Chiori Mikami

Despite being a splendid, relaxing summer day, the atmosphere inside the Mahjong Soul Shrine is as oppressive as if thunderclouds were looming, and everyone looks nervous... I'd just stepped into the room to bring Ichihime some snacks, but upon seeing the scene before me, I take a deep breath and have a hunch.

{character:player}It must be that girl who's been coming here a lot recently that created such a heavy atmosphere, like "the devil's in the house."

{character:Chiori Mikami}Yakuman!

Sure enough, I'd barely finished speaking when I spot the blonde girl playing a lively match, her conspicuous red hairband like a warning to strangers to approach at their own peril.

Glancing at the table, the number of scattered scoring sticks clearly indicates that Chiori Mikami has just totally crushed her opponents.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Hmph, all bark but no bite. Talked a big game but really, what a disappointment. Just now, who was just flapping their gums, saying they were gonna take Chiori down a peg or two?

Amongst the watching crowd's admiration for Chiori Mikami, the Jyanshi opposite stands up dejectedly from the table, a grudging and awkward smile on their face.

{character:Jyanshi A}Hey, we let you win. Otherwise you'd probably cry or something.

{character:Jyanshi B & Jyanshi C}Yeah! That's right!

Hearing this excuse, the other two Jyanshi nod frantically. Chiori Mikami's expression suddenly darkens.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Huh? Let me win? You three "glass fogeys"?

{character:Jyanshi C}Glass?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Your tactics and your tiles are like glass - I can see right through them.

{character:Jyanshi B}Er... Haha, can't you take a joke, kid? Don't need to take it so seriously, eh?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Back at you! After all, you looked a lot more serious when finding an excuse than playing!

Chiori Mikami unceremoniously calls them out, and the surrounding crowd gradually grows louder, showing that everyone else has issues with what the three Jyanshi had said, too. Their expressions grow more and more embarrassed, first blushing red and then turning pale as they pathetically hang their heads.

{character:Jyanshi A}Sorry, we were being petty. I apologize.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Instead of apologizing, get out of here and practice. I've lost count of the number of Jyanshi I've met who are all talk and no action.

Through a chorus of boos, the three red-faced Jyanshi leave in a hurry. Having watched the whole scene, I can't help but let out a sigh.

{character:player}So cocky... It wouldn't be surprising if she gets bundled into a sack one day while walking along the road.

While One Han City has always been peaceful, it's precisely because it is One Han City that you shouldn't get on the wrong side of a Jyanshi.

{character:Riu Kujou}Do you really think I'd let that happen?

{character:player}Riu? When did you get here?

The girl who silently appeared at my side is Riu Kujou, Chiori Mikami's maid. They're like sisters, despite one working for the other.

As Chiori's personal maid, Riu Kujou excels at forcibly defending her lady's honor, punishing anyone who disrespects or even has inappropriate thoughts about her. I've tasted the power of those iron fists myself on several occasions, when I've dared joke about Chiori Mikami.

...Hang on. I suddenly recall my kind of unthinking words just now, and feel some misgivings.

{character:player}Riu, what I said just now, about the sack... will you let me explain?

{character:Riu Kujou}What, do, YOU, think?

With a tight-lipped smile, Riu Kujou puts her powerful hands firmly on my shoulder.

{character:Riu Kujou}However, there's something more important to discuss with you right now.

Boohoo... you just wait, someone's gonna come give you your just deserts...

Just as Riu Kujou says she wants to talk with me, a dire voice emanates from a nearby table, echoing in the Mahjong Soul Shrine and frightening all who hear it.

Seeing yet another Jyanshi run off in tears after being soundly thrashed by Chiori Mikami, I silently look back. Against the backdrop of her arrogant laughter, I look earnestly toward Riu Kujou's serious face.

{character:player}You see? Everyone says some inflammatory things in the heat of the moment. But you have to believe me, it was just words, and it's not like I really have a sack at hand!

{character:Riu Kujou}Shh-- hush now. What do you think a delicate girl like me could do to you?

{character:player}Are you redefining "delicate"...?

{character:Riu Kujou}Ah, there was a sudden gust of wind. What did you just say?

{character:player}Nothing.

{character:Riu Kujou}Uh-huh. Okay then. Let's get down to business, there's a matter that's giving me a bit of a headache that I want to discuss with you.

{character:player}Oh? Please, let me know if there's anything I can do to help.

Very rarely is the word "headache" ever heard from the mouth of the almost-omnipotent Riu Kujou, so it must be a really tricky problem.

{character:Riu Kujou}...A scoundrel. Especially dangerous.

{character:player}Huh? The scoundrel? Is that still a thing??

{character:Riu Kujou}Why do you look so surprised? Wouldn't the existence of someone so dazzling as Miss Chiori be noticed by such a person?

{character:player}What I mean is, don't panic. You can take care of it.

{character:Riu Kujou}It is, after all, the meaning of my existence as a maid to clean up all filth from my lady's sight. This is only proper.

Looking at Riu Kujou's posture, which suggests she is always ready to launch an attack due to her year-round practice of taekwondo, it's not difficult to imagine how she might have "cleaned up" those scoundrels.

{character:player}I see. But your tone tells me that things are a little different this time?

{character:Riu Kujou}Well, it was one night about a week ago. I called Miss Chiori to come down for dinner, but then something strange happened...

Riu Kujou describes the scene on that day for me.

{character:Riu Kujou}Dinner's ready, Miss... Miss Chiori?

Surprsingly, Chiori Mikami's bedroom is completely empty.

Riu Kujou's just about to go looking elsewhere, when *creak* a noise suddenly comes from the balcony. She looks over to see the sliding glass door open a crack, letting the sultry summer heat seep inside.

And the noise sounded like a creak from somebody on a swing.

{character:Riu Kujou}What are you doing on the balcony in this heat? Miss Chiori? Umm?

Thinking she's found her lady, Riu Kujou goes to the balcony, where she's left shocked and surprised. For there's no sign of Chiori Mikami, only the swing, moving by itself. The air is so dry and still, without even the slightest breeze. She steps forward and touches the seat of the swing, and finds it still warm.

Riu Kujou picks up a teddy bear that has fallen beside the swing, her expression serious.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Nice, big win! I knew I couldn't lose on my home ground! Riu...

Just then, Chiori Mikami's voice comes from outside the bedroom, revealing her actual location to be the small study next door.

Riu Kujou clears her head, hurriedly replaces the teddy bear onto the swing, and then runs out of the bedroom in response to Chiori's call.

{character:Riu Kujou}I'm here.

{character:Chiori Mikami}I just played a South Wind round, and am so hungry I think I could eat even more than Ichihime.

{character:Riu Kujou}Pff, I hear you. Tonight I've prepared beef pizza, and sour and spicy prawns, with a mango crepe cake for dessert. If that's not enough, I can also rustle up some pasta.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Wow! Are they the sour and spicy prawns we had at the restaurant last time? You learned how to make them, Riu?!

{character:Riu Kujou}I hope the taste will be as you remember, Miss.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Have some confidence! I'm sure what you make will be even better than the restaurant!

{character:Riu Kujou}With those words, Miss Chiori, I'll definitely make something more delicious.

{character:Riu Kujou}I'm very flattered that Miss Chiori ate all the shrimp I made that day.

{character:player}Whoa, they must have been amazing... Hang on, isn't the point of all this to tell me about this "scoundrel"?

{character:Riu Kujou}Oh, yeah! So anyway, that was the first time I learned of their existence. Afterward, there were several times when I was out with Miss Chiori and I felt like someone was spying on us from the shadows. A shame that they seemed pretty alert though, as they'd always disappeared before I could find them.

{character:player}Sounds stressful.

{character:Riu Kujou}Although I've already enrolled in the latest Special Maid Training class to sharpen my anti-surveillance skills, I don't think I can fully guarantee Miss Chiori's safety this time.

{character:player}You're already awesome, Riu. As far as I can tell, Chiori's always been well protected by you. But now that I know what's going on, what can I do to help?

{character:Riu Kujou}Join me to increase Miss Chiori's level of protection! If we share the work, we might even catch that scoundrel quicker!

{character:player}I'd be happy to, but why choose me, Riu?

{character:Riu Kujou}It wasn't so much me who chose you, but rather it was Miss Chiori's "consciousness" that chose you.

{character:player}Huh? What's that supposed to mean?

{character:Riu Kujou}Miss Chiori is not someone who easily trusts others. Despite seeming to dislike you whenever she sees you, she does always subconsciously seek your help when encountering any problems...

{character:Riu Kujou}Perhaps she doesn't even know herself when she formed this habit...

{character:Riu Kujou}So I reckon that she might be more likely to let you stay by her side.

{character:Riu Kujou}But worry not! It may have been my mistake that made Miss Chiori depend on an outsider, but I'll definitely make things right, and she'll be gone of you in no time!

That last sentence sent a shiver up my spine.

{character:player}Ahaha... Don't take things so seriously, for real.

{character:player}However... it doesn't matter if this scoundrel is a stalker, or has some other purpose. We'd better find them together as soon as possible.

{character:Riu Kujou}Shh-- keep your voice down! Miss Chiori herself still doesn't know about all this.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Riu Kujou}If she found out, I just know she'd be so scared that she wouldn't eat or sleep. The most important thing is, from my understanding of her, that the lady would even think up a way to catch the scoundrel herself. And that's just too dangerous!

{character:Riu Kujou}So, you've gotta think up a reason to come with us.

{character:player}Eh... can't I just say I want to spend time with you two?

{character: Chiori Mikami}Spend time together? Why would I want to spend time with {var:player_nickname}?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Hmph. I don't. So forget it.

{character:player}... ...

Great. But at least it's not unexpected, and actually pretty normal considering it's Chiori Mikami. Riu Kujou stands by, trying to rescue our protection plan which is in danger of failing before it even starts.

{character:Riu Kujou}Didn't you say you wanted to arrange a time to see {var:player_nickname} when you had time, Miss Chiori?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Huh?! You're a fool, Riu! I've never, ever said that!

{character:Riu Kujou}Ah, I remember now. My mistake. How could you ever want to spend time with {var:player_nickname}, Miss Chiori.

I shoot a puzzled look at Riu Kujou, since we're meant to be on the same team and all now.

Well, I've gotta do all I can to keep Chiori Mikami safe.

{character:player}Why don't you want to hang out with me, Chiori?

{character:Chiori Mikami}I just don't feel like it. What's with all the "whys"?!

{character:Chiori Mikami}But you really want to see me so badly, {var:player_nickname}? That can't be because... you don't have any friends willing to spend time with you?

{character:player}Of course not! I came specially to look for you, Chiori. I even had to turn down other invitations!

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Hmph. Don't think you can fool me so easily. If it's not because you don't have other friends, then there has to be some other reason. Come clean!

Seems like I have to come up with a good enough reason to make her believe... Alright, let's just say...

{character:player}I really like you, Chiori, and would love to get to know you a bit more. I don't know if you'd be willing to give me the chance?

At this, Chiori Mikami's face blushes visibly.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...L-Like what exactly? I've heard this excuse so many times now, it's really getting old!

{character:Chiori Mikami}However...Since your thick skull probably can't actually think of a better excuse so, considering your honesty, I suppose I can let you follow me. But only from a distance!

{character:player}Sure, not a problem!

{character:Chiori Mikami}Let's go, hmph.

Chiori Mikami may have sounded reluctant, but she can't help hopping a little and humming a tune as she walks away.

Indeed, being frank and direct is the most effective approach. Riu Kujou quietly gives me a thumbs up as she passes, then immediately makes a fist and brandishes it at me. I nod silently to show I understand.

Seeing Chiori Mikami's lively figure also lightens my mood, and I immediately match their pace.

After spending the whole afternoon playing mahjong, the evening is already upon us. So we head directly to Chiori Mikami's house when leave the shrine.

The journey back is uneventful, with no sign of the mysterious scoundrel Riu Kujou has mentioned. But when we reach a park near her house, Chiori Mikami suddenly stops.

{character:Chiori Mikami}I want to go for a walk in the park. You go back and get dinner going, Riu. I'm sure it'll take a lot of time to plan for someone with an unpredictable appetite.

{character:Riu Kujou}I... Miss, why don't you just come back too? Going to the park at this hour might be a little dangerous.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Eh? What're you talking about, Riu? What's dangerous about the park?

{character:Riu Kujou}I-I mean...

{character:player}Well, since I'm here anyway, I might as well go with Chiori.

I interrupt their conversation while simultaneously sending a sneaky text message. Riu Kujou feels her phone vibrate, takes it out, and glances at the screen, while I smile like nothing's happened.

{character:player}If you don't get going, Riu, there won't be enough time to make dinner.

{character:Riu Kujou}...You're right. I'm not bothered about you, but I can't let Miss Chiori go hungry.

{character:Riu Kujou}I'll go back then. Dinner won't take too long, so don't be too late, Miss.

{character:Chiori Mikami}I know, I know. You just love to worry, Riu.

I'd just told Riu in the message that I'd stay with Chiori Mikami all the time, and would take her home at the first sign of any danger.

Perhaps considering the proximity to Chiori Mikami's house, Riu Kujou finally relented.

"You're solely responsible if anything happens to her!" Of course, she didn't forget to warn me with another serious message.

{character:player}Alright, let's go to the park! ...Why are you looking at me like that?

After waving goodbye to Riu Kujou who kept looking back, I notice Chiori Mikami staring at me. The look in her eyes seems to scream "I see through everything."

{character:Chiori Mikami}Well, idiocy's infectious, and even Riu's not immune. You both have "guilty" plastered over your faces, I'm not even interested to see what else you've got up your sleeves. Now, tell me, what were you secretly communicating?

