Ex Strongest, Receiving Advice

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The beginning was a bit unusual, but once the cla.s.s started, nothing particularly strange happened. Well, the fact that Soma was attending high school cla.s.ses was already quite unusual. However, regardless of the situation, the cla.s.s itself was ordinary. Soma watched equations about differentiation and integration being written on the blackboard, feeling a sense of nostalgia and yet not remembering them at all.

Naturally, Aina and Felicia were also taking the cla.s.s seriously. They seemed even more earnest than Soma. Yet, because they were serious, it was also strange. They had studied together at the academy, and there, too, uniforms existed. On the other hand, this was a school that should only exist in Somas memories, yet they were wearing uniforms similar to what should be there. Soma didnt know about Ainas uniform but it wouldnt have been strange if it existed somewhere. He couldnt help but wonder what this really meant as he watched such a scene.

Instead of thinking about such things, it might be better to quickly investigate the current situation, but unfortunately, there was no way to do that. Because it was about oneself, one understood it the best. The current Soma was nothing more than an ordinary person. That was why it was necessary to move cautiously. If it were just a dream, it would wake up on its own, and if it werent, he couldnt predict what would happen if he acted rashly.

If this really was the work of Devils, there would be no point in doing something meaningless. There should be some meaning to it, and if he made a move without knowing anything, there was a good chance that the situation would worsen. Or if he were alone, it would be a move he would have to take knowing the risks

Hmm (Soma)

Muttering to himself, he looked ahead and to the side. Also, towards the center.

If they were just illusions, there would be no problem, but at least for now, Soma didnt feel any discomfort with them. While the situation seemed strange, there was nothing that made him think they werent themselves. So, he should consider the worst-case scenario, and not taking any action for the time being. At this moment, all he could do was observe the surroundings to ascertain the situation without being too conspicuous.

Its quite pa.s.sive well, it cant be helped. (Soma)

Soma thought it wasnt like himself to say that, but there was no helping it. Since there was a possibility of the worst-case scenario, he had no choice but to do so.

If it truly is just a dream, it would be nothing more than a topic of conversation (Soma)

Or perhaps, by even thinking such things, he might half-believe what this situation was. It was a feeling he would rather not come true. While thinking such things and casually listening to what seemed to be a familiar teachers lecture, Soma continued to observe the surroundings.

Soma hadnt expected anything to happen during cla.s.s, but ultimately, when the math cla.s.s ended, it turned out there wasnt anything particularly special about it. The break that followed wasnt much different Well, maybe there was one thing that was different about it. People gathered around Aina to ask her various questions.

Aina seems quite popular, doesnt she? (Felicia)

Well, its like the fate of transfer students. (Soma)

Soma had experience with being a transfer student, and while it wasnt to this extent, he remembered being asked a few questions back then. It wasnt so unusual for elementary school students, but when it came to high school students, it was natural for it to happen. Of course, it was uncertain how much this situation corresponded to reality.

Now that I think about it, is it okay if Felicia doesnt ask any questions? I dont think you have done so even once yet. (Soma)

Well, if I dont do it now, its not like I cant do it later. Besides even if there was something that bothered me, in this situation, someone else would probably ask first. (Felicia)

Thats true. (Soma)

It seemed like the vague and general questions were finished during the morning homeroom, and now the conversation had moved to more specific topics. Even simple discussions about hobbies were becoming more detailed, asking about preferences and such. Indeed, if it continued like this, it seemed like eventually everything one wanted to know would be revealed, even things that didnt need to be known.

What about you, Soma-san? Dont you have any interest in her? (Felicia)

Hmm why do you think that? (Soma)

It seemed like youve been subtly curious since this morning, and besides, if you werent interested, you wouldnt be watching her like this. (Felicia)

I see youre quite observant. (Soma)

Weve been childhood friends. (Felicia)

Felicia said with a smile, and he shrugged lightly. While pondering about how the real Felicia might have been, Soma squinted at the bustling scene beside him. If this situation was orchestrated for some purpose, then Aina wouldnt be unrelated. Of course, neither would Felicia.

Childhood friends and transfer students.

How these were related and what would happen, or perhaps what had already happened. There were plenty of things to consider, including how far these connections extended. But as if mocking Somas thoughts, nothing continued to happen endlessly. Break time ended, followed by the next cla.s.s, then another break, and so on. Still, nothing happened, and while watching the lively scene beside him, he wondered what to do next.

Honestly, he had expected something to happen quickly, and he had thought he could investigate various things then but it seemed like he had missed the mark. Nevertheless, in this situation, randomly wandering around the school building didnt seem like it would lead to anything, and if he took his eyes off Aina and the others, something might happen in the meantime.

Should he just wait patiently? That thought crossed his mind as the bell signaling the end of break time rang out. The third period began, followed by lunch break, then the fourth period and finally, lunchtime arrived without anything happening.

