wanted to know what happened after you left.”

What? I don’t get what’s she getting at. If our literature exams are filled with similar questions, then my mock exam score will probably just barely dodge a bullet.

Still, this should be good practise for communicating with others.

And the question itself would mean she doesn’t know about Takimoto punching me yet.

“Not a whole lot. Just that Takimoto punched me in the face when he saw me.”

I spoke a bit sarcastically, but the other end did not give me my sense of satisfaction.

“Takimoto? Niwacchi, isn’t that, like, assault? You need to find better friends.”

Ignore the latter half, but from her questioning tone of the first half I could tell I’ve gotten her boyfriend’s name wrong. I got socked by some guy whose name I don’t even know. My student life isn’t this radical, if I recall correctly. The tests must be messing with my mind.

“Actually, you can’t exactly call that a friend, can you.”

“Yeah, so, anyway, it’s all good. All’s fine and dandy.”

“Very well. Tis good, then.”

With a strange and almost theatrical accent, she replied. I should have told her to end the conversation entailing that.

The air and silence tortured my ears and tongue, disallowing me to just hang up.

And so, I delayed moving the phone downstairs for later and sat down on my bed. Puff! Dust from the sheets and the tepid AC air filled my lungs. I submerged myself into what felt like warm liquid pouring into my body — including the temperature, it’s not at all comfortable.

“So then… Uh… You still there?”

Perhaps because of my silence, Hoshinaka, unsure what to say, checked for my presence.

We probably were able to feel one another’s existence.

“I am.”

“Thank goodness.” What do you mean?

“Your boyfriend is gonna be mad again if he heard about you calling me.”

My complaint was poignant, but correct. ‘Wuu,’ she held her breath after what sounded like having someone stabbed you in the chest with a finger. With nothing else to say I waited for her to speak.

“He was really mad. I even wondered if that’s why they call it ‘the fire of rage.’”

“Of course he would be.”

Somehow, I could agree with that statemen — not so much with being punched.

“Why would he be?”

“A girl you’re going out with went to see a different guy at night, that doesn’t sound too good.”

What does she want a bachelor to say? That’s why’s the end of my reply wasn’t at all persuasive. Dissatisfied with my answer, Hoshinaka gave an example.

“Then, if my boyfriend were to go see another girl on the weekend, can I get mad too and not study for the test?”

“I guess. Taki— I mean, your boyfriend isn’t actually that smooth, is he?”

He does look like he’s one of with the ratmen. Can’t argue with how well rats multiply either.

“Probably not. It’s just an analogy.”

Then why don’t you take your analogy to him instead of me. He, of course, wouldn’t agree so easily. Plus talking about this is useless.

We could probably talk about something else.

“Um… Well…”

“Well?”

“No, nothing.” I’m just beating around the bush.

Why are you calling me?

Do you like me?

Even if it were through the phone, asking something like that would have made me an amazing person long ago. It’s likely a misunderstanding. This time, however, I believe both she and I have mistaken one another for something. It’s rare, and certainly not a good thing.

Hoshinaka must not comprehend the thing which exists between me and her. It’s futile even if I told her it’s the moon. There might be an alien hideout on the dark side of the moon… No, of course not.

Damn, I don’t know what I’m saying anymore. This has nothing to do with the aliens.

“Just… Don’t call me so often.”

“Aw, don’t sweat the small stuff. Just Youth it!”

She spoke like it was with a thumb’s up.

“I have no idea what you’re on about.”

I don’t know what this ‘youth’ is, aside from what the dictionary has to say about it.

“And could you please go find your boyfriend for this kind of stuff instead?”

I shot a glance at the desk. The reference books and practise questions piled there like in a bookstore. It saddens me to know that the money spent on those were supposed to go to my deep-sea creature encyclopaedia collection.

It’s absolutely awful to prepare for exams. Same goes to the me, who’s preparing to take on such things. Because it’s so awful that you start to lose things around you. Things in my heart, naturally, were taken on a whim.

Allowance. Leisure. Time. Health. If it could be taken gradually like a charity donation to keep me on the treacherous road of exam preparation, then could they decide my position based on how much I’ve given? From the standpoint of my mock exam scores, though, it will be quite difficult.

“My boyfriend… It’s fine. Of course I love him.”

I sniffed hard when she spoke. Though unintentional, it was the noise that drowned that part of her words.

“But, I don’t know, whenever I thought of being young, you’re what shows up in my head.”

“That doesn’t quite fit my image.”

“I know. I know how often you update your ‘time spent single’ status.”

“Shut up.”

As much as I denied it, I could understand a little of what she meant. That’s why I couldn’t just hang up on her when she called.

“But I’m still looking for Youth from you.”

“What do you propose me to do?”

“So just go and enjoy Youth!”

“And what is this youth…?”

I turned my head while listening to the receiver. Cleaning my already impeccable room, I looked for what qualifies as ‘youth.’ Oh… There it is. It’s not mine, but there’s something outside that emanated just that.

“I see. Enjoy, huh…”

“Niwacchi?”

“Here’s what I’m gonna do.”

“Mm?”

“I’m gonna stare at the sky from my room. You should join me, Hoshinaka.”

I could see the moon. We usually communicate through the celestial body that hanged high in the evening sky.

To string the line on the moon and make a long-distance call.

We might not be able feel one another, but our abstract thoughts will appear.

In any case, I stared at the clear sky from the window.

Even if looking at the deep sea is a mere pipe dream, it’s not so bad looking at the dark sky that resembles it.

“I can’t. My phone’s on my house’s shoebox.”

She dumped the bucket of water on me. The silhouette of the moon seemed to die a little.

“Is there a reason why you never want to stargaze?”

I asked curiously. ‘Let’s go stargazing at the park,’ she said so yesterday. She never once looked up.

Upon the query, a faint laughter came from the receiver.

“You should save stargazing with someone else. It’s an ace for Youth points, you know?”

“Hah? So what exactly is this ‘Youth Point?’”

If that’s a vocab for modern literature, I need to at least know its meaning.

“Well… Nothing, really. It’s just something I made up.”

Demanding someone else to do something that she won’t. There’s a lot of say about that. Plus, what she does isn’t what my common sense could tolerate.

Could it be that Hoshinaka sees that hypocritical or irrational thinking ‘Youth?’

But it’s only going to cause problems for either of us if you seek that from me. Do not expect anything dramatic between me and her. The only conclusion is like the calm of water passing.

Even if something were to happen, it’s only going to be a little bit of nothing.

“So you get it? Don’t call me again if your boyfriend doesn’t know.”

For the sake of hanging up on her, I told her in a roundabout manner.

But if her boyfriend knew and let her do it, I’d feel even more insulted.

“I know. I will do that if I feel like it.”

“Hey now…”

“Thanks for spending time with me again. Goodbye.”

With that as the closing, she hung up. I listened for a bit, letting the beeping of our severed call fill my ear drums.

I was obviously confounded. Will I be able to focus on studying tonight?

“I guess this is also a form of pervert, isn’t it?”

I lied down after putting the phone down on my desk. ‘Hm~’ I hugged my arms.

Was the light hitting my eyelids from the bulb, or the moon?

Two days passed without me being attacked by Takimoto (which is wrong, but it’s easier to use that name) or receiving a call from Hoshinaka. Since he’s not a radical, the former shouldn’t come to my house after the weekend.

He’s probably also preparing for his exams. I bet he also aspires to go the same school Hoshinaka is going.

“How lovely.”

I leaned back into the chair in my room while quietly whispering his goal that I just made up. It was now a frigid Sunday morning too difficult to be lazy on. Sun saturated outside the window, yet could not breach into the room.

My other friends are probably also giving up their day-off for the tests while staring at this cold sun.

The back of the mechanical pencil in between my teeth, I took a breather staring at the ceiling. I was sick of writing more Kanji. Graphite had darkened my right hand which had plastered the notebook. The whole situation reminded me when I was practising Kanji during grade school. What I mean is I didn’t skip out on doing those.

“But, is passing the certification test going to affect my grade at all?”

The school made us take the test, and I did. Having an award in the room is quite nice as a decoration, I suppose. I didn’t get that perfect attendance reward in grade school though.

And that’s how I slacked off while making the ancient chair squeak. As I continued putting off work, the phone rang downstairs. I straightened the chair, irritated as though someone had just woken me up from an afternoon nap. Putting the pencil down first, I stood.

My parents were already gone when I went downstairs after getting up, so it was up to me to pick it up. While regretting about the fact that the phone wasn’t on the second floor, I ran into the hall and down the stairs yelling, ‘coming!’ Again, at the last few flights, I jumped. It’s a habit at this point.

It’s still ringing. Déjà vu, as I put the phone to my ear.

“Niwa residence.” I was full prepared to hear ‘Niwacchi,’ but the voice called me ‘Niwa.’ It was even a man’s, and a familiar one at that.

“Oh, it’s you, Aihara. What’s up?” Hearing the voice of a friend I’ve known since grade school, my face relaxed.

“Not much. I was just wondering if you’re free. Wanna go out for a bit if you are?”

“Aihara, what do you think a day-off before exams is for?”

“Yet here I am, somehow very bored.”

“Right. Of course you are.”

It’s almost with certainty that Aihara will be recommended into a private high school. In the gloomy classroom, he’s one of the few cheery people. He does, however, promptly banishes himself from the classroom after school’s out.

“I’m not gonna make ya, unless you’re really free.”

“Going out, huh… Got a place in mind?”

“Nope. Let’s go for burgers.”

“Why not find a girl if you’re going for lunch?”

“Mako-chan, if I had one I wouldn’t be asking you.”

“Don’t call me that.”

An ominous disgust crept up to me for some reason.

“Well?”

I turned to look at the kitchen. I don’t recall a meal made for me.

“Alright, I’ll go. Not for too long though.”

“Oh~ Not bad. That’s the kind of guy you are?”

“I don’t plan on staying wishy-washy.”

“You sound a little stressed, man. Whatever. Let’s meet up at the store on the way to school, shall we?”

“Right. Got it.”

“I’m waiting for ya, Kikuchi~”

“Yeah, yeah. We’ll talk about that graduation trip.”

It’s a joke that only works because he’s Aihara. Can’t believe he knows the series too. I rested the receiver. On the back of the advertisement pamphlet left next to the phone as notes, I wrote down about going out.

After leaving that note, I turned.

I ran upstairs for my wallet.

Though dubious of how much insulation the clothes will provide, I’m not about to test them out one by one in this weather. I put my utter faith in them. It’s so cold — Even with the heavy covers my skin had already declared defeat.

Fortunately, before beginning to regret not eating cup ramen at home, I’ve arrived at our rendezvous. Then I searched the people passing by.

“Oh? There you are.”

He found me first. Aihara, with just as much cover as I had, approached. Since both of us lived nearby, neither rode a bike here.

I greeted him with lips shut tightly against the wind. “Hey.”

“You’re as forgettable as ever.”

“That stupid face of yours is not good sign on a day off.”

I’ll leave it up to you to decide who said what. After meeting up, we went into the burger shop. As a side note, I’ve always thought this ‘burger shop’ word is weird.

Perhaps because it’s midday on a weekend, there’re many families with children in there. In addition, the new merchandise displayed on the register was on sale, which is also probably why so many came.

After lining up, we finished our order and paid separately. Instead of the regular dining tables, we chose the seats near the windows to wait for our food to come.

“I asked two people first before calling you, Niwa. They weren’t up for it.”

He opened his mouth; I replied while taking the scarf off.

“Okay.”

“One of ‘em was a chick.”

“So you were already shut down by one.”

Guess he didn’t need my advice. I actually thought he did something impressive. It takes quite a bit of courage to ask out a girl on a weekend as a country-side middle schooler.

“How’s the studying going, master?”

He half-joking asked. That’s what you call courtesy words.

“It’s going.”

“Whatever that means~”

He laughed drily. Not like there’s much we have in common, anyway.

“Oh yeah, I heard you were in a fight. Is that true?”

“Hm? Oh…” He meant with Takimoto’s fist. So it’s spread, huh.

“Is that why you called me up?”

Hehehe… Aihara laughed as though getting a dirty joke. Bingo.

“I gotta find some guy who can give me a little excitement, you know?”

“Right. Too bad you’re gonna be disappointed. It wasn’t even a fight.”

“Really? I heard you fought a big dude for some girl.”

I smiled bitterly at the strange rumour.

Leaning forward, I rested my chin on the table.

“I just got beat up. The bruise’s already gone.”

“So you did get socked. Now that’s youth.”

He laughed at my injury. That’s what you call ‘youth?’ This isn’t boxing, you know.

“What is this ‘youth?’”

“It’s about dating, making memories at the cultural festival and stuff.”

Without mincing words, he replied rather weakly. Whoa! So that’s Youth.

And it seems like it’s got nothing to do with me. None of those applied for my experience.

“Oh?”

Just as I began the game of knocking the table with my chin, I saw some familiar faces.

It’s Hoshinaka and Takimoto. Regardless of what that guy’s name is, I know the first name to be right. Hoho! A date. How free of them. How lovely, I referred to the same phrase spoken in that reverie earlier.

But looking closely, they seemed to be exchanging their feelings in an odd manner. They stared at one another in the alley from across, discussing something. Oh… And they split up.

Takimoto this way, while Hoshinaka the other. A fight?

“What’s wrong?”

Aihara squinted at the road. He either didn’t see them, or flat out doesn’t know them. ‘Nothing,’ I said, despite of the complicated feelings building up.

Can’t believe I’d see the source of my headache when I came out for a stroll. Perhaps the world is created by things we least expected it to be. But ignore who it is created by.

Hoshinaka’s silhouette is just about to fade from my sight.

“Hahh…” With a deep sigh I wrapped the scarf back on.

“Sorry, mind if I head out for a bit?”

“Hm? Sure. Can I have your food?”

“Of course not. And I’m not leaving. Be right back!”

I stood up and dashed out of the store. Light’s green, and I crossed the road.

In order to avoid Takimoto, I went out of the way to search for Hoshinaka, who was about fade into the crowd. I don’t know why either, so it felt empty.

By either turning or raising my arms, I cut between the crowd and fast approached her. As I closed, I wondered how I should address her. So I kept my arm toward her back, temporarily keeping pace with her. I must have looked strange to the bystanders.

