5 Step Sisters Vol. 2 Chapter 1

The Fourth Daughter’s Dream and Secret

May 16th, Friday.

I—Rikuto Miyanaga—was leisurely eating toast spread with butter.

Three consecutive days of midterm exams and the return of answer sheets were events that a second-year high school student couldn't afford to take lightly, so today, right before the weekend, I inevitably felt a bit relaxed. Thanks to the time I usually spent reviewing, my grades remained at a decent rank, just like in my first year.

After finishing breakfast, I called out to my family in the living room while clearing the plates:

"Dinner tonight is pan-fried gyoza, a Chinese-style soup with bean sprouts and egg, and a refreshing salad."

I had bought the ingredients yesterday, so preparations were perfect.

Hearing the menu announcement from me, the one in charge of cooking, the family members gathered in the living room reacted one after another.

Although I say family, in my case—I have five stepsisters.

"Gyoza, hmm, that’s not bad."

Bobbing her side-ponytail in agreement was the eldest daughter, Chinatsu.

"I like gyoza..."

Resting her cheek on her hand and showing a gentle smile was the second daughter, Mio.

"I'll pass. I'll be coming home late today too."

Speaking coldly and heading toward the entrance was the third daughter, Karin.

"Speaking of gyoza, it is my absolute favorite food!"

Raising the tone of her voice and revealing her anticipation was the fourth daughter, Fuka.

"Yay! I'm gonna eat a lot!"

Raising both hands to express her joy was the fifth daughter, Sorane.

Hearing the three—no, five different types of responses—I nodded once. Although Karin wouldn't be there, it looked like I had to get fired up and wrap some gyoza.

—About one month ago.

My father... Mukai Miyanaga remarried, and I suddenly gained stepsisters. And since they were five sisters with looks cute enough to draw attention, it was truly a turbulent encounter.

Just gaining one step-sibling is a big issue, yet I got five.

Of course, it wasn't smooth sailing... I was held at stun-gun point, sent to deliver a lost cat, raided at night, forced to accompany dance practice, cried at to take someone to the bath, and finally engaged in a death match with kidnappers in an abandoned factory; things I had never experienced in my life happened one after another.

But precisely because we overcame various problems and conflicts, we were able to gradually change from strangers into a true family.

At that moment, Chinatsu, who was helping the elementary schooler Sorane get ready, walked up to me.

"Hey, are you really okay with this? You've been cooking for us every day recently..."

"Why bring that up now?"

The eldest of the five sisters, Chinatsu, blamed herself for the time her younger sister Fuka was almost kidnapped in the past, and held strong wariness against all men. My relationship with Chinatsu was quite hostile at the beginning too.

But after going through various events, I touched her stubborn heart—I swore to stay by Chinatsu’s side, who continued to fight in solitude, and absolutely never let her be alone.

Chinatsu certainly accepted that sentiment. And on the day the sisters, including Chinatsu, called me "Onii-chan," I officially became the dinner chef. Occasionally, if the timing worked out, I would make breakfast and lunch too.

I no longer pricked up my ears outside the living room to spy on the sisters' reactions. Instead, it was only natural to sit around the dining table together and spend mealtime with them.

"Even though someone said a lot of gossip, like you're showing off on purpose, or being a busybody."

"...Forget what I said."

As I recalled this while counting on my fingers, Chinatsu, who had spoken those words, showed a bitter expression.

"I said I don't mind. The time spent saying 'it's delicious' while eating with everyone is really fun. Even if you guys told me to stop, I don't plan to."

When I said that with a laugh, Chinatsu showed a faint smile that you wouldn't notice unless you looked closely.

"I'm going to the Karate Club for practice today, so I'll be back a little late."

"Oh, roger. Be careful on your way."

Under the recruitment of the advisor, Aru Asahina—Aru-sensei—Chinatsu decided to join the Karate Club. Chinatsu, a black belt, seemed to be treated as an acting master by those around her.

Chinatsu used to pick up Sorane every day, but recently, due to her own club activities, the frequency had gradually decreased. Sorane had friends to walk to and from school with, so currently, there seemed to be no problems.

"Natsu-nee! Let's go to school!"

Hearing the spoiled voice of Sorane calling her, Chinatsu said "Okay, okay" and walked over. I put the washed plates into the dishwasher and said to the four who picked up their school bags:

"Have a safe trip."

Karin had already left, but the other sisters turned back and answered with bright voices:

"We're leaving!"

Once they left, the living room became quiet, but it felt as if the lingering memory of the greetings remained, leaving no trace of coldness.

"...Alright, I should get going too."

Stifling a yawn, I went back to my room to get my backpack.

◇◇◇

"Okay then, today I want to discuss the Cultural Festival activities!"

