It took about 40 to 50 minutes by car from Nagumo's house to the university. If you take the train, it will take just over an hour, considering the travel time to the station and the time it takes to get on and off the train.
A university that has the department that Hajime wants and has a variety of faculties. On top of that, the results were narrowed down based on the condition that it was within a reasonable range.
From the beginning, Hajime and his friends didn't take into consideration the choice that many of their classmates made, leaving their parents' home after graduating from high school.
There's Myuu, who has started attending elementary school, and there's also an underground workshop that has continued to improve its usability.
Above all, Yue and the others hated it. Why bother?VioletvioletorsadnessWeekI don't understand the point of living apart from him.
Therefore, being within commuting distance from my parents' house was an absolute requirement, and when Sumire and Shuu heard that.
It seems like they weren't thinking about the possibility of getting married and living in their own home, and for a short time they felt relieved, but they got so excited that they started doing an impromptu rap duet.
strange. Why did I decide to express my joy through rapping? Of course, I must have been practicing for months in advance to learn how to rap and how to breathe together! It was at a level that made me want to make a tsukkomi. As expected from Mr. and Mrs. Nagumo. strange.
Anyway, that's it.
"Hmm, I guess I should go get my license too."
"That's why I told you to keep it. You said that 'Godspeed' was easier and faster..."
Kaori and Shizuku's conversation echoed from the back seat of the car Hajime was driving.
Even though the faculties are different, during the first year, everyone spends a lot of time planning their curriculum, so their activity time is almost the same. It was a natural progression for us to go together.
Hearing Kaori's comment, Hajime glanced through the rearview mirror while stopping at the traffic light.
I thought he felt sorry for the extravagant transportation environment in which he had to go out of his way to pick him up and then go to school, but it seems that's not the case.
"No, Shizuku-chan. It's not about convenience, is it? After all, if that's all you think about, commuting to school at 'Godspeed' is certainly fine."
"What a power word."
"Even Hajime-kun and Yue can teleport to school if they want to."
"The concept of commuting to school is about to collapse."
By the way, the reason I didn't choose to commute to school even if it meant using up my precious time in the morning is because this is also part of ``enjoying university life.''
Of course, that's why Kaori rides with me every morning.
Although they haven't registered their marriage, Kaori has a ring firmly attached to her left ring finger. She thoroughly enjoys the fact that her husband drives his car to and from school while chatting with her every morning.
Of course, the same goes for Shizuku.
Yue, who was sitting in the passenger seat, looked over her shoulder.
"...So what? You mean you want to drive?...Hmm. That's not bad. You can have fun with Hajime in the back seat. Kaori will be my and Hajime's personal driver."
"Do you want me to drive dangerously?"
Apparently he has no interest in driving. Kaori glared at her and pointed her finger diagonally in front of her to the left.
"Isn't it cool after all?"
I'll make sure everyone is caught.
There was also a motorcycle waiting at the traffic light. A large black and iron-colored bike that looks tough and rugged - Yamaha's V-MAX. It is a monster bike with a displacement of 1700cc.
The passenger's long legs tap the ground rhythmically. I can't see his expression because he's wearing a full-face helmet with a matte black color and mirror-type shield, but he seems to be in a great mood.
"You look like a smart girl, don't you? But riding such a big bike...Motorcycles make your beautiful legs stand out even more.Her back is straight and she has a beautiful posture, but her waist and curves around her waist are... It's also emphasized... I think it's a little too naughty!!"
"...Hmm. I agree. Why is it that just riding a motorcycle is even sensational? I mean, isn't your jacket the wrong size? It looks like it's going to overflow your chest, isn't it? The zipper seems like it's going to open on its own? Is it on purpose? ? That's disgusting! Good, do more!"
"Hajime, what should we do? There are two sexually harassing men in the car."
Seeing Kaori and Yue breathing heavily, Shizuku retreated a little.
"Yeah, well, I do think it's sexy when he's riding a bike. Here, take a look."
Even though it's hanging flat inside a specially customized helmet, the hellish rabbit ears (Shia's name) are still alive and well.
He must have heard Yue and Kaori's conversation. The rider of the monster bike twists her upper body and looks back――Sia.
I raised my shield with a click and narrowed my eyes shyly. Then, I waved his hand as if to say, "What are you talking about?"
This was witnessed by a young woman in a suit who had stopped in the next lane. She says, "Huh? Are you waving at me? No, I'm kind of embarrassed," she says, turning bright red as she shyly waves back at him.
Furthermore, the young man on a moped parked behind Shia must have been attracted to the combination of Shia's style and large bike.
