Volume 5 - CH 2

Two days after that incident, I continued to work hard at the fierce training Tatenashi-san gave me.

Today, I again came to the third arena after school to practice my control training.

"Ichika likes older girls, huh."

I remembered Houki glaring at me.

Even though I tried to explain that it wasn't like that, nobody would believe me, whether it was Houki, Rin, Cecilia, Charl or Laura...damn it, that wasn't the case.

"Ichika-kun, you're slowing down. You need to concentrate."

"I-I got it."

I concentrated on the controls and aimed at the balloon in the middle of the arena.

The [Setsura] particle cannon on my left arm is on standby, and there's still 20 seconds left before it recharges.

Right now, I'm controlling my [PIC] manually, so I have to negate the shot's recoil on my own.

(But this is harder than I thought...)

Once I fail to control the recoil, I'll end up flying back at the wall with my head slamming hard into it.

(It's already hard enough to control this [Shooter Flow]...)

I remember what Charl told me and cautiously move the legs that are one with [Byakushiki].

"Did you ice-skate before? You must let your toes slide on the icy surface, and glide out while making them stick to the floor."

"I don't understand..."

"You must use centrifugal force to control it, understand?"

"I don't understand, sensei."

"Such an inept student."

"Sorry..."

"Mn, I don't hate students who need to be taken care of. We-Well, I...do, like, them."

"I see. Thank you."

"...Ichika, you need to be a little sharper."

"Huh? Why are you so unhappy out of a sudden—"

"Well then, I have data to collect for my new equipment. Got to go."

...Why was Charl suddenly so unhappy? I don't understand even till now.

"Ichika-kun, concentrate~"

"Ye-Yes!"

"You're thinking about girls, right? Ichika-kun no ecchi!"

"No, that's not it!"

"So you're thinking of guys? That's really weird..."

"THAT'S NOT RIGHT!"

How-How tiring...

Anyway, what I could understand during these past days was that Tatenashi-san was really hard to understand.

Sempai's personality is so mature yet so childish at the same time. I really don't understand her.

She's like a cat that looks like she's inviting me, and then runs away from me.

(Yeah. It's not that I can't understand her, but that she doesn't let me understand her.)

Not revealing herself.

Not revealing her true self.

(That makes her really hard to deal with...)

Anyway, I need to focus on the controls. I again imagine myself to be skating on ice as I focus my weight on my toes and use the centrifugal force to adjust my movements.

(But since this is a shooting motion, would it be useful to me...?)

"Hey, over there. Don't think too much and concentrate."

"So-Sorry."

In fact, Tatenashi-san's guiding me really well. She even managed to easily explain the parts that the good coaches Charl and Laura don't know, and that really allowed me to understand easily.

Speaking of which, I seemed to have read it in a certain book before. The smartest person is the one who can explain in a way anyone can understand. Sempai really feels like that.

"Okay, you sped up. Try using [Ignition Boost] then."

"Huh?"

"[Ignition Boost]. From your circular motion, change it to a straight motion, break through the opponent's fire at one go and shoot the particle cannon at zero distance."

"Hold-Hold on! Asking me to do that..."

"Hurry up."

"I-I got it."

After I got told off by sempai, I focused on the [Ignition Boost]. Mn? AHHH!

*BAM—!*

"It hurts..."

As the [Shooter Flow] suddenly ended, I lost control and slammed hard into the wall.

"Hey hey. You can't stop the [Shooter Flow] end when you're doing [Ignition Boost]."

"It-It's tough."

"No can do. You must learn. Everyone other than Houki-chan can do it."

Now that she said this, I had nothing to say.

"Alright, get up and try again."

She explained things much more easily than any instructor, but she's even more strict than every single one of them. With that, Sarashiki Tatenashi-san's training continued.

◆

"Oh my."

"Ah, erm, good afternoon, Nohotoke-sempai."

After the end of this special training, I met Nohohon-san's older sister Nohotoke-sempai as I was walking on the corridor. As I thought about how I should respond, sempai said to me.

"Just call me Utsuho. Since there's two Nohotokes, it'll be unclear who you're calling if you use that family name, right."

"Ah, okay, I'll call you Utsuho-san then."

"Mn."

Sempai nodded her face. Other than the face, she's different from Nohohon-san in other areas. But she does give an inexplicable feeling.

(This person should be similar to Takatsuki-san...)

I secretly nodded deep inside as I remembered the most reliable Takatsuki Shizune-san in class.

I tried to ask her what I was mindful of recently.

"Sorry, but can I ask a question."

"If I can answer it, sure?"

"Well, how's Tatenashi-san as a person?"

"What do you mean by that?"

"Huh-, it's more like, well, what was she thinking when she trained me?"

"Well, since it's her goodwill, just accept it."

"No, uu. You're right, but how should I put it..."

Seeing that I'm speechless, sempai seemed to find that intriguing as she smiled.

"Just joking."

This person in front of me would actually joke. Now that's a surprise.

"Tatenashi ojou-sama has all sorts of concerns, and I really don't know everyone of them."

"I see..."

