GODDESS OF VICTORY: NIKKE story · Event stories
2X2 LOVE I
54 scenes, 8,535 lines
1. The Heart of Youth
149 linesIn front of the school's main gate.
The school bell rings.
The cheerful ring of the bell marks the start of a new semester.
On days like this, it's almost inevitable that a student too excited to sleep ends up running late.
*Rattle*
The school gate begins to close as the school day starts.
*Tap, tap, tap*
From far off, someone comes sprinting, desperate to make it through before it closes.
...
Keep closing the gate.
Stop closing the gate.
Open the gate.
Arcana hunches forward and sprints faster than before.
Just as the gate is about to close, she slips through at the last second.
Arcana places her hand on my shoulder, catching her breath.
Sorry, it's the rules. I've no choice.
Yeah, yeah, if you say so.
It's kind of nice how you're treating me like a real student,
but come on, cut a girl a little slack, would you?
I was almost late on the very first day!
Aah...!
*Huff... huff...!*
Arcana slows her pace slightly and enters the school gate safely.
Phew... just barely made it!
Thanks a bunch.
If it weren't for you, I would've totally been late on my first day.
Phew... It's hot out here!
Oh my!
I never thought you'd actually open the gate!
I'm kinda touched, hehe.
Arcana halts in her tracks.
She meets my eyes and walks toward me slowly.
Made it!
Whew, that was close!
But thanks to my sweet, oh-so-handsome gatekeeper, I got here just in time!
So how'd you end up running late?
Did something happen?
Hm?
Ah, I see...
What's with that face?
You don't look excited at all.
And wow, just look at that glowing skin! You must've had a good night's sleep.
Meanwhile, here I am, all excited and running on zero sleep.
No, it's not that...
Arcana pokes me in the side.
So, you better start paying attention to me from here on,
okay?
I've gotta run to class now, so I'll scoot ahead.
Catch ya later!
...
Feeling somewhat conflicted, I watch Arcana walk away.
Once I'm sure no one else is coming in, I lock the gate and head into the school.
In the teachers' office.
The door slides open and closes again.
Looks like all the teachers have gone to class.
... well, all but one.
What are you doing over there, Privaty?
Ack...!
*Thud*
Ow! Ugh...
Privaty, who seems to be searching for something on the floor, hits the desk hard as she stands up.
Watch her quietly.
Take her hand.
Pat her on the head.
...
Ugh...
Why are you just standing there, staring?!
Shouldn't you at least ask if I'm okay, or, I don't know, hold my hand?!
Isn't that what you're supposed to do in moments like this?!
I just figured you might not be into that.
Privaty gets to her feet, brushing off her skirt.
So, what were you looking for?
I take Privaty's hand and help her up.
U-uh...!
...
Th-thank you.
I could've gotten up on my own, of course...!
But holding your hand like this actually feels kind of nice.
... Your hand is bigger than I thought...
N-no!
Ahem, forget I said anything.
Yeah, so what were you looking for?
I thought you might be in pain.
Oh, sorry...
...
S-so, what were you looking for?
Oh, that's right!
I was looking for my tablet.
It has all the student records and grades on it.
I really should be getting to class, but I just can't find it anywhere...
Is this it?
I pick up the tablet from the chair.
Huh?!
What's that doing there?!
... Sorry about that.
I guess it's been so long since I was here that I got a little too nervous.
Teaching really isn't a walk in the park.
Hm?
Oh... Yeah.
It's a bit stressful, I won't lie.
But I've done it a few times, so I'm fairly used to it by now.
And, of course, the students rely on me a lot.
Oh, really? Then what's making you nervous?
Privaty stares straight at me.
Never mind!
Class is starting soon, so you'd better get moving too, Commander.
And... um...
... I-I look forward to working with you!
The door slides open and slams shut.
Privaty bolts from the teachers' office as if her life depends on it.
...
Warm sunlight spills through the window.
Something tickles my chest, just for a moment.
Spring has arrived, and so begins my short yet turbulent school life.
2. New Semester, Special Mission
319 lines
Hello, No. 7.
Looks like you were living it up in your youth, and then got smacked right in the back of the head.
You'd make the same face if you woke up to someone just standing over you.
What's going on so early?
Something came up that I need your help with.
Help...?
You might not know this, but a new semester is about to kick off at the M.M.R. Vocational School.
With a bunch of new students coming in, things are bound to get lively.
For some reason, I've no idea why,
the public seems to have a way worse impression of our school than I expected.
The higher-ups are worried that funding might get cut.
So this year, we figured we'd try to make the place look a little more normal, like a regular school.
And that's how
the "M.M.R. Vocational School Image Improvement Project" was born.
... And how are you going to pull that off?
To improve our image, we're going to hold a festival that the public can take part in.
But to make that work, we'll need people who can blend in naturally at the school,
like you, No. 7.
...
Wait, so you want me to enroll in the school?
Exactly.
I want you to keep the atmosphere at the school relaxed,
at least just until the festival's over.
I've already sent you a file with the details. Look it over when you can.
Am I going alone?
No, two others will join you.
Who are they?
Oh...
Ether waves lazily and leaves my room.
...
I go through the file Ether sent me.
It turns out I'll be living in the school dorm for a while.
Guess I should finish up my work here and start packing.
I'm in the middle of everything when...
*Knock, knock*
Someone's at my door.
Come in.
The door whirs as it opens.
Hello, Commander.
Mornin'!
It's Privaty and Arcana,
so that means...
So you two are coming to school with me?
I'm... supposed to be some kid of library student assistant or something?
Anyway, I'm going in as a student!
What about you?
Me?
I guess I'm just... the Commander? OR maybe more like the examiner, like last time?
You didn't bother to read the file Ether sent, did you?
It says you're supposed to decide for yourself
and prepare whatever role that'll help you fit in naturally.
Teacher or student... Do we really have to go that far?
Ha, you really don't get it, do you?
It's all about the immersion!
The second I step into the school, I'm no longer part of the Best Seller Squad.
I'll be right in the heart of youth.
Sunlight streaming through the halls, students laughing everywhere...
and then, there's you and me...!
Arcana speaks as if she's in a full-blown musical, striking an overly dramatic pose.
Well,
she isn't wrong.
You've worked with me at the school before, so you should know that better than most.
Yeah, I know.
Wow, this is a lot more serious than I thought it would be.
Hearing you say that makes me a little excited, too.
Right? Just thinking about it makes your heart race a little.
So let's give it our best shot.
I'm not about to let this opportunity slip away.
Arcana holds out her fist.
Well, I'm sure you'll manage just fine, Commander.
But there's no harm in getting yourself fired up beforehand, is there?
Privaty cautiously extends her fist as well.
...
I lightly bump my fist against theirs,
careful not to hit too hard.
Living a normal school life...
actually sounds pretty fun.
The days vanish in an instant,
and before I know it, the day before the new semester has arrived.
And I...
make my way into the dorm at the M.M.R. Vocational School, where I'll be staying for the foreseeable future.
Oh wow, this is huge.
It looks like this place is originally meant for four. There are two rooms with bunk beds,
and a spacious living room and kitchen sit in the middle.
It almost feels too big for just one person.
... I guess I should unpack first.
I pull my things out of the suitcase, carefully arranging them.
Clothes, books, and supplies all find their spot.
Finally, I pull out what might be the most important item for this task.
I hold it carefully for a moment, feeling its weight.
It's...
A neatly folded set of spare clothes.
A tablet containing the students' data.
...
I'm not sure yet...
But if I'm going to be a student, I'll need more than this uniform. Some casual clothes, at least.
I hang the carefully pressed outfits on the hanger,
smoothing out each fold as I go.
...
I'm not sure yet...
But if I end up as a teacher, it'd be useful to have the students' data on hand.
I carefully place the tablet
where it's most visible on the desk.
Phew... I guess everything's more or less sorted.
It's 7 in the evening.
It's way too early to go to bed, but there's nothing to do while just lounging around...
...
Maybe I should check out the school a bit.
I don't have time to see the whole campus, so just one area would do.
Where should I go...?
Classroom.
The teachers' office.
The library.
I ponder for a moment, then make my way to the classroom.
I ponder for a moment, then make my way to the teachers' office.
The door slides open with a low rattle.
The teachers' office is dark and empty, a cold draft snaking through the room.
Tomorrow, this place will be filled with students and teachers, and the atmosphere will be completely different.
I take my time looking around, imagining the office alive with chatter and movement.
Among the neat rows of desks, one spot immediately catches my eye.
A desk stacked with boxes that haven't been unpacked yet,
clearly marking this as the desk of a new teacher.
This must be Privaty's desk.
I cast a quick glance over the empty desk and move to step away.
*Clatter*
Something crunches under my foot.
Looking down, I see a cute cat-shaped pen with the exact same color as Privaty's hair.
Looks like it fell out of the box.
I pick up the pen to put it back in the box.
What are you doing?
Whoa, you scared me!
At the sound of the familiar voice, I turn to see Privaty staring daggers at me.
Privaty, you startled me...
I should be the one who's surprised.
What are you doing here alone, with the lights off?
And...
*Ahem* this is my desk.
I was just looking around.
If you were coming to the teachers' office, you could've at least told me.
I went all the way to the dorm for nothing.
You came to my room? What for?
Th-that's because...!
I was just making sure you didn't get lost or anything.
You seem to have made it, so it's fine.
Let's go.
Where to?
Oh, that's true...
I head back to the dorm with Privaty.
I thought I'd walk you back
and see which room yours is while I'm at it.
Relax, I'm not trying to do anything... Just thought it'd be good to know.
You already know which room I'm in, anyway.
...!
I-I didn't mean anything by it...!
I only knew because the school gave out the info on who's staying in the dorms...!
So don't go getting the wrong idea!
Relax, I get it.
... All right.
Here's my room.
I-if you're going to come by, at least give me a heads-up first.
Will do.
And you do know there's the new semester speech tomorrow morning, right?
Make sure you're there by 8:00 AM.
Oh right, I nearly forgot about that.
Wow, really? That's great.
Privaty puts on a confident front, but I can tell she's slightly nervous.
What should I say...?
It's okay if it's not perfect.
It's not all stiff and formal, right?
I think you're putting too much pressure on yourself.
I'll be listening too, so just relax and keep it natural.
Oh... Sorry, my bad.
It's fine, I see where you're coming from.
...!
I-I'm not sure if it's all just stiff and formal,
but I did my best to make it sound proper.
Hopefully, that's not too boring for them...?
They're students, so you don't need to be too formal.
Words from the heart will resonate more than overly polished lines.
... That's true.
They're students, not Nikkes or soldiers.
And that's exactly what we're trying to focus on this time.
I suppose that makes me feel a little better.
But!
Not that it matters, I'd have done just fine anyway.
Thanks for walking me back, Commander.
I'll go in now.
All right, get some rest. See you tomorrow.
After saying goodbye to Privaty, I make my way back to my room.
Oh, right!
I pull out the pen I had forgotten about from my pocket.
I should've returned this...
... Oh well.
I place the pen on the desk,
then lie on the unfamiliar bed and try to drift off to sleep.
I ponder for a moment, then make my way to the library.
The quiet hum of the library
is briefly interrupted by the soft scrape of an opening door.
The spring breeze flows in through the open window, carrying the golden light of the evening sunset...
...
By the window, someone's blue hair flutters gently in the breeze.
Mmm... zzz...
...
Arcana is fast asleep, completely unaware of what's happening.
What should I do?
Call out to her.
Approach her carefully.
... Arcana.
Her eyelids flutter slightly, then slowly open.
...
For a moment, she stares at me drowsily.
Then her eyes curve into a smile.
Oh, you're here?
Hey,
what are you doing here?
I've been waiting for you.
Me?
Mm-hmm.
I sit across from Arcana.
Careful not to wake her, I slip quietly over
and sit beside her.
Mmm... zzz...
...
Arcana sometimes pretends to be asleep just to mess with me,
but now, she really does seem to be asleep.
...
I watch Arcana in silence.
She must be having a good dream since there's a faint smile on her lips.
*Bang!*
?!
Arcana bangs her knee on the desk and bolts upright, but then...
...
Our eyes meet, and she proceeds to ease back into her seat as if nothing happened.
Oh, hey.
...
Wh-what are you doing here...?
I've been... waiting for you. Mm-hm.
For someone who's supposed to be waiting, you sure slept soundly, huh?
Is your knee okay?
It really hurts...
Arcana stretches lazily.
How long have you been here?
*Yaaawn...* Since morning.
Anyway, as part of the library... council? What was it again?
C-committee? Yeah, that sounds about right.
Since I'm part of the library committee, I figured I'd check out my workplace ahead of time.
And...
Arcana props her chin on her hand and grins at me.
I knew you'd show up.
... What would you have done if I didn't show up?
Oh, I would've just stayed in the library by myself the whole day and then gone home all lonely.
... Wait,
that's what I always used to do, isn't it?!
...
Arcana gets up from her seat.
More or less.
Yeah... me too.
Arcana's fingertips trace along the bookshelf.
What do you mean by that?
...?
Physically too, of course, but I'll show you what I mean by that tomorrow.
Arcana smiles and steps closer, taking my hand.
Let's go grab dinner! I haven't eaten a thing since this morning and I'm starving!
Sure, sounds good.
Oh, hold on.
Arcana stops just as she's about to leave the library.
What's wrong?
I got so caught up in getting ready for school that I totally forgot something.
Arcana steps closer and suddenly hugs me.
I'm glad you came back safe and sound again.
...
...
Arcana lightly taps my chest.
Well...?
... Okay, okay.
I take the Wheel of Fortune card with a note attached out of my pocket.
... I'm back.
...
A smile spreads across Arcana's lips when she takes the card.
After dinner with Arcana, I head back to the dorm,
and rest up for tomorrow.
3. An Exciting New Semester Speech
518 lines*Beep, beep, beep, beep*
The alarm blares through the room, dragging me out of my sleep.
Today is the first day of the new semester.
I wash up quickly and grab a light breakfast.
Now, there's just one last thing to do before I'm ready.
I grab the neatly folded clothes and put them on.
I grab my tablet containing the students' data.
Gone is my usual uniform.
Today, I'm dressed in a crisp white shirt, gray pants, and a blue vest that completes the look.
I wonder if I look a bit like a student.
...
Standing before the mirror, I turn this way and that to check myself from every angle.
Suddenly, I freeze, wondering why I'm doing this at my age.
Oh man, this is kind of embarrassing...
Nope, this isn't going to work.
I might as well go to school in my usual uniform...
*Ding dong*
...!
Who could it be?
I'm pretty sure Privaty's the only one who knows where my room is...
The door whirs as it opens.
Good morning, Commander.
Mornin'!
*Gasp!*
Oho? What's this?
Oh, it's you guys.
Wow, what's with the outfits?
Oh.
As a dignified teacher, it's only proper that I dress accordingly. So I had this specially prepared.
I tried putting a little effort into it.
What do you think? Do I pull off the whole "first love in the library" concept?
It looks great on you.
Huh? What do you mean?
No, I mean...!
Picture this: your locker overflowing with love letters,
girls lining up on the rooftop every day to confess to you,
and rumors spreading so much that you become the school's number-one crush!
Good grief...
That's completely over the top in every way.
Commander, surely you can come up with something even more ridiculous or unkempt?
... You're teasing me, aren't you?
The moment they hear my question, they start whispering to each other.
... Is he doing that on purpose? Like, some kind of style or concept he's going for?
That might be it. It's kind of annoying, but still better than showing off.
I'm starting to have second thoughts about becoming a student.
So, what brings you two to my room?
Oh, it's time to leave, so I came to pick you up.
Wanted to make sure you're actually ready, of course.
Ready to go? Anything else you need to grab?
Oh, I just need to get changed.
Get changed? What for?
I don't think this really suits me...
No! Absolutely not! You look amazing right now!
Uh...
What? I thought we had some time?
G-got it.
I have no choice but to leave the dorm looking like this.
I'll be sitting at the front for my speech.
You two probably have assigned seats, so you can just find yours and sit down.
Sure thing, Miss Privaty! Catch you later!
Looks like Privaty wasn't lying. Quite a few students have already taken their seats in the hall.
Familiar faces have gathered in small groups, chatting animatedly among themselves.
To my surprise, there are also a few I don't recognize.
Wait... there are actually students here I don't know?
Commander...
I found your seat!
And look,
mine's right next to yours.
Looks like we get to sit next to each other!
Cool, thanks.
Arcana and I settle into the seats with our names on them.
I've been wondering, how did we actually get into this school as students?
I heard it's not the official enrollment period, so we're just being processed as student transfers.
I think there are a few others like us, too.
Transfer student...
Since there are no schools like the M.M.R. Vocational School, calling it a transfer is really just a fancy way of saying you're joining as a new student.
I see.
Test, test...
The speech will start shortly.
Everyone, please take your seats.
Yeah, same here.
The speech for the new semester isn't terribly long.
First, Ether's short greeting.
Hello, everyone!
My name's Amy, and I'll be speaking today as the transfer student representative!
Then the usual speech from the transfer student representative.
And then...
Privaty's speech begins.
Some of you may already know me, while others may not.
I'll be teaching you for a short while.
I won't claim my classes will be perfect,
but I'm confident you'll at least find them worth your time.
Privaty scans the students with a confident gaze.
At that moment...
Oh.
...!
Our eyes meet.
I hold her gaze.
I avert my gaze.
...
Um...
...
I know school life can be tough,
and I know how small and powerless you can feel when facing life-or-death challenges.
So, at least while I'm your teacher,
trust me and follow my lead.
Though Privaty looks slightly flustered,
she meets my gaze and speaks with unwavering confidence.
I'll do everything I can to make your time here both fun and unforgettable.
I lower my head slightly, not wanting to distract Privaty during her speech.
!!
Privaty's voice rings out.
Before I know it, I raise my head and look at her again.
...!
Our eyes meet again.
There will be times at school when you feel small, when everything seems overwhelming.
I still find myself in those situations from time to time,
but don't ever doubt yourself when that happens.
I'll do everything I can...
Privaty's lips curl into a faint smile.
to make your time here both fun and unforgettable.
Oh.
A moment ago,
a surge of something intense stabbed through me.
Wow, Privaty is so cool!
... Yeah, she really is.
I know without a doubt that Privaty will make our time at school fun and unforgettable.
*Clap, clap, clap*
Everyone bursts into applause for Privaty.
And just like that, the speech for the new semester comes to an end.
Sunlight streams down the familiar corridor.
A sight I haven't laid eyes on for a long time.
I grab the door handle
and open the door...
Yo, Teacher!
Teacher!
Hello, Teacher.
Familiar faces greet me warmly.
Hey, Teacher, what's this about?
I saw you at the speech thing earlier and didn't even recognize you at first!
Well...
Hey, could you step aside for a sec?
Uh... Arcana?
What?
Huh?
...?
*Sigh...*
You're all way too cute.
Wait, are you really my classmates?
Am I going to survive this? This is going to be tough, seriously...
I don't think I've seen you before... Who are you?
Hello, I'm—
The school bell rings.
The door slides open.
The bell's rung, and you're still standing around chatting?
Even if it's the first day, you shouldn't be slacking off already.
Isn't it weirder that the teacher shows up the second the bell rings...?
You weren't seriously waiting out there, were you?
The students who have been hanging around at the front of the classroom all take their seats.
Since the new semester's starting, I suppose I should introduce myself.
I'm Privaty, and I'll be in charge of Class P during my term.
As you heard in my speech earlier, I'll make sure your time here is enjoyable.
So you'd better look forward to it.
*Clap, clap, clap!*
All right, the three new transfer students, please come to the front.
Arcana and I step forward.
Amy, the transfer student representative who gave a speech earlier, moves to the front as well.
Huh? Why's Teacher over there...?
Maybe he just went up front because he's the teacher?
All right, the three of you, please introduce yourselves.
Hello!
My name is Amy, and I've recently transferred to the M.M.R. Vocational School.
I'm excited to be here, and it's great to meet you all!
*Clap, clap, clap*
Hi, everyone! I'm Arcana,
here as the library student assistant...!
Like Miss Privaty, I'll only be here for a short while.
Can't wait to get to know you all!
*Clap, clap, clap*
Hello, I'm Commander.
I'll be joining your class this time as a student.
It's nice to meet you.
Wow, really?!
That sounds fun!
All right, you three can sit wherever you like.
Hmm, where should I sit...?
Sure, let's sit together.
Wouldn't we focus better if we sat separately?
Alrighty, that spot's all yours.
Arcana places me in the very back row by the window.
... Isn't that the seat
where the male lead in comics always sits?
Oh, you know about that kind of thing too?
Arcana gestures to the seat beside me.
Then what does that make this seat?
...
Come on, answer me.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
Arcana drags her desk right up to mine, sits down,
props her chin on her hand, and stares at me.
The buzz of chatter dies down just as the teacher starts speaking.
I hope we can get along well.
Arcana's whisper drifts on the warm spring air flowing through the open window.
Hmm...
Honestly, I'm not all that interested in class. I just wanted to sit next to you and chat.
If you're serious about the lesson, well... can't help it.
Guess I'll have to try my luck with Amy then.
Everyone takes a seat,
and then the students start gathering around me.
This might be kind of awkward.
I want to keep calling you Teacher.
But that's just how the first day always is!
You hang out, chat with the new students, and get to know each other!
Th-that's true, but...
if you all crowd around just one person like that, it might make them uncomfortable...!
Are you uncomfortable, Teacher?
No, I'm fine...
Sheesh... Miss Privaty is way too strict.
Indeed.
Everyone returns to their seats,
and the excited chatter quiets down.
I slip into a crisp suit.
The tablet clinks lightly
as I lift it and power it on.
A soft whir of the device fills the air as the screen lights up.
The student files are neatly organized, each one filled with information:
photos, names, semester grades, teachers' notes, even their future ambitions.
I wonder if I can pull it off this time...
Being a teacher carries more weight than I expected, so it won't be easy.
...
Maybe I should just...
*Ding dong*
...!
Who could it be?
I'm pretty sure Privaty's the only one who knows where my room is...
The door whirs as it opens.
Good morning, Commander.
Mornin'!
*Gasp!*
Oho? What's this?
Oh, it's you guys.
Wow, what's with the outfits?
Oh.
As a dignified teacher, it's only proper that I dress accordingly. So I had this specially prepared.
I tried putting a little effort into it.
What do you think? Do I pull off the whole "first love in the library" concept?
It looks great on you.
Huh? What do you mean?
No, I mean...!
Pfft, what classes? Please, you've got the students imagining all sorts of crazy stuff.
Your desk in the teachers' office is always piled with love letters and presents.
And don't even get me started on the scandals with the other teachers! That's exactly the image you give!
Huh... all that for just a change of clothes?
Looks like it's going to be a real headache during lessons.
... You're teasing me, aren't you?
The moment they hear my question, they start whispering to each other.
... Is he doing that on purpose? Like, some kind of style or concept he's going for?
That might be it. It's kind of annoying, but still better than showing off.
Somehow, their conversation begins to calm me down.
So, what brings you two to my room?
Oh, it's time to leave, so I came to pick you up.
Wanted to make sure you're actually ready, of course.
Ready to go? Anything else you need to grab?
I look at the tablet I'd hastily grabbed.
Will half-hearted resolve be enough...?
...
Hellooo? Anyone there?
Oh, yeah, I'm ready.
Let's head out then.
I'll be sitting at the front for my speech.
Arcana probably has an assigned seat, so you can just find it and sit down.
The teachers all sit together on the left, so Commander, you should head over there.
Yeah, let's do that.
We say our goodbyes and start moving toward our seats.
I nod to the teachers on the left, still wondering where I should sit
when I notice the front row is completely empty.
... Is it because sitting at the front feels like too much?
And...
Privaty is sitting
two seats in from the far edge.
...
I ease myself into the seat next to her.
...
She looks a little nervous, and for a moment, it seems like she doesn't even notice I'm there.
Act like I know her.
Act like I don't know her.
I straighten up and stretch my arms.
*Tap*
Looks like our seats are closer than I expected.
The front row's usually empty, so that's probably why...
Oh, really?
Well, it's not as if it's some official rule or anything.
Glad to hear that.
...
Privaty still looks nervous.
Just wondering, why are we doing a new semester speech and not an entrance ceremony?
It's not the official enrollment period,
so all students joining now is considered a transfer student.
Transfer student...
Well, they call it a transfer, but it's basically the same as enrolling.
I see.
Test, test...
The speech will start shortly.
Everyone, please take your seats.
Looks like it's about to start.
Yeah. Are you feeling a bit less nervous?
...!!
Wh-who said I'm nervous?
Hah! You should be the one looking forward to my perfect speech.
Yeah, yeah.
The speech for the new semester isn't terribly long.
First, Ether's short greeting.
Hello, everyone!
My name's Amy, and I'll be speaking today as the transfer student representative!
After the transfer student representative gives their usual speech,
it's finally Privaty's turn.
...
Stony-faced, Privaty passes me and steps up onto the podium.
You can do it...!
*Thump*
Something falls onto the ground.
What's this?
I unfold the neatly folded paper.
Notes cover the script, showing just how much effort she poured into it.
She's nothing if not diligent...
Privaty's speech begins.
Some of you may already know me, while others may not.
I'll be teaching you for a short while.
I won't claim my classes will be perfect,
but I'm confident you'll at least find them worth your time.
Privaty scans the students with a confident gaze.
Then, she looks at me.
...!
Saying something to her now will only make her more nervous.
So I stay put, rooting for Privaty in my mind.
Test, test...
The speech will start shortly.
Everyone, please take your seats.
Before I know it, the speech begins.
First, Ether's short greeting.
Hello, everyone!
My name's Amy, and I'll be speaking today as the transfer student representative!
After the transfer student representative gives their usual speech,
it's finally Privaty's turn.
...
Stony-faced, Privaty passes me and steps up onto the podium.
Privaty's speech begins.
Some of you may already know me, while others may not.
I'll be teaching you for a short while.
I won't claim my classes will be perfect,
but I'm confident you'll at least find them worth your time.
Privaty scans the students with a confident gaze.
And our eyes meet.
...!
So she knows I've been sitting here all along.
There will be times at school when you feel small, when everything seems overwhelming.
I still find myself in those situations from time to time,
but don't ever doubt yourself when that happens.
We teachers will do everything we can...
Privaty's lips curl into a faint smile.
to make your time here both fun and unforgettable.
Oh.
A moment ago,
a surge of something intense stabbed through me.
*Clap, clap, clap*
Everyone bursts into applause for Privaty.
And just like that, the speech for the new semester comes to an end.
Phew...
That was amazing! You really worked hard on it.
O-of course!
You'll probably never see a speech this perfect again, so make sure you remember it well.
Okay, okay.
Oh, I see. Thanks.
We're the homeroom and assistant teachers of Class P.
Let's make sure we're all on the same page again.
Sounds good, let's do our best.
So, about today's class...
Wait, we have class even on the first day?
Isn't that obvious?
Stop making that face.
Besides, I'm not even planning to give a proper lesson.
Let's head to the classroom.
Okay.
Sunlight streams down the familiar corridor.
A sight I haven't laid eyes on for a long time.
The school bell rings.
The bell rings, welcoming everyone to class.
The classroom door slides open,
and students begin to settle in.
Soft murmurs ripple through the room.
...!
Wow, it's really you, Teacher!
Familiar faces light up as they see me.
I give a small wave in return.
The students scattered across the classroom hurry back to their seats.
All right.
Since the new semester's starting, I suppose I should introduce myself.
I'm Privaty, and I'll be in charge of Class P during my term.
As you heard in my speech earlier, I'll make sure your time here is enjoyable.
So you'd better look forward to it.
*Clap, clap, clap!*
Oh... Sure.
Hello, I'm Commander, the assistant teacher for Class P.
I'll do my best to support Miss Privaty.
*Clap, clap, clap!*
All right, the two new transfer students, please come to the front.
Amy, the transfer student representative who gave a speech earlier, steps up,
and so does Arcana.
All right, the two of you, please introduce yourselves.
Hello!
My name is Amy, and I've recently transferred to the M.M.R. Vocational School.
I'm excited to be here, and it's great to meet you all!
*Clap, clap, clap!*
Hi, everyone! I'm Arcana,
here as the library student assistant...!
Like Miss Privaty, I'll only be here for a short while.
Can't wait to get to know you all!
*Clap, clap, clap!*
All right, you two can sit wherever you like.
Okay!
Yep!
Privaty is looking at me.
I'm the assistant teacher, so I need to be clear about my role.
How should I go about it...?
Support Privaty.
Look after the students.
I stand next to Privaty.
I've got your back, so go ahead.
I take a spot at the back of the classroom.
I'm just keeping an eye on everyone from the back.
With that, the first class of the new semester begins.
4. The Beginning of Youth
490 lines*Beep, beep, beep, beep*
The alarm blares through the room, dragging me out of my sleep.
Today is the first day of the new semester.
I wash up quickly and grab a light breakfast.
Now, there's just one last thing to do before I'm ready.
I grab the neatly folded clothes and put them on.
I grab my tablet containing the students' data.
Gone is my usual uniform.
Today, I'm dressed in a crisp white shirt, gray pants, and a blue vest that completes the look.
I wonder if I look a bit like a student.
...
Standing before the mirror, I turn this way and that to check myself from every angle.
Suddenly, I freeze, wondering why I'm doing this at my age.
Oh man, this is kind of embarrassing...
Nope, this isn't going to work.
I might as well go to school in my usual uniform...
*Ding dong*
...!
Who could it be?
I'm pretty sure Privaty's the only one who knows where my room is...
The door whirs as it opens.
Good morning, Commander.
Mornin'!
*Gasp!*
Oho? What's this?
Oh, it's you guys.
Wow, what's with the outfits?
Oh.
As a dignified teacher, it's only proper that I dress accordingly. So I had this specially prepared.
I tried putting a little effort into it.
What do you think? Do I pull off the whole "first love in the library" concept?