Hmm looks like Ill really have to wait patiently (Soma)

Anyway, putting that aside, what should he do now? It wasnt about Aina and the others. It was simply about lunch. He hadnt been given a lunchbox from his mother, and as far as Soma knew, while there was a school store, there wasnt a cafeteria. If that was also reproduced here, then he would need to go to the store to buy something but did he have money in his wallet? It would be good to check.

Come to think of it, what would Felicia do?

He was about to look in her direction when he heard the sound of someone standing up beside him. Reflexively, he turned his gaze because he had only heard the voice from beside him. Aina had been invited to lunch by her cla.s.smates, but she hadnt given an answer yet. Just as he was wondering why she had stood up, their eyes met.

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Sorry, Soma, can you guide me to the infirmary? (Aina)

Hmm? Sure, no problem Are you feeling unwell? (Soma)

Well, something like that. So, sorry about this. Will you invite me again? (Aina)

Saying so, Aina apologized to those around her but to be honest, she didnt seem to be in poor health from her appearance. As Soma tilted his head in confusion, a voice came from the front almost simultaneously.

Um, if thats the case, shall I guide you instead? (Felicia)

Felicia, who spoke up like that, didnt seem to notice Ainas condition, but she did seem considerate. It was likely she simply said it out of goodwill, and indeed, if they were going to the infirmary, it would be preferable to have a person of the same gender accompany. Even Soma thought so, but surprisingly, or perhaps inevitably, Aina shook her head in response.

No, I appreciate your concern, but Im fine. So, Soma, shall we? (Aina)

Hmm well, as I mentioned this morning, it was directly requested by the homeroom teacher. So, its not a big deal. (Soma)

There was no reason to refuse, and Soma was curious about why he had been specifically chosen. Nodding in agreement, Aina seemed to breathe a small sigh of relief. But before exploring the reason behind it, Aina started walking. While Soma wondered if it was odd for her to act like this if she truly wasnt feeling well, he followed a bit hurriedly. He caught up with her around the door and overtook her. Walking a bit ahead as if leading the way, he glanced back briefly.

Are we heading to the infirmary, alright? (Soma)

Didnt I say so? (Aina)

I know, but you dont seem to be feeling that unwell. Well, unless youre just trying to hide it. (Aina)

Just because Im a little tired doesnt mean Im feeling well. (Soma)

Hmm is that so? (Soma)

Certainly, it was natural to feel tired after being bombarded with questions every time. However, as expected, it didnt seem like that was the reason she left the cla.s.sroom. Wondering if there was finally some action, Soma decided it would be best to remain cautious for now.

As far as Soma remembered, the infirmary was located at the far end of the first floor, directly opposite to their cla.s.sroom. Naturally, it would take some time to walk there and during that time, there was no conversation. However, rather than being on guard because of their earlier conversation, it felt more like she was struggling to say something. While pondering what she could be thinking, they continued walking, and Aina spoke up as they approached the infirmary.

Hey can I ask you something? Would you mind answering? (Aina)

It depends on the content. (Soma)

Well, I guess thats fair So, if you cant answer, thats okay too, but that girl, Felicia, right? I heard you saying shes your childhood friend, but whats your relations.h.i.+p with her exactly? (Aina)

Hmm, you were paying close attention. (Soma)

It was probably during the break time of the first period when we talked. At that time, Aina was answering her cla.s.smates questions, but she seemed to have heard our conversation as well.

My hearing is pretty good, you know. So? (Aina)

Thats true Well, apparently, were considered childhood friends. (Soma)

Why are you acting like its someone elses business But does that mean its just that? (Aina)

Well, depending on how you define it but for now, yeah, thats it. At least, thats what I should say for the current situation. (Soma)

I see I was hesitant about what to do, but if thats the case, I guess I shouldnt hesitate anymore. I dont want to feel regretful later for keeping silent. (Aina)

Aina? (Soma)

Upon hearing a determined voice, I turned around to find Aina, who had stopped walking, looking straight at me. Instinctively, I stopped too, tilting my head at her.

I want to apologize for b.u.mping into you earlier and, well, this might be just right. It might not be exactly what you were expecting but let me repay the favor by giving you some advice. (Aina)

As I said before, I wasnt particularly concerned about that from the beginning, and I dont really care but advice, you say? (Soma)

Yes. This is advice. So, whether you choose to heed it or not is up to you but still, Ill say it. You should cut ties with Felicia. (Aina)

Hmm? (Soma)

It was quite unexpected, to say the least. However, judging by Ainas demeanor, she didnt seem to be joking.

I cant say stay away because she sits nearby, but still, it would be better to keep your distance as much as possible. (Aina)

Hmm There must be a reason for that, right? (Soma)

Yes. Im sorry, but I dont intend to explain it. (Aina)

So, you want me to believe those words? (Soma)

Im well aware that its hard to believe. I understand perfectly well which is more likely between someone you just met today and a childhood friend. But even so, Ill say it. It will definitely be for your own good. Absolutely. Well, you probably dont understand what Im saying right now. But youll definitely understand someday. And by then itll be too late. (Aina)

That was why he needed to make a decision before it was too late. Aina said so with utmost seriousness.

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