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5.7% Life As Hikigaya Hachiman / Chapter 32: [32] "Hachiman Kendo Sparring with Katsura"

Chapter 32: [32] "Hachiman Kendo Sparring with Katsura"

"No problem, I'll ensure that I deliver the manuscript on time before its release," the confident voice on the phone assured.

"Um... are you available this Saturday? I'd like to discuss some matters about the illustrations in person."

Feeling a bit awkward, Hachiman scratched his head. He still wanted to have a face-to-face conversation about the character illustrations.

"This Saturday... well, could we go over the specifics of the time and location?" The person on the other end hesitated momentarily before eventually agreeing.

"How about this Saturday at ten o'clock in the morning? Let's meet at the coffee shop near Kadokawa. Does that work for you?"

"Sure, no problem."

"Great. I'll be looking forward to your arrival then. I won't take up more of your time. Goodbye."

"Goodbye."

After ending the call, Hachiman released a relieved sigh. The illustration issue had finally been resolved, and the next steps would hinge on the upcoming discussion with the illustrator this Saturday.

After pondering over it, he made the decision to press on with his writing. Only one final point remained in the third volume. By completing it ahead of time, he could send it over to the editor and illustrator sooner.

Last night, I managed to write a solid 20,000 words. It's safe to say that my writing prowess, which had been dormant for so long, has been fully reignited. The remaining portion only requires wrapping up and some revisions, which I'll tackle tomorrow.

"Ha~!"

With a yawn, Hachiman settled into bed and drifted into a deep slumber.

The following morning, he rose early as usual and embarked on his customary run.

At the intersection, Hachiman unexpectedly crossed paths with Yui, who was out walking her dog.

"Hey there, good morning, Yui." Spying Yui, Hachiman's face lit up with a cheerful greeting as he jogged toward her.

"Good morning, Hikki..." As Hachiman approached, Yui's cheeks turned rosy, her mind clearly retracing the moment he touched her face a few days prior.

Even though their online chats hadn't triggered these feelings, encountering each other in person still made her a tad bashful.

"What's wrong, Yui?" Concern etched across his features, Hachiman rushed to Yui's side, noting the blush on her cheeks and fearing she might not be feeling well.

"I... I'm okay, Hikki." Yui shook her head, feeling her heart race as Hachiman approached.

Stupid Hikki, do you have any idea why I'm feeling like this?

Despite her initial irritation, Yui pondered her mother's advice, took a deep breath, and found the courage to speak up.

"Hikki, are you available this Saturday?"

"On Saturday, I might have some morning commitments, but the afternoon should be free. Why do you ask?"

"So, Hikki, would you be willing to spend some time with me on Saturday afternoon?" As she said this, Yui's blush deepened.

"Sure, no problem, Yui..." Hachiman readily agreed to Yui's invitation without hesitation. If a girl takes the initiative to invite you, it's only natural to accept, right?

Before he could say anything else, Yui cut in, "Alright, it's a plan then, Hikki. Let's meet at the station gate at two o'clock this Saturday afternoon."

With that, she swiftly pulled Sable along, leaving Hachiman little room to respond.

Sable, poor thing, was forcefully pulled along by Yui. The dog leash around his neck had become so tight that his tongue hung out. To ensure his own safety, he had to hurriedly move his short legs, trying to keep up with his owner's pace.

"Hmm..." Hachiman scratched his head, watching Yui and Sable disappear in the distance.

Could this be considered a date?

Most likely.

However, with a morning meeting scheduled with the illustrator and an afternoon rendezvous with Yui, my schedule is undeniably tight. It appears I'll need to make some adjustments

-----------

In a quiet corner of the kendo club room, Hachiman continues to practice diligently. After receiving professional guidance, he has successfully integrated his skills to achieve a solid level three in kendo. Now, he's brimming with confidence, believing he can outmatch all kendo club members except for Busujima Saeko.

Even against Shuji Fujita, the club's vice president, Hachiman holds a firm belief in his ability not to lose. While Fujita's kendo level has seemingly edged into the fourth tier, Hachiman's enhanced strength, speed, and responsiveness from his third-tier training will undoubtedly make the match far from an easy victory for his opponent.