It looks great on you.
Huh? What do you mean?
No, I mean...!
Picture this: your locker overflowing with love letters,
girls lining up on the rooftop every day to confess to you,
and rumors spreading so much that you become the school's number-one crush!
Good grief...
That's completely over the top in every way.
Commander, surely you can come up with something even more ridiculous or unkempt?
... You're teasing me, aren't you?
The moment they hear my question, they start whispering to each other.
... Is he doing that on purpose? Like, some kind of style or concept he's going for?
That might be it. It's kind of annoying, but still better than showing off.
I'm starting to have second thoughts about becoming a student.
So, what brings you two to my room?
Oh, it's time to leave, so I came to pick you up.
Wanted to make sure you're actually ready, of course.
Ready to go? Anything else you need to grab?
Oh, I just need to get changed.
Get changed? What for?
I don't think this really suits me...
No! Absolutely not! You look amazing right now!
Uh...
What? I thought we had some time?
G-got it.
I have no choice but to leave the dorm looking like this.
I'll be sitting at the front for my speech.
You two probably have assigned seats, so you can just find yours and sit down.
Sure thing, Miss Privaty! Catch you later!
Looks like Privaty wasn't lying. Quite a few students have already taken their seats in the hall.
Familiar faces have gathered in small groups, chatting animatedly among themselves.
To my surprise, there are also a few I don't recognize.
Wait... there are actually students here I don't know?
Commander...
I found your seat!
And look,
mine's right next to yours.
Looks like we get to sit next to each other!
Cool, thanks.
Arcana and I settle into the seats with our names on them.
I've been wondering, how did we actually get into this school as students?
I heard it's not the official enrollment period, so we're just being processed as student transfers.
I think there are a few others like us, too.
Transfer student...
Since there are no schools like the M.M.R. Vocational School, calling it a transfer is really just a fancy way of saying you're joining as a new student.
I see.
Test, test...
The speech will start shortly.
Everyone, please take your seats.
Yeah, same here.
The speech for the new semester isn't terribly long.
First, Ether's short greeting.
Hello, everyone!
My name's Amy, and I'll be speaking today as the transfer student representative!
Then the usual speech from the transfer student representative.
And then...
Privaty's speech begins.
Some of you may already know me, while others may not.
I'll be teaching you for a short while.
I won't claim my classes will be perfect,
but I'm confident you'll at least find them worth your time.
Privaty scans the students with a confident gaze.
At that moment...
Arcana pokes my arm.
What is it?
Nothing.
...
Poke Arcana's arm.
Poke Arcana's side.
Hey!
Arcana grabs my finger.
Got you.
... Let go.
Say please!
...
Please let go...
Good boy.
Arcana lets go of my finger,
then hooks her pinky with mine.
... What's that for?
Oh, nothing.
...
Ahh?!
All eyes turn to Arcana.
S-sorry...
Arcana bows repeatedly to the students nearby
before shooting me a glare.
You can't just go and do that.
You okay? That caught you off guard?
Yeah, my side's super ticklish.
I-I see.
...
... What?
Take this!
Both of Arcana's index fingers go straight for my side...!
Way too slow...
They tear through my guard and jab into my side!
Ack?!
... I can feel everyone's eyes burning into me.
S-sorry...
Pffft.
Hey, why are you going so fast?
You're just too slow!
While I goof off with Arcana, Privaty's speech ends.
*Clap, clap, clap*
Everyone bursts into applause for Privaty.
And just like that, the speech for the new semester comes to an end.
Sunlight streams down the familiar corridor.
A sight I haven't laid eyes on for a long time.
I grab the door handle
and open the door...
Yo, Teacher!
Teacher!
Hello, Teacher.
Familiar faces greet me warmly.
Hey, Teacher, what's this about?
I saw you at the speech thing earlier and didn't even recognize you at first!
Well...
Hey, could you step aside for a sec?
Uh... Arcana?
What?
Huh?
...?
*Sigh...*
You're all way too cute.
Wait, are you really my classmates?
Am I going to survive this? This is going to be tough, seriously...
I don't think I've seen you before... Who are you?
Hello, I'm—
The school bell rings.
The door slides open.
The bell's rung, and you're still standing around chatting?
Even if it's the first day, you shouldn't be slacking off already.
Isn't it weirder that the teacher shows up the second the bell rings...?
You weren't seriously waiting out there, were you?
The students who have been hanging around at the front of the classroom all take their seats.
Since the new semester's starting, I suppose I should introduce myself.
I'm Privaty, and I'll be in charge of Class P during my term.
As you heard in my speech earlier, I'll make sure your time here is enjoyable.
So you'd better look forward to it.
*Clap, clap, clap!*
All right, the three new transfer students, please come to the front.
Arcana and I step forward.
Amy, the transfer student representative who gave a speech earlier, moves to the front as well.
Huh? Why's Teacher over there...?
Maybe he just went up front because he's the teacher?
All right, the three of you, please introduce yourselves.
Hello!
My name is Amy, and I've recently transferred to the M.M.R. Vocational School.
I'm excited to be here, and it's great to meet you all!
*Clap, clap, clap*
Hi, everyone! I'm Arcana,
here as the library student assistant...!
Like Miss Privaty, I'll only be here for a short while.
Can't wait to get to know you all!
*Clap, clap, clap*
Hello, I'm Commander.
I'll be joining your class this time as a student.
It's nice to meet you.
Wow, really?!
That sounds fun!
All right, you three can sit wherever you like.
Hmm, where should I sit...?
Sure, let's sit together.
Wouldn't we focus better if we sat separately?
Alrighty, that spot's all yours.
Arcana places me in the very back row by the window.
... Isn't that the seat
where the male lead in comics always sits?
Oh, you know about that kind of thing too?
Arcana gestures to the seat beside me.
Then what does that make this seat?
...
Come on, answer me.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
Arcana drags her desk right up to mine, sits down,
props her chin on her hand, and stares at me.
The buzz of chatter dies down just as the teacher starts speaking.
I hope we can get along well.
Arcana's whisper drifts on the warm spring air flowing through the open window.
Hmm...
Honestly, I'm not all that interested in class. I just wanted to sit next to you and chat.
If you're serious about the lesson, well... can't help it.
Guess I'll have to try my luck with Amy then.
Everyone takes a seat,
and then the students start gathering around me.
This might be kind of awkward.
I want to keep calling you Teacher.
But that's just how the first day always is!
You hang out, chat with the new students, and get to know each other!
Th-that's true, but...
if you all crowd around just one person like that, it might make them uncomfortable...!
Are you uncomfortable, Teacher?
No, I'm fine...
Sheesh... Miss Privaty is way too strict.
Indeed.
Everyone returns to their seats,
and the excited chatter quiets down.
I slip into a crisp suit.
The tablet clinks lightly
as I lift it and power it on.
A soft whir of the device fills the air as the screen lights up.
The student files are neatly organized, each one filled with information:
photos, names, semester grades, teachers' notes, even their future ambitions.
I wonder if I can pull it off this time...
Being a teacher carries more weight than I expected, so it won't be easy.
...
Maybe I should just...
*Ding dong*
...!
Who could it be?
I'm pretty sure Privaty's the only one who knows where my room is...
The door whirs as it opens.
Good morning, Commander.
Mornin'!
*Gasp!*
Oho? What's this?
Oh, it's you guys.
Wow, what's with the outfits?
Oh.
As a dignified teacher, it's only proper that I dress accordingly. So I had this specially prepared.
I tried putting a little effort into it.
What do you think? Do I pull off the whole "first love in the library" concept?
It looks great on you.
Huh? What do you mean?
No, I mean...!
Pfft, what classes? Please, you've got the students imagining all sorts of crazy stuff.
Your desk in the teachers' office is always piled with love letters and presents.
And don't even get me started on the scandals with the other teachers! That's exactly the image you give!
Huh... all that for just a change of clothes?
Looks like it's going to be a real headache during lessons.
... You're teasing me, aren't you?
The moment they hear my question, they start whispering to each other.
... Is he doing that on purpose? Like, some kind of style or concept he's going for?
That might be it. It's kind of annoying, but still better than showing off.
Somehow, their conversation begins to calm me down.
So, what brings you two to my room?
Oh, it's time to leave, so I came to pick you up.
Wanted to make sure you're actually ready, of course.
Ready to go? Anything else you need to grab?
I look at the tablet I'd hastily grabbed.
Will half-hearted resolve be enough...?
...
Hellooo? Anyone there?
Oh, yeah, I'm ready.
Let's head out then.
I'll be sitting at the front for my speech.
Arcana probably has an assigned seat, so you can just find it and sit down.
The teachers all sit together on the left, so Commander, you should head over there.
Yeah, let's do that.
We say our goodbyes and start moving toward our seats.
I nod to the teachers on the left, still wondering where I should sit
when I notice the front row is completely empty.
... Is it because sitting at the front feels like too much?
Without giving it much thought, I head over to an empty seat and sit down.
Test, test...
The speech will start shortly.
Everyone, please take your seats.
Before I know it, the speech begins.
First, Ether's short greeting.
Hello, everyone!
My name's Amy, and I'll be speaking today as the transfer student representative!
After the transfer student representative gives their usual speech...
The door whirs open.
...?
My phone vibrates.
*Clap, clap, clap*
As I put my phone away, applause fills the hall.
Privaty is already on the stage, bowing her head.
... Oh no.
And just like that, the speech for the new semester comes to an end.
Phew...
That was amazing! You really worked hard on it.
O-of course!
You'll probably never see a speech this perfect again, so make sure you remember it well.
Ah... y-yeah.
I was too busy chatting with Arcana to catch any of the speech earlier, so I'll just stay quiet...
Just then, the teachers' office door slides open,
cutting through the quiet of the room.
I meet Arcana's eyes as she peeks her head in and looks around.
Hello, Miss Privaty!
Arcana nods politely to Privaty.
R-right now...? But class is about to start...
No worries, it won't take long anyway.
Yeah, Privaty's got a point. Let's do this later.
Hehe, thanks.
... Then I'll head off first.
And try not to be late, Commander. You're the assistant teacher for Class P, after all.
Privaty leaves the teachers' office.
What were you going to say?
Oh, nothing big.
Arcana pulls a small bottle out of her pocket.
... Is that an energy drink?
Mm-hmm.
You seemed a bit nervous earlier, so...
this should help with fatigue and calming your nerves.
Just as Arcana said,
"FATIGUE RECOVERY! STRESS RELIEF!" is written on the label.
...?
Somehow, it looks like someone actually wrote it by hand.
I've never seen this brand before, and on top of that...
... Isn't this your handwriting, Arcana?
No way! You noticed that too?
That's because I see it all the... Wait, no,
is this really an energy drink?
Yeah, yeah, just drink up already, or we'll be late!
...
Feeling slightly uneasy, I twist the cap off and take a sip.
...
Oh, it's coffee...?
Yep.
Arcana takes the empty bottle, then pulls out a new one and presses it into my hand.
You're gonna crush it as a teacher!
You're the legendary Commander who can handle anything, after all.
You've got this!
...
Yeah, thanks.
Arcana and I make it back to the classroom before the bell rings.
Oh, right.
That's a good idea.
As the homeroom and assistant teachers, we can't be late on the first day.
Eh? We have class even on the first day?
Ph-phew...
... Seems like you're not a fan of classes, huh?
Who actually likes going to class...?
Arcana glances at the tablet I'm holding.
Looks like I'll have to pay extra attention!
...
...
The three of us walk toward the classroom together.
Arcana rises slightly on her toes and whispers into my ear.
... So that's what you wanted to say?
...
Without a word, Arcana winks at me and heads into the classroom first.
The classroom door slides open,
and students begin to settle in.
Soft murmurs ripple through the room.
...!
Wow, it's really you, Teacher!
Familiar faces light up as they see me.
I give a small wave in return.
The students scattered across the classroom hurry back to their seats.
All right.
Since the new semester's starting, I suppose I should introduce myself.
I'm Privaty, and I'll be in charge of Class P during my term.
As you heard in my speech earlier, I'll make sure your time here is enjoyable.
So you'd better look forward to it.
*Clap, clap, clap!*
Oh... Sure.
Hello, I'm Commander, the assistant teacher for Class P.
I'll do my best to support Miss Privaty.
*Clap, clap, clap!*
All right, the two new transfer students, please come to the front.
Amy, the transfer student representative who gave a speech earlier, steps up,
and so does Arcana.
All right, the two of you, please introduce yourselves.
Hello!
My name is Amy, and I've recently transferred to the M.M.R. Vocational School.
I'm excited to be here, and it's great to meet you all!
*Clap, clap, clap!*
Hi, everyone! I'm Arcana,
here as the library student assistant...!
Like Miss Privaty, I'll only be here for a short while.
Can't wait to get to know you all!
*Clap, clap, clap!*
All right, you two can sit wherever you like.
Okay!
Yep!
Privaty is looking at me.
I'm the assistant teacher, so I need to be clear about my role.
How should I go about it...?
Support Privaty.
Look after the students.
I stand next to Privaty.
I've got your back, so go ahead.
I take a spot at the back of the classroom.
I'm just keeping an eye on everyone from the back.
With that, the first class of the new semester begins.
5. Trap at the Girls' School
48 lines*Scrape*
The desks are all neatly in place.
The air is calm, almost heavy with silence.
Tomorrow, this room will be filled with students, and all this stillness will vanish.
I glance around, imagining the classroom coming alive with the bustle of school life.
*Rustle*
Ack!
I step on something and almost slip.
What's this?
Cloth...? It feels like clothes.
*Rustle*
It's too dark to make out. When I pick it up, I can tell it's a school uniform.
... Why's there a uniform on the floor?
Did someone lose this?
I don't see a name tag on it...
*Sniff, sniff*
Mmm, it smells nice.
Looks like someone dropped it by accident after doing laundry.
Better bring it to the teachers' office tomorrow, just in case.
...
... This skirt seems way too big.
How would you even wear something like this?
Curiosity gets the better of me, and I hold it up to my waist.
... What the heck am I doing?
With the school uniform in my hands, I turn to leave the classroom.
...
...
Oh, Arcana, Privaty.
Huh? What do you mean...?
Wait, I think there's been a misunderstanding.
No, it's fine. I have nothing against stuff like that.
It just caught me off guard, that's all.
Hmph, I suppose I can understand why you'd want to sniff the uniform
and hold it up at your waist,
but we can't have someone like that at this school.
I'm afraid you'll have to leave.
Aw, can't he stay for just one more day?
I was going to put on the cutest school uniform and surprise him!
... I was really looking forward to spending time with you here at school.
Ahhhh...
Just because I caught a whiff of the school uniform and held it to my waist, I somehow caused a huge misunderstanding.
And just like that, I've been kicked out of the mission.
Bad Ending No. 1: Trap at the Girls' School
6. Privaty's First Class
107 linesNow, then.
We'll begin the first class.
Of course, I know it's the start of a new semester, so I don't plan on jumping straight into a serious lesson.
So, the topic of today's lesson will be...
A safe way to get acquainted with new friends!
The students, whose expressions had darkened at the word "lesson", quickly perk up, their eyes lighting up again.
All right.
You encounter a Rapture mob far larger than anticipated. Charging into them recklessly would mean certain death.
In that situation, what is the most effective tactic?
FF formation.
HO formation.
That is indeed our most frequently used tactic, but in a situation this dangerous, I recommend HO formation.
Of course, in an actual battle, there are many variables, and you must follow your commander's orders, so your course of action may differ.
I must admit that's not the answer I expected from someone with your field experience.
Exactly. In dangerous situations, formation HO is usually the most effective.
Of course, in an actual battle, there are many variables, and you must follow your commander's orders, so your course of action may differ.
Nevertheless, hearing that answer from someone with real field experience makes me feel reassured about the curriculum.
All right, next question.
You come across a student in danger at school.
How will you respond?
Inform a teacher.
Rescue the student.
Hmm, a textbook answer, but not one I was expecting from you, Commander...
May I ask why you went with that answer?
Since this is a school, we have teachers here we can trust.
...!!
That's...
That's right! Th-this is a school after all.
All the teachers here are trustworthy, myself included.
That was a good answer.
I figured you'd act that way, Commander.
I'm well aware of your sense of justice...
However, you are a student in this school.
Make sure to call a teacher whenever possible so you don't get caught up in the danger yourself.
Do you understand?
Understood...
Love.
Friendship.
Combat.
L-love?!
That's...
That's right!
School is the very heart of your y-youth!
Love, friendship... these are the things that bloom here! Haha!
Since you're so eager to learn, I'll do my best to teach you.
I'm a teacher, after all!
Friendship...
That's nice.
You do meet people at school and forge meaningful friendships.
There's no rule saying that applies only to students either...
I'll do my best to teach you.
Sorry?
You're already quite familiar with combat. More than most, I would say.
Well... since you are a student now, I'll do my best to teach you.
Now, everyone.
These questions helped us learn a lot about Commander.
You don't have to crowd around someone to get to know them, right?
I hear hushed whispers beside me.
This lesson is kind of childish.
You've got it all wrong, Rei.
We just need to stall for time so we won't have to sit through an actual lesson.
Ah! That makes sense.
The school bell rings.
Well, that was a very productive class.
Next time we meet, we'll be having a proper lesson, so make sure to bring your materials.
Ah, one more thing.
Commander, please come with me for a moment.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
I follow Privaty to the teachers' office.
You keep changing the way you address me, Miss Privaty.
Is calling me by my name embarrassing for you?
N-not at all!
I'm just used to calling you Commander, so it's a little awkward, that's all!
Ahem!
About what I wanted to ask you, Commander...
Why did you choose to become a student?
To be perfectly honest, I don't think there's anything more for you to learn here.
Hmm, well...
I take my time scanning my surroundings.
The hallways, classrooms, and students. The school I'm so familiar with.
All of it holds memories I've made since becoming a Commander.
Perhaps it's because I have no memories of my time as a student.
...!!
I... I see.
You have no memories of your school days at all?
I'm sorry for bringing this up.
It's okay, I'm not really bothered by it.
Privaty returns to her desk with a thoughtful expression.
7. First Class With Arcana
207 linesNow, then.
We'll begin the first class.
Of course, I know it's the start of a new semester, so I don't plan on jumping straight into a serious lesson.
Privaty begins a lesson that feels more like an orientation.
The only thing is...
...
Ever since class started,
Arcana has been resting her chin on her hand, staring at me...
...
I gesture with my chin to tell her to look forward.
She shakes her head.
...
Hehe.
... It seems pointless.
... Ah.
*Scribble, scribble*
Arcana writes something in her notebook.
She tears off the corner, folds it, and secretly slips it into my hand.
...?
Read it.
*Rustle*
In big, round letters,
the note reads:
"Meet me at the stairs at the end of the hallway."
Sure. Go ahead.
...
Arcana flashes me a smile and leaves the classroom.
...
Follow Arcana.
Quietly pay attention to class.
Miss Privaty.
May I go to the restroom as well?
*Slide*
I open the classroom door and step into the hallway.
The soft sounds of ongoing lessons drift out from other classrooms.
The stairs at the end of the hallway...
From far away, I see Arcana hopping and waving her hand at me.
What did you say to get out of class?
I said I was going to the restroom.
Miss Privaty didn't say anything?
She did look a little displeased...
Heh...
As we walk down the hallway, Arcana casually takes my hand.
We wander through the quiet school together.
It's really quiet when classes are going on.
It almost feels like a completely different place.
Yeah. It's kind of fascinating.
You know about that too?
Of course. I wrote it down myself in the Volume 1, page 81 of the Counters records.
Why does that feel slightly unnerving...
That's just part of my job.
Arcana slows her steps slightly.
... I really wanted to experience something like this.
You mean going to school?
Yes, well that too, but...
Arcana's grip on my hand tightens ever so slightly.
Arcana looks up at me and grins.
...
Interlock fingers with Arcana.
Ask if there's anything else she wants to do.
Oh! I was waiting for the right time to do that.
Arcana's fingers fidget slightly against mine.
Is there anything else you want to do?
Arcana shifts her grip, interlocking our fingers.
If I tell you, will you do it with me?
If it's possible.
Arcana's fingers fidget slightly against mine.
Arcana swings our intertwined hands.
... Her right hand is holding my left.
... Huh?
Come on.
But I can't take it out with my right hand either.
Hmm. Is that so? Then.
Arcana raises our joined hands above our heads,
and slips into the space between my arms.
It ends up looking like I'm hugging Arcana from behind.
How about now?
...
From behind, I can see that Arcana's ears are bright red.
Ah...
I carefully reach into her pocket and pull out the paper inside.
A note?
Yep. I wrote everything down there.
I unfold the note. At the top, thick pen strokes have crossed something out.
Right below that are the words: "My Youth Bucket List!".
Look here.
Arcana leans against my chest and points to the middle of the note.
Skipping class and wandering around the school...
Arcana points to the bottom of the note.
... Getting a back hug.
Yup.
Arcana leans against my chest,
then slightly turns her head to look up at me.
Thank you.
... Doesn't this count as something you did?
It's basically the same thing.
Arcana turns her head back and looks out the window.
... You know.
I just wrote those down as they came to mind, so there are some really ridiculous ones.
But even so...
Let's do them. Together.
...
Arcana releases my hand and turns to face me.
You promise?
Promise.
I pinky swear with Arcana.
Hehe.
Arcana holds out the note.
You're giving it to me?
There are quite a lot of things on this list...
After wandering around the school a little longer,
we head back to our classroom, still holding hands as we walk through the quiet hallway.
Skipping out on the very first class would look really bad.
As much as I feel sorry for Arcana, I decide to sit quietly and focus on the lesson.
A while later...
*Slide*
The classroom door opens, and Arcana returns to her seat, clearly pouting.
... You're really mean.
Sorry...
It's the first day of class. Skipping it wouldn't look good...
Please be quiet during class.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
...
Arcana continues to glare at me, her cheeks puffed in anger.
...
After thinking about what to do, I open my notebook and place it between our desks.
??
I take out a pen and begin to write.
"Are you mad?"
... Ah!
Arcana also takes out her pen and writes beneath my sentence.
"Sorry..."
"Hmph"
Arcana turns away from me.
But judging by how her pen is still hovering over the page...
Maybe our conversation isn't over yet.
Grab Arcana's hand.
Write Arcana's name in the notebook.
Arcana switches the pen to her other hand.
"Can I let go after class ends?"
"Yes"
"Really?"
Arcana leans in toward me slightly and whispers in my ear.
After class, I'm going to ask you to hug me.
...
"All right"
Arcana glances sideways at my writing.
*Scratch, scratch*
She writes my name next to it.
And...
"♥"
Between our names, she draws a small heart.
Arcana traces my name, one letter at a time.
...
She turns her gaze toward me.
Why?
...
Arcana draws an extremely angry-looking emoji.
...
Next to it, I awkwardly draw a sad emoji.
"Is it?"
After that, until class ends,
we nearly fill the entire notebook with our conversations.
8. Our First Class
110 linesLet's go ahead and begin class, everyone.
Given that it's the first day of a new semester, I don't really plan on diving straight into an actual lesson.
Instead, since we have some new transfer students, I'd like us to take some time and get to know each other.
Seriously? It's like we're back in elementary school...
Privaty furrows her brow slightly.
I stay quiet.
I say something to Ein.
Class has been going for less than a minute.
For now, I think it's better if I hold my tongue and watch how Privaty handles this.
*Sigh...*
All right, then. It sounds like Ein is volunteering to show us how this should be done in high school. Would you like to come up to the front?
Come to the front, please.
Aww...
Ein drags her feet as she walks to the front.
We're not even one minute into class. We can't let the students take control already.
What was that, Ein?
I mean, it just feels kinda childish.
Then you can go first and show us how it's done like an adult.
Come on up.
Aww...
Ein shuffles to the front.
Privaty glances at me and flashes a sly grin.
Please introduce yourself for the transfer students, and share one tip you have for getting through school life.
Ein chatters away energetically.
Meanwhile, Privaty starts fidgeting around as if searching for something.
I pick up the tablet and hand it to her.
I offer my hand.
Oh.
I thought you were looking for something.
...
Wh-what're you doing?!
I thought you were looking for something to hold on to...
W-well, I wasn't!
And if I needed something to hold onto, why would you offer me your hand...?!
I was looking for the tablet!
Oh, I see.
I hand her the tablet from the blackboard.
...
Privaty snatches the tablet away, her face bright red.
Following Ein's lead, each student introduces themselves and offers their own tips for surviving school life.
Wait a sec!
Why are we the only ones who have to do introductions? What about you two?
I wanna hear your tips, too.
Oh...
Privaty looks slightly flustered.
Sounds like it's my time to step in as the assistant homeroom teacher.
All right. I'll speak for the both of us.
Ooooh!
Mr. Commander...?
The students look at me with sparkling eyes.
Honestly, I don't really remember my school days,
so I don't have any special tips to give you.
...!
Just eat lots of good food, don't get hurt,
and live like students, since that's what you are.
That's my tip.
Oooh!
That was actually good advice, don't you think?
Yeah.
As assistant homeroom teacher, it's the least I can do.
The school bell rings.
Well, that was a very productive class.
Next time we meet, we'll be having a proper lesson, so make sure to bring your materials.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
Let's go, Mr. Commander.
Sure.
A few days later...
Today's class helped a lot.
Thank you!
I'm glad to hear that.
Okay!
...
The transfer students seem to be adapting well to school life.
Privaty and I gradually find our rhythm, and before long, we're teaching the students with ease.
Good job, everyone.
You did great too.
*Clack, clack*
Hm...
*Clack, clack*
Hmmm...
...?
As I type on my computer in the teachers' office after school,
Privaty keeps glancing my way.
Is something wrong, Privaty?
N-no! Nothing's wrong, it's just...
Um...
Are you hungry, by any chance?
... Now that classes are over, do you want to get something to eat?
Sure.
9. As a Teacher
145 linesLet's go ahead and begin class, everyone.
Given that it's the first day of a new semester, I don't really plan on diving straight into an actual lesson.
Instead, since we have some new transfer students, I'd like us to take some time and get to know each other.
I'll go first!
Arcana leaps up from her seat.
... Huh?
... You already introduced yourself earlier.
Oh... that was just really quick, though,
so I thought maybe I could give more of a proper introduction...
...
Privaty looks at me.
...
I shrug my shoulders at her.
... Okay. Go ahead.
All right!
Ahem. Hello, everyone. It's me, Arcana, again.
In my free time, I like to read books and find good places to eat.
I like lemon tea, but I'm not a big fan of coffee. It's too bitter for me.
Also, I know how to read tarot cards, so if you're interested in getting a reading, let me know!
Oh, and...
Arcana cheerfully goes on sharing more about herself.
Her energy helps the class loosen up a little,
and the other students open up about themselves and start talking more comfortably.
However...
Yes?
Just as the students' introductions are wrapping up,
the energetic Arcana shoots her hand into the air.
Tell us about your first love!
... For one thing, that wasn't even a question.
Okay, then can you tell us about your first love?
...
Oooh, I wanna hear about that too!
I'm not sure that's something we should be using class time for. I doubt Miss Privaty would...
I look at Privaty pleadingly.
... Given that it's our first class, we do have a little bit of spare time.
...
Tell us!
Tell us!
It seems I can't escape this one.
Hmm...
I decide to make up a story that everyone will like.
You really wanna hear about the first girl I ever fell for, huh...?
As I start talking, my eyes meet Arcana's, who is smiling playfully.
...
We first met at the library.
...?!
The library? You mean the Ark library?
Yeah.
What kind of person was she? Was she pretty?
She was gorgeous. I fell in love the moment I laid eyes on her.
Wow! Love at first sight? She was that pretty??
...!
As soon as I saw her, I knew we were destined to be together.
...
I continue the story while looking at Arcana.
At first, I just enjoyed us spending time together,
but little by little, I started to really fall for her.
The work she did was noble but strenuous,
and yet she never let on how tough it was. She had a strong sense of duty that pushed her.
Above all, she was always grateful for even the smallest things.
She sounds really admirable.
Yeah, I guess that's why I was so drawn to her.
...
What about you, Miss Privaty?
M-me?!
Mr. Commander shared his story. How about yours?
W-well...
The students all turn toward Privaty.
At that moment.
*Bzzzz*
...
I discreetly check my phone under the podium.
I-I'm telling you, I've never been in love!
C'mon, just tell us!
Or how about this? If you've never been in love, at least tell us your type.
What kind of guys are you into?
Erm...!
...
I glance around.
Ein and a few other enthusiastic students are participating in the conversation,
...
but others, such as Amy, look a bit uncomfortable.
...
Right now, I'm here at school as a teacher.
I need to act appropriately if I want my time here to go smoothly.
With that in mind, I decide to...
Gently admonish the class and get things back on course.
Join in and tease Privaty.
Now, now. That's enough of that.
Ein, listen to me.
Tch...
Wait...
Oh, really?
Yeah. Isn't that right, Mr. Commander?
... Yeah, okay.
For some reason, that single promise manages to appease the entire class, who immediately start behaving.
Hehe...
Arcana winks at me and sits back down.
Thanks for the help.
As assistant homeroom teacher, it's the least I can do.
...
Now then, let's continue.
There's not much time left, so to wrap up, we'll briefly go over this semester's schedule.
Okay.
I know exactly what kind of guy Miss Privaty likes.
Ooh, let's hear it!
I'm guessing she likes...
someone like me.
...!
Oh, c'mon. Do you really think there are any other guys like you?
That'd be kinda scary, actually...
If you looked hard enough, I bet you could find someone like him.
Hm... I don't think so.
As the topic shifts to me, Zwei and Rei join the conversation.
Yeah, I guess I am one of a kind.
Haha! I'm not sure it counts if you say it about yourself, Mr. Commander.
Ngh...!
For the rest of the class,
the students are abuzz as they have a lively discussion about me.
The school bell rings.
As I'm about to leave the classroom after Privaty...
Mr. Commander!
