Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 6 Chapter 1

The Tea Party Alliance

"The second semester is here... which means it's time for the event you've all been waiting for—the Management Tournament!"

The opening ceremony finished, and we returned to classroom 2-A. Our homeroom teacher, Fukushima Misono-sensei, began her explanation, seeming even more energetic than usual.

"I'm sure most of you already know, but just to be thorough, I'll explain. The Management Tournament is exactly what it sounds like: a course where you will learn to manage a business. It's one of our school's most famous programs. For the next month and a half, you'll be participating in this tournament alongside your regular classes."

I'd already asked Shizune-san for a general overview. Even though it's called a "tournament," it's fundamentally a school course. And, of course, it will affect our grades.

"Achieving outstanding results in this tournament will earn you excellent grades. Those who excel are demonstrating a talent for management... for wielding the power of an organization. It also makes you a more likely candidate for the student council."

A few people in class visibly tensed with motivation. They must be aiming for the council. ...I'm one of them.

"Alright, without further ado, let's pass out the laptops you'll be using for the tournament."

We were each given a laptop. This laptop... according to Shizune-san, was brand new. I checked the specs—it was a high-performance machine, and the screen even detached to become a tablet. Buying this new would cost 200,000 yen, minimum.

"You'll learn the details in the tutorial. The game begins tomorrow, so please finish it by then."

With that, sensei concluded the homeroom.

(...It's starting.)

I thought back to the end of summer break. That day, Takuma-san had said: —Kiou Academy really begins in the second semester of second year. He was definitely talking about this. He also said that if I was serious about becoming Konohana Group director, I should join the student council and build a track record... The thought of a commoner like me joining Kiou Academy's student council is intimidating, but if it's the only way, then it's what I have to do.

"Hey, Tomonari. We're on for today, right?"

Katsuya Taisho said, slipping his laptop into his bag.

"Yeah. Let's head to the cafe."

We'd already said hi before the ceremony. He'd been all over the place during the break, attending his company's employee trip and other events.

"But, uh... you got a tan."

"Yeah, I was hiking and swimming all over! But... compared to me..."

Taisho's skin was a shade darker. But his gaze shifted to—

"You two! It's been forever! We're on for the tea party, right!?"

Karen Asahi bounced over, her skin much darker than Taisho's. Her already cheerful personality, combined with her healthy tan, just radiated energy.

"Asahi-san... you're really tan."

"Right? I went all out this summer!"

Asahi-san said proudly. She didn't seem to mind, treating it as a badge of honor.

"Ah, I get it. Next summer is gonna be rough."

Taisho muttered. The summer before third year... I'm sure it's not just about entrance exams. For Kiou Academy students, there are probably even bigger things to worry about.

"Sorry I'm late."

Hinako Konohana arrived while I was chatting with Taisho and Asahi-san. A constant stream of classmates had been coming to greet her. I could even see students from other classes peeking in. It would never end, so she'd finally had to ask them to stop. She must have been exhausted.

"Konohana-san... you didn't get a tan at all."

"My family requires me to use sunscreen."

"I see. It must be nice to be treated like a proper ojou-sama. No one stops me, they just say, 'It suits you! It really suits you!'..."

Asahi-san seemed genuinely depressed. The female heart is a complex thing. Come to think of it, I remember Shizune-san putting sunscreen on Hinako during the summer lecture. As the heiress of the Konohana family, getting a tan was probably forbidden. Asahi-san seemed to envy that. Though, in my eyes, she was plenty of an ojou-sama already.

◆

When we arrived at the cafe, two female students were already there. It was Mirei Tennouji, with her familiar golden ringlets, and Narika Miyakojima, who looks cool but is actually a social wreck.

"The Management Tournament!! It's finally starting!!"

Tennouji-san excitedly declared as soon as we sat down.

"Before that... Tennouji-san, it's good to see you this semester."

"Ah... ahem. You're right. Greetings first."

Asahi-san gave a wry smile, and Tennouji-san looked a little sheepish.

"I should be the one saying that. I'm just so glad that all of us could meet again this semester, with no one missing."

She wasn't exaggerating. Kiou Academy students come from powerful political and financial families. Family circumstances are strict, and sometimes, students suddenly transfer in the second semester. Still, I had already confirmed that none of the six of us were in danger of that. The six of us were the regulars at this tea party. I'd grown attached to this group. I was just grateful we could all be together again this semester.

"It's good to see you too, Narika."

"Y-Yes! Good to see you!"

Narika was probably nervous; she practically scowled as she said it.

"Narika, you're tensing up."

"Ngh... I-I haven't seen many people lately, so..."

She was doing better than when we'd first reunited... I hoped she wasn't regressing. It made me a little worried.

"Tennouji-san, you organized this. Was there something you wanted to discuss?"

"Yes. Part of it was just to get together, but the main topic is, of course, this."

I asked. She placed her laptop on the table.

"Before we begin, I want to ask... does everyone understand what the Management Tournament is?"

At this, almost everyone nodded, "More or less."

"Sorry, I only know the basics, not the details..."

"M-Me too..."

I raised my hand, and Narika followed.

"Then I'll explain, just in case. You can learn this from the tutorial, but that takes too much time."

Shizune-san had told me, "It's a very unique course, so it's best to ask your classmates for details." I was grateful for this opportunity. As sensei explained, the tournament is a famous Kiou Academy tradition. So, apart from me—a transfer student—pretty much everyone knew the basics. ...Narika, it seems, was the other exception.

"The Management Tournament is a business simulation game. You play as a manager and run one or more companies over a period of three in-game years."

I knew it was a simulation game. In my old high school, some classmates were addicted to them—games where you become a mayor and build a town, or run a ranch.

"You can manage all kinds of businesses—manufacturing, retail, schools, airports, theme parks, you name it. But you can't just pick anything. The school provides a list of options based on your family background and grades. For example, Narika, your list will definitely include a sporting goods manufacturer."

"Yeah. My parents told me to pick that."

"Every student should have their family business as an option. It makes the simulation more realistic."

It's a game, but it's still a course. The goal is learning, not fun, so limited options make sense.

"What about you, Tennouji-san, and Konohana-san?"

I asked. For example, the Konohana Group includes city banks, trading companies, heavy industry, real estate, and more. All of those should be options.

"We have the 'Corporate Group Manager' option."

I see. So they can choose a role similar to Kagen-san's.

"The role you choose at the start is called your 'Initial Profile.' It's not just the industry, but also the starting capital and number of employees."

And of course, those options also change based on family and grades. Which means my options are probably mid-sized or smaller IT companies.

"However, there are exceptions everyone can choose, like restaurants or small retail."

Narika muttered, "Is there a Dagashiya...?" Even if the game allows it, I doubt your parents would.

"Huh? But if the Initial Profiles are so different, isn't that unfair? If it's based on revenue, bigger companies have an advantage..."

"Tomonari-kun, you've hit on a key point!"

Asahi-san said cheerfully.

"You're right, the starting points vary wildly, but the scoring isn't just about revenue. Stable management, innovation... you have to adopt a strategy that fits your style, and all of it is graded."

Taisho nodded in agreement and added:

"Honestly, in the real world, a company isn't just judged by its revenue. Forget us, Konohana-san's and Tennouji-san's families don't only prioritize profit, right?"

"That's correct."

Hinako affirmed quietly.

"A company's value is in what it contributes to society, not its sales figures. For example, the Tennouji Family has always emphasized creating job opportunities, haven't they?"

Hearing this, Tennouji-san looked at her, surprised.

"Y-You know about my family's company?"

"Tennouji-san, of course I do."

"~~~!! D-Don't think that means you've beaten me!!"

Seeing her obviously trying to hide her embarrassment was... kind of heartwarming. She couldn't hide her grin.

"Konohana-san, do you study this stuff all the time?"

"Not all the time. But I've been to many dinners with executives lately, so I hear these topics often."

"As expected of Konohana-san. You'll probably do great in the tournament."

Asahi-san looked impressed.

"Now that everyone has a basic understanding, allow me to get to the main point."

Tennouji-san looked around the table again.

"How about the six of us... form an alliance?"

"An alliance...?"

I tilted my head, and she continued.

"The purpose is twofold: to share information regularly, and to agree not to be hostile to one another."

"...That's it?"

"Yes. In this tournament, those two points are critical."

She explained.

"The key to the Management Tournament is the other players. Mergers, acquisitions, under-the-table deals... the game is a thrilling nest of backstabbing and intrigue."

She said, laughing with a bold smile. Mergers and acquisitions... common tactics for big companies to absorb smaller ones or for two to join forces. ...Tennouji-san seems to love this kind of strategy. I understood the point. In short, this was a business sim with online elements. Competition was unavoidable. An alliance was a shield... and a powerful way to get ahead. Other students were definitely forming them, too.

"Thankfully, our six industries are diverse. This alliance will be very meaningful."

"True. I'm planning to choose logistics."

"And I'm picking electronics retail... We really are spread out!"