...She actually knows?!

{character:player}Well, you overthink things, Chiori. I was just... Begging Riu to give us a chance to be alone together!

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Really?

{character:player}Yes!

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Tsk, is that all? Well, let's go have some fun then.

{character:player}Great!

Cicadas sing slowly as night falls in the city park, and birds descend from the clouds to settle in shady trees. There aren't many people under the trees, though playing children occasionally pass us, and we hear the voices of their parents calling them home coming from afar.

Chiori Mikami leads me toward the children's playground, not a soul in sight among its brightly colored furnishings. Speaking of which, Chiori herself isn't that much older than those children... Could she have been waiting for everyone else to leave before she came here?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Stop.

{character:player}???

{character:Chiori Mikami}Childish thinking. I don't like playing with these anymore.

{character:player}...You can tell?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Ha, you don't even try to deny it. You really were thinking it!

{character:player}...Fell for it.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Hmph. Come here.

Chiori Mikami waves at me, beckoning me to keep up. Curious, I follow her example, walking slowly across the playground, through some bushes, and along some winding paths to a hidden corner of the park.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Ahem... you, cover your ears.

What on earth does she want to do? Should I listen to her?

I obediently cover my ears, and can only see Chiori Mikami say something with her back to me. Not long after, the bushes in front of me shake for a moment and several "fluffy balls" of different colors pop out.

As the saying goes, "no risk, no reward." I can't just obey because she's smart. Pretending to keep my ears covered, I wait until Chiori Mikami turns away for a second then quietly move my hands.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Meow-- meow-- meow--

The light of the setting sun glints on the hair of the girl beside me, shimmering with a gentle gold. She actually mimics a cat's meow, and her soft voice tickles my heart.

{character:Chiori Mikami}It's me! I've brought you some tasty snacks, so come on out, little ones.

This is the first time I've heard her speak in this sort of tone. If she'd been addressing me, her tone would have been totally different... My wandering thoughts are interrupted by the rustling bushes, which shake for a moment before several "fluffy balls" of different colors pop out.

The multicolored kittens meow, clearly familiar with Chiori Mikami, are hesitant to approach me, the two-legged stranger.

Chiori Mikami opens her bag and takes out some prepared cat food and snacks. As soon as one is open, these cautious - but not THAT cautious - little fluffy balls immediately swarm right up to our feet. Just then, a proffered bag of snacks is thrust into my line of sight, so I remove my hands from my ears and take it.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Let's feed them together. They won't be so scared of you then.

{character:player}Ahaha! Thanks, Chiori.

{character:Chiori Mikami}I-It's not for you! I can't just let them eat while scared.

{character:player}Mmhmm, I understand. So what you meant before was coming here to feed these strays? And Riu doesn't know about this?

{character:Chiori Mikami}I'm not a child! I don't need Riu to do absolutely everything for me!

So that's how it is. From how much Riu Kujou looks after Chiori Mikami, if she knew about this trivial matter she'd probably immediately add "take care of lady's park kitties" to her daily list of tasks.

{character:player}I know, I know. You do pretty well yourself.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Well, naturally.

Chiori Mikami turns her head and intently feeds the kitten, only the tip of her red ears revealing her true feelings. She seems happy to have brought a friend to her secret base.

However, if Chiori Mikami wasn't originally playing in the children's playground, how did she discover these kittens in such a remote place? I decide to keep this question to myself, in order to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Eh?!

{character:player}Wh-What?

Chiori Mikami's exclamation startles me, and I think she's read my mind again.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...This isn't right. There's one missing.

{character:Chiori Mikami}There were five last time I came. But I haven't seen the little orange one since I got here.

{character:player}Your mahjong skills have improved yet again! But I'd expect nothing less from Chiori Mikami, girl genius.

As soon as I say this, Chiori Mikami immediately looks at me as she gets off the mahjong table. She walks toward me with an expression of "I know it's you."

{character:Chiori Mikami}You don't need to tell me that. But I'm afraid time's running out today, and you'll just have to wait until next time for me to bully you. Let's go, Riu.

{character:Riu Kujou}Yes, Miss Chiori.

{character:player}...Riu? When did you sneak up on me?

The girl who silently appeared at my side is Riu Kujou, Chiori Mikami's maid. They're like sisters, despite one working for the other.

As Chiori's personal maid, Riu Kujou excels at forcibly defending her lady's honor, punishing anyone who disrespects or even has inappropriate thoughts about her. I've tasted the power of those iron fists myself on several occasions, when I've dared joke about Chiori Mikami.

Glad I didn't say anything stupid just now. Dodged a bullet.

I watch Chiori Mikami and Riu Kujou leave the shrine, then turn to see Ichihime staring at me, lost in thought.

{character:Ichihime}...A little strange, nyaa.

{character:player}What's strange?

{character:Ichihime}Just now, Riu quietly approached you like she had something to say, but didn't say it, nyaa.

{character:player}Riu?

{character:Ichihime}It had to be to ask what tasty food you brought! It smells so good, nyaa!

{character:player}...I think that might be what you wanted to ask... Hey hey hey, I'll give it to you later at a restaurant, don't just waltz over here in broad daylight and start sniffing... let alone digging right in!!!

...Raising a cat really is a matter of patience! After feeding Ichihime, we play a few rounds of mahjong before the sky darkens and I leave the shrine. In the cool evening air, I keep replaying the day's matches in my mind, and then without even realizing it, I find myself near Chiori Mikami's house.

Speaking of which, compared to Ichihime's unorthodox, intuitive style of play, it's a pity that I couldn't see Chiori Mikami's matches just now. She'd probably be more tactical.

Bzzz-- The phone rings. Is it actually Riu Kujou?

{character:player}Hey, Riu?

{character:Riu Kujou}Have you seen Miss Chiori, {var:player_nickname}?

{character:player}Didn't she leave with you?

{character:Riu Kujou}Yes. We went home after leaving the shrine. I was just preparing a meal when she said she was going to the nearby park for a while, but she still hasn't come back.

{character:Riu Kujou}Isn't she with you right now?

{character:player}I'm afraid not. However, if it's that little park close to her house... I happen to be in the neighborhood.

{character:Riu Kujou}Eh? Really? Great! In that case, could I trouble you to look for her? I'm on my way out the door too!

{character:player}Not a problem at all, but... calm down, let me get this straight. When did she say she was heading out?

{character:Riu Kujou}At 17:31. She said she'd only be gone for half an hour.

{character:player}Is being so frighteningly precise a quality of being a professional maid?... Hang on, it says here that it's exactly 18:00, which technically means it hasn't yet been half an hour.

{character:Riu Kujou}She's not in my field of vision, which means there's no way Miss Chiori could get home in the next one minute. And she didn't take her phone with her either. This all makes me worried.

{character:player}Very rigorous deduction. However, there are loads of reasons why you may not have heard from her for half an hour. One Han City's a pretty safe place, and this sort of thing isn't like having an accident or going missing, so why don't we wait and see?

{character:Riu Kujou}Impossible! What if she did have an accident?!

{character:player}...Riu, do you think you might be a little overreacting?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...

Riu Kujou pauses for a moment. I hear her take a deep breath, and her suddenly raised voice returns to its usual calm.

{character:Riu Kujou}Oh, I'm sorry. I'm a little nervous as it's not safe around Miss Chiori these days.

{character:player}What?

Then, Riu Kujou tells me something I didn't know before on the phone.

{character:Riu Kujou}To be specific, a week ago I had finished preparing dinner and gone to call Miss Chiori down, when something strange happened...

{character:Riu Kujou}Dinner's ready, Miss... Miss Chiori?

Surprsingly, Chiori Mikami's bedroom is completely empty.

Riu Kujou's just about to go looking elsewhere, when *creak* a noise suddenly comes from the balcony. She looks over to see the sliding glass door open a crack, letting the sultry summer heat seep inside.

And the noise sounded like a creak from somebody on a swing.

{character:Riu Kujou}What are you doing on the balcony in this heat? Miss Chiori? Umm?

Thinking she's found her lady, Riu Kujou goes to the balcony, where she's left shocked and surprised. For there's no sign of Chiori Mikami, only the swing, moving by itself. The air is so dry and still, without even the slightest breeze. She steps forward and touches the seat of the swing, and finds it still warm.

Riu Kujou picks up a teddy bear that has fallen beside the swing, her expression serious.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Nice, big win! I knew I couldn't lose on my home ground! Riu...

Just then, Chiori Mikami's voice comes from outside the bedroom, revealing her actual location to be the small study next door.

Riu Kujou clears her head, hurriedly replaces the teddy bear onto the swing, then runs out of the bedroom in response to Chiori Mikami's call.

{character:Riu Kujou}I'm here.

{character:Chiori Mikami}I just played a South Wind round, and am so hungry I think I could eat even more than Ichihime.

{character:Riu Kujou}Pff, I hear you. Tonight I've prepared beef pizza, and sour and spicy prawns, with a mango crepe cake for dessert. If that's not enough, I can also rustle up some pasta.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Wow! Are they the sour and spicy prawns we had at the restaurant last time? You learned how to make them, Riu?!

{character:Riu Kujou}I hope the taste will be as you remember, Miss.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Have some confidence! I'm sure what you make will be even better than the restaurant!

{character:Riu Kujou}With those words, Miss Chiori, I'll definitely make something more delicious.

{character:Riu Kujou}That was the first time I learned of their existence. Afterward, whenever I was out with Miss Chiori I felt several times like someone was spying on us from the shadows.

{character:player}Does Chiori know about this?

{character:Riu Kujou}No, she doesn't. I don't want her to get scared over potentially nothing. Oh, I'm just not good enough, so I've already enrolled in the latest Special Maid Training class to sharpen my anti-surveillance skills!

{character:player}You've already done really well, Riu, and I think I have a grasp of the situation. She said she was going to the park, right? Then that's where I'll start looking for her.

{character:Riu Kujou}Thank you so much!

Given that it's dinner time, there aren't many people in the park. I search the square dancing team, the public mahjong tables, and the children's playground, but find no glimpse of Chiori Mikami anywhere. I have to expand my search to include areas near the park.

Since she was only going for half an hour, and didn't take her phone, Chiori Mikami couldn't have gone far. The fact that she's nowhere to be found is a little worrying, but... something's not right.

I look around and find the source of the weirdness - I'm clearly the only one nearby, but I feel like I'm being watched.

I'm suddenly reminded of the strange event Riu Kujou had told me about... What if it's that mysterious scoundrel? But whoever that is wouldn't have a reason to follow me, surely?

I calm the goosebumps across my body, then suddenly rush to where I feel the strange feeling of being watched is coming from.

{character:player}Who's there?! Come out!

A figure flashes by in a split second, running to a different area. While I didn't get a good look... there's something familiar about that red hairband poking out from the bushes over there.

{character:player}...Chiori? Is that you?

Whoever it is goes quiet for a couple of seconds, then suddenly reaches out and pulls the hairband down.

{character:player}... ...

That's not very subtle!!!

I advance a few steps toward where they're hiding, only to hear the bushes rustle and see the person who seems to be Chiori Mikami run farther away.

{character:player}...Is Chiori playing some weird version of hide and seek? Why not come out? Riu asked me to find you!

{character:???}... ...

{character:???}Meow.

The other person doesn't reply directly, but from a distance responds with a surprisingly realistic meow.

Why would Chiori Mikami rather use the hackneyed method of imitating a cat to hide herself, instead of just coming out? This is just too strange.

The situation is so weird that I can't act rashly. I need to figure out a way to get her to come out first.

I decide to use some mind games to trap this odd stalker, so I yell--

{character:player}Chiori Mikami's skill at mahjong is just average!

{character:???}... ...

{character:Chiori Mikami}You peasant! Let's have a match right now if you think you're up for it!

The girl who suddenly springs up from behind the bushes has her hands on her hips, a completely unbelieving expression on her face. Good, it's her.

{character:player}Haha, finally willing to come out, eh?

My tone is too proud, and Chiori Mikami's eyes flash with pure fury.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Argh! You despicable, cunning, shameless, creep!!!

{character:player}You're the one who followed me, hid when discovered, then pretended to be a cat when found out, no?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Nonsense. Clearly it's you, a strange commoner, who suddenly appeared in the place I was passing through, harboring unknown intentions! Your sneaky maliciousness seemed like you wanted to shove me in a sack, so of course I wasn't going to come out!

{character:player}You're just making things up!

{character:Chiori Mikami}You've got sinister motives!

{character:player}Come clean!

{character:Chiori Mikami}My business is none of yours!

{character:player}See?! You still say you're not hiding anything from me! Let something slip?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Just wait until I go back and tell Riu about what you've said and your total arrogance.

{character:player}I apologize, my lady.

I raise my hand in surrender to declare a "truce". The wise adapt to the situation, and while mind games are useful, it's also wise to know when to stop. There's no point in doing things that will only hurt yourself.

And anyway, now that Chiori Mikami's been found, it's better to let Riu Kujou know so she doesn't worry.

I send a message to Riu Kujou.

{character:Riu Kujou}(Text message) Found her? That's great! Where are you?

{character:player}(Text message) It's just nearby.

{character:Riu Kujou}(Text message) Tell me the location. I need to confirm your safety.

{character:player}Alright... We're...

I stop as I'm just about to type and look around. There are no evident landmarks nearby. Recalling that Chiori Mikami lives in the area, I look at her.

{character:player}Chiori? Chiori? Chioriiii?!

{character:Chiori Mikami}I'm not talking to you if you're just gonna repeat yourself!

{character:player}Uh, I mean, what is this place? Riu wants to confirm where you are.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...This place... this... is a street near my house.