During the sixth period that day, in the classroom of Class 2-A, the cheerful voice of the Class Representative and my childhood friend, Meme Asahina, rang out.

Private Eisei High School holds its Cultural Festival every year on the first Saturday of June. This year it was set for June 7th, and homeroom time was being used to discuss related matters.

Eisei's Cultural Festival is held jointly with the junior high section, so the scale is quite large. Basically, participation is by class, setting up mock stores or performing plays, but the stage performances in the gymnasium also accept voluntary applications.

Thanks to the popular Asahina moderating, or perhaps because midterms had just ended, the atmosphere in the class was moderately warm. The homeroom teacher, Aru-sensei, didn't particularly interject, watching from the back wall.

I'm not the type to actively participate in events, so I planned to do the work assigned to me by the class just like last year.

"Does anyone have any opinions?"

When Asahina asked from the podium, everyone voiced their ideas one after another.

Takoyaki, frozen crepes, coffee cup ride, fortune-telling house, haunted house, musical... Many opinions were written on the blackboard, but there was no decisive proposal.

The atmosphere became stagnant, and everyone started exchanging opinions randomly or chatting. Just when I thought we would go straight to a majority vote—

The frivolous man representing the class—Hiruoka, sitting in front of me—took the opportunity to speak.

"I see, very good. Everything sounds interesting."

Although I wanted to retort, "From whose perspective are you speaking?", there was no need to dampen the spirits of my enthusiastic friend.

Hiruoka arrogantly crossed his arms and looked around the class.

"However, from the perspective of 'an activity that fits our class style,' don't you feel it's a bit lacking?"

Asahina chimed in with "Mhm, mhm," her eyes sparkling.

"Then, what does Hiruoka-kun think is an activity that fits the style of Class 2-A?"

Even the classmates who were fooling around just a moment ago were drawn in by Asahina's clear voice.

Under everyone's gaze, Hiruoka stood up from his chair with a clatter, clenched his fist, and declared dignifiedly:

"Asahina, let me tell you. What we should do, that's right—is a Sister Cafe!"

A Sister Cafe, in other words, a role-playing cafe.

The most famous is the Maid Cafe, but there are also various concept shops like Butler or Kimono cafes. Although the boom itself has calmed down, it maintains a certain popularity and can be called a staple of Cultural Festivals.

However... this proposal was clearly influenced by Chinatsu's siscon commotion. From the moment he explicitly stated "an activity that fits our class style," it was unmistakable.

Understanding this, the classmates spoke their impressions while stealing glances at Chinatsu, who sat at the very back by the window.

"Not bad, huh?"

"Sounds interesting."

"It's niche, and it won't overlap with other classes."

Everyone's reaction was quite positive, but Chinatsu had previously gone so far as to say, "I am not a siscon." Being teased by the whole class must be humiliating for her.

Depending on the situation, it might not just be Hiruoka getting sent flying. I looked to my left with some concern, and Chinatsu happened to be looking this way too.

My shoulders trembled in fright as Chinatsu shook her side-ponytail and asked in a whisper:

"Hey, what is a Sister Cafe?"

Seriously? I was surprised. It seemed Chinatsu hadn't realized she was the subject of the topic. But since she didn't even know what a Sister Cafe was, that was only natural.

Since she hadn't noticed, there was no need to explain in detail and make her angry. I thought for a moment and gave an answer that wouldn't go wrong.

"I don't know much about it either, but it's probably a type of theme cafe. The staff dresses up as younger sisters and treats the customers like older brothers or older sisters."

"Oh."

Chinatsu seemed disinterested and just tilted her head slightly. Hiruoka, who had been pricking up his ears to listen to our conversation, secretly sighed in relief. If you're that uneasy, don't propose it.

After that, a majority vote was held. Needless to say, the initiative was in Hiruoka's hands.

"Then, the activity for Class 2-A is decided to be a Sister & Brother Cafe—named the Imouto x Otouto Cafe!"

At Asahina's declaration, the class applauded lightly. Although Hiruoka tilted his head saying, "Do I have a younger brother?", he seemed in a good mood that his proposal passed.

After smoothly deciding the activity content, that day's homeroom time ended.

I didn't make any detours after school and went straight home. After all, I had the noble mission of wrapping a massive amount of gyoza; I couldn't waste a single second.

"I'm home."

I opened the front door and said the four syllables indicating my return.

"i'm leaving" and "I'm home" were words that had no connection to me until now, but recently, I would say them almost unconsciously.

Although sometimes there was no response, today there seemed to be one. The living room door opened immediately, and cute footsteps approached the entrance.

The one who appeared was Fuka. She is thirteen years old this year, a second-year junior high student. Her slender body was clad in the Eisei Junior High sailor uniform with a brown collar and skirt, and she wore a tender green thin cardigan over it.