All eyes were glued to her beauty, which could be seen just by looking at her eyes, which was glimpsed when she raised her shield.
"…I hope I don't cause an accident."
"Will we put some kind of recognition inhibition on the bike itself? No, on the contrary, it might be dangerous..."
In fact, it is rare that we can continue with two cars, one in front and one in front, for such a long time that we will almost arrive at the university.
Most of the time, Shia takes the lead, or a car gets in between and pulls away. It's hard to drive because there are so many cars, or you get stuck at traffic lights all the time...to put it simply, Shea often changes course depending on her mood.
That's why, in the past two months, I can only count on one hand the number of times I've been chasing after Shia, who seems to be riding comfortably on her bike.
In other words, while looking at it again, Kaori must have felt a sense of admiration.
"Well, I guess it's fine as long as you get a motorcycle license. Shia will be happy too."
"That's right... I'll think about it when I have time."
Shia is nodding vigorously. Also a thumbs up. Everyone thought it was a really beautiful picture.
Also, the lady in the car next door. She's not doing you a favor, so don't give her a thumbs up and it's okay. At Shia's nod, he seemed to be happy, as if to say, ``You responded to my lip syncing and gestures!?'' But it was a misunderstanding... So, it's the young man behind me. Don't you look at your sister with jealousy...
"I mean, Hajime-kun did well in getting his license, didn't he?"
Kaori tilts her head slightly as she watches Shia take off after the signal changes.
"Huh? Did you think it would fall?"
"No, no! It's about time. When exactly did you take it?"
Everyone knows how busy Hajime has been in the past few months.
Naturally, my studies include the evils of resurrecting the King Tree, plans to revive the branches and leaves of the World Tree, how to respond to the changing world situation, management related to the company I founded, and various research and development, etc.
Even if I use the hour crystal, I still have to conclude that I don't have enough time. This is clearly more than a single person can handle.
That's why my friends say, ``Only one person works 72 hours a day,'' ``A man who has forgotten the concept of free time in another world,'' ``A monster who makes people feel scared when he doesn't show off that he's busy,'' and ``A role model for the type of human resources that black companies look for.'' ``He is said to be the Demon King who works harder than anyone else.''
"Oh, that's what you mean. That's it. It's a one-shot test."
"Did you pass!? I heard that in exchange for not having to graduate from the driving school, it was extremely difficult!?"
"I'm sure it's 5% or something? Pass rate."
"That's right."
That's right, Hajime-san, he passed the exam on the first try by going directly to the license exam center and taking the exam - the so-called walk-in exam.
Everyone knows that their driving skills are already mature enough to perform combat maneuvers. Using the magical VR game, you can practice driving Earth-made cars as much as you like. So what you need is to fill in the knowledge.
"...Are you both too surprised? It's only natural that Hajime could pass."
"No, it's really not that easy, is it?"
"That's right, Yue. Even if you have driving skills, it doesn't mean anything if you don't know the traffic rules."
"...It's too late now. Hajime already has the knowledge, right?"
""?"
What are you talking about? Yue shrugged her shoulders as Kaori and Shizuku tilted their heads. Aside from Shizuku, Kaori knows, right? and.
"--"When you see a criminal, step on the gas. You said you could teach it at the driving school, right?"
"That's different!"
"Hajime!? What are you teaching Yue!?"
"No, yeah. It's just a tortoise-style traffic law, so yeah."
No, that's not a problem... Kaori and Shizuku looked at me.
Furthermore, what Yue is talking about is when Liliana, who had once secretly escaped from a restless kingdom, was being attacked by bandits along with the caravan she was hiding in. Hajime, who had opened the accelerator fully to save her. This is the teaching of
"Well, what is it? I studied normally. I also used the Hour Crystal in my spare time. And after that, I may have been a bit cheated, but I received it while subtly activating 'Shinko'."
In other words, from Hajime's perspective, he carefully cleared the exam, taking several times more time than most people, including reconfirming the knowledge he had memorized, making sure there were no oversights, and the reactions of the examiners who saw them. .
"I see. Wouldn't it have been better if I had done the same thing? I graduated from the driving school normally... but after hearing that, I feel like it was a waste of time. I wish you had told me. ""It's not like I was driving in a tortoise. It's not like I didn't have time to spare, and since it's such an important thing, I think it would be best for me to get it properly taught at a driving school."
"That's... that's right. Yes, you're right. Someday, I'll make sure that the car I buy will pass a vehicle inspection that follows the rules. It won't be like this fake Breeze."
Even though Shizuku was convinced, she gave me a mischievous smile and pricked me.
