"I accept with pleasure.''
Being in the service club is fun, especially since Yumiko and Kawasaki joined, but it's still quite tedious and stressful in its own way. However, I can't complain since I didn't do anything to prevent this.
But if a third option arises, joining the student council, I won't hesitate to take it.
I'd be a fool to reject such an opportunity.
Shiromeguri-senpai smiled at my response.
"I'm glad to hear that. Having your help would be great." She said.
"Don't worry." I waved my arms as if to say it was nothing.
"Now, all that's left is to ask the others. I'm sure having them in the student council would be beneficial." She added.
"Huh?" I didn't understand what she meant. "What do you mean, Shiromeguri-senpai?"
"I wanted to suggest to the service club to join the student council, as with your help and companionship, I can say that you're kind and helpful people." She said cheerfully.
"So, it wasn't just a proposition for me?" It seemed I misunderstood.
"Of course not. I was planning to ask the others later, but since you were here, I thought I'd try my luck." Her innocent and cheerful tone suggested that was truly what she thought.
Well, I guess that's what I get for jumping to conclusions too soon. I'm an idiot.
"I'm sorry to tell you this, Shiromeguri-senpai, but if it's an invitation for the entire service club, it's likely to be rejected. Our president isn't someone who'd let the club dissolve like that. Helping in the student council is a more general form of assistance, and for Yukinoshita, it's not something the service club would do."
The student council deals with many things, but they're more bureaucratic matters. If it took a role similar to the service club, we'd lack members, and the workload would be overwhelming.
She looked pensive at my words.
I understand, she got to know Yukinoshita a bit more, and unlike her older sister, the club president is more unique in her own way.
"I think you're right." She sighed briefly.
She must have reconsidered it, and imagining herself asking Yukinoshita this question, she must have arrived at a similar response to my words.
And now that I think about it more, if I were to join the student council, would Yumiko follow me, too?
With her, Kawasaki would also join. Without members, I can't predict Yukinoshita's next move; she might decide to stay in the club or think that joining the student council might be a good idea.
It seems that since I joined the service club, I lost any chance of escape.
Cruel fate.
Shiromeguri-senpai looks somewhat dejected. I don't blame her; with my affirmative response, she must have imagined that everyone else would accept, although there's certainly a possibility that if I join, the others will follow, but I can't guarantee it, and I'd rather not tell her.
"But I can say that the service club will always be open to requests from the student council, so you could say we're like a branch of the student council, unofficially. But I don't think that matters, right?"
Shiromeguri-senpai's expression turned into a wide smile again.
"You're right, and I feel like things could work better that way. You're a genius, Tsurumi-kun."
I think I'm more of an idiot for assuming that a senpai was inviting only me to join the student council.
"I wish Yukinoshita would think that way." I sighed shortly after saying this.
"Surely, she will in the future. You just have to try harder." She said encouragingly.
For some reason, Shiromeguri-senpai's words give me enough energy to face an army by myself. In the end, I'd dedicate my victory to her.
Me and my random thoughts, nothing new.
With our little matter settled, we left the student council to return to the service club, where they must be waiting to go to the café to celebrate Shiromeguri-senpai's victory.
I just hope they avoid arguing in that place.
Two weeks ago, Shiromeguri-senpai took over as the president of the student council.
It feels like just yesterday we were helping her with her campaign; time really flew by, and now we're a month away from Christmas. In a few days, it'll already be November, so you could say there's still a month left.
Honestly, I still can't believe it's been a year since I met Yumiko that day, although it was around mid-November. I hope she doesn't ask for a friendship anniversary gift; I only have 200,000 yen left, which might seem like a lot, but gifts can be expensive.
Since I don't see anything worth a big expense, I can relax with that money. Putting that thought aside, I decided to open the door to the classroom, expecting to see familiar faces until graduation. To my surprise, Yukinoshita was the only one inside.
It's strange; Yumiko and Kawasaki usually arrive earlier. Now that I recall, they mentioned having to clean their classrooms, so they shouldn't take more than 10 minutes.
"Yo, Yukinoshita." I said briefly as I walked to my seat.
"Tsurumi-kun, good afternoon." Yukinoshita greeted me. It's rare for her not to insult me; it's progress. "It seems your ability to greet in a decent manner is still within you, but expecting a change in your personality is still difficult."
I thought she had improved as a person, but I was wrong.
Normally, I'd give up or ignore her, but since Yumiko and Kawasaki aren't present, it would be good to counterattack. So, I took a seat, placed my bag beside the chair.
"People don't change overnight; change usually takes time. If we think more deeply, it can be related to personal growth. Speaking of growth, I must say you're not the most suitable person to talk about it."
"What do you mean by …." She stopped talking when she noticed where my gaze was directed. She quickly covered her non-existent chest.
"You're truly despicable; you can't assess a person's worth based on appearance, let alone physical features." She said hastily. If she hadn't said it in a rush, I might have taken her seriously.
"If you say those words more seriously, maybe I'll pay attention." I said mockingly. She narrowed her eyes at me, but her expression changed to a sinister smile.
"Come to think of it, you always use the same excuse to try to defend yourself. But could it be that you can't stop looking at me because you like me?"
"Not at all." I replied seriously, shaking my head and hands. Why would I be interested in a flat land when there are two pairs of beautiful and large mountains next to you? Yukinoshita must have a warped sense of humor to say that.
While thinking about certain people who aren't in the service club right now, I felt a deathly gaze from Yukinoshita.
"What do you mean by flat land, Tsurumi-kun?" Her tone lacked any emotion; it's as if death itself entered the room.
I had never told her directly; I had only mocked indirectly, note to self, correct that habit of verbalizing certain thoughts when I relax.
"Flat land? I don't know what you mean by that."
When there's no escape, it's best to make those words nonexistent.
"Why should I care about flat land when there are two pairs of beautiful and large mountains beside you? Those were your exact words, so what do you mean by that, Tsurumi-kun?" She said with narrowed eyes and a sinister smile that she tried to make appear friendly. Terrifying on all fronts.
