Part 371: How to Avoid Becoming a Snarling Dog

The meeting between Shichireiri and "Hon" was simple—so simple it wasn't even worth mentioning to others.

I was walking aimlessly down the road when I stumbled upon it lying on the ground.

Curious, I picked it up.

When I looked inside, I saw a single line written on the first page.

To the one who doesn't want to be a bite-and-release dog

And.

That's all there is to it.

▼

The wind howled loudly.

Neruri looked down at the woman before her, her fingers curling tightly around the area near her chest, near her heart.

Calm down, calm down, this fleeting infatuation.

Love between men and women is but temporary. Anyone who has seen parents divorce knows this truth clearly.

True, worthy love is—family affection.

It was "Nameless" who spoke first.

"First, I have a question."

"Yes?"

"Where did you obtain that book?"

"You should already know."

"…'Achievement Reward'?"

Deliberately not responding. Just bluffing. I don't need her, already strong enough, to become any more of a hassle.

"Conditions?"

I can't say it.

She sighed, her expression unreadable.

Staring into her mesmerizing eyes made me feel extremely uneasy.

It's as if everything is being seen through.

"Or the other one"

What is it?

"Are you seriously planning to fight me while holding that book in one hand?"

Yes

"Even in the heat of battle, they can't put down a strategy guide. Is this the trend among gamers these days?"

"Nameless" crossed his arms, scowling.

Honestly, that's not acceptable. It's precisely because of this kind of thinking that people lose the ability to think for themselves?

And makes a slightly dull observation.

Riru knew that her composed, aloof demeanor was precisely what made her strong.

I'm the type who builds strategies based on accurate information.

You're not really bothered by spoilers, huh?

Yeah, well. I usually read through the entire synopsis and walkthrough wiki before playing a game.

No way. You must really get emotionally invested in characters.

I don't really get emotionally involved in stories like that.

A wry smile.

Honestly, this conversation has strayed way off track now.

Still, if she's willing to buy me some time, that would be a great help for me.

Normally, I'd adjust my story to match a date, but this time, I deliberately chose to present a different opinion from hers, just to prolong the conversation.

"Games are ultimately just communication tools for connecting with people. I don't mind watching dramas at double speed, you know. I just want to get through the content as quickly as possible."

"Hmm."

She puckered her lips and looked up at me with narrowed eyes.

"We might need to have a proper conversation someday, you and I."

"Haha..."

I knew, all too well, that day would never come.

Probably not ever.

▼

Two.

Two strategies had been proposed to keep her around.

Riru was focusing one eye on the "Nameless" guide and the other on the "攻略本" (Strategy Guide), automatically absorbing its content into her mind.

"BOSS: 'Nameless High School Girl' Battle.

Unlike previous bosses, this enemy boasts terrifying combat prowess.

It seems like a losing battle from the start—victory is impossible with conventional tactics, and even defeat doesn't halt the story progression. Yet, surprisingly, victory is possible if you apply a specific strategy."

The key is that this battle has a time limit, yet victory is still possible even through direct confrontation.

For detailed strategy on defeating the "Nameless JK," please refer to page 109.

● "Nameless JK" Victory Reward

"Unreal Kingdom" Reputation (+20)

"National Defense Corps" Reputation (+10)

Trusted Relationship with Reika (Cooperation → Friendship)

100,000 VP Points

Early Revival of Shichireiran

※Note that taking hostile actions against "Nameless JK" at this point will completely abandon the romantic route. If you wish to enjoy date events with her, be sure to cooperate with "Nameless JK."

▼

Be still.

Be still, my own feelings.

The information written in the "End of the World" guidebook is absolute.

This book possesses the power to foresee the future.

Moreover...

There is one scenario that must absolutely be avoided.

The route by which the Soul Restoration Machine is destroyed.

If we win this battle, at least that outcome should be avoidable.

With resolve in her heart, Shichireiri opens to page 109.

So she will never become a mere decoy.