Even though they've known each other for a long time, the situation may be as what she said.

Even so, the Nohotoke sisters should know about the other side of Tatenashi-san that me, and every student in IS Academy doesn't know of. Thinking about that, I really find it intriguing.

(Mn, since Tatenashi-san is really helping me now, I should just follow what she says.)

After making this conclusion, Utsuho-san lifted her finger and spoke up,

"Let me give you a piece of advice first. You'll be messed around by her no matter how you defend yourself or try to prevent it. Remember to save your energy."

"I-I see..."

I did feel that, but what she said made me confirm it.

Since Utsuho-sempai, who's older than Tatenashi-san by one year said this, she should be right.

"I'll eat as much as I can then."

"Very good. But that's if you can swallow the food."

What's with these ominous words? I'll be messed around by Tatenashi-san like that...

It suddenly feels cold.

"Goodbye then."

"Ah, yes, goodbye."

After saying goodbye to Utsuho-san, I again headed back to my room.

◆

*GACHUNK!* I dragged my tired body and opened my room's door.

"Welcome back. Do you want dinner, a bath, or... do, you, want, me?"

"Welcome back. Do you want dinner, a bath, or... do, you, want, me?"

--*BAM!* I closed the door and spent a second to analyze the situation.

"Erm..."

Right now, I'm standing in front of my own room's door at the first-year's dorm.

I checked that the nametag on the room has the word Orimura...well, I'm not mistaken. I didn't mistake it.

(Was that a dream or illusion? Anyway, Tatenashi-san can't possibly wear a naked apron[5B 1] and wait for me in real life. Hahaha.)

Thinking about this, I opened the door again.

"Welcome back. Do you want me? Do you want me? Or do, you, want, me?"

"THERE'S NO OPTION I CAN CHOOSE!"

"There is, but only one."

Standing in my room and waiting for me is Tatenashi-san in the naked apron.

WHA-WHAT IS THIS PERSON THINKING!?

"I intend to stay here from today onwards."

"Wha...?"

"Yeah~ I can brag to everyone! Only two girls managed to live in the same room as Ichika-kun before me. I'll become your third woman then."

"No, wait...huh? Isn't this the first year dorm?"

That's not the main problem. Unfortunately, my mind couldn't work well as it's in a mess.

"That's the power of the Student Council President."

Gua! Using that trump card all of a sudden!

What's wrong with this person? Or rather, is the Student Council alright?

"Ichika-kun's reaction is so kawaii~"[5B 2]

Tatenashi-san stared at me happily as she casually opened her fan. There's the words 'Everything is strange'—no, YOU'RE THE ONE WHO'S STRANGE!

"ANY-ANYWAY! PLEASE WEAR SOME CLOTHES, CLOTHES!"

I couldn't look at the weirdly dressed sempai as I looked aside while saying. She seemed to find it really funny as she laughed before turning behind—WAAHHH!!

"JYAN♪! There's a swimsuit underneath it~"

"..."

"Fuu, are you disappointed?"

"HOW-HOW CAN I BE!"

...

I don't think I would be disappointed.

"Oh my. That's just a little revenge since I couldn't catch onto the summer wave."

Who are you taking revenge on?

(Speaking of which, even though she's wearing a swimsuit, it's a rather daring bikini...no, NO NO!)

I continued to shake my head, looking like I want to shake off the desire that would enslave me the moment I see her.

"Aha. You're blushing, aren't you?"

"Uu..."

Tatenashi-san looked like she wanted to show herself in the swimsuit as she stuck her butt out, looking really radiant.

I felt embarrassed as she got me, and since I'm really embarrassed about seeing a pretty girl in a swimsuit right in front of me, I do know that I'm blushing for sure.

(That's true, but you didn't have to explain it like that...)

After being pointed at, my face became even redder. I seriously thought through if there's any way to shake Tatenashi-san out of the room.

But after thinking for a few seconds, I saw that she already set up all her stuff, and sank my head heavily.

(She didn't just put full cardboard boxes; she already took out her luggage...)

It seems that it's useless to say anything.

"Haaa..."

I sighed deeply, feeling so dejected I wonder if my soul was long gone.

◆

"..."

Houki quickly walked through the corridor of the first year dorm.

She was holding onto a bag, and smiling a bit at times.

The results of cooking the first time this month were good.

Expecting the response Ichika would give once he ate this masterpiece of hers, Houki couldn't help but naturally move faster.

(Because that guy always liked to eat this.)

That's the beancurd-skin sushi[5B 3] that her mom taught her directly. The slightly thick beancurd is soaked and cooked until the flavor enters it, and the rice and other condiments are added to it to achieve perfect balance.

After kendo training, Ichika would often eat a lot of this superb combination that had the sensation of the flavorful soy sauce and the aftertaste of the clear vinegar rice.

(...But he really changed.)

In Houki's memory, Ichika actions were just like a kid.

And now though he had a vestige of his former self left, he gradually gave off a mature man's presence.

Basically, he gradually became the type Houki liked.

(U-Um, I should train myself to be more like a woman. I don't know what kind of woman that guy likes, because there's no downsides to being a good woman.)