At that moment, a figure approached Hachiman.

"Hikigaya-san, good afternoon," a gentle voice chimed in his ears. Hachiman turned his head to see a familiar face.

"Katsura-san, good afternoon!"

The newcomer was Kotonoha, the person he had rescued just the yesterday afternoon.

"Hikigaya-san, thank you so much for yesterday," Kotonoha expressed her gratitude with a slight bow towards Hachiman.

Wearing a kendo uniform, she bowed slightly, catching Hachiman's attention. In a quick glance, he noticed a small white piece and a deep neckline on her chest.

Girls are usually quite sensitive about such matters. Sensing his gaze, Kotonoha promptly straightened up.

Blushing with embarrassment, Hachiman quickly looked away and cleared his throat. "Ahem, it's alright, Katsura-san. What happened yesterday was just a matter of teamwork. After all, we're fellow club members. Helping each other is only natural."

Kotonoha relaxed her grip on her kendo suit's collar, relieved that his gaze had shifted.

Guess Hikigaya-san isn't that type of person, thank goodness!

"Hikigaya-san, why don't you join the group practice?" Gathering her courage, Kotonoha inquired, observing Hachiman practicing alone in the corner.

"Well, you see, I'm not really at ease in crowded places, so I tend to..." Hachiman's hand absentmindedly scratched his head as he explained, revealing that it's not that he disliked such environments, but rather he struggled to concentrate amidst all the noise.

Kotonoha's eyes lit up upon hearing this. "In that case, if Hikigaya-san doesn't mind, maybe I could practice with you."

Naturally, Hachiman was more than willing.Practicing alone could be quite monotonous, much like playing a game solo. Engaging with a charming girl would undoubtedly bring about a distinct and enjoyable experience.

"Then I appreciate your help, Katsura-san."

"No problem." Seeing Hachiman agree, Kotonoha swiftly positioned herself opposite him.

With both sides saluting, the duel commenced.

"Ready?"

As he observed the girl's stance, Hachiman's eyes gleamed.

The technique she was about to employ was known as the "Iaido," often referred to as a sword-drawing technique.

He focused on swift movements and aiming for a single decisive strike. As long as he blocked the initial attack, the subsequent rounds would become much more manageable.

However, it almost seemed as if time slowed down several times over due to his heightened eyesight.

In an instant, Kotonoha's lightning-fast slash, accompanied by the jingling of bells, came hurtling towards Hachiman.

But everything seemed to slow down, magnified several times over by his enhanced eyesight.

**Snapped--**

In an instant, a crisp sound resonated as his blade intercepted the girl's strike.

"Huh?"

Surprisingly, her sword-drawing technique was effortlessly deflected, leaving Kotonoha somewhat taken aback.

After all, girls like her had been taught flower arrangement, tea art, kendo, dance, and piano from a young age, thanks to the guidance of their mothers.

Using Kotonoha as an example, she retained a fair amount of self-assurance. Yet today, she hadn't anticipated Hachiman blocking her attack with such ease.

Stepping back slightly, Kotonoha swiftly readjusted her posture, poised for the next attack.

Observing this, Hachiman refrained from rushing into an attack. Instead, he assumed a defensive stance, ready to counter her forthcoming wave of defensive maneuvers.

------------------------------------------------------

Additional scene before school starts

"Yukino, please, let's go out. Your Onee-san is free today, and I want you to enjoy some time together before school starts," Yukino's sister pleaded with a grin.

Yukino squinted her eyes, contemplating her sister's intentions, but in the end, she agreed with a nod. "Sure."

Haruno was happy when she heard from Yukino that she could go.

----------------------------------------------------

In the Zenin Clan, after Maki had met Hachiman,

"Maki, where have you been? Do you know that our father, the clan head, is looking for us?" Mai said to her twin sister.

"Tsk... They're so persistent. I told them I didn't want that," Maki replied with annoyance.

"It's not just you. They're forcing me too, all for the sake of the clan. Annoying," Mai grumbled, equally annoyed.

"I hope that's not the reason they're calling us now," Mai said.

"I hope so too," Maki replied.