The classroom temperature dropped below zero. I know it's winter, but this is too much. Should I have bundled up before coming?
This would be a perfect moment for someone to enter and interfere in the conversation, but I wasn't that lucky.
Yumiko or Kawasaki? Anyone, please. I feel like I'm about to be murdered.
Stopping myself from looking at the door and turning back to Yukinoshita, her gaze told me there was no escape.
Alright, I give up. In moments like these, all that's left is to be honest.
"It's just my personal preference, you shouldn't think in that flat way, but think big.'' I said in a calm tone, as if I were telling her to ignore the elephant in the room.
Seconds passed before I realized that the last word I said wasn't the best.
There were so many appropriate words, but I chose the worst possible one.
"Tsurumi-kun..." She slowly opened her eyes, revealing a deathly gaze.
Without further ado, I pulled out my phone, entered my special gallery, and threw it on the table. It slid to Yukinoshita's spot.
She hesitated for a moment but focused her attention on my phone, specifically on the content.
Seconds passed, but her attention remained on my phone. Gradually, the icy atmosphere in the classroom disappeared.
I'm glad to have several photos and videos of Kuro. There's plenty to choose from, whether it's Kuro playing with cat toys or a video where Kuro met another cat during a walk, resulting in the neighbor's little kitten playing with Kuro; something cute and interesting, especially for cat lovers.
Yukinoshita took out headphones from her bag and plugged them into my phone. I suppose she wants to hear the conversation between Kuro and the little kitten in the best quality.
Sorry, Yukinoshita, but I doubt you'll learn the language of cats that way.
"Yukinoshita, is this enough as an apology?"
My words were completely ignored by the cat lover, so I'll take her silence as a yes.
I'm glad that Yukinoshita is somewhat easy to handle with this type of content.
You might wonder if I would easily give my phone to someone else. After all, that device is like one's soul.
But I don't have anything to hide. Yumiko often asks for it, so I give it to her without a problem.
The only contacts I have on that phone are Yumiko, Kawasaki, Yuigahama, Ebina and my family.
And in case you're wondering, I don't have Yukinoshita's number, as it's not necessary.
With the situation under control, I took out a light novel I had with me and started reading.
In this way, several minutes passed until Yumiko and Kawasaki entered the club room.
Yukinoshita diverted her gaze from my phone and gave them a brief greeting, quickly returning her attention to my phone.
I, in the same way, greeted them in my usual manner.
Once they both took their seats, they looked at me with curiosity.
"So, Raiden, what did you do this time?"
As their words imply, this isn't the first time I've used this method to appease Yukinoshita.
And if there's a really difficult situation, I have a photo of Kuro wearing a Pan-san costume saved; my ultimate weapon.
"I just teased Yukinoshita, and you know how she is when she loses."
"I would have liked to be nearby to see it."
The three female members of the service club have a small internal competition, and although the date when the winner will be announced is far away, they often have small arguments where no winner is determined. Things start to intensify, and it would become more problematic. Women, hard to understand.
Of course, if this were a battle royale, I'm sure I would have swept the competition in my own way.
If only results were sought, I'm the best at achieving the things asked, although my methods are very unorthodox.
I'm sure that's why Hiratsuka-sensei didn't include me.
"It was nothing out of the ordinary." I said calmly as I returned my attention to my novel.
"By the way, Raiden, when that cat fanatic finishes, I'll use it."
I moved one of my hands as if to say it's okay. Yumiko put on a smile.
Yumiko took out her own phone and began killing time until Yukinoshita finished trying to understand the language of cats. Her concentration is terrifying.
You could say it's a normal day in the service club, although the difference is that Kawasaki just leaned on her arms and looked at the ceiling, as if trying to think of things to entertain herself.
It's common for her to also take out her phone and pass the time, but she didn't.
"So, Kawasaki, do you find it amusing to look toward the horizon?"
If we had to say who is the person who spends the most time in silence, that would be Kawasaki. She doesn't usually take much initiative, unlike Yumiko.
"Huh?" She focused on me. "Are you saying that because I don't have my phone?"
"I don't think it's for any other reason." I said as I closed my novel.
She let out a slight sigh. "I lent it to Keika yesterday, like any other time, but it slipped from her hands and broke. So, I don't have a phone until my parents buy me a new one. And knowing that my father is on medical leave due to a back injury, I'll probably get a new one for Christmas."
I don't know what Kawasaki's parents do, but from the time I visited her house and knowing that Kawasaki has two younger siblings, it's evident that it's not easy to afford a new phone, especially if her father can't work until he recovers.
After all, a decent phone averages around 50,000 to 100,000 yen, and the latest ones range between 150,000 to 200,000 yen.
I say this because for my birthday, my parents bought me a modern one. We're not a family lacking in money, so they indulged me in that aspect.
My mother has a salary well above average, and my father is slightly above average, so expenses or whims are not difficult to handle. Of course, they won't give me 200,000 yen just because.
Having money implies arduous hours of work; that's the reason parents work more than 12 hours and come home tired, avoiding spending most of the time with their children.
It is for this reason that Japanese parents do not spend much time with their children, missing even important moments of childhood, not all of them are like that.
I don't complain in that aspect about mine. I don't lack a roof or food, so saying that I hate my parents for not spending time with me would be foolish.
Of course, everyone can have a different opinion than mine.
"You can use mine to pass the time since I usually read and don't use it much during the club."
"Are you sure?"
"Use it as much as you want; I have nothing to hide. If in doubt, ask Yumiko."
Yumiko looked up from her phone upon hearing her name. I can tell she was paying attention to our conversation, but since I didn't say anything out of the ordinary, she chose not to interfere. Besides, I can guarantee that if I hadn't done it, she would have told Kawasaki that she could borrow her phone at times.
Yumiko cares too much about her friends, and Kawasaki is now one of them.
The service club consists of spending the whole hour at our seats without doing anything, so it becomes boring, unless you have something to pass the time. Watching videos or having something to read, either method is valid.
