🐈‍⬛

🦎Suoh Roka SSR [It's Not Junk] SSR [#FFC02D] SR [Where People Gather] R [Beloved Incompetent Owner]

⚔️ Shinkai Soyogu SR [As an Assistant]

🧩Ukyo Mao R [Cool-type brain]

✧ Personal stories

🍬Personal Story - Kanno Yuragi

✧ Homescreen Conversation

🍬Kanno Yuragi

We returned to Aporia right as break time was starting, just before the evening shift change.

The café staff who had been relaxing in their own ways all turned their eyes toward Roka-san, who was waving behind me.

Kou: Welcome back... or rather, behind you.

Akehoshi: Welcome back, Ito-san~. Wait, Roka-san's here too?

Ito: Uhh, we ran into each other on the way.

Roka: Can you believe it? Yappie helped me pick out some souvenirs! Now, everyone, come accept my love!

Akehoshi: Gimme~! Look, Yura, there’s a ton of sweets here!

Roka: Yuran, this candy is for you!

Yuragi: Yay.

Kou: These souvenirs… aren’t they just from the convenience store downstairs?

Mao: Ah, that explains it. So, you got roped into this, Ito?

Ito: It was just a coincidence. But picking out sweets was actually kind of fun.

As Roka-san started laying the snacks out on the table, those who’d been scattered around the hall, began to gather.

Roka: This one’s for Maochi, and this one’s for Koutasu! There’s enough for everyone, so no need to rush.

Mao: No one is rushing. Honestly, the one most all over the place is you, Roka-san.

Kou: That’s right, everyone's waiting their turn properly. Oh, I like this one.

Roka: Koutasu got more of a savory tooth, after all. Whenever I see snacks like these, I just can’t help myself.

Even Kou-san and Mao-san look like they’re having fun peeking at the snacks.

Ito: (Seeing this scene, I kind of get the feeling behind wanting to bring back souvenirs.)

As I silently nodded at the thought, Roka-san, now suddenly beside me, placed a box in my hand.

Roka: Here, this one’s for you, Yappie.

It was a box of chocolate balls, the kind where if you're lucky, you might get a gold or silver prize.

Ito: …You got one for me too?

Roka: Of course! Yappie, you're an important member of Aporia too.

Ito: (An important member…)

…Thank you so much!

Roka: Oh, and if you get a winner, let me know, okay?

If it’s silver, I already have two, so we can aim for five together!

Ito: Ahaha, got it. I’ll try to collect them.

Drawn in by Roka-san’s energy, a smile naturally formed on my face. It’s such a small thing, and yet it makes me feel incredibly happy.

Ito: (Next time I go out…… maybe I’ll bring back souvenirs for everyone too.)

The thought crossed my mind.

Roka: If anything, I think it’s not enough yet.

When I’m picking out souvenirs and wondering which one to get, the faces of the people I want to give them to just sort of pop into my mind.

And then it’s like, “Oh, I’ll get this one… and that one too…” and before I know it, I end up with all this.

Ito: Their faces?

Roka: Yeah. Like, this candy is for Yuran. It’s blue and sparkly and pretty. I think he’ll like it.

Ito: (Yuran…… So, Yuragi-kun.)

Roka: These gummies are for Maochi. It’s got a sour jelly inside, not just sweet, and that part especially reminds me of him.

Ito: …...I see. I think I kind of get what you mean.

Roka: You get it? As expected of our Yappie! You should totally take the “Understanding Others” Test. You’d pass with flying colors. Grade 1 for sure!

Ito: If that were a real thing, I’d consider it.

Roka: You definitely should!

— Ah, this one’s for Yuzu-kun! And this one… this presence is unmistakable. It’s gotta be AiAi!

Ito: (I wonder if he always chooses souvenirs like this...)

Thinking about the smiles of the people he’ll give them to. Just like now, as he shares such sparkling, unrestrained smile.

—Roka-san looked like he was having so much fun, I couldn’t help but feel moved.

Ito: I’ll help carry the sweets.

Roka: Thank you. Now we’re officially souvenir buddies, Yappie! ☆

But I can’t have you carrying anything heavy, so I guess it’s time to wrap things up!

And with that, I started picking out souvenirs too, together with Roka-san.

On top of that, I was getting a little hungry.