“Um… Ahem! Ahem!”

I tried coughing. It looked like an excuse, but it worked. Hoshinaka stopped and turned around.

“Niwacchi…” She called me first, then her eyes grew. A reversed surprise reaction, how unique.

We stopped in the road where people were bumping each other constantly. We did not move — from the meaning alone, it’s the right image.

“What’s the matter?”

That line was as if she’d finally sorted out the questions on her mind.

“I was out for walk when I saw you. Felt like I should at least say hi.”

“Oh?”

She didn’t appear convinced. She probably doesn’t know that it is me who is constantly chasing after her; perhaps finally settled, Hoshinaka walked to the side of the walkway. I followed.

“This must be the first time I’ve seen you on a weekday, Niwacchi.”

“I guess. Where’s the boyfriend?”

I tried to play dumb. Hoshinaka shot a glance at me, seemingly worried with her lips shut. After calming down, she replied casually.

“I was just with him. But he got mad and left.”

“Oh? That’s too bad.”

Unsure what to say, I could only play along.

She exhaled slowly and explained concisely the cause.

“I heard that he punched you, so I told him he shouldn’t have.”

Guess he finally told her. It isn’t exactly something you can say with a grin, though.

It’s probably also not worth bragging about beating me up.

“That’s why you fought?”

“Mm…”

She nodded. Leaning against the building, her gaze appeared tired.

“Is it wrong to say violence is bad?”

“Depends on when and where.”

“Are you fine with being punched, Niwacchi?”

Hell no. Because of how rhetorical the question was, I answered with silence.

She did not press on, instead looking toward the road. With those cold eyes she captured the scenery; I merely stared at her. From those tightly-shut lips she revealed her teeth, as if words would come out. Yet, she swallowed them.

“I have to go. Sorry.”

With that declaration, we are now in a completely reversed position a few days ago in the library.

It’s not like I want a date with her, but hearing her say that, I decided I had to see her off silently. Hoshinaka seemed apologetic, turning her head back many times. But her feet never stopped.

She went further and further away. Visually seeing how she’s disappear in the distance — It’s better this way.

At least when compared to the distance between us which faded without anyone’s knowledge.

Like me now, left to stand there on the sidewalk, but without Aihara waiting for me in the restaurant, and talking to myself.

“Thing’s really crappy recently.”

A nameless something pulled me and Hoshinaka together and fixed us there. Distance is a fine thing: It will never be properly set if you ignore it.

Is that why Hoshinaka asked me out to the park that night?

Yet I couldn’t reach the moon, merely exacerbating the pain of struggle.

“……”

Ah…

This is it.

I don’t know what this youth is, but any more of this…

Nothing will end, and nothing can begin.

No matter in what form.

No matter how big or small, or if the result will depress me somehow.

I have to put an end to this.

It’s the only way for me to focus on the exam.

The exams are truly terrible. It’s all their fault.

Next week, I studied on Monday.

Tuesday I studied.

Wednesday too.

Thursday omitted.

Friday.

I stopped Hoshinaka after school…

“Let’s go out tonight.”

It’s Christmas.

I don’t recall signing a paper about never leaving at night.

So I accepted going out this time. It’s quite an optimistic thought for the me as of late. Clank, clank, the bike emitted a sound like something’s missing.

The night of Christmas. On a weekday, there’s no such thing as lit-up skyscrapers in the sticks. It might be a little more raucous in downtown, but sadly I was going by the fields. Not a single soul was partying in the farm.

I never see anyone happy after school either. Perhaps in the countryside, it’s too early even for people my age to be spending Christmas together. Or maybe it’s just the age when one would want to avoid appearing happy for the holiday. You kind of need to be a little hot-blooded to truly enjoy middle school.

White breath trailed behind. As my finger felt my face, I could sense a bit of warmth. I almost feel the bottom of my nose falling off after a few sniffles. I could never get used to this cold.

I checked again to see if she’s following. Indeed there’s a bike rolling along.

Hoshinaka was behind me. She agreed without a second thought after I had invited her. The conversation followed.

“Let’s go out tonight.”

“What?”

I told her so just as we’re about to pass one another in the after-school hallway. Hoshinaka froze. Naturally it wasn’t just me and her in the hallway, what with the students exiting from their classes.

It’s was the replay of me and her in the middle of the road that weekend.

“Niwacchi, what did you say?”

She spoke collectedly, but on her face was a serious countenance.

In order to keep my face up, I bluffed by raising my nose.

“Well… I’m inviting you out.”

After forcing her to come with me, I then explained that I was inviting her out. That’s just laughable. The initial on-the-spot comment weakened me, and embarrassment rushed into my neck like blood.

“Are you asking me out, Niwacchi?”

Hoshinaka pointed at her chin with a finger.

“Yep.”

Her eyes waved as if the surface of water.

“Because it’s Christmas?”

“That’s one of the reasons.”

I knew my face must be red from ear to jaw, so I shut my eyes. Because no matter what, my face will be reflected and seen by my own eyes.

In the limited field of vision, only the voice of Hoshinaka guided my ears.

“Okay. Sure.”

That was it. Now I can’t yell at her for not asking her boyfriend first.

But why should her boyfriend even hear about this? I thought.

Hoshinaka followed me without a word, but she couldn’t hold it in anymore. She spoke.

“Where are we headed?”

“The mountain.”

I answered precisely while keeping ahead. The clanking of the wheel was like voices thrown in.

“The mountain? That’s a little strange, Niwacchi.”

“No~ No~ Yes. Mountain.”

“We’re gonna die if we go hiking in weather like this.”

“It’s fine. We’re not going anywhere high anyway.”

There’s no mountain that high here anyway. At most we got something a little taller than a hill.

And that’s where we were headed on our bikes.

Nothing in particular happens in this town — that’s why we have to be more proactive. I am now about to go live a life that’s not written in the exam preparation books.

I have not been to this hill since I was a grade schooler. And it wasn’t because I had business there: I merely passed by it to visit another place.

No lights from cars zoomed by, as though the in-name-only state road had nothing to do with the month of December. Only the headlights of two bicycles carved through the darkness consuming the path. We wordlessly hinted ourselves of our next three months in school.

I remembered a little something: I remember going as fast as I could, trying to break the record of highest speed on a bicycle. I was on a straight road just like this one, peddling on my bike. I crashed in the end.

The wheel broke, and I cried my way home. Just why was I trying so hard?

“Ah… Take a right here.”

“Um… Niwacchi? Why are you taking me into the mountain?”

“We’re gonna do whatever you want.”

“I wish to be eating a bean paste bun at the store.”

“Alright, stop whining.”

Let’s go find that on the mountain.

Though pretty sure convenient stores on the mountains are all homes of bandits or whatever.

With the metal tower with red lights shining as the goal, I turned right. Hoshinaka followed — she must have thought that going back now would be a waste of energy. Thankfully she wasn’t complaining all the time.

“You aren’t planning on having a Christmas party in a shrine there, are you?”

“Ask your boyfriend tomorrow if that’s what you want.”

We entered a road with multiple forks. I don’t plan on walking through the hiking trails: We are going the entire way on the road. It’s ‘more like it’ this way.

As I am still a third year in middle school, I believe in my way. We rode, on the mountainous path that seemed like it’s been cut abruptly into the environment. It had no lanes, and snaked along the ground. It was so small that if a truck carrying stuff were to come from the other side, we’d be flattened. The last time I was here, we were on a field trip.

“It’d be a little problematic if I don’t make it home tonight.”

“You will. Relax.”

Just running out here tonight is already too much for me. If I stayed out my parents would murder me. Actually, Takimoto would probably do that first.

Shuffling of the grass swaying in the wind came from around. They stood, perfunctorily blocking our way. Their vigour were as if they would devour us if we somehow become entangled.

We made it pass the prairie-like zone and continued upward. Gradually the incline grew, and so did the burdens of the pedals. It was rough, and I bet it must be even more so for Hoshinaka, who didn’t know where we were going. I’ve actually already decided on where to go, just that I haven’t decided where it will be.

That’s why I decided that until one of us said he or she couldn’t do it anymore that we’d keep going. I also kept track of whether we can make it home safely. On that note, we’re pretty much at the limit.

“Alright, almost there.”

I tried a sudden proclamation. Hoshinaka exhaled in relief, ‘finally.’

We entered a path slightly off the paved road. The overgrown snagging onto the wheels almost stopped them, but we made it eventually. After gingerly traversing the woods, we came upon a slightly open area. The wind blew, to which I shut my eye.

It’s a tall, almost cliff-life place. A misstep would fill the night with screams.

I parked my bike; Hoshinaka too stopped hers half a wheel away from mine. She looked toward me.

“This is where you wanted to go?”

She asked, slightly out of breath. While I am too, I moved my slightly-raised jaw downward. The motion blocked my throat for a bit, almost stopping my breathing.

“Oh yeah. Didn’t your boyfriend ask you out today?”

Before the real deal, I started casually. I could hear the grass being stepped on after I put my left foot down.

Man-made noises couldn’t reach here. The only thing clear here is the wind’s howl. And the cold.

“No. We fought, so it wasn’t exactly the mood. He probably won’t call me today, either.”

Hoshinaka answered with what could be attributed as a lonely reply. The wind’s howl that sounded like escaped air came from somewhere, diving above our heads. For a moment, I saw the movement of air on the cables.

“…Well, it doesn’t matter either way.”

After that extended inhale, I breathed out — the real deal.

The stars are far, and I have not the strength to take the moon. With no ways to fly up, there was no chance for me to close our distance.

So I could make as much noise here, as to hope it would spread to the moon.

It’s the most I could do.

“I think we should call it good.”

“What do you mean?”

“Let’s let go of what we’re holding onto.”

I lazily pointed at the world that exist above, far, far away.

“Isn’t stargazing the ace of youth?”

Now’s the time.

“Come on, look up.”

“Ah…”

The phone,

The wall,

The coffee can. Without those distractions in the way, Hoshinaka listened obediently to my words.

In a motion that I thought delicate, she slowly peered up.

Finally satisfied, I too looked upward.

In the dark sky, that which both she and I expected glittered.

“Whoa…”

The sky, as though breathing, decorated itself with clouds. A few stars scattered themselves in and between the white bodies.

Breathtakingly beautiful objects, gathered together and shined with only their distance from the Earth in common.

As if to drill into us how alive the sky truly was, the wind would sometimes nudge us gently.

I asked for her thought without batting an eye.

“Here’s that Youth action you’ve been asking for. What do you think of the way I put it?”

Her reply was a question. That’s a guaranteed zero on the literature exam.

“Niwacchi, were you always so romantic?”

“I’m about three times more than the usual. It is Christmas, after all.”

It’s a bit of a destructive self-assurance.

Because we’re all from the middle of nowhere, I think of it as a bit lame and was embarrassed by it.

“It’s a bit dark tonight. Or, I should say, the night’s thick.”

“Of course.”

Hearing my doubtless answer, Hoshinaka had the exact response I’d predicted.

“Why?”

Here comes the information I didn’t get myself.

“Because it’s a new moon tonight. It’s pretty rare on a Christmas.”

Hoshinaka chuckled a little upon hearing my report.

“A moon-less Christmas… Isn’t that quite an omen?”

“Quiet you. Who cares.”

I rested my torso on the bike’s handlebars, and my chin onto my arms. My right foot rested on the pedal, tapping it like a horse, while my left on the grass.

“Since the moon is gone, who cares.”

After I said so, Hoshinaka, who sat properly on her bike, tilted her head inquisitively. Because of the moon, our distance can never be closed. Naturally, it is all gone today. The stars — they’re why the moon’s gone.

“Is this enough for your so-called, ‘my youth?’”

I intentionally held the answer back, making sure Hoshinaka’s satisfied. She said nothing, however.

“Forget about me already. Stay with your boyfriend, won’t you?”

“You know I can’t just do that, hahah.”

She tried to play it off with a dumb laughter, but I know the topic is not quite ready to end.

But…

Whatever mysterious thing that existed between us should end now.

“You know, when I think about us.”

“Mm…”

“I think it would be great if we could stargaze when we’re much closer.”

I did feel resentful of the truth I spoke. It is the kind of resentment, the useless kind that faded into the mountain.

But before it all left my lung and body, the regret continued.

“Then we would have been in those forty times.”

Before looking back at the stars, I turned to Hoshinaka to see how she was. Her breath was already back to normal, and she smiled quietly. It was, however, the kind that was frozen in the wind.

“Is it too late?”

She questioned softly. I nodded deeply. My eyes, nose and mouth felt the wind.

“Yes. It’s too late. Not even a sky like this could fix this gap between me and you now.”

A balloon that’s flown out of hand’s reach.

We just now saw that it was still floating today.

And we have to see to it that it’s the last thing we do, and end the act of looking back.

It sucks.

It doesn’t do much.

It is not possible to witness a miracle in the country side.

Because that’s how I carefully experience Youth, in a way suitable for me.

“Let’s end this.”

So that we may get along in the future.

I’m not quite ready to make the trip to moon yet.

“Mm…” She assented lightly. I asked her in a slightly nostalgic tone.

“Do you really agree with what I’m saying?”

“I do. Don’t you feel lonely now, Niwacchi.”

“I’ll be fine. Don’t call me on the phone anymore, alright?”

“I know. What about a New year card?”

“That I will gladly take.”

Sometimes I wish for double-digit amount of postcards.

I ignored the spreading glows of Christmas light beneath the mountain.

“Niwacchi.”

“Hm?”

“It’s cool to stargaze, but it’s pretty boring.”

“You just have to say it…”

Can’t you conceal whatever is on your mind with that youth whatever? Because even I’m feeling it.

It’s like going to watch the sea but end up getting tired of it.

“You’ll never enjoy Youth to the most if you keep this up.”

Strange words escaped her lips.

“So what do you propose?”

“This.”

Hoshinaka’s hand approached. It was not on its way to reach the stars, merely extending horizontally.

The cold fingers lightly touched my hand. I looked at her. Silently moving her bike forward, she rolled up next to me without looking my way, eyes focusing at only the sky.

Perhaps because a little numb, Hoshinaka’s fingers gripped tightly onto mine. The joints rubbed against each other. It hurt, but not a single finger was left to break her grip.

“The moon’s hiding tonight.”

She spoke briefly, as if to erase that usual sense of distance I felt.

