I looked back at the image many times, but it’s clear that the image uploaded by Ette-sama is Shizuka’s computer setup. Even an elementary student can put two and two together. Ette-sama is definitely Shizuka.
Well, there are also other coincidences like “just moved in”, “uses a computer for work”, “freelancer”, and so on. Moreover, the Ultra Super Spicy Peyoung that was purchased at the convenience store was probably bought by Shizuka. Ette-sama mentioned on stream that it was sold at a nearby convenience store. This also explains why Shizuka wanted to finish unpacking today.
“No way… Seriously?” (Souma)
My Oshi… is next door!?
What is this coincidence? Isn’t it too much?
I have only seen this kind of development in anime or manga.
“Seriously… Is this real?” (Souma)
Unable to face reality, I muttered the same thing over and over again.
“Seriously… Aren’t you too cute on the inside?” (Souma)
(Thanks, Souma-kun!)
Shizuka’s smile appeared in my mind.
I had always wondered about what kind of person was behind a VTuber, but I never imagined that the real person could be just as adorable as the 3D model. This felt like a poorly written fiction, but it’s real.
Ette-sama called me by my name.
And I can also call Ette-sama by her name.
Hehe.
I couldn’t help but smile.
I quickly put on my serious face.
There was now only one big question.
Whether I should “tell” or “not tell” her.
Let’s consider the merit of each.
The merit of telling her… is not having to keep secrets from Shizuka.
The merits of not telling her… is being able to maintain a good relationship as neighbors, avoiding the risk of her being wary (worst case scenario, she might even move out), and enjoying the gap between a streamer and the real thing.
…That’s about it.
Looking at it this way, “avoiding the risk of her being wary” covers almost everything. I seriously don’t want to risk her having to move again. After all, I had been blessed with a lucky situation like the protagonist of a romantic comedy, and I couldn’t let go of that opportunity. I absolutely don’t want to sever the connection with Ette-sama/Shizuka.
“…Alright, I decided.” (Souma)
I opened the chat app, “Rime” and looked for Shizuka’s name.
In the chat room where the last conversation ended with Shizuka’s message, “Nice to meet you!” I quickly typed a short message and sent it.
『Peyoung, good job.』
I’m someone who doesn’t lie to women.
Especially not to women wearing light blue underwear.
◆
『……Can I come over to your place right now?』
As soon as I received that message, the intercom rang.
When I opened the door, an excited Shizuka rushed in like an avalanche.
“Well, I recognized the desk in the photo.” (Souma)
“…Ah.” (Shizuka)
Shizuka seemed to have understood the situation and was speechless.
“It’s already too late, but I think you should be careful about uploading images that could potentially expose your identity. Well, I guess this time was a bit of a special case.” (Souma)
If the images showed the exterior of the apartment building or other identifying details, it would be careless. However, most people wouldn’t expect that sharing an image of their desk could lead to their identity being revealed. After all, if I hadn’t helped with the move, her identity wouldn’t have been exposed.
“Ugh… I messed up, huh… I never expected to be exposed on the first day…” (Shizuka)
Though Shizuka’s tone was soft, it was clear that she was feeling down about it.
Well, being famous must come with various problems. It’s a kind of feeling I won’t understand.
“Hey, Souma-kun, I have a favor to ask…” (Shizuka)
“If it’s about today, I won’t tell anyone, okay?” (Souma)
“Huh?” (Shizuka)
Shizuka looked genuinely surprised by what I said.
“Of course, I don’t want to do anything that would cause trouble for my Oshi.” (Souma)
As I said that, Shizuka’s eyes widened even further in surprise.
“Eh? Souma-kun, I’m your Oshi!?” (Shizuka)
“Well, yeah. So when I realized that Shizuka was Ette-sama, I was really surprised.” (Souma)
Is she thinking that I’m disappointed with her because of this?
“I did consider just staying quiet about it, you know? But, well… this apartment complex has hardly anyone living here. I have been alone for a long time. So when I finally found someone I could get along with, I felt like hiding things wouldn’t be right… I want to be on good terms with you, Shizuka, regardless of whether your Ette-sama or not.” (Souma)
While awkwardly poking the back of my cheek with my tongue, I told her how I felt.
I wasn’t sure how much impact my words had, but at the very least, Shizuka stopped looking sad.
