Chapter XI: Thus, Johann Geistmann Declares War (1/3)

9:12 AM

The panic caused by Haruki and Keiko's deaths that I orchestrated yesterday is finally beginning to subside, bringing a semblance of normalcy. Overall, everyone remains quite frightened, but they are now at a point where Mikoto might regain control over them.

Just like me, their alternate versions in other timelines have witnessed so many deaths that it feels routine to their subconscious. The weight of countless worlds pulls them back to normality, to inertia.

However, not everyone is so susceptible to this behavioral anomaly.

"Hey, Miyu-chan, are you okay?" Shou asks.

"Oh, yes. Why do you ask, Shimizu-kun?" Miyu responds, her gaze distant.

"It's just that you seem so distracted. Are you sure nothing's wrong? The other girls weren't giving you a hard time, were they? If they were, just let me know, and I'll teach those punks a lesson!"

"Don't worry, they didn't do anything to me. I'm just a bit thoughtful about what happened yesterday. But it's nothing serious—I just need to recover from the shock. Kobayashi-san was someone I occasionally talked to... and finding her like that..." she says slowly, avoiding his gaze.

"I understand," he sighs. "I'm also upset about it. After all, it was all so sudden. Until the day before yesterday, everything was fine..."

Apparently, she hasn't said anything about it. If she stays quiet until tomorrow, that's enough for me.

"Well, according to what was said over the loudspeakers, there are only two days left—today and tomorrow. So we just need to stay alert until then, and we'll finally be free," Manabu comments.

"Yes. But I think we can feel a bit more reassured about it. According to the rumors being spread, it seems Kaichou will handle the situation."

I see. So those two must already be planning something to confront the fourth player.

"Do you really think she will? Up until yesterday, the council's image was pretty tarnished. Do they even have the strength for it? And with so many losses, do you think she alone can turn the situation around? Personally, I wouldn't even know where to start."

"So, Manabu, what I'm about to tell you is a bigger twist than the ones you're always talking about reading in your manga. Remember the origin of this black eye and the bruises we both got the day before yesterday?" he points to the injury on his face.

"How could I forget... We looked like extras getting beat up by an overpowered character. We were literally used as punching bags," he turns to me. "You really owe us for that, Jocchi," he touches the bandages.

"Good point. I was already forgetting why we got into that mess. When we get out of here, you owe us lunch, Johann."

"Sure, no problem," I reply.

"But putting Johann's debt aside, what if I told you that pandemonium is working for Kaichou?" Shou laughs. "What would you conclude?"

"Just imagining the consequences gives me chills," Manabu shivers and starts trembling.

"Fortunately, we're not their enemies... But knowing they're both hunting the killer makes me feel much more at ease. Don't you think it's great, Miyu-chan? They'll definitely solve the case!"

Miyu remains silent, staring at the floor.

If you observe her closely, you can notice a slight trembling in her hands and legs. Evidently, another issue occupies her mind now. I know exactly what it is. However, I don't see any reason for this anxiety attack of hers—just do as I say, and nothing bad will happen to you.

So what exactly is your problem, Miyu? Am I not a good friend because of this?

"Miyu-chan?! What's wrong? Spacing out again?" Shou nudges her.

"Oh, what? Sorry, I wasn't paying attention to the conversation. Could you repeat the question?" she responds, startled.

"Geez, are you daydreaming or something?" he stares at her incredulously.

"And you, Jocchi? You're quieter than usual. Still not over getting rejected twice?" Manabu changes the subject.

Keeping this joke alive might be a good way to help cover things up.

"Yeah... That really hit me hard. I think I'll never give love another chance. Anyway, the problem wasn't the rejections themselves, but what happened afterward."

"Eh? I told you 3D girls are treacherous, but you still fell for Shoucchi's ploy! Next time, listen to my advice."

"You're right, Manabu. That was my first and last attempt to open up to someone," I respond, feigning disappointment.

"That has nothing to do with it, Manabu. It's a risk like any other. So, who rejected you?" Shou replies, then realizes something. "Hey, wait... Don't tell me this is related to the beating we took because of you? Was it?"

