Rich Girl Caretaker Vol. 7 Chapter 1

The Goal Itsuki Tomonari Should Pursue

"It seems everyone is managing quite well."

Tennouji-san said this as soon as the tea party began.

"Especially you, Tomonari-kun. I hear you've been branching out in many directions."

"Yes. I'm focused on partnering with different businesses to increase my product variety. After that last incident, a lot of people have approached me about working together..."

I'm honestly grateful.

Thanks to the alliance with WEDDING•NEEDS, our selection of gifts for formal ceremonies has grown, and Tomonari Gifts' sales are steadily increasing.

"Actually, a lot more people in our class have been going to Tomonari for advice, too."

"Totally! My friend said she went to you for advice the other day."

Is that right? I didn't realize, but it seems Asahi-san's friend was one of them.

"Hehehe..."

"...Why do you look so proud?"

Hinako was beaming, her face practically screaming "I'm so proud," and Tennouji-san immediately called her out.

Well, it's true. Hinako did kindly share her data with me. You could say I'm where I am now thanks to her help.

But... being praised so much since then has made me realize something. —I seem to have a knack for finding good partners.

Is it a knack for sensing the people behind the data? ...Honestly, I don't really know how I do it, which makes me hesitant to rely on what feels like simple intuition. I'm definitely going to keep studying. Still, people like Takuma-san—people with extraordinary insight—do exist. I should use whatever weapons I have.

I started later than everyone else at this school. That means I have to use every card in my hand. I don't have the luxury of being picky. I lifted my teacup, thinking about what I needed to do.

"Y'know, a lot more people are saying you're cool, Tomonari-kun~"

"Huh?"

I hadn't even taken a sip, but I put my cup down. That was... a shocking thing to hear.

"Starting from nowhere and then shooting to the top! That kind of success story is just super cool, y'know? ...Oh, 'nowhere' wasn't meant in a bad way!"

"I know... A success story, huh."

When Asahi-san says "starting from nowhere," she probably doesn't mean rising from nothing, but rather... making a name for myself in an unexpected place.

Still, a success story... ...I don't feel like it was that simple.

The truth is, things were precarious. I was lucky WEDDING•NEEDS agreed to an alliance. If they'd refused, Suminoe-san would have swallowed my company whole. Every time I think about it, I just... wonder if there was a better way.

"Man~ As your friend, I'm proud! Right, Konohana-san?"

"That's right. I'm also very proud when my friend is praised."

Then why did you just kick me in the shin? Owowow... This Kiou Academy uniform costs hundreds of thousands of yen, you'll get it dirty!

"Well, it's not the first time Tomonari-kun has been a heartbreaker."

"Um, Tennouji-san? Please don't look at me like that..."

Tennouji-san was glaring at me with an unprecedented chill. Why the mistrust...?

She must still be holding a grudge about the dance... when she asked me to choose between her company and Hinako's, and I chose neither.

"H-Hey, Asahi! What about me? Are people saying stuff about me?"

"I have heard ab-so-lute-ly nothing about you, Taisho!"

"You don't have to say it like that..."

Taisho said, his eyes welling up.

Have mercy, Asahi-san...

"On that note, is anyone facing any difficulties?"

Tennouji-san asked. We all looked at each other, but no one spoke up.

"Difficulties..."

Narika murmured.

"Miyakojima-san, is something on your mind?"

"Ah, no!? I don't...?"

Why was that a question? Hinako looked at her with concern. Narika just looked flustered and shook her head.

"Well then, let's adjourn for today. The tournament is entering its second half. Let's all stay focused."

We all nodded. It seemed everyone in the alliance was doing well.

◆

The tea party broke up, and we all headed out.

Tennouji-san went back into the school building to discuss something with a classmate. Taisho and Asahi-san's car had arrived, so they hurried to the gate.

"Sorry, I have to go help a classmate with something, too. I'll see you."

I was so surprised to hear Narika say that, I almost dropped my bag.

"Help... you?"

"Y-Yeah! Is that bad!?"

"No, not at all! Of course it's not."

I was just surprised, not critical.

"Narika... You've really grown."

"Heh, hehe! That's right, I have! ...So stop looking at me like a proud grandpa!"

Narika made a complicated face and headed back to the school.

That left just Hinako and me. Immediately, Hinako's perfect posture dissolved into a lazy slump.

"Fwehhh... I'm tired..."

"Hey, hey. It's too soon to relax."

"Nngh... Wanna get in the car..."

There probably wasn't anyone around, but if she were seen, her "perfect ojou-sama" image would be shattered.

Just a little longer. Hinako, looking exhausted, started walking toward the gate.

"Ah, Konohana-san! Excuse me, do you have a minute to talk?"

A student I didn't recognize called out to her. Hinako's face instantly became a mask of pure exhaustion... Sigh. She was so close.

"...I'll go tell them you're busy."

"No... Even if you do, they'll just message me in-game... I'll be right back."

"Alright. Contact me when you're done."

Hinako's eyes were completely dead.

She'd learned from experience. Declining in person just meant they'd message her later. It's tough being the school idol. I've been getting more requests lately, but nothing like what Hinako deals with.

"Hang in there. I'll sneak you some potato chips later."

"...Mhm!"

That seemed to work. Hinako's spirit returned, and she walked over to the student.

Shizune-san did say "Please don't feed her," but I haven't bought any lately. Once in a while should be fine.

With Hinako gone, I had nothing to do. The student looked serious, so it might take a while. I decided to kill time by wandering the campus.

