That 200: Normal Driving

Then, suddenly realizing it.

As the time for the competition draws near, you notice that people are gathering in the school building—so many that it's almost unbelievable.

There must be at least a thousand people here, maybe even more.

"Um... Rinne-san?"

"Hm?"

"I didn't know... that so many spectators would show up."

"Well, can't help it. This is real, bona fide superhero wrestling. If you live around here, you'd even pawn your wife to come watch."

No way, this is making me hurt inside.

"What's wrong, scared?"

"To be honest... a little."

"Then shall I hold your hand?"

"Don't tease me."

Having listened to the exchange with a blank expression, Tsumuri

"The outcome of this match will directly affect the lives of everyone in this territory. It's more than just entertainment, isn't it?"

Territory, huh.

We're not monkeys, after all.

The designated space for the duel will be one side of the sports field—currently, the fallow farmland is being used.

It's a bit soft underfoot... but that's probably better, really.

When you're slammed onto the ground, it'd be nice if the impact were a little less severe, don't you think?

It seemed the gallery groups had already decided on their route into the school building. As I looked around, I spotted clusters of people peering through binoculars from the rooftops of nearby apartment buildings.

Apparently, people from other communities had also gathered, having heard about the situation.

Just as I was feeling discouraged, Mr. Sasaki appeared with a cheerful smile.

"Hey."

"Ah... hey."

I gave a half-hearted greeting, and the man—whose face resembled that of a frog—

"——If it's this lively, maybe it'd be interesting to have events like this once in a while."

He spoke cheerfully, completely unaware of how I felt.

Huh, I don't know...

This guy, for some reason, seems to be carrying on just as casually as he did before the "end."

"Seriously, that's not funny....I've absolutely hated things like this, which is why I avoided every club and activity I could."

"Yeah, clubs usually have those speeches for new members every year."

"Yeah, that one—having to stand in front of everyone during morning assembly."

"Why didn't you just skip school that day?"

"Impossible for me. I'm really weak to peer pressure."

"So that's why you hate fighting."

"Pretty much."

The teacher hummed thoughtfully,

"Then you could've just deliberately lost, you know."

"Wait, what?"

"Yesterday, I had dinner with Yassan—Yonekura Ginsho. He doesn't seem like a bad person. Sure, he's a bit eccentric, but then again, most 'players' (you all) tend to be strange. He's actually fairly decent."

"Is that so?"

"So, it's fine if you lose."

Of course, Sōri and Rinne are standing right beside me.

Normally, they'd be quick to argue back at such words, but both of them remain silent.

It seemed like they had complete trust in Mr. Sasaki's words.

"But personally, I think it'd be better if you didn't lose."

"Why's that?"

"Because you'll regret it."

"Will I... really regret it?"

"Hmm."

Mr. Sasaki sighed deeply.

Well, I guess... I don't know... feels off.

The exact feeling you get when your homeroom teacher says, "You'll definitely regret it if you don't go to college."

"Well, no matter how it turns out, it won't be a major problem. Just go with a light heart."

A light heart... huh?

"By the way, how about you—have you ever thought about taking a husband?"

"What?"

"To be honest, ever since I heard you lost your memory, quite a few men have stepped forward. Some of the names are quite surprising....What do you say? If you're interested, I can introduce you to a few."

"Wha—wait, um..."

I mean, what am I supposed to do with that?

"Those people... they were the ones who revered me before I lost my memories..."

"Indeed. They're the ones who worship you as a savior."

"Ugh..."

That's harsh.

Honestly, I don't think I could ever grow fond of someone who comes at me with that kind of intensity...

"But these days, it's not easy for a woman to survive on her own. —If you're truly willing to lose everything, including your skills, then go ahead."

"...What's this? Threatening me?"

"Threat? How is offering a good-looking man considered a threat?"

...This old man.

"I just wish to live a small, lonely, and happy life."

"Indeed. Then you must become strong, no matter what."

"...Why?"

"Times are tough these days—girls like you aren't left alone anymore."

At that moment, Rinon suddenly but deliberately interjected.

"Ahh... there it is, there it is. I've been nearly raped a few times before I got strong enough."

"Seriously?"

Is that really something you can talk about with a tone like it's a funny story?

Isn't that terrifying?

"Yeah... The area around here is safe, but outside the walls, things are still... well, you know."

F-fine...

"Yeah, about that masked guy—he called you 'cute,' you know. If he really wants 'that,' we might have no choice but to hand you over."

That... was troublesome.

I clutched my head.

I mean, I'm not about to fall for something so obvious, no matter how much he provokes me.

Besides, I've already been determined to win—even before this guy started babbling at me. Seriously, seriously.

"It's about time we begin."

When Mr. Sasaki said that, I jumped to my feet.

"Hey, do your best. No matter what happens, I've got your back."

From behind me, I heard the grumpy old man's encouraging voice—unwelcome, yet oddly comforting.

A faint itching sensation tickled my cheeks, as if something was crawling there.

"Thanks, I guess."

I muttered back in a voice barely audible, barely there.