"Oh, you're home." His parents greeted Hachiman when he returned to Chiba. "Congratulations on the bronze."

Komachi danced around and then pulled a confetti popper. "Congratulations."

"Ah." Hachiman awkwardly responded. He thought that his parents only cared about the achievement, but they seemed genuinely proud.

"How was the stream today?" Hachiman asked Komachi.

"Highest ccv I've got." Komachi winked. "Tsurugi even came and joined midway."

Ccv means concurrent views, that is, how many people or devices are watching your livestream at once. For a streamer, ccv matters a lot more than total subscribers or followers, although both of those are still important metrics of success.

High ccv means a huge success. Generally, if you have an average ccv of several hundred viewers, you could start making a modest life as a streamer.

Hachiman smirked and lovingly patted Komachi's head. "Good for you."

Hachiman sat on the sofa next to his parents. "I'm so tired. How could you two always commute every day like this?"

His parents basically spent 3–4 hours commuting from Tokyo and Chiba on weekdays.

"What, you want to live in Tokyo now that you experienced going there?" His father laughed.

"As if. Everything is so expensive, it made my mind numb." Hachiman grouched.

Though maybe he understood them a little bit more.

Chiba is a bedroom community for Tokyo. A lot of people in Chiba work in Tokyo, commuting every day to save on living costs. While not as cheap as the countryside, living in Chiba City is much cheaper than living in the Tokyo metropolitan district.

Although richer than average, Hachiman's parents aren't so different. They rode the morning train and went back on the last train just like everyone else.

"Although you can afford cars, the cost of insurance and parking wouldn't be low. Plus, the traffic is horrible. So you save no time commuting with a car. In the end, train commuting is the cheapest and most practical way." Hachiman pointed out. "Am I right so far?"

"Yep. That's why we would never buy a car." His mother laughed. "Although if it's a motorcycle, that would be a different story."

"Right, you should get one too." His father egged him.

"Nah, getting a license is pure pain. Soubu banned motorcycles. It would be a waste getting one." Hachiman sighed. "Besides, wouldn't riding a bike affect your professional image?"

His father and mother scoffed in chorus.

"... I forgot you two stopped giving a damn, sometimes." Hachiman rolled his eyes.

Between their relatively high salary as low-level executives and scoring well on the stock market, his parents had a sum of wealth now. As long as they maintain their frugal lifestyle, they could retire early if they could.

But they're still only 40, so they would simply work hard in their current position instead of blindly chasing career ambition.

"Tell me if you change your mind. I'll pay for the riding school tuition." His father half-shouted as Hachiman left. "Gotta visit your girlfriend from time to time, right?"

Hachiman waved his hands.

Hachiman took a hot shower before switching to his beloved tracksuit. Something shared among the Hikigaya family is their love for tracksuits as replacements for pajamas and home clothing.

Then he stopped.

How the fuck did Father find out? He began sweating hard.

"Onii-chan, you look pale." Komachi remarked. "Are you feeling well?"

"Yeah, just a bit distracted." Hachiman shook his head. He wondered if Komachi also knew. It is unlikely that Hachiman's parents know and Komachi doesn't.

"Also, did you really start dating your friend?"

Fuck.

"Well, that did happen." Hachiman wryly grinned. "Her loss, though. She was the one confessing."

"Aww, you should treasure your girlfriend more." Komachi smacked his butt. "Having a girl confess to Onii-chan unprompted is like lightning in a bottle. I wonder if she had peculiar taste."

"The craziest thing is, I entirely agree with you." Hachiman pointed. "Sunazuka had a bad taste in men."

"Komachi is just joking." She sighed. "Onii-chan should be more confident. If you do, people will be less grossed by your presence."

Hachiman pretends he didn't hear that. "How did you and Father find out anyway?"

"Oh no, we were just speculating. I couldn't have known that, could I?" Komachi laughed. "I'm surprised Onii-chan didn't even try to hide it."

"I thought of that, but it's difficult hiding it from you, specifically." Hachiman scoffed. "Please don't snitch to Father and Mother; I'll never hear the end of it."

"No promises. Komachi will try her best, though." Komachi grinned.

This means Komachi will leak it if she has a disagreement or something is convenient for her to leak. I.e. blackmail.

"Sure, but I'll tell them about your boyfriend." Hachiman wickedly grinned, fingers crossed.

Unlike Hachiman having a girlfriend, his father would be far from delighted to learn Komachi has a boyfriend. Even Komachi twitched, though she desperately maintained a confident smile.

"I'm not sure what you're talking about."

"Exactly. Be careful and not cross the line." Hachiman told her. "And I don't mean about snitching. You have to value yourself more than anyone."

