Chapter 3: The Endless Journey to Youth

1

The next day. A full day had passed since the incident at the arcade. Back at school.

My daily life had returned, but it felt just a bit different from yesterday. After all, my relationship with Sakuya had changed—we were now friends.

During lunch break, holding a cup of instant noodles I'd just added hot water to, I called out to the girl seated behind me.

"Sakuya, let's have lunch together."

Sakuya, who seemed to have been asking a question to the classmate next to her after class, turned around with a startled expression and leaned over her desk.

"Hey, what are you thinking, inviting me like that in front of everyone!?"

"What? Eating together as friends is normal, isn't it?"

"A boy and a girl eating lunch together in the classroom isn't proper. Regular high school students don't do that."

"Really?"

"You're the type who doesn't care about your friends' genders, aren't you..."

Now that she mentioned it, I did feel the gazes around us. But isn't that a trivial matter?

"Ahh, maybe worrying about appearances at this point is silly. Fine. I'm going to buy lunch at the school store—"

With a resigned look, Sakuya opened her bag on the desk, and then suddenly froze.

"...I forgot my wallet."

She's more scatterbrained than I thought.

"Sorry, but I don't have any cash on me either."

My wallet is empty.

"Ugh, what should I do? Well, I guess it's fine even if I don't eat..."

I get it. Skipping one, two, even three meals isn't a big deal. But I don't feel right suggesting fasting to someone.

"Want some of my soba?"

"No thanks. A lady doesn't eat cup noodles."

You wouldn't eat bread from the school store either.

"...I guess I'll go back and get my wallet. Sorry, let's have lunch another time."

"Alright then."

As Sakuya stood up, I tossed her my bicycle key. She caught it with an uncertain grip.

"You can use my bike. Just remember you owe me one."

"Do friends usually lend and borrow things?"

After Sakuya thanked me with a puzzled look and left the classroom,

I ignored the indicated waiting time and opened my cup of soba. I dumped a mountain of chili powder onto the noodles. Using the chopsticks I'd split with my teeth, I slurped the now-red soba.

Still, I thought.

From the issue about boys and girls to the question of lending and borrowing, it seems that she and I have different views on friendship.

◇◇◇

"Let's define 'friendship.'"

It was after school. In the empty classroom with just the two of us. Standing at the teacher's podium, I spoke to Sakuya, who was sitting on a desk.

"...Excuse me?"

Sakuya lifted her face from her hand, narrowing her eyes.

"What are you suddenly talking about?"

It's natural she'd be confused when told this out of the blue.

"I've been thinking about it since lunchtime."

Yesterday, in order to obtain a 'normal youth' together,

"We officially became friends, but... I think it's a problem that we have different views on friendship."

As the saying goes, bands break up over differences in values, and comedy duos dissolve after years together. If we don't align our values, our friendship could easily crack.

"Also, do you think we can have 'normal friends' at this point?"

"...You have a point."

We were once just classmates, then former arch-enemies, and now friends. Our relationship is too complicated. Trying to be normal friends might just lead to confusion.

"So let's define it—let's confirm in advance what kind of 'friends' we are."

Sakuya complained, "Isn't it weird to go out of our way to do that?" but added,

"Well, I'm new to friendship too. Having a clear role might be helpful."

...Your reasoning is kind of peculiar.

Well, fine. With that decided, I wrote 'Definition of Friendship' on the blackboard.

"Your handwriting is terrible." "Leave me alone."

"First, what kind of friends are we... If I had to say, maybe 'comrades-in-arms' comes close?"

Sakuya flipped through a dictionary she had on hand and nodded.

"No objections."

I wrote '≒ Comrades-in-Arms' under 'Definition of Friendship' on the blackboard.

It might be unrefined to fit it into a mold, but with our complicated relationship, labeling it for clarity is just right.

I tapped the blackboard.

"Alright, next let's set some rules. As friends, are there things like 'I don't want this,' or 'I want to make sure we do this'?"

"For example?"

"Well... Since we're becoming friends, to avoid unnecessary conflicts, how about 'We don't dig up matters from the other world'?"

There are troublesome entanglements buried in our past. Digging carelessly would only stir up trouble.

"Sounds good, I agree. I don't want you asking about that either."

Next, Sakuya gently raised her hand.

"I have a rule suggestion too."

"What is it?"

Fidgeting, Sakuya hesitated.

"Um, like... 'We help each other when we're in trouble'..."

I nodded. It's obvious, but it's important to put it into words.

However, after she finished speaking, for some reason, Sakuya covered her face with her hands.

"What's wrong?"

"Ugh, I can't believe I'm ending up saying something so... moral. It's embarrassing..."

"Why are you embarrassed about that?"

"I'm supposed to be an evil witch! I took pride in being a villain! If my morality isn't at zero, that's what's embarrassing...!"

"You really are still suffering from 'otherworld syndrome,' aren't you?"

I worry about her—that warped sense of values.

We continued hashing out the finer details. "I'll also try not to make a big deal about gender, so let's stop keeping track of debts between us. I'm not confident I can repay them all." "So you're planning to borrow and never return? I'm totally fine with that," and so on.

After about an hour of mutual concessions and compromises.

So, to summarize our friendship treaty:

"Living a normal youth, in our own way."

"As comrades-in-arms, maintaining an appropriate distance and cooperation."

"—So, are we agreed?"

"Yes, agreed."

I put down the chalk in my left hand and dusted off the powder. With a slightly cleaner hand, I extended it for a handshake.

"Well then, once again."

I reached out to catch Sakuya's tentatively extended hand before she could pull back. Gotcha.

"Looking forward to it. Treaty concluded."

"...Honestly, going along with this farce is part of being friends, I suppose."

"Call it the essence of friendship."

"Yeah, yeah."

Sakuya gave a wry smile, not entirely displeased.

Just then, the rear door of the classroom slid open with a clatter.

...Shoot, I forgot to lock it.

The boy who entered—a student with brown hair wearing a hoodie—looked at us firmly shaking hands and at the blackboard, then awkwardly said:

"Uh... sorry to interrupt?"

Sakuya swiftly pulled her hand away faster than the eye could see. Her expression vanished instantly.

"...Goodbye, Hinami-kun. You should erase that graffiti on the blackboard."

Acting as if nothing had happened, she grabbed her bag and started to leave.

"Wait. Why are you pretending not to know me? That's a breach of the treaty!"

I hastily erased the blackboard and chased after her.

"I don't know you. Treaty? What's that? Who are you?"

"That lie is pushing it...!"

Feeling the suspicious gazes of my classmate behind me...

—Maybe having a 'normal youth' is going to be more challenging than I thought.

2

The week flew by, and now it was Sunday around noon, a day off from school.

I was lying on the sofa in my slightly messy living room, wearing casual clothes relaxed enough that I wouldn't be embarrassed stepping outside, and of course, no makeup.

I was thoroughly bored on my day off.

"...So bored."

I raised my hand toward the bright ceiling, where light reflected off and faint specks of dust danced.

I recalled what happened the other day. After school, in the empty classroom, having that strange discussion about ourselves. The sensation of his left hand when we shook.

