CHAPTER 3 (PART 1/3): The 'Date'

POV : Rena

The morning light bathed my room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Golden sunbeams filtered through the partially opened curtains, casting playful patterns on the floor. Summer was right around the corner, and the characteristic chirping of cicadas filled the air, infusing a sense of cheerfulness. Everything seemed perfect on this day, as if destiny had consciously chosen to bless us. As the sun climbed higher in the sky and the house filled with the gentle summer light, I made my way to my wardrobe to pick out my outfit. A light blue dress paired with a beige cardigan was my choice for the day. As I slipped into them, I felt like a ray of sunshine, ready to spread warmth and joy.

The cicadas' song seeped through the open window, and a gentle summer breeze caressed my skin as I opened the windows to let the room breathe. Excitement welled up within me with every passing moment, my heart beating stronger. This day was going to be special, and I wished for everything to be perfect... I wanted to savor every tiny bit of happiness this day promised.

My father, nestled in deep slumber at this early hour, lay peacefully in his bed. I certainly didn't expect him to be up so early, knowing his penchant for sleeping in. I simply disregarded the faint snores coming from his room with a light sigh and continued my preparations, my excitement undiminished.

Once ready, I gazed at myself in the bathroom mirror. My eyes sparkled with joy, and my radiant smile seemed permanently etched on my face. The light blue dress and the small beige cardigan were the perfect choice for a day like this.

Stepping out of my room, backpack on my shoulders, and my small container of homemade cakes carefully stored, ready to embark on this memorable day, I couldn't help but think that everything was perfect. My heart was overflowing with joy, and I was eager to join my companion for this sunlit adventure... It was time to leave. When I reached the front door and opened it, even before stepping outside, I heard my father calling out to me eagerly. I turned to see him, dressed casually in a simple t-shirt and boxers.

Yasunori: So, Rena, are you leaving? Ready for your date? You'll tell me all about it when you get back, right? Ahahaha! And don't forget, it's super important, make sure you take precautions!

Rena: D-DAD! We're not... I... W-Well, bye, Dad. H-Have a great day, and g-good luck with your job hunt!

As he teased me with a chuckle behind my back, I hurriedly left the house, closing the door behind me and started running. Once I was far enough away from home, I slowed down and resumed a normal pace, still cheerfully whistling, the cicadas' song harmonizing with my tune. It was an exceptional day, the sun generously shining over the entire village, it was simply perfect.

However, at times, this joy made me feel a tinge of apprehension... After all, since I'd been in Hinamizawa, I'd experienced almost exclusively happy days. But from living this way, I was starting to realize something... It was...

... But this time, it was different. I felt an unusual joy, overflowing excitement, and I wanted this day to begin as soon as possible! With this mindset, I made my way to Kyotaka's house on foot.

Finally, after a peaceful walk, occasionally exchanging cheerful smiles and greetings with villagers who commented on how radiant I looked, I reached Kyotaka's house. Upon closer inspection, his house seemed almost as impressive as Keiichi's... I wondered how he could have acquired such a residence all by himself, maybe thanks to his "famous" guardian? No, I didn't believe it... There had to be more to the story.

Anyway, I wasn't here for that, so after internally smiling with joy, I approached the doorbell and pressed it.

...

POV : Kyotaka

I was comfortably seated on my couch, patiently awaiting Rena's arrival. My mind was consumed by recurring thoughts regarding the constraints looming over me the next day. The idea of seeing my newly gained freedom diminish haunted me, and I let out an involuntary sigh, expressing my concerns.

However, despite these oppressive thoughts, I focused on the goals of the day with Rena. They remained unchanged: learn more about her, explore the town of Okinomiya, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the construction site. I was determined to fulfill these objectives, and perhaps even enjoy the day with Rena. I even allowed myself to dream of sharing an ice cream or two with her. I had already prepared the 10,000 yen I had withdrawn from my pocket, ready to spend it.

Just as my thoughts were drifting toward this promising day, the doorbell rang, announcing Rena's arrival. I got up casually, my hands slipping into the pockets of my trousers, and adjusted my ANHS school uniform tie that I had chosen to wear for the occasion. This choice of attire added a touch of elegance to my outfit, and I felt ready for the day ahead.

As I reached the door and opened it, the sunlight flooded the room, momentarily blinding me. Then, in a burst of light, I witnessed a sight that could make any young man's heart race. Rena stood there, illuminated by the sun, her natural beauty and charm clearly evident. She wore a light blue dress with a small beige cardigan. A backpack hung from her shoulders, ready to accommodate any purchases of the day. It was clear that she had prepared meticulously, more than ever. Her smile, as radiant as the rays surrounding her, captivated me.

I couldn't help but admire her grace and beauty, an inner beauty that shone just as brightly as her external charm. The particular attention she paid to this special day intrigued me. What had driven her to prepare so carefully? Rena had always been considerate, but this time, there was something different, and I couldn't help but wonder why she had placed so much emphasis on this day.

Rena: Hello, Kyotaka ~! How are you? I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long, ahahaha! She greeted me with enthusiasm.

Her voice resonated with an unusual sweetness, imbued with a sincere enthusiasm I hadn't often heard in her tone. In fact, her intonation sounded familiar, similar to her usual tone, but the difference lay in the profound authenticity that emanated from her words. It was unsettling to see her this way, brimming with evident joy.

"Is it because we're going to spend time together... or just because of our outing to Okinomiya?" I thought.

My silent observation seemed to have lasted a bit longer than intended, as I soon saw her blush, clearly uncomfortable and embarrassed. I realized that perhaps it wasn't appropriate to scrutinize her in this way. I would make note of that for the future. Rena began to speak to me with a hint of nervousness in her voice, adding a new dimension to her usually confident and cheerful personality.

Rena: Um... Kyotaka? W-What's g-g-g-going on? Why is Kyotaka looking at me like that... I-Is there something on Rena's f-f-face? H-Hau? K-Kyotaka?

Kyotaka: No, I'm sorry. I was just observing you, that's all. I was wondering why you got so prepared today, so meticulously, for this particular day. That being said, I have to admit, those clothes really suit you, Rena.

Rena: Hau?

She let out a small cry of surprise in response to my comment, and for a moment, only the cicadas' chirping outside filled the air, creating a tense atmosphere. She seemed frozen for that brief moment.

"How annoying... Did I say something I shouldn't have?"

However, as seconds passed, a tinge of red began to creep over her face, gradually transforming her paleness into a crimson glow. Wisps of steam seemed to emanate from her head, and she started swaying slowly on her two legs, obviously flustered.