Taisho and Asahi-san agreed.

"And then... there's my personal reason. I want to join the student council. So, honestly, I want as many allies as I can get."

Hearing her declaration, everyone was stunned. Well, maybe not everyone. For Tennouji-san to aim for the council felt completely natural. An atmosphere of "we should help her" began to form... which is when I nervously spoke up. This was the perfect time to say it.

"Actually... that's my goal, too."

"Huh!?"

"I-Itsuki, really!?"

Tennouji-san and Narika cried out at the same time. Taisho and Asahi-san were shocked, too. I'd mentioned it to Hinako, so she wasn't surprised... but for some reason, she looked annoyed. She kept glancing between me and Tennouji-san, her cheeks puffed out slightly.

"I know it's presumptuous... but I want to try."

For me, just saying it took courage. After all, this was a prestigious school filled with the rich and powerful. I was a commoner (officially the heir to a mid-sized company) aiming for the very top. It was so far beyond my station, they'd be well within their rights to ask what kind of joke I was telling. But—

"You must! You absolutely, definitely, must aim for the council!"

To my surprise, Tennouji-san was all for it.

"You have the willpower to make the impossible possible. I don't think it's presumptuous at all."

"That's an exaggeration... I'm using all my strength just to keep up."

"You've only been here a few months! You have no idea how extraordinary that is. When I join the council, it would be so reassuring to have you by my side."

Tennouji-san seemed lost in a happy fantasy. She must be praising my "willpower" because she knows my real identity. And it's true I survived her and Shizune-san's hellish lessons... If there's one thing I'm confident in, it's my endurance.

"Konohana-san, are you not joining?"

Asahi-san asked.

"My family situation... makes it difficult."

"Oh, I see... Well, that can't be helped."

She seemed disappointed, but accepted it. Hinako was one of the most prominent ojou-samas at Kiou; many students must have wanted her on the council. Tennouji-san, of course, had her own supporters. ...In truth, it wasn't her "family situation." It was Hinako's situation. She was already exhausted just playing the "Perfect Ojou-sama." Being a council officer would drain her completely. For someone with Hinako's grades and background, her future was secure even without council experience. Kagen-san himself had said she didn't need to. Tennouji-san, on the other hand, wasn't doing it for her resume. I remembered what she'd said at the beach... She wanted to walk a different path from Hinako.

"That said... Hinako Konohana. You're still taking this tournament seriously, yes?"

Tennouji-san stared at Hinako, her fighting spirit ignited. Hinako took a sip of tea, set the cup down, and replied.

"Of course. Let's both do our best to achieve good results."

Hinako wasn't aiming for the council, but to maintain her reputation, she had to take this seriously. I don't know if it was intentional... but when the usually easy-going Hinako put on a serious face, her presence was overwhelming. I'd felt the same aura from Takuma-san. They really were siblings, though she'd hate to hear me say it. But Tennouji-san didn't flinch. She just smiled fearlessly.

"Well then, everyone needs to finish the tutorial, so let's adjourn... But first, one last important thing."

Important? We all tilted our heads, and she stood up.

"We need to decide on a name for our alliance!"

That's the "important thing"...? But, I get it. A name makes it official and gets everyone motivated.

"How about the 'Hexagon Alliance'? You know, 'cause there are six of us."

"Mnn... I want something that suits us better."

"What about 'Team Gorgeous'? After Konohana-san's assets."

"That sounds kind of obnoxious."

Asahi-san and Taisho's ideas were met with poor reviews. Well, Taisho was probably joking. I should probably suggest something... Just as I was thinking, Hinako raised her hand.

"What about, simply, the 'Tea Party Alliance'?"

"Ngh... Hinako Konohana, I concede. You understand the virtue of simplicity...!"

You're overthinking it. Still, "Tea Party Alliance" was a good name. These tea parties were how we'd all become friends. It fit us perfectly.

"Then it's decided! As of today, the Tea Party Alliance is formed!"

Cheers and applause erupted.

"Let's call it a day. I have no intention of losing to my rival."

Tennouji-san gave a respectful nod to everyone and left. It's a bit late to ask, but... we have rivals within the alliance?

◆

After the tea party. I returned to the estate and immediately started the Management Tournament tutorial.

"Excuse me."

A knock, and Shizune-san entered with Hinako. She'd brought me a drink. I took the cup from her tray.

"Oh? Coffee today?"

"I heard from Ojou-sama that you had black tea at the party."

As expected of Shizune-san. The hospitality of a first-class maid.

"Thank you... Sorry. Never mind Hinako, I'm starting to treat you like my personal maid."

"Me? Your maid?"

Whoops, maybe I shouldn't have said that.

"I'm getting ahead of myself."

"Not at all... I believe that is a possibility."

A possibility...? Well, she didn't seem upset. Shizune-san glanced at the laptop.

"So, how is the tournament coming along?"

"I'm struggling to pick an Initial Profile. There are more options than I thought..."

"It's best to think it through carefully."

She immediately understood my problem.

"Ojou-sama, you should learn from Itsuki-san. You haven't finished the tutorial, have you?"

"I can't... so sleepy... I'll do it later..."

"Good grief... Well, it is the first day back. I'll let it slide, just this once."

Shizune-san sighed.

"Hinako, if you're tired, you can use my bed."

"M-Mhm... no, um..."

"You didn't come here to sleep? Then why..."

Did she have something to tell me? I turned to her. Her cheeks were red, and her eyes were darting all over.

"Um... I... I came to see..."

"?"

"...I-I'm going to sleep!"

"Okay. Don't oversleep, or you'll be up all night."

Hinako flopped onto my bed. She seemed... different. Am I imagining it?

"Itsuki-san, may I?"

"Of course."

Shizune-san studied the screen. Her face was suddenly close, which flustered me, but she spoke with a serious expression.

"As I expected. You have options in the IT industry."

"The industry isn't the problem, it's the scale..."

Specifically, how many employees to start with. A thousand, a hundred, or... from scratch. There were all kinds of options.

"Starting big would be more stable, wouldn't it?"

"Not necessarily. A publicly traded company, for example, risks a buyout. If you're acquired, you lose your freedom to act."

"I see..."

Managing a public company is beyond me right now. In that case, I should choose a smaller scale...

(...It's a rare chance. I should pick something that will help my future.)

My goal is to be a director of the Konohana Group. What profile gives me the best experience for that?

"...Shizune-san, if I really wanted to become a business manager, what's the path?"

"The most reliable path is to join a small-to-mid-sized enterprise (SME) that lacks an heir, and inherit the position."

Only Takuma-san knew my ambition to become Konohana director. My question might have seemed sudden, but her answer was more concrete than I'd expected. For people in the upper class, "becoming a manager" wasn't some wild fantasy. Shizune-san was acknowledging that I could belong in that world. I was grateful.

"So that's more stable than starting my own company?"

"In terms of ease, starting your own is simpler. But for a stable career path, I recommend inheriting. 99% of Japanese businesses are SMEs, and many have succession issues. You'd have plenty of options."

I see. With the low birthrate, that must be a serious problem for local businesses.

"However, in your case, choosing to start from scratch in this tournament would be the best way to learn the fundamentals."

"...You're right."

Don't confuse the means with the end. The goal of the tournament is just to learn. Playing well is just the method. Considering my future, the thing to do right now is…

"...I've decided. I'll start my own company."

"I think that's an excellent choice."

I immediately entered my selection. My Initial Profile: Founder of a new IT startup. The tutorial was over. Now, I just had to wait for tomorrow. I was nervous... How would my skills measure up against Kiou Academy students?

"...It's all right."

Hinako's voice came from behind me.

"Hinako? You're not asleep?"

"Mhm."

She nodded lightly.

"It doesn't matter what you choose."

"What do you mean...?"

"Because if... if anything happens... I'll protect you."

She declared this with utter confidence. I just tilted my head, confused. —At the time, I had no idea what she was talking about.

◆

The next day, the Management Tournament opening ceremony was held in the Kiou Academy auditorium. The assembled second-years listened intently to the guest speakers, then returned to their classrooms, buzzing with anticipation.

"It's finally starting."

"Yeah."

Taisho said as we got back. I nodded.

"...I can't believe the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry came."

"There were a lot of big shots. Most of them were probably our classmates' parents."

I let out a sigh of exhaustion, and Taisho gave a wry smile. The ceremony had been packed with business giants—CEOs of massive corporations, founders of trendy "unicorn" startups. The whole thing was incredibly formal. I was, once again, stunned by the sheer scale of Kiou Academy. Weren't my classmates shocked? I wondered, looking around.

"So, what's your Initial Profile?"

"I went with the 200-billion-yen pharmaceutical company."

"Hey, our industries are similar... Want to talk after school? Maybe form an alliance."

"Thank you. I'll prepare some data by then."

The class was already deep in strategy. I could hear game-related terms like "market cap" and "capital investment" being thrown around.

"Everyone's taking this seriously."

"Of course. Whoever wins this tournament basically stands at the top of Kiou Academy."

