Hana Ninomiya

{character:Wanjirou}{var:player_nickname}, sorry about making you come here so early to help out, woof.

{character:player}Don't worry about that. You should rest for now and go to the hospital if you're still feeling really unwell later.

Wanjirou called me early in the morning today to tell me that he had strained his waist while carrying something, so I went over to check up on him, and helped him carry some goods to the shrine while I was there.

It still isn't time for lunch yet by the time I leave the shrine, and the weather is so good today that it would be a shame to go home right away, so I decide to go shopping on the street for a while and go home after lunch.

{character:player}...Hmm? Is that Ninomiya?

As I walk, I see a familiar figure in the near distance and think about going up to greet her.

{character:player}...

She seems a little nervous and is constantly looking all over the place. Has something happened?

Seeing Ninomiya like this, I start to have second thoughts about whether I should just go up and talk to her like this...

It's pointless to make wild guesses. I'll just ask her directly since I'm concerned about her.

{character:player}Hi, Ninomiya.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Eh?! {var:player_nickname}? Why are you here?

As I was concerned about Ninomiya's strange reaction, I subconsciously start looking all over the place like her...

{character:???}Hello, Master.

{character:player}Oh? Is it you, Ransei?

I look back to find that Ransei has silently appeared behind me at some point. She greets me respectfully after our eyes meet.

{character:player}What a coincidence. Are you going somewhere to have some fun?

{character:Ransei}I am currently doing some training. A ninja must not slack off even on holidays.

{character:player}I-I see...

{character:Ransei}What about you, Master? Are you planning on doing some mahjong training at a mahjong parlor?

{character:player}Um... I was planning to think about where I should play mahjong while I have lunch.

In front of my diligent disciple, I felt too embarrassed to say that I am just killing time.

{character:Ransei}Then I won't disturb your meal, Master. Goodbye.

{character:player}Bye, and keep up the good work.

It sure is tough to be a ninja. They even have to train hard on weekends.

{character:???}{var:player_nickname}.

{character:player}Hi, Ninomiya.

This time, the person who appears behind me is Hana Ninomiya. Is it a new trend to greet people from behind them now...?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}What are you doing here?

{character:player}I was shopping and saw you looking all over the place. Did you lose something?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Shopping... Really?

For some reason, Hana Ninomiya doesn't seem to believe me. She rests her chin on her hands and looks at me vigilantly while saying something quietly.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Please come with me, {var:player_nickname}.

{character:player}Where to? Speaking of which, I seem to have heard this line before in a police drama.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Any restaurant will do.

After speaking, Hana Ninomiya takes my hand and leads me into a restaurant diagonally across from us. She moves quickly, as if she is afraid I will run away.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Okay, tell me the truth. Why are you following me?

Hana Ninomiya asks me the above question with a serious expression on her face after we sit down.

{character:player}It really turned into an interrogation... Sorry, but I can't answer your question, "Officer."

{character:player}I've got a question for you instead, Officer Ninomiya. What makes you think I'm following you?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Because you noticed me. As you should know, very few people notice me, let alone follow me.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}And since you're one of the few people who do see me, it's reasonable to judge that you're following me.

That does "sound" reasonable...

{character:player}Um, that does sound reasonable, but you've overlooked one crucial detail, Officer Ninomiya.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Why don't you tell me what I've overlooked?

{character:player}Have you ever seen someone actively appear in front of the person they are following?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Um... y-you're right. There's no reason for you to start talking to me...

Ninomiya folds her hands on her chest and frowns as if deep in thought. She sighs after a while.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'm sorry. I misunderstood you and said some nonsense.

{character:player}It's okay. It was just a little misunderstanding.

{character:player}...

{character:player}...

{character:player}...

{character:player}...Hahaha! Your senses are sharper than I expected, and I didn't expect you to approach me instead of running away.

{character:player}That's right! The person following you is me, {var:player_nickname}!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Hello? Hi, yes, that's right. I want to make a police report. I'm being followed by someone--

{character:player}Sorry! I shouldn't have done that. I was just kidding. Don't really call the police!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Well, I was just kidding too. Don't worry, I didn't really call the police.

{character:player}Phew... You gave me a big fright.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Serves you right for fooling around and teasing me. Sigh, it looks like you aren't the person who is following me.

After resolving this insignificant misunderstanding, we start to talk about things that we find concerning.

{character:player}From your tone, it sounds like someone really is following you.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Yes. Recently, I get the feeling that someone is staring at me when I'm at school and other places. I even get the feeling that someone is looking at me through my window at home sometimes.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...You probably think I'm being too sensitive, but I'm telling you the truth.

{character:player}No, that's not what I'm thinking. I wouldn't think much about it if it only happened once or twice, but it sounds like you've had this feeling many times and at various locations. I don't think you're imagining things.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Thank you for believing me. Most people would become suspicious if they often feel like someone is watching them, let alone me.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'm usually an invisible person that everyone overlooks, so I get a very strong feeling when someone is looking at me.

{character:player}I see...

Who would follow Hana Ninomiya?

{character:player}Well... If we're being optimistic, maybe it's someone who likes you.

{character:player}I just hope this person isn't dangerous.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Most stalkers are quite dangerous...

{character:player}...That person might not have bad intentions. Maybe it's someone who likes you.

{character:player}Maybe it's a shy boy who is hesitating about whether he should confess his love to you.

Seeing that Hana Ninomiya is getting more and more uneasy, I quickly say something to comfort her. However, she has a peculiar reaction after hearing my words and makes a strange troubled look.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Someone who would like someone invisible like me might have strange preferences when it comes to women. After all, normal people don't notice me at all.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}There's no way I can be happy when I think about it this way.

{character:player}Don't feel that way. At least I think you're really cute, Ninomiya. It's not surprising for there to be someone who likes you.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Thanks, but you don't have to comfort me so seriously.

{character:player}I'm not trying to comfort you. Ninomiya, do you think I have strange tastes or do you think I'm a hypocrite who says flattering things even to friends?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's not what I mean. It's just... I'm not cute in any way. Cute is usually used to describe someone like Kana.

{character:player}There's no question a popular idol is cute, but that's just one type of cute.

{character:player}I'm certain I'm not the only person who thinks you're cute. Your friends must have also said similar words of praise. Surely I'm not the only one who has such good taste?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Fine, I give up.

As Ninomiya speaks, she raises her hands in surrender. A smile finally appears on her face that had been tense due to worry, except she is smiling teasingly.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}After all, you have a glib tongue that can win over all the ladies. There's no way I can win an argument against you.

{character:player}Doesn't that mean you still don't believe me...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I believe you. How can I let your sincere praise go to waste?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Thank you, {var:player_nickname}.

{character:player}You're welcome.

Hana Ninomiya usually gives me the impression that she is quiet and taciturn, so it's quite refreshing to see her tease me with a smirk on her face.

{character:player}By the way, if someone really is following you, doesn't this mean you've become more noticeable?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}If being followed is the cost of being attractive, then I would rather be transparent...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Even if you're right about that person being someone who likes me, why do they have to approach me in such a disturbing way? Why can't they just say what they want to say to my face?

{character:player}You're right about that. No matter what, it isn't right to follow someone.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...But I don't really have the right to say that about that person since I often follow and investigate others for Jane.

{character:player}Well...

I better change the topic. Since we can't resolve the problem, continuing to talk about the stalker will just make her more troubled.

{character:player}By the way, Ninomiya, why do you want to make yourself more noticeable?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I don't think I need any special reason to want to become more popular.

{character:player}I guess so, but there's a slight difference between wanting to become more noticeable and simply wanting to become more popular.

Ninomiya puts down the drink in her hand and stares straight at me. I hope I didn't offend her unintentionally by saying that.

{character:player}I-I just said that off the top of my head. Let's chat about something else.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's okay. I'm not angry. I'm just thinking that it's scary how perceptive you are.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I didn't expect you to realize that I wanted to become more noticeable not because I wanted to become more eye-catching. To me, this is a matter of life and death.

I-It's that serious?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}{var:player_nickname}, have you heard of the phenomenon called "lonely death" before?

{character:player}Yes, I have. It's when an elderly person who lives alone dies without anyone knowing because they don't receive timely treatment when they suddenly get sick.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}This doesn't just apply to the elderly. People of any age can die without anyone knowing if they are ignored by the people around them for a long time.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I used to think it's nice to be transparent and live quietly alone, but I can't seem to laugh it off after hearing about the "lonely death" phenomenon.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It wouldn't be surprising if someone as transparent as me has such a tragic ending one day...

{character:player}Haha, you don't have to worry about that.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}How can I feel relieved in my current situation?

{character:player}You have me. Whether you remain transparent like now or become even more transparent, I'll watch out for you, so you shouldn't worry too much about this.

{character:player}...

{character:player}...I-I'm serious. You should give me some response at least. I feel really awkward.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Haha!

She does give me a response, but I can't decide which response is more embarrassing between Hana Ninomiya's laughter and the silence from before.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}S-Sorry, I hope you don't take offense. I didn't expect you to be so serious, so I was a little embarrassed and didn't know what to say.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Also, shouldn't you say something more positive when you're trying to comfort someone? For example, wouldn't you say that people will start to notice me more?

{character:player}I was just giving you a guarantee. Isn't that more reassuring?

{character:player}Also, judging from your tone, you don't seem to be that worried about having a "lonely death" anyway.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'm just not overly worried. The main reason I want to become more noticeable is that playing mahjong has made me realize that I'm not doomed to be transparent for the rest of my life. I still have the opportunity to change my life...

Hana Ninomiya recalls and shares with me her memories of the first time she and Kana Fujita were called to the student council's office to play against Usumi Ishihara and the others.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...After that game... laugh at me if you want, but I cried when I was having a shower at night.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I told the me from kindergarten that I've done it and that I've stepped under the spotlight on that green square stage.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Even Kana, who is a popular idol, said that I stand out when I play the tiles, so I have no reason to give up in life. I want to win. I want to try my best to win every game and become someone that my opponents can't ignore.

{character:player}You can do it. I always have to be careful when I play against you.

Her desire to win will make her work hard to improve her skills. She'll definitely become someone who will catch everyone's eyes at the mahjong table.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Even if having a "lonely death" isn't the main reason I want to become more noticeable, I won't pretend I didn't hear what you just said, {var:player_nickname}.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's rare for you to make a promise so seriously, so you'll have to take responsibility for it. Like you said, it's more reassuring to have a guarantee.