"The day is starting off well, it seems..."

I sighed at her reaction. We had barely met, and she was already displaying this sudden fervor after my simple words. Did it bother her that much? I was just stating the facts, after all.

Rena: K-Kyotaka said that... that I'm p-p-pretty? H-Hau ~ Hau... I-It's just... today I... Hau hau hau!!

Kyotaka: Well, I suppose you could see it that way... I don't think I need to remind you that you are a 'pretty' person, right? After all, it's a fact...

Rena: Hau ?!! I-I... Y-You... Hauuuuuuuuuu! K-K-Kyotaka is pretty too... P-Pretty and cute... Yes... Cute! Hau !!!

"In hindsight, saying that was probably not the best idea... Really annoying."

Rena suddenly seemed to transform, triggering this strange phase of excitement. She was now in a state of intense excitement, her eyes wide, and hysteria growing. I couldn't help but note that, although I had witnessed such moments in the past, Rena's reactions remained fascinating, if not perplexing. A sigh escaped me, and I made a mental promise to be careful with my words in her presence from that point on.

Rena rubbed her cheek against mine and hugged me with such force that I might have been crushed if I were someone else.

Rena: Yes ~ Yes! K-K-Kyotaka is just too cute!! Hauuuu! I w-w-w-want to t-t-take you h-h-home!! Tonight, it's decided, I'm taking you h-h-home! Hehehehehe!

Kyotaka: I don't think that's a very good idea, and I believe I have a say in that kind of decision... I simply told you the truth. And I don't think taking everything cute you find is a good thing either... It's like you'd be ready to steal anything, even a statue.

Rena: D-D-Don't worry, hehehe! E-Everything will be fine, I-I-I'll be gentle with you!! I-I-I'll show you m-m-my room, oh yes, and s-s-some surp-s-s-... I mean, we're going to h-h-have fun together! Hauuuu ~ Hau!

Kyotaka: I don't think telling me that is any more reassuring... I sighed once more. Am I going to become a mere trophy or a decoration?

And so, with this memorable introduction, our day began, under Rena's somewhat peculiar auspices as we headed towards the town of Okinomiya.

It took some time before Rena regained her composure, finally ceasing to hold me in such an intense embrace while frantically rubbing her cheek against mine. It was rather strange, and it seemed that my cool composure didn't disturb her in any way.

Finally, we set off, with Rena guiding me to show the way to Okinomiya. Before leaving, of course, I made sure to lock my door.

...

...

...

Rena and I walked along the path that apparently led us to Okinomiya, talking quietly while being quite close to each other. She didn't seem to be bothered by my stoic nature. My hands remained in my pockets, and I took the opportunity to savor the moment: the surroundings, the sun, Rena's company, the cicadas' chirping, and most of all, the feeling of freedom in the air.

Rena: Usually, we go to Okinomiya by bike... So, on foot, it might take a bit longer, but we have the whole day, so it's not a problem, right? She smiles gently at me.

Kyotaka: Yes, I have all day, so it doesn't really bother me either.

Rena: Glad to hear that then! Well, when we get there, we'll still have some time before eating... So, what would you like to see first? She expresses her enthusiasm.

Kyotaka: I don't really know; anything works for me... I wish to explore the town itself, after all. But to make a choice, I'd say the library... If there is one, of course.

Rena: To that, she gives me a sincere smile... Well, I suppose I'm pretty easy to figure out here. Ahaha! Coming from you, I expected that! All right, to start, we'll go to the Shishibone Municipal Library then.

Kyotaka: Very well then, I have no objections, that works for me.

I thought the library would be a good starting point, so it was a good idea to go there. I hoped to find an interesting selection of books to keep me company, though I doubted I'd spend much time alone in this new life.

Rena: Tell me, Kyotaka, what kind of books do you like to read? I mean, I figure you must be a big reader, right? Especially if you suggested starting with the library. Hehehe!

Kyotaka: Indeed, I enjoy reading. I'm not particularly attached to any one genre, but I must admit I have a penchant for detective novels. The suspense and the mystery surrounding them draw me in. However, I'm open to reading different kinds of books...

Rena: Oh, detective novels, that's interesting! You like solving mysteries, don't you? It reminds me of the investigations and mysteries I've delved into. You know the concept of "who dunnit," "how dunnit," and "why dunnit," right? It's like a three-part puzzle.

Kyotaka: Yes, I'm familiar with those concepts. "Who dunnit" focuses on identifying the culprit, "how dunnit" on how the crime was committed, and "why dunnit" on the criminal's motivations. It's a classic framework for solving mysteries in detective novels.

Rena: Exactly! It's like solving a complex puzzle using clues scattered throughout the story. I love it! The suspense, the tension, it's all so exciting.

Kyotaka: I agree. That's what makes reading detective novels so captivating. The satisfaction of unraveling the mysteries as the plot unfolds is incomparable.

Rena: And you know, sometimes, reality can be just as mysterious as fiction. Who knows what we might discover as we explore Okinomiya today?

Kyotaka: That's an interesting perspective. There are often more mysteries lurking beneath the surface of everyday life than we realize.

Rena: Exactly! And if we ever find ourselves in a situation worthy of a detective novel, you'll know how to handle it, right?

Kyotaka: Who knows?

Rena: What do you mean by that vague response, hmm? You're super smart, Kyotaka, so show me what you're capable of, okay? She gives me one of her adorable smiles.

The concepts of "who dunnit," "how dunnit," and "why dunnit." Upon reflection, these concepts could prove useful in the future... Especially in relation to the "mystery" that Rena has presented to me, concerning the murder on the construction site. However, the information I have is still limited. I recall that Rubiscarl had written in his letter that this mystery would eventually manifest itself. Tomitake, seemingly appearing out of nowhere, is the first to introduce me to this notion. There's an intriguing puzzle to unravel here. If I base this on the story of dismemberment, it might mean I'll have to solve a murder or a complex investigation, which, let's admit it, can be both boring and exciting.

But even if the upcoming mystery doesn't directly involve a murder, understanding these concepts - "who did it," "how it happened," and "why" - could be extremely useful. Upon reflection, the third concept, the "why dunnit," is often overlooked. It's the question of "why," the deep motivations of individuals. I've never really taken the time to delve into this dimension, as raw, emotionless truth and reasons are often what matters most in an investigation. In the end, the only and ultimate truth lies in the fact that someone committed a criminal act. For now, I'll keep these thoughts in mind, without dwelling on them further. I prefer to focus on the challenges and puzzles that lie ahead.

