From the confused feelings of guilt to the fearful inklings of uncertainties, many unpleasant emotions caused your stomach to upend in discomfort. You stiffly sat beside the idol, mind cluttered with a barrage of haphazard thoughts.

You did your best to to disallow your emotions from reflecting on your facial expression; it was an effort sufficient enough to fool anyone who simply glanced by, however, for someone with a sharper eye, it was a little more obvious that you were apprehensive.

There was a reason why you didn't bother checking his past with the previous (Y/n). You were so fixated on the belief that having any emotional attachment to anyone will only put you at a disadvantage. Witnessing Utari's past will cause you to feel more inclined to get involved with him, causing more problems down the road.

At least, that's what your previous mindset was. Now? Your doubts on your reasoning are slowly surfacing. You clearly had some emotional connection strung to Utari seeing how tense you were upon the male's presence. It frustrated you, frustrated you that you didn't know how to get rid of these unpleasant emotions.

You just wanted to focus on getting your memories back, figure out who you were and why you were brought here, then try to live a somewhat normal life. That was a dream that was not only far from being accomplished but also had a difficult path to tread on filled with many uncertainties.

Well, mentally complaining isn't going to help. You took in a slow and controlled breath and gently exhaled, focusing on calming yourself down. There's not much you could do but just tolerate the situation.

As you focused on your lunch you would listen to bits and pieces of different conversations without an effort to engage in any of them. It did feel a little lonely just watching everyone behave like regular students while you were stuck in a situation far from regular.

"Utari-san, you're a little quiet today," Shichirou pointed out. "Is something wrong?"

Your eyes fluttered in surprise. Yes, you had also noticed that the idol was contributing less in discussions than usual, and you didn't doubt that Shichirou wouldn't notice. However, you didn't expect for him to point it out in front of all the students.

A handful of students stopped their discussions to listen in on the conversation between Utari and Shichirou. After all, who wouldn't be interested?

Many eyes were pinned on Utari, waiting for his response. Although it appeared as a harmless inquiry from Shichirou, you had a feeling that he didn't ask the idol out of concern. Like how you mentioned before, you didn't think he was the type to pry into unnecessary things. Such a simple question without a motive seemed off to you.

"Hm? Oh, I guess I'm just a little tired today," the idol answered, a flawless smile on his lips.

"Hm? Why is that?" Shichirou's expression mirrored an innocuous curiosity that shrouded the malevolent intrigue hidden underneath and a string of trickery was faintly attached to his tone. "Did something happen?"

Yup, he's definitely trying something here. But, what and why? It's one thing being aware of Shichirou's nature, but it makes a huge difference being aware of the motives behind them. Actually, a small part of you felt a little nervous for Utari. Like how you suspected before, Utari was skilled in controlling the crowd whilst Shichirou was skilled in manipulating his words and exploiting an individual.

"Nothing much," Utari responded happily. "Why'd you ask? Were you hoping for something else?" His words were chirpy and exuberant, however, there was an underlying allude to a challenge to Shichirou.

Holy heck, were you about to witness a standoff between the two males? The two very guys that gave you so many headaches for the past few days? You weren't going to lie, you were incredibly curious on how this will play out and you were tempted to just sit back and enjoy the show. Finally, they can get a taste of their own medicine.

But, there could be a chance that you'll eventually get involved. After all, you suspected that Utari's lack of engagement today was because of yesterday's incident with you. While there was a chance that the idol can dodge the subject, you weren't taking any chances.

"Shichirou-san, are you going to try out for student council this year?" you suddenly asked.

Shichirou gave you an odd look, which was understandable. You had already discussed this with him yesterday. Though, it didn't take long for him to realise what you were doing as a knowing smile graced his lips; amused at your attempt of an intervention.

Fuck, go back. This was a bad idea, now he knows that you had something to hide. You silently cursed at yourself, you really needed to be more cautious.

"Oh? Are you interested in me, (L/n)-san?" he joked lightheartedly.

Though you were annoyed at his tone, you were thankful he at least dropped his conversation with Utari. "Well, I assume everyone else here is just as interested if you're planning to run for student council," you answered.

