Chapter 3 | The Cultural Festival

 

“Welcome back, my lady…” Tachibana grinned, his voice dripping with exaggerated charm. “I’m Tachibana. How about it? Hire me as your butler and experience a truly special time—”

“No way, no way! What’s with this guy?!” one of the girls shrieked, her friend already tugging her arm. “Let’s go!”

“H-Hey, wait—!” Tachibana called after them, but the two girls who’d just stepped into the butler café screamed and bolted out the door.

“Heh… such shy young ladies,” he muttered, unfazed.

“Tachibana, come here,” I said, my voice trembling as I fought to keep my anger in check.

“Ugh, what’s up, Ayanokoji?”

“Seriously, get over here.”

I dragged him to a corner of the café, my grip tight to avoid making a scene. The customers’ curious glances followed us, but I kept my voice low, hissing through clenched teeth. “Tachibana, that was unacceptable.”

“Huh? That was perfect service!” he protested, still grinning.

“The customers were creeped out and left!”

“Heh… they’re just shy. My butler mode was too cool for them.”

“Where does that confidence even come from?” I snapped. “And stop saying ‘heh.’ It’s annoying.” Honestly, with his gut sticking out, he was the furthest thing from a refined butler.

“Next time, act normal. If you pull something weird again, you’re fired on the spot.”

“Alright, alright. Leave it to me, Leader.”

Is this really going to be okay? I wondered, watching Tachibana strut confidently toward the next customer. For a moment, he seemed to behave—guiding them to their seats with surprising normalcy. Maybe the threat of being fired worked. But then he started patting his stomach in some goofy display, making the customers laugh. Service spirit, sure, but was that really how a butler acted?

I stood in the lively classroom, now transformed into a bustling café. Every seat was filled, with groups still lined up in the hallway. The reason for the crowd was obvious.

“Mizuki Rinka as a butler… what a feast for the eyes,” one customer whispered.

“I might switch my bias from Risuzu to Rinka,” another said.

“Oh no, what do I do? That cool idol just said, ‘Welcome back, my lady’ to me!”

“The butler outfit looks insanely good on her, right?”

Regardless of gender, every customer was captivated by Rinka’s brisk, effortless movements. Even those waiting in the hallway were likely here for her. With a popular idol in our midst, this was inevitable. I’d heard Nana’s classroom was just as swarmed.

“My lady, have you decided on your order?” Rinka’s voice was calm, composed.

“Ah… ahh… Mizuki Rinka is talking to me…!” the customer stammered, starstruck.

“My lady?” Rinka prompted, unfazed.

“So cool…!”

“Thank you.”

Rinka handled the customers with ease, her expression unchanging, no trace of a forced smile. That cool, unshakable demeanor cranked her appeal to the max. Women’s eyes sparkled with admiration, while men were charmed by her gap moe. As a butler, Rinka was untouchable.

As one group left, it was time to guide the next customers in. With my hands free, I headed to the classroom entrance. The next guest wasn’t just any customer—and they weren’t even human.

“Welcome back—angel,” I said warmly.

“Wah! Kazuto-oniichan, you’re so cool!” Nonoa-chan clapped her hands, her excitement bubbling over. So cute.

“Nonoa-chan, how about hiring me as your personal butler?”

“Hmm? Sure!” she chirped.

“Pervert boy, can you show us to our seats?” Kasumi-san cut in, her deadpan stare piercing through me as she sighed.

As I guided them to their table, Kasumi-san leaned in, her voice a whisper meant only for me. “Kazuto-kun, as planned, we’ll act like strangers, okay?”

“Got it,” I replied softly.

“…Do you really get it?” Her eyes narrowed, that deadpan look sharpening.

My earlier behavior must’ve irritated her. I couldn’t exactly call out Tachibana when I was slipping up too, could I?

Once they were seated, Kasumi-san turned to Nonoa-chan, her tone gentle. “Nonoa, like we said at home, treat Kazuto-kun like a stranger, okay?”

“Mmm… okay,” Nonoa-chan mumbled, her eyes welling up with tears, a flicker of loneliness crossing her face.

Everyone at school knew Rinka had sisters, and some were familiar with Kasumi-san and Nonoa-chan. A few classmates probably knew them too. To avoid stirring up any suspicions about my relationship with Rinka, I needed to keep my distance from Kasumi-san and Nonoa-chan for now. Just temporarily, though. If my plan worked out, we could all hang out together soon enough.

Smirking to myself with a hint of smugness, I approached the table where Kasumi-san and Nonoa-chan sat.

“Have you decided on your order, my lady?” I asked with a playful flourish.

“Wah! I’m a lady!” Nonoa-chan exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

“That’s right, Nonoa,” Kasumi-san said warmly. “You’re a perfect little lady.”

“Yay! Ehehe!” Nonoa-chan giggled, practically glowing.

“Angel…” I murmured, unable to resist.

“Hey, what?” Kasumi-san’s sharp glare cut through me.

I couldn’t help it, okay? Shrugging off her stare, I took their order and passed it to Saito, who was handling the cooking. With a brief moment of downtime, I stepped to a corner of the classroom, surveying the bustling room.

“Onee-chan and Nonoa came to visit,” Rinka said softly, slipping beside me with a happy murmur.

“Why don’t you bring them some drinks later? They’d love it,” I suggested.

“Good idea…” Rinka nodded, then tilted her head. “By the way, is Risuzu coming?”

“Uh…” I faltered, my gaze drifting as I recalled this morning’s conversation.

“Risuzu! Come to the cultural festival, please?” I’d pleaded.

“…” Silence.

“Risuzu?”

“…Is Nonoa-chan going to the cultural festival too?”

“Yeah.”

“…Left out.”

“Huh?”

“…I can’t go because of work.”

With that, Risuzu had flopped onto the living room sofa, pulling the hood of her wearable blanket over her head.

“…Rinka-san, Nana-san, and Ayane are all at the same school. I’m at a different one.”

“Well, KM-san’s at a different school too, right?”

“…KM-sama is different. She’s on a whole other level as a being.”

Whoa, she’d said some wild stuff. For some reason, Risuzu called KM-san “sama.” Maybe something happened between them.

“…I’m all alone…” Her frail voice had dripped with loneliness.