Fuka had voluminous long hair with loose waves, long eyelashes, a high-bridged nose, and fine porcelain-white skin; a girl with features as symmetrical as a western doll.

However, her smile full of charm instantly erased the cold impression of a doll.

"Welcome home, Onii-sama."

...Just in case, let me state beforehand, my house is neither a Maid Cafe nor a Sister Cafe. This unique, high-class young lady tone is one of Fuka's characteristics.

If it were just that, she might seem hard to approach, but Fuka's original accent is the Shizuoka Central dialect inherited from our grandmother. Because of that, she was actually easy for me to get close to.

"I'm back, Fuka."

It seemed the others hadn't returned yet. I took off my sneakers, turned the toes toward the correct direction, and when I looked back, for some reason, Fuka was still standing there.

Hmm? While I felt puzzled, she looked up at me fidgeting.

Her peach-colored lips whispered softly, seemingly a bit shyly:

"Onii-sama. Would you like to wash your hands first? Or make dinner first? Or perhaps... take. a. bath. first?"

"That is a truly brand new set of options."

Two out of three were chores; I had never heard of this pattern.

"Can you let me wash my hands first?"

"What a coincidence, me too."

"Is that so? Is it popular recently?"

I placed my backpack in the entranceway and headed to the washroom first.

Washing hands, gargling. Even though I was just doing my usual movements, I couldn't calm down because Fuka was standing right behind me.

I checked in the mirror, and she was still fidgeting... Because it was too awkward, while wiping my hands with a towel, I said to Fuka:

"Fuka, if you have time, could you clean the bath for me?"

"Yes, okay. Leave it to me!"

I thought she would be reluctant, but Fuka looked relieved and headed to the bathroom in the back. She put on the bath slippers and charged in full of energy.

From the other side of the closed door came the sound of the ventilation fan and the sound of rinsing the bathroom with the shower. Mixed in between was the sound of Fuka humming a song.

The reason I left the housework to Fuka actually had a reason.

The eldest daughter, Chinatsu, seemed too accustomed to doing everything by herself. In reality, I had also lived alone for a long time, but Chinatsu's case seemed even more extreme.

Although neither Chinatsu nor I were people who hated doing housework, there was no need to distance the younger sisters. I wanted Chinatsu to develop the mindset of asking those who were free for help, and I wanted the other sisters to do housework together when they had time. For example, so that the household wouldn't stop functioning if Chinatsu and I caught a cold at the same time.

"Though, with Karin, it's useless no matter what I say..."

I muttered unintentionally. If that guy could be as honest as Mio and Fuka, it would be a huge help... but for now, I should be satisfied if she just clears her finished plates.

While I was thinking, Fuka came out of the bathroom.

"Onii-sama, I have finished cleaning! It has become sparkling clean!"

"Ah, thank you."

Fuka, who had put her ribbon-adorned slippers back on, gazed at me uneasily.

"Um, I have something I wish to speak to you about..."

Hearing her solemn tone, I thought as expected. Fuka's behavior was strange because she had business with me.

"Is it okay to talk in the living room?"

I thought I was being tactful, but she shook her head.

"I would like to speak in Onii-sama's room."

Unexpectedly, she specified my room.

"...Oh, understood."

I had a vaguely ominous premonition, but I didn't voice it.

Fuka nodded slightly, left a "Please wait in your room," and walked out to the hallway. Judging by the footsteps, she seemed to have gone to her own room on the third floor first.

Although I didn't really want to enter... I picked up my backpack left at the entrance and went up to my room on the second floor. Just as I was checking with the naked eye if there was any trash on the floor, there was a light knock on the door.

Fuka, who came to visit, was holding a yellow-green mat rolled up like a scroll.

"Oh, you bought a mat."

Previously, Fuka fell while practicing dance in her room. At that time, I suggested she should buy a mat.

"Yes. Although buying the mat is a good thing..."

I thought she came to show me the mat, but Fuka's expression was gloomy.

Before I could ask her to sit on the chair, Fuka furrowed her thin brows, looked up as if making a resolution, and said:

"Onii-sama, I wish for you to help me!"

"Help you... do you have some kind of trouble?"

It seemed to be quite an emergency. While I was asking, Fuka placed the mat on the floor, took a piece of paper from the documents she was holding, and handed it to me.

It seemed she wanted me to look at this. Confused, I accepted the paper.

I wondered what it was, but it turned out to be an application form for the Cultural Festival stage performance. I looked at the text on it, and then froze.

"...Eh?"

Because in the performer column, the name of the girl before my eyes was written.

"Fuka, did you apply for the stage performance?"

Fuka nodded. As she moved, her soft curly hair swayed along with her.

"That's really amazing."