"Well, I'm sure the answer is obvious. Yes, I do plan on running for student council."

And, just like that, all the students began talking to Shichirou and the attention on Utari was alleviated. You heard the idol let out a quiet sigh of relief beside you and he looked over and gave you a grateful smile. You still felt uneasy looking at his face, especially if there was a smile on it. Your mind was instantly wired to believe that it had some hidden intentions behind them. However, this time, you think it was the most genuine one he had ever given you.

You quickly nodded at him and immediately turned away. Even if it was genuine, it doesn't mean that feelings of discomfort around him had suddenly disappeared.

"Chiasa-san, weren't you also planning to try out?" Shichirou asked.

The girl was idly playing with her short orange curls before she lazily looked over to the male. Her eyes wandered around a little, contemplating his words before responding with, "I guess so."

"How calm of you." Shichirou chuckled. "Not nervous about a speech in front of the entire school?"

The entire school? Your eyes fluttered in realisation and you wanted to smack yourself for not noticing earlier. Of course! This was a perfect opportunity to use your new feature. If everyone in the school is gathered there, then all you would need to do is try out for student council and present a speech.

Your eyebrows then furrowed and your excitement died down. A speech, huh?

How were you going to pull that off? Presenting a speech while at the same time using your ability and carefully examining the crowd; it seemed a little difficult to pull off. However, it wasn't impossible. You just needed to consider this carefully and figure out a way to execute this efficiently.

"(L/n)-san, are you also planning out on trying?" Shichirou suddenly asked. A few curious students glanced your way, waiting for your answer, but at the same time, you felt like they weren't expecting much.

You mentally rolled your eyes at the faint irony of the situation. He was doing the same thing you did to him earlier. With a smile, you confidently replied, "Yeah, I'm planning to try out."

A lot of surprised looks were sent your way, even Utari stole a glance your direction. You didn't blame them. A new student trying out for student council? People can see it as arrogance and overconfidence or admirable bravery. Depending on who controlled the flow of the conversation, it can lead to either side.

Which was why you quickly took action before anyone could make any assumptions. "It's mainly for the experience. I'm not expecting to actually make it in. I just hope I can learn something from this. Back in my old school I wouldn't even consider it."

Since you had no clue on the type of person the (Y/n) of this world was, you weren't sure if your words were truths or lies. However, at least some of it was held some honesty. You really don't expect to make it in, you'll need some sort of miracle for that.

Thankfully, people took your words well; many wished you good luck, some gave you advice and information on how the selection process worked, and some praised your courage. Admittedly, you were taken aback. With how many rumours that were associated with you, you had expected for something more negative. Did something happen?

You spent the remainder of your lunch talking with students. Though you had to tiptoe through most of the discussions that involved your background, you found it to be pretty enjoyable and you shared a few laughs. Was this what you would've felt everyday if it weren't for the game? If you were just a regular student?

When the bell rang students Immediately began packing up their things; some exchanged goodbyes and walked off with their friends while a few polite ones went out of their way to put the tables and chair back to the rightful spots. You got up and left Utari's side. Though some of the tension you felt prior had quelled down after talking with the students, you could feel the idol's gaze on you every now and then which was not helpful.

You felt a little bad as you watched the few remaining students in the cafeteria rearranging the tables back. You opted to help them, and while doing so, you happened to accidentally meet eyes with a certain brunette with dark green eyes from across the cafeteria.

You were surprised Kasumi didn't leave yet, the cafeteria was basically deserted at this point. There was an unexplainable tension that suspended in the air between the two of you. Uncertain of how to act, you tried waving at her. Kasumi kept her gaze on you before scoffing and walking away, her friends tailing behind her.

You sighed. Just when you thought you've made progress with her. Maybe a small part of you wanted to truly be friends with her. After all, despite her harsh personality, you felt like she was inherently a good person. From reading her character information and linking it with yesterday's incident, your guess was that you had accidentally said something sensitive that related to her past.

