All posts by Jaon

In the aftermath of the second Lulugate scandal and the subsequent restructuring under the current president as part of his plea deal with the SEC, now works as VP of internal stagnation and shitpost acquisition.
Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 32

37 Comments

Enjoy!

 

 

“Just maybe, are you….”

Did she have a sharp intuition, or was Tina just a bit too dense? It seemed like she was hesitating over whether it would be okay for her to say it, as Aira glanced back and forth between Tina and Lilia. Kayten probably also guessed what was up, as the corners of her mouth were raised slightly.

“I’d like to keep this as confidential as possible. …And Tina hasn’t seem to have realised yet either.”

“Ah, yeah. Got it. I promise. I won’t tell Tina either.”

Aira nodded firmly, and Lilia also gave a satisfied nod. Then,

“How about this!”

Tina had brought out a set of clothes. Spreading them out, it was a pure white one-piece dress. There were no decorations or anything, and it looked quite simple.

“The white here is perfect for Lilia!”

—Buhah! White! Perfect for Lilia! You’re being totally misunderstood here!

—The way you say it pisses me off, but I have to agree. Isn’t she idealising me a bit too much here?

—It seems the Lilia inside Tina’s mind has become an extremely good person. Better work hard so you don’t disappoint.

—I’ll put in an effort but…

Just when did her evaluation become something like this, thought Lilia as she sighed and reached out to take the clothes when,

“Hold up.”

Aira stepped in to grab it from the side.

“Aira?”

“What are you doing?”

Tina had a blank look as she tilted her head, and Lilia narrowed her eyes. Your eyes are scary, said Aira with a wry smile as she continued,

“Miss Lilia. Are you just gonna take this with you and leave? I think those nobles will certainly have a reaction if they saw that.”

“Ahh… You’re right. And so? Since you mentioned it do you have some sort of good idea?”

Her tone almost seemed provocative, but she was actually just curious. Aira seemed to get that too, as she nodded with an earnest expression.

“I have a wooden box that’s just the right size for this, so I’ll put it in and take it to your room. I’d just caused a disturbance earlier, so at most people would think I’m bringin’ something over to make amends yeah?”

I see, said Lilia as she nodded. Certainly it wouldn’t seem too out of place that way. In fact normally in such situations a servant would be sent over for the task, but Aira who was either a lower class noble or commoner would probably go to visit personally.

“Sounds good. In that case could I get you to take care of that, Miss Aira?”

“Sure thing. Just leave it to me.”

Aira nodded, and left the room with the clothes. Kayten also gave a firm bow and followed after her. Tina and Lilia saw them off, then,

“What good friends.”

“Eheheh. They’re too good for someone like me.”

She seemed overjoyed at having her friends praised, as she beamed a full-faced smile.

“Well then I’ll be returning to my room. Tina, I’ll definitely repay this favour.”

“It’s fine even if you don’t. Rather, let’s go to dinner again sometime, alright?”

Tina said with a carefree smile. Lilia’s eyes widened for just a moment, as she quietly nodded,

“Yes.”

—Tina sure is pure. She too good for someone like you.

—Yes, truly.

—Hey, you’re not supposed to be agreeing there. She’s a good friend for the new and improved Lilia. I mean it alright?

While conversing with Sakura in her bedroom, Lilia was being changed into the dress Alisa had prepared. That said it wasn’t actually that flashy, and was something that gave off more of a muted impression. It was also easy enough to change in and out of that could probably take it off herself too. Something that wouldn’t pose a problem even if it were stolen, was what Lilia had asked Alisa to prepare, so among the things Lilia wore it relatively cheap. Compared to regular things it was still very much a high-class item though.
Something that wouldn’t be a problem even if stolen, when told that Alisa had looked at Lilia with a doubtful expression, but she didn’t really pry too much and just went along with it. Though, it seems she’d consulted with the agents about this, so they would probably attach a guard to watch over her. As long as they didn’t get in the way that was fine too.

—It seems she’s here.

At Sakura’s voice, Lilia looked up. There was a knock on the door to the bedroom, and Alisa’s voice came through. A guest, apparently.

“Could you please show her into this room?”

At Lilia’s reply, Alisa’s voice paused. You could feel her speechlessness, before she responded understood, as she returned to normal. And before waiting long, there was another knock on the door.

“Please enter.”

“Pardon the intrusion…”

And then entered Aira. She was holding largish wooden box, and looking like she was doing something super shady. Lilia quickly realised she was being very careful with the contents of the box.

“Even if you break of drop anything I wouldn’t really mind you know?”

“Nah, well I’d mind… I would mind.”

“It’s fine to speak like you were before too. Even if you get all polite now it just feels weird.”

“Ugu… I got it.”

Aira lowered her shoulders, and went towards Lilia with the box. Lilia pointed at a place on the floor, and she let it down there.

“Say, Miss Lilia.”

“What is it?”

“It seems pretty obvious… But are you planning on goin’ to the south side?”

As if she still couldn’t believe it, she doubtfully asked that question. Lilia firmly nodded.

“Yes, that’s right. Is there some problem?”

“Nah, it ain’t a problem. It’s a side of the academy so the public order’s probably fine. Just, it seems so out of place… What are you trying to accomplish there?”

“Dorayaki.”

“Eh… Hah?”

She probably couldn’t believe what she had just heard, as Aira’s eyes went wide. Finding that state somewhat amusing, a bit of a smile floated onto Lilia’s face.

“The other day, I received some dorayaki from Tina. It was really good, I thought I’d go buy some more. Also I’ve heard that there were many other things too, so I plan to have a look around.”

“I see… I knew Tina’d gone and brought some dorayaki with her somewhere the other day, but to think it was for you. You guys’re really friends huh. So you harassing her was just some rumours then.”

“Oh my, it’s true though? It’s just that we’ve since reconciled after that.”

Aira’s mouth dropped open with a thud. Some stifled laughter was leaking out of Lilia, as she went and got up.

 

 

Author’s Note:
It’s really not progressing much huh…

Sakura

Lilia

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 31

18 Comments

I wanted to continue some daily updates but as expected this weekend (and first two weekdays) were almost busy enough to drag me back to the spirit realm. Relatively more free for the next week so we’ll see if I can actually get around to releasing daily during this. I’m gonna go catch up on some lost sleep. Enjoy this chapter!

 

 

“Tina! Don’t come! Please get back to your room!”

Aira shouted, but the footsteps payed no mind as they drew closer.

“I said don’t come here!”

As Aira shouted that, from her side Tina showed her face. And, with an ‘ah’, Tina raised a delighted voice.

“Lilia! What’s brought you to a place like this?”

At her friendly voice, Aira and Kayten’s eyes went wide. Not just that, all the people around them had their mouths stupidly hanging open. At the surrounding reactions Tina tilted her head.

“Huh? What’s wrong? Aira and Kayten too, what with the weird faces?”

“Nah, uh, well…”

Aira’s gaze went towards Lilia. Lilia sent the now bewildered Aira a smile, and spoke to Tina.

“Tina. Might you have a bit of time? I just have a small favour to ask of you if that’s alright.”

“Favour? From Lilia!? Of course it’s alright! Let’s head to my… Ah, I gotta go clean up so wait just a bit! I’ll be right back!”

Say that she hurriedly ran off. Left behind in a daze were Aira and Kayten and the others, as Lilia simply watched them with slight amusement. Aira who was looking at Lilia awkwardly averted her gaze and,

“Well… Sorry.”

“It is fine. I forgive you. Now then, could you please lead me there?”

“Yeah… This way.”

Nodding meekly, Aira started walking. Kayten followed after her, and Lilia went along behind them.

In the second floor hallways, the rooms were lined up with much less space between each door. Just from that you could tell the sizes of the rooms. To say that they were about the same as just the bedroom provided to Lilia was probably a generous estimate. She had heard about it before, but it seems that they really did live in pretty small rooms here.

—Rather it’s more like Lilia’s room is way too big. Way bigger than where I was living.

—Heeh… What kind of room did you live in?

—A one room suite. But it had a proper bath and everything! Cool right!

—Right. Though my room has one too.

—Like you rich people would understand! I’m super not jealous or anything!