Arcana calls out to me.
What's up?
What're you doing after class?
I was going to do some work in the teachers' office.
There are a lot of things I need to familiarize myself with.
Oh, really?
Why do you ask?
Arcana bows her head slightly.
I'll see you later!
10. School Memories
352 linesThe school bell rings.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
Ein, Zwei, Rei and Arcana.
The four of them are called to the teachers' office.
Hmm... That's worrisome.
...
Unable to resist my curiosity,
I trail after them to the teachers' office.
I see.
That was very helpful.
Then, everyone is okay with today's schedule, right?
I'll wait in front of the main gate after school.
Okay!
Sounds fun!
It seems I'm too late, as they're already coming out of the teachers' office.
Uh... just passing by.
Ah, I'm so curious.
But who'd tell me if I asked...?
Arcana.
Ein.
Zwei.
Rei.
I approach Arcana, who is smiling cheerfully, and ask her.
So, what were you talking about with Miss Privaty just now?
Hmm... Who knows.
A teacher's dedication to her students? Or maybe it was a counseling session?
...??
What are you talking about?
It's nothing.
In times like this, just wait patiently and pretend like you don't know anything.
Hey, what exactly—
I ask Ein, who is openly staring at me.
So, what were you talking about with Miss Privaty just now?
Huh?
By the way, you don't have anything planned after school today, do you?
Honestly, I don't think you do.
What are you even talking about—
I sneakily approach Zwei and ask.
So, what were you talking about with Miss Privaty just now?
Oh, really?
Yes, I'm free.
I sneakily approach Rei and ask.
So, what were you talking about with Miss Privaty just now?
Huh?
Oh, she asked us what we usually do for fun.
Apparently, Miss Privaty, the four of us, and you are all going to hang out after school.
What was it she said again...? Something about school memories?
I'm pretty sure you've already said it all.
Still, my lips are sealed!
...
Oh well!
Just pretend you didn't hear anything and come out with us after school.
Wouldn't it be fun if we all hung out together?
S-sure.
Before long, the school day comes to an end.
We gather in front of the school gate.
One, two, three, four...
Okay, that's everyone.
Ahem! The reason I called you all here today
is to conduct a little investigation
into where you usually hang out after school.
Mmmphhh!
You're awfully excited for an investigation.
E-excited?! What do you mean...?
I can't exactly go around looking intimidating, can I?
I'm not here to interfere, I merely came to observe.
Yeah, yeah.
*Whirr*
Welcome!
Is this... a hamburger place?
Yeah, since we're students, our budget is kinda tight.
Hamburgers are a go-to for students!
It's also convenient because we can eat quickly.
Sure thing.
Mmm.
We place our order,
and it's ready in no time, true to fast-food fashion.
Wait! Not yet!
Sorry?
We have to pour out the fries.
*Shrrr*
Rei, Ein, and Zwei pour the fries out into the center of the table with practiced ease.
Wh-what are you doing?
Arcana, Teacher, Miss Privaty, you should pour yours out too.
Sure.
*Shrrr*
I reach out and dump my fries onto the pile too.
Privaty, why are you sitting so far away?
It clearly sounds like she's showing off.
The six of us are seated at the largest table in the burger joint.
Rei, sitting at the opposite end, attempts to pour her fries toward the center.
Unfortunately, her limited reach causes her fries to be piled up to the side instead.
Okay, let's eat.
Wow, this looks delicious.
*Munch, munch*
Mmm! So good!
Rei, Zwei, can I try some of your burger?
Sure, here.
I haven't had this in a while. It's tasty.
*Munch, munch*
...
As expected, Privaty ignores the fries, focusing solely on the burger in front of her.
I pick up a fry and offer it to Privaty.
Try this, Miss Privaty.
Privaty reaches for the fry I offer,
but I pop it straight into her mouth instead.
!!
Her lips end up touching my fingertips.
Tasty, right?
Ngh!
...
Yes, it's perfectly salty and delicious!
But I have hands too! I can eat on my own just fine!
Privaty, blushing, stands up and starts scarfing down the fries.
Uh, M-Miss Privaty?
Is this a speed-eating contest? No way I'm losing!
Grrrgh!!
So, where to next?
Miss Privaty, you weren't listening earlier, were you?
I knew you looked kind of spaced out.
We're going to karaoke after we finish our burgers, remember?
Privaty walks ahead briskly.
Not that way, Miss Privaty. This way.
Woooow!
Whoaaa.
Then I'll play the tambourine!
...
Do you like karaoke, Miss Privaty?
Huh...? M-me?
I-I'm not sure.
I haven't gone too many times, so I don't really know.
I'm usually so busy with work.
Then why don't you sing something?
I hold out the remote to Privaty.
I-in front of everyone?
They're all doing it anyway.
Rei is singing at the top of her lungs.
The others are screaming along with her.
All right.
I'll sing a song for you.
A song, f-for me?!
*Ba-da-da-baaam*
Wow, amazing!
92 points! Woohoo!
Wow! You're pretty good.
I'll go next.
An exciting, fast-paced pop song.
A heartfelt love ballad.
A gritty, hard-edged hip-hop track.
♬ ♬ ♪ ♪
A smooth backing track begins to play.
Blazing spotlight, our eyes meet, our hearts beat, just follow my lead.
Shine till the end, hands up, let's fly, don't stop tonight, we jump up high!
I go all out, singing and dancing like a superstar.
I glance at Privaty as I strike my finishing pose.
*Huff, huff*
Aaaahhh!! Just debut already!
Whoaaaaa!
You're so good at singing!
I know, right...
So, how did I do?
*Ba-da-da-baaam*
Wow, amazing!
♬ ♬ ♪ ♪
A calm backing track plays.
The days without you feel endless, the image of you turning away still lingers.
I love you, it's always been you, I whisper those words into the night.
I sing each sorrowful lyric with intention.
As the song ends, I reach out to Privaty as if confessing my love for her.
Wow! I thought my heart was going to burst.
This song really tugs at the heartstrings.
You're so good at singing!
I know, right...
So, how did I do?
What was that? I couldn't hear you.
*Ba-da-da-baaam*
A superstar is born!
*Whirr*
Suddenly, what looks like a coupon spits out of the machine.
Huh? What's this?
I heard they give you a free hour if you get a perfect score.
I've never actually seen it happen, but I guess it's true.
Here, take it.
Oh, thanks.
♬ ♬ ♪ ♪
A chest-thumping beat plays.
Yo. Lights off, I'm fallin' in the dark. Promises are poison, sweet words end in erosion.
Right here, no place, no name, no way. Don't reach out, don't come close, I move my way.
I wave my hands in the air as I rap passionately.
At the end, I swagger towards Privaty.
...
...
...
...
Yo! What do you think?
Uh...
It certainly left an impression... in more ways than one.
Especially since you said it was a song for me.
I thought I sang well, but maybe it wasn't Privaty's style.
*Ba-da-da-baaam*
Practice makes perfect!
64 points...?
Who wants to sing next?
Miss Privaty says she will.
...!!
Whew...
A p-promise is a promise, I suppose.
I don't know many songs. I'm not sure if this one's on the machine...
"A Spell for Tastier Omurice!"
...
I assume you learned it at the maid cafe?
Yes, it was chosen as this year's theme song.
The lyrics conveys the mindset of a maid very well.
... Looks like this wasn't what you expected. Are you disappointed?
No, I was just wondering if it's really okay for me to hear you sing all by myself.
Wh-what are you saying?!
Unfortunately the others don't hear me.
Privaty's cute and lively song ends.
We have so much fun singing that before we know it, the sun has set.
That was so much fun! Too bad it's over.
All right.
Anyone up for a late-night snack when we get back?
I worked up an appetite with all that singing.
Me! Me! I'm in!
That's how you gain weight.
Hey!
It really is.
So, did you find the results of your investigation satisfactory?
Didn't you bring us together to investigate where students go outside of school?
It was?
You said you didn't have any memories of your time at school.
I wanted to create some for you.
Nothing over the top. Just perfectly ordinary school memories.
...!!
Privaty looks up at me with a slightly nervous expression.
Yes, I did.
Oh? What is it?
As long as we can still get back before curfew, it should be fin—
Before I can finish my sentence,
Privaty grabs my hand.
Privaty?
D-don't be so loud, everyone will turn around.
And we'll still make it back before curfew.
I just thought it'd be nice for you to have a moment like this while you're in school.
So, please don't misunderstand.
I hold Privaty's hand tightly.
...!!
I won't.
Also, you're the one who's being too loud.
Ngh...
Privaty bows her head down deeply.
Look at me, Miss Privaty.
I-I'd rather not.
I want to see your face.
We bicker as we walk back.
We hold hands the whole way, not letting go until we reach the dorms.
11. Lunch Break and Club Exploration
186 linesMorning classes finish, and it's time for lunch.
Let's get lunch together.
Huh?
Arcana takes out a lunchbox from her bag... no.
...?!
It's far too massive to even be called a lunchbox.
Wh-what is that?
...
*Click*
As soon as Arcana opens the lid,
I see rice balls decorated with cute expressions.
Uh, yeah.
Just like Arcana said, the food looks absolutely delicious.
Did you make all of this yourself?
So that's why you were almost late?
Can I try some?
... No.
Arcana picks up an octopus sausage with her chopsticks and holds it out to me.
Here. Say ahh...
... Huh?
Go on.
Imagine you're a transfer student with an underclassman harboring unrequited love for you,
who poured all her feelings into a lunchbox she spent all night preparing.
Hurry. Say ahh...
Who says it's unrequited?
... Thanks for the food.
I pick up the octopus sausage Arcana dropped and put it in my mouth.
Mmm. It's good.
I eat the sausage Arcana offers me.
Mmm. It's good.
Arcana holds out a piece of rolled omelet.
...
Judging by her worried expression,
it's safe to assume she made this herself.
It's good.
Really?
Yes.
Really, really?
Really, really?
Hehe.
Arcana makes a strange sound and puckers her lips.
Are you okay?
I don't think I can control my expression.
...
Arcana feigns a stern look and starts feeding me the rest of the side dishes one by one.
A while later...
*Nom*
After feeding me to her heart's content, Arcana finally starts eating.
...
If I want this to be an enjoyable meal, I should come up with a conversation topic.
What should we talk about...
Ask her what she wants to do.
Ask her about cooking.
*Rustle*
I take out the note Arcana gave me earlier.
... Arcana.
Yeah?
While we're eating, let's go through this together.
The list of things you want to do.
Arcana rummages through her bag.
I've also got this, and this, and this...
Uh...
A crystal ball, tarot cards, a camera, a knitting set...
Various books, a pair of glasses... Wait a moment, are those cat ears...?
... Anyway, Arcana lines up all sorts of items on the desk.
...
Are you having a hard time choosing?
Don't worry. I'll explain them all in detail.
That way you can pick what sounds good to you.
Wh-why are you taking this so seriously...?
Arcana's long-winded explanation lasts all the way until lunch break is over.
I'm so distracted I can't even tell what I'm putting in my mouth.
But at least Arcana seems happy...
Hey, are you listening?
Uh, uh-huh. Yeah.
Liar. You were spacing out.
*Click*
Arcana raises her camera and takes a photo.
A camera?
Yeah. I bought it recently.
*Click, click*
Come to think of it, you like taking photos, right?
Arcana takes out a camera that looks just like the one she's holding.
Here.
... You're giving it to me?
Without a word, Arcana looks at me and strikes a pose.
...
*Click*
*Click*
Let's make lots of good memories. Together.
Arcana, do you like cooking?
Cooking?
Hmm... I'm okay at it, I guess.
I can't really do anything super fancy, though.
Still...
Arcana picks up a slice of kiwi and holds it out to me.
I can at least cook well enough that my future husband won't starve.
U-uh, yeah.
Arcana picks up a slice of kiwi for herself and eats it.
Then she absently bites down on her chopsticks as she thinks.
Hmm... yeah.
Being good at something and actually liking it are two different things, you know?
That's true.
Hmm... I've never really thought about it that way.
...
Could you tell me one more time that the food's delicious?
Uh... It's delicious.
...
Without a word, Arcana puts the last piece of kiwi into my mouth and begins packing up the lunchbox.
Arcana?
... I just realized something for the first time in my life.
Arcana closes the lunchbox lid and pokes my cheek.
I guess I really do like cooking.
After school...
Commander. Let's go check out the clubs.
Before I even have a chance to think it over, Arcana drags me along, and we begin touring the clubs.
We start with the familiar ones: literature club, broadcasting club, band, art club, and so on.
The secret passage exploration club? What's that even supposed to be...?
Seriously, why... never mind.
Even the really bizarre clubs that shouldn't exist.
We end up checking out almost every club, but...
Hmm...
Arcana doesn't look particularly impressed.
Don't see anything you like?
Yeah... Nothing really stands out and makes me think, "This is it!"
Maybe I should just join something decent enough and call it a day.
Why don't you form a club of your own?
If nothing's calling out to you, then start something of your own.
So what do you want to do? A divination club, maybe?
What's wrong?
... Something about you seems different.
Nah. It's just your imagination.
Hmm... but juggling multiple things at once might be hard, right?
Well... it's not impossible, but you'll have other school events to deal with too.
Right, right. Uhhh...
Either a divination club or a photography club.
I guess I'll pick one of those two.
Both suit you well, Arcana.
Ten minutes later...
Hmmmmmmm...
...
Uhhhhhhh...!
Whatever. I'll just decide later.
We already did a bunch of things from my list today.
Er, yeah.
Let's do something else today.
Like what?
Something easy.
Arcana holds out her hand.
Like heading back to the dorms together, while holding hands.
... Okay.
Arcana and I stroll slowly hand in hand
as I walk her back to the dorms.
12. A Drink with a Colleague
162 lines*Jingle*
Welcome!
Please take a seat wherever you like.
Thank you.
Here's the menu. Call me when you're ready to order.
Let's see...
I'll get that, then. I trust you.
Are you all ready to order?
Oh? You're drinking?
Sure.
Sure thing!
Before long, the food and drinks arrive.
Enjoy!
Thank you.
We clink our glasses together.
*Gulp, gulp*
Ahhh!
I didn't realize you liked drinking, Privaty.
Oh, just as much as anyone.
Privaty has a big smile on her face. She seems to be in a better mood than before.
You keep smiling. Did something good happen?
Wh-what do you mean? I-I'm not smiling that much...!
Nothing in particular happened, per se.
I just...
wanted us to talk a bit while we eat.
If you think of it, we're colleagues now, right?
That's true.
What would two colleagues talk about over dinner...?
Is there anything you've been struggling with at work lately?
Have you heard any interesting rumors at school?
Hm...
Oh.
I don't know if you could call it struggling, but...
sometimes I feel like I'm not very good at handling the students.
Really? It seems to me like you're doing good.
I'm glad you think that way.
But when it comes to talking to the students, I don't think anyone's nearly as good as you, Mr. Commander.
Me?
Yeah.
You just have this way of making the students feel comfortable.
... Actually,
not just the students, but... everyone...
Hm? What was that?
N-nothing.
Anyway, I just find it impressive. I'm jealous.
Sometimes I even think you would make a better homeroom teacher than me.
What're you talking about? You're the best homeroom teacher anyone could hope for.
R-really?
I mean, when it comes to practical lessons, you know how bad I am.
That's not your fault, though. We are, quite literally, built differently.
Your specialty is teaching theory based on real combat experience.
The students follow you, and you excel in specific subjects.
I think that makes you a great fit as a homeroom teacher, don't you?
I don't have your kind of charisma.
It's nice when a teacher feels like a friend, but I still think a teacher should be a teacher.
We're basically the perfect duo.
Haha, that makes me happy to hear.
Privaty and I once again clink our glasses together.
*Gulp, gulp*
You're done eating, right?
It's still early. Want to go for a second round?
Interesting rumors?
Not really...
I'm mostly buried in work, and you're closer to the students than I am, Mr. Commander.
You probably hear more than I do.
From the students? Maybe, but their rumors aren't all that interesting.
I was thinking more of something like a scandal between coworkers. That'd be more relevant to us, don't you think?
A s-scandal?!
What in the world are you thinking of while you're at school...!?
Everyone here except for you is a Nikke.
They're not going to be causing any scandals among themselves.
...
...
In other words... you're saying there could be a scandal if it involves me.
Th-th-theoretically... yes.
And right now, it's just the two of us here, eating together.
C-colleagues having dinner together is normal...!
Also, we're together all the time.
*Gulp, gulp*
Whoa, you downed that a little fast, don't you think?
... Seriously?
...
...
What's wrong? Didn't you say we're going for a second round?
... Do you, uh, know anywhere good?
Not really. I don't know this area that well.
You sounded so confident when you brought it up, I thought you'd take me somewhere you frequent.
I-I don't have anywhere like that!
Honestly, it's been so long since I even went out drinking with someone else.
... Should we just pick a place and go in?
Privaty's cheeks are slightly flushed.
If she drinks more, she might get drunk...
We've got class tomorrow. Let's just walk around a bit and head back.
How about that place over there? Looks like they serve shish kebabs, too.
Hmm... Yeah, maybe you're right.
Now that we're out here walking, I actually do feel a little tipsy.
We walk through a park together to sober up.
It's quiet enough to hear our footsteps as we go.
Ahh, the air's pleasantly cool. It feels nice.
I don't think I've ever gone for a walk like this after drinking.
Really?
Yeah. I'm not really a big drinker to begin with.
When I drink, it's usually one or two cans of beer in my room.
Coming out and drinking like this is actually really nice.
... Thank you. For doing this with me.
...!
Privaty starts to lose her balance.
I grab her hand as she stumbles.
Yeah, let's go.
I was just worried.
...
...
Wh...
When people say that, it usually means they're drunk, or so I've heard.
I-I know it might make you a little uncomfortable, but... please keep holding my hand so I don't fall.
Okay.
Privaty lowers her head.
Privaty, let me see your face.
N-no.
You're definitely not that drunk.
Actually, I think I'm still a bit drunk, so could we just keep holding hands?
We continue to hold hands the entire way to the dorm.
I'm a little worried about tomorrow,
but we head into the kebab place together.
13. Arcana, the Model Student
125 linesAfter school...
Hmm...
In order to familiarize myself with the job as quickly as possible, I stay alone in the teachers' office, poring over different materials.
There sure is a lot to go over...
Just then, when I'm trying to figure out what to even start with...
I hear the door slide open.
I look up to see a familiar head of aquamarine-colored hair come into view.
Arcana comes to my desk and greets me.
Hi there.
Is there something I can help you with?
No, nothing in particular.
I was actually wondering if there was anything I could help you with.
You want to help me?
...
On my desk are piles of student records, curriculum materials, and academic schedules.
Hm...
Even something small would be fine.
For example, I could give you a massage while you're tirelessly toiling away,
or I could chat with you if you'd like to talk to someone, or just sit by your side and keep you company.
Stuff like that.
... That sounds more distracting than helpful.
Arcana pulls over a spare chair and sits beside me.
I guess I'll just have to condense the curriculum and schedule down into a format that's easier for you to digest.
Huh?
*Scribble, scribble*
Without waiting for a reply from me, Arcana picks up a pen and begins writing quickly.
Uh...
Yes? Is something wrong?
Uh... no.
In seemingly no time, she produces an outline of our academic schedule that fits on a single page.
She's removed anything that would be unnecessary for me since I'm only here temporarily,
and included short explanations of everything else, along with notes on where to look for more detailed information and past records. It is at once meticulous and well-organized.
Finished already? How?
Oh, I'd already reviewed the schedule before even starting at this school.
I already know what's coming up and what was done before, so all I had to do was neatly organize it.
I'm not as familiar with the curriculum, though, so you'll have to give me a minute to read it over.
...
...?
As I stare speechlessly at her for a moment, Arcana puts down her pen.
Err... well...
...
I thought she'd sulk like usual, but instead...
*Scribble, scribble*
Arcana smiles softly and starts writing again.
Remember, I'm a part of the Best Seller Squad. You think something like this is hard for me?
It's not all that different from my regular work.
...
*Scribble, scribble*
With the sound of Arcana's pen as background music,
I decide to work on memorizing the student records.
After a while, I've barely managed to finish what I set out to do for the day.
Done for the day?
Arcana gently massages my shoulders and neck.
For now, yeah.
Thanks for helping. If it weren't for you, I couldn't have finished all this even if I stayed up all night.
Don't mention it.
Arcana gives my shoulder a final tap,
then picks up her bag, clasps her hands behind her back, and looks at me.
Are you headed home, then?
I probably should...
Suddenly, my stomach growls loudly.
... get something to eat before heading back.
I check the time and realize it's nearly nine o'clock.
Come to think of it, you haven't had dinner either, have you?
Why don't you join me? I'm buying.
Hm? Are you sure it's appropriate for a teacher to be eating privately with a student?
H-huh...?
I hadn't thought much of it when I asked, but now that she mentions it...
Is it... not? Honestly, now I'm not sure.
I mean, we used to go out to eat pretty often before, right?
Sure, but that was with you as a commander and me as a sophisticated professional.
Now you're a young, newly appointed teacher, and I'm a beautiful, mysterious transfer student.
B-but...
Imagine the two of us eating alone together this late at night.
What would someone think if they saw us?
We'd practically be asking them to spread weird rumors about us.
I guess you're not wrong.
But haven't we always...
Always what?
...
...
As soon as I trail off, Arcana starts to grin.
She leans lightly against the desk.
You know...
I didn't plan on taking this all that seriously at first,
but now I really want to make the most of my time here at school.
...
When you told us to stop teasing Miss Privaty,
at first I kinda just thought, "What does it matter?"
I figured it's our first day of school, and this is all kind of just make-believe anyway.
But then...
the more I thought about it, the more I realized that the other students are taking this seriously.
It didn't feel right for me to be acting like I'm just here to play around.
True, but...
Oh, don't get me wrong. I'm not going to suddenly become all uptight or anything.
I'll just... be a student.
... Yeah. I want to spend my time here like a real student.
I'll work hard as a member of the library committee, and...
Arcana holds out a small chocolate.
... also help out the most recently appointed teacher, who is very diligent about his work.
...
I take hold of the chocolate.
Arcana is careful not to allow our fingers to touch.
Oh, and one more thing...
When you told us to stop earlier, I wasn't upset with you or anything.
This isn't me saying, "Hmph. I don't want to have anything to do with you,"
or acting all distant just to get you to apologize. Okay? I don't want you to get the wrong idea. It's nothing like that.
Okay, okay.
... Yeah, that sounds good.
...
Arcana smiles softly and bows her head.
Over the next little while, Arcana studiously attends class while continuing to help me with my work.
Thanks to her, I'm able to quickly adapt to my new role as a teacher.
14. The Usual Arcana
90 linesAfter school...
Hmm...
In order to familiarize myself with the job as quickly as possible, I stay alone in the teachers' office, poring over different materials.
There sure is a lot to go over...
Just then, when I'm trying to figure out what to even start with...
I hear the door slide open.
I look up to see a familiar head of aquamarine-colored hair come into view.
Ooh, you're here.
Arcana walks behind me and leans down, propping herself on my back.
She peeks over my shoulder and looks at the desk.
Hi there.
Is there something I can help you with?
Just doing some work.
Teacher stuff?
Yeah.
It looks pretty hard.
It's not hard so much as it's just unfamiliar.
About what?
When you said you'd be coming to the school too, I figured it'd be as a student.
I imagined us holding hands and walking around campus as the cherry blossoms fell,
both of us young and enjoying the best days of our lives.
I really didn't expect you to be a teacher.
That's just kind of how things turned out.
Mm-hmm. Well, I guess we don't have to both be students to still have that sort of experience.
Teacher and student... It's got that whole "forbidden love" vibe going for it.
That might even make for some better memories.
... Come again?
Arcana smiles softly, pulls over a spare chair, and sits beside me.
She wraps her arms around mine,
...
... and looks up at me.
What are you doing...?
Seducing you.
...
A young girl not yet fully aware of the power of her charms,
intensely curious about a young male teacher, and wanting to be close...
Arcana reaches out and grabs a piece of fuzz stuck in my bangs.
... The teacher gets flustered by such a small act,
and it's that response that makes the girl realize how what she just did must look.
And then... a feeling that's hard to describe wells up within her, now that she knows the teacher sees her as a woman.
... Is this the sort of thing you're into it?
... Y-you make it sound all weird when you ask it like that!
But it is weird...
Hmm...
Arcana pulls away and places a finger on her lips.
How do I put this...
Everyone's got some sort of fantasy when it comes to things that are taboo, right?
And the more forbidden it is, the more exciting it gets.
Yeah, that's true.
Right? Now imagine doing something that dangerous and thrilling,
but with someone you trust completely...
Arcana grabs my tie.
... Wouldn't that be amazing? We could have all the satisfaction without any of the repercussions...
No risk, all reward.
I don't think that's quite how it works...
...
... Do you not like it?
It's not that...
It just... makes me a little uncomfortable is all.
What part?
This isn't about just the two of us.
It could easily turn into trouble for the other students, and the teachers too.
Okay, then feel free to hit the brakes.
...
Arcana leans in and embraces me.
...
... Okay.
Hehe. Thank you.
Arcana stands up from her seat.
Uh...
I glance at the desk for a moment.
Arcana gently grabs my cheeks and makes me look at her.
...
... Yeah, sure.
Thank you!
There's this pasta place I've been wanting to try. Let's go there.
And after that, we can go to our usual cafe.
I'll buy the coffee.
After spending the evening with Arcana, I don't get back to the school until late.
I decide to leave the rest of my work for tomorrow, and head back to the dorm.
15. Physical Training
255 linesIs that everyone?
For today's special lesson, we're doing physical training.
Commander, you've been excelling in the theory classes.
But your results in the practical evaluations have been pretty dismal.
In other words, your stamina is lacking.
That's because I'm not a Nikke!
That's nothing but an excuse.
How is that an excuse...?
So, you will undergo stamina training.
The other students will warm up and take some time to assess their stamina.
Yay! I was starting to get tired of all those weird special lessons.
We finally get to take it easy today!
Naru, it's time to check your stamina.
Stamina check.
Battery?
128 hours of operation remaining.
All stamina checks are done.
You need to check your own stamina, not Naru's.
Naru's the one who runs around the most anyway.
...
I'm not very confident, but I do think this will be a great lesson.
Tactics are important when you're up on the surface, but in the end, it all comes down to stamina.
Long-distance running, endurance, and perseverance..
These are all crucial.
You're certainly fired up.
...
Being amongst Nikkes in a physical training class...
It's kinda scary.
Everyone quickly pairs up with their friends.
I wonder who would team up with me...
There's Arcana, standing there looking bored, without a partner.
And then Privaty, looking around at all the students.
Who should I do my warm-up stretches with?
Arcana.
Privaty.
I walk over to Arcana.
Arcana, let's pair up?
Arcana's bored, almost lonely expression, brightens instantly.
... Hey?
... Are we still doing that role play?
Hehe.
...
This is just a warm-up, so try doing this.
I bend forward while standing and grab my ankles.
I'm not that flexible, but this much should be...
Nnngh!
...??
Arcana stays almost completely upright, only stretching her arms straight forward.
Hnnnngh...!
...
What are you doing...?
...
L-let's try something else.
I sit on the floor and spread my legs.
Sure enough, my inner thighs are screaming in protest thanks to my lack of flexibility.
Sit like this, and then... huh?
Arcana crouches down in front of me, watching me.
What is it?
You seriously think I'm gonna sit like that, with this short skirt?
Oh...
You're right, that won't do.
... Still, you need to stretch.
Arcana stands up and holds out her hand.
Let's do something else. Something we can do together.
Okay then.
As I grab Arcana's hand to stand up...
Huh?
Even though I barely put any weight on her—
*Thud*
There's no support from her at all, and I fall flat on my butt.
Huh?!
Arcana tumbles into my arms.
You didn't do that on purpose, did you?
What do you think?
...
You really want to see me stretch that badly?
What?!
Arcana laughs, then plops down onto the floor.
She presses down the hems of her skirt and spreads her legs.
...?
Hnnngh!
She splits her legs to about 70 degrees.
...
After finishing warm-ups with Arcana, who is stiff enough to put a log to shame,
we start running around the gym as Privaty instructed.
*Huff, huff...*
After a few laps, I can feel the sweat starting to build.
The gym shirt I'm wearing is starting to feel a bit stifling...
You've got this, Commander!
...
I stop for a moment in front of Arcana, who's sitting in the stands watching.
Huh? What is it?
Here.
I take off my gym shirt and drape it over Arcana's head.
What...?
Hold onto this for me.
Leaving Arcana behind along with my shirt, I start running again.
Whew...
When gym class ends, I head back to the stands again, but...
Huh?
Arcana is nowhere to be seen.
I look around, then approach a student who's heading out.
Her name was... Amy, I think.
Hey, Amy. Can I ask you something?
Yes?
The girl who was here... I mean...
The student with long blue hair, did you see where she went?
Ah, you mean Arcana?
Oh, you know her?
Yeah, we've met. She's my dorm roommate.
She went back to the dorms earlier.
Said she needed to change clothes.
Thanks.
No problem.
After saying goodbye to Amy, I head toward the dorms.
I approach Privaty.
There's an odd number of students in the class, so we're short one person.
Will you pair up with me?
If you're uncomfortable with it, I'll just work on my own.
N-no!
I planned this as a partner activity, so I guess I'll work with you this time.
Now then, is everyone paired up?
Commander and I will demonstrate, so just watch and follow along.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
First, one person sits on the floor with their legs spread.
I sit and spread my legs.
Thanks to my inflexibility, my inner thighs already feel like they're screaming.
The other person stands behind and pushes them from the back.
On the inhale, relax slightly, and on the exhale, stretch all the way down slowly.
Let's begin.
*Inhale*
Inhale, and relax...
*Exhale*
Exhale, and stretch down.
No, wait...!
...!!!
Privaty presses down on my back with both hands.