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

"I didn't expect to find myself discussing puzzles and detective novels with Rena, I must say..."

Well, it doesn't surprise me too much that she likes this sort of thing as well. Despite her extravagant behavior and the way she acts, Rena is actually very perceptive in her own way. She seems capable of seeing through everyone's lies, as if the truth were deeply ingrained in her. It was a new experience for me, as I had never met someone who could see through my lies. I had to admit it was impressive.

Rena Ryuguu... You're truly interesting, and I wonder how our relationship will evolve in the future. It's clear that there's a lot more to you than meets the eye. Yes, I'm genuinely curious to see how all of this will unfold.

Kyotaka: Rena, I suppose you also enjoy reading, right? You seem particularly interested in detective novels, judging from our conversation.

Rena: Well, you see, I like them too, although I haven't had much chance to read them, to be honest. But yeah, I enjoy that stuff, hehe! It's something we have in common, don't you think?

I wondered what she meant by not having "much chance." Still, I decided to put that aside for the moment, as it didn't seem very important.

Anyway, Rena seemed quite interested in the idea of sharing this activity. What did she mean by that? Did she just want to read together with me...? Well, that wouldn't bother me. She might become my new reading "partner," replacing Hiyori, whom I probably wouldn't see much anymore.

I had to admit it was a bit surprising to talk so casually with Rena. From what I had observed over the past two days, everything in the club always seemed very lively. But when speaking with the members outside of those moments, especially one-on-one, the conversations appeared calmer and more relaxed. I had seen that even with my brief conversation with Mion yesterday.

Kyotaka: Yeah, I guess... Are there any other genres you particularly enjoy, Rena?

Rena: Other genres? W-Well, yeah, but... I... It's... I noticed her cheeks taking on a slight shade of red.

I noticed she was starting to blush a bit beside me, and she seemed to tense up a little, looking down at the ground...

I had already seen this reaction, especially when it came to discussing books. Most of the time, it was related to the "romance" genre. I had read some romance novels before, but I never really understood why people were often hesitant to talk about it or had this kind of reaction, like Rena was having now. It was a mystery to me, but I had still learned to recognize this reaction when it came to romance novels.

Kyotaka: I assume you like romance, right?

Rena: H-Huh? H-How did you come to that conclusion, huh? H-How? H-Hau!

Kyotaka: It wasn't particularly difficult... Usually, no one gets embarrassed talking about genres, except maybe when it comes to romance novels, from what I've noticed... Although I don't really understand it. I've read a few of them myself, but they never really captivated me.

Rena: R-Really? W-Well, I haven't really read them... It's just that... Hau.....

Kyotaka: It's just a genre that interests you, and you'd like to explore it, but you never had the "courage" to try, right? Again, I don't really understand the reason, but I can deduce it... Well, I could pick out a few from the library if you want, and I'll give them to you once we're out, if you're genuinely interested... I concluded with a sigh.

Though I still didn't understand the reason for her embarrassment, it didn't pose any particular problem for me... After all, it was just a matter of picking up some books from the library and giving them to her later. It wouldn't cost much in yen. I brought 10,000 yen with me, which should be more than enough. Plus, I could probably earn some money through the new daily tasks that would appear tomorrow. I didn't want to lose 25,000 yen, so I'd make an effort to complete them.

Faced with my proposition, Rena seemed to blush even more. She stammered a bit, casting furtive glances to the side, in my direction.

Rena: Y-You... You'd really do that for me, huh? Really? Hau...

Kyotaka: Yes, I'm fine with it. You can just pick the ones that interest you at the library, and I'll take them for you, to give them to you later once we're out... We can put them in your bag, just like that.

Rena: K-Kyotaka... You're so kind, hau... T-Thank you so much! Hau ~ Hau!

Kyotaka: I let out a small sigh in response to her exaggerated reaction. It's not a problem...

This girl's reactions still remain a mystery to me... I can't quite understand her completely. She seems to get excited about anything, even insignificant proposals or services, like this one, and she gets carried away very easily at the slightest opportunity, seemingly at random.

Well, I guess I'll get used to all of this quickly... Or at least, I hope so.

...

...

...

After about thirty minutes of walking and discussing various topics, we finally arrived in the town of Okinomya... It was clearly different from Hinamizawa, being a larger town. While it wasn't a bustling metropolis, the contrast was noticeable.

We began to explore the streets of Okinomya together, with Rena guiding me to the library, our first stop.

We finally arrived at the library, guided by Rena. The exterior had a classic look, though it appeared a bit dated, which was understandable given the year, 1983.

"So, this is the library... I suppose it'll be useful to know during my time here."

Rena: Here we are! Come on, I'll show you the inside.

Without giving me a chance to respond, Rena pulled me inside the library while holding my hand. "She seems really excited today..." I thought as I followed her.

I was curious to see what this library had to offer in terms of books. I hoped to find some interesting reads to pass the time during my stay in Hinamizawa. Perhaps I would discover books I had never read before. I was ready to spend the day with Rena, exploring the town of Okinomiya, and on the way back, I hoped to learn more about her. Rena, as I had discovered, was a recent resident of Hinamizawa, and although she might not be as connected as Mion or Rika, I thought her personality and character might be useful to me in many other ways, just like Keiichi.

Kyotaka: I suppose this library is rather peaceful and welcoming. It must be nice to spend time reading here, right?

Rena: Yes, I think so too! Maybe if you want, one day, well... we could come here... T-Together and r-read, right? Just me and Kyotaka... R-Right?

Did this girl just get flustered all on her own? Well, she's always full of surprises.

...With that thought in mind, I sighed and responded to her in my usual manner.

Kyotaka: It doesn't really bother me, so if that's your wish...

Rena: R-Really? Really? It doesn't bother you...? H-Hau...

Kyotaka: Yeah... Anyway, are there any interesting books here? How about we take a look around before heading to our next destination, Rena?

Rena: O-Oh? Um, yeah, sure! Let's go; I'll show you the mystery novel section if you want. Come on!

Her ability to switch characters completely or return to normal in an instant is rather astonishing, I suppose... Well, I prefer her like this anyway. It's time to see what this library has to offer. Maybe I'll find some new intriguing works to occupy myself when I'm bored here... Although I have a feeling I won't have much time to get bored with the group I'm in.

She took my hand again and, in high spirits, led me toward what seemed to be the mystery novel section... I also noticed that some people around us were looking at us quite strangely. Well, I suppose a boy and a girl walking around like this can give the impression of being a couple... Rumors will probably circulate. However, I don't really care here. It would likely be less problematic than if such rumors were circulating at ANHS, so I don't mind. I'll just have to make sure Rena doesn't know my thoughts, or she'll get embarrassed once again... It seems like I'm getting used to it, actually, in the end.

