CHAPTER 4 (PART 3/3): Daily Constraints

POV: Kyotaka

I returned home with Mion, Rena, and Keiichi after a long day. It was my second day of school, a day where I had several experiences, interesting ones, I would say...

Mion: Hehehe, so Kyo-chan~, how does it feel to embody one of the greatest male fantasies, hmm? Come on, admit it, you must be thrilled! Look at yourself, you'd be just as popular as a woman as you are a man, you just need to adjust that expression! Look, it's not that hard, just a little shy look, I'll show you!

Kyotaka: I don't think that's necessary... You don't need to- Hmm? What are you doing?

Before I could finish my sentence, Mion rushed towards me, rubbing against me with a sardonic smile, trying to make me uncomfortable by gently lifting my dress. I'm not a woman, but even if I were, does she really think that would affect me? After the provocation I threw at her, it seems she's determined to unnerve me sooner or later. I wish I could go back and change my choices so she would focus on someone else. This is going to get tedious, isn't it? She'll probably give up once she realizes her efforts are futile. At least, that's what I hope.

On the other side, I notice Rena blushing for me, staring intensely... And there we go, it looks like it's starting again. I guess this is going to become my daily life. It's probably not going to be boring, but rather eventful, in my opinion.

Rena: Kyotaka-kun is really too cute dressed like that, even like this! Hau, even cuter like this... He's so adorable, hau~! I really want to take him with me and bring him back to my room ☆!

I could have frankly done without that comment... Usually, I'm perceived as someone apathetic and boring, so why does it seem like everyone here thinks the opposite?

Rationalizing about this subject will probably lead to nothing. After all, I'm literally in another world and another era. Anyway, I have to be careful with Rena, right? I mean, I'm not sure what I might discover if I enter her room.

Kyotaka: Sighing before responding. My new daily life, then? It's quite unusual, I must admit... Even for me.

Then, Keiichi approached me, wearing an ironic and typical smile of his... He seemed to be the most normal in this group. However, after everything I've experienced here, I should probably revise my definition of what's "normal"...

Mion finally gave up, seeing that her teasing didn't affect me, and started complaining to Rena.

Keiichi: Yeah, I admit, I had the same reaction at first! But you'll see, you'll get used to it super quickly! Hey, it's not so bad after all, don't you think? We're really free here, and honestly, people are super nice too!

Kyotaka: Yes, you're probably right... Freedom is something. When you think of it that way, it's rather pleasant. It's peaceful here, and the people are too.

My response caused Keiichi to look at me with a scrutinizing and intrigued expression. Did I say something unusual? He seemed to look at me suspiciously, as if my words made him think about me, trying to decipher their meaning. I sighed internally at this.

Maybe I shouldn't have let slip a remark about my freedom. It seems that this environment and my new quiet life here made me lower my guard a bit... I didn't even think that was possible for me. I'll be more careful in the future.

After that, Keiichi seemed to want to talk and change the subject, as if he didn't want to question me further. He must have understood that he would get nothing more and that it was better to drop it, which suits me. I'm not surrounded only by idiots, which is rather reassuring. Keiichi then turned his gaze away from me, shook his head, before starting to smile into the void and addressing the others. His ability to change attitude so quickly is actually quite surprising.

Keiichi: Honestly, I didn't think Kyotaka would end up last... Honestly, after everything he's shown? No, he was probably the last one I suspected of ending up in that place... He started chuckling softly. But clearly, it was worth the detour!

Mion: Yeah, for sure, it was quite a show! She began to snicker mockingly before continuing. But come on, kid, don't tell me you didn't notice anything, right?

Keiichi: Huh? What are you talking about, Mion? I don't get it... What exactly are you talking about? Was there something I missed during the game?

Rena: Like Keiichi, I wonder, Mii. What do you mean by that? Did Kyotaka-kun do something that no one noticed? Huh?

Kyotaka: ...

Mion: Oh, even Rena? Hehehehe... She briefly chuckled... So, you managed to fool everyone, huh, Kyo-chan. I thought Kyo-chan would be duped, but Rena? Hey, you continue to impress me, kid.

Rena: Hau... M-Mii-chan, you don't mean Kyotaka-kun would have... M-But why would he do that? Huh, why? Why?

Keiichi: Hey, Mion! What are you trying to say? Come on, spill what you're hiding! How could Kyotaka have fooled us, and why? He lost, it's clear, right? Raaaaah... I don't understand, and now even Rena seems to get it...

Keiichi seemed lost in deep thought, frowning exaggeratedly, murmuring his thoughts out loud... I had already noticed this habit in him. Should I talk to him about it one day? I'm not sure I want to, it might turn out to be useful after all...