This time, she starts using her entire body to press down on me.
I can't think straight with her pressing down on my back.
W-wait a second, Miss Privaty!
*Exhale*
I need to numb my senses and clear my mind entirely.
But...
My body reacts faster than my mind.
Good, now switch roles.
...
If you can't even straighten your back and have to crawl around like that, you really ought to stretch more.
If you ever need assistance, just let me know. I can help.
Mmm...
Luckily, pressing down on Privaty's back helps calm me down pretty quickly.
All right, next pose.
One person, lie with your arms spread out, then press your right leg over your left.
Your partner should gently press down on your body to keep your hips and legs from lifting off the floor.
Following Privaty's instructions, I lie on my back with my arms spread and bring my right leg across my left.
Privaty places her upper body over my leg and presses down.
...
Privaty's face gazing down at me, and feeling her on my leg—
No, don't think. Don't look.
*Pushhh*
Oh, please, no!
Miss Privaty, gently, please...
Even with my eyes closed, I can feel hair falling over my face.
No, don't think about it.
...
Try to stay composed.
Start to lost my composure.
I am cosmic dust.
Dust particles gather and turn into eraser crumbs.
Which clump together and become an eraser.
With it, I erase it all, one by one.
The next pose is—
Privaty's voice fades.
My body moves mechanically.
*Clap*
That's it for the warm-up.
Physical movement is good for you, so do it often.
Now, let's move on to the full exercise.
We'll start light, with 10 laps around the gym.
That's all for today's class.
Good job, everyone.
Finally. The long, grueling test of endurance is over...
... You're going to regret this.
Sorry...?
Oh, sure! Time to switch, everyone.
This time, Privaty lays down on the floor.
I grab her thighs and ankles,
and lean my body over her.
Miss Privaty, you shouldn't be closing your eyes.
You're quite flexible, so I really need to apply some pressure.
That's fine, but you don't have to go this far...!
Ah, so that's why Privaty said it felt good earlier.
Seeing Privaty beneath me, her eyes squeezed shut as she blushes,
stirs excitement and a sense of superiority within me for the first time.
Huh? But we only did two poses.
Everyone seems to have energy to spare, so I think we're good to go.
First up, let's do thirty laps around the gym!
Oh no, I'm doomed...
*Huff, huff, huff*
That's all for today's class.
Remember, physical training strengthens both body and mind.
Let's set aside time to do this more often in the future.
Good job, everyone.
Privaty saunters out of the gym.
*Huff...* I feel like I'm going to die of exhaustion...
I'm so drenched in sweat that going straight back to the dorms feels a little gross.
Now that we've worked up a sweat, let's go get some dessert!
Parfait! Parfait!
The other students scatter in all directions.
Good, now's my chance to slip away.
There's a shower room next to the gym, so I'll wash up there before heading back to the dorm.
Covered in sweat, I head straight to the showers.
16. Without So Much as a Memory
57 lines*Jingle*
The inside of the restaurant is dimly lit,
the air filled with the mouthwatering smell of different types of meat.
*Gulp, gulp*
I've lost count of how many drinks we've had.
Not nearly as good as you, it seems.
Mmm, the food's good.
You know...
If I'm being honest, Comman...
Er, I guess I shouldn't call you that right now.
Anyway, I've been wanting to have a drink together with you, Commander.
Why?
Just because.
To talk about... stuff.
Y'know how there are some conversations you can only have when you're drunk?
I wanted to have one of those.
Okay... What kind of conversation did you want to have, exactly?
Argh...
Do I really have to spell it out?!
We've spent so much time together at this point... Can you still not take a hint?!
How am I supposed to know if you don't say anything?
That right there! That attitude of yours!
It's enough to drive a person crazy!
I swear, it's so annoying...
Let's just have another drink.
We clink our glasses together.
*Gulp, gulp*
Ngh?
...?!
My head feels like it's splitting.
The stench of alcohol rising from my stomach makes me dizzy.
At the same time, the fresh scent of body wash keeps tickling my nose, as though someone had showered.
I force my eyes open for a moment.
Mmm...
Privaty is sleeping with her head on my arm.
I look around the room. It's not mine...
Are we in Privaty's room?
How did I get here last night...?
I have no memory of what happened,
of how we ended up in the same bed,
or why we're both dressed like this.
...
I'll sleep a little more.
Caught between dream and reality,
I close my eyes again.
We finally wake up when the sun is high in the sky.
The hangover is brutal, and we completely miss class.
Having failed to fulfill our responsibilities, we are forced to step down as teachers.
Bad Ending No. 4: Without So Much as a Memory
17. Teamwork Training
334 linesTeamwork training...? What does that involve?
First, could everyone split into pairs?
??
The students look confused, but do as they're asked.
... I guess I should choose a partner too.
Pair with Privaty
Pair with Arcana
Privaty, let's team up.
Yeah, we need to show the students how it's done, right?
Sure... okay.
I turn on the monitor.
Partner Balance
Nikkes usually fight together in squads.
The most important thing when you're out there putting your lives on the line is teamwork. You need to have each other's backs.
That's why we came up with this game. It's a full-body exercise that requires you to rely completely on one other to achieve balance.
It's meant to be fun and help you grow closer to each other.
All you have to do is recreate the poses you see on the screen.
*Beep*
This one's easy.
One person gets down on one knee,
and the other grabs their shoulders and does push-ups.
What did you just say?!
N-nothing. I'll do what I can.
I'll go ahead and be the one to kneel.
Why?
Because you probably need the exercise more than I do.
... All right.
I grab the shoulders of the kneeling Privaty and start doing push-ups.
*Huff, huff*
How am I supposed to do that? It's strenuous exercise... *Huff, huff...*
It's only then that I notice that every time I go down for a push-up, my face is getting quite close to the nape of Privaty's neck.
...!
It must've really tickled. Her shoulders are super tense, as though she's trying to keep her composure.
...
I blow gently.
I hold my breath.
Hooo...
Haha! You made a weird sound.
I remind myself that we're in class.
Focus... focus.
Looks like the screen just changed. Let's change positions.
Okay.
Now, the person who was kneeling puts both hands on the floor, lifts their legs, and rests them on their partner's shoulders.
And then their partner does squats...
Wait, I have to put my legs on your shoulders?!
Ein, I'll lift my legs. Could you crouch down a bit?
I'm already crouching.
Nghhh... I can't reach my legs up that high.
Shouldn't I just be the one in front?
No! I'm older. I'll do the harder part.
Ooh! My legs reach now!
...
...
Th-this pose is a little...
Ahem... different.
If it's too much for you, let me know. We can switch.
Privaty's legs are resting on my shoulders.
And right in front of my eyes is... Privaty's butt.
Aaah!
... This might be harder than I expected.
Should we switch places?
Switch.
Don't switch.
Hup.
Privaty lifts her legs off my shoulders and stands upright.
Are you sure...?
Obviously, Privaty is much sturdier than I am, but putting my legs on a woman's shoulders still feels...
Whoosh!
!!
Privaty grabs my legs and hoists them up onto her shoulders in one swift motion.
One, two, three, four.
She does squats in perfect form.
...
All I can see in front of me is the gym floor.
The blood that had rushed to my head gradually spreads through my whole body.
Are you holding up okay?
Yeah, it's surprisingly comfortable.
With our bodies and minds feeling lighter,
the teamwork training session concludes without issue.
I brace my legs harder against the floor.
No, I'm okay!
In some ways, this might be a once-in-a-lifetime chance.
I have to hold out.
One! Two!
Every time I bend my knees for a squat,
my vision is filled with Privaty's... uh, suffice it to say, my viewing angle changes.
Twenty! Twenty-one!
I can feel strength surging through me!
I'm just getting started!
Privaty's legs fall from my shoulders and hit the ground.
*Thud*
*Huff... huff...*
Face down on the floor, Privaty cranes her neck to look up at me.
...
I can keep going if you want to try again.
Forget it. Let's just move on to the next pose...!
With each subsequent pose that follows,
I feel more and more invigorated,
while Privaty seems to grow steadily more haggard, as if drained of all energy.
Phew... That was exhausting...
I had fun!
I'm craving sugar... Wanna go get parfaits?
Yeah!
The students stream out of the gym.
Let's clean up the mats.
Okay.
We wipe the sweat off the mats with towels,
and together put them back in the gym's supply room.
You too, Privaty.
It was pretty tiring, though. We should probably go get dinn...
*Clunk*
...?
*Clunk, clunk*
What's going on...?
Something the matter?
The door... it won't open.
I look around, searching for Arcana.
...
I find her sitting near the wall.
Why are you sitting over here, Arcana?
Oh, hey, Mr. Commander.
Arcana hugs her knees and looks up at me.
Hmm...
Give her a chocolate.
Plop down beside her.
Here, have this and then let's join the others.
I hand her the chocolate I received earlier.
I was saving it for later, but then forgot to eat it.
Okay, but you're not supposed to give it back to me!
Arcana laughs, takes the chocolate, and unwraps it.
She breaks it in half and hands one piece to me.
Here, we can share.
Thanks.
We eat the chocolate together, looking toward the center of the gym.
Following Privaty's instructions, the students pair off and are doing the balancing exercise.
Miss Privaty's really dedicated, isn't she?
She's always serious about her work.
She prepared a lot for this.
So did you.
Staying up late memorizing all the students' records, studying the schedule and the curriculum...
True... I did do that.
I know. You're pretty amazing.
...
Arcana stands up and brushes off her skirt.
Now that I've got a bit more energy from that chocolate, I should go be a good student.
Want me to be your partner?
No, it's okay.
If you pair up with the teacher when doing something like this, it looks like you have no friends.
... Granted, I actually don't have any friends, but you know what I mean!
...
Huh?
Arcana walks over to Amy, who was standing off to the side.
Oh... S-sure.
What would you like me to do?
First, I think we're supposed to do this...
Arcana cheerfully talks with Amy, and they both start the balance game.
... That's good.
Now that Arcana seems to be all set,
I should watch the rest of the class and help out where I'm...
Mr. Commander, a bit of help!
Huh?
I turn my head.
Agh...
W-wait, wait. This kinda hurts...
Arcana and Amy are tangled together in an odd position.
...
What're you two doing?
It kinda just... happened...
P-please help, Mr. Commander...
Hold on a sec...
I somehow manage to separate the two.
Agh...
Ouch...
Are you both okay?
How'd you even end up like that...?
We were just following the instructions...
Yeah...
I look at other students performing the exercise perfectly.
... They don't look at all like how Arcana and Amy just were.
Here, let me show you.
Oh, are you good at this sort of thing?
Honestly, I wouldn't say I'm all that flexible,
but compared to you two, I'm practically made of rubber.
Ouch...
...
Anyway, now for a demonstration...
Err, wait just a second.
Arcana brings over a few other students who were struggling,
albeit not nearly as badly as she was.
Mr. Commander is going to show us how it's done.
A few more students timidly come over to watch.
You've got this, Mr. Commander.
...
Hm? Why're you sitting down?
No reason.
What...? You're a teacher, though. Are you really allowed to slack off?
There's not much for me to do. Privaty's taking care of everything at the moment.
Yeah... I guess that's true.
Privaty is fully engaged in running the class and taking care of all the students.
Well, it looks like Amy's getting a partner.
We watch as Privaty spots Amy standing alone and goes over to partner with her.
That means my only responsibility for now is to take care of you.
Really? Hehe.
In that case, I want a private lesson.
Oh, but I'm terrible at anything physical,
so you should probably prepare yourself mentally before we start.
How bad are we talking?
... Hngh!
Arcana stretches her legs out and then attempts to touch her toes.
...
Her fingertips only make it about as far as her calves.
... I see.
What about you, Mr. Commander?
I'm not all that flexible either.
I sit down, stretch my legs, and grab my ankles.
It feels like the backs of my knees are going to tear...
Hngh!
Gah!
Arcana quickly gets up and presses down on my back.
Wow, you weren't lying.
W-wait a sec... My legs are gonna break...!
Oh, come on. I'm sure this is nothing a veteran commander can't handle. Here I go again... Hngh!
Gaaaaah!
Fighting through the pain, I reach up and grab Arcana's wrists.
Huh?!
I pull hard and topple her onto the mat.
Eek!
You ready to get scolded?
Pfft, what kind of line is that?
What should I have said?
Wh-what?! That's even weirder!
But it made you drop your guard!
Arcana pokes my side.
Urk!
Hyah! Hyah!
While fending off her continued assault,
I start to tickle Arcana's sides with both hands.
Hehehe!
Once I'm done with you, you won't be able to live without me!
Ahahaha! Stop, stop!
Just then, we hear someone's foot tapping.
I look around and see that almost all of the students are staring at us.
... I'm sorry.
Yeah...
After Privaty returns to the other students,
Arcana whispers into my ear.
Heh, looks like we both got scolded.
... Yeah, I wasn't really thinking.
I felt comfortable and started acting like I normally do with you.
Well...
... Mm.
Arcana smiles and holds out her hand to me.
After class ends, the students all pour out of the gym.
Mats are scattered everywhere.
Time to clean up...
Mr. Commander!
Hm? Is something wrong?
Uh... yeah.
Thanks. I appreciate it.
No problem!
Together with Arcana, I wipe down the mats and store them away.
That should be everything!
Thanks for the help.
You should head back and get some rest.
...?
I notice an odd expression on Arcana's face as I pass by her and grab the storage door handle.
*Clunk*
Huh?
*Clunk, clunk*
What's wrong...?
...
The door... it won't open.
...
18. A Chance Encounter
163 lines*Whoooosh*
Ah... so refreshing.
Nothing beats a shower after a workout.
*Swish, swish*
I grab both ends of my towel and vigorously dry my hair.
*Swoosh, swoosh*
Then I towel off my worn-out body.
*Slide*
When I step out of the shower room,
I find myself face to face with Privaty, taking off her stockings.
...
...
...
Huh?
With her back to me, Privaty hasn't noticed me as she pulls down her right stocking.
The leg hidden underneath her black stocking is revealed.
...
I carefully use the towel to wrap around my waist
and slowly attempt to close the shower room door again.
Hmm?
You don't have to feel uncomfortable.
There's no rule saying teachers and students can't share the showers—
...
Seemingly picking up the sound of the door closing, Privaty straightens and looks behind her.
...
...
I rush over to the beet-red Privaty and cover her mouth before she can scream.
Mmmph—!
If you scream, people will come running!
...
Have you calmed down?
*Nod, nod*
I gingerly remove my hand from Privaty's mouth.
I was drenched in sweat, so I came to wash up.
...
I see.
There aren't any men at this school, so the shower rooms aren't separated.
And you were sweating a lot earlier.
... F-fortunately, I haven't taken my clothes off yet.
And you may be undressed, but you c-c-covered yourself with your towel, so I didn't see anything.
Now you just have to get dressed again.
Nothing happened, and nothing will happen. Right?
Right.
I'll turn around, so hurry and get dressed.
Thanks...
I open my locker and start putting my clothes on.
Or rather, I am about to, when...
Yeah!
Wait a moment... I think some students are coming.
There's nowhere to hide in here!
Do you want to wash up too, Naru?
Even if it's waterproof, isn't it still dangerous?
Their voices are getting closer.
Privaty grabs my hand and yanks me in.
*Whirr*
Darn, I didn't bring a change of clothes.
Then why did you go back to your room earlier?
I can lend you some if you'd like.
Thanks!
*Swoosh, swoosh*
...
You're the one who picked such a cramped spot, Miss Privaty.
...
I feel Privaty's breath right against my chest,
as my bare skin takes in every trace of her warmth.
Things might get out of hand at this rate...
!!
I reach out and pull Privaty into my arms.
Wh-wh-what're you doing?!
Shhh!
This is the only way I can keep myself together.
With her in my arms, Privaty is forced to turn her head to the side.
Thankfully, her breath no longer brushes against me.
...
I'm at a loss for words.
Just stay quiet... please...
...
Privaty reaches out as well,
and gently wraps her arms around my waist.
...!
Um...
This might not be the best time to say this, but...
M-maybe...
Er...
Maybe you and I could...
Suddenly the door slides open.
We didn't run into anyone on the way in though.
!!!
Nah, it's more fun if we look for them ourselves.
Using Naru makes it too easy. Where's the fun in that?
You think so?
We're going to get caught at this rate!
I'll go out and distract them so you can escape.
Understood?
First, I want to hear what you were about to say earlier.
Privaty steps outside.
Wait, what? It was you, Miss Privaty?
I didn't realize you liked doing this sort of thing.
Th-that's right!
Since I'm your teacher, I thought it might be awkward for us to be naked around each other,
So I thought things might get awkward so I decided to surprise you. Haha...
Well, I'll get undressed and head in.
Let's wash up together.
Wow, you got undressed really fast.
I just want to wash up quickly. That's all.
That's enough, just hurry up and get in!
Privaty waves one hand behind her, gesturing for me to hurry up and leave.
Then she enters the shower room.
*Slide* *Bang*
...
I take a moment to calm my racing heart, and the other part of me that's even more worked up.
Then I carefully slip out and put on the clothes in my locker.
Wow, you two have incredible figures!
...
...
Once I finish getting dressed, my nerves settle down, and I start hearing sounds from the shower room.
They seem to be discussing something... quite intriguing.
What should I do...?
Leave the locker room.
Take a quick peek.
Privaty went through hell to give me a chance to escape.
I shouldn't involve myself in things that don't concern me. It's better to just get out of here.
Leaving the noisy shower room behind, I return to the dormitory.
That's right.
Any man would seize an opportunity like this.
Let's do it!
19. An Incident at the Dormitory
275 linesI arrive near the dormitory building.
But...
Uh.
I spot a familiar figure disappearing into the dorm.
I follow Arcana inside.
...
Aquamarine-colored hair disappears down the far end of the hallway.
*Step, step*
I walk down the hallway toward the corner.
...
Blue hair peeks out from around the corner...
... Keep walking.
... Stop and hold my breath.
Boo!
Hi.
What? You didn't get scared?
I could see your hair.
Oh...
Arcana grabs her hair and examines it.
I guess my hair's gotten longer so I miscalculated.
Now that you mention it...
Arcana's hair almost reaches her calves.
When we first met, it was around your hips, right?
Yeah. I've been growing it ever since.
Isn't it uncomfortable when it's that long?
Arcana gently sways the tip of her hair in front of me.
What do you think?
... It's pretty.
Right?
...
Soon, silence fills the hallway.
...
...
*Rustle*
With the rustling of clothes, Arcana peeks her head out from the end of the hallway...
Gaaaah!
Arcana meets my eyes as I crouch there, then lets out a scream and collapses.
Hi.
...
Arcana looks up with slightly teary eyes, then takes the hand I offer and stands up.
... You scared me.
I thought you said you weren't afraid of ghosts.
It's not that ghosts scare me.
Arcana grabs the hem of my clothes.
Why would I disappear?
Arcana brushes off the hem of her skirt.
Arcana takes my hand.
I follow Arcana into her dorm room.
Welcome.
Oh, right. Sorry for the intrusion.
I do have a roommate, but she won't be coming right away, so it's fine.
You're talking about Amy, right?
She mentioned it earlier when I was asking her where you went.
Me?
Who's your roommate?
I have my room to myself.
Uh... yeah.
Wow. Special treatment.
It's a double room, but we only have one closet.
I guess since everyone wears a uniform, we don't exactly have that many clothes too.
Arcana opens the closet.
You already put my shirt in there?
Of course. Everything has to be neatly organized.
Arcana takes out my gym shirt off the hanger.
Even so...
Upon entering the room, the interior space, to put it charitably, has a "lived-in" feel.
To put it bluntly...
It's a total pigsty.
You know I don't have any memory of that time!
Phantom said you've always been that way.
... Tch.
Arcana puffs out her cheeks while looking at me.
...
Anyway, Arcana.
Yes?
How should I put this...
What is it?
Um... you seem a bit different from before.
Arcana drops the clothes she is holding.
...
Th-that...
Isn't that what people say before they break up with someone?
First it's that, then, "I liked you better before," or "I just don't feel that spark anymore!"
No, no, no. It's nothing like that.
How should I put it... you seem more honest.
You were always expressive to begin with, but now it feels like there's even more range to your emotions.
Getting sulky, getting angry... things like that?
Mmm...
Arcana picks up my gym uniform she dropped and shakes it off.
That... might be true.
I certainly feel more comfortable than I did before.
So I'm a bit more... casual? More natural?
In the way I treat you?
Does that mean you've stopped putting on an act?
It's a little different from that.
There's no girl in the world who doesn't put on a bit of an act.
Especially in front of someone she's interested in.
Y-yeah...
Arcana looks down at my gym shirt.
I feel like I've started to have certain expectations.
Expectations?
Yup.
it feels like even if I act like this, you'll accept it.
Or rather, that I hope you will.
I hope you'll cherish me and find me cute no matter what version of myself I am.
I hope you'll like me... no matter what side of me you see.
That kind of expectation.
...
*Beep, beep, beep*
At that moment, I hear the sound of someone entering the door code.
!!
Arcana quickly moves away from me and looks around.
Y-you've gotta hide!
O-okay...!
I hurriedly look for a place to hide.
There aren't many choices, and time is tight.
Hide in the closet.
Hide in the bed.
I quickly jump into the still-open closet and shut the door.
Just as I'm shutting the door, I can hear the sound of the front door opening.
H-hey!
Oh, hey. You're back early.
Hehe, yeah...
??
Oh...
... Sorry. I'm a bit tired today...
R-r-r-right? We did have gym class, after all...
...?
Amy's footsteps are getting closer to the closet...!
H-huh? What are you trying to do?
...??
I'm going to change.
Oh, th-then...!
I hear Arcana's hurried footsteps, but...
*Click*
The closet door opens.
...
...
I meet Amy's eyes.
Gaaaaaah!
My gaze briefly goes to the open closet, but I remember Arcana saying there is only one closet.
Amy is sure to change clothes when she gets back...
...!
I quickly lie flat on Arcana's bed and pull the blanket over me.
I feel Arcana straighten the blanket so it doesn't look suspicious, and sit down on the bed.
H-hey!
Oh, hey. You're back early.
Hehe, yeah...
...?
By the way, did you run into Commander, by any chance?
He was looking for you earlier.
...?
*Click*
Soon, I hear the sound of Amy opening the closet.
If I had hidden in the closet...
No, I already showered at school, so I'm going straight to bed.
I-is that so...?
...??
Um, if you don't mind.
Do you want to step out for a short walk...?
I've heard that if you take a walk before bed, you sleep suuuper well!
Ah... sorry. Let's go next time.
I'm a bit tired today.
Oh, okay...
Even after that, Arcana tries her best to lure Amy outside somehow...
But I can feel Amy climbing into the bed next to us instead.
...
*Sigh*
Arcana lets out a small sigh.
Then I hear the sound of her changing clothes.
*Rustle*
...!!
Shh.
Arcana slips under the blanket.
Of course I am...
Hehe. Just stay still and you'll be fine.
I've noticed these past few days that Amy sleeps with her earphones in.
Arcana wipes the sweat beading on my forehead.
Arcana wraps her arms around my waist and buries her face in my chest.
... Hehe.
...
Don't get any funny ideas.
... I won't.
... How can I not in a situation like this?
Really?
...
I mean, just a little would be okay.
Mm... That's fair.
Just... keep it in your head, okay?
Honestly, I'd be sadder if you didn't have any of those thoughts in a situation like this.
After nuzzling her cheek against my chest for a while, Arcana lets out a small giggle.
Hehe.
What is it?
Nothing. This whole situation's kinda funny, that's all.
I never expected anything like this to happen.
... Me neither.
Still, doesn't it kinda feel like this is what being young is about?
Little episodes like this.
Arcana traces her fingertips across my palm.
You can imagine the girl had a lot of mixed feelings...
She used the boy's gym uniform as an excuse to invite him into her room,
but she probably hadn't thought about what would happen after.
Actually... maybe she chose not to think about it,
because it's scary and overwhelming.
...
... Hold my hand.
I take Arcana's hand in mine.
Good... Now we just hold hands and fall asleep.
...
Wait, we're going to sleep?
... After I wait until Amy falls into a deeper sleep?
Mm-hmm...
Arcana smiles and snuggles further into my arms.
Stay with me until I fall asleep.
Arcana closes her eyes, as if intent on falling asleep.
Soon, her breathing evens out.
...
About thirty minutes later, I carefully slip out of the bed.
Both Amy and Arcana seem to be fast asleep.
...
I gently smooth Arcana's bangs as she shifts slightly in her sleep.
... Sweet dreams.
Mmm...
Arcana's eyes flutter open slightly.
...
Then she reaches out and cups my cheek.
... This is already a dream.
...
Yeah.
After that, I sneak out of the dorm,
and make it back to my room safely, where I try to get some sleep.
20. The Warmth of a Closed Room
210 lines*Clunk, clunk*
... Why won't this open?
It won't open?!
I try pulling the handle again and again,
but the door doesn't budge.
What the...?
Hmm...
Privaty calmly examines the area around the door.
I heard this storage room hasn't really been used in a long time.
Usually, Nikkes don't uses mats like these for class.
I'm guessing the room hasn't been maintained properly.
She runs her finger along the door and then looks at it. It's caked in dust.
Yeah, looks like it...
It's fine. We can just call another teach...
...
Uh-oh. I left my phone outside.
Mr. Commander, could you use your phone to call someone?
I pat my pockets.
They're empty.
... I think I left mine out there too.
*Bang, bang, bang!*
You're gonna end up breaking the door like that.
Calm down, Privaty.
Someone will come looking for us. Let's wait a bit.
Inside the cramped storage room...
...
...
An awkward silence settles in.
Unable to stand it any longer, I speak up.
Privaty, sit here.
I motion for Privaty to sit next to me on the mat where I'm sitting.
You want me to sit down with all this dust?
... Well, I guess there's nowhere else to sit.
And my legs were starting to hurt anyway.
*Thump*
Agh!
*Cough, cough*
Maybe next time try not to plop down so hard. It stirs up a lot of dust.
I didn't think it'd be this bad. ..*Cough!*
Privaty turns her head toward me to try and escape the dust.
I pull up my sleeve and cover her mouth.
As I do, it naturally ends up looking like Privaty is leaning into me for an embrace.
Privaty adjusts her position slightly and shifts away from me.
...
On such a small mat, though,
our hips are still touching as we sit there next to each other.
Your legs hurt, remember?
... That's true.
*Rustle*
In the silence, the sound of our clothes brushing against each other feels painfully loud.
How long do you think we've been in here like this?
Hey, isn't it kinda chilly?
I sweat a lot during class. Now that it's cooling off, I'm starting to feel cold.
She stands and looks around the storage room.
Really, Privaty?
I spread my arms.
When you're cold, aren't you supposed to warm up by hugging someone?
Brr, I'm so cold...
Slowly, Privaty comes over and leans into my arms.
Mm...
Our clothes might be getting in the way. I don't actually feel that much warmer.
*Sigh...*
Did you think I was joking?
No, I've actually been getting colder for the last little while.
Privaty pushes me down onto the mat.
Privaty...?
Take off your shirt.
Wow, look at you being all assertive.
I'm serious...!
She starts unbuttoning my shirt, one button at a time.
P-Privaty?
Your temperature's dropping.
She carefully wipes me with a towel,
then takes off her jacket,
and pulls me into an embrace.
...!
It's warm.
Yeah, I think I am now that you're holding me.
... Smooth.
Her slightly coarse clothes brush against my skin,
and I feel her weight press against me, rigid but gentle.
What do we do if someone comes and finds us like this?
Wh-what do you mean...?!
I-it's not like we're doing anything weird...
I'm just helping to get your temperature up since you're so cold...
True.
I lift my arms and embrace Privaty.
...!!
I'm glad we got trapped here.
Getting stuck with the girl you like is something that just about every guy dreams of at least once.
Th-the girl you... wh-wh-what?!
The girl you like.
You like me too, don't you, Privaty?
Wh-what are you talking about?!
What, so you hate me?
No, of course not!
Then you like me.
*Thump, thump*
With my body warming up and my heartbeat nice and steady,
I start to feel drowsy.
Sure.
*Step, step*
...!
!!
Footsteps echo in the distance.
Your shirt! Put it on!
As Privaty jumps up, the warmth disappears.
I thought you said it wasn't anything weird!
She runs to the door.
*Step, step*
The footsteps draw closer.
What were you about to say earlier?
Get dressed.
Don't get dressed.
Satisfied with seeing Privaty's face turn bright red, I put my shirt back on.
Is someone in there? Are you all right?
Y-yes, we're here...! Please open the door!
The door opens with a clack.
Wait, aren't you teachers?
Yes. Thank you for your help.
The door just auto-locked on us. I'm guessing it hasn't been used in a while.
Someone should probably schedule an inspection.
I see. Were you trapped in here this whole time?
Yeah.
Just the two of you?
No, it's just...
You know, there are emergency buttons for precisely such situations. We tell all the teachers about them.
The one for this room is right here.
...!
I don't think I ever heard about that.
Th-that's right...! ... I did actually hear about it.
I must've forgotten in all the confusion.
Well, good thing I found you before you were in here for too long.
It's pretty hot in here, huh?
Yeah, haha... Haha...
Anyway, thank you for helping us.
We should get going. A-after you, Mr. Commander.
Okay.
Having been luckily found by the guard before too much time passed,
we're able to return safely to our rooms.
I feel a mischievous urge rise up, and I stare at Privaty as she shouts at the door while I still haven't put my clothes on.
Privaty rushes over and starts trying to force my shirt on me.
W-wait...!
Is someone in there? Are you all right?
J-just a moment...! Please don't open it yet!
Huh...?
I'm opening the door!
N-no!
The door opens with a clack,
and the guard steps into the storage room.
21. At a Crossroads
146 lines*Clunk, clunk*
The door... it won't open.
...
Arcana comes over to the door.
Let me try.
It's not going to work. I think it's jammed or...
*Click*
... Huh?