Ito: (I’m not in the mood for a full meal, just something light to snack on… maybe bread? Or some sweets could work too.)

As I was thinking that and heading toward the snack section—

Roka: Oh, they actually stock this? The store manager has great taste!

Ito: — Roka-san?

There stood our owner.

Roka: Hey hey, Yappie! What a coincidence! Craving sweets too, huh?

Ito: I was just thinking of picking up something light to eat. Are you buying snacks, Roka-san?

Roka: I’m planning to stop by Aporia after this. The café’s probably about to close for the day, right?

Everyone’s probably worn out by now, so I figured they’d be happy if I brought a little souvenir.

Ito: I see, so a little souvenir for everyone.

Roka: Exactly! So I was just picking out a few things. Look.

As he said that, Roka-san showed me the shopping basket in his hands.

Inside were colorful candy bags, small ball-shaped chocolates, fruit-flavored gummies, and more, all packed together.

Ito: That’s… quite a lot.

Roka: Hey, dreams are meant to overflow, right? Oh, gotta grab this too.

With that, he tossed in a pack of biscuits and some chocolate snacks.

Roka: Oh right, can’t forget these either!

With a smile, Roka-san kept pulling snacks off the shelf and tossing them into the basket one after another.

Before I knew it—He had created a small mountain.

Ito: Taiyaki……? Are you talking about dessert?

Ai: No. Knowing him, he probably just said it because he suddenly wants some now.

Ito: I see. Unfortunately, taiyaki isn’t on the menu..

Ai: They do have sea bream carpaccio, though.

Roka: Not that, I meant that place we passed earlier! An image of a taiyaki shop suddenly flashed through my mind!

I can’t believe I forgot about that cute little treat…… crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside……

Ai: Come to think of it, that’s right

Ito: The building didn’t look run-down, so maybe the business just changed hands due to other reasons.

Roka: If that’s the case, it’s kind of sad. Maybe if I’d gone there more often…

Ai: True. If you had, it might have stayed open longer.

Ito: Because Roka-san would have bought a bunch?

Ai: That too. But for some reason, people just tend to gather wherever he is.

Ito: Ah, I see!

Roka: Fufun. So what you’re saying is, I have a charisma that draws people in!

…… But now that we’ve been talking about taiyaki, I’m seriously craving some.

Alright then! On our way back, let’s all grab some taiyaki together!

Ito: Sounds good. Now I want some too.

Ai: I’m good.

Roka: You too, AiAi! Sweet things help you think better, you know. You shall enjoy them to your heart’s content~☆

Ai: ……

Ito: (And just like that, two people are already gathering around Roka-san again.)

Come to think of it, the reason the three of us came to eat together tonight was because of Roka-san.

Ito: (I even got the chance to work at Aporia thanks to him.)

I guess it’s because he naturally pulls people along with him. That must be why things are always so lively around him— It was an oddly satisfying night.

Roka: It’s the long-awaited dinner time!

Ito: !

Ai: …… Haa

Just then, Roka-san, who had been behind us the whole time, suddenly stood up energetically as soon as work ended.

Ito: Uh, when you say “dinner time”…… you mean?

Roka: Obviously, the three of us, Yappie, AiAi, and I, are going out to eat together!

Ai: Don’t worry. No such plans were made.

Most likely, this is just another one of Roka’s spontaneous whims.

Roka: Fufun. You see, watching how you two work got me thinking!

The three of us haven’t really hung out much, have we?

Ito: …… Now that you mention it, that’s true. Both Roka-san and Kosaka-san are often out on business.

Roka: Right! So I figured this is the perfect chance to strengthen our bond!

Ai: Your reasoning aside, things like this are supposed to be scheduled in advance.

But then again, telling you that is probably pointless. Yashiro, do you have any plans?

Ito: Ah, no. I’m free, so I can join.

Ai: In that case, let’s wrap up and go.

Roka: Yeah, yeah, glad everyone’s on board! Now that it’s settled, let’s go find a place to eat!

With Kosaka-san leading the way, we headed toward the shopping district.

Ito: Now that I think about it. Why is Kosaka-san naturally taking the lead?

Roka: Because AiAi gives off such an intimidating aura!

Even in a crowd, people kindly make way for him.

Ito: That’s the reason…

Ai: Don’t treat people like human shields—

— Tch.

