Chapter 1: I’m really just an ordinary guy you can find anywhere
Part 1
My name is Amatsuyu Kisaragi. My nickname is Jouro.
Taking the “ragi” from my name results in Jouro. 1 That’s why I’m called Jouro. It’s a straightforward explanation isn’t it?
Average appearance, average grades, and average physical ability.
I’m a second year high school boy who doesn’t stand out.
I don’t do any club activities, but I’ve been a secretary in the student council since last October.
I didn’t particularly want to be an assistant, but the person who was the vice-president during my first year, who ended up going off and doing something else, recommended me.
You work well with simple tasks?they said.
For some reason, it’s easy to push troublesome things onto me…
Well, that’s what it feels like to me.
Every day I go to school and sit through classes, and after school I go do student council work.
On days off where I have no plans, I just absent-mindedly spend time at home.
By the way, because today is a weekday, I’m currently in the middle of going to school.
It’s currently spring. Now that I don’t have to wear my heavy winter coat, I feel refreshed.
Jouro! Goo~d mo~rning!?
Ow, oww! G-good morning… Himawari.?
Ehehehe~ Jouro is also Jouro today!?
What are you stating the obvious for…
The girl who slapped my back, with an innocent smiling face, is Aoi Hinata. Aka Himawari.
The story behind her nickname is similar to mine. If you write Himawari with kanji then you get ?. 2
If you sort her name the right way, that’s what you get.
Himawari is my childhood friend, and so we attend the same high school and are classmates.
She’s the ace of the girl’s tennis club, and has excellent reflexes.
Her grades are below average. They aren’t so bad that she has to worry about failing though.
She sports a bob-cut hairstyle that is about shoulder length. Spinning around, her lovely eyes show with their dog-like appearance. Her breasts may seem like they are non-existent, but she does have B-cups.
Anyways, her style is incredibly good.
A beautiful girl who does sports, has a tight waist, and often stands out.
Her personality is, well as you can tell. She gives off an energetic but slightly stupid impression.
She’s popular with people regardless of grade or gender, because her bright personality isn’t gloomy like mine.
Of course, that not only from the perspective of a friend, but from the perspective of women as well.
According to some rumors, it seems like someone confesses to her at least once a month.
Before if I asked her?Why aren’t you going out with anybodyshe would respond with?That’s a secret?while her face was dyed a vermilion colour. Well, because I’m not really interested that much it’s fine.
Oh! What nice weather! It’s definitely spring! Jouro!?
Yeah it is. It’s spring.?
Mu! Jouro, come on, be a little more energetic!?
It’s a little difficult for me to be so excited so early in the morning.?
Bo~ring! But, it’s Jouro! I’ll forgive you!?
We have been talking for a while already but Himawari, with her rapidly changing facial expressions, has not gotten bored yet.
I’m a little envious. I can’t change my emotions as quickly as she does.
Then, today as well, we’re going to dash to school! Come on, lets go!?
Ehh~… Running again
Himawari firmly grabbed my hand and began to pull me without hesitation.
It hurts. It hurts I said… You, your appearance is overridden because of your strength, please consider things a little bit more.
Of course! Running together with Jouro in the morning is fun! Let’s dash~!?
That kind of fun, don’t have it…
But, it is my special privilege to be able to run to school in the morning while holding hands with Himawari like this.
With that kind of thought in mind, the morning dash that took all my energy wasn’t so bad.
… At least, only for the first minute.
***
Goo~d morning~ everyone!?
As soon as we entered the classroom, Himawari greeted everyone with a loud voice.
Hah, so tired…?
As for me, I don’t have that energy.
I’m saying this as I am panting with both my hands on my knees.
Looking at the clock, it’s 8:10.
What are we doing, coming so early in the morning like this?
… Fuu~. For the time being, let me rest.?
Staggering as I walked, I arrived at my seat and took a breath.
Looking at Himawari, she is chatting with the students that are already in the classroom.
Well, whatever. I’m going to slowly rest up.
Yo, Jouro!?
Ah, morning… Sun-chan.?
A cheerful voice that was full of vigor came from behind, to which I replied back with a very fatigued and gloomy voice.
The guy who sent me an enthusiastic greeting with a smile is Taiyou Ooga. Aka Sun-chan.
His nickname is Sun-chan because his name is Taiyou. 3
Good at sports, but his grades aren’t that great. He has a crew cut which suits him since he’s the baseball club’s ace.
With a bright and lively personality, he is always working very hard.
However, since he really hates losing, he gets extremely fired up when it comes to competitions.
It can be said that his personality is sufficiently displayed through his 18? 4 cm tall, muscular body.
Our personalities are the exact opposite of each other, but strangely we fit together well and so he’s continued to be my close friend since middle school.
Oops! As per usual, you’re exhausted in the morning.?
Well yeah. Even though I’m not very good at running, Himawari…?
Don’t worry about it! Himawari doesn’t care if your feet are slow!?
Yeah. That’s not what I was talking about.
That’s it! Jouro, if ya want to increase your physical strength, then do ya want to do muscle training in the morning with me
Sun-chan shows off his well-developed biceps. Toned muscles are pretty cool.
Ah! That seems interesting! I’ll do it too!?
Oh! If it isn’t Himawari! Sounds good!?
Sun-chan, goo~d morning! Jouro too, go~od morning!?
I noticed that Himawari was suddenly participating in our conversation.
I mean, it’s okay for you to not specially say hello to me you know. You said it earlier, didn’t you?