Naturally those were words to hide her own embarrassment.

This was the last time me and Hoshinaka were together, trying, bashfully, to warm each other’s hands up.

“What are you, a poet?”

“Oh, shut up. Weren’t you embarrassed too just then?”

“Shut up.” She’s right.

I haven’t held a girl’s hand like this since kindergarten.

I never considered apologising to Takimoto, neither did I feel guilt.

I held hands with Hoshinaka, not for love or friendship, but for farewell.

Through the tips of our fingers, we conveyed what existed in the past, with regrets almost spawning from the touch. With everything ended, we could only share this moment of embarrassment.

But the only way to make up our mind and go forward to the unknown, is to have a steel-like past, so that we may never escape. Hoshinaka and I must move on. No, we wish we can move on.

So that one day, we may be able to traverse the moon with someone else.

To put off some of the awkwardness, I spoke to the person on the other side of my fingers.

“How many points would this be? To your Youth Point.”

“Five!”

How many points is that out of anyway?

“Niwacchi, which way is to your house?”

“I really don’t get what you’re saying.”

I commented on the words Hoshinaka let out when we’re riding on the road.

“Where, pray tell, does gentle Niwacchi-kun reside?”

“Oh~ The next turn on this road.”

“Guess we’re saying bye here, then.”

Hoshinaka braked on her bicycle. The wheels stopped spinning, making a screeching noise. While I didn’t have to, out of courtesy I stopped as well.

I looked back at her from slightly ahead. Her smile was a little more uncanny than usual. Her eyes darted, unsure what the grin meant.

“I live the other way.”

Without looking, she pointed backward.

“Why didn’t you say so from the start?”

“I just needed come, so I can go too.”

Her smile finally settled as she said so, like the moon finally revealing herself from the cloud.

“Niwacchi, I don’t hate you!”

“Me too!”

“Today was the first I’ve spent Christmas with someone else! Bye!”

She raised the front end of her bike, and, turning the bike on its rear wheel, began cycling. The melody of wheels spinning in the serene darkness shook every inch of my ear drum more so than the intermittent noise of cars from the road far away.

Pale air leaked from my teeth. It spread, like wings, in the winter breeze. All sorts of pain assaulted my senses as the wind smacked into my dried face and eyes.

“Me too.”

I said so to the back that drew further away.

My parents will definitely give me an earful when I get home. Will they take all my allowances away?

Just that was enough for me to be regretful of tonight’s action.

If more things I approve of appear, it’d be worth it.

Following Hoshinaka’s example, I began a steady trip back.

And the dumbass spending his Christmas alone on a bike shouted at the sky.

“I wanna girlfriend, dammit!”

What did my first ever Christmas spent with a non-family member bring? I am not befitted to analyse such a thing. So I’ll leave it like that. I should just believe that it gave me the drive to live on.

It’d been a whole year since I spend that Christmas with Hoshinaka. I managed to get into my choice of school, and despite having a phone, I still don’t have a girlfriend. I can’t blame the tests anymore, so that’s a little painful. It’s all so laughable, even the me who cursed the tests for everything.

I still run into Hoshinaka sometimes on the way to school. Since she was always with her boyfriend, however, we never stopped and talked when we pass each other by. The moon between Hoshinaka and me, except for that night of new moon, never disappeared. I mean, not much I can do about the sixty times.

It was now the January of me becoming a High School first year. After new year, my parents told me about their job relocation and transferring. I don’t know if shocking is the appropriate word for describing this, because whatever knowledge I’ve acquired for the tests at that time were all gone. I was taken aback, but also overjoyed.

A life of almost-independence was appealing to me. I’ve never met the aunt I will be spending time with, but since she’s the sister of my stoic father, she must be someone of similar calibre. Because she works, she probably won’t bother me too much — it’s the perfect environment for me.

And what do I mean by perfect? Youth Points of course. It matters not who came up with it, but I decided to invest my youth onto the increase of said points. Kind of like picking up where Hoshinaka left off, if you will.

What existed between me and Hoshinaka then was Youth. I don’t think it was love or friendship: We weren’t mature, and we didn’t think of others or even each other. We merely stuck our hands out clumsily, like sitting next to one another, yet reaching for the moon high up in the sky.

And, without recognising it, we made fools of each other. Without knowing our distance, we believed that all we had to do was to hold hands. At that age, we were driven by something that could only be created then. So we tried, as hard as we could. This so-called youth isn’t referring to being young or having the vigour — it’s to be able to fulfill ‘the wishes of any given moment.’

From that viewpoint, me and Hoshinaka had our moments of youth — even if it was just the forty times that brushed our shoulders. We may have given up and even took the long way, but we got that special ‘+4’ in our heart. It might have been a 5 point for her, but I don’t mind lowering it.

The perfect Youth Score is a five for me, so it’s a bit stricter.

So, well, not even the transfer is a big deal.

Because I will be able to delineate my own Youth in the upcoming year and get even more points.

This year has been filled with setbacks, though. The place I’m going will be livelier than here.

“Once I get to the city, uh… I wanna go to the beach with a girl. Maybe we’ll jump into the sea together.”

I cheerfully packed my stuff on the Sunday before leaving. For once, I was truly happy.

My mind was filled with Youth Points that would be enough for me to reach the moon of my yet-to-exist girlfriend.

### 011. Chapter 5: E.R.O

## Chapter 5 - E.R.O

Q: Select the appropriate words for the following equation:

[ ] x [ ] x [ ] = [ ]

[Niwa Makoto]

[Sudden awakening to carnal desires]

[Trip to the bookstore]

[Running into female classmates]

On a certain blazing summer afternoon.

A certain man on planet earth had a moment.

“My life as a high schooler is rather chaste.”

The half-read novel slipped from the pillow and onto the ground.

Oh… Greetings. Name’s Niwa Makoto. A wholesome high school sophomore. Excuse the strange soliloquy. Must be because of that manga Ryuushi-san recommended me. I rolled over after picking up the book. Ahh… The AC feels so nice. This is paradise itself. You cicadas on the outside, you deserve nothing less. Chirr, Chirr…

“A supposed monochrome book looks pink.”

Is this the terminal stage to my sickness? Am I at the point where my aggregated Youth-Points were roasted and consumed? There’s no questioning to that. Is my speech less interesting now? I rose, unconsciously scratching my head for comfort.

I closed the book, its corner now slightly bent, without marking the page. Perhaps because of lying for so long, both pain and freedom filled my spine.

The second Tuesday of July. Though the tests were over, the results are coming back tomorrow. Still, it’s a rather relaxing day-off. A desire that rode on this laze seemed to surge from within. I twisted my waist; the sound of popping. “Ah.” I yelped. “Ah~ Ah~” The moaning never seized while I cracked my back.

I kept doing so until I was satisfied — or, until that something left me. And for some reason I began hopping. Vertical jumps. Because I couldn’t stand the feeling of my feet being planted all the time.

After a few hops, I could feel the inside of my eyes splitting and drifting apart. So I fixated myself onto the ground, hands on the knees, leaning forward to face this demon in me.

The cries of cicadas seemed to remind me; my conscious was present, but its off running in a grassy plain faraway. To the small image in the corner of my eyes, I whispered.

“What I need now is some lewds.”

Having someone hear this analysis would be the most humiliating thing. And only for me.

As of recent, or should I say, after I moved here, all of my money was spent on transit. It’s something to be glad of, and certainly considered the rudiment of Youth-Points. But that’s not the point: A healthy high school sophomore, living such a wholesome life — how’s he supposed to maintain sanity?

It’s no good as a guy to keep up with the perfunctory rules of 18+ only, and naturally no high schoolers can do just that. Us guys are motivated by such needs — that’s why we can burn so brightly. And to do away with the difficult phrases: pornography.

“But not everything in life will go your way, won’t it?”

There wasn’t a thing in this room that could satisfy my desire. In this room of the Touwa household where nothing is hidden, it could even be said that the tree of youth had withered. A barren land.

I still lament my throwing away of all ‘private’ items when I moved here — all for the sake of saving faces, of course. There’s nothing I’d want more than to go back and beat myself up. I’d even ask him, ‘are ya trying ta be a saint before yer get yerself wet? Huh?” I wondered if all I thought about was getting more Youth-Points and regretted so. “Are ya a dummy, Niwacchi? And ya know how much? Like those kids who make fun of Ryuushi-san’s helmet!”

I scolded myself in imitation of my wonderful classmate, Ryuushi-san. That was actually pretty disgusting. How do girls manage to make such vile sounds?

As I was saying… What was I saying? Right. The importance of the lewds.

Some might claim that I have no need for such things since I already hang out with Ryuushi-san, Maekawa-san and the cousin with whom I live with.

But I can say without a doubt that they are wrong. Or that their youth is far gone.

This is this, and that’s that. As cleaning is different than laundry, even if the purpose is to purify something, the process cannot be any more different. No high schooler can claim to have truly lived youth if it’s entirely wholesome!

“Hold on… Chill.”

I almost shot my leg at the wall with a shout because of my pent-up youth. That would certainly lead to my Kanji certification falling from the wall, as well as danger for my leg.

Almost consumed by my now filth-ridden brain, I looked to the ceiling.

Something like this doesn’t happen without a reason: It was during the exam period when I went to sleep after a serious study session.

First, I dreamt of Erio completely naked underneath the futon, to which I realised I’ve reached my limit. The next day it was of me peeping at Ryuushi-san when she’s changing for club. It’s over. Finally, it was Maekawa-san’s nude cosplay. There’s nothing else to say — that’s not even cosplay any more.

Just yesterday, I saw Meme-san being followed by the words ‘forty years old’ that appeared to have been written professionally in caligraphy. She took off on her bicycle, drawing a storm of dust behind, despite being on concrete. There’s nothing Meme-san can’t do, though I don’t mean that in a flattering way.

I suppose not seeing her naked was my rationality at work.

“That aside.”

I put my hands out in deference. Perhaps because of Meme-san’s face, my impulse waned. Could it be that my aunt scares even this violent desire of mine?

“Just like a middle schooler, huh…”

The momentary decline was soon relit. I paced about in the room, coughing as I inhaled the flowing dust. How do I reach my nirvana?

Neither I nor the Touwa Household had the peak of civilisation — a computer — so the easiest route was ruled out. I was also not trained enough to call and ask my guy friends to straight up ask, ‘I need something hardcore, now.’ I’m left to go out and buy something for the sake of retaining my balance.

I do have a cell phone, but the tiny screen is no good for my fantasy.

“Well, well. Shame I only get motivated for something like this.”

While my lips chattered away something like an excuse, I checked the wallet left inside my backpack on the desk. I can probably buy a book.

Eating a vegetarian buffet with Ryuushi-san gave my wallet a good beating. She might have had a good tomato meal, but all I had were apples. But since I had a great time chatting with Ryuushi-san, it’s all good.

Dirty mags are readily available and at a bargain price at the local convenient store. But that is not the issue here — In other words, it is too mundane and boring a process from an adolescent’s perspective.

Even I am aware of how odd it is to bring about the topic of Youth-point at a time like this, but that’s just how I am. One’s youth is something that is without flavour unless he is conscious of it; I’ve come to the realisation, looking at both the people who couldn’t enjoy themselves more, and those who were bored out of their mind at the school festival.

Perhaps it’s luck: I was the only one home today. Erio did not need me to see her to the Tamura Shop; Meme-san, with a worn-out face from the heat, shambled her way out somewhere.

The time is now to head to the bookstore and come back right away. So, what of spending the afternoon after doing this and that? One has to be especially considerate especially if his cousin lives in the neighbouring room. I must act while she's gone.

The lazy afternoon suddenly shifted into high gear. While the motive was worthy, I wondered I could simply add a point — if it were three guys, then that’s for certain. At times, just a group of friends doing something together weighs far more than the action itself.

“Alright. Let’s go find something.”

I spoke calmly and flatly with a stretch — something I didn’t even bother doing before the sports festival.

While the genre hadn’t been selected, I thought I’ll decide when I get there. The one problem was that I must be quick on my feet, lest I lose my spine after a while in the adult section. Such is the nature of going to the nearby school: you might just run into a friend. And tragedy awaits if it were Meme-san. I wouldn’t want Maekawa-san to see me either, and if Ryuushi-san saw, she’d gladly bestow upon me in front of everyone the name of ‘Shameless-san.’ The summer had just begun, yet if that were to happen, my high school junior year would burn to a cinder.

I shut my eyes while enjoying the last breath of cool air after the AC's been turned off.

As though the melting of snow, I let out a sigh once the heat and the cries of cicadas enveloped me.

'The act of buying a porno mag is merely a game to spend my afternoon.' And so I warned myself before grabbing the wallet and the key to my bike lock.

With another exhale, I slowly bent down to gather the strength to sprint.

‘That's it!’ I commanded my body — Niwa Makoto, for the sake of his youth, dashed out into the summer streets.

While ashamed that my movements were twofold my usual nimbleness, strength swelled.

The July sky was not stingy with its sun, so much so that I was on the verge of shouting a few words along the sound of the bicycle exiting the storage. Still, the pedalling feet did not cease from full speed.

Any more delay will trigger another form of heat from within. No doubt the pincer attack will melt my skin and bones. While the phrase ‘boiling passion’ sounds great, it is simply laughable where mine came from.

Despite it being the afternoon, the sun blazed down; my retina felt as though seared just from facing it, and I do not question the severity of my grimace. Even with my vision limited, without cars roaming in the residential districts, movement was not impeded. Sweat drops seemed unable to form as well, until the bike stops. But perhaps they were waiting for that precise moment — a chance to strike.

I proceeded to the train station, and to the bookstore that I frequent. It is possible that it’s the longer way from the Touwa household, but it’s the only route I know, and it’s the one Ryuushi-san taught me. I continued my journey through the station that had more cobweb than people.

While dubious of how helpful my hurrying was, I did not meet any familiar faces on my way to the store. There was the store’s yellow rooftop, and under it baskets and baskets of magazines. With its front facing the road, the bookstore doesn’t have a parking lot for cars of bicycles. I shoved my bike in the alleyway next to the building.

It was then the accumulating sweat appeared; with the shirt sticking to my skin, disgust came.

