“Ehh~ So Serika-san is Kei-kun’s childhood friend, huh?” (Yuki)
“…Hmph, that’s right.” (Serika)
Currently, we are at a cafe inside Sky Park.
After Serika managed to regain her composure from the mysterious scream, we decided to have a chat while having tea.
Yuki, talking with a bright smile, and Serika, not bothering to hide her displeasure.
Despite having completely opposite expressions, the fact that they could still have a normal conversation made me deeply ponder the mysterious nature of girls.
“I want you to remember, we’re not just acquaintances, we’re childhood friends. We knew each other ever since we were kids, so this relationship is more than just fate.” (Serika)
“Well, no matter how you look at it, I think that’s an exaggeration…” (Keitaro)
Each expression is overly dramatic, and being childhood friends isn’t that significant, right?
It’s strange how she’s been unusually moody since earlier. Come to think of it, Serika has always been temperamental1. Some things never change.
“Ah, but I understand what you mean by fate. When I found out that Kei-kun was my classmate, I thought, ‘Ah, this must be fate!'” (Yuki)
“…Huh? What do you mean by classmate?” (Serika)
“Actually, Yukina-san and I go to the same school, and we’re even in the same class.” (Keitaro)
“W-Whaaahaha…!?” (Serika)
Serika was quite surprised, her words getting stuck with a shocked expression.
But I can understand that reaction. Hearing that the idol, Yukina Nozomi, is your classmate is bound to be surprising. If I were in Serika’s position, I would have been even more shocked.
“…Which is stronger, a childhood friend you haven’t seen for four years or a current classmate? Oh, the childhood friend has overwhelmingly more time spent together, but that’s in the past. Now, being in the same class and an idol on top of that…!” (Serika)
“By the way, do you two often go out together on your days off?” (Yuki)
Ignoring Serika, who seemed to be muttering something with a desperate look, Yuki turned towards me and threw that question my way.
“Oh, no, it’s not like that. In fact, I haven’t seen Serika since elementary school graduation, and today is the first time we’re seeing each other after four years.” (Keitaro)
“Really!? A reunion after four years sounds nice!… But what led up to this?” (Yuki)
“Uh, well…” (Keitaro)
…It’s because I was summoned by the VTuber Mariel-sama. But I can’t say that. Revealing that Mariel-sama is Serika is an absolute no-go.
Hmm, how should I explain this…? As I struggled to think, Serika spoke up,
“I-It’s fate! As fate would have it, I, the childhood friend, happened to be Ketaro’s oshi VTuber. So, we decided to meet in real life!” (Serika)
“Wait!? Serika, you can’t…!” (Keitaro)
Suddenly, Serika started revealing everything, and I felt incredibly flustered.
“Uh, VTuber…?” (Yuki)
“Daitenin Mariel… Haven’t you heard of her? That’s me.” (Serika)
…Ah, she really just went and said it! I internally facepalmed, but Serika herself seemed oblivious. In fact, she looked rather proud, which is troublesome. Is saying that really okay!?
“Um, sorry. I’m not familiar with that kind of stuff. Is she a famous person?” (Yuki)
“Wha!?” (Serika)
But Yuki seemed to be completely unaware of the existence of VTubers, and she apologized with a sorry look, leaving Serika with a weird look on her face.
“Y-You don’t know…!? A super famous VTuber like me…!?” (Serika)
“Uh, sorry. I think I’ve heard of the term ‘VTubers’ somewhere, though.” (Yuki)
“Wait, you’re supporting Ketaro, so you use YouTube, right!? How can you not know about VTubers!?” (Serika)
“I only use YouTube to watch Kei-kun’s content.” (Yuki)
Upon that straightforward answer, both Serika and I were left speechless. While I felt a bit special hearing that, Serika seemed visibly frustrated and growling with a “Grr…”
“…Ugh, to not know the legendary VTuber Daitenin Mariel, who reached millions of subscribers in less than a month…!” (Serika)
“…You know, it sounds cringy when you say it out yourself, especially since it’s coming out of Serika’s mouth instead of Mariel-sama’s.” (Keitaro)
“Shut up! It’s a fact, so deal with it!” (Serika)
“Mariel…? Ah wait, could it be…?” (Yuki)
As we were having this exchange, Yuki seemed to suddenly realize something.