Even though she was saying that, Sakura was muttering quietly about how she’d love to try that bath and whatnot, but maybe it would be nicer to just pretend she didn’t hear that? While she was thinking of such things, Aira stopped in front of one of the doors.

“Here.”

Saying so she knocked on the door.

“Tina. For now I’ve brought her here but…”

“Just, just wait one more second!”

The clattering of something being cleaned up could be heard. As Lilia was thinking how unexpected it was for things to be that messy in there, Kayten gave a wry smile,

“Please don’t come to any misunderstandings now. It may be messy but it’s all things related to studying, so I think she’s just cleaning that up.”

“Heeh. She’s quite passionate. I’m impressed.”

It seems Tina really was here studying. It was as she had imagined, but for some reason she felt a bit happy about it. Aira and Kayten were staring at such a Lilia like she was some rare creature, but Lilia noticed not one bit.
After a bit of waiting, the door finally opened. Smiling awkwardly as she showed her face, Tina gave a bit of a forced laugh.

“Sorry about that, thanks for waiting. Come in. Ah, as for Aira and Kayten… Umm…”

“I don’t really mind. And they seem worried anyways.”

At Lilia’s words, Aira and Kayten seemed to feel awkward as they averted their eyes. She was almost starting to feel displeased at just how much they seemed to doubt her, but it probably goes to show just how much they worried about Tina. Tina really was blessed with good friends.
When compared to Lilia’s, Tina’s room really was pretty small. The opposite wall had a window, the left side had a bed, and the right a study desk. Beside the desk was also a bookshelf stocked with learning materials. That was it, and the space between the bed and desk was just wide enough for no more than a single person to pass through.

“It sure is narrow…”

Lilia murmured, and Tina gave a wry smile as she said,

“Lilia’s room is really big after all. I think I’m actually a bit jealous. It would be great to have even one more room’s worth of space, but it’s clear there wouldn’t be enough rooms that way…”

“Though if only a certain bunch of nobles would take up a bit less space this could all be solved.”

Aira’s thorny words startled Kayten as she protested with her eyes, and Tina was unable to say anything as she looked to Lilia’s face with a complicated expression. Lilia,

“So about the favour I wish to ask.”

Pretended to not hear a thing and began the conversation.

—You’ve really grown, Lilia. I’m kinda hap-

—I wonder how I’ll have her dealt with later on…

—Not grown at all! You’ve just stopped saying it out loud! You can’t Lilia, she’s Tina’s friend so you can’t go and crush her alright!

—So basically if she wasn’t a friend then it would be fine right.

—It’s not fine! That’s too extreme!

—To not be satisfied no matter what, you sure are a selfish one…

—Me!? I’m the bad one!?

Ugahh! Screamed Sakura. Lilia drove that voice out of her consciousness, and once again faced Tina.

“Like I said earlier, it sure is something to have you ask for a favour… If it’s within my power I’ll do what I can to help?”

“Thank you. But it’s not anything that difficult. It’d be a quick request for you.”

Wondering what it might be Tina tilted her head. Lilia glanced at the cabinet on the bookshelf as she said,

“Could you perhaps lend me a set of clothes?”

Tina’s eyes widened in surprise, and Aira and Kayten were both speechless. After a bit Tina came to her senses first, and reservedly spoke.

“Uhmm… The clothes I have aren’t really like the ones you usually wear… I mean, they’re like, for commoners, mostly the clothes those kinds of people use you know?”

“I do not mind. Or rather, I should say that I had wanted to borrow just such types of clothing. Also if you could, having a hat to wear would make things even better.”

Just what would she need them for, wondered Tina as she headed for the cabinet. Just a moment, she said as she started rummaging through the cabinet.

“Uh hey, Miss Lilia.”

It was Aira’s voice. When Lilia turned around, a meek looking Aira continued to speak.

 

 

Author’s Note:
Friends are (as should be) important, but there is no mercy for that friend, such is to be Lilia-quality.
She was stopped by Sakura so the crime was limited to just her thoughts though.

Sakura

Lilia

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 30

27 Comments

Here’s another one. Not sure If I’ll have time this weekend for more but we’ll see.

 

 

—Sakura…

—Wait wait! I definitely have an idea. It just came to me!

—How haphazard… What’s your plan?

—Friends are real handy to have, bro! Let’s go see Tina!

I see, thought Lilia as she got the gist of it. In this country, the rank of Baron was unequivocally close to that of a commoner. Tina should have any number of clothes that could blend in with the common people. Just, there was still a problem.

—I’ve got to go myself don’t I.

—Well yeah. You need the disguise, and I don’t think you could ask Alisa to do this for you or something. No, I suppose Alisa would actually help you out here, but I’m certain it would cause her all sorts of worry.

If Lilia straight up ordered her she would probably abide by it, but she didn’t really want to subject Alisa to that. While being her maid, she was also one of Lilia few allies here. She wanted to treat her well. When she realised she was actually thinking such things, it surprised her a little.

—I suppose it can’t be helped… I feel like I’m going to create more rumors around here, but let us go.

—Do your best~.

—Must be nice to be so carefree.

Lilia confirmed the time stated on the invitation, and make a small click of her tongue. The evening party was set for tonight. It would have been great if there was a bit more notice, but it was probably planned by that idiot prince after all. Speaking of him, it wouldn’t be strange if just as an excuse to invite Tina he’d rushed out a last minute plan to hold an evening party here.
However, since there actually weren’t any other evening parties scheduled this one should have to have been planned in advance. It was probably so that Tina wouldn’t have a chance to refuse, that the notification came right before the event.
Either way, Lilia had nothing to do with the situation around that. There really wasn’t much time left, so she had to hurry with her preparations.

“Alisa. I’ll be heading out for a bit.”

Informing Alisa who had hurriedly begun on her work, Lilia left her room behind.

Lilia descended to the second floor, and as she passed through the entrance-way the lively hall quieted down all at once. Looking around, the students who’d been having friendly conversations had all stiffened as they noticed Lilia. Well, this should’ve been expected as high ranking nobles didn’t usually set foot on this floor.

—Even for someone of ducal class this is pretty overboard. For now let’s just go to Tina’s room.

—Right… They probably have an idea of who I am.

—I’m sure anyone would know. You’re pretty famous. All because of a certain idiot prince.

—A real good for nothing idiot prince.

While verbally abusing the former target of her affection together with Sakura, for now she headed to the table beside her. There sat three male students, and when they noticed Lilia coming in towards them all three faces instantly paled. Even though she hadn’t even done anything yet… Lilia felt a bit displeased, as she asked them a question.

“I’m looking for Tina Breyer’s room, might you know where it is?”

The three looked at each other, and hesitantly gave a serious nod. Very well, nodded Lilia as she continued.

“Then please lead me there. Right now.”

“Well, I don’t mind, but… What are you going there for?”

“Does that have anything to do with you?”

When Lilia slightly narrowed her eyes, the shivers were sent through the three’s bodies. Just as she was starting to feel that she wasn’t going to get anywhere with these three,

“If I may interrupt?”

She was called out to from behind. Turning around, the owner of the voice came into sight. With short chestnut coloured hair and a strong-willed set of red pupils giving off quite the impression, there was a girl who was probably in the same year as Lilia. And in a rare occurrence she was glaring straight at Lilia. That was sort of fresh for her, and Lilia unintentionally gave a bit of a smile.

“What?”

When the girl opened her mouth, Lilia kept the smile on her face as she shook her head.

“No. It is nothing. So is there something you need from me?”

“That’s right. That girl, What do you want with Tina? Depending on your answer I might just hit you.”

“Heeh… Hit? You? At me? Heeh…”

Slowly, her smile deepened. The girl’s face stiffened and she took a step back, but her eyes that firmly kept her glare on Lilia only got stronger. While slightly surprised at the girl, Lilia examined her reaction.

“I, won’t just yield to some noble! We will protect Tina! Get lost!”

I see, Lilia nodded in her mind. It seems that it’s become a complete misunderstanding. Taking into account all that had happened up until now it probably couldn’t be helped, so she didn’t feel angry.