Yes, this car actually looks like a Jeep Wrangler, but inside it's a Breeze. In other words, it's a magically powered vehicle that is heavily armed. Both the engine sound and the body are simulated. Fluid Metal-chan is working hard. The reason why it is imitated by Jeep's Wrangler is because its original shape is similar.
"Well, it's fine. Unlike Shia, there's no one who takes the trouble to look at what's inside, and when it's time for vehicle inspections, we'll just use disguise..."
"I didn't say anything, okay?"
"If you're about to get caught, all you have to do is use New La Raza New."
"Can I say something?"
"I'm going to take my family with me. I don't feel like riding in an unarmed car anymore because it's too dangerous."
"Yes, let me say something."
As Shizuku brilliantly explained her words from left to right, explaining the definition of the word common sense,
"Hey, look, Shizuku-chan. About that, right? Hajime-kun's tendency to arm is like an incurable disease."
"...Hmm. And I'll be there soon."
The university came into view.
Parking lots on university campuses are generally not available to students. Only if there is a special reason.
So, I deviated a little and headed to a private monthly parking lot. Shia detours around the university grounds and heads to the bicycle parking lot reserved for the ``Gou-on!'' circle, so we say goodbye here.
While Yue and the others waved back at Shia, who waved lightly, they entered the parking lot that normally would have cost students a rather steep monthly fee (even so, they were lucky to get a space).
"What about lunch?"
Hajime asked while heading towards the contracted space.
"Of course, I'll go with you."
"Yeah, me too. It's the day we take the common subjects."
The truth is, Kaori, Shizuku, and Shia don't even have lunch together every day.
Because the grounds are so vast, there are several types of cafeterias, but since the schools are in different departments, the nearest restaurants are also different.
Of course, it's not like I can't meet up with them every lunchtime, but it's a bit unpalatable to spend all my time with only my family, even though I'm in an environment where I can come into contact with a lot of people who have no ties to my hometown. In order to have a good university life, we should cherish the new friendships we make in each department.
With this idea in mind, not only Shia, who has made friends in the hobby, but also Kaori and Shizuku, have recently been having lunch with new friends.
However, if we never meet on campus, then there is no point in choosing the same university. Therefore, we take common subjects for all faculties (basic subjects that can be taken regardless of faculty) together, and we spend time together on days when the most recent lectures are scheduled for lunch.
"I see. Well then, I'll meet you for the lecture before noon. As usual, we can have lunch outside, right? If you have any places you'd like to go, please decide."
"Yes, I understand!"
"Yesterday, I asked a girl who was taking the same lecture about the store she was interested in. I'll ask her for the details."
Kaori and Shizuku both laughed happily at Hajime's words.
Furthermore, the reason for ``outside at noon'' is because when Yue, Shia, Kaori, and Shizuku gather together, it becomes noticeable. So, basically, when all four of us get together, we go to eat at a restaurant outside the school instead of the school cafeteria.
Of course, if you use cognitive inhibition or something like that, there's no point in eating slowly…
In fact, although Shia, Kaori, and Shizuku have publicly stated that they are married, it is unclear that their partner is Hajime, a student from another faculty who attends the same university.
Of course, it's not because I'm embarrassed to be one of the real harem members. However, it is true that this relationship is far from what is ``normal'' in the general public.
It is true that building new friendships can be an obstacle, and it is also true that it takes a great deal of patience and effort to erase a damaged first impression.
Therefore, the idea is to make friends with personalities who will accept you, or to introduce them after you have become close enough to accept them.
"...Hajime, what are you going to do about Yuuka and the others?"
Yue asked just as they had finished parking in the contracted space.
"Yeah? If you're coming, you'll probably contact me, right?"
"Hajime-kun, you're so cold! You think it's about Yuuka-chan!"
"No, I'm a friend..."
"Hajime, that's terrible. Please put yourself in the shoes of Yuka, who always tries to find out about lunch plans in a roundabout way through the line, and then tries to meet up with her in a roundabout way."
Even if you say that... Hajime makes a troubled face.
No matter how much time passes, Yuka-chan's writing skills are improving day by day. Well, I think there are that many variations.
However, it is.
"...Hajime, Yuuka is at his limit."
"W-what?"
I asked Yue, who had a serious expression on her face, while stopping the mimic engine sound.
"...I've run out of excuses to ask him about his plans and to have lunch with him. The other day, he finally met me by pretending to be a coincidence."
It seemed like he couldn't stay there. Without thinking, I grabbed Yuuka's hand and took her to the store, ignoring her shyness.
"...The guys from Miyazaki and Tamai will invite you, right? Those two are going to come with us anyway."
