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Hakuouki SSL: Chapter 1 (Saitou)

Here is the translation for chapter 1 of Saitou’s route! Translating was done by shizuumi and yuugs. Proofreading by shizuumi, kuririn, and dei-hime.

Translation begins under the cut! You can also find it at our blog!

―― June ――

As the calendar turns to the next page, our uniforms turn to summer ones as well.

In April and May, I was so desperate to get used to high school life that the months just flew by….

‘Lately, I think I’ve finally made a place for myself in my life at Hakuo Academy.’

Of course, it was still an environment meant for boys, so I still felt a little out of place. But thanks to my reliable friends and teachers, I was living a fulfilling life at school——

Two months had passed since I began high school. It was a clear and sunny morning in June. When I came to school, immediately after entering the building, the first thing I felt was an odd atmosphere.

As I climbed the stairs, just as I turned onto the landing——

Chizuru Yukimura: “Wah!?”

???: “Ah!”

I collided with the student rushing around the corner, and ended up falling on my butt.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Ow…"

Susumu Yamazaki: “Yukimura-kun? Sorry…”

Hajime Saitou: “I told you not to rush, Yamazaki. Are you alright, Yukimura?”

I looked up into two faces I recognized. Saitou-senpai was holding a textbook under one arm. He held out his hand to me.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Ah… yes, I’m alright."

Trying not to overthink it, I grabbed his hand and he pulled me upright.

Chizuru Yukimura: ”…Thank you for that.“

Chizuru Yukimura:: "I’m sorry, Yamazaki-senpai. I wasn’t being careful.”

As I bowed deeply to the two of them, I noticed a second year textbook had fallen to the floor.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Isn’t this your textbook, Yamazaki-senpai?”

Susumu Yamazaki: “O-Oh, did I drop it? …I didn’t notice. Thanks.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “……”

Something was off. Yamazaki’-senpai’s eyes had kind of a glazed look, and there were dark circles underneath them. Saitou-senpai also looked tired.

‘This seems…’

[Are you alright?] or [Are you not getting enough sleep?]

Chizuru Yukimura: “Um...are the two of you alright?”

Hajime Saitou: "...Us? Why do you ask?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “I might be jumping to conclusions, but….you look really sick.”

Susumu Yamazaki: “No...we’re fine. Don’t worry about us. Saitou-kun and I, see, late into the night, we’ve each been...um...well, we didn’t get much sleep last night.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “I don’t really get it, but if you two are having a rough time, it’s would be best to take a break in the infirmary—”

Susumu Yamazaki: “No! I can’t rest! This next class is the one I’m most worried about.”

Hajime Saitou: “Indeed, Chemistry is expected to be particularly difficult this time around. You’ll regret it if you don’t thoroughly prepare.”

Susumu Yamazaki: “Exactly. Although I’d like to rest... In any case, thank you for worrying about us, Yukimura-kun.”

With that, the two of them wandered staggering, down the stairs to the floor below. It made me worry for them in another way entirely; they were sure to run into someone again in that state.

Chizuru Yukimura: “They’re both studying so much they look sick.”

Was their class really that important…? I watched their weary figures until they disappeared down the hall before continuing on my own way.

All morning, the school had been filled with chattering students. The hallway before the classrooms was especially lively. Maybe it was because classes hadn’t started yet. Having gotten to know them over the last two months, I exchanged greetings with my classmates in the hall as I headed to my classroom. On the way, I saw familiar faces in the distance and suddenly stopped in my tracks.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai?"

I thought that was a freshman classroom. Why would two sophomores be there? It would be time for Homeroom soon…

[Call out to them] or [Leave them alone]

Chizuru Yukimura: "I've heard those two are often running late...Yeah, I'll leave them be."

I decided to watch them go on their way without a word, passing up the chance to talk with them.

When I entered the classroom, I took out my textbook and notebook to get ready for class. The bell rang as soon as I’d finished, and I heard the sound of the door opening.

Sanosuke Harada: “Take your seats, guys. Homeroom’s starting.”

As Harada-sensei came in, everyone rushed to their seats.

Classmate A: “Stand! Bow!”

Sanosuke Harada: “All right, morning!”

Everyone in class: “Good morning!”

Sanosuke Harada: “Time for attendance…is what I was going to say, but it seems like everyone’s here. Raise a hand if not.”

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “You can’t do that if you’re not here…”

Ibuki-kun startled me by suddenly speaking up. A laugh escaped me before I could stop myself. Harada-sensei did make jokes like this at times. He really was a friendly, kind teacher.

Sanosuke Harada: “Now then, you all started school two months ago, and now it’s June. With that being the case…Though you might already know this, our school’s midterm exams start in two weeks! Make sure to study diligently, you guys. Put your feet up and slack off, and who knows what horrors you might be tempting?”

Harada-sensei smirked as if he knew something we didn’t.

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Horrors…?”

Sanosuke Harada: “If you think this’ll be the same as tests back in middle school, you’ll be in for a bad time. As you all know, Hakuo Academy has a teacher that’s much more passionate about educating its students than other schools do.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Passionate about educating, meaning–”

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “…It’s Hijikata-sensei, isn’t it?”

Sanosuke Harada: “Well, so it goes. Following a certain teacher’s suggestion, there’ll be penalties for students with lower scores. Those scoring less than 50% in a subject will receive a special homework assignment, and must clean all the school’s windows.“

Everyone in class: ”……“

As Harada-sensei with his explanation, everyone in class got paler and paler.

Sanosuke Harada: “Below 30% gets you cleaning corridors on top of the additional homework… And below that, the punishments get extra special.”

Chizuru Yukimura: ”'Special,’ he says…“

Sanosuke Harada: "Below 20% means doing a problem set, weeding the school yard, and a week of additional classes!”

Classmate A: “Whaaaaat?!”

Sanosuke Harada: “Sorry, but it’s already set in stone. Don’t like it? Then study like there’s no tomorrow. I don’t think anyone should get lower than 50%. If you study then you’ll be in the clear, right?”

While listening to Harada-sensei, I recalled what happened this morning. The reason why Saitou-senpai and Yamazaki-senpai seemed so off was probably this.

Chizuru Yukimura: “……”

While I didn’t mind studying, there was no way I’d want extra homework.

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “What would that guy do to me if I got myself stuck in supplemental classes…?!” Ibuki’s face drained of all color, and he hung his head.

This was going to be difficult. I would have to brace myself… The midterm exams would begin the week after next. Although I had thought June’s hardships were over, the real battle was just around the corner.

“Phew...” with all the meal sets having such big portions, I was full before I even realized it.

I started heading back to my classroom before lunch ended. I was walking down the hallway feeling content, when…

???: “Your expression is especially foolish today, Chizuru.”

I looked back in confusion to see Kaoru and Saitou-senpai standing side by side.

Chizuru Yukimura: “H-Hello, Saitou-senpai. And Kaoru…”

Kaoru Nagumo: “That’s some greeting. From your tone, it sounds as if you’re unhappy to see me.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “I didn’t mean it like that… but, um, was I really making such a strange face?”