{character:player}I naturally won't take back what I said, so you should focus on becoming stronger so more people will notice you.

Now that I think about it, it won't be easy to take responsibility for this promise. However, when I see how hard Ninomiya is trying, I find it hard not to support her.

We chat for a long time and suddenly realize it's time for lunch. We can't be bothered to change locations, so we order something to eat here at this restaurant.

{character:player}What are your plans for the rest of today?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I was thinking of playing mahjong at a mahjong parlor. {var:player_nickname}, do you want to come with me?

{character:player}Sure.

Since it's possible that someone really is stalking Hana Ninomiya, I decide to go to the mahjong parlor with her instead of going home like I had planned.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I didn't ask anyone else to join me, so I was thinking of going to any mahjong parlor to fill in any empty spots they had. Is there a particular place you want to go?

{character:player}It's usually busier on the weekends, so why don't we call and ask first?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I guess you're right.

We take out our mobile phones and flip through our contacts. When I lower my head, I catch a glimpse of something flashing under the sun in the flower bed.

After leaning over and rummaging through the flower bed, I pick up a kunai inside it...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Eh? Aren't you coming up?

After arriving outside the mahjong parlor, I change my mind and tell Hana Ninomiya to play without me first.

{character:player}When we left the restaurant, I found a clue about the stalker, so I want to stay down here and wait for a chance to catch her.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}We're not even sure if that person would really follow us here. If you make such a big fuss, aren't you afraid they will run away?

{character:player}I'll be able to catch her by surprise if I go outside now. She'll expose herself if she chooses to run away.

{character:player}Anyway, you should go up first. Just leave the rest to me.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Okay then. You be careful.

After watching Hana Ninomiya go upstairs, I take a deep breath, face the street in front of me, and start searching for my target.

The street is so quiet that other than an expensive-looking black sedan car that passed by, there aren't even animals passing through, let alone people.

At first glance, it looks like nothing is suspicious, but...

The back side of a utility pole is a classic hiding spot used by stalkers. Let's start by checking this out first!

After making repeated comparisons, I focus on a utility pole in the direction we came from, which is on the right side in front of me.

{character:player}Hah! I've got you now!

I run over quickly and look behind the utility pole confidently to find... no one there?!

{character:player}I was wrong...? Hmm?!

Hearing a sound from the other side, I turn my head quickly to look, but I am too late. All I see is a blurry figure disappearing in front of me.

{character:player}W-Wait up! Don't run!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Did you catch the person?

{character:player}Why did you come down?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I was afraid that you'd get into a conflict with that person, so I came down to take a look because I was worried. It looks like you didn't catch her.

{character:player}Sorry, I alerted her by mistake and let her run away.

{character:player}But it doesn't matter. She's someone you know too. I even saved some evidence, so I'll just ask her directly tomorrow about why she is following you.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}She probably won't follow me around anymore today. In that case, {var:player_nickname}, you don't need to stand there downstairs. Come up and play mahjong together with me.

{character:player}I guess you're right...

Since I found a piece of important evidence in the flower bed, it's very likely that the person will hide in a similar place next time!

There happens to be a flower bed that is suitable for hiding within my sight.

I look up and pretend to look at the scenery as I walk towards the flower bed while acting normal. Suddenly... I speed up and run straight towards the flower bed!

{character:player}Hah! I've got you now!

I look behind the flower bed confidently, but... there's nobody there!

{character:player}I was wrong...? Hmm?!

Hearing a sound from the other side, I turn my head quickly to look, but I am too late. All I see is a blurry figure disappearing in front of me.

{character:player}W-Wait up! Don't run!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Did you catch the person?

{character:player}Why did you come down?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I was afraid that you'd get into a conflict with that person, so I came down to take a look because I was worried. It looks like you didn't catch her.

{character:player}Sorry, I alerted her by mistake and let her run away.

{character:player}But it doesn't matter. She's someone you know too. I even saved some evidence, so I'll just ask her directly tomorrow about why she is following you.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}She probably won't follow me around anymore today. In that case, {var:player_nickname}, you don't need to stand there downstairs. Come up and play mahjong together with me.

{character:player}I guess you're right...

The next day, I go to school with Ninomiya to meet the stalker with the kunai I picked up outside the restaurant.

{character:Ransei}I was so completely focused on evacuating at that time. I can't believe I left behind such a crucial clue. I'm too careless.

The night before, I called Ransei after looking at the family emblem on the kunai to ask her about the incident, and she honestly admitted that she had been following Hana Ninomiya around. I plan to ask her about her reasons in person today.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Ransei, so you're the person who has been following me around?

Judging from Hana Ninomiya's expression, she is somewhat relieved to find out that the person following her is an acquaintance, but her doubts haven't disappeared completely.

{character:player}What gave you the idea to follow Ninomiya around?

{character:Ransei}Master, have you heard of the rumor about "three-player mahjong?"

{character:Hana Ninomiya}T-Three-player mahjong...

{character:player}Are you referring to the rumor related to Ninomiya?

{character:Ransei}Yes. I'm ashamed to say that I'm also one of the rumored victims who were completely crushed by Ninomiya-senpai in mahjong.

{character:Ransei}I still remember that match like it just happened...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It was just last week. Why are you making it sound like it happened ages ago...

{character:Ransei}I still can't forget that crushing defeat I suffered that day.

Ransei clenches the kunai in her hands as she speaks. It looks like she is quite unhappy about her loss.

{character:player}So you have been following her around to find a chance to get revenge?

{character:Ransei}No, I'm very aware that I'm currently no match for Ninomiya-senpai who is an expert in concealment techniques.

{character:Ransei}I won't be able to defeat her unless I attain the same level of mastery in concealment techniques.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}What's this about concealment techniques... I don't remember having a skill like that.

{character:player}I'll explain for you. I think she is referring to your transparency constitution.

{character:Ransei}Constitution?! D-Doesn't that mean senpai's ability is a forbidden technique inherited by blood? Then... I'll never be able to learn it.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...{var:player_nickname}, please translate.

{character:player}Sorry, there's nothing I can do to help you.

Ransei is trying to understand Hana Ninomiya's special constitution with her own worldview. Trying to explain things will only make it more complicated, so I'll just let her think she's right.

{character:player}Anyway, you're allowed to train, but it's best if your training doesn't affect other people.

{character:player}I told you this on the phone last night. Ninomiya has been feeling uneasy because you've been following her. I think you should say something to her, Ransei.

{character:Ransei}I'm so sorry, Ninomiya-senpai! I thought I had concealed myself very well, but I was unable to escape your notice and caused you distress.

Seeing Ransei bow down to her while apologizing makes Hana Ninomiya rub the hair next to her ears embarrassedly.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's okay. Your apology is so solemn... Should I say I should have expected this from your disciple, {var:player_nickname}? She has such a serious attitude.

{character:player}Hehe, it's because she has a good teacher.

{character:Ransei}Not only did I fail to outsmart an expert like Ninomiya-senpai, but even Master easily saw through my actions. It seems that I still have a lot to learn before I can become fully independent.

{character:Ransei}Although it is difficult to learn a secret blood inheritance technique, I will use my own methods to improve my tracking techniques. At the very least, I will try not to let you find out next time, Master! In that case, I'll be leaving now to continue my training. Farewell!

With these words, Ransei disappears in the blink of an eye.

{character:player}Did she really understand what I said to her...? Don't tell me she will start to follow me around instead.

Whatever, at least Ransei won't disturb Hana Ninomiya again in the near future, so this stalking incident has been resolved.

However...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}In the end, I was targeted because of my transparency constitution and not because I caught anyone's eye...

To Hana Ninomiya, this isn't something that makes her happy. I am also only able to say one thing to her about this.

{character:player}Good luck, Hana Ninomiya.

There doesn't seem to be anything suspicious about the white wall in front of me, but... I should try to observe things from different angles.

The sun is especially fierce around this time, and when I look at the ground, I see a bulging, unnatural shadow as I expected.

{character:player}To use cloth as camouflage is really in line with the style of a ninja.

Without giving her time to react, I walk right over to pull down the cloth in one corner and end up face-to-face with Ransei, who is hiding behind the white cloth.

{character:player}Hey, we meet again, Ransei.

{character:Ransei}M-Master.

{character:player}Are you hiding here as part of your training?

{character:Ransei}Yes, I am currently training indeed.

She is actually playing along with me for some reason... But I have a piece of evidence in my hand, so it's impossible for her to deny it.

{character:player}Objection! You clearly came after us. The evidence is...

I present my evidence, a mahjong tile pendant!

{character:Ransei}A mahjong tile pendant. What does it prove? Please guide me, Master.

{character:player}N-No, it doesn't prove anything. Sorry, I took out the wrong thing.

At most, this only proves that I'm a Jyanshi who likes to play mahjong. It can't be used as evidence. The key evidence is still in my pocket. I'll keep rummaging through it...

I present my evidence, a kunai!

{character:Ransei}This kunai belongs to me. Master, where did you find it?

{character:player}You're making things easier for me by admitting it directly. Your family's logo is on this, so it must belong to you.

{character:player}I picked this up in the flower bed outside the restaurant we were just at. Are you going to tell me you dropped it there by accident?

{character:Ransei}...You're right, Master. I followed you here.

{character:player}You must be the person who has been following Ninomiya around recently then.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Ransei, so you're the person who has been following me around?

{character:player}Ninomiya, why did you come down?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I was afraid that you'd get into a conflict with the person following me around, so I came down to take a look because I felt a little uneasy.

{character:Ransei}Hi, Ninomiya-senpai.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Hello.

Hana Ninomiya looks relieved after finding out the person following her is an acquaintance, but the doubt on her face doesn't disappear completely.

{character:player}Why did you suddenly start following Ninomiya around?

{character:Ransei}Master, have you heard of the rumor about "three-player mahjong?"

{character:player}I remember... it's a rumor related to Ninomiya, right?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Uh-huh...

{character:Ransei}I'm ashamed to say that I'm also one of the rumored victims who were completely crushed by Ninomiya-senpai in mahjong.

{character:Ransei}To be more precise, I lost to her amazing concealment techniques.

{character:player}Ninomiya, when did you learn this ability?!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Why are you also getting astonished? I don't remember having a skill like that.

{character:Ransei}You're too humble! Seeing is believing, and I have experienced your concealment technique many times already!

{character:Ransei}Whenever the vice president gets us problem children to clean up the playground, there's always a place that is cleaned without us realizing it, and none of us there can remember who cleaned it. We only found out after checking the duty roster afterwards that it was you, senpai.