{character:player}Huh? That description won't be of much help. Could you be a bit more specific?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...A pretty narrow street near my house!

{character:player}Come on, don't be like that. That's not what I meant by specific. Can't you tell me something like what direction it is from your house, or the street's name... Wait...

I catch her flash of embarrassment, and it suddenly hits me.

{character:player}So... Chiori, were you secretly following me because you're lost?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...

{character:Chiori Mikami}Vicious slander! I, Chiori Mikami, could never get lost!!!!

Despite Chiori Mikami's ear-splitting denial, her sudden blushing betrays her.

Unwilling to admit to being lost so close to home, preferring to "follow the familiar face" than ask for help... Since these are the facts, all I can say is--

Well, that's classic Chiori.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...{var:player_nickname}...

{character:player}Now, now, don't do anything rash... All I meant was that your ability to think on your feet and get out of trouble is amazing!

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Hmph. Don't think I don't know when I'm being insulted. But Chiori doesn't waste time on idiots. Hand it over!

{character:player}Good thing I'm so smart.

{character:Chiori Mikami}You? Smart? That's a joke. Now give it to me!

Chiori Mikami stalks toward me, seething. I'm ready to defend myself against a vicious attack, but she suddenly reaches out and grabs my phone. She snaps several photos and sends them to Riu Kujou.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Morons will be morons. Isn't this a more effective way of letting her know where we are?

{character:Riu Kujou}(Text message) Received.

{character:player}...Fine.

Chiori Mikami tosses my phone back to me in a huff. Now that I'm closer to her, I suddenly realize something about her is different from normal - her hair is a little messy, and there's visible dust on her normally-pristine skirt and sleeves. There's no way her hiding place would have made her that dusty.

{character:Chiori Mikami}What are you looking at?! Turn around!

Sensing my gaze, Chiori Mikami puts her hands behind her back in frustration. Apparently, being not beautiful enough is one of the reasons why she's unwilling to come out and meet me. But what actually happened to her? Could it be connected with that "scoundrel"?

{character:player}Can you tell me where you just were, Chiori? How come you were lost?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Shut it! There's no way I'm gonna tell you. You'd just laugh at me!

{character:player}I'm not asking so I can make fun of you, Chiori, but because I'm worried. Your safety is my priority, so I'll force you out of hiding and make sure you're really okay, even if it makes you angry.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...You've got a really smart mouth on you.

Perhaps it's my serious tone, but Chiori Mikami only pouts as the rage in her eyes gradually subsides.

{character:player}Please, won't you tell me?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...Hmph, look at your pitiful face. I suppose that if I don't tell you, you'll probably not be able to stay focused and keep losing at mahjong. And if you, a fragile commoner, become so desperate over losing that you give up on life, it will only cause me more trouble.

{character:player}You're completely right. So, you'll tell me?

{character:Chiori Mikami}...I went to rescue a kitten.

{character:player}A kitten?

{character:Chiori Mikami}There's a calico stray cat in the park. She's pretty vicious and won't let me pet her, but she did give birth to a litter of kittens. They're totally exposed to the elements, so I come to feed them when I can. I was about to head back after feeding them today as usual, when I noticed that one of the kittens was missing. The mother led me to where her kitten was trapped, and I went to rescue it.

{character:Chiori Mikami}And that's it. That's all that happened.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Chiori Mikami}You'd better not say you didn't hear, and want me to repeat myself.

{character:player}No, no, I heard!

{character:player}Ahaha! So that's what happened. Look at you and your kind heart, Chiori. Does Riu know about this?

{character:Chiori Mikami}I'm not a child! I don't need Riu to do absolutely everything for me!

So that's how it is. From how much Riu Kujou looks after Chiori Mikami, if she knew about this trivial matter she'd probably immediately add "take care of lady's park kitties" to her daily list of tasks.

{character:player}Okay, I understand. You do pretty well yourself. So, where's this kitten you saved?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Its mother carried it off as soon as it was rescued.

{character:player}Wow... so thankless.

{character:Chiori Mikami}That's just how cats are. They won't be picked on if they're vigilant. After all, not everyone is as kind and lovely as me!

{character:player}Hmm, I suppose you're right. Well, at least Riu and I can rest easy now...

Having heard this much, and not just about Chiori Mikami getting lost, I have my own suspicions about Riu Kujou's "scoundrel". I'll have a chat with her when I head back later.

{character:Chiori Mikami}I've already told you what you wanted to know, so stop making me stand here! Show me the way out! Index and I want to have a bath!

Chiori Mikami commands me imperiously, while clutching her smudged plushie handbag.

{character:player}Immediately! As you wish!

We make it safely back to Chiori Mikami's house, and while she's in the bath I fill in Riu Kujou on what happened.

{character:Riu Kujou}Phew... Can't believe that sort of thing happened... But anyway, thank you so much for your help.

{character:player}Don't mention it. Anyone would do the same.

{character:Riu Kujou}Oh yeah, speaking of the scoundrel... They left another clue. Come with me.

{character:player}Okay. I've got my own ideas about their true identity anyway, so this might help verify.

Riu Kujou and I go to the front door, where she takes out a cardboard box and opens it for me to take a look. Inside is a pretty large, dead mouse.

{character:Riu Kujou}This time they left this right outside the glass door to Miss Chiori's balcony. I was worried that she might see it, so scooped it up and put it in the box. Really, so repulsive!

{character:player}Oh... Could you show me the balcony, Riu? There might be something to confirm the culprit's identity.

Riu Kujou hesitates briefly, then nods.

{character:player}Aha! Seems I was right. Take a look here.

I search carefully after following Riu Kujou to Chiori Mikami's balcony, and find the "evidence" on the girlishly-decorated swing - stuck in its chains is a pinch of multicolored... cat hair.

{character:Riu Kujou}...Cat hair?

{character:player}That's right. Felines have a habit of presenting their prey to benefactors. I suspect that the only one who can stealthily climb up to such a high balcony, spy without being discovered every day, and also leave such a "horrible" gift is... one of the cats that Chiori's insisted on feeding, the mother of that litter of kittens.

{character:Riu Kujou}I see.

{character:player}Right. One person's trash is another's treasure, but this seemingly ferocious cat's way of saying thanks really is a little hard for humans to accept. I feel kinda sorry for you, Riu, as I think you could find quite a few gifts like this for Chiori in the near future.

{character:Riu Kujou}Got it. I'll take care of it. But instead of feeling sorry for me, I suggest you figure out your next steps.

{character:player}What do you mean?

{character:Riu Kujou}Miss Chiori just informed me that today you seemed to know things that you weren't supposed to. She was very firm that I must deal with you tonight.

{character:player}...Objection! Didn't I bring her back after she'd gotten lost? Don't you think this way of repaying a favor is a little unreasonable?

{character:Riu Kujou}That's a different matter. Miss Chiori has decided to let you stay for dinner as a token of gratitude. In the meantime, think carefully about how to beg forgiveness.

Fine. It is what it is. Looks like I'm going to have to value the time I spend with the young lady, strive to make a good impression, and earn some leniency.

{character:player}I want to pick up a few pointers from you, as I think your mahjong skills go from strength to strength. I don't know if you'd give me the opportunity?

Mahjong is the mutual interest that we're most familiar with, and surely it won't be any problem using this as a way in. Sure enough, Chiori Mikami's expression immediately turns smug as soon as the words have left my mouth.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Hmph. So that's your plan. You know you're not the only one who wants to exchange mahjong tips with me. Whether or not you earn this privilege depends on your performance. Let's play!

{character:player}Bring it on!

To prove my worth, I enlist Ichihime and Riu Kujou, and together with Chiori Mikami we play an East Wind round. I have only mediocre luck today, however, and in the end I come second to Chiori Mikami.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Pff. Average skill at best, and no sign of progress since last time. I have no interest in comparing notes now. Let's call it a day, and I hope you don't lose too badly next time.

{character:player}Huh? Hang on, you aren't going to play anymore, Chiori?

{character:Chiori Mikami}I have other things to do today. Let's go, Riu.

{character:Riu Kujou}Coming!

{character:Riu Kujou}...Seems I was mistaken. You're not that important to my lady, at least not in mahjong, as she doesn't view your skill too favorably. In this case, just forget everything you heard today.

Riu Kujou follows Chiori Mikami, and they both leave.

It appears that if I want to get close to Chiori Mikami, I need to get better at mahjong until I can beat her. As it is, my protection mission is over before it even started.

I decide to sweet talk this young lady into showing herself. So I do my best and, in the gentlest tone possible, speak toward the place she's hiding...

{character:player}I bet that the world's most beautiful, adorable, totally perfect genius is hiding over there - Miss Chiori Mikami!

{character:???}... ...

Chiori Mikami doesn't take the bait, and actually moves farther away.

I try my very best, but to no avail. Bewildered, all I can do is head back. Luckily I discover that, although she won't come out, as long as I keep moving, she'll keep following me in secret.

As soon as I've worked this out, I simply inform Riu Kujou and then head straight for Chiori Mikami's house. By the time I arrive, Riu Kujou is already waiting at the door.

I shoot Riu Kujou a look, then hear a "whoosh" noise as a figure darts past so fast I can't get a good look at them.

The door slams shut with a bang.

{character:player}Chiori?

{character:Chiori Mikami}No Chiori here! You're mistaken!

...She must be fine, moving that quickly, with that firm voice, right? I exchange a look with Riu Kujou.

However, it's clear that Chiori Mikami has decided not to see me today and, with Riu Kujou's persuasion, I leave in confusion.

The next day, I once again see the unbeatable Chiori Mikami at the Mahjong Soul Shrine, accompanied by Riu Kujou. I think back on yesterday's unfinished business, and quietly approach Riu to ask how things went after I left.

{character:Riu Kujou}Oh, you're still thinking of that? That's good of you.

{character:Riu Kujou}The matter's closed, but you still need to keep the existence of the scoundrel a secret from Miss Chiori, understand?

{character:player}Mmhmm, got it. Don't worry, I'll keep my mouth shut.

{character:Riu Kujou}Good.

I didn't expect Riu Kujou to get to the bottom of it all in just one day. Under the strictest confidence of the maid, this tale of Chiori Mikami will remain a secret to me forever.

{character:???}Meow--

Then, in the distance, there's another meow. Chiori Mikami and I look at the same time to find a large, full-grown calico cat. It approaches, rubs our legs, meows twice, and runs off a few steps. It looks back and, seeing that we haven't moved, meows anxiously.

{character:Chiori Mikami}This is the mother cat. She's never let me get close before, let alone voluntarily come to say hi.

{character:player}Something must have happened. Let's follow her.

We follow the cat all over the place, until she eventually stops near a remote, dried-up canal. She starts meowing, and a feeble cry responds weakly.

Chiori Mikami and I squat down to look and sure enough, there's the lost orange kitten. We don't know what it had been through, but right now it's stuck behind a fence at the far end of the canal, unable to move. Seeing us coming, its cries get even more plaintive.

{character: Chiori Mikami}Don't be scared! We're here to rescue you. {var:player_nickname}, help me look after Index.

Before I can reply, Chiori Mikami thrusts her plushie handbag at me, rolls up her sleeves, and slips into the canal.

The disused canal isn't deep and, while it might be dry, it's also full of cobwebs and dust. Chiori Mikami frowns, but doesn't hesitate in reaching behind the fence and clearing the stones that have the kitten trapped. Too late to help, I can only watch Chiori Mikami nervously, ready to ensure her safety.

The calico cat leads the way and clearly understands that we're rescuing her kitten. While she paces nervously around me, she doesn't interfere until Chiori Mikami successfully saves the kitten.

{character:Chiori Mikami}It's okay. You can come out now.

I carefully take the kitten from Chiori Mikami's hand, then hold out my own to help her out of the canal, before gently depositing the kitten in front of its mother.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Remember to look after your kids next time!

However, the scene in my imagination of cats understanding human speech and thanking the two-legged beasts does not materialize. Instead, the calico cat looks at us warily, then quick as a flash picks up the little orange kitten and disappears into the shadows.

{character:player}...Well, it's in cats' nature to be wary of humans.

Having thought that, I look at Chiori Mikami. She's not upset with the cat's "callousness" in the slightest, but jumps up, turns around, and walks back.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Hmph, let's go. You may be useless, but at least you've got a positive attitude. Come to my place for dinner.

Thanks to the rescue operation just now, her sleeves and skirt are covered in dust. It's the first time I've seen her looking so disheveled.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...

Suddenly Chiori Mikami, who is walking in front, comes to a complete stop. She pauses, turns her head, and then walks quickly behind me... I think I see a flash of confusion in her eyes, but it's gone in an instant - if it was ever there.

{character:player}...What?

{character:Chiori Mikami}You go first.

{character:player}Huh?

{character:Chiori Mikami}Quickly!

I don't know why, but I do as I'm told. I'd followed the cat all the way here, so the surrounding paths are all unfamiliar. I should be able to remember the way back, as long as we... go... slowly.

Suddenly, a thought strikes me.

{character:player}So, Chiori, you couldn't...

{character:Chiori Mikami}Impossible! There's no way I don't know the way back!

{character:player}Ha! You didn't need to be asked either! We're even now.

{character:Chiori Mikami}...OOOHHHHH! You despicable, cunning, shameless, creep!!!

My happy mood automatically translates this into words of praise. Turns out the mahjong girl genius is a little bad at directions, and that's an unexpected bonus this trip.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Fool, do you think I have as bad a memory as you?! Maybe we should split up.

{character:Chiori Mikami}Well, looks like there's nothing for it.