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

Rena and I found ourselves in the mystery novel section, each of us exploring for a read that would pique our interest. For the moment, there was silence between us as we searched the bookshelves. I glanced at a promising book and was about to reach for it when another hand came down on it. A smaller hand, and the person it belonged to let out a barely audible cry of surprise while looking at me.

Intrigued, I turned my head to see the person standing beside me. The sight that met my eyes was completely unexpected, and even though my face remained impassive, I couldn't help but be surprised. It was something I could never have anticipated at that very moment. Deep down, I wondered what Rubiscarl's motivation was in all of this. The person standing next to me, their hand resting on mine, their face frozen in a calm expression, was none other than Shiina Hiyori.

The only person who seems to have orchestrated their arrival here is, without a doubt, this enigmatic Rubiscarl, the one occupying my thoughts. I genuinely wonder about her true intentions. I can't help but feel a certain antipathy towards the fact that she can act as she pleases, as if everything is permissible for her, as if she's the master of the game.

Rubiscarl, whoever you are and whatever powers you possess, know that you will deeply regret attempting to manipulate me, to make me play the role of your pawn. That's a promise I can make to you. For now, I'm willing to play the game, to accept what presents itself as a fair exchange. My freedom is the most precious thing to me, and I'm prepared to cooperate in anticipation of something in return. However, should you take away my freedom, Rubiscarl, know that I won't show the same leniency towards you.

Shiina: Um... I'm sorry... You wanted this book, right? I didn't mean to bother you, but I was quite interested in it, so I wanted to take a closer look... Sorry, you can have it, I'll get it another time. She gives me a sincere smile while stepping back slightly.

It seemed that my deep reflection on Rubiscarl had unintentionally frightened Hiyori. She withdrew her hand from mine, stepping back a bit, appearing lost and frightened. She didn't seem to recognize me, or rather, she acted as if she didn't know me at all. Once again, Rubiscarl must be behind all of this, but what was her true objective? Why make Hiyori not remember me?

I sighed again, wondering if this was some kind of joke or if Rubiscarl had truly brought other people from my world, especially from ANHS, into this world. And had they all forgotten where they came from, except me? Was this part of the puzzle I had to solve?

In any case, I suspected that I would soon get answers to my questions. I probably expected to meet other people from ANHS here. I just had to play the game for now and enjoy my newfound freedom without trying to awaken the lost memories of others.

However, another concern began to grow in me. If Rubiscarl had the power to bring other people here, she could also bring "that man" with his memory intact. If that happened, my freedom would be threatened once again. Rubiscarl was about to become my next target, and she might not know who she had decided to play with, whatever her plan was.

I hope she doesn't do anything reckless, because if she does, she'll be in for a confrontation with me.

...

I let out a sigh after these thoughts and relaxed my gaze, which had worried Hiyori. Her smile gradually faded as she looked at me, clearly troubled by the situation.

Kyotaka: No, it's not a problem. You can take it; I just wanted to look at it more closely.

As I handed her the book I had just picked up, she seemed momentarily bewildered. She looked at me, perhaps trying to make sure I wasn't lying or had ulterior motives. It seemed that my previous thoughts had troubled her.

However, after a brief moment, she regained her sweet and sincere smile, similar to the one she had given me at the beginning of our encounter. She seemed less frightened and responded to me in a more relaxed manner, gently pushing the book back to me while shaking her head slightly.

Shiina: Don't worry; there are so many other books here. I can choose another one while waiting to get my hands on this one. Oh, by the way, I don't remember seeing you here before... What's your name?

Kyotaka: Oh, yes, I'm a new resident of Hinamizawa... My name is Ayanokoji Kyotaka. And yours?

Shiina: H-Hinamizawa? So you come from the small village of Hinamizawa? Uh... Well, I recommend you to be careful; the people there are a bit strange, and... Well, yes, sorry, I sometimes get carried away... I'm Hiyori Shiina. Well, Ayanokoji, I'm sorry, but I have to go!

And as if nothing had happened, she almost ran off, seeming a bit scared. I thought about everything that had just happened. It was strange, to say the least, but also very interesting. Rena seemed to have quickly ended the conversation when I mentioned Hinamizawa. She also seemed to warn me about the village's residents. All of this was incredibly intriguing. I hoped that it was part of Rubiscarl's plan.

She had spoken of an "enigma that would come to me." But what did she mean exactly? Was she just using my former ANHS classmates as pawns to give me hints or information? At this point, nothing could surprise me anymore. All of this made me sigh as I reflected on it.

Shiina Hiyori, huh? I didn't expect to see you here, in this world... In this library. But thinking about it, it was rather logical. Despite the world they are in, people remain the same. I might be able to deduce where the others are, but for now, I didn't care. The discovery I made today was already enough. I planned to enjoy the rest of the day exploring Okinomya with Rena. I would think about all of this tonight when the evening crickets replaced the cicadas' song.

Finally, as Shiina ran out of the library, Rena reappeared with a book in her hand.

Rena: Hey, Kyotaka, you managed to find something too, huh?

Rena calling me, I turned to see her briefly startle at the sight of Shiina running towards the exit. Rena approached me, holding a book in both hands, while looking at the library's exit, clearly intrigued.

It was evident that the situation might seem strange and intriguing. A girl running out of the building, seen from my position, could lead to misunderstandings. I would need to clarify the situation with Rena to prevent her from jumping to conclusions. Avoiding problems only made them come back, after all. This thought made me sigh once again.

Rena: Who was that, Kyotaka? Do you know her?

Kyotaka: Not really. We just met a moment ago, both interested in the same book.

Rena: Why did she run away, then? Did something happen, Kyotaka?

Kyotaka: I presume she was caught off guard and panicked... She seemed rather shy, and our hands accidentally touched when we both tried to grab the book at the same time.

Rena: Really? But is she okay? She looked pretty terrified...

Kyotaka: She probably wasn't used to this kind of interaction... She likely panicked after touching my hand. I tried to apologize, but she left without saying a word.

Rena: ...

"Rena, no matter what I see in you, you are the most intriguing of all... Your deductive talent is truly impressive."

I suspected, in reality. Regardless of what I said, I knew very well what her precise questions corresponded to, and that they were by no means insignificant despite her usual appearance. I had already noticed that she had an exceptional talent for deduction and could spot lies with remarkable skill. Even with me, she managed to detect my lies, something I had never experienced before.