"Once again, nice to meet you."

His hand was firm, bony,

(And big...)

Eek~~. My heart feels weird. I flailed around on the sofa. No, this is just because it's the first time I've held a friend's hand!

After thrashing about for a bit, I let out a sigh.

I have nothing to do. Homework is already done, I'm tired of reading and browsing the internet. I don't feel like cleaning my room, and taking a nap seems pointless...

Wait. Isn't this the perfect time to go hang out at a friend's house on a lazy day like this?

Being 'friends' gives me the perfect excuse to invite myself over just because I'm bored. And that seems kind of... youthful.

Thinking that, I cheerfully got ready as I was. Unlike usual, I decided to make a daytime surprise visit to his house through the window.

From the balcony, the open window and the curtains beyond revealed an unusually quiet room.

Could he be out? Honestly, he's so careless. Leaving the window open when he's out—it's dangerous. Weird people might come in.

"Asuka~. Are you there?"

Just in case, I slipped through the curtains, and what I saw was...

"...Huh?"

—There he was, collapsed face-down on the tatami mat.

"Kyah!? Are you dead!?"

At my scream, Asuka's hand twitched in response. Oh, he's alive.

"A-Are you okay?"

"............"

No answer. He really looks like a corpse.

I put a finger to my chin and pondered the situation.

First, assess the scene. I looked around the room. The six-tatami-mat space with peeling wallpaper had few belongings. There was little sign of anyone living here, and the cramped kitchen showed no traces of cooking.

...I have a bad feeling.

"Excuse me."

I opened the small refrigerator in Asuka's room. The contents were nearly empty. Only a tube of mustard rolling around on the shelf. I was speechless at the utter bleakness and slammed the refrigerator door shut with more force than necessary.

—Then, it all connected. I recalled what Asuka had been eating during lunch this past week.

Tuesday was cup soba noodles. Well, that's fine. The problem was after that.

Wednesday was a bag of bean sprouts.

"Why?"

"I microwaved it in the staff room microwave."

"I didn't ask how."

Thursday was a bag of dried seaweed.

"Why??"

"Seaweed is amazing. It expands."

"...I see."

Friday was a bag of dried bonito flakes.

"Why???"

"I'm good at making broth."

"You're not making any! Also, this conversation isn't making sense. Maybe your brain isn't getting enough nutrients? You should eat properly."

...I thought he was just incredibly sloppy about his meals.

But what did he eat over the weekend—?

At that moment, a loud stomach growl echoed in the quiet room. Grrrrrr... Naturally, it wasn't from my stomach. —Wait a minute. Has he eaten nothing?

I crouched down in front of him and poked the crown of his head.

"Hey, Asuka... When was the last time you had a proper meal?"

The 'corpse' slowly raised his lifeless face and answered.

"...I forgot."

"Are you stupid???"

"That can't be... According to my calculations, I should be fine without eating for about three days..."

"Is this your first time being human??"

I see—the cause of his condition is clear. Accidental starvation due to carelessness. Zero points as a human being; a failing grade without question.

"And to think you told me I was 'suffering from otherworld syndrome' in this state. That's you!"

I poked his head repeatedly. Poke, poke, poke, poke.

Facing the unresponsive 'corpse' of Asuka (who's alive), I let out a big sigh.

To revive this corpse, I might need to shove food into his mouth right away. But just filling his stomach won't be enough to substitute for resurrection magic. Something proper—a warm, high-calorie meal...

I thought for a moment. Fortunately, it seems this room has at least minimal cooking utensils.

"Just stay collapsed there for a bit!"

I jumped out the window and headed to the nearby supermarket.

The haze in my mind cleared with the smell of curry. The aroma that seemed to deliver the final blow to my empty stomach worked like a potent drug on my fuel-starved brain.

I sprang up.

"Oh, you're awake?"

Standing in my kitchen, she turned around holding a ladle. She was dressed casually. The hem of her skirt was short, her usual level of exposure. But the simple apron and her long hair tied up in a ponytail gave her a different impression than usual.

"...Sakuya?"

I was confused by her unfamiliar appearance.

—Why is Sakuya cooking in my house?? No, I don't even need to think about it; it's obvious. In this situation, I'd be stupid not to realize she's cooking for me.

...Wait a minute. Did I just show her an incredibly pathetic side of myself?

As I tried to grasp the situation with my sluggish mind, Sakuya looked down at me, exasperated.

"Honestly. At least say 'Help me' before you collapse! What are friends for?"

Sitting up properly on the tatami mat, I knew there was only one thing to say.

"Thank you. You saved me."

"...As long as you understand. It's only natural."

Sakuya turned back to the kitchen.

"Wait there. It'll be ready soon."

She swapped the ladle for a kitchen knife and continued cooking with somewhat precarious movements.

"Um, next I need to cut the tomatoes for the salad... Ah, ouch!"

A yelp—I realized she'd cut her finger. Whoa, idiot! I rushed into the kitchen.

"Are you okay!?"

I grabbed Sakuya's arm and pulled her closer. I brought my face close to her middle finger, which was oozing blood. Sakuya gasped, "Eek!" and hastily tried to hide her finger.

"D-Don't lick my finger...!"

"I won't, you pervert! I was checking how deep the cut is!!"

It was quite a deep cut. ...This won't heal for at least three days.

I didn't feel like pointing out Sakuya's clumsiness. She got injured while cooking for me, and I couldn't say that just watching silently was blameless either. I took out the first-aid kit.

"You can't use healing magic, right?"

I wrapped a bandage around her slender fingertip.

"Thanks... This is kind of embarrassing..."

Sakuya blushed slightly. I get it. Cutting your finger with a knife is such a cliché mistake; it's embarrassing.

For now, I couldn't let an injured person handle a knife.

"I'll take over from here."

"Huh? Asuka, you can cook?"

"If I can wield a holy sword, of course I can use a kitchen knife. All blades are basically the same."

"That's absurd logic. And that doesn't answer whether you can cook."

"Actually, my late grandma taught me the basics. I'm good at miso soup and stuff."

Sakuya looked up at me curiously.

"Then why don't you cook for yourself?"

"...Because humans don't die even if they don't eat?"

"You'll die! Are you planning to stop being human??"

I thought I was strong enough to survive on air if I wanted to... but apparently, that was a mistake.

I reflected deeply.

After a bit of scolding, we arranged the finished dishes on the low table.

Bright white rice for the first time in a while, and nostalgic, thick curry roux. A large serving. It's a heavy meal after fasting, but I have a strong stomach, so no problem.

Sitting across from me, Sakuya stared at me intently. I ate without hesitation.

"Delicious."

"Really!? Thank goodness..."

Breathing a sigh of relief, Sakuya finally brought her own spoon to her mouth.

Immediately, her face twisted.

"Bitter! The roux got burnt! The meat is tough... It's awful..."

She was mercilessly harsh about the meal she'd made herself.

"It's fine. It's better than food from the other world."

"That's not a compliment!"

"No, seriously, it's tasty. It's the second-best thing I've eaten since coming back to this world."

"...What's the best?"