Well, you technically had no obligation to try and befriend her again because there's a potential backstory behind her actions. You had your own issues and own wellbeing to worry about first.

You stood there in silence for a moment and let out an exaggerated sighed. Was I always this selfish? As you exited the cafeteria, someone suddenly grabbed your arm. Alarmed, you turned around and met with Shichirou's face.

With an exasperated look, you immediately said, "What are you––"

"Meet me in the library after school," he said, cutting you off instantly.

Your annoyance was exemplified by his commanding tone and you narrowed your eyes at him. "Let go of me first." Chuckling and slipping in a brief apology, the male did as you said. You felt the spot that he had touched you with agitation and disgust. "What makes you believe that I'll show up?"

A smile graced Shichirou's lips. "Because you want information on me?"

You blinked, surprise evident on your face. How did he know? Were you that obvious?

The male placed a hand over his mouth, stifling a chuckle. "Ah, (L/n)-san. You really need to learn how to control your expressions," he mused. "I wasn't certain if that was the case, but your face says it all."

Great. First you make that mistake with Utari, and now with Shichirou. You were about to reject him just out of pure irritation, but you stopped yourself upon a certain realisation.

There's a feature you have that can work well with Shichirou's proposition; character information.

This feature didn't have set rules on its functions. You had asked the mysterious texter last night and they explained that 'it depended on your understanding of the individual and the contents discussed during the conversation'. There were a few questions to be raised, but you assumed this feature was meant to have uncertainties. After all, it was really useful.

So, essentially, the quality of the information unlocked will be dictated by how well the conversation went in regards to unveiling Shichirou's character. You doubted he would just hand over information about himself. His words were just to entice you. However, if you directed the flow of the conversation tactfully and get him to reveal certain things, it could work.

Shichirou took your silence as a yes. "Well, remember our meeting."



===



Okay, so. Technically, Shichirou never specified exactly when after school you were supposed to meet him.

Oh, the temptation to show up four hours late just to spite him.

After you finished your cleaning duties after school, you headed over to the office to register your name for student council. Thankfully, you weren't too late and did it without any problems. Then, you purposefully took your sweet time walking towards the library to meet up with Shichirou.

Just imagining his look of triumph when you appear was enough for you to slam your head against an imaginary wall out of profound frustration. You hated his arrogance and you hated how he was so confident that everything would go his way.

Why did he want to meet up in the first place? That question occupied your mind until you reached the doors of the library. You took a few seconds to mentally prepare yourself before entering.

When you walked in, a few eyes looked up at you, curious of who the new presence was. That was when you noticed that there were a few lingering students in the library studying despite it being early in the year. Though you did your homework (most of the time) and listened during class (sometimes that can be up for debate), your grades were the least of your priorities.

You surveyed the area and spotted Shichirou towards the back corner, the most secluded area in the library. The male was preoccupied with a book and didn't seem to notice your entrance. However, he then looked up and met your gaze. With a friendly smile as if you were a treasured friend, he gestured you over to him.

You shuddered at his affable demeanor and cautiously approached him. The walk there was really awkward as you felt Shichirou's eyes studying you the entire time. You pulled out a chair and sat across him.

"So..." you began slowly. "I'm assuming you're not going to be so nice to me anymore?"

Shichirou didn't respond immediately as he closed his book and settled it on his desk, his gaze focused somewhere else entirely as if he was contemplating something. His actions were eerily peaceful and you almost flinched when he made direct eye contact with you.

His unique and mesmerising sectoral heterochromia eyes were both beautiful and terrifying to look at; the pink and purple hues reflected a tender and playful look whilst the sharpness in his wolfish eyes displayed a deceptive sense of danger.

"You can put it that way," he responded. "But, I was never kind in the first place. After all, you wouldn't call deceiving someone with false kindness a nice act, right?"

You shrugged. Well, he's got a point. "So, you called me here because...?"

"I wanted to set some things straight. After all, I don't take you as the type to like beating around the bush, right?" His voice carried an eloquent yet conniving note and the poise smile on his picturesque face never faltered. "For reasons even I'm uncertain of, you seem to be deeply interested in me, and not in the romantic aspect."