"""..."""
Yue and the others all stared at each other. Normally, the three of them were supposed to guard if a woman who seemed to have ulterior motives approached them.
Why does he have to be looked at reproachfully by his three wives? Especially, Hajime wasn't insensitive. But, it is. As someone who has a wife and children, I think it's wrong to ask someone out if they haven't clearly expressed their feelings. This should be a perfectly normal consideration.
But to think that my wife would look at me like, ``Oh my god!''...
Even though Hajime was feeling a little confused, he answered, "I'll contact you."
The three of them softened their expressions and nodded in agreement.
Compared to when they were in high school, Yue and the others have a softer attitude towards Yuuka, or rather, they're like the guardians of a child who needs a lot of attention.
Perhaps it's because we spend so much time together that Yuuka's clumsiness and spunkiness are more noticeable than before.
Is there something maternal about that that tickles her?
Hajime got off the train, feeling as though he couldn't make sense of it. Yue and the others follow.
Then, I tried to enter the campus from a less conspicuous place instead of the main gate of the university.
"...Jeez"
Yue let out a sigh.
Hajime and the others understood just from that. A wry smile appears.
"--'Scatter'"
Yue's words echoed and spread in a strange way. It's a "divine word." The targets were some of the people around the back gate that they were about to pass through.
At this time in the morning, even though the entrance was not used by many people, there were of course a fair number of other students and university officials besides Hajime and others. If that's the case, it's normal for him to inevitably pay attention to Yue and the others.
Some of them were clearly waiting, playing with their smartphones or pretending to be talking with friends.
Especially Yue. Her beauty is already widespread, even if people are trying to block her recognition. At first glance, it's easy to understand that she wants to get some energy for the day, or that she wants to meet her favorite idol.
Therefore, it is something that can be overlooked unless there is no real harm.
However, those who try to take pictures by hiding in the shadows, or who casually try to talk to me with expressions that reveal their ulterior motives, I don't know where they have such confidence.
"There's no end to it, right?"
"Even if I say that, it's only been two months. There's nothing I can do about it. Yue, who's in her 20s, is full of charm, even for people of the same sex."
Currently, about half of the people who have received the ``divine word'' are new. Since entering the school, nearly three-digit students have already received the ``divine word'' and are now unable to have any interest in Yue and the others again.
Even so, the reason why this kind of hand-wringing never ceases is probably due to Yue's charm.
Even when she was in her girl form, Yue exuded a bewitching aura that made it hard to believe that she was a child. It has been proven in the fairy world that even the gods and demons are fascinated by the way she looks when her body catches up with her inner self.
Growing up, Yue would have truly been a real country-oriented beauty in her current era. It can't be helped that ordinary people are attracted to her.
That's why Hajime wouldn't be able to make a fuss if it wasn't at an obvious level. If I keep trying to intimidate them, my university life will be in jeopardy, and above all, Yue handles the work so quickly as if she's used to it. So, I put all my energy into the person I am praising.
"It's great that you've added so much care, Yue. She's already adapted to Japan. She's a great pacifist."
"...Ahem. You could praise me more."
"No, uh... there seem to be a lot of eyewitness reports of upperclassmen who looked like they were having fun suddenly having black hair cut into three-parted hair, wearing old-fashioned bottle-bottom glasses, and changing into very plain clothes. But."
"...It can't be helped because they were the ones who snorted when they saw Hajime. I'm even moved by their own compassion."
"Well, I guess just not doing smashes without warning is considered growth, right?"
"If this is someone from some organization with malicious intent, it's because they're volunteering abroad. Yue is too kind to make someone work hard at studying for the future."
"...Hehe, I'm embarrassed."
By the way, Yue doesn't deal with anyone who doesn't cause any real harm. Just ignore it.
For those who go beyond that and cause minor harm, such as taking pictures, we simply send them away as before.
If he becomes persistent, he loses interest, and he only changes his personality if he is really malicious or if he judges that it will have a negative impact on the enjoyment of university life overall.
In this way, Yue has her own criteria for judgment and does not change her personality at random, so it is true that she is being careful about herself.
"Well, even though I declare that I'm married and I'm wearing a ring, there are people who approach me with ulterior motives, so I understand how you feel."
"That's right. Only such people are overflowing with baseless confidence, so they basically don't listen to other people. I'd rather be followed around, right?"
It would be a bad idea to compare them with Yue, but both of them have a charm that attracts people's attention. There are already countless men who have had their hearts broken by claiming to be married.
Of course, the main reason why she openly declares that she is married is because it makes both of them happy and she doesn't want to hide that, but there is also the fact that she avoids men.