"Sweet red bean soup."

"What?"

About halfway through our meal:

"Hey, there's something I want to ask."

Sakuya quietly set down her spoon with a soft clink and began.

"You... don't have any money, do you?"

I guess the reason for my fasting was obvious. Instead of confirming, I gave an ambiguous, wry smile.

Sakuya furrowed her brows. "If I'd known, I wouldn't have made you buy me ice cream..."

"Why not?"

Well, after having her cook for me, it would be rude not to explain why I'm broke.

"It's not a big deal. I just haven't been able to land a part-time job."

To be fair, I've gotten some temporary gigs a few times, but there aren't many job openings around here.

"Wait, you're covering your living expenses yourself?"

Come to think of it, I hadn't explained the basics.

"Yeah, my parents are dead."

I said it casually, skimming over the details.

It happened when I was a kid, so I don't really remember. By the way, my grandmother, who acted as my guardian, also passed away when I was in middle school.

"I do have some close relatives, but they apparently went bankrupt, so I don't want to rely on them."

Because of that, I had to laugh when I came back from the other world to find my family home had been leveled.

So that's how I ended up living alone.

"That's all."

"That's all...?"

Sakuya looked at me, speechless.

"Hahaha, the other world was pretty rough, but this world is just as crappy, huh!"

"I was trying not to say anything out of consideration!"

"Sakuya, you know, self-deprecating humor is funnier when it's inappropriate."

"You're the worst...! What's wrong with your sense of humor?"

She let out a sigh and rested her head on her elbow on the table.

...Hmm. I tried to make it sound as light as possible, but it seems to have had the opposite effect.

"In that situation, shouldn't you be working instead of going to school? Are you okay?"

A reasonable question from Sakuya. Indeed, attending a full-time school is a bit much.

"But you said you were going back to school..."

"Wait, what? What do you mean by that?"

...Oh crap, that slipped out.

"W-Well! You probably thought I'd do something stupid, still stuck in otherworld syndrome!"

Let's just go with that.

"Anyway, I finally got a new part-time job yesterday, so you don't need to worry."

"Oh, where?"

"That café in front of the station. The one with the green door."

"Oh, I know it."

Sakuya grinned mischievously, as if plotting something.

"...So you're working there, huh?"

What's with that smile?

Feeling suspicious, I shifted the topic back. There's something I've been curious about too.

"By the way, why are you living alone, Sakuya?"

I had been wondering. Two years ago, Fumiduki was commuting to school from her distant family home.

So why is she now living in the apartment next door?

"Well, a lot happened after I got back. Like, it became uncomfortable to stay at home."

Even without her explaining, I could understand the situation. A two-year disappearance is more than enough to fracture relationships. Magic that obscures recognition is useful for quelling rumors, but it doesn't work on family or close relations. Because our existence is firmly rooted in their memories—including our disappearance.

"I don't want to go as far as erasing their memories. Even I would feel guilty about messing with the minds of people important to me."

Sakuya shrugged.

"So, that's why I moved out. And I thought, since I was moving anyway, it might be nice to be close to you..."

"Hmm?"

"Uh?"

I stopped eating and interrupted her. Did she just say something incredible?

"I thought it was a coincidence that you moved in next door..."

Sakuya turned bright red—redder than when she cut her finger, like a tomato.

"It's not like that! I'm not a stalker or anything!"

"There's no talking your way out of this. That's kinda creepy~"

I teased her. Even if there was hostility before, there are lines you shouldn't cross.

"Well, I'm happy to have a friend living next door."

And with that, our plates were empty. While talking, we had finished eating at the same time.

After saying "Thanks for the meal," I bowed my head.

"Let me thank you again. I appreciate it."

Not just for helping me, but more than that—I thought sincerely.

"It's been a while since I've eaten with someone."

"Me too."

Sakuya smiled softly.

"Hey, um, if you don't mind—"

She was about to say something but suddenly stopped.

"What's wrong?"

Sakuya looked up into space and sniffed.

"...Something smells."

She furrowed her beautifully shaped eyebrows and murmured quietly.

"W-What? Is it a gas leak? I took a bath yesterday, and I clean regularly."

Sakuya shook her head. "No... this room..."

"—Smells like the Holy Sword."

"Huh?"

What does that mean?

"You brought the Holy Sword back to this world with you, didn't you?"

"Uh, yeah. But smelling...?"

"I don't mean it literally stinks. It's a figure of speech."

Sakuya elaborated. "To be precise, it's like my 'sixth sense is tingling'? It's a magical sensation, so I don't think anyone else would notice."

I see. Well, that's... good?

Before I could feel relieved, Sakuya leaned in close. Her expression was serious.

"So. Where are you hiding the Holy Sword?"

"There's no hiding, or anything..."

"Sorry, but I'm going to search your place."

"Why!?"

Right in front of me, Sakuya got down on all fours and started trying to lift the tatami mats.

"Why? So I can find it and throw it out with the bulky trash, of course."

"Wait. It's the Holy Sword, you know! Throwing it out as garbage is sacrilege!"

"Then I'll sell it on a flea market app."

"That's sacrilegious!"

I mean, I did compare it to a kitchen knife, but still!

But Sakuya didn't stop.

"Because. I hate that sword."

Realizing it was difficult to lift the tatami mats with her own strength, she gave up. Sakuya got up on her knees and started moving toward the closet.

"Wait, don't go there—!"

I opened the closet and tilted my head.

"What's this?"

Inside the dim, damp closet. They were stored away as if to avoid being seen.

There were worn-out magazines and unfamiliar equipment. From things that looked soft to hard, items whose purposes were unclear at first glance... Among them, one thing was easily recognizable—a dumbbell.

In other words, ordinary muscle training equipment. That was the identity of the things hidden so carefully in the closet.

I pushed aside the muscle-training magazines and picked up one of the dumbbells.

Wow, heavier than I thought... Whoa, heavy!? How many kilos is this?

"Ahhhh! Don't look! Forget you saw that...!"

When I turned around, Asuka was covering his face with his hands.

Uh, what's with that reaction?

"What? Why are you embarrassed? It's just a dumbbell, right?"

Asuka retorted.

"Isn't it embarrassing to have stuff like this... Makes me look like a muscle-head!"

"Calm down. Not 'like' a muscle-head; you are an embarrassing muscle-head wherever you go."

Honestly, I find it way more embarrassing that you collapsed from hunger and are still wearing that weird T-shirt. Your shame points are off.

But I decided to think about it for a moment. What exactly is he embarrassed about?

...Oh, could it be.

"Do you consider the other world to be your 'dark history'?"

Asuka averted his gaze. It seems he's not good at lying. When he's silent, it's probably a yes.

...I see. Even though Asuka usually pretends he's moved on from the other world, just like I have my witch's pride, he has his own pride as a former hero. He probably can't stop training his body even after returning here.

But to him, his time as a hero is a dark history. So 'training equals acknowledging his dark history.' As a logical conclusion, he feels embarrassed about muscle training. Wow, how complicated.

Watching Asuka writhe for reasons incomprehensible to the average person, I found myself going beyond exasperation, starting to feel a chill—a kind of sadistic thrill.