Once in a while Ryuushi-san and I visit this store after school. Maekawa-san, too, but only by coincidence. Ryuushi-san recommends me manga, while Maekawa-san novels. The former likes the shounen genre, and the latter sci-fi.

Naturally, I do not pay the nudity section any mind when I’m with either of them.

After locking the bike up, I walked through the store’s front door. As the automatic door opens, frigid air breathed by my neck; the remnant of sweat exited at once, and my temperature dropped instantly. This coldness that surpassed pleasure sent my torso into a tremble, and as if sucking the sweat back in, goose bumps swelled.

The spaciousness of this store’s interior is unimaginable from the tiny door. Even though the area is only half of that of the underground store at the station, for a country boy like me it is more than big enough. Actually, there was a two-story bookstore where I lived. Problem is, it was the only bookstore.

But that’s not important. I must swiftly execute my plan, and even more so when leaving.

Without a moment of doubt I entered, ignoring the weekly magazines and new arrival section, and went straight into the deepest end. The adult section lay there in wait, in the furthest corner. Next to the game strategy section, the wholesome idol photography. With each stride forward I prayed that no one was there… Damn, someone’s there. I paused in response.

What appeared to be a couple of high schoolers were messing around in front of the adult section. The two of them squealed, shoving a dirty mag between each other. The hell? Is this part of the stress relief service of the store? Can I stone these two? Such thoughts appeared in my mind.

The idiot couple appeared to be an older girl and a guy my age. I heard fragments of ‘Tamago-nee’ or ‘Kashi.’ Wonder if they run a chicken farm. But who cares: They’re in my way.

What do I do? I turned to scout the store, but in truth I only looked to a specific place. No one is going to stop this idiot couple. Never mind the girl, the guy is clearly underage. The attendants should say something! I cursed them without any self consciousness.

I wanted to go near the bathroom by the adult section to observe this idiot couple, but instead I ended up killing time at another section to wait for their leave. In truth I had no time, yet something warned me of being rash. Disregarding the possibility that I’m simply a coward I left the strategy section.

This must be the situation in which nothing can sooth the mind. Since I’m also low on money, I had to make the right decision. If a classmate were to see me hunched over at the here, it would be one of the few times that I’m shamed in life. With that in mind, I placed my weight to the right and entered the novel section. A sudden ‘Oh? Transfer student?’ almost sent me flying.

Because of my screaming, everyone from the customers to the attendants stared at me in the silent store. Unlike me, who had shrunken into an embarrassed mess, Maekawa-san approached me composedly. She was in a school uniform. One that I’ve never seen before. On a Sunday.

“What kind of cosplay is this?”

“This is my uniform from middle school. I’m surprised it still fits.”

Maekawa-san laughed flatly. I was in no form of sharing the sentiment. With the heartbeat quickened, my eyes drifted and the scenery changed.

Maekawa-san. She’s here. I bumped into her when I came to grab a dirty mag. It’s a coincidence without any malice. If we didn’t run into one another here, we would still be friends who do not know each other deeply. Why are you here? Why?

I suppose not meeting her in front of the adult section was a blessing in disguise.

“You here for a book too, transfer student? Sure got a lot of free time, eh?”

“Oh… Yeah, I’m not doing much…”

Shoot, my voice cracked near the end. I even started getting the hiccups.

“Mm?” Seeing my strange behaviour, Maekawa-san tilted her head with a grin. Dammit, if she started doubting me, I might just end up as ‘shameless-san.’ So, uh… What do I do?

I pinched my nose in an effort to stop the hiccup; I looked up to Maekawa-san — she’s really lanky.

Nothing stood out with Maekawa-san in her middle school uniform. The clothes were just the right length, meaning she’s been this tall since middle school. Must have been quite eye catching, like when she falls.

Considering herhistory of cosplay, it’s not too odd an outfit —perhaps even normal. Compared to a sandwich or a manju, it is at least a human getup.

“Why the stare? Don’t tell me you have a thing for middle schooler.”

Of course not, I shook my head. How long does it take to stop hiccups? Actually now’s not the time for that. Running into Maekawa-san had just formed a difficult obstacle to scale in this scenario.

“Oh~ You’re trying to stop your hiccup?”

Maekawa-san realised my predicament after a look. With the exception to outfits, the well-known clairvoyance of Maekawa-san worked wondrously. She seemed to be waiting for my recovery, shifting her attention back to the novel with her mouth shut. I appreciate how she handles things. And so I continued, trying my darnedest to stop the hiccups. Just holding my breath like so reminded me the stifling innards of a futon roll.

In fact, I’ve done it once. Despite not being tied tightly, it’s quite stuffy; because your breath comes back to you, it gets really warm around the mouth. Truth to be told I didn’t think I was even in the same dimension.

Anyone who can stay in there for an extended amount of time must be a freak. Thankfully no one like that exists.

“Phew… I think it stopped.”

Following my report Maekawa-san lifted her head up; she smilingly whispered ‘Yeah.’ Hm, very cool of her. Still can’t believe this is the same person who’d get her energy sucked out of her the moment she raise her arms up.

Well…

The problem remained.

Some issues had been amended, but I was far from where I was when I just set foot in here. I was still stuck in a rut. What must I do in order to return to that oh-so-great adult section? For some reason, my tear glands felt weak at the thought. Life is tough for a high school junior, more so than a final exam.

“Uh… So, what brought you here, Maekawa-san?”

Hahahahah. The hell am I saying? And the laughter only made it worse. She squinted her eyes; the friendly smile on Maekawa-san’s face faded.

It didn’t help that my eyes were bouncing around to keep watch of the store. Dammit, stop staring. It’s all over if Maekawa-san notices. No doubt she will follow me and jab me with words like ‘Oh~ so that’s your kink, huh.’ A-actually, that sounds nice too… N-no! I must not be fooled.

“Transfer student, are you burnt out from the exam?”

An apparent shock. If that’s what she thinks, sure; but Maekawa-san is quite sharp. It’s possible that she’ll find out from just that suspicion — Nothing ever ends well when she starts asking questions.

“Oh~ Probably. I guess I lost a few points of IQ over the break.”

So I played along to avoid being interrogated. Perhaps never curious to begin with, Maekawa-san noted with a short ‘oh’ before looking away. As though she was observing the store itself, she looked about and rested her chin in her hand.

“Mm… Mm…”

“Uh, what’s the matter?”

“Oh, I was just thinking that you’d be hanging with Touwa or Ryuushi.”

“Uh, I’m all alone actually.”

“I see… That’s unusual for a playboy like you.

'Unfortunate,' she said. It did not appear, from her grin, however, that she’s at all displeased. Such an envious insult doesn’t fit me, you know. I am, though, around girls often as of recent.

Ryuushi-san san aside, Erio is more of a… A fledgling near it its mother.

“Oh yeah. You sound a little twitchy. What’s got you on edge?”

Ugh… She once again prodded without a hint of fear. I choked, almost started hiccupping again. I sounded nervous. Huh, didn’t know that.

“Uh… I don’t… I think.”

I paused, but all it did was make it sound intentional. Annoyingly, sweat poured from my back. And because of that, I wanted to pinch my neck and back. Did they turn down the AC? I looked toward the ceiling.

“And you’re always saying ‘uh.’”

“Uh… Ahaha…”

This must be what a suspect feels during an investigation. A fear of the ground behind you disappearing: This must be what they call despair.

“You’re hiding something… And not something you are hiding well.”

She looked down with a smile. It was an expression of finding something more interesting than a book. Others probably saw me as a cowardly high school kid getting bullied by a huge woman. But since nobody would give me a helping hand, I remained hopeless.

If it were for something else I’d have given up already, but this wasn’t something that could be so easily settled. Especially since I’m familiar with her. My pride will never allow for this.

Though there are possible repercussions following my trump card, here I go.

“I must be in your way! Take your time!”

“Way to change the topic.”

I simply gave up on talking. It was the only way.

“Hit me up again if you found another novel! Bye!”

“Ah, there he goes… Transfer student, wait~”

I escaped into the manga section without heeding to the enfeebled voice that lagged behind me. I’ll wonder about what to do with her tomorrow later — what’s important is now.

It’s not like the school sells something like a dirty mag, so anything beats getting nothing and still have to deal with her tomorrow. “Eh? Niwacchi~” Crap.

T-this distinctively laid-back voice… I looked up slowly. It had to be Ryuushi-san. Perhaps just finished with her club, she had her backpack slung over a uniform, standing in font of the comic section. Please, stop putting these obstacles in my life.

I coughed from the dust that was driven up by my ceaseless challenges.

“Oh no~ NIwacchi, what’s wrong? A summer flu?”

No one else could sound so relaxed and have such round eyes. There’s Ryuushi-san in the bookstore. Yes: fate had been seized. The certainty known as coincidence was preventing me from getting a lewd mag.

“Oh, uh, I was just so shocked by this funny thing known as fate. I’m a big bag of surprises after all.”

Naturally a point is given whenever one runs into a girl classmate on a day-off, but in such circumstance I felt only bleakness.

“I had no idea, Niwacchi. So if I, Ryuuko, go inta a parallel universe and grab another Niwacchi, ya would be real surprised.”

Any one would be.

“Still, what a coincidence. What a wonderful coincidence.”

“Hahahah… Sure.” It had to be predestined.

This stroke of fate smells like Youth-points! I will kick whoever says that.

“What are ya here for, Niwacchi?”

She asked with a smile while showing the cover of the manga she’s holding. Uh, what do I say… I’m here for a book that gets you excited only when you’re alone! Hah! Yeah right.

I tried to buy time with a gross laugh. ‘No… It can’t be…” Ryuushi-san spoke with a dramatic tone and an exaggerated pose.

“Ya are here to buy those nudies books!”

!@#$. Aghhh, my heart yelped, but thankfully I did not. That would reveal the painful truth.

Ryuushi-san recovered with a refreshed smile.

“Jay~ Kay.”

“J-jay, kay~”

“Oh? Ya don’t look so good, Niwacchi. Yer face’s all mushed up.”

The pain. My chest hurts. The test of courage is fitting for the summer, but I need my heart for the rest of the year, too.

I turned to the sensation of a stare — there was Maekawa-san from behind the shelf. She didn’t budge, possibly from seeing Ryuushi-san; hiding back into the shadow, she disappeared with that meaningful grin.

“Mm?” Ryuushi-san was intrigued by my actions, meaning she did not notice Maekawa-san. It is not my concern what she will do in this circumstance. But what is the circumstance, indeed? Let us analyse. I felt my chest.

Firstly, Ryuushi-san, who’d just finished club activity, is in the manga section. Presently she’s comparing the book prices next to me, all with a scowl on her face. Such a manner in contemplation revealed to me what the phrase ‘Money Niagara Fall’ meant — she must be quite hand-tied.

Maekawa-san, in her middle school uniform, is in the novel section. Oh, there’s her head from behind the shelf. We met eyes; she snickered. ‘So you were totally hanging out with Ryuushi,’ she seemed to radiate. It’s a misunderstanding, of course, but our distance made any explanations impossible.

That aside, with the total of four eyeballs on me, I am basically being monitored by a camera. I shouldn’t expect them to completely ignore a classmate they ran into at a store. Ryuushi-san, especially, was emitting an aura of ‘let’s go home together!’ or ‘Wanna go for some tea at the coffee store?’ Normally I’d thrilled, but now would be disastrous. I comprehended deeply that time and place do matter.

What’s worse was the idiot couple in the adult section. I squinted at the distance to see that they’re still there. The hell are they doing? How much time are they going to waste just standing in a place where you can’t open the books? Idiot couples lost in their world is absolutely a public nuisance.

Fine, I won’t see them as the worst problem. I will just ignore them and find the book I want, and go straight to the counter. That was the plan, but because of other factors it won’t be that easy any more. It was a mistake to have hesitated earlier. I could only grimace at this kind of life lesson with a sigh.

Hurry, think.

Think of a way — A way that would avoid the eyes of both Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san.

If there’s anything of relief, it’d be the fact that the Touwa’s weren’t here. Now those are of a different territory, and far more destructive. Erio would follow me incessantly while yelling ‘cousin,’ while Meme-san would possible led me by the hand to the adult section, ‘this way, bro!’ Thank goodness.

But I must hurry. A premonition told me that those two will eventually join us; as the air chilled me, the feeling came.

“Niwacchi, ya are spacing out. Ya alright? Feelin’ sick?”

“Oh!” There’s Ryuushi-san staring from up close. Her face was in a spot where I could easily touch her lips, if I were to look down like to greet my paper model club president from middle school. I fretted and backed off a step. Damn my cowardice for backing off. Can I not control my legs?

“Oh… Ya are really jumpy today, Niwacchi.”

Ryuushi-san, oblivious to her own careless actions, clapped her hands joyously. Dammit, she’s so adorable. Her cuteness and ditz are making this difficult. What do I do? What can I do? Damn, I wish I knew. And so, I complimented Ryuushi-san in the backward and non-sensical way.

“Niwacchi, are ya here to buy some manga too?”

“What? Manga what? Oh, uh… Manga. Yeah, what should I get?”

I actually don’t even want to get any: anything extra would prevent me from accomplishing my goal. Naturally I could only refuse Maekawa-san’s recommendation, but that won’t make things easier.

‘So what are you here for?’ They’d ask about my actions. Maekawa-san, especially, loves to tease me when I’m vulnerable. As for Ryuushi-san, I can probably just fool her. Seeing how puffy her cheeks are, I grew confident. Ahh, I wanna poke them. Why do girls all look so soft? Is it the glycoprotein? It’s the glycoprotein, right? Does it bubble?

“Oh… Uh… Huh?”

“Uh…” My finger already sunk itself inside of Ryuushi-san’s face.

I had no recollection of what transpired. Like the Smiling Salesman himself I stuck my index finger into Ryuushi-san’s cheek. Uh oh. I tried to endure, but to do something so strange right after letting my guard down, can I even live through this one? Poke, poke.

Ryuushi-san stared blankly. She’s spacing out. Uh, what kind of reaction is this? As I pondered, Ryuushi-san shouted as though immolated. ‘Uwahhh!” Despite the glares from the others, she bounced about.

“W-w-what are ya doing! Niwacchi, what, uhh, what are ya doing!”

She exploded, flapping her arms like wings; the spot that was poke blushed faintly, but was now no different than the rest of her face.

Her face was beet red.