...That's why they say that in both games and life, sometimes losing is winning and winning is losing.

I sigh as I touch my wallet that is obviously thinner than it was five minutes ago.

I eat dessert in Éternité like usual and am playing Friendly Match in an online mahjong game. To my surprise, I'm so lucky today that I won several games in a row. Amidst the enthusiastic praising of Nana Shiraishi, who is playing opposite me in the mahjong game, I stupidly set myself up with the flag: "If I win another round, I'll treat her and the members of the swimming club to afternoon tea."

It's too late by the time I realize what I've done.

As I pay the bill in front of the cashier, I feel like I can already hear Nana Shiraishi's happy laughter when she picks up the takeaway meal...

*Jingle*...

Ah, that sounds as clear and melodious as the wind chime that rings when the door of Éternité is opened.

...{var:player_nickname}?

The girl's slightly surprised voice catches my attention. The two people who entered the store are Chiori Mikami and Riu Kujou.

Hi! It's such a coincidence to meet you here, Chiori and Riu. It's been a while since I've seen you at a mahjong table. What are you up to?

Riu... Since it's such a coincidence, let's try it out with {var:player_nickname} first.

Yes, Miss Chiori. We'll try it out with {var:player_nickname} first.

I feel a little uneasy with both Riu Kujou and Chiori Mikami looking at me.

...Let me tell you a joke. Usually, when a player encounters an NPC saying something incomprehensible like this in a game, it means that an unexpected plot development will be triggered. Are you sure you're not simulating this experience with me?

{var:player_nickname}, please answer my questions.

...What? You're really doing that? Where did you get that paper from? Why are you suddenly asking me questions?

Question one. What is Miss Chiori's favorite coffee bean?

Well, regardless of the reason, Chiori Mikami's favorite coffee bean... Where did I see the answer to this question?

I've seen the answer to this question before on CatChat... If my memory serves me right, it is... Ah! I've found it!

Yes, it's this one! Chiori replied to Reina on CatChat at that time, and the answer is Mandheling coffee beans!

...You're not allowed to check your mobile phone for the next question!

Question two. What is Miss Chiori's favorite animal?

Isn't it obvious? She loves bears the most. I can tell because her handbag is literally a bear!

A flash of surprise appears on Chiori Mikami's face, whereas Riu Kujou remains calm like always.

I see... It's too easy for you to guess the answer if I only give you two options. In that case... what about this question?

Question three. What is the name of Miss Chiori's bear handbag?

Riu Kujou lowers her head and jots down some words quickly. She then shows me a piece of paper with five names to choose from... That's right... five. It looks like she really doesn't want me to answer the question correctly.

But no amount of distractions can stop me from picking the right answer. The name of the handbag is of course--

--Index!

The expression on their faces tells me that I chose the right answer.

Haha, how can I get it wrong when Chiori says it all day long? I've already answered three questions. Can you tell me why I'm answering your questions now?

Next question!

Riu Kujou rejects my request and continues to send a series of questions about Chiori Mikami in my direction.

The good news is that I'm really lucky today and managed to answer the questions correctly even when I was just guessing. The bad news is that Riu and Chiori forced me to leave the café while I was feeling smug. I could only watch helplessly as the cup of coffee that Reina Nanami had just brought to the table, made with new special blend coffee beans that I hadn't gotten the chance to taste, got further and further away from me...

Outside the pure white window sill, slender green trees sway gently, their fluffy canopies letting generous patches of light through their gaps and creating a contrast of light and shadows on the clean wooden floor. Marvelous bookcases that occupy an entire wall are filled with various books, while calligraphy works and paintings of celebrities adorn the wall. The style of her study suggests this young lady's interests go far beyond just cuteness.

However, Riu Kujou's powerful gaze makes me withdraw my curious gaze from where I am sitting on the sofa. Just now, Chiori Mikami said she needed to prepare some items, so she asked Riu Kujou to take me to this study and fill me in on the details while I wait for her.

If it weren't for the fact that I'm in the middle of my final exams for the special maid training class, you would never get this opportunity.

...Opportunity?

Yes, an incomparably valuable opportunity to be Miss Chiori Mikami's teammate! To be specific, one day ago...

What a familiar way to start talking about past memories... Ah!

DON'T INTERRUPT ME!

Every iron fist Riu Kujou sends my way is a reward I've earned with my abilities. Riu Kujou continues speaking while I rub my head and nod vigorously.

...One day ago, Miss Chiori and I went to a board game parlor because she heard that the parlor had just stocked a new board game that is played in teams of two and wanted to try it out. Miss Chiori should have won the game easily since she is so intelligent, but we played against a lovey-dovey couple. In the end...

Miss Chiori, we... lost.

...Damn! I only need a few more moves to catch up to their pieces!

Hahaha, don't look so depressed, little girl. This board game that is played in teams of two is a test of the teammates' synergy, especially their synergy in terms of feelings.

You look like a junior high school student, and the maid next to you, well, doesn't seem to have much experience... Umm, if neither of you has ever been in a relationship or had anyone confess their love to you, then you're already really amazing to play this well! Isn't that right, babe?

Yes! Everything you say is right, darling!

Hmph! Don't look so pleased. This is just a temporary defeat. Give me two days! Two days is all I need! We just need one day to practice, then we'll be able to defeat you!

Hahaha, okay then. I'll be looking forward to it.

That's basically what happened. Miss Chiori has arranged a rematch with them tomorrow, but my special maid training camp exam is scheduled for tomorrow, so I can't go with her, which means I need to find her a suitable board game teammate.

Does that mean the survey in the café is part of your test to find a suitable teammate? I'll be honest with you, to answer those questions correctly, you just need to know a little more about Chiori than most people. What does that have to do with synergy?

Oh, the purpose of those questions is to select a teammate who is lucky enough and understand Miss Chiori's likes and dislikes enough to keep her in a good mood. As for the synergy, Miss Chiori said she'll train you personally.

Train... Fine then, but can you please not use any strange verbs so casually?

I'm back!

As she speaks, Chiori Mikami enters the study with a box.

Do you understand everything now?

Yes, I know what's going on.

But... I'm a little hesitant. However, Chiori Mikami continues speaking without giving me the chance to organize my thoughts.

Okay, Riu, you can study for your exam now. Leave the rest to me. I'll train a qualified teammate to avenge yesterday's loss!

Yes! You have my full trust, Miss Chiori! You can do it! I'll be going back to my room then. Just call for me if you need anything.

You need to try hard and do well too, or else...

As Riu Kujou speaks, she warns me by waving her fist at me and leaves reluctantly after I start nodding repeatedly.

Chiori Mikami and I are now the only people in the room. Before I can speak, she quickly opens the box she just brought in and thrusts a booklet in front of me.

Here you go. Read this before we start the training.

It turns out that this is a board game, and what she just gave me is its manual. I swallow the words of hesitation I was about to voice and read it carefully.

In this game called "Heart Map," teams of two need to explore the game board that has an extremely complex terrain, and the first team to reach the destination at the end of the map wins. This game relies on the tacit cooperation between teammates as whether players move forward or backward, the direction of movement, and the number of steps taken are all determined by the results of the card missions that both teammates encounter along the way.

The missions of these cards are designed to make players interact. According to the manual, this board game has psychological elements and really tests the synergy of lovers or friends.

So it really is like this... Chiori, although we're good friends, don't you think it'll be difficult for us to defeat a pair of lovers who are truly intimate?

After reading the manual, I voice the concerns in my heart. To my surprise, Chiori Mikami reacts very disdainfully.

Who said we need synergy to win?

What's your plan?

Listen up, because I'll only say this once. As long as it is a game, you'll be able to find a way to win if you can master the essence of its rules! In a game like this that requires players to play in teams of two, the rules make it seem like you need synergy, which is invisible and intangible, when what the players really need is to act as one.

Act as one?

Yes! The key to winning isn't how well we know each other. What we need to do is to solve problems in the same way!

I think I'm starting to understand what you're saying... It's like that secret trick that applies to all foreign language multiple choice questions that all students of One Han City probably know: "When there are three long and one short, choose the shortest one. When there are three short and one long, choose the longest one. When they are the same length, choose C..."

Huh? People need to use a secret trick like this to answer those basic questions at school? Are you the One Han City student who you are referring to?

I was just making an example... What I'm saying is that we can think of similar secret tricks to help us solve problems in the same way.

I guess you can think of it in that way, but we need to come up with secret tricks that match the rules of this game, and it's definitely more complicated than what you said. Anyway, let's try playing it first. There are so many questions in this board game!

Hmm...

Why are you in a daze?

Let me see...

According to the manual in front of me, the creator of this board game designed it to help the participants learn more about each other by playing it, but Chiori Mikami has obviously skipped this part.

Hmm, after understanding what needs to be done, I hesitate about whether I want to do this training with Chiori Mikami.

If I play this game that's all about synergy with Chiori by taking advantage of the loopholes in its rules, it seems to take the meaning and fun out of it. Our victory would be hollow even if we did manage to win because we might have missed out on an even richer experience.

Sorry, Chiori, I don't want to do this training.

...Why?

As it probably never occurred to Chiori Mikami that I would turn her down, she looks a little dazed for a moment, then she starts blinking in panic.

Y-You! How dare you to reject me! Do you think that just anyone can get this chance to be my teammate?!

Of course not... But I just read the information and realized that the creator designed this board game to help the participants learn more about each other by playing it.

I don't think we should discuss a strategy in advance because the game wouldn't be fun. I prefer to develop a lasting synergy with you, Chiori.

I express my thoughts carefully with my words because I want Chiori Mikami to understand my sincerity.

Chiori Mikami looks at me and even seems to be a little moved, but after a brief silence, she makes an aggrieved expression with her beautiful eyes.

...Geez, all you do is preach to me. You aren't even willing to help me win a game. {var:player_nickname}, you really are a jerk, idiot, and nuisance! In that case, I won't play with you anymore!

Eh?!

Chiori turns around angrily and faces me with her sulking back every time I try to explain.

A huge red exclamation mark pops up in my heart. This is a crisis! This is a major crisis in my friendship with Chiori Mikami!

...Oh well, even cats loath being stroked against the hair. After thinking about it, I come up with a possible solution.

It looks like we won't be able to change each other's minds. In that case, Chiori, why don't we decide it with a match?

No!

...Chiori, don't tell me you're afraid of playing against me?

!

You're the one who is afraid! Well, what should we play?

Phew! At least this trick still works. To some extent, this young lady is quite easy to coax.

Ahem, any game you like. We'll settle it with one match, and the loser has to listen to the winner. What about that?

Okay! Let's do it! I'm going to win!

Two different types of board games, One Han City Monopoly and Kalli Galli, are on the desk in the study, both of which were found by Chiori Mikami when she rummaged through the drawers in the study. They are board games that most youths of One Han City have at home.

To be fair, I'll let you choose which of these two games to play. The winner will be in charge.

They are both popular games, but they are quite different... To win against Chiori Mikami, I need to choose carefully.

The rules of Kalli Galli are: Players play cards with fruits printed on them in turn. When there are five of a certain type of fruit on the table, the player who rings the bell first can take all the cards on the table. The player who wins all the cards from the other player's hand wins the game.

Although the Chiori Mikami I know is a complete demon at the mahjong table, she is like a natural airhead in real life. I'll have a greater chance of winning if I choose a fast-paced board game that relies on reflexes.

I choose Kalli Galli!

As I expected, Chiori Mikami shows a hint of displeasure after hearing this.

...Tsk, you must have been watching me closely for a long time before you found this weakness, right?

You need to know your enemy to win every battle. I won't go easy on you.

As I expected, Chiori Mikami's airheadedness puts her at a disadvantage from the very beginning. Although she watches the number of fruits on the table carefully, I manage to ring the bell before her several times.

Ding!

I ring the bell for a third time and smugly take away all of Chiori Mikami's cards on the table. She blinks while looking at the empty table before realizing that there were already five of a certain fruit on the table. After that, she looks at me unhappily, unwilling to accept her defeat.

This isn't over yet. Keep going!

Thanks for letting me win.

A new battle begins. We both focus on the game and play our cards one by one... Soon, I notice that there are five of the same fruits on the table and prepare to ring the bell. Suddenly--

Hey, look! What's that?

Chiori Mikami suddenly points behind me with a surprised look on her face.

Huh?

...Come on, your hand speed is slower than mine, and I can see through your deception with a glance.

T-Take a look! There really is something!

As she sees my hand get closer and closer to ringing the bell, Chiori Mikami tries her best to make the most exaggerated expression she can manage to try and convince me to believe her nonsense. She is even so anxious that little droplets start to roll out of her eyes. I must say... she looks so cute!

No way... She is willing to resort to such foul tactics to win? Well, I guess the rules don't say that this method can't be used...

In that instant, I start to waver... Should I stop her extremely cute "performance"?

One Han City Monopoly is a classic economic board game. It's a game that almost everyone plays in One Han City, and I'm naturally also very familiar with it.

The map and landmark buildings of One Han City are simulated in this game, and all players start with the same amount of funds. Starting from the Start space, whenever it is their turn, players move a number of steps by rolling a dice. This game requires a mix of luck and trading strategies as players need to buy land and build buildings to earn rent. The game ends when one of the players becomes bankrupt.

I've been really lucky in mahjong recently, and an economic game should give me enough leeway to play steadily and win.

I choose One Han City Monopoly!

...Hehe, what a foolish decision.

To my surprise, Chiori Mikami smiles confidently and disdainfully when she hears my choice, which gives me a bad feeling.

Six... Six...

One... One...

Sunlight dances on the board and the game props on the table. The exquisite plastic dice makes a crisp sound while it rolls on the board, captivating my and Chiori Mikami's attention. We mumble under our breath childishly as we try to change the result psychically.