"Yes, she and the president rejected me," I sigh. "I'm really a hopeless fool. I thought I should give my feelings a chance, but I see I should've stayed isolated."

"What?! You must've hit your head somewhere to aim for two big catches like that. What were you thinking? Not even I, the master of seduction, dared to pursue either of them. And you, an amateur, tried for both at the same time?! On the same day?!" Shou exclaims indignantly.

"I completely agree. I don't know what drove me to make such an irrational decision. Maybe the chance of being the next victim scrambled my head, forcing me to confess to someone extraordinary like them before dying. However, rushing like that didn't help at all."

During our lighthearted conversation, Shou leans closer and whispers in my ear.

"By the way, about my suspicion?"

"It led nowhere. Takashi wasn't responsible for the game. I was wrong in the end," I respond.

"Could it be that their mutual disdain for Jocchi united them to escape this dimension?" Manabu comments, laughing. "It's a valid hypothesis."

"Good observation, Manabu! That must be it!" Shou starts laughing.

Amidst the laughter, Miyu remains frozen, her gaze vacant. Slowly, she turns toward me but quickly averts her eyes. Naturally, she wouldn't want to make eye contact with me. As long as she stays silent, I don't mind.

10:49 AM

I walk through the corridors of the main block, searching for Ailiss and Mikoto to verify the rumors Shou mentioned. Suddenly, I feel someone tapping my back.

No way. Could those two have followed me here?

"Looking for someone?" I hear Mikoto's voice behind me.

I turn around and see her accompanied by Ailiss.

If they're together, it's clear the rumors are true.

"Oh, of course. I was just looking for you two," I reply, relieved.

"You could have waited for us in the student council room. We will be heading there soon. Or is this urgent?"

"It's nothing serious. To be honest, I just wanted to check how you were doing. I had a feeling something bad might've happened, but seeing you both well puts me at ease."

"You were worried about us? How adorable of you. Were you hoping to earn some points with that?" Mikoto teases, laughing. "What do you think, Ailiss?" she turns to her.

"That he should save his concern for doing his part of the job. I'm not seeing any progress from him," she leans against the wall, speaking in irritation.

My supposed good intentions were mocked by one and ultimately dismissed by the other. Yet, even amidst so many slights, I find myself liking them even more.

"By the way, after you left the student council last night, did you manage to uncover any further details about the fourth player to share with us?" Mikoto asks.

Of course... I've been so distracted by this whole situation that I forgot to refine my own lie further. I should have elaborated on it before coming to look for them. For now, the best course of action is to rely on my false premonitions.

"Sort of. In fact, the ominous feeling I had stemmed from a certain premonition. I believe the fourth player will reveal themselves publicly soon. I couldn't pinpoint the exact time, but it's a certainty."

"That is quite vague... It does not tell us much. Do you have any idea what we can do in advance? How should we prepare for their appearance?"

"I didn't have access to that kind of information in my premonition. So, all I can ask is that you stay vigilant."

"You don't need to state the obvious. I think we can't rely too much on these half-baked premonitions of yours," Ailiss retorts.

Sooner or later, they were bound to get frustrated with my stalling. But there's nothing I can do about that.

"My apologies. But as I mentioned earlier, my predictions are quite limited. That's why I plan to compensate by staying on constant watch."

"Fine. When you spot them, inform me immediately. I want to make them pay for stealing from me," she says, turning away in irritation.

Facing her wrath is a consequence I'll, unfortunately, have to bear sooner or later.

"Of course, I'll keep both of you informed at all times."

"Additionally, Ailiss and I need to schedule a general assembly. Since the killer did not act last night, the students' panic has subsided considerably from yesterday to today. However, maintaining order is still difficult with so much uncertainty," Mikoto adds.

If the two conduct the assembly together, I believe they won't encounter any problems. From what I vaguely recall, Mikoto's loss of control was caused precisely by actions taken by Ailiss. Now, with both cooperating, there's no enemy to sabotage the assembly. Everything seems to be falling into place.

