Chapter Text
“R-really…? With him?”
“Yeah! Come on – have you seen the way she looks at him? That’s love, no question.”
Mitsuru – in the middle of her tea-making ritual – froze.
Who were they talking about?
She took a few soundless steps toward the kitchen entrance so she could hear Fuuka and Junpei a little better.
“W-well… she hasn’t really said anything to me…”
Mitsuru swallowed.
“She doesn’t need to! It’s all over her face!”
Whose face?
“I mean… he doesn’t really seem like Yukari’s type…”
Mitsuru tightened her grip around the doorframe.
Yukari…
“Dude, she is so in love with that guy!”
Yukari is…in love?
“I-I don’t know… I wouldn’t jump to conclusions…”
Mitsuru took a step back.
“Heh - Yuka-tan’s totally in lo~ove.”
…..
Yukari is in love.
Mitsuru stood in silence for a moment, looking at nothing in particular.
When the unmistakable scraping noise from chairs being pushed back registered, she quickly snapped out of whatever dazed state she’d been in and straightened out some non-existent wrinkles from her shirt.
…..
Oh, of course – the tea.
Eyeing the kettle for a moment, Mitsuru then decided her usual need for an evening brew was no longer present, so she emptied its contents in the sink and went back to her room.
~
Who selects an attire like this to establish a good first impression?
That was the first thing that had flown through Mitsuru’s mind when she laid eyes on the team’s newest recruit.
Yukari had been wearing a skirt – definitely on the shorter side – and a choker.
A choker!
Mitsuru’s eyes had flickered between the bare thighs on display and the choker embracing the girl’s neck for so long her hands inactively reached up to her own neck, making sure no choker had somehow made its way there.
She checked her neck. Nothing.
So why was it so hard to breathe?
And when Yukari’s brown eyes had met hers, while offering a shy smile, that invisible choker had tightened so hard around her neck Mitsuru feared she would faint.
So, she took a step back.
Then she turned.
And walked.
Up the stairs.
Into her room.
Hands desperately clawing at her neck trying to get that obscured thing off.
And since that day – Yukari hated her.
~
Back in her room, Mitsuru – without tea – got herself seated on the one of the couches she didn’t even like.
They were stiff and, in all honesty, looked like something you might find in a home belonging to an old lady, but… it was her stylist that had selected them for her and Mitsuru… well, she wasn’t interested in paying the furniture store a visit to get another set, so – they would stay.
It’s a bit much… Mitsuru thought as she glanced around the room.
Yukari…
Was she… in love with someone?
She rubbed her neck.
Well, if she was. It wasn’t with Mitsuru.
She sighed.
She hates me.
…..
At least that was consistent.
Mitsuru had tried time and time again to make up for her less than professional welcome that day several months ago.
As in after she’d realized why she reacted the way she did in the first place. Which…had taken quite a while to figure out.
At first, Mitsuru thought she’d come down with some kind of illness. Which wasn’t strange at all because she did – after all – have trouble breathing. And it didn’t go away either.
After a week of more or less constant breathing difficulties, untimely blushes, stutters, lack of focus and control – well, technically feeling nothing like her old self – Mitsuru realized she needed help. As in, professional help.
She contacted the Chairman to let him know there was a high probability she’d managed to catch something highly contagious, and at this stage she felt the only reasonable choice of action was to get it properly checked. For her and others’ sake.
The Chairman helped her arrange an appointment at the Kirijo lab, where Mitsuru would undergo several thorough checkups to find out whatever this mysterious disease could be.
Fortunately, all results from the numerous tests she’d undergone had shown the same outcome: There was no underlying condition or any other sings of potential sickness. They had even congratulated her for having such impeccable health parameters.
Or… whether those findings were fortunate or not – that was debatable. Mitsuru often wondered if some kind of lingering illness wouldn’t be the preferable option over…this.
Nevertheless.
When it came to Yukari – nothing had worked.
Not too long after Yukari moved in, Mitsuru even noticed their newest member seemed to have problems using her evoker, so naturally, Mitsuru had tried to help. If anything, that had only made matters worse.
She shook her head.
Never mind.
Yukari was in love with someone else – Mitsuru should simply…drop the case.
Since all her attempts over the past months had led to nothing, so would her future ones do too – that’s how trends work.
On second thought… Yamagishi… Yamagishi didn’t sound very convinced when Iori told her Yukari was in infatuated with someone. Besides, didn’t she say that boy didn’t even seem like Yukari’s type?
Perhaps…
…..
Perhaps she should give this one last shot.
Okay.
She had decided to keep going.
Now, the only question remaining was: How?
Clearly, whatever she’d tried so far hadn’t worked, so undoubtedly a new approach was needed.
What if she would simply… ask her out for a… well, obviously not a dinner but, something simple like… some afternoon tea? As in, not down in the lounge at the dorm but perhaps… at the mall? Mitsuru usually avoided going there but, surely there must be some places that served at least decent tea.
As long as it’s drinkable…
Come to think of it, Mitsuru couldn’t recall ever having seen Yukari even hold a teacup so… that probably wasn’t the ultimate choice of activity.
Actually, Yukari was more of a strawberry type of girl. It was her favorite fruit, Mitsuru had noticed.
Mitsuru herself wasn’t overly enthusiastic about them, but since Yukari showed an unnatural affection for said fruit; Mitsuru had of course also studied the matter. She had investigated strawberries so closely she was now to be considered something of an expert.
It was most likely to be considered common knowledge that Japan was widely recognized for producing some of the world's best gourmet strawberries, but Mitsuru had also come across the fact that Sweden also – thanks to the long, cool summer days – was famous for producing extremely aromatic and sweet strawberries.
She gasped as the thought hit her.
Perhaps that would be a good idea – she could surprise Yukari by taking her to Sweden!
After some moments of careful consideration Mitsuru concluded that a surprise trip to a country so far away might after all not be the ideal choice for their first one-on-one activity. But it was definitely something she would keep in mind for the future. For that purpose, Mitsuru made sure to learn everything about Sweden as well – it should not prove difficult to convince Yukari this exotic destination was worth a visit.
Nevertheless, Mitsuru was confident her strawberry studies would serve her well. Familiar topics were known for being statistically sufficient for initial bonding, and Mitsuru knew enough to sustain conversation for approximately 47 minutes.
Well… there was of course still the fact that Yukari didn’t precisely like her but… she might still say yes to a social event should the circumstances appeal to her enough, and because of that Mitsuru figured strawberries were definitely to be viewed as a good starting point when trying to come up with a suitable theme for an outing. Yukari and Yamagishi, for example, they did things like that all the time. Why wouldn’t Mitsuru…
No.
Of course not.
Of course a spontaneous outing with Mitsuru wouldn’t be something Yukari was interested in. Strawberries included or not.
And besides…. the whole concept of reaching out to someone without there being at least one – preferably two or even three – legitimate reasons was just… wrong. For all Mitsuru knew Yukari could take her invitation for something completely different to what it was. Perhaps she’d even think Mitsuru had ulterior motives.
She shook her head.
Embarrassing wouldn’t even begin to describe that.
No – she needed another plan.
Framework for Interpersonal Affinity Development (Confidential – For personal use only)
Principle #1: Presentation is paramount.
Principle #2: Eye contact must be deliberate and sustained for measurable duration.
Principle #3: Verbal engagement should be purposeful.
Principle #4: Proximity may influence emotional receptiveness.
Principle #5: Consistency builds trust.
Mitsuru read through her list for the fifth time.
Okay.
Five simple principles.
Clear, easy to remember – airtight.
What if this actually works?
She squirmed a little in her seat.