"Heh..."

I stood up and walked over to him, looking down intently.

"Come to think of it, Asuka, you've gotten scrawnier compared to when you were active, haven't you?"

Asuka flinched.

...Honestly, I don't care whether you're thin or muscular. But when there's a weakness right in front of me—I just want to poke at it.

I crouched down and whispered into his ear with a hint of breath.

"Must be tough, making such tearful efforts with such tiny dumbbells, huh, Hero?"

"Stop calling me by that embarrassing title!"

Shivers. Oh, what's this? This is so much fun.

Asuka glared at me with his blue eyes. ...A bit scary. But since I've found a weakness, I might as well exploit it.

"If you want me to keep quiet, I have a condition."

"Sorry, but I'm going to take advantage of my friend's weakness."

"What's that...?" he asked, sounding resigned. I decided to continue what I was about to say earlier.

"From now on, have dinner with me."

"...Huh?"

"You realized from the curry earlier, right? I'm not good at cooking. I need to practice, so won't you be my guinea pig?"

"I don't mind—in fact, I'd appreciate it—but..."

Asuka replied, looking unconvinced.

"Is that something you need to leverage someone's weakness to ask?"

No, the part where I take advantage starts now.

I smiled brightly and said, "Of course, I'll cover all the food expenses. That's my condition."

"Let's split the costs."

"No way."

If we split, I can't serve you expensive meat and such.

Asuka groaned. "You're telling me to freeload off you...?"

Well, knowing Asuka, he'd rather silently starve than ask a friend for help. His attitude is like a samurai holding a toothpick despite an empty stomach. I knew he'd be reluctant.

"Then how about this? Next time, make me breakfast. I'd love to try your specialty miso soup."

An exchange. How's that?

Asuka raised his hands in surrender. "Alright. Let's go with that."

Deal struck. Yes!

I made a small fist pump.

After wrapping up our discussion, as we were clearing the dishes, he suddenly said,

"By the way, Sakuya, there's something I want to ask."

"What is it?"

With a serious expression, Asuka asked, "Why... do you still come in through the window?"

He meant, why don't you visit normally now that we're friends? True, if we're not enemies, there's no need to trespass, but...

"Why? Because I'm a witch."

"???"

"I told you, I took pride in being a witch. Entering through the front door isn't witch-like. It's a role-playing no-no. Witches come in through windows."

"I don't get your logic."

—Even if we're friends now, the fact that I'm a witch doesn't change.

I hid the finger he bandaged behind my back and gently touched it.

It didn't hurt at all.

Geez.

3

"That's... not what friends do, is it?"

The next day, Monday evening, in the break room at my new part-time job. Thinking it was just casual chatter, I told my coworker about what happened with Sakuya on Sunday. My coworker gave me a puzzled look and said that.

His name was Makoto Sasaki. A classmate, a coworker, and—

My second friend, whom I'd just made recently.

◇◇◇

—To explain how this came about, let's go back two days to last Saturday.

In the morning, I headed downtown to look for part-time job postings. A moderately bustling yet somewhat rundown mid-sized city. If you want to find a job here, it's better to pound the pavement yourself.

That's when I spotted a conspicuous girl with bright orange hair in front of the station. She wore a baggy shirt and knit vest, her slender legs in skinny jeans and colorful sneakers—the typical look of a student wandering the neighborhood on a day off. She was from the class next door: Meme Nenezaka.

Meme was leaning against a silver street railing, fiddling with an old handheld game console.

"What are you doing?"

She looked up from her game. "StreetPass. In other words, modern-day fishing."

Fishing?

"Playing at being Jiang Ziya—don't you think it's an emo way to spend a holiday?"

...Better not to delve deeper.

"What about you, Asuka-san? Why are you in uniform on a day off?"

"Job hunting."

"Gotcha."

Unlike Sakuya, who's always dressed revealingly, I dress appropriately, so I don't show up to interviews in sloppy T-shirts.

Meme put a finger to her small chin thoughtfully. "In that case, I might have a lead for you."

She hopped off the railing, stowed her game console in a bear-eared backpack, and beckoned with a faux-fluent Japanese accent, "Follow me, please~."

Our destination was an alley behind the station—a retro café with a door slathered in green paint. I didn't know there was a shop here.

"My grandpa runs this place."

Meme opened the door without hesitation, even though it was before opening hours. Only family could get away with such a bold move. Jingle-jingle.

"Grandpa~. I caught a new capitalist wage slave, legally sanctioned by the labor standards law."

Her way of saying "I found a new part-timer" was... unique.

Behind the counter stood an elderly man, looking dapper in a vest. He gave me a once-over and a thumbs-up.

"You're hired."

Wait, what?

He said that since his granddaughter introduced me, there should be no problem. Plus, the owner added, "You used to come to our shop, didn't you? I remember you." Pure nepotism.

—And so, my long, arduous job search came to an end...

After finishing the interview and agreeing to start shifts from the following week, I was leaving through the back door when I bumped into someone.

"Oh, Hinami! Meeting at the back door—are you the new part-timer?"

A male student with short hair. Wearing our high school's uniform under a hoodie, hair dyed light, and sporting earrings. At first glance, he looked carefree, but his gentle eyes gave off an overall harmless vibe.

"Uh..."

Who was he again?

"I'm Sasaki. You know, two seats diagonally behind you in class."

...Oh, right.

At the same time, a cold sweat ran down my back. Sasaki was the one who'd caught me and Sakuya discussing the "definition of friendship" in the classroom.

After that, Sakuya had sighed, "Can't you sense people's presence? You're a former hero, after all." Unfortunately, I don't have that constant vigilance turned on in this world—it's unhealthy.

Sensing the awkwardness, Sasaki gave a wry smile.

"You didn't remember my name? You're really only interested in Fumizuki-san among your classmates, huh, Hinami."

"Sorry."

"It's okay. Just remember it now."

He waved his hand lightly, looking amiable, then continued.

"So, Hinami, what's your relationship with Fumizuki-san?"

Sasaki stepped closer, his expression serious, eyes filled with genuine curiosity.

"Don't worry; I won't spread it around. It's just that if something piques my interest, I can't sleep at night. Like yesterday, I spent about an hour thinking about what kind of relationship you two have."

"Is it that intriguing?"

"Well, you both returned from leave at the same time, right? I don't know why. Even though it seems like there's some backstory, you guys don't talk at all in class. Yet, you exchange tons of eye contact."

Wait, did we do that? ...Yeah, we did.

Back when we were always bickering, I'd often catch Sakuya glaring at me. If someone glares at you, you glare back. It's a showdown. Can't lose.

"Then suddenly, you're having lunch together. And holding secret meetings after school, just the two of you. Makes you curious, right?"

Sasaki added an unnecessary comment, "I couldn't read what was on the blackboard; your handwriting is terrible," as he pressed further.

"You're not just ordinary friends, are you?"

...He's surprisingly persistent.

Perhaps Sasaki's curiosity is a side effect of the memory-obscuring magic. Since he can't recognize our disappearance itself, his interest turned toward us. Can't be helped.