"There are some cases of more severe panic, and I need to find a way to calm them down for good. Nakamura-san is one of them; after the deaths of Hasegawa-kun and Kobayashi-san, she is completely lost her footing," Mikoto continues.

Natsuki has been the most shaken witness to the deaths I orchestrated.

"I believe they just need a dose of reality to stop this tantrum. People die—they need to accept it and move forward, focusing on their own survival. Otherwise, they'll meet the same end as the others," Ailiss comments.

"Unfortunately, not everyone has this perspective. Generally, we are weak and let our emotions take over. However, as I suggested, perhaps your harsher worldview could inspire them to adopt it," Mikoto replies.

"Hey, don't push the responsibility of training this bunch of cowards onto me," Ailiss retorts.

I'd like to spend more time talking with the two of them... However, the more I leave them alone, the more they'll trust each other. I should take my leave here and plan my finale tomorrow.

"Well, I see you're both quite busy with the student council organization. I'll stop disturbing you. We can discuss more after the assembly."

"Now that you mention it, after the assembly, we need to figure out how lunch will be handled. Even if we regain their trust, being responsible for the food after yesterday's incident will be tricky. They will certainly be suspicious of its safety," Mikoto says, touching her lips thoughtfully.

"Naturally, I'd be suspicious in their place, too. Perhaps allowing access to the kitchen and letting everyone prepare something themselves is the best option. That way, there will be greater oversight of the food," Ailiss suggests.

The natural ease with which they converse continues to impress me. This is definitely not the posture of two people who were mortal enemies.

"That is an excellent strategy. Additionally, you have given me a great idea. This way, we will have lunchtime free. Since you recently arrived in Japan, I imagine you have not tried many dishes yet. Have you ever had onigiri?"

"No, why?"

"Because my mother's recipe is the best. So, would you like me to make lunch for us?" she asks with a playful smile.

Is this really Mikoto? The atmosphere between the two has completely shifted. Not only are they no longer hostile, but they're acting in an almost gentle manner—a behavior I'd never have imagined possible for them.

It almost feels as if they're being subtly influenced toward this pattern.

"How generous of you. It almost seems like there's an ulterior motive. What do you hope to gain? Planning to poison me?" Ailiss teases.

"Oh, do not be so shy. What reason would I have for doing something like that, besides you having previously tried to assassinate me?"

"Plenty."

To be honest, considering someone as cold as Mikoto, this kind of gesture is highly suspicious.

"But yes, I do have a motive: If you approve of my cooking and I ever visit Europe, I will expect you to do the same for me. I will demand you prepare a specialty from your region."

"So that's all? I was expecting a more dramatic twist. I could even help you with something during your visit. But believe me, you wouldn't want me cooking for you—I'm saying this for your own good," Ailiss sighs. "If you think it's a fair trade, I accept your offer."

"It is definitely not a fair trade. But fine, it is better than nothing," Mikoto replies, slightly disappointed.

"You don't have to do it if you don't want to. I have nothing to offer you in return anyway," Ailiss says, noticing Mikoto's discontent.

"I already said I will do it. I am just not used to doing favors without bargaining for something in return. In my selfish worldview, I still think I am at a disadvantage, but in theory, that is how best friends behave, is it not?" Mikoto grabs Ailiss's arm, and they start walking away together.

Best friends? Things have genuinely progressed far beyond what I could have imagined.

"I'm not sure. It probably is... But don't you think it's a bit reckless? Shouldn't we be looking for the fourth player?" Ailiss asks.

"You are right. Normally, I would be the first to make an observation like yours. However, considering the worst-case scenario, I fear we might not have another opportunity to unwind alongside a friend if we leave this for later. And anyway, for now, we have Johann to cover this task."

"Indeed, Mistkerl can handle it."

I'm glad they're getting along, but... do they really have to treat me like a servant? If the fourth player actually existed, they'd likely throw me to my death without hesitation.

"Hey, is the onigiri lunch going to be in the council room?" I ask.

"Perhaps, but as far as I remember, I only invited Ailiss to have lunch with me," Mikoto responds.

I guess I've been wholly excluded. But that's how it needs to be in the end. I don't know if we'll have more lighthearted conversations like this before my requiem.