“Risuzu…” I’d approached her, gently pulling back her hood to see her face. Her brows were furrowed, her mouth tightly shut, her eyes fixed downward, avoiding mine. Wanting to comfort my sad little sister, I stroked her head gently. Her hair was silky, her scalp faintly warm.

“…Pet me more, Onii.”

“Alright, alright.”

“…Can I sleep with you tonight?”

“Sure.”

“…Then go get me some chips and cola right now.”

“No way. Don’t treat your brother like an errand boy.”

“…Tch.”

She’d actually clicked her tongue!

“Kaz—Leader?” Rinka’s voice snapped me back to the present, her tone laced with suspicion.

I shook my head. “It’s nothing.”

That cheeky little sister would probably be fine. As I brushed off the memory, Rinka brought drinks to Kasumi-san and Nonoa-chan, earning a radiant smile from Nonoa-chan. Kasumi-san grinned, teasing, “That outfit suits you, Rinka. Perfect for a cool idol!” Rinka’s cheeks flushed slightly, shy under her family’s praise.

Forty minutes flew by. Kasumi-san and Nonoa-chan left with the other customers, and the hallway outside the classroom emptied. It was likely just a brief lull, but there was enough downtime to catch my breath. As the leader, I stood at the classroom entrance, waiting for new customers.

One arrived almost immediately.

“Oh my, if it isn’t Senpai,” came a familiar voice.

“Kiyokawa,” I replied.

I’d been so swamped with the cultural festival that seeing Kiyokawa felt oddly nostalgic. It had been a while since we’d talked in the car—oh, right, there was that bet.

“Hmm… wow…” Kiyokawa’s eyes scanned me from head to toe. “The butler outfit suits you, Senpai. Pretty nice… I guess you were chosen by Rinka-senpai, after all.”

I stayed silent, letting her words hang.

She straightened up, peering into the classroom. “Is Rinka-senpai… inside?”

“…Yeah.”

“Hehe, good. That’s a relief. In that case, I’ll accompany Rinka-senpai and devote myself entirely to making her enjoy herself!”

“Uh, sure…” I said, noncommittal.

“You’re awfully casual about it,” she huffed, peering up at me suspiciously.

I turned my face away, avoiding her gaze.

“…Ah! Don’t tell me… you forgot about our bet?!”

“Well, yeah…”

“Unbelievable!” she exclaimed.

“Sorry. I even forgot about you.”

“No way! I know it’s weird to say myself, but I’m pretty memorable!”

“Yeah, I guess. That first meeting was intense.” I recalled her dramatic outburst, face twisted like Munch’s The Scream, vilifying me with ferocious energy.

“I can’t believe this! You boldly declared you’d make me acknowledge you!”

“Really, I’m sorry. I was busy, seriously. I became the class leader, and I got so caught up I didn’t have time to think.”

“Even so, forgetting is unacceptable!”

“…To be honest, I don’t get it.”

“Huh?”

“I don’t understand the point of the bet. I want you to acknowledge me, sure, but do we really need a competition? Can’t we just take our time and get to know each other bit by bit?”

“W-What? You’re saying that now?!”

“Being a leader taught me something. Fighting isn’t everything. You can understand people by facing them properly without conflict.”

“What’s with this enlightenment?! I’ve never been so underestimated!”

“Kiyokawa, people are coming.”

A group of boys from the next classroom approached, chatting cheerfully. I signaled her to lower her voice.

“Mgh…” Kiyokawa groaned, frustration evident in her sharpened gaze. This… might be trouble.

“I’m sorry for forgetting. Really.”

“Fine. But you’ll face the penalty game properly.”

“…That’s debatable.”

“What? Backing out of the penalty for losing is downright rotten!”

“No, I mean… you might end up doing it. Walking around the field upside down.”

“What does that mean—”

“Leader, the timing’s good, so I’m heading to help out at the haunted house,” Rinka interrupted, emerging from the classroom in her butler outfit.

Kiyokawa’s jaw dropped, her eyes gleaming. “So beautiful, so cool… I want to rub my cheek against those slender legs and be stepped on!” she gasped, clasping her hands as if worshiping a goddess. …Is Kiyokawa even more intense than Risuzu?

“Oh, Ayane, you came,” Rinka said warmly. “Sorry… I’m heading to help out now.”

“No problem. In exchange, maybe next time in private… would that be okay?”

“Of course. You’ve always been such a help, Ayane.”

“Help? Oh, no! All I do is wipe the precious sweat from Rinka-senpai after lessons and lives! It’s not help…”

I blinked, processing that. Uh.

“Hey, it’s two members of Star☆Mines!” one of the boys shouted.

“Awesome! Butlers!” another added.

The group of first-year boys buzzed with excitement, noticing Rinka and Kiyokawa. As seasoned idols, the two handled the attention with ease, sending the boys off buzzing happily. …I wish they’d stopped by the butler café.

“I’m off to help out,” Rinka said.

“Alright, see you,” I replied, giving her a small wave.

“Well then, Senpai, I’m off too,” Kiyokawa said, tossing her hair dramatically and strutting down the hallway like a model.

Yeah, she definitely sees me as an enemy…

“Either way, my job doesn’t change—Tachibana, I need your help with something.”

“Huh? It’s almost time to switch shifts, isn’t it? No overtime for me,” Tachibana grumbled, loitering near the entrance.

“It’s a personal favor. We’re using that thing.”

“That thing? What’s that?”

The special item Kasumi-san prepared. With this, I should be able to enjoy the festival with Rinka—

☆

My vision was narrow, my head wobbled, and each step felt heavy and awkward. With every stride down the hallway, people on both sides stared. In that moment, I was the star—So this is the power of a mascot costume.

I wasn’t great with attention, but strangely, wearing this costume made it bearable. A black cat costume, courtesy of Kasumi-san. More like cosplay than a mascot, perhaps. Thick fabric clothing and a black cat hood over my head.

“Oh, that cat’s so cute!” a cheerful girl exclaimed, approaching me.

Somehow, I ended up taking a two-shot with her, striking random poses that amused her and drew laughs from those around. Mascot costumes were amazing—no wonder they were used at events.

Recalling where Rinka’s classroom was—the one she’d gone to help at—I trudged through the school. Just keep walking straight down this hallway, to the classroom at the very end—

“Oh.”