Kiou Academy is huge, but after a full semester, I'd seen most of it. The cafe, the track, the tennis courts, the library, the gym. I'd been lacking exercise lately, so I wandered around, stretching my legs.

Finally, as I passed the front of the school building, I saw Narika.

"Narika? You're done already?"

"Yeah, it finished faster than I thought. I'm just waiting for my ride."

Her family must have told her it'd be a while. But she looked kind of dejected, not just bored.

"Well... it's less that it 'finished early' and more that I wasn't very helpful..."

"...Oh yeah?"

"They wanted to know how to manage a big company, but I mostly just do it by feel... I couldn't explain it well. I feel bad."

As the game progressed, companies were scaling up, and a lot of students were overwhelmed. The person who asked Narika was probably one of them. I'd had similar consultations myself.

"Don't worry about it. I'm the same way half the time."

"R-Really?"

"It's not like they expect us to have all the answers... By the way, since when are your classmates relying on you? Wasn't it just a little while ago you said you couldn't fit in?"

"Y-Yeah! Ever since the tournament started, more people have been talking to me. My company's doing well, so they want tips."

The tournament had really increased student interaction. This was probably a great chance for Narika to make new friends. As I thought that, I noticed Narika was grinning to herself.

"What's with that look?"

"Nothing... I was just thinking you really get me."

"Well, you do cry to me all the time."

"Ngh... Th-That's true, I guess."

Narika's bright expression faltered.

...But it wasn't just that. It was true that I worried about her, but there was another reason I was so conscious of Narika. It was from the day of the sports festival—

—I... It's only you!

She'd said that to me.

—you'll always be the only special one for me! For my entire life, it's only you!

Her words still echoed in my head. I'd told her I hoped she could find more special people, but she'd teared up and said, "No, only you."

...I'd been hung up on it ever since. When it's just the two of us, I sometimes wonder... What did "special" mean? What was Narika trying to say?

In the end, if I overthink it, things will get awkward, so I've chosen not to read too deeply into it... It's Narika. She probably just meant I'm her best friend, different from "regular" friends. It couldn't be... romantic. ...Could it? No, it's Narika...

(...Let's just not think about it for now.)

Now isn't the time to confront that. If I make things weird just because I'm overthinking, Narika will be the one who's hurt. The tournament is in its second half. I need to focus on the game, not add unnecessary complications. Besides... she's relying on me right now. If I make things awkward, she might lose the one person she leans on, and that would crush her. Thinking about that... I really couldn't take that step.

"Hm?"

Narika hadn't noticed my hesitation. She spotted something and ran to get it.

"Itsuki! A soccer ball!"

"...Someone must have forgotten to put it away." She looked at me, beaming, holding the ball. I wish she'd show that innocent side to everyone...

"Pass!"

The ball rolled to my feet. A gentle, easy-to-receive pass. She was holding back, being considerate of her partner, not showing off. She was still so good at sports. It's rare to see someone with such extreme strengths and weaknesses. I passed it back.

"It's been a while since I've kicked a ball."

"Kiou had soccer in the first year, but you just transferred."

So I missed it? Oh well. You just need a ball to play.

"Here, Itsuki!"

"Hup."

She lofted the ball. I trapped it with my chest. My uniform's probably getting dirty. Shizune-san's going to kill me... But seeing Narika so happy, I couldn't help but feel like a kid again.

...Yeah. This is how it should be with Narika. Just... easy. At least, for now.

"Back at the tea party... Tennouji-san asked if anyone had problems."

Narika said, after we'd passed it a few times.

"I was wondering if I should ask... How do you guys... talk so normally to people you've just met?"

"...Meaning?"

I wasn't sure what she was getting at. I kicked the ball back.

"Since the tournament, I'm talking to new people more. And thanks to you, I'm getting along better with classmates... but I still 'scare' new people a lot. My meetings keep failing."

Thanks to the tournament, she was meeting new people, but that just created a new problem. Her meeting just now probably failed for the same reason. In-person communication is vital in this game. My alliance with WEDDING•NEEDS only happened because Ikuno and I could talk face-to-face.

"If I could just be more natural, I could clear up the misunderstandings. But when I see them... afraid... I just... My mind goes blank."

She'd told me her trauma came from being feared at last year's sports festival. Hearing her now, it was obvious she wasn't over it.

Of course she wasn't. She'd been feared for a year. Even if she's fine with us, she can't just shake that off.

(The sports festival helped, but... she herself needs to change more.)

She was changing, but it wasn't enough. Not for her. But this...

"...You just have to go through it."

That was too blunt. I added:

"I mean, that's what this tournament is for. It's a place to make these mistakes now, so we don't make them in the future. That's the whole point."

"...That's true. In a way, it's supposed to be hard."

"Right. So don't worry about failing right now."

I said that, but I wished I had better advice. But Narika is going to be running a huge company. I know she can't just be average. Unfortunately, I'm not at that level either, so I can't say much.

"What's your goal?"

The question just came out.

"Not the tournament. Your ultimate goal. What kind of person do you want to be?"

"Ngh... Th-That's a tough one."

I'd struggle with that, too. I didn't press her.

"Well... I know it's... ambitious..." She hesitated.

"Eventually... I want to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Konohana-san and Tennouji-san..."

That's Narika's strength. She's pessimistic, but she doesn't compromise on her goals.

And her goal was exactly the same as mine.

"Let's both do our best, then."

We were starting from different places, but... it made me happy, knowing my friend had the same goal.