{character:Ransei}This technique that can conceal oneself from and change the perception of everyone present is definitely a top concealment technique! One Han City sure is filled with talented people. There are powerful Jyanshi here like Master and experts like senpai. This world is very big indeed!

We don't know what to say after hearing Ransei's passionate and moving speech, so we can only let her continue talking.

{character:Ransei}To become a stronger mahjong player and ninja, I decided to follow senpai around to find out the secret to her training. But she is truly worthy of being a master. She always manages to disappear while I'm following her.

{character:Ransei}I thought everything was going well today, but then you saw through me, Master...

{character:player}Haha, you're too naive, Ransei.

{character:player}Allow me to introduce you properly. The person in front of you is Hana Ninomiya, the shadow behind the legend of "three-player mahjong," the hidden monster of the mahjong table, and the "master of invisibility." Her ability to become transparent isn't something that can be easily imitated by others!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}{var:player_nickname}, why do you look so smug even though you're introducing me?

{character:player}I'm just creating an atmosphere... In short, Ransei, you're allowed to train, but it's best if your training doesn't affect other people.

{character:player}Ninomiya has been feeling uneasy these last few days because you've been following her. I think you should say something to her.

{character:Ransei}I see... I'm so sorry, Ninomiya-senpai! I thought I had concealed myself very well, but I was unable to escape your notice and caused you distress.

Seeing Ransei bow down to her while apologizing makes Hana Ninomiya rub the hair next to her ears embarrassedly.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's okay. You don't have to apologize so seriously.

{character:Ransei}I wasn't able to outsmart an expert like Ninomiya-senpai this time, and even Master easily saw through my actions. It seems that I still have a lot to learn before I can become fully independent.

{character:Ransei}Master, if you don't have other instructions for me, I'll take my leave now and continue with my training. At the very least, I will try not to let you find out next time!

With these words, Ransei disappears in the blink of an eye.

{character:player}So you'll start to bother me instead of Ninomiya, huh... Oh well.

Whatever, at least Ransei won't disturb Hana Ninomiya again in the near future, so this stalking incident has been resolved.

{character:player}Let's play mahjong upstairs, Ninomiya.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Okay... By the way, so do you also think I'm very transparent, {var:player_nickname}?

{character:player}Um...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}In the restaurant earlier, you said I was cute and would watch out for me. So you said all that just to comfort me.

{character:player}...M-Miss Ninomiya, are you angry?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Not at all. I just think that I need to try a lot harder to give you a stronger impression of me, {var:player_nickname}.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}The simplest method is to play mahjong with you. Well, {var:player_nickname}, I'm going to need you to help me verify whether I'm transparent while playing mahjong.

{character:player}Miss Ninomiya, your smile is kinda terrifying right now...

That afternoon, Hana Ninomiya tortured me at the mahjong table...

{character:player}...Hmm? A text message?

I was woken up by a message from Hana Ninomiya the next morning.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Good morning, are you awake?

{character:player}I just got up. What's up?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Nothing, I just wanted to say... From now on, let's greet each other in the morning after we wake up.

What a sudden proposal.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}After all... {var:player_nickname}, didn't you say you would always pay attention to me so I won't have a "lonely death"?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I think it's necessary to say hello to each other in the morning or something.

Although it's a sudden proposal, it's quite reasonable.

Let's do that from now on then.

{character:player}Good morning, Ninomiya.

{character:player}Ah... It's a little hot today, but it's such a nice day for plants to soak up the sunlight.

After the midterm exams, the clubs of Asaha High School gradually resumed their activities one after another, and the gardening club Hana Ninomiya is in is no exception.

To prepare for the exams, Hana Ninomiya has only been taking basic care of the plants during this time and has left all the remaining miscellaneous chores until this weekend. After hearing about this, I decide to come help her because I feel it'll be difficult for her to do everything alone.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Junior, have you already finished moving all the potted plants on that side? You're quite quick.

Other than me, Nana Shiraishi, who likes to pay visits to various clubs, also volunteered to come and help. The thing is, I found out after starting that the club has more potted plants than I expected, so her help is really appreciated.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Where's Hana? Why isn't she here?

{character:player}She said some tools have been damaged, so she's gone out to buy new ones.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}I've finished moving everything on my side too. Let's rest for a while and wait for her to come back. Ah, I'm all sweaty now.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'm back.

While we chat, Hana Ninomiya returns with a plastic bag in her hands. She pulls a bottled drink out of the bag and hands it to Nana Shiraishi.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Thanks a lot, Nana. Have a drink.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Thanks, Hana! I'm so thirsty right now.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's strange how you're thanking me even though you're the one helping me.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Oh, you're right. Um, it doesn't matter! These details aren't important anyway. By the way, Hana, you're not treating me like a friend! How can you ask someone who doesn't even go to our school for help first when you need manpower?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Well, you're always busy helping out at so many different clubs, so I thought it would be better to let you get some rest on the weekend.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Hmph! You're underestimating my stamina! The busier I am with activities, the more energetic I get! In fact, I'll probably go rusty if I laze around at home. I need to keep myself busy every day so that I can be a bright and beautiful high school girl for even longer!

{character:player}I understand the theory, but you'll only buy yourself more time until you graduate from high school.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}You don't get it. The important things are your temperament and spirit! Just like how a man will always be a child at heart, Nana Shiraishi will always be a high school girl!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Does that mean I'm the type of person who will get old really quickly? After all, I like to stay indoors...

{character:Nana Shiraishi}No way! Hana, you definitely get enough exercise from taking care of so many potted plants alone.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}But if you're worried, would you like to go jogging with me in the morning tomorrow?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Maybe not. I prefer to keep myself young by getting enough sleep every day.

Although Hana Ninomiya always says she is an invisible person, there are still people who care about her and get along well with her. I feel relieved that she isn't especially lonely at school.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}{var:player_nickname}, this bottle of water is for you.

{character:player}I won't say thanks in case you say I'm strange too.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I won't object if you do thank me.

{character:player}Wow... What's with the discrimination? Not only do you want me to thank you, but you didn't even say thanks to me like you did to Nana. I'm so hurt.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I've already expressed my thanks by giving you a drink. You even made such a troublesome promise, so today's matters are nothing compared to that.

Such a troublesome promise? Oh, could she be referring to what I said about not letting her have a "lonely death"?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Sniff, sniff... I smell some gossip.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}A troublesome promise, huh? Hey, is it just me, or do you seem a lot closer to our junior here recently? Is it because you two have a promise you can't share with anyone else?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I-It's not a big deal. You two should get some rest while I get to work.

After speaking, Hana Ninomiya runs away to the potted plants in the distance with reddened ears.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Ah, she ran away! In that case, I'll need you, the only other person who knows what happened, to answer my question.

{character:player}Do you think I'll tell you anything?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}What?! You won't?!

{character:player}What makes you think I will...

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Our friendship, of course! Well, I'll share a piece of good news with you, my good friend - our school will be holding the school festival soon.

{character:player}Oh, now that you mention it, the school festival really is almost upon us.

Asaha High School holds its school festival after the midterm exams in the second half of the school year every year. They say it's so that students can relax and have fun, but it's also held for adult reasons like showing the school's culture to the outside world, so it is often very lively.

{character:player}Based on your tone, is there something special about this year's school festival?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Hehe... Junior, aren't you at all curious about the theme of our class activity?

{character:player}Since you're making it sound so mysterious, it would be rude not to ask. Can you please tell me the theme of your class activity, Nana-senpai?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}You'll have to tell me the promise between you and Hana first.

{character:player}Oh, then you don't need to tell me. I'll ask Ninomiya about it.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Eh! No, don't ask her! Come over here.

Nana Shiraishi quickly drags me back to my original position after seeing me starting to get up, then she looks at where Hana Ninomiya is.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}We'll be performing a stage play this time, and the original work our script is based on is a novel called "The House of Music." Have you heard of it before?

{character:player}It sounds familiar. What about it? Since you stopped me from asking Ninomiya about it... will she be performing on stage?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}The registration time for performers will be at our class meeting in two weeks. After all, we need to apply for a venue and wait for the student council to approve our application.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Before all that happens, I want to ask you to find out if Hana is interested. If she is, please persuade her to register.

{character:player}I can do that, but why get me to do it? Isn't it faster and more efficient if you talk to her directly?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Well, I asked her, and she said she doesn't intend to perform.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}That's what she said, but I clearly saw her eyes light up when I announced the name of the stage play. And when she noticed that I was looking at her, she turned around and pretended to be admiring the scenery. Her reaction is super suspicious.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}What's more, she has been reading the novel the stage play is based on from time to time recently, so I've been wondering if she has started to change her mind and just hasn't made a decision yet. Maybe she'll be willing to go on stage if you encourage her!

{character:player}...Okay, I'll ask her afterwards.

"Liking the original work is one thing, but performing on stage is another." Although I want to say that, if Hana Ninomiya really does want to perform, it would be a shame if she misses out on this opportunity. Maybe she really will make up her mind to perform if someone encourages her.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}I'll leave it to you then, but you need to be quick. If Hana hasn't made up her mind by the day the registrations start, she might not be able to play the role of the character she likes.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}I need to help out at some other clubs now, and I've already told Hana. If I finish up early over there, I'll come back later to help you move the potted plants back.

{character:player}Sure, see you later.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}(loudly) Hana, I'll be going now!

Hana Ninomiya raises her head and waves goodbye in response to Nana Shiraishi's words.

Now that Hana Ninomiya and I are the only two people left in the courtyard, I'll have a chat with her about participating in the stage play while we work.

After resting for a while, I walk over to Hana Ninomiya and see her moving a potted plant toward the club classroom.

{character:player}Is it already time to move the potted plants back inside?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Just this one. It's really sunny today, and this moth orchid can't be exposed to too much sunlight, so I'm moving it to another place.

{character:player}Oh! Are there any other plants that need to be moved?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Move the pot of red Rieger begonia next to your right foot here for me too. That one also can't be exposed to too much sunlight, and it was watered not too long ago, so it might get in the way when it's time to water all the potted plants together later.

{character:player}Don't people say that it's better to water plants every day in summer?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's very easy for the roots of Rieger begonias to rot if they are watered too often. Three times a week is about right in summer.

{character:player}I see...

Under Hana Ninomiya's guidance, I water and fertilize the potted plants in an orderly manner. During the process, I notice that many plants in the gardening club need to be cared for in particular ways. Moreover, Ninomiya actually remembers the key points for caring for each plant.