“Well, even though I figured out your identity, if you choose to move again, it’s unfortunate, but I understand. You don’t need to worry about me.” (Souma)
After all, we haven’t known each other for that long. We just met today.
I’m aware that what I said might be a bit serious, but I hope she understands that it’s just my desire to be on good terms with her.
“………Kyun” (Shizuka)
Shizuka looked at me with a dreamy expression. Was she actually listening to what I said? Hello?
“Shizuka, did you hear what I said?” (Souma)
“Yeah, yeah! I won’t move. No wait, maybe it will happen one day. But I trust you, Souma-kun, so I think it will be okay.” (Shizuka)
Shizuka smiled as she said that.
“And besides… I also want to be on good terms with a reliable neighbor like you from now on.” (Shizuka)
And with this, my Oshi moved in next door.
I was convinced that my dream life was about to begin──── but little did I know that the beautiful girl in front of me, who was my Oshi, was not quite the person she appears to be.
So much for considering the merit of your options. Also, it looks like Shizuka is the air-headed type. She literally took a picture on the same day that someone moved her stuff, but I guess chances of your neighbour recognizing you is quite low. She sure is lucky to not have been exposed already.
The unnecessarily spacious 2LDK apartment already had large appliances such as a refrigerator, washing machine, and bed inside. What remained were just a few cardboard boxes and a huge computer and related equipment.
“Um… I think the computer should go in the room with the bed. Maybe start by moving it closer to the desk.” (Rinjou)
“Got it.” (Souma)
I leaned back and lifted the computer. The heavyweight is transmitted through my whole body. There was no way Rinjou-san could have carried this alone. I thought I might be a bit meddlesome, but I’m glad that I could help.
Following her instructions, I entered the private room (presumably) and saw an L-shaped table and a bed.
I placed the computer next to the table as told. Her computer was a well-known gaming brand. it seems that Rinjou-san might enjoy playing games.
“Thanks! As expected of a guy, you’re quite strong!” (Rinjou)
“Don’t poke me.” (Souma)
Brushing off Rinjou-san, who was poking my side, we returned to the living room. There was still plenty of other equipment waiting to be moved.
Besides, if she keeps poking me like that, I might start getting attracted to her. I don’t really know how to handle a girl being nice to me like this.
“So, what should I do next? Should I carry the monitor and other stuff? Damn, there is really a lot here.” (Souma)
Trying to hide my embarrassment, I changed back the subject.
“I work with computers, you know. Even after holding a “survival tournament” between my equipment when moving, this is what’s left.” (Rinjou)
“Seriously? You managed to reduce it to this…” (Souma)
In front of me, there were three monitors, several sturdy monitor arms, multiple microphones, several speakers, and various other precision-like devices whose purpose I couldn’t even comprehend.
It was an overwhelming amount of equipment that seemed unnecessary for one person. It felt like she could start a small company with all this equipment.
“Yeah, that’s right. I left one computer at my parent’s place. Well then, can I ask you to handle the monitors next? I need them placed in a specific position.” (Rinjou)
“Sure thing.” (Souma)
And so, our first joint work went smoothly.
In truth, this is the first time I had entered a girl’s room since elementary school, but Rinjou-san’s room had no special atmosphere. It was simply filled with a bed and computer equipment, so I didn’t feel particularly nervous.
In the end, I ended up helping with various tasks around the living room, and by the time we finished, it has turned dusk.
There was a little mishap along the way when I opened a random cardboard box and a pair of colorful underwear flew out from it, but I stubbornly insisted, “I didn’t see anything” and got away with it.
I consider myself a man who respects a woman’s modesty, especially when it comes to a woman wearing light blue underwear.
“…………Phew, we’re done!!! Thanks a lot, Tendou-kun!” (Rinjou)
“You’re welcome. I’m glad I could help.” (Souma)
I stretched my arms and shoulders, trying to loosen up the tight muscles. I could feel a pleasant fatigue building up throughout my body. I am going to take a nice, relaxing bath today.
“Oh man, having a kind neighbor like you really saved me! I would never have finished this alone.” (Rinjou)
“Well, yeah. It’s a mystery how you planned to move all this computer equipment by yourself.” (Souma)
“Nnya, I totally forgot that I was supposed to have the moving company take care of it. tehe~” (Rinjou)
As Rinjou-san scratched her head while saying that, she looked quite cute.