Yeah... I want to stand with them, too. We hang out with them all the time. I'm sure Asahi-san and Taisho feel the same. I felt a new surge of motivation. My phone vibrated.

A message from Hinako: 'I'm done~'

"I should probably get going."

"Okay. Itsuki, thanks for listening."

"I don't feel like I helped much."

"N-No, you did! It just... reminded me of the Miyakojima family motto. 'Do not fear the meeting.' ...I'm just going to be brave and talk to people!"

They have a motto for that...?

I started for the gate... but turned back.

"Narika... I don't know if I should say this, but..."

She tilted her head, confused. I felt awkward. But... for her own sake, I had to.

"Um... when you're wearing a skirt... you probably shouldn't kick your leg up that high."

"Eh... AH!?"

Narika went bright red and grabbed her skirt. ...Hope she notices sooner next time.

◆

I returned to the Konohana estate and made a call to Takuma-san to report on my progress in the Management Tournament.

'You're on the right track.'

Takuma-san's voice came through the phone.

I had sent him text and screenshots beforehand to update him on my in-game status, and it seemed he'd actually read them.

'So, what's your next move?'

Takuma-san asked.

'I'm sure you've noticed, but your current market size is too small. You can still grow your profits, but you're about to hit a ceiling, aren't you?'

"You're right... To be honest, I can already feel the limit."

I'd focused on the niche market of gifts, and I still think that choice was correct. While Suminoe-san was an unexpected rival, there were almost no other competitors, so I was able to get off to a good start. However, just talking with Hinako, Tennouji-san, and Narika... I'm struck by how different the scale of our businesses is. To be honest... I'm envious of them. I want to handle bigger numbers, too.

At the end of summer break, I vowed to Hinako that I would become someone who could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with them. And one benchmark for that is being able to carry heavy responsibilities, just like they do. I know Tomonari Gifts has grown a lot. But if I'm going to take on more responsibility—this one company clearly isn't enough.

"...Is it time I started another business?"

'Good. That's what I wanted to hear you say.'

Takuma-san always guides me to make the important decisions myself. He's an excellent teacher... Relying on him was the right choice.

'I agree you should start a new business. But you need to think about what to do with your current one. You could sell it via M&A and invest the profits, or you could appoint a successor to manage it. There are many ways to handle succession.'

Unfortunately, with my current resources, it's impossible to run my current business while also launching a new one. Takuma-san knew this, which is why he framed the discussion around succession. All the employees at Tomonari Gifts, other than me, are AI. If I chose internal succession, the next president would be an AI. On the other hand, if I chose external succession—via M&A or bringing in a director from the outside—I could potentially hand the company over to another player, not an AI. This is the company I've worked so hard to build. If it's going to change hands, I'd naturally prefer it to be someone I know.

"If someone I know takes over, I can sell them my stock, right?"

'You want to sell your shares, you mean. Of course. It's more complex than a simple transfer, but it's possible, depending on what they want.'

A new business will require capital. If possible, I'd like to transfer management rights by selling my shares, rather than just a simple handover. I'll need to think about the new business idea and how to secure funding at the same time.

'The rest is up to you. I'm looking forward to your answer.'

With that, Takuma-san hung up.

I let out a soft breath, relaxing my shoulders. It was 9 PM, exactly when the game time ends for the day. I grabbed the potato chips I'd bought after school—hidden from Shizune-san—and headed for Hinako's room.

"Hinako, are you there?"

"...!?"

As soon as I knocked and called out, a loud clattering sound came from behind the door.

A moment later, a "P-Please... come in...!" came from inside, so I entered the room. Hinako was sitting at her desk. For some reason, her face was bright red, and she was lightly sweating.

"Uh... Are you okay? I heard some noise."

"I-I was just studying... I'm fine."

She was definitely hiding something. I scanned the room and spotted an unnatural lump under the blankets on her bed. "

...This?"

"Ah...!?"

When I flipped back the blanket, I saw a shoujo manga hidden underneath.

"It's the manga you borrowed from Yuri... Forget Shizune-san, you don't have to hide this from me, do you?"

"Mhm, right... Maybe."

Hinako mumbled noncommittally.

Oh well. I think Shizune-san would probably allow her to read manga... but depending on the content, she might say it's 'bad for her education' and confiscate it. ...This manga might be one of those.

As I started to flip through it—

"D-Don't look...!"

Hinako hurried over.

"Um, because I haven't read it yet...!"

"Oh, right. Sorry."

I wasn't trying to spoil anything... but fine, it's her manga. I get wanting to read it first.

"...I'll say this just in case, but I don't think Shizune-san would approve of you reading anything too... spicy."

"I-It's not that, so it's fine...!"

So she wasn't hiding it because it was racy.

Then again, she understood what I meant by "spicy"...

"I-Itsuki, it's... about time for our bath."

Hinako said, looking at the clock.

"You're right. Let's go."

I'd thought she'd want to relax with the chips, but she chose to bathe first.

◆

On this day, Hinako Konohana had steeled her resolve. I'm going to make Itsuki's heart pound.

She desperately wanted this dense, popular guy to pay attention to her. Today's tea party had forced her hand. It was one thing for girls to be talking to Itsuki, but she hadn't expected rumors.

(At this rate, the whole world will realize how charming he is...!)

Hinako's vivid imagination conjured an image of Itsuki surrounded by a hundred beautiful women, laughing with a wine glass in hand. She would not allow this future.

Just moments ago, she'd been reading the manga from Yuri to "prepare" for this very operation. When Itsuki arrived, she'd frantically hidden it. Luckily, he didn't know what was in it. Her plan was safe. Now was the time—

"...Okay!"