“Were you the one who did a collaboration stream with Kei-kun yesterday? There was an animated-looking woman in the bottom right of the screen, and you both played LoF together.” (Yuki)
“Yes! That’s right! That was me!” (Serika)
“I did watch that! Kei-kun’s name was trending even though he wasn’t streaming, so I was curious and tuned in. I had no idea that I was watching a VTuber! There were a lot of viewers too!” (Yuki)
Seeing Yuki excitedly recall the moment, Serika finally regained her composure and proudly puffed up her chest once again.
“Hehe, well, it was really exciting yesterday. To showcase such god-tier plays on our stream, as expected of Ketaro.” (Serika)
“That’s right! Ke-kun’s play yesterday was really incredible! I was so moved that I cried at that amazing comeback at the end!” (Yuki)
“If you’re shown such plays, it’s inevitable to end up revealing that he’s your oshi, right? Even though it unintentionally went viral, considering Ketaro’s skills, it’s only natural, don’t you think?” (Serika)
“That’s right! I totally understand the feeling of wanting more people to know about Kei-kun! So, I unintentionally made Kei-kun go viral too!” (Yuki)
“…Ugh! I’m well aware of that!” (Yuki)
“We’re both in the ‘Let’s Make Kei-kun Go Viral’ club!” (Serika)
Yuki had a beaming smile, but for some reason, Serika wore a frustrated expression.
“Y-You know, I’ve been supporting Ketaro for a long time!” (Serika)
“Oh, really? I discovered Ke-kun’s channel about six months ago. Serika-san, when did you start?” (Yuki)
“Hehe, from the very early days when Ketaro started doing game commentary.” (Serika)
“Wow, that’s impressive! I wish I had found Kei-kun’s channel earlier!” (Yuki)
“Hehe, when it comes to being a Ketaro fan, I want you to recognize me as your senpai.” (Serika)
“But, despite that, you didn’t leave comments or anything, right? Except for the occasional passerby, I was the only one commenting on Kei-kun’s videos.” (Yuki)
“W-Well, I was holding back, or rather, I wanted to endure until the right time—wait a minute! Have you been commenting all this time?” (Serika)
“That’s right, I always leave comments on all of his videos I watched, including livestreams.” (Yuki)
“W-Wait a minute, could it be…” (Serika)
“Do you recognize the name ‘wankoromochi’? That’s me!” (Yuki)
“That was you!? So, while I was holding back, you were freely commenting and interacting with Ketaro…! Still, even if I didn’t comment, remember that I’m the senpai here!” (Serika)
…Serika’s words are incredibly confusing. Meanwhile, Yuki, smiling, responds with a cheerful “Yes”, looking like an angel. What does this exchange even mean…?
As I ponder, Yuki turns to me with a smile and starts talking.
“Hey, Kei-kun, Serika-san is such an interesting person, isn’t she? Aside from being talented, she’s very beautiful, a super popular VTuber, and also your childhood friend. She’s really amazing.” (Yuki)
Being childhood friends with me isn’t something particularly amazing, but it’s a fact that Serika is incredible in many aspects. So, I wholeheartedly agree with Yuki’s words and nod.
“Especially since she’s the one behind Mariel-sama. Just being the person behind Mariel-sama makes her not just amazing but legendary. I’ve been supporting her since her debut, and above all, her voice is incredible. Plus, she’s good at commentary, and the way she interacts with her viewers is amazing. I can definitely say that she’s the strongest VTuber right now.” (Keitaro)
“W-Wait a minute, Ketaro…!” (Serika)
What’s with her? Is she getting embarrassed by the praise? It’s the truth, so it’s fine, isn’t it?
“Why are you only praising Mariel? You should, like, talk more about how I’ve always been beautiful, how much you like my blonde hair, and how we’ve been together since childhood…!” (Serika)
She suddenly went off on a nonsensical rant?! Seriously, I have no idea what she’s talking about!
Isn’t it weird to praise your childhood friend that much!? And why is she randomly saying I have a thing for blondes!? Sure, her blond hair is incredibly beautiful, but still…!
