Let me tell you about when Yoshino fell right on top of me and crushed me to the ground.

I think it's understandable that I let out an uncharacteristic "Fugyu" sound. I couldn't handle an attack from my blind spot!

...It was a bit embarrassing.

"Hii..."

The first words from the girl who fell on top of me were—truly a frightened, muffled scream-like sound.

The girl who was pressing down on me instantly jumped off and started trembling with fear about 3 meters away.

In response to that action, I—

"...Gofu"

—coughed up blood.

That hurt quite a bit. Being feared by a little girl is mentally tough... I haven't done anything wrong.

...Huh? My carelessness? I know—wait wait wait. I admit it was bad that I wasn't looking forward while backstepping? But since you fell from directly above, that's unrelated, right? Right!?

...Not okay? I know.

Damn, this hurts my heart... I feel like something's flowing from my eyes.

Hmm... Haven't you become more prone to tears since becoming a girl, Chitose? The tears are coming again—no, this is rain! I'm definitely not crying!

...*sob*

"...Ah... no"

I first wipe my rain-soaked face (definitely not tear-soaked. Absolutely not!) with my sleeve and respond to the faint call I heard. Even so, since becoming a spirit, I can hear even small voices!

Anyway, I... well...

Judging from her appearance and behavior, she'd probably get scared if I stimulate her too much. Thinking that, I decide to sit up from the ground and turn to face her while still sitting. The ground's wet but I don't care.

"...Hello"

"—Eh? ...Ah"

Thinking I shouldn't make her wary, I greet her with what I hope is a soft voice. ...I'm surprised I could make such a soft voice. This might be the first time I'm glad I became a girl.

But... well. I'm worried she might think I'm suspicious because of my appearance. After all, everything except my mouth is hidden by clothes and hair.

The girl's reaction to seeing me like that... at least she doesn't seem like she'll immediately run away. Thank goodness.

—Huh? Why did I suddenly greet her?

Greetings are important no matter the situation? It's a quick way to convey sincere feelings to someone, and it's also polite.

But perhaps my reaction was unexpected, as the girl looked dumbfounded and stunned. Did she think I was angry about her falling on me?

Sensing from her behavior that speaking too boldly might backfire, I decide to wait for her response to match her pace.

For a while, Chitose waits for the girl's response.

If she's a friendly girl, she'll probably make some kind of move, so I'll endure until then.

By the way, if I cry, it's game over. A direct attack on Chitose's mental would reduce my life to zero.

Moreover, if she runs away while I'm crying, it'd be overkill. Damage worse than something like Dark Souls would occur. Probably even if released from the seal, I'd become a wreck.

My life depends on you! Please! Don't make me cry! For my sake too! (Straying)

After a brief silence, the girl...

...*nod*

Gave me a modest but definite bow.

"(I won the bet...!)"

I couldn't help but make a victory pose at the sight. Well, I kept it to a modest victory pose just clenching my fist at shoulder height. Being too overly happy would just scare her.

The girl watches me making this victory pose with a curious expression while still holding some fear. Has she started to trust me a bit?

Alright, let's try advancing.

"My name is Chitose... and you are?"

"U... ah............ I... am... Yoshi, no..."

"Yoshinon?"

"Yoshino, desu...!"

Ah, I got her name wrong. ...Well, it was intentional though? I couldn't help wanting to say it.

In response, Yoshino looks slightly pouty. Pouty Yoshino is really cute. But my heart is taking damage. My life decreased by 2400P.

"Sorry sorry. But isn't that cute too?"

"...Eh? Cute...?"

"Yeah yeah. I thought the nickname 'Yoshinon' had charm... Well, if Yoshino prefers to be called just Yoshino, I'll call you that. I have no intention of forcing my will on you."

"..."

"Hmm... For now, I'll call you Yoshino. You can call me whatever's easy for you too."

"...Ye, s"

Actually, isn't Yoshinon cute? It's a nickname that came to mind from some kind of wavelength I sensed... Well, whatever, I'll use it when Yoshino likes it.

Anyway, I should introduce myself... Ah, is it too late to change my first-person pronoun?

...Never mind. It's too late now, and more importantly, changing that would make me feel like I'm not myself anymore.

"I won't force you. But since we've met, I'd like to be friends..."

"Frie, nds...?"

"Yeah. Is that no good?"

Yoshino shows confusion at my words. That confused face is also cute—no, that's improper. I should hold back a bit.

We're talking while looking at each other at the same eye level. ...Though my eyes are hidden by my bangs? Anyway, I need to make sure Yoshino doesn't sense any hostility. It's okay, I'm not scary?

...This approach was for foxes or squirrels. But she's a rabbit (judging from appearance).