“R-Ryuushi-san, keep your voice down!”

“It’s Ryuuko! And, uh, uhhh, what are ya doing!”

“W-well, I just thought… Your cheek looked soft…”

“What!? Doncha have something more ta say? D-doncha know what control is?”

Since she’d only being saying ‘what are ya doing,’ I think it’s settled.

“Seriously… Wuu…”

She felt her cheeks while squirming, whispering ‘Ryuuko’s embarrassed’ before covering her entire face. I was flustered as well. Maekawa-san definitely saw this, and the other people must have decided that we’re the most annoying people here. Guess we won’t be coming to this store for a while.

Now I absolutely must get the goods. While Ryuushi-san’s looking down, I stuck my neck out to see the shelf behind her.

Oh, the chicken feeder couples left. With faces the colour of ripe persimmon, they left stuck to one another. The porn that they were shoving to each other earlier was for some reason now in the hand of the girl. As they passed us on the way to the register, I heard a little of what they said.

Basically it sounded like ‘if we don’t buy it, you will come here to buy it anyway, Kashi-kun. Onee-san will go ahead and buy it to make sure that doesn’t happen.’

So Kashi’s his last name. Not that I care. The idiot couple is gone, with no one else in front of the adult section. It’s come — judgement day.

Think. Think!

“……”

Nothing. There was no strategy to buying the lewd magazine. Being a high schooler is truly suffering. Since it's come to this, I shall trust my instinct. It doesn’t matter if it’s this or that, just play along with this or that.

Any further activities with Ryuushi-san will incur more embarrassment or a stupid grin on my face, so I turned around and walked away with ridiculous strides.

“N-Niwacchi? Where ya going?”

“Just something.”

I went over to the entrance; after exiting the automatic door, I began moving as if gathering the humid air outside. From the magazines laid inside the baskets by the door, I picked up two book in the pile and returned. As abashed as she was, Ryuushi-san followed; with a rigid smile, I silently moved toward the novel section.

“Hi, Maekawa-san.”

I spoke up to Maekawa-san, who was now kneeling by the novel section. I wasn’t, of course, thinking proudly about how I didn’t start my sentence with a ‘uhh.’

Letting Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san see each other, and then sneaking out to buy a dirty mag. It was no strategy — but a test of luck.

The interaction, however, of these two is never something to be taken lightly of. If there’s anything I’ve learned from the past, this would be it. And so I will see how far this will go.

“Eh? Niwacchi, you came with Maekawa-san?”

Ryuushi-san appeared surprised after knowing the existence of her classmate (are they friends?). Shock turned into displeasure. As for Maekawa-san, her lips hooked upward like the usual.

“What about you? Wasn’t there a certain annoying idiot couple around here?”

With a sarcastic and teasing voice, she inquired our being together as coincidence or intentional.

“I… I’m not an idiot! And we’re not a couple!”

Ryuushi-san flapped her wings about. Hmm… This pose… The time is now. I moved as soon as I see Maekawa-san absorbed in Ryuushi-san’s reaction.

“Uh, I’m going to the toilet.”

I departed as soon as I whispered the words. ‘Oh… Alright’ Maekawa-san nodded lightly. Ryuushi-san couldn’t hear it over the flapping, but at the very least she did not notice me leaving.

The bathroom was located inside the bookstore. And the adult books are in front of the bathroom. What a wonderful arrangement: There is nothing suspicious about me going there. As though motivated by a filled bladder I strode toward the toilets; with every steps, my heart and pulse accelerated.

I shot a glance toward the store entrance; the rowdy idiot couples were poking each other while exiting. Still staring, I prayed for their misfortune.

With disregard to the adult section I paced into the stalls. After entering, I rested my back on the door. With a thumb measuring my pulse, I waited for my time.

Too short, it’d be suspicious; too long, Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san might begin wandering around after the former calms down. I must time myself to quickly obtain my stuff. It’s almost a competition, but with just myself.

While the bathroom was clean, due to the lack of AC inside, sweat began dripping. This heat drowned me like the rising sea, suffocating me. Phew… Haa… I was thirsty, and the dryness drove me nuts. It smelled as though burnt. The moisture in my nose~ This dehydration and my own nervousness made the perfect torture. I shook my head and pushed the door outward.

The numbness crawling up my limbs was just like when I was getting ready for a football game in grade school. This anxiety will eventually corrode my finger, I thought.

It’s a feeling that one couldn’t help but feel during a test. I had never thought I’d feel the same buying a porn mag, but it’s a good sign. It’s not the same as not being able to move — it allows for the relaxation of the body. While the fluid in my guts pained me, I could easily manoeuvre in this state.

Experience tells me I work best like this. I suppose a proper amount of pressure and tension serves to lubricate the gears of life.

After the longest thirty seconds in my life, I exhaled the dry air and took a deep breath.

I bit down onto the burnt-tasting air.

It’s time to go. I rushed out of the bathroom door.

Two steps, and I reached the middle of the adult section. I pried my eyes open, searching for the right book cover. I had no time for the those in the shelves: Taking the books in and out will take too much time. Not a single second could be wasted, and I cannot afford to stall. My back was extremely sensitive from not wanting to be seen by them. Each cover had alluring arts, and if possible, I’d rather spend about two hours to find the right one. Unfortunately, I can only settle for a good option instead of the best.

I heard girly laughter from behind. Driven by the sound, I hunched over to pick up a book. ‘Alright!’ I turned around after checking the cover.

The girl on the cover looked like Ryuushi-san. It’s one of the coincidences in all the recent one that didn’t matter too much. I totally didn’t pick the book because of that.

My ears and sides of the face brightened as I handed the porn to the store clerk. It felt like handing a love letter to an admired senior.

The old lady, whose makeup was coming off, stared at the book on the counter, then me.

I froze from worrying her asking for my age, but she began tapping on the register without a word; I relaxed. She’s probably just displeased with Ryuushi-san’s yelling earlier.

She coldly stated the price, to which I almost bit my tongue upon replying. I took a thousand yen bill out; the jingles of the register came.

The amount of change could be described as the tears of a sparrow. This book cost me all abilities to visit stores. Well, I guess I could still buy some snacks.

After shoving the book into a bag, the attendant gave me the goods and along the receipt.

I took the bag with shaky hands. As I gripped onto it, the sense of conviction and accomplishment swelled into my hands, my nails even digging into my palm.

Considering that the bag of this store was semi-transparent, I sandwiched the porn between the magazines from earlier. No one would be able to see behind the bold colour of tan.

Despite wanting to bathe in my victory with a fist raised, I left the register calmly in order to keep low. With one more exhalation, I went to meet up with Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san at the novel section. Hopefully they didn’t see me.

“Hey, kept you waiting.” That sounded phony.

Even I felt my waving was empty.

“Ah, Niwacchi. Where did ya go? Ryuuko had it rough trying to explain myself.”

“Sorry, I was in the restroom. Aren’t you two buying something?”

“Huh, you’re awfully polite, transfer student.”

“Not at all. You should get your books though.”

I egged them on to keep things rolling. Their height differed so much, yet Maekawa-san was somehow easier to push. How strange.

“Aww~ What are ya doing?”

Though she wasn’t entirely willing, she wasn’t putting up much a fight compared to when I poked her cheeks. Perhaps because of the clothes in between, my guilt-ridden heart wasn’t filled with hopes.

“Get this, Niwacchi, Maekawa-san was all like…”

“Okay, okay~”

Upon hearing my perfunctory reply, Maekaw-san — not Ryuushi-san — chuckled.

As if she’s discovered something… No, that’s just not possible.

I was on edge the entire time while waiting for them. I pictured myself taking the plastic bag out and hiding it behind me, but I cringed at just how desperate I was being.

But that’s youth for ya. The weight in my hand reminded elated me so. I smirked.

After they were done, we left the store together.

On the way back, Ryuushi-san, with a hand shielding her eyes from the sun, asked:

“What did ya get, Niwacchi?”

“Hm? A stiff book.”

The cover was stiffer than a comic book's. True story.

Giving my exhaustion to the sun and the singed air, I slowly closed my eyes.

In the darkness, I nonchalantly and lovingly counted my pulses.

“Hm?”

I pondered. In my room. Alone, of course. Sitting on my bed, arms crossed. Like a scientist encountering a difficult issue or a student a test, I moaned while staring down at the dirty mag. My finger tip lifted a page.

My brain and the inside of my eye spun.

I could almost hear its sound inside my perverted mind.

“No! No! No!” I tumbled about. “Ugh…” I seized up with what sounded like a weep. “Argh…” I reached into the air.

“My pink night!” My simple evening seemed to sink like the usual.

Wisdom, bravery and perversion: with these three traits, I returned victoriously from the battle at the bookstore. The only person who knew what I bought should be just the clerk. And so what? I should returned with the triumph of winning at life. That is, until I saw the cover.

“Dammit… I can’t get it out of my head… It must be them.”

Yep, there’s the porn magazine. Let’s pop it open and see those fleshy colours. And then the girl’s face. Yet, the eyes and brain that should be enjoying themselves had a mysterious chemical change. I could only see Ryuushi-san and Maekawa-san’s naked body! I cannot do this! This unpredictable yet meaningless guilt assaulted. Aghhhh… I squirmed with deep sighs. Like a teenage girl I burrowed my face into the pillow and kicked my feet.

“Hmm… This is also youth. Hahah~” Shut up, ya idiot!

I bounced on the bed, my breath now a mess. After failing to get up, I mumbled to myself — rather than to being tranquillised, I was exhausted.

“Damn… It’s too peaceful.”

There I was, troubled by a problem that was hundreds of billions of times smaller than the continuous existence of this planet. Well, I suppose I am one of those billions of people, so relatively speaking, it’s probably a big deal.

Erio’s got her own issues (e.g. the beast of futon roll). Ryuushi-san’s got her own problems (e.g. call me Ryuuko). Maekawa-san’s got her own mysteries (what is her name?). We live day by day, guided by something.

“Is now the best time to be pretentious?”

I moaned. ‘Ugh…’ and stuck my hand toward the dirty mag with more trepidation than with a reference book. Thinking that I’d conquered my fear, I flipped the page open with the tip of my finger.

“Aghh!”

Perhaps because of the page’s background being a blue sky, Erio popped into my mind. This isn’t good… Even more so with Erio! She’s the beast of futon! That’s kinda weak as a reason!

And it’s not even a real reason! And it’s not why I’m rejecting this book! A man isn’t a man if he says no to porn! Alright! I got this! Here I go: I’m going to casually flip through the book, elegantly view it, and enjoy my night—

“I’m home, cousin~” Pitter patter!

A voice as loud as the stomps in the hallway escaped my throat as I jumped. The terrifying realisation of me floating in the air froze a part of my brain.

I couldn’t even hide the book because only my time was stopped.

“Cousin?”

As the voice came with Erio's entrance, I finally was able to move my hand to hide the book under my sheets. The cover aside, she saw the entirety of my motion.

“Mm?”

“Welcome home (お帰り).”

I greeted flatly with a pun.

It escaped me that Erio had returned. I did not hear the door opening or her climbing up the stairs. It’s probably because I was too occupied with my troubles.

Tears almost erupted. Could it be that she heard the noises I made earlier? She stared at my pillow with her head cocked. Naturally, it was where I hid the dirty magazine.

“Cousin. You’re hiding something.”

“No, there’s nothing in the sheets.”

Shouldn’t I be glad that it wasn’t Meme-san who saw? It wouldn’t take her seconds to see through me. I raise my cup to Erio’s naivete.

I was finally able to use the book too. But because my neighbour, who’s still technically a female, had returned, not much can be done. In other words, I won't be enjoying it.

She should be more considerate for the high schooler living here.

“Mm… Mm…” She turned her head left and right in attempt to peek under the sheet.

“Hmm…” And I blocked her with my body.

Like a metronome we shook our heads. Erio desperately tried to see my bed, and I guarded it.

“Sunday special: Cousin’s secret.”

“How about you try to raise your hourly wage instead of doing something so boring?”

Erio moved in. Damn, how contemptible! Not that there’s a rule against it. What happens if Erio sees the book? It’s confirmed that Meme-san will make fun of me for about a month, but what of this girl? Hmm… Embarrassment? Or curiousity? It’s all unknown territory. And one that I don’t care for.

“I! Am! Home!”

It’s one thing if it were rescue, but the unfitting voice was that of my forty-year-old aunt. It was closer to the shouts of the grade schoolers from across the streets.

“Meme-san is back.”

My finger pointed toward the hallway from aside Erio’s face.

“Mm.” She nodded, yet her approach persisted. Rather than keeping up with this futile defence, I got off the bed. Erio turned about, and I shoved her out.

“Go see your favourite mom.”

“The mission of a TV ratings hunter is to discover the cousin’s secret.”

“Your mom probably has more than I do.”

“Twenty years ago~ Twenty years old~ Lala~”

A mysterious song came from outside.

“She’s probably singing along with an air-guitar solo. Go on.”

“Mm…”

Pushed out of the door, Erio looked back with a dissatisfied pout. She coveted the hiding place of the pornography. Seriously! Just stick with your futon!

“If we live till four hundred~ Then forty is like eight~”

Lala? Her singing sounded worse than that of the drunk old men at a Karaoke competition. A little more sentimental, I suppose.

I nudged Erio out of my room. Either bored or desisted, she looked back at not the bed, but me.

“Please look forward to next week’s Sunday Special.”

“It’s not a special any more if its weekly.”

With that final nudge on her back, I sent Erio down the stairs. Phew…

I stayed to make sure she didn’t fake me out before gunning back into the room. If Erio went back to her room next door, I won’t be able to use the book well — I must do what I must do now.

While that was my thought…

“She… That forty-year-old might appear in my fantasy…”

Perhaps because of her shouting, I sense Meme-san’s presence growing ever stronger. It will be a lost cause if she appears. My rational defence will collapse, and I will forever be traumatised. Why must I be horrified during my times of pleasure seeking?

In the end, I lamented at how crappy of a day off this was. The book remained unused in my possession.

And I now must live an apprehensive life like just now with my neighbour.

The thing in my hand only served to shackle me.

“Sigh…”

I’d given up on counting my points.

“In the end…”

I probably won’t be having a good dream.

With the prayer that I won’t see Meme-san, I shut the lights off.

