Promessa | Hajime/Tsukasa CTS Gacha

Tsukasa: No, nothing like that. I'm a senior now, and have taken on the responsibility of student council treasurer this year. As a senior, I want to set an example for our underclassmen so I thought I'd do some studying.

Hajime: Wow, how admirable! I can't believe you're already in studying mode. I'm also a member of the student council this year so I'd better follow your lead, Suou-kun.

I say this, but I have to sort books for the library today so it's a bit tough right now…

Tsukasa: Ah, my sincere apologies. I'm getting in the way of your work, aren't I?

Hajime: No no, not at all. Rather, I'm happy you spoke with me.

We usually don't have many people here so it gets a little lonely.

Tsukasa: Is that so? For such few readers, there seem to be a lot of returned books…

Hajime: Ahaha, the truth is, I've been busy with work since before spring break so I didn't have many chances to be in the library room. Therefore I couldn't sort the returned books and they've piled up until today.

Tsukasa: I see now. You're the vice president as well as a member of the library committee - it's only natural that you'd be busier than ever. If it's alright, could I lend a hand?

I could take half of the books you're carrying right no- woah!?

Hajime: Wawah-!? Are you alright, Suou-kun!

Tsukasa: No, I was just surprised because I didn't expect it to be this heavy.

That said, Hajime-kun, you… I mean, isn't that heavy? I could barely lift half of it myself.

Hajime: Yes, it's no problem for me. I'm pretty strong, you know ♪

Hup!

Tsukasa: (He easily picked up the same amount I couldn't hold and dropped!?)

Hajime: You don't have to worry about helping me, Suou-kun. It wouldn't be right to interfere with your study.

Tsukasa: I-is that right… Then, I'll behave and study today. However, please call out for me if you meet any trouble, alright?

I was just in a bad shape today, but usually I'd be able to carry that much with no problem!

Hajime: Yes, thank you very much ♪

[An hour later]

Tsukasa: Fuu, I've just about covered the material for the next class. Let's take a little break, shall we?

Hajime-kun is… oh?

Hajime: H~mm…

Tsukasa: Hajime-kun. You're not looking so good; what's the matter?

Hajime: Ah, Suou-kun. Did I interrupt your study?

Tsukasa: Not at all. I was just about to take a break so don't worry.

More importantly, why did you have such a troubled look on your face?

Hajime: Umm… The truth is, I noticed that there are some books which haven't been returned even though their deadlines have passed.

Tsukasa: That is inexcusable! It's the library's rule that borrowed items must be returned by their due dates.

Students who break the rules should be banned from setting foot into the library!

Hajime: P-please calm down, Suou-kun. It's quite common for books to be overdue.

If we go so far as banning people for it, then there will really be nobody using the library room~!

Tsukasa: Argh… But, rules should be enforced…

Hajime: That may be true, but the problem could be solved just by asking for the books to be returned.

Our job as student library assistants is to make the library accessible for everyone to enjoy reading. Taking away those opportunities would be misplacing our priorities.

Tsukasa: I understand; It is as you say, Hajime-kun. I hadn't thought of it like that.

But if that's the case, what were you worried about? Is it not just a matter of asking for the books to be returned?

Hajime: …To be honest, one of the unreturned books is being borrowed by a graduate.

Tsukasa: A graduate!? In other words, that person is definitely not coming back to return the book!

To brazenly thieve from the school's community property, how shameless! Unforgiveable!

Since you know that the book was unreturned, you also have record of who borrowed it, right?

Who is the culprit!? They must be reprimanded and made to apologise!

Hajime: Ah- ahaha. Actually, it's… Kagehira-senpai, you know.

Tsukasa: To think that the culprit is Kagehira-senpai… No, there shall be no room for allowances even for an acquaintance. Let us go to urge him to return it at once!

Chapter Two

Mika, Ritsu, Tsukasa, Hajime

Mika: (yawning) Hooaaah…

Ritsu: That was a big yawn, Mikarin. Did you stay up all night working on a project?

Mika: Nnagh~ M'bad, Ritsu-kun. I couldn't hold m'self back.

It's not 'cuz of an all-nighter, I think 'm just jet-lagged still.

Ritsu: You've been flying back and forth between Japan and France lately for that 'Oshi-san'-san of yours, haven't you?

Mika: That's right. Although, I hope the jetlag goes away soon.

Ritsu: But, aren't you sleepy right now, Mikarin? It's no good to push yourself too hard~

Forcing yourself too much is poison to your body, you know? Come on, let's take a nap today… ♪

Mika: Urgh~... This always ends up happenin'. I feel like ma jetlag just keeps gettin' worse 'n worse 'cuz o' ya invitin' me t' nap with ya all the time, Ritsu-kun.

Yeah, that's definitely it. If this keeps up, Ritsu-kun's gonna turn me into someone who can't do anythin' at all!

Today, I'm not gonna give into temptation! I'll be productive! I'm not gonna lose to sleepiness~ !

Ritsu: Impressive, aren't you~? Well then, I won't get in your way. I'll just nap here by myself…

Tsukasa (voice): Kagehira-senpai! I know you're in there, so please open the door at once!

Mika: Nnagh-!? Ain't that voice Tsukasa-kun's? Why's he here all'uva sudden?

Ritsu: Ugh, Su~chan's voice is so loud, all my sleepiness flew away.

Hajime: Ahaha, please excuse us. Sorry for interrupting your rest…

Mika: So Hajime-kun is here too. What's goin' on, you two? Do ya need me for somethin'?

Hajime: Kagehira-senpai, you borrowed a book from the school before graduation, right? We're here to retrieve it from you.

Mika: Eh? A book from school?

Tsukasa: Correct! There is also evidence remaining in the loan records that you borrowed the book. You understand, right? So please return it now!

Mika: ……

Tsukasa: What is the matter? Please hurry up and return the book.

I can't believe I'm saying this, but you don't think that you could keep the book to yourself by playing stupid, do you?

Mika: No no, I'm not thinkin' anythin' like that at all!? I just completely forgot what I was borrowin'…

Hajime: It's as I thought. Since it's Kagehira-senpai, I figured it was just a matter of forgetfulness.

Mika: Yep, I'm really sorry. I've been a little busy, so it might'a just fell outta ma head?

Tsukasa: The other graduate students were also busy. You don't get any special treatment, Kagehira-senpai.

Ritsu-senpai, you think so too, right? As a fellow graduate. Please give him a stern word!