Confirming these thoughts in her heart, Houki happily accepted the accelerating heartbeat within her.

(Ichika was in a mess during training today, so he would want something to motivate himself, right? Yup, yup!)

Even though she didn't forget that this could be a reason for both of them to be together, she completely forgot that the other girls might be having dinner with Ichika.

Houki quickened her already fast pace, and soon arrived in front of Ichika's door.

(Alright. Got to act calm...)

Mm um. After clearing her throat, she silently knocked on the door.

*KOK* *KOK*

"..."

(Hm? Why isn't there a reaction?)

Maybe I knocked too softly? Thinking about this, Houki knocked even louder.

"Wha-What is it? Who's that?"

"It-It's me. I brought a reward for you."

"ACK! HOUKI!?"

(What's with that 'Ack'? Saying that out of a sudden...!)

Houki was a little unhappy.

But it would be bad to break this happy time, so Houki controlled her emotions.

"Can I go in?"

"...So-Sorry, you can't."

This infuriated Houki, and she was prompted by her impulses of anger as she opened the door.

The door wouldn't open, however, as it seemed that Ichika held the door up from inside.

"...Ichika."

"So-Sorry. How about next time? Okay? I promise, next time..."

As Houki felt weird about Ichika's tense voice, a girl's voice could be heard from within.

"Ichika-kun, what are you doing? Ah, I know. You are afraid that others will find out that you're having an affair, right?"

"--!"

It was a voice she had never heard before. Facing Ichika's attitude, Houki quickly deployed one of [Akatsubaki]'s Japanese swords and sliced the door in half.

"UWAAAH!!!"

"Ichika, you bastard...!"

"WAAAHHH! HOL-HOLD ON! IT'S A MISUNDERSTANDING!"

"WHAT MISUNDERSTANDING!? STAND RIGHT THERE!"

Facing the angry Houki, Tatenashi calmly called her,

"Okay, okay, calm down. I was joking."

"..."

But the problem was her dress up. Seeing the naked apron from the front, Houki gradually raised her sword.

"ICHIKA!!!"

"WH-WHY-WHY ME? SPEAKING OF WHICH, DIDN'T SOMETHING LIKE THIS HAPPEN BEFORE!?"

Even though Ichika barely managed to dodge it, the continuous attacks forced him to the wall.

"YOU BROUGHT A GIRL BACK TO YOUR ROOM AND DID SUCH AN INDECENT ACT...DON'T YOU KNOW ANY SHAME!?"

*Swoosh!* As the sound of wind being cut could be heard, the Japanese sword was swung down.

Though Ichika was prepared to die, Tatenashi stepped in between them.

"Oh my, how straightforward you are."

*KLANG!* With a blunt sound, the blade was stopped.

Tatenashi's right arm was holding onto a huge spear.

"!"

"Sorry, but onee-san will be rather bothered if you want to let Ichika-kun be a lost soul under the sword."

Casual sounding, she didn't leave any openings in her movement.

Tatenashi spun the spear in a circle manner and blocked the Japanese sword, pressing it down under her weapon before swinging it up.

"Wha...?"

The weapon Houki was so used to wielding flew out of her hands because of the leverage, leaving her dumbfounded.

The Japanese sword that was deflected by Tatenashi flew in the air and pierced into the wall hard.

"The winner's decided, I guess?"

"Gu...!"

Like Laura before her, Houki dispelled her IS to indicate surrender.

Whether it was Houki or Ichika she was facing, the brightly smiling Tatenashi gently declared her superiority over them.

◆

"I see. Houki-chan's really well-versed at skills and martial arts. Even your cooking's amazing!"

"No, no, it's not really that good..."

"Don't be shy...mn, this beancurd-skin sushi's really nice--. Right, Ichika-kun?"

"Ye-Yeah. It's really nice."

And then, after convincing her, Houki accepted the current situation, and Tatenashi-san changed into her uniform before tasting the beancurd-skin sushi with us.

In primary school, I often ate the sushi that Houki's mom used to make at the dojo, and the reward Houki brought over was about the same. I didn't just reminiscence it, because it's really nice.

"..."

"..."

But with Houki glaring at me, I really couldn't eat much.

It seems that she couldn't accept Tatenashi-san's existence, and her anger on me hasn't disappeared completely... is-is it my fault?

"That's strange? You two haven't eaten much. I'll help myself then."

Taking it and biting it, taking it and biting it...Tatenashi-san continued to down the remaining beancurd-skin sushi.

"Mn~ thank you for the food."

Licking her fingers, she palmed both hands together to thank Houki.

Regarding this, she's mysteriously attentive with the greetings, and Houki and I bowed back as thus.

"Okay, since Houki-chan's here, I'll explain this simply."

"You're talking...about me?"

"That's right. It's about [Akatsubaki]."

Now that she mentioned it, Houki tightened her face.

"I heard that you can't activate [Akatsubaki]'s [One-Off Ability], right?"

"That's..."

Did you say that? Houki protested at me with her eyes, and I immediately shook my head.