"Thanks." She said while looking down. Kawasaki can have cute behaviors on some occasions; it's fun to watch.
I returned my attention to my novel after solving this, and since Yumiko shared her phone with Kawasaki, both began watching videos of things that girls watch. I'm not interested in that.
Yukinoshita, on the other hand, seems to still be focused on her lessons of "Nyanese."
The unofficial name I gave to the cat language.
I left the girls to their activities and focused fully on my novel.
Time passed as each of us dedicated ourselves to our things, but hearing the door being opened abruptly caught our attention.
Yukinoshita had already finished admiring Kuro's beauty and returned to her book, so Yumiko is with my phone, and Kawasaki is with hers.
"Hiratsuka-sensei, I think I need to remind you to knock on the door before entering, don't make me repeat it." As expected of the club president, she reprimanded our teacher.
"You take a long time to respond.''
Without waiting to be invited in, Hiratsuka-sensei entered and took a seat in front of us.
A behavior we are already accustomed to; it's not the first time she's done it.
"Tsurumi, what do you think of last night's chapter?" She said with excitement and enthusiasm, as if she had no one else to talk to about this.
What else could my otaku teacher want to discuss?
Last night, a highly anticipated chapter for manga fans was aired; a versus between the protagonist and his master turned evil, pure action scenes and battles to the limit.
"It was exciting, but the protagonist had many opportunities to finish off his master, but he chose not to use them."
"He's the person who taught him everything and considers him his second father. Of course, he wouldn't harm him."
"They're just excuses; that's why it's pathetic to some extent. Besides, for that same reason, he'll lose his arm."
"Wait, what do you mean he loses his arm!?" She stood up from her seat, drawing the attention of others who decided to ignore us since they don't know what we're talking about.
"It's not my fault you're not up to date with the manga." I said with a mocking tone. The power of spoilers.
"An adult's life is heavy and busy; I'm lucky if I have time to watch the anime."
"Excuses, excuses." I waved my arms in a mocking gesture.
And by her expression, she didn't seem to like my gestures.
"Don't get arrogant, brat." She said somewhat irritated.
"Arrogant? Unfortunately, I'm not. I just consider myself capable, that's all." And as expected, I responded very arrogantly.
"Are you going to start with this again?" Yumiko let out a slight sigh as she said this.
The visit of Hiratsuka-sensei is not a novelty, so it's also not new that we have certain discussions about anime, which end with us having different points of view.
For them, it's senseless stuff, but for us, it's of utmost importance.
I won't deny that I enjoy fooling around with Hiratsuka-sensei; having someone to talk to about your hobbies is pleasant.
"Until now, I still don't understand those things. Aren't anime for children? Aren't you too old to keep watching that?" Kawasaki said as she looked up at us with some pity.
Do words hurt more than punches?
That's the question some ask, and at this moment, I can say yes.
Hiratsuka-sensei took the hit head-on. I, on the other hand, softened it since I'm still young, but if I add up my two lives, the blow was devastating.
"Kawasaki-san, anything related to animation has no age limit. In fact, it's common for more and more adults and young people to be a part of this." Yukinoshita said with a calm and reliable tone of voice.
I would be surprised that Yukinoshita came to our rescue until I remembered that Yukinoshita is a fan of Pan-san, so she is also a fan of the anime and animated movies in the franchise.
Hiratsuka-sensei coughed a bit to attract attention.
"As Yukinoshita said, animation is not something exclusive to children. I won't deny that there are anime that aim for a child audience, but there are also anime with more adult themes, things like perspectives and ideologies that can only be understood by adults."
"I see." Kawasaki moved away from us and continued with her own thing.
There's no point in trying to convince her or make her interested in this; everyone has their own tastes.
"Returning to the topic, the protagonist has a mistaken and childish idea. He is not aware that his decisions not only affect him but also others."
I decided to pick up our conversation where we left off. It's not like I have anything better to do.
"You don't understand the great burden that responsibility represents, but when you grow up, I'm sure you'll agree that the protagonist is great for the decisions that led him to be the best."
"If it weren't for the well-detailed fights, I would have dropped it a long time ago."
"I would reproach you that you don't know the depth of the protagonist, but I remembered another reason why I came." Hiratsuka-sensei regained her mood. "The judo club has a competition, so they are taking a break today."
"And why should that be important to me?"
I don't care about what happens with people outside my circle. So if they tell me information about others, don't expect interest from me.
"Let's have a showdown, Tsurumi!" She said with an energetic tone.
"Sure." I responded automatically.
The service club fell into deep silence.
Now that I think about it, didn't I just agree to have a fight with my teacher?
"Hiratsuka-sensei, Tsurumi-kun, I must remind you that we are in class hours, so if you have any disputes, you can solve them outside of school."
Why do I feel like Yukinoshita is treating me like I'm some kind of delinquent who likes to fight with others?
"That's not it, Yukinoshita." Hiratsuka-sensei waved her hands. "As Tsurumi usually says it's good, I want to have a friendly match with him, that's all."
"Hiratsuka-sensei, if you don't take it seriously, Tsurumi will just make fun of you; he's very annoying in that aspect." Kawasaki added. She's the most apt to say that.
"Of course, I will. I don't plan to end this day without having landed a good punch on Tsurumi."
"I don't remember doing anything to make you want to hit me, but I also don't enjoy hitting old ladies." I said with a mocking tone.
"Of course you do, brat. So, should I interpret those provocative words as a yes?"
"I'm sure I was clear enough."
Both of us shared a brief look of rivalry.
"I guess it can't be helped." Yukinoshita sighed.
"Do you really plan to fight against Hiratsuka-sensei, Raiden?" Yumiko's tone tells me she's curious and concerned about me.
"No problem, besides, it's not the first time I've done this. I've had encounters with Kawasaki several times, although she never managed to beat me." I said this with a big smile while looking at Kawasaki, causing her to raise her eyebrows.
"Hiratsuka-sensei, do you mind if I can hit Tsurumi after you?"
