Akira, always one for excitement, didn't waste a moment before suggesting her own theme, "How about a face-slapping fantasy? It's got to be intense, where the underdog rises to power and takes down those who underestimated them. It's a story of ultimate triumph!"
Yumi, with her penchant for tradition, chimed in, "I'd like a classic fantasy story with magic and adventure. You know, wizards, knights, and epic quests. It's the kind of story that never gets old, but we can always add our unique twists."
Rei, being the thoughtful one, considered the story's appeal. "We should think about what will make our story stand out and appeal to readers. Perhaps we can focus on complex characters and their relationships. That's often the heart of a good story."
Ayumi, always conscious of power dynamics and rules, suggested, "Let's also explore the power balance and laws in this world. It can add depth to our story and make it more immersive."
Haruto listened to their suggestions.....and Have thought deeply for a while and came to conclusion....
He realized a single person can't do everything...So he decided to reduce his burden of responsibility
Haruto, recognizing the potential chaos of trying to blend all the elements into one story and mindful of Kei and Johanna's absence, took charge of dividing the roles among the group.
He assigned the task of developing the laws, rules, and mystery elements to Kei, who wasn't present at the moment. Haruto had confidence in her ability to bring an air of intrigue to the story.
For the romantic and fluffy aspects, Haruto allocated this role to Johanna, even though she wasn't in the meeting. He knew she had a knack for creating heartwarming and sweet moments in stories.
Yumi was handed the responsibilities of handling politics, gender roles, traditional values, and expectations in the story. Her penchant for tradition and her strong views made her a suitable choice for this role.
Rei, with her focus on the story's appeal, was designated as the editor, ensuring the narrative flowed smoothly, and the final product would capture the readers' attention. Since she can play as striaght woman
Ayumi's strengths lay in understanding character motivations, especially for enemies and NPCs, as well as world-building. Haruto entrusted her with these critical aspects.
As for Akira, he allowed her creativity to flow freely. She had the liberty to contribute her unique and open-minded ideas to the story, adding an unpredictable and exciting element.
Rei, ever the realist, reflected on the concept of a harem being about sharing one with others. She acknowledged Haruto's clever approach in distributing roles to reduce the burden on each member and called him a genius in her unique and warm way. "You know, Haruto, it's almost like you've found a way for us to create a story without overburdening ourselves. This is genius," she admitted with a rare smile.
Akira, always quick to voice her thoughts, pointed out, taken aback "But, you know, it feels like I haven't been given any specific role. I'm kind of free-floating here."
Yumi, with her straightforward nature, chimed in, "Well, maybe that's because Haruto realized you're pretty much useless and decided to sugarcoat it. He's sparing your feelings."
"Boo, Boo. I wanted a role ya know" She protested
Akira's protest was met with a collective sigh and some eye-rolling from the group. Yumi, known for her straightforward and sometimes blunt nature, couldn't help but respond with a comment that was both critical and degrading. She said, "Well, Akira, maybe you should stick to writing about prostitutes and smut. At least that way, you'll be in your comfort zone."
This harsh remark hung in the air, leaving a palpable tension in the room. Haruto, not one to enjoy conflict, attempted to defuse the situation. "Come on, guys, let's not get into an argument. We're here to work together and create something great."
Rei, recognizing the need to keep the peace, chimed in, "Haruto is right. Let's focus on our roles and how we can bring this story to life. We're a team, and we should support each other."
"Okay I will support this cow and won't argue with her " Yumi replied sighing
"I never have been felt so insulated before " Akira said
"..."Yumi seems to resist the urge to degrade and insult her
Haruto, though he hadn't shared his reasoning for Akira's role yet, was confident that the dynamic mix of roles and ideas within the group would lead to a story that transcended their individual talent
"Ayumi, ever the deep thinker, observed, "It sounds like a fun 'one for all, all for one' approach, but it's so idealistic, Haru-chan. Let's hope it works out in practice." Ayumi moved closer to him and clinged towards him by holding his body towards closer to her body affectionately
Haruto, slightly confused but amused by the "Haru-chan" nickname, couldn't help but let out a small chuckle. "Haru-chan, huh? That sounds good."
Ayumi, with a tone that suggested a more genuine fondness, replied, "It's a cute name for a cute boy, don't you think?" Her eyes gleamed with a hint of admiration.
Yumi, ever observant, pointed out with a teasing edge, "Ayumi, you're getting little...too comfortable and cozy with Haruto rather quickly. It's like you've known him for ages."
Akira, feeling a sudden surge of feeling, approached Ayumi with open arms. "Come on, Ayumi, give me a hug. We're a team, right?"
Ayumi, maintaining her usual calm demeanor, took a step back, raising her hands in a clear sign of refusal. "I don't hug you, Akira. It's not my thing."
Undeterred, Akira persisted, "Oh, come on! Just one hug won't hurt. You are hugging haruto-kun....so it's not very awkward to hug me"
Ayumi, still resolute, responded, "No means no, Freak."
Ignoring Ayumi's stance, Akira attempted to wrap her arms around Ayumi, insisting on the hug.
"Haru-chan, have you ever noticed how Ayumi can be downright cruel to the girls in the club, yet she's all sweetness and affectionate hugs when it comes to you?" Rei questioned, her tone indicating a mix of curiosity and concern.