That's right. After that incident, Houki's [Akatsubaki] was never able to activate [Kenran Butou] successfully.

Even though she tried to do that during training, the machine didn't react at all. However, it was indicated in the data registry, so it's unknown where the problem was.

"Basically, the [One-Off Ability] needs to be activated when the pilot's mental state is in sync with the IS. Do you remember the last time you activated it?"

"I-I do. Uu..."

"If you recreate that emotion, the IS will respond to you."

"I-I see.."

For some reason, Houki shyly lowered her head...hn? What's with you? Why are you looking over?

"Let me explain. In contrast to [Byakushiki]'s 1 to 0 removal ability, [Akatsubaki] has a 1 to 100 increase ability, and it seems like it can pass the energy to others. As expected of a machine Professor Shinonono made herself. It's really outstanding."

"So...this ability can also be used on anyone other than Ichika's [Byakushiki]?"

"Well, I can't really predict that to the details. Why don't you try it out?"

"I-I see."

Houki continued to peek at me. Why's that?

(Hm? Is she worried that I would be unhappy...)

A brainwave passed me as I placed my hand on Houki's shoulder,

"Don't mind, Houki. Wouldn't it be good if others could use it too?"

"...You're right."

For some reason, Houki lowered her head. Huh? What, what's wrong?

"Oh yeah. Ichika-kun and Charlotte-chan once tried to transfer energy. I read about records on energy transfer, but I was really shocked when you two were able to do it. Normally speaking, it's difficult to transfer energy. You can't do that if your cores aren't in sync. She was able to do it so well in the midst of a real battle. That was amazing."

"Yeeah, Charl's really outstanding and smart, so she would be able to match the other person's characteristic no matter who she partners with."

"..."

*DONK!!*

"OW! WHA-WHAT ARE YOU DOING, HOUKI!?"

"Humph."

For some reason, Houki felt unhappy and kicked my leg... wha-what's with her?

"Fufu, you two have quite the delicate relationship."

"Huh?"

"...There's nothing delicate about it. Ichika's just too dumb."

"WHAT'S WITH YOU CALLING ME DUMB! CALLING ME AN IDIOT!? EVEN IF YOU'RE A CHILDHOOD FRIEND, I WON'T FOR—OWOWOWOWOW!!!"

"STOP PINCHING ME, HOUKI!"

"You're too noisy."

I got glared hard at by Houki. Uu, she really looks scary.

"Okay okay, I know you two have quite the good relationship, so let's talk about something else—erm, but before that, let's have some tea."

"Ah, please allow me."

"Really? Sorry to bother you then."

If I continue to stay here, it seems like Houki will be even more ferocious in her attacks, so I escaped to the simple kitchen to avoid the disaster and brewed tea.

(For some reason, Houki's mood swings seem to be very big recently...)

Boiling the water, I couldn't help but remember Houki recently.

She would occasionally show herself at the kendo club, and seemed to have gotten along well with them. She also got more friends.

She also became good friends with Rin, Charl and the rest. That's a good sign.

But right now, the important IS control isn't working too well for her. She wouldn't accept anyone's help with regards to that, so it's bothering me.

(Oh, the water has boiled.)

I put the tea leaves into the clay kettle and waited for them to open.

During this time, I heated up the guest teacups.

Seeing that both sides were done, I put them all on the tray and returned back to both of them with a slightly nervous look.

"So that's how it is! Well, how should I say it... fufu. That's really interesting."

"Isn't that right? Fufufu."

...Hm? Huh? Those two seemed to be on rather good terms now.

Did they talk about some secrets when I wasn't around? Girls are often seen to be mysterious people because of that.

"Oh, Ichika, you're late."

"That's right that's right. I got some autumn manjuu[5B 4]. I'll get them out."

Both of them were smiling happily, as if they were really happy.

(...Well, I guess Tatenashi-san can make anyone collapse, whether it's male or female.)

My mind suddenly remembered the saying that's often used to describe Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the past 'Able to grasp people's hearts'[5B 5]. And I do feel that it fits the sempai in front of me.

(But that's not a title for a girl...)

However, since it suits her, it can't be helped. If I don't use this, maybe she'll be like the 'Cheshire Cat' or 'the female Tora-san'[5B 6]...no, wait, the last description doesn't really fit her, right?

"Hey, kid, stop looking at the elderly onee-san."

*PA!* I got knocked by the autumn manjuu box.

"We-Well..."

"Hm~? Don't tell me you're thinking of saying that you didn't look?"

"...Are-Are you going on a trip?"

"Oh, he changed the topic. What do you think, Houki-chan?"

"He's not showing the attitude of a man at all."

GUA! How can there be such a continuous barrage that's forcing me into despair! My HP's immediately almost zero.

"An-Anyway! I got tea ready!"

"Fufu. Seems like you got anxious. Well."

"Just let him go."

"You're right, Houki-chan's really magnanimous."

Ahaha, ufufu, the two girls continued with their laughter. I guess sitting on a bed of needles should apply to this, right?

"As for your question, I didn't go on a trip. The people I'm familiar with at the research center said that this Japanese product called autumn manjuu's really delicious, so I bought a lot of them."