Aside from that, it seems that Mion noticed then... It doesn't really surprise me coming from her. I would have preferred she kept it to herself, but knowing Mion, that was probably too much to hope for. However, she probably didn't grasp the reason for my observation. If I know her well, the explanation she will provide is likely to be problematic. It seems that I won't escape being tossed around here. Settling down or getting bored here seems to be an impossibility. I don't know if I should consider myself lucky or not.

Mion seems already determined to try to make me uncomfortable once more. Her mocking smile in my direction is quite evident, she doesn't even bother to hide it.

"Well, here we go again, I suppose... I'm starting to get used to it, and that in just four days. I don't know if I should be impressed or despairing..."

Kyotaka: I don't understand what you're accusing me of, Mion... I just played like everyone else and lost, that's all.

Mion: Oh, so you're going to deny and make me confess, is that it? You're testing to see if I really know... Or do you have something else to hide? Her sardonic smile widens. So, you're pretending you just lost, is that it? It might have worked with the others, but sorry to tell you, it won't work with me, hehehe!

Keiichi: Come on, Mion, spill it! I'm getting more and more confused here!

Since the beginning of this conversation, I've had time to prepare myself for what's coming... So yes, I'm ready... at least I think I am. However, I'm still wondering what motive she will choose for me. One thing's for sure, it's going to become quite tedious on my end.

Mion: Okay, okay, I get your impatience, Kyo-chan, so I'm going to lay out the truth. A small chuckle escapes her before she straightens up, displaying a mischievous and pointed smile. Turns out that Kyotaka lost on purpose. I caught on after a few rounds, watching his cards... He could have tried plenty of things, and it's clearly not his style to just sit back and miss moves, right? And guess what else? Strangely, it was Rena who ended up just before the last place... Mmmh, smells like a plan, doesn't it? Ahahahaha Her laughter intensifies, building up the suspense. Don't tell me that our Kyo-chan has a crush on our little Rena, and just wanted to spare her the punishment? Wouldn't surprise me, right? Because honestly, it's a real puzzle trying to guess what's going on in that guy's head... hehehehe, and the worst part is, he managed to fool us all, the rascal! Impressive, but you forgot one thing, my guy: against Mion Sonozaki, these little maneuvers don't work... With a game like this, I'm always three steps ahead. So, friends, what do you think?

"There it is, what she had in mind... I kind of suspected it, actually."

And here we are, the moment has arrived... Fortunately, Satoko and Rika aren't here. With Satoko nearby, it would have been even more annoying. I don't see why it should have been a problem in itself, but I knew full well that it was going to provoke some annoying reaction... Especially from Rena, who might connect it to something else and go back into "kyute" mode, as they call it?

Mion seems determined to embarrass me, it appears. Too bad, but it's probably not going to have the desired effect... She'll be disappointed and eventually realize that it's not going to work. I would have thought that just acting this way, dressed like this and being teased by everyone, would make her back off, but she's apparently more obstinate than I thought. It's not a problem, it just part of this... new life, I suppose.

Keiichi: ...

Rena: ...

A silence had settled in, interrupted only by the persistent song of the cicadas, a sound almost contemplative in the air... Mion, with her subtle snickers, wore a smile both proud and mocking. Mion and Rena, for their part, seemed frozen in silence, probably too astounded to formulate words... Until finally, that silence was broken by the reactions of Keiichi and Rena, shattering the tranquility of the moment.

Rena: K-Kyotaka-kun, is... is it really true? H-Hau hau hau... I-Is it real? D-Did you really do that... for me...? H-Hauuuuuuuu~ Rena blushed more and more, almost as if steam were escaping from her head...

Kyotaka: Who knows.

I already knew the consequences my answer would provoke, but I had chosen to give up fighting. By doing so, I assumed that Mion would quickly give up. She seemed slightly surprised before regaining her mocking smile, while Rena seemed to lose herself in her thoughts, probably imagining various scenarios. In any case, I knew I couldn't really justify my reason. After all, even if it were possible... I doubt they would believe me.

Mion: Oh? You've got guts to answer so directly, kiddo, but honestly, it doesn't even surprise me, hehehe!!! She moved a bit closer, wearing a mocking and sharp smile. So, so~! You admit you wanted to protect your dear sweet Rena, for whom you've fallen? Isn't that adorable, hmm?

Keiichi: Wait, wait, a moment... Is this serious? So, you deliberately lost, and you went through this punishment and humiliation just for Rena? I can't believe it, Kyotaka, is what Mion says true? Or is this another one of your tricks to unsettle us?

Kyotaka: Who knows.

Keiichi: "Who knows" doesn't count as an answer! So that was really it, huh? I can't believe it, I was expecting anything but that! You always bluff me, brother! He wore a proud smile while clenching his fist. Hehehe, well played, nice strategy, my brother, I underestimated you there... But apparently, you're as good as me in this area, right?