In response to my approach, Yoshino pulls her hood with rabbit ears deeper to hide her face.

This is... how should I react? I don't know if this is good or bad. If it's bad, I'll die←

After worrying about how to respond to Yoshino's reaction, I decide to try advancing here. I quietly stand up from sitting on the ground and slowly approach Yoshino without rushing.

She probably notices me approaching. I could see Yoshino's body stiffen when I started approaching. Is she still scared? Was approaching a bad idea? ...Well, now that I've come this far, I can't turn back.

And so I slowly walk toward Yoshino, and when I reach right in front of her, I quietly... extend my hand to Yoshino.

"Anyway, sitting on the ground isn't great... right? Can you stand?"

"Ye, s..."

She extends her hand as if afraid to touch me. She couldn't decide whether to grab my hand, repeatedly extending and withdrawing it for a while, but after several repetitions, she finally grabs my hand.

I gently hold her hand as if enveloping it. I know from having sisters—little girls' hands are delicate. Even if a guy holds it with normal strength, it's usually too strong and hurts them. Am I the only one who thinks you can't take care of children without paying attention to such details?

Well, since I'm a girl now, I don't need to be that conscious. That perfect strength adjustment unique to women? That's probably why all children like holding their mother's hand. Is that prejudice?

As a side note, things like still having habits from when I was male make me feel somewhat relieved, as if proof that I was once male remains.

Alright then, for now let me gently pull Yoshino's hand and help her stand up.

"Um... thank... you..."

"Are you hurt?"

"Yes..."

"Then that's good. Let me tell you, I'm fine so don't worry about it, okay?"

"...Sorry"

"Don't worry don't worry. If anything, I'm not concerned."

First, I gently brush off the dirt on Yoshino's clothes after she stands up. For some reason there's no noticeable dirt... Is that clothing special somehow? Well, whatever.

Still... doing this reminds me of my brother returning covered in dust when I took my eyes off him. That guy always got his clothes dirty, it was tough...

While remembering my brother from my previous life with nostalgia, I fix Yoshino's appearance. Strangely, she didn't resist at all... Well, as long as she's not upset, it's fine!

"I don't know what happened, but be careful next time? I might not be under your landing spot next time."

"..."

"Well then, be careful on your way home."

Seeing that she doesn't seem hurt, I decide to part ways here, thinking I should let Yoshino do what she wants.

If I'm too persistent, I might restrict Yoshino's actions, or worse, she might find me annoying. Worst case, being too kind might make me seem suspicious? Hahaha, with my current appearance, that's entirely possible.

Plus, getting unnecessarily involved with someone you just met... Well, it depends on the person, but at least for Yoshino, it might be hard? I want to be friends, but the other person has their own pace too.

Thinking that far, I bid farewell to Yoshino and try to leave. To be honest, when I fell, rainwater got through gaps in my clothes. Even though my spiritual outfit repels it to some extent, when it comes directly into the hood, there's no way to prevent it—

*Squeeze*...

...I feel like my clothes are being grabbed.

As I was about to leave, I stop and gently look back.

Behind me... Yoshino is grabbing my clothes, her eyes wide open as if surprised by her own action.

Um, is this... she trusts me?

"Um... Yoshino?"

"............Don't... go..."

"Eh?"

Her surprised face changes expression after a brief moment. She looks like she finds it hard to speak, yet wants to convey something... an expression with a bit of courage.

Yoshino's words were a whisper so faint that even my enhanced hearing couldn't catch it.

But the timid her is trying to speak to me on her own initiative. Even if the only reason is to talk, it's a big step for her.

If it's still hard to hear, I just need to make sure I can hear it.

I focus my consciousness to hear Yoshino's voice. So I won't miss it next time, without paying attention to the rain sounds echoing around.

And then I heard it. What Yoshino wanted to convey with all her courage...

Yoshino's words were—

"...Don't... leave me... alone... please..."

—Words filled with loneliness, sad words.

—And so, that's how we reached the present.

Apparently she doesn't like being alone, and I have no reason to refuse, so I decide to add Yoshino to Chitose's party. Rather, I'm delighted to have a healing character join.

— Yoshino has joined the party ! —

And the place I took Yoshino to was... the public bath I've been wanting to go to.

Going to the public bath remains unchanged, this is definite. And while Yoshino doesn't seem dirty from the rain, well, it should be fine. It'll warm our bodies and rest our hearts.

...Huh? Why am I so eager to go to the public bath? Well, yeah. Because I love baths.

On the way to the public bath, Yoshino timidly reached for my hand, so I decided to hold hands with her as we head to the bath. Without an umbrella in the rain.

Thanks to my pseudo-spiritual outfit, I don't mind the rain anymore, and Yoshino doesn't seem to mind much either (come to think of it, Yoshino's clothes are a raincoat) so we're walking leisurely as if taking a stroll.