I stopped short. Ahead were Kiyokawa, Kasumi-san, and Nonoa-chan, apparently teamed up to explore the festival. I quickened my pace to catch up, sticking close behind them.

“Hmm? Oh!” Nonoa-chan turned, her face lighting up with a radiant smile as she spotted me.

Kiyokawa and Kasumi-san stopped and turned, their mouths opening in surprise.

“Oh my, which class made this? A slightly ugly black cat, isn’t it? The clothes are frayed, and the quality’s low,” Kiyokawa remarked.

“Haha, harsh. I made this costume a while back, you know,” Kasumi-san replied.

“It seems my aesthetic sense was off. Correction made. This black cat costume is utterly adorable and wonderful! It should be displayed in an art museum!” Kiyokawa backtracked.

“That’s a stretch. That follow-up’s way too forced,” Kasumi-san said, unfazed, her usual laid-back vibe intact. She probably knew it wasn’t her best work.

I thought the handmade feel made it cute.

“Yay!” Nonoa-chan hugged my leg tightly, her cuteness overwhelming.

“Could it be… the person inside is…?” Kiyokawa ventured.

“Yup, it’s him,” Kasumi-san confirmed.

Kiyokawa’s face froze in shock. “W-What…! No way, you’re going to… with Rinka-senpai? I messed up… I forgot about Kasumi-san’s connections for borrowing costumes…”

I patted Kiyokawa’s shoulder silently. We’re even now. But honestly, coming up with this should’ve been easy…

And then—

“Ugyaaaahhh!!” “Help meeee!!”

A couple burst out of the classroom Rinka was helping at—the haunted house—screaming pathetically and sprinting down the hallway.

“Vaaargh!! G…aaah!!”

Chasing them was a figure—no, a classic ghost in a white dress with long hair, swinging their hair wildly and letting out a guttural yell as they pursued.

“Hiiiii!!” “M-Ma…teeee!! Aaaah!!” “Uwaaaaah!!” “Kyaaaaah!!”

We stepped to the side of the hallway, watching the couple frantically run past. The ghost was about to pass us too but stopped abruptly. Hunched over, with messy hair covering their face, their identity was unclear. The ghost turned their head, peering through the gaps in their bangs with gleaming eyes, looking at Kiyokawa, Kasumi-san, and then Nonoa-chan.

“Hmm?” Kasumi-san tilted her head.

“…Nonoa?” the ghost murmured.

“…Rinka-oneechan?” Nonoa-chan replied.

The ghost straightened up, brushing their hair aside like a curtain, revealing a beautiful face. As expected, it was Rinka.

“Hey! Mizuki-san!?” a female student from the haunted house reception ran over, pausing before raising her voice in disbelief. “Wait, hold on!? Why!? Why is Mizuki-san chasing them outside!?”

“Because I’m a ghost,” Rinka said matter-of-factly.

“That’s an aggressive ghost! I’ve never heard of a ghost leaving the haunted house!”

“Sorry… I got too into the role.”

“Too into it! You were practically possessed!”

“I see, that’s a good idea. A girl possessed by a ghost, driven by resentment to haunt her cheating boyfriend—”

“Don’t add more to the setting!”

“Next time, I’ll be the perfect ghost.”

“Enough! We appreciated the help, but… it’s not right! You already made a customer wet themselves earlier!”

“Fired… is that it?”

“The customers are freaking out! They’re genuinely running away! You’re doing too much!”

“…I’m sorry.”

“You’re surprisingly a natural, Mizuki-san. Also, have you ever been to a haunted house? For today, just enjoy it as a guest.”

The student jogged back to the reception, leaving Rinka hanging her head sadly, muttering in a trembling voice, “For today… but the festival’s only today. The next one’s a year away.”

As a heavy mood threatened to settle, Kiyokawa flashed a bright smile. “As expected of Rinka-senpai! Your acting was so intense! Too perfect for a high school festival!”

“Ayane, I failed,” Rinka said quietly.

“Rinka-senpai…” Kiyokawa fell silent, likely sensing this wasn’t the first time Rinka had been in such a spot. Not just with the ghost role—Rinka always gave her all, succeeding sometimes, failing others, and blaming herself harshly when she fell short.

I stepped forward and hugged Rinka from behind, the black cat costume making it safe. No problem.

“This feeling… Kazuto?” Rinka whispered, somehow recognizing me.

The hug lasted only a few seconds. In that time, Rinka seemed to shift gears, gently holding my costumed arm and lifting her face. “Right, right… it’s the cultural festival. No time to mope. I’d be missing out if I didn’t enjoy it.”

“Exactly, Rinka-senpai!” Kiyokawa beamed with enthusiasm.

“Rinka-oneechan, let’s go!” Nonoa-chan added, smiling brightly.

Kasumi-san watched from a step back, her smile soft and knowing.

Reading the mood, I stepped away from Rinka. She turned to me, whispering, “…I said I wanted to hang out together, so you wore that?”

I nodded silently. Rinka let out a small, amused but happy laugh.

☆

We decided to visit the haunted house. Kasumi-san, not fond of scary things, opted to wait outside—or perhaps she was just being considerate.

The four of us lined up, and when our turn came, we stepped into the pitch-black classroom. Following the single path, sudden loud noises blared from behind the walls, and eerie groans echoed. Despite her brief stint as a ghost, Rinka walked unfazed—or so I thought. She’d occasionally murmur, “So scary!” in a monotone, clinging to me. Kiyokawa, eager to impress, huffed, “I’ll protect you!” with enthusiasm. Nonoa-chan yelped “Wah!” at every sound, adorably startled.

A suspicious locker sat in the middle of the path, and we approached cautiously. As expected, the door burst open with a bang! A mummy—a boy wrapped in bandages—leaped out, yelling, “Baaaaah!!” Even knowing it was coming, the intensity made me jump. Serious acting. The creepiest yet, with bandages stained red and black in places, super eerie. Time to move on quick.

“Wow! Bandage swirl! Hey, are you hurt?” Nonoa-chan asked, her voice full of genuine concern.

“Baaa… huh?” The mummy boy faltered.

“Does it hurt?”

“Uh, no…”

“Wanna go to the nurse?”

“N-No, I’m fine… uh, yeah.”