------------------------------------------------------

Seated at her desk, Utaha couldn't help but notice the remarkable beauty of her legs. However, her current appearance was far from stress-free.

Utaha felt restless; her mind was a complete blank, and she recalled the words of her editor, Machida. But her pride held her back from accepting any suggestions.

As Utaha browsed through her blog, a particular comment caught her eye, a question about her relationship with Hachiman. This puzzled her, so she visited Hachiman's blog, only to be surprised by his post promoting her light novel. Utaha couldn't contain her gratitude to him.

------------------

In the Yuigahama household,

"Yui, what's the status of your relationship with that young man now?" Mrs. Yuigahama asked, a teasing expression on her face.

"Mom we are just friends, please don't tease me," Yui blushed and replied.

"Yui, I'll teach you how to capture a man's heart," Mrs. Yuigahama said.


Chapter 33: [33] Peculiar Surge in Skill Proficiency

*Pat - Pat -*

Two crisp sounds rang out in succession as Kotonoha attacks were once again parried by Hachiman.

However, this time a hint of surprise flickered across his face. He hadn't anticipated that the girl would execute two consecutive Iai Slashes.

(A/N:The Iai slash is a term related to the Japanese martial art of Iaido, which focuses on the quick and precise drawing of a sword from its scabbard, delivering a powerful and immediate strike to an opponent. The technique is characterized by its swiftness and precision, often catching opponents off guard due to its rapid execution.)

Hachiman didn't expect Kotonoha to be able to perform an Iai slash in Kendo.

Caught off guard, he didn't provide Kotonoha an opportunity to counterattack on this occasion.

Pressing forward, he advanced assertively, gripping the wooden sword with both hands. As he harnessed his strength, he surged forward with lightning-like speed.

Yet, he intentionally refrained from striking the girl. Hachiman now had a clear understanding of his own strength, and if he were to land a hit on Kotonoha, it could leave quite a noticeable mark.

Aiming for the wooden sword in the girl's hand, Hachiman swung down with force, his grip firm on his own blade.

*Duang~*

The impact reverberated as the shock force caused the wooden sword in her hand to be disarmed.

"Ah!" Kotonoha let out a small cry, taking a step back and almost losing her balance.

"Katsura-san, are you alright?" Concern etched on his face, Hachiman hurriedly approached her, his voice filled with worry.

"I... I'm okay, Hikigaya-san. You're incredible!" Waving off his concern, she assured him that she was fine. As she looked up at Hachiman, a distinct shine appeared in her eyes, their brilliance unexplainable.

The Japanese people possess a common habit of venerating the strong, and though she herself was skilled in swordsmanship, she had been soundly defeated by Hikigaya-san with surprising ease.

A glimmer of admiration welled up within the girl's heart.

Moreover, Hachiman had extended a helping hand to her in the past...

Due to her appearance and demeanor, Katsura had endured three years of bullying during junior high school. Suddenly encountering someone willing to offer assistance had left an indelible mark on her heart, fostering a natural fondness.

As she reminisced about the instance when Hachiman came to her aid, a gentle smile formed at the corner of the girl's lips.

"I'm okay, Hikigaya-san. Let's continue practicing," Kotonoha reassured with a smile, repositioning herself in front of Hachiman.

"Sure thing Katsura-san,take care," Hachiman acknowledged.

With the confirmation that she was alright, his worries eased. Swiftly adjusting his stance, he resumed his attack against her.

"Katsura-san, no need to hold back on my account. Give it your all in your attacks," he advised, as he too wanted to experience the sensation of sparring against an opponent.

Upon hearing his words, the girl nodded, adopting an aggressive stance, and charged towards him.

*Pat - pat- pat -*

The echoing clash of wooden swords persisted, the two figures engaged in a dynamic dance.

Yet, unbeknownst to them, a figure clad in purple observed their spar from a short distance away.

By five o'clock in the evening, Hachiman decided to halt the practice.

"What's the matter, Hikigaya-san?" Kotonoha inquired, her curiosity evident.

"Let's call it a day here, Katsura-san. I need to head home," Hachiman explained, his tone carrying an apologetic note.