Kosaka-san suddenly comes to a halt.

Roka: — Whoa!?

Naturally, Roka-san, who was walking right behind, couldn’t react in time and ended up bumping his nose into his back.

Roka: Why’d you stop all of a sudden, AiAi? Did you remember something you forgot?

And while we’re at it, I’d appreciate it if you remembered that I’m walking right behind you!

Ai: …… What was this place?

Ito: You mean this pretty establishment? I don’t think I’ve seen it before

Roka: I know it! If I remember right, it used to be an offal stew​ restaurant!

Ai: That was before tha. How many years back are you talking about?

Roka: Hmm~?

Ito: Judging from the look of it, it doesn’t seem to be a restaurant anymore.

Roka: Then it’d be tough to go in and ask someone about it, huh. Ugh, what was it before…

Ai: I am the one who brought it up, but there is no point in standing around thinking about it. Let’s get to dinner.

Ito: R-right.

Roka: Uuummm……??

Ito: (Roka-san seems really bothered by it……)

Chapter 1

Yuzuru: That concludes my latest report.

Roka: Yeah! Hearing what everyone’s been up to while I was away is always so much fun!

And Yuzu-kun, you’ve been doing great at Aporia too. Thank you as always.

Yuzuru: Not at all, I haven’t done much. Everyone has been a big help, including you, Roka-san.

Roka: …! Fufun, you know, you could say a little more!

Today’s lunch meeting with Yuzu-kun went smoothly thanks to our super-efficient and seamless progress.

Roka: By the way, Yuzu-kun, your wonderful smile seems even brighter than usual today. Did something good happen?

Yuzuru: ! You saw right through me. Actually, we are having a meeting later to brainstorm new menu items for Aporia.

Roka: I see. No wonder you’re in such high spirits. Those brainstorming meetings mean you get to eat all kinds of things, after all.

Yuzuru: Was it really that obvious?

Roka: Happiness is contagious, you know. But more importantly……

Employee: Thank you for waiting. Here’s today’s pasta lunch with dessert and drink set, a croque monsieur, and an iced cocoa.

Yuzuru: Ah, thank you. Please put the iced cocoa over there.

One by one, the dishes we ordered are placed on our table, or more accurately, in front of Yuzu-kun.

Roka: Hmm, no matter how many times I see it, it’s always impressive. You’ve still got more food coming later, right?

Yuzuru: Yes. That is why I figured I’d walk about a station’s distance home to help digest it all.

Roka: I’m not sure that’s far enough to work up an appetite though!

That said, even I, the great Roka, can’t figure out where you put all that food, Yuzu-kun.

Yuzuru: I hear that a lot. People often ask if my stomach is some sort of black hole.

Roka: Hmm, entirely possible. This might be the greatest mystery of the century!

Or maybe… when I think about how hardworking you are, it’s not such a mystery after all?

Yuzu-kun chuckles awkwardly but keeps eating at a steady pace. His expression full of joy.

Roka: (As long as Yuzu-kun looks happy, that’s all that matters.)

After issuing the curt command, Fushimi-san glanced to the side to confirm, just then the car started moving.

Unlike me, who was feeling anxious, Fushimi-san showed no sign of impatience at all. After driving a short distance, he suddenly stopped the car and casually pointed outside with his finger.

Drawn by his gesture, I turned to look in that direction, and…

Shinobu: Thanks for picking me up!

Ito: (Thank go-goodness…)

Aizawa-kun, holding a red cap in one hand, joined us with a calm expression.

Ito: There was a loud noise earlier. Are you okay? Were you hurt?

Shinobu: Thanks! But I didn’t even get a scratch. V~

Aizawa-kun gave a cheerful smile and flashed a V-sign. Seeing that, I finally felt some of the tension leave my shoulders. It seemed I’d been more on edge than I realized.

Shizuka: We will debrief on the way back. Start from when you made contact with the target.

Shinobu: At first, they were super angry. Like, seriously bad. But once I brought up the client’s story, they calmed down pretty quickly.

What worked best was explaining that the client didn’t want to involve the police or go public on social media because they didn’t want to cause trouble for their favorite artist.

They admitted they acted on impulse and said they wanted to apologize properly. They seemed genuinely sorry. So, I think it’s all good now.