Kaoru Nagumo: “Yes, an unbearably stupid one. Honestly, I’m saying this as your brother: it’s deplorable.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Ugh…”

Hajime Saitou: “...Yukimura, mind him. Nagumo is putting it a bit too harshly.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “You think so...?”

Hajime Saitou: “I do. I haven’t thought such a thing about your expression even once today. If I had to put it into words, I’d say you looked remarkably happy just nowー”

Kaoru Nagumo: “That’s a rather mild way to put it. Just tell it to her straight: her face looked like the lights were on, but no one was home.”

Hajime Saitou: “T-That’s not true. Although she looked a little inattentive, nevertheless…”

I couldn’t keep myself composed as they commented back and forth on my expression. I spoke up, hoping to change the subject:

Chizuru Yukimura: “M-more importantlyー have you gotten close with Saitou-senpai, Kaoru? You hang out during lunch, and seem to get along.”

Kaoru wasn’t a people person by any stretch, so I was glad he found such a nice senior to get along with. Kaoru just snorted at my relieved expression.

Kaoru Nagumo: “That’s rich. But I’d appreciate it if you stopped misunderstanding and making your mind up about my business without my asking you to.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “What…?”

Kaoru Nagumo: “I’m not buddy-buddy with this guy, okay? Not now, and not ever. If I didn’t have tedious work to do for the disciplinary committee again today, I’d have no reason to spend time with him.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Hey, now…. You’ll offend Saitou-senpai if you keep talking like that.”

Before Kaoru could respond to my admonishing him, Saitou-senpai shook his head.

Hajime Saitou: “I appreciate your concern, but you don’t need to worry about it.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Saitou-senpai…”

Hajime Saitou: “He’s always like this.”

It was as if he could do nothing but resign himself to the idea that even remarking on it would be pointless. And in the end, it seemed like the senpai-kouhai divide also kept them apart. But I still thought Kaoru’s attitude was a problem. ...But what could I do about it?

[Scold him seriously.] or [Just leave it at that.]

Chizuru Yukimura: “Kaoru. You shouldn’t take advantage of Saitou-senpai’s tolerance like that.”

Kaoru Nagumo: “...Hm?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Even you wouldn’t like other people talking about you the way you have been about him, right?”

Kaoru’s eyes widened in surprise, but he wouldn’t back down. Far from it…

Kaoru Nagumo: “Like I care. If we’re talking about failings, you’re worse than I am.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “M-Me?”

Kaoru rattled on without pause.

Kaoru Nagumo: “You should be more aware of the school’s disciplinary measures. Are you even preparing for the tests properly?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “I-I’m going to from now onー”

Kaoru Nagumo: “Not to mention all the weirdos hanging around you. If you don’t get yourself togetherー”

Hajime Saitou: “Nagumo. Yukimura’s not a child. There’s no need to nitpick so much.”

Kaoru Nagumo: “Would the outsider mind keeping out of this? We’re siblings, and this is a family matter.”

Despite Saitou-senpai throwing me a lifeline, Kaoru wouldn’t stop. I couldn’t get a word in edgewise with the way he was carrying on. It felt like he was going to drag it out to no end, butー

[Stand firm and retort] or [Accept his words sincerely]

Chizuru Yukimura: “You’ve got lots to say about me, but what about yourself, Kaoru?!”

Kaoru Nagumo: “Whaー”

I couldn’t just let him walk all over me. Fixing my gaze on him and steeling my voice, I fired my own retort back at him.

Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m happy you’re worried about me, but what about you? Have you been studying properly?”

Kaoru Nagumo: “A-Are you trying to lecture me here? You’ve got some real nerve, consideringー”

Chizuru Yukimura: “That’s not what I’m trying to do. It’s hard balancing committee work with your studies, right? I just want you to look after yourself properly, too. That’s all.”

Kaoru Nagumo: “You don't need to look after me. Just leave me alone.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “But you’re my brother. It’s not a matter of ‘needing to’ or not. And furthermore, I decide who my friends are. I don’t know what you think of them, but I’ll be the one to decide whether they’re weirdos or not.”

Kaoru Nagumo: “......”

Chizuru Yukimura: “S-So, um...you should also stop trying to push everyone away, and try getting to know them better instead…”

On the other hand, I wondered whether Kaoru would even consider what I was saying after already berating me so much...but it felt like I had finally managed to express myself. In response, Kaoru said:

Kaoru Nagumo: “If you so want to disregard my advice, then that’s fine by me. And same with your weirdo friends. Make as many as you want. See if I care!”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Wh-What...?!”

But Kaoru turned away from me and all but sprinted off down the hall. He ran the length of the hallway and disappeared around the corner. Just like that, he vanished from my sight.

Chizuru Yukimura: “...Honestly.”

Hajime Saitou: “......”

Chizuru Yukimura: “...!!” What an embarrassing sibling fight, and Saitou-senpai witnessed it from start to finish. “I-I’m so sorry, Saitou-senpai…!”

Hajime Saitou: “There’s nothing for you to apologize for. Naturally, I won’t make fun of you for it, either. Rather, it has only revealed a misunderstanding in my initial impression of you.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Impression… of me?”

Hajime Saitou: “Yes. I had assumed you were more of a meek sort who would quietly endure a scolding. But it seems that I was mistaken. You truly stand your ground, no matter what.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “O-oh…”

I was very happy to hear Saitou-senpai speaking so highly of me...but when I thought about how I had just acted, I couldn’t help but feel embarrassed.

Hajime Saitou: Well, like you said, Nagumo’s attitude is fairly problematic. However, he’s doing his committee work diligently, despite appearances. So, you don’t have to worry. It’ll be alright. I’m sure he’ll do well, in his own way.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Saitou-senpai…”

Hajime Saitou: “...Although, it will likely be hard for him to make friends, seeing how he doesn’t wish to. Seeing you patiently and earnestly trying to persuade him, trying to get him to follow your lead; I think it could make a difference for him.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “...Thank you.”

I was so happy, hearing Saito-senpai’s words, that a smile naturally came to my face. Having a proper talk with Kaoru was a good idea after all. I’m really glad we did.

Hajime Saitou: “......”

Chizuru Yukimura: “...? Is something wrong?”

Hajime Saitou: “...Having siblings must be nice. It seems like you’re able to be yourself and show your true feelings when you’re talking with Kaoru. I...suppose I’m a little jealous that you can be that genuine, perhaps…”

Saitou-senpai gave me a vague smile, and said nothing more.

After that, he and I parted ways, and I walked back to my classroom at a brisk pace.

_ _

As the days went by, the older students, who already knew how severe the penalties were, grew more and more desperate. Seeing them also made us grow more anxious as well, as freshmen. The strange tension that enveloped Hakuo Academy just kept growing stronger.

And then…

―― 7 days until the tests ――

While we studied for our tests day after day, Harada-sensei looked around at our exhausted faces and grinned from his podium.

Sanosuke Harada: “Looking good, guys. It looks like you lot finally understand how serious we are about our tests.”

