Chapter 15: Once Again, Their Paths Crossed
Foreword- I have returned! Long time no see, I'm Mayflower Productions, returning with more Infinite Loner. How long has it been since the last update... two weeks. Uh, this chapter took a lot of effort to finish and overcome this feeling of writer's block I've had. I will admit now, I have gone through a lot of versions of chapter 15, before settling on the one you see below. I hope you'll enjoy what I've written as after this we have one more update before the end of the arc. Hooray! Also, thank you, everyone, for writing reviews as we've crossed the 100 mark, and I cannot wait for more. Now on with the show, Infinite Loner Chapter 15: Once Again, Their Paths Crossed.
Disclaimer- I do not own Oregairu, Infinite Stratos, or any other intellectual properties that may appear in this story. Please don't sue me.
Infinite Loner- POV shift, line break "I guess it's showtime."- Dialogue
I can't stand this school. I feel like it has something against me. This topic has probably been beaten into the ground already, but I can't help but complain. Whenever my life is going in an uneventful direction, fate just slaps me back into the hot seat. Whether through excessive social interaction or surprise fights, the ominous trend persists.
After the incident, I resolved to reinvent myself and made noticeable progress, reaching a point where the harassment didn't bother me anymore. I thought I could put my troubled past behind me, but then I had to stumble upon that stupid machine and unfortunately reunited with nee-san. From there, I was blackmailed into attending IS Academy, humiliated myself during the entrance exam, and reluctantly left Komachi and my beloved Chiba. Starting on my first day, I experienced misfortune: I had to narrowly save an airhead's dog from a speeding limo, learned that Orimura Ichika, of all people, was my roommate, and dealt with the annoying pair of Shinonono Houki and Cecilia Alcott. Then I had to carry Ichika, against my will, mind you, to victory against the ojou-san, earning a prize I didn't want. All the while being physically abused by the brutish gorilla for nebulous reasons. And that was only the first week. I could go on about the insufferable slave-driver, oppressive soldier, suspicious blond gentleman, or the Demise Club, but I'll restrain myself. They're not worth complaining about right now. All I can say is that the Rom-com gods really like watching me suffer, don't they?
It doesn't help that most of IS Academy, who are vapid teenage girls, now treat me as a lab rat. Everywhere I go, people stare, talking in hushed tones, as they examine my daily interactions. I'm exploited by *redacted*, they say, "a masochist, how cute," humiliated by Hamilton, "what an endearing couple, they have inside jokes," the list goes on with all the other potential flashpoints. News flash, IS Academy, I don't like any of these women, and I'm nothing but a tool to all of them... the means to an end. How could that be misconstrued? Their shallow interpretation of my situation just validates my opinion of youth; it's unsightly and only leads to the harassment of the most vulnerable. At least on the bright side, I can write about how rich teenage girls stared me down for my autobiography...
*sigh* Who am I kidding; the book would never sell. No one would want to read about measly Hikigaya Hachiman, so why am I even worrying about such a thing.
In any case, those focused gazes hurt my fragile feelings, you know~? Please don't tell me there's a secret going around as I hate in-jokes. I only enjoy infighting and internal division, as no one ever invited me into close discussions back in the day. Am I still salty about that? No, why would I be incredibly bitter about having no one attend your sixth birthday besides your kid sister, who just ate all the cake and stole the presents? That's absurd.
What else am I upset about...Oh yes, the endless workout regiment I've been suffering due to my doubles partner. I wake up in the morning, and it's a 5-kilometer run, weighted, and you wouldn't believe what held me down... one German riding my back. It was ridiculous, and I'm so happy that no photographic evidence exists of those moments, as far as I know. After that exercise, it's a military breakfast with no Max. Like, what's the point of eating so early without the Nectar of the Gods?
Once classes ended, we visited the Training Arena for 3 hours, improving our technique and energy consumption, before 10 laps around the track. Laura had no intention of coasting during the tournament and pushed my skills to the limit. Sure, some training is fine, but my situation is slightly unusual. I believe it's clinically defined as "overwork" or overexertion of the body. I don't personally know what that means, but apparently, one of its symptoms is extreme sleep deprivation. One or two days of little rest is fine as I could personally attest to that after several spurts of "extreme studying," but two weeks of no sleep is insane! My eyes have devolved from dead fish to a rotting corpse, and my posture deteriorated past the point of slouching. I've now reached a state where it is legitimately difficult to function every morning without Max or at least a whiff of its sweet pollen. Some days I don't make coherent sense until lunch, which is very concerning. At this rate, I may end up as exhausted as my parents, the textbook definition of corporate slaves. If only they could see me now, sleep-deprived and perpetually anxious, they would be so proud.
At least today is Sunday, so I don't have any classes or pressing responsibilities. "What's a loner to do..." I mulled to myself while sitting on my bed. The soldier was asleep and wouldn't wake for another hour, so I had time to devise a strategy... Hold on, have I done something like this before? Or is it just my imagination?
Option 1, visit the Demise Club? No, I don't feel like being exploited by Isurugi or Hamilton, for that matter. They somehow revert my personality back to its middle school state, which I can't stand.
I don't need their "help," I've already suffered at the hands of my classmates, been forced to confront my past in excruciating detail, and built myself up from scratch. If this were an anime, my character arc would have finished; so why am I being dragged through another? She treated me like a punching bag just because she thought I needed help? Her naivety mirrors teachers forcing children to "play nice" with the quiet student. Their actions don't fix the situation but only throw unwanted attention towards the standoffish child in question. The other students only pretend to care, and when the teacher stops looking, the abuse returns twice-fold. I despise people like her, trying to mold me into her ideal Hikigaya Hachiman.