"I don't have a problem with that." She said in good humor. I'm sure she should have asked me for permission, but that doesn't change things.
So, that makes it 2 out of 4.
"What about you, Yukinoshita? Do you also want to face me?" I said with a mocking and arrogant tone.
If I'm already in this, it would be interesting to test Yukinoshita.
"I'm not someone who uses violence as frequently as you, so I'll decline." She said with a calm and disinterested tone. It was expected; Yukinoshita is not someone who would resort to violence at the first opportunity.
"Are you afraid of Raiden? I didn't expect to hear that from you." Yumiko said with a provocative tone.
I'm sure she wants to see me wipe the floor with Yukinoshita.
Although I can't guarantee a 100% victory in a friendly demonstration.
"Those are big words for you, Miura-san. Although if it were you proposing a little friendly match to me, I wouldn't hesitate to accept it."
In that scenario, it would be a crushing victory for Yukinoshita.
Yumiko checked herself and remained silent.
During our time in the club, one day the topic came up about what we did before entering Sobu. Of course, the topic focused on those of us who trained in something; Yukinoshita practices aikido, Kawasaki does Karate, and I, well, I'm a mix of almost everything.
So Yumiko wouldn't accept a duel in which she has a significant disadvantage. No matter what she does, it's likely that Yukinoshita would easily dominate her.
That's the big difference between a regular person and someone who has the discipline to train in something.
While I was thinking about this, I noticed a mischievous smile on Yumiko's face; those are bad news. That girl won't stay silent. My experience tells me.
"Your words are very arrogant, Yukinoshita. So, can you say that you're good, or rather, that you're the best?"
I can guess where this is going; now it depends on whether Yukinoshita takes the bait.
"It's good that you acknowledge it." Yukinoshita tossed her hair back with her right hand. "I can say it because I'm good at the things I do."
She took the bait.
"I see, but aren't you too arrogant to say that when Kawasaki is also here?"
The art of making your enemies face each other.
"What exactly did I say?"
"Don't you remember?" Her words took on a certain provocative and challenging tone. "You said you're good, and that can be interpreted as excluding Raiden, you can handle the others, but I don't think you can handle Kawasaki. After all, she's better than you."
After hearing those words, both Yukinoshita and Kawasaki exchanged glances. As if they were examining each other internally.
All the girls in this club hate to lose; I know it very well. So what would happen if it were indirectly said that one is better than the other?
"I doubt I'll lose to Yukinoshita; I can say it just by looking at her." Kawasaki looked away from her after saying this, as if telling her that Yukinoshita doesn't stand a chance.
"Aren't you being too arrogant, Kawasaki-san?" Her tone was calm, but I could sense some annoyance at being underestimated.
"I'm not. I'm just stating the truth." Kawasaki raised an eyebrow after saying this.
The egos of these two girls are about to clash, and the result won't be favorable.
"How can you assure something you're not sure about? Or are you saying that you're superior to me? I wouldn't advise underestimating me, Kawasaki-san." Yukinoshita said it in a way that one could interpret as a challenge.
"And what if I say it?" Her arrogant tone after saying this decided it all.
I'm sure that at this moment, the gazes of both girls collide as if they were lightning.
"Very well, let's do it that way." Said Hiratsuka-sensei good-naturedly. All this time, she had been watching quietly as the situation unfolded. "So it will be me against Tsurumi, and Yukinoshita against Kawasaki. Are you okay with that?"
"No problem." I replied.
This is going to be interesting in a way.
"I have no problem, unless Kawasaki-san decides to change her mind, and in that case, I'll understand."
Yukinoshita, don't use those words with a tone of superiority.
"Don't worry; I'm not one to back down from my word." From Kawasaki's tone, I can tell she's motivated to do this.
I must say, Yumiko was great at this moment. She changed the situation to make Yukinoshita and Kawasaki indirectly face each other. That girl is very frightening in a way.
Now I wonder, how did we go from talking about anime to having a service club fighting event? Too surreal if you ask me. But in any case, it will be interesting to see a match between Yukinoshita and Kawasaki.
I know some things about aikido, but in a friendly match, I can't predict the outcome.
"It's decided, then let's go to the Judo club.''
We all nodded and started getting up to go to the big event that concerns the entire club, although Yumiko will be the only spectator.
After a short walk, we finally arrived at the Judo club.
Yukinoshita and Kawasaki went to change, as they will be the first to face each other.
I had no preference whether to go first or second, but it seems that Hiratsuka-sensei wants to save the best for last, as if our confrontation were the final battle of an anime.
"Who do you think will win, Raiden?"
"I can't be sure, as friendly matches are governed by rules and ways of doing things."
"In simpler terms?"
"A judo match is defined when one of the parties is hit, but you can't hold or use locks, while in a normal fight, anything goes. You'll use any method to knock out your opponent."
"I see, and which of the two do you prefer?"
"I prefer not to have limitations, but if it's something friendly, it doesn't matter."
In a friendly match, you won't break your opponent's arm or slam them to the ground until they foam at the mouth. Of course, there's also the method of putting them in a lock to immobilize them and end the fight. But where's the fun in that?
On several occasions, I could resolve things by suppressing my opponent with a wrestling lock, but it's not my style.
"Do you mean you prefer a street fight, Tsurumi?" Hiratsuka-sensei joined the conversation.
She's been watching us for a while, as if waiting for the right moment to intervene.
"Who knows, but I'm good at adapting, so I get used to everything quickly."
Mixed martial arts use everything, of course not to perfection as if I dedicated myself to just one.
"I hope to see that arrogance in our match."
"Don't worry, and don't think I underestimate you because you're a woman or an old lady; I'll still take you down quickly."
"I'm looking forward to the moment to make you change your mind; I'll show you what an adult can do." She said with excitement.
"I'm looking forward to it too."
After saying this, Yukinoshita and Kawasaki came out of the dressing room, now wearing judogi from the Judo club.