Good night, and good bye. I’ll face this tiny problem tomorrow.

## 05. Volume 5

### 001. Chapter 1

## Chapter 1 - The End of the Beginning of the Summer, Continued

Current Youth-points: +3 (leftover from the last round)

“Mm… Mmhmhm, Mm… Mmhmhm~”

“Uhhhhh, N*uticaa?”

“Mhm~ Mhm~”

That’s probably right. If I were wrong, it’d be a “Hmph, hmph.”

“Hm~ Mm~ Mm? ‘MhmhmMhmhmMhmhmm?’

“Uh… The theme of The Unfettered Shogun.”

“Mhm~ Mhm~”

What strange songs. There she was, frozen in order to not spread the dust about.

“Mhmhm~ Mhmhmhmm~ Hmhmh~”

“Hold it right there or you’re gonna be in a lot of trouble.”

“Mmph.”

I covered her mouth through the futon. Please forgive us, mister mouse, I will teach her proper decorum.

While we were indeed bored out of our minds, can anyone honestly argue that a game of riddles in the middle of a summer day like this is holds any meaning? Oh, yes. I’m Niwa Makoto. Greetings.

The second year of high school — the peak of youth. Only a week remained in the summer vacation of such a critical time. The bodies of cicadas laid untouched in the corners of the streets; here I was, savouring the end of the season.

Still, the insects chirped their summer songs in the garden. I turned my head; though we’d mowed the grass just few weeks ago, there they were, peaking out again to cover the entirety of the yard.

“Mm? Mmf~ Mhmph~ Mhmph~ Mm~ Mhm~ Mhmph~ Mhmhmhmhm.”

“We still playing? Uhh… No clue.”

“Mhmhmhm! Mhmhmhm Mhmhmhm.”

“Look, even if you are telling me the answer, I don’t speak futon and there aren’t any books teaching it.”

Our local Yokai — Touwa Erio — was currently throwing a tantrum on the floor. She’s pretty close to being a cicada nymph, with how she stuffed herself in there. Well, the differences would be that nymphs don’t look that much different out of their shell; she, on the other hand, gets some… dramatic differences. Let’s say a certain Space Ninja monster shed its skin and turned into a cute girl — people are going to be shocked, no doubt.

The mother of this Yokai stuck her head into the living room: It’s apparent that the act was her trying to be cute. For the sake of her forty years of age, I shall take notes of the few seconds when she rampaged down the hallway earlier like a child.

Wearing a shirt one size larger than mine, my aunt had a pair of shorts on with her hair tied into a bun with a handkerchief. Her age aside, it was a getup that emanated immaturity.

“Eri-chan~ Daddy~ lunch is ready~”

“Mhmph!”

“Hold on.” I pressed her head down.

Struggling about, Erio kicked her legs into the air.

Is kicking up the dust all you can do? Pointless! I thought as I witnessed the futile struggle.

“Who’s this ‘daddy?’”

My aunt Touwa Meme stared at me with a naïve smile unimaginable as belonging to a forty-year-old. I’m no father to a futon! Uh, high quality velvet? Bed? Heat blanket?

“Ohh~ Eri-chan~”

Despite not having a running start, my aunt slid toward me and pounced without a shred of hesitance. Her arms wrapped tightly around my back, and there was not a bit of space between us. Kyaa~ her boobs are on me~ Ahh! My something is ahhing. “Please pounce the one that you’re actually calling out!” Your Eri-chan is here!

Since that’s just how my aunt is, it’s evident that the Earth is still going off-course as planned.

I dragged the aunt latching on my waist and pushed the futon roll into the kitchen. Though it’s clearly a normal summer day with temperature much higher than the human body, the pair didn’t care about their dignity.

“Please let go of my shirt, or better yet, me!” I pushed against her forehead, yet as soon as I did that she held on even harder. Why must I partake in this silly game in this oven of a house? And you, futon roll, you better start walk with your own damn legs!

“Mako-kun is all grown up. Your aunt is tearing up at the thought!”

“The only one who will cry is dad when he sees you like this.”

“Meme-chan was only 20 when I first met you… Sniff sniff.”

That’s what you meant?!

Drag~ drag~ Bump, bump. It would seem that we’re still ways away from making normal human walking sounds.

Into the kitchen with a small turning fan, I smelled a distinct aroma — right away I could tell what’s on the menu today. Meme-san had prepared dry noodles, and the ginger powder was the culprit of that smell. By the way, we had the same thing two days ago, but it ended up as World War Ginger where we dumped as much ginger as possible into each other’s sauce. Needless to say, my tongue was annihilated. I no longer remember the catalyst of the battle, but I faintly recall something that stepped on her childish age-landmine. I will try not to do the same thing today.

“Don’t you think it’s about time we have a chapter on Meme-chan’s high school life?”

“Not much point to a story before we were born, is there.”

“Mako-kun the sperm!”

…After our usual banter, Meme-san, Erio and I formed a triangle at the table. “Oof.” Erio moaned as her shin bumped into the chair.

“Take the futon off!”

“Mm.” Perhaps because of the pain, she listened obediently. A hand emerged from beneath the futon — though seemingly restrained, it dexterously untied the rope. At this point in time, we no longer pay the act any mind. As we diligently prepared the utensils and the condiments, Erio finally exposed her face to the atmosphere.

… Still the outrageously amazing look that is birthed from the errors of the ecosystem. A head of azure-coloured hair that’s too wasteful even to have a strand lost; its length, along with her pale skin, reminds one of the sky. Lastly, a charmingly blank countenance that would surely help out a certain forty-year-old if she could share it. Well, she’s gotten a lot more expressive as of recent. Only if my aunt could be a little more mature and composed. That was merely a suggestion with intense yearning.

Erio raised her leg boldly as if showing off her bumped shin. She had on a one-piece dress, and her feet were naked. Does she have any sense of dignity? I caught a glimpse of her underwear. How shameless! I lectured internally while occasionally shooting a glance over. What’s wrong with acting like a typical high schooler? Right? No?

“Shin. Red.”

“It’ll turn blue in a while.”

“Traffic light.”

Pleased with her own jest, Erio smiled with her eyes squinted. Every time she smiles like so, it is as if she metamorphosized into someone else. Is there a single person on this planet who can directly withstand the sight?

Rumour has it that she was ostracised by the girls at her school. I can totally see why now.

“Cousin, is summer break ending?”

“Yeah, August’s almost over. Didn’t really go out a lot near the end though.”

The sun shone so out there — am I really going to end this summer being a shut-in?

As I contemplated, Meme-san interjected with a keen comment.

“Oh, that reminds me. The circulation board mentioned something about a group tour.”

“Group tour?”

“Just an overnight tour nearby. Do you want to go, Mako-kun?”

Meme-san glanced at me and Erio as she mixed the noodle sauce. Erio mumbled the world tour flatly and glimpsed at me. Her googly eyes were pure like still water. Why do you have to wait for my response? Not that I mind.

“Hmm. Where are we going?”

“The local beach, I think. There’s food, too, with unlimited drinks. Well, Meme-chan doesn’t care about that, because she’s not even drinking age yet~”

An old lady squirmed about while emphasizing how little she cared. I began my train of thought. The beach. The summer beach. Every time the wave meets the sand, it brings to me tried-and-true chances of winning some Youth-points back.

The regret of a youthful man who ended his summer without going to the beach once can only be matched by a baseball player who never made it to Koshien! How could I not nod my head?!

…But think it through. A local tour — the age gap between the attendees is going to be way wider than a that of a school fieldtrip. Sweat, the beach! While the prospect of a swimsuit is enticing, who is going?

I don’t even know what the definition of local is, but I know that Ryuushi-san’s house is not part of it. What about Maekawa-san? She doesn’t seem to live around here.

“I want to go.”

As I pondered, Erio replied timidly and watched anxiously for our approval.

“To the beach. With mom and cousin.”

Rarely does Erio express her opinion so assertively and gleefully.

Me and Meme-san nodded at each other.

I’m not one to be so stubborn as to turn them down at this point.

“Alright~ It’s settled! Meme-san is gonna slay Mako-kun with her long-awaited R-18 swimsuit!”

“Uh, slay?”

What manner of horror does she plan to show me? I trembled… Fortunately no one below the age of 18 can hear or see all this, thank goodness. Can’t believe I am actually approving that useless guideline that only impedes the young’s development. Now that’s surprising. Actually, who the hell does she plan on showing that too? That Yamamoto guy?

“Let’s get a swimsuit for Eri-chan.”

“I can swim like this.”

Erio began picking at her noodles as she answered. She takes her bath with clothes on, after all.

“No you can’t. If we don’t calm Mako-kun down from his nightly fantasies, the extra carbon dioxide from his excessive breathing will give the neighbours a reason to be mad at us.”

“Mm.”

“Don’t nod!”

Erio looked to the neatly-folded sheet on the floor. If we’re talking about her, she might just point to the newest futon available for a swimsuit without a trace of doubt.

“Eri-chan~ Here, ahh~”

Meme-san brought some noodles next to Erio’s mouth. Embarrassed by being treated like a child, Erio shouted with beet-red face, ‘I-I can eat myself.’ Seemingly aware of my eyes, she nevertheless ate the noodles her mother offered. Slurp, she swallowed the noodle much more quickly than usual.

“How is it?”

“Mm!”

A nervous Erio gulped it down, seemingly uncaring for even the taste. Following that, both she and Meme-san picked some noodles up, dipped them into the sauce and brought them to me. Wait, hold on.

“Cousin. Ah~ Ah~”

No. ‘Why’ was the only word for her action. Why kind of thinking process could lead to her thinking Meme-san -> Erio -> me? She was perhaps unused to it, her shoulders stiffened and cheeks glowed.

“Hurry up~ Mako-kun. Chug! Chug!”

Meme-san giggled childishly, clapping in rhythm. Her natural ability to irritate people is truly first rate.

“Ah! The sauce’s dripping. Hurry, cousin. Ahh~?”

Even Erio’s high-strung. Here! I shut my eyes and opened my mouth. The taste of chilled noodles spread in my mouth. “Oof!” And then of blood. I opened my eyes in a panic. Having neither the experience of feeding and the ability to control her strength, Erio stabbed my tongue with the chopsticks and recklessly shoved the noodles into my mouth. All sorts of mixed fluid flooded my palate.

“Good?”

“There’s nothing bittersweet about this…”

Feeding or getting fed isn’t part of the calculation of Youth points… A little too sweet for me, you see.

In any case, the real problem was what’s after this. I glanced — Ugh! Meme-san’s already waiting for me on the other end. Ah~ She anticipated for me with her mouth agape. I could probably see her throat, but I don’t float that way!

“Wuu~ I’m starving! Papa~ Feed the chick please~”

Shut it, you archaeopteryx! Gah, seriously. I joylessly snatched some noodles and toss them into her yapper. “Chomp!” She bit down on my chopsticks with no intention of letting go.

“Slurp slurp!”

“Don’t lick them!”

I pulled. In my hand were chopsticks slobbered with saliva. Anyone who could use them directly at this point is a hero. Uh, maybe Erio can… Sure would be nice if the order was backward.

“This beautiful triangle is what’s known as the pyramid force!”

“A pretty flat pyramid at that.”

It’s just a triangle at this point. The relationship between the Touwas and their neighbours is the same.

“…Mm~”

Meme-san moaned at the plate in her hand. I think she’s looking at the reflection in the sauce.

“What’s the matter?”

It’s not like I wanted to hear about her troubles, but I knew she will probably do something anyway, so I took the first shot.

“I was just thinking, ‘is there less wrinkle on my face now?’”

“Isn’t it because your eyes are getting old too, right?”

World War Ginger began. The Touwa residence (and their brains) is as spirited as ever.

“And that’s how we decided on the trip set on the day after tomorrow.”

‘Mmm~ But Papa I won’t let anything of the sort happen!’

“Eh?”

There are just too many ‘dads’ in my life. That said, a pedigree of all of us is probably just a straight line.

Leaning on the slightly ajar window, I looked out to as a jet soared through the night sky. On the phone with me was Mifune Ryuushi-san. Due to our terrifying phone bill, we’ve resorted to communicate mainly with text. However, as soon as I told her about our trip, she called.

Breeze gentle like tissue papers was just slightly chilly after standing in it for a bit. It’s probably that uniquely humid wind that could dampen your hair.

‘Staying out overnight without my permission. This is a matter of life and death, y’know, Niwa-kun!’

“That bad? Is it because the trip’s that great or because my life is lighter than hydrogen?”

And whose exact permission am I looking for? Though still confused, I could tell Ryuushi-san was quite livid hearing about the trip. Was it out of jealousy or something else? I recall her telling me to not go near the beach back when I was hospitalized. Something about the jelly fishes being soft. Hm~ that’s when she started with the strange phrases, too… Being mysterious is not all that bad, though. Okay, let’s keep things out of perspective today!

‘As long as I, Ryuuko-san, breathes, I will never let ya ruin the local moral! And If you insist on going with Touwa-san! Ya will have to go through me!’

I could hear her fist punching through the air… Orally presented. Sounded more like failed whistling, or at best failing to light a match.

“It’s not like I’m only going with her… Wait, were you serious about having to go through you?”

‘Eh? Ya don’t seriously plan on coming over now, are ya?’

How did you even arrive at that? Well, I guess I’d have to meet her if I wanna fight her, but she sounded way too mellow about that. The possibility of visiting Ryuushi-san’s room is indeed appealing, but there’s a curfew in the Touwa household.

“Oh yeah, Maekawa-san told me her family is going too.”

‘WHY!’

“Uh, I guess because we live in the same town. Also, I’ve never heard you ask something like you’re actually asking.”

‘It’s a riddle that I don’t even have the time to think about~!’

Slap, slap! Sounded like she was kicking her bed. It’s just like when Erio hops up and down in her futon roll. Ryuushi-san’s bed, huh. Wonder what it smells (omitted).

‘Niwa-kun, ya are always leavin’ me out~’

“Of course not. It’s not like I planned the trip or anything.”

‘Ya are stingy~’

“’Sorry, we can’t take more than three people…’ I never said that!”

“Stingiest!”

“Ryuushi-san, you sure like those -est.”

‘I told ya it’s Ryuuko… Oh, I know!’

I could hear a fist landing on her palm.