However, silence settled between us, and I saw her expression change. She went from a gentle smile to a more serious expression, showing her dissatisfaction. It was clear that she wondered why I wasn't telling her the whole truth or why I was lying about such insignificant details. In her presence, it could even arouse stronger suspicions than if I revealed everything. Unfortunately, this was an unavoidable constraint since Shiina was part of my world, and I couldn't disclose information about my world. I hoped Rena could understand and look past it. "I apologize, Rena, but there are situations where lying is necessary. Sometimes, you can't know or reveal all the truths you'd like. I hope you can understand that. For now, it was a small, insignificant lie. I imagine you can overlook it, right?" 

Rena: Are you sure nothing else happened, Kyotaka? I saw you talking a bit when I was approaching earlier... Hau...

Kyotaka: Well, as I mentioned, she must have been frightened by something... All I shared was my first and last name and the fact that I'm a newcomer to Hinamizawa... In response, she told me her name is Shiina Hiyori and then ran off, saying she had to leave.

Rena: Really? And... there's nothing else that could explain why she looked so strangely scared, huh?

She becomes oddly insistent in an instant. It's as if she's not necessarily trying to conceal her disagreement with me, as if she wants to make it clear that she knows I'm not telling the whole truth and doesn't appreciate me keeping something from her. Maybe she thinks I'm responsible for Shiina's panicked escape? After all, that's a plausible assumption. With Rena, this kind of situation could backfire on me. In general, I don't really have a reason to hide anything from her. My intention was simply to see how much she would press for such trivial information to determine how far she would go if I were to truly lie to her. It seems that she doesn't like someone hiding something from her, as much as she doesn't like lies. The pressure she exerts could indeed be very effective against most people, especially those who only know her by her usual character.

Kyotaka: I'm sorry, but I'm not really aware of the reason, to be completely honest...

Rena: Really? And you don't even have the tiniest idea, huh? Not even a little hint that would come to mind?

I see... She's actually trying to make me think about a possible mistake on my part that might have frightened Shiina. It's like she's trying to make me "realize" something, adopting an attitude reminiscent of a child being scolded by their parents. She's trying to make me self-aware of my mistakes.

Interesting, I'm learning more about Rena's personality. She's genuinely intriguing, no doubt about it. I could say that she would have been of great use to Class D if she were at ANHS, to be honest. Maybe even more useful than Keiichi or Hōjō Satoshi in the end.

I finally sighed once again and shared the last part of the story, staying impassive as usual, my left hand in my pocket and my right hand holding the book.

Kyotaka: Well, there is one thing... She reacted quite strangely when I told her I was from Hinamizawa. She suddenly seemed frightened and ran off. She simply warned me, saying that the people from Hinamizawa are weird, and I should be careful.

Rena: ...

I told her that while starting to gaze intently at her, our eyes locking with each other. My gaze was charged with intensity, seeking an answer behind a kind of suspicion I had intentionally instilled. I wanted to see how she would react to this pressure. After all, her reaction to Hinamizawa, even though she was Shiina in this world and a resident of this town, was intriguing and strange.

Rena held my gaze in a particular way, remaining serious without saying a word. Then, finally, she offered me a strange smile, that sweet smile she usually wears, returning to her characteristic behavior. It was quite a strange alternation, a kind of contrast. It seemed that my response had been enough for her, so she returned to her usual attitude.

Rena: I see, sorry then! I thought maybe you had said something that might have made her react like that... Often, people make mistakes without realizing it, so I just wanted to know if you might have done something unintentionally. Sorry, Kyotaka, hehe!

Kyotaka: I understand better now... No problem, then. Well, it's rather noble of you. You probably wanted to correct me by helping me understand my own mistake, right?

Rena: Well, it was kind of like that, yeah... Sorry, it's not that I don't trust you, but I just wanted to make sure you wouldn't repeat that mistake if you made it... Everyone makes mistakes, after all; what's important is not repeating them... She gave me one of her many sweet, sincere, and warm smiles.

Kyotaka: I understand; it's a commendable approach, and I can understand it.

It seems that the unnecessary tension between us has finally dissipated. However, I don't forget the fact that Rena completely ignored Shiina's mention of Hinamizawa and even seemed scared by that single word. That was definitely abnormal, and now that I truly knew Rena's abilities, I couldn't imagine it was a simple oversight on her part. She, too, seemed to be hiding things from me, and I planned to uncover them in one way or another.

For now, I wouldn't question her about these matters. I planned to gather any additional information I could on this day in Okinomya with Rena, on the way back. Who knows, maybe I'll see other former ANHS classmates? It filled me with a certain nostalgia, an emotion I hadn't expected.

Rena and I finally left the library after spending a few moments looking at books together. I picked two books for myself and chose a few romance books for Rena, as agreed earlier. We put them all in her bag and then left the library, heading to the next place Rena wanted to show me after the library.

"I guess it's going to be something like a shopping store..." I thought, then resumed a normal conversation with Rena. Together, we continued on our way, with Rena guiding me to the next location.

...

Après quelques instants de marche, nous sommes finalement arrivés devant ce qui semblait être un petit supermarché de taille moyenne, portant l'enseigne "Seventh Mart". Rena semblait surexcitée à l'idée d'entrer dans le supermarché.

"I suppose I could pick up a few items I might need later while I'm here..."

Rena: Well, here's Seventh Mart! A lot of people from Hinamizawa also come here for groceries. Do you want to do some shopping, Kyotaka?

Kyotaka: I see... And as long as we're here, I do have a few things to pick up. Might as well, right?

Rena: Yeah, that's true! I've got a few things to buy as well, so let's just do some shopping together before heading to Angel Mort for lunch, okay? She flashed another one of her sweet smiles.

Kyotaka: Alright, let's just do some shopping together and then grab lunch after...

We started shopping together, browsing the aisles and picking out the items we wanted. During this time, Rena was chatty and had many topics of conversation, although my responses were often brief. However, it didn't seem to bother her.

After some time, as we were heading toward the checkout counters, I noticed two people I didn't expect to see at that moment. It was less surprising than my encounter with Shiina, but it was still a possibility. Both of them seemed to have spotted us and were heading our way. Rena finally noticed them as we stopped walking.

Rena: Oh? Hey! Mii, Keiichi, hi!

Mion: Well, well, I didn't expect to see you two here together... There are better places for a date, isn't there?

Keiichi: Yeah, you could've picked something other than grocery shopping, couldn't you? Hi to both of you. I hope your date is going well! Ehehehe.