It would be unrealistic if they faced each other in their regular uniforms. Although it would have been a pleasant sight, it won't happen.
The two girls walked to their positions, while Hiratsuka-sensei stood in the middle to be the referee.
"The rules are simple; there will be 3 rounds, the first to win 2 will be the winner. The method is to throw down your opponent, use the most appropriate way for it, and the classic no dirty play, that's all."
I can't imagine Yukinoshita or Kawasaki playing dirty.
By that, I mean attacking the eyes or causing an injury at the beginning.
"Go, Kawasaki!" Yumiko said in good humor.
Who wouldn't be? She indirectly used Kawasaki to shut Yukinoshita up.
And as Yumiko knows how strong Kawasaki is, she doesn't think she can lose.
Both girls stared at each other.
"So, you can start!"
After saying this, Hiratsuka-sensei stepped aside and walked towards us.
With the match starting, Kawasaki quickly closed the distance to prevent Yukinoshita from reacting.
Most likely, she'll try to hit her and then use her leg to make Yukinoshita lose balance and fall, a quick way to end this.
And just as I thought, Kawasaki used her right arm to try to hit her, but Yukinoshita moved away and put her hand on Kawasaki's wrist, advanced closing the distance, and with her other arm tried to bring it to her chin, but Kawasaki reacted in time and managed to move her head, after that, they separated.
On Kawasaki's face, you can see surprise. If she hadn't moved, Yukinoshita would have made her lose the center of gravity of her body, so she would have fallen by losing her balance.
What Yukinoshita did is a counterattack, common in aikido, after all, it focuses more on using the force of your opponent to bring them down. It's more practical for self-defense.
"Raiden, what was that?"
"In simple terms, if Kawasaki hadn't moved, Yukinoshita would have made her lose the center of gravity of her body, so she would have fallen by losing her balance."
"Is it that easy?"
"Miura, don't think that fights are like movies where they do several acrobatics; in reality, a fight can be decided in less than a second."
Hiratsuka-sensei is right, and that's also why I'm not a big fan of dedicating myself to just one martial art. It's monotonous, and for me, it can get boring.
The karate thing was just a whim of mine; after all, I always wanted to learn it properly.
Now, if Kawasaki is careless, Yukinoshita will bring her down easily. I think this will make Kawasaki take it more seriously.
Kawasaki approached again, but Yukinoshita simply stepped aside and used her arms to deflect Kawasaki's attacks, whether they were punches or kicks. Yukinoshita repelled them with elegance.
Something that aikido teaches you is to keep a serene mind at all times. That way, you focus on your opponent and manage to take advantage of a blind spot they might have while attacking.
It's most likely that Kawasaki will use feints to try to deceive Yukinoshita, bringing her down and ending the round.
And just as I thought, Kawasaki began using feints in her movements, punches that weren't punches or kicks that turned into mere steps forward.
If Yukinoshita lets her guard down, she'll be brought down, so it's a 50/50 for both.
They exchanged movements in this way, but kept each other at bay.
It might seem like this took a long time, but not even two minutes have passed.
Kawasaki continued with her strikes, but to her surprise, this time Yukinoshita didn't deflect them but instead crouched to dodge, leaving Kawasaki vulnerable.
Yukinoshita grabbed her arm. Normally, one would think that she would try to bring her down, so Kawasaki tried to step back. But it was a trap; she did what Yukinoshita wanted her to do.
Yukinoshita moved with her, circling towards her back while still holding her arm.
Kawasaki tried to free herself, but it was too late. As she got nervous having her arm restrained and in a position where it could be damaged if not released, Yukinoshita took advantage. She crouched and, using her leg and grip, made her lose balance, cleanly bringing her down to the ground.
Kawasaki's body made a complete turn before crashing onto her back.
It was impressive how she used her whole body as an obstacle so Kawasaki could only follow, ending up thrown to the ground.
"First point for Yukinoshita!"
It seems Yukinoshita is not just a pretty face; I always knew it, but I could only confirm it now.
"Really?" Yumiko has an expression of disbelief.
"Kawasaki got nervous at the last moment, so there was nothing else to do."
If I had been in Kawasaki's position, the result would have been the same. Of course, if it were a real fight, I would have used my other arm to lift Yukinoshita and slam her to the ground, but that would only result in her getting injured.
So that idea is discarded. One of the big differences between a friendly match and a real one.
Kawasaki got up, and from her expression, I can tell she's having fun. It was the same expression she had when I defeated her the first time we met at the academy.
"That was a good tactic, but I won't fall for the same thing twice."
"I know. I must admit, Kawasaki-san, you're good."
There was no tone of mockery but respect from both.
With that small exchange of words, they positioned themselves again.
"All right, let the second round begin!"
I feel like the most excited one is Hiratsuka-sensei among the participants.
In the same way as a few moments ago, Kawasaki advanced directly towards Yukinoshita.
A totally contradictory attitude to her words a moment ago. If she was careless, Yukinoshita would win in just seconds.
I noticed a slight smile on her face. Yukinoshita savored the victory.
Yukinoshita grabbed her arm and turned around her position, putting her other arm on Kawasaki's shoulder. This way, she threw her to the ground. Given everything that happened, Kawasaki couldn't resist, ending the match.
Or that's what should have happened, but Kawasaki used that momentum to somersault and quickly get up without Yukinoshita being able to react to her next move.
A somewhat risky tactic, but it made her opponent believe that victory was within her grasp, causing her to let her guard down for a brief second.
Her expression changed from the smile she had to a more serious one.
While Yukinoshita tried to create distance, Kawasaki stepped forward and put a foot behind her, making her lose balance, not without giving her a slight push in the chest, ensuring that Yukinoshita fell on her back to the ground.
"First point for Kawasaki!"
That way, the score was tied.
"That was incredible!"
"It was."
I have to agree with Yumiko and Hiratsuka-sensei; what Kawasaki did was quite impressive. Not only did she make Yukinoshita think she had victory so close, but her act went all the way to the end, to the exact moment where a mistake could cost her the match.