It opens just fine for me.
No, I'm sure it was...
I take a look at the door, then close it and try opening it again.
It opens without any issue whatsoever.
Wait, don't tell me...
Arcana puts her hands in her pockets, then steps back.
Was this all a ruse to get me in a locked room with you, Mr. Commander?
What?! No... No! Of course not!
Right? You're not that kind of person.
You weren't hoping that we'd get locked together in the gym storage room,
and then something would suddenly fall over, or come crashing down,
and I'd get startled and end up in your arms...
*Crash!*
Gahhh!
?!
*Thud*
Startled, Arcana loses her balance. I open my arms and hold her as we fall onto the mat.
Wh-what the heck?! I didn't think it would actually happen!
No kidding...
We look and see a box filled with different sports balls on the ground, having fallen from its shelf.
Do you think this place is haunted?
Well, there are a lot of ghost stories that take place in schools.
Right? It makes me want to come one of these nights and investigate.
How about tonight?
...?
Why'd you go quiet all of a sudden?
What do you mean?
I forgot all about our teacher-student dynamic and just reacted like normal.
Arcana avoids my gaze.
Um, Commander...
Yes?
Oh...
Of cour...
...
What is it?
Move off of Arcana.
Pull Arcana closer for a hug.
Sorry for falling over.
Arcana pulls away, stands up, and smooths her skirt.
Huh...?
Arcana freezes.
... D-don't.
You don't like it?
Then what's the problem?
...
Arcana places her hand on my chest and looks up at me.
Look...
I know I'm not actually a student, but I'm trying really hard to live like one.
When you do things like that...
I can feel my resolve weaken.
...
Right now we're just playing around, but I get the feeling that if we keep it up, there'll be no going back...
Move off of Arcana.
Pull Arcana into a tighter hug.
Arcana reaches out and pokes the tip of my nose.
I'm definitely going to make it up to you, though.
... What?!
Arcana fidgets for a moment, then relaxes her body.
Arcana leans into me and buries her face in my neck.
... Should I lock the door again?
I think that may be taking it a bit far.
Arcana brings her face close to my ear.
Maybe we should spend a bit more time in private together moving forward?
...
Right?
We'll have to be careful not to get caught.
Yeah, we don't want that.
Arcana wraps her arms around my neck and looks at me quietly.
I understand that it's all roleplay,
but you're still a teacher and I'm still a student... at least for now.
Arcana pulls away, stands up, and smooths her skirt.
We should probably clean this up.
Arcana points at the balls scattered around.
Yeah.
I'll get these over here.
Arcana starts picking up the balls.
By the way, Mr. Commander.
Yeah?
I put the basketball I picked up into the box and look at Arcana.
What makes you ask?
...
Well, it's just...
Honestly...
I think you might be having a better time you if you were a student.
As a teacher, you have so many responsibilities.
Arcana lightly tosses a volleyball into the box.
And you're always working in the teachers' office after school.
Yeah, that's technically true, but...
... But you're just trying to do what you can?
...
... Yeah, something like that.
Hehe... I see.
Arcana finishes up by putting the last soccer ball into the box.
That sounds like you. Ever so kind.
I feel like that's not the first time you've said that...
Oh? Have we met before?
Huh...?
I'm pretty sure...
we only just met a little while ago, right?
You, a young, newly appointed teacher,
and me, a beautiful, mysterious transfer student.
Err...
...
... Yeah, that's right. Guess I got confused for a moment.
Does that mean you've met a girl like me before?
Well, once at the library...
Wait, time-out!
Arcana presses her index finger to my lips.
Hm?
I think I know what you're about to say.
If you say it now, though,
it'll break my immersion, so don't say anything.
Wait...
Which role am I supposed to be playing right now?
When are we student and teacher, and when are we Nikke and Commander?
Hehe, you really wanna know...?
*Click*
Arcana smiles and opens the storage door,
then turns back and puts her finger to her lips.
... It's a secret.
22. Playful Temptation
161 lines*Clunk, clunk*
The door... it won't open.
...
Arcana comes over to the door.
Let me try.
It's not going to work. I think it's jammed or...
*Clunk, clunk*
You're right... What do we do?
I didn't bring my phone.
How about you?
It's gym class, so I didn't either.
Uh oh...
I glance at the storage room door.
It looks pretty sturdy, but maybe if we ram it...
I have a question, Arcana.
I point at the door.
Do you think you could break this down?
...
Without a word,
Arcana shows me her pale and slender arm.
As I look at it, I remember the athleticism, or terrible lack thereof, that she displayed earlier in class...
... Sorry. I wasn't thinking.
If nothing else works, I'll try breaking it.
For now, though, we should probably shout for...
*Tap*
Yeah?
Arcana gently grabs my wrist as I'm about to bang on the metal door.
What're you doing?
Arcana whispers playfully.
... we find ourselves in a classic setup.
The girl who secretly likes her teacher helps him clean up, then they accidentally get locked inside a room together...
Far off, you hear the voices of other students,
but amid all the noise and bustle, the two protagonists find themselves completely alone, unbeknownst to anyone else.
... Arcana.
Then, in such a confined space,
something suddenly falls over, or comes crashing down,
and I get all started and lose my balance, and you reach out to catch me and...
*Crash!*
Gahhh!
?!
*Thud*
Startled, Arcana loses her balance. I open my arms and hold her as we fall onto the mat.
I was not expecting that...
Seriously... Why'd that even fall?
We look and see a box filled with different sports balls on the ground, having fallen from its shelf.
...
You good?
Hehe. It's just like earlier, isn't it?
Well, maybe not exactly the same.
This time, it's just the two of us... which means no one will get in our way.
...
Do you want to pick up from where we left off?
Arcana playfully tickles my side.
Here? Like this? I don't know...
What's wrong? Do you prefer it when other people can see us?
You know that's not what I meant...
Hehe.
Arcana quietly takes a deep breath and looks up at me, her eyes slightly shining.
Hm...?
...
Without saying another word,
Arcana slowly closes her eyes.
...
Kiss her.
Restrain yourself.
I slowly lower my head and press my lips to Arcana's.
Her grip on my clothing tightens.
We stay like that for a while.
Then, as if on cue, we both part our lips at the same time.
...
Arcana cups my cheeks.
You know...
I wasn't planning on taking things this far.
I thought we'd flirt a little since we were alone, then leave.
But once the ball started rolling...
I couldn't hold back.
Same with me. I couldn't hold back.
...
And, as your partner in crime...
Arcana wraps her arms around my neck.
... I want more.
...
Arcana whispers sweetly into my ear.
...
She pulls me in closer.
Come on... Don't make me wait.
This time...
I still can't hold back.
I pull away from Arcana and stand up.
D-do what?!
Kiss.
Arcana sits on the mat and hugs her knees, then looks at me.
I would've been okay with it.
...
But I'm a teacher now.
And you're a student.
You're giving me an awful lot of preferential treatment then, aren't you?
...
Not that I mind, hehe.
It feels like you're claiming me, and letting everyone know that I'm your woman.
Arcana...
I'm only kidding.
Still sitting, Arcana stretches both of her hands toward me.
Help me up, would you?
I take Arcana's hand and pull her up.
A little while later...
Arcana fixes her clothes and walks up to the door.
Okay, let's go.
Hm? The door won't op...
*Click*
Huh...?!
After opening the door,
Arcana shows me a small component that looks like it had been wedged into the gap.
Oh, look! It opened.
When did you...?!
Hehe.
I step in front of Arcana,
and lightly flick her forehead.
Ow.
That little prank of yours was a step too far.
Don't do it again.
Tch... You know you liked it too.
Arcana rubs her forehead dramatically.
Arcana.
Yeah?
...
I tried to keep my tone stern, but Arcana just looks up at me, completely undeterred.
I look into her clear blue eyes.
Her gaze is as bright and unwavering as always,
filled with deep affection for and trust in me.
At the moment, however, there's also something else mixed in with that...
What? Is there something you want to say?
...
... No.
Hehe.
Then let's go. I'm hungry.
By the way, you've got a kitchen in your room, right?
Want me to make dinner for you?
... What would you make?
Hmm... Good question. I'm guessing you don't have much in terms of ingredients.
It's still pretty early for dinner, so how about we go grocery shopping first?
Arcana holds out her hand,
and I take it.
...
We've held hands on multiple different occasions, but the feeling I'm getting from her this time is,
for some reason,
different than before.
23. Pleasure's Price
38 linesI hold my breath as if I've forgotten how to breathe.
I slowly begin to open the shower door, with the faintest of movements.
...
At last, there is a gap just big enough to peek through.
Whew...
I let out the breath I have been holding.
I carefully press my eye to the gap.
Come to think of it, no one in our class has this kind of allure.
I mean, upperclassmen like Naga and Tia are on a whole different level.
Oh, come on, Zwei.
Don't tell me you're actually self-conscious about your figure?
Being too voluptuous can get uncomfortable, don't you think?
Well, there are definitely some downsides.
But...
it does work in your favor when you're trying to get someone's attention.
Eeeek! Does that mean...? No way!
Wow, this is such a grown-up conversation...!
...
You're just as impressive yourself, Arcana!
You're all sweet and innocent, but with a figure like that. It's unfair.
I'm flattered you see me that way.
But the one man I'm trying to attract doesn't seem interested.
The girls nonchalantly discuss each other's bodies.
So this is the "girl talk" that guys often hear about...
Is it just me, or does it feel like a cold draft is coming in?
Oh no.
Our eyes meet.
For the remainder of my time at the school,
I endure the contemptuous glares of Privaty and my classmates.
Word spreads of me being a Peeping Tom, a stigma that I can never shake.
Bad Ending No. 2: Pleasure's Price
24. The Distance Between Student and Teacher
118 linesThe school bell rings.
Anybody want to play hide and seek with Naru?
Me! Me!
Can Amy and I join?
Awesome! The more, the merrier!
I'll sit this one ou—
Rock, paper, scissors! If you don't throw, you're it!
W-wait a second!
...
*Slide* *Thunk*
??
I thought I just heard Privaty call my name...
No, I haven't.
Oh, thanks!
...
Huh? By the way, have you seen Miss Privaty?
I thought I saw her in front of the store.
*Poke*
??
Want some candy?
Rei offers me candy while avoiding being seen by Privaty.
Take it.
Don't take it.
I stretch out my arm and take the candy.
Thanks.
I lower my head and whisper.
I'll take it later. Right now isn't the best time...
*Tap*
Commander.
...!!
What are you doing?
Privaty walks to my seat looking quite intimidating.
I asked what you were doing.
Uh... Rei and I were just talking about the lesson...
And what were you discussing?
Er... well...
Since you can't answer, I take it you were fooling around.
Write out today's entire lesson by hand ten times and submit it to me.
What? Ten times?!
Yes. Ten times.
This can't be happening...
Later that night...
I'm forced to pull an all-nighter to finish all the homework Privaty assigned me.
The next day, in the teachers' office...
...
...
Um... don't you have anything else to say?
Sorry?
Something to say?
Well... wh-why did you...
...
Ahem, it's nothing!
It seems you've gotten much closer to your classmates lately.
Ah, yes. We've gotten a lot closer since the last time we all hung out.
I have you to thank for that, Miss Privaty.
I see.
That's good to see.
I hope you make lots of wonderful memories during your time here at school.
The smile on Privaty's face seems to lack its usual energy.
You look tired.
What? N-no, I don't.
I'm perfectly fine!
It's not like I lost sleep because I was thinking about all sorts of things... Not at all!
Don't worry about it and go back to class.
The lesson's about to begin.
Hmm... all right.
It's pretty obvious that she's tired.
I'll go check on her after class.
The school bell rings.
Ughh, it's finally over.
Isn't it kind of random that the last period suddenly turned into study hall?
Well, thanks to that, I finished all my homework that's due tomorrow.
Me!
Come to think of it, I'm getting hungry... I'll go too.
Count me in!
Can I come along too?
I have somewhere else to be.
You girls can go without me.
Okay, see you tomorrow, then!
Everyone pours out of the classroom.
I pack up my things and step into the hallway to look for Privaty.
First she had us do study hall, then she disappeared.
Where should I go looking for her?
The teachers' office.
The nurse's office.
The gym.
Since Privaty is a teacher, she's probably in the teachers' office right now.
I decide to make my way to the teachers' office.
She clearly hasn't been sleeping well and seemed out of sorts too.
I decide to make my way to the nurse's office.
For some reason, I suddenly feel like heading to the gym.
I decide to make my way to the gym.
25. A New Friend and Club Selection
166 linesThe school bell rings.
After Privaty leaves the classroom,
the previously quiet room regains its liveliness in an instant.
And...
*Click*
Let's eat lunch.
Arcana takes out her lunchbox, a sight that has become familiar by now.
But... there is a new addition today.
Ugh... today's lesson wasn't easy.
Really? I thought it was manageable.
You were just doodling in your book, Arcana.
Keep it down.
Thanks to Arcana becoming fast friends with Amy,
the three of us now hang out during lunch and after school.
I don't really have any plans.
What about you, Arcana?
Commander and I were gonna sing some karaoke.
...
I mean we were planning to...!
But I should probably go sort out the library. It'll be bad if I put it off any longer.
Right. You came to manage the library, didn't you?
I haven't actually seen you working in the library.
Hey!
Why don't we go together? I'll help.
... Really?
Sure. I've been wanting to take a good look around the library anyway.
Great! Thanks!
You really shouldn't coddle her like that. She'll end up spoiled.
... Wow. That's exactly what Phantom says.
Mmm...
From what I've heard about this Phantom person, I kind of feel a sense of kinship...
I finally make a friend my own age, and you're saying something like that?!
Huh? Really?
You seem so outgoing, I thought you'd have lots of friends.
Uh... well...
You'll realize how weird she is once you know her.
What's that supposed to mean?!
Arcana lightly smacks my shoulder.
Hehe. I think I get what you mean.
Amy picks up a piece of vegetable tempura and takes a bite.
Commander, you've known Arcana for a long time, right?
Was she always like this?
Yeah. Isn't she adorable?
Wait, did you just call me by my name too...?
*Cough, cough*
I pat Arcana's back as she chokes.
... Just eat this.
Arcana puffs out her cheeks and feeds me some inari sushi.
Oh? Am I not supposed to?
That's how Arcana addresses you, so I figured I would too.
...
Commander, here.
Arcana feeds me some inari sushi with a playful smile.
Mmm...
Seeing how readily I accept the sushi, Amy lets out a small laugh.
Is it good?
It is.
Hehe.
After the meal ends in a pleasant atmosphere
Arcana tidies up the lunchboxes and plops a sheet of paper onto the desk.
"Club Activity Application Form?"
A club, huh...
A photography club?
Yup. A club where we take lots of photos.
I-is that so...
Amy studies the camera Arcana takes out, lost in thought.
Fortune-telling, I suppose?
With tarot cards or crystal balls and stuff.
Arcana points to the application form.
So what do we write here in the activities section?
"We will predict the fate of the world, and read Commander's love fortune."
Stuff like that? Hmm...
So which do you prefer, Amy?
I'm not sure... I don't really know much about divination or occult stuff.
Really? I was kind of hoping the three of us could run the club together...
Arcana glances at me.
Do whatever you want, Arcana.
Yeah. I don't really mind either way.
Arcana grabs her bag and stands up.
Arcana?
Let's grab something good to eat and think about it some more!
Arcana hauls Amy and me to our feet,
and swiftly ushers us out of the classroom.
Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm...
...
...
Arcana continues to mull it over even after we get to the cafe.
Is it really that hard to decide?
Yes...
You only get one chance to choose.
If we try to do both, we'll just end up half-committing to each.
And then... no, things just wouldn't work out.
Arcana stirs the remaining ice in her cup with a straw.
... Commander.
Yes?
...
Let's go with the photography club.
I think the divination club would be better.
Were you interested in photography too, Commander?
I'm starting to get into it. Arcana gave me a camera as a gift before.
I take out the camera Arcana gave me from my bag.
And...
So, photography club it is! You'll join too, right, Amy?
Oh, sure. Sounds fun.
...
Somehow it feels like Arcana wants Amy to join more than Amy does herself...
But I decide not to mention anything.
Then go ahead and write your name here.
Arcana holds out the application form.
You can be the club president, Commander. As for the advisor...
Hmm... I'll put down Miss Privaty for now.
I'm the club president?
Yup!
Have you told Miss Privaty about any of this?
Not yet, why?
...
...
Divination club, huh?
Arcana beams, then glances over at Amy, subtly gauging her reaction.
Er... you said you weren't that interested in it, right, Amy?
Mmm...
You need at least three people to start a club, right?
I'll put my name down for now.
Oh, okay!
But I'm not planning on actually participating.
I'm not particularly interested in divination...
When Amy whispers something to Arcana,
Arcana's face turns bright red.
...? What is it?
... N-nothing. I-it's nothing.
And so, we write our names on the club application form.
While Amy writes her name last, Arcana fidgets with my hand.
... Commander.
Hmm?
I'm the best, aren't I?
Pfft. Hearing you say that yourself makes me not want to admit it.
By the way...
Amy, finishes writing her name, puts the pen away, and suddenly speaks up.
Yeah?
Yes?
...
What about the library?
...
26. The End of Youth
63 linesGaaaaaah!
At the sound of the scream,
the quiet dormitory begins to stir.
*Click*
What was that scream?
Maybe we should report it just in case.
*Click*
What's going on?
*Thundering footsteps*
Huh?
Stop right there, you pervert!
No, wait! It's all a misunderstanding!
A misunderstanding?!
What sort of misunderstanding could explain why you're hiding in the closet of a girls' dorm room?!
I run down the hallway while getting smacked on the back by Amy.
Then, the dorm room doors start opening one by one...
Huh?
...?!
... Unfortunately, familiar faces emerges one by one.
Teach...? What are you doing...?
Hey, you! Grab him!
Th-this pervert was hiding inside our closet...!
I'm telling you, y-you've got it all wrong!
...
...
...
At that moment, the door right in front of me opens...
*Click*
*Yawn* What's with all the racket?
Rei comes out, together with Naru...
Gah!
I end up tripping over Naru No. 1... or was it No. 2...?
... Anyway, I trip over one of the Narus and tumble down the hallway.
*Crash! Bang! Thud!*
Ugh...!
I finally come to a stop, lying flat on my back in the hallway.
My head is spinning. I need to pull myself together, then either run or come up with a reasonable excuse.
...
Huh...?
As I witness the sight that unfolds before me,
I find myself frozen in panic.
A paralysis I have never experienced on any battlefield on the surface.
*Blink*
...
I blink my eyes rapidly, but nothing changes.
Then that means... this is reality.
No, everyone's expressions seem to have gotten even darker...
... Hi.
...
...
...
...
Gaaaah!
It hits me the moment Amy's scream rings in my ears again.
The one thing I've been looking forward to...
My youth... and my school life...
is officially over from this moment on.
Bad Ending No. 3: The End of Youth
I-I'm sorry...!
27. Irresponsible Adults
24 lines...
...
...
Privaty is in the middle of hurriedly buttoning up my shirt.
The whole scene is more than enough to make anyone misunderstand.
Wait, aren't you teachers?
Look, I understand you're both adults, but doing that... in a place like this...
N-no! You've got it all wrong!
He suddenly started getting chills and felt unwell...!
B-but then the door locked on us...!
The door locked, did it?
You know, there are emergency buttons for precisely such situations. We tell all the teachers about them.
The one for this room is right here.
Oh, that's right...! I remember now.
It all happened so suddenly, I didn't even think of that...
Mm-hmm...
Well, regardless, I'll have to report everything I saw.
Privaty glares at me.
... I think we're screwed.
Once word gets out, all sorts of rumors about Privaty and me start spreading.
We're removed from the assignment for disrupting the school atmosphere.
Bad Ending No. 5: Irresponsible Adults
28. When Things Get Awkward
104 linesAfter the incident where Privaty and I got locked in the storage room together...
The school bell rings.
...
Privaty, the bell rang.
As she starts to move, Privaty accidentally drops her pen.
Oops, my pen...
We both reach for it at the same time.
...!
Ah...!
Our hands touch.
Privaty quickly grabs the pen.
Let's head to the classroom.
Yeah, sure.
The school bell rings.
Lunchtime, a few days later...
The teachers' office door slides open.
I woke up early so I started to pack my lunch, and before I realized it, I'd packed way more than I can eat.
Oh, sounds good.
I glance over at Privaty.
... Would it be okay if Miss Privaty came along too?
Yeah, totally. There's plenty to go around.
Are you not feeling well?
I-it's nothing big. My stomach's just a little upset, so I was planning to skip lunch today.
Enjoy your meal.
Privaty leaves the teachers' office.
...?
A few days later, after school.
That's it for today. Good job, everyone.
Thank you!
We're all going to the grocery store together. Wanna come with us?
To the grocery store? Why?
I'm pretty sure it's you who'll be sad, not them.
Anyway, since we're going to the grocery store, we were going to pick up some snacks.
Come with us!
So by "pick up some snacks," you actually meant, "get Mr. Commander to buy us some snacks"...?
Was it that obvious? Hehe.
...
Hold on. I should let Miss Privaty know first...
I turn around and look toward the podium,
but Privaty isn't there. She must've already left.
...
I knew it.
I've felt it for the last few days: things with Privaty are awkward now.
At first, I thought it was coming from a place of excitement and nervousness, but I'm starting to think that's not it.
She hasn't looked well lately, either...
Teacher?
Sorry. Are you heading out now? I'll come with.
Woohoo!
This brand makes the best sweets.
They're a bit pricey, but we've got a great teacher who I'm sure will buy them for us.
While Ein and Rei are picking out snacks in the aisle,
I'm looking for something to get for Privaty.
Supplements for fatigue.
Snacks.
Nothing.
She's been looking a bit tired lately. This would be good for her.
I pick up an expensive box of supplement drinks that are filled with all sorts of vitamins and minerals.
What's that?
Supplement drinks.
Are you meeting with a student's grandparents or something?
Yeah, isn't that what old people take?
Someone I know hasn't been feeling very well.
Oh.
Have you finished picking out your snacks?
Rather than getting her something random, some simple snacks are probably best.
Something sweet might help her feel better.
Oh, you're getting snacks too?
Yeah, these ones caught my eye.
Well, you've got great taste.
This one's really good.
Personally, though, I'd recommend the chocolate over the strawberry.
All right. Thanks.
Have you two finished picking yours?
I don't even know exactly what's wrong, so it's probably better not to overreact.
I look around a bit, then return to Ein and Rei empty-handed.
Have you finished picking out your snacks?
Yep! Look at how much we got!
I look in their basket and see enough sweets piled up to stock a vending machine.
Oh... That's more than I expected.
Most of it's for Naru.
Well, we certainly wouldn't want Naru to starve.
It's my treat, but just this once, okay?
Woohoo! You're the best!
Best teacher ever!
After finishing up at the grocery store, we head back to the dormitory.
We'll share these with the other kids, too. Thank you so much!
All right. See you tomorrow.
The two bow politely and head off.
Instead of returning to my own room, I make my way towards Privaty's.
29. As Always
266 lines*Scribble, scribble*
...
Arcana has started her library committee work in earnest.
However, she won't tell me any specifics about what she's doing, despite my asking.
She says she doesn't want to tell me because I'd probably try to help if she did.
*Scribble, scribble*
As for me, I'm also in the library, taking care of a little overtime work after Arcana persuaded me to do it here instead of in the teachers' office.
*Scribble, scribble*
Speaking of whom...
...
I look over at Arcana,
who's sitting by the window, taking in the spring breeze while she works.
She seems to be skimming through several books and organizing some things.
Given how bubbly and energetic she usually is, I never imagined she could be this...
... Calm.
Hm?
Arcana lifts her head and looks at me.
Sorry. It just sorta slipped out.
...?
It's just...
I normally don't ever see you be this... calm.
It's just a thought that I had.
You've been a little different since starting here at school,
and seeing you now, it kinda reminded me that...
Suddenly, Arcana puts down her pen.
Hm?
She gets up and walks over to my desk.
... She looks serious.
What is it?
... Time-out.
Time-out?
Arcana moves as if to hug me...
then starts to lightly punch me repeatedly in the chest.
Y-yeah, but...
... wasn't that a joke?
...
The punches start getting stronger.
No, I'm being serious!
Who would ever look at you and think you're cold and ruthless?
...
Arcana stops hitting me.
A lot of people, actually.
... Huh?
I used to get that a lot,
back when I had just become a Nikke.
Granted, I was kinda like that even before I was a Nikke.
You remember that?
Yeah.
I mean, the whole reason I took over at the Forbidden Library in the first place was out of a sense of duty.
It'd be weird to feel that way while not remembering my time as a human, no?
I guess they could've messed with my memories and forced me into this job,
but our boss isn't that kind of person.
...
Anyway, after work, whenever I went out or met someone,
a lot of people would say that sort of thing,
that I seemed cold and detached.
I can't imagine it...
Arcana takes a deep breath, clasps her hands, and focuses.
...
Her eyes go cold and emotionless. She starts to turn her gaze toward me, and then...
Pfft. I can't do it.
Why're you laughing?
I can't help it. Looking at you makes me happy.
...
Anyway, you admit it now, right?
That you're cold and ruthless?
Yeah.
... Okay, I'll admit it.
I admit nothing.
...
Arcana makes an ominous expression,
and reaches toward a small potted plant by the window...
Okay, I admit it! I admit it!
Good boy.
Arcana gently strokes my hair.
... Is it really that important, though?
None of it changes the fact that you're you.
...
What?
You shouldn't always say such nice things.
...
Hehe.
Arcana looks at the flower blooming in the pot by the window.
Honestly...
I guess it doesn't matter that much at this point.
... Still, I need to remember what I was like before I became this happy,
so I don't take it for granted.
...
I have to keep reminding myself of it,
or else I'm liable to get caught up in the here and now,
and forget who I am and what I need to do.
It's the same now.
If you...
If you hadn't steadied me like you did,
I just might've turned into a spoiled child.
... I can't imagine that, either.
Really?
Arcana leans into me.
She rubs her cheek against my chest.
Wh-what are you doing?
Is it so hard to imagine now?
...
If, from the time you started at your job up until now,
you spent almost all of your time alone,
wouldn't it only be natural to crave the warmth and affection of another?
Arcana looks up at me with slightly teary eyes.
... Honestly, I'm pretty sad about this whole setup.
I pretended to be okay with it all back in the storage room,
when in reality it makes me really sad. It feels like a giant missed opportunity.
But you know...
seeing you work so hard at being a teacher, even though it's not your actual job,
it made me decide to put my feelings on hold and work hard too, even though I'm not really a student.
It's just... Eh?!
I pull Arcana into a hug.
It's hard to explain,
but it felt as if she'd disappear any moment if I didn't.
L-let go... please.
No.
... If you keep doing this,
I really might stop holding back and do whatever I want.
I'll work on enticing you every day,
texting you during class,
showing up at your room,
and doing much more than that, just to make up for how much I've been holding back.
So please,
let me keep being a model student, and also...
the manager of the Forbidden Library. Okay?
...
Stroke Arcana's hair.
Pull Arcana into an even tighter hug.
... Giving you a compliment.
You've been working so hard at both school and the Forbidden Library,
and you've done a great job.
Of course.
Have you never been complimented like this before?
Who exactly do you think would do something like this for me?
... Fair point.
Hehe.
Arcana pulls away.
It's not a very long-lasting charge, is it?
But it was fast, right?
That's why you need to compliment me more often! Just tell me how well I'm doing
And that's enough for you?
Yup.
Arcana picks up a small watering can and waters the potted plant by the window.
What else would I need?
As our brief "break" comes to an end,
we return to our seats and finish our work,
and then leave the library, making sure to turn off the lights and lock up on our way out.
Arcana.
Yeah?
... I know it's a little weird to ask this now,
but do you have any regrets?
About what?
About your time here at school,
and how it's passing by so uneventfully.
We can't always be together, though.
Yeah... That part's a little disappointing.
...
... Actually, now that I think about it, it's really disappointing!
Not only do we not get to see each other often,
but we're teacher and student, so we can't even do anything all that intense! Agh!
It's lacking in both quantity and quality...!
Arcana clutches her head and slumps down.
...
Why're you smiling? I'm being serious.
Nothing, it's just...
This feels like such a "you" way to react.
What's that supposed to mean...?
Arcana sighs and lets her shoulders droop.
Anyway, now that this serious problem has been brought to my attention, here's an assignment for both of us.
While properly adhering to the roles of teacher and student,
we need to figure out a way to create some romantic moments!
...
I thought about it for a second, but can't think of anything.
Me neither! We're doomed!
*Sigh...* I guess that leaves us with only one option.
At this point, we just have to focus on maintaining the status quo,
and then aim for a last-minute comeback.
You wanna bet it all on the fourth quarter, huh?
As they say, you only live once!
We continue chatting until we arrive at the intersection leading to our respective rooms.
Well, good job today... Actually, speaking of work.
What is it?
Mr. Commander,
do you realize that, ever since starting work at this school,
you've worked late every single day, without exception?
R-really?
Hmm... Okay. I'll take it easy.
Liar. You were gonna keep working, weren't you?
...
Arcana holds out her pinky finger.
Promise me.
... Okay. Promise.
It's okay. Do whatever you want.
I can handle it. There's only one of you, after all.
Privaty can take care of them.
I'm just an assistant, remember?
What about the Forbidden Library?
It's a problem for another day.
I'll manage it somehow.
Sounds irresponsible to me.
I'll be responsible for you.
... Now you sound like a player.
Do you dislike it?
No.
Arcana takes my hand and brings it to her cheek.
I feel a warm, pleasant heat.
My heart's racing.
...
... Can we go to your room right now?
My room?
Yeah.
I'm not planning on doing anything. I just...
I wanna lean against you and put my head on your shoulder,
and then fall asleep without having to worry about what others think,
all the while feeling your warmth.
... But we both still have work left to do.
...