Nonoa-chan’s angelic kindness threw him off completely, almost pitifully so. Her concern backfired.

“Ahem, Rinka-senpai, let me explain about mummies,” Kiyokawa chimed in. “They don’t originate from myths but from movies.”

“Movies, huh? I’ve seen them in online games,” Rinka replied.

“Yes. Not just movies, they appear in all sorts of games. And not just games—anime, manga, tokusatsu… they’re very popular monsters.”

“Wow, you know a lot, Ayane. Do you like this stuff?”

“Not exactly, but I learned it for a certain strategy… By the way—”

Thrilled that Rinka was listening eagerly, Kiyokawa puffed up proudly, rattling on. She was probably trying to entertain Rinka in her own way. Just enjoy the haunted house first.

“Uh, excuse me,” the mummy boy said apologetically.

“?”

“Could you move along? It’s a problem if you stop here.”

So sorry!!

☆

After the haunted house, we wandered the school, visiting various classrooms’ attractions. Kiyokawa’s classroom hosted an art exhibit, her painting depicting the five Star☆Mines members dancing, the energy palpable—crazy good. I muttered internally, Another talent, huh? People who succeed in entertainment are often multi-talented. I had to admit it was impressive. Rinka murmured, “As expected of Ayane,” clearly impressed. Kiyokawa’s nostrils flared with pride, no surprise there.

At some point, Kasumi-san said, “I’m a bit tired. Getting old, huh? I’ll rest, so you guys go ahead.” So, the four of us continued. Kasumi-san’s a college student, still young…

Next, we headed to Nana’s classroom, curious about their attraction. When we arrived, I couldn’t help but blurt, “This is unfair!”

The classroom was decked out like a casino, with female students in bunny girl outfits milling about. Round tables, each with four chairs, were fully occupied, ninety percent by guys holding playing cards. From what I could see… Old Maid. Nana’s classroom was running an Old Maid game as their attraction. The bunny girls shuffled and dealt cards to the seated customers.

“Oh, everyone! You came!” Nana spotted us at the entrance, waving with a bright smile, her bunny ears flopping with the motion.

The customers playing Old Maid didn’t miss it, their faces softening with a ‘so soothing’ look. The center of a popular idol group as an adorable bunny girl? No way they’d miss that.

“Hey, Star☆Mines duo, little angel, and ugly-cute cat, welcome!” Kotone-san, also in a bunny girl outfit, greeted us in her leisurely tone.

“Kotone-san, right?” Rinka asked.

“Oh, being remembered by the trending cool idol Mizuki Rinka? I’m honored!”

“You’re Nana’s friend, aren’t you? I wouldn’t forget.”

She did call her ‘that woman’ once…

“So, wanna play Old Maid? You’ll need to buy a candy for it.”

“Candy? How much?” Kiyokawa asked.

“A hundred yen.”

“Expensive! What’s the size…?”

Kiyokawa watched as Kotone-san pulled a red-wrapped candy from her pocket. Normal size, edible even for kids. A hundred yen for that was a rip-off.

“You need to buy a candy for each round of Old Maid,” Kotone-san explained.

“Straight-up scam…” Kiyokawa muttered, swallowing hard. “Why is this place packed?”

“It’s calmed down a bit. Earlier, the hallway was lined with people. Crazy, right? That’s the power of bunny girls. Plus, Nana’s here.”

“Totally unfair, that outfit.”

“Flattered to be praised by a noble idol!”

“Not praising you at all. …But Old Maid doesn’t fit this vibe. Poker would’ve been better.”

“Nah, poker’s rules are tricky for some, and it feels intimidating. Old Maid’s easier, gets more foot traffic, and has better turnover—”

“Kotone-san! Final Stage, please!” a female student called from the corner.

“Got it!” Kotone-san turned, then answered Kiyokawa’s small question calmly. “Those who win first place in Old Maid get to advance to the Final Stage. Four players: me and three customers.”

“Is there a prize for winning?” Kiyokawa asked.

“Of course! You get a signed poster from Star☆Mines’ center, the energetic idol Kurumizaka Nana!”

“Unfair! Completely unfair! Everyone’s gonna buy candies like crazy!”

“Unfair? It’s totally legit. The customers are happy with it. Oh, and if you win three times at the Final Stage… you get a two-shot photo with bunny girl Nana!”

“Too blatant! Are you even a high schooler? That’s way too shady!”

“Hey, take it up with the person who planned it.”

“Fair enough. Who came up with it?”

“Me!”

“Of course it was you!”

Kotone-san scratched her head, feigning embarrassment, and headed to the Final Stage table. Nana, waiting there, shuffled the cards. The game grew lively, and the male customer who won first place was overjoyed with his signed poster. Leaving the stage, he exclaimed, “One more win, and I get a two-shot with bunny girl Nana!” buzzing with excitement.

“Tch, ridiculous. Let’s go to another—!” Kiyokawa turned to leave but froze, mouth agape.

I turned and saw a bunny girl at the entrance—Rinka. My heart nearly exploded. For some reason, Rinka was a bunny girl too, standing there, fidgeting shyly with her bunny ears. And next to her was Nonoa-chan, sporting bunny ears too…! No kids’ costumes, but she managed a headband. Too cute, I might die.

The customers went wild. Nana, ecstatic, shouted, “Rin-chan, you’re so cute! Thank you!” and hugged Rinka tightly.

“Nana… this is embarrassing,” Rinka mumbled.

“It’s fine, Rin-chan! You’re super cute!”

“That’s not the point…!”

“Nonoa-chan’s cute too!”

“Yay! Bunny!” Nonoa-chan cheered.

The three giggled excitedly, warming the customers and me. Kiyokawa’s mouth was still flapping.

Timing it perfectly, Kotone-san approached Rinka and turned to the customers. “Bonus time! For the next Final Stage, the first-place winner… gets a photo sandwiched between Nana and Mizuki Rinka. How’s that?”

“““—!”“”

The customers’ eyes blazed with competitive fire. I kinda got why. A photo between two popular idols, both in bunny girl outfits? A once-in-a-lifetime event.

“Candy! Gimme candy!” “Me too! Candy!” “Candy!”

Eyes bloodshot, customers swarmed Kotone-san. She smirked briefly, then flashed a business smile, selling candies like hotcakes. She was way too good at this.