Hinako changed into her swimsuit, psyched herself up, and walked to the bath.

"Itsuki... Sorry to keep you waiting."

"Oh."

Itsuki was already inside, his feet soaking in the tub as he read some kind of document.

"Is that... a BS? You can read it?"

"Yeah. Takuma-san said I have to."

A BS, or Balance Sheet, was a document summarizing a company's financial status.

Itsuki, who hadn't even known what a BS or PL was, could apparently read them now. Hinako wanted to praise him, but she wasn't in the mood. ...That brother again. Her brother was getting in her way.

"Nngh..."

"...Ah, sorry. I'll... stop talking about him."

Itsuki laughed awkwardly and put the document aside. Seeing his reaction, Hinako knew her displeasure was showing.

(I'm mature, I'm mature, I'm mature... Okay!)

Hinako chanted in her head, brainwashing herself. She pushed thoughts of her brother aside and sat down lightly next to Itsuki.

"Ahh... I'm just... so much more tired than usual today~..."

Hinako said, sneaking a glance at Itsuki's reaction.

"I wish you'd wash my body for me~..."

"...Huh?"

Itsuki froze.

"No, wait... didn't we agree you'd wash yourself?"

"But I'm so tired today~..."

Hinako said, inching closer to him.

"...Won't you do it for me~...?"

She looked up at him. Itsuki's cheeks looked a little red. It's working...! Hinako sensed victory and decided to press her advantage.

"I... I want you to... wash me here~..."

"Hey!?"

Hinako said, lightly tugging her swimsuit strap.

Itsuki was now obviously flustered. However, Hinako wasn't calm either.

(M-Maybe that was too aggressive...)

This is what happened in the shoujo manga, but maybe it was too soon for her.

This is weird... In my head, I was supposed to be giving him a mature, alluring smile. But my cheeks are burning, and I feel like I'm going to faint, even though I just got in. Itsuki... What was he going to do...?

Hinako nervously looked at Itsuki—

"...Itsuki?"

He had turned away, his face set in a fierce grimace. Like one of those fierce temple guardian statues.

"Hinako, I have something important to say to you."

"...Y-Yeah?"

Itsuki looked incredibly stern, as if using every ounce of his willpower to restrain himself. Huh? This isn't the reaction I imagined...

"That's... um... indecent."

"In-Indecent...!?"

A loud clang echoed in Hinako's head. This was not the reaction she'd expected.

"I know it's way too late to say this, but women shouldn't just... expose themselves like that. No, it's really too late to be saying this..."

Itsuki explained, clearly mortified.

"Wh-Who do you..."

Hinako was bright red, trembling.

"Whose... fault... do you think this is...!!"

It's because he's so dense that I had to try! Hinako fixed her strap. To vent, she let out a quiet breath.

"...Wash."

She ordered, not looking at him.

"Hurry up. Wash my hair."

"Y-Yes, ma'am."

Itsuki nervously began to wash her hair.

◇

—Itsuki walked to Hinako's room, with potato chips in hand. Shizune, having received a report from a subordinate, had followed Itsuki stealthily, intending to catch him red-handed.

However, her knock went unanswered. Are they bathing? Shizune thought. She went to the bathroom, and sure enough, both their clothes were in the changing room. She quietly peeked inside to observe the situation.

(Ojou-sama... You're being too hasty...)

Itsuki cherished Hinako. Because of that, he would never cross the final line over a frivolous advance like this. Shizune had deep faith in him on this point. If Ojou-sama truly wanted to capture him, a heavier, more serious atmosphere would be far more effective. Alternatively, if she just forced the issue, he probably wouldn't be able to resist.

(...No, no, no. Why am I thinking like this?)

Shizune seemed rattled by the scene. She left the bathroom to calm down. The shoujo manga was on the bed. She picked it up, flipped through it... I see. She was copying this. Shizune couldn't help but sigh, hand to her forehead. It seemed Ojou-sama still needed time to learn that manga and reality were two different things.

Just then, her phone rang. She looked at the screen... It was another, equally troublesome person. Shizune reluctantly answered.

"Wrong number."

'No, I didn't.'

She had planned to hang up instantly, but he'd corrected her faster than she could move. That man—Takuma Konohana—was definitely smirking.

'Shizune, long time no see. Can you talk?'

"No. Unlike some people, I'm busy."

'Time management is part of the job. You're the head maid now. You need to get better at delegating.'

Shizune had been sarcastic, but he'd given a serious reply. This man was infuriating.

'I need a file, but I'm out of the office and can't access it. Could you go into the main server, pull D7 through D9 from the client list, and send it to my computer?'

"...Understood."

If she refused, he'd just ask someone else, increasing their workload. Shizune had no choice but to accept.

"Waka-sama, what are you planning to do with Itsuki-san?"

'Hinako asked me the same thing.'

Hinako had noticed Takuma was acting as Itsuki's observer and, suspecting his motives, had contacted him. He must be referring to that.

"Itsuki-san is proceeding well... honestly, better than expected. That's why I'm concerned about what goal you're pushing him toward."

'That said, there are only three weeks left. His growth rate is astonishing, but his final results may end up being surprisingly mediocre.'

"I wasn't just talking about the tournament."

(Though, Shizune suspected Itsuki's results would be anything but mediocre. Takuma likely felt the same, and was being deliberately vague.)

"In the end, what kind of person are you trying to turn him into?"

Takuma was silent for a moment. How rare. He's actually hesitating.