Kyotaka: Hello Keiichi, Mion... And I'm not really sure what you're talking about, both of you... I just wanted to explore the town of Okinomiya.

Immediately after seeing them, I realized how this would end. Knowing Mion's teasing personality, it was clear that she'd start with her banter. Keiichi also seemed inclined to tease his friends, especially Rena, even if he got shut down quickly.

Mion seemed to have set a new goal: constantly target me with her teasing and try to outwit me. Unfortunately for her, I doubted that would work. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Rena blush again, but at this point, it didn't surprise me.

Well, at least this relaxed atmosphere with them provided some entertainment, I suppose.

Mion: Mmmmh? Really? But you could've asked me, or even Rika and Satoko, couldn't you, Kyo-chan? And why did you ask him secretly like that, yesterday?

Rena: H-Hau! Mii, I... Uhm... W-was that true, K-Kyotaka? You... Hau...

Kyotaka: Honestly, I also wanted to get to know you better... I thought it would be easier if we spent the day alone. I don't see any reason to find that problematic, right?

Mion: Mmmh? Really? Could've asked me, or Rika and Satoko, right? And why did you do it secretly, K-y-o-ch-an?

Rena: In secret... In secret... Just you and me, Kyotaka... Hau.

Keiichi: Well, I have to say, that's a bit suspicious, isn't it, my brother? But it's okay! He reached out his hand and gave me a thumbs up. I trust you; Rena will be safe with you!

Mion: Hey, don't just hand over my little Rena to strangers like that, huh? He needs to go through me first if he wants my daughter's hand.

Kyotaka: What are you implying with all these innuendos? It almost sounds like Rena is some noblewoman, and you're her parents with these comments...

I glanced at Rena, hoping she might help us get out of this strange situation. However, instead of that, I saw her drifting into her thoughts, swaying strangely while mumbling. It was strange behavior that didn't inspire confidence. I sighed and turned back to Mion and Keiichi, who had teasing and mocking expressions.

Kyotaka: I could say the same about you, right?

Keiichi: Huh? What are you talking about, my brother?

Kyotaka: Well, we also found you both grocery shopping together. As for me, I discussed it with Mion on the way back yesterday, and for you two, I'm sure no one else knew about your day in Okinomiya, right?

Keiichi: W-What? Hey, what are you talking about, my brother? W-We just happened to bump into each other here by chance, like you guys! Yeah, that's it, ahahaha!

Mion: Of course, I don't see any other reason for us to be here, both of us... me and Kei-chan. Ahaha... Ahahahaha! I could see her blushing slightly as she scratched her head, laughing in an embarrassed manner.

Kyotaka: Really? I'm pretty sure I saw both of you joining us at the same time, and you seem to have met before... And judging by your current way of speaking, my assumptions can only be strengthened, right, Keiichi, Mion?

Rena: Hau. So it's true? Keiichi and Mii had... a date, huh?

This time, the roles seemed to be reversed. Rena blushed slightly and seemed to turn to Mion and Keiichi. Keiichi, on the other hand, was in full panic, raising his hands and stuttering.

Keiichi: What are you talking about, you guys? It's not like that at all! I just needed to familiarize myself with Okinomiya too! Remember, I've only been here for a short time, my brother! Besides, it was Mion who suggested this to me, saying you'd asked Rena. I just thought it was a good idea, that's all.

Mion: Oh, yeah, that's right! B-But no, it wasn't like that! I thought maybe Keiichi needed to know places in Okinomiya too, like for shopping... Ahaha... Ahahahaha! Yes, that's it! And in the end, we both needed to do some shopping, so we went to Seventh Mart, no romance involved!

Rena: But Mii... Keiichi already knows Seventh Mart, right? He goes there quite often; I've even run into him here with Keiichi's mother.

Keiichi: Ah, that's true, come to think of it! Ahahaha! Well, I didn't know you were so eager to spend time with me, Mion! You could've just asked me, right? He said with a cheeky smile on his face.

Mion: W-What? Hey, what are you saying, little guy! You're not supposed to be on their side and turn on me so easily like this! Ah, but I just needed to do some shopping at the same time, so I took advantage, that's all! A-And you too, right? And besides, there's no need to talk about it anymore; it's all settled, isn't it? It was the same for Kyo-chan and Rena, right? S-So that's it now, no need to talk more!

Kyotaka: Well, I guess we're even now, so problem solved.

Keiichi: So it was just to make things even? Even though you look unflinching, you're quite vengeful, aren't you, my brother?

Kyotaka: Who knows?

Keiichi: What's with that evasive answer again? There isn't even an answer to that, it was a rhetorical question!

Mion: And I'm not satisfied at all, little guy! I disagree with that. As the club leader, I'm warning you that you'll undergo the worst punishment, yes, the worst punishment the club has ever seen! Trust me; tomorrow you won't come out with your dignity intact... Ahahahaha!

Rena: Mii... Isn't that a bit mean, do you think? Poor Kyotaka, hau. But I have to admit... Seeing him in one of your outfits would be... Hau... I saw her blush even more. What is she thinking? Alright then, sorry Kyotaka, but this time I'll be on Mii's side! Ehehehe!

Keiichi: You turned against him quite quickly, didn't you? Don't worry, my brother; I understand how you feel... But rest assured, as long as I'm here with you, you're safe.

Kyotaka: I can't say... Is that supposed to be reassuring in some way?

As the usual banter continued with Rena, Mion, and Keiichi, we finally made our way to the checkout counter. I couldn't help but sigh at their exuberance, which I strangely found myself getting used to. After all, ANHS also had its share of quirky and strange individuals, so I guess it wasn't that different. The only difference was that here and now, I could lead a more normal life, which made it simply more enjoyable.

Then, a voice from out of nowhere seemed to call out to us. In reality, this voice seemed to be addressing a specific person among our group.

Young Girl: Oh, I knew it was you, Mion. Hello~!

We all turned to see the person who had called out to Mion. It was a young girl of about our age, with beautiful emerald green hair tied in two pigtails framing her face, and large hazel eyes. She was dressed stylishly, appearing in everyday city attire, with a pink and black top matching a medium-length navy blue plaid skirt.

"Meeting a new person... She seems to know Mion, maybe she's from Okinomiya?" I wondered.

Mion: Hey~? If it isn't Natsumi, how are you?! What happened? Have you returned?

Natsumi: No. Today is Solitsu's birthday, so my aunt wants to come home after a long time. I'm supposed to be at home tonight.

Mion: So that's it~. Well, on weekends, the highway leading here is quite busy. I...