Even so, you guys are really good friends! You guys also came to school today together didn’t you
Sun-chan looks at us, and says a few words with a smile.
Pin pon pin po~n! Me and Jouro also came together today!?
With a shameless attitude, Himawari props her arms up near her chest while saying that.
Ah… Because she said it with a big voice, we gathered a lot of strange attention from everyone.
Well, whatever. They have cold gazes that say,?Ah, it’s the usual again?.
Hey well, you guys, when will ya start going out
Damn Sun-chan, coming in with a straight ball today.
Even though if it was like usual then it would be things like?Hoo- Hoo- It’s hot in here!?or?As expected of childhood friends!?, phrases with that kind of feeling.
I’ll only say this once, Himawari and I are not dating.
It seems that people think childhood friends are fated to go out with each other, but in reality that is not the case.
I think that me and Himawari are just good friends, and that she thinks the same way.
H-hey! Sun-chan, stop that!?
Huh? What’s the matter? Himawari, your face is bright red you know.
If it was like usual then this light joke would end here, but today’s reaction was extremely different.
Ha ha~! There’s no need to be shy Himawari! If it’s you, then you can make Jouro fall for you just like that!?
Sun-chan says that with a broad smile, with his teeth sparkling, and his thumb sticking up.
Whether or not that was a trigger, Himawari’s attitude became more weird.
Aa… Uhm… Uh…?
With her eyes getting moist, Himawari looked like a kid who just got scolded.
Her gaze is shakey, as she looks back and forth between me and Sun-chan.
While looking at Himawari like that, Sun-chan and I tilted our heads at the same time.
Oh, as expected of close friends. We get along well, don’t we… Wait huh? Himawari turned her body around.
…… ?!?
Ah! Hey, Himawa
Just like that, she started to run!
Sun-chan called out to her to get her to stop, but Himawari wouldn’t stop.
In the blink of an eye she left the classroom and went somewhere.
… This is bad. Really bad. Himawari. That kind of behaviour is all sorts of trouble.
Completely different from earlier, gazes of curiosity are gathered on us.
What… should I do about this?
Uuh… Did I do that
Yeah. Probably but…?
I affirmed Sun-chan’s words as he looked towards me with a seemingly awkward face.
But, I don’t really understand. What could be the matter with Himawari?.
Even though it was the usual light atmosphere, her face became bright red.
Well, there must have been some circumstances.
Himawari doesn’t seem to be the kind of person who does meaningless things.
By the way after this, towards the trudging Himawari who returned, Sun-chan lowered his head multiple times.
In response, Himawari also lowered her head multiple times.
Are you guys imitating shishi-odoshi? 5
***
Okaay, lets let my hot blood surge today as well! The sports ground is waiting!?
To club! Let’s go?!?
The moment classes ended, Sun-chan and Himawari instantly disappeared from the classroom.
As expected of the baseball club and tennis club aces. Their motivation is on a different level.
No, perhaps it’s just their foundation. They’ve been fully motivated ever since they joined their clubs.
Well, whatever. I’m not copying those two but I also quickly left to head to the student council room.
Nimbly raising my bag to my shoulder, with a slightly lively pace, I headed towards my destination.
I’m looking forward to after school, aren’t I. Now then! Today as well, I’ll do my best with my secretary activities!
***
After finally arriving in front of the student council room, I knocked on the door.
Go ahead.?
It is a formality here to knock first and then open the door after hearing a voice say ?Douzo 6 .
I entered the room in response to the gentle voice I heard from beyond the door, and was welcomed by a beautiful girl who was smiling at me.
Hi Jouro-kun. You’re early today too.?
Only because our homeroom ended quickly.?
Aah?! So beautiful today as well!
Meeting this person and having a conversation with her every day is definitely the best part of the student council.
But, it still hasn’t started yet.
Even so. You, who always comes to the student council first, are very precious to me.?
The girl who said such kind words to me is Sakura Akino. Aka, Cosmos.
Her nickname is Cosmos because as you can see from her name, Cosmos is?kosumosu?when written in kanji. 7
Being one grade above me, she’s currently a third year high school student.
To say it clearly, she’s beautiful. Her long hair reaching until her waist is too lovely.
At any rate, this person, who is super high-spec even if you only look at her appearance, is the student council president.
She is the student council president, so of course her grades are good.
To tell you the truth, she’s the number one student in her year.
To answer the question?What about her physical ability, it’s also amazing. A well rounded person you know, well rounded.
Moreover, her style is very good. And unlike Himawari’s chest, her’s is quite splendid.
According to information obtained from a certain source, they seem to be D-cups.
Her personality is also very pleasant. She has a sharp impression that makes her appear cool and cold, but in reality she is kind and loved by everyone in the school.
Along with Himawari, they are the two beauties who divide my school’s public favour.
If Himawari is cute, then president Cosmos is beautiful.
Everyone has named her an unobtainable flower.
For this reason, admiring her takes priority, and according to some information obtained from a certain source, it seems like there aren’t many confessions as a result.
Still, she’s been thoroughly compared with ordinary people by a lot of people…
It looks like she doesn’t have a boyfriend.
But according to information obtained from a certain source,?I have someone I like?was said…
Where and who is this guy. Man I’m jealous. Let’s expect some new information from a certain source soon.
But, the other members haven’t come yet huh.?
Yes, it seems like it. Is homeroom still not finished yet
Well… I don’t know? Yamada is in the same class as me though…?
By the way, Yamada is the treasurer.