—To stare down Lilia for the sake of her friend, what a gallant girl! Lilia, you let’s get her for some of her nails. Let’s boil them and drink it.(1)

—If I drank that would you become a bit less objectionable?

—Eh? I totally didn’t expect that kind of comeback… Eh, huh? The kind of image you have of me is like…

Ignoring the Sakura that started getting all distressed for some reason, she met the gaze of the girl. Right as she was thinking about how to bluff her way past this,

——Eh? You’re going to bluff it? Why not just say it as it is? It’s not like you’re up to anything bad.

I see, Lilia nodded. Certainly this time she just wanted to ask Tina for some help. There wasn’t anything shady.

“I think you may be misunderstanding something here, but I just have a favour I wanted to ask of Tina so I’m paying her a visit. Is there some sort of problem?”

“Hah? As if I could believe something like that! Hurry up and get out of here already!”

She started to raise her voice as she said that, but it wasn’t like she had resorted to violence. As long as she’d been going to this academy, she would definitely know the significance of raising a hand against a noble, what’s more someone from a Ducal. When Lilia continued to stare at the girl without moving, the girl’s expression got steadily more grim.

“If it’s gonna be like that… Then even I have my ways…”

“Just, just stop it already, Aira.”

“Shut up Kayten!”

Behind the girl came another girl. She had long blue hair and was grasping onto Aira’s sleeve. It was a hair colour that was rare even in this country so it had remained in her memory from sometime before. But of course, it wasn’t to the extent of actually remembering her first or last name or anything.
The girl with the chestnut coloured hair named Aira renewed her glare towards Lilia. Just as she was beginning to think this was just a waste of time,

“Aira, what’s wrong?”

Once more, a third person came to chime in. However this time she was well acquainted with this voice here.

 

 

TL Note:
It’s some sort of old Japanese saying that boiling the dirt under a great person’s nails and drinking it might allow you to become just a bit more like them. Yeah no.
Also I suppose this was for a bit of comedic effect since the proper saying is to boil and drink the dirt from their nails, and Sakura gets it wrong by saying to boil and drink their nails.

Author’s Note:
Just when will we actually get to depart for the south side…

Sakura

Lilia

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 29

9 Comments

With this I suppose I’ve caught up to my actual one chapter a month commitment… Well I’ll try to get more done before I get busy again. Thanks for reading!

 

 

The next day and the day after that weren’t very eventful. Waking up early and finishing breakfast in her room, then going to class. In the mornings the three followers would start talking to her so she would halfheartedly go with the flow. After the lessons ended she would go to dining hall to get some sandwiches, before heading to eat with Ray in his room at the library. There she helped him study, and after that went over to the noble-use dining hall to get have a meal before shutting herself in her room. That was what continued for two days.
Of course during those two days, after dinner she would meet the girl agent. It seems that working on a person each day, they had been properly looking into her request. Firstly was two of her followers, and she was able to find out about the names and relations in their families.

—Seems it’s better to not be involved with those two huh.

—Yep. But suddenly ignoring them completely isn’t good. I think it would be fine to just casually go along with their conversations.

—Indeed.

It wasn’t like their families had shady dealings or anything. It’s just, they really should’ve had nothing to do with her. She probably hasn’t even ever met them before at the occasional evening party. They were probably just drawn in by the Aldis name and tried to get in on the opportunities. It really was pretty pointless. She wasn’t even engaged to the Prince anymore.

—I think it’d be better for them to be sucking up to Tina at this point.

—Their noble’s pride probably wouldn’t allow for that. How idiotic.

—Lilia. There’s a mirror right there so I think you should try take a look in it.

—What do you mean…

Other than that there wasn’t anything else that really stood out about her days. Tina didn’t come visit either. She probably thought that if she invited her when the Prince was looking it’d probably cause trouble for Lilia. Well it couldn’t be helped that she thought that at this point, so Lilia decided to also lay low for a while.
And so the weekend arrived. This academy had two days off during the weekend. Officially the first day was supposed to be for ‘self-study’, but just how many people would actually take that seriously and study?

—Well I think there should be quite a few. Ray seems like he’d definitely be studying, and Tina probably is as well.

—Right.

—Ah, of course that includes Lilia too. As expected of Lilia! So hurry up and solve that problem! Too slow!

—Just give me a bit more…

She really got strict when it came to studying. But she never gave truly unreasonable demands, so Lilia could only tacitly work hard at her studies. She was currently working to solve one of the problems Sakura had prepared.
As lunch came by, she ate the sandwiches she had sent Alisa to retrieve, as she continued to study. No breaks. She didn’t feel the need. Simply concentrating on the problems in front of her.
After finally finishing the problems, she was listening to comments on them when there was a knock on the door.

“Mistress Lilia. An invitation has arrived.”

“An invitation? For what?”

Heading to the door, she took the envelope from Alisa. She opened up the tightly sealed envelope and read the contents. It was for an evening party tonight.
The grounds of this academy were vast. Once or twice every month, on the weekend they would use a corner of this place to hold an evening party. The organisers could be the royal family or the academy itself, depending on the event. And so based on the organiser, different people would be invited. Putting it bluntly, if it were the royals holding it then high class nobles would be invited, and if it were the academy organising then everyone including the commoners would get an invitation.
Lilia was of a Duke House, so she was certain to get invitations to all of the evening parties. It may have been a regular happening, but from how hectic the last three weeks have been she’d completely forgotten all about it.

“Mistress Lilia. How shall we respond?”

Lilia skimmed through the invitation, and confirmed the organiser. It was the royal family. Since the prince would obviously be there, the old Lilia would have definitely not missed the event. But the prince probably didn’t even wish for Lilia’s attendance here. Just as she thought about using a feigned illness to excuse herself,

—Lilia, wait!

Hearing Sakura’s voice, she closed her mouth.

—What?

—This evening party, if it’s not raining would be held outdoors right?

—That’s right.

—And people are free to come and go right?

—That’s right.

—There will also be less visible places there right?

—That’s right.

—If you leave a bit early, will you be able to change outfits there?

—That is doable.

Just what did she want to say? Hurry up and get to your conclusion already. Just as Lilia was starting to get irritated,

—Then, wanna go sneak into the south side?

Lilia gulped at that proposal. She lowered her eyes, and thoroughly gave it some thought. The reason she couldn’t head to the south side, was that her face was well known around these parts, and her status would cause issues. If she could hide her identity, then wouldn’t it work out?

—Sakura.

—What is it what is it!

—Your idea, I’m in.

As expected of Lilia, Sakura laughed happily. Lilia made a small nod, and then turned to Alisa.

I’ll go. Can I leave the preparations to you?

With the current situation and all Alisa probably didn’t expect such an answer, as her eyes widened and she was speechless for a moment. However she quickly recovered, and gave a respectful bow.

“Certainly.”

And so Alisa left the room, and Lilia returned to her desk. Just as she was about to start thinking about the things to come,

—Sakura. What are we going to do for the disguise?

—Ah-…

Yes. Even is they wanted to use a disguise, they didn’t actually have one on hand. The only clothes in Lilia’s room were uniforms, or flashy dresses. Even if they were to go buy something now, Lilia currently could only go to the north side stores. An there was no way they would be selling clothes she could use as a disguise.

 

 

Sakura

Lilia

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Alisa1

17 Comments

Just another quick one since it’s a special chapter type

 

 

Alisa’s point of view.

 

 

I am Alisa Felis. I work as a maid in the Aldis dukedom. My career here started from when I was twelve years old. At that time my father felt it was still too early for me and was against it, but since I managed to get permission from my maid instructor, my mother, I apologised to my father in my heart as I knocked on the Duke of Aldis’ doors.

For me, there were still things I needed to learn, so I certainly could have studied a bit more before coming here. However, as the place I wished to work at, the Aldis house wasn’t always looking to hire more people. Especially since even regarding the current recruitment, there were conditions pertaining to age, and even magical expertise. Since I was fairly confident regarding magic, I felt couldn’t let this opportunity slide.

I wanted to work in the Aldis dukedom no matter what. Rather, it was for that very purpose that I had made the decision to become a maid. And the reason is a simple one; I wanted help and repay in any way I could Mistress Lilianne who had once saved my life.