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “What does he mean, 'looking good’? This is just agony…”

Sanosuke Harada: “Hey, don’t say that. It’s not like I don’t get what you’re going through. Just think of this as a rite of passage. This is what you signed up for enrolling into Hakuo Academy. There’s no turning back now. Anyway, just do your best.”

Everyone in class: ”……“

What he said was irrefutably correct. Everyone lost the will to argue, and went silent.

_ _

―― 6 days until the tests ――

That day, I ran into Kazama-senpai in the corridor without expecting to. Naturally, Amagiri-senpai

and Shiranui-senpai were shadowing him, as usual.

Chikage Kazama: “Chizuru. Less than a week remains until testing begins. Are you studying properly?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “I am. I’m working at my own pace, and it’s going fairly well, I think…”

'How about you, Kazama-senpai?’ …I felt like I didn’t even need to ask. Why? Because he seemed plenty calm as a smug smile spreading across his face.

Chikage Kazama: “These students growing so flustered over mere high school tests is truly unsightly. Don’t you think so?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Uh… T-That’s…”

Kyou Shiranui: "Uh, no, 'cause high school students are bound to freak out over high school tests. Rather than unsightly, it’s just normal.

Kyuuju Amagiri: ”…Kazama-sama. If we do not depart soon, you will be late for your next lesson.“

Chikage Kazama: “Hmph. Whether or not I attend any classes, there’s not a single thing the test will cover that I won’t understand… But very well. Let us show our faces in class for today. Well then, I bid you farewell.”

I was left standing alone in the hallway, overwhelmed as Kazama-senpai swaggered off with an arrogant look on his face.

_ _

―― 5 days until the tests ――

Chizuru Yukimura: “Good morning, Saitou-senpai.”

Hajime Saitou: “Is that you, Yukimura? Morning.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “You still have disciplinary committee work in the mornings even though we only have five days until the tests. That must be hard…”

Hajime Saitou: “No, it’s important to accumulate knowledge on a regular basis in order to study properly. So there’s no point in panicking just before a test.”

Just what you’d expect from Saitou-senpai…

Hajime Saitou: “However, all sports and culture clubs have suspended their activities for the tests. So since Heisuke’s not with you, he must be late. One strike for him.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “N-No, he’s on class duty today, so he should’ve arrived before me!”

Hajime Saitou: “Come to think of it, he might’ve passed by a short while ago…”

Looking at him more closely, I could see the dark bags under Saitou-senpai’s eyes. On the surface, he looked as dignified as ever, but his grip on his pen looked a little shaky, too. Perhaps Saitou-senpai was staying up late studying too…

_ _

―― 4 days until the tests ――

On Saturday, I was studying in my room, when suddenly my cell phone rang.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Okita-senpai…?”

‘A message with a picture attached, as usual. Let’s have a look…’

He was making a peace sign at the camera, with an odd-looking plushie hanging from his hand.

“I won a toy that I thought you’d like.

I’ll give it to you at school.

I’ll even bring it up to your classroom for you.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “……”

‘What kind of tastes does he think I have? Moreover…’

Chizuru Yukimura: “Even though it’s a Saturday with tests right around the corner, he still finds time to fool around!”

_ _

―― 3 days until the tests ――

It was Sunday morning.

I decided to do a little sweeping by the front door for a change of pace. At that moment, Heisuke-kun appeared, staggering.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Heisuke-kun?! Are you okay…!?”

Heisuke Toudou: “Chizuru… Mornin’…”

He had terrible, dark bags under his eyes and his eyes were hollow. He was so exhausted that he couldn’t even walk straight.

Heisuke Toudou: “I-I’m on the verge of falling asleep… So I’m running a lap around the block. Must…stay…awake…”

Chizuru Yukimura: “But if you don’t sleep a little, you won’t last until the test!"

Heisuke Toudou: "No way! I’m not done studying yet! I’ll totally flunk it!! Don’t stop me, Chizuru! Don’t stop me! I’m not ready to die yet!”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Wait, Heisuke-kun! A whole lap around the block is too much no matter how you look at it—”

I tried to stop him, but he’d already run off… While watching his disappearing figure staggering in zigzags down the road, I could only pray for his safety.

_ _

―― 2 days until the tests ――

During recess.

I gathered my class’s printouts and brought them to the staff room…

Toshizou Hijikata: “……”

Hijikata-sensei, looking particularly annoyed, was sighing deeply. He looked no better than the students, just as exhausted by pre-test frenzy.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Is something wrong, Hijikata-sensei?”

Toshizou Hijikata: “Those guys are so tired from cramming that they sleep through my classes. Because of them, I’m screaming my lungs out every morning. Classes are a key part of test preparations. Their priorities are all backwards!”

Chizuru Yukimura: “…You’ve been working really hard…”

I think they just stay up all night studying out of fear of punishment… Even though I understood Hijikata-sensei’s concerns, I couldn’t help but smile wryly.

―― At last, the day before the test ――

Chizuru Yukimura: “Finally, it’s tomorrow…”

At the end of the school day, while I was putting away my textbooks, I glanced to the desk beside mine…

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “……”

Ibuki-kun sat here, engrossed in his studies, showing no signs of getting up to go home.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Ibuki-kun, aren’t you going home?”

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “Ah… I wouldn’t be able to study even if I did. Since Serizawa-san’s there…”

Ibuki-kun often mentions him when we talk. It seems like he doesn’t get along with this ‘Serizawa-san’. With him looking so cornered, I could only bring a forced smile to my lips.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Do your best.”

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: “You too.”

He gave a little smile, and then, as if he were clinging onto his desk, dived back into his books for the test.

At that moment…

Chizuru Yukimura: “?”

I noticed my phone vibrating in my pocket and took it out. A message notification came up on my screen.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh, it’s from Osen-chan.”

Osen is my friend who attends Shimabara Girls’ High School not too far away from my academy.

—–

Sub: Will you be okay for the test?

Chizuru-chan, are you going to be okay for the tests?

I can’t take it anymore~!

I just want to run away from it all~!

But, after we get through these midterms, we definitely need to hang out!

I will survive them on your moral support, Chizuru-chan!!

—–

Chizuru Yukimura: “I see. They have tests at the same time as us. Shimabara High is a sister school to Hakuo Academy, come to think of it…”

“Jeez, Osen-chan…”

Having read her message, I decided to reply right away. ‘But what should I write?’

[I’m looking forward to it!] or [Let’s concentrate on studying!]

Chizuru Yukimura: “'I’m looking forward to it!’ …and send.”

I think it’s easier to persevere when there’s a prize waiting for you after all the struggle.

A short while after I sent it, Osen-chan replied.

—–

RE: Will you be okay for the test?

Definitely!

Let’s both do our best!

—–

Chizuru Yukimura: “Hehe…”

I could feel my motivation grow with Osen-chan cheering for me.

“Well, I should go over my notes one last time before the test…”

I finished getting ready and took my bag, leaving the classroom.

Then…

Chizuru Yukimura: “Woah!”