'...At first, I planned to make him a serial entrepreneur.'

Someone who starts a company, sells it once it's established, invests the profits into the next, and repeats the cycle.

'But... he has a better head for this than I imagined. At this rate, it's better not to make him take detours.'

"Being a serial entrepreneur is a detour?"

'Yes. I only intended it as a stepping stone for him to learn management.'

I see. Starting and selling multiple companies would certainly teach him the craft. But for Takuma to call that a "detour" meant... he wasn't demanding broad management knowledge from Itsuki.

"You... want Itsuki-san to become..."

'Exactly. Like me.'

At that moment, Shizune finally understood what this man truly wanted to turn Itsuki into.

It wasn't impossible. No... in fact... it might be the most suitable path. Itsuki was undoubtedly suited for it. He could excel.

'Isn't that a wonderful goal?'

Takuma said, clearly enjoying this.

"...You're trying to make a copy of yourself?"

'Yes. It's ideal, isn't it? If there were a copy of me, I could work twice as fast. I might even achieve things I thought were impossible in my lifetime.'

"Itsuki-san will not become like you."

'Hinako said that, too.'

Takuma's laugh came through the phone.

'Which brings me to my point. Shizune, can I borrow Itsuki-kun this Friday?'

"What are you planning?"

Shizune was suspicious.

'A field trip.'

◆

Three days later, on Friday. Fridays were holidays during the Management Tournament. I had planned to study in my room, but after breakfast, Shizune-san called me to her office. Takuma-san was there, too.

After some brief greetings, he told me why he'd called me.

"A field trip?"

"Yes."

Takuma-san nodded.

"I have to attend a shareholders' meeting for work later. You're coming, too."

"...Is a shareholders' meeting something you can just join? Did you use some... strange connections again?"

"Hahaha, what are you talking about? You're a judicial scrivener trainee, attending as part of your training. It just so happens your study group has an in."

So he did use strange connections. This meant I was, once again, leveraging Takuma-san's extraordinary network... I hoped this wasn't inconveniencing anyone.

"Please, I'd be honored to attend."

"I knew you'd say that."

My own knowledge was still lacking. I had no reason to refuse this.

"Hinako, that's what's happening. So, could you please stop glaring at me?"

"..."

Hinako was standing behind me, glaring daggers at Takuma-san. She had insisted on coming with me "just in case," but the moment she saw him, she'd gone silent, just... staring.

"...If you do anything weird to Itsuki, I'll never forgive you."

"I wouldn't. I'm not you."

"What...!?"

"Oh? So you did do something? Judging by your reaction, it was recent. Yesterday? The day before? ...No, I'm thinking... three days ago."

"Wh-Wh-Wh...!?"

Takuma-san just watched her reaction as he laid out his deduction. Hinako turned red as an apple, her mouth flapping open and closed.

She must be remembering what happened in the bathroom three nights ago... Even I was getting embarrassed.

"St-St... Stupid...!!"

Hinako, completely mortified, stormed out of the office.

Shizune-san, worried about her, flew out of the office right behind her.

"Well then, shall we go?"

"...Yes."

Takuma-san acted as if nothing had happened... Is this really okay? Can I keep up with him? I left the estate, filled with anxiety.

◆

"First, let's get you familiar with a normal shareholders' meeting while we're in the car."

Takuma-san said, handing me a tablet.

The screen was open to the world's most famous video streaming site, with "Shareholders' Meeting" typed into the search bar.

"Shareholders' meetings are uploaded online?"

"The big companies do it."

I started by watching the most-viewed video. I was getting a little carsick, but I could understand enough from just the audio, so I looked away from the screen, skipping through as needed.

About twenty minutes later—

"...I've got the general idea."

"What did you think?"

Takuma-san asked as I handed the tablet back.

"I thought it would be more of a place for discussion or arguments, but it's not like that..."

"Mhm. It's more of a report than a meeting. There's a Q&A, but it's basically just fulfilling the duty to explain things to any shareholders who have opinions."

The meeting I watched was mostly the company president giving a one-sided report. During the Q&A, shareholders chimed in, but it wasn't about planning for the future. It was just giving opinions on things that had already been decided. Like Takuma-san said, it was less a meeting and more a report of facts and conclusions.

"The flow is pretty much the same for every company. Report on the business status, then decide on revisions to the articles of incorporation, profit distribution, elect directors, and so on. Then Q&A. You follow so far?"

"Yes."

"Then I'll briefly explain this one."

Takuma-san continued:

"We're attending the shareholders' meeting for Taiyo Construction Co., Ltd. Capital: twenty billion. Employees: two thousand. A so-called mid-sized general contractor. They specialize in marine civil engineering and have expanded overseas."

Taiyo Construction... I hadn't heard of them, but they seemed to be a decent size.

"However, this company is currently facing a problem."

"What kind of problem?"

"I'll explain the details when we get there. It's going to come up in the meeting. You'll enjoy it."

Takuma-san smiled, looking entertained. I had a gut feeling this wasn't going to be good.

A short time later, the car stopped in front of a large office building. This must be the venue. I followed Takuma-san, who knew his way around, into a rented conference space. We went to the reception desk, where a woman in a suit saw me and bowed.

"You're the trainee, correct? I was told about you. Please, take my card."

"Th-Thank you."

I'm sorry, I'm just a student... Beside me, Takuma-san handed a small form to the receptionist.

"Takuma-san, what did you just submit?"

"A voting rights exercise form. It's like a ballot."

I've never heard of that... I'll look it up later.

