AN: It's been a while, but here's the next chapter. Spent a while on this, so I hope you enjoy it! My betas put in some good work!

I appreciate any feedback I get!

The night of the summer camp had an air of sincerity in the air. Ais was a little more clingy than usual, opting to stick closely to me until dragged away by Hiratsuka-sensei. Yukinoshita seemed to have a lot on her mind, not really interacting with anyone even more than usual. Yuigahama on the other hand was all smiles, satisfied with the day ending as it did,

As for me, well, I had a feeling that despite the resolution of Rumi-Rumi moving forward, there was more to see from her. The summer camp wasn't finished after all, She could very well take the opportunity to make some friends with her newfound confidence.

And so it was that I was in a tent with Tobe and Hayama attempting to get to sleep when I heard these horrifying words.

"Heeey Hikitani. It's just us and Hayato in a tent, you know what that means?"

"I need to find a new tent?"

"Pfft hahaha," Hayama laughed, "You're really quite something, Hikitani. Tobe probably means something a little different, right?"

"Exactamundo, Hayato. Of course, it's about girls! And I think you especially have some explaining to do, Hikitani?"

Alright, maybe I was exaggerating earlier but I still very much did not want to have this conversation now especially with Tobe and Hayama of all people. "Uh, I'm not sure I know what you mean. Isn't Hayama the popular one?"

"Oh don't turn this on me, Hikitani" Hayama brushed off my attempt, wholly unwilling to divulge his own love life.

While I could totally understand the notion, screw the Riaju!

"That's right. Hayato is only mostly popular with the first years," Tobe said.

"...Really." I deadpanned my doubt.

"Hayama looked away, not willing to match my gaze. Tobe thought about it before laughing, saying, "I don't know Hikitani. Maybe, just maybe, you're onto something. I'm not too in the know about the other classes so I could very well be wrong. In our class at least, I think you're the heartthrob."

"I sincerely doubt that."

"What about those 2 new students, Wallenstein-san and Lion-san?" Hayama probed. It only served to remind me for all his looks, he's pretty smart. He used it this time to jump on the goof's train and pincer attack me before my sleep.

Too bad he isn't as cute as my beloved younger sister!

"We used to know each other. We're simply friends that have been reunited." As easily as I breathe, I relayed my side so simply. There really was no way they could misunderstand.

"Oh really? I was under the impression that you were a bit of a loner," Hayama said, his words being very accusatory while his tone portraying a well-intentioned observation.

"Well Hikitani obviously has friends now by the looks of it," Tobe answered, unaware of Hayama's probing. "Really, I was more thinking Yu-"

"I don't know if you want to go there, Tobe," Hayama interrupted, mysteriously. "If said person does indeed have feelings, we wouldn't want to spoil that."

I was too tired to care for his words. I only cared that the conversation had steered off. Why couldn't they believe that there was nothing else to the so-called story?

"Maybe you're right, Hayato," Tobe sighed as a brief silence overtook the tent. "I think I just wanna relate to someone right now because… of my own situation?"

"What? Do you have someone in mind or something?" I asked. They would've kept me up anyway. If I wanted the conversation to lay off me, it was best to help steer the conversation. Now, if it was a certain blond saying those words, I would've turned my attention and my miniscule amount of care off.

And probably flipped him off in my head for complaining to me about his girl issues.

"I don't think we should pry about it, Hikitani," Hayama said, suddenly getting evasive.

"I wish you said that before trying to pry about my own friends." I'm allowed to be salty, but I swear I wasn't this time!

Thankfully, Tobe could see that and waved Hayama off my case. "No, no," he said, "It's alright. I've just found myself thinking about HIna recently."

"Ebina? Huh, I never would've guessed," I mumbled. You learn something new everyday, huh?

"Yeah. She's such a cool beauty in my eyes. I've got to shoot my shot at some point!"

"Just don't overdo it, Tobe. I don't think Ebina is looking for a relationship right now," Hayama said.

"How do you know that?" I asked.

"Uh, it's just a feeling I have I guess? The point is I don't want you to get burned, Tobe." Hayama was being very evasive in his reasoning. He probably does know a thing or two but that doesn't matter to me.

"Geez, you don't have to worry about me Hayato. I can take the pain!" Tobe joked.

"Well if you want my opinion, I say go for it."

That sure surprised the two of them. Tobe seemed genuinely happy with my support while Hayama almost looked like he was glaring at me for that remark. Take a blink and you'd miss it.

His mask is slipping for some reason. It could be a lot of things. Maybe I'll find out why later.

Hopefully, I don't.

(-)

The next day, it was a little apparent who the campers were. Even Hayama and Yukinoshita showed some signs of uneasiness getting up in the morning from sleeping like that.

"Ais, how are you so unfazed from sleeping with no pillow? The ground must've felt like a rock!" Yuigahama said, "You don't even have any bedhead!"

"Yuigahama is right," Yukinoshita said, joining Yuigahama in poking at Ais' hair, "Does your hair have a secret to keeping this well-groomed?"

"Both of them are totes right! You have to tell me your secret Ais-chan," Yumiko added.

Ais shrunk back at each person's input as their attention ment more poking to her skull usually and some fiddling with her hair.

Ais quickly attempted to shake everyone off before running away to hide behind me. Putting aside that Yukinoshita actually made a joke, it was very weird to see Miura agree with Yukinoshita about something like this. Ais running away is not a new sight as while she can handle pushy people on her own, most of the time she just relies on me or Riveria.

While I didn't mind being a shield for her, I did mind the fact that I had those three narrowing in on me to get to Ais.

"Hey, can you three calm down? You're kind of scaring Ais away." Maybe appealing to their friendship will get them to back off?

"Come to think of it," Miura said, "You look just as refreshed as Ais-chan does, Hikio!"

Hold on-

"Strangely enough, even with those dead eyes of his, Hiki-Fish-eyes-kun does surprisingly look well-rested."