To be honest, Hachiman didn't like the idea either. He's just not as overprotective and smothering on Komachi as his father is. Hachiman is sure that Komachi is better at navigating romance than Hachiman was.

So he wasn't too worried—more than it was necessary.

Komachi shrugged. Stubbornly acting innocent, even though Hachiman could see through her veils easily.

"I guess it's pretty unlikely for Onii-chan to boast about it to your friends, huh."

"Didn't have one."

Well, if Zaimokuza asked, Hachiman would surely tell him.

After this, Hachiman got dinner with his family. It used to be something impossible, well, until last year. His father and mother made a huge effort trying to reconnect with their estranged children.

Sometimes, Hachiman found it uncomfortable. And he could never get too comfortable around them. But he would be lying if he didn't enjoy the attention deep inside.

After that, Hachiman went to the family PC and started fine-tuning his Gunpla program again. While he had a laptop, using the PC is more practical. And it's not like he needed any privacy.

Hachiman received a message from Akira; it was a link to her OurTube channel and Stargram account.

"Oh, it should be here. Hey, Hachiman!" His father called.

"What."

His father turned on the TV and played an Akira's stream.

"[Good evening, everyone! Akira here. I'm sorry I've been out of grid. I've been busy with the tournament; that's why I haven't been streaming in a while.]"

"[Why did I keep it a secret, you ask? To be honest, I didn't plan to go public about it. I thought of Gunpla Battle as a side hobby of mine. You see, I'm not particularly a fan of Gundam myself, so I am a bit ashamed. Everyone had been trying so hard to get into the tournament, but the clueless me was the one getting into the final matches. I feel like it was an insult to the fans.]"

"[But someone told me something very important.]" Akira smiled. "[Dreams betrays many, but hard work betrays no one. Even if I wasn't as passionate as Gundam fans, or even having a tenth of their knowledge, I was working hard in this tournament. My effort is not any less valuable.]"

Hachiman's father, mother, and little sister rolled their eyes collectively in his direction.

Hachiman wanted to dig a hole and bury himself.

"[Who said that? Sage823 of course.]" Akira laughed. "[He might appear arrogant in public, but he's a really nice guy. No, please don't ask his identity.]"

"[Anyway, I do feel upset that I was stopped at the semi-finals, but I also realize that there are a lot more skilled fighters than I am. But from that defeat, I also realized how fun Gunpla Battle is. If I were a fan of Gundam, I'd absolutely cry of joy.]"

"[Seeing your passion and creation come to life must feel unreal. For that reason, I can say I am happy for Gundam fans everywhere. Gunpla Battle will keep being developed and refined. Maybe in the future, you could even pilot them in the VR world, like that one... what was it?]"

"[Right, Gundam Build Divers! No, I haven't watched it. I watched the original trilogy movie and planned to watch Gundam SEED and Destiny later.

"Eh?" Hachiman's mother blinked. "Why is the chat having a huge fight?"

"Gundam SEED and Destiny, hmm, let's just call it Cosmic Era (CE) Gundam, is extremely popular in Japan, back when it was aired, and even recently due to the new movie coming out." Komachi laughed. "It doesn't just become a gross hit as an anime film, but as a general film."

"But a subset of Gundam fans often mocked it as a poor imitation of the original 1979 series, also known as the early Universal Century (UC)." Hachiman scoffed as he kept typing. "Not sure how it is abroad, but at least in Japan, those people are a fandom minority. I'm almost certain those are tourists who only came out of curiosity."

Tourist is a pejorative term used to refer to chat participants who only came to check on a streamer once or twice and often incite trouble either out of ignorance or malice. Instead of blending in, they often stood out with their controversial take or strong opinion, disrupting the harmony.

Sometimes they get banned, but only if they break established rules. These rules vary from one streamer to another.

"[It's just a worse version of the original? Can't say I would like it or not without even watching myself, can't I?]" Akira calmly responded. "[Even if it's objectively worse, you can't argue against personal taste. So chat, please don't have an argument on stream. I feel uncomfortable with the vitriol.]"

The Hachiman's family members all raised their thumbs up.

"[How do I know the Futami twins? I'd say it was a fateful encounter. We just happen to team up together in the preliminaries, and then we meet in the second round of the Battle Festa 2024.]"

"[What do you mean, collab? They're Idols, after all. So it is normal for them to be super busy. And they're going to be busier after this.]" Akira put the trophy in front of her. "[But, I am sure, our feelings will still be connected through our shared experience.]"

"[With Sage too? Of course! We're, after all, important gaming partners! And we'll still be partners for a long while!]"

Hachiman's parents took a peek at Hachiman, who seemed to focus on his PC instead of watching the stream.

