Chapter 149: Even Apart, We Will Always be Friends (1)

“Oh, it’s a beautiful day.”

Early in the morning, I woke up somehow and was stretching by the river.

Jaja and Nana were crying less than usual, and it was cooler than usual around here, so I slept well.

Normally air conditioning would be essential, but the provided electric fan was enough.

Maybe that’s why Jaja and Nana didn’t wake up at night.

I listened to the birds and the cicadas chirping from the forest as I slowly relaxed my body.

It was the same in the duel with Atol, but lately, I’ve obviously been injured too much compared to before I moved.

Even though my injuries were quickly healed by healing magic and whatnot, there’s no way I can continue on like this.

Aoi, Mikuma, Shouhei and my dad would be worried, and Jaja and Nana might be anxious too.

If I didn’t become as strong and tough as possible, I might not be able to protect the twins, so I have no choice but to train my body.

“Good morning. You’re very energetic, Kunpei-kun.”

I turned around at the sound of the voice and saw Officer Inoue on the wooden deck.

“Good morning, Officer Inoue.”

He was wearing training clothes and shorts, looking like he was about to start exercising.

I wonder if he’s okay after staying up late last night with my father drinking.

“I’m sorry about my dad yesterday…”

That middle-aged guy was making too much noise.Maybe he was so excited about the trip that he didn’t even listen to Shouhei’s warning and just continued drinking beer.

“Well, I’m used to Doc, so it’s not a big deal.”

Ah, Officer Doggy is also a terrible drinker.

Huh, did he just say Doc?

That’s the same way Yuri-san calls Officer Doggy.

“Is it okay not to hide what you call her?”

“I’m sure you’ve already figured it out, haven’t you? I’ve already formally proposed to her, so I thought I’d be more open from now on.”

A marriage proposal!

Huh! Are they getting married?

“I’m planning to tell aunt… mother-in-law about it during this trip.”

“Congratulations! Wow, a marriage proposal…”

It’s amazing. As a man, I honestly respect you.

I’ve skipped that stage. And on top of that, another girl has been approaching me and I haven’t been able to clearly turn her down.

Yeah, judging by the situation alone, I’m an asshole, to say the least.

But you know… I wonder why I can’t make a clear decision.

Ah, no matter how I try to smooth it over, I’m the worst.

“K-Kunpei-kun? Why are you suddenly depressed?”

“Oh, no. I was just think about how I’m a jerk.”

I’m such an indecisive bastard. I wouldn’t be surprised if one of them, Aoi or Mikuma, stabbed me.

“I don’t know what you’re worrying about, but I think you’re amazing. You’re a broadminded guy.”

No, I’m not. I just go with the flow.

Once I get negative thoughts, my spirit won’t be lifted easily.

Just give me more praise. I think I’m the type of person who improves with praise.

“Now, would you like to join me for a little flexibility and exercise?”

“Sure. Officer Inoue, you have dan in judo, karate and kendo, right?”

“Just at a hobby level.”

… No, I’ve never seen anyone with that kind of humility who was weak. I can’t believe it.

“Kunpei.”

“Hmm?”

Huh? Did my dad wake up too?

He was sitting on a wooden chair on the deck, scratching his disheveled hair.

“Toshio-kun, is strong. You should let him play with you a bit.”

… If my dad says it, then it must be true.

This man, with a mysterious career, is honestly one of the strongest people I’ve ever met in my life. As far as humans go, that is.

It’s true that there are many strong beastmen, such as Seijitsu-san, Nanairo-san, and even prince Atol. But, to be honest, I can’t imagine my father losing to any of them.

Maybe it’s because I’m his son, but there’s something about this tired, middle-aged father that I can’t shake off.

That was the advice of such a father. I’ll listen to what he has to say.

“Officer Inoue, is that alright?”

“Uh, haha.”

Laughing with a troubled expression, Officer Inoue glanced sideways at my father.

“Toshio-kun, give him a light pat. He seem to be a little recklessly lately.”

“But…”

Hm?

Huh?

Isn’t he reacting like he’s already beaten me?

“Please!”

I’m a little irritated!

I feel like distorting that face of yours that looks so relaxed!

“Okay, then. Just a little.”

As he said this, Officer Inoue spread his legs wide and raised his arms in a stance.

I wonder if it’s a judo stance.

The ground is dirt, so I don’t think I’ll get hurt much, so why don’t I just jump in with some force?

Okay, let’s do that.

There’s nothing I can do if I’m scared.

I took a deep breath, lowered my hips and positioned myself.

I’m right-handed, so I want to make sure that I’m able to get the first shot with my right as hard as I can.

I exhale more than I inhaled, then inhale shallowly and held my breath.

Okay, I’m in perfect condition.

I’ve had a good night’s sleep and I’m fully conscious.

Now, I’m going to break through that composure.

“Then! Please…!”

My consciousness was cut off as I dove into Officer Inoue’s bosom, screaming.