I didn't really grasp what Keichi was trying to say... Honestly, I was just letting things unfold, avoiding justifying myself or making up another explanation. It seems this moment is going to be somewhat boring for me; I can only hope it passes quickly. And even if his assumption had been true... Isn't it normal for a friend to want to protect another friend in this way? Or is it considered strange? Maybe I should learn more about this topic, just in case...

Mion: Well, well!! So Rena, how does it feel to hear something like that? Come on, tell us!! It's not every day that a newcomer throws things like this around... Hehehehehe, not bad as a pickup technique, huh, kiddo! Her laughter became even more pronounced.

Rena: H-Hau... hau... F-For me... You sacrificed... Hauuuuuuuuu! The spiral of steam above her head intensifies at the same time as the redness of her cheeks increases.

Mion: Hehehehehe, yes, he sacrificed himself for you... What a gentleman, don't you think?

Rena's cheeks had turned crimson, steam seeming to escape from her like glowing embers... If I didn't know her, I would have been worried and wondered what was happening to her.

Keiichi: So, we'll never really know what his true place would have been, huh? But in the end, it's not so important... A mischievous smile appears on his face. If it's the only way to make him lose and to see him undergo a punishment, I say why not... You look pretty cool in that outfit, it would be a shame not to enjoy it, right? Sorry, brother, but games are made for competition, you have to know how to fight, even between brothers!! Ahahahahahaha!

Mion: I can only agree!! Rena probably wouldn't have done the same for you in the game, kiddo!! If you lose, you lose, and remember the rule: only first place counts!! I hope that's clear now, huh?

Kyotaka: ... I never explicitly said that I lost on purpose for Rena, you know... I just implied that it was a possibility. I assure you, I had no intention of losing. Let's just say that this isn't the kind of game where I shine particularly, you see?

Mion: Of course, of course... Kyo-chan~! Don't worry, now that Kei-chan is here, Rena doesn't lose as often, you know. So next time, no need to play the hero for your sweetheart, okay? Ahahahahahaha

We continued to discuss the subject a bit longer, with Rena, still as scarlet, by our side, as we continued our way together...

... ... ... ... ...

Indeed, I lost. I found myself in a rather... unique outfit, drawing all sorts of attention and mockery. Perhaps it was fun for them, but for me, it was embarrassing. Add to that Satoko's trap this morning, and you get a day designed to humiliate me. It's a new experience for me, being freer than ever before. Was it pleasant? Maybe, I'm not yet sure. Or is it something else? I'll find out in time. I sigh at the thought.

When I seriously think about it, everything that happened today lacked sense and rationality. This mysterious woman, Rubiscarl, what exactly does she want? And why does she act this way? This morning, I reviewed my daily constraints, and they boiled down to insignificant and irrational actions. No logical explanation for these strange directives. Among all, this woman seems to be the most extravagant. Is this how all people of her kind are? After all this, I can assume she's not the only one with such powers...

But will all my days be like this? If so, it might become boring. But I suppose it doesn't really limit my freedom. Today, to earn money, I had to: "open the classroom door without paying attention to anything and avoiding nothing"; "create a card game for the club"; and "lose at the club game and perform the penalty." The more I think about it, the more it seems obvious that her sole purpose is amusement. Does she really have that much power and influence to arrange all this? Is she that bored? She remains a mystery, becoming more elusive with each moment...

With what she's already done by transporting me from one world to a past era, I should expect anything. Nothing would surprise me now. At least, it seems she doesn't intend to restrict my freedom. That's a positive. I can enjoy the situation for now and conduct my investigation on this "enigma", as during my discussion with Mr. Tomitake, or through the dam construction site and magazines.

Mion: By the way, what do you guys think of the new teacher, huh?

Keiichi: Mmmh? Oh, you mean Chabashira-sensei? Honestly, I think she's great, a real nice surprise! And, let's admit it, she's downright gorgeous! But what she's prepared for us... For the first time, I'm really looking forward to Wednesday to see what she has in store for the class.

Rena: I think she seems like a super teacher!! She's a bit different from Chie-sensei, but deep down, I'm sure she's really kind. And I'm too excited to see what she meant by those special exams, I'm sure it's going to be even more fun! She starts to laugh softly, her laughter blending joyfully with the air.

Ah, Chabashira-sensei... I had almost forgotten about that... surprise. Thinking back, it was a revelation I should have expected, given what I had observed in town with Rena. I'm not sure if it will prove to be problematic later, I just hope not. Seriously, what are her intentions in orchestrating all this? I wonder if it has anything to do with the enigma we're supposed to solve, or something like that. And for Chabashira-sensei, it's the same... It seems her memories and mind have been adjusted to align with this world.

I suppose I don't particularly want to dwell on this question now, it's not really what will disturb me the most anyway. We're no longer at ANHS, so things will surely be different in every case.