Thinking of the possibility of maybe… holding Yukari’s hand…
…made her all…
This is… unhealthy!
She wiped her hands against her skirt.
She’d been sitting still for too long. She needed… she needed a walk!
Five minutes later Mitsuru was yet again back in her room, having realized it was just after eleven in the evening with the inevitable Dark Hour less than an hour away – clearly not the most ideal time to get some fresh air.
Already by the next evening, Mitsuru was having seconds thoughts about her first principle.
She was convinced that a composed appearance reflected both discipline and reliability. It made sense. Such qualities should, in theory, be appealing.
With that in mind, she had selected today’s outfit carefully. Then – she acted.
Referred action hadn’t required much more on her part other than standing close enough to Yukari and wait to be noticed.
Regrettably, Yukari showed no measurable change in behavior regardless of the adjustment in attire.
Perhaps… external presentation alone is insufficient.
It could very well be that it was too soon to dismiss principle number one completely. As per principle number five, consistency was supposed to build trust, so she would keep dressing in a fashion that emitted dependability.
Some weeks later, another opportunity to shine presented itself, and Mitsuru didn’t hesitate to strike.
“Takeba.”
“Senpai,” Yukari said, sounding rather uninterested. She didn’t look up from her schoolbooks.
Ah, she’s studying. Naturally, she’s not interested in me right now.
Mitsuru cleared her throat.
Yukari looked up.
Their eyes locked.
…..
A panicked expression spread across Yukari’s face. She quickly looked down, eyes darting around as if assessing her own body.
“What?!” She practically shrieked. “Do I have something on me?!”
“Huh?”
“You’re staring at me! Is it a spider!?” Yukari kept examining her own arms.
A spider?
“O-oh. No. No, no. I-“
No. This was not…
Mitsuru almost smacked her hand across her forehead.
Maintaining eye contact for a minimum of three seconds was supposed to convey confidence and intent. And yet…
Yukari appeared to interpret prolonged eye contact as… discomfort.
Had she… overdone it?
Mitsuru thought about it.
Oh no.
She had forgotten to count.
Too late Mitsuru realized that the moment she started looking into Yukari’s eyes – she’d completely forgotten how many seconds were passing.
If it wasn’t for the very strict principle that one should always carry a composed appearance, she would have hid her face in her hands.
How fortunate that she had created such simple and memorable principles.
Okay.
Minor setback.
Never mind.
She had to keep going.
Yukari was studying – this was her chance to demonstrate value through assistance.
“In any case,” Mitsuru went on, not entirely certain what Yukari’s question had been. “I presume you are working on your final preparations for the upcoming exams?”
“…Final? It’s like two weeks left?”
“Hardly. Closer to,” Mitsuru paused, briefly calculating. “11.5 days.”
“Um, that’s-“
“Allow me.”
“I just don’t get this part…”
“It’s quite straightforward.”
Yukari seemed to have a hard time understanding the difference between correlation and causation. Mitsuru tried her best arranging a small lecture on how to differentiate between the two.
“…and keep in mind that there are necessary and sufficient causes. Oh – and remember that correlation is not to be mistaken for causation. That’s a common misconception. Simply because two variables move together, that does not necessarily mean one causes the other.”
“Um… somehow it made more sense before you introduced that part…”
“I see. However, it is a very basic concept.”
“Basic, huh…”
Okay.
Perhaps she was moving too fast.
Mitsuru tried again, concluding that a simpler approach might be necessary.
“A common mistake is confusing correlation with causation – a false cause fallacy.”
“…Right.”
“Here, let me give you a simple example.”
Yukari groaned softly. “Do we really need an example?”
“Yes.” Mitsuru paused briefly. “An increase in Tartarus activity does not cause your grades to drop.” She gave a small, satisfied nod. This was a very good example.
Yukari looked as if she’d just told her horses could fly.
“I mean… it kinda does?”
“Not inherently.”
“What does Tartarus have to do with this?!”
“It’s a practical example.”
“…It’s not practical!!”
“Perhaps we should pause this subject for tonight. We will revisit another day.”
“Yeah, sounds good. I think I’m done studying for tonight anyway,” Yukari said, yawning.
Mitsuru blinked at her. “Done?”
“Yeah. I mean… we’ve been doing this for two hours now.”
“That’s hardly a long time, Takeba.”
“It’s-“
“What other pressing matters do you have scheduled for tonight?”
“Wha-”
“You can do another thirty minutes. Let’s pick another subject.”
Mitsuru was a little worried. If Yukari had such a hard time grasping this with less than two weeks remaining, it was imperative she dedicated more than a few hours per evening was she to succeed.
“Let us begin by establishing a proper framework."
“Framework?!”
“Yes.”
…..
“Can’t you just show me?”
“Of course. I’m here to help.”
Another hour and a half later, Yukari was starting to lose focus.
“Why are you explaining it like that?!”
“Because it’s correct.”
“It’s not helpful!”
Mitsuru sighed.
She would like to think this evening session had been at least a little helpful, and that Yukari appreciated her support.
It was, however, alarming that Yukari hadn’t come further in her studies at this stage. She was tight on time, and her engagement was… lacking.
Perhaps Mitsuru could…
“Let’s retire for the night. I believe I still have my summary from last year when I took this exam. I’ll do my best to locate it so I can give it to you. That should put you up to speed.”
This was certainly a successful interaction.
Seated by her desk, Mitsuru pondered the recent events.
Though Mitsuru had admittedly done most of the talking, their discussion had been purposeful – highly informative and supportive.
She was certain Yukari was at least a little inspired by her methodological approach. Perhaps it wasn’t too much longer until she could introduce the possibility of a future trip to Sweden…
She glanced at the clock. It was already ten.
Perhaps, I could make a start…
If it could be helped, Mitsuru preferred keeping her evenings short so she could rise early. However, she was flexible enough to make exceptions when necessary.
Now, only one slight obstacle remained.
She tapped her fingers lightly against her laptop – considering her next steps.
The problem was – there was no old summary. Mitsuru had simply… well, she wasn’t entirely sure why she had claimed there was one to begin with.
It appears I now need to make one.
Hopefully that wouldn’t prove too difficult. After all, she’d done all of this herself last year.
“Senpai!” Yukari – in the middle of some kind of cooking activity – startled as Mitsuru cleared her throat. “Oh! What’s wrong?”
“Pardon?”
“When did you last sleep?” Her eyes widened as if she couldn’t believe the sight in front of her.
Perfect – just the impression she was hoping to make…
Mitsuru adjusted her collar before responding. “I’ve… had some urgent matters to attend to over the past few days, which may have… compromised my sleep, yes.”
“Like what?”
“Oh, nothing for you to worry about.” She paused briefly before handing over the summary. “Here. As promised.”
The alarming look on Yukari’s face was a little concerning. She eyed the pile of papers Mitsuru had handed over with caution.
“What… what is this?”
“It’s the summary. I managed to locate it… yesterday. For your studies.”
“It’s a book!”
“It’s hardly a book, Takeba. It’s… maximum fifty pages.”
“Exactly – a book!”
“This covers what you need to learn to pass the exam.”
“PASS?!”
There were only 9.5 days remaining until the exams started. Mitsuru could only hope Yukari would make it. However, things did look brighter now that she’d managed to compile the most necessary information in one document.
“Wow, it’s even got a table of contents…” Yukari mumbled as she skimmed through the pages.
“And an abstract with the key points for every chapter.”
It was difficult to suppress the smile threatening to make its way onto her face – surely Yukari must be both impressed and grateful. Hopefully this would make her realize how much simpler her life would be if Mitsuru was a part of it.
