Interlude 2-11: An Invitation and Thoughts on Players and Dungeons
After the feeding game between Takakai and Maki ended, the two stayed in the woods a little longer, getting closer and playfully teasing each other. Eventually, Maki had to leave first to return to class.
Takakai felt a little regretful—having their time together interrupted was always frustrating. But for Maki, it was probably for the best. Just like during their previous dates, Takakai would start getting handsy as they talked, constantly trying to kiss her, hold her hand, touch her waist, or stroke her thighs.
This guy… why is he always so insatiable? Are men's desires really this strong?!
Shiomiya Maki grumbled inwardly, feeling both annoyed and embarrassed. Yet, at the same time, there was a faint reluctance to leave, an indescribable feeling that almost wished he would go even further.
Come to think of it, his actions today felt even harder to resist than usual.
Sitting in the classroom at Shuchi'in Academy, Maki absentmindedly listened to the teacher's lecture while recalling Takakai's behavior earlier in the woods. Something felt different.
When his hands had stroked her waist, when his fingers had lightly traced her thighs—though he had done these things before, today they felt strangely more intense, making her heart race uncontrollably, as if her entire body was trembling.
Why did it feel like this today?
It was as if his technique had changed somehow. But why would it suddenly change?
Shiomiya Maki was deeply puzzled.
And it wasn't just his touch. Even when they kissed, it felt different from before.
Takakai had always kissed her aggressively, often leaving her breathless. But today, he was much more restrained, matching her pace and making the experience strangely more enjoyable, sending her heart into overdrive.
So why the sudden change?
The girl couldn't help but think of the obnoxious butterfly-bow-wearing woman who had been clinging to Takakai—Fujiwara Chika.
It can't be…
No matter how she looked at it, Fujiwara had only known Takakai for a few days. And Shinomiya Kaguya had mentioned that Fujiwara had no romantic experience—there was no way she could have taught Takakai any kissing or touching techniques. Impossible! Absolutely impossible!
Repeating this to herself, Maki's thoughts had completely drifted away from the lesson.
As for Takakai, who had remained in the woods, he had been about to return to the security booth when Hayasaka Ai suddenly stepped out from the trees and stopped him.
"Oh, you finally showed up. I thought you were planning to stalk us a little longer, Shinomiya family's maid."
Takakai spoke casually, not at all surprised.
"...You knew I was here?"
Hayasaka's eyes widened slightly. She had thought she'd hidden herself well, but it seemed he had noticed her the whole time.
But then again, this was the same man who had easily shaken her off when she tried tailing him a month ago. Despite appearing ordinary, his physical abilities and perception were undoubtedly at the peak of human capability. He was someone she could never afford to underestimate.
"Takakai-san, the elders of the Shinomiya family would like to invite you for a discussion tonight. Would you be willing to accept?"
Keeping her expression neutral, Hayasaka bowed slightly and spoke respectfully.
"An invitation?"
Takakai blinked in surprise.
Being familiar with the Kaguya-sama universe, he knew exactly who Hayasaka was representing.
So the Shinomiya brothers are making their move? But I haven't done anything noteworthy yet. Why are they suddenly reaching out? And this is definitely being kept from Kaguya, right? Normally, they wouldn't use Hayasaka so casually. What's their angle here?
"Kaguya doesn't know about this, does she?"
Not one to beat around the bush, Takakai looked straight at the golden-haired girl and asked directly.
"...No. This invitation comes from the Shinomiya elders. Please… do not inform Lady Kaguya of this matter."
Hayasaka bowed even lower, though her voice remained steady.
"Tonight, huh? What time exactly? And where?"
Takakai watched her reaction silently before continuing.
"7 PM. East Tower, 19th floor, Room 8."
Hayasaka answered calmly.
"Hmm, alright. I'll drop by then."
Takakai nodded casually, not particularly concerned.
Unless one of Kaguya's brothers turned out to be a Player, they were just ordinary people. Back when he had just cleared the Shirakawa Apartments, Takakai might have still been at risk of being captured by normal means. But now? He had no such worries. Even against a fully armed military unit, he was confident in escaping—or even defeating them outright.
Now, the one looking for me is probably Shinomiya Un'yo or one of the other brothers, right? Takakai's impression of them wasn't particularly deep. He just remembered them as scheming corporate types from the series.
What do they even want from me? Is this one of those "dinner invitation to recruit a subordinate" clichés?
If that really was the case… Well, I should probably give Kaguya a heads-up first. If things go south and I end up having to eliminate her brother, it'd be awkward if she wasn't prepared. Better to keep her in the loop so she can decide whether to follow procedure or start planning the funeral.
With that thought, Takakai walked out of the woods and returned to the security booth.
The security booth at Shuchi'in Academy was spacious—practically a fully furnished one-bedroom apartment, a far cry from the cramped shack in Red Nut Gray Cave. Inside, two other guards were already present. They exchanged greetings, introduced themselves, and then went about their own business without interfering with each other.
These guards seemed highly trained. Though they didn't stand out, Takakai could tell they'd be formidable in a fight.
But to him? They were nothing more than...