... You really are becoming spoiled.
I told you, hehe.
I stand up and take Arcana's hand.
Let's go. Are you hungry?
I am.
Actually, now that I think about it,
isn't this going to be the first time we eat together since coming here?
Is it?
Yeah.
So, to commemorate the occasion, I'll make us something.
Is there anything in particular you want to eat?
The question you should be asking is whether there's anything we can actually make.
I have nothing in my fridge.
Hehe. Really?
Then let's go grocery shopping.
From now on, I'll make you dinner every day.
Would you like a packed lunch as well?
You'd do that for me?
Of course! I can do it from now until forever.
Arcana and I leave the school together.
While I may be wearing a suit and she may be wearing a school uniform,
if someone were to hear us talking, they'd never think we were a teacher and a student.
30. Spoiled
177 linesA few days later...
Privaty is currently away taking care of other matters, leaving me to take care of homeroom in her place.
Ein.
Here.
Zwei.
Here.
While calling attendance...
Arcana.
...
... Hm?
When I look up, Arcana is nowhere to be seen.
Huh...
Now that I think of it, when we ate dinner together last night,
I remember her saying she didn't feel well.
Amy, you're roommates with Arcana, right?
Did she tell you anything?
Well, not exactly.
She had just barely gotten up when I was on my way out.
I couldn't say whether she was unwell, though.
Hmm...
Have everyone study on their own, and go check on her.
Tend to the students for now.
I finish attendance and take the tablet.
I'm going to go check if Arcana is okay.
Miss Privaty will be back soon, so just study on your own until she gets here.
I slide the door open and head out.
Wow, talk about special treatment.
Are they dating?
I heard someone saw them together late last night.
Really? That confirms it then, right?
... Okay, you have to keep this a secret,
but I heard Arcana visits Mr. Commander's room a lot.
That's messed up...
... Rumors are starting to spread.
It's not really anything to worry about, though, right?
Those two will both be gone after the festival,
and they were already close to begin with. It's not like they're actually teacher and student.
...
I leave the classroom to look for Arcana.
... I may be worried, but I can't abandon the students here.
I'll drop by to check on Arcana during break time.
Thanks for telling me, Amy.
Let's proceed with class. Miss Privaty will be back soon.
Privaty comes back around the end of first period, so I leave the students with her and head out to look for Arcana.
After confirming she's not in the dorm, I head to the nurse's office, but...
She's not here either...
She's not answering my calls or reading any of my messages.
Where could she...
*Bzzz*
I get a message from Arcana.
...
There you are.
When I arrive, Arcana greets me while lying on the bed, rolling around lazily.
How did you get in here?
It's a secret.
...
*Yawn...* I'm tired.
Arcana hugs the pillow.
...
You need to go to class.
Arcana sits up.
... Arcana.
No...?
*Sigh...*
That's not the real problem here.
Then what is it?
...
Arcana stretches out both arms.
... The thought of refusing doesn't even occur to me.
Hehe.
As soon as I hug her, Arcana burrows into my arms as if seeking warmth.
... There's nothing wrong with you, is there?
Not at all. In fact, things have been really good lately.
Then...
...
Arcana slightly pulls away.
... I'm sorry.
I know I've been a lot lately.
But...
I just can't help it... Actually, that's not quite right.
Arcana looks up at me.
I probably can, but... I don't want to.
Yeah, I think that's more honest.
I don't want to hold back. I just want to lean on you.
...
You weren't like this before.
...
But now...
I mean, this is my first time experiencing something like this, you know?
Being able to put aside my duty,
and just spend quality time with the one person I really care about.
...
It's made me feel more... liberated, both in body and mind.
... Actually,
it's to the point now where I don't want to go back.
Arca...
...
*Sigh* Something might actually be wrong with me physically, though.
My physical condition tends to have a big impact on my mental state.
... You're okay, though, right?
Earlier, you were acting a little...
A little what?
...
... Yeah.
You think so? Well...
I've always been pretty dependent, and have never been the strongest mentally,
and I like being spoiled.
...
Does that surprise you? Hehe.
I wouldn't quite call it that...
Everyone lives their life wearing some sort of mask, right?
I doubt there's anyone who doesn't.
The reason you're seeing mine come off...
... is because you're you.
...
You know...
I'd like to keep being... this. Is that okay?
Not the manager of the Forbidden Archive with a suffocating sense of duty.
Just...
a carefree transfer student who likes her teacher. Is that okay?
... Of course.
Honestly, a little bit, but...
I actually like it.
But what?
... But not to the point of disliking it.
Like you said, we all have different sides to us.
... Thank you for saying that.
Arcana hugs me again.
Skip school with me today.
... Okay.
Hold me in your arms, and don't let go.
... Okay.
...
No. I'll take you back to your room in a little while.
Sure. Spend the night.
Tch.
You have a roommate, remember? And we can't forget about curfew.
Sleeping over is on a completely different level from just spending time in my room.
... Now you're talking like a teacher.
For the time being, I am one.
Says the man who's already done things a teacher shouldn't.
...
Look, it's fine.
I've also done things a student shouldn't do.
That just means...
we can cozy up together as accomplices.
... Okay.
Be careful not to get caught.
It's fine. Everyone's probably in class anyway.
...
Hearing Arcana say it out loud makes me feel rather... immoral.
That's... true.
Arcana looks out the window.
31. Curiosity Resolved
107 linesThe teachers' office door slides open.
Since class has just ended, the teachers' office is bustling with teachers and students.
However...
Privaty is nowhere to be found.
I slowly walk toward her desk.
*Scrape*
I sit down in Privaty's chair.
It's much too low for me.
Would it be about this height when Privaty sits?
While I wait for Privaty, pointless thoughts like this drift through my mind.
*Tap, tap*
Someone lightly taps my shoulder.
Miss Privaty...?!
Oh my.
I thought since you were sitting in her seat, you'd be...
Oh, no, I should be the one apologizing.
Do you know when Miss Privaty is coming back?
She hasn't been back to the teachers' office since last period.
She didn't look well, so I suggested she go rest in the nurse's office.
The nurse's office!
Right, how did I not think of that?
Thank you.
I head out of the teachers' office and run over to the nurse's office.
*Pant, pant*
Instead of lying in a bed in the nurse's office like I expected, Privaty walks out looking perfectly fine.
You're not sick...?
Huh? Me?
Not at all. I just wasn't feeling great since I didn't get much sleep.
I took a nice nap in the nurse's office, so I'm feeling much better now.
I also sorted a few things out.
What do you mean?
Lately, I've been having a lot of thoughts I shouldn't have as a teacher.
About the students in our class...
And about you too, Commander.
So I decided to put those thoughts to rest.
So... what kind of thoughts were they?
I've already sorted them out. I don't see any reason to say them out loud.
It wasn't anything important.
You said you were losing sleep over it.
Oh...
Haha! I'm kidding. There's no need to make that face.
It really wasn't a big deal.
I was just a little jealous seeing the students get so close to each other.
The situation still bothers me, but Privaty seems unwilling to discuss the matter any further.
What should I do?
Press a little further.
End the conversation here.
If it were something that could be sorted out this easily, she wouldn't have been losing sleep over it for days.
I think it's better to clear the air here and now.
Miss Privaty, please be honest with me.
I want to help you too.
*Sigh*
I finally managed to sort things out today.
I don't know why you keep stirring it all up again.
Fine, I'll tell you.
Lately, whenever I see my students, my mood hasn't been good, and I keep getting these sudden surges of emotion.
So I thought about why,
and I realized that I'd started getting jealous of students who are always close to you.
And I felt that way, even though I'm a teacher.
I hated myself for it, so I've been losing sleep over it.
Does that satisfy your curiosity?
...
So how did you sort out your emotions?
Did you sort out your feelings about me?
...!
Um...
...
Do you really think it would be that easy?
That's enough talk.
It's getting late. We should head back.
Sure.
After hearing Privaty's answer,
I feel an inexplicable mix of relief and satisfaction.
With that, we head back to our respective dorm rooms.
If I keep pressing, she might get irritated.
I'll ask her if another chance presents itself. But for today, I'll let her rest.
I'm glad you're feeling better.
Are you heading back to the dorms? I'll walk with you.
...
What was the point of trying to sort everything out all day
when I still waver like this again...
Sorry?
I walk Privaty back to the dorm.
The school bell rings.
Hmm? What do you mean?
Miss Privaty's seemed a bit on edge lately.
She looked pretty tired too.
Anyway, she looks better today.
You think so too, Ein?
That's good to hear.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
32. Out of Sync Feelings
41 lines*Creeeak*
A vacant gym with no one inside.
This place reminds me of the physical training class from a few days ago.
Privaty and I are taking turns helping each other stretch.
I don't remember how many laps we ran around the gym, but...
I even ran into Privaty in the showers when I went to wash off the sweat.
...
Continuing this train of thought could be dangerous.
I was pretty sure things between us were good up until that day.
But we've barely run into each other since then.
I also remember Privaty's expression seeming a little off somehow.
Did I do something to offend her...?
...
I sit there absentmindedly, lost in thought. Before I know it, the sun has already set.
Gah!
It's probably too late to look for Privaty now.
In the end, after spending time in the gym,
In the end, I head back to my dorm room without accomplishing anything.
The school bell rings.
We all submit our homework using the tablets at our desks.
No, it's just that the file size is a bit large.
I'm sending it now.
Okay.
Huh? What makes you ask that?
She's been especially cold to you lately.
Even when several people are chatting, she'll single you and scold you.
Hmm... so you've noticed it too?
We were, but things seem to have soured, although I don't know exactly why.
Commander, class has started. Please refrain from chatting.
Sorry, Miss Privaty.
... See?
As the lesson begins,
my emotions are a tangled mess.
33. Privaty's Trust
216 lines*Slide*
I carefully open the door to the nurse's office.
The lights are off, and a cold chill lingers in the air.
I walk inside slowly,
and find Privaty sleeping on the innermost bed.
...
I sit on the edge of the bed and quietly look at her.
I reach out and brush aside her bangs,
slightly damp with sweat.
Mm-hmm.
Yes, it's me.
I've been looking at you the entire time we've been at this school.
As I stroke her hair, Privaty reaches out and grabs my arm.
...??
Commander?
Hmm?
Uh... Commander?
Yes?
No, it wasn't.
That feels a little unfair...
Of course.
School's over for the day.
Oh...
I guess I slept through the final bell.
The sun's already set too.
Even so, you didn't have to come all the way here.
I was worried.
Wh-what for?
You really were exhausted, weren't you?
*Sigh*
I want to say no,
but since you caught me sleeping here, I can't deny it.
Yes, I haven't been sleeping well lately.
Why?
...
Privaty looks at me with a slightly resentful gaze.
... I was frustrated with myself.
Frustrated...?
I...
I said I wanted you to have fond memories of your school days.
That's why I got everyone together to hang out, hoping you'd grow closer to them...
But I ended up getting jealous.
Students who would normally be nothing but sweet and adorable...
Just seeing them sticking so close to you...
For some reason, it made me resent them... and envy them too.
I kept wondering, if I were a student, would I be able to stand by your side like they do?
Even though it's not my place.
... I'm a terrible teacher.
You lost sleep over something like that?
Take Privaty's hand.
Tease Privaty.
...?!
Privaty looks at me with a puzzled expression.
There's no need to be jealous.
What do you mean...
I don't hold my friends' hands like this.
...!!
Lean in closer to Privaty.
Stare straight at Privaty.
W-wait a second!
I wouldn't even think about leaning in this close to them.
...
Does that mean...
Commander...
Do you see me differently from the other students?
Is it all right if I think that?
I nod.
Privaty lowers her head and slowly fiddles with my hand, just like before.
You're hiding your face again.
Show me.
Instead of refusing like I expected,
Privaty slightly lifts her head and looks up at me.
...
...
In the dim nurse's office, there are only the sounds of our conscious breathing,
the sound of our hands brushing against each other,
and occasionally the sound of rustling fabric.
It's been so noisy lately.
It's nice to have some peace and quiet.
... Yeah.
Next time, I'll take you to a quiet place that I know.
I think you'll like it.
It's nice and spacious,
and there's not a single soul there.
I can't wait.
Are you still tired?
I guess so... I think it hit me all at once now that I'm not so tensed.
Lie down. I'll put you sleep.
I grab Privaty's shoulders and lay her down on the bed.
...!
Since you finally have the chance, just get some good rest.
*Swoosh*
I cover Privaty with a blanket,
and gently pat her on the shoulder.
For a moment, Privaty struggles to stay awake,
but soon falls asleep.
Now that she's sleeping, I should leave.
Mmm...
As I try to get up,
Privaty turns and burrows her head against me.
...!
Mmm...
...
Unsure how to position myself, I eventually relaxed.
As I watch Privaty sleeping deeply in my arms, I eventually drift off as well.
The school bell rings.
*Slide* *Bang*
Hello, everyone. A very good morning to you!
All right everyone, turn in yesterday's homework first!
Ein, don't just stand there. Take your seat.
...?
The bell rang literally a second ago.
How is it that you're coming into class a second earlier every day?
At this rate, you'll come in before the bell tomorrow.
Arcana, Amy, please return to your seats as well.
Got it.
Okay.
Did something happen to Miss Privaty or something?
She's been in such a good mood these past few days.
I'm not sure!
Everyone quickly returns to their seats.
Yes, Miss Privaty!
I grin mischievously.
I guess it can't be helped. I'll have to spend some time with you tomorrow.
Th-that's not what I meant!
...
*Sigh* Never mind.
Anyway, what I meant was that being a teacher has given me a lot to think about.
Come on, I've slept enough. Let's head back.
Privaty stands up, brushing off her clothes.
After that, we both return to our respective dorm rooms.
The school bell rings.
Hmm... I guess.
It was kinda fun watching her emotions swing all over the place before
but it feels like she's been a lot calmer lately.
Well, maybe it's just my imagination.
Hmm...
Yes, Miss Privaty.
Oh, uh...
It's fine.
You don't have to force yourself to say something just to comfort me.
I've had thoughts unbecoming of a teacher. That much is true.
But I feel a lot better after getting some sleep.
... I liked that you held my hand, too.
Privaty's hand, which I'm still holding, twitches slightly.
Okay.
Privaty stands up, brushing off her clothes.
After that, we both return to our respective dorm rooms.
The school bell rings.
Hmm? What do you mean?
Miss Privaty's seemed a bit on edge lately.
She looked pretty tired too.
Anyway, she looks better today.
You think so too, Ein?
That's good to hear.
Yes, Miss Privaty.
34. Photography Club As Three
187 linesAnd so, we officially form our very own photography club.
Let's go here today.
Ah, is this the new park that just opened?
Yeah. The flowers are in full bloom right now, so it's supposed to be really pretty.
I already packed us lunch, so we can go right now.
... What about taking photos?
Of course we'll take them while we're there! We're killing two birds with one stone.
...
*Click*
Oooh, that came out nice.
Does it look good?
That's the perfect shot!
Arcana hands me back the camera.
In the photo, she's sitting by the cafe window, gazing outside with a wistful look in her eyes.
It feels a bit staged.
You don't usually make that kind of expression.
That's because I'm a student right now!
Normally I'm a cold, ruthless professional! An ice queen, just so you know!
Eh. I can't imagine it.
Yeah, me neither.
You should've done it earlier instead of putting it off.
Yeah, but—
You're gonna say you're having too much fun at school, aren't you?
You must have said that ten times already.
More like twenty, I'd say.
You guys are mean!
Here.
I feed the pouting Arcana some chocolate,
and her expression immediately softens.
That's why I'm helping you. Let's finish up quickly.
For something that's supposed to be a photography club, it feels more like we're just enjoying school life...
*Click*
Huh?
Arcana aims her camera at me and presses the shutter. Her eyes widen when she looks at the screen.
Arcana shows Amy the camera.
... Wow.
How insane is that?
What is it? Show me.
Nope.
Arcana playfully hides the camera behind her back.
Come on, what is it?
Um... it's better if you didn't see it, Commander.
Why?
I've been studying photography lately.
Just like in paintings, they say a photographer's emotions and perspective...
They're captured in the photos they take.
And it's abundantly clear this one is filled with affect—mmph!
Arcana hurriedly covers Amy's mouth.
S-speaking of which, why don't we go on photo-taking trip?
... What about work?
We're all done.
After breaking free from Arcana, Amy scans the tasks.
Oh. We really are.
Ahem.
Well, since it's getting a bit late today...
Why don't we take some photos around the school?
I'll take a photo for you.
You two stand together.
Arcana steps in front of me and leans her back against my chest.
You always do this when we take pictures together.
Commander, don't stand there like a statue. Move closer to her.
Or strike a pose.
Mmm...
Wrap my arms around Arcana.
Strike an awkward pose.
I lean forward slightly, hugging Arcana and resting my head on her shoulder.
Arcana stiffens for a moment, then looks up at me and grins.
*Click*
Okay. Keep that pose.
Amy's turning into a real professional photographer.
Yeah. She's way more into it than I expected.
That's it, keep talking while looking at each other like that!
She's telling us to keep talking?
Uh... what should we talk about?
What should we eat for dinner?
What do you want to eat?
Whatever you want.
*Click*
What were you two talking about? Arcana was looking at you with such lovey-dovey eyes.
Nothing special. We were just talking about what to eat for dinner.
Pfft, what's with that pose?
I'm imitating the pose you always do for selfies.
Huh? When have I ever done that?
Arcana starts striking a strange pose.
You've gotta do it like this.
... Could you two be serious for a second?
I'm being serious!
Me too!
*Sigh*
*Click, click*
After continuing the shoot for a while...
Amy!
Arcana waves toward Amy.
Yeah?
I-I don't really like being photographed...
Aww, come on.
Arcana links an arm with Amy and pulls her over.
Then she links arms with me on her other side.
How are you even going to take the photo like this?
Oh, right!
Arcana quickly sets the camera on a tripod and hurries back.
Okay, good to go.
...
I don't even need to look at Amy to know what her expression is.
I feel the same way, Amy.
I get bright, but what does youthful even mean?
Mmm...
I doubt she knows either.
Hehe. How did you know?
The camera light flashes, signaling the photo is about to be taken.
Hyah!
At that moment, Arcana pokes Amy in the side.
Gah!
This is youth. Hyaaah!
Aaaah! S-stop! That tickles!
Arcana's fingers suddenly dig into my side when I'm not paying attention.
You won't be spared either, Commander!
Gah?!
Stop, p-please!
N-no, this actually hurts...?!
Hehehehe...
*Click*
Soon after...
After Amy leaves first, Arcana and I take a short walk around the campus before sitting on a bench.
Yeah, they turned out pretty well.
Right? The school is so pretty and it has such a youthful vibe.
Arcana looks around.
... But Commander,
I'm not the only one having fun, right?
You weren't uncomfortable being around Amy, were you?
Did it look like I was?
Mmm...
Seeing you enjoy yourself makes me happy too.
Heh, really?
Arcana looks toward the field,
swinging her legs as she sits on the bench.
What's gotten into you?
Because I'm happy.
Arcana turns slightly toward me.
...
... Commander.
Yes?
Somehow I've gotten used to her calling my name.
Hehe...
Arcana leans against my shoulder in what's now a familiar motion.
And...
...
Arcana lifts her head and looks up at me.
Thank you, Commander...
Her face contains an expression unlike any I've seen before.
It's a mixture of various emotions:
Joy. Sadness. Gratitude. Regret.
And...
... For being a part of my dream.
Arcana's voice, sweet and ethereal,
seems to melt into the spring breeze.
35. Divination Club, Just the Two of Us
183 linesAnd so, Arcana and I officially form our very own divination club.
Arcana sits across from me in the clubroom.
...
She deliberately puts on an air of mystery and peers into a crystal ball.
What do you see?
That's not how you ask.
Then how am I supposed to?
Uh, I mean...
Come on. There's no way you can see the future or fate just by staring into a glass ball.
Isn't that what fortune-tellers and prophets are supposed to do?
That's true, but I'm neither of those.
Then what are you?
Arcana places both hands on the crystal ball and falls deep into thought.
Isn't it usually impossible to see your own future?
That may be true for ordinary prophets.
But I'm not ordinary at all! I'm in a class of my own!
In other words, a legendary prophet like no other.
...
Dozens of retorts come to mind,
but Arcana looks so happy that I decide to let it go.
Oooh, isn't that...!
Arcana hurriedly takes out some stones, spreads them across the desk,
and begins to study them seriously...
Oooh, I see. Mm-hmm. Now I get it.
... What is it?
If you say it's a secret, I'm seriously going to be mad.
It's a secret.
...
It's a s—heh.
...
...
... I-I'm just kidding! You don't have to glare at me like that.
For stuff like this, atmosphere and momentum make up about 200% of it.
If you grab their attention like this right from the start...!
Arcana spreads tarot cards across the desk.
... Even if things don't quite add up, they'll just go along with it!
... Isn't that just a scam?
Hey now.
Like I said before, it's kind of like counseling.
People only see what they want to see,
and believe what they want to believe.
Arcana flips over one card.
The Star.
Arcana hesitates, then flips over another card.
The Moon.
...
Aren't you supposed to flip three cards?
Oh, right! Yeah.
Arcana starts to flip another card, but stops.
Arcana takes out a wooden board with letters written on it.
A spirit board.
What do you do with that?
Mmm... to put it simply, you summon a spirit and ask it things.
I figured it'd be more fun if we did it together.
What are you planning to ask?
About that... there are more restrictions than you'd think.
There are some things you're not supposed to ask.
Man, these spirits sure are strict.
Right? I mean, they should be grateful a living person is even talking to them.
Anyway, I'll give you a rough explanation, so listen up.
As Arcana begins to explain various things, I suddenly speak up.
Hold on.
You used to do stuff like this when you were alone in the Forbidden Library, right?
... Yeah, pretty much.
...
... Because you were lonely?
...
Arcana sets the planchette down.
Actually, one of the biggest taboos with a spirit board is using it alone.
But honestly, ghosts and curses don't really scare me.
I just... wanted someone, anyone, to talk to.
...
H-huh?
Arcana gets up from her seat and walks over briskly.
She sits down next to me and hooks her arm around mine.
... That was all before I met you, though.
I got it, I got it.
... But why are you not calling me by my name anymore?
Because this something I'm saying to you as a fellow classmate, not as an upperclassman.
...??
Uh, um. It's just one of those things.
Anyway.
Don't keep bringing that up, okay?
I've been really happy since I met you.
Even now, being with you is so much fun.
... Got it.
Arcana picks up the spirit board's planchette.
Let's start again.
Starting with the spirit board,
I spend the entire day listening to Arcana lecture me about all kinds of fortune-telling and occult-related things.
Later, on the way back after leaving the clubroom together...
Oh, right! I'm supposed to have dinner with Amy today.
Mind if I come along?
Have a good meal.
Of course! Even if you said you weren't going, I was planning to drag you along.
You were?
Yup! You only get one school life, after all.
It's good to get along with your friends too, you know.
Mmm...
... You disagree?
It's not that, exactly.
It's just that I like spending time alone with you more.
...
...
Arcana smiles softly and glances around.
Oh... you're not going?
It'd be kind of awkward if I tagged along.
Is it still awkward when it's just the two of you?
N-no, th-that's n-not it at all. O-of course not!
We're super close! We're basically best friends!
I think you're protesting a bit too much...
N-no! I'm serious!
It's just...
I only brought it up so you wouldn't feel pressured. No need to be mean about it.
Y-you did?
Yeah...
... I'm sorry.
Are you really?
Y-yeah.
Then you'll come along, right?
I had a feeling this would happen...
...
...
Okay...
Hehe. Thank you.
Since it's just the two of us in the club, I wanted the three of us to hang out sometimes too.
Ah, speaking of which...
Arcana stops walking and glances around.
Yeah.
It's not easy getting inside the Forbidden Library that often, after all.
Yeah, well... I can come out more often now that I used to.
But it's still only for short periods.
Ah, right.
Hmm?
Arcana stops and holds out a tarot card.
This.
It's not the Wheel of Fortune.
Earlier, I only flipped two cards instead of three.
This was the third.
I take the tarot card.
It's The Lovers.
I don't think that's what you think it means.
Hey, what did I say before?
Tarot is all about interpretation.
Correct!
Arcana starts walking again.
I slip the card in my pocket and follow after her.
*Step, step*
... Commander.
Yes?
...
Yeah. Me too.
36. Hangover Recovery
107 lines*Knock, knock*
...
There's no response.
*Knock, knock, knock*
*Crash!*
There's a loud noise from inside.
Did she fall...?
Who... Ahem! Who is it?
Her voice sounds hoarse, and has a slight slur to it.
... Has she been drinking?
Privaty. It's me.
Th-that sounds like... No way...
*Creeeak*
The door opens just a crack.
You didn't seem to be feeling well, so I got you some supplement drinks.
Supplement drinks...?
Yeah. Mind if I come in for a moment?
That's fine. I don't mind.
...
Privaty looks extremely hesitant,
but also doesn't seem to want to turn me away after I came here bearing gifts,
so after a moment of deliberation, she opens the door.
Thank you.
It looks like she was drinking beer earlier.
There are empty cans on the table.
Were you drinking alone?
Erm... Yeah.
I didn't take you for the type to enjoy drinking alone.
Here. Drink one of these.
I pull a bottle from the box of supplements and hand it to her.
*Gulp, gulp*
Ahhh... I really needed that.
Is the reason you haven't been feeling well lately because you've been drinking?
Oh... You noticed.
I've been careful not to let it affect work,
but for some reason, I couldn't stop yesterday and ended up overdoing it.
I'm sorry. It won't happen again.
Did something bad happen yesterday? Why'd you suddenly drink so much?
Like what?
... Um.
... Heh, if you'd asked me that just a little while ago, I would've had the courage to tell you.
But now I've sobered up a bit.
Is it because of me?
In that case, want to drink some more?
I don't think I can lie and say no...
Actually, you know what? Yes, it is because of you, Mr. Commander.
Ever since the day we got trapped in that storage room, I keep asking myself.
What are we, exactly? What would've happened if the guard hadn't come?
...!
How far would we have gone...?
How can I focus at work if I keep thinking about those sorts of things?
Every time I see you, I just...!
Hah... I guess I'm still drunk.
Here I wasn't going to say anything, but it all just came pouring out.
Anyway, with those thoughts, and then trying to think about the students,
and thinking about the festival we have to put on soon, and worrying about whether we'll be able to do a good job, and...
My head's just full of all sorts of thoughts.
Sorry, it's a lot, isn't it?
Yeah, sounds like it.
You can rely on me a bit more, you know.
What?
Don't drink alone next time. Drink with me.
...
I thought about that too, but I didn't have the courage...
... now that my feelings have grown.
What?
N-nothing!
Anyway, sure. Let's drink together next time.
But in your room, Mr. Commander.
I never expected you to see my room like this.
Yeah, okay.
... Still, I feel better now having talked about it.
Thank you for coming over.
I think I'll be feeling a bit better when you see me tomorrow.
I'm glad to hear that.
After chatting with Privaty a little longer,
and confirming that she has mostly sobered up, I return to my room.
I'm relieved now, having heard how Privaty feels, but at the same time, I feel an odd sense of regret.
... Maybe what I really wanted was to get drunk together with her.
What...? You want to have a drink? Here? Now?
Hmm...
I finished drinking that supplement just now,
and there's no other food to eat, so I was planning on stopping.
Oh... Yeah, okay. Makes sense.
Still, you shouldn't drink alone from now on. Call me and we can drink together. Got it?
Yeah, there's that, but also drinking together is just more fun.
You can rely on me a bit more, you know.
No problem. See you tomorrow.
After chatting with Privaty a little longer,
and confirming that she has mostly sobered up, I return to my room.
... Next time, maybe we can talk more.
37. Round Two Begins
137 lines*Knock, knock*
...
There's no response.
*Knock, knock, knock*
*Crash!*
There's a loud noise from inside.
Did she fall...?
Who... Ahem! Who is it?
Her voice sounds hoarse, and has a slight slur to it.
... Has she been drinking?
Privaty. It's me.
Th-that sounds like... No way...
*Creeeak*
The door opens just a crack.
Uh... well.
Unsure of what to say,
I hold out the bag of snacks.
Care for some snacks for when you drink?
Yeah, sure.
Privaty opens the door,
and I step into her room, slightly nervous.
Looks like you've already downed a few cans.
Yep.
I still have some alcohol left, but I didn't have anything to snack on,
so I was just going to stop.
And then...! Surprise!
You showed up, Mr. Commander, at just the perfect time.
Privaty looks through the snacks in the bag.
Yeah, I'll take whatever you've got.
Privaty seems more excited than usual. The alcohol must be kicking in.
*Thack! Fizz...*
Cheers!
*Gulp, gulp*
Ahh! That's great.
*Crunch, crunch*
Mmm! These snacks are good, too!
You're in a good mood.
Of course I am.
I'd wanted to have just one more drink, and now I've got snacks to go with it!
Also, I'd wanted to see you, and now you're here!
...!
Normally, Privaty would've panicked at what she just said and then acted upset to hide her feelings,
but instead, she just giggles and takes another sip of beer.
Privaty.
Yesss?
Have you been drinking a lot by yourself like this lately?
Yup, yup.
At first, I told myself I'd just have one drink since I have so much on my mind,
but then I started to enjoy it, and it'd get me in a good mood, so I've been doing it pretty often lately.
I really need to be careful not make a habit of it, though.
Does that mean the reason you didn't seem to be feeling well today was because of...
!!
W-was it that obvious?
Ugh, I knew it.
The stuff I was drinking yesterday just tasted so good that I couldn't stop!
But then I got a pretty bad hangover... Haha.
I'm sorry! It won't happen again. I swear!
I know better than anyone that I can't allow this to interfere with my work!
... By the way, were you worried?
Yeah, of course.
Is that why you came to see me?
Yeah.
Hehe... I guess maybe not all hangovers are bad.
...