“So…” Mitsuru went on. “What are you doing?”
“Well, I’m… cooking… as you might see...”
It didn’t look like cooking. More like… ingredient preparation.
Perhaps Yukari needed her assistance with this as well?
Mitsuru’s eyes landed on a bowl of strawberries – this was her chance to impress!
“I see you’ve bought strawberries.”
“…Yeah.”
“It’s your favorite fruit, correct?”
“Um… you mean berry?”
Mitsuru had been on her way to get some water, but stopped halfway on her way to the sink.
What was this? Did Yukari not know…? She stared at her, astonished.
“WHAT?!”
“Well, naturally… you don’t mean…” Now this was shocking. Mitsuru barely knew what to say. “Surely, you must know it’s a fruit?”
Yukari eyes wandered between Mitsuru and the strawberries. “…They’re berries, right?”
“Incorrect.”
Yukari opened her mouth to speak, but Mitsuru was quicker.
“Would you like me to explain?”
Yukari sighed and tried turning her attention back to the supposed cooking. “You know what – no.”
“I will keep it brief…”
A few evenings later, as Mitsuru exited the kitchen, ready for a relaxing time accompanied by nothing but her evening brew, she spotted Yukari sitting by the dining table, studying.
“Oh!” Mitsuru couldn’t stop herself from reacting upon noticing that Yukari was using her guide.
Yukari looked up. “Senpai.” She gave a short nod.
Mitsuru hesitated – then set her cup down.
“How is it going?”
“Alright, I guess. This is… a little confusing.”
“Good. That means you are engaging with the material.”
“It’s exhausting!”
“Progress can sometimes feel that way.”
Yukari buried her face in her hands.
Mitsuru couldn’t believe she’d been sitting there for an overly long time, but perhaps she needed a little break.
She cleared her throat.
“I was thinking…” she started. “You might be aware, that whenever a new member moves in, it is my responsibility to give them a tour to ensure they get acquainted with the property.”
“…Okay?”
“It’s a… you could say it’s one of the dorm’s rules.”
“Right…”
Yukari’s eyes darted between Mitsuru and the study guide. Perhaps she wasn’t ready for a break just yet?
“So. As you may recall, I came down with an untimely illness upon your arrival…”
“You did?”
“…Yes. And as such – I never got a chance to take you on… said tour.”
“Oh.” Yukari looked a little taken aback. “It’s… Really Mitsuru-Senpai, it’s fine. I believe I’ve lived her long enough to know my way around.”
“I’m sure you have. However, and as mentioned, it is sort of… mandatory.”
“Heh. Relax – I’m not reporting you or anything!”
“Thank you, Takeba. Though I’m afraid this is too important to bypass. Especially since I’m responsible for making sure the rules of our shared home are adhered to.”
“But… didn’t you make the rules?”
“Another strong reason for why they need to be adhered to.”
When Yukari didn’t say anything, but merely looked at her, Mitsuru continued.
“In any case, it looks like a short break could be beneficial,” she said, glancing at Yukari’s schoolbooks. “Say… have you ever seen the lower level of the estate?”
“W-wait… where are we going?”
“The lower level.”
“Yeah but… isn’t this…”
The duo kept descending the stairs.
“You brought me to the basement!?”
“Yes.”
“WHY?!”
“It’s part of the tour.”
Mitsuru couldn’t understand why Yukari was suddenly so livid.
“Naturally we start at the lower levels and work our way up.”
“You do realize there are spiders down here? Or worse – rats.”
Mitsuru sighed.
Of course, no areas of this building were home to any rats.
“You’re… you’re not going to lock me in here, right?”
“…That is not part of the tour.”
There would be no reason to do so.
“…and this is the storage area.” Mitsuru had opened one of the doors to let Yukari have a look.
“Whose junk is this?” She shook her head. “I’ve never heard anyone else mention-”
Suddenly – the lights went out.
Mitsuru blinked at the unexpected darkness.
This does not normally-
Her thoughts were interrupted as something crashed into her. After a moment of confusion, she realized that said something was Yukari.
Yukari was clinging to her arm for dear life.
Mitsuru froze.
This isn’t part of the tour!
“Senpai!” Yukari cried.
“I…”
Mitsuru frenetically searched her brain for something to say. Or do.
She felt Yukari’s fingers dig deeper into her arm.
…..
She needed to get Yukari to back away so she could think of a solution.
“There… there are no rats,” she offered.
“You can’t know that!”
“I’ll just try to-“
“Don’t leave me!”
Yukari locked her arms around her waist, fixing her to the spot.
Mitsuru instinctively looked down – saw nothing.
Was it possible to exhibit this level of fear over rats?
There was no way Mitsuru could move around to try to locate the light switch with Yukari practically hanging at her side.
“What was that?!”
“Wh-“
“Something’s moving!!”
“N-no… surely-“
“Senpai!”
Yukari had now thrown her arms around her neck.
Mitsuru didn’t move.
She could feel Yukari’s breath against her skin.
What would be the next step? Would she… jump up and lock her legs around her to be… carried?
And just like that – the lights turned back on.
Mitsuru swallowed when upon realizing their faces were only inches away.
Leaning away slowly, she let out the breath she’d been unaware of holding.
“I…” she started, not at all sure what to say.
“I think I’ve seen enough of this building.”
Yukari had released her grip around her neck and put some distance between them. A split-second later, Mitsuru watched her disappear up the stairs.
She buried her face in her hands. This was not… part of the tour.
Is that the boy she’s-
Mitsuru forced herself to turn away before she could finish both her thought and watching the scene she’d almost walked straight into play out.
She started to walk away.
Then she stopped.
And spun back around.
…..
Mitsuru immediately regretted her impulsive decision.
Not only was Yukari smiling and laughing with the boy – she was also standing less than three feet away from him. Mitsuru watched in horror how a bypassing horde of students got Yukari to take a big step forward, bringing them even closer.
As the boy put his hand on her arm to steady her, Mitsuru turned – leaving before she could witness how the scene would play out from here.
She went to bed early that night, not even bothering with either dinner or tea.
Lying in bed, she pressed the pillow tightly against her body, burying her face in its softness.
How did it come to this?
Things had started to go so well, but then…
Mitsuru had thought giving Yukari a guided tour of the house would serve not only as a way to bond, but also as a means to make up for past mistakes.
The word backfire wouldn’t even begin to describe what a fatal mistake that had been. Not only had Yukari thought she was going to lock her up, but she also seemed to think Mitsuru had planned on feeding her to the rats.
This place doesn’t even have any rats!
It didn’t matter. Yukari appeared to believe otherwise.
In the three days that had passed since the incident, they hadn’t exchanged a single word. Partly because Mitsuru had been too mortified to even look at Yukari, and Yukari had of course not made any attempts to interact.
She pressed her face deeper into the pillow. It was embarrassing. She had made a total fool out of herself. And now… Mitsuru shook her head as the image of Yukari and that to her unbeknownst boy flashed through her mind.
Perhaps Iori had been right all along.
I should remember there’s a difference between what appeals to me and what I can actually pull off.
Her efforts had led to nothing but a painful mix of expectations, extra work and disappointment. Surely, this was not how it was supposed to… feel like.
It was enough. This… whatever she was trying to achieve – it had to end here.
Graduation was approximately six months away. Then Mitsuru would leave this place behind, and she would never have to lay eyes on Yukari ever again. It was an insignificant period of time in the big scheme of things – she could manage that. All she needed to do in the meantime was to make sure she avoided Yukari as much as she possibly could.
Excellent.
That was her new plan.
Whatever concept she’d put together earlier – it was now obsolete.