He’s not very important and so his introduction is light.
Yamada is just a mob character. That’s all.
Well isn’t it fine? Let’s slowly wait for them.?
Hahaha. You know, I like that sort of my pace attitude of yours Jouro.?
Thank you, very much.?
President Cosmos says?I like?and my heart suddenly starts to beat fast.
Good grief, I’d like you to choose your words with a little more awareness of how I’ll react to them.
To someone like you… or rather right now, isn’t it just the two of us?
When I think so, a little… no, I’m quite excited.
Ah, that’s right. Jouro-kun, could I request something of you
Yes! What bis it!?
Huh
Oh no! I was still excited and fumbled my words. This is embarrassing…
S-so, what would you like me to do
A-ah. That’s right.?
Somehow I returned the subject back by glossing over my little slip up.
I’m fine right? She won’t think I’m weird right?
There’s a book that I want you to pick up in the library. Come on, there’s our school’s traditional Hundred Flower Festival 8 in May right? Because of that, I want to reference past documents. If it’s right now, then you can go pick it up and return since there’s enough time so, could you accept my request
Y-yes! It would be my pleasure!?
Okay. Thank you.?
To her warm voice released with a gentle smile, my heart went ‘zukyun’!
No don’t! Don’t stir up my heart any more than this!
I think this is the sensation of being shot in the heart. I think I can really understand.
I carefully received the note that president Cosmos gracefully handed to me, opened the door in a hurry and resolutely headed towards the library.
Ah, of course I’m not running you know. Because running in the hallway is not allowed. I’m speed-walking.
While swinging both of my arms, I headed towards the library.
***
Fuu…?
First, take a breath. My heart, which had been playing a violent heart beat until a while ago, settled down during the walk to the library, and now it has greatly calmed down.
I mean, the library huh…
If possible, I don’t want to come here too much.
There’s nothing particularly special about the school’s library.
Well if I had to say something, then I think that the space where you can eat and drink is special, but that’s the only exception, everything else is normal. My problem is with a person inside.
I swallow my saliva and open the library door.
Peeking through the opened library door, I cautiously checked in the direction of the reception desk.
Please don’t be there!
Ara, Jouro-kun
See, they’re there! As expected this person was at the reception desk! This is why I don’t want to come to the library!
The girl who filled me with unpleasant feelings in the blink of an eye is Sumireko Sanshokuin. Nickname, Pansy.
If you omit parts of her name, you get?Sanshikisumire?which is why her nickname is Pansy. 9
I’ll say this first because from the flow of things up until now, you might think she seems to be a charming girl, just like Himawari and president Cosmos.
This girl has no charm in the slightest.
Well, I’ll be glad if you can understand why I say so in the following explanation.
This girl is in the same year as me, but in a different class.
Although she has such a refined name like Sumireko Sanshokuin, she’s a fraud because she was raised in a normal, ordinary household.
Moreover, she wears glasses and has braids you know?
Nowadays, I guess it’s possible to like strange appearances? Perhaps people unconsciously change into a strange appearance.
It’s no good if you have to coil it up, don’t you think? It’s like they’re screws, she should be called Roll Hair.
Her face is average, and it can be said that she’s flat-chested.
As far as grades are concerned, it’s vexing but her appearance corresponds to them, as she’s a top ranking student.
In particular, her grades in modern Japanese and classics, as well as classical Chinese writing are crazy.
Ever since she entered the school, no one else has ever scored higher than her in the Japanese language course.
In other words, as far as her academics are concerned, she’s usually the number 1 student in our year. As expected of braids and glasses girl.
As for her personality, I’ll say this clearly, it’s the worst.
She’s always indifferent, so I can’t understand what she’s thinking, but more than anything else she has an extremely toxic tongue.
I never say this about other people at all you know?
Every time this girl sees my face, she uses abusive language and harasses me.
I wish she would understand that she doesn’t have normal friends at school because of that personality of hers.
… Now then, have I explained enough so far?
In conclusion, I really hate this girl.
H-hey.?
Even so, somehow I put on a smiling face and greeted Pansy, who was sitting at the reception desk.
Even if you dislike the other person, it’s not necessary to create a conflict. I am a pacifist.
What died
Huh? That’s weird?
I think that it’s only just a question, but I feel like she has been incredibly mean?
No, don’t worry about it.
If I snap even a little bit at Pansy, then I’ll be quickly shot down and just like that bring ruin to myself.
Up until now, I’ve been thoroughly gathering proper words to play around with. Referencing sentences from various novels, I only talk about what people care about.
No presence, short legs, mood-breaker, etc, until now countless words of ill will have been said by her.
Furthermore, since she happily watches me when I am flustered because of her words, her nature is more nasty than anyone else.
I have student council activities after this, so shouldn’t be wasting my stamina on this pointless situation.
However, even if I ignore her, Pansy is the head of the library committee.
This school’s library committee entrusts the management of the library to several members after school, but since Pansy’s enrollment to this school, she has been doing it nearly all by herself.
As far as I know, the book loving Pansy, as the head of the library committee, has total control over the library. She has good benefits, like how she buys the books herself and the money spent is compensated for. She can get whatever she wants.
I have a good memory about when I asked about this until I got information out of someone because I was a little curious, and then I was so shocked.
Because of my curiosity, I experienced the moment where I destroyed myself.
… Well, time to quietly cover those memories. Firmly so they do not pop up again.