"Is that how it is?"

"Most of us are going to be politicians or CEOs, right? So management skill is vital... This tournament makes it obvious who's good and who's not. If you do well, you don't just get into the student council, you get a lot of leeway in other areas, too."

"I see,"

I said, understanding. At Kiou Academy, a student who excelled in this tournament was a model student. Doing well would earn you the trust of the teachers and significantly impact your school life. That said, I was taking it seriously, too. I felt a shiver run down my spine... I chose to believe it was from anticipation.

"The game doesn't start 'til after school... but on day one, you can feel the excitement."

Taisho laughed. The game wasn't accessible 24/7. It ran Monday to Thursday, from 4 PM to 9 PM... only after school. On Fridays and Saturdays, it was 9 AM to 9 PM. Fridays were a day off from school during the tournament, and the game was completely offline on Sundays. The tournament was formal, but the schedule was designed to ensure students could still keep up with their regular studies. Shizune-san even said I could skip etiquette lessons during this period... I'd have to find a way to balance it all.

◆

After school. We gathered at the cafe, laptops open, for our meeting.

"Alright, let's start by sharing our Initial Profiles."

Tennouji-san said, sipping her tea.

"I am managing the Tennouji Group. A wide range of industries."

"I am managing the Konohana Group. Like Tennouji-san, multiple industries, such as a major trading company and heavy industry."

Their choices were as I expected. They'd chosen the roles they would likely have in the future.

"Your company names are the same as in real life."

"You can change them, but most people keep them. It makes you take it more seriously."

You couldn't let the family name go bankrupt, even in a game. It certainly made the stakes feel real. Next was Narika.

"I chose 'Shimax,' the sporting goods maker... I wanted to start a candy shop from scratch, but my dad yelled at me."

Well, obviously... The Management Tournament was a class. She could open her candy shop in a commercial video game.

"I'm 'Taisho Moving.' As the name suggests, logistics."

"I'm 'J. Co., Ltd.' Electronics retail."

Taisho and Asahi-san announced theirs. Finally, it was my turn.

"...I've only decided on 'IT industry.'"

Everyone tilted their heads.

"I chose to start from scratch. The industry is IT, but I haven't picked a name yet."

The tutorial only covered the initial setup. I still had to figure out the rest. Hearing my choice, Asahi-san's eyes went wide.

"T-Tomonari-kun... That's so ambitious!"

"Huh?"

"You're ignoring your family's business to forge your own path, right? Wow... I mean, I've thought about it, but I'd never actually dare..."

She said, her eyes sparkling. Crap... So that's how it looks to other people. If it were just a misunderstanding, it'd be fine, but if it makes them curious about my "family," I'm in trouble. I wanted to keep a low profile...

"Or perhaps, it's to learn the structure of a company from the ground up."

Hinako, understanding my reasoning, jumped in to cover for me. I nodded quickly.

"Uh, Konohana-san's right. It's not ambition, really."

"I see... Well, that's still very diligent~"

Asahi-san continued to look at me with respect. Meanwhile, I was curious about what she'd said.

"You said... you've 'thought about it'? Were you also considering a different path?"

"...A-Anyway, enough about me!"

It sounded like she was speaking from experience, but she brushed me off. She doesn't want to inherit her family business? ...If she didn't want to talk about it, I shouldn't pry.

"Alright, next, let's share our management policies."

Tennouji-san said, looking at us all.

"My base objective is to maintain the status quo. Beyond that, I hope to increase sales for each company."

"My main task is also to maintain the status quo. I plan to manage things conservatively."

Tennouji-san and Hinako's policies were what you'd expect. They were already running the biggest groups in the country. Maintenance was more important than expansion.

"My policy is to increase sales."

"Same as Taisho-kun... It's hard in real life, but my parents said that at least in the game, I should aim for number one in the country."

Asahi-san sighed. Her family's "J. Co., Ltd." was one of the top five electronics retailers in Japan, but not number one. The appeal of a game was that you could overcome real-world gaps with smart-thinking. Finally, it was my turn.

"I guess my first goal is just to get the company off the ground."

Tennouji-san nodded. Can't do anything without that.

"Have you decided what service you're going to develop?"

"Uh... I only have a rough idea."

Starting an IT company meant deciding on a service. It was the first and most critical hurdle. The idea would define my future profits and market.

"This might be overstepping, but here's my advice."

She looked at me seriously.

"What do you want to create to contribute to society?"

"I..."

"Think about it carefully. That will be your answer."

There were many ways to "contribute to society." Even just volunteering had many fields. So why choose one specific thing...? What did I want to do? What would best express what I've felt? I thought it over... and the idea came to me again.

"...Actually, I do have something I want to try."

I already had an answer. I shared the idea I'd been mulling over since last night.

"I want to make an online store... specializing in gifts."

Their eyes widened.

"Just as you said, Tennouji-san, it came from thinking about how I want to contribute... Since coming to this school, I've received so much help. I want to repay that kindness."

And that's where the idea came from. A web service related to gift-giving.

"I've thought about the specifics... When you give a gift, you worry about how to send it, right? In person, or online... If online, which site? I was thinking it would be great to have a service that completely solves that problem."

When giving gifts, you have to worry about etiquette, like wrapping and gift cards. I thought it would be a huge help if you could manage all of that automatically or intuitively, and also manage your recipient lists. In short—I want to build a dedicated gift-giving website. I watched their reactions.

"...That... actually has a market."

Tennouji-san murmured.

"Yeah, year-end gifts are such a hassle. And figuring out who to send what."

"It's fine for friends, but for clients, you have to worry about etiquette."

Taisho and Asahi-san's reactions were good, too.

"Oh, my dad had a really hard time sending year-end gifts to his overseas clients."

Narika added. I looked at Hinako. I hadn't told her yet, so this was her first time hearing it...

"That's very you, Tomonari-kun. I think it's wonderful."

She smiled gently. It might have been my imagination, but her words felt genuine, not just an act.

"Gifts are a form of etiquette... You've been studying manners so seriously since coming to this school, so maybe it's a perfect fit."

I hadn't intended that, but hearing her say it, maybe I had subconsciously connected the two. The feedback was good, and it used knowledge I already had. I wouldn't hesitate.

"I'll submit this as my plan."

"Good. I think it will be rated highly."

Tennouji-san said, looking confident.

"In the tournament, your idea is also graded. When you found a new company, the AI and the teachers rate the concept. If it's judged as groundbreaking, it gives you a big boost. And, just so you know, there are IP rules to prevent ideas from the game being stolen in the real world, so you don't have to worry."

It was a very well-designed game.

"Also, when you start from scratch, you can 'fast-forward' two years. You can use that once your company is stable."

"There's a feature like that?"

"The point of the tournament is to learn by interacting with other students. A brand-new startup doesn't have much negotiating power, so the game accounts for that."

So it wasn't a perfect simulation. The game had rails in place to help students learn efficiently.

"Thanks for letting me know."

"Don't worry about it. In real life, when you start a company, you get advice from all kinds of people. This game is more efficient if you play it while networking, not just by yourself."

I'd already guessed as much. The tournament was designed to require communication, both in and out of the game. That's why we'd formed this alliance. I nodded to Tennouji-san.

"Besides, we're both aiming for the student council... We're comrades! So you can especially... especially... rely on me!"

She said, placing a hand on her chest. I was grateful. I couldn't ask for a more reliable ally. Just as I was thinking that—

"...'Comrades'."

Hinako whispered.

"Ngh... Hinako Konohana, what is it?"

"Nothing. I just personally find that term... inappropriate."

Hinako said this with her eyes closed. Then she opened them and stared right at me.

"If you're going to call someone a 'comrade'... shouldn't you at least be living under the same roof?"

"Hey—!?"

Hinako just dropped a massive bomb, and I shot to my feet. She was talking about us! What is she getting so competitive about?!

"I-Is that so...?"

Tennouji-san's teacup began to tremble. She knew Hinako and I lived together in the estate, and so did Narika. Narika just looked nervously back and forth between them. Only Taisho and Asahi-san were tilting their heads in confusion... Thank goodness for that.

"Hmph! Physical distance has nothing to do with it!"

Tennouji-san said, her voice shaking.

"In fact, the greater the physical distance, the stronger the spiritual bond! To think you're close just because you're near... I must say, that's a very shallow way of thinking."

"...I see. Shallow."

Hinako took a sip of tea and set her cup down.

"You know, I have been studying."

"S-Studying...?"

"Yes. I've become very interested in complex human relationships... It's self-study, but I've been learning quite a bit about... love."

"L-Learning about love!?"

You just read shoujo manga! I knew Hinako had borrowed more manga from Yuri, who brought them over when she came to cook. But Tennouji-san and the others didn't know that. They were stunned.

"Um, Hinako Konohana, if it's all right, I'd like to study with you—"

"—Anyway! Different people have different values! Let's just leave it at that!"