"Are you talking about the research facility?"

"Actually, it's the development lab, of my beloved machine."

"Sempai has a personal IS?"

"Of course, the strongest in IS Academy isn't just for show."

On hearing that, Houki and I trembled.

The IS that the strongest in school, Tatenashi-san uses should be really amazing. How powerful would the battle prowess be?

"Uu, I'll look at your practice condition first. Don't look at me like this. I can really teach."

"Re-Really?"

Houki responded to Tatenashi-san's words...well, I was forced to make her my tutor anyway.

"No problems. It's my job to take care of my cute kouhais."

"Is-Is that so? I'll leave myself in your care then!"

"But I need to train you two separately, you know. I won't be able to concentrate on training you together."

"Uu..."

Houki seemed to be a little resistant to that, but finally answered,

"I understand."

As expected, she managed to realize the difference in ability between her and sempai, and felt that it's better for sempai to guide her instead of just training alone.

"Oh yeah. Well... I realized it from the beginning."

After taking a sip of tea, Houki stuttered and asked,

"Doesn't this room have sempai's personal belongings...?"

"Yup, because I'm staying here for the time being."

"WHAT?"

Shocked, Houki couldn't help but step up. I decided to remain silent since I'll trigger a landmine no matter what I say, but...that's not like a man. Guu...

"WH-WHY?"

"Un, because I had to be Ichika-kun's special instructor for a while, so I need to eat and sleep with him to match his characteristics. I also need to observe his usual demeanor."

"Observe..."

Tatenashi-san, are you treating me like a pet?

"If-If that's the case, I want to stay here too!"

Aahh...I knew she would say that...

"Mn—nope."

"Why?"

"Because this is a two person room."

"Uu...!"

That's an amazingly accurate piece of logic.

"Don't worry, don't worry. I won't do anything to Ichika-kun, so relax."

"Sin-Since sempai says so..."

"But Ichika-kun may do something to me."

"!? I-ICHIKA! YOU!"

"WA--! HOL-HOLD ON! I DIDN'T SAY ANYTHING YET! TATENASHI-SAN, PLEASE DON'T PROVOKE HOUKI! SHE'LL REALLY PULL OUT A REAL SWORD ONCE SHE'S ANGRY!"

"Oh my, I was seen through? Sorry, Houki-chan, this onee-san played a little prank. Aha♪"

"Ne-Never mind..."

Seeing her innocent smile, Houki sat down weakly.

Tatenashi-san's enjoying seeing Houki like this.

(This person really knows how to 'grasp people's hearts'.)

Just like that, our controversial stay together began.

◆

Controversy Number 1

"Ichika-kun~"

"Wha—HUH, WAHH!!"

Brushing my teeth just before I slept, I got called back to the room by Tatenashi-san.

And then, lying casually on the bed, Tatenashi-san was casually shaking her leg. No, that's not the problem. The problem's her dressing—a wild attire of underwear with just a shirt over it.

lying casually on the bed, Tatenashi-san was casually shaking her leg.

(ACK! I-I CAN SEE IT—!)

Tatenashi-san's firm butt's really nice, and the light purple underwear over it is a little...well, it's showing a lot. I hurriedly went back to the bathroom.

"Huh? What's wrong, Ichika-kun?"

"AN-AND YOU DARE TO SAY WHAT'S GOING ON!? PLEASE WEAR YOUR CLOTHES!"

"I'm wearing them."

"PLEASE WEAR SOME PANTS!!"

"Huh—?"

I could hear thomping footsteps from behind the door. Not good! I'm dead! She's over here!

"...I can't open the door."

"Yeah, I'm pressing down on it."

"Since I can't open the door, I'll break the hinge then."

"Huh?"

*KLANG!* With a crisp sound, the door fell over. WAHH!!

"I'll jump~"

Tatenashi-san's weight's pressed down on me. WAHHH!!

"I'm not heavy, right? My body figure's good too, since I often train myself."

"IS THAT SOMETHING YOU SHOULD BE SAYING? AND THAT'S HEAVY IN THE CURRENT SITUATION—"

"Hit out."

*PA!* The palm opposite the door landed accurately on the part that's pressing onto my face.

As I lost balance due to this sudden impact, Tatenashi-san used this chance to quickly barge into the bathroom. Right now, I can imagine an event of the floor, me, the door and Tatenashi-san. What is this...

"Okay okay. Admit that you lose and do that highly-rated massage on me."

"Huh?"

"You want to know why I knew about this? Fufufu, because onee-san's information gathering speed is rather fast."

It's nothing, really, I just heard Cecilia-chan brag about it. Tatenashi-san added these words.

(CE-CECILIA! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!)

Thanks to her, I'm in this state.

To be honest, Tatenashi-san's figure's good, and not just good, but really outstanding. I can even tell through the clothes that she has huge breasts, a water-snake like waist and a perfect-curvy butt.

(DAMN IT! IT'S TOO DANGEROUS TO MASSAGE TATENASHI-SAN NO MATTER HOW I THINK ABOUT THIS!)