But he did listen. Akira's refusal to address dating and romance allegations from the chat is something Hachiman truly grateful for. She probably didn't want to lie about her relationship status, but there's also no obligation for her to clarify about it.

"[Collabing with Sage? He wouldn't want to personally appear on-stream, haha.]" Akira said. "[But we played together for some time. You'll find him in some of my game streams, too.]"

"You did?" Hachiman's mother asked. "On stream?"

"Not physically, but you'll hear me in some voice chats." Hachiman responded. "We don't just play Gundam games, you know."

Ironically, it means that the only people who would recognize Akira in disguise would be her fans who pay specific attention to Sage823 and Gundam Battle scene, since A_Spark73 was a second account that Akira kept secret from the public.

If they exist at all, there's few enough for them not to matter. Just like many female streamers, her fans are mostly male, some of whom are truly enamored by her and very likely jealous of Sage. Ironic, because her Stargram account mostly has female followers, but her Stargram account is fashion-centered, so it makes sense.

CHAPTER 5 - A NEW BEGINNING, PART 1

And just like that, the Spring vacation period had come to an end. March became April, and it's time for the school opening ceremony. Hachiman was surprised he still had the drive to attend it seriously.

Weird, it's not like he had anything to look forward to in the school. But he had determined to himself to at least take his study seriously for his own sake.

"My name is Hiratsuka Shizuka! Most of you probably know I taught Japanese, and from today onwards I will be your Homeroom teacher. If you have anything to ask or consult me with, feel free!"

"Sensei, are you married?"

"Unfortunately, I am single; fortunately, I'm available! Next question!"

Hiratsuka Shizuka is a beautiful woman, somewhere in her thirties. If she was ten years younger, Hachiman would be charmed. Of course, the reality is that Hachiman's ideal type of woman and the girls he fell in love with are almost always the opposite.

... Thinking about it, Akira is actually a pretty cool girl. That's a first for Hachiman. She never really tried to act cute or vulnerable to appeal to men. She was not overly kind but never cruel. Akira is a very confident and independent girl with a light shade of narcissism.

Of course, Hachiman couldn't talk about narcissistic behavior without calling himself out. Maybe he judged her too harshly in that regard because Hachiman has a negative disposition toward fame chasers.

He had his reason to behave that way, though. As demonstrated in this very moment.

"Yui, want to have lunch?"

"Oh, what is it, Sagami? You're supposed to have lunch with us classmates instead."

On any social group, there are always hierarchies. The larger the group, the more immutable it is. Take Akira and Hachiman; they took turns of dominance depending on circumstances and problems they faced. In a large group, like, say, a whole class, there will be a more dominant subgroup within.

To put it simply, cliques.

Every clique had their rank and place. On the bottom of the class are the unaffiliated loners like Hachiman. They're losers, class clowns, people who wouldn't be missed if they were gone. Hachiman knew he would sit in this group and be entirely content with it, unlike back then.

Above him are the weirdos and Otaku, people who are passionate about their hobby and interest and made it their entire identity. Hachiman don't hate them. It is good to have something passionate about. Otherwise, life will be meaningless. Even Hachiman had his reading and gaming passion, although Hachiman never got obsessed.

Then there's the average student, who gets along but is trying not to stand out. They carved their own comfortable room where they could enjoy their youthful school life.

And then there are these.

The jocks and queen bees. Often the most physically attractive people in the class, as well as accomplished in certain fields. Because of their physical supremacy, they lorded all over the class cliques as if they owned the place.

On one side is Miura Yumiko, and on the other side is Sagami Minami. Hachiman doesn't know Yumiko, though he knew Minami, because they were classmates before. Minami was a popular girl with huge influence on the class dynamics and atmosphere.

And still is, if not for the presence of Miura Yumiko and her clique. The two Queen Bees did not waste time fighting over influences, and Hachiman doesn't want to get involved.

However, this time around, he might get involved somehow.

At the moment, Miura group had unquestionable dominance. The reason for this was none other than the presence of Hayama Hayato, the numero uno gigachad of Soubu High.

Being a student at Soubu High is already a blessing in and of itself. It was the most elite school in this prefecture and one of the top fifty schools in the entire Nation. The entrance exam to Soubu High is extremely difficult for most people.

But Hayama Hayato's fame transcends even that. He was treated like a noble prince. He's the object of affection of every single girl in Chiba, and perhaps even some of those with boyfriends.

Hayato was a handsome academic ace, a rising soccer star, and came from a rich family. What's more, he was known for this friendly and welcoming attitude. There's not a single thing about Hayama Hayato to hate. Even Hachiman had to avoid his attention, lest he fall under his unyielding influence.