Ritsu: Yup yup, when you're busy, even important things might slip your mind, right? I'm on Mikarin's side~

Tsukasa: Nnagh-!? Why do you say so, Ritsu-senpai!? Will you not take the side of your fellow in Knights?

Ritsu: I'm just speaking as someone who also understands Mikarin's feelings.

Besides, he's properly remorseful so I don't believe there's any need for me to reproach him.

Right, Mikarin?

Mika: ……

Ritsu: Hm? What's wrong, Mikarin? Why the long face?

Mika: Nnagh~ Somethin's kinda botherin' me…

Hey Hajime-kun, did I really not return the book I borrowed?

Hajime: Eh? What do you mean?

Tsukasa: Are you trying to make excuses? Didn't I say that there was proof in the loan records?

Humbly turn yourself in. I won't forgive any further defiance!

Mika: Y-yeah. That's right. There's proof an' all, huh… I guess I was mistaken?

Hajime: …? Umm, anyway, you'll be off the hook once we receive the book you borrowed.

Honestly, I should probably be giving you a warning as a member of the library committee, but Suou-kun has said enough.

Tsukasa: Good grief. You're too soft, Hajime-kun. In my opinion, you have to say everything exactly as it needs to be said.

Hajime: Ah- ahaha… Pardon me.

Mika: Ya don't hafta apologise, Hajime-kun. It's all ma fault this time.

Mika: Anyway, I've gotta return the book as quick as possible. Erm, where could I have put it…?

Under the desk? Not there. Not in ma bag either. In the drawer?

Nope, not here either… Huh? Huhh?

Chapter Three

Tsukasa, Mika, Hajime, Ritsu

Tsukasa: -- You lost the book!?

Mika: Yeah. I'm really sorry…

Tsukasa: I can't believe it…! To think that Kagehira-senpai was such a dishonest person…

Hajime: N-now now, Suou-kun. There's no need to be so harsh…

Tsukasa: On the contrary, why are you so calm, Hajime-kun? As a member of the library committee, shouldn't you be the most outraged?

Hajime: U-um…

Ritsu: That's just because Su~chan got angry before Ha~kun so he can't get angry anymore, right?

In the first place, you're not in the library committee, so why are you so invested?

Tsukasa: It's true that I'm not a part of the library committee, but I am a member of Biblion.

As a person who loves reading, I can't overlook it when somebody doesn't treat books with care. I demand that he be punished accordingly!

Ritsu: Punishment, huh… That's not for you to decide when you're not a member of the library committee. Right, Ha~kun?

Hajime: Eh? Ah, um… "Punishment" would certainly be overdoing it a little…

Tsukasa: You're too soft, Hajime-kun! Kagehira-senpai broke the library's rules, so as a student library assistant, you should strictly reprimand him!

Hajime: Th-that's true. It was the school's money that went into purchasing the book, after all.

And since you lost the item, I'd have to ask you to compensate for it. Kagehira-senpai, is that alright with you…?

Mika: 'Course it is. ‘M the one who lost the book in the first place, so I'll properly repent an' pay fer it.

Ritsu: No no, you're giving up too quickly, Mikarin~ Repenting aside, I think it's too early to resign yourself to paying for it.

Mika: Eh? But I couldn't find it even after searchin' so hard…

Ritsu: You've only looked around this room a little. Surely you can look elsewhere too? There's got to be places that come to mind.

Of course, I could be wrong and it'd just end up being a pointless diversion.

Mika: Nnagh~ That's true… Then, I'll try ta think o' someplace to look fer it in.

Hajime-kun and Tsukasa-kun, is that alright with y'all?

Tsukasa: I don't mind as long as you're going to return the book. As for the due date, that's up to Hajime-kun to decide…

Hajime: Don't worry about it. I don't think there's been any loan requests for the book you borrowed so far.

Leaving that aside, I'll help you look for it, Kagehira-senpai.

Mika: Eh- Are ya sure? I thought this'd be my punishment fer losin' the book…

Hajime: I don't intend on punishing you. You seem properly sorry and all.

Besides, the more hands we have helping out, the sooner we’ll be able to find the book ♪

Tsukasa: Hrm. In that case, it'd be irresponsible of me to flap my lips while sitting back, so I'll help too.

Mika: Tsukasa-kun, Hajime-kun… Thank ya kindly. I'll definitely find that missing book.

Ritsu: Mhm. It's great that you've found the willpower to not give up and keep on searching.

By the way, why did you double-check with Ha~kun back then? After being told that you hadn't returned the book, you asked again whether you really hadn't returned it?

Hajime: Ah, I thought that was a little strange too. You said that you were mistaken back then…

Mika: Ahh, yeah. I dunno why, but I felt like I'd returned all ma borrowed books.

Tsukasa: Is that so. You're not making excuses, are you?

Mika: 'M not. Since it wasn't returned to the school, I musta just thought that I'd returned it.

Ritsu: No, it's better not to disregard that kind of feeling as just your imagination. You never know if it could be an unexpected clue to finding the missing book.

Tsukasa: A clue, huh. Be that as it may, what kind of clue could such a flimsy feeling become…?

Hajime: Ah-! It's just a guess, but could Kagehira-senpai have been reading it in the bookroom?

If that's the case, there could be the possibility that he mistakenly returned it to the bookroom after reading.

Mika: Ah-! That's right, I was reading that book in the bookroom!

Ritsu: …See? Just like that, Su~chan. Not so useless now, was it?

Tsukasa: Tch… Certainly, that seems to be the case. For the time being, let's head over to the book room.

Ritsu: I'll stay back and search this room a little more. Like I said earlier, I could be wrong.

Mika: Thank ya kindly, Ritsu-kun. Ya can leave the bookroom to us!

Chapter Four

Tori, Mika, Hajime, Tsukasa

Tori: …… (Reading manga in the corner)

Eh-? It ended right here! I'm so curious about what comes next!

Is the next volume in the bookroom? I'll be left in limbo if I have to stop here!

Oops, I can't be too loud. If Yuzuru's around, my hiding place would get found out…

Tori: ( Fufu, this spot is perfect for hiding from Yuzuru to read manga.

If I were in my room, I'd have to listen to Yuzuru's grumbling. Even now, he still doesn't approve of me reading manga…

Here, I can make the excuse that I was reading books, and there's manga on the shelves too. )

Tori: It's like this place was made for me to read manga~ ♪

Mika: Hm? Is there someone in here?

Tori: Eek-!? D-did I get found out!?

Hajime: Tori-kun? What are you doing in this corne… Are you reading manga?