To be specific, I'm talking about myself. My sanity and everything else will be in danger, real danger...I have this feeling that it'll be really bad.

"Uu- you're still resisting? If that's the case..."

Tatenashi-san pushed the door aside and fell onto me.

"WHA-WHAT!?"

"Guchy guchi gu~"

"EYAAHH!! ST-STO-STOP IT...UWAAHH!!"

"Okay okay, hurry up and surrender.. Surrender and massage me."

"No, NO WAY! DIDN'T I SAY THAT IT'S...!"

"You don't seem to be scared, so I'm going to increase my strength~"

"WAAAHHH!!!!!! AH, HAHAHA! ST-STO-STOP IT...AH HAHAHA!"

"So are you going to massage me?"

"I-I'LL DO IT! I'LL DO IT! I'LL MASSAGE YOU! AH HAHAHA! ST-STOP IT...!"

Feeling satisfied with my answer, Tatenashi-san finally let go of me.

"Huu—that was a tough one."

"What are you saying? Really..."

"Then hurry up and massage. This onee-san's tired from Student Council work."

"But!"

"Do you want me to bathe myself cleanly?"

"...What's with that answer?"

"Mn. Because I feel that I should answer like that. So?"

"Please wear more clothes. I won't allow any leeway."

"At the bottom? I'm wearing my panties properly—"

"Panties don't count."

"You're so irritating, Ichika-kun~"

"I won't massage you then."

"Huh-you're too much. I'll wearing something similar to pants then."

"Please do."

Looking at Tatenashi-san walk out of the bathroom, she suddenly stopped.

"These aren't panties, so you don't have to be shy."

"Those are panties."

No matter how you call it, anything that looks like panties are panties.

Speaking of which, I still can see it...PLEASE! SERIOUSLY! SPARE ME NOW! I'M ALREADY TRYING MY BEST TO LOOK AWAY.

"Will this do?"

After saying that, she flipped her shirt, and I saw the leggings that exposed the rounded butt. Of course, the lines of the panties were shown as well.

"..."

"Ah, you're looking pervertedly."

"I AM NOT!"

I'm just troubled...really, I am.

"Anyway, I'll leave the massaging to you."

"Okay..."

Tatenashi-san laid down on the bed, and I didn't have any strength to even go against her.

"I-I'll start then."

"Mn, I'll leave it to you then. Make me even more beautiful than I am now."

A massage doesn't change a person's appearance, right?

Speaking of which, to make her even prettier, isn't the standard too high...

(Ahh...I can feel a nice aroma...)

Unlike Houki and Charl, the sweet and refreshing aroma filled the entire world.

My rapidly beating heart felt like it got wrapped by something soft.

"..."

Really soft.

(Uu, very soft. Speaking of which, it's just the legs, but it's already like this...)

Even so, that's not the feeling of fat. I could feel the firm muscles.

Well...the touch's great. Just touching her alone makes me feel comfortable.

"Oh, hurry up and massage the butt~ my buttocks are sore from sitting down for too long..."

"Uu..."

FORGET ABOUT IT! AT THIS POINT, I'LL JUST ENTER A ZEN PHASE!

Being mentally prepared about this, I reached my hands towards Tatenashi-san's buttocks.

--Soft.

"..."

How-How soft, and ample.

"Ichika-kun."

"Yes."

"You're having a nosebleed."

"...Yes."

◆

Controversy Number 2

"Then, everyone, please prepare for your mid-term exams."

After the 4th period of ordinary subjects (a must study) ended, the classroom was buzzing like usual.

As this class is held according to the language, there's only Japanese in this class. Looking over, I could see black-haired people all over, and it's really unbelievable.

"Orimura-kun, let's go to the cafeteria."

"You should come and eat with us sometimes too~"

"Righty right, the personal pilot group's really sneaky."

Having been surrounded by the girls quickly, I thought I would be forced off to the cafeteria by them...but just when I think that this would happen,

"Excuse me."

Having said those words, Tatenashi-san walked in.

She's holding what looks like a five-layered bento box as she walked here with a smile on her face.

"You should have lunch in the classroom once in a while. It'll be really interesting."

After saying that, she put the five-layered bento on my table and neatly prepared the table.

During this time, she called the other girls over, and soon, 6 people gathered.

(Houki's here. If there's anything happening, I'll get her to save me.)

Just when I was secretly thinking about this, Tatenashi-san opened the bento...ooh!?

"Uwaa...it's super luxurious..."

Someone murmured. Including me, everyone gasped on seeing this super luxurious bento.

Things like Ebi lobsters and scallops are inside. This isn't at a bento's level now.

"How did you make this?"

"Hm? I woke up early."

"I'm not asking about that..."

Recently, being with Tatenashi-san made me realize that as long as I ask her 'How did you do that?', she would answer 'Anyone can do it as long as they work hard.'

But Tatenashi-san's a genius no matter how everyone looks at her, so everyone who she answered would just look lost.

(That's not something you can do by simply imitating...)

"Ichika-kun."

"Huh?"

"Here, ahh-"

My mouth that was wide open got food put into it.