Kiyokawa, watching, swallowed hard. “Tch, terrifying…! That girl’s got a whiff of illegality!”

I was stunned too. Was this kind of blatant commerce allowed at a school festival? Rinka and Nana started dealing cards to the waiting customers. Nonoa-chan too, though her shuffling was clumsy, and the customers watched her fondly.

“Senpai, I’m joining in,” Kiyokawa muttered, turning to me.

“Seriously?”

“A photo sandwiched between bunny girl Nana-senpai and Rinka-senpai? I have to do it.” She whispered, Can’t exactly ask for that in private… This is my chance.

“So, Senpai, see you at the Final Stage.”

“Me too?”

“Yes. You and I are fated rivals… We have to fight!”

“…Oh, Kotone-san, candy for me too.”

“Here ya go!”

Kiyokawa bought two candies and handed me one. I rolled the candy in my palm.

“Make it to the top. I won’t forgive you if you lose to anyone but me!” she declared, spouting a line straight out of a manga, and headed to an open seat.

…Guess I have to do this. She bought me a candy, after all. Maybe caught up in the room’s feverish energy, I was getting pumped for a serious Old Maid match. I scanned the room, spotted a table with only three players, and sat in the empty chair, feeling a slight thrill.

“A mascot…” the three customers eyed me curiously.

A bunny girl arrived, deftly shuffling and dealing the cards. …Alright, game on. First, to the Final Stage!

I reached for the card on the table and froze. I couldn’t grab the card! With these mittened hands, I couldn’t pick it up!

“Is something wrong, customer?” the bunny girl asked.

I frantically waved my hands side to side, gesturing that I couldn’t grab with these hands.

“In that case… you lose, customer.”

“—!”

“Per the rules, if you don’t act within a certain time, you’re disqualified.”

“Wha!” I let out a sound, desperately trying to grab the table’s cards, but I couldn’t. All I could do was slide my hands over the smooth surface. This was bad. At this rate… I’d lose without even knowing my cards!

“Customer… unfortunately, time’s up.”

“Ugh…” I sat there and lost.

The bunny girl collected my cards, reshuffling and dealing again as I stared in a daze. Glancing to the side, I saw Kiyokawa slumped over her table. She’d lost too. Knocked out in an instant…

Too embarrassed to stand, I stayed put. Then it happened.

Kotone-san’s urgent voice echoed through the noisy classroom. “Big trouble! Star☆Mines, assemble! Oh, and ugly-cute cat too!”

Ugly-cute cat… that’s me.

☆

Kotone-san led us to an empty classroom. Nonoa-chan, held by Rinka, looked around curiously.

“Kotone-chan, what’s wrong?” Nana asked.

“Got a call earlier… Group B’s play got canceled.”

“What!” Nana exclaimed.

“A bunch of bad luck hit, and all the actors backed out. Not accidents, just small personal issues.”

“Oh no! What do we do? People are probably already gathering at the gym!” Nana panicked.

“Yeah, it’s a mess,” Kotone-san said, keeping her leisurely tone.

“May I ask, what’s Group B…?” Kiyokawa ventured.

“Our class split into two groups for attractions. Group A’s Old Maid, Group B’s the play.”

“Two attractions… Your class is impressive, Nana,” Rinka said, impressed.

“Eh, not really. Group B wasn’t very motivated and barely practiced. I had a bad feeling, but to flake right before the show…” Kotone-san sighed.

Kiyokawa hesitantly raised her hand. “Why were we Star☆Mines called?”

“Heh, you already know, don’t you? Idols are only good for lives, right?”

“Rude! We do more than lives! We’ve got photo books too… want one?”

“Already bought it.”

“Really?! I’ll sign it!”

“Pass.”

Shot down instantly, Kiyokawa froze, mortified. That rejection stung.

“Back to business. I want Star☆Mines to do a live,” Kotone-san said.

“That’s fine, but preparations—” Rinka began.

“We prepped for a live just in case. It’s all good.”

“I see…”

“Oh, but we don’t have costumes, so you’ll perform in what you’re wearing.”

Rinka and Nana looked down at their bunny girl outfits. Kiyokawa, though, was different.

“Wait! I’m in my uniform!”

“Don’t you have something related to your class’s attraction?”

“My class is an art exhibit! No special outfits!”

“Art exhibit… too pretentious. Do something more high school-like.”

“Ugh!” Kotone-san’s bluntness made Kiyokawa clutch her chest, groaning.

“A-At least give me a bunny girl outfit!”

“Sorry, we’re out. Group A’s swamped, no time to grab costumes.”

“No way…!”

“Why not go out in your underwear?”

“Are you insane?!” Kiyokawa snapped, red-faced, but Kotone-san remained unfazed.

“Then borrow that mascot costume? It’s Ayanokoji Kazuto inside, right?” Kotone-san pointed at me.

Kiyokawa shook her head vigorously. “No way, no way! Wearing a costume a guy used? Impossible!”

Rinka chimed in affirmatively. “Exactly. Only I get to wear that costume.”

“Hah! So, Rinka-senpai’s freshly worn clothes for me—no, wait! That’d put too much strain on my heart, I might die…!” Kiyokawa muttered, creepy as hell.

“Ayane-chan, you don’t want to perform in your uniform?” Rinka asked.

“Yes! You and Nana-senpai are in bunny girl outfits, and I’m stuck in a uniform! It’s weird!”

“Then I’ll wear my butler outfit.”

“That’s not the issue! You two are in fun festival cosplay, and I’m the only one in a boring uniform. It’s weird!”

“…Nana and I will wear uniforms too.”

“That’s not festive enough!”

…What is this girl? But obsessing over details feels kinda pro.

“Hey! Rinka-oneechan! I wanna be in the live too!” Nonoa-chan piped up.

“No, Nonoa. It’s a festival attraction, but it’s not playtime,” Rinka said gently.

“Mmm…” Nonoa-chan deflated.

“That’s it! Yeah! Let’s all do the live!” Nana lit up with an idea.

“Nana? What do you mean, all of us?” Rinka asked.

“Rin-chan’s in a butler outfit, I’m a bunny girl! Nonoa-chan stays as is! Ayane-chan’s in a uniform! And Kazu-kun’s in a mascot! With everyone in different outfits, it’ll feel super festive!”