Just for a bit, I’ll be searching for some document okay? It is a document from past Hundred Flower Festivals, but do you know where it is
Yes. A ghost 10 right? There’s one exactly in front of me.?
There, it immediately came! Did you hear that? Don’t you think it’s terrible?
What are you doing? I just simply came to the library to ask a question but I have to deal with this.
Let me tell you, I have absolutely never done anything to Pansy in the past.
Since about the second semester last year, I have never been involved with her up until then and yet she suddenly appeared before me and it’s been like this ever since.
C-calm down me… I can feel my forehead muscles twitching but calm down.
For my sake, I should not say anything unnecessary, and act like normal as much as I can…
As usual today as well, your face looks like spoiled mandarin skin.?
Even the usual behaviour was an out…
Wait, if I have this kind of conversation, then I will not be able to get the document even though time keeps passing.
Leave me alone Pansy, I’ll go search for it myself.
Above all, if I keep talking with this girl, then my stomach will burst.
We-well then, I will go search for the document, so bye!?
I showed a non-hostile smile to Pansy, and I escaped in order to immediately separate from her and began searching for the document.
Well, in reality, I ran away.
Lets see… Mmm… Where could it be?
I searched all over the bookshelf, but I couldn’t find it. Maybe someone has it with them?
Hey, Jouro-kun
Aaahhhh!?
When did she come up behind me!?
Is it that? Is there a spirit behind me? Are you going to haunt and curse me with the intention to kill?
Please don’t act like a ghost because I don’t want a corpse with me all the time. What a bothersome person.?
Yeah. Can you not respond to my inner voice like it is natural to?
Haa… Why do I have to face those eyes from Pansy?
When I listen to other people as well, nothing is particularly said about her… It’s weird you know.
…No. This isn’t the situation to be complaining in my inner thoughts!
If I don’t reply quickly, it will become even more difficult!
Wh-what is it
I turned my neck to my backside, and somehow made a smiling face. You’re doing your best, me.
The document you’re searching for is not here you know.?
Huh? Why
The likelihood that it’s hidden in my bag is very high.?
What
Pansy let a sneer leak. My mouth was hanging open.
Uhm… Right now, what did she say?
While you were clumsily searching in the wrong place, I borrowed a certain book under my name and just like that put it in my bag. So, if it’s not here then I wonder where it is
This girl did something so unnecessary!?
Uhm, Sanshokuin-san…?
Sumireko is fine.?
Well then, Sumireko-san.?
Ah, I wonder what’s the matter? A death poem 11 just came to my mind. I’ll be resting in the health room.?
You’re the one who called me! It’s not my fault!
W-wait! That, Sumire… Sanshokuin-san.?
I panic and call out to Pansy to stop her from leaving.
What’s the matter, Jouro-kun
Pansy turns her head and looks over her shoulder, showing a cheerful facial expression.
I have a dreadful premonition.
U-uhm, that book, could you please lend it to me today
Sure.?
Oh, I was surprisingly granted permission quickly. All I had to do was try. What’s this. I was just misunderstanding
If you shout?Ba? Dome! Shoot the ball to the opponent’s goal! Super • exciting! 12 after spinning around three times and saying “woof”, I’ll lend it to you.?
I take back what I just said. The difficulty just skyrocketed. Why do you know the contents of old commercials?
What will you do? It doesn’t matter to me what you choose to do.?
Checking the clock, quite some time has passed.
In front of me, with a blank look on her face, Pansy is looking over here with doll-like eyes.
Perhaps she won’t lend me the document unless I do what she just said.
…?
I spin around silently.
Woof!?
And then,
Ba? Doooome! Shoooot the ball to the opponent’s gooooal! Super • exciting!?
Okay, well done.?
The result of screaming with all my might, Pansy retrieved the document from her bag, and handed it to me.
Y-yeah… Thanks.?
Don’t mention it. I was very satisfied today.?
With a slight bounce in her steps, Pansy returns to the reception desk.
If I could, then I want to get angry and get revenge, but I won’t do that.
After all, I don’t feel like winning against Pansy right now, and strategic retreats are important.
Now, let’s hurry and run away.
***
TL notes
1 His name is: 如月雨露 (Kisaragi Amatsuyu), if you take the 月 (ragi) out, 如雨露 is read as Jyouro (じょうろ) which means watering can. I took out the ‘y’ because… just cause. Also note: I put his first name first and surname second in the TLs (the western way)
2 Her name is 日向葵 (Hinata Aoi), and if you swap the position of the first two kanji you get Himawari (means Sunflower)
3 His name is 大賀太陽 (Ooga Taiyou) and 太陽 (Taiyou) refers to the Sun, also note that the original is サンチャン (San-chan, San can refer to the Sun) but I think that Sun-chan is better and the manga TLs used that so I’ll do it too.
4 Author intentionally did this. Don’t know his real height, just that he’s at least 180cm
5 these
6 Douzo (どうぞ) can be used in many ways and has many translations. I just used “Go ahead”, but I couldve used “Enter” or something else. idk.
7 Her name is 秋野桜 (Akino Sakura) and Cosmos (Kosumosu/コスモス) written with kanji is 秋桜 in this case.
8 Direct translation from the Kanji: 百花祭
9 Her name is 三色院菫子 (Sanshokuin Sumireko), and he changes it to 三色菫 (Sanshikisumire) which refers to the heartsease flower, aka a wild pansy.
10 It’s a pun, Jouro asks Pansy if she knows where the documents (資料/Shiryou) are, and Pansy says that she can see a ghost ((死霊/Shiryou). Same reading, different kanji.