Also, Holmes has been acting a bit moody lately, and I don't want her dragging me on another wild goose chase as her "Watson," whatever that means, as a result. We spent all of last Sunday trying to figure out the mystery behind Miss Casual's weird animal sweatshirt, and the results ended up being inconclusive. I could've spent that time reading my light novels! I don't mind Sarashiki, though, as we talk about IS design or seasonal anime. Going by its denotation, you could say we're fri-, frien- close acquaintances. However, I don't value our relationship enough to put up with the other 80% of the Demise Club.
Option 2, going to 1025 and spending time with my fellow male pilots? Double no, because Ichika's an idiot, and that blonde gentleman seems untrustworthy. The former isn't even at school right now as he's currently visiting his friend Gotanda from middle school. I wish I had a legitimate excuse to go off-campus. Maybe I should have joined him... on second thought, that's a bad idea as Gotanda's sister doesn't like me all too much. I already deal with enough criticism at the Academy and would prefer to keep it contained. I only have so much patience, you know~? Also, if Rin asked the other male pilots for my location, they would immediately tell her without hesitation. That's the problem with "nice" people; they never understand the consequences of their kindness. It usually ends with me thrown under the bus, and I'm sick of it.
Option 3, go to the library, and read my light novels? Triple no, because the librarian yelled at me the last time that happened. Who knew being quiet meant controlling your associates' volumes on top of your own? It's not my fault that they all followed me in there, you know~? I was none the wiser until everything went south.
Infinite Loner
Interlude: Past a Pair of Idiots
"Finally, I've made it to the prestigious Academy library. Let's see if they have any light novels."
"So this is where you've been, Hachiman. I thought you had enough books back in 1025."
"Ichika, why are you here?"
"Well, I saw my best friend walking past the cafeteria, and I decided to join him. I obviously don't have any other ulterior motives for following you. Hah, hah, hah..."
"What was it this time?"
"Help me, Hachiman. Our classmates won't leave me alone these days, ever since I partnered with Charles for the tournament. Lunch just now was especially alarming as Rin and Houki had a "cooking competition" where I was the judge. They're both great cooks, so I naturally couldn't declare a winner, but when I said that, they got angry. Like what's up with that?"
"So you're telling me that you ran after me with two angry girls hot on your tail?"
"Yeah."
"*sigh* I was so close, Ichika. So close to having a quiet read, but you ruined everything."
"What do you mean?"
"Houki, there he is!"
"Oh, and Hachiman's with him too. Perfect timing."
"Can you two please take Ichika and your petty squabble outside? This is the library, not a boxing ring."
"Do you think you're free of any blame, Hachi-kun?"
"Yes."
"Who is a better cook, me or Houki?"
"Why do I have to answer? I believe that was Ichika's problem, not mine."
"Hachiman, I do not believe that time is on your side right now. Just answer the question like a real man!"
"Ok, ok, quiet down, I'll answer... Hmm, if you want my honest opinion, you're both mediocre chefs. Before, I would have called you amazing, but that was biased, as the whole "heroine making the protagonist lunch" trope got to me. Right now, I can calmly admit that my mother has made far better meals than either one of you."
"Hachi-kun!"
"I don't understand what Hachiman said wrong? He implied that you two have a long way to go. Isn't that a good thing?"
"Ichika!"
"You two are..."
"The biggest idiots..."
"Known to man!"
"That's it, get out, you four! I am not allowing your lover's quarrel to threaten the sanctity of the library."
"But I didn't even do anything. I just shared my honest opinion, and besides, we're not dating. For all intents and purposes, these women mean nothing to me."
"You truly are unsightly, Hiki-insensitive-kun."
"*sigh* I hate IS Academy."
Interlude End
Infinite Loner
Not to mention a scary ice monster lives in the library, and she doesn't like me. Her scathing remarks cut deep into my fragile heart, and I'm the type of man who believes, "When the going gets tough, give up!" so I avoid the Ice Queen like the plague, or should I say Hiki-germs.
...
Hmm, what other options do I have?
Maybe I should actually get around to calling my sister? How long has it been... almost 2 months. Yeah, that might be a good idea. Rolling to my nightstand, I grab my phone...
*dials number...*, "Hello, Komachi, are you there?"
"It's about time you called me. I've been waiting forever for this!"
"Sorry, ok. I'm kind of busy attending a prestigious high school while trying to retain my sanity here."
"Neglecting your precious little sister for two months, how rude. Where has the doting older brother I knew gone? All I can see now is a lazy teenager hiding from his own family."
"If you only knew about half the things I went through at IS Academy, Komachi, you'd be proud that I'm even speaking to you right now."
"Oh, I see."
"Stop with the deadpan, Komachi. My life isn't a joke, you know~?"
"Ok, so you now owe me for being a NEET and ignoring your wise, adorable, and understanding little sister, so come back to Chiba for the day. We need to talk."
"What if I have to finish homework right now, IS Academy is no laughing matter, you know~?"
"I know you don't have any assignments to do today."
"How? I've never told you about IS Academy's workload before. I could easily be drowning in math homework right now."
"Don't worry about the details, onii-chan; just know that Komachi has her sources."
"Suspicious, Komachi-chan, very suspicious..."
"Now, don't conveniently go back to sleep, onii-chan. Head to the address that I'll text you."