“W-What are you saying, Nana-senpai…? This is a live—”

“It’s a festival before it’s a live! We’re here to have fun! A spontaneous festival live can show a unique kind of joy!”

“““—!”“”

Nana’s energetic words struck Rinka and Kiyokawa like lightning. Nonoa-chan cheered, “Yay! I’ll do my best!”

…Hold on. Why am I included in the live lineup? Nonoa-chan’s fine, but me?

I hurriedly took off the costume’s head. “Wait! Why am I in the lineup?!”

“Hehe, I know, Kazu-kun. You practiced dancing with Nonoa-chan all summer, right? Under Rin-chan’s guidance!”

“It was just for fun!”

“Was it? I saw the lesson videos from Rin-chan, and you were super serious! You worked hard with Nonoa-chan, didn’t you?”

“Well…”

It’s a human’s duty to fully commit to an angel’s playtime. Nonoa-chan was serious, after all.

“Kazuto, from my perspective, you’re at a barely passing level for a live like this. Your clumsiness might actually add to the fun,” Rinka said.

“Even you, Rinka?!”

“Don’t you want to test it, Kazu-kun? Your training, your skills!” Nana pressed.

“But… if I mess up…”

“Don’t worry about failing! Charge toward what excites you!”

“Nana—!”

Nana grabbed my shoulders, her passion blazing up close. This… this is Star☆Mines’ center, Kurumizaka Nana. Thinking back, when I was struggling with my relationship with Rinka, Nana pushed me forward like this…

“Is it okay? A nobody like me dancing with pros…”

“It’s fine! It’s the cultural festival!” Nana insisted.

“Of course, Kazuto. You’re welcome,” Rinka added.

“Kazuto-oniichan, let’s do our best!” Nonoa-chan cheered.

“Uh, no? I’m against this, obviously?” Kiyokawa protested.

“…Thanks. I’ll do my best.”

With such a warm welcome, I couldn’t say no. And so, our five hearts united.

“We’ve got this! We totally do! We’re us, after all! Let’s have fun from the bottom of our hearts and go all out!” Nana’s bright, powerful words rallied us, filling us with hope.

This is what an idol is. Risks? No big deal. Do what you want with all you’ve got. Follow your excited heart. This is Star☆Mines!

——— —— — … … … …

After the live, we returned to the empty classroom, a heavy silence pressing down on the room.

The first to speak was the leader, Nana. “The live… we messed it up, huh.”

Messed up? It was a total disaster. Probably the biggest crisis ever.

“I can’t believe… Kazuto’s head… no, the costume’s head came off…!” Rinka’s face twisted with regret as she spat the words at the floor.

Yes… surprisingly, the dance went smoothly. Thanks to Rinka, Nana, and Kiyokawa covering for us, Nonoa-chan and I didn’t stand out as much as I’d feared. Plus, before the live, Kotone-san announced to the crowd, “The clumsy ugly-cute cat and an angel new to the human world are joining as guests!” and threw in some witty banter to lighten the mood. That eased my nerves, letting me dance. But then…

“Dancing in a mascot costume is way too hard! I couldn’t see my feet at all…!” I groaned.

I tripped over a small dip in the floor, falling hard, and the costume’s head flew off with a pop. Worst timing—the spotlight was on me, and my face was seen by tons of people. The chaos that followed was predictable.

—Why’s a guy mixed in with Star☆Mines!?

—Isn’t he the one rumored with Nana-chan?

—Didn’t he have rumors with Mizuki Rinka too… or was it Tachibana?

And so on…

“Tch…!” I was out of my mind. An amateur in a mascot costume couldn’t possibly dance perfectly. Even with Rinka’s professional training, I hadn’t performed enough. I didn’t practice in the costume. I knew… I knew, and yet…!

“See, this is why I was against it!” Kiyokawa snapped.

“Kiyokawa…”

“An amateur joining idols in a live? Unthinkable!”

I couldn’t argue, just hung my head.

“Mmm… sniff… I’m sorry, Ayane-oneechan…” Nonoa-chan whimpered.

“Oh! No, Nonoa-chan, you’re not at fault! There, there,” Kiyokawa soothed.

“Let’s stop pointing fingers. We need to figure out how to handle this mess,” Rinka said firmly.

“Uh, what if we just say Kazu-kun was a helper?” Nana suggested.

“Nana, think carefully. For better or worse, Kazuto’s famous in school. He’s been rumored with me, you, the cat, Tachibana-kun… A simple explanation won’t cut it,” Rinka replied.

“Right… Sorry, I’m the leader, and I messed up,” Nana admitted.

“Don’t worry. We all rode your momentum. Besides, we’ve had troubles like this before, haven’t we?” Rinka reassured.

“Yeah, you’re right… Okay, let’s explain and make them understand!”

Rinka and Nana seemed set on their plan, recovering fast. The classroom door slid open, revealing Kotone-san.

“Everyone, the apology press conference is ready.”

“Apology press conference…” I muttered.

“Gotta act before weird rumors spread. This is manageable. We can spin it. I’ve got a script ready,” Kotone-san said, her stability reassuring. She moved fast. Who is she?

“But this script’s just a temporary fix. After that, we’ll have to wing it.”

“Eh, it’s how it goes. That’s how Nana’s led Star☆Mines,” Kotone-san added.

“Hehe, yeah. Nana always acts before thinking, stirring up trouble,” Rinka teased.

“Hey, but everyone was okay with it, right!?” Nana protested.

“Can’t defy our leader, Nana-senpai,” Kiyokawa chimed in.

“Ugh, making me the bad guy!”

The Star☆Mines girls bantered lightly, the gloomy air dissipating. They didn’t dwell on failure, focusing on what needed doing now. Professionals.

Me, though? Total amateur. “I’m such an idiot…” I muttered. Swept up in the hype, I jumped into the live all cocky. I got carried away. I wanted to support them, do anything for them. Idiot. I could never stand beside them. Support means helping from the shadows, not standing shoulder to shoulder. I should’ve stayed calm and firmly refused the live…!

This wasn’t just my problem. It affected the fans’ feelings too. If an idol dates, they keep it secret at all costs. That’s sincerity to their fans. Rinka and the others had that sincerity, but their passion and excitement sometimes took over. That’s when I should’ve…

Too late for regrets. The whole school was probably gossiping about me and them—

—Gossip.