Ito: Why did you suddenly lose contact? I heard a sound like someone getting hit.

Shinobu: Ah, that. I just accidentally bumped my arm.

Then, while I was trying to calm them down, my wireless earphone just popped out.

Shizuka: It doesn’t just pop out. If it happens again, I’ll sew it to your ear.

Shinobu: Saying things like that, but you still came to pick me up, so you were at least a little worried, weren’t you?

Shizuka: Should I sew your mouth shut too?

Shinobu: Nyahaha, now that would be a problem.

Shizuka: It means you should reflect on your actions.

Ito: (The content of their conversation is concerning, but both of them are so calm…)

(Fushimi-san trusts Aizawa-kun… No, he trusts the entire Watchdog Department.)

(More than I had thought.)

Shinobu: No matter how careful you are, sometimes things just fall. Don’t you agree, Yashiro-san?

Ito: Eh? Uh, yes

Shizuka: Don’t drag Yashiro into this. And Yashiro, don’t answer on impulse.

Even elementary school kids can manage not to lose their stuff.

Shinobu: I’m pretty sure I was one of those kids who couldn’t.

Ito: Ahaha

(They’re such a good team.)

To trust someone. It’s the hardest thing to do, yet it’s the most essential quality for a leader.

As I watched the bond between members of the Watchdog Department, I felt like I’d come to understand Fushimi-san just a little more.

“Aizawa, heard that?”

Shinobu: “Loud and clear!”

The one to make contact with the target is Aizawa-kun.

The reason for this is that they’re less likely to be on guard if he approaches rather than me. And, in the unlikely event of something happening, he can handle it.

Shizuka: Yashiro, keep your distance while sharing the target’s current location with Aizawa.

Ito: “Got it.”

Shizuka: Aizawa, proceed to make contact as planned based on Yashiro’s updates.

I will follow along and provide position updates if needed. Report immediately if anything happens.

Shinobu: “Alrighty alright. Then, I’m moving out.”

Ito: (I just need to focus on doing my part as best I can.)

!

The target is on the move.

They’re now passing by the convenience store.

As instructed, I relay the target’s location to Aizawa-kun and Fushimi-san in real time.

Shinobu: “Ah, Just spotted ‘em! They’re exactly dressed like they said on social media.”

Shizuka: Thanks to that, they are easy to spot.

Ito: “There seem to be a lot of concert attendees in this area. Plenty of people are dressed similarly, so be careful.”

Shizuka: That seems to be the case. Make sure not to approach the wrong person.

Shinobu: “Of course not! I wouldn’t do that!”

Ito: “The target has stopped near the merch line.”

Shizuka: Aizawa, you can go.

Shinobu: “Roger that!”

Shizuka: Yashiro, stay on standby somewhere you can support Aizawa if needed.

Ito: “Understood.”

While keeping an eye on the target from a distance, I spot Aizawa-kun’s familiar figure moving in.

Shinobu: “Oh, hello! There’s something I’d like to ask.”

I can’t hear the target’s response, but Aizawa-kun’s voice comes through clearly over the comms.

Ito: (For now, it doesn’t seem like there’s a problem—)

Shinobu: “…… Ah! No, no, that’s not what I meant at all!”

Ito: (…… I take that back. Looks like there is a problem.)

Just as I think that, the crowd in front of me suddenly shifts.

Ito: !

Aizawa-kun’s figure disappeared from view, and at the same time, I heard the target’s angry voice followed by a dull thud.

Then, the comms go completely silent.

Ito: Fushimi-san! Just now…… Should I go help?

Shizuka: "No need for that. Yashiro, with me. Head back to the car."

The signature belongs to an artist performing live today. The target wrote on social media that they would be attending. And, helpfully, they even described what they will be wearing.

Our car is currently parked on the road leading from the station to the concert venue.

Fushimi-san, who is explaining the request, will remain in the car as the control tower as usual, while Aizawa-kun and I will be the ones in the field.

Ito: (A perfect position with a clear view of the area…… As expected from the Watchdog department.)

Shizuka: The client mentioned being approached by the target on the way home from the last concert. They struck up a conversation and got along.

They ended up drinking together, but when the client woke up, the signed cap was gone.

Instead of going to the police, the client came to us. Their reasoning was that if word got out about a problematic fan, it might cause trouble for the artist. Keep that in mind as you search for the target.