We entered the meeting room, which was filled with long tables and folding chairs. I found an empty seat and sat down with Takuma-san.

"Ahem—We will now begin the 97th Annual General Shareholders' Meeting."

As per the articles of incorporation, the president of Taiyo Construction, acting as chairman, signaled the start.

An annual general shareholders' meeting. Every company holds one once a year. First, an explanation of the agenda, then a simple summary, followed by the company's report on business strategy and proposals. After that, Q&A, and finally, a vote to close the meeting. Every meeting follows this flow; the video I'd watched was the same.

"Now, I will explain Taiyo Construction's growth strategy."

The chairman played a pre-prepared video. It was thorough, but the content was just like the financial reports our tea party alliance members gave. The only difference was that this was for shareholders, so it included explanations of profit distribution. ...Seeing this really drove home how formal our Management Tournament is. Terms I recognized, like revenue and profit, came up.

"Next, the proposals. Proposal 1: Distribution of surplus—"

The video ended, and a slide appeared on the screen. Proposals were items that had to be decided on during the meeting. The first proposal, profit distribution, was a slight increase from the previous year. That was good news for shareholders; no one would object.

"Proposal 2: Er—Regarding the election of directors."

The chairman switched slides and explained.

"At the conclusion of this meeting, the terms of all current board members will expire. Therefore, we ask you to elect the members for the next term."

The board's term was up, so a new one had to be elected. The slide listed Taiyo Construction's proposed slate of candidates...

(...He seems nervous?)

I couldn't help but feel the chairman's expression was stiff. He continued, explaining resolutions on the previous auditors, director compensation, and so on.

"Next is Proposal 6. Er... This is a shareholder proposal."

A small murmur went through the room. A shareholder proposal...? This wasn't in the video I'd watched. In fact, that meeting hadn't had this many proposals at all.

"These are the candidates proposed by the Suzuki Fund."

A new list of names appeared on the slide. Directors proposed by the Suzuki Fund? Not by Taiyo Construction...?

"Alright, time for an explanation. Read this while you listen."

Takuma-san said, handing me a file.

"The dispute here is the election of directors. Two groups are in opposition: Taiyo Construction and the Suzuki Fund."

Suzuki Fund. The name the chairman just mentioned.

"The Suzuki Fund is a Taiyo Construction shareholder. They've been suggesting reforms, like starting new businesses, but Taiyo has consistently refused."

I nodded for him to continue.

"The Suzuki Fund didn't give up. They even proposed a tender offer, but that went nowhere. Finally, they lost patience and announced they would be submitting their own slate of candidates via a shareholder proposal. And here we are."

"...So, the Suzuki Fund is calling 'stop' on Taiyo's list and trying to get the shareholders to pick their lineup instead?"

"Exactly. Right now, the Suzuki Fund and Taiyo Construction are fighting for seats on the board."

I thought back to the normal meeting in the video. Usually, only the company's proposed slate is presented, and shareholders just decide if they're suitable. But this time, the Suzuki Fund had submitted a completely different list. Shareholders had to choose between them.

"...Huh? In that case, what happens to Taiyo Construction if more than half of the Suzuki Fund's candidates get in?"

When I asked, Takuma-san smiled slyly.

"What do you think?"

What do I think... If that happened, the board of directors—the company's decision-making body—would be more than half-filled by the Suzuki Fund's people. That would mean... Taiyo Construction would be...

"...Hijacked?"

"Correct."

Takuma-san's eyes narrowed as he looked at the chairman. The chairman still looked awful, breaking out in a cold sweat—which was understandable. His company was on the verge of being usurped; of course he was nervous.

"By the way, the shareholders have already voted. We're just waiting for the results."

"...Was that the form you handed in at the desk?"

"Yes. Shareholders can vote then. Those who don't attend can vote by mail or online."

Now I get why he called it a ballot.

"Who do you think will win?"

I thought for a moment.

"...Taiyo Construction?"

"Why do you think so?"

"Because it would be worrying to suddenly have outsiders as directors. The other shareholders must think so, too."

"Mhm. Good."

I must have been right, or at least close. Takuma-san nodded, satisfied.

What the Suzuki Fund was doing was simple: they wanted to reform Taiyo, so they were insisting their people be put in charge. I thought it was pretty heavy-handed. It reminded me of when Suminoe-san bought the VC. Just throwing money around to force the issue.

"As you said, shareholder-proposed directors are rarely approved. But the Suzuki Fund knows that."

If they know that, but still proposed it, that means...

"...They think they can win?"

Takuma-san nodded.

"Look at page seventeen of the file. It's the information on their proposed candidates."

I did as he said. I looked at the list... and was stunned.

"What is this... These are all heavy hitters."

"That's their 'ace in the hole.'"

The list was a lineup of directors from some of the most famous companies in Japan. To be able to gather all these big names... Who is the Suzuki Fund?

"Ahem—The results of the vote are in. For Proposal 2, seven directors have been elected."

The chairman announced, his voice cracking. His face... was slick with sweat.

"For Proposal 6, ...eight directors have been elected."

The company's slate: seven elected. The shareholder's slate: eight elected. Which means—

"The Suzuki Fund... won."

"The other shareholders must have sensed the Suzuki Fund's passion. 'If they're this serious, maybe we should let them try.'"

The room instantly erupted in noise. I ignored the chatter and tried to analyze the situation.

"Isn't this..."

Acquiring a majority vote to hijack a company. I recognized this technique. Takuma-san, as if reading my mind, smiled.

"That's right—this is a takeover."