"Ok, ok."
"Since I'm feeling so generous today, onii-chan, I'll offer you the opportunity for extra credit and earn some Komachi points. We all know that you need it after seeing your brazen disregard for your own little sister."
"You know I tried my hardest to keep in touch, and this is how I'm treated? You wound me so, little sister."
"Spare me the dramatics, onii-chan, and listen up. It won't be easy for someone like you to earn extra points since it's to come to the meeting place with an acquaintance, or better yet, a friend from the Academy."
"Why?"
"Well, someone from Komachi's school doesn't believe that my brother is a famous IS pilot, so I want to prove her wrong. Everyone knows that women mainly attend the Academy, so..."
"If I bring an acquaintance, you can brag about your connections in your friend's face."
"Exactly! It's nice to see that onii-chan is still as sharp after all these months."
"So you're telling me this is all a ploy for your reputation?"
"Maybe, teehee~."
"Uh, don't you know my luck with women, especially those of the riajuu variety? Also, don't forget that I despise superficial relationships, like the one you're I'm implying I have. Are you sure that you're talking to Hikigaya Hachiman?"
"That's why it's extra credit, you know~? I know it's hard for you to talk to people as a NEET, so I'd be happy even if you came all by yourself. Oh, that has to be worth a lot of points!"
"Where has the kind little sister I raised gone? She would know that her onii-chan isn't a NEET but socially disinclined. I'm hanging up..."
"Wait, don't put down the phone, onii-chan!"
"You may be my little sister, Komachi, but what you're offering me is work and..."
"To work is to lose, yeah, yeah, I've heard it before, but! You would be adequately compensated for your time, onii-chan. I hear they're offering "research material" where I'm sending you."
"..."
"And I'd feel bad if you didn't come. You wouldn't want to make Komachi cry, would you?"
"Say no more, Komachi. I'll be there soon."
"*sigh* What a siscon, disgusting. *ends call*" Well, it looks like my empty schedule filled up fast. And before you ask, I'm not just helping my sister for material reward, but something greater... the admiration, respect, and Komachi points from my adorable sibling. I guess you could say the "research material" only sweetens the pot. It's also been so long since I've seen Komachi, and now I have the perfect excuse to do so. It's not like I can refuse a request from her anyway, so I have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
Now the question is: who do I bring? Glancing to my left is the soldier...
[Hikigaya-vision]
"Huh, are you maggots looking at me?"
"So... Laura-san, is it, how did you meet my brother?"
"I threatened him in front of the whole class."
"Ok, that's good to hear... I didn't know you were such a masochist, onii-chan."
Yeah, she's too much of a wild card. She may have slightly mellowed out from our first meeting, but I have no idea what would happen in a civilian setting. I don't want to end up in an international incident or disappoint my sister. She's one of the few people who treat me with respect, and I value our relationship.
How about the brutish gorilla...
[Hikigaya-vision]
"Onii-chan, onii-chan, I can't believe it. It's actually the Kendo champion herself. What did you do to end up meeting someone like her?"
"Well, you see, Komachi-chan, Hachiman, and I happened to share an interest in the blade. We've also known each other for a long time."
"So you two are friends, right?"
"Friends... no, we're something much more than that..."
"Onii-chan, I think she might be the one."
Too bossy, she would stand out too much, and I don't fancy the idea of her meeting Komachi. I hate it when my sister starts playing Matchmaker, and Shinonono's appearance would only reignite that trend. It didn't help me then, and it sure won't now.
In theory, the ojou-san should be a good choice as, despite her numerous flaws, she is a member of the upper class. Maybe she's actually capable of exercising some self-control...
[Hikigaya-vision]
"So this is near Hikigaya-kun's house. Good to know. Heh, heh, heh."
"Onii-chan, how much money did you have to spend to meet someone as regal and beautiful as Cecilia-san?"
"Regal and beautiful, you say, little sister, you're awfully flattering for someone as unworthy of such praise as me."
"She even carries herself like the upper class; this is it onii-chan, if you marry Cecilia-san, you can live out your dream."
"What would that be, little sister?"
"Well, you see, onii-chan wants to marry into wealth and spend his days as a househusband."
"Ara, ara, how interesting."
No, although... No. I have zero trust left in that ojou-san after all she's done. Who knows what would happen if she met Komachi? She might ingrain herself into the Hikigaya household. She wouldn't just be a stalker anymore, but a love interest... *gag* That's the worst timeline, and I'm purging all thoughts of it from my mind immediately.
That only leaves a few more options. There's the slave-driver who should be the safest option, as she has (unfortunately) visited my house before, which gives her the advantage of knowing Komachi. A reunion between them shouldn't be too surprising...
[Hikigaya-vision]
"Is that Machi-chan? Long time, no see."
"You go to IS Academy, Rin-san; what a pleasant surprise."
"Yeah, Hachi-kun and I are back together, even closer than ever."
"So is it now official, you and onii-chan as an item?"
"Hah, hah, hah, you're too much, Machi-chan, but..."
"If you're serious, Rin-san, I'd support you the entire way."
"I appreciate the support because I might need it soon. Right, Hachi-kun~?"
