[28] Reuniting with Senpai

After purchasing some food and drinks from the canteen, the two of them headed to the rooftop together.

Zaimokuza pushed open the rooftop door with a triumphant expression. "What do you think, my best friend Hachiman? I stumbled upon this great spot, and hardly anyone ever comes here."

Observing the vacant rooftop, Hachiman nodded. He, too, disliked eating in noisy environments and preferred the tranquility of a quiet place.

As he sat on the rooftop bench, an odd sensation washed over him, making it seem as if he were seated upon some sort of mythical weapon—a mere illusion, of course.

Unwrapping the packaging, they both bit into the yakisoba bread. The toasted, crunchy bread complemented the chewy noodles, along with the accompanying sauce and side dishes. Hachiman found the taste rather satisfactory.

Amid their lunchtime enjoyment, Zaimokuza's mouth hardly stayed still. Being a nerd with chuunibyou tendencies, their conversation naturally revolved around various two-dimensional subjects—like the latest episodes of the current season, newly released light novels, and so forth.

"Hachiman, listen up. Senju Muramasa-sensei's 'The Legend Of The Phantom Blade' is seriously amazing!" Zaimokuza exclaimed, his enthusiasm evident as Hachiman enjoyed his rice balls.

"'The Legend of the Phantom Blade'?"

At the mention of this familiar light novel, Hachiman lifted his head slightly.

He possessed a reasonable familiarity with this light novel. It was an immensely popular dark fantasy series set in another world, even spawning two anime adaptations. The novel's sales had surpassed a staggering 10 million copies.

"Besides this book, there's another novel I want to recommend to you called 'Sword Art Online.' Even though only the first volume is out, and the author, Wakamono-sensei, is a newcomer, I'm confident this book can hold its own against 'The Legend Of The Phantom Blade.' It has the potential to make waves."

However, Zaimokuza abruptly shifted the topic, his tone brimming with excitement. "But let me tell you, I'm certain that my own light novel won't pale in comparison to these two."

"Huh? You're writing a light novel too?"

Hachiman gazed at Zaimokuza with surprise. Wasn't this guy supposed to start writing light novels during his sophomore year in the original timeline? And he even sought assistance from the Service Club. How did he end up writing one now?

"Hey, I haven't actually written anything yet," Zaimokuza admitted with a slightly embarrassed smile.

"If you haven't written it yet, why are you so fired up?" Hachiman quipped, his eyes rolling at Zaimokuza's enthusiasm.

"But I've got a story brewing inside me. I'm confident I'll soon be able to translate it onto paper. I'm determined to become like those esteemed authors and make a splash in the world of light novels as soon as it's published!" Zaimokuza's excitement was palpable as he spoke.

"Alright then, I wish you success."

"Haha, you truly are my best friend!" Zaimokuza laughed heartily upon receiving Hachiman's encouragement.

"But, Hachiman, I do have a favor to ask." Zaimokuza's smile held a hint of mischief as he suddenly changed the topic.

"What's the favor?" Hachiman felt a sense of curiosity as he looked at Zaimokuza's expression.

"Well, it's like this... After I'm done writing, could you take a look at it for me?" Zaimokuza's request was accompanied by an eager grin.

"But once you're finished writing, you can simply submit it. There'll be an editor to review it for sure. Why do you want me to read it beforehand?"

"Hey, even though I'm confident, I'm still a bit apprehensive about facing the critiques from editors. That's why I want you, my best friend Hachiman, to give it a preliminary evaluation."

When it comes down to it, you're just afraid of getting criticized! Hachiman comprehended the situation now – this guy was clearly thin-skinned and dreaded criticism.

"Don't worry, I've got you covered when the time comes." A wry smile crept onto Hachiman's lips.

"Really? You truly are my best friend!"

Just as Zaimokuza was basking in the joy of Hachiman's agreement, Hachiman chimed in once more: "But don't fret, I'll make sure to criticize you to the point where you'll feel like you can't take it anymore!"

"Are you some kind of devil..."

*Crack!*

Just then, the sound of the door being pushed open resonated once more, accompanied by a melodious female voice.

"Ara~, is there someone already here?"

Both of them raised their heads and spotted a figure with lovely legs clad in black stockings standing at the rooftop entrance.

"Could it be..." Recognizing that familiar face, Hachiman was slightly taken aback, while Zaimokuza beside him exclaimed in astonishment.

"Kasumigaoka-senpai!"

Indeed, the individual who entered was none other than Kasumigaoka Utaha, whom Hachiman had encountered on a previous occasion.

"Huh? So it's Hikigaya-kun. It's been a while!" Utaha's gaze settled on Hachiman's familiar visage not too far from the bench, a hint of surprise coloring her expression. As for Zaimokuza, he couldn't help but be captivated by her undeniable allure.

"It's been a long time, Kasumigaoka-senpai." Since he had been recognized, Hachiman offered a cordial smile and a nod in acknowledgment.

Zaimokuza's eyes widened in surprise; he hadn't expected the two of them to already know each other.

Although Hachiman found Utaha attractive, they weren't very familiar with each other. Since there were others present and striking up a conversation would be awkward, he suggested they leave.

"We're almost done with our food. Since you're here, Kasumigaoka-senpai, we'll head out," Hachiman said as he got up from the bench, and Zaimokuza quickly scarfed down his rice balls and followed suit.

"Wakamono... Hikigaya Hachiman." As she observed their departing figures, Utaha's scarlet lips formed the names, and her wine-red eyes narrowed slightly. She recollected the recent conversation she had with her editor.

"Maybe I really should ask him for help," Utaha contemplated.

It's a bit shame that I have to turn to my junior for assistance.

"Wow, Hachiman, I didn't expect you to know Kasumigaoka-senpai," Zaimokuza's face lit up with excitement as soon as they left.

"Well, I did mention Kasumigaoka-senpai, but we've only met once. It wouldn't be accurate to say we know each other well," Hachiman remained relatively composed compared to Zaimokuza's enthusiasm.

I guess there's nothing wrong with what I said. Utaha really isn't familiar with me.

Hachiman couldn't help but think Utaha measurements like 89-61-88 were quite impressive.

"Well, that's true too. You must know that Kasumigaoka-senpai is the epitome of beauty in our school. I can't even imagine how many guys must want to approach her."

"You lucky dog, Hachiman, you're already quite fortunate," Zaimokuza's expression seemed to say, "You don't even realize what you have."

This guy...

Glancing at Zaimokuza, Hachiman didn't utter another word. He simply walked straight towards the classroom.

"Wait for me..."