I reminded me of what I once said, sometimes the best way to win is to make your opponent believe they have the victory.
''I got overconfident at the last second; it won't happen again.''
''I count on it.''
If you fight someone practicing Aikido without knowing, it's 100% likely you'll end up losing. But if you know your opponent masters this art, the situation changes too much.
If you're fast and unpredictable, Aikido will be ineffective. Speaking without knowing? I don't do that because to master most movements, one must also know the theory.
If not, how could one prepare to fight someone skilled? Strength alone isn't enough; the mind is necessary too.
Now, what do I mean by being unpredictable and fast? An example is what Kawasaki did. She made her opponent think she would be thrown to the ground, but she did a somersault and got up. Similarly, with a move that restricts your arms to throw you, at that moment, you can kick your opponent's head, knocking them out instantly.
Aikido is a good martial art, but with someone prepared, it will be ineffective.I'm not saying it's useless because it's terrifying how with subtle movements one can easily throw another person to the ground. Most martial arts have many advantages and disadvantages, so at that moment, it depends on the fighters.
Me? If I had to face a master of this martial art, I would surely manage to win with some difficulty. I'm not saying this to be arrogant; I just know my capabilities.
Making unnecessary moves can be fun against people with no skill, but with those who know what they're doing, you won't be having fun; you'll be seeking to end the fight. Of course, if you manage to overcome it, you can have fun afterward.
I may sound contradictory, but it's not like I face experts to practice this. Mostly, they're idiots who only know how to throw a couple of punches, so I got used to relaxing and being somewhat exaggerated.
Maybe one of these days, I'll visit my former academy, although I can already imagine being knocked out by a kick or thrown by a lock. The world is too big to believe you're the best.
My head still remembers my sensei's kicks; those things left most students unconscious. And not to mention submitting your opponent to block their limbs and render them out of combat, catching a kick to then hit them with force, leaving the opponent incapacitated, being the opportunity to finish them.
There are so many possibilities that can happen in a fight; it's fun to know how you'll react to your opponent's movement.
''Last round, deciding point, begin!''
Both girls looked at each other cautiously; now they know their opponent can take the initiative and turn an opportunity into victory.
''With everything that happened, who do you think will win, Raiden?''
''Tie.''
'Tie?''
''That's what I believe, so let's just see the result.''
Both of us focused on the two again.
Kawasaki attacked with punches and kicks combined with feints and real blows. Yukinoshita could only be very cautious and repel each move to avoid being surprised again.
This exchange lasted a couple of seconds before they distanced themselves from each other.
Yukinoshita, who can be described as a genius and prodigy girl, while Kawasaki has great talent in karate. Both girls are very formidable in their respective areas.
That's the amazing thing about those born with talent. If I had had that luck, I would have saved many hours of pain and training. But I don't complain in that regard. It helped me strengthen and mitigate pain quite well. A secret masochist, perhaps?
When I paid attention again, Yukinoshita had managed to catch Kawasaki's hand. She tried to use that advantage to break her center of gravity and make her lose balance, but this time Kawasaki advanced instead of retreating.
And as Yukinoshita had her hands occupied, she couldn't do anything against Kawasaki's advance. But it was too late for both.
If Kawasaki had been a second faster, she would have freed herself and knocked down Yukinoshita. She ran the same risk; if she had been a second faster, she would have knocked down Kawasaki before she reached her, a 50/50 bet for both.
Yukinoshita managed to knock down Kawasaki, but she managed to grab her judogi's neck, making Yukinoshita follow her. As a result, both fell at the same time.
Although I must acknowledge Kawasaki's strength because it's challenging to move a person from that position, but she managed to do it by throwing her with enough force. Don't underestimate that girl.
''It's over, it's a technical draw!'' Hiratsuka said as she approached both, who stood up after a few seconds.
"It was a good match; you're better than I expected, Yukinoshita." There was a smile on Kawasaki's face.
"Perhaps I misjudged you, although your tactics were very careless, they were indeed effective." Similarly, Yukinoshita has a calmer expression as she looks at Kawasaki.
There was no longer that enmity that existed during the service club hour; now it seemed that both respected each other.
The best way to get to know others is through a fight. Something nonsensical, but apparently true to some extent. After all, I don't think the other party would be very happy to see you if you give them a unilateral beating.
"If you two are done, can both go change, unless you want to have another round?" Hiratsuka-sensei asked.
"I'll pass for now."
"I feel the same; it was exhausting."
Hiratsuka-sensei, Kawasaki, and Yukinoshita headed to the changing room; I guess I should change too, it's kind of annoying.
"Good luck, Raiden." Yumiko said with a beautiful smile.
"Don't worry; it's common for me." I began to walk as I said this.
"I know, after all, I know how good you are."
Once inside the changing room, I took a judogi of my size and changed, leaving my uniform folded to the side.
With everything ready, I left the changing room and walked to the center of the room, where Hiratsuka-sensei was already prepared.
"All right, Tsurumi, I hope you're ready to receive my dragon fist!" Hiratsuka-sensei said with excitement.
"If it manages to reach me." I said disinterestedly.
Yukinoshita stood in the middle to be the referee, a role that suits her.
"All right, the first round begins."
While Hiratsuka-sensei and I stared at each other, I heard murmurs coming from the three girls who are our spectators.
Kawasaki is likely saying what she knows about me. Of course, that's just the tip of the iceberg.
Hiratsuka-sensei got into a defensive stance and raised her fists to chest height; I, on the other hand, remained calm and did nothing.
"I hope you're ready."
She took the initiative and advanced toward me, delivering several blows to my face and chest, but I only moved to dodge them. With an incredible footwork, I kept myself away from her fists.
She aimed for my arms and head, but I just mocked her by dodging with agility.
''Tch! Stop dodging and take one.''
''Well.''
Hiratsuka-sensei's punch crashed into my cheek, but nothing happened. I used my leg as support to mitigate the force of the blow. Of course, I felt pain, but nothing out of the ordinary. Experience from taking stronger hits.