There were a number of examinations, but fortunately I managed to pass them without issue, and began work as a live-in maid of the Aldis house.

Naturally, I began with learning about all the work around the estate from my seniors here. Their guidance was certainly very strict, but at the same time I could feel the care they put in to teaching me.

One day, I asked one of my seniors what sort of people the members of the Aldis dukedom were. What I knew, was only of the kindness of Mistress Lilianne who had saved me, and the master of the house’s gentle smile. My senior readily filled me in.

The master, Duke Kelvin, is the very picture of both a model knight and scholar, it seems. All while possessing first rate skill with the sword, his learnedness was also worthy of admiration. His wife Madam Asha was a leading figure in magic, and had invented many magical formations.

The eldest son Master Klaus was, similar to his father, someone who was proficient in both the pen and the sword. It seems he can give strict words to the workers like us, but all the more he is really most strict with himself. Facing failure with sincerity, in cases where he ends up reprimanding someone due to a misunderstanding, even if it was towards maids like us he would lower his head in apology.

The second son Master Theo is unlike the rest of his family, possessing a somewhat weaker constitution. Because of that he spends a lot of time indoors, and would always cling to his elder sister when he sees her. He seems to be quite attached to his sister.

And that sister, the eldest daughter, Mistress Lilianne. I had thought that she was a very kind person but…

“I’ll tell you this for your own good. It’s better to not get involved, with that person.”

“Eh…? Why is that?”

“Willful, haughty, and selfish. A real tyrant of a person, whenever she opens her mouth it’s never without a reprimand. Really…”

“What might you be talking about?”

A middle aged woman, the head maid who directs us sent the senior a scowl. The senior quickly lowered her head, and before I knew it she had gone and ended up escaping. I think that’s just going to make her angrier with you later on though…

“You’re Alisa, right?”

Called out by the head maid, I straightened right up.

“Yes!”

“Regarding Mistress Lilianne, I will not say anything. Look with your own eyes, and make your own judgement. Let’s see… Starting from tomorrow for one week, you will act alongside the person working as Mistress Lilianne’s personal maid. In doing so, you will likely come to understand what kind of person she is.”

The head maid said so, then turned around and left. Looking at her depart I,
—I can meet Mistress Lilianne!
My mood naturally elevated, I happily went about completing my remaining work. Even I felt I was quite the simple girl at that moment.

And so the next day came about. I came to understand the meaning behind the words of my senior.
Mistress Lilianne, was a very tyrannical person. No matter what the matter was she would scold and reprimand without fail. Seeing that figure throughout the day, the image I had inside of me crumbled away in its entirety.

I was filled with disappointment. Certainly, I’d never actually exchanged any words with Mistress Lilianne before. However, as someone who had saved me, she was certain to be a kind person, I had always thought.

No, rather, I had convinced myself so. Even though my house was only of Baron status, we were still, no matter what, nobles. It was a matter of fact that stories about Mistress Lilianne would also be circulated our way. However, I never thought to believe in any of them.

However. Even so. The fact that my life was saved by Mistress Lilianne will not change. No matter what kind of person, I will do my utmost to serve them. As I decided so in my heart and continued my work, at some point instead of the Master’s I had been appointed as Mistress Lilianne’s personal maid. It seems that my senior had finally ended up quitting.

I accepted my appointment, and began working exclusively for Mistress Lilianne, but other than having the number of rebukes increasing not much else changed for me, and time flowed by in the blink of an eye.

That Mistress Lilianne, for just one day, had became quite strange. Constantly muttering something to herself, and occasionally as if recalling some matter she would shout out about something. Unable to do anything about it, I simply watched over her during all this.
The others decided it prudent to keep away from the strange Mistress on this day, so there was no one around Mistress Lilianne except myself. From when she would occasionally give an order, I immediately noticed. This whole day, she had yet to get angry even once.

Even now she is muttering something by herself. I have no idea what I should make of this, but if at all possible I prayed that she could change in a good direction from here on.
But of course, by the very next day she had completely returned to her usual self.

From there time continued to flow by, and I had just about forgotten about Mistress Lilianne’s eccentricities that day. Then Mistress Lilianne who had been living in the dorms suddenly returned home to the estate. It was all quite sudden so I hadn’t had a chance to make any of the preparations, but Mistress Lilianne simply shut herself inside her own room and didn’t come out again.

 

 

Author’s Note
I had intended to write (the next chapter) to the end, but it started to get long and I gave up. I had thought I’d make it on time…
So there you have it, this time it’s from Alisa’s point of view. A story from when Lilia wasn’t posessed by an evil spirit… sorry, I mean by Sakura yet.
It would be great if I can do this continuation of Alisa’s point of view next week, but next week’s gonna be pretty busy so I wonder…

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 28

17 Comments

Uhh, don’t mind me, just a dead man’s ghost doing ghostly things.

 

 

“I’m so glad you like it! I bought this from the shopping district to the south of the school.”

“The south side…”

In a certain sense, the school grounds could be split up by region. The north was connected to the area nobles resided in, and so much of the stores in the north side were geared towards catering to nobles. In contrast the south side was connected to where commoners and lower class nobles lived. Naturally, the shops there were more oriented for the masses.

While going to buy it only posed a problem of face and pride for the Aldis family, it was still a problem that couldn’t just be ignored.

“I can bring some more next time if you’d like.”

Though it was unclear if she had seen through Lilia’s internal conflict, Tina said such. Lilia slightly lowered the corners of her eyes, and gratefully accepted her offer.

Leaving the snacks she received to Alisa, Lilia left the room with Tina. She left telling Alisa she and the three agents could try the remaining dorayaki. There were five left, so there might still be one remaining when she got back. Actually she hoped they would leave the last one, and was regretting that she didn’t tell Alisa so.

—If you wanted to eat more you could have just said so.

—And just who was it that told me to tell Alisa to share it with everyone?

—It was me. Sorry.

It was to capture people’s hearts, was what Sakura said, but what kind of cheap heart would it be if it was swayed by some dorayaki? When she was thinking that,

“Lilia’s actually really kind huh. To tell you the truth I’d thought you were a much more scarier person…”

That sentence seemed to come with freakishly on point timing. There was no way she could admit that it was by the instructions of the evil spirit possessing her, so Lilia just gave a vague smile.

—Tina’s a really good girl after all. By the way Lilia, wasn’t there something pretty rude that slid out of your thoughts just now? Something about an evil spirit.

—Oh my. Aren’t you one?

—I’ve said it clearly haven’t I! I’m an Angel! A dear Angel! I’m the dear angel that’s here to help you!

—Isn’t it depressing to say that on your own?

—You’re really not holding back where it hurts huh! I-it’s not like that actually hurts or a-…

Sakura’s words stopped midway. As Lilia made a confused expression, Sakura went ‘uwah’, and said with a disgusted voice.

—Lilia. It’s the Prince.

—Hah…?

Lilia’s face stiffened.

“What are you doing?”

And that voice was heard at the same time.

“Ah… Your Highness…”

Tina let out a dumbfounded voice. Towards the direction the voice came from, Lilia turned her around.

“My, your Highness. What might be the matter?”

“Don’t play dumb. Just where are you thinking of dragging Tina to?”

The Prince drew closer to Lilia. Lilia made an annoyed seeming sigh, and fixed a smile to her face. That was,

“……!”

The usual, smile.

“Your Highness. To say nothing of dragging around, did you know that Miss Tina is the one leading the way here? I am currently going with Miss Tina to head for some dinner together.”

“Hmph. As if I’d believe that. Aren’t you just instructing her to walk out in front? So that if someone… If for example myself were to see you would have an excuse.”

—Uwah, what’s with this guy. How annoying.

—I must currently wholeheartedly agree with you there.

Normally she would have openly cautioned her about such thoughts, but Lilia herself, seemed to have cooled down towards this man so she had no intention of finding fault with it. Together with Sakura, the two of them shared their feelings about what a troublesome guy this Prince was when,

“What’s wrong, why aren’t you saying anything? Cause I hit the bulls eye right?”

The Prince said with a triumphant smile on his face.

—So this is the so called doyagao! Doyaa!

—Doya… What?