“How much of an approval-seeking monster are you!? Besides, since you’re Mariel-sama, praising Mariel-sama is basically the same as praising you!” (Keitaro)
“W-Well, yeah, but…” (Serika)
“Wow, Kei-kun, you’re really passionate about supporting Mariel-sama. It’s nice to hear you talk so passionately about her…” (Yuki)
“Well, I feel the same way about Yukina-san…” (Keitaro)
“Even if you say that, being supported by Kei-kun out loud is really an honor…!” (Yuki)
…Isn’t that supposed to be my line? You compliment me way too much.
“W-Well, that’s right! You can be more envious!” (Serika)
Now, Serika proudly responds to Yuki’s words. She sure is emotionally unstable. Despite her boastful tone, there’s a complex expression on her face, and I’ve never quite understood what she’s thinking.
“But it’s nice to talk about your oshi, right? I always wanted to have a passionate conversation with someone about Kei-kun but there was no one like that around me. So today, I’m really happy to have met Serika-san, who also supports Kei-kun.” (Yuki)
“Well… I agree with that. It’s nice to have someone to talk about Ketaro’s charm with.” (Serika)
“Serika-san thinks so too!? Then, um, if it’s okay, could you talk with me about Kei-kun!?” (Yuki)
“Hmph, if that’s what you want!” (Serika)
The topic of the conversation suddenly shifted to praising me.
The flow of conversation was swift, both of them were in high spirits. As for me, I could only sip my coffee and watch the lively exchange between the two. Bitter.
“What I like about Kei-kun is definitely his way of talking! It’s calm, easy to understand, and really entertaining! His voice is very gentle and nice. I feel like I can watch Kei-kun’s streams forever!” (Yuki)
“That’s true, Ketaro has surprisingly good communication skills. Since he’s mostly a loner, not many people know, but I’ve been by his side for a long time, so I know! His way of talking is the same as before, but his voice has changed and now he sounds even cooler…” (Serika)
“And also, he’s really skilled at games! I mean, I can’t help but be captivated by his dazzling plays! Not only that but he also does live commentary and explanations while pulling off those plays. Even for someone like me who’s not knowledgeable about games, I can understand that takes talent!” (Yuki)
“Ketaro has always been into games since back in the day. At that time, I wasn’t interested in games, but watching Ketaro play was enjoyable. He made sure to explain things in an easy-to-understand way so that I wouldn’t get bored. I’m sure those experiences back then are connected to the Ketaro we see today!” (Serika)
“What’s amazing about Kei-kun is not just his gaming skills. His knowledge of anime, manga, and other things is impressive too. He weaves in those discussions between gameplay during his commentary, which keeps things interesting. Thanks to that, I’ve discovered a lot of great works! Everything Kei-kun recommended turned out to be interesting!” (Yuki)
“Ketaro is a hardcore otaku at heart. I used to get dragged into his otaku hobbies a lot. But he does have good taste, and all the works he said were interesting back then turned out to be hits later on. He might have foresight or something. But Ketaro isn’t a selfish otaku; he also properly indulged in my hobbies from time to time and played with me!” (Serika)
“Haa… Kei-kun is truly the best streamer, isn’t he?” (Yuki)
“Yes, Ketaro is the best childhood friend, after all!” (Serika)
“…” (Keitaro)
…Uh, what’s this strange feeling?
Yuki and Serika have been enthusiastically discussing their oshi since earlier. Both of them have genuinely happy smiles while talking, but… there’s this lingering sense of discomfort. They should be talking about me, but it feels like something is slightly off. Well, I can’t quite put my finger on it, but as long as they’re having fun, it’s fine.
Switching my focus, I absentmindedly sip my black coffee, having forgotten to add sugar or milk. It would be a bit awkward to use them this late into drinking it, so I leave it black. While doing so, I casually observe the two. However, my attention gradually shifts towards Serika.
…Serika has changed, hasn’t she? Not so much in appearance, but I feel like her personality has evolved.
She used to stand out in various ways, but now, I feel like she has softened up a bit…? Seeing her casually chatting with other girls like this is quite refreshing for someone who knows her from the past. And, it makes me a bit happy too.