I jumped in before Hinako could embarrass herself any further. How strange... I feel like Hinako has gotten a lot more aggressive lately.

"—Tennouji-san."

I had just sat back down when a voice called out from behind. A female student had approached our table.

"Suminoe-san?"

I said her name. It was Suminoe-san, a classmate from 2-A.

"Suminoe-san, what is it?"

"My classmate... would like to discuss the tournament with you, Tennouji-san..."

"I see. I'll respond at once."

"No, you're in a meeting. I sent you the details via text."

"Understood. Thank you for your consideration."

Tennouji-san thanked her. Asahi-san looked surprised.

"Suminoe-san, you and Tennouji-san know each other?"

"Yes, we were in the same class last year."

Suminoe-san said, and Tennouji-san nodded.

"She's always helping me like this."

"Oooh~" Taisho said, looking between them.

"She's kind of like your secretary."

"That's quite an honor."

Suminoe-san replied with a smile.

"I've told you before, you don't have to go to such lengths for me."

"Not at all. I do it because I want to."

That also sounded like something a capable secretary would say. ...I had no idea. Suminoe-san was in my class, but we'd never really talked. She seemed close to Tennouji-san. They must have spent a lot of time together.

"Hey, hey! Suminoe-san, why don't you join us?"

"I appreciate the offer, but I have family matters to attend to..."

Suminoe-san declined Asahi-san's offer. She turned to leave. But just before she did—

"...?"

Maybe I was imagining it. But I think... she just glared at me.

"Tennouji-san, are you going to ally with Suminoe-san?"

"She proposed it, but I told her I needed time to think."

Think? But you two seem so close... While I was trying to figure that out, Tennouji-san continued, her face serious.

"Her skills are undeniable, but... our relationship is complicated. No, that's a sensitive topic. I shouldn't speak of it lightly."

She cut herself off. What in the world happened between them...?

◆

I returned to the estate and used my laptop in my bedroom.

"I've set up the office equipment, hired some engineers, and finalized the basic design for the e-commerce site... Okay, I'll use the fast-forward function here."

In a real startup, you'd struggle with funding, but if I worried about that, I'd miss the whole point of the Management Tournament—interacting with the other companies. It's better to treat this as a learning experience for my future.

(...Though, in reality, a Kiou Academy student probably wouldn't have this problem.)

Founders struggle with funding because they have to find investors... but at Kiou, those connections are everywhere. I'm sure plenty of students have parents who've already set up trust funds for them.

The words "Fast-Forward Complete" appeared on the screen. My company instantly jumped to its second year. Since the tournament itself lasts three years, my company will have run for five by the end. I checked the company's progress from the time skip.

"Whoa...!!"

Even though it's just a game, I was genuinely moved to see my company growing. I checked the data. The screen showed all kinds of metrics, from daily site traffic to ad counts. I also checked the landing page... Since it was generated by the fast-forward, I expected it to be basic, but to my untrained eye, the design looked pretty good.

(Time to check on the other companies.)

 


The map screen filled with an overhead view of the city. A mid-sized office building in the center held my office. Just like in the real world, the offices had addresses. I looked up Taisho's company and found his HQ was in Osaka Prefecture. Curious about what it looked like in real life, I opened a map app... it was almost identical. The tournament's map faithfully reproduces the real world. I was impressed. I started looking at the data for nearby companies.

(...Well, a two-year skip isn't enough to put me on their level.)

All the other students were running massive corporations that dwarfed mine. Capital, revenue, employee count... every single metric was on a different planet. The gap was stark and easy to see, which made it all the more intimidating. But I'm not scared. First, I have to catch up. If I can't even do that, aiming for the student council is just a bad joke.

A day passed in the game, and the company data updated. One in-game day is fifteen real-world minutes. Trying to plan in real-time is impossible; I have to prep beforehand.

(...There are NPCs, too.) The game world has NPC-run companies in addition to the students'. It looks like I can do business with them.

"The first thing I need to do... is grow my user base."

I checked my user growth, and while it started strong, it's completely plateaued in the last six months. My next task is to break this plateau. A site that sells goods online is an e-commerce platform. How to grow its user base... A few ideas came to mind.

I stretched and looked at the clock on my laptop. It was almost 9 PM. The game locks after nine... I was fired up, so it felt a bit anticlimactic, but I'll save this energy for tomorrow. Hinako is also focusing on the tournament to keep up her "Perfect Ojou-sama" image, so she didn't come to my room. She's usually lazing on my bed by now. Not seeing her... felt a little lonely.

(...Maybe I'll go see her for a change.)

I closed my laptop and left my room. On my way to Hinako's bedroom... I ran into a familiar figure.

"...Takuma-san?"

"Hm? Oh, if it isn't Itsuki-kun."

The tall, slender man in the high-end suit—Takuma-san—turned around. He was holding a stack of documents... Knowing his true nature, it just looked suspicious.

"Don't be so guarded. Have I ever done anything to you?"

"No... It's just a conditioned reflex."

"That hurts even more."

You're not hurt in the slightest.

"Anyway, the Management Tournament started today, yes? Did you successfully found your company?"

"Yes... huh? How did you know I chose to start from scratch?"

"Just a hunch. It seemed like something you'd do."

His perception was sharp as ever. EQ... Emotional Intelligence. Takuma-san's is abnormally high. He can guess what you're thinking just by looking at your face.

"So, what kind of company did you create?"

"...An e-commerce platform specializing in gifts."

"Oh, e-commerce. Good choice. That market is still growing. The Kiou teachers value trend-awareness, so your idea should score well."

Takuma-san stroked his chin as he laid out his thoughts. Hearing this, I wondered... Should I take his advice? I was afraid of him, but I had a vague premonition. If I work with him, I'll grow more. Thanks to him, I figured out my future path. And since he knows my goal, he's easy to consult. And anyway, he definitely knows his stuff when it comes to business. He was the one who spotted the harassment culture at Konohana Beverages. He must be an expert on internal corporate affairs.

"Takuma-san, could you give me some advice for the tournament? I'm stuck on my next move."

"What, specifically, is the problem?"

"I just used the fast-forward and I'm weighing options to grow my user base, but my budget is limited, so I can't try everything..."

"Meaning you want to know the effective method."

I nodded. He thought for a moment.

"In return, you can help me. As you can see, I'm swamped with paperwork."

He said, gently waving the stack of papers in his hand.

"If I can actually help..."

"It's just organizing documents. You'll be fine."

Takuma-san turned and started walking. I followed. He entered a small office on the first floor... It was my first time in this room. According to Shizune-san, it's a room for guests to conduct business. I'd assumed a guest office wouldn't get much use... but I see, it's used by family members who don't live here. Takuma-san handed me a stack of about fifty pages.

"Are these... emails? Why print them out?"

"A change of pace. I've been staring at screens so much lately, I missed paper. But now I don't have time to read them, which is where you come in."

I've also been glued to my laptop, so I could sympathize. Finding ways to stay motivated is probably another necessary skill for a professional.

"Sort them into 'Needs Reply' and 'No Reply.' For the 'No Reply' pile, if the content is simple, just report it to me verbally. You can toss them after."

Takuma-san sat down and started on his own stack. I felt a little nervous as I began sorting.

"'Arise' sent a thank-you note for assisting with the business deal."

"Mhm."

"'Tomo to Yuku Co., Ltd.' says the prototype is done and they'll send it over soon."

"Got it."

He answered me while continuing to work.

"The Minister of Defense contacted you about receiving the contract... Huh? The Minister of Defense!?"

"He's an important client of ours."

I was shocked to see such an impossibly high-ranking name. ...Takuma-san really is incredibly capable. You don't get connections like this otherwise. To be dealing with political heavyweights, he must have their complete trust.

"...That's the last one."

"Good work."

I'd finished sorting. I looked over and saw him still poring over complex-looking documents.

"I'll be a while longer. If you have nothing to do, feel free to read those. You might learn something."

"I-Is that okay? Isn't this all confidential?"

"A little late to be asking that now, isn't it?"

That's true... I'm ashamed I forgot, even for a second, that he wasn't a normal person... Right, he's that kind of guy. And maybe I'm just as weird for asking him for help. I picked up a document that looked interesting.

"This is..."

"A proposal for a parts manufacturer."

That didn't explain much, but I felt bad bothering him while he was working, so I read it closely to try and understand.

(...Basically, they need another company's help to finish a product.)

The Konohana electronics division developed an AC unit for the overseas luxury market. To improve its performance, they want to use another company's part, and they're seeking permission. If they use the part, they'll get tons of test data, which they can share... The proposal listed what kind of data they'd get, and requested their cooperation...

"...Is this proposal... for real?"

"Hm?"

I'd asked almost unconsciously. Takuma-san stopped working and looked at me.

"Um... some of the benefits listed here... feel fake. I'm guessing your real goal is just to get a face-to-face meeting."

Next to the proposal were printouts of his email chain with the contact. Based on them, he hadn't managed to meet them yet. Hearing my question, his eyes widened... and then he smiled.