"Eh? You guys are right! Hikki, what's yours and Ais-chan's secrets!" Yuigahama asked, the three of them picking and prodding at me. Curse you Ais! They've turned on me!

Ebina didn't join in on the poking, so of course Tobe joined her in watching this disaster play out. Hayama stood by, amused by the situation.

Shaking them off, I said, "Ais and I have no secrets. You're imagining things. Maybe we're just more used to camping."

I received three amused looks in response to that. "You don't strike me as the camping type, Hikio," Miura commented.

"Yeah, you're right, Yumiko! Hikki is the type to stay inside all day and play video games," Yuigahama added her two cents.

"Indeed. Hikineet-kun, that's not a convincing argument. We're more likely to believe some infomercial product was the culprit than your experience in the outdoors."

…Ouch. Okay, maybe this was accurate to me 5 years ago but not now! Also, how would they know? They've only known me since my isekai adventure. Is that just the aura I put off, NEET aura? Well even if that is the case,

"I'm not a NEET if I'm still in schooling. At least insult me accurately," I replied before feeling a tug on my shirt. Ais was looking up at me as if she had something to ask.

Gesturing to her to speak, she asked, "What are they talking about?" Ah, I see her confusion. In Orario, if you didn't sleep in less than favorable conditions you weren't going to be adventuring for very long. There was always a compromise somewhere in how you lived when it came to comfort.

"They're just jealous right now," I whispered to her, making sure not to let them hear lest I feel their fury.

They seemed curious about what I said to Ais, but thankfully they didn't get a chance to ask anything.

"Alright, quit messing around. It's your time to shine again!" Hiratsuka-sensei shouted, looking even more energized than yesterday. Huh, she must be an experienced camper.

Regardless, thank you for your intervention, Hiratsuka-sensei. As thanks, I won't joke about her age even in my thoughts… Okay, maybe that's a lie.

You'd think someone at her age and beauty would have better things to do than be camping with a bunch of children—

H-Hey, don't glare at me like that! I even added beauty as thanks!

(-)

For the large majority of the day, we ran around in the same vein as yesterday, whether it be hiking chaperones or the cleanup crew. There were a few complaints here and there, but overall everyone had a good attitude about the whole thing, even myself.

Although, it was only due to my outrageous physical condition (in comparison to normal humans) from the isekai event that prevented me from truthfully complaining. If it were me of the past, I would have no shame to admit I would do so the whole time. Probably in my head so as not to get reprimanded by all the females in my immediate area…

Although, we did suspiciously have a lot of free time right now. Maybe since it's lunch time, they're having to do an assignment that we can't really involve ourselves in. In any case, Hayama and his clique were off doing who knows what while the rest of us were more or less finishing up eating lunch until Komachi had an idea.

"There's a stream not far from here. You know what that means, Onii-chan, right?"

Uhh Komachi wants a drink of stream water? I don't really recommend that, Komachi. You don't know where that water has been.

"Ugh, Onii-chan, you're giving a weird face as if you're worrying about me. Where's your mind at, EcchiNi-chan?"

"I was merely thinking for your benefit, Komachi. There was nothing dirty about it. My thoughts I mean. I'm sure the water is dirty if you'd ask me. What's the importance of the stream anyway?"

Komachi seemed to look past me and towards Ais, matching eyes with her and glancing at the others as well. "Wouldn't it be fun to take a dip in it? It's summer after all!"

"Uh, if you want to, I don't mind supervising, but I didn't bring a swimsuit. Did anyone else prepare one for themself?"

Ais, Yukinoshita, and Yuigahama all replied at the same time saying, "Yes," "I prepared," "I brought one!" respectively.

Komachi winked at me as she nudged me with her elbow and said, "Don't you worry, Onii-chan. You won't be left out! When I packed my own swimsuit, I put one of yours in just in case!"

Ah, my crafty little sister sure did plan for everything. Might as well go along with it and enjoy the time in the sun.

Man, I've changed. I wasn't a complete shut-in but I wouldn't have admitted to enjoying time in the sun aloud in front of all these people. Maybe it could just be me missing my time with my Komachi. I wouldn't know and I don't really care.

And so, after changing at our tents, Komachi showed us the stream. Before I could get in though, I was pitched with a very dangerous question.

"Well, how do we look, Onii-chan?" Komachi asked, flashing a peace sign as if she was posing for a picture.

Deciding to play it straight I gave a once over to everyone's swimsuit. Komachi chose a simple one, white with yellow spots, with a ruffle top and bottom, giving her a very good look. It's a good thing no other guy was here to see her because if they were, I'd have to kill them. And I could do it. Just. Like. That.

Woah, chill Hikigaya. You're the strongest one here and therefore have all the power to keep other guys away, right?

Right.

Ignoring the moment of madness (my chuuni side would've been cheering me on!), I gave my honest thoughts, "This must be a new one you bought. Looks good."

As for the others, Yuigahama had a simple white bikini style swimsuit. Very dangerous swimsuit thanks to certain features of hers. Yukinoshita had a blue skirt style swimsuit which was a fair bit more conservative than Yuigahama's, especially in the top portion- moving on. Ais' was a real surprise. Komachi must've picked it out for her, as it was a ruffled-up green one, strangely matching her hair.

Deciding to be especially eloquent, I gave them very high praise.

"...Looks fine." What? I'm not a coward. There was just nothing else to say!

"Onii-chan, what the heck is 'Looks fine'. Is that supposed to be praise? They look good, don't they? Praise them."

Yuigahama and Yukinoshita almost looked satisfied by my lame response, both of them looking away tending to their hair. To anyone else, Ais was unaffected by my words, but a keen eye like mine sees her appreciation in a small nod. Deciding to not cause any more damage, I ignored Komachi's baiting and decided to get into the water.