11 wikipedia search
12 I don’t know what this references – バ◯ルドーム!ボールを相手のゴールにシュート!超 •エキサイティング!
Part 2
***
It’s Pansy’s fault that today’s student council activities are definitely going to start late. She really is the worst.
The student council is very tough on people who arrive late, except for president Cosmos and anyone who is just barely late.
When I get back to the student council room, I’m definitely going to be scolded by everyone. Haa…
Jouro-kun!?
Huh? President Cosmos
As I was walking down the hallway with my shoulders lowered, president Cosmos came from in front of me.
Moreover, her expression is unusually flustered, and her pace is somewhat hasty.
Maybe I was so slow that she got worried and came to find me. If that’s the case then I’d be pretty happy.
I’m sorry!?
Eh
But unexpectedly, the first thing president Cosmos said was an apology.
What happened? Why is my senpai lowering her head very deeply like this towards me, her kouhai 1
That is… About the book I requested you to get, it turns out Yamada went to the library and borrowed it during lunch break. I wanted to tell you, but I didn’t know your contact info so… That’s why I came to find you… Uhm… I’m really sorry!?
Eh, uhm… It’s alright. Please don’t worry about it.?
Is, is that so? What a relief.?
While I was answering her, I was in a state of confusion.
That’s because, I received the book from Pansy you know? If what you’re saying is true then what is this…?
And don’t worry about the time! I’ll explain the situation to everyone so it’ll be fine!?
Ah, thank… you.?
Because I was completely exhausted after dealing with Pansy earlier, I took the book from her without checking it.
Fearfully, I took the book out of it’s bag and checked it’s cover,
Records of Insect Fables 2
Paaaansyyyyyyy!
C-calm down! Pansy isn’t even here.
Thinking about revenge won’t help. It will only cause me to have more misfortune.
Everyone should sufficiently understand the importance of strategic retreats by now.
Well, if we keep talking while standing around here, we’ll be bothering everyone else. Jouro-kun, let’s head back to the student council room.?
Understood.?
Yup. Well… Since I saw president Cosmos’ beautiful smile up close, let’s keep myself under control.
I went through some tough hardships, so getting a reward like this is fine, right?
***
Afterwards, the student council meeting started as soon as president Cosmos and I returned to the student council room.
Today’s agenda is focused on?Club Budgets?.
Each year, the student council is in charge of allocating funds to each club.
Last year, we allocated more funds to clubs that achieved excellent results, as well as based on their daily club activities. Truthfully speaking, everyone should be sharing their own opinions, but this is a matter where president Cosmos’ decisions are unchallenged.
With a light pink notebook appropriate for a young girl?commonly called the?Cosmos Notein one hand, she efficiently writes the achievements and problems of last year’s club activities on the whiteboard.
According to some rumours, it seems like all of the information about our school is written in the Cosmos Note, even test questions, and so it’s said that president Cosmos has total control over the school.
However, that’s only just a rumour.
Because of today’s agenda, I was thinking of having us pair up and go inspect each club today.?
Understood!
Everyone approves of president Cosmos’ decision, and the pairs were divided up and written on the white board.
Hmm? Huh? The person I’ll be going with… is president Cosmos!?
Jouro-kun, you and I will mainly be visiting the sports clubs. If I remember correctly, you are good friends with Ooga-kun and Hinata-san, am I right
Y-yes!?
Because they are our school’s super aces that we’re proud of, it really helps that you’re coming with me since you’re so friendly with them.?
Sun-chan, Himawari, good job!
I think that being friends with you guys is really great you know!
Well then, shall we go? If we don’t hurry as much as possible, it’s possible that club activities will end… oh right, before that…?
Saying?Let’s go!?with high spirits is what I thought she would do, but instead president Cosmos took out her smartphone from her bag.
After what happened today, I’ve realized how inconvenient it is to not know your phone number. What do you think? If you don’t mind, would you exchanging numbers with me
Eh! Really!
Is it really something to be that surprised about? Uhm… If you don’t want to then it’s not really a problem.?
For a moment, president Cosmos had an uneasy expression. I hurriedly opened my mouth.
That’s not true! I’m totally fine with it!?
What a relief. Well then, shall we exchange our phone numbers now
Yes!?
I can’t believe I got president Cosmos’ contact info!
I’m happy about this! Very happy!
Pansy, up until earlier I hated you so much it was like you killed my parents 3 , but I’ll forgive you.
You’re a demon king covered in demon skin, but just for this moment I’m promoting you to Cupid.
Afterwards, I quickly took out my smartphone and exchanged contact information with president Cosmos.
This is definitely a day that I’ll remember forever.
***
First we’ll go inspect the tennis club, and then we’ll visit the soccer and baseball clubs afterwards.?
When we exited the fairly worn out looking school building, president Cosmos said that with a lively voice.
The tennis courts are the farthest from here but, is that fine
I thought without a doubt that we would go to the closest area, which is the sports grounds, where the baseball club is practicing. It seems like I had the wrong idea.
However, since our school is quite large, I think it would be easier to go to closer areas first.
Compared to the soccer club and baseball club, the tennis club’s activity time is shorter. I took that into consideration.?
I see. Understood.?
As expected of president Cosmos. Properly considering the time and everything, truly amazing.
Well then, shall we go? Jouro-kun, please take care of me today.?
Yes! Please take care of me as well!?
Jeez, if you wink so wonderfully like that, then I’ll become full of motivation in no time!