"Crash!" Did you guys hear something? I thought I heard the sound of my mind shattering at the thought of dating Rin. Ok, take back whatever I said about the ojou-san. I cannot allow the slave-driver to reunite with Komachi. Their meeting would precede the death of Hikigaya Hachiman and the birth of a subservient husk of a man. Unlike me, my sister excels at interpersonal relationships, so who knows how much she kept up with Rin. They might have discussed all my weaknesses and the darkest days of middle school, planning to chain me down once and for all. Their discussions were possibly stylized as some sort of "Watch Party" for me. Hah, hah, hah. Why did my middle school career have to be such a mess? Meeting Ichika and Rin back then was such a mistake.
If I wanted to really think outside the box, I could...
[Hikigaya-vision]
"Hello, Komachi-san. I'm Charles Dunois, Hikigaya-san's classmate."
"Woah, onii-chan, a blonde foreigner, you must have hit the lottery meeting her."
"Actually, I'm a boy..."
"Yeah, and my brother likes nice girls..."
"..."
"No, you're serious?".
But would that count towards the criteria? I really needed those Komachi points, after all. There's also the fact that I do not want my sister being corrupted by that frustratingly refreshing smile. Every time I see the blond gentleman, I'm reminded of Orimoto, which worries me. History proves that Hikigaya Hachiman and nice girls don't mix... so why does Dunois raise the same alarm?
*sigh* All this monologuing is exhausting. Why am I expending so much effort on a meet-and-greet? Whatever happens, happens. If I go alone and Komachi laughs at me, I'll take with stride, and if any other scenarios play out, Stealth Hikki will help me. After cleaning myself up and changing, I slid out of the room, trying to avoid the wrath of my battle-crazy roommate. "Escape perfectly completed," I muttered to myself as I entered the hallway. Wow, that was easy. Maybe my luck will finally turn around today?
"Hachi-kun, let's play~."
Of course, it won't. This is IS Academy.
Infinite Loner
"So, what are you doing today, Ichika?" I asked my roommate and now tournament partner as he got up this morning.
"Well, seeing that all the arenas are closed for maintenance, I decided to stretch my legs for once and visit my good friend today." He turned and replied with a smile lining his face. Ichika looks so happy talking about others. Maybe he's already sick of my presence? Besides my turbulent past, I'm not the most exciting person in the world, so it was only a matter of time, so...
"Oh, that's nice, so you'll be gone the entire day." I slightly frowned as I spoke. Ever since the competition was announced, the two of us have been inseparable, making his decision to leave a shock. How am I going to spend an entire day without Ichika?
"Don't feel too bad. You can just hang out with Hachiman and the others if you're bored." He clearly noticed my concern as he mentioned our classmates as a potential solution to his absence. Wait, he's not going to see this friend with Hikigaya-san; how odd?
"So you're not taking Hikigaya-san along with you? I thought the two of you knew each other previously?" I'm not very familiar with male social tendencies, but I thought they all enjoyed spending time together as large groups. Even Hikigaya-san, the ever-stubborn misanthrope, should at least have that much, right?
"Yeah, I thought about that, but..." Ichika started talking, but his voice soon trailed. Why can't you be a little nicer, Hikigaya-san? You'd be so much happier if you at least smiled more, let alone open yourself up to your peers. Or more popular with women... than you already are.
"Knowing Hikigaya-san, his personality probably clashes with other boys and just sours the mood." I sighed as I brought up the personality of the other male pilot. Sometimes I wondered what happened for a teenager to end up so jaded and cynical?
"Actually, that's not the issue, as Dan and Hachiman got along fine, at least the last time I checked, as the loner is now, I have no idea what would happen. It was more Dan's little sister that bothered Hachiman, as the two never saw eye to eye; by the end of each visit, she almost ate him alive. Which is the funny thing, since Hachiman used to be so quiet with everyone else but her... I wonder..." Ichika explained the background between the loner and his other friends before his mind again moved elsewhere. A modest Hikigaya-san, now that's something I'd like to see.
"Yeah, so try to find some way to pass the time, Charlotte, since I won't be back for a while. Maybe visit Hachiman and the Detective Club for a change?" He advised as he opened the door and walked out of 1025. Hang out with Hikigaya-san's club? I never usually had the time for such a thing, but why not; it's not like I have anything better to do...
"Oh, everyone, look, it's the blond gentleman." The American representative, Tina Hamilton, exclaimed as I walked into the cafeteria. I checked the popular off-day spots, and I found them on my second attempt. I first tried looking in their club room, but it was locked since it was so early. Inside the cafeteria were most of the Detective Club members, besides one fish-eyed loner, talking to each other.
"What are you all doing here so early?" I asked the group, as they had motivated looks on their faces. There wasn't anything too important going on, which left me confused about their behavior.
"Oh yeah, I almost forgot about how we'd look from the outside. Thanks for the insight, blond gentleman." Tina quickly replied with the same nickname that Hikigaya-san liked using for me... It's odd how much she picks up from the loner, with the two appearing to be polar opposites. Tina likes humor and being outgoing, while he is reserved and snarky. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but does she... "Hold it right there, partner! I have an incredible proposition for you. How would you like to join us on an expedition?" She interrupted my thoughts with a boisterous declaration. It's suspicious how perfectly Tina made her offer; it's almost as if she read my mind. "I'll take your silence as a yes, so let's get a move on. We've got a rodeo to attend." She rose from her seat and dragged me away from the cafeteria and towards the dorms...
"Why are we here?" I asked as the five of us stood at the intersection before room 2012. Most people avoided this section of the dorms since its German occupant had notoriously poor manners. She gave piercing glares to anyone having the displeasure of passing her in the hallways. Her roommate, though, was less antagonistic but just as socially aloof. He rarely acknowledged the existence of other students and kept to himself most of the time.