In the end, my dice twirls around and stops, revealing one red dot... I rolled a one.

Yay! It's a one!

Sigh, okay then. I can only move one step... Huh? Wait a minute, it's a Chance space! Hahahaha!

...Eh? Hmph, whatever. You do seem a little lucky today.

Chiori Mikami's cheers end abruptly as I start grinning happily. I draw a Chance card joyfully and read out its contents.

You win first place in the Mahjong Soul Shrine tournament and can choose one player to grant a wish for you. If they refuse, they need to pay you 50,000 Coppers.

What?! How can there be such an outrageous card!

Hahaha, this is the only one. It looks like luck is on my side today. Chiori, will you give me 50,000 Coppers or grant one of my wishes?

Urgh... Damn it...

Chiori Mikami looks at her game funds hesitantly. This is a large amount. If she chooses to give me 50,000 Coppers, her financial reserves will be mostly depleted. After struggling for a moment, she clenches her fists and gives up.

I'll grant a wish, but don't go too far, or I'll call Riu over right away!

Hmm, let me see... Something that won't be too excessive...

In consideration of her threat to summon her maid, I decide to take Miss Chiori's friendly advice and ask her to grant an innocuous wish.

No way! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so I can't stop all the ideas that are popping up in my head... Which one should I choose?

Chiori Mikami, please make me a cup of coffee.

However, Chiori Mikami makes a displeased expression right after I make this request.

Hey, this request isn't too excessive. Didn't you work at Reina's place before?

...Hmph, fine then. Just this once.

Phew! I heave a sigh of relief when I see Chiori Mikami get up and go downstairs. It seems that the rules of the game are useful after all.

Here you go.

Chiori Mikami serves me a cup of coffee personally as promised. The cup of coffee served perfectly on a plate is aromatic and has exquisite latte art, which makes me feel a little flattered.

Thank you, Chiori. I'll dig in then.

I raise the cup and take a sip. A spicy taste that doesn't belong to coffee takes me by surprise and rushes straight into my head.

Urgh! Bleurgh! Why is it spicy?!

Hehe, you only asked me to make you a cup of coffee, but you didn't say what it had to taste like. There are no rules saying that you can't add chili powder to coffee, right?

...It's so spicy that I can't speak and tears roll out of my eyes. Chiori Mikami looks at me happily and even takes photos with her phone.

...So this is what this girl who is good at taking advantage of loopholes is capable of? How scary!!!

Chiori Mikami looks at me disdainfully and shakes her head, then she turns around to go to the kitchen and returns with another cup of coffee. However, there are ice cubes floating on the surface this time.

You're so useless. Since we still need to finish this game, you better drink this cup.

It's too late to consider whether this is a normal cup of iced coffee, so I take it and start gulping it down.

The icy cold coffee neutralizes the spiciness the moment it slides down my throat...

Hmph, this is just a small lesson. I won't let you off so easily the next time you take advantage of a similar situation to request me to do something so excessive. Do you understand?

I nod wildly. Thankfully, she still cares about me and didn't set up consecutive traps for me.

We return to the study after this brief wish-making session, which I can't tell is a punishment or reward, ends.

Let's continue playing the game. I'm going to show you my real strength now.

Same here.

I roll the dice gently, after which our pieces continue to fight fiercely on the board.

However, luck becomes less important as the game progresses, and the requirement for players to have good resource allocation, trading and purchasing, business vision, and other capabilities, increase accordingly. To my surprise, Chiori Mikami manages to take all my assets without me realizing it.

Looking at Chiori Mikami who is in full control of the situation and exuding that familiar demon-like aura she has in mahjong dojos, I realize that I had greatly underestimated her mastery of this game.

In the final stage of the game, I try my best to compete for resources and surpass Chiori Mikami, but the scale of victory tilts to the other side. After one last roll of the dice, I roll on a property owned by Chiori Mikami. I look at the small amount of game currency I have left and the taxes I can't afford, then I raise my hands in surrender.

I've lost. You're too good at this, Chiori. It doesn't feel like we're playing a Monopoly game.

Hmph, nonsense. This is what you get for underestimating me.

With a face filled with pride, Chiori Mikami walks to the bookcases in the study and presses something in front of them. In the next second, I hear the sound of mechanical slide rails as the seemingly normal bookcases suddenly move. Some bookcases move to the left, while some other bookcases move to the right, revealing a hidden space behind them!

I am dumbfounded by this scene. When I look over, I see that the hidden space behind the bookcases is filled with various board game gift boxes, chess boards, and board game props of all sizes... This collection room is like heaven to board game players!

You didn't expect this, right? I'm not an ordinary player. If you want to beat me, you need to play as many board games as me first! We're not on the same level at all.

!

It turns out that Chiori Mikami is not just any ordinary player who goes to board game parlors on a whim. She's a professional board game master!

Hahaha! You're so amazing!

After experiencing a brief shock, I suddenly feel a surge of admiration. This young lady always seems to surprise me.

...Huh?

Chiori Mikami, however, doesn't seem too happy with my reaction. She looks at me with some surprise.

What is it?

You're so strange. You lost and saw the gap between us. Shouldn't you be sad, unhappy, or angry? Just like those... those...

Some images instantly appear in my mind, and they seem to tell me what she wants to say. "Just like those opponents she encounters in dojos or while playing other board games who run away crying after she beats them."

I smile and shake my head.

Although I lost, at least I got to spend an unforgettable afternoon with you, Chiori. This is an unforgettable experience in itself, so why should I be unhappy?

The late afternoon sun shines into the study. The game board and props are still spread everywhere on the table as we haven't gotten around to tidying them up yet. One of the pieces wobbles and falls over as a gust of wind blows into the room, sending ripples through the world of the game board.

Chiori Mikami's eyelashes tremble slightly as she thinks deeply. She turns her head away and mutters something under her breath, then she looks up at me.

We're not going tomorrow. The training is canceled.

Huh? Canceled? Why?

...You idiot. We spent the whole afternoon playing this game. We don't have enough time for the training even if we start now. We'll just lose again if we challenge that couple tomorrow. What's more...

What's more, I've thought about it. {var:player_nickname}, you and I have a different idea of victory. Since we need to play this game as a team, we won't really win if I'm the only one who thinks we've won.

Does this mean you're starting to consider my feelings, Chiori?

T-That's not it! I'm only considering this because you're my teammate!

Oh, I see.

I readily agree. After all, I was lucky enough to see her blushing with embarrassment, so it doesn't matter if her argument is a little weak. Of course, I'll forgive her.

...We'll need to do some real training so that we both win.

Haha, so you're saying that we will win the game and get a perfect score for our synergy? This seems even harder than what you were originally aiming for.

That's why you're not allowed to slack off starting today!

Okay, okay. We'll agree on that happily then.

Chiori Mikami and I then made this agreement. Later, when I looked through her collection of board games carefully, I asked her curiously--

That's right. Chiori, when did you start playing board games?

I started when I was really little, but I have spent less time playing other board games after I started playing mahjong.

Why do you like board games so much?

Is that so hard to understand? I get to use the rules to torment my opponents. Don't you think games like that are so interesting?

Huh?

It's nothing. You'll experience this kind of fun too. There will be so many ways for us to develop our synergy in the future!

...Are you crazy?

After hearing my request, Chiori Mikami's face is filled with disbelief. She picks up her mobile phone next to her and taps it a few times. Immediately afterward, the door opens with a bang as Riu Kujou storms in angrily.

...Eh? Ah! Not so hard!

After teaching me a lesson, Riu Kujou leaves after Chiori Mikami tells her to.

I'll give you one more chance. Think carefully about your wish.

With lingering fear in my heart, I raise my hand timidly.

It's rare for a lady as proud as Chiori Mikami to take the initiative to show me her cute side. It's obvious that she is doing her best to win this game. How can I ruin this moment with my own hands?

With a soft heart, I go along with Chiori Mikami's act and pretend to be fooled into looking in the direction she is indicating.

What is it?

"Ding!" As expected, Chiori Mikami takes the opportunity to ring the bell.

Oh? Diversionary tactics?

Hehe, there can never be too much deception in war!

Oh well. I won't let you distract me so easily next time!

Although I said that, events have a tendency to repeat themselves. In the next two games, I fail to stop Chiori Mikami from diverting my attention.

By the way, do you still remember the kittens from last time? Riu contacted volunteers later to adopt them... There's Whitey, Blackie, Tangerine... Oh, do you remember the colors of the other two kittens?

Hmm, let me see...

"Ding!" Chiori Mikami takes the chance to ring the bell again.

I'm starving! I really want to eat something. Are you hungry? Tell me what you want to eat. I'll treat you to anything you want to eat today!

...Um... Are you sure I can have anything I want...?

"Ding!" The girl rings the bell yet again.

"Ding!" "Ding!" "Ding!" Behind her words of concern and sweet voice are all kinds of cute traps and the cruel reality that she is ringing the bell before me and that my hand is growing thinner over time...

Finally, after she rings the bell one last time, I lose all the cards in my hand.

Looking at the table, which is empty as I expected, I dumbfoundedly raise my hands to surrender.

Okay, I lose. Your strategy is too good, Chiori. It looks like I won't be able to avoid this game training.

To my surprise, Chiori Mikami isn't as happy as I thought she would be. She pushes the cards she won toward me.

This game doesn't count.

Huh?

I'm not stupid. {var:player_nickname}, you were going easy on me the whole time.

Taken aback, I scratch my face in embarrassment.

Um... not the whole time. I really was fascinated by your lovelyness, Chiori.

...Hmph, you smooth talker. We're not going tomorrow. The training is canceled.

Eh? Why is that?

...You idiot! You went easy on me because you didn't want to make me sad. I'm such a kind person, so of course I have to think about things from your perspective!

...Since we have different ideas of what counts as winning in that game, if we win my way, you won't be happy as my partner in the game.

Well, does this mean you're starting to consider my feelings, Chiori?

T-That's not it! We need to play this game as a team, so we won't really win unless we both think we've won!

Oh, I see.

I readily agree. After all, I was lucky enough to see her blushing with embarrassment, so it doesn't matter if her argument is a little weak. Of course, I'll forgive her.

So... we'll need to do some real training so that we both win even if we don't go tomorrow.

...Real training?

As if she senses my confusion, Chiori Mikami suddenly gets up, walks to the bookcases, and presses something.

In the next second, I hear the sound of mechanical slide rails as the seemingly normal bookcases suddenly move. Some bookcases move to the left, while some other bookcases move to the right, revealing a hidden space behind them!

I am dumbfounded by this scene. When I look over, I see that the hidden space behind the bookcases is filled with various board game gift boxes, chess boards, and board game props of all sizes... This collection room is like heaven to board game players!

You didn't expect this, right? I'm not an ordinary player. If you want to fight alongside me, you need to play as many board games as me first and reach my level.

!

It turns out that Chiori Mikami hadn't gone to the board game parlor to play one game on a whim. Is she a pro-level expert?

This young lady always seems to surprise me.

Just like that, Chiori Mikami and I promised to play more board games together to develop a deeper rapport.

When I look through her collection of board games carefully, I ask her curiously--

That's right. Chiori, when did you start playing board games?

I started when I was really little, but I have spent less time playing other board games after I started playing mahjong.

Why do you like board games so much?

Is that so hard to understand? I get to use the rules to torment my opponents. Don't you think games like that are so interesting?

Huh?

It's nothing. You'll experience this kind of fun too. There will be so many ways for us to develop our synergy in the future!

...When I see the sweet smile on Miss Chiori's face, anticipation, and fear emerge in my heart at the same time.

Okay, I have no problem with that if it's for your victory, Chiori. I accept! Let's do it!

Very good. Now start by studying the movements on the board!

Chiori Mikami and I begin to carefully study the rules of this board game that is played in teams of two...

Oh... we lost.

Well played.

We come to the board game parlor as agreed and compete with the couple again. Thanks to yesterday's training, the "synergy" between Chiori Mikami and me has improved substantially. Although our opponents have an amazing synergy, it pales in comparison to our 100% perfect understanding.

Since it's the weekend, the best way to rest is naturally to play mahjong at home all day! How can you claim to understand me if you don't know that? Why did you choose to go out?

You idiot, the premise of the current plot is that we are trapped in a forest labyrinth for some unknown reason. Will you consider whether it's the weekend in this situation? Of course you need to make the most of your time and try to find the exit!

Come on, we should take things as they come. Doesn't it say that we can still connect to the Internet? That should mean it isn't that dangerous. If we play mahjong, we might even get a reminder from one of the NPCs we are playing against!

Hah! Your fanciful thinking is beyond my understanding... We'll follow your decision then!

Due to scenarios like those, they ended up making different decisions, which resulted in their game characters entering a dead end in the plot. Alternatively, they wasted too much time arguing about what decision to make and missed many opportunities to get shortcuts.

As a result, we quickly win the board game and escape the labyrinth of Heart Map by reaching the destination.

Chiori Mikami is really happy after winning the game. As she is thirsty, I go to buy her a drink while she is excitedly reflecting on everything that happened in the game.

After I arrive at the vending machine selling drinks in front of the board game parlor, I happened to meet the couple who we just played against. When they see me, they walk over to me quickly.

It's you? Thanks for the match we played earlier.

Huh?

He's... thanking me even though he lost?

Although we lost, we had such an amazing experience! It's much better to make the wrong move in a game than in real life. Isn't that right, babe?

Yeah, sometimes losing is a good thing.

Probably because my confusion is too obvious, they start explaining things to me.

We got a lot of new inspirations after losing this game.