As Mion continued her conversation with the newcomer, Natsumi, she noticed us - Keiichi, Rena, and me - looking at her. Keiichi appeared incredulous and surprised, while Rena remained composed, as if she saw Natsumi as just another newcomer.

As for me, honestly, I didn't care much. It didn't seem like a big deal, and I had a feeling this girl wouldn't play a major role here. She was rather cute, I must admit, but she didn't seem to be from Hinamizawa, or even Okinomiya, based on the bits of their conversation I caught.

Mion: Ah, sorry! Let me introduce you! Her name is Kimiyoshi Natsumi. She's a relative of the village chief and lived in Okinomiya until last year.

I noticed that perhaps Natsumi Kimiyoshi might be more useful than I initially thought. The three prominent families in this village play a crucial role, with the Sonozaki family led by Oryo Sonozaki, where Mion Sonozaki reigns as the heiress. Then, there are the Furude, in charge of the temple, with their only current member being the priestess Rika Furude. Lastly, the Kimiyoshi family, led by Mayor Kimiyoshi Kiichirō. Natsumi Kimiyoshi is the heir to the latter, the third prominent family.

Although I couldn't predict if I'd have the opportunity to form connections with her, she might prove useful down the line. However, it's essential to note that she isn't indispensable, as we already have Mion Sonozaki and Rika Furude in our group. I could try to learn more about her through Mion in the future, which might be useful.

"Phew..."

I felt like I was overthinking it. Right now, there's no need to overanalyze the situation, especially since nothing extraordinary has happened yet. My goal is to live freely with my new "friends" here in Hinamizawa, as I've always wanted...

Rena: ...Really? So you and Rena must've crossed paths.

Natsumi: Hello. But I went to school in Okinomiya, so I only know Mion.

Keiichi: It's also nice to meet you.

Kyotaka: Hello as well, Natsumi. I'm Ayanokoji Kyotaka. Pleased to meet you.

We all engaged in a casual conversation and introduced ourselves to Natsumi as usual. Keiichi seemed to have regained his usual relaxed demeanor, and Rena remained true to her usual behavior. Initially, it seemed like Natsumi was looking at me with some apprehension, probably due to my way of speaking and my lack of facial expressions, I presume.

Natsumi: See you later. I have to go.

Mion: Goodbye! Will you come to the festival?

Natsumi: Probably. Grandma is looking forward to it.

Natsumi waved at us before leaving Seventh Mart.

"At least this girl seemed more normal," I thought.

Mion: Oh, excuse me, but I have to go! I forgot my uncle needs help at the toy store. See you later, everyone!

And then, without further ado and without more words, she hurried away, waving her hand in our direction to bid us farewell. We returned a brief farewell. She seemed to be in a hurry. She had mentioned her uncle and a toy store. Perhaps she had something to do. In any case, she left quickly, that's for sure.

Keiichi: Why was she in such a rush, huh? Is it really that crucial anyway? Or maybe she has a super strict boss... But she did say it's her uncle, right? That's quite surprising, though. If I were told that Mion was taking on a job like that... Ahahaha!

Rena: Mii has always been a hard worker, you know. She helps her uncles who work in Okinomiya, so she often has a lot of work on weekends, especially Sundays.

Kyotaka: I see... So, her uncles are in Okinomiya, not Hinamizawa. Does she have many uncles and aunts? You mentioned "her uncles" as if she has several...

Rena: Well, yeah, she actually has quite a few of them. They seem to be all over town, you could say. For example, the boss of the small restaurant we're going to later, Kyotaka, is an uncle to Mion. I haven't been there yet, but that's one thing I know about Mion.

Kyotaka: I see... The Sonozaki family, then. It doesn't particularly surprise me.

Keiichi: What? How come it doesn't surprise you? Rena just said Mion has uncles all over town... How many does she have, seriously? And why, my brother, are you talking about the Sonozaki family as if it's obvious that they could control the entire region?

"I guess he's only just found out who Mion Sonozaki really is in the village..."

As I knew, it didn't surprise me much that she had so much influence with all her uncles. Knowing Keiichi, I suspected he'd react this way, since he seemed to not know at all. He's been here for a short while too, so it's natural he doesn't know everything. If I know all of this, it's only thanks to my conversation with Mion on the way back yesterday.

Kyotaka: Well... Isn't it the case, after all?

Keiichi: Huh? Wait! What do you mean by that?

Rena: Ehehehe! Well, yes, the Sonozaki family is the most powerful of the three village families, so Mion's family is very influential even throughout the region. So what you're saying is somewhat accurate, in a way.

Keiichi: Huh? W-What? So all this time... I've been with an heiress or something like that? But she doesn't even act like some noble or whatever!

Kyotaka: How did you come to that conclusion?

Rena: Hey, Keiichi! You shouldn't judge a book by its cover, you know. Sometimes even its contents can be the opposite, right? Look at Mion, she's not at all like the idea you might have by simply saying she's the heiress of a wealthy family. She gave him a gentle scolding, like a mother reprimanding her child.

I noticed that Rena was gently rebuking Keiichi for his mistaken observation. There was nothing surprising about that; it seemed to fit Rena's typical attitude perfectly. And on closer thought, she wasn't entirely wrong. This led me to reflect on my own situation. Considering myself, an apparently ordinary student, leading an apparently ordinary life, for both the villagers and this new world, I knew that this appearance was deeply misleading. Within me, I carried the burden of being the worst kind of individual, a detestable human being. If the people here discovered the truth, they would probably reject me without hesitation. It was a dark, melancholic thought that overwhelmed me at that moment.

I let out a sigh as I carefully observed what was happening around us. My attention suddenly shifted to Keiichi, whose behavior struck me as odd. In fact, his reaction was entirely out of sync with what Rena had just said, with all her usual gentleness. He was looking at her, his pupils slightly trembling, and shivers ran through his body. He seemed terrified in a way that made no sense in the current context. I perceived this irrational fear in him, something inexplicable. It was as if he saw a potential danger in Rena. Finally, after a tense moment of silence, Keiichi spoke in a trembling, stuttering voice, trying to sound reassuring but failing miserably.

"I think something's happening now... It's not normal."

The tension in the air seemed to have heightened, and it was clear that something unusual was unfolding. 

Keiichi: W-What? O-Oh, oh! Yeah, sorry, Rena... Ehahahah! I didn't mean it like that; I was just a bit surprised. He said this in an embarrassed manner while scratching his head.

Keiichi's exaggerated reaction didn't escape Rena's attention, who was staring at him intently with a serious expression. She shot me a brief look, and I responded with a slight nod, confirming that I had also noticed this unusual reaction.