Tori: Oh, it's just Kagehira-senpai and Hajime. I got scared 'cuz I thought it was Yuzuru.

I heard that the bookroom received new manga, so I came here to check it out~

Tsukasa: So why did you have to read it in that corner? It's bad manners, Tori-kun.

Tori: Eugh, Tsukasa's here too?

Tsukasa: What do you mean, "eugh"? Your bad manners show through time and time again…

No... My bad, I shouldn't have expected proper manners from the nouveau riche.

After all, despite the lovely chairs and desks in the room, this person reads while cramming himself into a corner. It's only natural that he has no sense of decorum.

Tori: Haah? This guy just says anything he wants if you let him, huh?

I'm free to read manga wherever and however I want, aren't I? I'm not bothering anyone else.

Ah, eww. This is why I hate kids who only have their lineage to boast of. All they do is nitpick others and act like it's a victory.

It can't be helped, can it? If they don't, they wouldn't have anything to pride themselves in over the rest of us.

Tsukasa: Arghh! How many times have you slandered the Suou clan by now? I will not pardon it this time!

Tori: The feeling's mutual. I finally got to enjoy reading my manga, until you came along and ruined it!

Mika: Uh- uhm… I-it's no good ta fight, you two. Simmer down, okay~ ?

Tori: I am calm. Tsukasa's the one kicking up a fuss as he pleases.

Tsukasa: Don't paint me as the only villain! In the first place, it only started because Tori-kun was insolent towards me--

Hajime: ( I-I have to stop their quarrel. This space is supposed to be like the library, after all.

Besides, just as Suou-kun says, I need to say things as they need to be said… )

Y-you two! Be quiet in the bookroom, please!

Tori: Woah-! It's rare for you to raise your voice, Hajime…

Tsukasa: Tsk… But, Hajime-kun, Tori-kun's conduct is intolerable! Being engrossed in manga while remaining in front of the shelves, it's a nuisance to other people.

Hajime: That's true, it's as Suou-kun says. Tori-kun, please remember not to obstruct other people's use of facilities.

Tori: Tsk~ …But, I won't do it anymore if you say so. Sorry.

Tsukasa: Hmph. As long as you get it! Good grief, Tori-kun, no matter how much time passes-

Hajime: You too, Suou-kun. Even if it was to give Tori-kun a warning, raising your voice in the book room is a breach of manners.

Please think of the people around us and refrain from quarreling, okay?

Tsukasa: Uuh… Yes, please excuse me.

Tori: Pfft, Tsukasa made Hajime angry! Serves you right~ ♪

Tsukasa: Aren't you in the same position!?

Hajime: Suou-kun, Tori-kun…

Tori: I-I'm sorry. So don't make such a sad face, Hajime…

Tsukasa: Y-yes. We won't fight anymore, so…

Mika: Ooh~ Yer amazin', Hajime-kun! Ya managed ta stop their fightin'.

Hajime: Th-that's not true… I also ended up startling everybody with my sudden outburst, sorry.

Tsukasa: No, more importantly, let's hurry up and search for the book! That was our original goal when we came to the book room, so let's just forget about Tori-kun.

Tori: Gr… Are you trying to leave me out or something? How aggravating!

It seems that you three are looking for a book, but, what exactly are you looking for? I'm free right now, so why don't I lend a hand?

Mika: R'lly? I owe ya one! Truth is, I'm in a bit uva tight spot right now.

Tori: Hmm. So Kagehira-senpai lost a library book, huh. It'd be a problem for me too if we don't find it.

Tsukasa: Why would you be troubled? What happens with the library isn't so much your concern, is it?

Tori: I have a lot to do with it! Hey Tsukasa, do you know who the current student council president of Yumenosaki Academy is?

Tsukasa: Of course I know. I have my reservations, but it's you, no?

Tori: Precisely! Right now, the student council president of Yumenosaki Academy is me, Tori Himemiya. And as such, it's no overstatement to say that e~verything that belongs to the school also belongs to me ♪

Tsukasa: That is an overstatement…

Tori: Nope, it's not an overstatement. Everything in the school is a precious asset entrusted to me by Eichi-sama and Isara-senpai.

That's why, losing something precious of mine would be a great sin.

Kagehira-senpai, how will you atone for such a sin~ ?

Mika: E-eek~ 'M super sorry! I'll definitely find it so please fergive me~ !

Tori: Ahaha, I kid, I kid. But, I meant it about having stakes in the situation. I'm also serious about inheriting from Eichi-sama and Isara-senpai.

So, as the Yumenosaki Academy student council president, allow me to search for the book with you. You can thank me later ♪

Chapter Five

Mika, Tori, Hajime, Tsukasa

[A couple dozen minutes later]

Mika: No~pe… Not in here~ How did ya go, Tori-kun?

Tori: It doesn't seem to be here either. On top of that, my eyes are blinking a lot from having to properly examine every book.

Hajime: I know what you mean - our eyes get tired, right? I also sometimes have to blink a lot and would have a hard time shelving.

Tsukasa: Please move your hands rather than your mouths. This isn't time for chit-chat, is it?

Tori: Ugh, Tsukasa's as naggy as ever… So, what about you, huh? Did you find the book?

Tsukasa: …It was fruitless on my end as well.

Mika: I see… Then, we were wrong 'bout the book bein' misplaced here?

Hajime: This place has a library's worth of books in and of itself, so it could just be that we haven't found it yet.

Tori: Just checking again, the book would have a stamp at the back indicating that it belongs to Yumenosaki Academy, right?

Hajime: Yes. All the books shelved in the school library should have the stamp.

Also, the bookroom’s books have labels stuck to their spines, so you can tell them apart by that difference too.

Tsukasa: In the first place, do you not remember whereabout you were when you returned the book, Kagehira-senpai?

Mika: 'Twas a good while ago so ma memory's fuzzy. I wouldn'ta remembered 'bout readin' in the bookroom either if Hajime-kun hadn't mention it.

Tsukasa: If that's the case, how about we try prodding into your memories?

As for me, my first question would be: Why would you have accidentally returned a book, which you borrowed from the library, to the book room?

It shouldn't be a mistake one would normally make, right? Which leads me to believe that there must have been a particular cause.

Mika: That's true. Maybe I could recall somethin' if we do it like this.

What I borrowed was a newly-stocked art book from the library; I was reading it in the library at first.

The book was so good, ta the point where I could recommend it to Oshi-san too. I found it ta be a real worthwhile read, and I couldn't finish it then, so I borrowed it and went back ta the dorms.