And then we arrive. I introduce Yoshino to the public bath.

"This is a public bath. It's a place to wash away fatigue and dirt from your body."

"Public, bath...?"

"Basically, a bath."

"Ba, th..."

"...Eh? Could it be... you don't know about baths?"

I was explaining the public bath to Yoshino, but apparently Yoshino doesn't even know about baths... Huh? You haven't taken one before, right? Surely not—

*Nod*...

Yoshino nods affirmatively to my question.

That means...

……………

"Hey Yoshino. Call your parents. I'm going to beat them up."

What kind of education are Yoshino's parents giving her? Baths are absolutely necessary for girls.

Could it be... they're neglecting Yoshino? Could her timid personality be from abuse...

I'll wake them up with some violence... Unforgivable child neglecters.

From the outside, probably no change is visible in me. ...It's just hidden by my bangs, but my eyes have sharpened.

Heh heh heh... I haven't felt this angry in a long time. I absolutely don't like this...

As I secretly feel intense anger toward Yoshino's parents after learning this shocking fact (absolutely not an exaggeration), Yoshino asks a new question.

The content is—

"...Parents... what... are they?"

"—"

—The more serious matter of not knowing what parents are.

...Eh? How should I react to this? Is Yoshino an abandoned child? Seriously a case of child neglect?

Huh? What should I do about this? What are you telling me to do about this?

As I struggle to process the bombs Yoshino keeps dropping, Yoshino speaks quietly with a clouded expression.

"That... hurting... others... is bad... right?"

"Ah, YES"

Yoshino is such a good girl.

Even though she's in a difficult situation herself, words that deny violence and such naturally calm my heart.

This child is really kind-hearted... Alright! Then I'll give Yoshino a reward! Since we're becoming friends, it's good to have mementos, so let's think about it now.

...If she says anything is fine, what if she asks for parents... Well, at least I hope it's within my ability to grant...

"Anyway, let's go to the bath. I'll teach you various things."

"Ye, yes..."

While thinking about what to give Yoshino, I hold Yoshino's hand and enter the public bath.

—Let me make this clear, I absolutely don't have any lewd intentions like enjoying Yoshino's innocent figure or such? There's no way I, who's lost interest in female bodies, would have such vulgar thoughts.

Plus, Yoshino feels like a little sister to me. For me, sisters are people to take care of, therefore bathing together is OK. Understood?

"Old man, two people today? Take your time resting after bathing, I'll take over the counter."

"Sorry as always. Thank you."

By the way, I'm acquainted with the old man working the counter at this public bath.

After all, I'm a regular here. We're quite close now.

Plus, since he always takes care of me, I sometimes take over the counter for him as thanks. Talking with people who come is fun, so it's quite enjoyable.

"Okay, close your eyes~"

"Nn...!"

After that, I entered the bath with Yoshino, and now I'm washing Yoshino's hair.

What is with this child... Is she really abandoned? Her hair is super smooth though...

Yoshino's wavy blue long hair feels really nice to touch. Does she take care of it? But she didn't know about baths... Hmm, mysterious.

By the way, I don't know if this information is necessary, but my hair length is... medium? Short bob? Anyway, I think it's around that length. Don't know the details.

It's about shoulder-length, and since I don't style it, my hair grows naturally.

At first glance, it's not a particularly distinctive hairstyle. I don't want to enhance my femininity anyway, so this is fine.

I'm fine being plain. I don't want to stand out unnecessarily.

"Next, I'll wash your body~"

"Ye, yes... Hyau!"

"Ah, did that hurt?"

"I'm... okay. Ju, just... ticklish..."

"Ah, I see. Well, if you're not used to it, it might be ticklish."

After finishing washing her hair, I decide to wash Yoshino's body next.

Girls' skin is easily damaged, so I already manifested a soft towel from an advertisement, so that's no problem.

Man, manifestation ability is really convenient. I can take out anything I need as long as I have advertisements or photos. It really helps.

...Huh? Where do I get the advertisements from? Well, from the counter old man. Seriously grateful to the old man. Overwhelming gratitude.

Still... really, being with Yoshino keeps reminding me of my sisters. I used to wash them like this too...

"...Chi, tose, san...?"

"—Ah, sorry sorry. Okay, I'll rinse it off~"

Whoops, my hand stopped. For now, let's focus on Yoshino.

Brought back to consciousness by Yoshino's words, I push the thoughts to a corner of my mind and start rinsing Yoshino's body again.

...I must never forget my memories with them. Never...

"Fuuii..."

"Hafuu..."

Baths are really nice... I think it's the most blissful time after napping, says Chitose.

I think relaxing spaces are an important factor for people... The word 'factor' sounds cool somehow.