[Flashback]
"Hello, Hikigaya-san. I'd like to ask you a question."
"Huh, who are you?"
"I'm your classmate Charles Dunois, and I would like to..."
"Yeah, I'm not interested."
[Flashback End]
"Give it a few seconds, and you'll see, blond gentleman." Sarashiki-san, the resident engineer, quietly remarked as we huddled around a corner. She never spoke much, but when it happened, it mattered, so I knew better than to interrupt. Maybe it wasn't just Tina, but the entire Detective Club picked up the habits of the loner as the "cool beauty" again used the nickname.
"Escape perfectly completed." And not even 30 seconds later, 2012's door opened, and the man of the hour stepped out, slightly grinning.
"Hachi-kun, let's play~." And Tina immediately pounced on his appearance by rushing Hikigaya-san before he could react, closing the distance between them and placing her hand on the wall behind him, keeping him in place... Wait, is that what they call the famous Japanese "wall-slam"?!
Infinite Loner
And there was Demise Club right outside my room, headed by none other than Tina Hamilton. Why do you all have to show up now? You're supposed to be in the cafeteria. I didn't even have enough time to account for your early presence. "I'm going back inside," I explained while avoiding eye contact with my American clubmate. I knew that the moment I looked at her, I would lose all hope of a quiet weekend. In a way, she was a magnet, and I was a tin-can trying to resist her pull of attraction. Come on, Hachiman, don't give up, and show those riajuu who's boss~!
"Wait, Hachi-kun, don't be so brash; we're here to help you." She tightened her pressure on the wall behind me as if to emphasize the futility of escape. From the outside, it looked like a "wall-slam," but my heart was not fluttering in the slightest. If anything, her action only evoked fear and dread within me.
"How so?"
"Well, I heard you needed some Komachi points." Hold on, how do you know about that?
"Hamilton, you're not implying..." I began staring daggers at her to force an explanation for that last remark... What about preserving my quiet weekend, you may ask? Isn't it at risk with my newfound interest in my clubmate? Well, those concerns don't matter if what I'm fearing is true; the creation of a grand conspiracy against Hikigaya Hachiman.
"Heh, heh. I have no idea what you're talking about, Hachi." She tried feigning ignorance, but I could tell she was lying; the slightly different nickname, awkward laughing, and a refusal to meet my gaze, all gave it away. I may not be the best at social situations, but I'm a master at reading faces and picking up small nonverbal cues, as it's one of my many 108 Loner Skills.
"Don't even bother worming yourself out of this, Hikigaya. We're under strict orders to accompany you to Soubu high today." Sarashiki confirmed my greatest fears; Komachi was in cahoots with IS Academy.
"That cheeky brat." You just can't trust little sisters these days...
Infinite Loner
Ah, finally, I'm back home! I hope you've missed me, Chiba, for it has been too long. At last, I can spread my wings of freedom and ride out into the sunset of obscurity!.. Yeah, maybe some parts of me are better left at IS Academy (*cough, cough* my childish delusions). I almost sound like the chuuni. Regardless, I enjoy embracing the innate sense of familiarity found being where you've grown up. When I graduate, I'm never leaving Chiba again... The outside world is too scary.
As for the ride here, it was unsettling, to say the least. I struggled to enjoy it as my classmates kept annoying me...
[Flashback]
"Wow, look at that building, Hickory, it's incredible!"
"*sigh* Can you tone down the excitement? You're giving me a headache, Holmes. How have you never seen a Mr. Donut or at least another fast-food place before?"
"I didn't have the most freedom back home..."
"Ok, ok, I don't need to hear your traumatic backstory. Basically, Mr. Donut is a national restaurant chain with locations across the country and a reputation for reliable service. I sometimes visited their locations for an after-school snack... and it was irritating to enjoy my meal with all the riajuu and their obnoxious laughter. Not to mention seeing high school girls snickering at me for sitting by myself. What's wrong with going alone? I save time and money by not playing those "punishment games" which are just-"
"We've heard enough Hikigaya. Please spare us your rant about adolescence."
"Forms of legalized extortion, and don't get me started about family restaurants..."
"Fishboy, snap out of it!"
"What is it? I was about to get to the good part. Don't tell me that someone like you has anything to say about Mr. Donut, Senpai? I never saw you as someone popular."
"You're trying to tease your senior after all we've been through? You're so cruel, Hachiman."
"After giving such a defensive response, I take it that you weren't the most social in middle school?"
"..."
"Then what gives you the... *sigh* I'm getting worked up again over nothing. In any case, I send my condolences to all your former teachers and classmates for putting up with your twisted personality for 3 years."
"*cough, cough*."
"Tch."
"Did you just click your tounge, Hikigaya-san?"
"I can't believe you would accuse me of such a thing? When I've been nothing but a charitable guide today. In other news, Dunois, are you enjoying the journey? I know it isn't the SNCF or Shinkansen, but the speed is pretty impressive, right?"
"I never took many trains back in France, so everything appears incredibly efficient, Hikigaya-san."
"Yeah, everyone goes through that same honeymoon phase with Japanese public transportation. I can remember the first time I took the subway by myself; it was to... purchase math textbooks."
"Actually, Hikigaya, why are you so familiar with local transportation? I never pegged you as one to willingly leave the house."
"*sigh* Everyone says the same thing, but just because I'm a loner doesn't mean I'm a NEET as well. Sometimes the light novels and games I buy are in the next town over, you know~?"