It was a fairly deep stream, seeing as it came up to my knees.

I didn't really know what to do after I got in the water until I felt the cold wave of water wash over me thanks to a certain mischievous little sister of mine.

Well, now this is just war.

"Ah Onii-chan, that was just a joke. You wouldn't hurt your cute little sister like this- GAH!" Unleashing a much bigger wave of water over her was child's play. It was the perfect comeback for someone of my wit and maturity. "Back me up Ais-chan, Yui-chan, Yukino-chan! Destroy Onii-chan!"

Everyone seemed powerless to Komachi's orders, even Yukinoshita who usually tries to act aloof. I was subject to a powerful combined splash that fighting back on seemed impossible to do… without seeming suspicious at least.

Unfortunately for me, Ais was having a hard time holding back her strength, leading to my definite defeat at the hands of the combined might of the rest of the Service Club + Komachi.

It was weird to be so carefree, I still wasn't completely adjusted to it just yet.

After being forced to cool off, I sat on the side to dry off. "How's the water, Ais?"

Ais dipped down further into the water, saying, "Cool."

"That's an odd thing to ask," Yukinoshita noted.

"Ais here has a fair bit of history with water. I was making sure she's all right," I replied, a smirk coming on my face. I knew how much of a touchy subject this is for her. It's only been a year or two since she's somewhat gotten over her inability to swim. The only reason she's not balking at getting in the stream is because of how shallow it is.

"Eh? Are you (not) able to swim, Ais?" Yui asked.

Ais whispered in a low voice, "I-I can doggy paddle a bit." Her face showed all her embarrassment front and center.

"Awww, you're so cute, Ais-chan," Komachi said, attaching herself to Ais in a hug.

"That is… unexpected to say the least," Yukinoshita commented deep in thought.

Our time by the creek quickly came to an end as we had to get ready to chaperone again for the students.

(-)

Ais

Camp has been fun. It reminds me of teaching the rookie adventurers in the familia. Swimming with everyone was my favorite part. For some reason, Komachi went out and bought me a swimsuit just for this moment, I should probably thank her later…

Right now, it seems like we were preparing to do something called a test of courage. That fake smiling guy looked like he had something to say to everyone.

"Alright. Since the test of courage is something that we are responsible for, I figured we could do some good while we're at it. You've all seen that lone girl around, Rumi. I say we use the test of courage to bring them together." Why does he care about her as opposed to everyone else?

"Oh her. Yeah, I wondered why she was alone. She's kinda cute," Yumiko noted.

Hachiman spoke up. "We've already dealt with her. She'll be fine. I doubt we could do anything to force her to make friends, especially with something like this."

Hina added on, "What do you have in mind for us to do if we were to help her, Hayama?"

The fake smiler's face darkened slightly as he said, "We can't be sure that she will be fine, Hikigaya. That's why I propose we split them up and give each of them a really big scare. Anything to make them all feel on the same level."

Hmm I don't understand what that'll accomplish. Maybe Hachiman knows? A quick glance at his confused face gave my answer.

"That won't solve anything. If anything that'd lead to the already established parties to grow together closer. At any rate, they're all supposed to be in groups. It's not safe for the students to be alone like that. What if one of them gets lost?"

"As much as I hate to admit it, Hikigaya-kun is right," Yukino said, "The girl in question, Rumi Tsurumi, is a very capable girl that doesn't wish to have any help. If she were to recognize what we were doing, she would be furious."

Hayama's face faltered slightly at her words.

"Rumi-chan will be alright, Hayama. We just need to let Rumi-chan and her classmates deal with it themselves," Yui said, careful of her words.

"I don't know if that's right, Yuigahama. We need to do something or else she's going to be alone. Don't you think it's good to intervene in something like this? We don't even know if what happened to you and her will stick," Hayama shot back. His words were getting weaker and weaker, as if he was afraid of something. Very quickly he put back on his mask and said, "Anyway, let's all get our costumes on, I'll arrange for everything. Don't worry."

"Hayama, you're not going to do anything here. We're going to let everything happen naturally," Hachiman said calmly.

"I don't know. Maybe this girl, Rumi, does need some of our help. What do you think, Ebina-chan?" The loud one asked.

Hina looked a bit uncomfortable by the question as she looked at both the faker and Yumiko, saying, "I don't think I have an opinion one way or the other. Maybe it'd be better to leave things as they are?"

"I don't see the harm in helping a cute girl out," Yumiko said, "From what it sounds like though Yui-chan has already talked to her, right?"

Yui nodded and it seemed like everyone here was mostly in agreement. So, everyone moved towards getting their costumes together and putting it on. That one guy, the fake smiler didn't seem to even be able to hold his mask.

So I thought I might intervene. Quickly walking up to him, I said, "To me, it looks like you're afraid of something. I don't know what it is, but if you want something to work out in your favor, it's better to be direct in solving the problem. At least, that's what I think."

Turning around, Hachiman stopped me with a strange expression saying, "Your words seem to have had a critical hit on Hayama. Do you understand just what he's masking?"

Hachiman must be asking because he doesn't know. I shook my head, "No. All I know is that he is very lost. Perhaps he'll find his new path soon."

Hachiman snickered. "You're right. He's still a dangerous guy nevertheless. Do you have anything to dress up as?"

I felt someone staring at me. Ah, it's Komachi-chan. She grabbed on to me with strength strange for a human without Falna, I think? I need to do more research. "I'm going to make sure you're properly scary cute, Ais-chan!" Komachi said.

Staring back at Hachiman, he just gave a weird salute as if I was about to enter into a fierce battle.

Ah, that's what he meant. I have been reminded that even if Komachi has no falna, she has special abilities and strength all on her own. I can fondly recall all— most of the stories he shared.

At any rate, I had been dressed up in a strange costume. I was given a suit and a camp with sharp teeth to keep in my mouth. It's a little tight around the front, but I'm fine for now.