I think I was still itchin' ta keep readin' when I got back, so I immediately went ta the bookroom and got immersed in it again!

Tori: No wait, we don't really need your thoughts on the book…

Hajime: Ahaha. Well, the things that are memorable to Kagehira-senpai are a start. You never know, they might trigger some memories.

Tsukasa: Exactly. So, what did you after that, Kagehira-senpai?

Mika: Wait. I did finish readin' it right there, and I feel like somethin' happened while I was relishin' in the aftermath…

Ah, I remember now. I got a call from Oshi-san and let out a loud cry in surprise!

There were other people in the bookroom then, so it was r'lly embarassin'...

Tori: I get it~ One time, I had just finished enjoying a manga volume when I realised Yuzuru was standing right behind me, so I screamed out loud.

Tsukasa: What a pathetic annecdote. I'm embarassed to even be next to you.

Tori: Shut up! Why don’t you take a look in the mirror? Your Knights seniors complain to me all the time about how you stuff your face with sweets!

Tsukasa: I-I've been reflecting and practising restraint so there's no problem!

Hajime: Shhhh! I don't want to keep telling you off for the same thing.

Tsukasa: M-my apologies… More importantly, we should be talking about Kagehira-senpai.

From Kagehira-senpai's account, we can assume that he was still in possession of the book when he received the call from Itsuki-senpai, correct?

Tori: Mmm… He might've put the book elsewhere while distracted?

Hajime: Maybe he haphazardly shelved it somewhere while he was panicked in the moment. If that's the case, we'd also have a reason for why he 'felt like he had returned the book'.

Mika: I guess that might've happened. I couldn't tell ya anythin' useful though…

Tsukasa: No, that's not true. You gave us quite a few hints.

Mika: Eh, really?

Tsukasa: Yes. After all, there were witnesses during the moment you put the book away, right? Since you said that you were embarassed by your outcry because there were other people in the book room with you.

Mika: Yer right! That bein' the case, we could figure out where the book went by hearin' from the witnesses!

Tori: Hurry up and tell us who they are, then. They might be in their rooms right now!

Mika: Nnagh~ Well, um, I can't remember.

It was a long time ago, and I was so embarrased I didn't r'lly look anybody in the face…

Ah, but, I feel like there was somebody with glasses…?

Tsukasa: That alone is sufficient for a clue. There's only a limited amount of people who use glasses, after all.

For the time being, let us interrogate some glasses-wearers.

Chapter Six

Tsukasa, Hajime, Tori, Mika, Tsumugi, Makoto

Tsukasa: --Hm. It seems that Hasumi-senpai is absent.

Hajime: Yes. Since Hasumi-senpai is the resident advisor, I thought that he might be entrusted with handling displaced books, but that's too bad.

Tori: Well, if it was given to Hasumi-senpai, surely he'd have recognised that it was from the school and would have handed it over to you, his roommate.

Hajime: I agree. I figured that he probably wasn't holding on to it, but it would have been nice to check just in case.

Also, I thought that we could ask Hasumi-senpai, as resident advisor, to use the general communications to ask everybody in the dorms about the book so I sent him the request.

Tori: As expected of Hajime! You're attentive to those sorts of details, aren't you~

Hajime: No, no, don't credit me or anything. Those are just things that Hasumi-senpai has told me. Besides, even if we did send out a public announcement, it doesn't guarantee that we'd find the book.

Tsukasa: Exactly. We have no good reason to end our search here.

There are still people left who fit our clue of 'glasses-wearer' - Our investigation shall proceed as is!

Mika: Right. Um~ So, other glasses-wearers…

Hajime: Yuuki-senpai and Aoba-senpai. And Ibanyan, making three people.

Tsukasa: I-Ibanyan…? Ah, that's Saegusa-senpai, right?

Hajime: Yes, exactly. I've been calling him by that nickname since we were together in Bogie Time ♪

Tsukasa: I understand it logically, but associating such a cutesy nickname with Saegusa-senpai throws me off…

Mika: I get it… I feel the same too.

If I called him "Ibanyan", I'd probably get a cold stare…

Tsukasa: Yes. Furthermore, I'd be a bit troubled if we went to talk to him right now…

Hajime: Eh-? Why is that? Do you dislike Ibanyan?

Tsukasa: Not so much as “dislike”... Rather, he’s a dreadful person to be indebted to.

I had the opportunity to work alongside Saegusa-senpai sometime ago. My impression from then was that you should avoid asking anything that could be construed as a favour from him.

Mika: Relax, Tsukasa-kun. No matter what happens, I won't let ya take the fall. 'M the one who messed up this time.

Well, I don't exactly wanna see the deputy director either. He'd prob’ly get mad at me this time too…

Hajime: "Too"? Does he get angry at you that often?

Mika: Valkyrie clashes with the agency's wishes a bunch so I get a lotta complaints from ta deputy director.

Well, 'm prepared for those so it's alright. But since 'm actually at fault this time…

Tori: Aren't you worrying too much? I don't know Saegusa-senpai that well, but I feel like you don't have to worry about it since this isn't a matter related to the agency.

Yuzuru always chews my ears off about being cautious around Saegusa-senpai, but I don't think it's necessary to go this far.

Hajime: I agree. Ibanyan is a serious and hard-working person, after all. So please don't try to avoid him like that.

Come on, let's all go to Ibanyan's room! It just so happens that Aoba-senpai and Ibanyan share a dorm room, too!

Tsumugi: Ah, Saegusa-kun won't be returning to the dorm today. It seems that he's busy with work.

Hajime: O-oh, I see…

Mika & Tsukasa: (phew…)

Tsumugi: If you need Saegusa-kun for something, I'll deliver the message for you.

Mika: Really? Then, can we take ya up on that? We have sometin' to ask ya too, Tsumu-chan-senpai.

Tsumugi: Ah, so you have business with me too? I thought that you were only looking for Saegusa-kun.

Mika: Truth is, due to this and that, we're currently lookin’ fer a clue from people wearin’ glasses.

Tsumugi: Is that so? Hm~m…… I'm sorry to say, but I don't have any recollection of this event.

Mika: I see…

Tsumugi: Sorry, I can't be of help to you.

All things considered, I can't believe that a book from Yumenosaki slipped into the bookroom. As a former library committee member, I'm a little embarassed.

Hajime: Now that you mention it, you regularly check the books in the bookroom, don't you?

Tsumugi: Yes. Well, it's not done every day, and we don't keep borrowing records.