…This cute girl is going to be my neighbor from today onwards. I felt an inexplicable excitement enveloping me.
“Oh, right. Should we exchange contact information? I would like to get along with my neighbor, and I also want to thank you for today.” (Rinjou)
As Rinjou-san said that, she shook her smartphone. Rime had a feature that allowed the exchange of contact when you shake your phones in close proximity. Although I had heard about this function during my time at university, it was my first time using it.
“…Ah.” (Souma)
Uncertain of the proper strength to use, I hesitantly shook my phone. As a result, the profile “Rinjou Shizuka (林城静)” was registered on my phone.
“Shizuka (しずか) is that right? How do I read it?” (Souma)
“Yeah! That’s correct… Souma-kun, is that right?” (Rinjou)
As I said that and put my phone back in my pocket, Rinjou-san tilted her head and gazed at me curiously.
“??? Shizuka is fine, you know? We’re the same age.” (Rinjou)
“R-Right, then, Shizuka, nice to meet you.” (Souma)
“Yeah, from now on, let’s get along, Souma-kun!” (Shizuka)
With a playful tap of her smartphone against my chest, Shizuka smiled, and I felt like I might already be falling for her.
Stop it, don’t call me easy.
◆
“Aah, I’m back…” (Souma)
After taking a longer-than-usual bath to relax, I rolled on my bed, gazing at my smartphone.
“(Alright, as promised, I will be eating the super spicy Peyoung. Well, I’m glad the convenience store near my new place sells it.)” (Henrietta)
I turned my smartphone to the side and watched Ette-sama’s stream.
The stream title was “Moving Celebration! Taking on the Ultra Super Spicy Peyoung Challenge!”
I wasn’t sure if eating super spicy yakisoba was a custom in any specific region of Japan when moving, but it seemed like a commemorative event. Well, there are streams of soba sometimes, so it might be something similar.
Comments: 『Did you get the ultra super spicy one for real?』
Comments: 『Been waiting for this!』
Comments: 『If you can’t finish it, I’ll give you 1000 pelica.』
“(I bought it for real! The one with a demon’s face on the package, right? Honestly, the packaging itself makes it look like it’s not meant for human consumption…)” (Henrietta)
Comments: 『You should have some yogurt ready.』
Comments: 『Let’s go!』
Comments: 『Ah, I can see what’s going to happen.』
“…I’m getting hungry.” (Souma)
Though I wasn’t necessarily craving the super spicy Peyoung, my stomach was growling loudly.
During the day, I had been helping with the move, and it hit me that I hadn’t eaten anything since lunch. No wonder I’m hungry.
“But, there’s hardly anything in the fridge…” (Souma)
If I recall correctly, this morning I must have used up the last of the eggs. I was planning to go shopping today, but things didn’t work out.
“Well, I guess it’s fine to go to the convenience store for a change.” (Souma)
Once I decided on it, I quickly got ready to leave. The convenience store was quite close, so I could be back before Ette-sama finished eating.
I hurried to the convenience store, still wearing my pajamas, which also served as my sweatshirt.
◆
“…Wow, it’s selling like crazy.” (Souma)
Curiosity got the better of me, and I scanned the cup ramen section, where I found the rumored super spicy Peyoung.
Moreover, the front row of it was already gone. Someone had bought it.
Could it be that there are people out there who want to eat it for reasons other than YouTube challenges? The world might be much bigger than I thought.
Feeling the vastness of the world, I decided to pick up a large portion of meat sauce pasta from the pasta corner. Of course, I ignored the super spicy Peyoung altogether.
Ette-sama’s stream had turned into a hellish scene of screaming and agony.
As a measure to prevent doxxing, VTubers rarely use cameras during their broadcasts. The same was true for Ette-sama’s stream this time. There was no camera set up to show how much of the Peyoung was being eaten.
So, on the screen, there was only a 3D model of a smiling princess.
This smiling princess was screaming as if she were undergoing medieval torture in which her human dignity was being completely trampled upon.
Comments: 『LOL』
Comments: 『Off character LOL』
Comments: 『Ette-sama can play the role of a corrupted character!』
The comment section was filled with perverted individuals who took pleasure in seeing their favorite VTuber suffer. Is this the Third Street of Hell?
“…Well, she finally did it for real.” (Souma)
I casually murmured while slurping my completely non-spicy meat sauce pasta.