—It’s nothing. If I had to describe it, then it’s basically the Prince’s face right now.

—Ahh. So a face that makes you want to crush in your hands huh.

—Scary! That’s way too much! But I agree!

While making some banter with Sakura as a form of escapism, Lilia breathed a small sigh. She looked away from the Prince and turned to Tina. The Prince, he probably hasn’t even noticed Tina’s expression that’s been driven to the brink of tears.

As she tried to reassure her with a soft smile, Tina, though still with the corners of her eyes drooping, returned a smile in kind.

“Despite your kind invitation, since there’s been a boorish interruption let us call it off here.”

“Yes… Sorry about that, Miss Lilia.”

“No need for apologies. A certain boorish, intruding, someone from somewhere is to blame after all.”

Firmly punctuating her words, she eyes didn’t spare a single glance away from the Prince as she said so. The Prince’s face was turning seething red, but whatever.

“Well then, I will take my leave.”

She turned around on the spot. Before heading back towards her room, she moved just her lips to mouth a farewell.

See you later.

She wasn’t sure if it was properly conveyed, but Tina gave a firm nod in return.

The Prince shouted something or other in an attempt to stop Lilia, but she completely ignored such a thing. It didn’t even register in her mind. No matter what the idiot is shouting, it was all ignored, and she headed back towards her room.

When she got back, she was greeted by a wide-eyed Alisa.

“This is quite an early return… I’m surprised.”

As Alisa said so, Lilia just shrugged.

“We bumped into his Highness. It was troublesome so I returned.”

“Those words may be too much, Mistress Lilia.”

Even though she cautioned her, Alisa also had wry smile all the while. It seemed she wasn’t actually serious about it. Alisa probably had some of her own thoughts after seeing Lilia’s exchange with the Prince yesterday. Lilia simply accepted Alisa’s words, and shrugged her shoulders.

“It seems, we’ve missed out on dinner tonight…”

—Food…

Together with Sakura, she gave a heavy sigh. Since they were indeed quite looking forward to it, the shock was all the greater.

“Mistress Lilia. There is one dorayaki still remaining, how about it?”

“I’ll take it. After I eat that, I’m going to sleep.”

She was totally just going to sulk in the bed, but this time neither Alisa nor Sakura said anything about it. Receiving the dorayaki from Alisa, she went into her bedroom just like that, halfheartedly got changed and laid down on the bed.

 

 

Author’s Note:
The Prince doesn’t have any good points at all huh… He wasn’t really supposed to be a bad guy though…

TL Note:
Doyagao is basically like a really smug looking face, maybe similar to the lenny face in the west. Apparently the term came about because ‘Douda'(‘How about that!’) is ‘Douya’ in Kansai dialect. Cue a bunch of funny people doing their thing(lots of comedians there) and thus the term ‘Doya(How’s that!)gao(face)’ was coined.
e.g. something like this:

Sakura

Lilia

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 27

25 Comments

Guess I hold my monthly quota for now. Enjoy!

 

 

“Alisa. Sorry, but could I get you to make another cup?”

“Yes, certainly.”

Bowing respectfully, Alisa went to prepare some more tea. After seeing her off, Lilia once again returned her gaze to the trio.

In truth, Lilia herself knew of the fact that she was overdoing it. By all means, Sakura would probably be cautioning her as well at this point. However, this case was simply unforgivable. If they came here under her brother’s orders, then there was also a chance that they’d never gotten in touch with her father. In that case it wouldn’t be surprising for them to not know that Lilia had received Alisa as her own maid. Nonetheless, that didn’t matter a single bit to Lilia. If the ones who’s very job was to seek out information neglected to find out about such a thing, then it was no excuse to her.

—I-is it over? It’s over right?

—Yes. Come to think of it you were pretty silent.

—Yeah… Cause it was scary… I could tell that you were angry for real, so I kept quiet

—Ahh, I see. Sorry, that must have startled you.

She gave a gentle apology. Seeing that, Sakura seemed to convey a sense of surprise.

—Well, okay. I think it’s fine. It really shows just how much you value Alisa after all. It’s a good development, so I won’t say anything more.

—I see. Thanks.

—Though this was going a bit overboard.

—Right, yes… I’ll reflect on it.

Calming herself down, she slowly drew in a breath and let it out. In that interval, no one spoke a word. The space was dominated by a heavy silence. Lilia once again gazed at the three. The two men were able to receive her gaze, but the girl was clearly frightened as she averted her eyes.

The younger man noticed that, and sent her a sidelong glare. The girl was startled and her body once again began to tremble, as she apologised and hung her head on the spot.

—This is, from her being frightened by me? Did I do something?

—Anyone would be scared by that gaze of yours, have some self awareness.

—I haven’t really gotten angry at her yet though.

—Seeing your anger at all is more than enough!

I suppose that’s how it is, thought Lilia. Lilia made her best effort at putting on a smile, and looked to the girl. The girl’s trembling worsened.

—I didn’t think she was this scared of me.

—Yup. How about we give up on reconciling and just talk about their work or something?

—I suppose so.

Lilia let out a clear small sigh, and turned to the old man. The girl’s face had become completely pale, but whatever. The younger man let out a disappointed sigh at the girl.

“I wonder if it is alright for me to give you guys work to do as well?”

Not expecting such a thing to come from Lilia’s mouth, the old man’s eyes widened. Though perhaps as expected of an agent he wiped the expression from his face in an instant.

“Master Claus had ordered us to provide aid to Mistress Lilia. Please order us as you wish.”

“I see. Then I’ll have you do some background checks on a few people.”

“Background checks, is it. Of whom shall it be?”

“For now, do everyone in my class. Ahh, of course His Highness is an exception. Also, do one for a boy named Ray who often studies in the library.”

Probably astonished at the number of people, this time it was the younger man who’s face was tinged with a slight frown. Though as expected this one also quickly erased his reaction.

“That is a fair amount of people and thus would certainly require some time, if that is acceptable?”

“Yes. Let’s have regularly… Let’s see, come give a report once a day. This girl can do it.”

The one Lilia pointed to with her finger was the girl who’d been frightened this entire time. The girl’s expression became as if she had seen the end of the world, but Lilia wasn’t going to try to change her opinion at this point.

“Are there any problems?”

“Nay, no problems at all. Your orders have been received.”

She had intended to ask the girl, but it was the old man who replied. Lilia looked down with slight disappointment, then quickly shook her head. Coming back to herself, she continued.

“I’ll be leaving it to you.”

The three gave a firm nod, and returned into the hole in the ceiling. Seeing them off, Lilia gave a small sigh.

—By the way Sakura. Is there still anyone around? Or has everyone gone?

—Of course there’s at least one person still remaining. They’ve got to have a guard for you around after all.

—It’s fine even if they didn’t. I’ve never heard of anyone getting attacked inside the academy.

—Lilia. There’s more to it than just what’s seen on the surface.

Lilia made a slight frown. The way Sakura spoke, it was as if something really had happened in the past.

—There are reckless ones out there as well you know.

Sakura gave a cheerful laugh.

 

 

“Mistress Lilia. A guest.”

After the three spies left, Lilia was studying in her bedroom when Alisa called out to her. Having an idea as to who the visitor was, Lilia smiled wryly as she rose from her chair. When she got to the door, as expected, there stood Tina.

“Good evening, Lilia. Wanna, go for some dinner? Ah, here.”

Lilia ended up reflexively receiving the small paper box Tina presented. Taking a look, there were a few baked sweets inside.

“Thanks for inviting me. What is this?”

“It’s dorayaki. You don’t know of it?”

“I’ve heard of it, but it’s the first time I’m seeing the actual thing…”

She grabbed one to give it a try. It still had a faint warmth. It seems it was freshly bought. Lilia timidly took a bite.

“…!”

—Delicious…!

—It’s dorayaki! I can’t believe they have them here as well! Maybe there are others too?

—Others? There are more things like this?

—There are! There are lots! Like taiyaki or daifuku!

Taking a not insignificant interest in it, Lilia looked at Tina. Tina was sporting a joyous, full faced smile.