O?kay, I’ll do my best in today’s inspections!
***
When we arrived at the tennis courts, the tennis club was busy practicing there.
Well of course. What am I saying the obvious for?
By the way, our school has two tennis courts.
One court is used for practice matches between club members and the other court is there for other members to do independent training on.
Right now, president Cosmos and I are watching the members on the independent training court.
New students and seniors are mixed together, and everyone is working very hard.
As expected of a club that achieves excellent results, their practice is also full of motivation.
When I looked to my side, president Cosmos was writing something down in the Cosmos Note.
Taking a peek, I noticed that the tennis club’s activities are written down.
Honestly, president Cosmos is so earnest and great. I’m impressed.
Well then, lets go to the other court next.?
Understood.?
I agreed with president Cosmos who closed her notebook, and so that we would not be disturbing the club members, we headed towards the other court while walking on the edge of the court.
Haa! Teya! 4
Ah. It’s Himawari.?
Dressed in her tennis clothing, Himawari hits the ball with a powerful shout.
Ooh. As expected of the tennis club’s ace.
At that moment, splendid thighs appropriate for an ace… uh never mind.
That’s not good, that’s not good. Because her appearance is different from normal, I got really excited.
At that moment, she showed splendid behaviour appropriate for an ace. Alright, correction complete.
Yaaaah! …Alright!?
Yup. This is definitely youth.
Himawari’s sparring partner could not react to the ball she powerfully hit, and after gaining a point, Himawari struck a triumphant fist bump pose 5 . I always joke around with her, but I can see that she is really serious about tennis.
Huh? It’s Jouro!?
And, it seems like Himawari noticed us, she paused the game and lightly walked towards us.
What’s up? Student council stuff
Yeah. Just came for a little inspection.?
So that’s why. Ah! Hello, president Cosmos!?
Hello, Himawari-san.?
Today you came to inspect the tennis club right.?
Aah, that’s right. After this, we’re thinking of going to go visit the soccer and baseball clubs as well.?
…Eh
In that moment, Himawari’s forehead twitched. I wonder what’s the matter?
…Hee~. Together with Jouro, you’ll be going to go inspect the soccer and baseball clubs~
Ack! I don’t know why but Himawari is displeased.
This scarily low tone of voice is a sign that Himawari is bothered by something.
This might be bad…
So basically, the two of you are going on a date today
Wha!?
What is Himawari saying all of a sudden!
I’m fine with it, but won’t president Cosmos make an unpleasant face?
Hahaha, well something like that. I’ll be borrowing your childhood friend.?
Amazing. She’s got an invulnerable smile. There’s no weak spot in president Cosmos’ smile. 6
She’s a calm and composed person.
Muu?!?
Whether or not she found president Cosmos’ response amusing, Himawari blew out her cheeks and returned to the tennis court, resuming her practice match.
… By any chance, does she hate me
Eh? I don’t think so
If that’s the case then its fine… no, but…?
President Cosmos is still a little bothered, but I think she’s just over-thinking it.
There’s no reason for Himawari to hate president Cosmos, if anything it looked like she was angry rather than hating her. Since earlier (for some reason towards me) she’s been sending a hostile gaze.
It seems like running away quickly is the best option.
Well, it’s about time we go to the next club.?
Yeah I agree.?
I feel relieved by president Cosmos’ words and instantly start to leave the tennis courts.
With a light ‘Pakon’ sound, something hit the back of my head.
Oww!?
Holding my head while looking behind me, Himawari was doing akanbe 7 and stuck her tongue out with all her strength.
Seriously, what’s with this girl…
***
After inspecting the tennis club at the tennis courts, and the soccer club in the gymnasium, we went to the sports grounds to go inspect the baseball club.
Our baseball club is treated quite well. The sports grounds are occupied by the baseball club, and basically all other clubs borrow the gymnasium or other places for their activities.
However, in relation to that, there are no complaints from other clubs.
The words written on our school’s banner are an excellent measure to prevent any complaints.
This year for sure, we will win the K?shien! 8
That’s right. Last year, our school was just one step short of going to the K?shien!
Most of the students from our school gathered to support our baseball team in the finals of the regional tournament.
Unfortunately, we lost that game, but even so it was still a spectacular achievement that we finally got since my school was founded.
Of course, I went as well! Because it was a match that Sun-chan was participating in.
Honestly, Sun-chan is amazing when he’s playing baseball!
Even though he was still a first year, as the team’s ace, Sun-chan threw blazing fastballs 9 .
He was honestly really cool when he struck out batter after batter.
While I was cheering, I felt really proud to be his close friend.
Ohh! If it isn’t Jouro!?
The star himself? Sun-chan, noticed me and came running over with a smile.
The uniform covered in a lot of dust, is proof of Sun-chan’s hard work.
Yaho Sun-chan, you’re doing your best today too.?
Yeah! This year for sure… oh, that’s not good! Hello president Akino! Are you inspecting today
Taking his cap off, Sun-chan bows and greets president Cosmos. This is totally different from Himawari.
Hello Ooga-kun, that’s right.?
Must be hard! Please do you best with Jouro! You can totally rely on this guy!?
That’s true. Jouro, is really reliable. You do your best, with your practice too.?
Yeah!?
Speaking only that much, Sun-chan returned back to the sports ground and resumed his practice.
Or rather, just now didn’t president Cosmos stop her words in unnatural places?
Was it just my imagination?
Is something the matter, president Cosmos
No, it’s nothing.?