I couldn't help but feel impressed. Moreover, only the first line of the performer column was filled. In other words, Fuka wasn't participating with friends, but intending to stand on the stage alone.

Fuka's expression didn't relax as she pointed to a spot on the paper.

"As written above, I plan to perform Lie♡Lie's 'Sweet Pentagon'."

"Ah—that 'very delicious dance' one—"

"It is 'delicious pop dance'! You are only a little bit off!"

Fuka pouted. Right, right, I nodded. Since it had been a while since I heard her Shizuoka dialect, I messed it up on purpose, but let's keep that a secret.

However, hearing her say that, I finally understood. The reason Fuka was practicing dance was that she originally intended to perform at the Cultural Festival.

Even though she was a junior high student who had just transferred, she actively wanted to participate in the Cultural Festival; what admirable determination. I felt an emotion close to respect for Fuka.

"I understand. If that's the case, you can use my room as you please, go ahead and practice."

Singing and dancing alone in front of everyone; just imagining it made me shudder. From my perspective, I had no other impression than "that's amazing," but I would gladly provide a practice space.

"Thank you, Onii-sama."

However, looking desperate, Fuka still had more to say.

"Of course, I will prepare for the Cultural Festival with all my might, but this is merely practice... The real performance is the week after the Cultural Festival."

...Hmm?

Feeling that the direction of the conversation had changed, I furrowed my brows.

Fuka took a deep breath, her rose-colored cheeks becoming even more flushed.

"I want to become an idol!"

"......An idol?"

An idol, that kind of idol... right?

While I was surprised, Fuka handed me a large brown envelope.

It seemed to be an envelope mailed from her previous address. I took out the documents inside, and written on them were unfamiliar words like "Idol Recruitment Audition Document Screening Passing Notice."

"Ahem." Fuka cleared her throat and pulled herself together to explain to me.

"This agency is the major company that Lie♡Lie belongs to... Such an opportunity is rare."

"I see." I scanned the document and only voiced that impression.

The Cultural Festival is Saturday, June 7th, and the second screening of the audition held in Tokyo is Saturday, June 14th. I see, no wonder she chose the Cultural Festival stage as a practice ground.

However, I had other important matters I had to confirm.

"Do Natsuki-san and Chinatsu know about this?"

"That is..."

The moment I mentioned the names of our mother and the eldest daughter, Fuka lowered her gaze awkwardly. Since she remained silent, I continued to press:

"Doesn't an audition require a guardian's consent form?"

"Among my friends from my previous school, there was someone with very good handwriting, so I asked her to write it for me... As for the seal, I know where Mother keeps it."

Fuka showed an awkward expression, probably knowing this wasn't praiseworthy behavior.

Hearing this, I thought things had become quite serious. The hand holding the document started to sweat.

"It's better to tell at least Natsuki-san early..."

"Goodness, didn't I say it before? I do not want my family to know."

Fuka pouted. She did say something like that, but that should have meant she didn't want the family to know she was practicing dance.

"Why?"

I asked for the reason directly.

Why didn't she want her family to know about her dream?

Fuka didn't answer that question, as expected. As if to shake off my question, her eyes became determined; she placed her hand on her chest and poured out her thoughts.

"I am serious about becoming an idol. However, I cannot go to dance classes, nor can I take vocal lessons... That is why I wish for Onii-sama to help me!"

Under her intense gaze, I was extremely troubled about how to answer.

I understood the reason Fuka came to me for help. Although it was just a coincidence, I was the only one who knew Fuka was practicing dance. That was why, grasping at straws, she came to me, who knew absolutely nothing about idols.

But if I helped her, things would definitely become troublesome.

Fuka might be thinking too naively, but there's no way one can pass an audition while keeping it secret from their guardian. It will eventually come to light in some form. In that case, it's better to explain clearly to the family while the damage is still small.

However, even if I wanted to persuade Fuka, her eyes were too serious. Seeing those eyes, I simply couldn't refuse. I didn't intend to explain this to Natsuki-san behind Fuka's back either.

At the same time, Chinatsu's face floated in my mind. Chinatsu, who formed a united front with me to protect her sisters.

Is helping Fuka realize her dream while keeping it secret from her the right thing to do?—I put my hand to my chin and thought desperately.

...No, that's not it.

Precisely because I know that from the same angle, certain things can't be seen. I should be able to protect the sisters from a standpoint different from Chinatsu's.

Simply put, I just have to persuade Fuka before the audition. While helping Fuka, I'll convince her to prepare to confess to the family. Although I don't know how Natsuki-san and Chinatsu will react after hearing Fuka's dream, that will depend on Fuka's efforts.

"I don't know what I can do to help, but are you okay with that?"

"Yes, that is fine."

To my opening remark, Fuka nodded without hesitation.