As if that would manifest her new plan further, Mitsuru hugged the pillow tighter against her body. Just as hard as Yukari had hugged her down in the…
No!
Not that.
She was not supposed to think about that.
“Senpai!”
Oh no.
She was not prepared for this.
Besides, wasn’t Yukari supposed to be on her archery practice?
Mitsuru turned, and offered a tight smile. “Takeba.”
“Just thought I’d give this back to you.”
Mitsuru looked down at the summary Yukari held out for her to take.
Of course she wants nothing to do with this anymore…
“Oh.”
“Thank you, Mitsuru-Senpai. Turns out it was quite helpful after all.”
“You…” What was Yukari saying? “You’ve read it?”
“Yeah. Made sense once I got my head around it.”
“It… did?”
“Yeah, you know… I made my own summary of it so… I think I got it now.”
“I see…”
Mitsuru didn’t know what else to say, and it didn’t help that Yukari seemed to be watching her… closely.
“Wow, Senpai!” She said after a while. “You look great today!”
Huh?
“I… do?”
“Yeah, totally!”
Mitsuru looked down at herself. Didn’t she look like she usually did? She hadn’t put any extra effort in today’s appearance.
“I need to run, but… thanks again!” Yukari gave her shoulder a quick squeeze before leaving the kitchen.
For a long moment, Mitsuru could only blink.
She glanced down at her shoulder, then on to the rest of her body, examining herself.
I look great today…?
Back in her room, Mitsuru inspected herself in the full body mirror. From what she could see, there was nothing different about her appearance compared to any other day.
“You look great today,” she mumbled.
She turned away from the mirror just in time, and therefore didn’t notice the small smile that had made its way onto her face.
Okay. Yukari found the study guide helpful. That was a good sign. Also, she no longer seemed upset over the supposed rats.
She had also commented on Mitsuru’s appearance. Unprompted and without Mitsuru really having done anything out of the ordinary. And from what she could see, there were no observable gains for Yukari in remarking on her looks.
Without thinking, Mitsuru’s hand had made its way to her shoulder. Upon noticing, she quickly removed it.
This was unexpected…
Mitsuru let out a deep sigh.
Just as she had decided on a new plan to navigate this challenging situation, the pieces on the battlefield appeared to have… moved.
Did this mean… she now needed a new strategy too? And if so, what would that be?
…..
Mitsuru reached for her laptop.
Let’s see what we can find here…
Two hours later, Mitsuru was still seated by the computer.
What am I even doing here?
Regrettably, Mitsuru had somehow ended up on some obscure page about zodiac sign compatibility. Before she could stop herself, she had entered their respective signs. She saw something about them both being ruled by Venus flash across the screen before quickly closing it.
She shook her head at her own silliness.
Whatever she was after – astrology was not the answer.
It was fruitless. Her search had led to nothing.
“Focus on building genuine connection through active listening, warmth and positive body language, such as smiling and maintaining eye contact.” She read out loud.
That’s precisely what I’ve done!
She had come across more or less a copy of the principles she’d listed some weeks ago.
Presumably, her principles still held some significance, but… where had they taken her so far?
To a basement with non-existent rats.
Surely, there must be other more straightforward approaches.
Mitsuru gaped at the screen.
What was this?
“Doing a favor for someone causes you to like them more,” she read out loud trying to get the words to make sense.
“But then… then that means…”
She gripped the edge of her desk tightly as the sentiment started to dawn on her, almost as if stabilizing herself against the implications.
If you do a favor for someone – it will lead to you liking them more.
Her eyes narrowed.
That meant she had done this completely wrong the whole time!
All the things she’d assisted Yukari with, trying to get her to warm up toward Mitsuru… had led to nothing but Mitsuru liking her even more.
“Oh no,” she groaned.
How could she have been so stupid?
The more she read about this phenomenon the clearer it became that the joke was on her. Now that she thought about it, it was so obvious she almost laughed out loud when understanding how ridiculous her initial plan had been.
Of course.
Of course that’s how the brain works.
If you do something for someone else – naturally that makes the brain conclude you like them. It made too much sense. Like, why else would you do someone a favor if you didn’t like them?
And here Mitsuru had spent such an excessive amount of time trying to impress Yukari that…
Oh no!
Did this now mean Yukari thought Mitsuru liked her?
No. It couldn’t, could it?
Nevertheless – things were about to change.
Mitsuru would soon see to that Yukari did something for her. She just needed… a plan!
Pleased about finding this scientifically proven method, Mitsuru considered what kind of favor would be suitable to ask. The article had said one should ask for small and easily granted favors, such as advice. It was also important to avoid overuse, as in one was not to overwhelm people with requests or ask for something that was too big. Another imperative staple was that the task should focus on collaboration.
Okay.
So, she needed to come up with something she could ask once that wasn’t insignificant but also not too burdensome.
What should she ask for?
Mitsuru didn’t necessarily feel there was anything in particular she needed much aid with.
Could Yukari perhaps assist her in making tea?
….
Mitsuru considered it for a while.
No.
No that was a terrible idea. Firstly, Yukari didn’t drink tea and secondly – her cooking skills didn’t precisely impress.
Besides, making tea might be on the easier side of things, and if Mitsuru needed to ask Yukari for support daily, she would soon find herself in the unrecommended overuse territory.
Didn’t the article say something about asking for advice?
Mitsuru bit her lip, thinking hard.
Was there anything Yukari could counsel her with?
The only things she really needed much input on were complex matters, and the article strongly advised against making the requests too burdensome, as that could have the opposite effect and lead to the other party becoming annoyed.
She definitely didn’t need more of that.
After another thirty minutes of coming up with and discarding ideas, Mitsuru sighed in defeat.
Why was it so hard to come up with something that met all the prerequisites? The only thing in Mitsuru’s life that somewhat met those criteria was the Student Council, but that…
She gasped.
Of course.
The Student Council.
That was… Mitsuru blinked. That was almost too perfect!
Why didn’t I think of that?
Asking Yukari to join the Council would be a one-time ask which would lead to future collaboration – exactly like the article had suggested. Mitsuru only needed to make sure the task assigned to her didn’t become too taxing. That should not pose an issue. Provided the task was structured properly, its scale should not matter.
The Council didn’t exactly need any new members but… Mitsuru was sure she could up with something that would change that.
As soon as the exam period was behind them, Mitsuru started executing the plan she’d spent a vast amount of time meticulously engineering over the past week.
“Fushimi, I will require your assistance with a different set of responsibilities.” Mitsuru said. She had asked Chihiro to stay behind after the day’s Student Council meeting ended.
“D-different?”
“Yes. I have been assisting the Headmaster with several administrative matters. Unfortunately, my current schedule no longer permits it.”
“…I see.”
“You will take over those duties.”
Chihiro blinked. “M-me?”
“Your attention to detail makes you a suitable candidate.”
“…B-but then – what about my position as Treasurer?”
“It will be reassigned.”
“…Is that really necessary?”
“It is far easier to appoint a new Treasurer than to find someone capable of meeting the Headmaster’s expectations. Besides, you know this job inside out – a new challenge will ensure continued personal development.”
Mitsuru continued the discussion with Chihiro, making sure she understood this was not by any means a demotion but a chance for her to gain new experience.
The administrative tasks she supported the headmaster with weren’t too overwhelming, but they weren’t necessarily what she would class as enjoyable, so Mitsuru was pleased to hand them over to someone else. And more importantly – there was now a vacant spot at the Student Council. Now, only the task of assigning it to Yukari remained.
Mitsuru was fairly certain if she presented it in the right way, Yukari would accept without blinking.
“You’re joking!?”