Mion: What about you, Kyo-chan? What do you think of Chabashira-sensei? She's pretty cool, right? Come on, don't pretend! I think we all caught that kind of tension between you two, hehehe, it was quite noticeable... It's like you know each other, right? Your reaction was as if you had already met her somewhere.

Keiichi: Now that you mention it... Yeah, your reaction was a bit strange towards her. Did you know her before, or is it a story like with a former teacher?

Rena: I don't think that's the case... She mentioned she came from Sainte-Lucia, and it's an all-girls school. Maybe Kyotaka just knows her from there?

Kyotaka: To clarify things... No, I don't know her and have never met her before. She just intrigued me, so I observed her a bit. Sure, she's an interesting teacher...

Keiichi: Ah, you find her hot, too, huh? Hahaha, I knew my brother would have an excellent taste for that!

Rena: I-I'm not sure that's what he really meant, Keiichi.

Indeed... And I still can't grasp how he could draw such a conclusion. Anyway, I suppose one could consider Chabashira-sensei as "beautiful," though I don't see how that's particularly relevant...

The more I think about it, the more likely it seems I'll continue to meet other people from ANHS. I don't know exactly what Rubiscarl's plans are, but it could well become tedious... Not that it's really bothersome, given they don't seem to retain memories from ANHS, but it might constantly remind me of my past life in my former world. Is this what Rubiscarl hoped by doing this? Now, I'm beginning to understand her way of acting, and I'm almost sure it's not just for this... Just for fun, really? A person with so much power and influence is content with having fun?

Mion: Yep, it looks like we're all on the same wavelength, right? I bet Rika and Satoko feel the same way. I feel like we're going to have a blast with this new teacher, special exams, huh? Well, there you go, it'll surely be much more interesting than the usual classes!!

Keiichi: Hehehe!! Yeah, you said it, Mion!! I'm already looking forward to it, I wonder what it'll be like... But I'm totally determined to succeed, you can count on that!!

Rena: And I'm not going to be left behind either!! I may be a bit behind, but I'll fight too!

Mion: Exactly, that's the club spirit! You feel the same way, right, Kyo-chan? We'll use these special exams as an excuse for the club, so you better give it your all like on the first day, this time, no mercy for anyone!

Kyotaka: Sighing before answering. Alright, I understand... I'll do my best. I must admit, I'm also a bit curious to see how it turns out.

Anyway, I doubt I really have a choice... Refusing would make things even more boring, in my opinion.

Thus, we continued our discussion, the three of us, as we walked, until it was time to part ways... I then found myself alone with Mion, Rena, and Keiichi taking another direction... I was planning to join Rena at the construction site afterwards, but remembering the outfit I was wearing, I concluded it would be better to change first... So, I found myself alone on the way back, accompanied only by Mion. It was the perfect opportunity, as I had some questions to ask her.

... 

Walking alongside Mion on the way back, I found myself enveloped in the usual calm. It was the perfect opportunity to deepen my knowledge... There were still a few questions I needed to clear up. With the information I already had, several areas remain blurred and require me to find answers. After all, this could be related to the puzzle I'm trying to solve. Mion, as one of the three heirs, probably holds key information. If anyone possesses knowledge that others are unaware of about this village, it's very likely her. The real question is whether this information is sensitive enough for her to choose to keep it to herself.

Kyotaka: By the way, Mion... I was wondering about something. Yesterday, when I was coming back with Rena, she invited me to accompany her to a place, and I went with her... Does she often go to that dump to dig around? I was wondering if she had her reasons.

Mion: Displaying a mischievous smile, Mion leaned in teasingly. Oh, you want me to reveal all of our little Rena's secrets? How interesting, she really intrigues you, huh?

Kyotaka: I'm naturally interested in new friends with whom I'll be spending time... And besides, it mostly intrigued me. I mean, it's not really a very common interest.

Was she trying to divert the conversation? I wondered if her intervention aimed to deflect the topic or to deceive me, to dodge the discussion. Then, she seemed to collect herself and, speaking again, she answered my question with newfound seriousness.

Mion: Well, she goes hunting for 'treasures', anything she finds cute, basically. I doubt the people who dump those things there have any idea of the effect it has on her.

Kyotaka: I see... Yes, I doubt people suspect such a thing.

"Treasures," then? This hadn't escaped my attention... But I wondered about the existence of a deeper motivation. After all, it seems unlikely that a dump is the ideal place to find treasures or those charming objects she seems to be searching for... Mion seems honest in sharing this with me, so I suppose she is as informed about it as I am.

I wonder if that's the only reason Rena goes there. Perhaps I'll have the opportunity to find out over time. It's not as if it's my current priority...