I had headed to the library with the intention of reviewing my notes one last time before the test… but it seemed like i wasn’t the only one. The library was extremely crowded.

Chizuru Yukimura: “What should I do…?”

I didn’t think I’d be able to concentrate with so many people around. I couldn’t even see a single free seat I could take anyway.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Should I study at home, then…?”

I gave up and left the library. Halfway through the entry hall, I came across a familiar face.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Good afternoon, Saitou-senpai.”

Hajime Saitou: “Oh, Yukimura. Are you heading home now?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Yes. I’d actually planned to stay at school and study before the test, but…”

After I told him the whole story, he went quiet for a moment.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Um...Saitou-senpai?”

Hajime Saitou: “I’ll just say, first, that this may be none of my business. So I don’t mean to impose on you in any way… but if you’re looking for a quiet spot to study, I know just the place.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “This is my first time coming here after school!”

The place Saitou-senpai showed me was the science lab. Looking around the deserted lab in surprise, my voice was louder than I’d intended.

HS: “That’s no surprise. A normal student would have no business being here after school. This room in particular was assigned to the disciplinary committee to use.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “So this is where you and Kaoru usually do all your disciplinary work. Is it really okay for me to be here?”

Hajime Saitou: “It’s alright. The test is tomorrow, so the committee is taking a day off. Of course, students are also allowed to come here to review material for their studies.” Saitou-senpai continued, “Nagumo was saying he’d come here later too, but the other committee members won’t be coming. So it’s a suitable environment for studying.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Thank you!” Nodding my head in thanks, I sat across from him and took out my notebooks.

Hajime Saitou: “......”

Chizuru Yukimura: “......”

We were both wrapped up in our studies, the science lab silent. Saitou-senpai and I were the very picture of studiousness as we concentrated on our work.

I don’t know if it was because it was Saitou-senpai, who always had a dignified air about, sitting across from me, but I felt more tense than usual. Maybe it was thanks to that feeling that I felt like I was making unusually good progress.

As that thought crossed my mind…

Chizuru Yukimura: “...Oh.”

I’d accidentally lost my grip on the eraser I was using. In my rush to catch it as it rolled across the table, I reached out my handー

(CG get!°˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖°)

ーAt the same time, I saw that Saitou-senpai had also reached out his hand opposite meー

Hajime Saitou: “!”

Our hands touched.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh!” I froze involuntarily.

In that moment when our hands touched, I felt Saitou-senpai’s own nervousness, too.

Saitou-senpai timidly lifted his head. His face was tinged pink with embarrassment.

Chizuru Yukimura: “U-um…”

Hajime Saitou: “W-What’s wrong?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “W-What’s wrong...? Uh… I’m sorry.”

Hajime Saitou: “N-no, it was my mistake.”

With neither of us able to find a good time to pull our hands away, our eyes met.

‘What do I do...?’

My face grew hotter from the warmth of Saitou-senpai’s fingertips touching mine. My heartbeat sped up, showing no signs of calming down. Our hands had only touched, so why did I feel this self-conscious?

After that, my head went totally blank. For a moment, I couldn’t even remember what I was doing.

Then, I realized I was holding my eraser.

Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m sorry…”

Hajime Saitou: “No, it’s fine…”

I didn’t know what else to say. I could only apologize. Saitou-senpai looked away from me.

‘…… This is so awkward…’

While I worried about what to do, the words that left my mouth were...

[Kaoru’s late.] or [I’m a bit nervous.]

Chizuru Yukimura: “...I’m a little nervous after all.”

That was really embarrassing just now.

At my honest admission, Saitou-senpai nodded stiffly.

Hajime Saitou: “You’re right… maybe I shouldn’t have invited you here after all…”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?”

He looked graver than I expected, when he muttered that, and his fingers were trembling.

Could it be that he had a problem with me…?

Chizuru Yukimura: “But, I’m really grateful that you did invite me! My head feels clearer, and I’m making more progress than usual with my review.”

Hajime Saitou: “......”

When Saitou-senpai didn’t respond, I started to feel a little uneasy.

Chizuru Yukimura: “If my being here has bothered you in some way, I’ll head home rightー”

Hajime Saitou: “You’re no bother. There’s absolutely no need for you to leave,” Saitou-senpai flatly cut me off, and a small smile showed on his face. “I was just worried that I might’ve made you feel uncomfortable by inviting you here. So, um… it… relieves me, from the bottom of my heart, that you say that. Thank you, Yukimura.”

When Saitou-senpai smiled at me, I smiled back happily at him, too.

Hajime Saitou: “...We seem to have digressed considerably. We should get back to studying now.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Right!”

With that, we started studying anew, and the atmosphere between us was more peaceful and serene this time.

Before I knew it, it was the time when the shadows began to lengthen, and the sunset glowed through the lab windows.

Hajime Saitou: “Yukimura, we should go home before the sun sets.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh…?”

I looked at the clock and realized that a lot more time had passed than I had thought.

Chizuru Yukimura: “...It’s already this late… I must’ve been concentrating so hard that I lost track of time.”

Hajime Saitou: “It seems so. But it’s better that we wrap up sooner rather than later.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “You’re right. Thank you so much for today.” I added, “Kaoru didn’t come after all, though, did he. He really is a fickle creature.”

As I let out a sigh, I heard Saitou-senpai murmur something under his breath, looking troubled.

Hajime Saitou: “...He certainly would have shown up if he’d known you would be here.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Hmm?”

Hajime Saitou: “No, it’s nothing. It’s late, so if you don’t mind, I’ll walk you part of the way home.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Thank you very much,” I accepted his kind offer with a nod.

He returned the nod with a smile.

For some reason, that silent exchange made me very happy.

The day of the test had finally arrived. It was time for the real thing at last. I had studied as much as I possibly could, but still felt a bit anxious as I entered the school that day…

The tests finally started.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Thanks to Saitou-senpai, I managed to study a lot yesterday…” ‘Today, too I’m sure I’ll be at my best. I hope I can concentrate like I did then!’

[Minigame Victory]

Chizuru Yukimura: “Yep. I was really focused today.”

I performed well, and it showed in my grades. I think, in the end, my study session with Saitou-senpai after school yesterday was really effective. I'd have to thank him later...

Then, several days later...

I saw the posted test results, and went to the science lab to thank Saitou-senpai.

Hajime Saitou: "So, Yukimura. How did your test go?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "I was able to show off what I knew more than I thought I would've."

Hajime Saitou: "I see. That's great."

Saitou-senpai looked happy smiling at me. It was almost like seeing him be happy for me made me increasingly happier as well.

Chizuru Yukimura: "It's thanks to you that I got such a good grade. I thought about the time I studied with you during the test, and I worked incredibly well… Thank you so much, really."

Hajime Saitou: "...I'm grateful that you think that, but a test is a measure of each individual's ability. It was purely your own ability that got you your hard-won result."

Chizuru Yukimura: "That's not true!"

Hajime Saitou: "No, it obviously is."

Chizuru Yukimura: "......"