“Why, no.”
“You want me to join the Student Council?!”
“Correct.”
“WHY?!”
“Well, isn’t that obvious? There is no one else.”
Yukari gaped at her.
“Even if there was,” Mitsuru went on, “you would still be my first-hand choice.”
“Yeah. Right.”
“Can I count on you?”
“Wha… you’ve not even told me what I’m supposed to do?!”
“Oh. It’s a relatively minor role.”
“Minor??”
“Yes. You will be responsible for managing financial records, tracking expenditures, and ensuring proper allocation of funds.”
“Expenditures…?” Yukari blinked at her. “Senpai, I-“
“We meet Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Right after school. I shall see you then.”
“I don’t-“
“May I suggest you give it a try. Meaningful tasks like this can be quite rewarding.”
Just as Mitsuru concluded her recruitment completed and was about to leave, Yukari spoke up.
“Wait!”
“Yes?”
“You know I don’t know anything about finance, right?”
“Yes.”
“Then why-“
“You’ll learn, Takeba. Your duties are very straightforward.”
Sighing, Mitsuru glanced down at the financial reports spread across her desk.
Only temporary inefficiency, she reminded herself.
Yukari would take some time to adjust to the role. Once she did, however, Mitsuru would no longer need to spend her evenings covering for the now-reassigned Treasurer. Seeing that this would inevitably lead to Yukari taking a bigger liking to her, some extra work was nothing in the larger scheme of things.
The earlier discussions with both Fushimi and Yukari had gone remarkably well. Fushimi seemed to get the sentiment that new tasks would expand her knowledge and Yukari… well Yukari perhaps didn’t seem too thrilled, but Mitsuru was confident that would change once she got accustomed to her new tasks.
They are quite straightforward anyway.
It wasn’t as if she’d appointed her President. Now, that would have been taking things too far – the article had discouraged asking for favors that proved too heavy.
The main point was – she was on the right track. Some extra evening work was a small price to pay.
“Sorry I’m late!”
The door flung open and Yukari practically flew through it. She was ten minutes late.
“…You are,” Odagiri remarked.
“Takeba. You’ve arrived.”
Punctuality was something Mitsuru found highly important, but… this was Yukari’s first meeting, so she saw no point in commenting on it.
“Yeah, that’s usually how it works.”
Odagiri threw her a skeptical look as Yukari dropped into the seat next to him.
“Odagiri, meet our new Treasurer – Yukari Takeba.”
“Treasurer, huh…” Yukari mumbled to herself.
“I still don’t see why a reassignment was necessary.” Odagiri said flatly after regarding Yukari for some time. “President Kirijo, was this appointment approved?”
“Yes.”
“I only-“
“Takeba will need some time to adjust to her new responsibilities.” Mitsuru cut him off. “As you may recall, it took Fushimi a while to get accustomed to this role as well.”
“Um, you do realize I’m still here, right?”
“Naturally, Takeba.” Mitsuru gave them both a reassuring smile. “Now, let us begin.”
“So… treasurer, huh?”
“Correct – that’s the title.”
“I still don’t fully understand-“
“As I’ve mentioned, Takeba – you will learn.” Mitsuru paused briefly. “After some weeks, I’m confident it will be as if you’ve done this your whole life.”
“But-“
“I’ve got things covered until you’re fully accustomed to your new responsibilities.”
This had gone… beyond anything Mitsuru could ever have imagined.
Yukari was now a fully incorporated member of the Student Council – she had even shown up today.
Mitsuru had to admit she’d been a little worried when Yukari wasn’t there when the meeting started, but… she arrived eventually. That was what mattered. And as for Odagiri’s skepticism, well… he would come around to it.
She produced a small smile as she glanced down at the financial reports.
A small price to pay, she reminded herself.
“You did very well today, Takeba.”
“…I said one word?”
“A well-chosen one.”
“Since when’s Hi considered a well-chosen word?!”
“Would you like me to introduce you to some of your responsibilities?” Mitsuru saw no point in arguing over which words counted as well-chosen or not.
“Well-“
“I’ll start with the basics.”
Yukari sighed loudly.
“I don’t know, Senpai… I still think this would sit better with Fuuka.”
Mitsuru froze mid-motion. “Yamagishi? What does Yamagishi have to do with this?”
“Well, surely she’d be a fit-“
“You are correct in saying she would do a good job, yes. She is, however, busy.”
“WITH WHAT?!”
“…She’s already assisting me with some…computer related tasks. I cannot afford to overwhelm her.”
“So…you’re overwhelming me?”
“This is hardly overwhelming.” She pointed at the computer screen. “Now, let’s resume our training.”
“So… should I call you President now?”
What kind of question is that?
Mitsuru shot her a glance.
“You may refer to me however you see fit.”
“Hmm…” Yukari appeared to be lost in thought. “I quite like the President part. I might stick with that.”
“Very well.”
As long as Yukari continued to learn her responsibilities, so that she would eventually start doing favors for Mitsuru – she could, as far as Mitsuru was concerned, call her whatever she wished.
“You can’t seriously enjoy doing this?”
“Do what, precisely?”
“This! All of it! The finance stuff, the whole Student Council thing! It’s just…” Yukari gave her an astonished look. “You don’t really like this, do you?”
“I enjoy it enough.”
“That’s not an answer?!”
Mitsuru sighed deeply. Why was Yukari so intent on discussing everything except the ongoing training?
“The purpose of the Student Council is hardly to see to my… entertainment, if that’s what you’re asking.”
…..
Yukari blinked at her.
“But what… what do you even do for entertainment?”
When Mitsuru didn’t respond right away, Yukari went again. “Please tell me you’re doing something just for… fun, I guess?”
“…I do.”
“Like?”
“May I suggest we focus on the task at hand. Besides, what I do in my spare time is… private.”
“Where are last week’s records?” Odagiri addressed Yukari directly.
“What records?”
Mitsuru cleared her throat. “They are right here.”
”You’re learning quickly, Takeba.”
”…Yeah, sure.”
”Don’t be so hard on yourself – excelling at a new expertise takes time.”
“Expertise, huh…”
“Let’s resume our training.”
“So… you just… picked me, huh?”
“Yes.”
“…Convenient.”
Mitsuru wasn’t sure where Yukari was going with this. “As I was just trying to explain…”
“Do you think you’ve learnt enough to start looking into some of this on your own now? Starting with comparing the budgeted numbers to our actual allocations should pose as a good starting point.”
“I’ll… try. Don’t expect any miracles.”
“Excellent.” Mitsuru gave her a short nod. “Then I would say we are done for the day.”
Yukari stood, but didn’t move toward the door.
After a long moment of Yukari seemingly observing her, Mitsuru looked up.
“Um, Senpai…?”
“Yes?”
“You know… if you wanted to, I don’t know… hang out… You could have just said so.”
“Hang out?” Mitsuru echoed.
What was this? Yukari couldn’t possibly think that Mitsuru did this so they could…
“Yeah, you know…”
No.
Mitsuru did not know.
“Takeba.” She shook her head. “Apologies, but I do not exactly follow-“
“Ah, never mind. I’m just trying to say that… perhaps a coffee at the mall would make more sense than… whatever this is supposed to be.”
“I…”
“See you at the dorm… President.”
Mitsuru stared at the door closing behind Yukari.
Coffee at the mall.
She shook her head.
Why, of course not.
The article didn’t mention anything about coffees or any other drinks for that matter. Nor malls. Nor… whatever the suggestion had been. That would be… a direct opposite to what this scientific method proposed. Enjoying drinks together would be classed as a one-off activity – and most definitely not as a favor. Something as simple as that would never…
No.
