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17.11% Life As Hikigaya Hachiman / Chapter 100: [100] Preparing for the Tournament

Chapter 100: [100] Preparing for the Tournament

The echoing footsteps of Hachiman resonated as he made his way to the kendo club after school, his presence a familiar one.

Inside the dojo, he found himself face to face with Kotonoha, her expression serious and determined, her hair neatly tied back in a ponytail. Hachiman couldn't help but offer a gentle smile.

"Kotonoha, no need to look so grave," he remarked.

However, Kotonoha's resolve remained unshaken. She shook her head firmly, her voice resolute.

"Hachiman-kun, our kendo club is on the verge of participating in the tournament. Even though you're exceptionally skilled, my own abilities are far from where they need to be."

She continued, "In the days ahead, I implore you, Hachiman-kun, to train me rigorously."

Hachiman's mind flirted with a mischievous thought, but he promptly dismissed it. Instead, he nodded in agreement.

"Not a problem, Kotonoha. Given your determination, I'll ensure you receive thorough training."

Kotonoha expressed her gratitude with a slight bow. "Thank you, Hachiman-kun. I eagerly anticipate your guidance."

Despite being acutely aware of the significant disparity in skill between herself and Hachiman, Kotonoha held an unyielding determination. Kendo was the arena where she felt closest to him, and she refused to abandon her pursuit of improvement.

Hachiman, mirroring her resolve, prepared for their practice bout. He cautioned her with a composed tone, "Be vigilant, Kotonoha. I'm about to initiate an attack."

In the realm of the kendo club, Kotonoha's standing was commendable. She had reached the third level in kendo, a feat that placed her among the club's most proficient members, alongside Hachiman and Saeko. However, it was essential to recognize that her elevation was, in part, due to the club's overall lower skill levels.

With over thirty members in total, only around fifteen had achieved the second level or higher in their kendo proficiency. Among this diverse group, the kendo club boasted six female members and nine male members. Hachiman's inclusion strengthened the male contingent, as he assumed the role of captain, with Shuji Fujita serving as vice-captain. Several capable third-level kendo practitioners rounded out the male team.

The story took a different turn on the female side, where the team was grappling with its own challenges. Aside from Saeko, Kotonoha stood as the only member to have reached the third level in kendo, placing her in a pivotal position. Regrettably, the remaining female members remained at the second level, with skill levels not yet suitable for more prominent roles.

Hachiman's primary objective now revolved around affording Kotonoha an extensive and dedicated practice regimen. This was designed to enhance her proficiency in various defensive stances, ultimately positioning her as the vice-captain of the female kendo team. This strategic move aimed to relieve some of the considerable pressure on Saeko, ensuring the team's readiness for the upcoming tournament.

"Here we go, Hachiman-kun, I'm ready," Kotonoha affirmed, tightening her grip on the wooden sword in response to Hachiman's words.

Seeing her readiness, Hachiman didn't hesitate. He swiftly closed the distance, launching a precise strike with his wooden sword.

Kotonoha, composed and unwavering, raised her own wooden sword to intercept the incoming attack, successfully blocking it.

Impressed by her defense, Hachiman couldn't help but offer praise, his smile affirming her efforts. "Not bad."

While the strike he delivered wasn't at full strength, it was a testament to his remarkable skill. Even an average individual would struggle to fend off an attack with only three-tenths of his power. It was noteworthy that even Saeko, who possessed considerable proficiency, could, at most, manage a block with six-tenths of his strength.

Kotonoha received her crush's commendation with a sense of elation, but before she could respond, Hachiman seamlessly transitioned into the next series of attacks.

"Stay focused, Kotonoha. We're just getting started."

Motivated by his words, Kotonoha swiftly set aside her momentary joy and devoted herself entirely to the task of defending against Hachiman's relentless onslaught.

Thrust, parry, slash, cleave, chop, hook, lift, sweep...

Hachiman employed only the most fundamental eight kendo techniques, the cornerstone upon which all martial arts moves were built. He continued to engage her, each encounter adding to her growing combat experience. Occasionally, Kotonoha seized the opportunity to execute a counterattack amid Hachiman's relentless offensive, their wooden swords clashing in a rhythmic symphony of martial skill.

Ending today's practice session, Hachiman and Kotonoha exited the Kendo Club together.

