Bab 44: Chapter 44
5:40 AM.
After finishing his morning exercise, Shinji soaked in the bathtub, letting out a comfortable sigh.
By the way, even though the system no longer assigned daily exercise tasks, Shinji still habitually went out for a run for about an hour.
Over the years, he finally understood why Japanese people loved taking baths so much—it was relaxing.
Unlike in his previous life, where he would quickly shower, apply soap, rinse off, and wash his hair—all in under ten minutes.
As a working person, efficiency was key.
6:20 AM.
Wearing his school uniform for the first time in several days, Shinji appeared in the dining room, just as Sakura finished preparing breakfast.
"Sakura, if you really want to go to Emiya's place, you don't have to worry about me. It's just breakfast; your brother can handle it."
Thinking Sakura might be a bit embarrassed, Shinji hesitated to finish his sentence.
Sakura quickly replied, "It's okay. I've already informed Senpai over the phone."
Hmm... After a brief thought, Shinji spoke again.
"Sakura, don't worry. Your brother fully supports your romantic pursuits. Go for it!"
"What are you saying, brother? I'm not going to Senpai's because I like him!" Sakura blushed, knowing her brother misunderstood.
This sister is really shy, Shinji thought, and then waved his hand with a smile.
"I got it, I got it."
"Did you really understand, brother?" Sakura questioned.
"I did," Shinji nodded, "It's normal for girls your age to be shy and not admit it. I totally understand. Just do your best."
"It's not like that! You don't understand at all!"
Sakura's face turned even redder. She knew her primary task now was to clear up the misunderstanding between her brother and her feelings for Senpai!
…
7:05 AM. Shinji and Sakura arrived at school.
Looking at Sakura, who was happily clinging to his arm the entire way, Shinji felt a bit helpless.
Luckily, it was still early, and they hadn't encountered anyone. Otherwise, it would have been embarrassing for both of them.
Shinji tried twice to pull his arm away from the overly soft... ahem... hold, but failed. He then attempted to change the subject.
"Speaking of which, Sakura, do you want to know how to quickly get closer to that twin-tailed girl—Rin Tohsaka?"
"?" Sakura's interest was piqued, a big question mark appearing on her face.
Taking advantage of Sakura's distraction, Shinji freed his arm and leaned in to whisper a few words in her ear.
Listening to Shinji's suggestion, Sakura covered her mouth in surprise, her tone uncertain: "Really?"
"Of course! Trust your brother!" Shinji gave a thumbs-up and winked, "Creating small, unexpected situations can work wonders for building relationships. Haven't you seen it in class? Like when a student, too nervous, calls the teacher 'Mom' by mistake."
"Well... I suppose that has happened."
"Though it might seem embarrassing, it leaves a strong impression on the teacher and classmates, helping to quickly build relationships!"
"It sounds reasonable, but still..."
"Don't worry, trust your brother." Shinji patted his chest.
"Hey, Shinji, Sakura, good morning."
Shirou's voice came from behind them.
"Morning, Emiya." Shinji turned around first.
"Good morning, Senpai." Sakura turned, smiling, and once again clung tightly to Shinji's arm.
"Hey, Sakura," Shinji sighed, about to say something when Shirou interrupted.
Seeing the two so close, Shirou sincerely congratulated Sakura: "Although it feels strange to say this after your grandfather's passing, I'm happy for you. After so many years, your wish has finally..."
"Senpai!"
Sakura, blushing, tried to stop Shirou from continuing.
Noticing, Shirou stopped, glanced at Shinji, and continued, "Shinji, don't be so cold to Sakura anymore. Everyone envies you."
"Huh? What are you talking about?" Shinji was puzzled.
"By the way, Sakura, tell Mitsuzuri I won't be at morning practice. Issei needs my help."
With that, Shirou waved goodbye and entered the school gate.
Since Shinji only briefly joined and then left the Archery Club, Shirou hadn't left it like in the original story. He was now the vice-captain and one of the main members.
Watching Shirou's hurried back, Shinji frowned and muttered, "What's Emiya talking about?"
"Nothing, nothing. Let's go in," Sakura urged, pulling Shinji towards the school gate.
"But, Sakura," Shinji looked helpless, "It's inappropriate to cling to me at school. We're high school students now, you know."
"Oh, are you embarrassed, brother?" Sakura covered her mouth, feigning surprise.
"Don't say silly things. Who would be embarrassed by that?" Shinji shrugged nonchalantly.
"Then it's fine. Let's go."
"But I'm not in the Archery Club. You don't need to drag me there."
"Just this once is fine. You rarely visit the Archery Club."
In the end, Shinji couldn't refuse Sakura's insistence and accompanied her to the archery range on the north side of the campus.
The Archery Club's range was indeed a highlight of Homurahara Academy, with its large area, complete facilities, and luxurious decor, unmatched by any other club.
The reason, probably because the school's chairman had a personal interest in archery. The exact reason was unclear.
Many things couldn't be explained, like why Taiga Fujimura, a skilled kendo practitioner, was the advisor for the Archery Club instead of the Kendo Club.
Shinji had subtly asked about it before, but Taiga didn't give a direct answer to one of FSN's many mysteries.
As they approached the Archery Club, Shinji could clearly hear Rin and Mitsuzuri's voices from inside.
Shinji gestured for silence and stood at the door, listening to the unusual combination's conversation.
"Let me ask you directly, Tohsaka. How are things on your end? You must have found a reliable partner by now, right?"
Mitsuzuri's voice rang out, boyish as ever.
"Phew—you're really getting straight to the point," Rin replied, a bit helpless. "Are you implying that you've already found someone?"
"No comment. Not until you confess first. So, what's your status? You look exhausted; did you find any clues?"
PERTIMBANGAN PENCIPTA 
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