Spending time at the mall was not the correct approach if one wanted true bonding.
“You’re joking, right?”
“What are you getting at?” Mitsuru had wanted to comment, but Odagiri was quicker.
She tightened her grip around the pen upon seeing how Yukari rolled her eyes at him.
“Well, this! People are miserable around here and you discuss… study nights.” Yukari glared at him. “As if that would solve anything.”
When Odagiri opened his mouth to retort, Mitsuru cleared her throat. “I hardly think the study nights are to blame for people’s misery.” She shot her a pointed glance. “Takeba,” she added, hoping she would drop the case.
Yukari knew more than well the exact reason for everyone’s suffering.
“Something fun needs to happen around here!” Yukari shot back. “President,” she added with a little bow.
“I…” They were both looking at her now, expectantly. Mitsuru fought back the urge to sigh – this was unnecessary.
“Thank you, Takeba. Please let us know what you suggest we do instead.”
“President Kirijo, may I-“
“We let everyone speak their mind, Odagiri.” If Yukari had an idea in mind, she would at least let her express it. “Takeba, you dislike our idea about study nights. So, what should we do?”
“Well, I…”
Yukari looked taken aback by the attention now being directed at her; two pair of eyes staring unwavering at her.
“…At least not that!” She let out after a moment. “I thought this was a group exercise!”
“Group exercise…” Odagiri snorted. “What, do you think this is some kind of entertainment committee? If that’s what-”
“I suggest you have a think, and when you’ve got your counter-proposal ready – we will look forward to hear about it.”
“President Kirijo-“
“We will park the question around study nights for now.” Mitsuru said, eyes not leaving Yukari. “Now, let us review the art club’s expenditures – they have requested funding for some expensive special paint…”
“You’re upset with me…” Yukari pointed out as Odagiri had left for the day. Though, she said it like a question.
“Not at all.” Mitsuru didn’t look up from her papers.
Why was Yukari still here?
“So… you’re still happy with your choice of, what was it… treasurer?”
“Very.”
Yukari was silent for a long moment, but made no move to leave.
“What are you working on?”
“Just… reviewing requests from the clubs…”
“Do you enjoy it?”
Mitsuru shook her head. “Do I look like I enjoy it?”
“You know…” Yukari cocked her head. “I’d say you look happier than usual right now.”
Mitsuru rubbed her neck, returning her attention to the small pile of papers before her. “Then I suppose that must mean I do enjoy myself quite a bit.” She bit her lip, refusing to let any kind of smile show.
Whether she was enjoying herself or not was hardly relevant to the matter at hand.
“Any highlights from the latest financial report you’d like to share?” Odagiri asked Yukari in his most unimpressed tone.
“Of course, Vice President.” Yukari gave him a sweet smile. “You’ll be pleased to know our cashflow is positive…”
Cashflow? This is no shop!
“Also,” Yukari went on before Mitsuru could cut in, “we have money on the bank.”
Odagiri sighed. “What are you-“
“And from what I can see,” Yukari continued, a little louder, “we have enough resources to reinstate the cancelled Culture Festival.”
“The Culture Festival?” Odagiri looked as if someone had slapped him. “That festival got cancelled because-“
“Because of the typhoon.”
Mitsuru met Odagiri’s exasperated look. She needed to interfere – she did not want a repeat of last week’s meeting.
“Yukari – Takeba – I’m not sure this is a wise choice.”
The look Yukari gave her was filled with… questions?
Goodness!
She tried again. “I… Everyone went through a lot planning and preparations for said festival. Not to mention all the hard work needed to restore the grounds from that undone activity…”
“I was in charge of that group!”
“And you did a great job.”
“Senpai! You’re missing the point!”
For a moment, Yukari looked so worked up Mitsuru worried she might storm out of the room.
“Everyone was looking forward to it! And they sure prefer that over any… study night or motivational speech or whatever you two have in mind.”
“Takeba…”
“We’ve got the money! I’d say we use it!”
“Money!” Odagiri shook his head. “Just because there’s money doesn’t mean-“
“I believe I’m the finance manager here.”
“Yeah, to everyone’s-“
“Enough!”
They both glared at her.
“Odagiri. A word, if you don’t mind?”
“President Kirijo, you know I have the deepest respect for you but… you have to bring Fushimi back. This girl-“
“She’s been doing this for just over a week, Odagiri. A week.”
“She doesn’t even want to be here!”
“She does.”
“I…” He shook his head. “Please, President, all I ask is that you at least consider it.”
“I will. And in the meantime – may I suggest you give Takeba the benefit of the doubt?”
Yukari didn’t look up as they reentered the room.
“Takeba.” Mitsuru searched her eyes. “We will consider your suggestion.” Yukari nodded. “Thank you. It is a good idea.”
“Right.”
Once the meeting was over, Yukari lingered.
“Did you mean that?”
“Mean what?”
“What you said… about considering the festival?”
“I…”
“Then why say it?”
“It will be considered.”
“Whatever.”
Mitsuru glanced at her – the look on Yukari’s face spoke volumes; she didn’t believe her.
“I will consider it. I’m just not… convinced it’s where we should put our focus – or money – is all.”
“Fine.”
Mitsuru let out a deep sigh. How did it come to this? This wasn’t part of the plan!
“Yukari, please-“
“So it’s Yukari now?”
“It’s-“
“You know…” Yukari paused. “…you already had me in that maid outfit once.”
Mitsuru swallowed. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“That maid suit you gave me. I never gave it back. Wouldn’t it be a shame if it didn’t… come to use?”
“I-I don’t understand where this is going?”
“Really? I mean if you want me in this little club, perhaps… perhaps you want me in a maid suit as well?”
“For… what?”
What was she on about?
“You tell me. To clean the dorm… or why not, your room?”
“Takeba… I…”
How could she think this.
“Whatever, President. Good luck with your… thinking.”
Yukari stood and made for the door.
“Yukari, wait.”
Just as she was about to reach for the door, Yukari turned.
Mitsuru barely knew what to say, but she did not want to let her leave like this. She tried swallowing away the unfamiliar feeling suddenly coming over her.
“When this so called maid-theme was decided upon, I was unaware you were planning on working at the festival.” Mitsuru said slowly, carefully observing Yukari’s reactions. “And for what it’s worth – I voted against said theme.”
“Yet I recall you looking very pleased as you handed it over to me.”
“I wasn’t aware-“
“Almost as if you were thinking I could work at your mansion or something.”
Mitsuru could only blink at her.
How could she think this?
Yukari let out a dry laugh. “Well, at least you’re not denying it.”
Mitsuru stood.
She hesitated, then closed the distance between them.
“I cannot allow you to walk away believing that.”
Yukari narrowed her eyes. “So, what were you thinking?”
“Not… not that.”
Another dry laugh.
“I would never think that. Not about anyone and, not about… you.”
Mitsuru expected Yukari to turn around and leave any second now. She balled her hands into fist, stopping herself from reaching out to keep her in place.
What did she need to do to prevent Yukari from leaving this room, thinking she saw her as… whatever it may be she thought.
“So…” Yukari said after a pressing moment of silence. “If you saw me walking around the dorm with that costume on later tonight-“
“That would be highly unwise.”
“Why?”
“I think Iori-“
“Junpei?! What does Junpei have to do with this?”
Oh God. Why did everything she said seem to make matters worse?
Mitsuru hung her head.
Desperately trying to come up with something to say, she ended up opting for silence – at least that shouldn’t bring her any deeper into the grave she was undoubtedly digging.
“Senpai…”
Mitsuru almost startled as Yukari spoke. Some part of her must have thought she’d already left.