A spark of inspiration hit me. I approached Kotone-san, asking quietly, “Your script’s just a stopgap, right…?”

“Yeah, don’t get greedy. I worked hard on this. Got people in the gym, trying to calm the chaos…”

“Then I’ve got an idea. If it works, everything’ll be settled, and we’ll be safe moving forward.”

“…Details.”

Kotone-san’s easygoing eyes sharpened. As Rinka, Nana, and Kiyokawa gathered, I explained my plan. They cried out in protest, vehemently against it.

“No way! Kazu-kun, you can’t take it all on yourself!” Nana exclaimed.

“Exactly, Kazuto! And honestly, as your wife, that plan’s complicated!” Rinka added.

“Senpai, your school life will be hell!” Kiyokawa warned.

“I don’t care. I’m fine with it.”

The three fell silent, sensing my firm resolve.

“Kotone-san, what do you think of my plan?”

“It’s nuts. Normally, it’d get you laughed off or insulted, but… with you, Ayanokoji Kazuto, it might just work.”

“Alright, then—”

“But even if it works, your school life’s gonna suck.”

“I’m the guy called an online game addict.”

“Huh…?”

“An online game addict strips away everything unnecessary to tackle the game. Same thing here.”

“—Kazuto!” Rinka’s eyes widened, moved to the point of speechlessness.

Even Kiyokawa clutched her chest, muttering, “Tch… my heart…!” looking at me with respect.

Kotone-san mumbled, “Not a great line. Also, you’re probably stripping away your humanity too.”

“Saved by Kazu-kun again…” Nana said softly.

“Nana, it’s partly my fault, and this works out well for me.”

Nana didn’t seem convinced, looking away guiltily. It didn’t even feel like saving to me…

“To pull this off, we’ll need Tachibana and Saito’s help.”

Those two’d probably grumble but cooperate.

☆

I’d prepared and steeled myself to step onto the stage. Everyone’s eyes were on me—curiosity, nosiness, hostility. All kinds of emotions hit me, clogging my throat. This was different from being noticed in class. Kotone-san’s guidance had gathered people in the gym, all watching my every move. A calm part of my mind whispered, Isn’t this overkill?

Kotone-san said the goal was to “make it a big event, like a festival.” I didn’t know if that was effective, but it suited my plan.

The Star☆Mines girls stood along the gym wall, watching me worriedly. Nonoa-chan and Kasumi-san were at the back.

“What’s your relationship with Kurumizaka Nana?” a male student with a mic asked from the crowd, acting like a reporter. Kotone-san had set this vibe. It really felt like an event, like role-playing.

Suddenly, I relaxed. Reality faded. It was like playing an online game. My mind cleared.

“Why were you dancing with Star☆Mines? Are you, as rumored, dating one of them?”

I paused dramatically, taking a deep breath. Then, I dropped a line that’d become legendary in this school.

“I’m—dating a black cat.”

Dead silence. Absolute zero hit, everyone frozen like ice statues.

So, I doubled down. “I’m dating a black cat.”

“What’s he talking about? A black cat?” murmurs started.

Ignoring them, I spoke into the mic. “I’m seriously dating Kurumizaka Nana’s pet, Sturmangriff.”

The gym erupted in murmurs. “What? What’s that mean?”

Students exchanged looks. I nearly burst out laughing but pressed on. “I was a total loser. Always playing online games, no friends, just alone. In my second year, I made two friends. And one of them, we decided to try dating. Two losers, why not?”

“Makes no sense,” the students muttered.

But someone spoke up. “Tachibana?”

“Wait, I heard that rumor.”

“Me too.”

“Everyone in his class knows.”

“I’m not in his class, but I heard.”

“But it didn’t work out. We broke up fast. Me and Tachibana like girls. We split quick,” I continued.

The students buzzed, spotting Tachibana in the crowd. Eyes turned to him like ripples spreading.

“Hey, you dated him?” a student asked.

Tachibana sheepishly admitted, “Yeah, sorta.”

“So it’s true?”

“Then I met Sturmangriff, the black cat. I was smitten at first sight, healed. That’s when I realized—this is love.”

“No, it’s not,” someone said.

I know it’s nuts, but I’m committed. “Her collar had Kurumizaka Nana’s name, so I contacted her right away. I begged to date Sturmangriff. Because Sturmangriff loves me too…! On the first day of school, she came to school just for me…! We’re mutual…!”

No one said anything. They just stared at me like I was a freak. Yes, everyone here was creeped out by me. Truth or lie? They didn’t even have room to question it. I dominated this space.

“Hehe! My calculations say Ayanokoji-kun and Sturmangriff-chan’s mutual love has a one-trillion-percent chance! Perfectly compatible!” Saito piped up.

No one responded to him. Just another weirdo, they thought.

“So why were you in a mascot costume dancing?” a mic-holding student asked.

“It was a trial from Nana. Sturmangriff’s precious family to her. She wouldn’t entrust her to some random guy. She gave me a trial to prove myself. That was the live.”

“Then why were you wandering the festival with Star☆Mines?”

“Another of Nana’s trials. To date a cat, I had to understand how a cat feels around people. So I wore a cat costume and hung out with Nana’s close friends.”

“Makes no sense,” many students echoed.

But some were different. “If it’s Nana-chan, it’s possible.”

“Yeah, Nana-chan would do that.”

Nana’s fans nodded in agreement. I hate to admit it, but they bought it. As expected of Star☆Mines’ leader…

A sense of acceptance started to spread in the gym. This was it—the moment to seal it.

I took a deep breath and shouted, “Kurumizaka Nana!”

“Uh, yes!” Nana’s reply was loud, matching the mic’s volume.

“Please acknowledge my relationship with Sturmangriff!”

“Uh, um, uh…” Overwhelmed by the attention, Nana hesitated but quickly gave me a thumbs-up. “O-Of course! Love across species is wonderful!”

“Ooh,” a few students gasped as a new couple was born.

After a brief pause, Rinka clapped reluctantly, looking displeased. Kiyokawa too. After a few seconds’ hesitation, other students joined in. Humans are easily swayed, and the clapping spread. Applause echoed through the gym—

Most people looked unconvinced, tilting their heads. Still, I’d controlled the narrative and held the upper hand. My plan succeeded!