Komachi-chan dressed herself up in a weird cat person costume. Although, strangely enough, it was cute. Yukino-chan also seemed to like it as she drifted towards Komachi-chan. Speaking of which, Yukino-chan was wearing a Yukata for some reason. Was that her costume?

"Aw! All of you look so cute, especially you, Yukinon!" Yui-chan said, also dressed up in a costume, looks like some sort of demon-like costume? Yui-chan makes the costume look nicer rather than mean though.

Yukino-chan's reaction was a little meek before she composed herself. "I do wonder how Rumi is handling it. Hayama's plan could have only been called reckless… but it would definitely shake things up. Who knows how it would've turned out."

"Did you see Onii-chan's reaction?" Komachi asked. "He was furious for some reason. It was strange. He probably got something from their conversation together? Anywho, I think that's enough to say that Rumi will be alright. Right, Ais-chan?"

"Mmm," I agreed. Her eyes showed that she'd survive. She's the type to push on ahead even with trouble.

"Hey, are you all ready to go soon? You have some kids to give nightmares to!" a familiar voice called out. It was Hachiman. He wasn't dressed up. How… disappointing.

"Ugh, we're about to look super lame while Hikki here is watching, huh," Yui-chan muttered.

"We're gifting these students with valuable memories. There's nothing lame about it," Yukino-chan asserted.

"Even so, Onii-chan isn't going to get off scot free," Komachi-chan said, a glint of evil intention in her eyes. "Heeey, Onii-chan. Let's get you out there too so we can all have fun!"

"Gah! Komachi, you're pulling on my arm too hard. What's going on?"

"You're the scariest one here anyway!"

"Rude!"

"Still true!"

Hmm, I hope Hachiman's costume suits him.

(-)

"This doesn't suit me whatsoever. What is this, a monkey costume?"

"What do you mean, Onii-chan? It's just a battered suit and some makeup. You have to make a convincing zombie somehow."

"Hmph, whatever. Let's get this over with."

"That's the right attitude," Komachi said, before leading me into the room where everyone else was waiting for us. "Everyone, say hello to Zombie Onii-chan!"

Their reactions were varied. "As expected, that kind of role suits you," Yukinoshita commented.

"Woah, you look so scary. Good job, Komachi-chan!" Yuigahama said, giving my sister a thumbs up.

"I get it. I'll make sure to perform my job well," I muttered.

Ais on the other hand had a different reaction. Somehow her face made me realize what she's thinking.

"I don't plan on dressing up like this again." I saw visible disappointment from Ais with those words. She was really excited about dressing up in general. I wonder how she'd feel about cosplay…

"Oh don't you worry, Onii-chan. You may not plan on dressing up, but I'll be here to help you do it when the opportunity arises," Komachi said, her dark aura rising.

"Ah, ok."

"A-anyway," Yuigahama cut in, lest Komachi not only scared the children but everyone else too. Besides me of course, I've been immune to her charms. Now, her strength on the other hand… "Let's see how Rumi-chan is doing. Yumiko-chan and the others went on ahead."

"Miura-san and Ebina-san were the only other ones dressed up. It appears that Tobe-san and Hayama are going to supervise," Yukinoshita said.

"It's good that Hayama is going to stop trying to push for whatever he was thinking back then," I muttered before picking up a flashlight and turning around for the door. "Let's do a good job then."

Yuigahama and Komachi simultaneously cheered. Ais also cheered albeit with little sound showing that she did. Even Yukinoshita let out a light "Yaaay" if not just for Yui's and Komachi's sake. Everyone looks to be in a good mood.

And so we quickly took our positions in particular sections of the camp trail.

I was stationed with Yuigahama while Komachi manned a section with Ais. Yukinoshita is scary all on her own, so she's ahead of everyone in the trail.

The students soon came in with most of them laughing it off as a fun time, to our embarrassment. Even then, we managed to scare a few of them, although none were afraid of Yuigahama. I guess that's why I'm paired up with her, huh?

After a few groups had gone by, another one was to be approaching us soon. It was a group of girls that could be heard from the sound of their fake screams at Yukinoshita's Snow Woman. They were having fun with it even if they weren't particularly afraid.

"Yuigahama, I'll go first."

"Please do," she said, dispirited from her lack of success at scaring anyone. I don't know what she was thinking. A cute outfit like that wasn't going to scare anyone. Ah, they're here. Time for my turn.

Ah it was Rumi-Rumi with some others. She got put with some other girls from her class, not the ones she was with earlier by the looks of it.

Let's see how they handle this then! "Hrrrr," I groaned out in a low voice. This was my best attempt at my role, but it was still embarrassing no matter how many times I did it.

"Ahhhh, it's a zombie," one of the girls faked fright as the rest laughed at her antics. Rumi-Rumi was laughing too. Did she make some friends?

"Grrr, I got you now!" Yuigahama said, appearing behind the kids.

The moment they looked at Yuigahama, laughter erupted as they saw Yuigahama's embarrassing outfit. Yuigahama's face turned red from the embarrassment as she didn't know exactly how to follow up like that.

Rumi-Rumi knew what to do as she took her camera out and said, "Say cheese Mr. Zombie and Ms. Devil!" as a flash appeared from her device.

Hey, I don't know if I want that photo getting into the wrong hands. You better burn that thing! "Go on and face the rest of trial," I said, breaking character as the girls laughed along.

As they left, Yuigahama commented, "It looks like we really are gifting them some memories. Yukinon was right. I'm glad Rumi-chan looks to be getting along with some of her classmates."

"Not everyone is going to go along with the prank. If Rumi doesn't let the prank bother her, others most likely will start to not care about it also."

"It's funny," Yuigahama sighed as she rested her head on her hands, "From the way Yukinon was talking, she made it sound like it would take much longer."