{character:player}You're like a moving plant encyclopedia. I would be so flustered if I had to take care of so many plants.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I've just gained experience naturally after taking care of them for so long. These flowers are blooming so well now, but you have no idea how many of them I've killed up until now.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I have a good memory, but it's completely different when you actually need to put what you know into practice. Isn't there a saying along the lines of "knowing is one thing, and doing is another"?

{character:player}Even so, it's amazing that you can take care of so many potted plants by yourself. Why don't you choose some varieties that are easier to care for? It'll make your work easier.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's a lot of work to take care of them, but you get such a great sense of accomplishment when you see humble seeds bloom into gorgeous flowers, right? Club activities would be so boring if I just fertilize and water plants mechanically.

{character:player}Haha, good point. A bright and beautiful high school girl needs to experience some challenges and troubles in everyday life to become more energetic.

"Humble seeds bloom into gorgeous flower"... Isn't that a good description of Hana Ninomiya right now? Her magnificence at the mahjong table makes her no less gorgeous than these flowers.

If she gets the chance to act in a stage play she likes, maybe she will also shine as brightly as she does when playing mahjong. When I think of this, I get more excited about seeing Hana Ninomiya perform on stage.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}We can start moving the potted plants back after another half an hour. Thanks for the hard work. I'll read a book while I rest now. {var:player_nickname}, you can go first if you have something to do. I can move them slowly by myself.

Hana Ninomiya pulls out a book from her bag and sits on a stone chair. I glance at the cover and see that this book is "The House of Music", which Nana Shiraishi mentioned.

{character:player}Nana told me that your class will be performing a stage play for the school festival.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Yeah. If you want to watch it, {var:player_nickname}, I can get you a good seat on the day.

{character:player}Thanks in advance. By the way, is the book you're holding the original work the stage play's script is based on?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Yes. It's a story with a happy atmosphere, and it's quite suitable for a stage play performance during the school festival.

{character:player}I see. About this stage play...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I won't be taking part in it.

{character:player}Eh? I-I haven't said anything yet.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Didn't Nana ask you to persuade me to participate in the stage play?

{character:player}...Is it that obvious?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Nana kept looking in my direction when she was talking to you over there, and now you're asking me about the stage play. Well, isn't it obvious then? As Jane would say, "this is just a reasonable inference based on the evidence at hand."

{character:player}As expected of an informant of a great detective. I can't hide the truth from you. It's not often that you get to act in a stage play you like. Ninomiya, don't you want to perform on stage?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Liking the original work is one thing, but wanting to perform on stage is another.

That's what I thought earlier too... Just as I decide to tell Nana Shiraishi later that she's thinking too much, the words Hana Ninomiya whispers under her breath change my mind.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}(whisper) Why waste time on something that is impossible...

I recall that Hana Ninomiya once performed in a stage play when she was in elementary school. At that time, she signed up to play the part of the female lead but failed to get the part. Is she still feeling sad about that failure?

{character:player}Will you really not register for a part? The fact that Nana and I are both trying to persuade you shows that we think you can do it. Go give it a try.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Thanks for believing in me, but I don't believe in myself. Anyway, let's not talk about this. I know the outcome better than anyone else.

{character:player}Okay then... But it isn't like you at all to give up just like that without trying.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...There's something I need to do, so I need to go now. You should go too. I'll come back later to move the potted plants, so you don't need to worry about them.

{character:player}Huh? So suddenly? W-Wait up! Ninomiya!

Hana Ninomiya suddenly makes a sullen expression while we are chatting and leaves without looking back. She doesn't stop no matter what I shout out behind her.

{character:player}I... Did I say something that made her angry?

I wait for a while, but Hana Ninomiya doesn't come back, so I can only go home first.

After returning home, I call Nana Shiraishi and tell her about the unhappy conclusion to my conversation with Hana Ninomiya in the afternoon.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}So something like that happened. I was wondering why you left Hana all alone there.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}I'm sorry! It's my fault that Hana is unhappy with you now. I'll buy you a drink another day.

{character:player}Don't say that. I'll also apologize to her properly later on.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}I guess so. Hana isn't a petty person. I'm sure you'll be able to reconcile if you explain things to her.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}But I just don't get it. Hana keeps saying that she wants to make herself more noticeable, so isn't this stage play a good chance to do that? Why won't she give it a go?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}And based on what you said about the afternoon, I get the feeling that Hana isn't simply unwilling to take part in the stage play. It sounds like she is resisting it emotionally.

{character:player}I got the same feeling too. She is really negative about this. Maybe there's something other than her failure to get the part of the female lead that we don't know about. If we can solve this problem... maybe she will be willing to go on stage.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Of course, this is just a speculation.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}...Okay, coming! My little brother wants me to teach him how to do his homework, so I'll hang up now.

{character:player}Sure, good night.

Nana Shiraishi's energetic voice disappears after the phone call ends. My room becomes quiet again, but I can't seem to calm down.

{character:player}I just can't stop thinking about it... Is it true that Ninomiya doesn't want to try again after just one failed attempt?

{character:player}Is there anyone who knows Hana Ninomiya well who can give me some advice?

After thinking about it for a while, I decide to call Jane, who often asks Hana Ninomiya to help her with detective work, to see if this great detective can deduce anything.

{character:Jane}...Assistant, you should ask a telepath about this instead of asking me.

{character:Jane}Detectives aren't gods. Reasoning requires basic deduction. Don't tell me you think detectives are able to know the whole story after getting a flash of inspiration like in manga?

{character:player}Isn't that the case?

{character:Jane}Apologize to me now! Apologize to me and my grandmother now!

{character:player}Sorry, that was rude of me. Well... in your conversations with Ninomiya, have you ever noticed anything related to this?

{character:Jane}No. Ninomiya and I only talk about things related to cases and school. She rarely talks about herself.

{character:player}Sigh... I guess there's nothing I can do about it then.

{character:Jane}That's not necessarily the case.

{character:player}Oh?! Grandmaster! What advice do you have for me? I'll make notes now.

{character:Jane}Although it might be strange to hear this from a detective like me, there are some truths that you don't need to know.

{character:Jane}For example, your feelings about wanting her to grasp this opportunity may not necessarily be correct. You think you're encouraging her with good intentions because you're assuming she wants to perform, but what if that's not the case?

{character:player}...You make a good point. Maybe we said a lot of things that burdened her with our wishful thinking about wanting her to perform on stage.

Like what Jane said, the truth isn't important. If Hana Ninomiya doesn't want to perform on stage, why must I find out the reason to persuade her to do so?

{character:Jane}Anyway, you'd better apologize to Ninomiya properly after this and reconcile with her, or else I won't be able to get you two to complete tasks for me as a team. However, I do wonder why Ninomiya doesn't want to perform.

{character:player}Didn't you just tell me not to dig into that...

{character:Jane}It's a detective's instinct to be interested in mysteries. Didn't you say that Ninomiya has been reading the novel the stage play is based on? That means it's possible that she really does want to perform on stage, just that something is preventing her from making up her mind.

{character:Jane}I'll think about it when I don't have any cases to investigate, and I'll tell you if I think of anything.

{character:player}I'll be looking forward to your reply then, great detective.

After hanging up, although I had already decided to stop investigating the reason why Hana Ninomiya doesn't want to perform on stage, the last thing Jane said before hanging up makes it impossible for me to completely let go of this matter.

If Hana Ninomiya really wants to perform, would she have new regrets if she misses out on this opportunity?

I... Is there anything I can do?

I remember that Kana Fujita and Hana Ninomiya were classmates in elementary school. Maybe she knows something.

{character:Kana Fujita}{var:player_nickname}, why did you suddenly think of calling me?

{character:player}There's something I want to ask you. It's like this...

I tell Kana Fujita about the stage play and Hana Ninomiya's refusal to perform on stage. After that, she asks me a question instead.

{character:Kana Fujita}Is it possible that the stage play Hana's class is performing is "The House of Music"?

{character:player}Did Nana Shiraishi already tell you this? I don't think I mentioned what stage play they would be performing.

{character:Kana Fujita}I knew it... No wonder Hana is so against it. She might perform if it's any other stage play, but she probably won't if it's "The House of Music."

{character:Kana Fujita}{var:player_nickname}, you know that Hana and I performed in a stage play when we were in elementary school, right?

{character:player}Yeah, that's why I called you... Wait a minute, don't tell me...?

{character:Kana Fujita}Yes, our class also performed "The House of Music." Hana really wanted to play the part of the female lead, but everyone ignored her, and she ended up playing the part of a tree in the background.

{character:Kana Fujita}Although she won an award for working hard, that's definitely not a pleasant memory. I even congratulated her thoughtlessly at the time... Luckily, Hana didn't ignore me because of this incident.

{character:player}...If that's true, then it's normal for her to not want to perform in the stage play.

{character:Kana Fujita}Although I also want to see her active on the stage, it's better not to force her if she doesn't want to.

{character:player}You're right. Thank you for telling me all this.

{character:Kana Fujita}You're welcome. I've still got work to do, so let's talk again another time.

{character:player}Sure, let's play mahjong together when you're free.

Her class is finally performing a stage play again after so many years, but it happens to be the same play. I wonder how Hana Ninomiya felt when she found out about this coincidence that day.

Was she unable to accept what happened? Or... Well, regardless of how she feels about it, the things I said during the day were thoughtless and offensive. In fact, I would like to call her now and apologize to her if it's possible.

{character:player}...I better apologize to her properly in person.

As for the stage play... Like what Kana Fujita said, it's best if we don't force Hana Ninomiya in case we make her relive some unpleasant memories.

{character:player}But is it really best to just let things end like this...

I decide to call Ren Kisaragi. I hear that his list of problem children not only has their names but also various information about them. Maybe I'll find some clues there.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Yes, I did investigate those problem children because they kept breaking the school rules.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}But this concerns the privacy of the school's students. Do you think I will tell non-school personnel this information?

{character:player}I don't think you will.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}I'm busy over here, so I'll hang up now if you don't have anything else to say.

Ren Kisaragi hangs up the call before I can reply. It looks like he is quite busy.

Okay, I don't think that will work. Is there anyone else I can ask?

The next weekend, I go to the courtyard of Asaha High School and find Hana Ninomiya tending to the plants busily as I expected.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}You... Why have you come?

{character:player}I've come to help. Your enthusiastic classmate Nana said she will be going out to have fun with her family, so I thought you would need some help.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...How are you so sure that I'll be here? Aren't you worried that you'll come here for nothing?