Four years can bring about such changes, huh? She used to have no interest in games or otaku-related things, but now she’s a popular VTuber. Oh, how times have changed.
“Oh, speaking of which…” (Keitaro)
As I pondered such thoughts, a sudden question crossed my mind, and I couldn’t help but voice it out.
“Serika, why did you decide to become a VTuber?” (Keitaro)
Right, there have been so many shocking revelations that I completely forgot to ask about that.
“Eh!?” (Serika)
Upon hearing my question, Serika, who had been engrossed in conversation with Yuki, reacted as if caught off guard. She jerked her body, turned towards me with a somewhat flustered expression, and for some reason, kept glancing between Yuki and me.
“W-Why!? W-Well, that’s…!” (Serika)
Serika stumbled over her words. Then, strangely, she looked at Yuki, turned back to me, and repeated this motion a few times.
“S-So… that’s because… um…!” (Serika)
“…That’s because?” (Keitaro)
“You…! You looked at me…! S-So, that’s why…! Ahh mouu! there’s no way I can say it now! Yes, that’s right! It’s part of my social studies! Social studies!” (Serika)
And for some reason, after venting like that, she suddenly turned away. …I have no idea what’s going on.
“Why are you getting mad… Well, I guess it’s typical of Serika to say something like ‘social studies’.” (Keitaro)
“…Why are you just accepting that so easily?” (Serika)
“What else am I supposed to do!? You’re the one who said it!” (Keitaro)
“By the way, Serika-san’s character seemed very mature. How do you decide on a VTuber character design?” (Yuki)
“Oh, well, about that…” (Serika)
In response to Yuki’s question, Serika glanced briefly in my direction before continuing.
“In my case, I decided on the design myself, but there’s a reference I used…” (Serika)
“There is!? Please tell me!” (Keitaro)
“Don’t just latch onto that part!… Well, whatever. I’ll tell you. Ketaro, do you remember? The game you used to be obsessed with.” (Serika)
“Which one are you talking about when you say ‘the one I used to be obsessed with’?” (Keitaro)
“You know, the one with the fallen angel girl as the main character who flies in the sky and defeats enemies.” (Serika)
“Oh, ‘Demonic Armament Princess’! That brings back memories.” (Keitaro)
“Yeah, that one! The protagonist with disproportionately large breasts.” (Serika)
“Don’t emphasize that part too much; it makes it sound like I was into it for that!… But well, yeah, I was definitely hooked on that at the time.” (Keitaro)
“You like that kind of character, right? W-Well, it’s not like there’s a deeper meaning or anything, but I happened to recall that, and sort of used it as a reference…” (Serika)
“No, it’s not like I played it because I liked that character. I got hooked because the game itself was interesting. The character part is separate.” (Keitaro)
“Eh?” (Serika)
Upon hearing my words, for some reason, Serika showed a stunned expression.
“W-What!? So, you mean you don’t like that kind of character…?” (Serika)
“It’s not that I like or dislike them… Well, it’s just normal, I guess?” (Keitaro)
“……………………” (Serika)
“W-Why does it seem like Serika-san is completely burned out?” (Yuki)
…Nonono, I don’t get why she’s so shocked about this.
“…By the way, Ketaro, what kind of girl characters do you like?” (Serika)
“Huh? Why are you asking something like that—” (Keitaro)
“Just answer!” (Serika)
“What’s with you!? Seriously… Uh, cute ones, I guess?” (Keitaro)
“…Maybe I should go change my character now.” (Serika)
…Serika seems to be strangely gloomy. But Mariel-sama’s character is already perfect as it is, so there’s no need to change the character.
“In any case, why is it so vague!? Come on, give me something more specific!” (Serika)
“Why are you getting mad at me!? I don’t get it! Seriously, you haven’t changed at all in that aspect!” (Keitaro)
“What are you talking about?! Isn’t Ketaro the same?!!” (Serika)
However, at that moment, a small chuckle reaches our ears, and we both turn around simultaneously.
“That’s amazing, you’re so in sync with each other. You two really are close childhood friends, huh?” (Yuki)
When Yuki said that with excitement, I shook my head reluctantly.