Her face showed some surprise, perhaps because I deliberately took her blow or because it had no effect on me. It's bad to lose focus during a fight.
''Hiratsuka-sensei, don't fall for his games.''
Although Kawasaki gave her a warning, it's too late.
I raised my right leg, but she reacted in time and tried to block it with her arm.
''Don't be naive, Hiratsuka-sensei.'' I said in a calm tone.
She just stood still; my left leg stopped inches from her head.
The moment she tried to block, I returned my leg to its original position and used the other to kick towards her head. If that blow connected, I would have knocked her out, depending on how much force you use.
I retracted my leg and stepped back a few paces.
''Come on, Hiratsuka-sensei, you can do better than this, right?''
''I see, I guess that's your way of doing things, huh?''
''Depends, I'm very creative; seeing what happened earlier made me want to try more things.''
I could have chosen to restrain her with a lock or catch her arm and take her down, but I want to tease her a bit. Too presumptuous of me? It is.
''I see, then don't complain later.''
Hiratsuka-sensei charged at me again, this time using her arms and legs to try to hit me, but now I blocked and dodged her blows.
I must admit, Hiratsuka is good to some extent, but her blows are very childish compared to others. Perhaps here is the big difference in experience I have with other people. If that weren't the case, she would surely surpass me in that.
During one of her punches, I caught her fist and moved towards her; she tried to kick me, so I raised my leg to block it.
''Do you want to dance, Hiratsuka-sensei?''
I caught her other hand, restraining her arms, and although she tried to free herself, she couldn't overcome my strength.
So, she tried to kick me in my sides, but I lifted my legs to block each of them; it could be interpreted as a dance. I should continue with this.
I released both limbs but separated her arms, leaving her unprotected. She kicked with her right leg, but I spun to the left, using that movement to deliver a roundhouse kick.
''You're mocking me, aren't you?''
Just like the previous time, I stopped inches from her head. I mock her; I do.
I retracted my leg and stepped back.
''You're really getting on my nerves, Tsurumi.''
''I'm good at that.'' I replied in a mocking tone. There's nothing more insulting than someone just playing with you. There are many reasons, but I simply have nothing to gain or lose here, so why not have fun my way?
It seems that this time I did make her upset because her blows were much more aggressive and faster. I focused on blocking and dodging. Can I hit her and end this? I can, but it feels strange to hit your teacher. But I could start with that.
I intercepted her punch with my fist. She kicked, but I did the same, using my leg to block it with my own kick. This is more fun than it seems. Or maybe I'm not quite right in the head, who knows.
I noticed a smile on Hiratsuka-sensei's face; it seems she's also having fun.
It's time to end this; I have some things to do.
After taking some distance, this time it was me who went towards her.
A good decision on her part to get into a defensive stance.
She blocked my fist with her arms, but it's not over yet.
I kicked with my left leg; she blocked it, but I noticed the pain on her face while doing so. If there's a difference in strength, deflecting or dodging is the best.
''It's over.''
I used a Karate kick aiming for her chest; that would make her lose balance and fall. But to my surprise, she grabbed my leg.
''Don't be arrogant, brat.''
While holding my leg, she advanced towards me to punch me in the face. But to her misfortune, I moved my head, using my forearm to hit her neck and bring her down.
And it worked, but since she still had my leg, I lost balance and fell with her.
Suddenly everything went dark; who turned off the light?
It's strange; I really feel something different.
Don't tell me I hit my head and ended up dying?
No, no, no, that would be too unreal.
I tried to shake my head, but I felt something preventing me.
I used my hands to try to figure out what it was, but it was a strange sensation.
I cautiously squeezed it, but it felt warm and soft.
It's strange.
It's like holding a big, soft marshmallow that doesn't fit in my hand. Something that feels familiar to some extent, but I don't remember where.
I kept touching and squeezing it, but then I heard a strange sound.
''Kya!''
While wondering what was happening, my shoulders were grabbed, and I was pulled away.
In doing so, I noticed Hiratsuka-sensei's face completely red.
I see, with the fall, I ended up falling on top of her, so my face must have ended up on her...
I looked at my hands, and I could understand why the sensation was soft and very familiar.
I'm really lucky.
Although by reflex, my hands squeezed those large mounds again.
This time, I noticed how Hiratsuka-sensei's face went from nervousness to anger.
''Why do you keep touching them!'
My body flew a long distance after receiving a direct punch to the face. As I wasn't prepared, and my mind was in paradise, I couldn't resist her punch. Adding to that that I wasn't in the best position, it was inevitable
My body rolled a few times before stopping.
So, I find myself on my back, staring at the ceiling.
Does that count as playing dirty? Well, it's not like I intended to touch my sensei's breasts. But I thank the great creator for giving me that opportunity. I won't wash my hands for a while.
While thinking about how beautiful life is, I heard some steps approaching my position.
''Tsurumi-kun, you really are despicable.''
''Raiden, I don't know what to say.''
''Tsurumi, coming from you, I don't know if it's on purpose or you're just bad at falling.''
Being scolded by the girls from the service club should have bothered me, but instead, this opened my eyes completely.
''White, pink, black.''
I said unconsciously.
The faces of the girls showed confusion at my words. Maybe Hiratsuka-sensei's punch damaged my brain?
But after a few seconds, they realized that I am on the ground, and my head is looking underneath them. The Sobu High uniform is a blessing.
As if they grasped the information, I noticed their faces turning red and filled with anger.
''Die!'' x3
I could have a better view when I saw them lifting their feet towards my face.
I guess this will be the day of my death; I don't regret anything. I did everything I could and had a good view before this.
If I'm allowed to reincarnate, I hope this time my life is more peaceful.
With this last thought, I could only see as the girls' feet headed towards my face.
This is going to hurt.
Omake: A Good Father
I felt relieved to see that I was finally close to home. It's a sensation I experience every day after work, but today feels better because my back is killing me.