Ah, is that so…?
Yeah, I guess it really was my imagination? President Cosmos acted normal when I tried to talk to her.
Her face is dyed red a little bit, and it looks like she’s trying to distract herself by writing in her notebook but… I don’t think I can understand. It’s just my imagination right?
And, while I was collecting my thoughts, the ball that was just hit came flying towards us.
And then, the club member following that ball also drew closer.
In the spur of the moment, I looked at president Cosmos who was so focused on writing that she didn’t notice anything else.
At this rate… she’ll get hit!
Watch out!?
Kyaa!?
I promptly pulled president Cosmos close in order to protect her and prevent her and the club member from crashing into each other.
I heard a very cute voice that seemed to come from president Cosmos as we fell down.
I-I’m sorry! Are you guys alright!
I heard the worried voice of a baseball club member who caught the ball.
Fortunately, the crash was avoided.
Ow ow oww. President Cosmos, are you alri.. ght!?
Looking at our current state, I froze up.
Well of course I would. Because I… am currently above president Cosmos, covering her.
Looking at president Cosmos, the girl who is always calm and collected, had a flushed face!
I-I’m sorry!?
N-no! It’s fine! Thank you for saving me. It was a dangerous place.?
I got off of the flustered president Cosmos and made some room but… I really messed up this time!
My bad! Jouro, are you okay!
Sun-chan was also worried about me huh, he came running from the sports grounds in a rush.
Yeah. I’m fine.?
Ohh that’s a relief… wait, what about that!?
Huh? Ah!?
I looked to the side, and unexpectedly where I fell earlier, was my phone which must have fell out of my pocket.
And it was a miserable sight, as my phone’s screen was so broken, it looked like a spider web.
Wahhhhhh!?
I picked it up and tried to use it, but nothing happened.
Aaah, even though I had finally gotten president Cosmos’ number.
Thats… unfortunate.?
Uuuuu… My smartphone is…?
Ch-cheer up Jouro! Don’t mind it! Don’t mind it!?
Like earlier today, my luck must have run out…
With my back slightly curled up, president Cosmos and I left the sports grounds together to let the baseball club practice.
***
We once again returned to the student council room.
My smartphone might be broken but, let’s try to look at it in a different angle.
That’s it! If bad things happen, good things should follow!
Well then, this is how much of the budget I think we should allocate to each club, is there anyone who objects
As expected of president Cosmos. Her proposed draft budget is so flawless, nobody raised any objections.
As a result, most of the budget was allocated to the baseball club.
The other clubs had roughly the same amount as last year, but out of all the clubs, the tennis club and calligraphy club had a slight reduction in budget.
According to the information written in the Cosmos Note, both of the clubs had a slight cut to their budget because of reasons like there were fewer new members than past years or their not serious atmosphere was noticeable.
Even having an understanding of clubs we didn’t go inspect, what an amazing notebook.
No wait, other people reported that information. As one would expect.
Well then, that’s all for today’s student council meeting. Good work everyone.?
Good work!
Everyone responds to president Cosmos’ words and leave the student council room with their bags all at once.
I also lifted my own bag up and carried it on my shoulder as I headed towards the exit.
Now, let’s go home and watch some TV.
Aah, Jouro-kun, could I have a minute
Oh? President Cosmos called out to me.
Sure. Is something the matter
That is, are you free on the next day off
Uhh, well I am free but… Ah, well now that my phone is broken, I was thinking about going to buy a new one.?
That’s perfect! Then, is it alright if we go together
Eh!
Today, your smartphone was broken because of my carelessness. That’s why, I wanted to apologize… Am I being a bother
I-it’s fine, you don’t have to apologize! It’s not that big of a deal!?
No I can’t do that. I feel guilty about it. Let me come with you.?
Wow. President Cosmos’ face came really close to mine.
Somehow, she’s got a more child-like expression on than usual, which is so cute.
Wait that’s not it!
Don’t tell me this is… a date!? Could this really be a date?
Going out together with president Cosmos is something to boast about for a lifetime!
Also, president Cosmos is the one who invited me!
If I reject her now after she said all that, then I’m not a man!
I-I understand! T-then, this Saturday we’ll… uhm, go together!?
Really! Thank you!?
Uwaaaaa! My hand! She’s holding my hand!
Please don’t gently hold my hand in both of your hands like that! Because it’s making me really excited!
Oops, sorry!?
Noticing that my face was bright red, president Cosmos hurriedly separated our hands.
T-then, I’ll see you on Saturday.?
Y-yea…?
Saying no more than that and seeming a bit shy, president Cosmos hurriedly left the student council room, leaving the only one remaining to be me, who was completely out of it.
Afterwards, before leaving the school building, I encountered Pansy who said ?Ara? That’s a very excited face you have there?, but I forgot about that after 3 seconds.
***
Mann, I’m looking forward to this Saturday soo much!
Who would’ve thought that just president Cosmos and I would be going shopping together!
This is a date right? This is totally a date right!?
I’m shocked that my smartphone is broken but, because I’m able to be with president Cosmos, my situation is generally positive.
That’s absolutely a plus! Man, Jouro shares 10 have just had a sudden rise!
Even though I should be used to the way back home, for some reason today everything seems to sparkle!
Jooourooo!?
Uaghh!?
When I was immersed in my happiness, a fierce impact was felt at the back of my head. Aah… Look at the time.
It’s that. I was hit by someone who swung their bag with all their might.
Moreover, the person in question who hit me doesn’t think that they are in the wrong, and brightly smiled at me.