"I could say the same for you," you responded. "You're the one who approached me first."

You knew that if you played your cards well, you could get the information you needed. However, being right in the moment faced against Shichirou, you slowly doubted your ability to execute your plan. Shichirou was skilled at this and likely had plenty of experience whilst you were literally dropped in this world just a few days ago. Choose your contender.

It's alright, (Y/n). Who knows? Maybe in the past you were some super skilled manipulator too...? You silently laughed at your own thoughts before refocusing on Shichirou, a hint of determination in your eyes. It'll be alright, you had an advantage that even he doesn't know.

Shichirou's eyes narrowed and his smile transitioned into an amused smirk. "Ah, those eyes of yours," he said. "I hate people like you."

The dude just straight up insulted you. Bold move.

"Uh––well, then," you stammered a little over your words, obviously taken back by his sudden declaration. "...I think it's appropriate to ask why?"

You remember comparing his and Utari's interactions, how the idol held a greater sense of distance and Shichirou held a false sense of familiarity. However, as time progressed, you were certain that your previous deduction was terribly wrong.

You felt like if you were to be on fire, the male would watch from the sidelines with a smile on his face and a gasoline bottle in hand.

"I think that's appropriate too," he said playfully. "I'll let you in on something. Typically, when I meet someone new, I like to gauge the type of person they are."

"Gauge the type of person they are?" Did this guy not see students as regular human beings? What the hell is he on about? "So, from approaching me and offering your help, randomly insulting me yesterday, and giving me your phone number, it was all to figure out the type of person I am?"

"You're pretty spot on, great job," he praised before he followed it up with an unamused look. "And, I've concluded that you're someone I prefer to not work with." There was a short pause and the male's eyes darkened as his tone dropped into something far more conniving. "Rather, I prefer to go against you instead."

You gave him an uneasy look. "Work with? I get the feeling you mean something else." You crossed your arms and shot him an incredulous look. "I think you meant you'd rather not use me, am I right?"

Shichirou chuckled, his lighthearted voice greatly contrasting the tense atmosphere. "You caught me," he said. "Well, I expected as much from you anyway."

You bit back an impulsive remark, you had forgotten how easily this guy could get on your nerves. Also, what exactly did 'using others' mean to him? "So, how did you come to that conclusion. Was I not influential enough?" you asked, hoping your educated guess could be somewhat right.

"No, not exactly. To put it simply, you hold far too many uncertainties," he answered. "You see, I'm not much of a risk taker."

You held too many uncertainties? Well, you didn't deny that you did some things that could be questionable to an observer at times. Because of the game you're in, it was basically impossible to deduce your motives from a normal person's point of view.

"But, why go against me? Why not just ignore me? I'm literally minding my own business."

"That's for you to figure out yourself."

Well, freaking fine then.

At least, if he's focused on you, you could potentially divert his attention away from everyone else and reduce the chances of him targeting other students.

"Welp, okay. Not much I can do about it. Are you sure though? What if I'm more than you think?"

"Are you taunting me?" Shichirou's head tilted to the side. "How cute. But, I'm very confident in my abilities regardless of my understanding of your character."

With how he talks and thinks, this guy would make a dope player in your current game. You could envision him nailing it. Well, some aspects of it, that is. He'd totally fail the saving people part on purpose, he's supposed to be a yandere, after all.

Speaking of a yandere, what was his relationship with Aimi? In fact, what was Aimi's relationship with all the male leads so far? You were so caught up with dealing with Utari and Shichirou themselves that you never considered their current relationship with the heroine.

"So, if you're the type to observe others, then I'm assuming you did the same for me with Utari-san and Aimi-san? After all, we were the only new students."

"Of course," he responded.

"..."

"..."

He's not adding in anything else. Oh my god, I hate this so much. With a calm expression, you internally screamed at the difficulty of the situation. Was that all he was going to say?

You know what? Heck this. You can figure out his relationship with Aimi through her instead.

"Are we done here?" you asked.