If he hadn't come forward, he would have been approached even more than he is now.
Considering that, it is impossible to deny Yue's criteria for judgment, which has a charm that penetrates even the inhibition of recognition. Shizuku and Kaori said with a wry smile as Yue seemed to be happy as Hajime gently stroked her head.
For the time being, some of the people who came to see Yue early in the morning were girls, and I could hear small, yellow voices from them, ``Kyaaaaaaaaaaaa!''.
At the same time as Yue became famous in an instant, her friendship with Hajime has also spread to some extent, so some people seem to be promoting her with that in mind.
"Well, if we don't hurry up, we'll be late. Kaori, Shizuku, see you later, okay?"
"...Hmm. Shizuku, please give me information on good-looking shops. It's really fun to go around the shops around the university with everyone during my lunch break."
"Hehe, I understand. Leave it to me."
Kaori and Shizuku looked at each other as they watched Hajime and Yue leave while holding hands and cuddling. You can tell by looking at his eyes. It seems we have the same thoughts.
Namely
--I want to introduce Hajime to my new friends soon.
They both chuckled to each other and quickly left to head to their respective lectures.
After that, time passed quickly.
In the large lecture hall where the common subjects of all faculties are being held before noon, an old professor who is famous for always wearing a straw hat in a wide variety of variations regardless of whether it is spring, summer, fall, or winter, announced his end a little early.
It is the professor's habit to raise his straw hat slightly in greeting. Furthermore, Hajime had never seen the professor wearing the same straw hat. She's a huge straw hat fanatic.
Will it be possible to see where the collection will run out before all the lectures are finished? It was just a little bit of fun for Hajime.
Quiet talk.
At the end of the large lecture hall that could accommodate 500 people, Kaori and Shizuku were sitting in two rows, Hajime and Yue in front, and Shia in the back.
Since it was like a gentle staircase, Hajime and Yue turned around and looked up a little.
``The professor's story is really interesting.As someone who knows the actual behind-the-scenes world of the Vatican.''
"I see. However, there are many students who fall asleep. Why?"
"Hmm, I guess it's because many Japanese people aren't really interested in religion."
"...Then why did you take this course?"
"You want a unit, don't you?"
If there are three-digit numbers of people moving around, the entrances and exits will be crowded. So, Hajime and his friends enjoyed chatting until the crowd cleared.
The course I am taking is ``Introduction to Religious Studies.'' Although it is unpopular with first-year students, it is often taken as a fill-in-the-blank lecture by upperclassmen because it is easy to earn credits.
One of the reasons I took the course was that I probably didn't have many classmates, but it was also true that I was interested.
History and religion are inseparable, and occult relationships are often linked to religion.
At a time when the occult is beginning to emerge as a real problem, I thought it might be useful to learn about religion and its history.
It's a good thing that it was more interesting than I expected, even if it's not really useful or not. Maybe it's because the old professor speaks so well.
"...It seems like the purpose and means are reversed? Well, that's fine. Besides, Shizuku, did you get any information about the store?"
For a moment, Yue turned her eyes toward the upperclassmen leaving the lecture room as if she were looking at a mysterious creature, but her eyes immediately turned back to Shizuku with sparkling expectations.
There are many restaurants near this university. From cafeteria-style restaurants that offer plenty of food for the price, to stylish restaurants that are a little more expensive. Finding a favorite store is Yue's little favorite.
However, Shizuku, who usually responds well to expectations, was unusually slow today. She hesitated to say something and looked troubled.
However, before Shizuku could explain the reason, Kaori spoke first.
"Ah, I'm sorry to interrupt, but would you mind a moment?"
"...Hmm? What, Kaori? Did you find a recommended restaurant?"
"How much do you want to visit the shops? Not really."
He also looks a little troubled. Kaori glanced at her smartphone and continued speaking to Yue and the others who were in doubt.
"You know, it seems like Hajime-kun has been found out."
"Even if you found out...does that mean you're a new friend?"
Kaori nods quietly. Shizuku lets out a wry smile and says, ``It seems like Kaori has the same story.''
"Well, wouldn't it be better to have one? The people in our circle had already identified Hajime-san for quite some time."
According to Shia, she was asked about it about a month ago.
Naturally, Yue's existence was known, so if the person Shia was talking about was Hajime, wouldn't it be a two-pronged relationship?She asked him with concern or anger.
"I didn't hear that?
"I haven't said anything. I guess you've already convinced me, or even if I'm not convinced, it's like, ``Well, if Shia is fine for now, then that's fine.'' Do you think it's OK if I introduce her properly someday?"