And Hayama Hayato is, as of now, part of Miura Yumiko's sphere of influence. There is no balance of power.

Worse yet, Yumiko is even preying on a member of Minami's clique.

Yuigahama Yui is a cute girl, perhaps one of the most beautiful girls in the entire school. Hachiman was also a classmate with her. Yui and Minami were always together, as far as he remembers, though he didn't pay close attention to them.

Hachiman could see the sheer amount of panic in Yui's eyes. She was conflicted. If she rejoined Minami, she would lose her standing in front of Yumiko, and if she rebuffed Minami...

That would be the end of it. It would be an act of betrayal.

Oblivious to the tension that seemed to last forever even though only a second or two had passed in reality was Tobe Kakeru, also a member of Miura's clique. Although, it was more that he was a friend of Hayato and got absorbed into the group as a package.

He might not be malicious about it, but brazenly borrowing a Gunpla from a bunch of Otaku is a low blow. Worse, it seemed that he didn't understand how much care and hard work put into them, as he began playing and laughing at it like it was an action figure.

Use robot damashii for that, dumbass.

This is why Hachiman hated these top cliques; they make conflicts out of nothing and cause irreparable damages to their own high school lives.

Hachiman, who hated boasting his achievement, doesn't need to prove anything to anyone in this class. He already has a girlfriend, has good grades, and never causes trouble to the school or family. His invisibility brought him peace of mind.

But for some unfathomable reason, Yuigahama Yui looked at him, as if pleading for help.

For fuck's sake, don't get me involved.

Hachiman doesn't want to get involved and has never wanted to get involved with her. Their shared history is something Hachiman rather not think about.

"Woah, woah, WOAH!"

And the clumsy oaf could not be trusted with anything, as Tobe accidentally dropped the Gunpla he borrowed—no, he almost threw it with great force.

It was like Hachiman moved purely on instinct and caught it, even at the expense of his own safety. He bumped his head into the table of some girls and caused them to scream.

But at least the Gunpla is safe.

Hachiman stood up, ignoring the attention he got, and walked past the son of bitches and returned the Gunpla to the panicked Otaku.

"Ah, thank you for the help, Hiki... Hike-something."

"You welcome. Take care of your Gunpla, though. Even if some dick wad didn't thoughtlessly play with it, the teachers will confiscate it." He said, half-muttering. He doesn't know if Tobe heard it or not, but he didn't care.

"Ri-right." The Otaku hurriedly put back the Gunpla into a box, then into his bag.

Hachiman rubbed his temple and noticed a bump. "Fuck."

"It's just some toy; why are you overreacting?" Yumiko bluntly scoffed.

Bitch.

Hachiman ignored her and decided to go out his way, back to his seat. The last thing he noticed was the horrified face of Yuigahama Yui, who grabbed his hand and dragged him elsewhere.

"What the hell are you doing?"

"You're bleeding." Yui said in pure and unadulterated panic. "Let's go to the infirmary!"

What? Hachiman didn't even notice that. It was stinging a bit, though.

Fortunately, it was just a small scrape. Nothing a simple band-aid and ointment couldn't take care of. Hachiman hurriedly walked out of the infirmary.

"Thanks for the help." Hachiman said. "You don't have to worry about me that much, you know?"

"Uh, isn't it normal to be worried about a bleeding friend?" Yui awkwardly pointed. "But you're really reckless."

"True." Hachiman responded to her coldly. "But would you do the same thing if the other students were injured?"

Yuigahama Yui is a nice girl. Too nice, even. After what happened last year, she was the first Soubu student Hachiman met outside the school. Nevertheless, Hachiman considers those bitter memories and would rather distance himself from her.

"Why are you such a jerk?" Yui was legitimately hurt by that question. "Where does that confidence even come from?"

Nevertheless, it seemed that she was unable to deny the accusation. And it puzzled Hachiman. Although he might have an idea of why.

"If you're too nice to me, people will think of you negatively." Hachiman bluntly told her. "You don't have to take care of me anymore. Instead, pay more attention to who you want to hang out with. Stand up for yourself before you stand for anyone."

"That's not what I..." Yui clammed up. "Stupid Hikki!"

And with that, she ran away, crying.

Hachiman wondered if he made a huge mistake. Nevertheless, he truly believed he had done the right thing. If Yuigahama Yui truly cared about her social standing, then having him around would be harmful for her well-being.

It is better to sever this ones-sided relationship, and it was not her fault of her in the slightest. All of this was entirely on Hachiman.

"You always hurt people with your words, yet you will try to protect them with your actions. Even if it means hurting yourself in the process." Akira's words rang in his mind. "Am I not wrong, Hachiman?"

Sunazuka Akira truly have a shit taste in men.