"Correct. The guy is stubborn and won't accept my proposal over email. But if I can just meet him, I'm confident I can persuade him. So I just... embellished the incentives."

Woah... He had a sly grin. I recoiled internally.

"How did you know?"

"...Huh?"

"I'm impressed you figured out my motive from just that."

"No, it was just a gut feeling. The proposal seemed a little... vague..."

I didn't get it, but for some reason, he was staring at me intently. But I couldn't put the feeling into words.

"I just... had a feeling it was something you'd do..."

It wasn't an answer, but it was the truth. It was just a hunch. Why was he getting so serious over nothing?

"...I've changed my mind."

He said quietly.

"Itsuki-kun, how would you like to be my apprentice?"

"...Apprentice?"

"Yes. Just for the tournament. Why don't you learn directly from me?"

This...

"I mean... I'd be honored..."

"Good. It's settled."

Seeing his ecstatic smile, I felt a faint, ominous premonition. Is this okay? Did I just make a deal with the devil?

"Then let's not waste time. Show me your current situation. The game is locked, but we can check the main page."

"...Understood. I'll go get my laptop."

I went to my room, grabbed my laptop, and returned. I opened it and showed him the game's home screen.

"So, as I said, I want to grow my user base..."

I explained the situation. He listened, then thought for a moment.

"Forget adding products. Add advertisements."

He stated his conclusion flatly.

"This company isn't a manufacturer. Expecting word-of-mouth from your products is idiotic. It's as dumb as a restaurant claiming 'We compete on taste alone.'"

"Is that a bad example...?"

"Isn't competing on taste the bare minimum?"

He means you can't just be pretentious about one thing; you have to work on all areas.

"First, decide on your brand concept."

"Brand concept?"

"If you build a strong brand concept, it sticks in people's minds. It's useful. Using the restaurant example, like a 'traditional house' vibe, or the opposite, a 'futuristic' vibe. Once you decide, you just build your ads around it."

"I understand... Thank you for the advice."

It was my job to figure out the specifics. Unlike a restaurant, this is an e-commerce platform. I want it to appeal to all ages. ...But since it's online, the direct customers are adults with credit cards. So maybe a concept like "Gifts for Adults" would work? Not "adult" as in stuffy or formal, but more like... "sharp, professional"... that kind of adult.

"That said, your company name is lazy."

"Ngh."

He hit a sore spot.

"Oh well. Companies are often named after their founders. Don't worry about it. Ours is, so are Toyota and Bridgestone... But for an IT company, you'd think you'd pick something trendier, no?"

"Um... I don't really have a knack for naming..."

"Companies hold online naming contests all the time. You can't run a business alone. You need to learn to rely on others."

Tennouji-san said the same thing—that the tournament is about networking. And Takuma-san, who's involved in so many businesses, must be right.

"I have an assignment for you. By Friday, investigate the management policies of your associates and report back to me... Let's say, Hinako, Tennouji, and Miyakojima."

How do you know who my friends are? I thought, but it seemed pointless to ask. I just kept quiet.

"Also, I'm only here today. We'll use video calls from now on."

"Understood. Thank you very much for today."

"Don't worry about it. I'm just making an investment."

"An investment?"

I tilted my head, confused. He said "Yes," and nodded—

"In your talent."

Takuma-san said, grabbing his papers and walking out. I left too, mulling over his words as I walked back to my room. ...Talent? My talent? What talent do I have? I puzzled over it, but... again, pointless to dwell on. For now, I'll just focus on his assignment.

As I approached my room, I saw someone standing in front of the door. It was Hinako. Right, I'd left my room to go find her in the first place. She was standing there... frantically fixing her bangs. ...What is she doing?

"Hinako?"

"!? I-Itsuki...?"

Hinako whirled around, startled. It's rare to see her that flustered.

"Wh-Where did you go...?"

"I was just talking with Takuma-san."

"Ngh..."

She still really doesn't like him.

"You were focusing on the tournament today, too, right?"

"...Mhm. I tried to finish early... but Father summoned me."

"By Kagen-sama? About the tournament?"

"Yes. He... 'instructed' me to produce results worthy of Konohana heiress..."

She looked disheartened. I'd wanted to get started on Takuma-san's assignment, but seeing her this drained, it's probably best to drop the topic for today. The conversation died, and Hinako's eyes darted around, looking fidgety.

"Uh... did you want to come in?"

"...Y-Yes."

Her cheeks were a little red as she nodded. Amidst this strange tension, I let her into the room.

◇

Hinako entered Itsuki's room and, as always, habitually scanned her surroundings. She was sure, Itsuki had never noticed this habit.

(Ah... He got a new pen holder.)

Because she came here every day, she instantly noticed the change. A black pen holder she hadn't seen before. Hinako loved coming to his room. At first, it had been neat and impersonal, like a guest room. But day by day, it had taken on Itsuki's "scent." She loved watching that change. New stationery, new slippers, an alarm clock, a laptop... She was overjoyed to see him becoming a part of this home, bit by bit. She usually felt this sense of peace... and would fall asleep on his bed...

(N-No...)

Sweat beaded on her forehead.

(I knew it... I can't be as casual as before...!)

Hinako couldn't suppress the pounding of her heart. In truth, she hadn't been able to relax yesterday, either. She'd lain on his bed but couldn't sleep, listening to him and Shizune talk. In her shoujo manga, a boy's room was always portrayed as a "special space." She understood that feeling now. A mysterious tension, a line she felt she couldn't cross.

"Do you mind if I use my computer? I need to write something down..."

"Y-Yes..."

Hinako nodded, and Itsuki turned to his laptop. She sat on the bed, staring at his profile... He always looked so cool when he was concentrating. Itsuki suddenly glanced her way. Did he catch me staring? Before it could get awkward, Hinako quickly looked away. The sound of typing resumed. She looked back... and found him looking at her. Their eyes met.

"...Wh-Why do you keep looking at me?"

"Oh, I was just checking. If you fall asleep, I'll carry you back to your room."

"Carry...?"

"Yeah. I've done it plenty of times, right?"

Come to think of it, he had... ...If she asked, would he carry her again today? Hinako stared intently at Itsuki's typing hands.

(No... I've been wanting to be spoiled by him way too much lately...)

Not that he'd hate it. But... what does he think of me?

"...Itsuki... what... do you think of me?"

"Huh?"

His eyes went wide. (T-Too direct...!) She'd blurted it out.

"Um... what do you think... of someone lazy like me?"

Hinako rephrased. Itsuki thought for a moment.

"You worry about that sometimes, don't you."

"Ngh..."

"I've told you before, I don't mind at all. You're only lazy like this because you're so tense all the time outside... Being the one you can rely on... I'm honored, really..."

Itsuki said, looking embarrassed. Hinako felt her face melting into a stupid grin and pressed her hands to her cheeks. He had said that... back when she'd thought about switching her wake-up duty back to Shizune. Looking back, she'd already started seeing him as a guy back then. That's why she'd suddenly felt ashamed of him seeing her wake up. Itsuki likes taking care of people. So, Hinako knew he wouldn't be disappointed by her true self, but... she still needed to check sometimes.

(...Love is so weird.)

Her trust in him was absolute, but she felt more insecure now than ever before. Just being her true self suddenly required courage. But if he couldn't accept her true self, they'd never get any closer.

"Can I... borrow your bed? I might... fall asleep..."

"Yeah. I've got to study, so just make yourself at home like always."

Hinako lay down on his bed. In a normal romance, getting the other person to accept your true self is a big step... but Itsuki accepted her from the start. What was she supposed to do now? This was going to be a very difficult romance. As Hinako was drifting off, thinking these thoughts...

"Hm? Oh, Tennouji-san is calling."

Hinako's ears twitched. Itsuki picked up his phone.

"Tomonari-kun?"

Tennouji-san's voice echoed in the quiet room.

"Tennouji-san, what's up?"

"I figured you might be stressing over the tournament, so I thought I'd offer to talk it through."

Hinako slowly sat up. Calling him at this hour...? Hinako glared daggers at Itsuki, but he didn't notice.

"Thanks, but it's okay. I've already sorted it out."

"Oh... well, I'm still worried. Knowing you, you're probably overthinking it."

"I'll try not to..."

Yes, he certainly should.

"Taking a break is important, too! Um, maybe... next Sunday, would you want to...?"

Tennouji-san trailed off, stammering. The next second, Hinako took a slow, deep breath.

"—Tomonari-kun, next Sunday, let's you and I go to the shopping mall."

"What? That voice... H-Hinako Konohana!?"

Hinako spoke much louder than usual—intentionally, so her rival on the other end could hear clearly. Itsuki jumped, his shoulders jolting.

"And just so you know, I'm fine with seeing a movie, too."

"A-A movie...!? Tomonari-kun!? C-Could you please explain what's going on!?"

Cold sweat dripped down Itsuki's face.

"Ah, uh—Actually, Konohana-san and I are talking about the tournament right now, too!"

