kscans

Chapter 502 - Departure

Even without any specific plans, three days fly by in an instant when you're moving between two worlds.

In the virtual world, I spent my time doing this and that—training, making adjustments, and so on. In the real world, I studied as much as possible to minimize the fool I'd make of myself for my upcoming 'temporary tutor.'

I'd aimed for a decent, comfortable score on my high school entrance exams, so this was only the second time in my life I'd switched on and really applied myself… but my concentration just couldn't match what it was when I was pouring my heart and soul into aiming for Arcadia.

Looking back now, my part-time warrior self must have been a little crazy. Here in the real world, I crammed various things into a brain that was only slightly better at memorizing than the average person.

It's at times like these that I realize just how ridiculous the 'memory' gift my other self possesses is. For humans, the ability to 'remember' is the foundation of 'growth,' an element that's arguably connected to every other ability.

If it existed as a skill, it would be called, in a word, "broken."

No wonder people say my movements are bizarre or that I'm insane. I'll just have to keep honing my combat skills so I'm not seen as someone just coasting on an advantage others don't have, and live up to my name as the Acrobat—

—Alright, enough of these completely pointless thoughts to calm my nerves. It's time to focus on the reality that's currently unfolding.

So, let me introduce the members gathered in this enclosed space known as a car.

"Well now, it's been a while since I've driven this long. I'm raring to go."

First up, the man who offered to be our driver: Yotsuya's Assistant Representative, Chitose Kazuharu.

As for where this 'trip' was taking us, it turned out to be a remote part of Niigata Prefecture. It was a surprisingly normal destination… I'd been worried he'd spring some literally high-flying program on us, like an overseas trip, so I was honestly relieved.

And so, because Tokyo to Niigata is such an exquisitely awkward distance—

"Saying you're 'raring to go' while holding the steering wheel is kinda scary."

"Don't worry. I have three young ladies on board; I'll be driving safer than I ever have in my life."

As he said, he'd volunteered to transport the 'three young ladies,' who would likely attract a lot of attention, to our destination without incident. Whether we took a bus, train, or plane, it was obvious they'd stand out.

—Which automatically reveals the remaining three people.

"…………"

Following me, the second person, settled in the passenger seat, was number three.

In the far-right of the three-row back seat, that is, behind the driver's seat, sleeping soundly, was the Sword Queen, Iris, also known as Alicia White.

Just like Goldow, who had given us all a break, she must have been busy with various things as a faction leader. When we met this morning, she had seemed unusually tired.

It was possible she had pushed herself to make time for the trip starting today. I'll have to make sure to look after her whenever I can during our vacation.

And, number four.

"……………………"

Next to Ashe, sandwiched in the middle, with an indescribable expression on her face, was the lady Liliania Vroubel, also known as Milmarinus.

In the real world, she wore her usually down hair in a soft updo, and her vibrant summer dress was nothing short of lovely, but… that look on her face. So stiff.

I understand she's nervous, surrounded by a princess and a beautiful girl she's meeting for the first time, but not even an exam candidate looks that grim. The drive is expected to take just under four hours; I worried she might pass out before we even arrive.

Maybe I should check on her during one of the breaks.

And last, number five.

"…………………………!"

All traces of the nervousness she'd shown when meeting Ashe and Nia just a few minutes ago were gone.

We hadn't even left the city yet. Despite the uninteresting scenery, my partner, Sora Yotsuya, continued to gaze out the window with sparkling eyes.

She was dressed in a classic ojou-sama style: a thin blouse with a summer jacket, and a somewhat classical midi skirt. Nia's fashion sense was also in that vein, but Sora's… how to put it, had a strong 'authentic' feel to it that was obvious at a glance.

It wasn't that Nia didn't seem like a young lady—well, in terms of demeanor, Nia honestly had zero ojou-sama-ness—but no one would look at Sora and think she was an ordinary person. She exuded an elegance that couldn't be hidden.

I haven't heard the details, so this is just a guess, but the fact that the daughter of the White family, who I assume is on par with Sora, is dressed in a simple shirt and pants combo makes Sora stand out even more.

…Though it has to be said, the 'princess' who shines with a brilliance that rivals, if not surpasses, the other two even in such a plain, unadorned, simple outfit is truly in a league of her own.

At any rate, my overall assessment.

"—There's no doubt that at this very moment, this is the rearview mirror reflecting the most 'splendid sight' in the world…"

"…No doubt about it. It's an honor."

Though my quiet murmur probably didn't reach the back of the spacious car, the driver next to me caught it and laughed in amusement.

As for my cute partner, who seemed to be in exceptionally high spirits… I'll have to keep an eye on her so she doesn't get too carried away and wear herself out.

Well, in any case—

"It looks like it'll be a smooth and fun (read: chaotic) trip."

"Sounds good, doesn't it? Go on and enjoy your youth to the fullest."

For the next week, there wouldn't be a single dull moment, no matter how you sliced it.