"So Yoshino? Does it feel good?"

"Yes...!"

Oh, she's become much more lively compared to when we met. Good good.

Yoshino seems to really feel good, as her expression that was stiff with fear has softened. Yeah yeah, smiles really suit children. I'd be happy if she stays this cheerful...

Well... it's that. I'm a spirit, after all... I can't stay by this child's side forever.

What should I do... If only there was someone who could replace me—

...Oh? A replacement...?

…………Oh?

………………Ohhh! What a great idea!!!

After finishing my turn at the counter, Yoshino and I are walking in the rain again.

Even though we're getting wet in the rain right after bathing, I went to the bath for a change of mood, so I don't mind getting wet. Actually, my spiritual outfit repels it so I'm not wet.

Yoshino doesn't seem to mind either, and since she's wearing a raincoat, it should be fine as long as she doesn't fall.

By the way, while I was working the counter, Yoshino was playing with a kendama that was nearby. At first Yoshino was curious about what it was, but after I showed her how to play and demonstrated, she seemed to like it and became absorbed in playing. She kept trying after failures, and after several repetitions, her bright smile when she succeeded was truly heartwarming. A feast for the eyes.

But Yoshino seemed so attached to it that she kept looking at the kendama longingly until we were about to leave. I was a bit surprised she got so into it.

Then when the old man noticed Yoshino's longing look and said "Take it with you," giving her the kendam, Yoshino's joy was as innocent as her appearance. Thank you old man, I'll give you a shoulder massage next time?

And now, Yoshino is carefully holding the kendama the old man gave her, cradling it in both hands. She occasionally looks at me as if asking if she can play, but I told her it's dangerous while walking so she should wait until our next destination. She looked a bit disappointed, which left an impression.

Seeing Yoshino fidgeting wanting to play with the kendama, I thought it was bad to keep her waiting, so I quickly headed toward our destination.

...Huh? Where are we going? That park on the high ground, why?

Why the park? Well, because that's where I sleep.

I'm homeless. That hasn't changed.

And so we safely arrive at the park.

Thinking it would get cold if we stay in the rain too long, I guide Yoshino to the roofed bench I use as my bed.

If she catches a cold after warming up at the public bath, that would be bad. Everyone, be careful about health management after bathing!

"So what did you think, Yoshino? Your impressions of the public bath?"

"Yes... It was very... warm and cozy... and calming."

"That's good. Take good care of that kendama too, okay?"

"Yes...!"

Yoshino has become much brighter compared to when we met. I feel relieved from the bottom of my heart seeing such Yoshino.

Really, that's good. Honestly, I was worried about Yoshino... I'm glad she's happy.

In the end, I couldn't leave Yoshino alone.

After all, her expression when she first saw me—was a frightened expression as if she was scared of everything.

I couldn't leave alone a Yoshino who wore an expression filled with such hopeless loneliness—as if she had no allies in this world, as if no one would look at her.

It might have been meddlesome.

But... Yoshino's appearance... overlapped with my sisters in that moment, and I couldn't abandon her.

Now I don't regret that action at all, rather I'm grateful. Because Yoshino's current expression... shows incomparable brightness compared to before...

Seeing that, I thought again.

—As I thought, negative emotions don't suit her—

Her dark expression stirred my heart, and the result of acting to do something about it was truly fruitful...

—But, I'm not finished yet? Yoshino.

"To such Yoshino, I shall bestow a present from me~"

"...Eh?"

I take something out of my shoulder bag and show it to Yoshino, putting it on my hand ( ・ )

What I put on my hand was—

'Hello~. I'm Yoshino's friend "Yoshinon"~'

"Yoshi, non?"

—A charming rabbit puppet with an eyepatch on its right eye.

Actually, after noticing a certain application, I secretly created ( ・ ) this puppet while working the counter.

While manipulating that puppet created through a barely possible application of 〈 Heart Erosion Mausoleum ( Iroeur ) 〉—【Manifest】 with my left hand, I speak to Yoshino through the puppet.

What is the application of 【Manifest】? It's—creating things from scratch.

I previously explained that I can't manifest imaginary things that don't exist in reality, but I discovered a loophole in this short period.

That loophole is..."illustrations."

Basically, "if there's no photo, just draw it yourself." The Antoi〇nette spirit is sometimes useful.

Once that's decided, things proceed quickly.

I summoned paper and colored pencils from the advertisement and began sketching this puppet.

Until now, if it was something imaginary that didn't exist in reality, I thought it was fundamentally impossible to create from scratch... but it seems I was mistaken about one thing.

To put it simply, I can create legendary weapons and armor. —However, only if they're equipment with no special abilities whatsoever.