"Well, that depends on you," he hummed.

You pushed your chair back and slung your bag on your shoulder. "Aight, Imma head out––"

"Wait," Shichirou called out. "Let's walk together."

You shot him a skeptical look with narrowed eyes, confused of the reason behind his actions. When you glanced around and remembered that there were a few students that were still in the library, you realised why. This guy really doesn't take any chances, huh? Though it was possible for rumours to arise if you were to meet up with Shichirou and then leave on your own, wasn't that a bit of a stretch?

"Fine."

When you both exited the library, walked along the hallways, and reached the school gates, there were no signs of conversation. Because of that, you had expected to part ways without any additional comments as well, but Shichirou slipped in a few last words.

"You seem to have something up your sleeve," he said. "After all, you were oddly less insistent on our conversation continuing despite obtaining little information on my motives."

You weren't even surprised at this point that his assumption held a lot of merit. Truthfully, you were just too tired to deal with him.

"Well, yeah. And, I believe that trick up my sleeve is something even you can't think of," you responded.

Shichirou chuckled, doubt and belittlement clear in his expression. "I look forward to it." And with that, the two of you went your separate ways.

You closed your eyes and took in a breath of fresh air and heavily exhaled in exhaustion. There were so many different thoughts that convoluted in your mind that you didn't know where to start.

Well, to start off. That conversation didn't go entirely as planned. Shichirou ended up telling you most of the things on his own, as if handing over information was a trivial matter to him and didn't put him at some sort of disadvantage. It gave off a sense of arrogance.

"I think I need some sort of notebook to document down my thoughts," you mumbled. By some miracle, if you somehow win this game and finally have a chance at a normal life, you were sure you would develop some sort of paranoia with people.

"Well, moving on." You stretched your arms forward and looked around the area, ensuring that there was no one near you. "Let's see if this works."

For dramatic effect, you snapped your fingers to pull up the holographic screen and fangirled a little at how smoothly you did it. Last night you had practiced and experimented with it several times so that you wouldn't have any difficulties accessing the features if suspenseful or spontaneous situations were to arise.

You had much more fun and neglected homework than you'd like to admit. But now, unlike yesterday, you were far more proficient. Using the screen as if it were an electronic device, you swiped to view the list of the features you had.

[ Information Sheet ] [ Character Information ] [ Chapter Summary ]

[ Forgotten Nostalgia ] [ Progress check ] [ Analysis ]

Quietly humming to yourself, you tapped on 'character information' and selected Shichirou's name. A hint of a smirk played on your lips when a paragraph of text immediately appeared. And, just like that, you had access to some of Shichirou's information. You chuckled to yourself in satisfaction. His act of inviting you to meet with him after school unknowingly gave you a pretty nice advantage.

[ Character found: Shichirou Yusei ]

Basic Information:

A sensible and model student admired and loved by many. He's well known for his prince-like nature and eloquent way with words and is always seen helping others, especially new students or students from lower grades. His presence was quiet during his first year of highschool, however, as soon as second year rolled around, his popularity spiked.

His mother and father own a well-known and highly successful restaurant, it's well respected especially due to the many connections his family has.

Additional Information:

Despite his good reputation with the students, he is rarely seen attending social events outside of school. Though the students feel like they're close with the kind male, after school hours, no one knows what he does. Some would try and question, however, no one ever got far. And, any rumours that surfaced due to that were immediately taken care of.

Shichirou always academically performed exceptionally well and outshone many in various fields. It may look like natural talent as he makes it appear seamless but, he is a very hard worker. In fact, maybe a little too much of a hard worker.

He's good with words, but even better at using people for his disposal. Be careful, he can get very crafty and unpredictable.

[ More Unlockable Additional Information: ??? ]

"Oh, there's still more?" You guessed that made sense, there was still plenty about Shichirou's character you didn't understand from the information provided.

[ Andddd, back by unpopular demand: me ]

You jolted in surprise when the text suddenly changed. "Oh, hi."