I check quite loosely. Sorry, my negligence has caused trouble…

Mika: Don't apologise… It's ma fault to begin with fer bein' careless.

Hajime: If we keep going back, we could also say that it was because I failed to notify you about the book return.

Even though Aoba-senpai left the library committee in my care… I'm sorry.

Tsumugi: Fufu. Please don't worry so much about it, Hajime-kun. I also understand how much work it takes to be a library committee member, after all.

Hajime: ……

Tsumugi: Anyway, I'll contact you immediately if I manage to think of something, alright?

Tsukasa: Thank you, we'll leave it up to you! Now then, let us reach Yuuki-senpai next.

Makoto: Ahh, I remember that. It was when Kagehira-kun received a call in the bookroom, right?

Mika: Yea! So it was Mako-kun in the bookroom back then.

Makoto: That's right, I remember that you got really flustered when Itsuki-senpai suddenly called you.

So, what's the matter with that incident?

Tori: The truth is, Kagehira-senpai might have shelved a book back then in a panic - a book that belongs to Yumenosaki Academy.

Makoto: The school's…? Ah~ I get it now. So he mistakenly shelved it in the bookroom! I'm guessing that you're looking for it right now?

If that's the case, I wouldn’t know where the book went either.

Tori: Urgh, you're no use~ I came all the way here for your support, so can't you give us more clues?

Makoto: Ehh- Isn't that unreasonable!?

Hm~m. Well, I guess I could tell you the whereabouts of which shelves Kagehira-kun could've put the book on…?

Mika: Just that would be a huge help. Thank ya kindly, Mako-kun. Can we take ya up on that?

Makoto: Sure~ Then, let's head to the bookroom right now!

Chapter Seven

Makoto, Mika, Tsukasa, Hajime, Tori, Nagisa

Makoto: Umm, if I remember correctly, I was standing around the bookshelves here when I heard Kagehira-kun shout out in surprise.

Then, when I went to check on him, Kagehira-kun dropped his phone while fumbling around this desk.

I called out to ask what was going on, but he left the room while talking on his phone.

So, the shelves from this desk to the exit… would be where he could've shelved the book?

Mika: Nnagh~ Bein' reminded of my idiotic moments is embarassin'...

Makoto: Ahaha. After making eye contact with me, you seemed really embarassed as you left the room.

Tsukasa: Ahem. Anyway, thanks to Yuuki-senpai, we now have a good understanding of Kagehira-senpai's movements at the time.

Hajime: …The shelves in this area are where the bookroom mainly displays new books.

Tori: Yeah. I also look around these shelves a lot to borrow new manga volumes.

But didn't Kagehira-senpai borrow an art book? Wouldn't it stand out if he had put it here?

Tsukasa: We weren't able to find that type of book when we were searching earlier, either.

If that's the case, perhaps he hadn't returned the book here at all? Or maybe…

Nagisa: …What's the matter?

Hajime: Hyagh- Ran-senpai!? When did you sneak up behind me?

Nagisa: …You came in while I was reading.

Hajime: Ah, I see. Sorry for disturbing you…

Mika: Aah-! Right there!

Makoto: Woah, what's up!?

Mika: The book I lost! It's the book Ran-senpai is holdin’!

Tsukasa: What did you just say-!? Ran-senpai, please let me take a look at that book.

…No doubt about it, it's the same book Kagehira-senpai told us about!

Nagisa: …Mika-kun, you've read this book too?

Mika: Yes, but… Is there some reason I shouldn't have?

Nagisa: …Sorry. I understand that you're on guard around me. I just wanted to share thoughts with somebody who has read the same book as me.

Mika: Nnagh? My thoughts?

Nagisa: …This artbook was incredible. To the point where I was left immersed for a while even after finishing.

Mika: R'lly? Me too! After I finished readin', I was so stunned that I couldn't even move fer a moment!

Nagisa: …I'm happy that we feel the same, Mika-kun.

…Many of the pieces reminded me of Shu-kun's works. Could it be that the techniques of expression are similar to his?

Mika: Yea! I thought the same thing!

Ahaha, I didn't imagine that I'd be able ta talk to somebody ‘bout this book.

Nagisa: …Me too. I'm happy that I found somebody to talk with right after reading it.

…Mika-kun, what was your favourite work from this artbook?

Mika: Nnagh~ That's a difficult question; all of tha works had a well-established theme, and--

Tsukasa: Stop! Kagehira-senpai, have you forgotten our original goal? Right now, our first priority is retrieving the lost book!

Mika: N-now that you bring it up, yeah. I was excited 'bout bein' able to discuss tha book and it slipped ma mind…

Nagisa: …?

Nagisa: …Hm. So this book in my hands belongs to Yumenosaki Academy.

Hajime: Yes, that's the situation. My apologies for the inconvenience, but could you give the book back to us?

Nagisa: …

Hajime: …Ran-senpai? What's the matter?

Nagisa: …I can't return this book to Yumenosaki Academy.

Tsukasa: Wha- Even Ran-senpai is acting so selfish!?

Nagisa: …That's not it. I'd like you to take a look at the spine.

Tori: Look at the spine… Oh? There is a label stuck to the spine, but doesn't this one mean that it belongs to the bookroom's collection?

Hajime: That seems to be the case. Um, Ran-senpai, could I take a quick look at the back of the book?

If it's the school's book, it would have a stamp on the back indicating that it is school property.

Nagisa: …Mm. You can look.

Hajime: …It's true, there's no stamp.

Tsukasa: In other words, this means that it isn't the school's book…?

Hajime: It just means that the bookroom had the same book Kagehira-senpai borrowed to begin with, and Ran-senpai happened to borrow that copy.

Mika: No way… and here I thought we'd finally found it. We've been set back ta square one~…

Nagisa: …There's no need to be discouraged, Mika-kun. You accidentally returned a school book to the bookroom, right?

…If that's the case, don't you think that there might be somebody who accidentally borrowed it?

Makoto: I see. So a situation where the book ended up being borrowed twice? It's certainly plausible. You don't pay attention to things like whether the book has library stamps or labels when borrowing.

Then, we can just look at the bookroom's borrowing records, right?

Tori: But Tsumugi-sama said earlier that the bookroom doesn't keep borrowing records?

Hajime: Yes. Since pretty much the only people who use the bookroom are the Seisoukan's residents, being so scrupulous isn't thought to be necessary.

Tsukasa: …Conversely, this also means that our suspect can be narrowed down to the residents of Seisoukan.

If that's the case, our earlier request for Hasumi-senpai to use the general communications will bear us fruit.