Hearing that he was preparing to leave, Kotonoha found herself somewhat reluctant. "It's still quite early, Hikigaya-san. Why not practice a bit longer?"

"I'm afraid not. I have a younger sister back home, and I'm concerned about her being alone," Hachiman explained, shaking his head.

"Alright, Hikigaya-san, could we continue practicing together tomorrow?" Kotonoha inquired, her voice tinged with anticipation.

"Absolutely, as long as you up for it." Hachiman readily agreed. He certainly wouldn't turn down an invitation from a beautiful girl, especially from someone as open-minded and lovely as Kotonoha.

"Then we have a deal."

Kotonoha smile was warm and inviting.

"Alright, then I'll go change clothes first. Goodbye, Katsura-san," Hachiman nodded and headed towards the locker room after his words.

"Goodbye, Hikigaya-san."

As she watched him depart, a hint of reluctance crossed Kotonoha eyes.

"Student Katsura." Just as she lingered, gazing at Hachiman's retreating figure, a commanding voice rang out in her ear.

Turning her head, she found herself facing Busujima Saeko, the president of the Kendo Club, who had seemingly approached without her noticing.

Kotonoha held deep respect for this woman who stood at the helm of the entire kendo club.

"Hello, President."

"Good afternoon,student Kotonoha." Saeko offered a slight nod in response.

"That boy who was practicing with you just now, who is he?"

"You mean Hikigaya-san?"

"Is that his name, Hikigaya?" Saeko's eyes lit up.

The boy's swordsmanship had ignited a passion within her that she hadn't felt in a long time. Keep in mind that not even Shuji Fujita, who possessed the most formidable kendo besides herself, could kindle such a feeling.

"Yes, that's Hikigaya Hachiman. He's a freshman like me, having joined the club this year as well," Kotonoha introduced.

"Hikigaya Hachiman..." Saeko nodded, a smile gracing her lips as she smiled at Katsura.

"I understand. Thank you, student Kotonoha. I won't keep you any longer. Goodbye!" With that, she turned and made her exit.

"Goodbye, President." Kotonoha offered a slight bow in farewell.

Unbeknownst to Hachiman, he had captured the attention of the alluring president of the Kendo Club. Meanwhile, he found himself preoccupied by another matter.

The sudden 500-point increase in his kendo proficiency had left him feeling rather perplexed.

"Perhaps... it's due to the actual combat training with Katsura-san today?" Hachiman mused, his thoughts tinged with uncertainty.

Considering that kendo is rooted in combat, it's plausible that hands-on practice like today's could significantly enhance proficiency.

The kendo proficiency on the panel comprised nearly one-third of his total. With a few more training sessions alongside Kotonoha, combined with the natural growth of his skill, he estimated that his kendo might reach the fourth level within a month's time.

Once he achieved the fourth level of kendo, coupled with his extraordinary physical abilities, he'd feel confident enough to challenge the captivating leader of the kendo club, Busujima Saeko.

Naturally, whether he could emerge victorious or not remained an unanswered question.

"I'm home..."

"Welcome back, Onii-chan."

The moment he stepped into the house, Komachi's cheerful greeting met him.

Gently patting her head, Hachiman smiled and responded, "I'm back, Komachi."

As his warm hand brushed her head, Komachi's eyes squinted in contentment.

"Wait a moment, Onii-chan. Dinner will be ready soon."

"Hmm? Komachi, why did you decide to cook dinner today?" Hachiman found himself a little puzzled.

"Well, since you've been working hard with the Kendo Club, Onii-chan must be exhausted. So, I thought it's only fair for a sister to take care of her hardworking brother by making dinner tonight." Komachi placed her hands on her hips, sporting a proud smile that exuded a touch of satisfaction.

"Oh, by the way, that line just now would probably score pretty high in the 'Komachi's Quotations' book."

"Hey, my Komachi is the best."

Hachiman chuckled, shaking his head at his sister's adorable tsundere behavior. He had long grown accustomed to it.


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Leonzky Leonzky

Hey, as we've reached the ninth spot in the power rankings, I'll be releasing two bonus chapters at midnight. I'd like to extend my gratitude to those who've generously given power stones to support this fanfic. Thanks again!

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