It's impossible to create things imbued with transcendent power, supernatural abilities, or objects housing souls... those unique powers found only in imagination. But if it's something that looks exactly the same but contains no power... then I can twist the concept and create it from nothing.

After that, it's simple.

Just capture the drawn illustration in my vision and use a massive amount of spiritual power to create it. Don't underestimate my spiritual power tank!

Even so, when I actually tried it, I found it used quite a bit of spiritual power. I probably couldn't create the same thing again if asked, so mass production isn't really feasible.

—Well, in this case, that doesn't really matter.

I successfully created this puppet... that result alone is enough.

And this puppet is what was born from that.

Since I had the chance, I tried giving it the name "Yoshinon" that I got rejected with a "no thank you" from Yoshino earlier... but judging from the reaction, she doesn't seem particularly bothered by it.

And so I used ventriloquism, making it appear as if Yoshinon was speaking while talking to Yoshino.

'Y-Yes! I am Yoshinon! Even though I look like this, Yoshinon is Yoshino's hero! Or, would heroine be better? But but Yoshino is the heroine, so Yoshinon should be the hero! How how cool? Is Yoshinon cool, Yoshino!'

Skillfully manipulating the puppet to keep Yoshino's gaze fixed on Yoshinon. Wow~ I never thought the skills I used to entertain my little sisters would come in handy...

As a side note, I remember being pretty flustered when this went over well at the school talent show. I never thought it would lead to being featured in the cultural festival...

Well, maybe it's because I performed a lively character that didn't match my plain appearance? It's fine, it's fine, even plain people want to liven up sometimes, right?

...Huh? That very thinking means I don't have character? I know.

Anyway, I need to check Yoshino's reaction. I'd feel bad if it wasn't well received.

For now, while manipulating Yoshinon, I'll casually glance toward Yoshino.

"Wow...!"

Ooh, her eyes are sparkling as she listens to Yoshinon speak. Is this a success? Let's continue a bit more.

'From now on, we can be together forever♪ Yoshinon won't let Yoshino be alone~'

"Yoshinon... Yoshinon...!"

It seems Yoshino has taken a liking to it. In fact, Yoshino got so emotional that she tried to hug Yoshinon, clinging to my arm along with it... oh dear? Seems like it made a better impression than I thought—

—Huh? Wha? Is it just my imagination, or does it feel like something is leaving my body?

...Well, whatever. At any rate, if she likes it, then the plan is a success. Hehe, just as planned...

By the way, there are no ulterior motives here.

"Yoshino."

"—Hweh? Wh-what is it? Chitose-san..."

I separated Yoshino from Yoshinon for a moment and turned to face her properly.

While taking mental damage from Yoshino's tearful expression at being separated from Yoshinon, I removed Yoshinon from my left hand and attached it to Yoshino's left hand.

"...Huh?"

"Here, now Yoshino and Yoshinon can be together forever. ...You're not alone anymore, right?"

"Ah..."

Yoshino seemed confused by my actions, but when I told her what she had said to me earlier, she remembered and probably started crying from happiness.

You're crying because you're happy, right? That's it, right? If not, I might start crying, so say that's it, you bunny! Or is it bunnies?

Ignoring my feelings, Yoshino, holding Yoshinon on her left hand and raising it near her shoulder, finally began crying while sobbing.

...Crap, seriously crap. She's seriously started crying?

I mean, what do I do now? I ended up saying things like "we'll be together forever~" but that was just me talking through ventriloquism, so Yoshinon itself can't actually speak.

While I'm here is one thing, but if she realizes after I leave, I'm screwed. Who was the one who said "just as planned"? The plan is full of holes!

Sigh... I did this to somehow ease Yoshino's loneliness, but how am I supposed to handle this...

And as I was holding my head beside the crying Yoshino..."it" suddenly started speaking.

'There there Yoshinon. You mustn't cry, Yoshino~. Come come smi~le!'

...Oh?

I snapped back to my senses at the unexpected voice and shifted my gaze toward Yoshino.

There... was the scene of Yoshinon moving its arm closer to Yoshino as if patting her head to comfort her.

"Yoshi, non... uuu"

'Ho~ld on! If you cry like that, Chitose-chan will be troubled? You have to say thank you since she helped you. With a smile, of course?'

"U, un... *sniff*... Chitose-san. Th-thank you... for today"

"—Huh? Ah, yeah. Don't worry about it. As long as Yoshino is feeling better, that's all that matters."

'But still, Chitose-chan. You seem to care about Yoshino quite a bit? What what? Did you fall for Yoshino's prettiness?'

"No, since I'm a girl right now, it's not like falling in love or anything. If anything, it's affection."

'Hmm~. ...Oh? "Right now"? What does that mean?'