That's a capsicum meat set. The flavoring that's not too heavy and the texture of the meat can be said to be perfect.

But that's not the problem. The girls around me were looking in shock.

After the girls stopped breathing for a second, they showed a serious expression and shouted,

"EEEEEEEHHHHHH~!?"

"ORIMURA-KUN HAS THIS SORT OF RELATIONSHIP WITH THE PREZ...?"

"EVERYTHING'S DEAD! GOD'S DEAD! WE'RE DEAD NOW! ARE WE DEAD NOW!!?"

"PREZ'S SO SNEAKY! SHE'S SO BEAUTIFUL AND FLAWLESS AND HAS A BOYFRIEND!? THIS CAN'T BE FORGIVEN!!"

"ONEE-SAMA!! OUR ONEE-SAMA!!"

As for Houki, whose fingers were strong enough to break the chopsticks, she naturally became a problem.

"Wha-Wha-WHAT ARE YOU DOING!"

"Mn, eating lunch."

"I'm not talking about that..."

"Is it nice?"

"Ah, well, that, yes."

"I want a clearer answer."

"It-It's really good..."

As I said that while looking somewhat shy, Houki finally lost her patience and stood up.

--UWAAH, WHY MUST YOU BRING A SWORD OVER!!?

"Houki-chan?'

"What is it?"

"Here, ah—"

The food was put inside Houki's opened mouth too.

I thought that she would be shocked by this sudden change of situation, yet she quickly returned back to her chair and started chewing carefully. I think she feels that it's rude to eat while standing, sorta.

"How about it? Is it nice?"

"Ye-Yeah. The...flavor really went in. The stewed potato and meat's really nice..."

"Aha! I got praised. This onee-san's really happy."

Everyone here, not just me, but Houki and the other girls, were moved by her smile.

"Does everyone want to try it?"

"Ah, ah."

"Ye-Yes."

"If-if you excuse me."

"Un un♪. This onee-san's really popular."

Smiling, Tatenashi-san fed the other girls as well. Anyway, as it was really good, and since the Student Council President fed her kouhais personally, everyone here had a hard-to-describe expression as we all had lunch.

◆

Controversy Number 3

(Haa...I'm so tired today...)

She's such a carefree person, yet she's so strict in training after school. And it's because she wouldn't scold me that there's more pressure for me to respond.

Training after school ended, and dinner hasn't arrived yet. I'm using the bathroom in my room.

"Huu..."

I washed away the shampoo and rubbed off the water on my hair. I then reached for the towel.

(Hm? That's strange? It's gone...)

*GACHUNK!*

"Ha~I~ I'm here to wash your back."

"WHAT!?"

The bathroom door suddenly opened, and Tatenashi-san in a swimsuit came in.

Sempai's wearing the school designated P.E. swimsuit, and the monstrous body almost breaks the fabrics of the deep blue cloth, especially the voluptuous breasts that leaves a deep impression on me...WAIT, I'M NAKED!

"Why are you here?"

"I'm going to wash your back."

"DON'T DO THAT, JUST DON'T DO THAT! AN-AND DON'T LOOK HERE!"

"Ara ara, you're really a shy introverted person. Okay, show everything you have to onee-san."

"I DON'T WANT TO! ANYWAY, WHY MUST TWO PEOPLE SQUEEZE INTO SUCH A SMALL BATHROOM?"

"Hm—to stick closer?"

DON'T ANSWER ME BACK LIKE THAT AS IF IT'S A QUESTION!

"PL-PLEASE GET OUT!"

"Okay okay. Don't say that."

I got a light touch on my back.

The soft breasts could be felt from behind the swimsuit, making me really anxious.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! PLEASE GET OUT! I'LL REALLY GET ANGRY!"

"Bu—bu—Ichika-kun's really petty."

"THIS ISN'T ABOUT PETTINESS...NOARR!?"

Her arms reached over from behind my back skillfully, and the finger seemed to be drawing something on my chest as it climbed up my chest.

The slight trembling sent me a signal of danger, and my voice got louder.

"TATENASHI-SAN! GET O—"

"I'll go once I rub your back."

"..."

It feels like resistance is futile.

"I got it...whatever you want..."

"Aha♪-Ichika-kun's really magnanimous~"

Who's the one who forced me to this state...

I let my head and shoulders slump heavily and let her rub my back in this cramped bathroom.

"Is there any part that's itchy~?"

"None."

"Che."

This person actually made such a sound.

The sponge that was filled with bathing foam (that's probably Tatenashi-san's personal item) was rubbed onto my back with suitable force.

Letting others rub my back...how long has it been?

Maybe since a long time ago. I haven't experienced this ever since Chifuyu-nee washed my back when I was young.

(Uun...)

I decided not to think about Chifuyu-nee, because if I do, I'll remember that we used to bath together, and then my thoughts will head into a place I shouldn't be thinking.

"Wah—Ichika-kun, your body's rather good. You didn't just train, did you? Even the muscles that can be used are well-developed."

"Tha-Thanks for your compliment."

"I heard that you used to practice kendo. How about now?"