 

 

Author’s Note:
Even now the three agents’ names still haven’t been revealed. What should we do…

TL Note:
Though I’m sure many of you are probably already acquainted with these Japanese snacks, I might as well put some food pictures here now that I have the chance.

Dorayaki is a Japanese treat that’s basically some red bean paste (or other filling) jammed between two castella cakes. Also famous as Doraemon’s favourite food or something, and you can probably guess why.

Taiyaki is a well known Japanese treat that’s basically batter fried in the shape of a fish with red bean paste (or other fillings) inside. Commonly seen in anime and whatnot.

Daifuku is mochi stuffed with sweet red bean paste (or other filling, duh) and can come in a variety of colours.

Sakura

Lilia

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 26

41 Comments

This chapter’s a bit early, but I’ve been spending a bit more time translating lately because doing BokuNana has been refreshing. Think of it as a late Valentine’s present or something. Enjoy!

 

 

“……”

It was the same old bedroom she saw this morning. The room was cleaned and the bed was made, but that was it. Just what was she trying to hide?

—Sakura. Perhaps…

—It’s just like a Ninja! Awesome!

—Ninja? What’s that?

—Uhm… they’re spies from a faraway country in the east, or something like that, maybe?

How ambiguous, Lilia thought with a wry smile as she returned to the table and sank back into the chair. Tapping the table with her finger, Alisa quickly went to go prepare some black tea for her. Watching her as she worked, Lilia went,well then, as she opened her mouth.

“I don’t know if it’s by Father’s or Elder Brother’s orders but… Come out here.”

Alisa’s movements stiffened. Forcing a stiff smile to her face she turned towards Lilia.

“Uhm, Miss Lilia? What might you be talking about…?”

At Alisa’s words, Lilia’s eyes narrowed in displeasure. Having that chilly glance directed at her, Alisa went let out a short shriek.

“Alisa. You are my maid.”

“Y-yes…”

“You belong to me. Are you trying to hide something from me?”

“That is… well…”

Alisa was unable to give a response and looked away, casting her eyes down. Her expression looked like it was about to break into tears. In actuality, Lilia didn’t intend to condemn Alisa that much. The contract was with her Father, and for any orders from the Aldis house a subordinate could nary ignore such a thing.
That’s why, there were others that she should be blaming.

—Sakura. Where are they?

—Nnnn… About here and in the middle of the bedroom. Hidden in the ceiling. Two of them. One in the bedroom.

How’d she know all this, Lilia was surprised inside, as she turned her eyes towards the places that were pointed out. Lilia couldn’t see anything, but if Sakura was declaring so then they must be there.

“For the time being the two over there, come down. As for the one in the bedroom… well whatever. Afterwards, I, will go, have a chat, alone.”

Making sure she showed her smile, Lilia spun each word one after the other. *Kata*, and so came a light sound from the ceiling. How pathetic, to be rattled by something of this degree, thought Lilia as she tapped the table like she was urging them. At first slowly, and since they still did not come down she increased her pace.

“Goodness gracious… You got me.”

Where she felt she saw thee ceiling sink inwards, it slid to the side, and two men descended. The two were dressed in black, one an old man, the other seeming to be in his middle ages. Coming before Lilia, they got on one knee and lowered their heads.

“This would be our first meeting, I think. I am…”

“Your name doesn’t matter.”

Lilia declared like a slap in the face. Having his words interrupted the old man frowned slightly, lifting his face.

“Get the one in the bedroom as well.”

“Nay, there should not be anyone more.”

“Do I need to repeat myself?”

She once again began to tap the table. Slowly at first, then gradually quickening. Though he probably didn’t know the exact meaning behind this the old man seemed to feel a chilling intent, and with a stiff smile, excused himself as he lowered his head.

“I will call them at once. …Oi.”

At the old man’s severe voice, the other man nodded, and returned up into the ceiling. Lilia was a bit surprised at how he went back into the hole from before with a single leap, but she didn’t allow it to show on her face in the slightest.

After waiting a few seconds, the man descended from the ceiling again. And this time with him was one more, a girl, who should have been around the same age as Lilia. Her face was concealed with a mask so it was hard to tell for sure.

“Oh good.”

Lilia said so gently, and the three kneeling before her looked up.

“If it was a man in the bedroom, I might just have killed all three of you.”

She said such words with a smile, and the three deeply lowered their heads. These three probably knew, that Lilia wasn’t just saying so as an example, but conveyed reality. Most spies who wrought their master’s wrath would not live to tell the tale.

—Scary! Lilia’s scary! That’s no Lilia of mine!

—Who belongs to who now? More importantly this is everyone right?

—Nn… Yup. No doubt about it this is all of them.

—Is that so. Got it.

“Lift your faces.”

Lilia said so as she tapped the table with her finger. Without a word, the three silently lifted their faces.

“Under who’s orders were you sent here?”

The old man answered Lilia question. Master Claus, he said.

“I see. Elder brother was it. Hmmm…”

Lilia nodded, and sent her gaze towards Alisa. Alisa seemed to remember then, as she began to prepare the tea.

“And? Who is the one in charge here? Well, I more or less have an idea already though.”

When Lilia looked at the old man, he also returned her gaze, and gave a single nod.

“Well then I have something I want to ask you.”

“Anything my lady.”

“On who’s authority, did you order Alisa? Aside from yourselves, you were also giving orders to her no?”

Lilia’s tone lowered all at once. The two men, perhaps as would be expected did not stir in the slightest, but the young girl was shaking ever so slightly. She had yet to mature unlike the others, how lovely.

“Did you not hear me?”

When Lilia asked for the second time, the old man again lowered his head.

“Master Claus, said that it would be fine to make use of those serving the Aldis house.”

“I see. That’s quite the frank way of speaking, was that also how Elder Brother conveyed it?”

“It is as you surmise.”

“Really. In that case, I suppose I should offer my gratitude as well.”

Alisa put the cup of black tea on the table. Lilia took one sip, and then,

“…!”

She threw it just like that. The still hot tea splashed onto the old man, and his face made a slight grimace. However Lilia’s anger had yet to dissipate, and she forcefully struck the table with her fist. At the loud bang, the young girl’s trembling intensified.

“On, just, who’s, authority, did you order Alisa.”

Lilia slowly stood up. She had a sweet-looking smile on her face, yet her eyes alone were perfectly focused down on them.

“I’ll have you understand something.”

“Yes…”

“Alisa is my maid. Not a maid of Aldis, my maid. Towards this maid of mine, on just who’s authority did you order her with?”

“My deepest apologies.”

The old man further lowered his head, and the other two followed suit. Lilia stared at them emotionlessly for a while, but eventually she released her gaze, and sat back down into the chair.

 

 

Author’s remark: I’ve been feeling that her villainess disposition has been lacking lately, so I tried to supplement it a bit.

Sakura

Lilia

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Seven Wonders

Ain’t afraid of no ghosts – Prologue

10 Comments

So, no one ever asked for this, and I could have spent this time doing more Haunted, but sometimes you just gotta follow your whims. Here’s a novel I found on Amazon that I took a liking to, and decided to translate for the heck of it. This is a single volume self contained story.

Anyways, I hope you enjoy.