"Maybe if they were older," I admitted, "At this age, it's forgive and forget. What happened yesterday is yesterday's problem. Everyone moves forward."

"Sometimes I wish that were the case now."

"What? That we were all in elementary school?"

Yuigahama laughed, "Not that Hikki, although that is a fun thought. I'm talking about moving on for everyone now."

"It's possible if people try hard enough to, but some don't want to."

"I find that a shame, y'know. At least it seems like you're moving on, Hikki."

That came out of nowhere. "What're you talking about? What was there to move on from?"

"Well, you got out to a late start in the year right? What was it, a week or two?"

"Yeah, I was in the hospital for a bit because of an accident." Where was she going with this?

"Mmhm," she nodded as if she knew that fact all along, "You didn't get a good chance to make some friends. You seem to have overcome that somehow," Yuigahama winked at me with a smirk.

"I didn't know you were paying so much attention to me, but," Yuigahama's face brightened up at that observation, "I don't think I move on so much as I ignore everything."

"Hikki," Yuigahama laughed, "Can you really say that while being in the Service Club? You also tutor Ais-chan after school. You're more involved than you let on."

"Komachi spilled the beans on that, huh," I deduced while internally sweating. Please don't ask to join. Please don't ask to join.

"Which reminds me," a smile came onto Yuigahama's face, "I think I could use some tutoring-"

Loud scream interrupted her as the next group were frightened by what could only be Yukinoshita. Taking this opportunity I said, "Hold that thought, we gotta get ready."

"Hikki, you better tutor me," she pouted before taking her position. That was getting kind of dangerous. Well, at least Rumi-Rumi is happy.

(-)

The day rounded out very quickly, the next one arriving with a load of work to do. That work in question is packing up everything. Since I didn't pack my own bag, I didn't have much to get together, so I was asked by Hiratsuka-sensei to pack up some other stuff.

"Hiratsuka-sensei for some reason loves to throw her work onto you," a familiar voice said.

"This is the tip of the iceberg for Hiratsuka-sensei. She's the one who forced me into your club after all."

"I can understand that," Yukinoshita smirked, "It's her responsibility to guide troubled students towards a better life."

"Yeah, that must be why she sent me to help you. I've helped so much already."

She scoffed, "As if." Her attention was taken as the students came out to pack their bags into the buses.

"Hey look, Rumi is over there with some of her new friends. Did you see that last night?" I said, pointing out their distant figures. They were talking about something pretty funny from their laughter being so loud.

"I didn't expect her to find her own solution so fast, but I can't say I hate it," Yukinoshita said with a wistful expression.

"It was very quick, I have to admit. Look at her now though, she looks like a different person."

"An attitude adjustment can do a lot. People take notice and adapt accordingly."

"Like with yours," Yukinoshita asked, "You seem to have gotten a more optimistic perspective since joining the Service Club. Don't tell me you're going to attribute that to some sort of personal growth of yours in a day."

Uh, how can I put this into words that aren't suspicious? "I wouldn't claim something like that. I guess I just managed to accept a few things about myself while realizing things about others," I said nodding my head towards her.

"That's very cryptic," Yukinoshita shook her head in exasperation as she continued, "I guess that's all I'm going to get from you. At least I can say that I… appreciate you more now than when you first joined the Service Club."

"Be careful Yukinoshita. You might end up complimenting me," I joked before getting a glare in retaliation.

"Maybe I should retract that one then," she said before getting up, "I guess I should leave you to your henchman work. Yuigahama is probably struggling to pack right now so I think I should be there to lend a hand."

Nodding to herself, she went off while I was back alone to deal with all these extra supplies that were hardly used. Damn it Hiratsuka-sensei, why do you do this to me!

As everyone wrapped up their packing, we were given the chance to say goodbye to the students. Hayama was of course very popular with the little boys and girls alike while Miura and Ebina somewhat had a following with some of the more popular students. Tobe somehow had some boys wishing him goodbye with tears in their eyes. That was something I never thought I'd see.

Ais had some students looking up to her mostly due to her looks, the same wasn't the case for Yukinoshita who somewhat intimidated most of the kids. Komachi and Yuigahama on the other hand had a comfortable few enthusiastically waving both of them goodbye.

Among the conversations there, I heard the kids with Tobe whispering about the strange area with weird craters and trees cut in half. Oop, I hope none of the adults saw that. I don't want any embarrassing rumors to spread. I saw Ais' eyes widening as she also heard those whispers.

Alas, it was also time to say my goodbyes.

Waving Rumi-Rumi goodbye, she returned the favor with a smirk to add to it. Who knew she'd be returning with a smile after arriving with a frown? I could see Ais giving her own little wave and Yukinoshita and Yuigahama doing the same. Komachi just gave a peace sign, acting as if she was getting her picture taken.

The kids then took off in the bus, leaving us to do the same with our vehicles. Hiratsuka-sensei appeared to have a good time as on the ride back we heard many praises that were directed our way.

Funnily enough, the conversation seemed to be centered around Yukinoshita as Komachi and Yuigahama dogpiled her. Ais, of course, just sat back and watched. It did make me realize something about Yukinoshita. Could she possibly have the power to attract airheads? Yuigahama is definitely one and my little sister fits the bill perfectly. Even Ais is an airhead sometimes with her lack of common sense. Although, Ais doesn't talk all that often with Yukinoshita…

Wait, am I the one attracting airheads?

(-)

"Alright guys, we're at the station. It's been fun and I appreciate the Service Club's help, but get outta here!"

"Thanks for letting me come along, Hiratsuka-sensei," Komachi said, exiting the van.

"And thank you for keeping your brother in line," Hiratsuka-sensei replied.

"I don't think I'm that much trouble for you," I released a faux sigh of exertion, lifting Komachi's and my own bag up on my back. Can't have them thinking it's effortless or I'll never hear the end of it!

"Do you really want me to tell you the truth, Hikigaya," her sad expression giving me chills.