"Really!? It sounded like you were making plans for the weekend!"

"Huh!? S-Sorry, the connection must be bad! I'm gonna hang up!"

"Wai—"

Itsuki frantically ended the call. I could have pressed my advantage... but I'll let her off the hook.

"..................Hinako?"

Itsuki looked at her nervously, like he'd just stepped on a landmine.

"Um... you want to go to the movies?"

"...I have a formal dinner that day. I can't do anything."

Itsuki's face clearly said, Then why did you say all that? He was completely lost. Who knows? She didn't really know, either. But she was feeling veeeery complicated feelings.

"...I'm going to sleep."

"Huh?"

Hinako lay back down, leaving Itsuki baffled. Only the ticking of the clock filled the room.

"Um, Hinako, I need to take a bath soon..."

"Carry me."

"..."

"Carry me."

Itsuki was still confused, but Hinako ignored him. Itsuki finally gave up, scooped her up, and carried her back to her room. Tucked into his surprisingly firm arms, Hinako felt triumphant. Are you scared now, Mirei Tennouji? This is the power of physical distance.

◆

The next day. At school, the only topic of conversation was the Management Tournament. Unlike yesterday, I could actually participate a little. Now that my own company was on its feet, I could relate to what everyone was talking about.

"But still, Tomonari-kun... That name, 'Tomonari Gifts'... it's a bit..."

Asahi-san said with a pained smile. Taisho looked just as conflicted. During break, I was discussing the tournament with them. They'd given me advice at the tea party, so I figured I should give them an update...

"...I'm starting to regret it."

"Ah!? N-No, it's not that bad!? It just... sounds a little like a manufacturing company, you know...?"

Asahi-san scrambled to cheer me up when she saw my shoulders slump. Tomonari Gifts Co., Ltd. That was my company's name. Now that Takuma-san had pointed it out, it really didn't sound like an IT company.

"How are the numbers?"

"It stagnated after the time skip, but I've found a new strategy, so I think I can break through."

"You're doing well... I'm stuck, too. Guess I'd better make a move."

Taisho was also struggling with his company.

(...I still have to do Takuma-san's assignment, too.)

The assignment: Investigate the management policies of Hinako, Tennouji-san, and Narika. The deadline is Friday, so I have two days. Knowing him, he's not just asking for a summary. He wants a detailed investigation of each of them. I looked for Hinako first, but she was already surrounded, apparently giving advice on the tournament. I'd have a chance to talk to her after school. In fact, it would be easier to talk back at the estate. ...I'll start with Tennouji-san. Like Hinako, she's always the center of attention. It might be better to ask her now, rather than waiting for lunch or after school. As I was plotting how to complete my assignment—

"Hello, everyone."

A gentle voice called out.

"Ah, Suminoe-san! Morning!"

"Good morning."

Suminoe-san gave a quiet nod.

"I'm sorry for declining the tea party invitation yesterday."

"No worries, don't sweat it! You're busy, right?"

"Once the Management Tournament started, I just got swamped."

Asahi-san and Taisho chatted with Suminoe-san. I, on the other hand, had missed my window to join in and just stood there awkwardly.

"Tomonari-kun, have you and Suminoe-san not really talked?"

"Right, not... not really."

Suminoe-san seemed to read my mind and smiled kindly.

"Fufufu, you don't need to be so formal. We're classmates, after all."

"...Sorry."

She'd seen right through my nervousness. —Suminoe Chika. She was one of the few in our class who could be considered Hinako's equal. Her every move was as elegant as Hinako's or Tennouji-san's, and with her doll-like features, she was a frequent topic of conversation among the guys. Her skin was snow-white, and her black hair cascaded from her shoulders to her waist. She was gentle and pure, projecting a different kind of ojou-sama aura than the others. It wasn't my first time speaking with her. I'd talked to her several times during my "Operation: Save Narika from Loneliness"... I figured I needed to get along with Hinako's friends, so I'd made an effort. Still, we didn't have much in common, so we'd never really talked. Because we weren't close, I tensed up when she spoke to me. I was used to Hinako and Tennouji-san, but it had been a while since I'd been hit with this level of unapproachable elegance.

"We don't get many chances to talk like this, do we? But I feel like I know a lot about you, Tomonari-kun."

"Uh... why is that?"

"Because you and Konohana-san are so close, and..."

Suminoe-san glanced at everyone present.

"You always seem to be surrounded by people."

"...I do?"

"Oh my, the fact you don't even realize it is quite charming."

Being told that so directly made me blush. How should I put this... She's like an angel. So pure, so innocent. I wasn't one to rank people, but Suminoe-san's popularity in class was second only to Hinako's. I could see why. She had the family background and an approachable personality. Just then, the bell rang.

"Ah."

I let out a small noise.

"What is it, Tomonari-kun?"

"Oh, it's nothing... I wanted to talk to Tennouji-san, but class is starting. I'll just catch her next break."

I needed to talk to her for Takuma-san's assignment.

"...To Tennouji-san?"

Hearing that, Suminoe-san suddenly stared at me. Was there something strange about that?

"Uh, yeah. About the Management Tournament."

"...I see. Tennouji-san is very reliable, isn't she."

She seemed relieved.

"You were in the same class as her last year, right?"

"Yes, she was very kind to me... Even back then, she was admired by students from other classes."

"That's amazing for a first-year."

"It is. I don't know anyone else so kind and so elegant."

When the topic turned to Tennouji-san, I noticed Suminoe-san's expression became more animated. She must really respect her. We all returned to our seats, and class began.

◆

After class, as planned, I headed for Tennouji-san's classroom. I peeked into Class C and spotted her—that brilliant, golden, princess-curled hair. As expected, she was surrounded... but she suddenly locked eyes with me in the hallway. She tilted her head, confused, and walked over.

"Tomonari-kun, what is it?"

"Sorry, I was hoping to talk to you..."

I felt bad interrupting... but for some reason, the students she'd been talking to were now buzzing with excitement.

"That's the guy who always has tea with Tennouji-san..."

"So he's a member of the 'Noble Tea Party'..."

I could hear the girls in the classroom whispering.

"...'Noble Tea Party'?"

"It's what some students have started calling our after-school tea parties. I suppose, considering the members, it's not entirely wrong."

I certainly don't belong... Taisho and Asahi-san would probably agree.

"We don't have a tea party scheduled for today, do we?"

"No. If we meet too often, we won't be able to focus on the tournament."

"In that case, if you're free, could we talk privately after school?"

At my words, the girls watching from the classroom got even more worked up.

"S-So bold...!"

"I didn't realize he was so aggressive...!"

I heard their whispered cheers and broke out in a cold sweat. ...This is bad. I'd gotten so used to my friends that I'd forgotten: the girls at Kiou Academy are all ridiculously sheltered ojou-samas. Which means they are totally clueless about, and desperate for, romance drama. Tennouji-san, however, was unfazed. She nodded calmly.

"It's about the Management Tournament, correct?"

"Ah, yes, that's right... Sorry, that was vague."

"Please don't worry. I know what you're like."

Tennouji-san smiled. But... for some reason, that smile was a little scary.

"I have plans right after class today, so it might be a bit late..."

"That's fine. Thank you."

"Understood. Then, let's meet at the usual place after school."

Great. Now I can make progress on the assignment.

"Just to ask, what did you want to discuss?"

"I'm just asking different people about their management policies."

"I see. Very diligent."

I was genuinely interested in her strategy, even if it wasn't an assignment.

"I'm currently focused on my textile company."

"Textiles?"

"Yes. Synthetic fibers, mainly. It's the number two company in the industry."

Number two... That means it wasn't a startup, but one of the Tennouji Group's existing companies.

"So your goal is to make it number one?"

"Well... I'm not sure."

...Huh? I was expecting an immediate, "Of course!" This was surprising.

"That was my initial plan. But the gap between us and the #1 company is massive. I'm not sure it's realistic to try and surpass them in just three years."

She said, looking troubled.

(...She always has to be number one, but this time she's being very pragmatic.)

I felt a little sense of unease. Does she have a strategy? Or is she just being more cautious than usual?

"...It's a long story. Let's talk after school."

"Okay. I'm looking forward to it."

It sounded like I was going to learn something useful. I was grateful she was making time for me.

"By the way—about that phone call last night."

Tennouji-san's eyes were sharp. A cold sweat ran down my back.

"I know about your situation with Konohana-san... b-but you two weren't... alone in a room that late at night, were you...!?"

"N-No, well, um..."

"Look me in the eyes and answerrrrrrrrrrr—"

Tennouji-san leaned in close. I instinctively looked away.

"I-I've been in that situation with you, too, Tennouji-san, haven't I?"

"With me...?"

"Yes, when I stayed at your house..."

When I got stranded by the storm, she'd brought tea to my room. We'd both yelled, "Down with Hinako Konohana!!" And... I'd seen her with her hair down, fresh from a bath, for the first time.

"You might have forgotten..."

"I-I haven't forgotten..."