 

 

Prologue

    It was right before I climbed into my bed, that I noticed my phone was missing. Even after sifting through my bag and turning the pockets of my uniform inside out, it was nowhere to be found.
    "It can't be, back at school...?"
    If it were an ordinary person, they might have been let it go thinking 'it'll be fine if I just go grab it tomorrow'. However, in my case, even a single speck of unrest would ceaselessly spread in my mind until it coloured my entire consciousness. Just thinking about it, if the cellphone I left at school were to be stolen by someone, I might get hit with hundreds of thousands of Yen in fees, or it could even be used in some sort of crime!
    Imagining myself proclaiming my innocence from the inside a jail cell, I made the decision to head to school.
    The time displayed on the clock mounted to the wall of the school would soon close in on midnight. The entire building was like a box, big and dark, and a feeling of oppression unlike during the day pressed down upon me. Looking out to see if there was anybody around, making sure I wouldn't be spotted by someone in the neighborhood, I wandered around the school for a while, before quickly hopping over the fence.
    Blowing a breath out from between my clenched teeth, I quietly opened the window. That this window in the art room is still left busted from the other day was a blessing in disguise.
    As soon as I entered the room, I started at the feeling of someone's gaze on me.
    "Uwah! Who! I'm sorry! I'm not anyone suspicious or...!"
    As I spewed my excuses, I noticed that the thing behind the gaze was actually just the bust of a head.
    "For god's sake man, don't scare me like that..."
    In the moment I jumped back in surprise, I ended up smearing the 'Congratulations on Graduation!' written up on the chalkboard. I dusted off the chalk on the sleeve of my jersey.
    Today, this Seishiro High had its graduation ceremony. During it there were seniors with flowing tears. I was watching those graduating students from my second year seat, but trying to imagine myself in their position next year, flowing tears and all, was pretty impossible.
    Well leaving that aside, finding my phone is a bit more of a pressing matter right now.
    "It's not scary at all~ I'm totally fine~"
    Timidly humming the song filled with lies that I came up with just now, I arrived at the classroom that I spent the past year in. Bumping into numerous tables and chairs along the way, I headed to my desk. Thrusting my hand in and searching around, I quickly found my phone, and breathed a sigh of relief.
    "Thank god. Though, when'd I put it in such a place..."
    I don't recall anything, but it does seem like something I'd do. What if it goes off in the middle of the graduation ceremony! Or something like that was probably worrying me, leading to me stowing it away in my desk.
    "Alright, all that's left is to get back home."
    However, my tendency to worry wasn't so mild just finding my phone safe and sound would leave me relieved. Having the worry of my phone being stolen eased, my mind is immediately filled up with new things one after another.
    What if, I was found by someone, or what if, there was a murderer hiding out inside the school building at this very moment...
    The hallway that could be observed from end to end during the day was now shrouded in deep gloom, hiding away its deeper contents. Almost like a hole of darkness was connected, gaping in the hall.
 Feeling like the temperature suddenly dropped, I pulled the zipper of my jersey up to my chin and hurriedly descended the stairs.
    It was the portrait hanging on the wall's turn to startle me this time, as I straddled the art room's window and exited into the courtyard.
    Seeing if the security guard was around, I hid in the shadow of a tree and peeked out. Surveying the entire courtyard, I noticed that the sakura trees planted here were all soon to be in full bloom. With the moon illuminating the pink petals, my eyes seemed to catch them shining faintly in the moonlight.
    "It's beautiful even in the night..."
    My worries seemed to soften for just a moment as I watched entranced by the scene. When I casually walked out from the shadow, what was previously hidden on the other side of the trunk came into view, and there stood a lone girl.
    "Uwaah!"
    As I jumped back in surprise, her body also gave a jolt as she took some distance. Her long hair tied in a single bundle swayed greatly.
    "Hya...! Who? Who is there?"
    As we both hid our bodies with the trunk of the sakura tree, we peeked towards each other.
    "M-my apologies, I didn't think there would be anybody here..."
    The reason I spoke more politely, was that she clearly gave the impression of someone older. Her height was around the same as mine, and her facial features were well defined and mature looking. It was a bit hard to be sure due to the darkness, but her hair seemed to have a reddish tinge to it.
    "Err, are you... a student of this school?"
    She was wearing the uniform of our school. However, I don't recall ever seeing her before.
    "I... Came here to get something I left behind. But it was kind of scary, so I ended up getting stuck here..."
    Her voice was slightly shaking. If someone were to see this scene, they might have gotten the wrong impression that I was some deviant attacking her.
    "Me t-no, I am also here to retrieve something I forgot... I am definitely not a suspicious individual!"
    I displayed the cell phone in my hand.
    "Ah, see, this is our school jersey. Look."
    Bringing my body out from the tree's shadow, I showed her the words 'Seishiro High' embroidered on the front. Doing so, she seemed to be relieved as well and finally walked up to me.
    "Thank goodness. It was really hard being alone here...!"
    She shortened the distance between us to the point where her nose almost reached my face. Being unused with such proximity to the opposite gender, my chest felt a ticklish sensation.
    "Erm... Isn't this a bit close..."
    "But it was so scary... Do you not feel afraid here?"
    Saying so in a feeble voice, she lightly grasped on to the sleeve of my clothes.
    "I-I'm not really scared, or anything. This is nothing."
    A big fat lie. I reflexively ended up trying to look cool.
    "If it's not too much of a bother, would you mind if I tag along until we leave the school grounds...?"
    To be honest I felt like I wanted someone to come save me, but after acting all cool just now there was no way I could refuse.
    "O-of course that would be fine certainly yes. Ah, but what about the thing you came here to get?"
    "Thing?"
    She tilted her head. I tilted my head.
    "Earlier, you said that you'd came here looking for something you left behind..."
    "Ah, that's right. That thing. It's fine for now. It's scary, so I'll get it tomorrow."
    Taking along the pretty girl I started walking. Anxious all the while, I felt restless inside the entire time.
    "By the way, do you know of the Seven Wonders of this school?"
    Walking a little bit behind me, she suddenly asked.
    "What?"
    "The Seven Wonders. Do you know about it?"
    "Err, well, just what I've heard here and there."
    Honestly I wished that she wouldn't bring up such an ominous subject right now, but with my earlier declaration of 'totally not scared' there was nothing I could do.
    "As one of those Seven Wonders, there is the legend of 'Hanako-san of the bathroom'."
    "So, quite the cliche right."
    I wanted to cover my ears, but I somehow endured.
    "They say it was a night just like this."
    Her voice suddenly lost all its warmth, and gained an inorganic lustre.
    "What...?"
    "Like I said, a night just like this."
    Hit by her voice, I felt goosebumps rise along my spine.
    "Wha-what do you mean...?"
    "When Hanako-san comes out."
    If by any chance, ghosts actually existed in this world. If the Seven Wonders really existed in our school. Just if, the girl right behind me, was that Hanako-san...
 "...!!"
    I turned around.
    There, was the courtyard, the sakura trees, and the same girl from before.
    "O...Oh jeez. It was nothing after all. Please don't scare me like that alright."
    Along with a sigh, I rapidly dished out my complaints towards her.
    "Ah, perhaps, did you end up thinking that I might have been said Hanako-san?"
    "Hahaha, just kind of yeah."
    "Oh you silly, of course not."
    The girl had a completely innocent smile she hadn't shown before now as she said.
    "Hanako-san is over there."
    She pointed at the space behind me.
    At that same instant, the sound of a gate creaking resounded. In the courtyard, that shouldn't have such a thing in it.
    *Giiiiiih...*
    A sound loud enough to cause discomfort, whilst also retaining its eeriness, sounded out seemingly from some faraway place, yet it also resounded like it was right by the ear.
    I spun around before even my thoughts could catch up.
 The space in the empty courtyard started to tear open. A gate that couldn't be seen by the eyes came into existence. Opening up as if swallowing the surrounding scenery, the other side manifested itself.
    Wooden walls filled with graffiti, the small tiles laid out as the flooring, and in the center of that a Japanese style toilet.
    And, standing there in the middle, a lone girl.
    "Uu... Eh... Aa...?"
    Though I say 'girl' it was only because contours of its figure were like one, and she herself was pure unblemished blackness. However, it was just the places where the face's eyes and mouth were supposed to be, that were carved out in pure whiteness.
    "What is hell is this..."
    I drew back. The mouth carved out on the girl deformed slightly, and seemed to smile.
    In the next moment, the girl's outline started distorting, turning into black fog.
    "Uwah! What the hell is this! What the hell is this! No way no way no way no way this is real!"
    As I was screaming with tears flowing from my eyes, the girl who became thick fog came at me with terrific force.
    "Uwaaah! I'm sorry!"
    My legs became tangled and my butt fell to the ground. The black fog swept over above my head. Following it with my eyes, I see the black fog, losing none of its momentum, coil itself around a sakura tree in the courtyard like a snake.
    That tree alone seemed to get stirred up like it was hit by a string wind, and even the trunk began to sway. Within the roaring noise, the sound of a small branch breaking was heard.
    "You can stop now Hanako-san. Do take care of the sakuras."
    From somewhere a voice that reverberated through the core resounded. With that the Black fog made one last round, carefully licking the tree, and separated itself. Running straight by me, it returned into the washroom. As the invisible gate seemed to close up, the fog once again returned to the shape of a girl.
    "Wh-wh-what's up with that, just now..."
    "Hanako-san. Didn't I say so just a moment ago?"
    I turned my head left and right looking for the owner of the voice.
    "I'm over here, right here."
    I looked up into the sky. There she was at the top of the sakura tree. The girl that was supposed to be with me just a moment ago, was floating there.
    "Sorry I about the scare. Is what I shan't say. After all such is our duty."
    She wasn't wearing our uniform anymore. She was clad in an arrow-feather patterned Kimono, and her mouth was spread widely from side to side in a broad grin.
    "Mine name is Tenko. I am the one who governs the Seven Wonders of this school."
    All around her, the sakura petals that were in full bloom just earlier separated from their branches and fluttered about. And in the pitch black night sky, the pink petals, the girl's red hair, and the brilliant violet of the hakama displayed their prominence. All together it was like a scene in one enormous painting, my breath was taken away as I stood overwhelmed.
    "Congratulations, right now at this moment, thou hast been selected as a new Seven Wonder of this school."
    One of the countless dancing petals fell and clung onto my face.
    I've gotta get outta here. That was all I thought of.
    Without looking back, making some unintelligible noises all the while, I did nothing but run towards my home. Entering my home, entering my room, entering my bed and covering my head in the sheets, I earnestly waited for the morning to arrive.