“Uh, what you thinking?”

“Ryuuko in the backpack!”

“……Huh?”

‘Ryuuko-san in backpack! Niwa-kun would hold on tightly! And then you will arrive at the beach! Whoa! Ryuuko-san in the bag! Ka-pow! …Yeah.’

“Um…”

‘What do ya think about this totally supernatural way of getting to the beach naturally?!’

“Well, how do I put it…”

‘Daw, ya don’t sound stoked at all! Oh, no; ya are not so rude to think that ya can’t pick up the backpack, are ya? Ya are so rude, Niwa-kun!’

She got mad at her own imagination. What I meant is, Ryuushi-san, if I could put you in a backpack… I’d just bring you back into my room instead of the beach~ Well, couldn’t just say that to her face now, could I.

‘Then plan B! ‘Operation Niwa-kun’s one-day-child’ has been revealed!’

“Um, like I said, you don’t need any of those fancy plans. Just tell them you wanna tag along and they’ll let you in.”

As fascinated as I was with the specifics of the plan, I had to give her some proper guidance. A local tour isn’t all that uptight, so as long as you pay up it’s probably fine. Plus, strictly speaking, I’m not even a real resident of this town.

‘Ya aren’t saying that Ryuushi-san is such a nobody that no one would notice if I were to just walk in the back, right?! Is this the Niwa style indirect insult?’

“You suddenly sound incredibly depressed.’

‘It’s all ya fault, ya know.’

What~ how am I related to your complexes? Uh… Yeah, nothing, absolutely.

‘Anyway, Niwa-kun, um… Do you want me to go, too? Or something?’

“Of course. It’s better that way.”

‘Pfft~’

She comically spewed something out. Uh, is she thinking ‘ya might think it’s funny, but we’re all just laughing at you?’ If we were to think like Ryuushi-san.

‘Well, well. I guess Ryuuko-san hafta enter eternal summer mode now~’

“Good, not that it’s not already summer though.”

YES! YES! I shouted internally while keeping a poker face and pumped my fists numerous times. You see, dear, it’s the beach. Beach + Ryuushi-san. If I don’t see any swimsuits under the sun, the so-called sea is nothing but saltwater! It’s worth even less than tap water with salt added!

‘Actually~ Ryuuko-san has been occupied by basketball and club activities~ But being Niwa-kun’s guardian comes first! Let’s gobbled everything off the schedule!’

“You did not just use that phrase outside of the context of eating, did you?”

‘W-what~? Ya are not questioning me, are ya~? Ryuuko-san’s always busy, ya know~!’

What a childish retort. Well, I suppose she’s always kinda child-like.

Under her influence, I wanted to make fun of her a little too.

“You are? With what?”

‘Uh, like hang out with Mikki!’

“Mhm.”

‘Like, dribbling basketball during club hours!’

“Right, mhm.”

‘…Mikki hanging out with me.’

…Yeah, that one doesn’t get a free pass. Anymore she’d end up hanging out with a basketball. You know, this is kind of like asking what the president of a company does. ‘What are you in charge of?’ ‘I sign the documents.’ ‘Yes.’ ‘I stamp.’ ‘Yes.’ ‘…And I sign names.’

‘Something like that? Anyway, that’s probably why I’m so busily busy.’

“Yeah~ Totally.”

Like ‘me’ and ‘you’ make us, colour and other colours a lot of colours.

‘But since we’re going ta the beach, gotta prepare myself! Niwa-kun’s life or death depends on this, after all!

“Yeah, the beach. Can’t forget the swimsuit.”

I finally let my intentions known, but being so high strung Ryuushi-san didn’t hear me.

‘Well, Imma say goodbye for now! …Look forward to the beach!’

“Way ahead of you.”

You’re the star of hope, Ryuushi-san. I imagined Ryuushi-san’s bashful look like whenever I was buying that porno mag before punching my shamelessly honest head.

…Oh, why weren’t I excited about Maekawa-san? Come on, how can anyone expect a person like her to show up with a swimsuit? It wouldn’t be surprising if she shows up as a fish in judo robe.

I let out a breath after ending the chat. As fun as it is to talk with Ryuushi-san, my brain tends to be mushy after hearing her kiddy speech. As a human being it’s naturally tiring. I rubbed the wrist that was locked in place and worked my shoulder.

“……”

The birthmark-like scar on my arm left by the meteor may become less obvious in the future, but it’s unlikely to disappear altogehter. It is a bizarre reminder of this summer.

The unforgettable image burnt into my retina occasionally appears in my sight.

And to be rid that scene, I stretched my arms even further out.

The night wind brushed my wound, as though gently and gradually melting the fragments of that meteor left in my skin.

“…Oh?”

In the yard below, Erio stood next to the telescope, her hands waving at me. Under the starry sky that hid even the moon, her hair emitted the particles that seem to affirm her existence.

“Cousin~ The stars~”

“Yeah~ Coming now~”

I gestured back; I thought about jumping down, but quietly turned back toward door. As an Earthling, I must use the stairs instead of relying on something unfeasible like teleporting.

Without using your own legs, you can’t even reach the five centimetres ahead of you.

“…Still, the end of summer begins~”

In more ways than one, this summer had been too stimulating.

So we have to rest well, like spreading out in a pool of water.

If only the trip is the true summer break, I hoped earnestly.

“Swimsuit! Beach! Summer!”

“Doesn’t that order sound off?”

“I’m just trying to read Mako-kun’s mind.”

Spot on– why do you even care! And please don’t shout in the streets, people are watching! I felt like a kid tugging at his parent’s sleeves in embarrassment. Her actual daughter though was ashamed for other reasons, hiding herself behind me. You sheep! Not that I could just force her to stop, though. Man, girls, am I right?

The last Saturday of August, we headed to the bus stop at the end of the shopping strip, where the tour members were gathering. Presumably to cut down on the cost, they did not rent a tour bus. Well, taking the public transport is slow-paced, and there are always plenty of space. I suppose it might even be considered good, if we can spend less, seeing as how Meme-san is footing for the entirety of the bill.

“In other words, it’s all just money to buy Mako-kun! You will be your aunt’s plaything until tomorrow!”

“Please don’t say such inappropriate things while reading someone’s thought.”

She needs a volume knob on her back, for the sake of her sanity and to keep those around her stress-free. Still, if she were to act her age, I’d freak out too, so I just let her be. The human adaptability is truly terrifying.

Still, the summer sun that blasted endlessly upon us is something I can never get used to. Pot and plants were placed alongside the grass, which promptly filled the stop with its aroma. The shopping strip seemed almost monotonous in this heat, having no trees for the cicadas to cry on.

The tabaco shack with a collapsed placard hanging off of it; the wagashi store Maekawa-san works at, and the bicycle shop with seemingly no customers. The air could not have been staler, blockaded by the brandless clothes stores. With Erio stuck onto my back, and Meme-san grabbing onto me whenever she gets the chance, I could feel my conscious drifting toward the beach. Guess I didn’t even need the bus. The tinnitus set in.

As part of the group, the Maekawa-san family stood next to the abandoned train track. While the parents were about the same height, the daughter stood out far more. The three of them chatted jubilantly in their little circle. The Maekawa family had already came over to greet us, but it’s evident that Maekawa dad was weary of me. The interaction didn’t last long.

As a side note, Maekawa-san was for some reason wearing a red tracksuit with a huge hiking backpack on her back. According to herself, ‘it’s what I consider as the training regiment for the PE division.’ It’s highly possible and not at all hard to imagine that it’s her cosplay outfits for the beach, so I made no mention of it.

I am, however, a bit curious about how her parents view her hobby.

“Whoa, hey! You’re hurting me!”

The collar strangled me; I finally turned to Erio. She was like a koala plastered onto a tree with how she held onto my shirt. I threw her off; landing on the floor, she looked back and forth, wary of the people eyes. Why?

There were, us included, about twenty or so people gathered here for the trip. ‘That’s more people than last year,’ the old director told me gleefully. It seems that young people like me and Erio are a rare sight in one of these trips, and his friendly attitude extended to even Erio.

With a glimpse, it’s apparent that most members were over the age of forty. As surprising as it is to say, Meme-san was indeed considered one of the younger ones here. I’m beginning to worry about the future of this planet!

“Oh, are you seeing how young Meme really is? Mako-kun is finally aware! Hooray, slave!”

“Did I not ask you to stop reading minds like you’re some sort of non-human? …Oh, so that’s it! Finally, I understand now.”

She’s classified as a new species, ‘Meme-san.’ How does a daring mother like her give birth to this critter-like misanthrope? Meme-san’s entire name is written as Touwa Meme. Meme. Every time I see this name in my phone (which was put in by none other than herself) I could feel my brows frown. Why is that?

Erio had wanted to carry her favourite futon (and nothing else) out on this trip, to which I forced her to leave at the house. Her change of clothes was packed inside of Meme-san’s bag. Hence, Erio left with nothing in hands. She had even wanted to leave the house with no shoes on: It took quite the effort to make her wear just beach sandals. Speaking of which, why must I take care of her every problem? The role of being her guardian comes naturally whenever I watch her odd and clumsy acts.

Being a guardian is, however, on the polar end of scoring Youth-points. It’s not something I stomach easily. Still, there’s one very simple reason why I let her grab onto my back.

“Cousin~”

That was it. The phrase that is far more effective than having her call me by my name.

“Cousin~”

Tug, tug~ She bashfully pulled on my cloth, replaying the exact same words I imagined in my mind.

“What?”

“Just wanted to say it.”

“…”

Did you not pick up anything good from your mom?! Your cousin is very worried… Not that’s my concern, so I kept quiet. Could you stop yanking my shirt?

As I was dealing with Erio, hair designer Ooi Toe approached us – smiling with her daughter sitting on her shoulder. Her family was on the trip as well. Their skin were unbelievably white — if you were to tell me they use ectoplasm as lotion every night, I’d believe you. I followed Ooi-san’s waist-length hair as it swayed left and right. Different from Erio’s, hers was dark and shiny. She wore on her head a distinctively red and worn-out hat.

“It’s the Touwa tribe, huh?”

Ooi-san greeted us in the strangest way. How could she consider me part of them? I’m not one of the expats who plan on living my entire life in the Touwa household.

…But, uhh, how do I put it? It’s not like I’m homesick to the death or anything, but I have to go back someday. Such is the mindset of a transfer student. Perhaps I may even miss it here.

“G-good morning…”

Erio silently peeked out from behind my arm and nodded at Ooi-san. She then gawked at the little girl straddled on her mom’s shoulders. ‘Stare?’ The girl ogled curiously at Erio’s cobalt hair; Erio seemed like a deer in the headlight. Are they on the same level?

“Good morning, Erio~ You and you eyes are as wonderful as ever~”

Uhm, her eyes just shone like a cat who just spotted her prey. Is this the so-called bully aura?

As though noticing just that, Erio scuttled behind me.

“How keen of you, Mrs. Barber, to compliment my little Eri-chan~”

Meme-san stepped in, perhaps subconsciously to protect Erio. “Bam~” She tapped on Ooi-san’s shoulder. Ooi-san grimaced: “It’s a salon.” Her every smile seemed to hide within its matureness the naivety of a frivolous child. While fitting, it is still an odd and conflicting smile.

“Right, yeah. Say, I just noticed you three have been growing your hair out. Perhaps a little trimming is due? If I may have the honour.”

She giddily advertised her service, making the shape of pairs of scissors with her hands. ‘Wooey~’ the child imitated her mother with a goat-like squeal.

How about me? I grabbed my hair and wondered. Seems okay.

“Ooi-san, you’re not so shabby yourself: Your hair got even longer.”

A meaningless question, but can designers cut their own hair?

“Heheh, how could I possibly lose?”

“What?”

“Oh, don’t mind me. Worry not, this has nothing to do with this chapter.”

“Say what~? Well, I’m not worried anymore, phew~”

Meme-san placed her hand on her chest for some reason. I swear, these people are often so obviously antagonistic.

“I can give a family discount if you all came before school starts. I’m waiting~”

Upon those unusual words, Ooi-san left. Her daughter waved lightly at us, evidently no longer shy of us. I returned the gesture while my thoughts just now escaped my lips.

“She and Erio are the same, huh. Her manner and cautiousness, I mean.”

“N-no! We’re not!”

Hmph! Erio stuck her chest out proudly. Uh, I don’t really care either way, but it might be more convincing if you let go of my shirt.

Ooi-san went up to Maekawa-san as well. She felt her hair, to which Maekawa-san did not resist. She seemed more abashed. Does she not seem like one of the grown-ups standing next to Ooi-san?

“Say~ Maekawa, where is Princess Kaguya?”

“She said something about having to clean her house first when she was in the shop yesterday.”

Princess Kaguya? Judging from the name, must be Ooi-san’s friend. Sounds like royalty.

“Mm~ alright, whatever floats her boat. If she were here, it’d be like our high school graduation trip.”

Ooi-san burst out laughing before leaving Maekawa-san’s side for her husband.

These were all the younger participants of our local tour. The rest were people around the age of fifty and sixty. They all seemed to know each other already, chatting away happily in their loosely formed circles.

Meme-san tried to invite Tamura obaa-san as well, but she was turned down. ‘Folks are gonna laugh at how old I am…’ were the words she seemed to have said.

“Yoohoo~ Niwa-kun~”

“…Oh! That manner of speaking, it’s Ryuushi-san.”

Rambling her way here from the other side was without a doubt Ryuushi-san. She had on a green cloche hat, and a black shoulder bag slung across the shoulder. From afar, she appeared like an elementary school girl on a fieldtrip. How adorable of her! She waved energetically. Here comes one more young member.

She jogged steadily, ‘Screech~’ and stopped in front of me and Erio with that mock-brake sound. Adjusting her hat, Ryuushi-san looked from me to Erio, then to Meme-san.

Her expression went from smile, awkward smile, to heavy ponder.

“Man~ Niwa-kun, I gotta thank ya for your invitation!”

“Oh no no no, it’s my pleasure to have you here on such a hot day…”

Got your swimsuit ready? I bit my tongue hard before the words accidentally leave my throat. I concealed my desire and checked the surrounding. Erio and Meme-san ordered me to stay home yesterday when they went shopping for swimsuits. They said something about a big surprise… Am I in for one?”