In that case, I couldn't keep hesitating either.

"I understand. If that's the case, I'll help."

After I agreed, Fuka's expression clearly relaxed.

"Thank you very much, Onii-sama!"

However, Fuka wasn't finished speaking.

"Then, let us start running immediately tomorrow morning!"

"...Eh? Morning? I can't get up in the morning."

Just waking up early to make bento boxes was already my limit.

"Besides, tomorrow is Saturday, right? Saturday mornings are for sleeping in."

"Onii-sama..."

Even if she looked at me with an exasperated expression, I didn't intend to yield.

"Come to think of it, our first meeting was also on a Saturday. Even though it was afternoon, Onii-sama's hair was messy like a bird's nest, which made me a little uneasy."

Regarding that incident, I wished she wouldn't bring it up again. I have a sense of shame too.

Seeing through my lack of enthusiasm, Fuka's eyes became sharp.

"Onii-sama, you said just now you would help, didn't you?"

"I did say that, but this is a separate matter."

"Onii-sama won't go back on his word, right?"

"Ugh!" I was at a loss for words. Indeed, a brother who casually breaks a promise to his sister is uncool.

"...I won't. I won't go back on my word."

"Oh my, that is wonderful! Please make sure to wake up tomorrow morning. If you are late, I will go to your room to pick you up, okay?"

Fuka clasped her hands cutely in front of her chest, but in my eyes, she looked like a devil.

"Then, I will be in your care starting tomorrow, Manager."

"Wait a second, am I a manager?"

"Yes, you are Fuka Miyanaga's exclusive manager, are you not?"

Speaking as she pleased, Fuka hugged her mat again and walked out of the room in a good mood.

I stood there in a daze, muttering to myself:

"...Ah, I have to wrap the gyoza."

Needless to say, the gyoza that day were irregularly shaped—but Fuka, paying no mind to my agitation, ate them with great relish.

◇◇◇

The next morning.

"Onii-sama, it is dawn—!"

Just as she said, a storm—no, Fuka, came raiding.

As soon as she opened the door, she rushed to the bedside with immense momentum and patted my body, which was lying sideways on the bed, through the blanket.

"Please wake up! O! Nii! Sa! Ma~!"

I groaned incoherently, my eyelids trembling. Opening my eyes slightly, what came into view was Fuka, with her hair in a ponytail, wearing a T-shirt and short pants, dressed just like the Fuka I had seen before.

I turned over and tapped my phone. Confirming the displayed time, I felt a wave of powerlessness.

"Fuka... it's only 5 AM..."

I knew she was motivated, but this was too early.

I protested with my clumsy mouth, but it didn't work on the fully motivated Fuka.

"Please do not say you have forgotten yesterday's promise. We are going for a run immediately!"

"No. I want to sleep for even one second longer..."

I tried to burrow into the futon like a mole, but the blanket was mercilessly pulled off.

"Do not dilly-dally! Now, let us go!"

Seriously...? Having lost my defensive armor, I fell into a mood of despair first thing in the morning.

I immediately began to regret yesterday's decision, but it was too late. At this point, the phrase "never mind" probably wouldn't work anymore.

Urged by Fuka, I crawled out of bed. The warmth of the sheets made me reluctant to leave. Ah, this must be how a sheep chased by a sheepdog feels.

"Alright, alright. Wait outside the room for a moment; I'm going to change."

Fuka looked at me with eyes full of suspicion.

"You aren't thinking of saying that and then going back to sleep, are you?"

"I won't, I won't."

I gave up struggling and waved my hand weakly. Even if I wanted to go back to sleep, it was obvious she would launch another assault.

Although Fuka looked suspicious, she left the room. Sleepy-eyed, I took out a wrinkled T-shirt and sweatpants with an elastic waist from the closet. Well, if it's just running around the neighborhood, this should be enough.

I stuffed only my phone into my pocket and left the room. Fuka, who had been waiting leaning against the wall, stood up.

The house was silent; it seemed no one else was awake yet. To avoid waking the family still in dreamland, I tiptoed downstairs.

I washed my face in the washroom, forcibly waking up my hazy brain. Honestly, I wanted to stay in that haze a little longer.

“Onii-sama, please use a towel. And sunscreen."

"Oh... thanks."

Before leaving, I stopped by the kitchen. Since there were no bananas prepared, I poured the orange juice bought for Sorane into cups, one for each of us.

While putting on my sneakers in the entryway, I asked in a whisper:

"Fuka, are you good at waking up early?"

"So-so. However, for today, I went to bed at nine last night."

Fuka puffed out her chest proudly. Hearing that, I wondered if I should go to bed earlier too, but in my case, it might just simply prolong my sleeping time.

Coming outside, overhead was a cloudy sky with sparse clouds.