Tori: Eh? What do you mean?

Nagisa: …The person who borrowed it is definitely amongst the Seisoukan's residents. So, once they see the notice from the general communications, they should realise on their own accord that the book they borrowed is Yumenosaki Academy's property.

Tori: Ah, that's right! Then, as long as we wait, the person who borrowed the book will come forward sooner or later!

Tsukasa: That's what I meant. All things come to those who wait1 - well, it's a rather Ritsu-senpai-like thing to say. For now, let's wait until we get a report that the book was found.

Mika: Now that ya mention it, we should report back to Ritsu-kun too. Thank ya kindly, everyone! Once we find the book, I'll make sure ta express ma gratitude again!

1 The original phrase translates literally as 'fortune is gained by sleeping'

Chapter Eight

Tori, Tsukasa, Mika, Hajime, Makoto, Nagisa

[Later…]

Tori: Hah… I'm already bummed out for the day… I can't believe that Tsukasa's the first person I see this morning…

Tsukasa: You took the words right out of my mouth. Having to see your slovenly face all day will make me- …Hm?

Mika: N-no way… Ya mean that there still haven’t been any messages about the book?

Hajime: Yes. I heard from Hasumi-senpai, but it seems that nobody has sent a message yet.

Tsukasa: Why, if it isn't Hajime-kun and Kagehira-senpai? Good morning.

Tori: 'Morning~ What's up, you two? You look gloomy.

Mika: Tori-kun, Tsukasa-kun. What do I do? Ta book I lost still hasn't been found.

Tori: Eh, it's still missing!? It's been a while since you asked Hasumi-senpai to use the general communications, right?

Hajime: Yes. I checked with Hasumi-senpai this morning, but nobody has sent a message…

Tsukasa: It has indeed been too long. Then, I suppose that nobody in the dorms had accidentally borrowed it?

Mika: Uuuh… I musta messed up big time and lost it after all!

'M so sorry… It's ma fault that one of the school's precious books can't be returned…

Tsukasa: In any case, let us save this matter for later. We still have to go to school today.

Kagehira-senpai, please don't give up, and keep searching for the book until we return!

Mika: Mhm. Sorry fer stoppin' y'all in ta mornin'.

[After school, at the Seisoukan]

Mika: …Sorry for troublin' y'all today, everyone.

Makoto: Don't worry about it, it's been on my mind the whole time anyway.

Nagisa: …I was also concerned, about the outcome of the missing book. That book is an incredible article, so its loss would sadden me somewhat.

Tsukasa: Thank you for your patience. Those of us in school can join you now.

Tori: So, have you found the book?

Mika: Nope. I got help from Mako-kun, Ran-senpai, and even Ritsu-kun, who had to leave fer work after, but it was to no avail…

I guess it was lost somewhere else after all?

Makoto: Mm, but isn't the book Kagehira-kun borrowed pretty eye-catching?

Hajime: It is. The cover is quite striking so I doubt that it would be mistaken for a different book.

Makoto: Then, I think it's still more likely that somebody had mistakenly borrowed it.

Kagehira-kun, you said that you finished reading the book in the bookroom, right? If that's the case, it'd be odd to take the book anywhere other than to return it…

So even if it's lost, I think that it'd still be somewhere in either the Seisoukan or Yumenosaki.

Tori: That's true. Unless you were in the middle of reading, you'd carry a book outside of school as regular luggage.

Makoto: Beacause of what happened in the bookroom, I think that the Seisoukan is more likely. Well, Yumenosaki's still a possibility, of course…

Hajime: We tried searching in the school too, but we didn't find anything.

It's an eye-catching book, so it should be noticed pretty quickly if it was outside the library or art room.

Tori: Additionally, we also tried taking a look in the Handicrafts Club since it was somewhere Kagehira-senpai seemed likely to go, but we had no luck there either. So I think we can safely rule out Yumenosaki.

Mika: Nnagh~ Then it really was that someone had mistakenly borrowed it…?

Tsukasa: It seems to be the case. But then, why hasn’t anybody come forward?

Nagisa: …Maybe they don’t want to.

Mika: Nnagh? Don't wanna come forward? Why?

Nagisa: …I don't know. But maybe that person has a reason for not wanting to return the book.

Tsukasa: …That's the mostly likely possibility I can think of.

We have ourselves a scoundrel who, despite seeing the notice, does not intend to return the book. If that’s really the case, it is extremely disappointing.

No matter the reason, borrowed items must be returned. That is the rule.

As a book-lover, as a student of Yumenosaki Academy, and above all else, as a student council official who must set an example for others-

I shall punish the scoundrel who disobeys the rules!

Tori: "Punish"... Tsukasa, you're saying old-timey things again.

Tsukasa: I'm serious this time! I will fight to the bitter end in order to have the book returned!

Hajime: F-fight… But Suou-kun, what do you plan on doing?

Tsukasa: The obvious. We'll conduct an investigation on every room in the dorms. A house search, so to speak.

Hajime: A house search… We don't have to cause that much of an uproar, do we?

We might be able to get the book back with honest communication, and in the meantime, there's the possibility that the person will actually finish and return it…

Tsukasa: Saying such forgiving things, how long do you think it'll take until the book is returned?!

Is that alright with you!? Are you not frustrated by this, Hajime-kun!?

Hajime: Eh? F-frustrated…?

Tsukasa: I'll say it plainly. Hajime-kun, you're being belittled.

You said it yourself at the start. That it's common for due dates to be passed.

This is because they know that you'll smile and forgive them, saying that overdue books are common, and so they don't take you seriously.

Hajime: Th-that's…

Tsukasa: Our culprit this time must be the same. They probably think that there's no problem no matter how long the book is unreturned.

It doesn't matter how long a library book is overdue. It'll be laughed off and forgiven.

To be disrespected like that, are you not frustrated!?

Hajime: …

Tsukasa: I'm frustrated… I mean, you said it yourself, didn't you?

"The job of student library assistants is to make the library accessible for everyone to enjoy reading". I thought that you had an excellent way of thinking. I don't want that sentiment to be trampled upon.

That's why I can't easily forgive this overdue return.

Not only for the many people who want to read this book, but also because it's despicable for a kind person like Hajime-kun to be looked down on.

Hajime: …You're amazing, Suou-kun. Brave, admirable, and cool.

I understand. Let's do it, a house search!

Makoto: E-Ehhh!? Are you serious, Shino-kun?

Hajime: Yes, I'm serious. Thanks to Suou-kun, I've steadied my resolve!