Because this board game is created with authentic emotional interactions in mind, the crossroads you encounter while playing Heart Map are real situations that you might encounter with your lover in real life... Without being pushed by external pressure, you might never realize that there are still so many things you need to work out or that your lover might have ideas you never knew about.

Ahaha, I see...

"The relative relationship between winning and losing, huh?" As I listen to their conversation, I seem to remember something I mentioned casually before and realize that there is a deeper meaning I hadn't noticed...

After I wave goodbye to the lovey-dovey couple, I return to Chiori Mikami with two cold drinks.

Hehehe...

Chiori Mikami is in a very good mood and is taking a photo of the board game representing her victory so she can make a post on CatChat. Recalling the words of the couple from before, I ask her a question tentatively.

Chiori, do you like this Heart Map game?

Hmm? Do I like it? Um... not particularly. I just heard that this game has been really popular recently. I played it two times, and it's so easy to devise a strategy to win.

I knew it. To Chiori Mikami who is only 14 years old, the concept of "winning from losing and losing from winning" is too difficult to understand.

To the contrary, Chiori Mikami pats me instead.

You did well this time, {var:player_nickname}. There are many more interesting board games. Let's play a more difficult one next time!

Yeah, sure.

No, my goal is to win! With a hard heart, I put a stop to Chiori Mikami's cute behavior.

"Ding!" I ring the bell without any hesitation and laugh wildly at Chiori Mikami's stunned expression with my hands on my hips.

Hahaha, are you trying to divert my attention? That's not happening.

Argh! Damn it!

It's useless even if her embarrassment turns to anger. With a heart of stone, I win the game smoothly and steadily.

Hehe, I win. As agreed, you'll have to listen to me now.

Chiori Mikami looks unhappy and unwilling to accept her defeat.

Hmph! Fine then. I didn't expect you to be so good at this too... But I'll only listen to you this one time! I won't lose to you next time! If you give me a little time, I'll definitely win against you in this game!

Pfft... Okay, I'll be looking forward to it.

Sigh, has she made her goal to defeat me instead after giving up on her plan to get revenge tomorrow? Chiori Mikami really is as competitive as ever... In any case, I've achieved my goal this time. There's plenty of time in the future for me to teach her more principles in an appropriate way.

This incident quickly becomes an ordinary event in our daily lives. And when I mention it to her later by chance, she doesn't even seem to remember it.

It should be Geisha coffee.

Hah! You don't even remember the type of coffee I like to drink. I even stated it publicly before.

Congratulations on getting it wrong. You can leave now.

Huh? It's over already?

The question-and-answer session ends abruptly, and I am expelled from their conversation.

On the next day, I see Chiori Mikami's latest CatChat post on my phone.

It seems that she and Riu Kujou played together as a team and won in a board game. Although there's no clear proof, I have the feeling that this has something to do with my experience yesterday.

Chiori loves cats the most, right?

Chiori Mikami looks at me with a disappointed expression while hugging her bear handbag.

Cats are cute, but I love bears the most. How can you get it wrong when it's that obvious?

Congratulations on getting it wrong. Please leave.

The question-and-answer session ends abruptly, and I am expelled from their conversation.

On the next day, I see Chiori Mikami's latest CatChat post on my phone.

It seems that she and Riu Kujou played together as a team and won in a board game. Although there's no clear proof, I have the feeling that this has something to do with my experience yesterday.

I say the answer in my mind and look expectantly at Chiori Mikami.

You idiot! You got the name wrong! You can't even remember Index's name. I've told you so many times before!

Congratulations on getting it wrong. Please leave.

The question-and-answer session ends abruptly, and I am expelled from their conversation.

On the next day, I see Chiori Mikami's latest CatChat post on my phone.

It seems that she and Riu Kujou played together as a team and won in a board game. Although there's no clear proof, I have the feeling that this has something to do with my experience yesterday.

I must admit that this option has caught my full attention. At that moment, I don't care if I get this answer right or wrong. After all, being able to recite this in one breath is already an achievement that very few people can complete.

I take a deep breath--

Dallah Bumba Bandor Beidibudor Biruvon!

Very good, I didn't make any mistakes.

...I didn't think anyone would really choose this one.

Did I get it right?

That doesn't matter. I'll give you the bonus reward first.

Before I can react, Riu Kujou takes me outside and "rewards" me.

After Riu brings me back inside while I'm rubbing my head, Chiori Mikami looks at me with a smile.

I'll give you a chance to answer the question one more time.

So, what is the name of Chiori Mikami's bear handbag? My mind starts racing again.

No matter how hard I think about it, I think this is the name. That must have just been a test!

Dallah Bumba Bandor Beidibudor Biruvon!

You're really brave. Follow me.

Riu Kujou drags me outside the café and "rewards" me. After I sit back down again, Chiori Mikami is still looking at me with a smile.

Let me ask you one more time. What is the name of my handbag?

What? I get another chance? I rub my aching head and look at the five options in front of me.

People always say that the most important thing in life is to not forget our original intention for doing something.

Dallah Bumba Bandor Beidibudor Biruvon!

I recite my answer sonorously again and feel that I can already recite it perfectly after practicing it three times in my head.

Riu.

I understand.

Ah!

Other than my short and sharp screams, the last thing I remember is Chiori Mikami looking at me indifferently and Riu Kujou's iron fist flying toward my face at double strength.

It is the next day when I wake up again, and I don't know who brought me home.

I rub my head, and the first thing I do after opening my eyes is to pick up my mobile phone out of habit.

After browsing through all the invitations I've received from my friends around the world to play mahjong, I see Chiori Mikami's latest CatChat post.

It seems that she and Riu Kujou played together as a team and won in a board game. Although there's no clear proof, I have the feeling that this has something to do with my experience yesterday.

But obviously this matter has nothing to do with me. It looks like I'll need to put in more effort in the right way if I want to get along better with Chiori Mikami.

Good afternoon, everyone! Today is such a beautiful day, right?

Greeting everyone energetically with a wide and open smile, I radiate a sunny, cheerful, and positive aura as I walk into the mahjong room of the Mahjong Soul Shrine where I plan to have a fulfilling day petting cats and dogs, playing mahjong, and meeting many fantastic Jyanshi after sleeping in till now.

However, an unusual aura fills the air after I find a table that seems to have good feng shui and sit down after greeting the three Jyanshi there. They tacitly stop what they are doing.

I suddenly remember that I have some homework to finish. Sorry, I'll be leaving now.

Wait for me! We can do it together. Sorry, I'll be leaving now too.

Er... I also need to leave.

Hey! You... You three... Wait up... Don't run away so quickly! Why are you even pretending to be young junior high school students when your hairline has receded so much already, you jerks!!!

The three Jyanshi disappear without looking back.

I glance helplessly at the now-empty seats and turn to look at the other tables that have empty seats. After meeting my gaze, the Jyanshi who are looking at me curiously all lower their heads and stare at the backside of their tiles like they are deep in thought, just like students who are afraid their class teacher will make them answer questions.

Master, this is terrible, nyaa. Nobody wants to play with you, nyaa. Wanjirou, think of something, nyaa!

Why don't you try writing the words "Chiori Mikami is definitely not following me today" on your forehead and see if anyone will play with you, woof.

Master, shall we give that a try, nyaa?

It's okay... Instead of trying that nonsense... Why don't you two stay here and play with me...?

...Hey! Where's the dog?! Where's the cat?!

The dog and cat strategist duo has instantly disbanded on the spot.

I sigh and find myself unable to blame them. After all, today's situation is caused by a certain young lady who follows me around like my shadow.

Ever since my relationship with Chiori Mikami became friendlier, she has started to see me as an interesting toy instead of a commoner. Although she hasn't said this explicitly, this is what her actions have been telling me!!!

I know because I have noticed that she is a player in any game I play, whether it is a board game, mahjong, or even an ordinary game of cards. What's more, her goal seems to have changed from simply winning the game to defeating all her opponents, especially {var:player_nickname}.

Over time, people started spreading a rumor that as long as I am playing a game, a blond girl will appear and dominate everyone who is playing, which has made it difficult to find strangers who are willing to play with me during this time.

I look at the three empty seats again. Oh well, I might as well ask everyone in the group chat if they can play mahjong right now while I wait for Chiori Mikami to arrive. The only thing I have lots of in One Han City is friends.

...

...

...

Any luck?

I put down my phone and shake my head, looking apologetically at the two people who are sitting to my left and my right before looking at the empty seat opposite me.

Who would have thought that I would find two players to play with so soon and that Chiori Mikami still hasn't appeared today?

She and Riu are both not picking up. They'd have already arrived by this time in the past. This is strange...

What a surprise! You two have always been inseparable, but are not together today. Haha.

Well... to be honest, I'm quite surprised too.

Junior, did you do anything to offend Chiori without realizing it?

I... don't think so.

But when I think of the "shadowless kick attacks" that Chiori Mikami has been making for no apparent reason recently, I feel like I can't completely rule out that possibility.

Haha, you're obviously worried, {var:player_nickname}. Why don't you go and see how she is doing?

Huh? But I'm the one who invited you here to play mahjong...

Yeah, so hurry up and comfort the girl before thinking of how to make it up to me. I won't forgive you easily if you aren't sincere enough.

Haha, I'll be fine. You can just treat me and my classmates to afternoon tea next time! Don't worry, I'll pick a day when more people are helping out at the club for you to make good on this promise!

Haha, sigh. Okay, sorry about this. I'll meet up with you another day!

That's one more future appointment to be honored. Every day I spend in One Han City is so busy. Anyway, no matter what, I think I'll need to see Chiori Mikami to stop worrying all the time.

Chiori Mikami's house is in a beautiful villa complex in One Han City. Although this isn't my first time here, I'm still shocked by the luxuriousness of this place. For example, the movement-tracking electronic cameras around her house seem to be installed as part of a security system upgrade due to the previous uninvited guest incident.

It doesn't look like anything has happened. Did I really make her angry by accident?

*Ding-dong* I press the electronic doorbell at the entrance of Chiori Mikami's house and wait silently.

Soon after, the camera of the electronic doorbell emits a green flash when someone checks who has come knocking. The strange thing is that the person answers the door silently without making a sound.

I wave at the camera in confusion.

Chiori? Riu?

*Click*

The only response I get is the sound of the call being cut off.

???

Um... Could something really have happened?

A wealthy young lady living alone in a large villa in the city, whose parents are not home during most of the year, and a young maid who takes care of her daily life. If this combination were to appear in Getham City next door, they would have been coveted by various criminal gangs already. Suddenly my mind is filled with all kinds of crimes that could have happened, and I'm even ready to call the police.

Suddenly, the door opens with a click.

...

Good afternoon, {var:player_nickname}. Why have you come to see me today?

...

The door is open, and Chiori Mikami looks very lively, but... her sunny and cheerful appearance at the door reminds me of the deliberate act I put up when I was trying to convince the mahjong players to stay this noon. It looks... extremely unnatural!

Chiori, are you okay?

Huh? I'm in my own home. What could possibly go wrong? Haha! You say such funny things, {var:player_nickname}.

...

If you're here to ask me to play with you, {var:player_nickname}, then I'm sorry to say that I'm busy right now. Maybe we can play together another time?

But you're so polite that it looks like something is wrong.

...Why are you still here?

Chiori Mikami looks a little anxious. She moves closer to me and lowers her voice, making the expression she usually makes when she bullies me. She even waves her fist at me like Riu Kujou does.

Ah, this is more like it! Feeling relieved, I think that it seems like she really might be busy with something she can't tell me about.

Okay, I feel better now that I know you're fine. See you later.

Yeah, see you later, {var:player_nickname}. Take care.

As I prepare to leave, I hear the unfamiliar voice of a middle-aged woman from inside the house.

Chiori, has a friend come to visit you?

Stunned, I stop and turn around. My eyes are drawn above Chiori Mikami's head towards a neatly dressed woman who has just walked up to the door.

She has the same dazzling golden hair as Chiori Mikami, but it's shoulder-length and tucked behind her ears, giving her a calm and intellectual appearance.

Hi, it's nice to meet you. I'm Chiori Mikami's mother.

...Oh, hello!

Chiori Mikami stands in front of me, holding a fine tray with exquisite snacks and hot coffee on it. She then starts to transfer them onto the coffee table in front of me.

Here you are. The sugar and milk are on the side, so please add them if you want.

Um... Thanks, Chiori.

You. Are. Welcome.

If I can ignore the murderous look in her eyes, her stiff smile and sweet voice make me really want to take out my phone and record the scene of Chiori Mikami serving me politely... That is, if I can also ignore Mrs. Mikami sitting next to me.

Sitting prudishly on the sofa, I quickly go over everything Chiori Mikami has told me about her mother in my head. She is an internationally renowned surgeon, a professional at the top of her profession who travels around the world all year round and is just as busy as her husband, who is a physics professor. As a result, they can only hire a maid to take care of their daughter. She is a very capable career-oriented woman.

I didn't expect her to be at home today. That would explain why Chiori Mikami didn't follow me to play mahjong today.

It looks like you're Chiori's close friend. What's your name?

Hearing her question, I quickly sit up straight, then I introduce myself to her briefly and explain the reason for my visit.

I see. Thank you for caring so much about Chiori's safety. She hasn't really been on her phone today, and I think Riu didn't pick up either because she is taking an exam today. I heard that it's a make-up exam for a special training class, so I haven't seen her either.

Oh, I see... I understand then.

Thanks again for caring so much that you came all the way here to check up on her.

Don't mention it. That's what friends do. However, my unexpected visit seems to have interrupted your time together with Chiori.