...Personally, I can't dislike Sasaki. He referred to our absence as leave instead of repeating a grade. Probably a good guy. I self-deprecatingly say I repeated a year, though.

And I finally landed this job. Since we'll be working together, I don't want to alienate him.

"Uh, well, she's... how should I put it..."

How do I explain? She's a former arch-enemy turned comrade-in-arms—nope, saying that in reality is way too cringey!

But I'm terrible at lying. Even if I try, I'm bad at it. I'd be found out immediately. I have to tell as much truth as possible without actually lying.

After much hesitation and realizing I was out of time, I squeezed an answer from my brain.

Well, she's...

"A friend who comes in through the window."

Sasaki's eyes widened. I fell silent.

I knew it—I completely chose the wrong words. Even if I'm bad at lying, there had to be a better truth to share, brain!

There's no one in this world who would empathize with the struggle of someone entering through their window.

However, after a brief silence, Sasaki leaned in and said solemnly,

"...My childhood friend comes in through the window too."

"For real?"

We locked eyes for a moment. Gauging each other's reactions, Sasaki spoke first.

"You know, I think that's dangerous!"

"Yeah, what if someone else sees? They'll think you're a weirdo!"

"...Huh? Well, I was talking about the risk of injury, but yeah, I get that. At first glance, they look like a burglar."

"Exactly! But maybe because they're fixated on it, they won't stop. They totally ignore my circumstances!"

"It's tough for me too. Can't leave my room messy, can't carelessly change clothes."

"I'm like, be grateful I'm not a nudist."

"Plus, they come in at weird times..."

"Three in the morning."

"That's really the worst."

Sasaki sighed.

"But I can't seriously stop them. In the end, I'm happy they come to see me..."

"I understand that feeling."

I nodded.

"Yeah..."

"Yeah..."

No more words were needed.

"I couldn't tell anyone about this."

"Me neither."

We hit it off. We bumped fists. We became friends.

Who would've thought there were others connected through windows in this world? The world is vast! Thank you, real world...

Lost in thought, I suddenly realized.

"By the way, this childhood friend of yours—could it be?"

There's only one other reckless person besides Sakuya who might come in through windows.

"Oh, you know her? It's Meme Nenezaka."

...So she, too, is an unreasonable person who enters through windows. Small world.

I nodded in understanding and raised my caution level toward Meme Nenezaka.

She did help me find this job, but that's that, and this is this. I prefer not to get involved with eccentrics if I can help it.

◇◇◇

So, that's how I quickly deepened my friendship with Sasaki at lightning speed—but...

As the break ended and today arrived, while changing into our part-time uniforms in the café's break room:

"No, I mean, that's a bit of a stretch to call that 'friends,' isn't it?"

Sasaki said to me with a grim face.

"You said you've started having dinner together, but you guys always eat lunch together during break, right? And now you're even planning to have breakfast together... Wow, that's all three meals every day."

He let out a sigh that was hard to distinguish from exasperation.

"That's... more than just 'friends,' isn't it? It's something beyond that—like lovers or a married couple, something that comes with a scandalous label. You're too clingy."

He said this with a serious expression.

"No, no way."

Our meals are strictly within the bounds of our friendship agreement—mutual assistance and nothing more. At least, that's how it should be.

"Besides, we haven't even had breakfast together yet."

"Yet."

Sasaki muttered as he tied the apron of his café uniform.

"...This is strange. I thought I'd finally made a friend who shares the same troubles as me. Why am I listening to you gush about your love life..."

"Sorry... But I'm not bragging."

Since I have work, we don't eat together every day. So, it's safe. Right?

After finishing our preparations, Sasaki went into the kitchen, and I went out to the floor. It was my first day on the job, but I learned the work without any issues. My body seemed to remember the experience from my previous restaurant jobs.

Then—around 8 p.m., when the flow of customers had stopped. Ding, the bell on the door rang.

I turned around.

"Welcome—ah?"

There she stood.

"I've come."

Ugh, it's her.

Not in her school uniform but in a black dress with exposed shoulders, Sakuya suddenly appeared at my workplace. She made an uncharacteristic peace sign with a cool smile.

"Surprise attack successful. Were you surprised?"

Come to think of it, she did ask me where I was working.

"Sigh... If you were coming, you should have told me."

"Then it wouldn't be a surprise attack."

Reporting is more important than surprise attacks, you know.

Today, Sakuya seemed to be in a good mood despite her low energy. She looked me up and down, crossing her arms as if evaluating me.

"That uniform suits you. I thought so with the school uniform too, but uniforms really look good on you."

"Thanks... Can't you just give a straightforward compliment?"

Sakuya chuckled softly.

"Why don't you just wear uniforms for the rest of your life?"

"Oh, are you telling me to repeat grades forever?"

What a rude person.

I sat on one of the counter stools.

The old clock in the café showed 8 p.m.—a bit late for dinner. I had intended to come earlier, but by the time I finished tidying up my house, it had gotten this late.

Well, yesterday I went to Asuka's place to hang out (?). So next, it's only proper to invite him to my place. Yes, next time I'll make a delicious curry and invite him over!

Also, I spent time deciding what to wear today, changing outfits over and over.

...Hehe, I'm so giddy it's embarrassing. My very existence.

"What would you like to order?"

Asuka asked curtly—not very friendly for a waiter. Even though smiles are free, nothing is more expensive than something free.

I glanced over the menu and decided immediately.

"Curry, please."

"Again? Don't you get tired of it?"

"It's fine. If I put myself in an Indian movie mindset, I can eat it every day."

"Huh??"

The curry I made wasn't great, so I need to study by trying the restaurant's version. Besides, I don't need nutritional balance for my own meals.

While waiting for my order at the counter, I rested my chin on my hand and watched Asuka at work. Actually, surprising someone at their workplace is...

(It was secretly a dream of mine...)

Back when I had a slight crush on him. I knew that he—Hinami-kun—was working part-time at a family restaurant two years ago, but I never went there back then.

We weren't friends. As someone who was only slightly interested, barging into his workplace would have been improper both as an honor student and as a lady; it was a role-playing no-no.

But now it's different. We have the immunity of being 'friends.' We can openly hang out! It's acceptable to show up at his workplace...!

I glanced over at Asuka. He noticed my gaze and moved his mouth silently.

"(Why are you glaring at me?)"

"(Huh? I'm not glaring.)"

I was just watching you.

By the way, we can at least read each other's lip movements. Since we've returned from the other world. Lip-reading is basic education.

(Even so...)

Watching Asuka, I thought.

The café uniform suits him... The clean black and white of the shirt and apron is dazzling. He's wearing gloves over his hands, probably because bandages wouldn't look good. Combined with the contrast to his usual terrible casual clothes, he looks 80% more attractive.

I don't think Asuka is particularly good-looking. He's always been inconspicuous, the type to be overshadowed by someone more prominent. Probably because he got into the habit of erasing his presence in the other world, he's become even more unnoticeable since returning. That's probably why he can't make friends.