Hachiman's Kendo proficiency had reached level four, and with this level, the proficiency points gained after each practice session had decreased from the previous five hundred points to one hundred. Even when sparring with Saeko, who fought with full intensity, he could gain at most one thousand proficiency points, a significant drop compared to the previous two to three thousand points of increase.

Although the proficiency points earned through sparring had decreased, the ten points of proficiency that naturally increased every hour remained consistent.

Over the past month, Hachiman's Kendo proficiency at level four had almost reached twenty thousand points, and he was not far from reaching level five.

It's worth mentioning that Hachiman still spent one day each weekend practicing at Saeko's Kendo dojo.

After each practice, Saeko would gently take care of him, helping him with a bath and using various methods to relax his body. It could be said that, except for the final step, they had explored quite a few exciting activities together.

One had to admit that women with a gentle side, like Saeko, were truly amazing.

Now, back to Hachiman and Kotonoha.

As they stepped out of the school gate, a black luxury car pulled up in front of them. Two men in black suits and sunglasses got out of the car, resembling bodyguards. Hachiman instinctively pulled Kotonoha a few steps back.

"May I ask if you have any business here?" Hachiman inquired politely.

Just as he was about to inquire further, the car door was opened again.

A girl with pink shoulder-length hair, a lovely face, and wearing the Totsuki Academy uniform stepped out.

"Mister Hikigaya, good afternoon."

"You are... Miss Arato, whom I met the other day, right?"

The newcomer was none other than Hisako Arato, the personal secretary of Erina.

"That's right. I didn't expect Mister Hikigaya to remember me. I'm truly honored."

Although she was a devoted follower of Erina, as long as the conversation didn't touch upon anything negative about Erina, Hisako was quite tolerant.

"When it comes to beautiful girls, my memory has always been quite sharp." When encountering a beauty, Hachiman's flirting skills kicked in.

"Ahaha, Mister Hikigaya, you really know how to joke."

Girls generally appreciated compliments, and upon hearing Hachiman call her beautiful, Hisako wore a pleased smile.

"I'm not joking at all. Miss Arato is indeed very beautiful."

"Thank you for your compliment, Mister Hikigaya."

Hearing her crush praise someone else's beauty, Kotonoha didn't show any signs of anger. Instead, she wore a gentle smile. The gentle-hearted girl didn't aspire to monopolize Hachiman; she only wished to stay by his side.

"I wonder why Miss Arato came to see me today?" They'd exchanged some small talk, and now Hachiman got to the point.

Since he had asked, Hisako explained the purpose of her visit.

"Well, Erina-sama would like to have another cooking showdown with you, Mister Hikigaya."

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

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Chapter 101: [101] Erina's Culinary Challenge Invitation

Chapter 101: Erina's Culinary Challenge Invitation

"Miss Erina wishes to have another cooking duel with Mister Hikigaya," Hisako declared her purpose for the visit.

"Huh? Erina-san, isn't that..." Kotonoha, standing beside Hachiman, was the first to exclaim upon hearing Erina's name.

As the renowned "God Tongue," Erina Nakiri's name frequently graced television reports. What made it even more significant was that Kotonoha's mother's company was in the food industry and had substantial collaborations with Totsuki.

"Is this Miss Katsura? I am Erina Nakiri's exclusive secretary, Hisako Arato," Hisako introduced herself with a smile, unperturbed by Kotonoha's surprise.

"Hello, Miss Arato. I'm Kotonoha Katsura. It's a pleasure to meet you," Kotonoha, the epitome of grace, offered her own introduction.

Hachiman wasn't surprised that Hisako knew the girl's name. After all, being part of one of Japan's Most Influential Groups, Totsuki, made it effortless for them to investigate him and those around him.

However, what intrigued him was Erina's renewed challenge. When they had previously engaged in a cooking duel, there had been a noticeable gap in their culinary skills. Her willingness to challenge him again hinted at significant improvement on her part.

She had probably ascended to the ranks of the Ten Elites.

Yet, she likely didn't anticipate that not only had her culinary skills improved, but Hachiman's had as well.

Seeing the Level 4 Culinary Skill on his panel, Hachiman couldn't help but smile.

"Sure, but when? I might not have time at the end of the month."

Upon hearing his agreement, Hisako also smiled.

"It's wonderful that Mister Hikigaya agreed. How about we schedule it for the third day after the summer break? I'll arrange for a driver to pick you up."

"The third day after the break? That works perfectly on my end."

With no time conflicts, Hachiman had no reason to refuse.