For better or worse, my own Partner bikes They're such scary people, so unless Shia is in trouble, they won't say anything.
It was precisely that kind of refreshing atmosphere that made Shia feel comfortable, and was probably the reason why she decided to join the circle.
"Well, in today's world, information travels quickly. It's not like it was completely hidden, so I'm sure you've had it for two months..."
"Ahaha, that's right~. It's definitely not something I want to hide, which is what I thought when I saw Hajime-kun getting out of his car this morning."
No matter how vast the campus is and how many people come and go, as long as they are on the same campus, it seems like it was only a matter of time before their relationship was identified.
"It seems like I've known this for a while as well, but...the person who was showing signs of being interested in me seems to have decided to tangle with Hajime..."
"...I guessed it. Did the kids around you back down because I treated you seriously?"
"Yes. Hajime might be a dangerous person."
So I guess they were just waiting to see what happened. Hajime asked worriedly.
"Have you left the friends you made?"
``That's true for some of them.But on the other hand, there are some who have taken an interest in me and I've become friends with them.The ones I get along with the most are the ones who say, ``Let me meet you, let me talk to you''. hand"
"Ah, Shizuku-chan too. That's what happened to me too. She asked me to take her to the school cafeteria for lunch. I don't get the feeling that she's more interested in Yue than Hajime-kun though."
Although both Kaori and Shizuku looked troubled, it was clear from their expressions that they didn't seem to feel uncomfortable.
That's probably why he was able to build such a comfortable relationship with her. In just two months, both Kaori and Shizuku were able to make enough friends to decide that it was okay to tell them about their special relationship, so it could be said that both Kaori and Shizuku have amazing communication skills.
In any case, Hajime felt relieved inwardly and nodded, thinking that he had to respond.
"Okay. If that's the case, let's eat in the school cafeteria today. Can Yue also do it?"
"...I have to make you understand as my legal wife. Now, let's go to war."
"'Don't fight, okay?'"
Yue-sama suddenly laughs. Feeling a little worried, Kaori and Shizuku sent messages to their respective friends.
"In that case, why don't you call me too? There are a lot of free people, so I don't know if they'll come."
Shia also started contacting him incidentally.
The lecture room was starting to become empty as it was filled with people. Suddenly, Kaori asked, ``If you say so,'' Kaori asked.
"Hajime-kun, you don't hear much about your friends, do you?"
"!"
For some reason, Hajime-san was startled.
"...Kaori, how can you ask such cruel things?"
"what!?"
Shizuku and Shia understand. Eh, no way... that's the look on his face. Hajime-san presses her chest with his hand. Like something stung me.
"No way... Hajime-san, I haven't made any friends yet..."
"I-I'm fine!?"
Have you ever seen Hajime so upset before? This time, Shia and Shizuku held their chests with their hands. I can't stay here. Kaori can sense it too.
"Stop, don't look at me like that. We really are. A friend...a candidate, no, it's no exaggeration to say that we're already friends."
"I'm sorry, Hajime-kun! You don't have to push yourself anymore!"
"Don't apologize! That's violence in the name of pity!"
"...By the way, I made a friend."
"Why did you attack me?"
Hajime, who was unexpectedly betrayed by Yue-sama who had a smug look on his face, had a shocked look on his face.
By the way, in Yue's case, she is more like a friend or a senior who is admired by her juniors.
Her incomparable beauty is exceptional, and in the beginning, she felt a bit daunted by the difference in her life experiences and depth as a person, but Yue is Yue, and she's a people person.
People of the same sex can be considerate and tolerant. Although she is not very humble, she is not arrogant and is rather kind. He has absolute confidence in himself and conveys an unwavering atmosphere.
If a woman like that were to smile at you, talk to you normally, and give you even the warmest attention, there's no way an average girl would be able to resist it.
What's more, he's married.
Although she catches the man's gaze, she doesn't look at him at all, and on the contrary, she never leaves her husband even for a moment, as if to show how close she is to him.
Also, it's not that I have a bad feeling towards the opposite sex, I just have normal conversations with them. However, from anyone's perspective, there was an absolute difference between his words and actions toward Hajime.
It may be due to her beautiful appearance, but the way she conveys with her whole body, ``Being by this person makes me happy,'' no longer makes me jealous.
In fact, they even have admiration for such a marital relationship.
That's why.
"...It's hard because girls talk to me and invite me to play every day."
"Maybe you're trying to pick a fight?"
Crisis of marital quarrel.
"…Because of their overflowing love for Hajime, the boys in our department have already gotten over their jealousy and are treating him normally."