The temperature was probably around twenty degrees. Since it was early morning, there were no people in sight, but swallows were flying around near the ground as if it were the most natural thing.

As I stretched my calf muscles to warm up, Fuka asked:

"Onii-sama, do you have a recommended running course?"

Although Fuka was full of spirit, she wasn't familiar with the geography around here yet. Well, providing a running course is the manager's first job.

Covering a yawn with one hand, I thought for a moment.

Kusanagi, located in the southern part of Shizuoka City, is a lush educational district. Since it's the walking route for our dog Hana, I could think of several candidates within walking distance...

"Hmm... today, can I see how far Fuka can run? Anyway, let's run toward the park first."

"Understood. Then I leave it to you, Onii-sama."

Fuka and I started running side by side.

Running on roads with poor visibility is dangerous, so we went from the residential area to the wide road in front of the station. From here, although the slope is gentle, it's a continuous uphill climb.

Traffic was light at this time, but I still ran on the roadside, checking the surroundings one by one.

We went straight along the sidewalk, passed in front of Nasube, famous for its fried shrimp tempura, and continued climbing the slope. In this area, the cherry blossom trees are beautiful in spring, but now, lush green young leaves were swaying in the wind.

We rounded a gentle curve, and just as the spacious parking lot of the 7-Eleven came into view.

"...Flop."

Making a sound effect, Fuka collapsed.

"Fuka—!"

I hurriedly turned back. Fuka was crouching on the asphalt, on both knees.

"Are you okay? Does it hurt anywhere?"

"...Ugh... I am tired, Onii-sama."

Since we were controlling our pace, I thought she would be fine, but Fuka was already out of breath. She didn't trip; her physical strength had reached its limit. However, considering she had to sing and dance on the gymnasium stage, building stamina seemed to be an immediate task.

"W-Why is Onii-sama not out of breath at all?"

"That's because... I run a kilometer in about five minutes."

Since I wasn't in a sports club, I wasn't that confident in my speed, but in school long-distance running, I could finish a kilometer in about three and a half minutes.

"Say, let's stop running for today and walk back?"

There were three weeks until the Cultural Festival and four weeks until the audition. If she pushed herself and got injured during this period, it would defeat the purpose.

When I said that, Fuka looked reluctant as expected.

"But, if we do that..."

"Pushing yourself on the first day will only make it feel tough, and you won't be able to continue. So it's better to let your body get used to it slowly."

"Ugh~" Fuka groaned for a while, probably thinking I had a point, and nodded reluctantly.

"...I understand."

We started jogging again at a brisk walking pace.

Proceeding along the road, we saw a stylish Western confectionery shop with a modern exterior across the pedestrian crossing. The store name was probably written in French, but I could only read 'patisserie'.

After turning left at the intersection, Fuka pointed to a guide sign.

"Onii-sama, it says there is a Kofun (ancient burial mound)."

"Yeah," I nodded in response. It seems a large number of Kofun were originally buried in Kusanagi, but few remain today.

I casually guided Fuka toward the entrance while walking along the hedge.

"It's the Hyotanzuka Kofun. Since we're here, want to go see it?"

"No thank you, I am not that interested."

Her reaction was sadly cold. If you look closely, it really is shaped like a gourd (hyotan), which is interesting... It seems the charm of Kofun is still lost on Fuka, who is still a Middle Schooler.

"Ah! If you look closely, the shape of the handrail looks like a peanut; how cute!"

Fuka instantly forgot about the Kofun and spoke excitedly looking at the handrails lined up near the entrance.

"That's not a peanut, it's a gourd."

"Oh my, now that you mention it...?"

But I understand; this handrail is cute.

"There's a park with the Kofun here; shall we take a little detour and see?"

Considering Fuka's stamina, it would be better to turn back around here. Going around the park and walking back the way we came should be just right.

Fuka obediently followed behind me. Just then, she suddenly whispered:

"Mr. Ant wakes up early, doesn't he? Completely unlike Onii-sama."

"None of your business..."

Saying that, I watched my feet to avoid stepping on the hardworking ants and entered the park.

Hyotanzuka Park has a lot of playground equipment. Not just the usual swings and slides, but also wooden athletic equipment for training; it's a park where both adults and children can have fun.

At this time, there was no one else but us.

"Wow, there are so many playground equipment!"

Fuka, looking around, stopped in front of a certain piece of equipment. What she was staring at was a rectangular wooden board fixed to the ground, raised a bit higher than the ground level.

Unlike other equipment, there was no sign explaining it, so I had absolutely no idea what it was used for. Although judging by its appearance, it wasn't even clear if it was playground equipment, Fuka seemed to like it.

"Onii-sama, do you not think this equipment looks like a stage?"

"Ah—certainly...?"