"To be honest I am worried about you...I have never seen Ayumi being so attached. " Rei muttured.
Akira, her pride stung by the unexpected rejection, couldn't hide her frustration. "What's your problem, Ayumi? Why can't you hug me? We're supposed to be a team."
Ayumi, maintaining her calm exterior, glanced at Akira and simply stated, "I don't hug girls. It's a personal preference."
Yumi, seizing the opportunity to tease, chimed in, "Looks like Ayumi has a soft spot for Haruto but a no-hug policy for the rest of us. Interesting choice, Ayumi."
Rei, always the mediator, tried to diffuse the tension. "Let's not make a big deal out of it. Everyone has their preferences. We should focus on our story."
As Ayumi skillfully evaded Akira's attempt at a hug and moved closer to Haruto, she whispered softly into his ear, "It's okay, Haru-chan. I won't let anyone hurt you. I'll protect you for all of us."
Haruto, catching the whisper and feeling a mix of surprise and excitement at the unexpected attention, couldn't help but blush. The warmth of Ayumi's words and the subtle promise of protection created a flutter of emotions within him, making the moment both thrilling and intriguing.
Yumi, baffled by Haruto's sudden blush and reaction, couldn't help but express her confusion, "Haruto, why are you blushing? Did Ayumi say something embarrassing?"
Unaware of the awkward situation, Haruto stammered, "N-no, it's nothing. Just... a bit warm in here."
Yumi, being dense about the situation, pointed out, "Well, your face says otherwise. And, um, is that a... boner?" She gestured awkwardly, her curiosity getting the better of her.
Akira, always quick on the uptake, smirked knowingly and added, "Looks like Ayumi's words hit the right spot, huh, Haruto? What do you say Yumi? "
"Yumi?" She asked as she didn't react....Yumi is very quick to make a comeback insult....But she is strangely silent.
Meanwhile Yumi, caught off guard by the sight of Haruto's boner, felt her own cheeks heat up. In a moment of imagination, her mind ventured into territories it hadn't explored before. The concept of the man's sexuality is a foregin and taboo subject for her....She realized how unladylike-way she responded...her brain is heated up trying hard to stay calm
Stuttering and blushing, she blurted out, "I-I mean, which boy wouldn't react to a girl being all cling and whispering sweet things? It's, uh, natural, for men right?"
The realization of what she just said hit her, and her embarrassment deepened. "I-I mean, not that I understand these things.... about men... I just... ugh!"
Attempting to divert the attention, Yumi hastily added, "Also, did anyone notice how Ayumi was being all girly just now? I've never seen her act like that before. It's, like, a whole new side of her."
Akira, ever the tease, grinned and teased, "Yumi, are you turned on seeing Haruto's, boner? Didn't expect you to be a closet perv.... You seem more worked up than usual."
Yumi, letting out a metaphorical smoke from her head, felt her embarrassment escalate into frustration. The mention of being a "closet perv" hit a nerve she didn't know she had.
Yumi, emitting an invisible cloud of frustration and embarrassment, found herself on her feet. A rosy hue adorned her cheeks as she scolded Akira, "My goodness! Could you, perhaps, mind your language? It's utterly indecent to discuss such matters in front of everyone! Especially with him "
Her eyes flickered with a mix of embarrassment and annoyance, and she continued, "One should exercise a bit of restraint, you know. We're not in a locker room.... This kind of talk is tainting my, um, delicate sensibilities before marriage."
In a burst of fury, Yumi decided to take Akira aside, away from the delicate atmosphere of the room. She led her to a more private setting, perhaps a metaphorical "locker room," intending to address the issue without further disturbing the group or tarnishing the refined ambiance they were trying to maintain. The details of their conversation and resolution remained discreet.
Rei, observing Yumi's reaction and the intensity of the situation, chose her words carefully, "Well, Yumi can be a bit... intimidating when she's crossed. You might want to watch out, Haru-chan."
Ayame, genuinely perplexed, asked, "What's so scary about her? I don't get it."
The distant sounds of the locker room grew louder, with distinct noises of objects clattering, a sharp breaking sound, and occasional loud slaps and kicks. The subtext was clear
Haruto, noticing the tension and confused about the "locker room talk," inquired, "Uh, what's going on? Did I miss something? I think they....." He tried to say it
Rei, with a stoic yet serious look, suggested, "You might want to go inside and check, but fair warning, it might be a bit unsightly for a man. Yumi can be... quite terrifying when provoked."
Following her ominous warning, the sounds from the locker room escalated into a symphony of destruction. Objects clattered, and a loud slap, along with kicking sounds, reverberated through the air. It seemed like a storm had erupted within those four walls.
She said with a stoic and serious tone, "You may want to reconsider your words next time."
Haruto, catching the subtext and not eager to witness Yumi's wrath up close, shook his head vigorously. "No, I think I know what's happening in there. Yumi is, uh, scary, and I'd rather not get on her bad side right now. I think I am good being a dense main character for now." The horror-filled ambiance of the ongoing situation behind the closed door only reinforced his decision to stay put.
"And just like that...We got diverted again " Rei responded
"Yeah....."