"Thank you. For coming up with a plan for me who can't make friends."
Hajime's expression tensed dramatically as he looked at Yue with kind eyes. She's trying her best to smile, but her voice is shaking.
Or rather, I said that I can't make friends... Shia and the others had indescribable expressions on their faces.
Hajime said while looking at Shia and the others.
"It can't be helped... Kaori and the others are starting to get the word out here too. It's true that the number of people who treat me normally has increased... but I've started to distance myself from them again..."
"Um, I'm sorry, aren't you?"
"Don't apologize, Kaori. Even I would back down. If I found out that a guy I worked with had such a cute wife and was practicing polygamy in real life, I'd say, ``This guy is kidding me!'' or ``Absolutely. He's the one!'"
"You're able to look at yourself objectively."
Shizuku's wry smile pierces my heart again. Shia and Kaori reach out and pat me on the shoulder.
"But, but. But, but. There is hope."
"...Hmm. Looks like the two of you could become friends. One of them seems to have been friends before."
"Huh? But Hajime-san, Abby isn't here, right?"
"I understand that Endo is the only positive friend I have among you."
I even have friends from before I was summoned! Hajime returned his gaze with thought. Kaori puts her hand to her mouth to reveal her surprise.
"That… that kind of lie is just sad!"
"I'm not lying!?"
"Because I've been watching Hajime-kun for a long time! Since high school, I've never gotten any information that Hajime-kun was playing with boys!"
"Can you please stop saying scary things to naturals?"
That's why Yue calls me ``Stokaori'' and ``Yamizaki Bakaori-san''. she replied with a look,
"There really is. He's someone I've known since we just entered middle school, and we've trusted each other's backs many times. He's a comrade in arms."
"Hey, hey, Hajime. Maybe that's it, Imaginary Friend..."
"Don't let me tell you!?"
Hajime-san was in high spirits today. I cleared my throat and tried to calm my mind.
``I recently found out that we were both enrolled in the same university and department by coincidence.''
"? Your friend was enrolled in the same department, but did you only find out recently?"
"...That's it"
"You mean Hajime-san and I didn't notice? Huh? Or rather, why is that friend listed as a 'friend candidate'?"
"...What can I say..."
"...Shia, that can't be helped. It seems like Hajime and the child have never met before."
````After all, Imaginary Friends---''''
"That's why I won't let you say it!"
The lecture room was completely empty, but there were still people there. A small group of people eating lunch were looking at Hajime with sympathy. It seemed like he heard it.
While ignoring that as much as possible, Hajime told him to squeeze it out.
"I'm a gamer. Of course, I used to play a lot of online games."
""a""
Shizuku and Kaori seemed to have come to terms with it. That's right, in other words, Hajime's comrade in arms who he had never met but who had each other's back many times was none other than his online game friend.
Coincidentally, we both had the same dream of developing VR games, and through that conversation we became aware of each other.
――Well, I thought you were… "Dogeza Shihan"! ?
--You're like that...'the supreme ass chin'! ?
By the way, I'm not kidding or crazy. Yue looked at them like that for a moment, but that was the handle they used when playing online games.
By the way, in Part 2, ``Supreme Ass-Ago'' is not an ass-ago. He is just an ordinary young man who admires his ass. He's a skinhead and doesn't even have eyebrows.
"We're both gamers who overcame many hardships, even at the cost of our real lives. We got really excited about our chance offline meeting, and we hit it off during our conversation..."
By the way, Ketsuago's friend from high school is also enrolled in the school with him, and he is the second potential friend.
Although he is a small and timid character who wears glasses, he is so strong in games that he was recruited by an FPS professional gamer team, and it seems that he is actually strong. Furthermore, her handle name is "DateDatetrueMasaIt's glasses. His visual acuity is 0.1 on both sides, which is not fancy.
"I see. So you've learned about Hajime-san's troubled real life and are waiting to see what happens, right?"
"Was the 'sore' part necessary?"
Yue suggested to Hajime who was staring again.
"...Hajime. Why don't you invite the two of you too? If you're going to go to the trouble of telling each of your friends about our relationship, then do it together, okay?"
In fact, even from Yue's eyes, Ketsuago and the others seemed like good people. When she heard that Hajime and Yue were getting married, the first thing she said was ``I see...congratulations, Dogeza'', which definitely showed her personality.
"No, let's stop. We're talking about playing a game for the first time in a while, so let's talk slowly."
"...Hehe, yes. I understand. Enjoy."
"Ou"
That was then. Right after he got up from his seat thinking it was time to move, Hajime's smartphone notified him of an incoming call.