Did something... happen to you recently?
Huh? Why?
It's just a little weird that you'd suddenly start drinking so much.
Oh.
Hmm!
Hmmmmm...!
To be perfectly honest, nothing has happened lately.
So much nothing!
Between the two of us.
Huh? What do you mean?
You remember the day we got trapped in the storage room, right?
After that day, I just...!
I really thought something would happen between us.
I mean, sure! I didn't do anything either...
But still, I thought we'd at least have one of those... whatchamacallits...
Situationships! That's what they call them. Situationships.
I thought we'd at least have one of those.
But nothing changed between us.
Every time I see you, Mr. Commander, my heart feels like it's going to burst, and yet you act like nothing's different.
And if that weren't bad enough, you're so ridiculously popular that the students are always trying to spend time with you.
There's nothing I can do! Nothing!
S-slow down a sec, Privaty... Just calm down.
This is my first time dealing with feelings like this, so I don't know what to do...!
That's why I've been getting a little help from alcohol.
...
As I watch Privaty open up so casually about how she's been feeling, I'm reminded of just how powerful alcohol really is.
You should've come to me if you were struggling with all that.
You're really drunk. You should probably get some sleep.
See, but that's what I'm saying. That's not something that's easy for me to do.
Still, let's make today the last day you drink alone.
Next time, drink with me.
... Just the two of us?
Yeah.
L-like this, in one of our rooms?
Yeah.
B-but then something might happen...! You know, with just the two of us drinking together... something could happen!
That's true. You never know what might happen when a man and woman get drunk together.
Are you sure you're okay with that?
I-I-I mean, yes, obviously...!
There's no way I wouldn't be.
But in that case...!
Next time, let's drink in your room.
I never expected you to see my room like this.
It's clean enough.
...
S-so... cheers?
Cheers.
I finish the last, tingling sip.
Privaty smiles drowsily as she sees me off, after which I return to my room.
I'd had a tight feeling in my chest that now feels much lighter.
Savoring the slight buzz, I drift off to sleep.
I'm not the one who's drunk. You are.
Oh? Really?
Well, I guess we'll just have to call it an evening then. You'd better drink more next time!
Yeah, yeah.
Yeah, fine.
I help Privaty lie down on the bed, then return to my room.
It would've been nice to talk a little more,
but just hearing Privaty honestly express her feelings made it a more than satisfying night.
38. Minimum Courtesy
52 lines*Knock, knock*
Who is it?
Privaty. It's me.
Th-that sounds like... No way...
*Creeeak*
The door opens just a crack.
I just stopped by to see check in.
What were you doing?
I was having a can of beer.
Alone?
Yeah.
I'm starting to feel a bit awkward just standing at the door.
May I come in for a bit?
What? You want to come in?
You just show up unannounced and then ask to come in...?
I'm not very comfortable with that, and this is me we're talking about.
I just want to talk.
You didn't look all that well today.
Is something going on?
No, nothing.
... Privaty doesn't seem willing to open up.
Maybe I should've brought her something after all.
All right, but from now on, no drinking alone.
We can drink together.
...!
Drinking by yourself isn't any fun, right?
...
You're always like this...
*Sigh...*
Okay, fine.
But we'll drink in your room, Mr. Commander.
I'd prefer to drink in yours.
Okay. I'll make sure to clean before you come.
...
Privaty gives me a chilling stare.
I'm just kidding! It was a joke...
...!
Y-you don't have to go to that much trouble.
Anyway, I'm sorry for worrying you.
And thank you for coming.
We talk briefly in the hallway,
and I return to my room with a lot of regret.
... Next time, hopefully we can talk more.
39. Able to Lean on Each Other
208 linesOne morning...
As I get dressed and gather my things to go to work...
... Uh-oh.
... the room suddenly starts to spin.
I stagger and brace myself on the desk.
Whoa...
The dizziness gets worse.
Th-this...
isn't... good...
*Thud*
About an hour later...
Sorry... I must've been a lot more stressed than I realized.
You've survived getting holes put in you like it was nothing. How much stress have you been under exactly?!
Haha...
I'm lying down on my bed, being tended to by Arcana.
Are you stressed because of the students?
Kind of... but lately, I've just been wanting to do a lot better,
since now I've got someone watching over and supporting me.
Do you want me to stop?
I didn't say that.
Arcana smiles and holds out a spoon.
Here, have some chicken soup. Say ahh!
I'm really not hungry.
Uh-uh.
Arcana raises her finger as if scolding a puppy.
You're not getting out of this. If you want to get better, you need to eat.
Now hurry up and say ahh.
... Like you said, I've survived getting holes put in me.
I'll be fine before you know... mph!
Arcana forcefully pushes the spoon into my mouth.
The taste is savory.
Ish... hot!
Hehe. What was that again?
...
I am semi-forced to finish the entire bowl of soup.
Good boy! Did you enjoy that?
Uh, Arcana...
Don't you think you're kinda treating me like a... kid, or... a pet?
...
Also, I'm kind of upset with you.
Upset?
...
I was shocked when I heard you'd collapsed.
Do you know how worried I was?
About as worried as I get when I'm waiting for you to come back from a mission to the surface.
... Oh.
Arcana's voice wavers slightly as she speaks, and I pull her in for an embrace.
Mr. Commander...
Just when I think she's going to lean further into me, she pulls away.
... Hehe.
... Huh?
Her wistful expression suddenly turns playful,
and she lightly flicks my nose.
Er, no, that's not...
It would be such a waste to ruin the perfect image you've built up.
You know, I actually debated for a while whether visiting you would be okay or not.
I mean, visiting someone who's sick should be fine...
You think just the two of us being alone in such a private, intimate space is fine?
Imagine another student or teacher seeing us like this.
Yeah, okay... Point taken.
...
Are you sorry?
... Yes.
Good. Now...
Arcana kneels and pats her thighs.
Huh...?
Rest your head here.
...
*Rustle*
Good boy.
Hold on, I... erk!
As I try to get up to protest, Arcana firmly presses my head down.
There there, good boy.
...
I give up resisting and relax my body.
Arcana smiles in satisfaction and toys with my bangs.
This is a first, isn't it?
Both in the Ark and at school,
I've always been the one to rely on you,
and you've always been there for me to lean on.
That's true... This feels kinda weird.
Does it?
Yes.
I do have to ask, though...
Yes?
So hugging isn't okay, but having my head in your lap is?
I don't think that's how it works.
Oh, it's fine!
The important thing is that I'm confident now.
You could pin me against a wall and I would push you away without even blinking an eye.
Really?
... Okay, no, I'm not really that confident.
But still, you promised you'd give me more compliments,
so long as I keep being a good student.
...
Are you uncomfortable?
I'm sleepy.
Hehe. Get some sleep.
If I sleep now, I'll be out for the whole day.
Then I'll stay with you for the whole day.
...
What?
Nothing, it's just...
Are you worried I might get tired?
...
You know...
Arcana gently strokes my head.
I want to be someone you can rely on too.
You've been there for me as a commander, and now as a teacher...
I want to give you as much strength as you've given me. More, even.
Whether you're my teacher, or my commander...
I want to be someone you can lean on.
... Would that be okay?
...
... Thank you.
I slowly close my eyes.
Arcana continues to gently stroke my head.
Feeling safe and comforted,
I slowly drift to sleep.
...
...
I open my eyes and instinctively try to sit up.
Huh?!
*Thud*
Ow...
Ack!
In my haste, I hit my forehead on something and fall back down.
Wh-what's wrong?!
H-huh...?
Arcana rubs my forehead.
...
Through the mental fog, my thoughts slowly come into focus.
I was asleep, huh...?
??
It feels like I only closed my eyes for a second... Wait...
I look at the clock, which has just passed 11:30.
It's 11:30... in the morning, right?
...
Arcana silently points at the window.
It's completely dark outside.
I slept for over twelve hours?!
Yeah, you were really out. I had to check if you were still breathing.
And you had my head in your lap the entire time?
Of course.
I promised that I'd spend the day with you, didn't I?
And anyway, it was... fun. Heh.
I-I see.
Aren't your legs numb, though?
...
We spend the next twenty minutes trying to restore the feeling to Arcana's legs.
... Can you feel both your legs now?
...
It turns out that seeing someone else do a romantic gesture...
... is a lot different from doing it yourself.
Lesson learned, I suppose.
Y-yeah...
What about you, Mr. Commander?
Hm?
Are you feeling better?
Oh...
I lightly stretch my body.
I practically feel like I could fly.
Yeah. I'm fine now.
It's all thanks to you, Arcana.
Hehe. Is that so?
Does that mean you're going to give me another compliment? Or maybe a reward?
Is there anything specific that you want?
Hmm...
Arcana picks up her bag and stands up.
Wait, you're just going to leave?
I need to get going. It's late.
I follow Arcana toward the entrance to see her off.
Now that you're all better, I'll see you tomorrow.
There's still some soup left, so make sure you finish it.
I will. See you tomorrow.
Arcana puts on her shoes.
As for a reward... you don't have to give me anything.
Are you sure? No changing your mind later.
Arcana quietly looks at me.
... Because I already got my reward.
40. Everyday Life Melts Away
121 linesOver the past few days...
*Click*
I'm here!
... Arcana has been coming to my room almost every day after school.
Oof.
Arcana sets down a large bag next to the table.
What's that?
Arcana takes out a number of small items from the bag.
You brought a lot of things over yesterday, too.
That was for making pasta.
Today we're going to be deep-frying, so we need a lot more stuff.
Plus, when you fry food, your clothes can get ruined, so I brought some spare clothes, and...
...
I glance toward the kitchen.
The cutlery and matching cups Arcana brought take up one side of the sink.
I also noticed an extra toothbrush in the bathroom yesterday.
Also... ack!
Arcana hurriedly hides something that looked rather small,
a black piece of clothing decorated with lace.
... Th-that wasn't lingerie. It was... pajamas.
...
I-I guess it got mixed in with the other clothes I packed.
Arcana pulls out comfortable-looking loungewear from her bag to show me.
Arcana heads into the kitchen,
and soon the sound of a knife hitting the cutting board fills the room, followed by delicious smells.
We finish our simple but heartfelt meal, and then I go and start brushing my teeth.
Mr. Commander.
Arcana comes into the bathroom wearing the slippers she left here previously and holds out a toothbrush.
You do it for me.
Do what?
Brush my teeth.
...
... What?
Ahhh...
You can't be serious...
Ahhh...!
...
After rinsing my mouth, I take the toothbrush.
Don't move.
Arcana's clinginess is increasing by the day.
And honestly... I don't mind it.
...
Arcana is sleeping happily with her head on my lap.
Mmm...
... Is that drool?
I wipe the drool from her mouth and look at the clock.
It's almost eleven.
Once again, I got absolutely no work done today.
I think of tomorrow's lessons, of the students who want to meet and discuss their concerns,
and of all the upcoming school events...
...
A lot of different thoughts pass through my mind...
Mmm... Mr. Commander...
... but when I see Arcana tossing in her sleep and clutching my clothes,
none of it seems to matter anymore.
...
*Beep, beep, beep, beep!*
An alarm goes off on Arcana's phone,
signaling the time we agreed that she would leave for now.
Mmm... It's already eleven...?
Did you sleep okay?
Hehe. Yes.
Arcana stretches and hugs me.
The pleasant weight and her warmth envelope me. It's such a happy feeling.
I doubt you'll be able to sleep by the time you get back to your room.
I should sleep. I have classes tomorrow.
Can we talk on the phone when I get to my room?
What about Amy?
She sleeps with earphones in. No need to worry.
Plus, when she sleeps, she's out cold.
You could literally carry her out of our room and she wouldn't wake up.
I-I see.
Arcana gets up and starts packing her things.
Of course, she takes far less than what she brought.
... Arcana.
As I watch her, I suddenly call her name without thinking.
Yes?
...
Do you wanna... spend the night?
...
Arcana turns toward me,
a drowsy smile on her face.
Really? Are you sure that's okay?
Yeah.
Hehe. I'd love that.
Arcana tosses her bag aside and hugs me again.
Yes.
...
Arcana's breath brushes against my neck.
I feel the warmth of her body in my arms.
Everything else just melts away.
... Yeah. You can stay as long as you want.
Up until now, you always tried to send me back to my room no matter what.
Well... we're together every day after school anyway.
At this point, sleeping separately doesn't really mean much.
Arcana pulls away and looks up at me.
...
... I can stay up a little longer.
We were going to talk on the phone anyway, remember?
Good point. Wanna watch a movie together?
Is there anything you want to watch?
Hmm... Hold on. I'll take a look.
We stayed up late together, and the next day we both arrived late to class.
After that day, we start being late to class more and more often,
until we gradually both become numb to it.
41. Festival Announcement
84 linesWe'll be ending class a bit early today.
I have an announcement to make.
It's about the most important event of the semester.
The most important event?
Ugh... as long as it's not something like a mock exam.
Tension begins to fill the classroom.
...
...
The festival!
Huh? There's going to be a festival?
That's right.
As you all know, our school is very closed off.
Because of that, the school's public image has gradually worsened.
In an attempt to improve our image, we're going to hold a festival that will be open to the public.
Wow, that sounds fun!
True.
Naru dolls! Naru keychains!
That sounds good! Ein is good with her hands too.
Er... I'm not really good at that kind of thing, so I'm not sure how much I can help...
I haven't made anything like that before either.
I never even thought we'd be doing something like a festival.
I'm fine with anything, as long as it's fun.
I think I'll be doing something with my club instead.
Everyone tosses around ideas, but nothing gets decided.
In that case...
*Swoosh*
Yes, Commander. Do you have any good ideas?
A maid cafe.
Oh yeah! Didn't you say you worked at a maid cafe before, Miss Privaty?
Whoa! Does that mean we're going to wear maid outfits?
Do we really have to wear maid outfits?
I doubt they'll expect that much from students.
I'm sure just saying "Welcome, Master!" would be enough.
Y-you think so?
Serving customers should be easy enough.
Argh...!
Privaty's face turns bright red as she glares at me with resentment.
At that moment, Amy quietly raises her hand.
I...
I don't want to participate.
Sorry?
Isn't this supposed to be a place where Nikkes are supposed to train and prove themselves?
I didn't come here to make a spectacle of myself.
Make a spectacle of yourself? That's not what this is about.
With all the pressure you face at school, we just want to give you all a little time to enjoy yourselves.
But earlier you said it was to help improve the school's public image.
That's part of it, of course, but that's not the whole reason.
We know you're all struggling under the constant pressure of exams.
So if we participate in the festival, do we automatically pass the next exam?
Festival preparation will take up a lot of our time, after all.
The school bell rings.
Oh.
Amy immediately gets up and heads to the door.
A-Amy!
As soon as the bell stop ringing, Amy leaves the classroom.
Follow Amy.
Approach Privaty.
I leave the classroom and chase after Amy.
I walk up to Privaty, who looks bewildered.
42. In the Spirit of Youth
161 linesAfter that, I enjoy my school life to the fullest... or rather...
As Arcana would put it, I'm enjoying my youth.
Then, one day...
We'll be ending class a bit early today.
I have an announcement to make.
It's about the most important event of the semester.
The most important event?
Ugh... as long as it's not something like a mock exam.
Tension begins to fill the classroom.
...
...
The festival!
Huh? There's going to be a festival?
That's right.
As you all know, our school is very closed off.
Because of that, the school's public image has gradually worsened.
In an attempt to improve our image, we're going to hold a festival that will be open to the public.
Wow, that sounds fun!
True.
Naru dolls! Naru keychains!
That sounds good! Ein is good with her hands too.
Er... I'm not really good at that kind of thing, so I'm not sure how much I can help...
I haven't made anything like that before either.
I never even thought we'd be doing something like a festival.
I'm fine with anything, as long as it's fun.
I think I'll be doing something with my club instead.
Everyone tosses around ideas, but nothing gets decided.
In that case...
I raise my hand.
Yes, Commander. Do you have any good ideas?
A maid cafe.
Oh yeah! Didn't you say you worked at a maid cafe before, Miss Privaty?
Whoa! Does that mean we're going to wear maid outfits?
Do we really have to wear maid outfits?
I doubt they'll expect that much from students.
I'm sure just saying "Welcome, Master!" would be enough.
Y-you think so?
Serving customers should be easy enough.
Argh...!
Privaty's face turns bright red as she glares at me with resentment.
At that moment, Amy quietly raises her hand.
I...
I don't want to participate.
Sorry?
Isn't this supposed to be a place where Nikkes are supposed to train and prove themselves?
I didn't come here to make a spectacle of myself.
Make a spectacle of yourself? That's not what this is about.
With all the pressure you face at school, we just want to give you all a little time to enjoy yourselves.
But earlier you said it was to help improve the school's public image.
That's part of it, of course, but that's not the whole reason.
We know you're all struggling under the constant pressure of exams.
So if we participate in the festival, do we automatically pass the next exam?
Festival preparation will take up a lot of our time, after all.
The school bell rings.
Oh.
Amy immediately gets up and heads to the door.
A-Amy!
As soon as the bell stop ringing, Amy leaves the classroom.
Together, Arcana and I chase after Amy.
In the distance, I see Amy sitting on a bench.
... You're already out of breath from running that little?
...
Here, drink some water.
Th-thanks...
After Arcana catches her breath,
Amy begins to speak.
About how she was scared before coming to this school.
How she felt inadequate, and wondered if she could handle it.
But with Arcana and I, she's been able to enjoy her time at school.
Then, hearing about the festival brought her back to reality.
As Arcana listens with a serious expression, she takes Amy's hand.
All right, how about this.
...?
You heard what Ms. Privaty said earlier.
Each club also needs to decide on a theme and concept.
Yeah... she did.
It doesn't matter whether it's our club or a new one that you join.
Either way, that's where you show everyone
what you have achieved.
My... achievements?
Yes. That's right.
This might sound strange coming from someone who isn't even a proper student...
But I think there's a reason they chose to treat us as students throughout this whole experience.
If it were just about imparting knowledge and training us,
there'd be plenty of other ways to do that, right?
... That's true.
That's why I've decided the theme of what you need to prepare and show.
And that is...
...
Youth.
...
...
... Pfft.
... I'm being serious here.
I know. I can tell how seriously you take this kind of thing now.
Amy lets out a contented sigh.
... I'll think about it a little more.
I mean...
Amy stands up.
I'm going to go talk to Miss Privaty.
I was really rude earlier. I should apologize to her first...
I also want to have an honest talk with her... the way a young person should.
Okay!
Amy leaves with a smile.
I don't think it was that big a deal...
But you did great. You were pretty cool back there.
Thanks.
Arcana watches Amy's retreating figure, then suddenly speaks up.
Come to think of it, what about you, Commander?
Huh?
Well... it's not just about the festival.
It is an important event,
and it kind of feels like... how should I put it... the culmination of our youth.
But realistically speaking, once the festival ends, our school life ends too.
Hmm... that's true.
...
I want you to be able to do what you want.
I want to spend more time alone with you.
I...
*Rustle*
I take out the photo the three of us took together the other day, with Amy.
I want to spend a little more time together. Just the two of us.
... Okay. Then let's go.
Where to?
Somewhere we can be alone. Just the two of us.
43. Festival Announcement
91 linesWe've got a special announcement today, so we'll end class a little early.
It's about the most important event this semester.
The most important event?
Ugh... as long as it's not something like a mock exam.
Tension begins to fill the classroom.
...
...
The festival!
Huh? There's going to be a festival?
That's right.
As you all know, our school is very closed off.
Because of that, the school's public image has gradually worsened.
In an attempt to improve our image, we're going to hold a festival that will be open to the public.
Yeah, that's correct.
Each class and club will need to decide on a theme.
Wow, that sounds fun!
Wouldn't that be a little hard for some of the visitors?
Then how about a candy-eating contest, where you have to eat candy in a single bite?
I'm not sure that would work, either...
I think it'd be nice if we did something that everyone could enjoy together.
Hmm.
I never really expected that we'd have a festival, so nothing's really coming to mind.
Arcana, do you have any ideas?
I think I'll be doing something with my club instead.
Really? Hmm...
Everyone tosses around ideas, but nothing gets decided.
It seems like it's time for me to step in...
Can I suggest an idea?
Oh? What is it?
How about a maid cafe?
Oh yeah! Miss Privaty, didn't you say you worked at a maid cafe before?
Whoa! Does that mean we're going to wear maid outfits?
Do we really have to wear maid outfits?
I doubt they'll expect that much from students.
I'm sure just saying "Welcome, Master!" would be enough.
Y-you think so?
Serving customers should be easy enough.
Argh...!
Privaty's face turns bright red as she glares at me with resentment.
Th-this is just one idea.
Nothing's decided yet, so if you have a better idea, please feel free to share.
Just then, Amy quietly raises her hand.
I...
I don't want to participate.
Sorry?
Isn't this supposed to be a place where Nikkes are supposed to train and prove themselves?
I didn't come here to make a spectacle of myself.
Make a spectacle of yourself? That's not what this is about.
With all the pressure you face at school, we just want to give you all a little time to enjoy yourselves.
But earlier you said it was to help improve the school's public image.
That's part of it, of course, but that's not the whole reason.
More than anything, we want you to enjoy your time here at school as just normal students.
Normal students...
If we participate in the festival, do we automatically pass the next exam?
Festival preparation will take up a lot of our time, after all.
The school bell rings.
Oh.
Amy immediately gets up and heads to the door.
A-Amy...!
As soon as the bell stop ringing, Amy leaves the classroom.
Privaty looks at me.
I'll talk to her.
Maybe you should have a counseling session with her.
... Are you sure?
Yeah. You said it yourself, Privaty.
I have a way of making students feel at comfortable, right?
True, I did say that.
I'm really glad you're here with me, Mr. Commander. I couldn't ask for a better assistant homeroom teacher.
I'll let you handle it then.
C-counseling...?
Really...? You saw how that conversation just went.
Also, if we call it counseling, won't she feel even more pressured?
Still, she needs someone to talk to.
44. Joining the Executive Committee
126 linesWe've got a special announcement today, so we'll end class a little early.
It's about the most important event of the semester.
The most important event?
Ugh... as long as it's not something like a mock exam.
Tension begins to fill the classroom.
...
...
The festival!
Huh? There's going to be a festival?
That's right.
As you all know, our school is very closed off.
Because of that, the school's public image has gradually worsened.
In an attempt to improve our image, we're going to hold a festival that will be open to the public.
Yeah, that's correct.
Each class and club will need to decide on a theme.
Wow, that sounds fun!
Wouldn't that be a little hard for some of the visitors?
Then how about a candy-eating contest, where you have to eat candy in a single bite?
I'm not sure that would work, either...
I think it'd be nice if we did something that everyone could enjoy together.
Hmm.
I never really expected that we'd have a festival, so nothing's really coming to mind.
Arcana, do you have any ideas?
Really? Hmm...
Everyone tosses around ideas, but nothing gets decided.
It seems like it's time for me to step in...
Can I suggest an idea?
Oh? What is it?
How about a maid cafe?
Oh yeah! Miss Privaty, didn't you say you worked at a maid cafe before?
Whoa! Does that mean we're going to wear maid outfits?
Do we really have to wear maid outfits?
I doubt they'll expect that much from students.
I'm sure just saying "Welcome, Master!" would be enough.
Y-you think so?
Serving customers should be easy enough.
Argh...!
Privaty's face turns bright red as she glares at me with resentment.
Th-this is just one idea.
Nothing's decided yet, so if you have a better idea, please feel free to share.
Just then, Amy quietly raises her hand.
I...
I don't want to participate.
Sorry?
Isn't this supposed to be a place where Nikkes are supposed to train and prove themselves?
I didn't come here to make a spectacle of myself.
Make a spectacle of yourself? That's not what this is about.
With all the pressure you face at school, we just want to give you all a little time to enjoy yourselves.
But earlier you said it was to help improve the school's public image.
That's part of it, of course, but that's not the whole reason.
More than anything, we want you to enjoy your time here at school as just normal students.
Normal students...
If we participate in the festival, do we automatically pass the next exam?
Festival preparation will take up a lot of our time, after all.
The school bell rings.
Oh.
Amy immediately gets up and heads to the door.
Amy...!
...
Just as she's about to leave the classroom, Amy hears Arcana's voice and stops.
Do you want to join the, uh... what was it called? Festival executive committee?
Anyway, whatever it's called, do you wanna join with me?
... What?
Personally, I'm more interested in something like that than running a booth.
I was hesitant to join all by myself, but if we join together, it's perfect!
H-hold on...!
Arcana walks briskly over, grabs Amy's wrist, and pulls her back.
Miss Privaty.
Uh, yes...?
Can Amy and I be on the executive committee?
Well, we were planning on having an application process...
Then we'll do it!
Wait!
What does all of this even mean...?
You'll be executive committee members.
You'll help plan and ensure the festival actually happens, after which you'll receive full recognition for your achievements.
... Really?
I recall one of the documents Arcana summarized for me,
which contained information and policies about school events.
The school has never held a festival before,
but there are some basic regulations already in place, in the event that one were to be held.
As we said earlier, one goal of the festival is to improve the school's image, right?
If you help in accomplishing that goal, the school will have no choice but to recognize your efforts.
...
Amy lowers her head, lost in thought.
Arcana slips next to me and whispers.
... That was amazing.
I was just relaying information you told me.
Still.
... I'd like some time to think about it.
I look at Privaty.
... Sure. There's still time before the executive committee is officially formed.
Don't take too long, however.
Okay. Also...
I'm sorry.
Aww, this is so touching...
...
Are you sure about joining the executive committee?
You don't really have any experience with that sort of thing. It'll probably be a lot more work than you think.
Hmm...
Arcana starts to say something, but then looks toward Privaty.
Amy is already back in her seat.
Let's talk later. Class is starting.
Later as in when?
45. Sedimentation
68 lines*Whirrr*
The sound of a hair dryer comes from the bathroom.
I put on my shirt before sitting on the bed and pulling on my socks.
Today's the day we announce the festival.
Oh, the one you mentioned last time?
The hair dryer stops, and Arcana comes out of the bathroom.
A festival, hmm...?
What's wrong?
Either way, I have to do help out with it.
Even though you're not technically a teacher?
Well, you're technically a student, either.
Hehe.
Arcana comes over and ties my necktie.
It'll probably be pretty hectic.
It's a first not just for me, but for the entire school.
And since the goal is to improve the school's image,
we want the entire student body to participate.
Th-thanks...
...
... Still, for the time being, I'm a teacher and you're a student.
It's probably not a good idea to...
It's kinda late for that, don't you think?
... I'm just saying.
Hehe. If we're gonna do this, we may as well enjoy it, right?
We can't exactly act like this when we're out and about.
After making one final adjustment to my clothes, Arcana stands on her toes and lightly kisses me.
...
No "See you later" today?
Pushed along by Arcana's hands, I head toward the entrance.
I put on my shoes and grab the front door handle.
... Mr. Commander.
Yeah?
When I turn around, Arcana is leaning against the doorframe leading to the bedroom.
...
What's wrong?
Do you wanna... skip class again?
Arcana's languid voice echoes softly through the quiet room.
...
I don't really feel like going out today.
... Still, we have to go. It's an important day.
Arcana walks over and loops her arms around my neck.
... More important than me?
...
Of course not, but...
... we've been skipping class too much lately, Arcana.
We managed to get away with it because nothing special was going on, but we can't do that anymore.
...
Arcana continues to look up at me without saying a word.
*Sigh...*
Give in to Arcana.
Remove Arcana's hands.
...
I take off my shoes and go back into the room.
Oh...
Arcana looks at me like she's about to cry.
46. On the Rooftop, A Private Supplementary Lesson for Two
178 linesAmy stops walking and turns around, as if sensing my presence.
How long are you going to keep following me?
Sorry. If I'm bothering you.
No, it's fine.
But why are you following me?
Um...
Because I've gotten pretty close to my classmates?
Haha, what is that supposed to mean?
I heard you're a famous commander, and you were a teacher before that.
I thought you were kind of intimidating,
but now I feel pretty comfortable around you.
...
Can we talk for a bit?
You want to convince me to join the festival, don't you?
That's part of it, but...
I also want to hear your story. As a friend.
All right.
I've been feeling frustrated, in more ways than one.
Do you know what kind of Nikkes come to this school?
I'm not sure, is there some kind of selection criteria?
Of all the Nikkes manufactured by Missilis, there are those who are impressive but not quite outstanding.
The ones that show the potential for growth are sent to the M.M.R Vocational School.
They have to get passing grades on all of their exams,
which is why most fail to graduate.
Honestly, I was a nervous wreck before I even got here,
because I had to give a speech. Apparently, my most recent grades were higher than anyone else's.
Still, I kept worrying that I wasn't enough, that I wouldn't be able to handle life here.
But...
it's been very different from what I imagined.
We all laugh a lot, and chat, and joke around...
We hang out after school together and get good food...
We get sleepy in class, and hate when the teachers give us homework...
Pretty ordinary, right?
Yeah, it's been really normal.
So much so that I think I'd forgotten...
what kind of place this school really is.
Isn't that a good thing? To feel less stressed?
But we're Nikkes first and foremost, not students.
The moment the festival was brought up, it suddenly hit me.
Is this really the time for me to be having fun?
I'm not even a real student...
I am overthinking things, right? Haha...
Not at all. Anyone would feel this way given the circumstances.
I begin to overthinking things as well...
I think I understand Miss Privaty's intentions.
She wants to give everyone some room to breathe.
I don't know the full story since I just transferred here, but the others must have been exhausted for a long time.
Yeah...
But I don't think I'm fully ready yet.
Could you talk to her for me?
Me?
Yeah.
I think you can explain it better than I can.
Sure. Okay.
Thank you for listening, and for being a friend.
I'm gonna head back to the dormitory.
Amy smiles brightly, then turns and walks out of the school.
...
I should go find Privaty.
But she's nowhere to be seen in the classroom, the teachers' office, or the nurse's office.