Quietly acknowledging the instructions, I step out of the car. Determined not to mess things up, I mentally prepare myself—

Shinobu: Relax a little, okay? Let's do our best!

Ito: !

Shinobu: Alright, I'll head this way. If anything happens, use this to contact me.

Tapping his earpiece microphone lightly, Aizawa-kun gives me a friendly smile.

Feeling reassured by the presence of a dependable colleague, I mentally review the target's description again.

Ito: (A red autographed cap, a yellow T-shirt, and a body bag covered in artist merch…… A lot of it.)

(Based on their social media posts, they should stand out quite a bit. Even in this crowd, I'm sure……)

Ito: Ah

Just as the saying goes, "Speak of the devil", I spot a man who matches the description perfectly.

Ito: (The cap matches the description. Time to contact Fushimi-san…!)

Note:

Takeru: Eh? Oh no, did I mix them up!?

Shizuka: This one isn’t spicy at all.

Takeru: I’m so sorry!

Mika-san quickly hands me a glass of water. I down it in one go, but the burning sensation in my mouth doesn’t go away at all.

Shizuka: Water won’t help as much. Something as dairy, like yogurt, would be better.

Takeru: Oh! I’ve got some I use for cocktails! Hang on, I’ll bring it right away!

Ito: T-th'nk yew……!

(Even the slightest movement in my mouth hurts……!)

Takeru: Sorry to keep you waiting! Here, yogurt!

Ito: Ah, thank you so much.

Just like Fushimi-san suggested, the yogurt worked. By the time I finally sighed in relief, he had already swapped out my plate and was calmly eating the ultra-spicy curry like it was nothing.

Shizuka: ……

Ito: (He’s eating that level of spiciness without even flinching!?)

Wait, so that was your plate, Fushimi-san? Do you always eat food that spicy?

Shizuka: Hm.

Ito: (He’s not even sweating. He’s the real deal…… Wait, what even is the real deal?)

Shizuka: This level is not a problem. I even tried those really spicy noodles people talked about on social media before, but they weren’t that spicy.

Takeru: That, you mean “Caro Noodles”? I heard it’s packed with the world’s spiciest chili pepper kneaded right into the noodles……

Shizuka: They were stimulating, sure. But they didn’t meet my expectations.

Ito: If you like spicy food that much, it’s less of a preference and more like a special skill at this point.

Shizuka: What would I even do with that kind of skill?

Takeru: Maybe start a channel where you eat super spicy food all the time.

Ito: A channel where Fushimi-san calmly eats extremely spicy dishes without even flinching……

Takeru: But I guess we wouldn’t get much of a reaction, huh?

Ito: Food ASMR videos are trending these days, though. You could use your quiet personality to help people fall asleep…...

Ah, but that has nothing to do with spicy food.

Shizuka: We don’t need to seriously discuss this.

Takeru: Oh, come on, I was already imagining the whole thing.

Anyway, it’d be a waste if the food gets cold while we chat. Eat up, eat up!

Ito: Alright then…… Thanks for the food.

This time I tried a curry that wasn’t too spicy. Thankfully, it was absolutely delicious.

Ito: ! This is delicious. The spiciness is just right too.

Takeru: Thank you. Shizuka, you could say thank you too, you know?

Shizuka: Yeah, yeah, it’s good.

Ito: …… So Fushimi-san can make faces like that too.

Shizuka: Hm?

Takeru: Fufu, I got a nice expression out of you. Isn’t that what they call a gap?

Shizuka: If we’re talking about gaps, then that suits Yashiro more.

Earlier, when you were coughing from the spice. I never realized you had such a range of expressions until now.

Ito: I don’t feel like I’m being complimented here.

Shizuka: Well, I wasn’t trying to compliment you.

Takeru: Oh, then how about Ito takes care of the reactions, and the two of you start a channel together?

Shizuka: Not happening.

Ito: Definitely not happening…!

Takeru: See? You’re perfectly in sync!

Takeru: Okay, then it’s settled.

Shizuka: I haven’t even answered yet.

Takeru: I already know you’ll eat without me needing to ask. Alright, just wait a moment.

Shizuka: ……

Ito: (Now that Mika-san left, it suddenly got so quiet. Should I say something? Or just leave it be…?)