I knew it. Even with all the complicated information, the action itself was a simple takeover.

"As you've seen, a company's direction is decided by its shareholders. One hundred shares equals one vote, so your influence changes with your share ratio."

So someone with 100 shares gets one vote, but someone with 1,000 gets ten. The more you invest, the more influence you have. The people who take the biggest risks get the biggest say. Thinking about it that way, business is... fair. Maybe the world is less absurd than I thought.

"A tender offer is the same. The ultimate goal of an M&A is to win the vote at the shareholders' meeting. Owning over half the shares means you win, every time."

If you can secure a majority beforehand, you can control any vote. So that's how M&A works... I'd dealt with it in the game, but I'd never grasped the real-world process.

"It's hard to feel what's happening in the game, isn't it? You get 51% of the stock, and they just... automatically become your subsidiary."

Just as Takuma-san said. I'd assumed that's all there was to it. But in reality, a company's entire direction is changed here, in this room.

"...But this isn't a normal takeover, is it?"

"No. It's an exception to the exception. The Suzuki Fund only had 30% of the stock, but they rallied support from other shareholders and pulled it off."

This wasn't a battle of share percentages. The Suzuki Fund had forced a change by proposing a superior plan and gathering superior talent. ...So there are takeovers like this, too. That's why everyone was so agitated.

"And with that... this Annual General Shareholders' Meeting is concluded."

The meeting ended. The chairman's face was ashen. I almost felt sorry for him.

"Was this... a historic moment?"

"Mmm... hard to say. But it'll definitely be in the news."

So I was present for something incredible. But that raised another question.

"...How did you know this was going to happen?"

Takuma-san must have known. That's why he brought me. What was his role in all this?

"I'll explain in order."

Takuma-san stared at me, looking amused by my suspicion.

"I wanted you to learn three things today. One: to experience the mechanics of a takeover. Two: to become properly aware of shareholders."

"Shareholders...?"

I tilted my head, confused. He nodded.

"You have a talent for seeing the truth behind the data. You've started to realize it, haven't you?"

He asked it like he already knew the answer. I gave a small nod. That feeling... that I was good at picking partners. He must mean that.

"But you can go further. You can expand that 'feeling'... From now on, don't just look at the manager. Look at the shareholders, too."

The moment he said it, I felt something click in my head. The chairman's face... the shareholders' murmuring... I replayed their reactions in my mind.

"It's just a 'feeling,' so you don't have to get it right now. As you learn more, one day—"

"...No."

I shook my head, cutting him off.

"...It's okay. I... think I get what you're saying."

Hearing that, Takuma-san's eyes widened. But a smile immediately spread across his face.

"I was right to take you on as my student."

He nodded, looking satisfied.

"And now, the third point. This will answer your question—"

"Hey, hey, Takuma-san! There you are!"

As we reached the lobby, a man called out from behind us. He'd been sitting near the front of the meeting. He was a large man, and I remembered him. He wore his Italian suit well, and just... radiated "big shot." Who is he? I wondered. Takuma-san explained:

"Let me introduce you. This is Suzuki-san, the representative of the Suzuki Fund."

"Repre—!?"

I was so shocked, my voice cracked on the word "representative." Don't just casually introduce me to someone that important...!

"I-I'm Itsuki Tomonari. I was here observing."

"Oho! So you're The boy Tomonari! I've heard about you from Takuma-san. His prized pupil, eh?"

...Prized? Well, he did give me this incredible experience. I couldn't deny it.

"Um... Suzuki-san, what is your relationship with Takuma-san?"

Suzuki-san looked at Takuma-san, as if asking "Can I say?" Takuma-san nodded and answered himself:

"The external directors proposed by the Suzuki Fund? I introduced all of them."

"............................................What?"

Those directors? That all-star lineup? Takuma-san... gathered them? Himself?

"My goodness, I'm truly indebted to you, Takuma-san. This is all thanks to you."

"You're too modest. It was your capital and your passion for Taiyo Construction."

"Hahaha, kind of you to say... But two of our candidates were rejected. I was hoping for a clean sweep. Life's not that easy."

"That's because those two were too close to you. I told you, independence is crucial for external directors. The proxy advisory firms pointed it out, too."

"You're right... It's just, they were so motivated, it's a shame."

Suzuki-san said, looking genuinely disappointed.

So Takuma-san really was pulling the strings. ...That's how he knew what would happen. I knew he was amazing, but this was the first time I'd seen his power in action.

"By the way, Itsuki-kun. If you were the president of Taiyo Construction, how would you have handled this?"

"Huh..."

Takuma-san hit me with a sudden question. There's no way I could answer that... it was too much... But then I saw Suzuki-san looking at me with interest. I swallowed my reservations and focused. —Think.

This was an invaluable moment. I'd just witnessed an insane shareholders' meeting, and the two men who'd caused it were right here, waiting for my answer. This would never happen again. I had to learn everything I could.

"............What about... issuing a 'golden share'?"

"Oh?"

I said, having wrung the answer from my brain. Suzuki-san let out a sound of genuine interest.

A golden share, simply put, is a share with powerful rights, allowing the holder to overturn resolutions. If someone on Taiyo's side had one, they could have reversed the election result.

"And if you're going to issue one, there's one thing you have to do first."

Takuma-san said, looking at me. I met his testing gaze.

"You'd have to delist. Taiyo is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market, which, as a rule, doesn't recognize golden shares."