Haha, that's fine. I'm delighted to have the opportunity to meet one of Chiori's friends. In fact, I'm quite surprised. The last time I was here, Chiori stayed at home with Riu for the entire day... Chiori, why didn't you tell me you made such a close friend?

...T-There's nothing special about it. It's not like we're thaaaat close. We're just normal...

Hmm?

Hmm?

We're just normal friends. We're definitely not close enough to spend every day together!

Mrs. Mikami looks back and forth between me and Chiori Mikami thoughtfully with a hint of curiosity. Although her gaze is still kind, I feel like she can see right through me in close detail.

Oh...? So what you're saying is that you don't have to, but you do actually spend every day together?

...

...

Although she isn't wrong, something sounds strange about her words. For a moment, Chiori Mikami and I are unable to say anything to refute her, and we both look at her anxiously.

Haha, you don't need to be nervous. I'm really glad that Chiori has made a new friend, but... I rarely get the opportunity to hear about what Chiori does with her friends. If it's okay with you, {var:player_nickname}, can you tell me more about that?

Huh?

Of course, you can just say what you can. I'm sure that besides the secrets between you, there are stories that you can share with your parents, right?

Oh, o-of course...

I agree with Mrs. Mikami and think about what to say. At this time, Mrs. Mikami's mobile phone starts ringing.

Sorry, I need to take a phone call.

Mrs. Mikami stands and walks over to the dining room beside us to answer the call. The room suddenly becomes quiet - so quiet that we can hear what she is saying.

Hello... I'm on leave today. Hmm, no, I'm on leave...

On the sofa, Chiori Mikami's eyes follow her mother who is speaking on the phone. After hearing their conversation, she sighs in relief, then turns her head and gives me a quiet good-natured warning.

You're not allowed to say anything strange to my mother!

You're suddenly afraid that I'll tell on you? Isn't it too late?

I also heave a sigh of relief for now and whisper a retort back at her.

Just as Chiori Mikami opens her mouth and wants to say something, Mrs. Mikami returns and sits down again. She looks at me expectantly and asks me to tell her some interesting things about Chiori Mikami.

I look at Chiori Mikami next to her, who is glaring at me with a warning look in her eyes. What should I say?

I can still tell the difference between having one full meal and many full meals.

If I'm inconsiderate of Chiori Mikami's feelings and tell Chiori Mikami's mother about embarrassing or bad things that she has done, damaging her mother's image of her, I think I will be in for a rough time in the future.

Ahem, there are many memorable stories of our experiences since we met. In short, Chiori is very attentive, very lovely, and very sweet-natured.

Chiori Mikami looks obviously relieved upon hearing this.

...Whenever I come over to visit, she will always prepare coffee and snacks for me like today.

Hmm?

She's also very intelligent and is very good at playing games. She guides me patiently every time we play together. If I'm tired, she'll even ask Riu to give me a relaxing massage that was originally exclusive to her.

Oh, she even gave me a massage once when Riu was away... There was also a time when I accidentally got lost while we were feeding cats in the park, and Chiori patiently guided me back here and prepared a delicious dinner for me...

As I speak cheerfully, the smile on Chiori Mikami's face, which had started to relax, becomes more and more stiff.

Upon hearing me say more and more outrageous things, behind her mother's back, she quietly mouths the words: "This is not over." Suddenly, she frowns and puts her hand against her cheek.

Ouch!

Mrs. Mikami's attention is drawn immediately by her cry, successfully interrupting my story-telling.

What is it? Do your teeth hurt?

Chiori Mikami nods in an aggrieved manner.

I'll worry about tomorrow's dangers tomorrow. The most important thing for people is to live in and enjoy the present.

I ignore Chiori Mikami's warning look and decide to report everything I've experienced since meeting Chiori Mikami to her mother.

Ahem, there are many memorable stories of our experiences since we met. In short, I've been surprised by how cute, intelligent, and beautiful Chiori is.

Chiori Mikami looks obviously relieved upon hearing this, but her expression soon changes because of the twist in my words--

But as I got to know her better, I learned that... contrary to her beautiful appearance...

Ouch!

Just as I am about to get to the point, behind her mother's back, Chiori Mikami quietly mouths the words: "This is not over." Suddenly, she frowns and puts her hand against her cheek.

Mrs. Mikami's attention is drawn immediately by her cry, successfully interrupting my complaint.

What is it? Do your teeth hurt?

Chiori Mikami nods in an aggrieved manner.

A hint of helplessness appears in Mrs. Mikami's eyes, and she looks down at her watch.

Oh, it's almost time for the dental appointment. We can get ready to go now.

...Dental appointment?

Chiori has been prone to tooth decay since she was a child, so she needs to have an oral check-up every year. I managed to come back just in time for her check-up this time, so I want to take this opportunity to go with her to learn more about her dental health from the dentist.

I see, in that case...

Just as I am about to say that I won't get in their way, Mrs. Mikami's mobile phone suddenly starts ringing.

Excuse me.

Mrs. Mikami picks up the call, interrupting my second attempt to leave.

Hello... Sorry, I already said that I'm on leave. Can you get someone else to go... Director?

Mrs. Mikami sounds a little surprised. She pauses for a moment, glances at Chiori Mikami, then hurriedly stands and walks to one side before continuing.

...What's happened...? I see...

Chiori Mikami's eyes move back and forth between her mother and the pillow in her arms, as if she doesn't want to appear too concerned, but the downward-turning corners of her mouth betray her feelings at this moment.

Leave in the afternoon? But I need to take my daughter to...

Bits and pieces of the phone conversation drift into our ears. Although we can't hear what the other person is saying, this person's words seem to be gradually convincing Mrs. Mikami to change her mind. Her tone gradually changes from being serious to frustrated. In the end, she sighs.

Sigh, I understand. About the plane ticket...

It sounds like Mrs. Mikami has been asked to go on a business trip at the last minute. What about the dental appointment then...? Just as I was thinking this, Chiori Mikami suddenly puts down the pillow and walks up to the second floor without saying a word. Her footsteps are heavy and make thudding sounds.

Mrs. Mikami obviously sees this too. She covers the microphone of the phone and looks at me apologetically.

Can you check up on Chiori for me?

Um, okay.

I happen to also be worried about Chiori Mikami's current situation, so I agree just like that.

As soon as I arrive at the second floor, I see Chiori Mikami walking out of her room with Index in her hands. She pauses for a moment when she sees me coming up.

Chiori, are you okay?

What did you come up here for?

You looked very angry just now. Is it because you heard that your mother needs to go on a business trip?

Hmph... I'm not a child. I won't get angry because of something I'm already used to.

Then why did you suddenly come upstairs and get Index?

In Chiori Mikami's arms is a familiar-looking bear-shaped bag. I remember her proudly telling me many times that it was a birthday gift from her mother.

You idiot. I'm getting ready to leave. Didn't my mother just say that it's time for my dental appointment?

But your mother...

Hmph, {var:player_nickname}, you're an idiot, a fool, and a dummy. Do you think I can't go to see the dentist just because my mother is busy?

Chiori Mikami hugs Index tightly. Without saying another word, she quickly squeezes past me and starts walking downstairs. I hurriedly follow her down.

Downstairs, Mrs. Mikami has just finished the phone call. When she sees Chiori Mikami running downstairs, she calls out to her.

Chiori, about your dental appointment...

Mom, I'll go by myself.

Hmm?

Don't you need to go on a business trip? I can go to the dental appointment by myself.

Mrs. Mikami frowns and purses her lips.

I just told the hospital to book a later flight. This way, we can still go to the dental appointment together, and I can go directly to the airport from there. We...

It really isn't necessary, Mom.

Chiori Mikami shakes her head resolutely again. She hugs Index tightly and smiles.

You just arrived home in the morning, so you'll be exhausted if you run around like this. You should get some rest. I'll really be okay. I usually go there with Riu, so I'm very familiar with the process. You don't need to worry about me.

...But Riu isn't here today. You'll be all alone...

Based on what I know about Chiori Mikami, I can tell that her calmness and composure are just a front, but she seems to convince Mrs. Mikami. I want to say something, but hesitate. It looks like Mrs. Mikami really doesn't know her daughter that well.

Well, if you're really worried, {var:player_nickname} can come with me. {var:player_nickname}, you'll be happy to come with me, right?

Chiori Mikami raises her head, grabs my sleeve, and looks at me. For the first time ever, I see her looking at me with a cry for help in her eyes. Shocked by what I see, I hold her hand and look at Mrs. Mikami.

Yeah, I can go with Chiori. Everything will be okay.

Mrs. Mikami's eyes linger on our clasped hands for a few seconds, then the look of hesitation disappears as she makes up her mind.

Okay, thank you, {var:player_nickname}.

After exchanging contact details with Mrs. Mikami, Chiori Mikami and I depart for the dental clinic.

We'll come back as soon as we can. Maybe we'll make it back before she leaves.

Shut up... I'm tired.

Chiori?

As soon as Mrs. Mikami can no longer see the taxi, the smile on Chiori Mikami's face disappears immediately. She huddles her head and pretends to sleep, and even refuses to talk to me. The atmosphere in the car feels thick like the air has solidified. All I can do is look at her long eyelashes trembling slightly over her stubbornly closed eyes and sigh quietly in my heart.

Chiori Mikami... She is really sad this time.

We don't say anything else until we arrive at the dental clinic. After checking the appointment details, the receptionist tells us to sit outside the consulting room and wait for our turn.

The clinic is very quiet, and the smell of disinfectant fills the air. While sitting in the waiting area, I notice that her eyes are staring at a young mother and her son sitting diagonally opposite us. The boy, who looks about three or four years old, is covering the left side of his face and complaining naively in his mother's arms.

Mommy, it hurts.

There, there. It won't hurt anymore after this.

Can we not come here if it doesn't hurt?

Of course.

Then will you take me to the amusement park if we don't come here?

...Hmph.

The girl next to me snorts softly with eyes filled with envy. At this moment, I don't think anyone can tell that this is the same Chiori Mikami who is known as the demon king who always shows off her might in mahjong dojos.

At this time, she is just a child who has had a one-sided disagreement with her mother.

Chiori, are you okay...?

This is the third time you've asked me this. I'm starting to get sick of it even if you aren't.

Oh, since you're fine, do you want to have a... plum candy?

Chiori Mikami rolls her eyes at me, then she covers her ears and ignores me.

Sure enough, trying to use candy to lighten the mood with a girl who has a decaying tooth isn't a good idea. Just as I am about to change the subject and start again, an explosion of noise breaks out around us.

You caused this problem in the first place. Why do we have to keep waiting?

I look up at the speaker.

The person speaking is the mother who was holding her son just now, and the person she is scolding seems to be the dentist who had just come out of the consulting room. The dentist is wearing a mask, but I can tell how frustrated he is feeling at this moment from his dropping eyebrows.

Yes, but you've come here too many times already. We've performed all the necessary examinations and repairs, but we can't find anything wrong with your son. Maybe another doctor will be able to tell you something we can't. You had best make a new appointment as soon as possible.

How can you be so irresponsible?! I have taken leave many times to take my son to see a dentist! You have to fix this for me! You also need to repay me for the loss of my working time!

The little boy who seems to be at the center of the dispute clings timidly to his mother's leg. The atmosphere becomes tense.

It looks like a dispute between a patient and a dentist. Let's not... Chiori?

To my surprise, Chiori Mikami suddenly walks away from me and towards them. She speaks to the dentist and the young mother.

Hello, why don't you try another way to deal with this? It might resolve your problem.

Huh?

Oh, it's you, Miss Mikami.

It looks like this dentist knows Chiori Mikami. He leans over and whispers in Chiori Mikami's ear, then he calls the young mother to one side and starts discussing something with her in a low voice.

While they speak, the little boy sits on the chair, biting his lip and looking uneasily in his mother's direction.

Then let's perform the inspection once more according to the procedure.

Okay.

Seeming to have come to some agreement, the young mother waves for the little boy to enter the clinic for another examination.

Out of curiosity, I follow Chiori Mikami inside the room. The dentist looks at us, but doesn't say anything, which only makes me more curious than ever.

John, tell me if it hurts, okay?

Okay.

The dentist asks the child called John to sit on a chair with his mouth wide open, then he turns on the light on one side and aims it at his mouth before poking his right cheek.

There's nothing wrong with the filling we added here last time... Are you sure this is where it's hurting?

Huh? Just now... I remember John was holding his left cheek when he said it hurt.

To my surprise, John hesitates for a while before nodding.

Okay.

After this, everyone understands what is happening. John is lying.

John, mom is already so busy. Why do you have to make a joke like this? How can you do something so childish like pretending to have a toothache?!

Um... Um...

Seeing that his lie has been exposed, John opens his mouth in manic, and his eyes are suddenly filled with tears.

Um... I'm sorry, mom...

I just want you to spend more time with me...

As long as I have a toothache, you'll spend more time with me...

You... Sigh... You silly boy... Why can't you just tell me what you want directly...?

...

In the end, both mother and son calm down and apologize to the doctor together. After that, they come over and thank Chiori Mikami warmly.

The storm subsided just like that. After watching the mother and her son leave, I give Chiori Mikami a thumbs-up.

Hmph!

Chiori Mikami turns her head around proudly. After helping them, her mood is no longer as heavy as it was before.

The dentist leaves to clean up the consulting room and replenish disposable supplies and asks us to wait for a while. I take this opportunity to ask Chiori a question I've been holding back from since earlier.

Chiori, since you were able to so acutely notice that boy's little trick, is it possible that you... have done that before?

Huh?

Have I been too gentle to you today? Is that why you're making up such rumors about me?! I'm not an immature child like that!

