The New Queen(1)

The report lay before me, a meticulous account of Honoka Suzuki's life etched onto its pages. Every detail, every facet of her life was laid bare, meticulously recorded. A small smile played at the corners of my lips as I perused the information.

Eleven years old, her appearance was reminiscent of a foreign beauty, with striking blue eyes and golden hair inherited from her mother's lineage. An air of privilege surrounded her, born into a family entrenched in the world of theater. Her father's position within the Lala Lai theatrical company and her mother's stature as an esteemed actress painted a picture of prestige that easily surpassed my own background.

The girl's trajectory, however, had taken a stark turn. Once a sweet child, she had been shaped into a persona that aligned with her family's ambitions. The illusion of superiority left little room for genuine connections, an attitude that extended to those beneath her.

I traced my finger along the lines, taking in each insight and observation. Her enrollment in a prestigious middle school and consistently impressive academic performance showcased her intellect. Her aspirations in the world of acting seemed to be curtailed by her father's apprehensions, leaving a flicker of untapped potential.

The detailed report was indeed impressive, a display of diligence that could easily deceive those who were not vigilant. It was a good sign, but I couldn't afford to let my guard down just yet. The stakes were too high.

My life hinged on the success of this plan.

---

"...Ren-san, may I ask a question?"

Imparting my knowledge to a group of eager students who hung on to every word as if they were precious gems had become commonplace as of now, since I didn't stop at giving them advice just once.

The voice that chimed in was markedly different from the sharp tone I had encountered during our previous encounter. You'd never expect the owner behind it. It was cheerful, unassuming, and completely at odds with the thorny disposition that had met me before. The girl before me, Suzuki Honoka, was worlds apart from the fiery contender I had faced a few days ago.

Suppressing any outward display of surprise, I met her gaze with a composed smile. Her cheeks carried a faint blush, giving her an innocent allure that belied her past demeanor.

Even as I advised this class, my mind remained attuned to multiple layers of subtext. It wasn't the only reason I had 'grown fond' of this particular class, despite the presence of Hikaru. Our paths had yet to intersect in any meaningful way, and any interaction at this point would be devoid of significance.

My focus held steadfast on another goal—a watchful eye cast upon the students, honing in on any potential threats or signs of malice directed towards them. It was imperative that I ensure the safety of this environment, even as I tread cautiously in these uncharted waters.

Honoka Suzuki. I was curious about her background for a specific reason, which occupied a significant role in the intricate dance that lay ahead.

Could I utilize her as a piece on this chessboard of mine?

This pawn, Suzuki Honoka, held the potential to metamorphose into a queen, wielding the power to reshape the game in my favor. Alternatively, she could remain stagnant, a disposable piece to be replaced by a more strategic selection.

To ensnare a mastermind of his caliber, I required a bait substantial enough to provoke a reaction, to compel that cunning schemer to unveil his true nature.

...With the day's obligations concluded, customary exchanges with Instructor Kei complete, and a touch of calculated flirtation to play with Shiina's emotions, I couldn't suppress the curl of satisfaction that tugged at my lips as a melodious voice disrupted my thoughts.

"Ren-san! Could you spare a moment?"

I pivoted to face her, my countenance a mask of mild intrigue as I met her gaze, those deep blue eyes probing mine, brimming with intent.

I have been carefully delivering some head pats to other students, along with many compliments to not make them think I was giving Suzuki Honoka any sort of preferential behavior, and it worked really easily.

"Of course. Is this a pressing matter? If not, I'd extend the invitation to join us for dinner."

I delivered my response with the composed nonchalance I had mastered, even against my body's wishes. The biological urges of this youthful form never ceased to intrigue me, and she, with her precocious development, stirred an unintended spark of curiosity. Still, my intellect remained detached and analytical, as always.

I still won't stop my thoughts on how beautiful she is, though.

"I'd be delighted!"

She gave me a big smile, as I conveniently ignored Shiina's stare.

As I watched the transformation in her demeanor, it was almost startling to witness the fluid shift in a child's psyche. Yet, the success of this heartened me. While I couldn't delve into the inner workings of her mind, the subtle language of her body and expressions conveyed just how honestly she 'liked' me.

Shiina's training and professionalism left me little room to pierce her defenses. Her actions were calculated, and strategic. I could never guess what she was really thinking.

It was a reminder of the chasm of difference between our levels of expertise. Despite my adult consciousness, my only true advantage lay in my knowledge and strategic prowess.

Hence, caution remained paramount in my dealings. How I yearned for a mechanism akin to a favorability gauge, a tool to decipher the sentiments of those around me. Such an instrument would indeed prove invaluable in this kind of world, where magic nor supernatural skills are nothing but fantasy...

The Goddess of Entertainment was really stinky about that. I bet she just didn't want to waste such a convenient thing on a pawn like me.

Not like she'd tell me even if I asked, though...