{character:player}According to my calculations, it should almost be time to water the Rieger begonia. Also, since the weather is good today, I was thinking that you would probably want to move the potted plants outside so they can soak up some sunlight.

{character:player}I'll go water the flowers now... Oh right, it's quite sunny right now, so I'll move these flowers to a shady place since they can't handle too much sun.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Okay. I'm so envious of your learning ability. You remembered all the key points even though I only told you once.

{character:player}That's not entirely true. These last few days, I've been reading up on ways to take care of flowers and plants on the Internet whenever I have time. Since I want to help you, it would be more efficient if I knew these key points.

{character:player}I'm doing okay now, but I might forget some details once it starts to get busy. But you did say that the more plants you take care of, the more experienced you'll become, so I'll definitely be able to do better if I put more thought and effort into it.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's true, but there are things that can't be achieved even if you put in thought and effort...

Hana Ninomiya still seems to be a little depressed. Fortunately, things haven't gotten awkward between us after the unhappy end of our conversation the other day.

After toiling about for a while, we decide to take a break. Hana Ninomiya finds a place to sit down and starts reading, but she isn't reading "The House of Music" today.

{character:player}Have you already finished reading the book from last time?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Yes, so I didn't bring it with me today. I've actually read that book several times already, and I just suddenly felt like reading it that day...

Hana Ninomiya covers her face with the book, and I vaguely hear her whisper, "It's in the past now..." It's obvious that she wants to avoid this topic.

{character:player}...Ninomiya, you said you have a good memory. Since you've read it several times, I believe you know the lines by heart. In that case, let's put on a performance now!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Huh? Wh-What performance?

{character:player}But before that, I want to apologize to you properly... I'm sorry for trying to persuade you to participate in the stage play without caring about your feelings. I even said something terrible like "it isn't like you to..."

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Actually, I should be apologizing to you instead. {var:player_nickname}, you kindly came to help me, yet I abandoned you here and left.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I know you and Nana were encouraging me with good intentions, but I...

{character:player}It's okay. Ninomiya, I'll respect your decision to not register for the stage play, but that won't stop us from putting on a performance now.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Well... That's why I was asking you what you meant when you said that.

{character:player}The literal meaning. Let's perform the stage play of "The House of Music" here!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Huh?

{character:player}Is there a reason we can't?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's not the issue here. Can you tell me why you suddenly want to perform a stage play?

{character:player}Although I said I would respect your decision, I'm still worried that you'll have some regrets if you miss this opportunity.

{character:player}So I've decided to make this courtyard our stage. Ninomiya, this means you can perform in a stage play you like without participating in the class performance.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}But we don't have an audience. Don't you feel like it's a little silly of us to amuse ourselves like this?

{character:player}But we do have an audience. Look, the potted plants you've been taking meticulous care of are sitting straight over there, waiting to enjoy your performance.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Th-This is sophistry!

{character:player}Hahaha, like you said, we really are just amusing ourselves, but it doesn't matter if there's no audience and if the stage is smaller. To me, all that matters is that you're the female lead.

I can't think of a way to make up for her past regrets. All I can do is to do my best to make her happy right here and right now.

{character:player}I believe this will be a brilliant performance. Are you willing to step on this stage with me, Ninomiya?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...We don't have enough actors if you're all we have.

{character:player}A-Aren't we only performing scenes that only require the male and female leads?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Since you put in so much effort to build me this stage, of course we need to start from the beginning.

Hana Ninomiya takes a book from her bag and hands it to me. It is the novel "The House of Music". Maybe it is because it's so hot today, but her cheeks seem slightly red under the sun.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}You can read this book when you forget the lines. Let's start now and not keep our audience waiting.

{character:player}Haven't you finished reading it? Why are you still carrying it with you?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Ah, I suddenly don't feel like performing the stage play.

{character:player}No, don't! Let's start now! I speak first, right...?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Hehe.

A pleasant breeze blows by. This afternoon, this small courtyard of Asaha High School is our secret stage...

The next weekend, I go to the courtyard of Asaha High School and find Hana Ninomiya tending to the plants busily as I expected.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}You... Why have you come?

{character:player}I've come to help. Your enthusiastic classmate Nana said she will be going out to have fun with her family, so I thought you would need some help.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...How are you so sure that I'll be here? Aren't you worried that you'll come here for nothing?

{character:player}According to my calculations, it should almost be time to water the Rieger begonia. Also, since the weather is good today, I was thinking that you would probably want to move the potted plants outside so they can soak up some sunlight.

{character:player}I'll go water the flowers now... Oh right, it's quite sunny right now, so I'll move these flowers to a shady place since they can't handle too much sun.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Okay. I'm so envious of your learning ability. You remembered all the key points even though I only told you once.

{character:player}That's not entirely true. These last few days, I've been reading up on ways to take care of flowers and plants on the Internet whenever I have time. Since I want to help you, it would be more efficient if I knew these key points.

{character:player}I'm doing okay now, but I might forget some details once it starts to get busy. But you did say that the more plants you take care of, the more experienced you'll become, so I'll definitely be able to do better if I put more thought and effort into it.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's true, but there are things that can't be achieved even if you put in thought and effort...

Hana Ninomiya still seems to be a little depressed. Fortunately, things haven't gotten awkward between us after the unhappy end of our conversation the other day.

After toiling about for a while, we decide to take a break. Hana Ninomiya finds a place to sit down and starts reading, but she isn't reading "The House of Music" today.

{character:player}Have you already finished reading the book from last time?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Yes, so I didn't bring it with me today. I've actually read that book several times already, and I just suddenly felt like reading it that day...

Hana Ninomiya covers her face with the book, and I vaguely hear her whisper, "It's in the past now..." It's obvious that she wants to avoid this topic.

{character:player}Ninomiya, you said you have a good memory. Since you've read it several times, I believe you know the lines by heart. This is a great advantage if you want to sign up for the part of the female lead.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I've said this many times already. I'm not thinking of signing up.

{character:player}Kana told me that you also took part in a stage play when you were in elementary school, and it was also "The House of Music."

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Then you should understand why I don't want to sign up. You only need to experience some things once in your life.

{character:player}I understand how you feel, but I've noticed that you've started to re-read the novel of "The House of Music" recently. If you really want to forget that unhappy experience, you should be trying to avoid everything related to it.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I just suddenly felt like reading it. There's no other reason.

Hana Ninomiya sounds a little impatient. She puts away her book and starts getting up to leave.

{character:player}Wait! Ninomiya, do you still remember how we met?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I remember. Why are you suddenly bringing it up?

{character:player}You once complained that I kept pestering you after I lost to you once. Well... It's because I like you, Hana Ninomiya.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Um...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}You... What are you trying to say?!

{character:player}I remember that I was surprised by your tenacity the first time we played. Whenever I thought you would give up, you would discard tiles cleverly to turn the situation around.

{character:player}After watching you play mahjong next to you for so long, I've learned that you are not only tenacious, but also able to react to the changing situation on the mahjong table calmly. I've never seen you regret your decisions or give up when you're at a disadvantage.

{character:player}You're always able to grasp that little bit of hope and make yourself shine. You said I'm one of the only people who notice you, but I actually find it strange how someone as dazzling as you is always ignored by others.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}S-Stop it... Don't you think what you're saying is very embarrassing?!

{character:player}I'm just telling you what I really think. I really like you for how determined you are. That's why I'm worried that you'll have new regrets if you avoid signing up this time... I'm even worried that it'll affect the confidence you've built up at the mahjong table.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}These two things are completely unrelated.

{character:player}Ninomiya, I want to know why you are giving up this time. Is it because you think that you have a low chance of being selected, or are you unable to muster up the courage to sign up because you're worried that you'll get cold feet?

Hana Ninomiya once wondered whether she had also voted for Kana Fujita like everyone else and that it was just her wishful thinking that she had raised her hand to sign up for the role of the female lead.

{character:player}I didn't consider your feelings the other day. The things I said must have made you really unhappy. I'm sorry, Ninomiya.

{character:player}But... I'm not going to take back what I said. It's not a bad idea to give up to avoid failure, but the Hana Ninomiya I know... won't do that!

{character:player}Ninomiya, if you have even the slightest intention to participate in the stage play, I hope you can muster the courage to sign up.

It's precisely because she has doubts about her past that I hope she can put it behind her for good.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...

Of course, it's my wishful thinking that she will try hard to get the part. I can't deny that I'm selfishly hoping she is still the Hana Ninomiya I know so well.

I hesitated before coming here today. What would I do if Hana Ninomiya becomes even more angry with me after listening to what I said? What if she ignores me forever?

But I still decide to tell her what I really think. If I run away from my truest thoughts first, how can I expect her to be determined enough to face everything?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}You... You really are very selfish. Do you know how much your words are weighing on me?! How can you not blush after saying all that?!

{character:player}Sorry... I'm feeling a little embarrassed too now that I think about it...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Geez... It's really frustrating! I finally managed to stop thinking about signing up... but after hearing you say all that, it's impossible for me to just give up...

{character:player}Eh? Ninomiya, y-you're willing to sign up?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Isn't that what you want?

{character:player}Of course it is!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Fine... I'll try one more time. After all, someone likes... someone has expectations for me, so I'll be too spineless if I don't do anything about it!

Her lenses become brighter. A determined look without a trace of hesitation that I'm very familiar with appears on Hana Ninomiya's face.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Since I've decided to sign up, I'll need to read the original work again quickly to familiarize myself with the details!

{character:player}I thought you said you didn't bring it...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I suddenly don't feel like signing up.

{character:player}I didn't say anything! Start preparing now! Read it a few more times...

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Hi! Sorry for making you wait.

{character:player}It's okay. I just arrived too. What's the result of the registration?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Here's my phone. Look at it yourself.

It's the weekend, and I've asked Nana Shiraishi to come to a restaurant near Asaha High School so I can see the videos she took on the day of the class meeting.

In the video, after hearing the class monitor ask: "Who wants to sign up to be the female lead?" Hana Ninomiya raises her hand decisively and stands up to speak.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I want to sign up to be the female lead because I love the original novel of "The House of Music". I've watched the adapted movie many times too, and I think the female lead Miriam is a very charming character...

{character:Nana Shiraishi}You're such a worrywart. You're even making the effort to confirm whether Hana signed up.

{character:player}That's not it. I believe that Ninomiya will definitely sign up for the part, and I just don't want to miss out on that moment.