I never thought of Ette-sama as someone who would do these kinds of reaction-based things, but yeah, it might be nice to see her do this once in a while. I admit I’m also a bit of a pervert.
“(It’s so spicy! It’s sooooo spicy! Someone help meeeee!)” (Henrietta)
“……Haha.” (Souma)
Her intense plea for help was as if a murderer was holding a knife to her, and I couldn’t help but let out a laugh.
By the way, she mentioned that she just moved, but I wonder if there are any noise issues. She seems to be screaming quite loudly. Well, she’s a popular VTuber, so maybe she lives in a well-equipped apartment with proper soundproofing.
Ette-sama was currently engaged in a fierce battle with a fire dragon, and there was no trace of the usual sleep-inducing ASMR onee-san anywhere.
However, I felt that she wasn’t just a character created for entertainment. There was something about her that made her feel like a real person, and I strangely felt a sense of familiarity with her.
And after several hours of intense battle, the long-awaited moment finally arrived.
“(…I ate it…! I did it, everyone…! Aaaahhh, it hurts! Itta-tatata-ta!)” (Henrietta)
Comments: 『Hahhhhh』
Comments: 『Seriously, that’s amazing.』
Comments: 『As expected of our princess.』
“(Sorry, everyone…! Things got a bit intense, so…! For now, I’ll call it a day! I’ll just upload some pictures to Twitter, so… See you!)” (Henrietta)
And so, the legendary night came to an end.
The Twitter trends were already filled with “Ette-sama” and “Super Spicy Peyoung”.
It’s quite rare for a virtual idol — who sells an idol image, to do such a daring role-play, and the fact that Ette-sama showed a demon-like battle was incredibly surprising. Honestly, my impression of Ette-sama changed a lot today. I used to think she was a straightforward, pure character. Well, there’s no doubt I’ve grown to like her even more. I’m sure other fans feel the same way.
“Oh, by the way…” (Souma)
Ette-sama said she would upload pictures of the Peyoung, right?
I quickly checked her Twitter, and there was a post with a picture just one minute ago. It already had 2000 retweets. The post showed her desk, keyboard, and an empty Peyoung container covered in bright red sauce. She really ate all of that.
“Hmm?” (Souma)
I felt a strong sense of déjà vu and stared at the photo.
It wasn’t the Peyoung that caught my attention. it was the equipment near it.
This is…
“…No way, isn’t that our neighbor?!” (Souma)
…It was undoubtedly the items that I had sweated to carry over for her.
My day begins with being woken up by the annoying chirps of the sparrows. Even on my day off, they won’t let me get a proper rest.
When I checked the clock, it was exactly 6 o’clock. I feel like an old man.
“Should I get up…” (Souma)
I brushed away the blanket that was wrapped around me and jumped off the bed. I went straight to the kitchen, where I rummaged through the contents of the refrigerator.
“Ah, there are still some eggs left. I thought I had used them all yesterday.” (Souma)
Breakfast is important.
According to a survey I read somewhere, many people skip breakfast, but if you ask me, that is impossible.
Without breakfast, my concentration in the morning drops, and when I finally have lunch, my blood sugar level spikes. Moreover, I read that it increases the risk of stroke.
Even if you’re going on an autophagy-based diet1, it’s probably still better not to skip breakfast.
Speaking of autophagy2, there’s this VTuber I like who has a really irregular lifestyle, and people call it ‘Self Autophagy LOL’. Apparently, it’s common for them to go a whole day without eating. Everyone laughs it off, but I’m genuinely worried. I’m afraid they might end up harming their health someday and it makes me nervous.
“Ette-sama” gives me the impression of being somewhat frail or delicate.
I took some bacon and eggs from the refrigerator and stood in the kitchen.
Once the frying pan was hot enough, I added some oil and first put in the bacon, followed by the eggs.
When I first started living alone, I was a bit troubled, but now I’m used to it. In no time, today’s breakfast was prepared quite fast.
Before I started living alone, I thought cooking for myself would be bothersome, but when I actually tried it, I found it surprisingly enjoyable. When I told my university friends about it, they were really surprised. I think cooking for myself is cheaper too.
After preparing the finished bacon and eggs on a white plate, I moved to the living room and put it on the edge of the large dining table, which honestly feels too big for someone living alone.