“And Touwa-san and, uh~ Oba-san! Uwahwahwah~!”

“Those in favour of changing soft-cheeked girl into loose-cheeked girl, say aye!”

Under Meme-san’s attacks, Ryuushi-san’s face was stretched like a squirrel’s; Meme-san pulled upward, as though really asking for others’ opinion. I guess from how she didn’t just tackle Ryuushi-san, Meme-san is adult enough today. Maybe she’s just excited about the trip.

“Mako-kun, you aren’t teaching your friends the proper etiquettes~”

“Uh, you don’t exactly educate a friend, do you?”

Your daughter is already such a handful, you know. With that jest, I stole a glance at Erio. As expressionless as ever, she pointed at Ryuushi-san’s squishy face.

“Something something Ryuushi, your face is amazing.”

Something something… This kid never plans on remembering her name!

“I tuld ya ish Ryuuko~”

I can only give my upmost respect to Ryuushi-san for being so committed in asserting her name in any situation.

“Ow ow ow… Smooth-skinned sensei truly has no mercy.”

Finally freed, Ryuushi-san rubbed at her face. Maekawa-san, who’s also wobbling from her own pack, had her eyes glued onto Ryuushi-san.

The old folks surrounding also gazed at Ryuushi-san, who entered so dynamically, yet was met with her cheeks pinched. Their conversation just now seemingly burrowed itself beneath the ground.

“Eh? Ryuushi is tagging along?”

Ryuushi-san stopped to the questions. With a stretch she answered Maekawa-san. Maekawa-san, too, adjusted her backpack to her posture. The picture was now the image of an adult talking to a child.

“Yes, yes, yesh! While I may be from the next town over, please don’t be strangersh! And my name is Ryuuko~”

“Hahah, got it, got it. Still, pretty easy to figure out who invited you.”

She smirked at me upon finishing her words. Well, of course it’s me. Yet, despite not having done anything bad, I squirmed knowing that I’ve been found.

Maekawa-san always see through me, and the feeling doesn’t sit well. She’s probably just sharp.

“Y’know, trips are often the most fun before you head out~”

Ryuushi-san, her cheeks finally recovered, beamed at me. After waiting a whole week for that smile, I begin to believe that the Earth has a beautiful tomorrow.

But that was a fleeting movement — Ryuushi-san had awoken. She crossed her arms and exhaled loudly.

“But I hafta say, there’s something wrong here. Being the guardian of Niwa-kun, I can’t just sit and watch now, can I~?”

“Wait, what guardian?” Hold on, misses big kid, you don’t get to play backup here.

“If Niwa-kun is gonna be like that all~ day~ with Touwa-san, ya are gonna get sweaty and get itches on your back! My goodness, how awful would that be!”

Her hands trembled, as though what she had just described was some sort of horror story.

Wasn’t that the exact same gesture when she was talking about the jellyfishes? How useful.

Hearing the words, Erio scratched my back as if she was reminded of something. She never holds back when it comes to this kind of stuff, so it actually hurt. Especially her middle finger, which always manages to delayer my skin.

“What’s wrong with you?”

I inquired her for an explanation. Seeing my face, the blank-faced Erio revealed a tinge of satisfaction.

“Itch-counter.”

“…Uh, a little too early.”

“Nah~ Lemmie show you the fastest way~”

Ryuushi-san skipped behind my back and pulled Erio’s hands away.

“Let go~”

“N-no!”

Oh, as weak as she was, she’s putting up a fight; she plastered herself onto my back. Look, Eri-chan, I’ve meaning to tell you: Before we get to the heat, let’s talk about how my heart won’t be able to handle more of this… Please let go.

“Mm~” Ryuushi-san pinched Erio’s cheeks.

“Ehh~” Erio began her counterattack, returning the favour.

Thus begin the face pinching tug of war.

“Mm~ eh~!”

The two of them cried simultaneously while pulling on each other’s faces. I wonder if it’s some sort of trend that’s popular with the girls, since Meme-san was doing the same thing too. They both stomped the ground; trying to escape one another’s grasps, both ended up staring at the sky.

While maintaining the same pose and struggling to break free, their cheeks swelled in red.

…It’s actually pretty interesting, so I let them be. I wonder if they’re really enemies.

Meme-san, too, smiled quietly at the girls going at one another… She must have also felt joy. As toilsome as the road was, she finally got to see her daughter Erio playing with her friend.

Maekawa-san too took a step back, watching over them helplessly with a smile.

Not long after the girls’ tug of cheek began, a red bus that seemed to almost be shaved in half by the buildings on its sides came from the opposite direction Ryuushi-san arrived from.

“Alright, that’s the bus we’re ridin’~ Everyone please line up.”

From the bus’s noise and the voice of the director, the old men broke from their circles. Sluggishly they lined up next to the bus stop sign. Seeing so, the Touwa, Maekawa, and Ooi families also began following.

Attached to my back was Erio, and to my sides Ryuushi-san and, uh, Meme-san.

“You want this to be our post-marriage honeymoon, or pre-marriage? Whatever you want, Mako-kun!”

“My apologies, but I am obliged to only answer questions that complies to non-outerspace laws. And please stop groping my arm, it’s going to make the heat rashes worse.”

“Our first couple’s task is to make rashes together!”

“Now that’s gonna make the Americans cry!”

“Woow~ Ya are linking arm with your aunt huh~ Diss Ryuushi-san respects you!”

“Here you go making words up. So, uh, do you wanna, like, l-link arms?”

“Eek! B-but we’re practically linked in the heart already, ya know!”

“Eh? Oh, I guess…”

“Cousin~”

“Don’t make me retort your ‘just wanna see your reaction’ for the third time, you little– “

“Looking forward. To the beach.”

She easily parried my move. With the brightest smile, Erio beamed at me.

And I inadvertently looked straight at the expression that would accidentally increase my Youth-points.

“……Right.”

Maekawa-san turned to me with a mocking face.

In any case, the arrival of the bus finally gave respite to my perpetually twisted face.

I chuckled to myself.

As if declaring, ‘so what if she’s a weirdo?’

I am the ambassador of love comedies on this trip, y’know.

Something along the line of, in the brink of a galactic war, what I held in hand was not a sword, but her hand.

With that out of the way, I hope all goes well.

Some people think that there is no such thing as coincidence, or that such thinking has never been correct. While I believe that trying to instill right or wrong to such concepts is in itself incorrect, I still wonder if the arrival of this bus served a certain purpose.

As expected, the bus that seemed to have parked at the hottest stop in this entire shopping street was empty. The AC’s breeze that welcomed us froze even our brains. With the director at front, everyone gradually entered the bus. The old men sat wherever they wanted, instead of filling the bus from the back. Such a strange arrangement led to Ryuushi-san and Erio sitting shoulder to shoulder. As long as one doesn’t have some strange doggedness, I don’t see what’s wrong with calling this ‘coincidence.’

They started arguing about where to sit on the way into the bus. Pinching each other’s faces, they ended up like this. With an awkward expression, they shot glances at one another, but never asking the others to switch seat with them.

And so the bus, now filled with people, began rumbling again. I sat next to the two of them, which happened to be on top of one of the rear wheels. And perhaps because of that, the shaking reached the deepest part of my stomach.

By the way, sitting next to me by the window was Maekawa-san. It just happened when Erio and Ryuushi-san were fighting among themselves. Hm, sitting shoulder to shoulder to somebody so tall is indeed intimidating. By the way, Maekawa dad’s glares from behind me were just as scary.

“Transfer student, you probably prefer sitting next to Ryuushi or Touwa, don’t you?”

Heheh~ Maekawa-san inquired with a sarcastic chuckle.

“Oh, not really,” I waved dismissively, “I didn’t really get a chance to speak to Maekawa-san earlier, so this is just fine.”

Upon hearing that, Maekawa-san grumbled and rolled her eyes. With an arm against the window, she rested her head on her hand. With restless eyes, she seemed to assess me.

“Uh, what’s wrong?”

“You’re not an airhead, are you, transfer student?”

“What, me? Aren’t I pretty normal?”

If anyone deserves that title, it’d be Ryuushi-san. How goes their battle? With the building moving backward as the backdrop, I saw Ryuushi-san attempting to converse with Erio like a certain scene from a movie when the boy handed some chocolate to an alien.

“G-gum…?”

The strange perspective of Ryuushi-san searching her backpack for the piece of gum she’s now handing to Erio. Was that a sign of peace? What’s Erio’s reaction?

“T-thank you… Nom.”

Erio swallowed the gum and Ryuushi-san’s fingers. To Erio’s overly obedient response, Ryuushi-san could hardly say a word. It’s more like pet and owner at this point.

“Oh, right~”

Erio began rummaging through her skirt pocket while chewing the gum. For someone who should have came empty handed, what could she possibly be looking for? I stared, only to see her produce a small pouch.

She loosened the pouch lace: Candies the size of large raindrops tumbled out; she unwrapped one of the milk candies and delivered it to Ryuushi-san’s nose.

“C-candy?”

“M-much thanks. Nom nom…”

As if imitating Erio, Ryuushi-san licked at the candy. Despite looking tickled, Erio did not retreat. She once again began chewing her gum… This must be what snakes trying to each other look like. Well, it’s certainly much better than just ignoring one another. I nodded my head and pretended I saw nothing. Feeling someone’s eyes boring into my face, I turned to see Maekawa-san’s scornful look.

“You wanna sit over there instead?”

She gestured cursorily toward Ryuushi-san and Erio. “Nah,” I dismissed her again and began pondering what I had done to upset Maekawa-san. Surely it’s not because she wanted someone to pay attention to her. It’s hard to imagine, seeing how Maekawa-san seemed so much more mature than the others.

So why then? Does she want to cosplay on the bus and I’m in the way?

“Hm, someone’s calling?” Maekawa-san went through the pocket in her tracksuit with the same belittling look. Her phone vibrated, emitting the sound of a normal home phone. Unlike Ryuushi-san’s phone, which is decked-out with many accessories, Maekawa-san’s was fresh. Just like the owner itself, I thought admiringly while watching her accept the call.

“Hello? …What? Details? No. Oh, I see.”

She removed the phone from her ear before turning toward me. We met eyes, to which I thought perhaps she’s about to complain about my staring. Yet, as I prepared my defence, something outside of my expectation appeared.

“Transfer student, do you prefer left or right?”

“Huh?”

“Well, someone’s asking. They said not to think too much about it, just your guts feeling. She’s always going on about something like a galactic war and whatnot, not that I really listen to her.”

Okay, so why did you ask the question for her? And who’s this person asking about space warfare? What kind of phone call does a person like that make, anyway? Maekawa-san’s summary of their conversation was so concise that it’s the only thing that occupied my mind. Well, the person seems to be waiting, so I’ll just go out on a limb here.

“Left, then.” Reason being I sat on the left side.

“Mkay. Hey, he said left.”

Maekawa-san nonchalantly told the other party. After a few more words, she hung up and put her phone back into her pocket. Once again she put her cheek against her hand and looked at the outside scenery.

“Who was that?”

“Oh, just a friend, I guess.”

A dissatisfying answer. Maekawa-san really likes ambiguous words.

Yet as this conversation ended, I felt the presence of another pair of eyes, this time a lot more displeasing. Could you please look at my left instead? There’s another pair that’s far more interesting than me! With that thought in mind, I looked up to find Meme-san poking her head out from her spot a row away from ours. She looked like a child who just couldn’t keep quiet; she must have been kneeling on her seats. At least blink, man.

“Please remain seated and fasten your seatbelt when the bus is moving.”

I reminded her like a tour guide. She finally blinked. Ugh, please try to keep your strange behaviours to a limit. (?)

“I figure I’d keep an eye on Mako-kun in case you’re feeling bored~”

“Speak for yourself!”

The grandma sitting next to Meme-san leaned against the window, her hat covering her sleeping face.

“You~ Got~ Me~!”

Wham! Meme-san exploded from her seats; she darted in the bus like a ping pong ball, pushing left and right before finally squeezing herself in the space in front of me. We were already short on space before, now that Meme-san’s here, the picture of hell had been painted clearly.

“Come on~ I wanna play poker~ It’s so boring~”

She childishly tugged on Maekawa-san and my hands.

“But we don’t even have cards.”

With that response, I cocked my head toward Maekawa-san in hope that she could help out this conundrum in the form; of a giant kid. To my wry smile, Maekawa-san’s expression seemed to have softened the usual aloof look returned to her.

“I got some cards here in my bag.”

“Oh, that’s Maekawa-san for ya.”

Despite the complement, the memory of my aunt stealing my first hug after a game of trump surfaced in my mind.

Ahhh.

“Hmhmhm~ You dare to challenge someone who has friends in the poker research club?”

“Wait, she’s the one who challenged you though.”

‘She’ being the person who’s taking up all our spot. Why must I move my legs to such an uncomfortable position for her compulsions? Life sure is full of senselessness.

Putting that aside, Maekawa-san seems to know an extraordinary amount of people.

“FYI, a research club is not a school approved club.”

“Why are you trying to make your source of power even weaker?”

The fist of Meme-san suddenly erupted from below, almost taking my head with it.

“Alrighty! With Meme-chan’s kiss on the line, the first round of Old Maid begins!”

“We are not playing your kind of degenerate games!”

…Whether it be the twist of fate or inevitability of destiny, what’s clear is something is plotting against me.

The one person on this bus who’s the most intimate with the ambassador of love comedy happened to be Meme-san.

…Wait. How’s that any different than the usual?

- ↑ Television program that aired on Asahi TV from 1978 to 2003.

- ↑ Mickey Mouse Club Marching song. Goodness knows how anyone could tell

- ↑ Alien Barutan from Ultraman

- ↑ In Japanese 青い can mean both green and blue

- ↑ I.E, unrelated

- ↑ Ryuuko here added -est behindケチstingy for superlative effect

- ↑ リュック Backpack came from the word Ruck Sack shortened. Ryuuko リュウコin Ryukku

- ↑ From the manga ‘Sexy Commando Gaiden, Sugoi Yo!! Masaru-san.’ Appears to be an outfit he wears

- ↑ 共同作業 きょうどうさぎょう translates literally to collaborative works, but there’s a Japanese idea that the first task accomplished by a married couple together hold celebratory meanings

- ↑ I have no clue why

- ↑ Dis-respect