Not everything is perfect in real life. Hana Ninomiya failed to get the part of the female lead by a narrow margin, but... looking at the relieved smile on her face, I believe she has made peace with her past regrets. At least... she'll never doubt her own courage again.

{character:player}Hmm? Sorry, I need to take a phone call.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's almost time, and everyone else except Nana has arrived. Did you forget to tell her?

{character:player}She's with me right now. I'll come over with her in a moment.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Okay, I'll go and get ready then. See you later.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Was that Hana?

{character:player}Yeah. Do you have anything to do after this? I'll take you somewhere...

I guide Nana Shiraishi to the courtyard of the gardening club, where several people we know are already sitting and waiting.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Oh? You're all here.

{character:Ransei}Master, why did you ask me to come here?

{character:Kana Fujita}{var:player_nickname}, you said something fun will happen. You can tell us now, right?

Other than Ransei and Kana Fujita, Eliisa, Kirara Fujimoto, and several others are here too. One thing they all have in common is that they are lucky enough to be fellow problem children on Ren's list.

{character:player}I think everyone is here. Ahem! I've invited all of you here today to watch a stage play performance!

{character:Kirara Fujimoto}A stage play? {var:player_nickname}, will you be performing? It's going to be interesting!

{character:Eliisa}I only see Mr. Wolf here. Ah! Liisa Liisa understands, you're performing a stand-up comedy!

{character:player}A stand-up comedy and a stage play are two entirely different things... Of course I won't be the only one on the stage. Let's welcome today's female lead - Hana Ninomiya - to the stage!

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Eh? Don't tell me you two will be performing "The House of Music"!

{character:player}Correct! Nana gets one point.

{character:Kana Fujita}We're competing to answer first?! This is one of my strengths! I'm ready for the next question!

{character:player}No, there aren't any more. This isn't a real variety show...

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Have you done this for Hana?

{character:player}Yeah, it took me a while to convince her.

Although it's a shame that Hana Ninomiya didn't get the part, it doesn't mean she won't get the chance to perform.

Since she has the courage to sign up, even if both the stage and audience are smaller, I hope that she will be able to perform one of her favorite stage plays. She is the female lead I want to see on the stage.

{character:Ransei}Master, why hasn't Ninomiya-senpai come out yet?

{character:player}This is strange... I've already asked her to come out...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I-I'm right here.

{character:player}Huh?! Ninomiya, when did you get here?!

Was I too focused on chatting with the others? I didn't realize that Hana Ninomiya was behind me at all.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}(whisper) About just then... {var:player_nickname}, why don't we tell everyone it's just a joke and skip the performance...

Th-This is strange. Why does it seem like Hana Ninomiya is becoming increasingly transparent? Could it be that she has become more transparent because of stage fright?!

{character:Nana Shiraishi}...What are you just standing there for?! Don't you speak first in the opening scene?

{character:player}Oh! You're right.

I need to make the first move. At this point, I can't let Hana Ninomiya run away from this stage where she will shine!

{character:player}Ahem... Sister Margaret has told me about the situation. Miss Miriam, you've come here to apply to be the governess here, right?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Y-Yes...

{character:player}Let me show you around the manor. Remember, there are some rooms you must not enter...

As I speak, I hold Hana Ninomiya's hand and walk around the courtyard like I'm showing her the rooms.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}You can do it, Hana! Now's the time to show off your beautiful singing!

{character:Kirara Fujimoto}Oh? There's even singing?!

{character:Eliisa}Liisa Liisa is looking forward to it!

Maybe the others can see that Hana Ninomiya has stage fright, so they all start cheering for her. With everyone's encouragement, Hana Ninomiya starts to act like herself again.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'm confident. Let them test me! I'm confident that I'll be in control of the world because I'm confident in myself!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'm confident in the sun. I'm confident in the rain... I believe spring will arrive as promised!

Her joyful singing merges with the wind, which makes the potted plants sway, as if they are paying tribute to the owner who has been taking care of them.

Just like how Hana Ninomiya wants to be a spark that lights up the world for the potted plants, I also hope to be a star that lights up her dreams...

{character:player}Ninomiya, you said you have a good memory. Since you've read it several times, I believe you know the lines by heart. This is a great advantage if you want to sign up for the part of the female lead.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I've said this many times already. I'm not thinking of signing up.

{character:player}Kana told me that you also took part in a stage play when you were in elementary school, and it was also "The House of Music."

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Then you should understand why I don't want to sign up. You only need to experience some things once in your life.

{character:player}I understand how you feel, but I've noticed that you've started to re-read the novel of "The House of Music" recently. If you really want to forget that unhappy experience, you should be trying to avoid everything related to it.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I just suddenly felt like reading it. There's no other reason.

Hana Ninomiya sounds a little impatient. She puts away her book and starts getting up to leave.

{character:player}Hold your horses, Ninomiya. I'm not trying to persuade you to sign up.

{character:player}I'm sorry for trying to persuade you to participate in the stage play without caring about your feelings. I even said something terrible like "it isn't like you to..."

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Actually, I should be apologizing to you instead. {var:player_nickname}, you kindly came to help me, yet I abandoned you here and left.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I know you and Nana were encouraging me with good intentions, but I...

{character:player}It's okay. Ninomiya, I respect your decision not to register for the stage play. Actually, if you want to perform in the stage play, you don't have to sign up as an actor.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}What are you saying?

{character:player}I watched other people's rehearsals of the stage play of "The House of Music" online and found that there are a lot of narrations. If it's the same for the version your class is performing, then it would also be good if you could be the narrator since you've got such a beautiful voice.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Oh, so that's what you're thinking. I'm sorry. I thought you were going to persuade me to sign up for the part again, so I subconsciously wanted to run away.

{character:player}I was going to persuade you to sign up for the role of the female lead, but... I decided to respect your decision in the end. You don't need to force yourself if you don't want to do it.

{character:player}I just think it's a shame if you don't participate in this stage play since you like it so much. I want you to enjoy this class activity as much as possible. Sign up to be the narrator, Ninomiya.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I can't decide now.

{character:player}Eh? Is it still too much to be the narrator?

Have her unpleasant memories of the past made her reject a stage play with this theme to such an extent?!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}{var:player_nickname}, although you say that I have a beautiful voice, that's just your subjective opinion. Also, it's useless to have just a beautiful voice if it doesn't have any emotions.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Unless... you're willing to be my audience and evaluate my narration performance after actually listening to it.

{character:player}I see what you mean. Sure thing!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Let's get on with it them.

As she speaks, Hana Ninomiya takes out the novel version of "The House of Music" from her bag. I knew it. She hasn't put this performance behind her completely.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I'll start narrating now...

In the courtyard, the wind carries Hana Ninomiya's voice into my ears, and the potted plants around me keep me company as I listen quietly to her gentle words.

This is truly a masterpiece. I can understand why Hana Ninomiya loves "The House of Music" so much.

I like it even more since the narrator has such a beautiful voice.

The scorching sun in the sky is so hot that it makes people sweat uncontrollably. The sound of singing cicadas can be heard in the near distance. Although they are noisy, the summer vacation won't feel the same without this sound.

During the summer vacation, not all students are able to hide leisurely from the heat at home with their air conditioners. Some clubs still have club activities during the vacation, and the gardening club is one of them. If the plants are left unattended during the summer vacation, everyone will be greeted with a terrible scene when school starts again.

Hana Ninomiya is the only member of the gardening club, and I can't bear to let her take care of the plants alone in the sweltering heat, so I also come to help her take care of the plants when I have time.

{character:player}Hmm, which potted plant did Ninomiya just say I shouldn't give too much water? I can't tell them apart since there are only a few small sprouting buds... Ninomiya, which of these two pots is the camellia?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...Sigh.

{character:player}Ninomiya?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Oh! {var:player_nickname}, did you just say something to me?

{character:player}Yeah, I asked you which of these two pots is the camellia.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's the one on your left. Sorry, my mind wandered and didn't hear you just then.

{character:player}No problem. Are you feeling unwell? Shall we take a break?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Okay.

I move two chairs over and put them under a tree with a lot of shade for Hana Ninomiya to rest for a while.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Ah...

Hana Ninomiya's condition improves after drinking some water. She shakes the bottle of her drink and stares at the liquid inside, but her eyes aren't really focusing on it. Lately, her mind wandered like this from time to time. Sometimes, she sighs secretly with a distressed look on her face, as if she is worried about something.

{character:player}Is something troubling you, Ninomiya?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...It's not actually a big deal. I'm just worried about the recruitment of new club members after school starts. The summer vacation ends in a few days, but I'm not ready for it yet.

{character:player}The gardening club is recruiting new members? That's a good thing. You won't have to do everything by yourself anymore, Ninomiya. You'll need to try harder to find more helpers.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I really will need to try harder. The vice president said that the gardening club will be shut down if we don't recruit any new members.

{character:player}That sounds really serious... Huh? Wait a minute, why are things suddenly so serious that the gardening club will need to be shut down?

Although I agree that Hana Ninomiya needs to find some more helpers, the gardening club's activities have always gone well, so there shouldn't be much impact even if no new members join for a while.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}The vice president has his own considerations, and what he's thinking is reasonable too... In short, I'll need to think of a way to recruit new members in the short amount of time remaining.

"What will happen to the potted plants if the gardening club is shut down?" I have a lot of questions like this to ask Hana Ninomiya, but I know it will only add to her stress if I ask them now. I guess I should help her think of a way to recruit new members first.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Hmm? {var:player_nickname}, your phone is vibrating.

I pull out my phone and look at the screen. Joseph sent me a text message.

{character:Joseph}(Text Message) Hi, partner! My flight wasn't delayed today. I'm already at the mahjong dojo!

{character:player}Oh... That's right, Joseph and I are supposed to meet at the mahjong dojo today.

Joseph and I agreed to play mahjong together after he comes back after finishing the filming of his show, and I was planning on meeting up with him after helping Hana Ninomiya today.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Have you made plans to play mahjong with someone? You should go if they've already arrived.

{character:player}But we haven't finished doing everything we need to do here today.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Don't worry. I asked Nana to meet up with me here. She'll help me.

{character:player}...Okay then. In that case, you should rest in the shade for a little longer. Be careful of heat stroke.

Although I'm still worried about member recruitment and want to help Hana Ninomiya think of some ideas before I leave, I better accept her kind intentions since she said I should go first.

I clean the dirt from my hands at a nearby sink. When I return to pack my things, I see Hana Ninomiya sitting there frowning while in a daze again.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}(whisper) How annoying... Things have been going well with just me anyway...