A golden share is a trump card, but because it's so powerful, it violates the principle of shareholder equality. If one person has one, other shareholders can't participate in management. The TSE judges this as "unhealthy." Therefore, to issue one, you have to delist... "go private"... to escape the TSE's rules.

"Mhm. You know your stuff."

Suzuki-san looked impressed.

"Takuma-san, he's Kiou Academy student, right? Does that Management Tournament teach them this much?"

"No. He learned this on his own."

"I see... As expected of the great Takuma-san's prized pupil."

Suzuki-san was looking at me like I was some interesting curiosity.

I was so glad I'd looked beyond just "winning the game." If I had, I'd never have learned this.

"Well, I should be going."

Suzuki-san said, checking his watch.

"Takuma-san, I'll arrange for drinks next time! My treat, of course!"

"Thank you very much."

Takuma-san bowed.

"Tomonari Boy, see you around!"

"...See me around?"

I couldn't help but repeat. Suzuki-san paused and looked at me.

"You're studying this hard. You'll be joining our world one day, won't you?"

I was stunned for a moment. Then, I took a breath—

"—Yes, sir!"

I replied clearly. Suzuki-san laughed and left. Takuma-san and I watched him go.

"I wanted you to know three things. The feeling of a takeover. The existence of shareholders. And... my job."

His job...? Come to think of it, what does he do?

"I think you've figured it out by now. My job is to support managers. To be their right hand. I find a company's problems, propose solutions, and, if necessary, I handle the execution."

In this case, Takuma-san had handled the "talent acquisition." This was not just "giving ideas."

"It requires a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a high-level of mobility. We're the "backroom" staff, but the freedom and the impact of our judgment is so massive... we can also become the puppet masters who control the game."

Takuma-san, pulling the strings behind the Suzuki Fund, was definitely a puppet master.

A backstage helper, and a puppet master. A manager's right hand, and a ruler of the game.

"The world calls this job—a Management Consultant."

Takuma-san said, looking straight at me.

"Itsuki-kun. This is the path you should be aiming for."

◆

The field trip ended. I returned to the estate. After finishing my tasks in the Management Tournament, I sat in my room, reflecting on the day. When I looked up, it was dark. I closed the curtains, and someone knocked.

"Pardon me."

Shizune-san entered.

"For your hard work."

"...Thank you."

She'd brought me tea. I took a sip. The scent of herbs cleared my nose... This is nice. When I need to think, this is better than a sweet drink.

"Shizune-san... am I suited to be a consultant?"

"You are."

She affirmed it instantly. I was so surprised by her immediate validation, I just stared.

"Do you remember? When you were almost removed as attendant."

"...Yes. At the beginning of the first semester."

When Hinako had violated dining etiquette, and I'd taken the blame.

"The reason you were allowed to stay... was because the Master recognized your 'network.' You have a talent for connecting with people."

"Connecting with people..."

"And, I hear you've guided several people to successful M&As in the tournament. That is undoubtedly the talent of a management consultant."

She must mean with Tennouji-san's partnership. I never expected such a direct compliment from Shizune-san. I gave a wry smile to hide my embarrassment.

"Where did you hear that?"

"From Ojou-sama. She said all the girls in your class have been talking to you lately, and that you've been 'leering' at them."

"That's a misunderstanding."

So she heard it while getting a negative report...

"Try not to worry Ojou-sama so much."

"...I'll do my best."

Lately, though, I'm the one who's been more worried... like with that incident in the bath. Is she reading too much shoujo manga?

"Are you... resistant to the idea of being a consultant?"

"Not... resistant... I just assumed I'd go into IT, so I'm a little surprised..."

"Then become an IT consultant."

An IT consultant?

"There are many kinds of consultants. You could aim to be one who specializes in IT."

"...I see."

"Well... given the breadth of your vision, I think you could work in a much more colorful field."

Shizune-san didn't seem to like the IT-only idea. But... focusing on IT gives me a clearer vision... No, that's just... easier for me. I can't just narrow my vision because it's what I'm comfortable with.

"What kind of consultant is Takuma-san?"

"A management strategy consultant. But... he isn't bound by any framework."

So, not a good role model. But, it also means that consultants can work without being tied to one field. Takuma-san seems convinced this is my path, but in the end, it's my decision. I still have the IT option.

But, I thought back to today. At the meeting... I'd used my own head, and I'd explained Taiyo's path to survival... to Takuma-san and Suzuki-san. It worked. The knowledge I'd clawed my way to acquire... was accepted. That made me happier than I could say. What I've learned... it works in their world. I was sure of it now. I was... interested.

And Takuma-san said a consultant is a manager's right hand. If I'm a right hand... I... ...I could support Hinako. I could support Tennouji-san, Narika, Asahi-san, and Taisho. I could stand beside the people who've helped me... and help them. For me, that... was the strongest motivation of all.

"I am not, by any means, endorsing Waka-sama's ideas."

Shizune-san said, prefacing her next words.

"But... I used to think... if my family had had an excellent consultant... we might not have gone bankrupt."

At the end of summer... Shizune-san had told me her story. Her family's company, an apparel business... had collapsed.

I see... A consultant's job is to support the manager. So, if I become one... I could save companies like that.

...What a fascinating job. Being at Kiou, I've seen the weight on Hinako's shoulders. I thought the most I could do was just... lighten the load. I don't have a company. I don't have capital. No matter how much I talk, once I graduate... I don't have the power to help them. But a consultant... can. I can help them, with nothing but my own skills. And... probably from the closest possible distance.

"...I'll do it."

The determination flared up inside me.

"I'm going to become a management consultant."

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