Tennouji-san turned her head away.

"I... How could I possibly forget that day...?"

Her face was bright red. What does that mean...? I thought, but I didn't dare ask. If I did, I felt like I'd cross a line I couldn't come back from—

"Wait... seriously, they look pretty cozy, don't they...?"

"Yeah... I'm... I'm kind of blushing..."

The girls' voices from the classroom snapped us back to reality. Their expressions looked like they'd seen something forbidden.

"I-It's almost time for class!"

"R-Right! I'll see you after school!"

I hurried back to my classroom. I'm glad we're waiting until later. I don't think I could have a calm conversation with Tennouji-san right now.

◆

After school, as planned, I headed to the usual cafe. I'd told Hinako I had plans and couldn't go home with her... Since she's been overreacting to Tennouji-san lately, I didn't say who I was meeting. When I secretly told Shizune-san, she agreed, "Yes, it's best Ojou-sama doesn't know." So, I felt bad, but it was the right call. I got to the cafe, and a few minutes later, Tennouji-san arrived.

"Tomonari-kun, sorry to keep you waiting."

"Not at all. It's fine."

She pulled out the chair across from me and sat down. Then... she whispered.

"...What is this situation?"

"...I was about to ask the same thing."

We glanced around the room. The cafe was several times more crowded than usual. And the students at the other tables... were all staring at us.

"...Someone must have overheard our conversation. Still, I didn't expect this much of an audience."

Tennouji-san also looked troubled. Girls love this stuff more than guys. Almost every other table was filled with girls, anxiously trying to eavesdrop. ...Are all ojou-samas this bored? They can't be...

"Um, can I ask my question?"

"Please. Once they see we're just talking business, they'll calm down."

Tennouji-san said, placing her laptop on the table. When I moved to sit next to her to see the screen, someone let out a high-pitched "Eek!" Tennouji-san and I froze, but we pretended we hadn't heard it. Her screen was filled with data. She was managing multiple companies. It was a completely different world from my simple display.

"...You're working on the textile company?"

"Yes. This one."

She pulled up the company's info. As #2 in the industry, its capital and employee count were on a totally different scale from mine.

"Alright—a pop quiz."

Tennouji-san said, looking at me.

"I just made a major decision regarding this company. What do you think it was?"

I was surprised by the sudden question, but I tried to think. Her company is #2. The most important thing would be to avoid a hostile takeover by #1, right? But she said she made a decision, which implies it wasn't just slow, steady growth.

"...To beat the #1, did you... form an alliance with another company?"

"Good guess, but incorrect."

She shook her head.

"The answer is—I sold it."

The answer was so unexpected, I just froze.

"You... sold it?"

"To be precise, I just finalized the deal. To the #1 company. That's the 'other plan' I had after class."

So, not only did she not try to beat her rival, she handed her entire company over to them. Why...? Tennouji-san must have seen my confusion, because she explained.

"This is obvious, but selling a company generates capital gains. I sold the #2 company in the industry, so that's a massive gain... I'm going to use it to invest in a new venture."

She took a sip of tea.

"By my calculations, in the long run, this will increase the Group's total market value."

I was so stunned I couldn't speak, just staring at the screen. Seeing my blank look, Tennouji-san smiled.

"Just because they're a competitor doesn't mean they're an enemy. That's what's so interesting about business. You can't just make enemies left and right."

"...I'll keep that in mind."

When my company gets bigger and I start expanding beyond the gift business, I might face the same problem. If a rival is stronger, I shouldn't just stubbornly compete. Ceding ground in exchange for long-term profit... that's an option I need to consider.

"Ah, a message..."

A chat box popped up. It was from the student who'd bought the company.

'Tennouji-san, thank you for the merger offer! If it's your company, I can acquire it with confidence!'

Tennouji-san read it and smiled, satisfied.

"It looks like this was a win-win. I'm relieved."

By acquiring her company, that student's company would grow even bigger, becoming the undisputed leader in textiles. They must be seeing a bright future. I could feel the joy in their message.

"...If you were the head of the Group in real life, would you use M&A like this?"

"It's... much harder to make such a bold move in real life. But... the day may come when I have to. I'm using this tournament to learn, just in case."

I can't forget this is a simulation. If it's for the sake of learning, making choices you wouldn't make in real life is also a valid strategy.

"Thank you. I learned a lot."

"It's nothing. You're my comrade and my ally. You can rely on me anytime."

Tennouji-san beamed. She really does love being the one people depend on.

"—And speaking of which, all of you should be focusing on your own work."

She said, looking at the gossips gathered in the cafe. The girls who had been watching us all flinched... Most of them were probably here because they admired Tennouji-san. If she told them to, they had to obey. They nodded and began to disperse. As they left, I heard them whisper:

"...So what's the deal with them, anyway?"

"...We'll just have to keep a close eye on them."

They hadn't given up. It looks like I'll have to be careful for a while. No... I don't have time to be careful.

"...I need to work harder."

The idea of using M&A to fund a new venture hadn't even crossed my mind. It's frustrating. I want to learn more, to stand on the same stage as them. Just as I was thinking that...

"Tomonari-kun."

Tennouji-san said, her face serious.

"Diligence is fine, but you mustn't overdo it!"

"...?"

Was she telling me not to push myself too hard? I wasn't planning to. I just nodded and said, "I know."

◆

I said goodbye to Tennouji-san and returned to the Konohana estate, heading for Hinako's room. Next, I needed to investigate her management policy. I knocked on the door.

"Hinako, are you free?"

"Is that Itsuki-san? Please wait a moment."

It was Shizune-san's voice. The door opened, and I went inside.

"Shizune-san, you're here too."

"Yes. I am assisting Ojou-sama."

"Assisting?"

Shizune-san held up a tablet.

"I am serving as Ojou-sama's secretary for the Management Tournament."

The tablet screen was crammed with dense text and graphs. It was all company data. The amount of information was staggering.

"Itsuki... what is it?"

Hinako, who had been staring at her laptop, turned to me. She was right in the middle of playing.

"I'm learning about the tournament by asking people their management policies. Would you mind if I watched?"

I left out the part about Takuma-san. Just hearing his name would put Hinako in a bad mood.

"You can, but I'm almost done..."

"Your schedule says you have one more hour of focus time."

"Nngh..."

Hinako turned back to her computer, looking miserable. I thought about getting her a drink, but then I saw a tea cart by the desk. Shizune-san must have wheeled it in. Ding. Hinako's laptop chimed. A message from another student popped up.

'Konohana-san, could I ask for some advice?'

Hinako immediately typed back.

'Of course. What's the problem?'

'I'm thinking of selling my company, but the AI shareholders are against it. What should I do?'

That's a tough one. Hinako read it and held her hand out to Shizune-san.

"Shizune."

"Yes, Ojou-sama. This company, correct?"

Shizune-san handed Hinako the tablet.

"I’ll sync the information with Itsuki-san as well."

"Thank you."

Shizune-san handed me her phone. The screen mirrored Hinako's, showing all the data for the student's company.

'Have you considered a squeeze-out? It would give you more control over management. For a company of this size, I see no downsides.'

'Thank you! You even looked up my company data!'

The student was clearly grateful.

'By the way, if you're selling... would you consider letting me acquire it?'

'Huh?'

"Huh?"

It wasn't just the student; I was shocked, too. I looked at the data Shizune-san had given me. I checked the financials first. Honestly, that company did not look appealing at all.

"Hinako, are you sure? It looks like it's bleeding money..."

"It's fine... I can rebuild it."

Hinako stated it flatly. The student messaged back, just as surprised.

'Uh, are you sure?'

'Yes. To be certain, please send me your company's data. As detailed as possible.'

The student immediately sent a massive file, containing far more detail than what we had. Hinako stared at the numbers. ...Is this really okay? I had no idea what she was thinking. I felt a knot of anxiety. Shizune-san saw my expression and sighed.

"...I see. You are too close to Ojou-sama, so you are unaware of her gift."

"Gift...?"

I tilted my head, and she nodded.

"You need not worry. Ojou-sama is the one Master Kagen himself called a 'practical genius'."

"!"

That's right. Of course. Unlike everyone at school, my impression of Hinako was dominated by her true self. But she was, without a doubt, the heiress of the Konohana Group, with the talent to back up her "Perfect Ojou-sama" reputation.

"Product... understood."

Hinako whispered.

"Equipment... understood."

Her eyes were glued to the screen. She was scanning the data at high speed.

"Personnel... understood."

Her mouse clicked rhythmically.

"Clients... understood."

Hinako was in a state of deep, silent focus. Finally, she let out a small breath.

"...Mhm. I have a full grasp of it."

She gave a small stretch.

"The pricing is sloppy... overpayments are rampant. But if I overhaul the contracts and fix them... it will be profitable in two years."

I had no idea what she was talking about. I had no idea what she was seeing. But I understood what had just happened. In just a few minutes, Hinako had completely digested that company's data. You can't reach a conclusion that precise otherwise. —My skin prickled. Normally, you can't just receive a data dump like that and understand it. Because I was just starting to learn, I could tell just how abnormal her ability was. Ignoring my shock, Hinako sent her reply.