“Even though it’s been a few years since we last met, the fact that we are talking like this…” (Keitaro)
“No, it’s the other way around. The fact that you two can argue like this after not seeing each other for years means you two must be really close. Otherwise, It’s impossible. I envy that kind of relationship.” (Serika)
Is that so? I glance at Serika, and for some reason, her face is completely red.
“Besides, it’s nice to see Kei-kun arguing with his childhood friend…! It feels so natural, and I get to see a side of Kei-kun that I’ve never seen before! Ah, Kei-kun arguing with his childhood friend… so precious…!” (Yuki)
Um, well, you know, it’s kind of embarrassing when you say that right in front of me!?
“Since it’s Kei-kun, he must have always been protecting Serika-san like a knight…! ‘Come on, stay behind me.’ ‘Y-Yeah…’ Something like that! Ah, so sweet…!” (Yuki)
But, you know, she’s just making assumptions. It wasn’t like that at all! If anything, I was the one often following behind Serika and getting dragged around by her!
“Serika-san, you’re so lucky to be childhood friends with Kei-kun…!” (Yuki)
“A-Alright, I get it!… Ugh, to say things so straightforwardly that I can’t even brag anymore…! A-Anyway, Ketaro!” (Serika)
Unable to bear the embarrassment, Serika pointed sharply at me and forcefully changed the topic.
“I’m going to create a messaging group and add you inside, so hurry up and take out your smartphone.” (Serika)
“Huh, a messaging group? Why now?” (Keitaro)
“It’s for future communication between us. It’s more convenient than using DMs, isn’t it?” (Serika)
Serika says this as if it’s obvious, but… no, no, no.
“Isn’t that a bit risky? Exchanging messages with a very popular VTuber…” (Keitaro)
“Why are you saying that now when you have already said VTuber in person? Besides, we’re childhood friends, aren’t we? What’s wrong with childhood friends wanting to stay in touch?” (Serika)
Certainly, it’s too late to worry about that, and since I’m messaging Serika instead of Mariel-sama, well, maybe it’s within an acceptable range… right?
“I feel like the line I set for myself to not cross is dropping steadily. Is this really going to be okay…!?” (Keitaro)
“Why are you mumbling to yourself? Come on, I’ve already created the group, so join it.” (Serika)
Despite my serious internal struggle, I was brushed off, and I reluctantly opened the app to join the group.
“…That’s nice.” (Yuki)
However, at that moment, I noticed Yuki looking at us with a sad expression.
“Messaging with Kei-kun, that’s nice… Serika-san, I’m jealous…” (Yuki)
Ugh, please don’t look at me with those lonely eyes…! I can’t exchange messages with Yuki since that would definitely be crossing a line.
“………….” (Yuki)
Argh! When I see her puppy eyes, it feels like my heart is being pierced by guilt!
“………….” (Yuki)
“Uh, um, Yukina-san, would you like to join the group too…?” (Keitaro)
“Is it okay!?” (Yuki)
Upon hearing my words, Yuki’s face brightens up.
On the other hand, Serika’s face is suddenly struck by a thunderstorm.
“Hey, Ketaro! Do you think it’s acceptable for an idol to exchange messages like this!?” (Serika)
“Don’t talk as if you’re innocent! Well, I know it’s not okay… But there are circumstances, you see.” (Keitaro)
“Oh? Shall we hear about these circumstances?” (Serika)
…Concerning the fact that my childhood friend is radiating a dark aura and is incredibly scary.
Illustration of Serika and Yuki chatting
“Serika-san thinks so too!? Then, um, if it’s okay, could you talk with me about Kei-kun!?”
TL Notes:
Thanks for reading!
This chapter was really something… It’s interesting to see the contrast between Yuki talking about Kei and Serika talking about Keitaro. I wonder if the sister is going to be normal…
Yo, I’m back. if you’re wondering what I’ve been doing for the past week, I went and finished up my Pokemon Violet game. I went on a hunt to finish the DLC pokedex to get the DLC legendaries and that took a long time. With that done, I have time again, yay.
Also holy crap chapter 2 is so long.