"You never fail to amaze me as not just a pilot, but as a person, Hikigaya."
"Shut up."
[Flashback End]
"Only a few more weeks, and it's all over," I murmured to myself. After this annoying tournament, IS Academy had its midterms before the summer recess. My freedom was in sight, and I knew the moment it came, I would not turn back. Oh, Vita-chan and PC-kun, we have a lot of catching up to do. All I had to was limp to the finish line.
"Hickory, are you even listening? You're supposed to be attentive type." The sound of Holmes's nagging voice drew me from my thoughts.
"Well, don't blame me for not caring about idle small talk. I'm a mysterious man of few words." I responded, crossing my arms in defiance. We were walking down a familiar street that led to Soubu High. Each step reminded me of the weird dream about that elusive Neighbors Club, or whatever it's called. The point is that I wasn't destined to attend IS Academy, and there possibly existed numerous alternate timelines where Hikigaya Hachiman was just an ordinary high school student. *sigh* When did my life become so complicated? I once believed that if life had "save points" that could be reloaded, nothing would change, as reality had an unchanging course, rendering these conversations about "what-if's" irrelevant. Yet stumbling across Infinite Stratos and the likes of its eccentric inventor questioned that. If autonomous killing machines, life-like AI assistants mentally connected to a person, and super-human strength-wielding mech suits were all possible, what wasn't? Times were changing, and my mind had to keep up. After all, "once the world changes you, it's all over," and I'm not going out quietly. *sigh* When did life become so complicated?
"Oh, Hachi-kun, look at that. We made it!" I felt a pull on my sleeve and noticed that Hamilton was dragging me along by the arm while pointing towards a school gate.
"Wow, I can't believe it, Soubu Municipal High. It's not like I've ever visited this school before. I don't think I need an escort." I replied, my voice dripping in sarcasm. I hoped that my lack of excitement would cue Hamiton into the ramifications of her intimacy.
*stare~* I could feel those piercing stares into me from envious teens and felt the familiar chant of "go explode, you riajuu." being uttered. Sure, I don't usually care about my image, and if anything, prefer a negative reputation, but I was in Chiba and near my sister. Someone as impressionable as her didn't need the tarnish my name brings. She deserves her chance at living a fulfilling youth, unlike the catastrophe I've been dealt.
"... What? Geez~, we're not like that, Hachi-kun." Hamilton took a moment to process my words before releasing her grip in shock. Thankfully, Demise Club members are capable of some tact.
"I know, right. I'd never want to be in a relationship with such a brute." I said under my breath, falling behind her while smugly smirking, creating some distance between myself and everyone else. My gesture seemed to have worked, and I felt the envy directed at me subside. See, I'm not a filthy playboy, but an outcast, equally hated by society as all of you. Maybe I should form a League of Loners and topple the toxic world order held up by IS and obnoxious women?.. No, that's a waste of time, as when push comes to shove, none of those guys would oppose the status quo. They're holding out fleeting hopes that their unrequited feelings will be reciprocated. What naive fools. Those girls aren't nice only to you, but to everyone else. You're just allowing your feelings to manipulate you... *sigh* It's not like I wasn't the same a few years ago. Fukou da.
"Oh, is that onii-chan?" I heard a soothing voice call out in the distance.
"It sounds so heavenly. Did I pass on to that seemingly unattainable Loner's Paradise?" I walked towards the light, hoping to come across salvation after all the suffering with my classmates.
"Can you stop acting like that, gomii-chan? You're making me feel ashamed to be your sister." Huh, "gomii-chan," I only know one person who uses that unflattering nickname. And if I'm not mistaken, it is...
"Komachi, you have a lot of explaining to do." I leveled her an expectant gaze, and I searched for answers. My younger sister manipulated me into going out on a free day. That act violates the Onii-chan Conventions, and I won't stand for it! Do you understand how it was to put up with the Demise Club and Dunois for almost 2 hours? I'm this close to turning around and going home to spend my day reading light novels.
"Well, you see, onii-chan... Komachi was in a bit of a pinch and needed her kind older brother for help." She sheepishly shied away from eye contact and twirled her fingers as she explained.
"That's it... I can't get mad at you, Komachi, so tell me, why am I here?" I reigned in my boiling rage and focused on the pressing matter at hand, gaining more points. There's no point in snapping at my own sister. She doesn't need to be bothered with personal issues.
"I may as well introduce you to her, onii-chan, and get this over with... Senpai, he's over here." She called over to another girl conversing with a group of students. Thankfully, I'm not dealing with a worm. All I have to do is say my name, affirm my relationship with Komachi, and walk away. Yeah, it's merely a simple job, nothing to worry about.
"Oh, you must be Komachi-chan's brother. I'm her upperclassman, Isshiki Iroha." My sister's classmate walked over and introduced herself with a beaming grin, her flaxen hair and honey-colored eyes glowing in the sunlight. Bright, too bright! I had to reel back from looking at Isshiki so my retinas wouldn't burn out.
"Yes, I'm-."
"I already know all about you, Senpai~... Not much the looker are we, well he still could be useful." She interrupted me with a line that would have left past Hikigaya dazed. "Someone called me Senpai. I have a chance at the endearing Kouhai route, after all," he would have squealed in delight. However, as I am now, Isshiki's words only left me wary, as yet another girl was looking to exploit Hikigaya Hachiman. Even away from IS Academy, I can't escape this bleak reality.