[ Man, does it hurt to act a little more enthusiastic to see me? Anyways, spill what's on your mind! What're you planning to do next? ]

You gave them a confused look. "Wouldn't you know already? You can read my mind, right?"

[ Do you think I want to read your mind 24/7? ]

You narrowed your eyes. Should I be insulted?

[ Okay, okay. That was a joke. Don't get mad. How about, I wanted you to talk to me more? ]

You gave them a weird look.

[ Look, I'm free company. Take it. ]

Your expression didn't change, but you did find their reactions a little amusing. Well, getting your thoughts out would give you a better idea of your current objectives. Glancing around, you asked, "There's no one nearby, right?"

[ Nope. I'll warn you ahead of time when someone is coming. C'mon, you don't really think I'm purposefully trying to sabotage you, right? ]

You guiltily averted your eyes to the side. "Well..."

[ Alright, stop there before I get hurt ]

You shrugged. "Uh, how should I start?" you muttered. "So, I guess my top priority right now is to figure out a way to do the speech."

[ Mhm, to use the new feature, right? ]

You nodded in affirmation. "And, I think I should get closer to Aimi-san. If I stay close to her, I can figure out her relationship with the male leads. The closer she is to them, the more likely they'll act. But, annoyingly, I need to pay close attention to Shichirou. The amount of casualties this chapter says it all. I'm pretty sure figuring out his motives would help a great deal."

[ Wow. Look how seriously you're taking this, what character development ]

"Thanks...?" you replied, unsure of what type of response would be suitable. You can't believe this was the individual who basically had your life in their palms. "It's freaking tiring though."

[ Tiring? Should I help you? Oh! What if I show up as a teacher at your school? ]

"No."

[ Tch, you didn't even spend a second to consider it >:,) ]

"Remember yesterday when you tried teaching me a new function?"

[ ...Fair point. But, didn't I do a good job helping you last night? ]

"I think you were more confused than me though?"

[ Stop calling me out ohmygod ]

You couldn't hold back a small chuckle, whoever this person was––actually could they even be considered human? Well, at least you weren't completely lonely even though the relationship you have with them was the epitome of strange.

"Anyways, can you like––leave now? I want to check out the other features again."

[ Ugh, I'm already getting kicked out. Welp, have fun! ]

The text disappeared and you were welcomed yet again with Shichirou's information. You swiped to the list of the features and your eyes drifted towards 'Forgotten Nostalgia'. Pausing, a conflicted expression crossed your countenance.

Should you read into Utari's past relationship with the previous (Y/n)?

A fearful part of you screamed for you to not even consider such a thing, but was that really the best course of action? It was inevitable that you were going to run into Utari at school, there was no point in running away.

"I'm going to do it," you said firmly to yourself. Actually, you weren't even sure if you were ready, but you said that to peer pressure yourself into doing it. The longer you waited and contemplated, the more inauspicious situations will fill your mind and impede your actions. So, you tapped on the feature without any additional thoughts.

You were then welcomed with a line of text.

[ Would you like to combine Forgotten Nostalgia with Character Information? ]

"So much for speed running this," you mumbled. What did this mean? Were they referring to the additional information for Utari you never checked out? What would happen if you select yes?

Well, only one way to find out.

[ Combining complete. Loading Utari Kashi's backstory... ]

[ Loading Complete! Would you like to unlock it now? ]

You immediately tapped on the 'yes' option. Expecting a large block of text to appear, you were startled when the screen suddenly displayed another loading button. Only this time, it appeared far more ominous and was much larger.

"How long do I have to wait––"

Cutting your words short, a sudden wave of dizziness abruptly pelted your head. It felt like an ocean of static had invaded your mind; it wasn't painful, but it was incredibly uncomfortable and crippled you from walking properly. Even gathering your thoughts together was difficult and you could only stagger over to a nearby wall and lean against it for support. Unable to hold your weight, you slid down and buried your head in your palms.

What was going on?

[ Loading Complete! ]

Groggily, you looked up at the screen. Those words were the last thing that flashed in your mind before you slipped into an unconscious state.

[ Utari Kashi: Chapter one now starting ]