 

Notes

On the title: A ‘Seven Wonders’ of a school is a commonly seen collection of ghost/supernatural/extraordinary stories around said school. You might have seen this topic pop up in anime and manga before. Most likely adapted from the well known English term ‘The Seven Wonders of the World’.

Hanako-san: A common ghost story about a girl who haunts bathrooms.

Hakama: Basically the pants part worn over the kimono.

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Haunted

Schizophrenia – Chapter 25

40 Comments

Current plan is to just release at least once a month if I can. Seems no other translator is too interested in giving some life to the dead-crawl pace the release this series has with me, so 20 years is seeming pretty likely at this point. In fact it’s so slow I actually feel bad for people would be trying to keep up with this since they’ll probably have forgotten and need to re-read the old chapters every time a new one’s out. But, well, if you’re still reading then thanks, and I applaud your tenacity.

Enjoy!

 

 

With Ray’s help, they somehow managed to finish all of the sandwiches. Reminding herself to let them know she was only ordering for one person tomorrow, Lilia looked at Ray. After finishing his meal and making some black tea for Lilia, he had opened up the books on the desk and was studying.

Incidentally the black tea was prepared from a table in a corner of the room. A small magic formation was drawn on it. Lilia hadn’t known what kind of formation it was, but according to Sakura it seemed to be for emitting heat. To say nothing of bringing a lunchbox, it seemed that Ray really didn’t intend to leave the room, and the library as a whole.
Lilia eyes went to Ray’s reference book. She posed a question.

—Sakura. It should be fine, not going to afternoon lessons right?

—Nn? Well your grades are good so there shouldn’t be any issues, what’s up?

Without responding to Sakura’s question, Lilia moved to Ray’s side. With his eyes down at his books Ray didn’t notice her until she leaned towards the study materials with a ‘Well then’.

“Eh? Wawah!”

Ignoring Ray who flung himself backwards, Lilia peered at the contents. After reading a bit of it, she turned to face Ray.

“So? Which parts are giving you trouble? …What’s wrong?”

Lilia raised her eyebrows in confusion, seeing that Ray’s face had turned beet red. When Lilia looked and faced him directly, he was producing nothing but vague ‘ah’ and ‘uu’ sounds as his eyes swam all over the place. Just what in the world is going on, wondered Lilia, tilting her head.

—Lilia. I’ll ask just in case, but was this intentional?

—Ha? Was what intentional?

—Uwah this girl’s a real airhead… Lilia, in the end you’re still a girl, so you shouldn’t just get so up close with a boy you know.

—What might you be implying by the ‘in the end’ part?

—Hiee! That part got a reaction! I’m sorry please forget it!

—Not happening. Let’s go eat some green peppers later.

—Pleease-noot-thaat!

Finally seeming to recover, Ray returned to Lilia’s side. However he seemed to wonder about something, as he examined Lilia’s expression. Lilia just shrugged her shoulders and tapped her finger on the books.

“There isn’t a problem even if I don’t show up to the afternoon lessons. In fact it’s so simple I’d only be bored there. That’s why I’ll just help with your studies here.”

“Eh… But, well… I’d be happy to have that but… Is it really alright?”

“I’m saying it’s fine so it’s fine. Come on, the clock’s ticking. Let’s get started.”

As Lilia tapped the books with her finger again, Ray’s body trembled with a start, but he soon started smiling.

—Well, I guess some recreation is also important. If there’s anything you’ve forgotten then just speak up yeah? I’ll give you a refresher.

—I don’t think there should be anything, but if it comes to that I’ll be counting on you.

Reading the page Ray had opened, Lilia nodded.

As the time neared the end of afternoon lessons, Lilia closed the materials with a ‘let’s stop here for now’. The exhausted looking Ray let out a sigh of relief, but Lilia decided to overlook it.

—A total Spartan. A demon. It’s Spartillia.

—Green peppers.

—I’m sorry!

It’s like a magic word, thought Lilia as she bantered with Sakura, laughing in her mind. However if she went too far Sakura would likely get angry for real so it was probably best to keep it in moderation. Right now, Sakura was one of the few people who could be counted as Lilia’s ally, though it’s unclear whether you could even count her as an actual ‘person’.

“Thank you very much, Miss Lilia. Your teaching was very easy to understand.”

Ray said so as he lowered his head. Lilia simply responded with ‘that’s good then’ and nodded.

“Ray. If you don’t want to it’s fine to refuse but…”

“What is it?”

“You’re always here studying right?”

Ray nodded reservedly as usual to Lilia’s question. Lilia continued.

“If it’s alright with you, that is… Should I start coming here in the afternoons? I can definitely help teach you whatever is within my range of knowledge.”

Ray’s eyes went wide, and Sakura was rendered speechless. The extent of the two’s surprise was clear as day, making Lilia avert her eyes with a slight hint of sullenness.

“If me being here is a bit suffocating, then I won’t force you. This is also just a diversion for myself, so I thought I might as well just throw the suggestion out there. Please forget I said anything.”

Ending with that, Lilia started preparing to depart. That said, all that was needed was tidying up her own rubbish and putting it into the basket. As she finished that and was heading to the door,

“Miss Lilia!”

She was stopped by Ray. When she turned around, Ray lightly cleared his throat.

“Are you… Really okay with, doing that for me?”

Being asked so timidly for such, Lilia gave a small wry smile, nodding ‘of course’. Seeing that a smile filled Ray’s entire face as he lowered his head.

“Please take good care of me!”

“Yes. Well then I will see you tomorrow, I’ll be coming at the same time as today.”

Leaving those words, Lilia exited the room.

Perhaps due to having returned somewhat early, the presence of students could barely be seen in the dorm. After checking if any acquaintances, particularly the prince, were around, Lilia passed through the entrance and headed straight to her room. Only after finally reaching her own quarters, did Lilia let out a breath of relief.

—We were able to get back safely today as well…

—It’s like you’re a soldier returning home from battle huh. Though it might actually be a battlefield to you. Even if you’re just constantly running away.

—Oh shut up…

When Lilia sat down on a chair, the bedroom door suddenly flew open. As Lilia’s eyes widened in surprise, Alisa was standing there all out of breath. Even with her face being slightly pale, she vigorously gave a bow.

“Apologies for my tardiness…! Welcome back, Mistress Lilia.”

“You don’t really…”

have to mind it so much, was what Lilia was about to say, when her face turned to a frown. As she moved her sight towards the dimly lit bedroom, Alisa seemed frantic as she quickly shut the door. Is she even aware that doing such a thing is basically declaring that you’re trying to hide something?
Lilia wordlessly stood, walked to where Alisa was, and without giving the girl any time to try and stop her she opened the door to the bedroom.

 

 

Sakura

Lilia

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