“I’m sorry. That was uncalled for.”
“Okay.” That was all Mitsuru could say – it came out as a whisper. She looked down at her hands.
“Hey – don’t look so sad. Seriously Senpai, it’s fine. I-”
“No.” Mitsuru shook her head. “It’s not. I… I could have fought harder to put an end to that ill-chosen theme and yet… clearly, I decided not to. And you have every right to resent me for it.”
“Come on! It was just a silly idea… no biggie.”
“It was tasteless.” She buried her face in her hands, not even caring about carrying a composed appearance. “I should have known better.”
Soft hands landed on hers, removing them from her face.
Mitsuru looked away.
“I said it’s fine.”
Yukari might say so, but that didn’t mean any of it was.
Mitsuru nodded anyway, though nothing about it felt resolved.
“I need to run…” Yukari was still holding on to her hands.
Mitsuru gave another nod, but didn’t look up.
They stood in silence for a while.
“President Kirijo?”
When she didn’t continue, Mitsuru eventually felt there was no choice but to look at her – Yukari had a funny look on her face. Mitsuru didn’t exactly know what to make of it.
“If someone comes knocking on your door tonight… you know who it is.”
A wink and a beat later, Yukari was gone.
Mitsuru remained where she stood for a long moment after Yukari left.
Then slowly – she glanced toward the door.
Mitsuru eyed the balance sheet showing on her computer screen over the brim of her cup. Sipping at her tea, she revisited the talk she’d had earlier with Odagiri.
Perhaps…
Perhaps the Student Council could do with someone who… saw to the atmosphere at school. It could very well be the case that focusing on academics, sports and other creative matters simply wasn’t enough for the overall well-being of the students.
Apathy-syndrome aside – or perhaps because of it – maybe people needed something fun to happen for a change.
The more she thought about it, she realized that there could very well be some truth to what Yukari suggested earlier. And, if Mitsuru was to agree that there was… it would then mean there was suddenly a need for a completely new role within the Council…
“Student engagement coordinator,” Mitsuru said half an hour later, offering her notebook a satisfied nod.
That was… surprisingly fitting.
Naturally, was she to introduce this it would inevitably mean the council would need to expand from their current constellation of three members to four.
Fushimi should have gotten accustomed to the administrative tasks she’s doing for the headmaster by now. I’m confident she’s got the capacity to do both…
And admittedly, even though Yukari appeared to be trying her best, perhaps finance wasn’t precisely her… thing.
This new role would ensure Yukari could spend her time doing something she actually cared for, without compromising the fact that she would still be doing Mitsuru a favor…
Undoubtedly, Yukari would be pleased tomorrow once informed.
Unless...
No.
Of course not.
Clearly, that had been a joke.
…..
However – if she did come….
Mitsuru sat a little straighter and cast a brief glance toward the door.
Would she knock? Or would she simply… enter?
And the outfit…
No.
She shook her head – that was irrelevant.
Mitsuru pressed a hand to her forehead. This was not a productive line of thought.
…..
She glanced at the door again.
Mitsuru lay in her bed, staring at the ceiling.
It was only nine-thirty but… there hadn’t been any reason to stay awake.
….
She turned her head slightly, eyes landing on the door.
….
Of course, Yukari did not come.
Whatever she’d said, had been a joke.
That was obvious.
Laying back, she let out a quiet sigh as she pulled the covers up slightly.
Yes… this was for the best.
“No one came by last night.”
“…Were you expecting someone?”
“No.”
Yukari looked away. “Did you need me for anything?” She said finally, tugging lightly at her choker.
…..
That accessory…
No. Irrelevant.
“Senpai?”
“Hm?”
“Did you want something?”
“Oh! Why, yes. Of course.” Mitsuru straightened. “I want to inform you about a change in your position at the Student Council.”
“…A change?” Yukari blinked at her. “Am I being-“
“I’m repositioning you.”
“Repositioning?”
“We have discovered a need for what we’ve decided to call a Student Engagement Coordinator. I would appreciate if you would shoulder that role.”
“Engagement…?”
Mitsuru hesitated. Did Yukari’s tone suggest… amusement?
“Precisely.”
There was no need to pay Yukari’s supposed teasing any mind.
Yukari appeared lost in thought.
“Like a… mood manager?” She said after some time.
“I would prefer the term Student Engagement Coordinator.”
“…That’s worse.” Yukari smiled faintly, clearly struggling not to laugh at the formal title.
“I take it you are accepting your new responsibilities?”
“But what about my finance-“
“The previous Treasurer is yet again available. She will take over from now.”
Mitsuru couldn’t stop herself from smiling as she turned away from Yukari and started walking toward the headmaster’s office. Things could only go one way from here. Now, all she needed was a Treasurer.
“Fushimi.”
“O-oh, President Kirijo. Hi.”
“How are you finding the tasks your helping the headmaster with?”
“W-well, it’s… it’s fine, I suppose-“
“I was expecting that a few weeks would be more than enough for you to get accustomed to your new duties. I presume you are now ready to re-join the Student Council and do… both?”
“O-oh. Return… I-“
“Excellent. I’ll see you at tomorrow’s meeting.”
Mitsuru gave a brief nod before leaving. Fushimi would handle both duties flawlessly – she had no doubts.
“Fushimi. Odagiri. Meet our new Student Engagement Coordinator, Yukari Takeba.”
Fushimi gave a weak smile.
“Engagement Coordinator? President Kirijo, who approved-“
“There’s more than one reason no one asked for your opinion.” Yukari rolled her eyes at him.
“We don’t need-“
“I’ll see to the vibe at this place! Not that I’d expect you to even recognize a vibe if it so descended upon you like a-“
“Let us begin today’s meeting,” Mitsuru interrupted. “And may I suggest,” she continued, a little louder this time, “that the two of you work out some way to… tolerate each other.”
She fixed them all with an unwavering glance. Yukari and Odagiri both looked like they wanted to retort, and Fushimi – having done nothing wrong – looked like she wished she could disappear back to the safety of the headmaster’s office.
When Mitsuru was confident her point had hit home, she continued. “This marks the beginning of a new era,” she declared. “For the Student Council – and for this school.”
“He doesn’t even do anything!” Yukari exclaimed once the meeting was over and they yet again found themselves alone in the big room.
“He does enough.”
“Like what!?”
Mitsuru sighed. “I am more than aware that he can come across as a bit… rigid. It is my hope, however, that you will soon realize he can be quite useful, at times. Besides, I wouldn’t suspect you to be interested in taking his seat on the Disciplinary Committee was I to reposition him?”
“…Fine. Whatever.”
“Give him a chance. He might surprise you.”
“I guess we’ll see about that...”
Yukari sat silent for a minute before speaking up again.
“Did you… consider my suggestion?”
“Suggestion?” Mitsuru hoped she wasn’t hinting at what she thought she was.
“The festival.”
She exhaled slowly. So much for hoping. “I… have.”
“And?”
“And I still don’t think it’s a wise move.” She raised her finger upon seeing that Yukari was about to interrupt. “I never said it was a bad idea. I merely… think we should focus on something simpler. For now.”
“This got nothing to do with that maid suit, right?”
Oh, that stupid costume!
“Of course not. What makes you think that?”
Mitsuru did her best trying to ignore the way her heart was beating a little faster in anticipation for Yukari’s response.
“It seemed you were disappointed you didn’t get to see it.”
Mitsuru inhaled sharply at the accusation. “I was… joking.”
“Joking?”
“Yes.”
“Oh. I didn’t know you… did that.” Yukari tilted her head slightly.
“Well, clearly – it happens.”