After inserting the key, I entered my house, hung my coat on the rack, and took a seat at the dining table.
"I'm home."
Today, I left a few hours earlier, so my wife will still come home later. The good thing is that my eldest daughter takes care of her younger siblings. Even my son is not a child anymore; he's a teenager, so the one who needs more attention is my youngest daughter, Keika.
"Otou-san, good evening."
The first to come was my eldest daughter.
"Saki, good evening."
As a father, I'm proud of my children. My daughter inherited her beauty from my wife, so it's like seeing some pictures of my wife when she was young. Her beautiful sky-blue hair was the most striking, while Taishi inherited my dark blue hair.
"Is something wrong? You look sore."
My daughter is quite perceptive. Even though I try to keep my face as usual, I can't help but show expressions of pain.
"I ran into an old friend from college after work." I recalled. "He opened a new judo school in a busy area and was offering a small skill demonstration to interested people. While he waited for new clients, he had to leave for about 15 minutes, so he left me in charge of the place."
"Don't tell me you got hurt like this?"
"It wasn't as you think." I quickly denied.
"Then what happened?"
"You see, your father in his youth was really terrifying, so to reminisce about the old times, I tested myself against three guys who seemed interested. One was tall and sturdy, but your father handled him with skill. The second was a guy who looked like a delinquent, but still, your father emerged victorious."
"And well, what happened with the third?"
Just hearing that makes my back start to hurt.
"While I was in full glory, a quite ordinary-looking guy told me I shouldn't be too arrogant for an old man." That black-haired, crimson-eyed guy really doesn't know how to respect his elders. "So, I proposed a little encounter, and initially, I managed to keep him at bay, but I was just playing with me. When I tried to get serious, he applied a judo lock and brought me down to the ground."
"Seriously, you know you're not that young anymore and not in shape. How could you do that!?"
My daughter's words make me feel guilty. But it wasn't all my fault; that guy looked inexperienced, but he turned out to be skillful and strong, completely deceived me.
"I'm sorry." I apologized. Saki reminds me a lot of my wife, so I can't help but apologize as if I were talking to her.
"There's nothing that can be done; I'll go get some ice."
Saki went to the refrigerator for ice packs, and in the meantime, I could hear some steps coming from the rooms.
"Papa!"
I can recognize that tender voice anywhere. My little daughter reached my position and jumped into my arms. While sitting, this shouldn't be difficult, but doing so, a terrible pain engulfed me from the inside. I gritted my teeth not to scare my daughter.
"Keika, Otou-san doesn't feel well, so, for now, I can't play with you."
My youngest daughter looked at me with some concern.
"Don't worry, just a day of rest, and I'll be good as new."
Saki took Keika from my arms.
"Tou-chan, it's strange to see you home early."
The next person to arrive is my son.
"I finished my work and came home early."
"You should have come home before walking around everywhere."
Saki handed me the ice pack that I placed on my back; it felt comforting.
"Did something happen?" Asked my son.
"He met an old friend, and at his judo academy, he was defeated by a guy, and he hurt his back."
"If you say it that way, it sounds like I had no chance." I tried to defend myself from Saki's words. Although if I meet that guy again, I'll ask for a rematch; my youthful spirit is on fire.
"I see, that reminds me. Nee-san, when will Aniki come again?"
"Aniki?" I don't remember having an older son.
"Ra-chan?"
I noticed a certain doubt on Saki's face. Ra-chan? It's the first time I hear Keika say that name.
After hearing my words, Keika ran off, and a few seconds later, she returned with a drawing, which she handed to me.
In the drawing, I noticed two people. One was a woman with blue hair; Keika improved in using crayons. The other was a guy with black hair.
"It looks very nice, Keika, although Dad has dark blue hair, but I can't complain." It's beautiful to see that my daughter drew both me and her mother.
But Keika shook her head.
"No, Sa-chan and Ra-chan."
Now that I look closely, the girl in the drawing is the same as Saki. But then who could be the other person?
Seeing this, I remembered that my son said if his Aniki could come again.
"Keika, who is Ra-chan?"
"Ra-chan is Ra-chan."
I should have guessed that it wasn't the best idea to ask her this, but it was very cute the way she said it.
"Taishi, who is this Aniki?"
"He's a friend of Nee-san, he's really good at fighting, and he came to the house several times, and..." While Taishi explained, I noticed how Saki signaled him not to keep talking.
"I see, then Saki, I'd like to meet this friend of yours." I said calmly.
I know my daughter is already at that age of being interested in other guys, but I can't allow that bastard to stroll around my house as if it's nothing.
Does he not only want to take my daughter away from me but also my other children and my house?
What's next, flirting with my wife? (1)
If I see him, I'll crush him and teach him that there are steps one must follow. First, he must introduce himself as her boyfriend before even trying to come to our house.
And only if I consider him suitable. If he's a delinquent or a guy who's not fit, I'll destroy him without hesitation.
Thinking about it, I imagined a young boy hugging my daughter while looking at me mockingly. I'm already pissed.
Calm down, breathe, it's not like they've already slept together or spent the night at each other's houses.
"From your expression, I think it's best if he doesn't come for a while."
"Not at all, I just want to talk to the guy trying to steal you."
"Whaat!? It's not what you think, he's just a good friend." She became very nervous.
"Any guy who wants to court you will have to defeat me before even trying to lay a finger on you!"
I stood up and proclaimed it loudly.
But with that, I could hear a not very favorable sound coming from my back.
I could only sit back down and grit my teeth in pain.
"You're not in a position to challenge anyone, so rest."
Normally, I would feel happy for my daughter's concern, but I feel like she's saying it to protect that guy.
Damn it, if it weren't for that guy who hurt my back today, I would invite to Saki's friend to dinner, show him that I won't let him have my daughter. I won't let anyone take my daughter away!
Now I have two guys to get revenge on, the guy from today and Ra-chan.
I won't stop until both feel my wrath.
(1) Don't worry, it's not like Raiden likes to flirt with his friends' mothers, right? Look forward to it xD.