Although it was about the size of a single bed, it did look somewhat like a stage.

Fuka smiled with satisfaction, stood on the wooden board, and declared:

"It is decided. I appoint this equipment as the Miyanaga Fuka Special Stage!"

Before I knew it, the wooden board was entrusted with a heavy mission. Hang in there, wooden board.

"I can see everyone in the gymnasium—!"

Fuka shouted happily on the wooden board, then approached me as if pulling herself together.

"Now then, Onii-sama, let’s do the dance lesson."

She handed me a smartphone. Looking at the screen, a video site was already open.

"So dance practice isn't in the room."

"I intended for it to be, but since it wasn't very popular, I changed it to a dance lesson!"

She changed her phrasing. It seems I should say dance lesson next time too.

Fuka returned to the stage and struck a pose. After I signaled with my eyes, she pressed the play button, and the intro to the five-member idol group Lie♡Lie's representative song—"Sweet Pentagon"—began to play.

Fuka flashed a charming smile as if changing channels, stepping on the wooden board and waving her hands lightly. The orthodox idol song with a pop and cute style strangely blended with the calm morning atmosphere.

I stood there, alternately checking Fuka's movements and the idol's dance steps in the MV. At that moment, I suddenly felt something was off, so I spoke up:

"Fuka, just now."

"Hmm?"

Fuka stopped moving. After she caught her breath, I pointed out the problem.

"The initial step, your center of gravity was too far to the right. That's why the next movement was half a beat late."

While saying that, I showed her the phone and had her reconfirm the model movement in the MV. Although she should have already memorized the dance, she checked it carefully as if carving each movement into her mind before answering, "I will try it."

After playing the song from the beginning again, the change was remarkable.

Watching from the side, I couldn't help but exclaim "Ohh!" Because from the point I pointed out, her overall movement improved to the extent that she looked like a different person.

"I-I did it! Onii-sama, it is so much easier to dance this way!"

Fuka jumped up and down on the wooden board, expressing her joy. She herself must have realized she wasn't dancing smoothly, just not knowing where the cause lay.

"But, Onii-sama. You only looked for a moment; how did you know where the problem was?"

I tilted my head and thought "Hmm—".

"Probably because I was trained by Dad. I can roughly tell the opponent's habits just by seeing their movements."

"Trained?"

I explained simply. Because I didn't want to be attacked by Dad, who went around learning martial arts, I learned techniques to dodge and parry attacks.

Come to think of it, I originally thought such special skills would be completely useless in daily life—but unexpectedly, following the confrontation with the kidnappers in the abandoned factory, it came in handy again.

If it's about idols, even an amateur like me might be able to help Fuka a little. Thinking this, I felt slightly grateful to Dad, who was on a business trip to Sendai.

"Hehe. It seems I was not wrong in choosing Onii-sama."

Fuka looked smug for some reason. If Hiruoka made such a face, I would only feel annoyed, but since her face is reasonably cute, I could only reply "Maybe so."

"Then, to let the body get used to the movement just now, let us dance one more time."

"Yes!"

After that, Fuka continued dance practice for about thirty minutes, interspersed with short breaks.

An elderly couple with a Samoyed passed in front of the park. Ring ring, the sound of a bicycle bell came from somewhere. While feeling the signs of the town gradually waking up, I declared the end of practice.

"Alright, let's call it a day."

"Thank you very much, Onii-sama!"

Fuka bowed to me in thanks, then stretched out her legs and sat down on the spot.

She exhaled a "Phew" and wiped the sweat from her face with her cuff, but when the wind blew away the hair sticking to her skin, she narrowed her eyes comfortably.

"Say, Onii-sama. The morning wind feels so nice."

Hearing those words, I involuntarily looked up at the sky.

Before I knew it, the clouds had drifted away, and overhead was a pale blue sky that seemed to drift between spring and summer.

Sparrows perched on the gourd-shaped railing chirped "Chun, chunchun" cutely while looking at us curiously. The air of the May morning was refreshing and pleasant—I thought the wind, the ants, and the birds must have known this from long ago.

"Yeah. I'm not good at waking up early, so I completely forgot."

"Waking up early occasionally isn't bad, is it?"

Fuka showed a friendly smile.

"Yeah... well then, it's about time to head back."

When I spoke, Fuka put her hands on her knees and stood up.

"Then, tomorrow again."

"No, let's change jogging to every other day."

Fuka, walking over while rotating her shoulders, frowned.

"Onii-sama? Could it be that you do not want to wake up early..."

"No, it's to avoid overtraining. If you put too much burden on your body, the risk of injury and fatigue increases, so jogging every two days and doing weight training every day should be just right. I'll think of a weight training menu and tell you later."

In junior high, because the sports festival was approaching, I also had a period where I ran every day.