"In that case, I won't disturb you any longer. Goodbye," Hisako said, having achieved her goal. As Erina's secretary, she had other matters to attend to.

"Well then, goodbye, Miss Arato," Hachiman nodded.

"Goodbye, Mister Hikigaya, Miss Katsura," Hisako gave a slight bow, then turned and walked toward the car.

Watching the black sedan drive away, Hachiman turned to Kotonoha, who was beside him.

"Let's go, Kotonoha. We'll head back home."

"Sure." Kotonoha nodded and followed his lead.

"By the way, Hachiman-kun, how do you know Miss Erina?" Walking along the road, Kotonoha couldn't help but ask.

"Oh, that... it's like this..."

Hachiman shrugged upon hearing her question, then proceeded to recount how he coincidentally met General Nakiri when practicing kendo at Saeko's house. He also mentioned the fortunate victory over Erina in a cooking duel.

"So that's how it happened."

"Hachiman-kun, your culinary skills are so impressive that you managed to defeat Miss Erina," Kotonoha remarked in surprise.

"But, does Hachiman-kun really need to go to Busujima-senpai's dojo every week?"

Hearing that his culinary skills could surpass Erina's, Kotonoha looked at him with admiration.

While she understood cooking to some extent, her skills were only at an average level. At most, she could compare herself to ordinary students at Totsuki, far from being considered an outstanding student, let alone someone like Erina, who was now part of the Elite Ten.

However, when she heard that he visited Saeko's dojo every week, Kotonoha couldn't help but feel a bit suspicious.

"You can also talk to Saeko-senpai about it, Kotonoha. I believe she'd agree to have you join."

Both of them had the kind of refined and ladylike personalities that made it seem like they got along well. If Kotonoha expressed her interest, Saeko might agree.

Or at least, that's how it seemed...

Although, I can't shake this feeling of danger. It's probably just my imagination. After all, my kendo and physical module are now at Level 4. Even if both Saeko and Kotonoha teamed up, they couldn't beat me.

Kotonoha didn't say anything, leaving Hachiman unsure of what was on her mind.

The two of them walked back home together in silence, the atmosphere as calm as usual.

.....

In a women's clothing store, Yui, Yumiko, and Hina embarked on their mission to select swimsuits as planned.

The arrival of peak summer meant the store had just unveiled its fresh collection of swimsuits. There was a rainbow of colors to choose from: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, spanning the entire spectrum. These swimsuits catered to all sizes, from A to G cups.

Exquisite swimsuits and swim trunks adorned every corner - hung on walls, displayed on shelves, and even showcased on mannequins. The selection included classic two-piece bikinis, modest one-piece swimsuits, stylish two-piece tankinis, and even bold V-shaped swimsuits. The diversity of styles left the three friends mesmerized.

What added to the unique experience was the choice of attire by the saleswomen themselves. They, too, sported stylish and enticing bikinis, seemingly serving as living mannequins to enhance the display.

For men, it was akin to a paradise of sorts. However, as they glanced around, they realized that not a single man was in sight.

But that was for the best. This store exclusively catered to women's lingerie and swimsuits. If a man dared to enter, his intentions would be crystal clear, making the situation quite awkward. Therefore, despite the captivating scene inside, no man in his right mind would willingly step foot in there. It was a matter of preserving their social dignity.

"Ehehe, I think this swimsuit would look lovely on you, Yui," Hina said playfully as she picked up a red V-shaped swimsuit.

Despite Yui's usual wild appearance, she had a genuinely innocent heart.

Seeing the V-shaped swimsuit in Hina's hands, Yui's face turned red in an instant.

"W-What are you saying, Hicchan? Who would wear such a swimsuit?"

"Well, I think with Yui's great figure, she would look sexy in it." Hina continued while using her hands to stretch the two thin strips of fabric that constituted the swimsuit.

"And if you wear this swimsuit, Hikigaya-kun will definitely fall for you."

"Really? Would Hachiman really like this kind of swimsuit..."

Surprisingly, Yui was starting to waver at her words.

If it's for Hachiman, maybe...

Just then, Yumiko Miura, who had been quietly observing, interrupted Yui's thoughts.

"Alright, Hicchan, stop teasing Yui." Yumiko gave Hina a somewhat exasperated look and returned the V-shaped swimsuit to its display.

Compared to the mischievous Hina, Yumiko seemed to be the more sensible one at this moment.

"If you keep going, Yui, this silly girl might really buy this swimsuit."


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