"Er- No, please ignore this ignorant one," I begged earnestly, giving a short bow. Appealing to Hiratsuka-sensei's inner otaku is probably the best thing I can do here.

"It's ok, Hikki. Komachi-chan can make up for your faults by being so cute," Yuigahama commented, giving Komachi a side hug. I wouldn't disagree with that sentiment.

"I don't know if you have any right to critique Hikigaya in this circumstance. I think I still feel a little queasy from that one night you tried to cook," Yukinoshita said, clutching her stomach.

"Y-yukinon! That's hurtful. I'm getting better, just very slowly," Yuigahama said, pressing the tips of her fingers together.

"Hmm, maybe we should help you cook over the summer so that the continuous practice will brute force progress," Yukinoshita thought out loud.

"Oh, that's a great idea! How about we do it at Hikki's house?" Wait what. I don't want to die in my own home!

"Can I come," Ais asked from the passenger's seat. Since she was leaving with Hiratsuka-sensei, it only made sense for her to sit up with Hiratsuka-sensei on the way back.

"Of course you can, Ais-chan," Komachi affirmed, "Come over anytime to the Hikigaya residence," she gestured to everyone.

Do I have any say?

Obviously, I didn't say anything. If I ruined the good mood, everyone would ruin me.

Suddenly, a car could be heard coming to a stop, most likely Yukinoshita's ride. It was a black car with a strangely familiar ornament on the hood.

Huh, what a coincidence we have on our hands.

Yukinoshita was strangely aware of the situation we were under, and even Yuigahama seemed rattled in some way.

"Yahallo Shizuka-chan! It's good to see I wasn't too late," Haruno Yukinoshita came out of the back seat all smiles as she walked up to us. "Ah, Hikigaya-kun, you're here. What a coincidence!" Coincidence my ass. You're here to stir some trouble.

"Oh so you're Yukinon's sister! It's nice to meet you, I'm-"

"Gahama-chan! I've heard so much of you from Yukino-chan!" Haruno finished her introduction by giving her a strange nickname. Even Yuigahama seemed put off from the nickname.

Haruno's eyes looked around like a hawk before landing on Komachi. "You must be Hikigaya-kun's little sister. I didn't expect someone like him to be an older brother."

Komachi shrugged, a bit uncomfortable with the attention, "Eh, Onii-chan has his moment." Thank you Komachi, your Onii-chan is proud of you for defending his honor. "I'm more surprised that Yukino-chan has an older sister!"

"She is pretty cute on her own. I'd like to think I have my own appeal though," Haruno said, winking.

"Riiight," Komachi said, unsure how to react.

"You've had your fun Haruno. Take Yukino so I can laze around the rest of the day," Hiratsuka-sensei said, looking tired already from Haruno's presence.

"Oh, I haven't seen you before," Haruno said, noticing Ais. "Are you a friend of Yukino-chan's?"

Ais didn't hesitate as she nodded once.

"That's a surprise. Usually, Yukino-chan stays-"

"Nee-san, let's go already," Yukino said, tugging on Haruno's shirt.

"I get it, I'll leave," she said before turning to me. "Sorry about running into you that one time, Hikigaya-kun. That was an unfortunate accident."

Ah so I was right. It is the same car. Not like I care anymore, but if I hadn't been isekaied I'd bet I have some weird PTSD from it. "Apology accepted. I hope your car wasn't damaged," I said, bowing shallowly.

Haruno laughed, "As always, your reactions are fun. Let's go then, Yukino-chan."

"U-uh ok," Yukinoshita hesitated before following her older sister into the backseat of the car.

I wonder… just what reaction was Haruno looking for?

(-)

Now that I was back at home, I obviously lazed around for the rest of the summer and was able to get back with my first love, Vita-chan… not.

Ryuu quickly took advantage of my return and took the opportunity to make me catch her up to speed on what happened. And so I summed up everything by telling her about Rumi-Rumi, Hayama's weird obsession with helping out his way, and Haruno picking up Yukinoshita. I omitted the embarrassing part about the forest where Ais and I sparred getting turned into a rumor among some of the kids for obvious reasons.

"Although the trip sounds uneventful, I still regret not being able to attend. It sounded fun," a small frown making its way to her face.

"There's still a lot of summer left. We could do something else." It was only a day after the whole camp thing, so the time is there.

"Yes, but what would we do? I still have my job back at the cafe, so it's not like I can do an overnight activity like the camp."

"So it'll have to be something shorter because you're due at the cafe in a few hours, right?" Ryuu nodded.

We both sat there thinking about it for a few seconds before the door flew open to reveal Komachi. "Heeey Onii-chan, I need you to pick up a few shirts for me at the mall."

"Why can't you pick them up yourself?" I understand what she's trying to do, but I don't really trust my sense of style.

"I'm visiting a friend, so I can't go. C'mon Onii-chan. You can get Ryuu-chan to go with you if it's that big of a pain for you," she said, winking at me.

Komachi, I barely choose the clothes I have. What makes you think I can choose clothes for someone else, let alone girl's clothing?

"That isn't a hard thing to do," Ryuu said, thinking about it, "while we're there, could we pick out some clothes for myself? I'm still lacking a lot of casual wear."

No! She took the bait. "Ooh, Onii-chan would have to be the judge of what you buy then, huh. Good luck doing that!" Komachi said before leaving.

"Can we, Hachiman?" Ryuu asked with anticipation seeping from her body as she leaned towards me. Her presence was intoxicating as my focus was entirely on her.

"Fine, we'll go," I said, catching my breath as I got up and went for my phone, "But not alone."

Desperate times call for desperate measures. I quickly opened Lime and clicked on Yuigahama.

Hachiman: Yuigahama, I need your help.

Yuigahama: Eh? With wat Hikki?