Then, I returned to the kitchen to scoop the rice into a bowl and return to the living room to take a seat at the table. Having to go back and forth between the living room and the kitchen is quite bothersome and annoying.
To be honest, this unnecessarily spacious apartment that my parents rented is inconvenient to live in.
This apartment, which is a result of my parents’ overprotective nature, comes with a 2LDK layout and tight security. Perhaps because of that, the rent is significantly higher than the market rate, resulting in only a few residents. On my floor, there are four units, but only mine is occupied.
It seems like the common trope of a beautiful girl living next door is something that doesn’t happen in reality.
“Thanks for the meal.” (Souma)
I quickly finished my breakfast and washed the dishes.
…Come to think of it, the reason I find dishwashing bothersome is that I let the dishes pile up. If I just got into the habit of washing them right away, it wouldn’t be a big deal. However, for some reason, there are many people apart from me who turn the kitchen sink into a realm of chaos.
“…Hmm.” (Souma)
After finishing the dishes, I found myself with nothing to do.
I glanced at the clock, and it was 6:20am. Even though I’m in the city, most shops are still closed at this time, so going outside wasn’t an option. I have also completed my university assignments…
“… Guess I’ll go watch some clips of Ette-sama.” (Souma)
At 9 am, there will be a broadcast of the latest episode of “Drecure” on TV, so I just need to kill time until then.
I quickly prepared a cup of hot coffee and brought my laptop to the table where I had breakfast just a while ago. I opened “MeTube” and started browsing for Ette-sama’s clips.
As I selected “Ette-sama Clips Channel [Official]” from my favorites and randomly clicked on a video, a familiar calm voice started playing from the speakers.
The video’s title was “Ette-sama’s Wins Against Super Spicy Yakisoba While Getting Burned.” It was from a stream two days ago which I missed. I haven’t watched the archive yet either.
“(Today, I would be trying to eat the super spicy Peyoung Yakisoba4. It’s something that’s trendy right now, you know? I saw Zeria-chan eating it while crying the other day, and it was so hilarious. I thought, ‘Why not try it too?’ and bought it from the convenience store.)” (Henrietta)
Yeah, those super spicy instant yakisoba noodles have been quite popular recently. I have seen a few clips from other streamers trying them, and the spiciness seems unbearable. Ette-sama gives the impression of having a delicate stomach. I wonder if it’s okay for her to eat it.
Comment: 『Nice!』
Comment: 『Super spicy?』
Comment: 『Isn’t it supposed to be ‘ultra super spicy’?』
“(Ultra super spicy? The one I bought says ‘super spicy’ though… Is it different?)” (Henrietta)
Comment: 『There’s an even spicier one.』
Comment: 『What Zeria ate was ‘ultra super spicy.’』
Comment: 『That one isn’t that spicy.』
“(Oh, well, I’m not that good with spicy food, so let’s start with this one. If it’s not that spicy, I might try the ultra super spicy version another day. Alright, I’ll go make it now.)” (Henrietta)
Comment: 『Understood.』
Comment: 『I might have some Peyoung too.』
Comment: 『I feel like even super spicy might be too much for Ette-sama.』
Henrietta, also known as Ette-sama, is a VTuber affiliated with the VTuber agency “Virtual Real” She has around 600,000 subscribers, making her one of the mid-tier VTubers within her agency.
Her distinctive features include a calm voice and a laid-back way of speaking. Her sleep-inducing chat sessions are so calming that some joke that they might be officially approved for the treatment of sleep disorders. Of course, that’s not true, but it’s definitely true that listening to her can help you feel relaxed.
There wasn’t any particular reason behind it. I happened to come across one of her recommended videos and before I knew it, I was watching her content regularly. Now, she has become an effective sleep-inducer for me.
“(I’m back! I think I burned my thumb while draining the hot water. So, I’ll be eating while cooling my thumb. If the sound of me eating bothers you, I recommend muting the stream!)” (Henrietta)
Comment: 『Are you okay!?』
Comment: 『Forget about the Peyoung and focus on cooling your thumb.』
Comment: 『I usually eat without chewing sounds.』
“(I put my thumb in a cup of ice-cold water, so the burn should be fine. Thanks for your concern. Well then, itadakimasu!)” (Henrietta)
*Slurp, slurp.*
*Slurp, slurp, slurp, slurp.*
The subtle sound of slurping came through the speakers.