Now that the conversation has turned to the dam construction site, I could continue with my questions. She must surely be aware of what happened there... After all, if Rena is informed, there's no reason for Mion not to be as well. I'm curious to see if she will react the same way Rena did yesterday. I suppose I'll find out soon.

Kyotaka: I was also wondering... Did something happen at that place? I mean, at that dump or the former construction site. There must be a reason for it to be like that, right?

Mion: Oh, you're interested in that? You're integrating quickly, aren't you! After laughing lightly, she composed herself. But yeah, kiddo! She looked proud. It was a revolution! We stood in front of the machines to block the works, we also organized protests!

Protests, then? I see, it seems a lot happened... Well, if this village means everything to its inhabitants, I can understand why they defend it with such fervor.

Moreover, I noticed she seemed proud when talking about it. That probably means they won their fight, doesn't it? Being the heir to the prestigious Sonozaki family, one of the three great families of the village, her pride in such an accomplishment seems natural.

Kyotaka: Well, that's understandable... They tried to overwhelm the village with everything you owned. It's obvious you weren't going to let that happen.

Mion : Mion's face suddenly turned more serious. The bureaucrats had planned everything behind our backs. You should have seen their smug faces with their stupid project! When they realized they couldn't buy us off, they made our lives a living hell... It was disgusting, really!

Fascinating... Her seriousness on the subject is palpable. Her demeanor, it's as if she's reliving those moments. It seems these events deeply marked her...

So, this is what happened, isn't it? I only knew bits and pieces, but it seems she's ready to discuss, to share. She even appears slightly proud of my interest in the topic.

... But, truthfully, this isn't my real interest.

Kyotaka: It's quite brave of you... Few people would have had the courage to do what you did, right? So, I assume if you're telling me about it in this way, it's because you ended up prevailing against the state, correct?

Mion: Well, that's how it is for everyone here, all ready to fight for our corner! Hinamizawa is kind of our everything, you know? She puffed up with pride before continuing. And after all those adventures, the mayor and other local officials used all the administrative tricks possible to put a stop to all that. They went up to Tokyo, talked with ministers... And then, one day, totally out of the blue, the project was abandoned. We won, all together! Ahahahahaha!

Kyotaka: And so... Nothing more serious ever happened there? I mean, there were protests... There could have been injuries or that kind of thing... Nobody die--

Mion: NOTHING happened at all.

She reacted the same way Rena did: "Move along, nothing to see here." Without even letting me finish my sentence. Now, I'm certain something happened here, but it seems no one wants to talk about it... Rena seems to be aware too, I could deduce that because me and Keiichi are new, they prefer not to scare the newcomers with such stories... However, to be sure, I would also need to take into account Satoko and Rika and see what they would have to say.

... But it's unlikely that a story that happened just once is hidden just to not scare. There must be more... Something much darker. Several hypotheses present themselves: maybe it's not the only victim, or there could be something more serious, like a serial killer lurking around?

Interesting, I feel I'm getting even closer to the "puzzle" I must solve. In fact, I might be starting to understand why solving it is necessary to preserve my freedom... So, I need to learn more. Tomorrow, I should try to talk to Satoko and Rika... But for that, I need to find a way to be alone with one of them, which shouldn't be too complicated.

... And before I even realized it, it was time for me and Mion to part ways, arriving at a crossroads where our paths diverged.

Mion: Well, see you tomorrow then! It was nice to chat a bit with you. I must admit I was a bit surprised to see you take an interest in our town's history, but keep it up and you'll end up becoming the village's number two mascot, just after Rika! Hehehehe! After laughing for a moment, she continued. And I hope you've learned the lesson about our club, huh? No more deliberate defeats to protect someone, even if it's for your dear one, here, no mercy!

Kyotaka: Okay, I see, I won't make that mistake in the future... However, before we part ways, there's something I'd like to clarify. You mentioned that your grandmother plays a role similar to that of a village chief, right? I'd like to know if it would be possible to greet her and properly introduce myself to her at some point.

Mion: Oh? Well, if you want, I'll ask her, yeah! I'm sure she'd like that, it's exactly the kind of attention she'd appreciate, coming from a newcomer! She seemed surprised for a moment. Well, you continue to surprise this old man, huh? Alright, see you tomorrow, kiddo!

Kyotaka: Alright, thank you... So, see you tomorrow, Mion.

And so... we parted ways, each heading home. I was able to glean some interesting information regarding the dam's history and the old construction site... But, unfortunately, nothing that allows me to act for now. I suppose the pieces of the puzzle will fall into place over time.

... ... ... ... ...

That said, I asked Mion if I could meet her grandmother at some point to introduce myself... In reality, I also wanted to have the opportunity to talk with her and see what she's like. Establishing good relations with someone of such influence could only be beneficial for the future, and I plan to take advantage of every opportunity that presents itself to uncover the truth about all this... Hinamizawa, huh? It seems a lot is hidden beneath the surface of this village.