Hachiman: Ryuu needs to shop for some clothes and I need another girl's judgment to be weighed in

Yuigahama: Sounds lik fun! Lets gooo!

Hachiman: We'll meet you there. Thank you very much!

Yuigahama: Im going to pock out smth super cyute for Ryuu-chan! Can I call Yukinon so tht she can join too?

Hachiman: Go ahead and try.

Phew, good. I'm not doing this alone. "Alright we can go now. Yuigahama will be meeting us there."

Ryuu didn't seem to mind. "Oh, her. Ok then," she said, nodding. We got our things together and headed off.

Yuigahama was the obvious choice to help with a problem like this. Ais doesn't have any casual sense. Yukinoshita does, but it's hard to ask her for help in a time like this. As for Kawasaki, while she would be both available and would have the style to go along with it, she could be doing something important like her summer work. Not that anything is wrong with Yuigahama, but she's the type to be sociable during summer or do nothing if she isn't with friends.

She's perfect for something like this.

"Yahallo, Hikki, Ryuu-chan!" Yuigahama said with a smile. She's recovered since the school trip I see. "Yukinon said she couldn't make it, but I'll try my best to help with picking Ryuu-chan's style. Where are we headed?"

"First we have to pick up Komachi-chan's clothes," Ryuu said. "She sent us out here since she couldn't do it herself."

"Ryuu, Komachi was just trying to get us to the mall. She doesn't actually have any clothes for us to pick up," I deadpanned.

Ryuu stared at me for a second before asking, "Are you sure?"

"My little sister schemes harder than I do. Trust me."

"Oh, so she usually has ulterior motives with a request like that? She really is your sister," Ryuu contemplated my words aloud.

"Indeed she is. I'm very proud of her."

Yuigahama just smiled and tilted her head in confusion during all this. "I don't know what that is all about, but how about we head to one of my favorite stores. They sell some high quality shirts for almost half of the normal price!"

So it must be some sort of used clothing store. "Lead the way," I waved mockingly. Let's hope I get back home at a reasonable hour…

A number of outfits were picked out for Ryuu to try out. All of us tried to contribute to what outfits were in the queue. The goal was to keep things at a reasonable price while still providing Ryuu with a few outfits to use while outside of school. What she had right now was a simple shirt and jeans which were not particularly good for summer wear.

"What about this," Ryuu said, holding back the curtain to reveal baggy shorts with a buttoned up top. It was mismatched to say the least.

"Rejected," I said.

"Uh, maybe the next one," Yuigahama laughed awkwardly.

Ryuu, not showing any expressions, closed the curtain a little too quickly for me to think she's not disappointed. This reminds me, the two outfits I mostly see her in are the maid outfit with a dress covering most of her and her adventuring outfit which shows all of her legs and almost entirely relies on her weird sock-boot thing. Does Ryuu even have any fashion sense?

"Next one," she said, revealing something that was very cutesy. It was a simple shirt with hearts of different colors adorning the bottom of the shirt. The small yellow skirt finished the outfit making the entire thing seem a little what's the word- childish?

"Rejected," I said. Ryuu looks too cool for something like that in my opinion.

"I-I think it looks cute," Yuigahama said weakly. I guess this was her pick.

"It's ok, but I think there might be something better," Ryuu said, closing the curtain.

She came out a moment later wearing what I envision is a good outfit for her.

A pink tank top, showing off her shoulders with blue jean shorts showing off most of her legs. Since Ryuu's adventurer outfit leaves a lot of room for skin, I thought her casual wear could do the same.

In fact, now that I see it myself, it looks even better than what I imagined. This for sure isn't getting rej-

"R-rejected," Ryuu said, her face lighting up from blushing. What's so embarrassing about the outfit?

"Hikki, you don't understand ladies' fashion whatsoever. That's something that looks good, but can be uncomfortable to wear. Girls usually prefer something more comfortable, but we end up trying to buy a mix of both." Yuigahama explained.

I'm not following. "Are you not wearing something similar right now?" I asked.

"Th-that's not the point!" Yuigahama said, checking her own outfit. The only real difference was that her top was more red and had ruffled sleeves and she was wearing a skirt rather than shorts.

"-trying to look good" I only caught a few words before she turned her head.

Ryuu took this as a sign to close the curtain and try again. We must've gone through 20 outfits before finding four for Ryuu to buy with her maid server salary. Strangely enough, I saw my first outfit in that pile even though it was rejected. I wonder…

Since at that point there was an hour or so of time to kill, we went around browsing other stores.

"Hikki, hows this hat look on me?" Yuigahama asked, posing with it. The hat in question was a black baseball hat. It threw me off a little bit because Yuigahama undid her side bun and made it into a ponytail-bun blend in the back.

"I'm not completely used to it, but it's a nice change from your normal look," I said, answering sincerely.

"I hope that doesn't mean you hate my normal look. I do my own hair every day!" Yuigahama said, proud of that fact. I guess that's why it's a little messy. "I tried my mama's hairstyle to fit with the hat. It works for her, so I thought it might work for me."

"It'd take some getting used to as yes, your usual hairstyle suits you, but the other could also fit, given time," I said, being evasive.

"Hmm, maybe something to think about," Yuigahama muttered to herself, taking off the hat and staring at it.

"Hachiman, how about this one," Ryuu asked, showing off a sun hat.

"Looks fine to me," I said, "Maybe it'll go with one of the outfits you bought."

"Hmm maybe," Ryuu said, going back to browse some more. Wait, when did I become the primary judge for both of them? I thought I brought Yuigahama along to avoid that from happening?

By chance I checked my phone to see that it was time to head on back. It was almost dinner time.

"We better head out to the cafe if you wanna make it to work on time, Ryuu."

"Oh? Maybe we should all have dinner there!" Yuigahama said. "I'll call Yukinon!"

Huh, I guess that's not a bad idea. "I'll call Ais and Komachi then," I said, "I guess we'll be your in your care, Ryuu,"

Ryuu gave a formal bow, saying, "Thank you for your patronage."