Hajime Saitou: "......"

We wouldn't reach an agreement anytime soon. Looking at each other's faces, we both ended up smiling at the situation.

Chizuru Yukimura: "Um..." A thought suddenly came to me, and I spoke up: "Do you always do your disciplinary committee work here after school, Saitou-senpai?"

Hajime Saitou: "I work on other kinds of things here as well. Why do you ask?"

Chizuru Yukimura:"I want to give you something nice to thank you, the next time I come. Is that alright with you?"

Hajime Saitou: "You don't need to worry yourself with that. I did nothing more than offer you a place to study—"

Chizuru Yukimura:"Um, you don't have to be modest. I want to get you something."

Hajime Saitou: "...... I'll look forward to it, then," Saitou-senpai replied amicably, and gave me a nod.

I didn't know if it was because I got a good grade, or because I wanted to talk with him… But for some reason, my chest felt pleasantly warm.

Chizuru Yukimura: "I wonder what I should get him?"

Now, I was looking forward to the next time I'd pay him a visit in the science lab.

___

At last, the tests were over, and the results had been announced…The tension gradually seeped out of the school, and everything slowly went back to normal.

After school, after the test results were announced…I was on my way out of the school building to return home when…

Isami Kondou: “……”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Just now…was that Kondou-sensei?”

Kondou-sensei went around to the back of the school. When I saw that, I paused. ‘There isn’t anything over there, so where is he going…?’ I thought it was kind of mysterious. And so, egged on by my curiosity, I jogged after Kondou-sensei. I went further behind the school… I’d never set foot back here before. After reaching his destination, Kondou-sensei suddenly stopped.

Isami Kondou: “……”

‘What is this place…?’ Towering in front of me was an old gate, and my eyes widened. ‘To think there was such a place here, right on academy campus…’

Isami Kondou: “……”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Um…”

Isami Kondou: “Hm… Yukimura-kun? Why are you here?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “I’m sorry. I saw you heading this way, and curiosity got the better of me…”

Isami Kondou: “Ahh, so that’s what it was.”

Kondou-sensei smiled in understanding, and turned his gaze back towards the gate. The old wooden door was shut tightly, looking like it hadn’t been opened in a long time. It had been two months since I began studying at Hakuo Academy, but I never knew such a place existed until now.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Um, Kondou-sensei. What is this place…?”

Isami Kondou: “‘The Shieikan.’”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Huh?”

Isami Kondou: “…That’s what it was called, at least. There used to be a swordplay dojo here by that name.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Used to be?”

Isami Kondou: “Yes. As you can see, it’s closed now. There are no students here; there’s no one at all. But the teachings of that dojo are certainly still being passed down… That’s what I believe.”

There was a look in his eyes; almost as if he were lost in a different time, far from the present. I got the feeling that this must’ve been a very important place to Kondou-sensei.

Isami Kondou: “I always come here whenever I want to return to my roots…This place, the Shieikan, is Hakuo Academy’s starting point.”

Kondou-sensei put his hand on the place where I expected the sign must have once hung, and his eyes shut, lost in nostalgia.

…'Shieikan.’ As if to confirm the word, I mouthed it to myself. That name… I felt as if I’d heard it before…

Chizuru Yukimura: ”……“

Looking at me as I thought about it, Kondou-sensei smiled and kept talking.

Isami Kondou: “Yukimura-kun, it looks like the sun is about to set. Don’t you think it’s time for you to head home?”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Oh, right. That’s true. It’s already so late…”

Isami Kondou: “By the way, I heard from Toshi. It looks like you got some magnificent test results this time around.”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Hijikata-sensei said that?”

Isami Kondou: “Yes, you’re the most talented woman in the history of Hakuo Academy! It truly is magnificent!”

Chizuru Yukimura: “…Thank you very much.”

There was no hint of lies or flattery in Kondou-sensei’s cheerful words… I remembered how he delivered them while walking away, and I felt a little embarrassed.

Isami Kondou: “A student has a duty to study, so I want you to continue trying your hardest! But of course, it’s not just your studies. If you also have fun living your everyday life at Hakuo Academy… As this school’s principal, I’d be very happy!”

Chizuru Yukimura: “Yes!”

Returning his nod as he smiled, I looked back at ‘Shieikan’ only once. He had called it the ‘starting point’ for the school. I wonder what that meant…? Questions along those lines came to mind, and I couldn’t help but wonder at such a mystery…

Anyway, I would do my best from here forward. I smiled, in high spirits.

#hakuoki #hakuouki #hakuouki ssl #fan translation #saitou hajime #hajime saitou #otome #chapter 1 #hakuouki ssl translation

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hakuogakuen · 4 years

Text

Hakuouki SSL: Prologue

EDITED 7/31/20

Hello! Here is the translation for the SSL prologue. Primary translation is by yuugs, with proof reading done by shizuumi, kuririn, and dei-hime. Translation begins below the cut!

― May ―

Chizuru Yukimura: "The door and windows are locked..."

~ding dong~

Chizuru Yukimura: "Heisuke-kun, are you awake? It's almost time for school..."

"..."

"......”

FInally, the door opened.

Chizuru Yukimura: “Uh! Um... It's Yukimura. Hello? Heisuke-kun―"

Heisuke Toudou: "Sorry, Chizuru! Gimme five more minutes!!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh... Heisuke-kun!? Geez..."

‘Five more minutes, huh...? There's still some time left, so I guess it should be fine...’

Chizuru Yukimura: "... It's already been five minutes...Is he still not ready? ...What now? Should I ring the intercom one more time...?"

Heisuke Toudou: "Morning! Also, sorry!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Heisuke-kun! Morning!"

This is Heisuke Toudou-kun, my next-door neighbor. We attended the same high school, and walked there together when we can.

Despite being a junior, a grade above me, he hated me calling him ‘senpai,’ since we were childhood friends.

I'd counted on him since we were little, but he sometimes overslept or played video games all night, which could be a problem.

Heisuke Toudou: "We good for time? How bad's it look?

Chizuru Yukimura: "I think we might not make it...!"

Heisuke Toudou: "Seriously...? Okay, let's book it!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah!"

It was shaping up to be a bit of a busy morning, but we had to hurry―!!

Heisuke Toudou: "Dammit, if my alarm just rang properly, we'd have definitely made it on time!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Heisuke-kun, you said that last time as well."

Heisuke Toudou: "M-My alarm's busted! I'll buy a new one next time!!"

???: "Sure is noisy this morning, huh?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Ah..."

Souji Okita: "Morning, you two."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Good morning, Okita-senpai!"

This is Souji Okita-senpai, a junior. He was in the same class as Heisuke-kun, and we were pretty good friends. He could be a bit mischievous, and like to take pictures with his smartphone. Occasionally, he'd email me and I wouldn't know how to respond.That did bother me a bit.

Heisuke Toudou: "If Souji's here… then we're seriously late!"

Souji Okita: "Maybe... But it's not that bad. Not like the school's going anywhere anytime soon."