Am I thinking too much about this? It sounds like Hana Ninomiya isn't that interested in member recruitment.

Soon after I leave the gardening club, I see a familiar figure about to leave the school in the near distance.

{character:player}Vice president, are you also working overtime here during the vacation?

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Why are you here?

{character:player}The gardening club doesn't have enough people, so I've come to help out.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Oh, I see. Don't forget to register your departure time when you leave.

{character:player}W-Wait! Don't leave so quickly. There's something I want to ask you.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}My cousin needs to see me urgently, so make it quick.

{character:player}I also need to meet someone, so I'll get right to the point. Aren't you rushing too much with the gardening club's recruitment? I even heard that the gardening club will be shut down if no new members are recruited.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Asaha High School requires all clubs to meet a minimum member requirement before they can conduct activities. I'm just following the regulations.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}The recruitment period was already over when Ninomiya rebuilt the gardening club, so she was allowed to conduct club activities alone due to special circumstances. Now that the new semester is starting, she'll naturally need to recruit new members.

{character:player}But the recruitment of new members is something that depends on fate. Can you give her more time? Does it have to be resolved at the beginning of the semester?

{character:Ren Kisaragi}The beginning of the school semester is the best time to recruit new members. Do you think she'll be able to recruit new members if she misses this golden period?

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Since Ninomiya has rebuilt the gardening club, it's her duty as the club president to recruit more members and run the club smoothly. Since you've come to help her a few times, you should know very clearly that it's unrealistic for her to do everything in the club.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Isn't Ninomiya always saying that she wants to make herself more noticeable to others? However, based on her current situation, she's still one of those students who doesn't fit in. She won't manage to achieve what she wants by just working hard at the mahjong table while refusing to spend any effort on group activities of the club.

Although Ren Kisaragi is stating his rational views coldly, I can hear that he also cares about Hana Ninomiya in his own way.

Whether it is to share the workload of the club or expand her social circle to make herself more noticeable, like Ren Kisaragi said, it isn't a bad thing for Hana Ninomiya to recruit new members. However...

{character:player}I have another question. What has Ninomiya said about the recruitment of new members? Has she mentioned anything along the lines of... not wanting to recruit new members?

{character:Ren Kisaragi}No. I reminded her about this before the summer vacation started. She said she will think carefully about the recruitment of new members during the vacation.

{character:player}I see... Sorry, I ended up asking you about so many things.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}That's okay. If that's all, I'll be heading off first.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}...And remember to register your departure time.

{character:player}Is there something on my face that says "I won't register my departure time"?

Since Hana Ninomiya told Ren Kisaragi that she'll think carefully about the recruitment of new members, did she mumble that complaint to herself when I left because she is anxious about not being ready for the recruitment?

I guess that makes sense though. It is inevitable that she'll feel a little anxious as it's getting closer and closer to the start of the semester. It's been a while since the summer vacation started. If she discussed this with me earlier, we would have had more time to think of a solution.

{character:player}Anyway, it's useless to think about that now. I'll go online and search about recruitment-related matters after I get home tonight so I can give her some ideas when we meet next time.

During my break while helping out at the gardening club, I take out the notebook I brought with me.

{character:player}Ninomiya, what ideas have you got about the recruitment of new club members so far? If you haven't got any yet, we can discuss it while we're resting.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Eh? I-It's okay. This matter is quite troublesome, so I'll just take my time thinking about it. You've already given me a lot of help.

{character:player}It's easier to come up with ideas when there are more people thinking. There isn't much time until school starts again, so we should think of something now so that we can enjoy the rest of the vacation with peace of mind.

{character:player}I won't be able to come over and help out as much later, so you won't need to work so hard if you manage to recruit more members. I'll also feel more at ease.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...I understand.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}You're right... You can't come all the time. In fact, I've been causing you a lot of trouble all this time...

{character:player}Ninomiya?

A trace of disappointment flashes across Hana Ninomiya's face, but before I can think deeply about it, she turns to enter the clubroom and takes a laptop out of the room.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I've drawn a poster for the club recruitment over the last few days. Can you take a look at it for me?

{character:player}Okay, it's a good idea to use a poster to attract new students to learn more about the club... Eh?

Hmm... displayed on the screen is a poster that is somewhat confusing. The words "the gardening club is recruiting new members" are clearly visible, but... I can't seem to identify what is drawn on the poster.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}{var:player_nickname}, what... do you think about it?

Although I want to reply tactfully, the poster is the club's first impression for new students, so I decide to be honest.

{character:player}To be honest... I can't really tell what you've drawn.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's a girl who is wearing a dress and holding a sunflower. Look, here's the head, and here's the sunflower...

{character:player}Ohhhhh...

After hearing Hana Ninomiya's explanation, I am able to barely see a girl holding a sunflower instead of a girl who is wearing an apron and cooking with a slotted spoon...

Hana Ninomiya worked really hard to draw this poster for the club recruitment. I need to do my best to identify what it is and encourage her.

{character:player}Um... Is this a girl who is wearing an apron and cooking with a slotted spoon? Um... the art is quite... abstract... but what does it have to do with the gardening club?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}This is a girl who is wearing a dress and holding a sunflower.

{character:player}Er... R-Really?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Thank you for your objective evaluation. It looks like other people really won't be able to understand this poster...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Sigh... It's so hard trying to do this at the last minute. I've always had this problem. Everything looks so easy when I read about it in a book, but I always mess things up when I try to do it.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I guess it really is impossible to master drawing with a digital tablet after reading a few reference books...

{character:player}In all fairness, I think your way of thinking is quite disrespectful to art students. By the way, how much money did you spend on the digital tablet?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's a second-hand item I got from the online resale platform. I'll get rid of it tonight.

{character:player}That's a reasonable decision... Let's forget about the club poster for now. In the worst case scenario, I can ask a manga artist I know for help.

Even though procrastination is her greatest problem...

{character:player}In addition to the poster, you can also prepare some brochures to introduce the gardening club. It would be even better if we can make some promotional videos.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}About this, the reason I was meeting up with Nana here the other day was to make a promotional video. Do you want to see the video we made?

{character:player}Of course! Show me now.

Hana Ninomiya opens a video on the desktop of her laptop. The first thing I see is the gate of Asaha High School under a blue sky and white clouds.

This is Asaha High School, a place with beautiful mornings and sunny afternoons.

While listening to Hana Ninomiya's narration, the courtyard of the gardening club appears on the screen. Under the sun, the potted plants that have just been watered are exuding vitality...

When I saw this empty courtyard for the first time, I was a little uneasy because I was the only person there, but now that I have all these plants here, I can see exciting changes every day.

In the end, a few words appear slowly in the center of the screen: "We look forward to doing exciting club activities with you! Come join us at the Asaha High School gardening club."

{character:Hana Ninomiya}What do you think about this promotional video?

{character:player}It's quite good and looks decent, but... why couldn't I see you in the video at all?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I did appear in it. Look, that's me...

I look at where Hana Ninomiya is pointing and see her hands appear momentarily while she loosens the soil and her ankle appear momentarily while she waters the flowers... In short, there is no clear shot of her in the video. The last time I watched a video so seriously was when I was looking for ghosts in the corner of a video about paranormal things...

{character:player}Ninomiya, don't you think the promotional video would be more effective if you appear on the screen and interact with plants?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Nana also said that, but I think that it's best to focus on plants since the video is meant to promote the gardening club. It's also a way to present the results of our efforts.

{character:player}Um... You have a point.

{character:player}Well, since we have a promotional video, we just need to draw a new poster and prepare some gifts for member recruitment.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}It's getting late. Why don't we finish up with the rest of the work first? We can discuss member recruitment when we eat later.

{character:player}You're right. I'll turn off your computer first then... Hmm? What's this Promotional Video 2 in the playlist? Did you make other videos?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Ah! No! Y-You're not allowed to watch that one!

Before Hana Ninomiya can finish speaking, I already started playing the file called Promotional Video 2. She leans over and uses the touchpad in a hurry to try to stop the video but fails. In the end, she holds my face and turns it to one side.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}L-Look somewhere else! This video won't be used!

{character:player}Ninomiya, don't you know that telling someone they aren't allowed to do something only makes them want to do it more...?

I struggle to get a clear look at the screen. "Hana, don't be shy. Come here and say a few words to the camera." In the video, Hana Ninomiya, who is wearing a white dress, is pushed in front of the camera by Nana Shiraishi. She blushes as she picks up the microphone and stutters as she says something related to the recruitment. At the same time, she rubs the hem of her skirt from time to time with her other hand because she doesn't know what to do with it. She looks so cute when she is embarrassed like this.

{character:player}By the way, I saw a white cloth flash by in the corner of the other video a few times. Were you also wearing this dress in that video?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Nana said that it isn't necessary to rigidly wear the school uniform since this is a promotional video, so I brought a new dress I bought recently... But I didn't feel comfortable wearing plain clothes in the video, so I have no intention to use this video.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}O-Okay! You've already seen it. You can turn it off now...

Haha! So the reason she doesn't want me to see this video is because she is embarrassed. It's such a shame. As I thought, Hana Ninomiya is quite attractive if she just dresses up a little bit. This Promotional Video 2 should be quite effective as a promotional video, but it's better to not use it if she doesn't want to use it.

{character:player}This video has given me some inspiration. Ninomiya, if we take a screenshot of this part where you're hugging a sunflower, we can print this and use it as our poster.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Um... Wouldn't that be strange?

{character:player}Of course not. Your cuteness combined with the vibrant plants in the promotional video will definitely attract lots of new members. This is great! You don't need to worry about the poster now.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I think you're being too optimistic. I wouldn't be such a transparent person if all it takes to catch people's attention is a change of clothes... By the way, why do you seem more excited about our progress than me?

{character:player}You'll be able to take it easy after you manage to recruit some new members. You'll also be able to make new friends, so of course I'm happy for you. But...

{character:player}But if you don't want to recruit any new members at this time, you also don't need to force yourself.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Eh? Why would you say that?

{character:player}When I was about to leave after washing my hands last time, I heard you say something like "things have been going well with just me anyway." Also, when I told you we would be discussing member recruitment today, you didn't look very happy either.

{character:player}It's also been a while since the summer vacation started, so you probably would've started preparing sooner if you really wanted to recruit new members. That's why I started thinking that you didn't really want to.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I didn't expect you to hear my complaining... I was so busy being worried that day that I didn't notice you were beside me.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Sigh... You're right. I really don't want to recruit any new members in the near future.