"Komachi, can I leave now? Your friend saw me, so the mission cleared, right? I have a bad feeling about staying at Soubu for too long." I voiced my concerns to Komachi, attempting to make my speedy exit. Ever since I stepped on Soubu's campus, I felt a cool breeze wash over me, as if someone was watching my every move. I've already gone through so much today and am not interested in any more stress.
"No can do Senpai~. You may be Komachi-chan's brother, but how could I be sure that you attend the Academy? I'm not an idiot, you know~?" Isshiki remarked as I took my first steps towards freedom... Of course, you're perceptive; my life can't play any other way.
"So what proof would confirm it?"
"Summon your IS, Senpai. If you're really one of those male pilots, you should be able to do that much."
"Komachi, do I have to? I'd rather not bring more attention to myself." I whispered to my sister. I'm very averse to risk-taking and understand that summoning the Undefeated Champion in public is a massive leap of fate. There's a chance that nothing happens, but it's equally likely that my life becomes even more troublesome. I prefer to only fight winning battles, mind you. However, if Komachi insists, I would be willing to take on any risk, to bring a smile to her face.
"Do it, onii-chan, there is nothing to fear, just activate that partial employment thing."
"*sigh* It's partial deployment but, fine... Sarashiki, do you have that tablet on you?" I turned to my glasses-wearing clubmate as potential insurance. Even though the hallways were empty as I left, I've learned to never underestimate that accursed school.
"Yes, why do you ask?" She tentatively answered.
"Can it track personal IS signals?"
"Yes... oh, I understand."
"Exactly, keep on the lookout for any familiar readings. I don't want Orimura-sensei yelling at me for breaking Academy regulations."
"Very well, Hikigaya. I will assist you this time." She nodded in affirmation. Thank you, Sarashiki, for being more cooperative than 99.9% of our classmates... If only you weren't interested in me as a lab rat. Alas, that's just the cruel fate of a male IS pilot.
"Watch closely as I'm only doing this for a few seconds," I warned as I fished through my pockets for the Sachi Shades... There they are. I placed on the sunglasses and prepared to activate the Undefeated Champion. Now, let's see, what should I summon? Something small yet screams, "personal IS holder," this is tough... Oh, I've got it. "Solitude is my strength, and logic is my sword." I quietly chanted my activation phrase, and then, a white light enveloped my right arm. It momentarily dispersed to reveal a golden gauntlet grasping a dagger.
"Is that Hachiman, my sworn partner?" No, no, no. I just remembered IS Academy's one saving grace, his absence. It's almost June, and he's wearing a trench coat. *groan* His hair is still dyed silver, and he's spewing another of his delusional lines. You know I'm (mostly) perfect, but sometimes I have regrets, including meeting...
"What a surprise seeing you here, Zaimokuza." I pinched my nose and sighed in resignation as he walked over to my location.
"You know that... thing, Fish-boy?" Senpai asked me while looking at Zaimokuza in disgust. You know the two of us don't usually see eye to eye, but it appears we have something in common. I never thought I would say such a thing, but with the chuuni around, the sky's the limit.
"Hachiman, I may require your aid to share my exploits with the uninformed masses." Zaimokuza lowered his voice to a whisper when he finished his "grand march"... Unable to talk to women, huh? As much as I would love to ignore him and go on with my day, he did introduce me to dating sims, and I don't like owing others favors, so I might as well help him this once... but don't misunderstand; I'm not doing it because we're friends or anything! (Use Generic Tsundere Line #2... check.)
"Everyone, this is Zaimokuza Yoshiteru. He suffers from Chuunibyou, otherwise known as eighth-grade syndrome; this entails him enacting his delusions in public. They include calling himself the "Blademaster General" or me the "War God," both titles being vaguely structured in historical icons. We were former middle-school gym partners, by the way. If anyone cared to know. Also, he and I may have visited the same stores before, but that fact is hotly debated. Zaimokuza, these are, sadly, my IS Academy classmates. From the top, we have the frightening fallen angel..."
"Oi!"
"Troublesome joker..."
"How rude, Hachi-kun!"
"The shady blonde gentleman..."
"... You truly can be heartless when given the opportunity, Hikigaya-san."
"The shounen anime obsessed Sarashiki..."
"I am not obsessed!"
"Oh really, Sarashiki-san? Then how do you explain the animated screensaver on your..."
"... Idiot, Hikigaya-kun..."
"And then there's Holmes from the Demise..."
"Hickory, it's the Detective Club... and where is my tagline? I don't want to be left out."
"Yeah, I don't care... so basically..." The issue is how do I explain my situation in Chuuni-terms. It's been such a while since I've had to translate... "They are the organization of members looking to uncover mysteries that have seized my freedom, forcing me to become their familiar, carrying out demeaning tasks." Speaking this way is so embarrassing. What if Komachi thinks I'm weird?.. On second thought, my wonderful little sister is incapable of such cruelty... Hopefully.
"I see, what unfortunate position, you must reside in Hachiman. Likewise, the local populace holds a poor view of the Blademaster General, making each day a grueling battle!" Ok, so... he's also a social outcast in Soubu, probably derided for his eccentric personality. *sigh* No matter where we go, loners are always oppressed, huh? I'm amazed that you can retain your enthusiasm after so much ridicule, Zaimokuza. In that regard, you're holding up way better than I am.
"You don't even know half of what I've gone through. In any case, why are you at school on a Sunday? I assumed you would be watching anime or blowing your funds in rigged gacha games instead."