"...Ah. Ah—... well, don't worry about it. For now, my gender is female, that's fine, right?"

'Hmm... well, that's fine! Bu~t, you're kinda boyish, aren't you?'

"I know that. But that's fine, right? It's just personal character."

'So Chitose-chan is what they call an orekko! You've got an interesting attribute~'

"Hahaha. Yoshinon is unique and cute too, isn't she?"

'Whoa! Yoshinon got hit on! But no~pe. Yoshinon is Yoshino's hero, so I can't accept that offer♪'

...What is this puppet?

Hasn't its character become stronger than when I was doing ventriloquism? And judging by Yoshino, it doesn't seem like she's doing it herself... what's going on with this?

Does Yoshino actually have ventriloquism talent? No, that would be too sudden.

But from what I can see, there don't seem to be any flaws anywhere... and wow, she's really good at manipulating the puppet. It's as if a soul has taken residence in it.

—Well, Yoshino seems satisfied too, so all's well that ends well... right?

No, but since I'm the one who did it, I'd at least like to know what's going on...

Hmm... WHYYY...

"—Huh? Yoshino? Yoshinon?"

While I was thinking about Yoshinon for a while, Yoshino and the others had disappeared from in front of me without me noticing. To only realize now... I was really lost in thought, wasn't I?

Hmm, did they go home? But she was an abandoned child... I should have asked where she lives.

But then why so suddenly—

"—No way"

C-could it be... no, even so, that would be too sudden...

But Yoshino and the others are actually gone, so probably—

"...I got run away from. Is that... it? Haha..."

Chitose: Life Points = 1300

Direct Attack to Chitose = 4500 damage

Remaining Life Points = 0 (-3200)

"...Hehe"

I stood up from the bench and walked unsteadily to where there was a handrail.

Once I reached the handrail, I lifted my face and looked up at the sky.

Before I knew it, the rain had stopped, and the evening sun was shining through gaps in the clouds. That evening sun is stinging my eyes.

—But, I wonder why? Why is my face wet even though it's not raining...

"I feel like my heart is going to break..."

Someone, bonfire please. Or a kabotan... I feel like I'm going to become a hollow.

What kind of education are Yoshino's parents giving her? A bath is absolutely essential for a girl.

Don't tell me... they're neglecting Yoshino? Could her timid personality be because they're abusing her...?

I'll... hunt them down... and wake them up... I won't forgive child neglecters.

From an outside perspective, I probably don't look any different. ...It's just hidden by my bangs, but my eyes have gotten sharper.

Heh heh heh... It's been a while since I've felt this angry. I'm seriously not happy about this...

As I secretly harbored intense emotions toward Yoshino's parents due to the shocking fact (absolutely no exaggeration) I learned from Yoshino, she posed a new question to me.

The content was——

"...What are... parents?"

"——"

——It was something even more serious: she didn't know what parents were.

...Huh? How am I supposed to react to this? Wait, is Yoshino an abandoned child? The real deal, an actual case of child abandonment?

Huh? What am I supposed to do about this? What does this mean I should do?

And as I struggled to process the bombshells Yoshino kept dropping, Yoshino spoke to me quietly with a clouded expression.

"Um... hurting people... is bad... okay?"

"Ah, yes."

Yoshino is such a good kid.

Even though she's in a painful situation herself, her words that seemed to deny violence and such naturally calmed my heart.

She's really kind-hearted, this girl... Alright! Then I'll give Yoshino a reward! Since we're becoming friends, it's fine to have a memento, so let's think about it now.

...What if she says 'anything' and asks for parents or something... W-well, as long as it's within my power to grant...

"For now, let's go to the bath. I'll teach you all sorts of things."

"Y-yes..."

While thinking about what to give Yoshino, I held her hand and entered the public bath.

——Let me make this clear, I absolutely do not have any impure intentions like wanting to enjoy Yoshino's peerless figure, okay? There's no way I, who's lost most interest in female bodies by now, would have such vulgar thoughts.

Besides, Yoshino feels like a little sister to me. For me, sisters are people to take care of, therefore it's OK to take a bath together. Understood?

"Old man, it's for two today? Take your time resting after you finish, I'll take over the counter."

"Sorry to always trouble you. Thank you."

By the way, I'm acquainted with the old man working the counter at this bathhouse.

After all, I'm a regular here. We're quite close by now.

Plus, since he always helps me out, I sometimes take over the counter for him as a way of showing my daily gratitude. Talking with the people who come is fun, so I quite enjoy it.

"Okay, close your eyes~"

"Mmm...!"

After that, I entered the bath with Yoshino, and now I'm washing her hair.

What's with this girl... Is she really an abandoned child? Her hair is super smooth and silky...