I'm guessing that the reason Hana Ninomiya doesn't want to recruit new members is related to having new interpersonal relationships.

She once said that the president of the gardening club she was in during junior high school had social anxiety disorder. As far as I know, Hana Ninomiya doesn't have social anxiety disorder, but dealing with new interpersonal relationships is a problem for most people. As the president, she'll need to consider how to communicate with others and how to create a good atmosphere in the club, which will inevitably make her feel stressed.

But this is just my guess. Only Hana Ninomiya will know the real reason. But since she hasn't told me, it isn't necessary for me to ask her either. I just hope she won't force herself to face a difficult situation because of the school's regulations.

{character:player}You agreed directly when Ren Kisaragi talked to you about this matter. Why didn't you tell him what you really think?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I know the vice president told me to recruit new members because he cares about me and the club, so I couldn't really say no to him at that time. Also, you know what the vice president is like... The gardening club's current situation is already a violation of the school regulations. At that time, I just couldn't tell him that I didn't want to recruit new members.

{character:player}Well, it's not too late now. Shall we try to talk to Ren Kisaragi about this?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Haha... Do you think you'll be able to convince him to let the gardening club continue like this? I'm glad that you understand how I feel about this, but I suggest that you give up on doing something that is impossible.

{character:player}You seem to have a misunderstanding. I didn't say that the gardening club won't recruit new members.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Huh? What do you mean?

{character:player}In a moment like this, we need to thank our predecessors for being so wise. Hehe, I've thought of a good idea...

On the next day, Hana Ninomiya and I go to the student council office to look for Ren Kisaragi with two other people.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Vice president, these two are new members I've recruited. The gardening club doesn't need to recruit any new members, so I want to remove the gardening club's recruitment booth at the beginning of the semester.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}These... are your so-called new members?

Ren Kisaragi looks at Nana Shiraishi and Eliisa standing beside us, then he stares at me.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}This is your idea?

{character:player}This is the best outcome that Ninomiya and I came up with after discussing this matter. Isn't that right?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Y-Yes.

My idea is to copy what Usumi Ishihara did to save the pastry club - find people to become nominal members of the gardening club.

Naturally, Ren Kisaragi sees right through my little ploy. A look of obvious annoyance appears on the vice president's face. Evidently, he has recalled some unpleasant memories.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}Is the gardening club planning on changing its name to the problem children club? I hope you're not intentionally making trouble for me when I'm at my busiest.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Hey! Vice president, that doesn't sound very nice. Liisa Liisa and I are serious about joining the gardening club. I often help out at the gardening club, you know.

{character:Eliisa}Y-Yeah! Liisa Liisa and Shaun are looking forward to joining the gardening club!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}H-Hold on! Eliisa, the potted plants in the club are not for eating. Some of the plants are bad for Shaun's health!

{character:Eliisa}You don't need to worry about that, Hana. Shaun just likes to play in a place where there are lots of plants... I think.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}...Even if they are serious about joining the club, each club needs at least four members.

{character:player}Do honorary members count?

{character:Ren Kisaragi}What do you think? Also, at least one of the members must be a new student in their first year of high school.

{character:player}Oh, that's not a problem. She's almost here.

{character:Ransei}I'm sorry, Master. I was held up by something.

Ransei arrives just as I mention her. Everyone we contacted last night has arrived.

{character:player}The new semester hasn't started yet, so Ransei is still a first-year student. There's nothing else you can pick on now, right?

{character:Ren Kisaragi}...The school allocates limited funds to clubs every year, so I won't allow any clubs that don't conduct activities seriously to exist. Ninomiya, can you guarantee that these people will participate in club activities properly?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Vice president, please let me apologize to you first. I'm really sorry about this. I should have started preparing to recruit new students right after I rebuilt the gardening club, but I've dragged it out until now. I know that you only asked me to start recruiting new members because you care about me and the gardening club. Thank you for that.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Although Nana and Eliisa are new to gardening, they are both my good friends. As fellow problem children, we often end up doing physical labor together voluntarily when we get punished, so I don't need to worry about our tacit understanding at least. I'll take responsibility for teaching them gardening knowledge.

{character:Ren Kisaragi}It's your freedom to maintain your current social circle, but have you considered what will happen to the gardening club after you graduate?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I know what you're worried about, but I'm not mentally ready for it yet. If I face my new juniors who join the club with a half-hearted attitude, I don't think I'll be a good club president.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's why I hope you can give me some more time. I'll do my best to prepare myself for the club recruitment in the next semester!

{character:Ren Kisaragi}...Don't forget what you just said. I'll be watching the gardening club's activities closely this semester.

{character:player}(whisper) Phew... this matter is over now.

And so, the matter of the gardening club's member recruitment was put on hold for now. Nana Shiraishi and the others say goodbye to us and leave one after the other. As it's still early, Hana Ninomiya and I decide to go back to the gardening club to loosen the soil of the potted plants and water them.

{character:player}Although they're only nominal members, since they've joined the club now, don't go easy on them, Ninomiya. Make them do some work. Who knows when Ren Kisaragi will come here to conduct an inspection.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Don't forget that you promised to buy each of them milk tea for a whole week to thank them for helping.

{character:player}All the more reason to make them come and work then! If they don't, the money I spend on buying them milk tea will be wasted!

If there are only two people, it'll be very busy even if there are only simple tasks to do.

But... when I look at the smile on Hana Ninomiya's face, I think it would be nice if this time that belongs only to the two of us lasts for just a little longer...

{character:player}Maybe I'm thinking too much about it, but Ninomiya, do you... actually not want to recruit new members?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Eh... You... How did you find out?

{character:player}When I was about to leave after washing my hands last time, I heard you say something like "things have been going well with just me anyway." That gave me a vague feeling that this might be the case. Anyway, your words indicate that I'm right about this.

{character:player}Ninomiya, are you worried that you might not get along with the new members of the club?

How to manage interpersonal relationships with newcomers is difficult both at school and in the workplace. As the president, Hana Ninomiya will need to consider how to communicate with others and how to create a good atmosphere in the club, which will inevitably make her feel stressed.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Well... I've always been doing everything at the gardening club by myself. It's a lot of work to take care of flowers and plants, and I'm worried that my juniors will think I'm annoying. I also don't know whether I'll be a good president who can lead my juniors to complete club activities smoothly.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}But these troubles will only exist if we manage to recruit new members. Maybe no one will notice me when we are recruiting new members. That would be embarrassing, and...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}What will I do if you never come back again...

Hana Ninomiya is sitting down against the wall and hugging her knees with her hands while looking at me slightly sadly. Her words and her attitude leave me a little confused.

{character:player}Why would you think that I would never come back again?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I know that you're proactively helping me think of ideas to recruit new members because you want to find other people to share my burden. I know you have good intentions...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}But I can't help but wonder... if you're so eager to find other people to help me because you think that helping me with the gardening club is too troublesome...

{character:player}Um... Ninomiya, you're worried about nothing. I'll come to help you as long as you ask me to.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}I know I'm worried about nothing, but...! Once we recruit new gardening club members, I'll definitely get fewer opportunities to spend time alone with you like this...

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Although it's very tiring to take care of the plants all the time, when I get to be busy with you during the vacation like this, I feel happy no matter how tough it is. After all... we have so many shared memories here... I-I really feel very happy...

...Yes, we have a lot of shared memories here. We have been busy here, been happy here, and even had one of our very few conflicts here. However, that conflict brought us closer to each other.

{character:player}I also feel very happy that I have been able to tend to these flowers and plants here with you, Ninomiya. I dare say that I know better than anyone else how much effort you've put into tending to them... That's precisely why I think it's such a pity.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Such a pity?

{character:player}I want to let more new students of Asaha High School know that they have a senpai called Hana Ninomiya who rebuilt the abandoned gardening club and single-handedly made these potted plants bloom so beautifully.

Just like how beautiful plants should not be buried, a girl as outstanding as Hana Ninomiya deserves to be known to more people.

{character:player}I promise you that I'll still come here to help out from time to time even if the club manages to recruit new members. We can let the club members take a break from club activities during school vacations, then we'll be able to take care of everything by ourselves like we are doing now.

{character:player}Trust me, Ninomiya. There will be a lot of time that belongs exclusively to us in the future.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}...You better keep your word.

{character:player}Yes! It's a promise!

I hope this promise will give Hana Ninomiya the courage to keep moving forward and make a fresh start...

Time flies like an arrow. The summer vacation ends in the blink of an eye, and even the first week of school has passed.

After school on Friday, I ask Nana Shiraishi and Hana Ninomiya to meet me at a restaurant so I can ask them how the recruitment of new gardening club members has been going.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Junior, your idea is great! The effect of using the photo of Hana in that dress as the poster is amazing!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}Geez... Should I say that it was too effective...? All the boys who came at the beginning were only interested in asking about the girl in the photo.

{character:Nana Shiraishi}I get so angry when you mention that. Hana was sitting right in front of them... Are they blind?!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}The shop {var:player_nickname} found is so unreliable. They went overboard with the editing.

{character:player}I feel wronged! I only asked the shop to enlarge that photo and print it.

All I can say is that Hana Ninomiya really is a lot prettier in a dress, especially when she is smiling brightly like in the photo, which makes her look completely different.

I hope she can also smile so kindly at the mahjong table next time.

{character:player}What happened in the end? Did you manage to recruit any new members?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}We recruited three juniors who are interested in the gardening club and managed to meet the minimum member requirement.

{character:player}How are you getting along with the new members?

{character:Nana Shiraishi}Speaking of this, hehe, I never realized that Hana is such a natural at being the president. I heard that she scared one of the juniors so badly that she started crying on the first day.

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's not true! I... I just got a little anxious when I spoke because I didn't think she was using the right method. I apologized to her afterwards! I'll be more careful next time...

{character:player}You're still an inexperienced club president after all. You'll need more time to get used to this identity. You can do it, President Ninomiya!

{character:Hana Ninomiya}By the way, {var:player_nickname}, do you have the time to come to the club tomorrow?

{character:player}Sure thing. What do you need me for? Is there a lot to do now that school has started again?

{character:Hana Ninomiya}That's not it. I want to introduce you to our juniors. After all, you're... an honorary member of our gardening club! Other than me, you're the most reliable person, so we'll be relying on you to help out when I'm not available!

{character:player}Whoa... You're even going to introduce me properly. I'm getting nervous now since it sounds so serious.

But since this is the club president's request, there's no reason for me, an honorary member of the gardening club, to say no, right?