"Tsk, tsk, my partner. Although those forces were strong our bond as veterans from the battlefield was stronger, and it gravitated me towards your location."
"Onii-chan, what did he just say?"
"If I'm not mistaken, Zaimokuza woke up this morning, realized he was missing the latest volume of *insert popular Shounen manga here* and was on his way to the nearest book store. While passing Soubu High, he spotted me and thought it wise to accost me for any series recommendations."
"Sharp as always, Hachiman, it appears that your foresight is unmatched! So about that armored gauntlet, you are wielding. Is that the famed Undefeated Champion?" He gestured to my partially deployed right arm. I almost forgot about this thing.
"... Yes, this is my IS. Don't ask me how I got though, as you are incapable of stomaching the details." What would happen if I told him about Tabane... Would he pass out? He would pass out.
"I see. The circumstances behind your attainment of it must be harrowing indeed." Zaimokuza nodded sagely. Don't pretend as if you get it.
"*stare*~." Everyone is looking at us like we're crazy, especially me. So this is what it feels like to be Ichika, the center of attention... I hate it.
"Well, it's been interesting, to say the least, in meeting you here, Zaimokuza. I'll probably see never see you again, so..." I tried making my exit before my poor luck could catch up with me. Sure, I've been complaining a lot today, but my luck has held up solidly, with no one too annoying showing up (I just ignore Senpai and Hamilton at this point, so they don't count.").
"Well, well, if it isn't the infamous Hikigaya-kun." A voice freezes me in my tracks. Uh, oh, this day has gone from bad to worse. Unluckily for me, I stumbled upon the most dangerous 1st-year at IS Academy... Yes, she puts the soldier to shame. Class 1-3's representative, the second daughter of a prestigious local family, and the sadist whose words effortlessly rip me to shreds...
It was, of course, the Ice Queen, "Yukinoshita Yukino."
Infinite Loner
Author's Note- If anyone is wondering what took so long, blame life and I guess catgirls. The former since with the coming new year, many more responsibilities started piling up, and I had less time to write Infinite Loner. As for the latter, I have another story out there it's called Catastrophe, and that started taking up precious mental real estate. If you enjoy this story please give it a look, as it's a lot more lighthearted and also stars Hikigaya Hachiman as he struggles with hectic high school life. Ok, ok, I'll get to what everyone wants to know, my thoughts behind chapter 15. As I said earlier there were many different visions from Hachiman and Charles entering into a bridal carry competition (how crazy would have that been?) to the tennis tournament mentioned in the omake, but none felt like the perfect match. I decided to split the difference and combine all my ideas, add in the Detective Club, and introduce both Yukino and the incredible Blademaster General. I ultimately sided against including the Amusement Club or most of Oregairu's supporting cast into the story (for now), and even mentioning the Ice Queen was just a spur-of-the-moment move. Her presence is very minor right now, mainly as a stressor on Hachiman, like Mio, to an extent, they motivate him into acting a certain way later on since he's a very reactive character. What could that be, I don't know? Right now I want to keep the cast to a manageable size, and not make the story too convoluted. In any case, what do you think of what I've written? Please write a review to leave your response, whether it be positive, critical, I appreciate any reader insight. I use it as motivation for the production of future installments, and a guide for my writing style. Follow, favorite, share, you know how this works. I've been Mayflower Productions, thank you for reading Infinite Loner, and I'll catch you on the flipside.
Preview:
"I'm Isshiki Iroha."
"And I am the famed Blademaster General, Zaimokuza Yoshiteru!"
"And welcome to the 5th iteration of the Hikigaya Hachiman Watch Party!"
"It appears that Senpai has a lot going on these days... Chuuni-kun."
"Yes, in the days to come, Hachiman faces many grueling battles, especially extinguishing the raging inferno that is his German roommate."
"*sigh* Why am I here, talking with this thing... I can't slip now, though. I hope Senpai can figure a way to help Laura-san before it's too late."
"If I know Hachiman, the War God he is, he most definitely has concocted a plan to save his fated associate from herself... Yet, his methods never do his reputation any favors."
"Hold on, Chuuni-kun were you just..."
"Tsk, tsk, naive maiden, you lack the comprehension of all my masterful ideas, unlike Hachiman. As veterans in arms, he knows the struggles of one, living in the bottom rung of the vain social hierarchy."
"I must have heard something wrong as a result then... He really needs to stop wearing that trench coat. You can see the stains."
Steps approach their location and cease when a new person arrives. She has long, flowing, black hair, a matching suit, and an annoyed expression. "That brat never learns now, does he."
"Are you the famous Brunhilde?"
"I believe I have some recollection of this mysterious woman. Hachiman told me about a tyrant of the highest degree, her gravity so strong that he was forced into a pact for an entire summer."
"Oh, so he talks behind my back, huh?.. Good to know... Get on with it. You both know how this works."
Begrudgingly Isshiki Iroha speaks up at the same time as Zamiokuza Yoshiteru to exclaim, "Next time on Infinite Loner- Chapter 16: And So, He Returns From Whence He Came."
"I wish for a resounding victory, partner, in your endeavor against all the obstacles standing in your way... Don't forget that you're not alone. I'm willing to be someone to lean on, after all, you've done for me, Hachiman."
"Maybe if I can meet Senpai again, he could connect me to Orimura Ichika? I wonder? Oh, where was I... don't give up, in whatever you're doing! It will all work out somehow."
Chapter End
*Slight edits made for sake of accuracy* (1/9/2022)