"Nope. I haven't been doing it for a long time, and I got crushed badly by Houki when I faced off against her the last time."

"Houki-chan, huh? She's amazing too. I can tell that she's really hardworking."

"I'm the same kind of person too." Tatenashi-san added.

"Are you lying?"

"Huh, why? This onee-san's a hardworking person, you know? I'm not talented."

"You're lying again..."

"Muu, kids who don't believe their elders should be punished...like this!"

The hand that's covered with bubbles tickles my abdomen, and it's stronger and more destructive than ever.

"AHAHAHAHA!! STO-STOP IT...HIII!!"

"Fufufu, you can't doubt onee-san's words. You must believe me, understand?"

"I GOT IT, I GOT IT, I GOT IT! SO-SO PLE...ASE STOP...HAHAHA!!!"

"Okay, no problems. Onee-san's going out first. I'm done with your back too."

Tatenashi-san casually moved her body away from me. After washing away the bubbles on her, she opened the door.

"Ichika-kun."

"...What?"

"Your butt's not bad, you know?"

Ufufu. Tatenashi-san laughed as she left the room.

I can tell without looking that she must be very carefree now.

"..."

Anyway, to calm myself, I spurted a lot of water from the showerhead.

"COLD!!"

Of course it is.

◆

"Ahh~..."

The usual few girls showed wry smiles as they saw me collapse on the table.

Right now, it's dinner time at the dorm, but it seems like I don't have any appetite left.

During these few days, my life's been completely messed up by Tatenashi-san, and I'm really tired.

"It's been tough on you, Ichika."

"Oh...Charl..."

"Do you want some tea? If you can't eat, at least you should drink something."

"Oh...thank you..."

I looked up, just a sip would do.

Everyone's eating their own dinner, and the dishes seem to be quite good.

(But I have no appetite...)

I'm not joking. I'll really die if this life continues. Most likely because of fatigue.

"So where's that woman?"

Laura asked that in a really angry manner. She's been feeling angry ever since she lost that day.

One of the reasons she's so frustrated is that she can't sneak into my room occasionally now. Well, I'm thankful to Tatenashi-san with regards to that, but...un.

(I'm really bothered that Laura's feeling unhappy...)

I pondered with my emptied mind.

The tea Charl passed to me was just warm enough, and I calmed down.

"Ichika, I'm asking where is that woman."

"Hm? She went out saying that she had Student Council work."

"Ye-Yeah, there're a lot documents~"

The slow and laid back tone made me turn around. As expected, it's Nohohon-san.

Oh, you, this Student Council secretary. Hurry up and help your Prez.

"I say~ I'll just increase their workload if I stay there~ I came out so as not to disturb them~"

"And you dare to say that..."

Speaking of which, is it really good for the Student Council to have such members?

As for Nohohon-san, she likes ochazuke, and there's a large piece of salmon fillet on it. Tha-That's really luxurious...

"Hey hey hey? What tea do you take when you eat ochazuke? Coarse tea? Green tea or relaxing red tea? I take Oolong tea~"

Sitting down on the empty seat, she suddenly asked me. She mixed the food in the bowl with chopsticks, and it really looked rather corroded.

"I think it should be here~"

"..Over where?"

"I'm adding raw egg in."

*Kapak*—Woah! She really added it!

"Spin spin spin spin~"

The stickiness of the rice increased, and it looked even more messed up! Nohohon-san happily smiled.

...On the other hand, I've lost all my appetite already.

"I'm tucking in! *Gobble* *gobble* *gobble*..."

"WAA, STOP MAKING NOISES WHEN YOU EAT!"

"Huh--? That's impossible~ Making sounds when you eat is what a gourmand should do~"

"THAT'S FOR SOBA NOODLES!"

"I'll try it then~ *ciu* *ciu* *ciu*..."

Hu...it got slightly quieter...no, wait, what were we talking about?

"Ahem...Ichika-san?"

"Hm? What is it, Cecilia? Why did you become so formal out of a sudden?"

"If you find that it's tough living in that room, it can't be helped then. I should help others with a bushi's heart[5B 7]; How about you come over to my room?"

...Ahh, are you talking about the room where the bed took up nearly all the place?

"Hold on, Cecilia! Wait! Ichika, come over to my room! I have poker cards."

"Trying to bait me with poker cards? I'm not a primary school kid!"

"Then how about Kompeito?"[5B 8]

"Are you intending to kidnap some kindergarten kids!?"

And she lowered the standard for some reason. Rin, I really don't understand you.

"What? Are beans better?"

"ARE YOU FEEDING THE PIGEONS!?"

...Oh well, I don't want to talk anymore. The more I talk, the more tired I'll get.

"I'm going back to my room..."

With heavy feelings, I got up from my seat and left the cafeteria for my room.

I should sleep a little before Tatenashi-san comes back. Thinking about that, I placed my hand on the door handle.

"Welcome back. Do you want dinner, a bath, or do, you, want, me?"

Two seconds after I opened the door, I saw sempai.

Losing all my strength, I collapsed with my knees first to the floor.