第６０４堀：定番のトイレの噂 (Part2)
"Yes. It is true that she took her own life. However, it is said that the reason for her suicide was bullying."
"Bullying?"
"Yes. I am not sure if this was the case at Amanda-san's academy, but I am ashamed to admit that at our academy, there was harassment born from envy and jealousy for various reasons. The story goes that she was driven to suicide by that, but records indicate she did not take her own life in this specific location. Honestly, it is all quite vague, and I cannot say for certain whether it is related or not."
*Ah, I see. This place attracts nobles, and she probably got targeted because she had some strange, genuine talent.*
*...Still, she actually took her own life.*
*I would never do that, but I know how much that kind of harassment can wear a person down. Besides, I had Eoid, and friends like Samantha and Cleena who treated me well despite being nobles.*
"The student herself likely still had a desire to keep trying at the academy. That is why there are rumors that she remains in the restroom."
"..."
Somehow, rather than feeling scared, I just felt sad.
She tried so hard that even after death, she remains at the academy.
"She was a commoner student, and records show she had finally managed to enroll through the support of those around her. That likely played a part in it as well."
*I see. Unlike the academy I attended, having magical talent here doesn't mean your tuition is waived.*
*On the If Continent where we are from, mages are rare, so enrolling in the academy makes you a target for scouts from various countries. Because of that, the academy is operated with subsidies from those nations. Well, it still costs money for consumables and food, of course.*
*We were local, so... I suppose we were blessed.*
As I was feeling sentimental, Yuki-san clapped his hands together, drawing everyone's attention.
"Well, we need to verify whether it's the real deal or not. Using Deryu's fists is a last resort that includes such considerations."
"Indeed. After hearing a story like that, I would rather not resort to physical removal. So, do your best, everyone."
I was actually surprised by the firmness of Master Deryu's refusal to go. Well, she's still better than Master Eris. In Eris-san's case, if something stands in the way of her objective, she uses force as long as she has permission. Even Principal Popuri was beaten to a pulp because of that.
"Then, let's verify it today. I don't expect it to appear in broad daylight, but please keep an eye out. If it doesn't show up with a group, we'll reduce the numbers later."
Yuki-san and Taiki-san didn't seem to believe in it that much, speaking quite casually. Well, judging by what we heard, it's just something meant to scare people, so they probably aren't on high alert.
The standby group waited in a classroom near the girls' restroom, and we headed toward it.
"By the way, Shuten-chan. Do you feel anything?"
"I don't feel anything."
"I see."
At Shuten-chan's words, everyone around us relaxed. Her words, which were also helpful when we were investigating the mysteries of the library, are worth trusting. As expected of someone Yuki-san adopted.
*...Though, it still feels a bit strange that she is Cleena's child.*
"What is it, Amanda?"
"No, I was just wondering why Cleena claimed to be Shuten's mother. It's not that it's a bad thing, mind you. Yuki-san's wives already have children, right? I felt it would be more natural for someone who already has experience to take her in. Cleena, you've never raised a child before, have you?"
"Hmm. You're right, Amanda. But I can only call it fate with Shuten. Just like it was with Yuki."
"Yes. Kaka-sama has the same hair color as Shuten. So, the real Kaka-sama is Cleena Kaka-sama. But the other Kaka-samas are also real Kaka-samas."
"Sorry. That was tactless of me."
If Cleena and Shuten-chan are happy, then that's all that matters. My trivial, logical reasoning doesn't mean a thing.
"Don't worry about it. I know you were worried about me. Of course, there are many ways in which I am lacking as a mother. But I am being helped by everyone, and I am learning and doing my best."
"Kaka-sama is doing her best. Shuten is doing her best too."
"Mm. Good girl."
Saying that, Cleena patted Shuten's head, and Shuten looked happy. Seeing that, Yuki-san's wives smiled.
*...Somehow, Cleena has really grown up.*
*Does having a child really change you that much?*
*Should I start thinking seriously about having a child with Eoid, too?*
*But I'm still in the middle of training...*
As I was thinking about that, Mikos, who was guiding us, stopped.
"This is the rumored east girls' restroom."
At those words, everyone stared at the girls' restroom standing there all alone. There were no classrooms in use nearby, and it felt strange why a restroom would be located in such a place.
"It seems this was built as an extension, but since the construction of the dormitory wing didn't proceed, it was never used."
*Ah, I see. Even if you increase the number of classrooms, it's meaningless if the number of students doesn't increase.*
*That's why the classroom the standby group is using was covered in dust and needed cleaning.*
"Well then, let's go in. Everyone, be careful. Rurua, please watch our backs. Shuten, tell us if you feel anything."
"Understood."
"Ria Kaka-sama, I will."
With that, led by Ria, we entered the girls' restroom.
Bullying is such a classic trope!! Bullying is absolutely not okay!!
And so, what will be their fate?!