His complexion shows unhealthiness and poverty. Dark circles under his eyes and a gloomy gaze. His long bangs always cast a shadow over his eyes. He lacks presence, and his aura is dark. His first impression based on appearance is rather bad.

But if you look closely, his features aren't bad at all. His physique can't be bad either, considering he could swing a large sword with ease. Most (decent) clothes suit him.

I sighed. Haah.

"He should just wear uniforms forever..."

Really, stop wearing weird clothes.

He... if he gets over his 'otherworld syndrome' in the future, might become popular with girls? I don't know. It's not like his future has anything to do with me.

...For some reason, thinking about it makes me feel uneasy.

Possessed by an inexplicable irritation, before I knew it, I had activated the camera on my smartphone.

—Come to think of it, there's that saying that taking someone's photo can trap their soul.

I aimed my phone, adjusted the focus, and pressed the shutter button. I captured his image in my album.

"...Hehe."

Taking the photo somehow eased my bottled-up feelings.

For now, this Asuka in the photo is mine. Mine.

—Wait, isn't this a candid shot!

Startled by what I'd done, I almost dropped my phone. I had gone through the motions completely unconsciously.

Why? S-Scary... myself...!

Does our friendship contract include permission for secret photography??

(...Definitely not.)

I held my head in my hands. This is really making me a stalker!

"Sorry to keep you waiting—what are you doing?"

The curry rice was placed on the counter without a sound. The aroma pulled me back to reality, and I exhaled a breath. Next to the plate was a coffee float with ice cream, which I hadn't ordered.

"...Huh?"

Asuka gestured toward a seat at the end of the counter.

"It's one of those 'from the customer over there' things."

Two seats away, a doll-like girl with orange hair was waving at me.

Meme. I introduced myself to the girl who called herself Meme. Sitting neatly on the chair with her short skirt spread out, her thick-soled sneakers just reaching the footrest, Meme was a cute girl who even suited her unfashionable framed glasses. But somehow, she gave off an air of being a bit eccentric.

After the treat, Meme moved over two seats to sit next to me.

"Sorry to surprise you. Our curry is quite spicy, so it's good to have something sweet with it. I heard from Asuka-san that you like coffee, but was it okay?"

Huh? She's unexpectedly... normal?

Feeling a bit disarmed, I thanked her for the coffee float.

"Hehe, I've always wanted to try that—'to the customer over there.' ...With someone I wanted to get closer to."

She smiled innocently. The petite Meme was like a friendly little animal.

...S-So cute.

Maybe because I'm tall and have always made villainous faces, lacking charm, I'm weak to small and cute things.

I felt like I could be sucked into her sparkling eyes. Not that there's any magic in them.

...No, wait. I regained my caution.

"Did you want to talk to me about something?"

I almost forgot, distracted by her cuteness. It's unlikely that an ordinary girl would approach me at this point. Even without the disappearance incident, being two years older yet in the same grade is a troublesome existence in high school. Most people would treat me like a taboo.

Meme must have an ulterior motive.

"Well, let's start with the basics—what are your hobbies?"

I don't know what she's after, but I won't give in easily...!

—That's what I thought, but.

A few minutes later.

"What? You watch horror movies too, Sakuya-san! I love occult stuff. Of the ones that came out in the past two years, this one and this one are must-sees... Eh, you've already seen them!? And you've read the original novels too? Seriously? Then how about this video—"

The conversation flowed. Meme gulped.

"...Sakuya-san, you're quite the enthusiast, aren't you?"

—This girl shares my interests so much.

When you return from the other world, there's only one thing to do: go through the backlog of books and movies that piled up automatically over two years.

As I talked with Meme, before I knew it, she'd drawn out even my long-hidden love of horror.

...I forgot to keep up my facade. Of course, it's partly because Meme is easy to talk to.

Maybe I've started to feel less afraid of showing my true self. Frustratingly, thanks to Asuka.

And for someone like me, who has lived hiding her true self, meeting a girl who shares my hobbies is a first.

...At this point, does role-playing even matter? I'm starting to think it doesn't. Even if Meme has some ulterior motive. In the end, she's just a normal high school girl. Even if this is a trap, it's okay to fall into it. Right?

—Because.

Meme's eyes sparkled as she took my hands.

"Sakuya-san—I mean, Saaya! Let's go on a fun outing together next time!"

How could I possibly resist the temptation of my first (very cute) female friend?

"Yes, of course, Meme."

...Ah, I've realized. I probably am—

—Fundamentally, easy to win over.

As we lost track of time, chatting away, it got late into the night. Just before closing time at 10 p.m.

"Oh no. It's already this late. I kept you here."

"No, I had fun. Thanks for talking to me."

As I stood up to leave, Asuka called out to me from behind the counter.

"Sakuya, wait a minute. I'm about to finish my shift. I'll walk you home."

"Oh, worrying about me walking alone at night?"

"Huh? I'm worried about any suspicious people who might run into you."

Hmm. It's not like I'd do something unseemly like beating someone up. I'd be scared and just call the police.

"Alright then. I suppose I'll let you escort me."

"Yeah, do that."

As I watched him disappear into the back, Meme was staring at me intently.

"What's up?"

"Oh, nothing. I was just a little curious."

"Saaya, are you dating Asuka-san?"

At that casually dropped bombshell of a question, I—

"Blegh."

Spat blood. I was so surprised I bit my tongue...

"Ah! Are you okay!?"

Meme hurriedly offered me a paper napkin.

"I'm fine. Just a canker sore bursting."

"Bursting!?"

That's a lie. But it's better than admitting I bit my tongue...

I wiped away the blood and regained my composure, waving my hand lightly in denial.

"Dating? No, no way. Impossible."

Me and him? No way.

"He's not my type."

I answered so calmly that I surprised even myself. Meme tilted her head.

"Then, what kind of person is your type, Saaya?"

"Let's see—"

I lowered my gaze to my smartphone.

"Someone with beautiful handwriting, who doesn't get failing grades, not a muscle-head, looks good in glasses, and is shorter than me."

On the screen was the photo of Asuka I secretly took earlier. Someone taller than me with blue eyes, someone who's perceptive but not smart, someone who knows me better than anyone else.

(See? Completely different, right?)

I scratched the screen with my nail.

—That's why it's impossible. Absolutely.

4

As I headed to the back to get ready to walk Sakuya home, Meme's question echoed in my mind.

"Are you dating Asuka-san?"

A while ago, Sakuya and I defined our friendship to maintain an appropriate distance and build a healthy relationship. That was the plan.

"But that's... not just friends, is it?"

...Did we fail to properly define our friendship?

Due to a long gap in social relationships, I don't know the correct distance as friends. Apparently, normal friends don't routinely have the possibility of eating all three meals together.

From now on, I should be careful with my words. It would be disrespectful to Sakuya if misunderstandings arise. I wouldn't mind, but...

If we're being so friendly that people misunderstand our relationship—maybe we should put some distance between us.

Thinking about such things, I finished my shift. I exited through the back door.

In front of me was a dim alley illuminated by streetlights. At this late hour near closing time, there wasn't even a hint of pedestrian traffic. I quickly spotted Sakuya, who had been waiting outside.