Himawari…?
Ehehehe, did I surprise you
Far from surprised, I could almost see another world!?
Wow! You discovered a new world! It’s Joronbus 11 !?
I’ll get mad you know
Ahahaha, sorry I won’t do it anymore.?
Your definitely not reflecting are you.?
Aha, have I been exposed
While sticking her tongue out, Himawari smiled like a mischievous kid.
Muu… Since the behaviour is cute, I’ll forgive the violence from earlier.
Even so Jouro. Did something happen? You seem to be in a really good mood.?
Aah, yeah I’ve got some stuff to do.?
If I remember it again I’ll involuntarily grin.
Going out with just president Cosmos… fuhehehe.
Gross!?
How rude!
Though, looking at Himawari’s expression as she backs away, it might have been a really terrible face.
Soo, what happened
Himawari looked at me with her curiosity fully displayed on her face.
Umm, this face of Himawari’s is really troublesome.
She’ll keep persistently asking until she understands, and even if I lie, she’ll see through it.
I don’t know why, but I don’t want Himawari to know about my plans on Saturday, I need to somehow deceive her.
That’s, that’s a little…?
Suddenly adverting my eyes was a big mistake.
Himawari blatantly showed that her mood was ruined, as she blew her cheeks out like a hamster.
Aa? you’re hiding something! Jouro’s hiding something from me!?
Immediately, she started to stomp her feet like a elementary school student.
What are you hiding from me! Tell me! Tell me!?
She pressed down on both my shoulders, and started to shake me back and forth.
Her actions and words are cute but, being shaken with the physical strength trained by the tennis club is not something I wanted to experience.
Stop it…! It’ll come out…! Various things will come out!
I’ll tell you! I’ll tell you, so stop it!?
With those words, she stops shaking me and stares at my face.
Reeally~
Really.?
I see. Then, tell me!?
Suddenly smiling, Himawari puts her arm around my arm.
Because she looked at me with such innocent eyes, I unconsciously stroked her head, but what I did next completely shook her.
This Saturday, I’m going out with president Cosmos.?
The moment I told her that, Himawari’s smiling face froze up.
And then, she showed a bewildered face.
…This is bad. I feel like I might somehow be in an emergency.
W-why…
Her voice sounded like she was in a dilemma because she was unable to understand my situation.
For some reason I’m a little uneasy, since not long ago she’s been holding onto my arm more tightly than before.
I thought she’d feel more rough because she does sports, but she feels more soft than I imagined and because she was hugging my arm, I was unconsciously surprised.
W-well you see, during today’s inspections my phone broke. I was already planning to go get a replacement and president Cosmos asked if we could go together. That’s the truth okay!?
Why does it sound like I’m trying to make up excuses?
And also, it feels like I’m a husband who’s just had their affair exposed.
I fearfully looked at Himawari, who had her face pointed downwards.
This is bad. There’s no doubt about it, she’s mad. I don’t know why she’s mad though.
Moreover it’s that. The pattern where even though I haven’t done anything wrong she unreasonably gets angry.
At times like this, Himawari is extremely bothersome.
She spouts unreasonable words and on top of that, violence always follows suit.
But, this time no matter how many terrible things are done, I will not yield to her!
…Sunday.?
With her face facing the other way, Himawari said that.
Hah
Sunday!?
This time, she raised her face and shouted.
She brought her face closer to mine. When she breathed out of her nose, I could feel it hit my face.
Close! You’re so close Himawari-san!
It’s not fair that only president Cosmos gets to go somewhere with Jouro! I want to go out with Jouro too! That’s why, we are going somewhere on Sunday! Then things will be even! 12
Uhuh… What is this girl saying?
Why do I have to go out with you on Sunday?
On Saturday I’m going to go buy a new phone, and then after I was thinking about having a nice and expensive lunch with president Cosmos in a stylish shop, but after considering the expenses, I realized I just barely don’t have that kind of financial leeway.
Uh, but…?
No buts! It’s already been decided!?
Here it is! Himawari’s unreasonable words!
Despite saying that this is impossible, I need to lightly reject her and have my own way this time!
It’s no good. I know what I said before but, saying anything more to her is pointless.
Haa… This month’s personal expenses will have to cut into the new years money that I’ve saved, if I’m going to have lunch with president Cosmos. I really wanted to save up a lot of money and then use it in the future but…
Anyways, it’s been decided! Do you understand!
…Yes.?
And so now I’ll be going out with president Cosmos on Saturday, and with Himawari on Sunday.
Well, at least I’ve decided to economize this month.
TL notes
1 kouhai = junior, though Im sure you guys know already
2 Original is this: : 『ファーブル昆虫記』- fables are apparently a type of short story
3 The original text had an idiom/phrase that meant something along the lines of “I hate you so much because it’s as if you killed my parents”
4 you know those sounds people make when they swing their rackets
5 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fist_pump?oldid=493740525
6 Not sure about this line, something about Cosmos having an iron wall of a smile.
7 Pulling down an eyelid and sticking tongue out, I’m sure you’ve seen it in an anime before https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akanbe?oldid=487253490
8 A baseball tournament https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High_school_baseball_in_Japan
9 baseball term apparently, the following line also has baseball terms
10 like company shares on the stock market
11 Likely a merge of ‘Jouro’ and ‘Colombus’ (as in Christopher Colombus), as they are talking about a new world. Ty to sonofportal for mentioning that.
12 She means being even with Cosmos
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