As soon as he took out his smartphone from his pocket and looked at the screen, Hajime's expression changed to one of disgust.
"...Hmm? From Hattori?"
"Looks like it. Please wait a moment."
Shea and the others looked at the screen and heard Yue's words, somehow guessing what would happen next and making faces like "Ah...".
"...Hattori-san, I'm in college now, right?"
I'll be the first to tell you about the situation, but...
Hajime's face became extremely troublesome. I couldn't make out the content of the conversation, but I could hear a little bit of the voice of Hattori, the leader of the returnee response section, sounding really desperate. It's like I'm asking for something without shame or shame.
I don't even need to look to see him bowing his head on the other end of the phone.
Hajime finally hung up the phone and let out a big sigh.
Then, with an apologetic expression on his face, he apologized to Kaori and the others.
"Sorry. I'm going to go help Hattori-san for a bit."
"Is there a problem? Shall we help?"
Shizuku asked with a serious expression, but Hajime waved his hand.
"No, it's nothing serious. You know that the information war with other countries is intensifying behind the scenes right now, right?"
People who can cause supernatural phenomena to appear all over the world. It is well known that each country is working to secure this power and clarify its power.
It is also well known that the response division led by Hattori is one of the teams fighting on the front lines.
"It seems that someone has approached us for secret negotiations regarding this matter. If things go well, Hattori-san and I will have to deal with a lot less trouble, but it seems like we don't have much time."
I don't know the details, but it seems like Hajime is needed anyway.
Actually, it was not uncommon for Hajime to be called out for diplomatic exchanges like this. This is also one of the reasons why I am so busy.
And Hajime's actions were not just for the benefit.
"Hattori-san is working hard both in front and behind the scenes. If he's asking me to do something, I can't do anything about it. It'll leave a pit in my stomach."
According to Kousuke, who works in and out of the response department, it seems like even the Enadri containing recovery medicine and the special stomach medicine won't be able to repair it in time.
"If that's the case, I can't help it. Good luck, Hajime-kun."
"Ah. That's really bad. Please tell your friends that you apologized as well. Well, why don't we schedule a social gathering instead of the school cafeteria?"
"That's great! I'm sure you'll like it! I'll let you know!"
"It seems like we can become friends with each other. Wouldn't that be nice?"
"Ah, then why don't we take the trouble to invite the boys as well? They're nice people who treat us normally as classmates, so I'm sure they'll get along well with Hajime as well."
"Would you please stop showing off your natural otaku attributes?"
"Who's the old man!"
That said, Hajime is very happy that same-sex friendships are expanding. If only their respective female friends were called, it would look like there would be a terrible rumor that Hajime was the only male among the dozen or so people.
If Shizuku and the others are good people, then there shouldn't be any problem, and in that case, it might be okay to call Ketsuago and Date Makegane as well...I was thinking that.
"Also, there's an afternoon class..."
"...Hmm. That's okay too. I'll record it so you can see it in the past."
"That's helpful."
Hajime smiled back at Yue, who understood without saying anything, and said, ``See you later,'' and quickly left.
While looking back,
"Okay, then I'll give you a refusal, okay?"
So, Shizuku tried to tell her friends about Hajime's urgent business. However, Yue waited.
"...Wait. You can just collect them."
"Huh? But the most important thing, Hajime, isn't there, right?"
While Kaori and Shia also tilted their heads, Yue suddenly smiled.
Then,
"...I'll let Hajime know in advance so that he won't be bombarded with questions at the social gathering."
``What are you going to do!?''
"...It's okay, don't worry. We'll be unanimously blessed by the time the afternoon lecture begins."
``I can't feel safe at all!!''
"…Let's go to battle!!"
"I wonder if I chose the wrong words!? I wonder!?"
"If you use something like ``divine words,'' you'll probably get angry!?''
"Hey, Yue-san! Please tell me specifically what you're planning to do!"
Shia and the others chased after Yue, who quickly started walking alone, feeling a little anxious.
Meanwhile, at the Faculty of Education building.
"Hey, Tamai."\
"Cover it?"
Atsushi Tamai was being approached by several boys.
"You seem to be friends with that Nagumo guy, right?"
"Ah, yeah. Well."
The reason why I smiled vaguely was not because I wanted to deny that we were friends. It was because the expressions of the men approaching her were grim.
One of them, someone who I remember as belonging to the boxing club, placed his sturdy hand on Atsushi's shoulder.
"Please lend me your side for a moment."
"Hahaha..."
I glanced down at that hand.
Atsushi let out a dry laugh, wondering if it was a little too early to choose the same university. He inwardly let out a deep sigh.