Yoshino's wavy blue long hair feels really nice to the touch. Does she take care of it? But she didn't know about baths... Hmm, it's a mystery.

By the way, I don't know if this information is necessary, but my hair length is... medium? Short bob? Anyway, it's around that length, I think. Don't know the details.

It's about long enough to reach my shoulders, and since I don't style it, it just grows naturally.

At a glance, it's not a particularly distinctive hairstyle. It's fine like this since I'm not trying to boost my femininity or anything.

I'm fine being plain. I don't want to stand out unnecessarily either.

"Next, I'll wash your body~"

"Y-yes... Eek!"

"Ah, did that hurt?"

"I'm... okay. J-just... it's... ticklish."

"Ah, I see. Well, if you're not used to it, it might be ticklish."

After finishing washing her hair, I decided to wash Yoshino's body next.

A girl's skin is easily damaged, so I manifested a soft towel from an advertisement beforehand, so that's not a problem.

Man, manifestation ability is really convenient. As long as you have an advertisement or photo, you can take out anything you need. It's really helpful.

...Huh? Where do I get the advertisements from? Well, I get them from the counter old man. I'm seriously grateful to that old man. Overwhelmingly grateful.

Even so... Really, being with Yoshino makes me remember my sisters constantly. Washing them like this was something I did for them too...

"...Chi...tose-san...?"

"——Ah, sorry sorry. Okay, I'll rinse it off now~"

Crap, my hand stopped. For now, let's focus on Yoshino.

Brought back to awareness by Yoshino's words, I pushed my thoughts to a corner of my mind and began rinsing Yoshino's body again.

...I must never forget my memories with them. Never...

"Phew..."

"Hah fuu..."

Baths really are nice, huh... I, Chitose, think it's the most blissful time after napping.

I think a space where you can relax is an important factor for people... The word 'factor' sounds kinda cool, doesn't it?

"So, Yoshino? Does it feel good?"

"Yes...!"

Oh, compared to when we first met, she's become much more clear-spoken. Good, good.

Whether she's truly feeling good or not, her expression, which had been stiff with fear of her surroundings, has softened into a gentle look. Yeah yeah, smiles really suit children. I'd be happy if she could stay cheerful like this...

Well... it's like this. I'm a spirit, you see... I can't stay by this child's side forever.

What should I do... If only there was someone who could take my place——

...Oh? A replacement...?

…………Ooh?

………………OOOH! A GREAT IDEA JUST STRUCK ME!!!

After finishing my turn at the counter for the old man, I'm walking with Yoshino in the rain again.

Even though we're getting wet in the rain right after bathing, since I went to the bath for a change of mood, I don't mind getting wet. Actually, my astral dress is repelling it, so I'm not getting wet.

Yoshino doesn't seem to mind either, and since she's wearing a raincoat, it should be fine as long as she doesn't collapse.

By the way, while I was taking my turn at the counter, Yoshino was playing with a kendama that was nearby. At first, Yoshino was curious about what it was, but after I showed her how to use it and demonstrated, she seemed to like it and became absorbed in playing. She'd fail and try again, repeating that several times, and her bright smile when she finally succeeded was a truly heartwarming sight. A feast for the eyes.

That Yoshino seemed to like it so much that she kept looking at the kendama regretfully until it was time to leave. I was a little surprised she got so into it.

Then, when the old man noticed Yoshino looking reluctant and said "Take it with you," giving her the kendama, Yoshino's joy was as innocent as her appearance suggested. Thank you, old man, I'll give you a shoulder rub next time?

And now, Yoshino is holding the kendama she received from the old man carefully, cradling it in both hands. She occasionally glances at me as if asking if she can play, but I told her it's dangerous while walking and she should wait until we reach our next destination. She looked a little disappointed and dejected, which left an impression.

Seeing Yoshino fidgeting, wanting to play with the kendama, I thought it would be mean to keep her waiting, so I quickly headed toward our destination.

...Huh? Where are we going? That park on the high ground, why?

Why the park? Well, because that's where I sleep.

I'm homeless. That hasn't changed.

And so, we safely arrived at the park.

Thinking it would make us cold to stay in the rain forever, I guided Yoshino to the roofed bench I use as my bed.

If her body got cold after finally warming up at the bathhouse, Yoshino might catch a cold. Everyone, make sure to take care of your health after bathing too!

"So, what did you think, Yoshino? Your impressions of the public bath?"

"Yes... it was very... warm and cozy... and calming."

"That's good. Make sure to treasure that kendama too, okay?"

"Yes...!"

Yoshino has become much brighter compared to when we first met. Seeing this, I felt relieved from the bottom of my heart.

That's really good. Honestly, I was worried about Yoshino... I'm glad she's happy more than anything.

In the end, I couldn't leave Yoshino alone.