Heisuke Toudou: "It’s absolutely that bad! The gatekeeper of hell's waiting for us!"

Souji Okita: "Haha, you're exaggerating. No need to be so scared."

Chizuru Yukimura: "L-Let's hurry anyway! Okita-senpai, you should try and run!"

Souji Okita: "...Looks like I'll have to play along."

After that, we began running for our lives. Of course, tardiness was against the rules, but even with that, there was another reason we didn’t want to be lateー

Heisuke Toudou: "All right, and he's saaaaaaafe!!"

???: "Unfortunately, he's out."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh..."

Hajime Saitou: "Sorry, but as a part of the disciplinary committee, I can't make any exceptions. Not even for five seconds."

Kaoru Nagumo: "What he said. A shame, really. You ran so desperately just to make an own goal."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Kaoru...and Saitou-senpai...!"

...Yes, the reason we ran so frantically is because of the disciplinary committee.

This is Hajime Saitou-senpai , a junior. A serious and deeply earnest person, he was a feared member of the disciplinary committee. Heisuke-kun often called him 'inflexible', but he's tougher on himself than anyone else. I think he's a good person. Although he might not be the best with words, he was a good senior in my eyes.

This is Nagumo Kaoru, a sophomore, like me. He's actually my twin brother. Why our last names differed was a long story, but basically, we grew up separately when we were young. Initially, I was happy that we were going to the same school. But... Kaoru wasn’t the politest person ever. He would even disrespect our seniors without a second thought, and he always made me nervous…

Heisuke Toudou: "It was only five seconds! The gate isn't closed yet ―just let it slide!"

Kaoru Nagumo: "No. How would letting you go benefit us?"

Heisuke Toudou: "Maybe it wouldn't, but it's not like it'd hurt you either!"

Hajime Saitou: "Heisuke, this isn't open for discussion. The rules exist for a reason."

Souji Okita: "You heard him, Heisuke. Too bad."

Heisuke Toudou: "Souji, whose side are you on?!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "U-Um... Heisuke-kun. It's a fact we were late. We can't do much about that."

Heisuke Toudou: "But...!"

???: "Pipe down! What are you up to there!?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh...!"

Toshizou Hijikata: "Saitou, Nagumo! It's time. Close the gate."

Hajime Saitou: "Yes, sir."

Kaoru Nagumo: "Hmph, that's a shame."

Toshizou Hijikata: "Heisuke, Souji, Yukimura! You three hurry up and head inside....Don't be any later than you already are."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yes, sir!"

This is Toshizou Hijikata. He was Heisuke's and Okita's homeroom teacher, and also taught classical literature. He was very harsh, but passionate about education. As well being the vice principal, it was said that he was a childhood friend of the principal, Kondou-sensei. He always looked tense. He had this prickly aura about him that kept people away.

Toshizou Hijikata: "I swear... You never learn. You're late every single day..."

(A flash lit up his face and a camera shutter noise sounded.)

Toshizou Hijikata: "W-What was that?"

Souji Okita: "Haha. The wrinkles in your face are even deeper than yesterday's."

Toshizou Hijikata: "Souji! You punk!!"

Souji Okita: "Would you like to compare yesterday's pic with today's? Here, take a look."

Toshizou Hijikata: "I don't need to! And don't take photos of people without their permission!"

...Seeing as everyone else was afraid of the vice principal, Okita might have be the only one who could banter with him like that... With that thought, we headed past the school gates.

――The private school, Hakuou Academy.

This school was an all-boys school up until this year. Thanks to the principal Isami Kondou-sensei and his efforts, the school became co-ed recently.

Somehow, I became the first female student at Hakuou Academy...

...And the only female student.

Of course, I was a little nervous when I learned that there were no other girls... But the people here were really nice, and I had always been good at getting along with others, so I was doing pretty well.

Chizuru Yukimura:"...Oh no! I have to get to class soon...!"

"Thank god, I made it in time..."

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Hm? It's not like you to show up at the last minute, Yukimura."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, Ibuki-kun. Morning. This morning's been a bit much..."

This is Ryuunosuke Ibuki-kun, my classmate. He could be a bit blunt at times, but he was a kind person. He always had milk and red bean buns for lunch. When I asked him if he was eating enough, he would say that it couldn’t be helped, since he had no money… He complained about someone called Serizawa-san being rough and tyrannical to him. I wondered what his relation was to Ibuki-kun, exactly.

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "The teacher's about to arrive. We ought to take our seats now."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Yeah, thanks, Ibuki-kun."

???: "Take your seats, you lot. Homeroom's about to start."

Chizuru Yukimura: "!"

While I hurried to sit down, Harada-sensei smiled at me from the front of the room.

Sanosuke Harada: "What's wrong, Yukimura? It's rare for you to be late."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yes... I'm sorry..."

This is Sanosuke Harada-sensei. He was my homeroom teacher, as well as the P.E. teacher. Friendly and open-hearted, all the students looked up to him as if he were their big brother. He used to go to the same Kendo dojo as Heisuke-kun and Nagakura-sensei, the math teacher. Even now, they all still seemed to be close.

Sanosuke Harada: "Well, I can imagine the reason why. You know, you can just ditch Heisuke if you think you'll be late."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Um, that's… I'll see what I can do about that..."

Sanosuke Harada: "Yeah, please do. Well, let's wrap this up quickly. Today's announcements are--"

I didn’t want to just leave Heisuke-kun behind... ‘I’ll try to figure out a way so I can pick him up earlier…’

Classmate A: "Phew, it's finally time for lunch."

Classmate B: "Yeah, I'm starving. Hey, Ibuki, you eating at the cafeteria?"

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "If you treat me, I’ll go."

Classmate B: "No way!"

Ryuunosuke Ibuki: "Then don't ask. You know full well I'm low on money."

Classmate A: "U-Um, Yukimura-san, what about you? We can go together if that's cool―"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Me? Well...."

While it made me happy when my classmates invited me to have lunch with them…

Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm sorry… I already have plans. Maybe another time?"

Classmate A: "I-I see..."

I apologized once again and then headed to the cafeteria. At lunchtime, the cafeteria got so crowded, it was like a battlefield. It seems like things are ramping up with everyone on an empty stomach…

Heisuke Toudou: "Oh, hey, Chizuru! Over here, over here!"

Heisuke and Okita are waving at me.

‘I can't keep them waiting, I have to hurry...!’

Chizuru Yukimura: "Hm.... Should I get set meal A?”

I bought a ticket for set meal 'A' from the vending machine, and then joined the line.

Genzaburou Inoue: "Oh, Yukimura-kun. You came to the cafeteria today."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Inoue-san, hello!"

This is Genzaburou Inoue-san. He was in charge of cooking the meals for the cafeteria, and his food was always delicious. He was very kind and warm, and students affectionately called him the “Mother of Hakuou Academy”. In fact, rumor has it that he was quite a big-wig as well. But was it true, I wondered.

Genzaburou Inoue: "I’ll keep your portion on the smaller side. The boys’ portion could be a bit too much for you."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you so much!"