"Meow..."

—Along with a not-at-all-convincing cat meow.

There was a stray cat in the alley. She must have found it while waiting for me. Sakuya was crouching in front of a calico cat.

Silently, from behind, I activated my camera. Pressed the record button.

"Nyaa... Does that voice not work? Hey, come here. Here, kitty kitty..."

Sakuya was stretching out her hand to the cat, trying hard to get its attention. The hem of her dress was nearly touching the ground; I was worried it might get dirty.

But her efforts were in vain. The cat bristled, hissed, and ran off down the alley.

"Ahh! Please don't run away!"

I stifled a chuckle. Sakuya still hadn't noticed me behind her.

"Ugh, why do animals hate me...? Is it because I'm a witch? Is it bad that I'm a witch?"

"Does that have anything to do with it?"

"Ah!" Finally, Sakuya turned around. She saw me, then saw the phone I was holding up, and paled.

"Were you... filming?"

"Yeah, got it all."

I pressed the stop recording button.

"You were taking pictures of me during my shift, right? Consider this payback."

"Ugh..."

Flustered, Sakuya's complexion changed from pale to red like a traffic light. She stood up and exclaimed softly.

"Forbidden, forbidden! If you take unauthorized photos of me, I'll be so shocked I'll die!"

"Are you a fish in an aquarium?"

"Remember, I have the temperament of a deep-sea fish..."

"What are you talking about?"

"...I'm sorry for taking pictures without permission."

Sakuya deflated, looking dejected.

"It's fine, isn't it? Friends can take photos of each other as they like."

That's normal, right?

"...With permission for secret photography!?"

"Huh?"

"Ahem, forget I said that," Sakuya covered her mouth. Taking advantage of the moment, I checked the video. Did it record properly?

From the video, her 'Nyaa' imitation played back. Sakuya showed a look of despair.

Hmm. It seems I'm a cat person. A new discovery.

"Ahhh... No, this is bad!! So embarrassing I could die!"

Sakuya reached out to grab my phone, but I dodged. Her arms weren't long enough to snatch it.

"Delete it!"

"No."

"Why~~!?"

As we playfully tussled, I thought.

Somehow, lately she's been full of openings.

Even back when we were enemies (like when she'd cast magic in completely the wrong direction), she always had a bit of an airhead side—but now, especially so. I can tell she's letting her guard down.

I realized that she stopped carrying that tense atmosphere around her since we officially became friends, and I felt relieved.

...Well, it doesn't matter. Even if people ask, "Are you really just friends?"

No matter how others see us, our relationship is something we decide ourselves.

I allowed myself a slight smile.

Meanwhile, Sakuya pressed her lips together tightly and raised her hand in front of her left eye. It's the preparatory motion for casting magic.

"............"

A piercing glare.

Uh-oh, did I tease her too much?

"Wait, let's talk. I have a great idea."

She let out a sigh and lowered her arm for the moment.

"I'm listening."

"Violence isn't good. When we're about to fight, let's settle it simply and peacefully—with a game."

"Like at the arcade. No objections."

But we can't decide every dispute with fighting games. So, as a substitute.

"Rock-paper-scissors."

Sakuya raised her voice in dissatisfaction. "Huh?"

"...Well, considering the win rate, it might be fair?"

She agreed reluctantly.

"Alright! One shot, no hard feelings—rock, paper, scissors—"

"Wait, that was fast...!"

There's a so-called surefire method in rock-paper-scissors. Since people reflexively throw rock, if you don't give your opponent time to think and throw paper, your chances of winning increase.

But she's been through her share of tough situations. She boldly anticipated my paper and threw scissors. However, I clenched my fist—rock. Naturally, I won.

Sakuya stared intently at our hands.

"...Did you just cheat with your quick reflexes and throw after me?"

She caught me.

"Actually, this is my foolproof idea to never lose."

—Yes, in the end, tricks are meaningless. Cheating by throwing after is the true surefire method.

In the end, whether in this world or the other, the winner is justice!

"............"

I felt like I heard a snapping sound, as if a blood vessel just burst.

Without any preparatory motion, her left eye began to glow red.

"So... if that's how you're going to play. I'll erase the data physically."

She declared she'd destroy my smartphone. Yikes.

"Seriously...? Do you know how much this costs?"

It's worth more than all my possessions!

"Don't worry. I'll compensate you with the latest model."

"That's not the point! Damn it, you lost fair and square, stop being such a sore loser!"

"Shut up, you cowardly, despicable idiot! Look who's talking!"

"Wait, let's talk!"

"I'm not falling for that again!"

She pointed her hand like a gun.

"—'Burst!'"

An out-of-place spell in the language of the other world. A pale magical bullet began to form.

—At this rate, I have no choice but to be honest.

"I don't want to delete it. And the reason is..."

Because that video...

"I thought it was cute!"

Mainly the cat. But I can admit that Sakuya was about half as cute.

If we're friends, accept the compliment and put away your weapon!

But she...

"~~~~~!"

She clenched her teeth hard, blood trickling from the corner of her mouth—

Her magic backfired.

In this world, unlike the other where magic is abundant, the power of magic is diminished.

Her magic bullets here would normally have only enough power to lightly knock someone back.

—Or so I thought.

The blood flowing from her mouth. A witch's blood contains strong magic.

Reacting to that sudden surge of magic, her spell misfired. Its power increased.

Like a bullet.

—Even so, I might have barely been able to stop it.

If her magic had hit me as intended.

The misfired bullet was now uncontrollable.

Its trajectory passed over me, toward the building behind us. Above, it shattered a second-floor window.

"Ah...! I'm sorry...!"

Crash—the sound of shattering glass. At the same time,

Right below the broken window, the back door opened.

Out came Sasaki, who had just finished his shift, and his childhood friend, Meme.

"Huh?"

They stood there as large shards of glass rained down from above.

—This is bad.

Too far to shield them. I won't make it.

"Sorry."

Having just cast magic and still pale, her body still had remnants of magical energy. I grabbed her exposed shoulder with my right hand. A crackling sound louder than static electricity.

Responding to her magic, blue sparks burst from my arm.

"Ah!"

Ignoring the small cry of pain she let out even though I only grabbed her lightly.

"—'Come!'"

I shouted in the language of the other world.

A sword appeared in my exposed arm. Up to this point—0.2 seconds.

I swung the 'Holy Sword' in my right hand. The blue-glowing blade slashed through the air, closing the distance, and blew away the rain of glass descending over them.

◇◇◇

Sasaki and Meme stood bewildered before the shards of glass scattered at their feet.

"...What just happened?"

"Looks like they saved us~?"

Soon realizing the situation, their gazes turned toward us.

The impact of summoning the sword had unraveled my bandages. My lead-colored right arm was exposed, but that's fine for now.

—Our top priority is to cover up everything they've seen here.

"Sakuya, erase their memories."

I glanced back at her—and gasped.

Collapsed on the ground, she had horns growing from her head.

(...What?)

Those horns are the mark of a witch. She had them back in the other world. They were supposed to have disappeared after returning to this world.

Why now...?

But there's no time to ask.