I had hoped to simply enjoy my newfound freedom here... But it appears that to achieve true freedom, I must first uncover all the hidden truths. Well, it's not as if I'm in a hurry; I might as well enjoy some of my time here in Hinamizawa, in this new atmosphere, far from my old life... With them.

Strangely, it seems I'm really starting to get used to their company...

Well, I suppose it's time for me to go change and then head to the old construction site to meet Rena, as I promised her.

...

Hands buried in my pockets, I slipped into my usual clothes, feeling immediately more at ease as I quietly made my way towards the dam site... The path was already familiar to me, having taken it once with Rena. It must be said that in a village of this size, it's hard to get lost.

... However, everything was so peaceful, walking alone here, lulled by the singing of the cicadas. It was truly soothing... Freedom, isn't it? I wonder how much longer it is truly granted to me.

Lost in my thoughts, I was pulled from my reverie by the sound of footsteps ahead of me, prompting me to look up and observe this person I recognized.

"Tomitake, huh? He really seems to spend a lot of time in the village. After all, he's a tourist. I must admit, I didn't really expect to run into him right now."

Kyotaka: Mr. Tomitake, right? Good morning.

Tomitake: Oh, what a coincidence, Kyotaka, isn't it? I really didn't expect to find you here. What brings you this way? Is there some kind of gathering everyone is participating in over there? Ha ha!

A gathering? Is he talking about Rena? But why use that term for just one person... Could Rena be accompanied by someone else? That would mean Keiichi is with her... Well, I suppose it's not that important.

Kyotaka: I'm just heading to the dam site... I've arranged to meet Rena there to help her with something.

Tomitake: Ah, I see what you mean... I really wonder what you're going to do. Honestly, it shook me up a bit earlier, so I ended up hiding behind a tree when I saw her... And then, this kid who arrived just after and dropped something... quite creepy, to say the least. I almost thought it was a threat, ah ah!

Kyotaka: What do you mean by that?

Mmmh... What he just revealed is quite unusual. Hiding behind a tree? Would he have been scared by Rena and Keiichi, but in that case, why? There must be a reason... He seems to easily get overwhelmed by fear, so it's possible he just misinterpreted something.

Nevertheless, it seems to be an overly excessive reaction... So, if I understand his explanations correctly, Keiichi would have joined Rena later.

Tomitake: So, you see, there was this young girl, Rena, walking around calmly with a machete, sporting a big smile. It was rather unsettling. And then, I came across this newcomer... Keiichi, if I'm not mistaken, who scared me a bit with his talk of dismemberment, ha ha ha! But now, I think it was probably just a bad kid's joke. He scratches his head, looking a bit embarrassed.

Kyotaka: I see... Well, for Rena, I had asked her to bring something that could help us unlock something in one of the piles of waste at the site. As for Keiichi, it was probably just a joke... He's new after all, he probably doesn't know much.

I understand... He was scared by Rena because of the machete. I suppose that's a normal reaction. From her part, her carefree behavior, even while carrying a weapon, doesn't surprise me much...

As for Keiichi, I guess that simply fits his character, and Tomitake has... misunderstood it. Seen as a threat, isn't it?

Tomitake: Ah, I understand, ha ha! I feel a bit silly now. Anyway, I have to go, but maybe we'll see each other again soon!

Kyotaka: Yeah, okay... Goodbye, Mr. Tomitake.

The exchange was revealing... Seeing his reaction after my response, I can deduce that he is deeply informed about this matter. I suppose it must have been widely covered by the media, which could explain his knowledge.

However, there's an aspect that I must absolutely clarify and understand... I can grasp Rena's reaction, but... why would he be so disturbed by Keiichi's words? Normally, it would be easy to see the sarcasm behind those words, but Tomitake took them literally, as a threat. This reaction is uncommon and clearly abnormal...

It seems the mysteries surrounding this village are deeper than I imagined. At this stage, I still don't have a clear idea of the situation... I don't have enough information to draw any conclusions.

Rubiscarl, then? She chose me specifically for a reason... Probably because she knows my identity and charges me with solving this puzzle. But what will happen once the puzzle is solved? Will I have the freedom to live peacefully in this world? For now, it's impossible to say.

...

After a short walk, I finally arrived at the dam site... The journey wasn't very long and proceeded peacefully. Well... If one ignores the fact that I now find myself in front of a dump...

As I scanned the area, a few steps from where I stood, looking for where Rena might be... I spotted a figure. It was Keiichi that I recognized. Mmmh... So, Rena isn't here? Or maybe she went to fetch or do something? I wonder... I must admit, I certainly didn't expect to find Keiichi here alone, sitting peacefully not far from the statue that Rena was trying to free. I suppose he came to help her.