Comment: 『The chewing sound is so soothing.』
Comment: 『I was just craving some chewing sounds.』
Comment: 『Doesn’t seem too spicy, huh?』
“(*Gulp*… At the moment, it’s not *gulp*… too spicy, I think… *gulp*… Oh, but it’s quite painful! It’s down my *cough*… throat.)” (Henrietta)
Comment: 『Looks tough.』
Comment: 『Take it easy.』
Comment: 『Ette-sama looks like she’s struggling… Haaa~』
There seemed to be a few perverted comments in the chat, but Ette-sama managed to finish the yakisoba without any issues.
“(Thanks for the meal! Well, the super spicy wasn’t that spicy after all. I’ll try the ultra super spicy challenge sometime soon. I might not be able to stream for a couple of days as I am moving, so maybe I’ll do it as a moving celebration stream. Well then, see you later!)” (Henrietta)
The clip ended there.
“…Ahh.” (Souma)
I took a sip of my hot coffee as I waited for the next clip to play.
◆
Do you know about the voice actress “Yasumi Hiyori”?
I came to know her two years ago through an idol-raising mobile game.
I am a big fan of that game, and I have attended all of her live concerts. When I saw her for the first time at the live event, she looked beautiful and dignified, and I became a fan from that point on.
Later, when I checked her wiki page, I found out that she had only been getting small roles before, and the mobile game was her first major character role.
But now she has made appearances in various other mobile games and anime series. From this season, she has been selected as the main character in the long-running Sunday morning anime “Drecure6“, which is incredibly popular. She has become a highly sought-after idol voice actress.
“Hiyorin in Drecure… it’s quite moving.” (Souma)
On the screen, the heroine voiced by Yasumi Hiyori, Kazamatsuri Tsukasa, skillfully sent the villain flying to the moon with a powerful rolling sobat kick. In “Drecure”, it’s a tradition for the heroines to defeat the villains in hand-to-hand combat. The intense and spirited battle scenes are one of the charms of “Drecure”.
Satisfied with seeing “Kazamatsuri Tsukasa – Yasumi Hiyori” displayed in the ending credits, I turned off the TV and headed to the front door.
The reason being that there was some kind of noise next door.
The neighboring unit was supposed to be vacant… Could it be that someone is moving in?
Curiosity got the better of me, so I poked my head out from my apartment entrance like a prairie dog7 emerging from its burrow. I caught a glimpse of a few people who appeared to be movers stepping into the elevator at the far end of the hallway. When I shifted my gaze back to the (previously) vacant unit in front of mine, I saw a woman wearing a white dress bowing and saying, “Thank you very much!”.
It seems like someone is indeed moving into the neighboring unit. And apparently, it’s a young woman.
Ignoring her would be rude so I decided to call out to my new neighbor.
“Hello.” (Souma)
“Kya!?” (?)
Perhaps being startled by the voice calling from behind, the woman let out a loud scream.
The woman turns around with her hand on her chest. Her wavy brown hair swayed softly as I catch sight of the beautiful girl who appeared.
“Haah… You scared me…” (?)
“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to surprise you like that.” (Souma)
“N-No, it’s okay. I was lost in thought too. Nice to meet you, I’m Rinjou, I live next door.” (Rinjou)
The woman, who introduced herself as Rinjou, bowed deeply again.
“Nice to meet you, I’m Tendou. I’m 20 years old, and a university student.” (Souma)
Feeling like I made a small mistake in our initial encounter, I wanted to ease the atmosphere of suspicion that seemed to fill the air. So, I provided my age and affiliation in return. I want her to know that I’m a normal person.
“Ah, we’re the same age!” (Rinjou)
Rinjou-san pointed at me, looking surprised.
…The same age?
Seriously, what a coincidence.
She seems friendly, and I don’t want to make things awkward. Maybe I can use a casual tone too.
“No way, you’re also 20? A university student?” (Souma)
“Nnya, like something like working from home? I’m working freelance.” (Rinjou)
“A freelancer? Sounds impressive.” (Souma)
“Nnya, absolutely not, not at all.” (Rinjou)
Looks like saying “Nnya” is a habit of hers. As I watched her wave her hand in front of her face, I noticed something. I pointed at her right hand which was moving back and forth.