Pale-faced, Sakuya nodded.

"Y-Yes. Got it."

First, she used magic to fix the broken window, eliminating the evidence.

Then, as she was about to use magic again to erase their memories—

Meme jumped forward.

"Please wait!"

I get it; suddenly having your memories erased is hard to accept. But we can't let them go after they've seen this. There's no way they can accept such a sight. But—

Sasaki, who had been looking down and trembling beside Meme, raised his face.

He shouted with excitement.

"A-Amazing—!"

...Huh?

◇◇◇

Sasaki Makoto is an ordinary high school student. So ordinary that he disliked his normal appearance and, upon entering high school, dyed his hair and got piercings.

After getting his third piercing, he thought, "This isn't how an anime-watching otaku should dress," but it was too late, so he stuck with it.

His subculture-loving childhood friend even said, "Over-the-top fashion can actually make you look more like an otaku, so it's acceptable."

—Being ordinary is boring. That's what Sasaki thought.

But since advancing to his second year of high school, Sasaki hadn't been bored. Because there was someone in his class who was clearly not ordinary.

Hinami Asuka. An older classmate with a mean look in his eyes. During breaks, he either slept, gazed out the window, or studied—a gloomy guy.

Sasaki started paying attention to Hinami after the physical fitness test in early April, when he utterly destroyed the grip strength meter he was holding.

"Uh..."

Hinami, dripping cold sweat, reported to the teacher.

"Uh—... It broke even though I didn't do anything..."

He's terrible at lying. Everyone saw it.

Also, during the shuttle run, he nearly embodied eternity. Sasaki saw Fumizuki in the neighboring girls' area desperately signaling, "It's time to stop!"

(They... are never boring to watch.)

After that incident, Hinami kept making bizarre excuses to avoid PE classes, like "My grandmother's dying wish was for me to avoid ball games," or "I have terrible muscle pain in my right shoulder," and kept dodging gym class.

Classmates were secretly plotting to drag him out for the sports festival, but no one approached him.

"His gaze is seriously scary," "He's definitely killed someone," "He could crush a human head like an apple," they said. Well, his eyes do look dead.

(But when he's talking to Fumizuki-san, his eyes are normal...)

"Maybe he's actually a professional hitman," "No, he was probably a mercenary in a war zone"—as his classmates huddled together, speculating about Hinami's true identity.

Sasaki smirked.

"You guys watch too much anime."

—Reality is more ordinary. More boring.

Even though deep down, he wished Hinami's true identity was something interesting.

But he knew that such interesting things don't happen around him.

Sasaki's smirk was one born of resignation.

So now.

In the alley behind the café, witnessing what seemed to be their true identities.

Shouting, Sasaki thought purely:

(Huh? This is freaking awesome!)

—Reality is the best!

◇◇◇

I was bewildered.

"Awesome! A real sword! It's Excalibur!"

At Sasaki, who was somehow excited, and—

"What's up with your arm? Terminator? So cool!"

Hey, Meme. You too?

Meme eagerly took out her smartphone and started snapping pictures.

"Huh, when I take pictures, they all turn out pitch black... That's unfortunate."

Timidly, Sakuya stood up and asked.

"Uh... Aren't you guys surprised?"

Sasaki and Meme exchanged glances. With eyes full of sincerity, they answered.

"I'm an otaku."

"Meme is into subculture."

"Huh?"

What does that mean?

"As an otaku, it's a dream to suddenly encounter a fantasy situation one day."

"We've simulated this scenario thoroughly to be prepared. We won't be shaken."

"Look, my dream came true—I've got goosebumps. Seriously."

"Seeing the real thing is high quality and great reference material—for cosplay."

At the two of them getting excited, even Sakuya was finally confused.

"Uh...?"

"No, that's not it."

No, that's not it. (Second time)

Sasaki finally seemed to realize. "Oh, right! I forgot to say—thanks for saving us, Hinami!"

"O-Oh?"

"And you fixed the window too. Love you, Saaya!"

"Well, I broke it in the first place, so it's kind of self-serving..."

So, that's not the point—

"Oh, we'll keep this a secret, right? Of course!"

"We won't tell anyone—it's a secret. Leave it to us."

With that, the two cheerfully waved and went home. As if nothing had happened.

Left behind, we stood in the alley.

.........

Coming back to my senses, I shouted.

"Those guys are weird!!"

What's with that adaptability! It's not normal!! Question it, doubt it, be a little scared...!

I was completely disarmed. I didn't feel like chasing after them now to grab them by the scruff and have the witch erase their memories.

Well, it seems that evidence of the other world doesn't show up in photos, so there's no worry about it leaking to the world.

But normally, when someone blatantly violating the firearms and swords control law appears in front of you, you'd be scared.

Right?

I looked at the 'Holy Sword' I was gripping.

A double-edged greatsword. It feels lighter than it looks but still has a definite weight. Blue-white light runs like circuits along the dull, lead-colored blade. Rather than fantasy, it's more futuristic—and honestly, not my taste.

With a sword like this, it'd be hard to commit seppuku. After all, I only like katanas.

Letting out a big sigh.

I remembered there were a couple more problems left.

"Hey, what's going on?"

From behind me, Sakuya asked in a low voice.

I turned around. Before I knew it, the horns on her head had vanished.

"Why is the Holy Sword—"

She looked at the sword I was holding and then at the arm holding it, her expression blank.

"—coming out of your arm?"

My right arm was no longer flesh and blood.

From the elbow down, hidden under bandages, it was made of the same lead-colored metal as the Holy Sword.

The answer was simple.

My right arm was the sword.

To be precise, you could say it served as the scabbard for the sword.

If I chanted "Return" in the language of the other world, the Holy Sword would turn into light and disappear into my arm.

"I thought I couldn't draw it here due to the lack of magic power."

Back then, I had taken a gamble and touched Sakuya. Her body, still brimming with residual magical energy after casting a spell. Reacting to that magic, it seems I was able to summon the Holy Sword for the first time in a while.

"That's not what I'm asking!"

"It's not something to discuss here."

Like why my right arm is a sword, for example.

I took a step toward Sakuya to pick up the belongings I'd tossed aside when I swung the sword.

At that moment, she flinched, her shoulders trembling.

—Come to think of it, she did say she hated this sword.

The Holy Sword was originally a weapon designed to defeat witches. She even said it had an unpleasant smell; it was incompatible with her. Just touching it slightly caused her pain, without even needing to cut her.

"...Sorry for touching you earlier."

I stopped walking. It's better if I don't get too close.

Even if we're friends now, as long as this sword exists, I remembered that we were once enemies.

...I should have realized it sooner.

"Let's head home. It might be unnecessary, but I promised—let me walk you back."

I turned away, putting some distance between us, and started to walk ahead.

"Wait."

Her hand weakly tugged at my left sleeve.

"If we can't talk here, then somewhere else is fine, right?"

A thin, trembling voice.

"Please—come to my place tonight?"

I couldn't think of a reason to refuse.

Running away would be dishonorable. Besides, I had things I wanted to ask too.

Without turning around, I replied.

"Alright."