I savored the applause, basking in victory. It was like this in online games too. The one who dominates isn’t the smartest or the best player. It’s the person no one understands. Someone who lives in their own world, concluding everything on their terms. Speaking the same language, yet somehow incomprehensible. Making others think, Wait, am I the weird one? That self-centered person is the scariest. I channeled that person when I stepped onto this stage!

“Nya!”

Somehow, Sturmangriff appeared, clawing her way up my arm to settle on my shoulder, claiming her spot. …I’m not even gonna question it. This cat’s a mystery. Like her owner, her actions are unpredictable.

Clap clap clap clap. The applause grew louder. I grinned widely, silently bidding farewell.

Goodbye, my youth—

☆

I’d come to school but stopped in front of the classroom. The cultural festival incident made me nervous. No doubt I was the talk of the school, especially in my class. If they’re still buzzing, that’s fine. Being genuinely avoided would hurt more. Being a joke is better.

I couldn’t stand there forever, so I took a deep breath, held it, and stepped forward. Entering the classroom, I tried to act casual, like, Business as usual, right? and headed to my seat. Whispers reached my ears.

“He’s here… the online game addict… no, the cat-loving pervert.”

“…Just showed up like it’s nothing. What kind of nerves does that guy have?”

“A good-looking leader, but a pervert? Nah.”

“Such a shame. Online game addict was barely okay, but being in love with a cat…”

I’d lost my “Online game addict” title and was now just a pervert. …Whatever. This is my true place. Becoming the class star doesn’t happen outside manga. I told myself that and sat down.

“Yo, you’re the best,” a cheerful classmate said, tapping my shoulder lightly. Three other guys were with him, all smiling innocently, no hostility.

“That was hilarious! Best thing at the festival!”

“You’re a funny guy, huh? Let’s hang out.”

“Tell me about cats sometime.”

They returned to their seats. Some other guys watching from afar sent me friendly looks. So, I was a hit, huh? Girls were creeped out, but guys liked it. That’s the gender divide, I guess. I nodded sagely at my conclusion.

This might work out. If girls liked me too, Rinka’d get jealous. Guys are fine—wait, no. Rinka was jealous of Tachibana too…

“Sup,” Tachibana said.

“Here I am, as always,” Saito added.

They arrived, acting totally normal, as if the festival never happened, chatting about mundane stuff like always. …This is nice. Friends who don’t change, who treat you the same no matter what. I felt genuinely happy, my face almost grinning, and looked away from them.

My gaze landed on Rinka, surrounded by a group of girls, lively and clearly having fun. The girls listening to her squealed, “Wow!” and “Amazing!”

“Rinka-chan, I heard about the festival! Your acting was so good, you got fired from the ghost role,” one said.

“Yes, it still stings. My skills weren’t enough,” Rinka replied.

“No, it was because you were too good! Customers wet themselves or ran away crying…”

“Exactly. They still had the capacity to react. When humans face true terror, they freeze. I’ve got a long way to go.”

“Haha, that’s beyond a school festival! You’re such a natural, Rinka-chan.”

“Natural…?” Rinka, unfamiliar with the term, was visibly flustered, even from behind.

“I thought you were unapproachable, but not at all!” another girl said.

The others nodded, creating a heartwarming scene. It was my first time seeing people gather around Rinka like this. The festival helped her fit into the class.

…I became notorious in a bad way, though.

“Kiyokawa-san! Why would you do that?!” a girl’s shout came from the field outside the window.

Looking down, I saw Kiyokawa, upside down, struggling to move in gym clothes, seriously walking on her hands. Three girls were nearby. Oh, she’s doing the penalty game. …She’s actually doing it.

I was a bit shocked, but it proved Kiyokawa’s a girl who keeps her word. …I totally forgot about it.

The three girls tried to stop her, but Kiyokawa shouted, “I’ll do it! I’ll finish it! No, I have to! For my pride!” while hand-walking around the field. Insane athleticism.

Saito and Tachibana tilted their heads at the sight.

“What’s that?” Tachibana asked.

“My calculations say there’s a 70% chance it’s Star☆Mines’ new promo. Going all out,” Saito replied.

“Too far. A fancy idol doesn’t need to go that hard,” Tachibana said.

Unaware of my deal with Kiyokawa, they looked puzzled.

After the festival, Kiyokawa and I talked. She declared, “I admit defeat this time,” then casually added, “The moment you brought out the costume, my loss was sealed.” Her logic: The thing that makes Rinka-senpai happiest is being with you. Just being together brings her unmatched joy. The costume guaranteed your win.

I couldn’t help saying, “Are you a bit dumb, Kiyokawa?” which genuinely pissed her off, and she lightly kicked me. Honestly, it felt anticlimactic, unsatisfying. But if I won, that’s fine. Didn’t feel like a win, though.

Probably, Kiyokawa felt like I stole Rinka and lashed out without thinking. I get that. During summer break, Nonoa-chan ran to Risuzu instead of me three times. It gutted me. I was jealous of Risuzu. So, I messed up her hair as petty revenge. So yeah, I understand Kiyokawa’s feelings. I’ll humor her for a while, like a parental figure, I decided.

I watched Kiyokawa hand-walking for a bit. She kept stumbling, dirtying her gym clothes. It was kinda inspiring. I wanted to cheer her on.

Then a new figure appeared—Rinka. I quickly scanned the classroom, confirming she wasn’t there. Noticing the commotion, she’d rushed to the field.

She approached Kiyokawa, grabbing her ankles to support her.

“Uh—Rinka-senpai!? What are you…!” Kiyokawa exclaimed.

“Supporting my cute kouhai,” Rinka said warmly.

“N-No! Holding my feet… it’s dirty!”

“Dirty? No, they’re strong and beautiful.”

“Beautiful…?”

“These feet have carried you all this time, Ayane. No matter how muddy, their shine never fades.”

“R-Rinka-senpaiii!” Kiyokawa, still upside down, shed tears, caught in a bizarre moment of emotion.

Supported by Rinka, she slowly circled the field.

“What even was that…?” I muttered.

If I had to say, Kiyokawa looks smart but isn’t really. Like how glasses make people seem clever, fancy girls seem wise. But girls like Kiyokawa are exceptions, I guess.