As a result, I hurt my knee in a week. At that time, the doctor at the osteopathic clinic told me that running desperately every day isn't always good.

Although we hadn't known each other long, I understood. Fuka was by no means a clumsy person, but she was the type who would spare no effort to achieve her dreams.

That was a virtue, but also dangerous. If no one was by her side to stop her when necessary, she would surely keep running at full speed forever.

Thinking this, I made the suggestion, but Fuka didn't respond for a while.

"Fuka?"

When I called her name, Fuka blinked her eyes, framed by long eyelashes.

"Um, I was surprised... Onii-sama, you are properly thinking about me."

"That's only natural. I am your manager, right?"

I shrugged my shoulders as I said that, and Fuka put her hands on her hips.

"That is correct. Onii-sama is my exclusive manager."

She puffed out her chest as she said it, and finding it funny, I laughed along.

Fuka's cheerful personality draws others in and pulls them forward. If idols have a natural talent, then Fuka certainly has a fragment of that talent. That's what I thought.

"Then, Onii-sama. For the sake of the future, shall we exchange contact information?"

Fuka took out her phone from her pocket and proposed.

I had no objection, so I nodded saying "Okay" and took out my phone... Come to think of it, I still didn't know the contact information of any sisters other than Mio. Fuka was the second.

"With this, we can contact each other anytime."

I casually looked at the smiling Fuka, and through her T-shirt soaked with sweat, faint-colored lace was visible.

I hurriedly averted my gaze and cleared my throat, and Fuka asked with a puzzled look:

"Onii-sama, what is wrong?"

"N-Nothing. It's nothing."

I gave a vague answer to the defenseless Fuka. It seems I'd better remind her to bring a towel next time.

On the way home, while jogging, we talked about the Cultural Festival stage.

"It might be better to have more songs on stage."

"...Ugh. regarding that point, the executive committee also pointed it out."

The performance time for voluntary groups is fifteen to thirty minutes. If the time is short, there will be complaints... Although that probably won't happen, to gain experience for the audition, increasing the number of songs is also reasonable. Every second standing on stage in front of an audience should become nourishment for Fuka's future.

"In that case, two songs... no, three might be better. Do you have any songs you want to sing?"

"Hmm—I still want to stick mainly to Lie♡Lie's songs. Let's make a setlist within this week centered on songs that are easy for the audience to follow."

"...Eh? Am I choosing too?"

Fuka looked at me with an expression that said "Isn't that obvious?" It seems this is already a decided matter.

As Fuka listed her recommended tracks, we arrived home.

The one who came out to greet us was Chinatsu, holding folded towels to her chest. Wearing loungewear, she looked at us, who froze in surprise at the ambush, and spoke:

"Good morning."

"G-Good morning, Chinatsu onee-sama."

I also said "Good morning," but my voice was too small and might not have reached Chinatsu's ears.

Of course, the conversation didn't end with just greetings; Chinatsu asked us

"It's not even seven yet... where did you two go this early?"

At that moment, I had a flash of inspiration.

Although things developed faster than I imagined, this was a perfect opportunity. I just had to tell Chinatsu about the Cultural Festival and the audition right here.

"Um, Fuka..."

But Fuka interrupted my voice and spoke fluently:

"Actually, I have started a diet, so I was running around the neighborhood. Onii-sama showed me around."

Hearing the word diet, Chinatsu showed a puzzled expression.

"I don't think Fuka needs to diet, though."

"No, no, no, despite how I look, I possess subcutaneous fat that would surprise even a seal."

Fuka chuckled, and I also forced a stiff smile behind her. We were neither dieting nor running much, so this was one hundred percent a lie...

Chinatsu narrowed her eyes and stared at us laughing. I slowly swallowed my saliva. Chinatsu's gaze was sharp enough to put detectives to shame.

But Chinatsu relaxed the pressure in her eyes and approached us.

"You two, use these."

She handed us freshly washed towels.

"Thank you, Chinatsu onee-sama. I will go take a shower directly."

Fuka took the towel and hurriedly went into the entryway. Chinatsu's gaze and a towel turned to me as well.

"Oh, than—"

I reached out my hand, and Chinatsu's well-featured face suddenly came close. T-Too close, too close.

"...You guys didn't do anything dangerous, did you?"

The voice whispering in my ear made my heart skip a beat. I answered, pretending to be calm.

"Rest assured, guys who do dangerous things usually do them at night."

Although I didn't know if she was convinced by my words, Chinatsu stepped back for the time being.

While wiping my neck with the pleasant-feeling towel, I looked at Fuka's back heading toward the washroom.

—Will I really be able to persuade Fuka before the Cultural Festival?

Looking back at the conversation just now, I felt only anxiety, but anyway, I had no choice but to brace myself and do it.

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