His effortless consideration for others was one of his best traits, to me. I would have liked to take some cooking lessons from him one of these days, too...

Souji Okita: "You kept us waiting. Oh. You don't have much on your plate, as usual."

Chizuru Yukimura: "You think so?"

Heisuke Toudou: "Chizuru's a girl, so of course she'll have less, right? You don’t eat that much either, Souji."

Souji Okita: "And you eat a lot. For your size."

Heisuke Toudou: "That wasn't necessary!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Hehe."

After a fun lunch, I parted ways with Heisuke-kun and Okita-senpai, and headed back for the classroom.

Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yo, Chizuru-chan!” Working hard today?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Hello, Nagakura-sensei!"

This is Shinpachi Nagakura-sensei. He was a math teacher and a close friend of Harada-sensei's. Much to his dismay, he was often mistaken for a P.E. teacher, which was no surprise, since he always wore a jersey. He was hopeless with money management and often got in trouble with Hijikata-sensei because of that. But otherwise, he was a great teacher.

Shinpachi Nagakura: "Are you done with lunch already? If you wouldn't mind, I've a small favor to ask of you.”

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, yes! That's fine. What is it?"

Shinpachi Nagakura: "Sorry for the trouble. I just wanted you to deliver this to Sannan-san for me."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Sannan-sensei... So the infirmary?"

Shinpachi Nagakura: "Yeah. I've, uh...got some other things to take care of. Yeah."

Chizuru Yukimura: "I understand. I'll head there now!"

Shinpachi Nagakura: "Great. Thanks for the help!"

I headed off to the infirmary with the manila folder Nagakura-sensei gave me.

Chizuru Yukimura: "Excuse me."

Keisuke Sannan: "Oh...Yukimura-kun. Are you unwell?"

This is Sannan Keisuke-sensei, the school nurse. He was always calm, kind, and willing to lend a hand. Knowing that, it was strange how most students tried to avoid ever going to the infirmary...

Chizuru Yukimura: "No, I'm fine. Nagakura-sensei told me to hand this to you."

Keisuke Sannan: "Nagakura-sensei...?"

Keisuke Sannan: "Ahh...I see now. He didn't want to deliver it himself, so he used you instead."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh?"

Keisuke Sannan: "Heh... He actually missed the deadline for the submission of his documents, you see? I suppose he didn't want me getting angry with him. I'll have to have a word with him later… To think he sent you on a fool's errand when he could've done it himself."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, no, it's really no trouble."

Susumu Yamazaki: "Excuse me. ...Oh."

Keisuke Sannan: "Oh? I see that I've got many visitors today. You're here too, Yamazaki-kun."

This is Yamazaki Susumu-senpai, a junior. He was in the same class as Saitou-senpai, and his homeroom teacher was Nagakura-sensei. As part of the Health Committee, he frequented the infirmary to help Sannan-sensei out with his work. Yamazaki-senpai was a very strait-laced person, who'd never slack off on any of his committee work.

Susumu Yamazaki: "Pardon me! I didn't mean to interrupt your conversation..."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh, no. It's alright! I've already finished up here."

Keisuke Sannan: "How cold of you. Are you implying that you've no business talking to me now that you've wrapped up here?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh, wait― What!? N-No! That's not what I meant..."

Susumu Yamazaki: "...Sannan-sensei."

Keisuke Sannan: "I know, I know, Yamazaki-kun. I was only teasing."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Really...?"

Keisuke Sannan: "Heh. It was only a joke. Feel free to come by anytime, now. Of course you should visit when you're feeling ill, but do stop by if you have other concerns as well. I have some good medicine."

Susumu Yamazaki: "Sannan-sensei? But that's...!"

Keisuke Sannan: "Yamazaki-kun. Is there something you'd like to say...?"

Susumu Yamazaki: "...Nothing."

Chizuru Yukimura: "???"

The bell for afternoon classes rang just after I left the infirmary.

Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm already so sleepy..."

With my full stomach and the warm weather, I began to feel a bit drowsy. Thinking that, I returned to my classroom.

Then, as usual, I finished my afternoon classes...

It was time for homeroom again.

Sanosuke Harada: "...and that's all for today. Those in clubs ― give it all you’ve got. Those going home ― take care not to wander about too much."

Whole class: "Yeeessir."

Sanosuke Harada: "...Oh, right, Yukimura."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes?"

Sanosuke Harada: "I also told Heisuke. Don't be late tomorrow."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Y-Yes, sir...!"

Sanosuke Harada: "Hahaha, don't give me that face. I'm not really angry with you. Well then, see you tomorrow."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Right! Have a nice day."

I smiled and left the classroom.

Chizuru Yukimura: "Hm? What's going on.... What's all this commotion about?"

???: "Hey, hey, move it, bastards!"

???: "I'm so sorry, but if you could make way,please."

Chizuru Yukimura: "...That voice is..."

Chikage Kazama: "Hmph. For these nobodies to block my path... unforgivable. Those who dare defy yours truly, the eminent student council president, Chikage Kazama, must prepare to face the consequences."

Kyuuju Amagiri: "...Please understand this is to avoid further trouble, from what you can see here."

Kyou Shiranui: "It’d be less dull if some guys here had the guts to throw down with him though."

Chizuru Yukimura: "......!"

When I saw those three cut through the surging crowd, I thought to myself, 'Oh, no.' I really didn’t want to get caught, if I could avoid it. But as that crossed my mind...

Chikage Kazama: "Oh... You came to meet me yourself. What a praiseworthy sentiment, my betrothed."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Ack! It was a coincidence...!"

Kyuuju Amagiri: "Greetings, Yukimura-kun. ...You have my sympathies."

Chikage Kazama: "Amagiri. What do you mean by that?"

Kyou Shiranui: "The man said what he said. Ain't that right, Chizuru?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Um......"

I was at a loss. I could only stand there in silence.

This is Chikage Kazama-senpai. He was a senior, and the student council president of Hakuou Academy. He was always accompanied by his attendants, Kyuuju Amagiri-senpai and Kyou Shiranui-senpai, and acted as if the whole world belongs to him.

And why, really, why did he want me to be his bride? He decided that completely on his own...

This is Kyuuju Amagiri-senpai, another senior who acted like Kazama-senpai's watchman of sorts. ...He didn’t look anything like a high school student. There’s really no other way to put it. But I'd decided not to worry about that. He was probably the only person able to put up with Kazama-senpai's recklessness with any amount of success.

And lastly, this is Kyou Shiranui-senpai. He was also a senior, like Amagiri-senpai, and always with Kazama-senpai. However, unlike Amagiri, he didn’t seem to really respect Kazama. He could be violent sometimes and a bit scary, but occasionally he could be quite kind too, according to his whim.

Chizuru Yukimura: "Um... Kazama-senpai. I've repeatedly asked you to not call me your wife, so please stop..."

Chikage Kazama: "Why?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "W-Why....? Because it's not true!!"

Chikage Kazama: "...I can't hear you. Amagiri, what is the girl saying?"