Shizuka: ……

Ito: (What do I do? I can’t think of a single topic. Not even a sliver of a conversation starter.)

(Even though there’s no need to force it, these long silences make me feel anxious.)

Ito: (Though, he doesn’t seem like the type to be bothered by it.)

Shizuka: How about a game of word chain? [1]

Ito: …… Eh?

Shizuka: Word chain. It’s not like you don’t know it.

If we’re talking about the same thing, it’s that simple word game even kids play. Still… it really doesn’t match the image I have of Fushimi-san at all.

Shizuka: You looked like you were deep in thought, so I just suggested it. If you’ve got something else in mind, that’s fine too.

Ito: (…… I made him go out of his way to think about me.)

Shizuka: I figured it’d be a better mental exercise than meaningless small talk.

Ito: No, word chain is fine. I can do that.

Shizuka: Apple

Ito: (He really just started it…)

As we stare at each other, a peculiar word rally begins.

Ito: Alright. E… Elephant

Shizuka: Tiger

Ito: Rats

Shizuka: Stair

Ito: Eyes…?

Shizuka: Not “Stare”. “Stair”.

Ito: Ah, sorry. River

Shizuka: Ruler

Ito: (This isn’t a coincidence. He’s definitely playing to win……?)

Fushimi-san, are you by any chance a bit competitive?

Shizuka: No. But if there are rules that set up a winner and a loser, aiming for that outcome is only natural.

Ito: I see… R… Ri—

Takeru: Sorry to keep you waiting. What’s this adorable thing you’re doing?

Shizuka: Just killing time.

Takeru: Oh dear, sorry for making you wait. But I bet the food will taste even better after all that brain exercise!

Ito: This smell…… Is it curry?

Takeru: Yup. My own special recipe. I hope it suits your taste ♡

As Mika-san sets a plate of curry in front of me. I wasn’t the only one draw by the appetizing aroma that wafted through the air.

Shizuka: Thanks for the meal.

Takeru: Please, dig in!

All | Next →

Notes:

Chapter 1

Mao: Hey, not yet?

Akehoshi: Just hold on a sec. I'ma find it in a minute.

Mao: That’s the third time you have said that.

In the corner of the room, a pile of magazines and papers miraculously stood in perfect balance as Akehoshi leisurely looked through it.

He was searching for the DVD I lent him last week.

Akehoshi: How weird~ I swear I left it right here after I finished watchin' it.

Mao: You do this way too often. Also, what even is that mountain? It is a total chaos.

Akehoshi: It ain't chaos. This place has its own kinda order, y'know?

Mao: Do you even know what order means?

Akehoshi: I wonder.

I sighed and looked at Akehoshi exasperated. Just then, he suddenly stopped searching and lifted his gaze, staring right at me.

Akehoshi: ……

Mao: Akehoshi?

Akehoshi: Hmm… I kinda got a little mesmerized.

Mao: By what?

Akehoshi: You, Maochi.

Mao: Hey, don't tell me you lost the DVD.

Akehoshi: Now hold on~ I ain't tryna to distract you or anythin'.

I mean, not you, more like your eyelashes. If ya look real closely, they're so evenly spaced. Kinda made me wonder if that counts as some sorta order too.

Mao: You're being weird again……

As we kept going back and forth like this, somehow, Akehoshi managed to find the DVD.

Mao: You actually found it. I'm impressed.

Akehoshi: Told ya, didn't I? There's a kind of order here.

Mao: Seems like it.

Akehoshi: Thanks for bein' patient. If ya find somethin' interestin', lend it to me again.

Mao: That’s fine, but by "interesting," you mean something funny?

Akehoshi: That too, but… there's more to what makes a movie interestin", right?

Like a brainy mystery or some deep drama.

Mao: So, you want something like that?

Akehoshi: Yeah, pretty much.

Mao: I feel like Kou would know more about those kinds of films than me. Alright, I'll look for something.

Akehoshi: Kou-kun's picks have that Kou-kun kind of charm, but Maochi's picks are so Maochi~ I like both.

Mao: What does that even mean? Fine, whatever.

Akehoshi: So, I'll be lookin' forward to it~

Mao: Yes, yes. Expectations noted.

Most likely, whatever I lend him next will end up in that apparently ordered pile of his.