With my hands in my pockets, I remained silent, watching Keiichi closely, trying to understand what was happening. I already had a small inkling of the situation, though the reason behind this reaction remained unknown to me. In truth, it was more accurate to say that this reason was incomprehensible to me.

The tension in the air seemed to persist for what felt like an eternity until suddenly, Keiichi broke the silence with a startled cry.

Keiichi: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

The cry of surprise and fear that shattered the tension had occurred following a seemingly innocuous gesture from Rena. She had simply touched Keiichi's shoulder lightly in a friendly way to snap him out of his odd state. However, Keiichi's excessive reaction had startled Rena in return, and all this commotion had drawn the attention of the people present in the Seventh Mart. The other customers were now watching us with wide eyes, expressing their astonishment and confusion at the strange scene that had just unfolded.

"Another issue to add to the list... Great," I sighed quietly, referring to the multiple mysteries surrounding this group. The silence that followed seemed to stretch endlessly, with each passing second feeling like minutes, until finally, the activities in the supermarket resumed their normal course, with customers concluding that there was no imminent danger.

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

Rena was watching Keiichi with a puzzled, concerned, and confused expression. Both of us wondered why he had reacted so excessively to a simple friendly gesture from Rena and why he had seemed so frightened a moment ago. These questions remained unanswered, at least for the time being.

I continued to observe them, hands in my pockets, without moving an inch. Eventually, it was Keiichi who broke the silence and the mysterious tension that had settled among us.

Keiichi: Ah! Uh, sorry! Ahahahahaha! But I've got to run. It's almost time for dinner, and I still need to bring back the groceries to my mom. See you later, bye. And enjoy your date!

Keiichi left as abruptly as Mion had earlier, grabbing his groceries bag and leaving the Seventh Mart without even greeting us or saying goodbye. This situation was genuinely intriguing, and I wondered what had happened. Even at ANHS, I had never witnessed something as irrational and improbable as this. Still, I preferred dealing with these strange issues here and being free, rather than returning to my original world.

It seemed that this day was filled with strange and problematic events, from my encounter with Shiina at the library to Keiichi's unexplained reaction. Rena, by my side, also appeared to share my feeling, displaying a serious and puzzled expression as she watched Keiichi hastily leave the store, ride his bike, and quickly move away with his groceries bag. However, she knew nothing about what had happened with Shiina.

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

I let out a deep sigh at the whole situation, which brought Rena back to reality. She turned her head towards me, her expression returning to its usual state, albeit still tinged with confusion.

"Well... I was hoping to spend a normal day exploring Okinomiya City with my new friend Rena and having a good time with her... That's gone."

Rena: Huh? Kyotaka, what's wrong, huh?

Kyotaka: ... Nothing, don't worry. I suppose this situation was simply not ordinary. I was just thinking about what had just happened.

Rena: Ah? Heh, yeah, I see. Sorry about that, ahahaha! Maybe I was a little too straightforward with Keiichi, and that might have scared him.

Kyotaka: ... I don't think it's your fault, really. You acted appropriately. The issue seemed to lie elsewhere... There was clearly something abnormal. This fear was exceedingly irrational compared to your gesture or what you had said to him earlier.

Rena: Kyotaka... You see, everyone reacts to fear differently, and each person feels it in a unique way. So, for you, this fear may seem irrational, but for Keiichi... it was very real.

Fear, a feeling that every human being has carried since the dawn of time. It arises in response to real or perceived danger, triggering a physiological response marked by an accelerated heart rate, cold sweats, and shivers, all under the influence of an adrenaline rush. Whether fear is rational or imaginary, our bodies react the same way. Some fears paralyze, forcing individuals to remain frozen, even if they try to reason with themselves. It's a sort of mental block that prevents any action.

It's essential to note that fear is not innate but learned. As a child, you don't know that fire burns until your parents teach you to protect you from danger. Similarly, specific life experiences create fears of certain situations. These experiences are kept in memory, leading to apprehension about facing such situations in the future. For example, if you were involved in a car accident, you might develop a strong aversion to getting behind the wheel.

The best way to overcome fear is through gradual exposure to the feared situation. In Keiichi's case, he experienced intense fear towards Rena. He perceived a threat in her, or in what her name "Rena" represented. Irrational fear took hold of him, paralyzing him as he struggled to break free. It was as if he was facing a terrifying monster, ready to devour him. An irrational reaction that shouldn't have occurred, but without knowing Keiichi's deep-seated experiences and fears, I can't identify the underlying cause.

It was evident that the realm of human emotions remained a territory to explore for me. Perhaps my closeness to Rena would provide an opportunity to unravel the mysteries surrounding these emotions... Who knows?

Rena: Maybe when I said that, Keiichi felt threatened, combined with that gesture... Well, he must have really panicked. Then she muttered this last part softly. And that's even more true when it's linked to personal experiences or something he knows happened, you know...

Kyotaka: ... Yeah, I guess you're right.

After giving my brief response to Rena, she flashed one of her sweet smiles, followed by a light laugh. Quickly, she returned to her usual expression and relaxed demeanor, as if the situation with Keiichi had never happened.

"This girl knows how to quickly regain control of the situation... Quite impressive, I must say."

Rena: Of course, we're done with our shopping here, right? How about we head to Angel Mort for a bite to eat?

Kyotaka: I agree... I'm also starting to feel hungry. A good restaurant would be welcome.

Rena: Alright, let's go then~! I'm sure it'll be great there. I heard even the maid outfits are super cute! Hau!

After settling our purchases and packing them into Rena's backpack, we headed to the renowned "Angel Mort" restaurant. I offered to carry the bag for her, but she preferred to keep it herself, saying it didn't bother her.

On the way, we resumed our usual discussions, covering a variety of topics, some more interesting than others. It was clear to me that despite her eccentric nature in her own way, Rena was a person with a certain form of intelligence and capability that not everyone possessed... even at ANHS. Conversations in this free environment with Rena were as enjoyable as they were valuable.

I was free... Freed from everything that held me back in my world, liberated from the constraints of ANHS. Of course, I still faced constraints here, but they were less oppressive. Even if some of my former classmates might be here, it didn't change much... After all, there were no more class rankings or other control structures. We were all on an equal footing, free to do what we wanted. Who knows, maybe I would have the opportunity to rekindle friendships with some of them, or even run into familiar faces and pick up our conversations again? The members of the Ayanokoji club would certainly get along, I thought.

However, I wasn't naive. I knew this apparent peace wouldn't last, and soon, I would be faced with the mystery that loomed over me...