“…What happened there?” (Souma)
“Huh? Oh, this? I accidentally burned myself a bit. It’s taking quite a while to heal.” (Rinjou)
I noticed a large bandage on her right thumb. I had assumed it was a recent injury from today’s moving work, but apparently, that wasn’t the case.
“Hmm… Isn’t unpacking difficult?” (Souma)
“Well, it is… I want to get everything set up by today, but it’s a little overwhelming. It would probably take a bit more time.” (Rinjou)
Saying that, Rinjou-san’s shoulders slumped.
“Can I help you?” (Souma)
“…Eh?” (Rinjou)
Before I knew it, I had made that offer.
“I have nothing to do for the rest of today. If there are things you don’t want me to see, I can at least help with just the heavy stuff.” (Souma)
Rinjou-san seemed to be troubled, murmuring to herself words like “No…” and “But…”. She held her head in her hands and shook her head from side to side. I noticed this earlier, but it seems that she is quite expressive with her body language.
I thought that refusing my offer might be the more natural response, but it seemed like she quickly came to a decision.
Facing me directly, Rinjou-san lowered her head with a big bow. It was already the third time I had seen her bowing like this.
“Well then… I’m sorry, but can I ask for your help?” (Rinjou)
◇
There might be people who wish to get close to their “Oshi”.
They admire, long for, and desire to become close to someone they see as an unattainable presence.
I understand those feelings. However, there is one thing I want you to know.
Just like how the stars shining in the night sky are nothing but space debris— there are some things about your “Oshi” that will reveal itself when you get closer.
I learned this from “Ette-sama” and later from “Yasumi Hiyori”.
Illustration of the main cast
Sorry if its hard to read, your gonna have to zoom in lol. I don’t know how to clean and edit these kinds of thing. I know my English is kinda messed up inside the image but idw to edit this thing again xd
TL notes:
Thanks for reading!
I think this is one of the longer chapters, maybe? I haven’t read ahead that much, like 4 chapters or so only.
Anyways, updates for this series are gonna be messy cause I initially planned to do this series while waiting for the author of ROS to start posting again. But right when I’m about to release this, the author started posting lol. So in order words, no guarantees on when chapters are gonna come out.
Got this from an anonymous source. I can only make a rough guess as to where the illustrations go. I have included the illustration in chapter 3, 6, 10, 12, and 14.
Honestly, I would like to translate and edit the first few illustrations, but it’s difficult xd
If this series ever get localized by an English publisher, I’m gonna have to take the illustrations down. Idk about the chapters themselves since they are from web novel and not the light novel.
Tendou Souma (M) – the MC, University student Otoma Kodomo(VTuber setting) – MC’s VTuber character after he joined [Virtual Real]. Character design includes an elementary school student with a bug catching net as part of the model.
Rinjou Shizuka (F) – Popular VTuber [Henrietta] affliated with the VTuber agency [Virtual Real] Hasekura Hiyori (F) – Highly popular idol voice actress. Alias (Voice acting) name is “Yasumi Hiyori” Minase Mafuyu (F) – Childhood friend and MC’s university Madonna. Yandere tendencies.
Side characters
Keisuke (M) – MC’s university friend who he eats with. Honna Miyabi (F) – Shizuka’s fellow VTuber friend “Zeria” from [Virtual Real]. Zeria (VTuber setting) – VTuber character is a little devil. Subordinate of the princess of the demon realm, “Mamimume Memo” who is another VTuber from [Virtual Real]. They usually stream together. Maya (F) – Zeria’s manager. An influencial figure in [Virtual Real].
Tendou Souma, a third-year university student living in Tokyo, had two “Oshi” in his life.
One of them was [Henrietta], a popular VTuber affiliated with the major VTuber agency [Virtual Real].
The other was [Yasumi Hiyori], a highly popular idol voice actor.
Souma who was forced to live in a luxury apartment by his overprotective parents, felt lonely knowing that no one else lives on his floor.
Then, one day, two women moved in one after the other onto the same floor where Souma lived.
To his surprise, they turned out to be none other than his two “Oshi”, Henrietta and Yasumi Hiyori.
Souma excitedly believed that his dream life was about to begin, but he is soon confronted with the unfortunate reality of both of his “Oshi”.
With his childhood friend and university’s Madonna, Minase Mafuyu, getting involved, Souma’s meddling and skillful living skills lead to the opening of his harem life.