Where is she...?
At that moment...
I recall something that she said to me.
Next time, I'll take you to a quiet place that I know.
I think you'll like it.
It's nice and spacious,
and there's not a single soul there.
I look up at the stairs I've never gone up before.
Could it be...
*Step, step*
I ascend the stairs as quickly as I can,
reaching the second floor, then the third.
At the top of the last flight of stairs, a door stands slightly ajar.
*Creeeak*
As I open the door, the glare from the sunset blinds me.
*Whoooosh*
A wide-open rooftop.
A gentle breeze blowing through.
And...
Miss Privaty.
How did you know I was here?
You mentioned this place last time.
Privaty laughs lightly and pats my head.
Yes.
I tell Privaty about the conversation I had with Amy.
How she feels about this school,
and even the anxiety she's been feeling.
I see.
I figured there might be students who would oppose it or feel pressured.
Turns out I was right.
Thank you for talking with Amy.
She sees you as a classmate and a friend, so she feels comfortable talking to you.
...
Miss Privaty...
I cautiously reach out toward Privaty, who seems a little downcast...
However!
...!
Honestly, it feels a little unfair.
She didn't even give the festival a chance, choosing instead to be dismissive of it.
I guess that means...
I'll just have to turn this into the perfect festival.
I've given it a lot of thought.
This is not an ordinary school,
and because of that, the actions teachers take are extremely important.
Yes, we were originally sent here to improve the school's reputation,
but I really do want to give the students a festival that they can enjoy.
I even managed to convince the admin office to replace one midterm with the festival and its preparations.
Not just for Amy, but for everyone.
And I'll make sure everyone who visits the school has the best time possible.
Watching Privaty speak so confidently without second-guessing herself...
I can't help but burst out laughing.
Hahaha!
Nothing. It's nothing at all. I just realized how silly it was of me to worry.
Sorry?
At first...
I wanted to give everyone a once-in-a-lifetime school experience.
I decided I had to create a fun festival.
Privaty takes one step closer.
Close enough that her hair brushes against me when the wind blows.
Privaty takes another step closer.
Close enough that if I blew gently, her bangs would sway.
But as time goes by, I feel increasingly jealous... and greedy...!
I can't control my feelings anymore.
Privaty takes yet another step closer.
Close enough that we can feel each other's breath.
So, since we've come this far,
I find myself wanting to be the focal point of your school experience.
Privaty lifts her head and looks into my eyes.
I was thinking we could do something only a teacher and student can do,
something students can't do amongst themselves...
... A one-on-one lesson.
Wh-what do you think...?
Privaty lightly grips my collar.
The sight of her is so adorable,
I reach out and pull her toward me.
...!!
What type of lesson?
Where are we on the curriculum?
You said it was a one-on-one lesson, so I was just asking.
I think it's you who has your mind in the gutter.
As I hold Privaty in my arms, she playfully pounds at my chest.
...
Hehe, enough fooling around.
*Mwah*
!!
A jolt like lightning shoots through my neck, and goosebumps ripples across my skin.
Good grief...
We stay together on the rooftop until the sun sets.
For the next few days, I wear a turtleneck, even though it's not remotely cold out.
And it's all thanks to my amazing teacher.
A few days later,
The M.M.R. Vocational School officially begins preparing for the festival.
2X2 LOVE: Privaty - True Ending (1)
47. Unbreakable Comradeship
73 linesAfter watching Amy leave the classroom,
I approach Privaty, who's standing quietly at the podium.
Are you okay, Miss Privaty?
But...
You know, Commander.
This is something I anticipated.
I'm well aware of what kind of school this is.
As a teacher, I would be remiss in my duties not to notice such anxiety in my students.
So for now, don't worry about me, and let's go look for Amy.
... Okay.
We hurried out of the classroom to look for Amy, but she is nowhere to be found.
I don't see her.
Maybe she wants to be alone.
If she wants to be alone...
There's only one place inside this school that's ideal for some quiet time alone.
We should get going.
Privaty looks up toward the stairs that people rarely use.
We ascend the stairs as quickly as we can,
reaching the second floor, then the third.
At the top of the last flight of stairs, a door stands slightly ajar.
*Creeeak*
A wide-open rooftop.
A gentle breeze blowing through.
And...
...
Amy, standing right there.
Oh... Miss Privaty?
Amy.
I'm sorry for blurting that out and just leaving like that.
You want to convince me to join the festival, don't you?
That's right.
I am a teacher at this school, and your homeroom teacher at that.
I know what you're afraid of.
It's only natural, especially since you just transferred to this school.
I'll raise the matter with the administration about the exam overlapping with the festival.
I'll do my best to get the exam canceled.
That way you'll be able to enjoy your time at school just a bit more.
I'm grateful that you would do that for me,
but nothing's certain yet.
It may not get canceled at all.
...
I'm sorry, Miss Privaty.
I guess I'm not mentally prepared yet.
I... I'm still scared.
Amy glances at me briefly.
She bows politely to Privaty before leaving the rooftop.
*Sigh* This is hard...
Should I go talk to her?
I think it's too late for that.
There's not much else we can do. We'll have to work with the cards we've been dealt.
I cautiously reach out toward Privaty, who seems a little downcast...
but she moves first.
We can't give up now, though.
Yes, we were originally sent here to improve the school's reputation,
but I really do want to put together a festival that everyone can enjoy.
Not just for visitors who come to the school, but for Amy and you too, Commander.
You'll help me, won't you?
Privaty smiles brightly and holds out her fist toward me.
...
After everything we've been through at school and all the emotions that came with it,
Privaty and I set aside those other special feelings between us.
Instead, we decide to strengthen our camaraderie once again.
Of course.
*Tap*
The sunset burns a fiery red, as if cheering us on.
A few days later...
The M.M.R. Vocational School officially begins preparing for the festival.
2X2 LOVE: Privaty - Normal Ending (1)
48. Our Youth
135 lines*Rustle*
I take out the photo the three of us took together the other day, with Amy.
...
Arcana, Amy, and I.
We're all smiling brightly and happily.
I want you to be able to do what you want.
Why?
Because I think that would make you happier.
...
Then what about you?
It's a bit awkward saying this out loud, but...
Don't you want to be alone with me a little longer?
Honestly, I do feel that way, but...
I don't know.
I just want to, for some reason.
Hmm... I see.
Arcana swings her legs cheerfully as she sits on the bench.
You know...
You probably don't know this,
but I was really happy to come to this school.
And...
You probably don't know how I felt when I found out you were coming too.
How did you feel?
I cried.
What??
Arcana cups my cheek with her hand.
But you know.
When I was told that my memories of my time here don't have to be erased, I cried.
Because I couldn't believe it. The memories I made here with you...
... I get to keep them forever. And I couldn't believe my ears.
...
It's not a dream.
You sure about that?
Arcana playfully pinches my cheek.
This kind of unbelievable... luck, I guess you'd call it.
Everything I wished for all my life is finally happening.
If this isn't a dream, what else would you call it?
... It's a dream I never want to wake up from.
Arcana removes her hand from my cheek.
She places both hands on the bench and looks up at the sky.
What's the question?
First question.
The fresh, lively, cute student Arcana is currently happier than anyone else in the world.
Buuut!
There's one thing, just one, that she regrets.
More precisely, there's one thing she really, really wants to do.
But she's too embarrassed to say it out loud.
What could it be?
Hmm...
I recall the very first item of Arcana's list of things she wanted to do.
The part that had been erased.
And...
...
In this situation, the answer is painfully obvious.
To have a boyfriend.
...
Correct.
If this were reality, I would've said to become someone's wife, but since this is all a dream...
Arcana takes a deep breath,
then looks straight at me with a gentle smile.
... Am I allowed to turn you down?
... Okay.
Doesn't that defeat the purpose of asking me out?
If I said, "You! Go out with me!" or "Hahaha, I'm going to claim you as my boyfriend!", it wouldn't be cute at all.
It wouldn't exactly feel like young love either.
That's true.
You see?
Arcana smiles softly and naturally leans into my arms.
I knew I'd succeed!
Oh?
Maybe I should've played hard to get for a bit.
You wanna see me desperately cling onto you, is that it? Is that your thing?
Arcana chuckles and naturally leans into my arms.
I comfortably wrap my arms around her.
Mm... now I can do it.
Do what?
... I think I know what it is.
...
Arcana pulls away slightly and carefully looks up at me.
The thing at the top of that very list.
Arcana slowly wraps her arms around my neck.
Wanna guess what it is?
... I think I've got a good idea.
Okay.
Arcana, Commander!
Thanks to you, everything worked out... Ahh!
!!
S-sorry! I'll come back later!
...
Why are you laughing?
I suppose so...
It does feel awfully cinematic.
Hehe, right?
Someone barging in and ruining things at the most critical moment.
But you know...
I'm not the type to give up after a minor setback like that.
...!
As our lips touch, I can feel Arcana trembling.
A spring breeze blows through the courtyard, and after a few moments,
Arcana slowly pulls away.
... Hehe. I did it.
Seeing Arcana smiling brightly despite her embarrassment, I suddenly feel a bit mischievous.
Is there anything else?
Now that we've got a chance, should we just go ahead and do whatever we can?
What is it?
Arcana stands up from her seat.
A playful voice reaches my ear.
... You know, on the other version of my list,
items one through ten...
... they're actually all the same.
...
It wouldn't be long before Amy, unable to wait any longer, drags us to a nearby cafe to start planning the festival. But for now...
Arcana and I stand in the school courtyard as petals fall around us...
simply letting them drift down on us.
2X2 LOVE: Arcana - True Ending (1)
49. Our Youth, Just the Two of Us
106 lines*Slide*
I enter the clubroom together with Arcana.
If it's here, it's completeeeely legal.
We can be here alone together as much as we want, right?
When you put it that way, it sounds kind of shady...
Hehe.
*Click*
?!
Wh-why did you lock the door?
We might get interrupted,
by the security guard, or another teacher.
Or another student might come in by accident.
This is an important moment, and I don't want any interruptions.
... Y-yeah.
Arcana looks at me and opens both her arms.
... Huh?
...
Come on now!
I slowly walk toward Arcana.
Ah...
With every step I take, Arcana's body flinches slightly.
...
As I stop right in front of her, Arcana looks up at me with anxious eyes.
Slowly, I hold her in my arms.
Oh...
Are you sulking again?
...
The tension slowly drains from Arcana's stiff body.
...
Arca...
Hey, Commander.
Arcana pulls away slightly and looks up at me.
Yes?
Can I be selfish just one more time?
Are you sure this is gonna be the last time...?
... Okay. What is it?
...
There's... there's something I really want to try.
Something I can only do in moments like this.
A-and...
Arcana takes a deep breath and grabs the sleeves of my shirt.
This isn't directed at you...
It's just something that girl has been wanting to say to that boy, so d-don't get the wrong idea. Got it?
Okay.
Um... Commander.
Just until the festival is over,
and our time at this school comes to an end...
Would you... go out with me?
...
Arcana's hands gripping my clothes are trembling.
Why are you so nervous?
H-how can I not be nervous! I'm opening up to you about how I feel!
But you said it's only while we're at school.
Still, it's nerve-racking! What if you reject me?
... So? Are you going to go out with me, or not?
Arcana speaks irritably, but her hands are still shaking.
...
I slowly wrap my hands around hers.
Arcana's expression brightens.
Yes, I will.
Arcana tightly grips my hand, as if she'll never let go.
She shrugs her shoulders with a smug expression.
I mean, I do want the three of us to hang out, including Amy!
But youth is something that only happens once.
But still! I get to date who I like,
and I get to keep being alone with you, so I'm suuuper happy.
I mean...
Arcana nestles into my arms.
... What does that mean?
...
So I don't have to wait for the right moment to hold your hand anymore, right?
Yes.
And I can hug you anytime too?
That might be a bit much, don't you think?
Arcana carefully leans into me.
How about when we're alone like we are now?
I pull Arcana into my arms.
That's fine.
...
In that case, I don't have much of a choice.
We'll just have to keep finding time alone together.
After school, during lunch breaks...
Even during festival prep. Everything.
Are you sure that's okay?
2X2 LOVE: Arcana - Normal Ending (1)
50. Grown-Up Time
173 linesThe next day, after school.
I call Amy to an empty classroom.
Hi. You wanted to see me?
Oh, Amy. You're here.
I was surprised when you asked to meet in a classroom.
I thought we'd go to the teachers' office or a counseling room or something.
I even thought I might end up somewhere more serious, since I raised my voice at you...
Look, you're not in trouble.
I didn't want you to feel pressured, so I chose somewhere you'd be comfortable.
I see.
... I've always thought this, but you're really kind.
Me? You think?
You're a famous commander, and you're also the assistant homeroom teacher.
At first, it was really uncomfortable having you here. It was intimidating.
But not now?
Yeah. I realized you treat everyone kindly, no matter who you're dealing with.
In that case, do you mind if we talk openly about what happened yesterday?
You want me to participate in the festival, don't you?
Well... that's part of it, of course.
But I also wanted to hear your thoughts.
My thoughts...
Honestly, I'll probably end up joining the festival.
The school's already decided to go through with it. Nothing's going to change just because a lone student like me objects.
Even so, I'd like you to actually enjoy your experience with it.
How should I put this...
I don't know if I can enjoy it.
When I first came to this school, I was really scared.
I wondered if I'd be able to do well, or even keep up...
But it ended up being much different from what I expected.
We all laugh a lot, and chat, and joke around...
We hang out after school together and get good food...
We get sleepy in class, and hate when the teachers give us homework...
It's all very normal, right?
Yeah, it's been really normal.
... And that's the thing. If I keep this up, I'll really feel like I'm just a normal student.
I'm afraid I'll get hurt later.
Amy, you really are a normal student, first and foremost. That comes before being a Nikke.
You have the right to enjoy a normal, happy school life.
...
That's true, isn't it?
Since you're the one who said it, it must be true, right?
Yeah. Trust me.
... Okay.
I'll try to enjoy the festival too.
Thank you.
After that, we chat a bit longer,
and Amy leaves looking much more relaxed than before.
...
A gentle breeze drifts through the classroom as the sun sets.
...
Privaty walks over from the classroom next door.
I wonder if that takes care of it...
Probably not.
I managed to convince the admin office to replace one midterm with the festival and its preparations.
That means we have to make it a really fun festival.
Both for the students, including Amy,
and for everyone else who comes to visit the school. We have to ensure everyone has a great time.
Yeah. We can do this.
You bet we can!
After all, I'm the greatest homeroom teacher here, and you're the greatest assistant homeroom teacher.
Privaty clenches her fists, her expression resolute.
I couldn't help but find it unbearably cute.
Privaty.
Yes?
Want to go grab a drink?
Yeah. I stocked the fridge so we can drink anytime.
In that case, I'm in.
*Gulp, gulp*
Ahhh...
Hm? You're drinking really slowly today.
Huh? What do you mean?
It's just...
I-I've never had a drink alone with a man in his room before...!
The whole room smells like you...
And you said it yourself, didn't you? You never know what might happen when a man and woman get drunk together.
I keep having all these thoughts... It's making it hard to drink a lot.
...
Come to think of it, she's not wrong.
Here she is, looking just a little tipsy, her face slightly flushed.
We both know something could happen.
Is she giving me a sign? I think so...
She wants me to stop hesitating and make a move.
...
...
I gently bring the back of my hand to Privaty's cheek.
Wh-what...?!
*Thunk* *Glug, glug, glug*
...?!
Uh-oh...
Privaty has dropped the beer she was holding,
and now her clothes are completely soaked.
Are you okay?!
Do you want to take a shower?
Wh-what...?!
Oh, no... I mean... The smell is pretty strong, and I'm guessing you're feeling pretty sticky right now.
Oh... Well... Yeah, if you don't mind, I'll go ahead and borrow your shower...
*Shhhhhh*
...
I lay out the largest pieces of clothing I have in front of the shower room.
Then I start drinking by myself in an attempt to clear my head.
*Gulp, gulp*
*Shhhhhh*
*Squeak, squeak*
...!
The water stops.
I hear the soft sound of a towel rubbing skin.
*Click*
The door opens slightly.
Whew...!
You all done?
I turn around, trying to act casual.
Privaty is standing there, wearing my clothes.
Wh-what about the pants? I thought I left them too...
No. Not at all.
Oh, good.
Privaty gets her hair mostly dry with a towel and sits back beside me.
Shall we keep drinking?
Yeah, let's do it.
An awkward silence ensues,
filled only with the scent of my shampoo and body wash,
and the sound of beer being sipped.
... By the way, why are you holding your arms like that?
Huh? Oh...
Ever since she came out of the shower, Privaty's been holding her arms in front of her as though she's uncomfortable.
Even now, she's gripping her beer with both hands.
What does that have to do with your arms?
Oh, come on...!
Sometimes you're so perceptive, and other times you're completely clueless...!
I'm doing this so nothing shows!
So nothing shows?
What do you mean?
I naturally look at what she's covering.
Your chest...?
Ah, ahhh...!
I feel the alcohol rush to my head.
I-I'm sorry! I didn't even think about it...
No, it's my fault for spilling the beer.
And besides...
... You never know what might happen when a man and woman get drunk together.
...
My mind clears, and my senses sharpen.
I reach out and place my hand on the nape of Privaty's neck.
Water droplets from her wet hair soak into my hand.
As our bodies touch, I feel a softness that a single thin T-shirt can't conceal.
Wh-what're you...?
So, Privaty... are you drunk?
Me too.
The awkward silence from before is completely gone,
replaced by the sound of empty cans rolling,
and our breathing filling the room.
After that day, having a drink together in one of our room's becomes our routine.
We very naturally start going back and forth between each other's rooms.
Then, a few days later...
The M.M.R. Vocational School officially begins preparing for the festival.
2x2 Love: Privaty - True Ending (2)
51. Strange Drinking Buddies
60 linesThe next day, after school.
We call Amy to the teachers' office.
...
Amy sits across from us, her expression stiff.
We're not here to scold you, so don't be nervous.
... With this vibe you're giving off, I think it'd be weird if I wasn't nervous.
I know we called this a counseling session, but really, we just want to talk.
You're trying to persuade me to join the festival, right?
That's right.
We understand what you're afraid of,
especially since you're new here.
That's why we're hoping this will be a chance for you to have fun.
You know, to enjoy being a normal student...
But I'm not a normal student. None of us are.
If I start letting myself believe I'm normal so that I can have fun and be happy,
then I'm afraid of how I'll feel when everything goes back to how it was before...
Amy...
I'm sorry, Ms. Privaty. I still don't really know whether I can,
but... I'll try my best to have fun.
Amy looks back and forth between Privaty and me,
bows deeply, and leaves the office.
Me?
Yeah, sure.
*Gulp, gulp*
Ahhh...!
Ugh, I swear!
I always expected there to be students who didn't want to be in the festival,
but hearing her lay it out like that, it really hits hard.
Yeah, it does.
Of course, we can sit here and say whatever we want,
but ultimately it's the students who have it the hardest, right?
And that's exactly why we have to make it a happy, fun festival!
The school's reputation? Honestly, who cares!
As long as our kids are happy, that's enough for me!
Privaty, I think you're drinking a little fast.
Oh yeah?
Mm-hmm.
So what!
There's no class tomorrow, and if I pass out, I have someone who'll take care of me.
So let's keep drinking!
Come on, you too! Cheers!
...
Yeah, why not? Down the hatch!
To a fun festival!
Cheers!
We continue to drink until we black out.
Moving forward, we temporarily set aside the things we've felt while at the school,
including the special feelings we have for each other,
and become good drinking buddies, sharing in our hardships and joys.
A few days later...
The M.M.R. Vocational School officially begins preparing for the festival.
2x2 Love: Privaty - Normal Ending (2)
52. Each in Their Own Place
220 linesAfter school.
I gather my work and head to the library.
*Slide*
Huh?
Arcana's designated seat by the window is empty.
Is that you?
Arcana? Are you back there?
Yeah, I'm in the stacks behind the counter.
I put my bag down and head toward the door where Arcana's voice is coming from.
*Click*
*Cough, cough* Yikes.
What's with all the dust?
Oh, you didn't have to come in.
Arcana comes out carrying an armful of old books.
What are all those?
Err, yeah, okay.
Arcana pushes my back and we both exit out the door.
*Click*
Phew...
Arcana puts the books down on the desk.
So, what are those?
Oh, right. They're meeting minutes.
Meeting minutes?
Yep.
Arcana opens one of the books.
They don't do this much anymore,
but long ago, they used to keep physical copies of documents in books like this, in addition to having electronic copies.
So I got to thinking that maybe there'd be something about past festivals in here. Y'know, for reference.
I didn't even know this kind of thing existed.
Wouldn't it be hard to go through everything, though?
That's exactly why I became a library committee member.
To throw out what needs to be thrown out, and to organize what needs organizing.
At this point, I'm almost done.
I paced myself so that I'm pretty sure I'll be able to finish before the festival starts.
But that was before you decided to join the executive committee, no?
Arcana dusts off her uniform, then goes over to a window and opens it.
A spring breeze pours into the library together with a twilight glow.
Ahhh, that's so refreshing.
Yeah...
Arcana tucks her hair behind her ear and looks at me.
You're going to be even busier moving forward, huh?
Yeah... I'm already starting to feel overwhelmed.
Hmm...
I reflexively start to say she doesn't need to,
but then I remember what she said before.
I want to be someone you can rely on too.
You've been there for me as a commander, and now as a teacher...
I want to give you as much strength as you've given me. More, even.
Whether you're my teacher, or my commander...
I want to be someone you can lean on.
... Thank you. Let's do this.
Arcana holds out her pinky finger.
Promise?
Yeah. Promise.
I hook my pinky finger with hers.
When this is all over, we're going to do everything you want.
Are you sure you can handle that?
Er, uh...
Arcana seems slightly flustered.
Th-then let's make one more promise.
Sure, what?
Er, uh...
We look at each other in silence for a moment, then burst out laughing.
Pfft. What even is this conversation we're having?
Seriously, haha. You came on so strong, and then kinda fizzled out...
I'm still not fully prepared, okay?
...
Arcana rests her hand on the window frame with a gentle smile,
and then turns her head to look outside.
You know... I'm not someone who's, like,
super strong-willed, or motivated by some overwhelming sense of duty.
I don't really like working, or even going into work,
and I'm easily shaken when confronted by temptation... Really, I'm just a normal person.
Arcana looks back at me.
...
Arcana's words make me recall everything that's happened between us at the school.
There were definitely some close calls.
If I'd made a different choice then,
our time at this school would probably have gone very differently.
Don't shortchange yourself, Arcana. You've been doing great.
Heh, you think so?
Arcana stands up and walks toward me.
That's right.
What kind of reward did you have in mind?
Well... Let's see.
We could eat alone, just the two of us...
Or we could stealthily shoot each other looks during class...
... Or maybe even have a secret relationship?
Even though we're still teacher and student?
Even though we're still teacher and student.
...
Arcana smiles playfully.
You didn't even consider the possibility that I would say no, did you?
Nope.
Like they say, telling someone how you feel isn't a gamble—it's a confirmation.
And right now, I'm one hundred percent certain.
... I couldn't say no to you even if I wanted to.
So that means today's our first day together, right?
... Yeah, I guess it does.
Woohoo!
...
After an over-the-top celebration, Arcana takes a step closer to me.
We're going to have to work twice as hard from here on,
now that we have to balance our jobs and our relationship.
We have to be careful not to get caught.
It's more exciting when you let it show just a little, though, isn't it?
And anyway, usually it's only the couple that thinks they're hiding anything.
Meanwhile, everyone around them knows.
Really...?
Of course. It's impossible to completely hide it.
Arcana looks up at me.
... She looks unmistakably like a girl in love.
See? It's all over your face.
She gently brushes my cheek with her fingertips.
Everything's written right here...
So much so that, despite never having dated anyone or even held a guy's hand,
I could still tell for certain. One hundred percent.
...
I cup Arcana's cheeks in return.
It's the same with you, Arcana.
Yeah, that would be... too much...
... That's the issue for you?
Yeah. Once I break, all bets are off.
That's why I try to never break from my routine without a really good reason.
I see...
Er...
Argh, screw it.
Huh?!
Arcana pushes me back and looks up at me as she plants her hand on the wall.
... What, did you decide to just not hold back? What about your routine?
I thought about it, and it's so unfair.
Why should I have to hold back? You're the teacher, right? Shouldn't that be your job?
So I'll tell you what. I'm not going to hold back.
You can be the one to step on the brakes.
...
You'd better hurry! If you don't break now, we'll get into an accident...
... Time-out.
What do you... Mmph?!
Arcana's eyes widen, then slowly close.
Her pale hands arc through the air for a brief moment,
before resting gently on my chest.
Slowly, I pull my lips away.
What?
"Time-out" is supposed to be my thing.
I don't remember that being a rule.
Well, it is! I just made it one!
Now you just sound like a child.
...
... You really shouldn't do that anymore.
I'm serious, too. I'll only end up acting more spoiled if you do.
No, I don't think you will.
I trust you.
...
I look at Arcana's face right in front of me.
Everything she's feeling is written all over it.
You're embarrassed, aren't you?
Of course I'm embarrassed...
Heheh.
Sorry, sorry.
... Never mind. Time-out.
Another one, huh?
It's your fault.
Arcana mutters in a sulky voice and lets out a small sigh.
You know... Hm...
... Ugh, I give up.
There's so much I want to say that I can't organize my thoughts.
I just... wanna do this.
Do wha... Mmph?!
True to her word, Arcana seems to have decided not to hold back.
Which, you know... should be fine.
Contrary to what she may have said,
Arcana has a stronger sense of duty and responsibility than anyone I know...
So if kissing is okay, that means holding hands and hugging are fair game, right?
Like, if you think of it as a spectrum, they come before kissing, don't they?
...
Duty... and responsibility...
I thought you were trying to set the mood.
Arcana leans against me and grins.
Doesn't this feel more like... us?
...
Yeah... It does.
Let's stay like this for just a little longer...
How much longer?
2x2 Love: Arcana - True Ending (2)
53. Our Own Little World
73 linesRemove Arcana's hands.
Oh...
Arcana looks up at me. Her face looks like she's about to cry.
I mean it this time. We can't.
But...
This is better for both of us.
...
You're not going to tell me we should go back to normal, are you?
Or that I shouldn't come to your room anymore...?
No. I promise.
...
I hook pinky fingers with her.
Ever since Arcana and I first met,
we've made a lot of promises with each other, both for little, silly things and for big, important things.
...
But something feels different about this promise...
Arcana hugs me.
... Give me just one more hour like this.
...
Sure... We can do that.
By the time we get to the classroom, second period is just about to begin.
*Slide*
Huh? Amy?
Looking as though she's about to cry, Amy throws open the door to the classroom,
and disappears down the hallway.
Did something happen...?
... Let's head in.
You're late.
Yeah, I'm sorry.
A quick glance around tells me things are tense inside the classroom.
Did something happen?
... No, it's nothing big. I'll handle it.
I already finished telling everyone about the festival.
... I see. Thank you.
I'll leave second period to you.
*Slide*
Privaty leaves the classroom, and soon after, the class bell rings.
I stand at the podium and look at the students.
...
It's the same classroom as yesterday, the same podium.
And yet, it feels like it's been a long time since I stood up here.
All right, let's start class.
Soon, only my voice echoes through the classroom.
...
Arcana is resting her chin on her hand, gazing at me.
But not with the eyes of a student looking at a teacher...
I have a question!
Yes, what is it?
What kind of girl do you like? What's your type?
Excuse me?
I briefly look around the classroom.
About half the students look interested,
while most of the others look like they couldn't care less,
and the rest... look slightly annoyed.
...
I avoid looking at the annoyed students,
and instead...
I fix my eyes on Arcana,
who looks at me as affectionately as always.
Right, well...
For starters... I'd like for her to be pretty.
That's it?
I mean, not just on the outside, but on the inside, too.
Our two voices are the only sounds in the otherwise quiet classroom.
... I'm sure it's fine.
After all, Arcana and I...
Oh yeah, about the festival...
Would it be okay if I joined the executive committee?
I'd really like to help you however I can!
... Arcana and I will only be here until the festival is over.
2x2 Love: Arcana - Normal Ending (2)
54. What She Really Wanted
63 linesI take off my shoes and go back into the room.
Oh...
When she sees me loosen my tie, Arcana's eyes tremble slightly.
... Today's the last time for a while.
I take out my phone to send Privaty a message.
I type out that I'm not feeling well and need to rest. The moment I send it...
Arcana hugs me.
All set?
Yeah.
Arcana takes my phone, turns it off, and places it on the table.
Hold me.
Okay.
I pull Arcana tightly into my arms.
...
Arcana melts into my embrace.
It somehow feels... desperate.
Hehe.
You've become pretty clingy lately.
...
Normally,
I don't really get to have you to myself,
but now we've got this time together.
And what's more...
Arcana cups my cheeks with her hand.
...
Hey...
Yeah?
But I am holding...
...
...
Anything more than this would be dangerous.
It's not the temporary nature of this relationship that's the problem.
If I keep indulging Arcana...
Come on... Don't make me wait.
...
The sweet whisper of Arcana's voice tickles my ear...
Suddenly...
I get the distinct impression that there's no turning back.
Give in to Arcana.
Give in to Arcana.
Yeah... There's no point in refusing now.
I crossed that line a long time ago,
together with Arcana.
Ah...
I lift Arcana into my arms.
Her slender arms wrap around my neck.
Our lips meet.
*Thump*
I lay Arcana down on the bed.
Her pale fingertips grab the buttons of my shirt.
Our lips haven't parted.
Is this really what she wanted?
Or is she just intoxicated by the fantasy of it all, while she keeps reality at bay?
Regardless, we semi-abandon our lives at school,
and for the rest of our time there, until the festival ends,
we immerse ourselves in each other.
Bad Ending No. 6: What She Really Wanted