Approaching a bit, stepping over trash to move forward, I noticed something... The magazines. It seems Keiichi is browsing through the same magazine that I had flipped through here yesterday, away from Rena's eyes. Keiichi's curiosity got the better of him, apparently. Well, he had to find out at some point... I wonder how he will react to this kind of information. I don't think it will cause too much trouble, in the end. Besides that... He really looks stressed behind his calm appearance. Is it the content of the magazine that disturbs him so much? Or is it the fact that the events are recent and took place right here, where he is... Maybe a bit of both, actually.

I then approached him a bit more, until I was within speaking distance... And just as I intended to greet him by tapping on the back, suddenly...

Keiichi: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!

Keiichi turned around abruptly, screaming in fright, as if my mere presence had terrified him... I must admit, I did not expect such a sudden reaction, so I just stopped my gesture and stood up straight in front of him, towering over him as he remained seated, waiting for him to collect himself.

"Well, it seems he was really absorbed in his reading, wasn't it? I thought he would have at least sensed my arrival."

Keiichi: Ah, uh... Kyotaka, it's you. I didn't expect to run into you here, ahahaha... You startled me, there.

I watched him hastily and abruptly stow away the magazine, now displaying a look of confusion and fright, probably trying to recover from his surprise. He discreetly and quickly slid the magazine behind him, under his shirt.

... I see, it seems he too prefers to avoid Rena seeing him read that. It's unexpected that Keiichi shares this concern. However, he should realize it hardly makes sense to try to hide it from me.

His voice betrayed someone who was hiding something, which he indeed was doing, or at least trying to. I can't really blame him... But he would do well to refine his art of concealment.

Kyotaka: Sorry, I didn't mean to startle you... No need to hide that magazine behind your back, you know? After all, I saw you reading it, and it's the same one I saw here yesterday. I sighed before continuing. Anyway, why try to hide it, especially from me? It's not like I'm going to make comments about you reading an interesting magazine in a dump.

Following my words, Keiichi remained silent for a moment... Then, he started to laugh in an embarrassed manner, scratching his head with some discomfort.

Then, he began to respond, his voice perfectly reflecting his embarrassment at the moment.

Keiichi: Ah, yeah... Actually, it was just a reflex, I guess. Clear that you arrived even more recently than me here... Keiichi seemed a bit embarrassed, laughing in a somewhat forced manner. And so, you're aware of... Well, of this story, I mean, the gruesome dismemberment murder that happened here?

Kyotaka: Yes, I'm aware... But I think I know about as much as you do. Don't forget, I arrived even more recently than you. I just found this magazine here yesterday and read it, so I suppose I have as much information on it as you do.

Keiichi: Ah yeah, obviously, I don't know why I asked you that question... Yeah, it must have been really horrible, don't you think? I wonder what really happened here... I mean, you know, I tried asking Rena but... I got the impression she wasn't really willing to talk about it.

Kyotaka: However, there might be an exception... When I was coming back with Mion earlier, she gave me one or two pieces of information about the dam site.

Keiichi: Ah, seriously? So, what did she tell you?

Kyotaka: Actually, she didn't tell me anything about a murder. She reacted exactly like Rena did: 'NOTHING happened at all.', that's what she told me. I sighed, recalling that, before continuing. For the rest, she just talked about the protests against the dam project here, in Hinamizawa, and how, after some time, they managed to win... She seemed proud of that, that's what I can say. And now, we probably have the same level of information on the subject.

Keiichi: Yeah... He paused, looking thoughtful, before responding more seriously. Don't you find that weird, though? I mean, it's not like we're kids who absolutely need to be shielded from the fact that Santa Claus doesn't exist, right? So, I don't really understand why they're hiding all this from us.

Kyotaka: I thought the same thing as you... I don't think they're really involved in it, they probably mean well... I don't think there's really anything to worry about, anyway. It was a horrible murder, true, but it didn't happen recently, and it's probably an isolated case.

Keiichi: Yeah, maybe... I'm overthinking this, sorry.

Kyotaka: I suppose it's normal, no worries.

Indeed, his reaction might seem normal... However, his excessive reaction to me was as unusual as the one observed at the Seventh Mart yesterday, during our outing with Rena. It seems Keiichi is someone who easily gets overwhelmed by fear; maybe I should keep an eye on that.

Anyway, I've begun to lay the groundwork for what's next... Given his suspicious nature that I've observed, as well as his tendency to get scared easily, I'm convinced he won't divulge any information about what he may discover or what I might tell him regarding this to Rena, Mion, and the others. Being just as new as me to these circumstances, he could prove useful in my investigations... Maybe he could be the Suzune of this world, right? By sharing with him all I know, he would trust me more, thus allowing me to use him discreetly without having to intervene directly.