Kyuuju Amagiri: "......She said that she is currently undeserving of the honour of marrying you."

Chizuru Yukimura: "What?!"

Chikage Kazama: "Is that so. Such a commendable attitude; such humility is a virtue."

Chizuru Yukimura:: “But, th-that's not...!"

Kyou Shiranui: "Give it up. He doesn’t wanna hear it."

Chizuru Yukimura: "No way!"

Chikage Kazama: "Hm... Fine. I'll overlook this for today. But know this, Chizuru. Once I set my eyes on my prey, I never let it escape. I suggest you ready yourself by coming to a decision.”

Chizuru Yukimura: "Kazama-senpai! Wait...!”

Without listening to a word I said, he turned and left, along with Amagiri-senpai and Shiranui-senpai.

...As they were leaving, Amagiri-senpai bowed deeply to me.

Chizuru Yukimura: “I would rather that he deny it along with me, though...”

"Phew..."

Somehow, after that, a wave of exhaustion came over me, and I let out a sigh. At that moment…

Isami Kondou: "Hm? If it isn't Yukimura-kun. Are you heading home now?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Kondou-sensei!"

This is Isami Kondou, the founder of Hakuouki Academy. He was always full of enthusiasm. Just watching him and his energy inspired me to do my best, too. His topknot hairstyle surprised me at first. But it seemed that he sports one as his own policy of sorts.

Isami Kondou: "Glad to see you're doing well. Have you had any issues lately?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you very much. Everyone's very kind and polite, so I'm doing well!"

Isami Kondou: "I see, I see, that's great! To think that you're the only girl among a sorry lot of guys."

Isami Kondou: "Even now, I think the admission interview was a bit crazy. I'm sorry about that."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Ahaha..."

As I remembered the Hakuou Academy entrance exam, a wry smile came to my face.

That was back in the winter of this year. I was at a loss for which school I should attend.

My friend, Osen-chan, suggested Shimabara Girls' High, which she was attending... It was an upper-class all-girls school, and I was worried about the formalities and expensive tuition fees.

Many other schools also interested me, and I just couldn't make up my mind.

Then, as I was trying to decide…

Heisuke Toudou: "Hey, Chizuru! Come to my school! Starting next year, they'll accept girls as well!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Oh... Really?"

Heisuke Toudou: "Really! Go to the same school as me!"

At Heisuke-kun's suggestion, I began researching Hakuou Academy.

The tuition was pretty cheap, but more importantly, their educational ideals resonated deeply with me.

And so, I decided to take the entrance exam for Hakuou Academy.

It was difficult, but thanks to the work I put into revising, I managed to pass somehow. What I was most nervous about was actually the interview afterwards. What would they ask me? As my heart began to pound thinking that, the person I faced in the interview was…

Toshizou Hijikata: "...Chizuru Yukimura. Our academy will begin to admit girls for the first time next year. Depending on the situation, the number of girls may be considerably low. Could you focus on your studies in such an environment?"

Chizuru Yukimura: “...I may have fewer female friends, which might be lonely. But studying is bound to be the main priority for school, so I'll be fine."

Toshizou Hijikata: "...Why did you choose our school?"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Though this is embarrassing to admit… For one, the tuition is cheap. I don't want to burden my father,” I said. “Beyond that, a childhood friend of mine attends this school, and he told me this was a good place... And after looking into it, it seemed to me that this academy creates an environment that puts their students first... So now, I want to study here. That's what I truly think."

Toshizou Hijikata "...I see."

For some reason, Hijikata-sensei had kept silent for a while after that.

With his most serious expression yet, he had finally opened his mouth again, and asked me this:

Toshizou Hijikata: "...Last question. Can you recite our school's educational philosophy?"

Of course, I had responded immediately.

Chizuru Yukimura: "Yes! It's 'Sincerity'!"

Toshizou Hijikata: "......"

After that, I made it. I was able to pass the admissions process.

At the time, I would never have guessed I'd be the only girl in the school. That had me fairly worried at first.

Isami Kondou: "I can tell you now that Toshi was against accepting female students until the very last minute.” He continued, "Ah... How do I put it? Um, we're a school with a short history, even if we have noble ideals and whatnot... So, when the proposal to accept girls was raised, Toshi insisted it'd distract the current students and disrupt their discipline."

Chizuru Yukimura: "S-So that's what happened..."

Isami Kondou: "The compromise was that Toshi would interview candidates himself. And here you are ― the only girl who passed! But I am really sorry. You must have felt out of place. I wouldn't blame you for feeling nervous..."

Chizuru Yukimura: "Kondou-sensei... It's true that I did at first, but I'm alright now. And besides... Now that I'm enrolled here, I think it was one of the best decisions I've ever made!"

Isami Kondou: "R-Really...! Thank you!! There may be hard times along with the good ones… But I want you to be proud that you're a student Toshi himself accepted, and enjoy your time here. As the principal of this school, I'll be watching over you!"

Chizuru Yukimura: "Thank you so much!"

Mr. Kondou waved me off with a smile and, after waving back at him, I left the school.

Chizuru Yukimura: "I'm home...! ...Haah... It feels kind of lonely when nobody's home..."

My father, a doctor, was on a business trip to some remote island, and wouldn’t be coming home for a while.

Our family clinic was also closed. While I was used to it by then, I think I took it for granted that someone would welcome me home before.

Chizuru Yukimura: "Hm?"

‘I should probably reply as soon as I can.’

-----

Sub: About emails

Since we're in the same class and we're pretty much friends, I'll tell you something.

At the entrance ceremony, the school admins announced that they would contact us via email. Have you registered an address?

You're going to start receiving emails, but apparently you can only reply to them right on the spot when you receive them.

You'll be able to check your email history later, but you can't reply.

If you want to reply to a message, reply on the spot.

Well, even if the school contacts you, I'm sure it'll just be chatter from teachers and students anyway.

That's all I wanted to tell you.

-----

Chizuru Yukimura: "Huh?"

"It's Ibuki-kun again."

-----

Sub: Ryuunosuke Shop Grand Opening

My bad, I forgot I needed to tell you one more thing.

As you spend time at Hakuo Academy, you'll accumulate points from doing things like replying to emails or playing mini-games.

Now that my shop has opened, you can exchange those points for various goods at the shop.

There is a limit to the number of points you can have, so use them quickly.

There are also certain things that cannot be obtained until a certain time has passed, so come and look often.

I mean.

The operation of this shop is a matter of life or death for me.

I'm begging you!

Please exchange points!

-----

"Alright, I guess I'll take a look next time."

After I checked the email from Ibuki-kun, I put my phone on my desk and looked out the window.

Chizuru Yukimura: "...I have my friends and teachers. It'll be okay."

‘Tomorrow's gonna be a busy day. I'm sure I won't have time to feel lonely then.’

A place dear to my heart, where I could enjoy my everyday life.

My days at Private Hakuo Academy had only just begun――

#Hakuouki #Hakuoki #Hakuouki SSL #otome #fan translation #common route #prologue #updated

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