"Before we go though, I'm going to buy something," Yuigahama said, clutching a bag and going to the cashier. Looks like she found something she liked here. At least she got something after coming along.

(-)

We arrived at the cafe with time to spare. Shio-san was waiting for Ruu and thanks to Ryuu's text, she knew that she would have some loyal customers eating here.

While Ryuu went into the back to get changed, Komachi entered through the door saying, "Yahallo Yui-chan! Looks like you went shopping. Was it with Onii-chan?"

"Yeah, I was invited by Hikki so we could pick out outfits for Ryuu-chan. I only ended up picking something up for myself on my way."

"Oh that sounds fun. I bet Ryuu-chan appreciated that," Komachi said before addressing me, "Oniiiii-chan, where's my clothes."

"You didn't tell me where to pick it up from," I said.

"That's not a real excuse, Onii-chan. You could've just bought me a few things that would suit me."

"And spend money from my Hiki-bank? Komachi, you know me better than that," I chided her.

"Who's buying dinner then? Unfortunately, I forgot my wallet, teehee," she said, knocking her head in a faux head bonk.

"Ah, my poor Hiki-bank…"

As I was lamenting my losses, Yukinoshita entered looking a little worried about something. "Yuigahama, you should give me more details than just the restaurant name and "Let's eat with everyone." I wasn't prepared to leave my apartment today."

"Why? Were you cleaning or something, Yukinon?"

For some reason, Yukinoshita looked at me before answering, "Something like that, I guess. I'll forgive you this time."

This time? Does that imply she won't forgive Yuigahama for something in the future? How suspicious.

Yuigahama ignored Yukinoshita's defeated words and gave her a hug saying, "You seem tired for some reason Yukinon. Don't worry, this meal will heal you right up.

"I hope that is the case," Yukinoshita sighed. Maybe her sister did something to her? She was in an especially sneaky attitude yesterday.

Ryuu came out with her maid outfit, ready for the dinner service. "Does everyone have an order ready?" she asked, prepared to serve.

"Not everyone is here yet. We're still waiting on-"

"I'm here," Ais said, somehow sneaking up behind me. I thought that was one of my skills, not Ais'. Ais' expression right now didn't seem to match her tone though as her face was a slight pout.

Her gaze was directed towards Ryuu who noticed it and said, "What? Did I do something to you?"

Ais' gaze stayed on target as she said, "Jealousy. Why was I not told there was shopping to be done?"

"I don't know, I guess Hachiman just didn't feel as if you needed to be there."

Ais turned to me with her pout and asked, "Why not?"

Er how do I get out of this one? Taking a quick look at my wallet, I knew what had to be done.

I'm sorry Hiki-bank. Today is not your day. "I didn't think you'd be interested. Clearly I was wrong. I'll treat you to something to make it up to you."

Ais nodded, seemingly accepting my offer.

"Can I just get everyone's order?' Ryuu asked.

"Ooh, me first then, Ryuu-chan. I want a …" As Komachi rattled off her order, I cried for Hiki-bank one last time.

Omake: The Other Child

I can't say that I've ever been interested in another man other than Bell-kun. He was and will always be my shining beacon of hope thanks to him joining my familia and being my familia member. There is no replacing him.

But there was someone who I was always watching to see what their next actions would be. In a lot of ways, he was someone Bell-kun looked up to, a hero of the dungeons the likes of beyond even anyone in that tramp, Loki's familia.

He was someone outside of the spotlight and yet he ended up being in the middle of it very very fast. It became this weird curiosity to see how this child would grow, how he would change things around him. Although Bell-kun had that annoying skill that made him grow at dangerous rates, this guy was somehow surpassing even that.

He was a cheat, but it wasn't his strength that caught my eye, but rather his immaturity. Maybe it was because I saw who he was and not who he became, but he started out lost and confused. Although he refused help unless absolutely necessary, it wasn't out of pride but out of self-preservation.

Through his eyes, I could tell he viewed the world in a twisted sense, and while that twisted view would help him in some… less than pretty moments, it would hurt him in others.

As I saw him less and less, I thought he would succumb to that fault. I thought that I would end up having to console Bell-kun for losing someone he looks up to.

But the next time I saw him, there was a visible difference. It wasn't the scars that made him seem different, he had gained lots of those before, but it was his face, or rather his eyes. There was a warmth there that wasn't quite as visible as before. That warmth was always present, but it never seemed quite as abundant.

It was never as unrelenting and innocent as Bell-kun's at least. Oh, Bell-kun, you're truly one of a kind!

Bell-kun never needed any of that edge that worked for him. It is to my pride as Bell-kun's goddess that that is the case. But, I did think that maybe it was a shame and a disservice that he would maybe lose that edge, that ambition to move forward.

I was wrong and I'm happy for him.

Although he's not my child, I can't help but catch on to his sadness, his despair as I know he yearns for a family. I know nothing of his familia, but what I do know is that even with those warmer eyes, they still hide pain behind them, a child who wishes to be loved. I thought maybe I could help someone beyond Bell-kun. I reached out and asked, but my hand wasn't taken.

I thought maybe something was wrong. Did I say something that made him mad? Was I too harsh? But it was none of those things.

As I saw him grow more and more, I saw a maturity exist where it had not before. This maturity was much grander than the edge he had and even utilized quite well with his rough personality, but it also provided another thing.

Friends, that's the reason he didn't take my hand. He had friends that helped him grow and become secure in this world. Someone else was taking his hand.

Unlike Bell-kun who was always reaching out to others, it was him who needed a helping hand.

And that's a good thing. I just wish that even if it takes one day, Hikigaya Hachiman will one day find his family because just as I know Bell is my own family, I know by all of my very being that Hachiman needs his family. Because every child deserves to be with a loving family.