Thank you, Suou-kun. For getting angry for me.

Tsukasa: If you want to thank me, say it after we find the book. More importantly, let's begin the search at once.

Tori-kun, everyone else, is that alright with you?

Tori: No~pe. I wanna ask why Tsukasa is directing us, but I guess it can't be helped if we want to find the book~

Mika: Eh, we're seriously doin' a house search? I'd feel ashamed botherin' everyone fer my sake…

Tsukasa: What are you saying, Kagehira-senpai! We've been searching for the book for you from the start!

Mika: Nnagh~ I can't say anythin' to that!

Nagisa: …Somehow, a relatively small incident has swelled in size.

Makoto: Yeah, right? For now, I think we should watch over them so that they don't go on a rampage.

Suou-kun. It's alright to do the search, but why don't we contact Hasumi-senpai, the resident advisor, first?

That way, it'll be a smoother investigation ♪

Tsukasa: That's true. It'll probably be better to notify him.

Hajime: Then, I'll send Hasumi-senpai a message, okay?

Tsukasa: Please do. Now, everyone, let's split up and commence our search for the book!

Chapter Nine

Eichi, Tsukasa, Rei, Aira, Nagisa, Subaru, Sora, Makoto, Mika, Hajime, Tori

Eichi: Hello there, Tsukasa-kun, Nagisa-kun. I heard about the situation from Keito's message.

Tsukasa: Thank you. Pardon us for intruding into your room, everyone.

Rei: Fufu, I do not mind. You lot are searching for Kagehira-kun's lost book, yes?

Aira: There was something about a Yumenosaki Academy stamp being on the back, right? I don't think there's a book like that in our room…

Eichi: Well, none of us use the bookroom very often in the first place.

Naturally, that means that we don't borrow books either, so I think that the three of us can be ruled out from the suspects.

Rei: …Those are some suspicious words from a suspect, don't you think?

Eichi: Fufu, we're undergoing a house search, after all. Shouldn't we take the initiative to testify our innocence?

Ahh, but, Shiratori-kun was acting a bit suspiciously last night, hiding something under his bed.

Aira: Eh, you saw that, Tenshouin-senpai!?

Tsukasa: Shiratori-kun, what exactly were you hiding? Surely you were not plotting to destroy the evidence…

Aira: Y-you've got it wrong! I wasn't doing anything like that-

Nagisa: …Hm. Under his bed… This drawer?

Aira: Ah- Please wait, Ran-senpai! Don't open itt!

Tsukasa: Th-this is…!?

Nagisa: …A metal badge of me. And there's a photo set of Tsukasa-kun over there. There seems to be many goods of other idols too.

Tsukasa: …? Shiratori-kun, why were you trying to hide these?

Aira: Beacause! It's embarassing for your merch collection to be exposed in front of the actual idols! That's why I hid them from Sakuma-senpai and Tenshouin-senpai!

Rei: Well, I already noticed a long time ago.

Aira: Eh-?

Eichi: Mhm. Let alone last night, Sakuma-kun and I have already known for a long time. Your merch collection has increased a good deal since you first moved into this room, hasn't it?

Aira: Ehh-!? Th-th… Then what was the point of me sneaking around all this time!?

Eichi & Rei: It was for nothing, I suppose.

Aira: N-no way…

Tsukasa: …It seems that our book isn't here, for the time being.

[Meanwhile, Mika and Makoto]

Subaru: Welcome~ to our room, Ukki~, Mikkii~! ☆

Sora: Giant-san and Grand-master are at work, so Sora and Sparkly-oniisan will welcome you~ ♪

Makoto: Ahaha. I thought so before, but Akehoshi-kun's dorm is full of people who always seem to be having fun, huh?

Mika: Umm, so sorry, but we're not here ta play today.

Subaru: Yup yup, we know, we know! You're the guys that Hasumin-senpai's message mentioned, right?

Sora: You're on a quest to find Mika-chan-san's lost book, right~ ♪ A treasure hunt in Sora's room!

Subaru: You've got permission from MaM-senpai and Hibiking-senpai too, so search to your hearts' content!

Mika: Thank ya kindly, you two. Then, I won't hold back~

Gyaah-!

Makoto: Woah, a party popper went off all of a sudden!? Wait, are you okay, Kagehira-kun?

Mika: I was just surprised 'cuz of ta sudden loud noi-- Uh, hm? What's this?

Makoto: Eh, what's with this tiny mummy!? Why do you have this in your room!?

Sora: HaHa~ ! That mummy is a souvenir Giant-san bought overseas~

Mummy-san usually rests in this miniture pharaoh over here!

Subaru: MaM-senpai's souvenirs sometimes have shady origins, so be careful, 'kay ☆

Makoto: That's scary! Don't keep stuff like that in our dorms!

Subaru: Ooh, as expected of Ukki~! You're a great tsukkomi1~ ♪

By the way, the party popper from before was one of the surprises Hibiking-senpai sets in our room.

Sora: -Love and surprise in the everyday! That's what Grand-master always says~ ! That's why he plants surprises to catch us off guard.

HiHi~! This room is Grand-master's surprise box where you're always kept on your toes!

Makoto: There's too many points to play tsukkomi! This room seems exhausting to live in…

[Meanwhile, Hajime and Tori]

Hajime: Sorry for the sudden intrusion. Thank you for your cooperation.

Tori: Looks like Shiina-senpai's room is a no-go too~ Actually, their room was just filled with strange ingredients.

Hajime: That's a professional chef for you. I was also surprised by all the edible grass I had never even heard of!

Tori: "Edible grass"…?

Anyhow, Tsukasa really didn't have to make such a big deal out of a single book. I didn't think he was serious about doing the house search, you know.

Hajime: But even though you say that, you agreed to the search, didn't you?

Tori: Ahaha, well, it seemed entertaining. It's an opportunity to see the other rooms, too. Since you normally wouldn't go inside somebody else's room and all.

On the contrary, I was the most surprised that you agreed to it. I thought you weren't very good with this kind of thing.

Hajime: …That's true. You're right; if it was just me, I wouldn't have gone this far for an overdue book.

I want the library rules to be followed, just like Suou-kun. But I was afraid that people would be annoyed with me if I tried to enforce the rules…

So when Suou-kun asked me if I was frustrated, I couldn't help but feel pathetic.

Suou-kun is able to put in so much effort for the sake of a book. He's able to put his foot down when necessary.

Suou-kun is cool in some respects like that. More than me, whose been in the library committee for so long, he behaves like a proper student library assistant.