Er... But your mother is always somewhere else. Don't you miss her?

...You're so annoying. I don't want to talk to an idiot.

Can you tell me? I want to know what you think.

...My mother is a great doctor. She works to improve the health of humans, and her patients need her, so I won't waste my mother's time like that.

Those patients need her, but you also need her. Chiori, I'm sure you're the most important child to your mother. You need to express your thoughts bravely.

...I know that, but I'm okay as long as I get to see my mother every once in a while like today...

Really? But weren't you angry at your mother when you were still at home?

Chiori Mikami gives me a stunned look.

Your mother couldn't come to the dentist with you like promised. You're actually unhappy about it, right? You've just hidden your unhappiness.

...

Excuse me, sorry for making you wait so long. Miss Mikami can come in now. We're really to start the examination.

To some extent, the doctor's timely call saved Chiori Mikami. She thrusts Index into my arms and runs inside the room for her oral examination. Before entering the consultation room, she seems to think of something and turns around to yell angrily at me.

...W-Who gave you permission to try and guess what I'm thinking? {var:player_nickname}, you're a big idiot!!!

But her aggrieved expression and the red tips of her ears made her angry roar completely powerless.

I sigh quietly and look at Index in my hands. Like its owner, it always faces everything with a proud smile.

Hey, little guy, you look really strong, but you must also be tired, right?

Chiori Mikami's oral examination goes smoothly.

(Text Message) She only needs a filling for one tooth. Everything else is normal, so you don't need to worry about anything.

By the time I leave the dental clinic with Chiori Mikami, I had already sent a text message to Mrs. Mikami to report on the results of the examination. I check the time on my phone and notice that we finished earlier than expected. After thinking to myself for a moment, I ask Chiori Mikami something.

Um, Chiori, there's still time. If we rush to the airport now, we might still have some time to chat with your mother. What do you think?

...I don't want to. Let's look for a mahjong dojo around here. It's been a while since I've come to a mahjong dojo in this area. I want to see if there are any strong newcomers!

We can go to a mahjong dojo whenever we want. Don't you want to spend more time with your mother? She doesn't get to come back very often, and you don't know when she'll come back after she leaves this time.

I already said I don't want to. She'll be leaving anyway, so an extra hour or two with her won't make a difference. Also, how my mother and I get along with each other is our business. We don't need to you arrange anything for us!

Chiori Mikami reacts very strongly to my suggestion. What should I do next...?

Fine, let's look for a mahjong dojo then.

Since she reacted so strongly, I choose to compromise.

There is only one tile remaining in the wall in front of me. The two Jyanshi on my left and right stare nervously at Chiori Mikami's outstretched hand.

This is impossible! This is impossible... This is impossible...

*Clack*.

3 Man! Under the Sea! Haha, I win again!

ARGHHH!!! You're a demon! You must be a demon!

As Chiori Mikami laughs smugly, two more innocent Jyanshi are now traumatized by mahjong for life.

Having long been accustomed to all this, I just shake my head as I look at the smile on Chiori Mikami's face and think to myself that it's good as long as she is happy.

But... Is Chiori really happy?

Bzzz--

The vibration of my phone brings me back to my senses. I wake up my phone and see that I've received a text message from Mrs. Mikami.

On the way to the mahjong dojo, after thinking it over several times, I decide to tell Mrs. Mikami about how Chiori Mikami resolved the conflict in the dental clinic, as well as her decision to go to a mahjong dojo.

(Text Message) Okay, I understand. Thank you for telling me this. It's made me realize that I don't understand my daughter well enough. Chiori has always acted extremely independent in front of me, which really has troubled me for some time.

(Text Message) I think it's time for us to have a heart-to-heart talk as mother and daughter. At the same time, I hope that I'll have enough time to invite you to come over again the next time I return home on leave. I want to hear more about her and the stories of you two.

It looks like Mrs. Mikami understands what I want to tell her. After putting away my phone, I can feel my mood improving slightly.

After that, Chiori Mikami and I spend the entire afternoon in the mahjong dojo.

By the time we return to her home, the huge villa is empty again, and everything has returned to normal.

Chiori Mikami is a typical tsundere in One Han City. When she says no, she is often thinking of something else in her heart.

A tsundere of her level calls for harsh and drastic measures...

Fine, you can play mahjong. I'm familiar with this area. Turn left at the next two corners and you'll find a dojo there. It has a nice environment, and the Jyanshi are quite skilled too. You can go now.

...

Chiori Mikami looks at me warily after I surrender suddenly.

What do you mean?

Nothing. You can play mahjong. I can go to the airport alone. After all, Mrs. Mikami wants to hear more stories about us. I'm sure she'll be happy to see me if I go there to say goodbye to her.

!

Oh, just for the record, I invited you, but you don't want to go. If I accidentally say anything to your mother... Hehe... ouch! Don't hit me there!

Due to the almost tangible resentment flowing around Chiori Mikami, the taxi driver looks frequently at us curiously in the back.

Calm down, little lady. What time is the flight?

No, you can drive slowly. The slower the better. In fact, it's best if we never arrive.

Haha... little girl, you really know how to make jokes.

The driver swallows and then steps hard on the accelerator. I get the feeling that he using his full power as he starts driving wildly.

At the same time, with great difficulty due to the bumps and the recoil, I take out my phone and send a text message to Mrs. Mikami.

Five minutes later, my phone vibrates gently. I take it out and see that Mrs. Mikami has sent me a reply, and her message makes me feel relieved immediately...

I look at Chiori Mikami next to me, who has started to play mahjong online because she is angry and doesn't want to talk to me. Very good, everything is going according to plan.

Urgh...

Urgh...

The taxi driver leaves proudly, leaving Chiori Mikami and me holding onto some posts at the airport so that we don't fall from the motion sickness-induced dizziness.

I was careless. I got motion sickness because I kept sending text messages to Mrs. Mikami, and Chiori Mikami got motion sickness because she was playing mahjong online.

Y-You're so useless! I got motion sickness because I was playing mahjong. How did you also end up getting motion sickness?

...I...

I can't tell her that I've been secretly sending text messages to Mrs. Mikami.

That's not the point. Send your mother a message to see where she is now.

Huh? You still haven't contacted her? We're already at the airport!

Well... Hey, I thought you didn't want to come here to see her. Why are you so concerned about the details?

I don't want to see her, but... but we're here anyway... Arghhh! Hurry up! Call her now!

Yes, yes, yes.

After 15 minutes, we meet Mrs. Mikami at a restaurant in the recreation area of the airport.

This is great. My flight has been delayed by an hour, and I was just thinking of what to do during this time. It's perfect that you've come.

Chiori, did you not tell me you're coming because you wanted to give me a surprise?

I-It's because I wasn't sure that we would get here in time. I don't want to put any extra burden on you.

There's no such thing. You'll never put any burden on me by coming to see me off. I'm very happy you're here.

R-Really...?

Unlike how she was at home, Mrs. Mikami seems much more enthusiastic now, which surprises Chiori Mikami. However, it's obvious that she has relaxed because of this.

What do you want to eat, Chiori? You can place your order over there. Can you also order some food for {var:player_nickname} and me?

Okay, leave it to me.

Without wasting any time, Chiori Mikami goes to the counter to order food. From how excited she seems while moving, I can tell that she is in a much better mood after seeing her mother. Upon seeing this, Mrs. Mikami and I turn around and exchange an understanding look.

Thanks for sending me that message, {var:player_nickname}.

You're welcome. Anyone would do the same.

Yes, on our way to the airport in a taxi, I sent Mrs. Mikami a text message to tell her that Chiori Mikami had very keenly noticed that the boy was lying at the clinic a little earlier.

Mrs. Mikami has a sharp mind. She replied to my message quickly and took the initiative to ask me more about my observations of Chiori Mikami, then she said she knew what she needed to do and told me she would wait for us at the airport.

Mrs. Mikami's gaze becomes gentle when she looks at Index sitting upright on Chiori Mikami's seat.

Due to the special nature of our professions, when Chiori was little, Chiori's father and I could only give Chiori gifts like this to make up for the time we couldn't spend with her. Since then, my husband and I have been both proud and surprised by the independence she showed us.

We have tried asking her tentatively if she wanted to spend more time with us, but she has always refused and told us to do what we need to do. After that, Riu started accompanying her, and they got along very well. Over time, we really thought that she really was used to living more independently and freely.

I never realized that this is just a facade of her strong personality. As a mother, I find it quite shameful that I need an outsider to tell me what my daughter really thinks.

I see. Well, you shouldn't blame yourself for this. You know what Chiori's personality is like. If she has decided to hide her true thoughts, no one can convince her otherwise.

Thank you for the words of consolation. It seems that just being a mother in the standard sense of the word isn't enough. From now on, I need to become a friend she can trust.

Haha, that would be great. Chiori would be overjoyed.

However, it's indeed impossible for a mother who doesn't usually communicate a lot with her daughter to quickly change the way she interacts with her daughter.

In the restaurant at the airport, the three of us eat burgers and fries in silence.

Just now, after Chiori Mikami returned from ordering food, Mrs. Mikami tried to find a topic to chat with her, but she didn't know what to say after a while, and the three of us are now just staring at each other without saying anything. To break the awkward atmosphere, I think about it and make a suggestion.

Why don't the three of us play a game of three-player mahjong online to pass the time?

Three-player mahjong?

You idiot! That's too rude!

No way! Mahjong is really interesting! Don't you also enjoy playing it a lot?

You idiot! Shut up!

...Okay.

Mom?

I might not know very much about other things like the latest trendiest toy or board games, but mahjong has already been popular since I was a child, and I still remember the rules very clearly. Why don't we play one game then? But how will we play it? There are no mahjong tiles here.

Upon hearing her mother's words, Chiori Mikami starts to calm down and glares at me.

Mom, I'll help you download a mahjong game. You can play it on your mobile phone after that.

Oh, okay.

Although she is a little rusty at the very beginning, Mrs. Mikami quickly shows her domineering side after she becomes familiar with the rules again.

Kita.

Kita.

At some times, I even get the feeling that I'm playing mahjong against two Chiori Mikamis.

Tsumo!

In the end, Chiori Mikami wins this game, and Mrs. Mikami puts down her phone feeling like she hasn't had enough yet.

Haha, it's very interesting. Chiori plays so much better than I did when I was little.

Mom, I play better than many adults!

Oh, really? Then I need to practice harder to fight for the honor of all adults.

Eh? Mom, you'll continue playing this game?

Yeah, this online mahjong game isn't bad at all, and it doesn't take that much time to play one game. I'll get your father to download it too. This way, we'll be able to make some time to play this game together and talk about how we're doing even when we are in different cities. What do you think about that?

As Mrs. Mikami speaks, she reaches out and touches Chiori Mikami's face, a bit unpracticed.

Mom and dad both want to become your friend. Will you let us?

...Okay!

Chiori Mikami smiles from the bottom of her heart.

Seeing the smile on her face, Mrs. Mikami and I also start smiling.

*Ding-dong*-- An airport announcement starts playing, and a gentle and polite female voice issues a reminder that passengers can now start boarding the plane for Mrs. Mikami's flight.

The plane carrying Mrs. Mikami takes off from the airport. Chiori Mikami and I look up and watch as the plane flies higher and higher until it disappears above the clouds.

I look at Chiori Mikami next to me.

How was it? Coming to the airport with me was more fun than going to a mahjong dojo, right?

Chiori Mikami glances at me.

Wipe that smug look from your face. It's only because my mother is the best.

She stands on her tiptoes and waves hard in the direction the plane was flying.

...Don't feel bad. She'll return as soon she can.

I don't feel bad at all.

Are you acting tough again?

Not at all.

There's nothing to be sad about. My parents are outstanding adults, and outstanding adults are always busy. I also want to become an outstanding adult like my parents.

When that happens, I'll go to many places in the world to help lots and lots of people who need help. When that happens, I'll be as busy as them.

Probably because she just got a filling and is still not used to it in her mouth, she licks her gums as she speaks, which makes her funny condition seem especially cute.

Hmph... when that happens, you'll need to make an appointment with me a long, long time in advance when you want to play with me, you know?

This little lady seems to be less and less concerned about her image around me. Maybe this is something that I should be happy about.

No problem, I'll definitely reserve your time a long, long time in advance. Chiori, have you thought about what kind of adult you want to be in the future? Do you want to be a doctor like your mother?

Um... If I become a doctor, I'll have to wear a white coat all day long like my mother. I don't like that.

Oh, then do you want to become a physics professor like your father?

Yikes! I'll lose all my hair! That's too much of a sacrifice for me!

Haha!

Hmm... Hmm... Hmm... What should I become...?

Seeing her thinking really hard about this question, I touch her head.

It's okay. There's no need to rush. You can take your time when growing up. I'm sure you'll find your own unique answer, but before you do, can you promise me something?

Haha, are you going to take this opportunity to make a weird and excessive request again? I'm warning you, my mother isn't here to protect you right now.

I don't know if it's excessive, but I'm definitely not joking.

Hmm?

Can you stay by my side more often before you grow up and start exploring a bigger world?

The summer evening breeze blows gently between us, rustling her long golden hair. Chiori Mikami looks at me and blinks before suddenly turning her head away. Her action, however, fails to hide the upturned corners of her mouth.

Hmph! How dare you make such a request without my permission!

But... But... Since my mother kind of likes you, I'll reluctantly and temporarily agree to promise you that for one day so that I won't make her sad.

One day?

Of course! How can I promise something like this for a long period of time? It obviously depends on your future performance. Hmph! If you don't do well, I can leave you at any time!

Haha, I understand. One day it is.

In that case, take me home now.

Yes, my lady.