Yukari gave her a sly smile. “You know, I could always-“
“If you don’t mind, Takeba, I have matters to attend to. As you might recall, we’re going to Tartarus tonight. I do need to finish this up before that.”
“She’s not waking up!”
Iori was kneeling beside Yukari’s lifeless body.
“Yuka-tan, come on.” He shook her by the shoulder.
Mitsuru was soon by her other side.
“She’s got pulse – let’s check her head.”
Okay. No blood. That was a positive sign.
Mitsuru looked down at the still unconscious Yukari.
“You help him take out that shadow. I’ll locate the nearest teleporter and bring Yukari to the hospital.”
“You’re going to…? Are you sure-“
“Go!” Mitsuru had already picked Yukari up. “He will not make it much longer on his own.”
“W-what’s happened?” Fuuka’s worried voice echoed behind her.
“The others should arrive soon. I’ll make sure Yukari gets taken care of.”
Walking as quickly as her legs would allow, while altogether carrying the extra weight, Mitsuru cursed upon realizing the Dark Hour still wouldn’t be over for another forty minutes. That meant no phones would be working by the time she got to the dorm. She estimated it was at least ten minutes before they got there.
Could she walk straight to the hospital? No. That would take well over an hour. Besides, her arms already felt as if they were on fire.
She stopped for a quick rearrangement of her grip around Yukari, then continued to push onward.
“Senpai?”
Mitsuru stopped to look down at the now apparently semi-awake Yukari.
“You’re okay. We’re almost at the dorm.”
They were approximately three minutes away from home by now. Mitsuru tightened her grip and kept moving as she felt her arms were about to give in.
“Why are you-“
“Later.” She wheezed.
Mitsuru still wasn’t sure how she’d managed to open the front door and carry Yukari all the way up the stairs and into her room. But by some kind of miracle, she had managed to transport her from the depths of Tartarus all the way to Yukari’s room.
Once Yukari had been somewhat carefully placed on top of the bed, Mitsuru collapsed to the floor, eyes tearing up from the burning ache in her arms.
After an unknown period of time had passed, Mitsuru felt her breathing being slightly closer to normal. Besides, her arms appeared to have regained enough strength for her to drag her hands over her warm face.
“Are you okay?”
Mitsuru glanced up, only to find Yukari eying her curiously from where she was lying on the bed.
“We need to get you to the hospital,” Mitsuru said, her voice raspy from exhaustion.
She made an ungracious attempt to get up to a sitting position.
“You ended up unconscious when the Shadow’s attack knocked you down. There’s a high chance you’ve gotten a concussion. As soon as the Dark Hour is over, I’m calling an ambulance.”
“You… carried me… all the way here?” Yukari asked after a while.
“I did.” Mitsuru still found her windpipe to be sore. Not to mention her arms.
“Oh.” Yukari blinked at her. “How?”
“You’re not heavy.”
“Well, surely I’m-“
Yukari trailed off as the lights flicked back on.
“I’m calling an ambulance now.”
“Wait!”
Mitsuru, just having managed to get to her feet and turn to the door, slowly spun around to face Yukari.
“Yes?” She asked, rubbing her biceps.
“I… I really don’t want to go anywhere.”
“Takeba, this may come as a surprise to you, but very few people visit the hospital because they want to.”
“I feel fine.”
“That might be the case, but you’re hardly qualified to make that judgement.” She spun around and started walking toward the door.
“Mitsuru.”
What now?
She stilled, sighed – then turned around again.
Yukari was shaking her head. “Don’t.”
Mitsuru walked over and got herself seated on the bed next to Yukari.
“You know,” she started, “we’re doing this because it’s necessary.”
“I don’t-“
“Yukari.” Mitsuru looked her right in the eyes. “I can deal with you arguing about reinstating cancelled festivals and wearing… maid outfits… but this – this is not an argument I’m willing to have.” She shook her head. Why was Yukari always so intent on turning everything into some kind of court case?
“You either go to the hospital to get this properly looked at, or… I’ll stay here during the night waking you up once every hour to make sure you don’t lose consciousness.”
Yukari’s eyes narrowed.
“You’re aware that’s a myth, right?”
“What is?”
“That you’re not supposed to sleep after a concussion.”
…A myth?
“I don’t believe that to be true.”
“Why? Because it’s impossible I know something you don’t?”
Mitsuru was starting to feel that Yukari as a concept was the definition of impossible right now.
“Of course not.” She gave a tight smile. “However, I don’t see the need for taking any unnecessary risks – I’ll be staying here tonight.”
“You’ll… sleep here?”
Mitsuru walked over to Yukari’s desk and got herself seated on the belonging chair.
“I’ll stay awake and keep an eye on you.” She crossed her arms. “Now, sleep.”
Yukari gaped at her.
“You don’t think… I’ll go to sleep… like this, do you?”
It wasn’t until now that Mitsuru realized Yukari was still fully dressed. Even her shoes were still on.
“I’ll go to my room and get changed while you…” She gave her a short nod and went for the door.
“Um, Senpai?” Yukari called out just as she was about to reach for the door.
What now?
“Yes?”
“You wouldn’t want me to change into that maid-“
“No!” She paused. “It’s to be returned.”
“You know, there is enough room for you over here.” Yukari offered.
“Lying down will make it harder for me to stay awake. Besides-“
“Senpai – just get in the bed.”
How did I end up here?
Mitsuru was pressed against the wall.
Sadly, the chair was the more comfortable option over this.
“How’s your arms?”
“They’re… still attached.”
“I thought you said I wasn’t heavy.”
“I did. However, I am no Akihiko.”
“How come none of the others-“
“Naturally, someone had to take the Shadow down.”
“Wouldn’t it have made more sense if Junpei-“
“It was a stressful situation, Takeba. We acted on instinct. It wasn’t as if we had time to confer about the ideal solution.”
“So…” Yukari began. “Your instinct was to carry me home?”
Mitsuru swallowed.
For a moment, she almost considered switching the subject to Yukari’s supposedly beloved maid outfit. Why was this girl so full of questions?
In the end – she opted for silence. With some luck, Yukari would soon be fast asleep.
She felt something warm touch her hand, and instinctively moved it away.
However, the other hand followed, and Mitsuru soon found some of her fingers trapped between Yukari’s firm grip.
“Thank you,” Yukari whispered.
Mitsuru nodded to the darkness.
Yukari loosened her grip slightly, but before Mitsuru could reclaim her hand, she felt Yukari’s thumb slowly starting to rub over her knuckles.
Mitsuru felt her hand starting to get warm.
How long did Yukari intend to keep this up?
Yukari needed to sleep and Mitsuru… didn’t want her to touch her hand. Especially not when it was sweaty.
She forced herself to remain perfectly still, waiting for Yukari to eventually release her.
When Yukari finally did let go, Mitsuru exhaled slowly; somewhat relieved, somewhat…
She tensed as Yukari shifted next to her.
Undoubtedly, she was turning toward her.
Mitsuru reclined slightly, but the wall stopped her from getting much further.
She blinked at the darkness.
She could only vaguely make out Yukari’s silhouette as it moved closer.
A hand landed on her cheek.
Mitsuru blinked.
What was Yukari doing?
……
Why didn’t she say anything? Should Mitsuru say something?
Another hand found her other cheek.
Mitsuru wanted to move but Yukari’s soft, steady hands held her in place.
She could feel Yukari moving closer.
The article hadn’t mentioned anything about situations like this.
Mitsuru stopped breathing.
Only to practically feel Yukari’s hot breath caressing her lips.
She closed her eyes.
An image of Yukari in a maid suit flashed before her mind.
No.
Not that.
Do not think about that.