'I would be happy to acquire it.'

'Thank you so much!'

I could only stare at the exchange.

"Ojou-sama can perfectly utilize the resources at her disposal."

Shizune-san explained.

"It's not easy. The bigger a company gets, the harder it is to control. Even the CEO can't grasp the full picture. But Ojou-sama is different. Her mind can process all the numbers and guide them to the correct answer."

Shizune-san looked at Hinako with genuine respect.

"Cut waste, maximize equipment and personnel... You could call it the most orthodox, fundamentally sound form of management."

Orthodox... That word hit the nail on the head. I understood why Kagen-san saw her not as a father, but as a fellow executive. Hinako truly had the talent to lead. It was a talent anyone could see, so "perfect" was the only word to describe her.

"Hwaah... I'm tired."

The deal closed, and Hinako's tension melted away.

"Good work, Hinako."

"Mhm... Did you learn anything?"

"Yes. A lot."

"Ehehe..."

Hinako giggled. ...I have to cherish this side of her, too. The "Perfect Ojou-sama" and her true self... both must be precious to her. What I'd just seen was so overwhelming, I felt a new respect for her, and even a little fear. Her performance was so flawless it threatened to blot out the real Hinako I knew. Come to think of it, this must be how the other students feel. Her school persona is an act, but the talent is real. Even if she messes up a little, her sheer competence papers over the cracks. That's exactly why I have to be the one to see. I want to be the one who can support Hinako, both publicly and privately. That's why I'm aiming to be a director—to reach a position as close to her equal as I can.

"...Because I don't want to lose... to that person who called herself a 'comrade'."

Hinako muttered under her breath. She had her own mysterious determination.

"Itsuki-san."

Shizune-san called to me quietly. She motioned me over. She must want to talk privately. I moved closer, making sure Hinako was still focused on her game.

"What is it?"

"Are you going to Miyakojima Ojou-sama next?"

"...That was the plan. How did you know?"

"Given your network, after Tennouji Ojou-sama and Ojou-sama, she was the logical next step."

It's true. Narika is the only other person I know well who has a family background on par with theirs.

"I have a request. If you find out Miyakojima Ojou-sama's management policy, would you share it with me?"

"I don't mind, but why?"

"Because 'Shimax', her company, is doing remarkably well. If she has a secret, I would like Ojou-sama to be aware of it."

Narika's company was succeeding? The tournament just started... but then again, over a month has passed in-game. The gaps are probably starting to show.

"I'm not asking you to be a spy. If she doesn't want to share, that's fine."

"Understood. But I'm sure Narika will be fine with it."

Narika isn't the type for plotting or scheming. Still... I never expected her to be getting good results. I can't imagine it from her usual behavior. How is she running her company?

◆

The next day.

"Tomonari, pass!"

"Got it!"

The first P.E. class of the second semester was basketball. I caught the bounce pass and dribbled down the court.

"Tomonari, go!"

I went for the layup, and the ball swished through the net.

"Nice!"

"Thanks."

Taisho and I high-fived. The other side had been wide open. A lucky fast break, but it put us in the lead. The whistle blew, ending the game. Our team was on break. I walked to the edge of the gym, wiping the sweat from my forehead with the collar of my shirt. As I was catching my breath, I overheard some other students.

"That idea I told you about? It got a high rating."

"Oh... the one for developing new supermarket products?"

"Yeah. If we do consumer research during the R&D phase, the success rate should go up. I hope we can do it in real life, too."

"If you get good results in the tournament, you might be able to convince your parents."

I processed their conversation. In the past, employees would just guess if a new product would sell. But if you hire random customers... regular supermarket shoppers... on a part-time basis, you could evaluate the product from a consumer's perspective before it even launches.

(...That's interesting.)

I smiled to myself. Kiou Academy was completely consumed by the tournament. I thought I was the only one floundering, but everyone else seemed to be taking it in stride... no, they were thriving. Come to think of it, these students are probably always thinking about their families' businesses. The tournament was just a chance to show what they were thinking. They hadn't changed at all. The proof was that everyone seemed to be having fun. Even the quiet students were suddenly bursting with ideas they'd kept bottled up. Maybe I was just getting caught up in the atmosphere, but I was starting to enjoy this, too.

(...When should I talk to Narika?)

I thought about my assignment. Honestly, I couldn't even guess what her policy would be. Tennouji-san and Hinako's strategies were different, but both were based on profound knowledge and experience. Narika, however... doesn't have that kind of brainpower. I just can't see her... Well, then again, Tennouji-san and Hinako are exceptional, even for Kiou. Even hearing what Shizune-san said, I couldn't picture how Narika was succeeding. I glanced at the other court and saw Narika just starting her break. When she's playing sports, Narika has a charm that draws your eye. The "Ice Queen" nickname fits her well. She was still in the zone, wiping her sweat with a serious expression, earning a lot of admiring looks.

"Miyakojima-san! That shot was amazing!"

"O-Oh. Thanks."

And, unlike before, Narika wasn't alone. She was still stiff, but she was communicating. ...She's grown. Knowing how hard it's been for her, the feeling was profound.

"Narika."

I was resting nearby, so I called out to her. Her face lit up, and she walked over.

"Itsuki! What's up?"

If she could just show that puppy-dog friendliness to everyone, she'd be so much more popular.

"Can I ask you about the Management Tournament?"

"Hm... O-Okay. I don't know if I'll be much help, but sure."

Narika's expression instantly twitched. From that reaction, she didn't seem very confident.

"How are you running your company?"

"How... I'm not really doing anything. I don't have any special knowledge or skills."

"But your sales are growing, right?"

"I guess so? I haven't really felt it..."

"What have you done recently?"

She thought about my question.

"I developed... custom running shoes."

She went on to explain.

"People's left and right feet are slightly different. Like the height of the arch or the length of the toes. I thought we should make shoes that fit each person perfectly, so I proposed it, and it got a better rating than I expected. We scan the foot, then 3D-print the parts. They liked that manufacturing method."

"I see... That's a great idea."

"Well, custom shoes have always been a big thing in the sneaker and boot world. I just used that."

I don't own any, but I know high-end shoes are often handmade by artisans for a single customer. Narika's idea must have scored high because she digitized that artisan skill. It was innovative.

"Anything else?"

"Other than that... before the shoes, I developed women's compression wear."

"Compression wear?"

"Yeah, it's athletic wear, kind of like tights, that puts a little pressure on you. It helps with fatigue and improves performance. But... it's very form-fitting, so some people don't like to wear it. I thought we could fix that with the design. Like adding white lines on the waist to make the stomach look slimmer..."

Narika explained in detail, gesturing to her own stomach. ...No special knowledge or skills? You have them. You have specialized knowledge no one else has. Narika has always been untouchable when it comes to sports, leaving even Tennouji-san and Hinako in the dust. She was pumping out practical, realistic ideas. I could now see why her results were good enough to get Shizune-san's attention.

"S-So? Was that helpful?"

"Yeah... To be honest, I'm shocked. You're taking this really seriously."

"Wh-What! What did you take me for! ...Well, okay, judging by how I usually am, maybe it is hard to imagine..."

She got angry, then depressed. She's so busy.

"...I still want to open a candy shop."

"You're still on about that?"

"Yeah... It's been a long time since my parents got that mad at me."

They probably got mad because she was serious. What does she want to do with her future...?

"...Have you ever thought about becoming a pro athlete?"

"Hm... People ask me that, but no. It's fun, and I'm good at it, but... I like recommending sports to people more."

Her parents must have seen that in her. If she truly didn't want to inherit the business and just wanted to open a candy shop, I'm sure they'd react differently. But in the end, she'll probably take over the family company.

"Have you played any tennis since then?"

"No... I've been too busy."

"Considering your position, it can't be helped... But if you ever want to play, let me know. It's the only thing I can teach you!"

Narika said proudly. ...That's not true. I'm constantly inspired by Narika's straightforward dedication. And she's just too negative to see her own good qualities, but she has so many admirable traits.

"Miyakojima-san, are you talking about the tournament?"

Just then, one of the other girls on break called out to Narika. Narika instantly tensed up, her face freezing. I tapped my own cheeks, mouthing 'Smile!' Her expression softened just a little as she turned.

"Y-Yes. That's right."

"Um, the class is getting together after school to talk about it. If you want, would you join us?"

"Huh? M-Me...!?"

"Yeah!"

Narika panicked at the pure, good-natured invitation.

"I-I-I... I-I... Itsuki, what do I do...!? What should I...!?"

And I thought... you'd grown... For her own good, I had to be strong. I answered for her.

"She'll be there."

"Itsuki!?"

"She'll have a lot of helpful things to say. You can look forward to it."

"Itsuki!?"

I mentally cheered on the teary-eyed Narika as I walked back to the boys' side of the court.

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