... He might eventually prove valuable in this quest for truth. Of course, I probably won't have to do as much as with Suzune, after all, there's no competition here or anything similar.

But one thing is certain: this village hides much more than it lets on. Just one murder, really? I'm firmly convinced that this incident wasn't isolated... Could the theory of a serial killer be confirmed? I suppose time will tell.

Keiichi: So, are you also here to lend a hand in digging out the general? Hehehe, sorry, but it looks like I've almost finished all the work myself, you're a bit too late, you know? Rena went to get something to drink, and she left me the machete. I've worked pretty hard, but he's really stuck in there! He grabbed the muscle of his right forearm with his left hand, looking proud. But tomorrow, we should be able to finish what we started, and then, we'll take it to Rena's place.

Kyotaka: Yes, I think tomorrow I can come directly with you... Since I won't need to change.

Keiichi: Yeah, but only if you don't end up with another penalty in the meantime, huh? At the club, no one gets spared, not even you, my brother!! Sorry, but that's the rule of the game, and now that I've spotted your weak spot, there's no way I'm letting this opportunity slip by!!

Kyotaka: I have no intention of getting caught out again.

The conversation took a more serene turn, with Keiichi gradually regaining his composure. It must be acknowledged that he has this ability to calm down quite quickly. Well, it was at least an interesting interaction... Yes.

It was then that approaching footsteps caught my attention, and as Keiichi stood up with my help, dusting himself off, his gaze was captured by the sound behind me. Briefly turning to the side, I directed my gaze towards the source of these noises... It was Rena, arriving with what seemed to be drinks. Seeing us, Rena gave us a broad, joyful smile before hastening towards us with the beverages.

She was carrying three drinks, and since I had already told her that I would join her once changed, it's not surprising she had planned three drinks for us.

Rena: Oh, Kyotaka, you came! She exclaimed with enthusiasm. Sorry, I went to get drinks for all of us! In the meantime, Keiichi has helped a lot, look, we might even manage to bring it home today! Hau~, I'm so excited!!

Keiichi: Yeah, and look, Rena, I've made a lot of progress on it, I'm starting to get a bit tired so I took a break, but it shouldn't be long until it's finished!

Kyotaka: Yes, I finally came... Even if it's maybe a bit late.

Rena seemed even more cheerful than usual, while Keiichi once again displayed his characteristic and usual smile.

Keiichi: It's getting late, indeed... Maybe we should head back, we can surely pull it out tomorrow and take it to your place after, Rena! And with Kyotaka helping us, there's really no chance that the last beam will resist us if we all work together!

Rena: Oh... So, the general... it means he'll still stay here today...? Hauuu...

Rena looked visibly disappointed, staring at the spot where the general had been buried under a last beam. She looked like a child sad not to have gotten what she wanted...

Keiichi: Come on, don't make that face. You'll have your statue tomorrow, promised, sworn!

Kyotaka: I agree with Keiichi, we shouldn't go back too late. And if there's only one beam left, we should be able to finish quickly tomorrow.

Rena: ... Okay.

Kyotaka: Don't worry, Rena, I doubt anyone will take it from here. Just wait one day, it will go by quickly.

Keiichi: Yeah, honestly, it would already surprise me if someone came here, actually, ahahaha!

Rena: She quickly regained her spirits and nodded energetically. Then okay, I'm so looking forward to tomorrow!! I really, really want to bring it home! Hau, I can't stand it, it's just too cute!!

After enjoying our drinks quietly, we resumed our way home, Rena carrying the machete with her. ... What another day full of mysteries, right? It seems that every day spent here promises its share of curiosities and interest... I suppose I don't mind. I didn't particularly learn anything new today about anything important; it was more a day where I explored these famous "daily constraints," which turn out to be quite benign after all. Maybe I've been overthinking for nothing, it doesn't really threaten my freedom, so I can easily accommodate it if that's all that's supposed to restrict me.

There are still many questions without concrete answers for now... But that's the nature of a puzzle. Whether it's the reason why Mion and Rena seem to be hiding information about the village that everyone, including tourists, seems to know. The gruesome dismemberment murder of the site manager by his workers. Or even many other mysteries yet to be uncovered. I must discover and solve them... After all, it could be far more perilous than I initially imagined. And I wouldn't want that to limit my freedom. That said, I also don't need to embark on a fervent quest for truth... I still want to enjoy my new existence in this world, in their company... Even if this curiosity pricks me, it's rather entertaining.

... ... ... ... ...

Now that I think about it, I should also inquire about the identity of the person who was watching us from a distance when we were at the dam site; I obviously couldn't see who it was... But someone was spying on us, for one reason or another. Hinamizawa seems to be full of unfathomable secrets. I suppose it's up to me to unravel them, isn't it? It's a bit tedious but... It could prove interesting, after all.