I was a little frustrated by that. That's why I decided to go along with his proposition this time.

Maybe then, I could also become like him…

Tori: Hmm, I see. So you had that kind of reason for your sudden enthusiasm.

Mmm… But, I don't really want you to become like Tsukasa, you know~

Hajime: Eh? Really?

Tori: I mean, Tsukasa's always going on about rules. He's a pain in the ass. Obviously, it's important to follow the rules, but… I think it's also a problem to get so worked up about them that you're constantly butting heads with others.

So, I'd personally rather have somebody considerate and reasonable like you in charge of the library instead of some quarrelsome guy like Tsukasa.

Hajime: …Is that so.

Tori: Yeah. Besides, you say what needs to be said when necessary. Like when Tsukasa and I were arguing back then.

You managed to stop us without creating hard feelings; genuinely, I'm glad that I'd nominated you for student council vice president.

You're doing great as both a library committee member and my vice president. You should feel honoured to be endorsed by the student council president!

Hajime: …Fufu, thank you very much. I've regained my confidence after hearing that from you.

Tori: Fufun ♪ Say your thanks by working hard for me. I have high expetations for you as a member of my student council, got it?

[Several hours later. After all of the Seisoukan rooms had been searched]

Hajime: We… haven't found the book…

Tsukasa: This is odd. The book should definitely be in the possession of somebody living here, and yet…!

We have no choice. We need to ask everybody to let us search once agai-

Mika: No. That’s enough, Tsukasa-kun.

Tsukasa: But…

Mika: Any more and we'd just be botherin' everybody. I was the one who lost the book ta begin with, so I'll take responsibility an' pay fer it.

Hajime: Sorry, Kagehira-senpai. We weren't able to help…

Mika: Don't apologise! I should be the one apologisin'…

Nnagh-? S'rry, ma phone's ringin'. Please 'scuse me…

Ah, Oshi-san. What's ta matter, callin' me all'uva sudden? …Uhuh, uhuh?

Ehhh!? Oshi-san, are ya fer real!?

Hajime: …?

1 The straight man in a manzai act.

Chapter Ten

Mika, Hajime, Makoto, Tori, Nagisa, Tsukasa

[Several days later]

Mika: --Hajime-kun, we've finally found the book! Does everythin’ look good?

Hajime: I'll give it a quick lookover. The library stamp… is there!

Alright, I'll take care of it from here. Please return your books on time from now on, okay?

Mika: Ahaha. Well, I don't think I'll be usin’ the school library anymore, but I'll be careful.

'M sorry fer causin' so much trouble fer everybody who helped me too.

Makoto: Don't worry about it; I'm also relieved that you found the book. Besides, we weren't of any help in the end.

Tori: Yep yep. However, we never imagined that Itsuki-senpai had accidentally taken it to France~

Nagisa: …If you think about it, Shu-kun is the most likely to borrow an art book in the first place, but even then…

Tsukasa: It was a failure on our part to have not considered the Seisoukan residents who are currently overseas.

No wonder we couldn't find the book even after thoroughly searching the Seisoukan.

However, we weren't wrong in our deduction. Kagehira-senpai really did mistakenly return the book to the book room.

And then Itsuki-senpai, who had temporarily returned to Japan, borrowed it and ended up taking it back to France with him.

It also makes sense that Itsuki-senpai didn't respond to the dorms' general communications, as he isn't usually in the Seisoukan.

Mika: Yep. Oshi-san doesn't think the general communications have anythin' ta do with him since he isn't usually here, so he doesn't seem ta check them.

Makoto: Well, good thing that Itsuki-senpai noticed before you had to pay for it.

If he had been just a little slower, it'd have been too late.

Hajime: Fufu. Back then, I thought it'd be alright if Kagehira-senpai just kept it as his own if he did end up paying for it. You took quite the liking to the book, didn't you, Kagehira-senpai?

Mika: That's right. I just don't like wastin’ money, yanno?

Actually, Oshi-san lectured me when I told him 'bout what happened.

Tori: Well, in any case, we've successfully found the book - Case closed!

Fufu, I'm looking forward to seeing how you'll give us your thanks, Kagehira-senpai~ ♪

Mika: Nnagh-! That's right… I promised to express ma gratitude to everyone afta we found the book.

Erm… How 'bout I take y'all out fer lunch?

Makoto: Are you sure? We have quite a few people here…

Mika: Y-yep. This is ma thanks to y'all, so don't worry 'bout ma wallet!

Tori: Yay~ ♪ I'll get ready to go out, then!

Tsukasa: Good grief… Tori-kun is as simple-minded as ever. I wish he'd be more genteel, regardless of enthusiasm.

Makoto: Ahaha, isn't it fine, though? He's just excited to have lunch with everyone.

Well then, I'm also going to get ready for our outing.

Nagisa: …Me too. See you later.

Mika: I've gotta get more cash ta bring with me. See ya, Tsukasa-kun, Hajime-kun.

Tsukasa: Alright. I'll also ready myself for-

Hajime: Ah, please wait, Suou-kun!

Tsukasa: Eh? What’s the matter, Hajime-kun?

Hajime: I'd like to say my thanks again.

Thanks to you, I was able to retrieve an unreturned book. I'm really grateful to you.

Tsukasa: I didn't do anything to be thanked for. If anything, I'm to blame for aggravating the situation to no effect.

Hajime: I wouldn't think of it like that…

Tsukasa: No, all I did this time was make a scene about enforcing the rules and insist on a misguided search.

Afterwards, I regretted having been so heated and reflected on myself. If only I could've been a little more like you and proceeded with amicable discussion…

Tori-kun said that I had only suceeded in being annoying and I had no rebuttal…

Hajime: Fufu. It's true that it might've been better if you had remained a little calmer.

But even so, I don't believe that your actions were for naught. You taught me something important, after all.

Tsukasa: Something important…? What is it?

Hajime: That I don't have to be afraid to ask for the rules and deadlines to be respected.

Tsukasa: …? Um, isn't that a given?

Hajime: Yes, it should've been obvious. But I had always avoided saying it.

I always smiled and waved them off, saying that overdues are common.

But this time, seeing you put all your effort into retrieving just a single book, I realised that it was nothing to be ashamed of.

So, I wanted to thank you for showing me that.

Tsukasa: …Is that so. If my actions were meaningful to you, then I suppose it wasn't for nothing after all.

In that case, I shall receive your thanks with sincerity in kind ♪

Hajime: Please do ♪