After all, the expression she had when she first saw me was——a frightened expression that seemed terrified of everything.

I couldn't abandon Yoshino when she wore an expression that seemed to feel an overwhelming loneliness, like there were no allies for her in this world, like no one would look at her...

It might have been meddlesome.

But... the sight of Yoshino like that... overlapped with my sisters in some way at that moment, and I just couldn't abandon her.

Now, far from regretting that action, I'm grateful for it. Because Yoshino's expression now... shows a brightness incomparable to how it was initially...

Seeing that, I thought again——

——As I thought, negative emotions don't suit her——

Her dark expression stirred my heart, and the result of acting to do something about it turned out to be very fruitful...

——But I'm not done yet, Yoshino.

"To such a Yoshino, I shall bestow a present from me~"

"...Eh?"

I took something out of my shoulder bag and showed it to Yoshino, putting ( ・ ) it ( ・ ) on ( ・ ) my ( ・ ) hand ( ・ ).

The thing on my hand was——

'Hello there~. I'm "Yoshinon," Yoshino's friend~'

"Yoshi, non?"

——A charming rabbit puppet with an eyepatch over its right eye.

Actually, having noticed a slight application of my ability, I had secretly created ( ・ ) this ( ・ ) puppet ( ・ ) while ( ・ ) I ( ・ ) was ( ・ ) at ( ・ ) the ( ・ ) counter ( ・ ).

While manipulating that puppet, created through a barely possible application of 〈 Heart-Eroding Mausoleum ( Iroeur ) 〉—【Manifestation】, with my left hand, I began speaking to Yoshino through the puppet.

What is this application of 【Manifestation】? It is——creating things from scratch.

Although I had previously explained that I couldn't manifest imaginary things that don't exist in reality, I realized during this short period that there was a loophole.

That loophole is..."illustrations."

Essentially, it's the "if there's no photo, just draw it yourself" approach. The Antoinette spirit is sometimes useful.

Once that was decided, things moved quickly. I summoned paper and colored pencils from an advertisement and began sketching this puppet.

Until now, I thought that if it was an imaginary thing that didn't exist in reality, I fundamentally couldn't create it from scratch... but it seems I was mistaken about one thing.

To conclude, I can create legendary weapons and armor.——However, only if they are equipment ( ・ ) with ( ・ ) no ( ・ ) special ( ・ ) abilities ( ・ ) whatsoever ( ・ ).

Creating things imbued with transcendent power, supernatural arts, objects housing souls... such powers unique to imagination is impossible. However, if it's something that looks exactly the same but harbors no power at all... then it's possible to twist the concept and create it from nothing.

After that, it's simple.

Just keep the drawn illustration in your field of vision and use a massive amount of spiritual power to create it. Don't underestimate my spiritual power tank!

Even so, when I actually tried it, I found it used quite a bit of spiritual power. I probably couldn't create the same thing again if asked, so it's not suitable for mass production.

——Well, that doesn't matter right now.

I successfully managed to create this puppet... that result alone is enough.

And so, this puppet was born.

Since I had the chance, I gave it the name "Yoshinon," which Yoshino had refused earlier with a "no thank you"... but judging from her reaction, she doesn't seem to mind it particularly.

And then, using ventriloquism, I spoke to Yoshino while making it appear as if Yoshinon was talking.

'Y-Yes! I am Yoshinon! Even though I look like this, Yoshinon is Yoshino's hero! Or, would heroine be better? But but, Yoshino is the heroine, so Yoshinon should be the hero. So so, cool? Is Yoshinon cool, Yoshino!'

Skillfully manipulating the puppet to fix Yoshino's gaze on Yoshinon. Wow, I never thought the skills I used to cheer up my sisters would come in handy...

As a side note, I remember being flustered when this was quite well-received at the school's talent show. I never thought it would lead to me being made part of the cultural festival performance...

Well, maybe it's because I performed a lively character that didn't match my plain appearance? It's fine, it's fine, even plain people want to be lively sometimes, right?

...Huh? That very thinking means it's not my character? I know.

Anyway, I should check Yoshino's reaction. I'd feel bad if it wasn't well-received.

For now, while manipulating Yoshinon, I'll casually glance toward Yoshino.

"Wow...!"

Ooh, her eyes are sparkling as she listens to Yoshinon talk. Is this a success? Let's continue a bit more.

'From now on, we can be together forever♪ Yoshinon won't let Yoshino be alone~'

"Yoshinon... Yoshinon...!"

It seems Yoshino has taken a liking to it. After all, Yoshino, seemingly overcome with emotion, tried to hug Yoshinon, clinging to my arm along with it... oh dear? It seems to have made a better impression than I thought——

——Oh? Ooh? Is it my imagination, or does it feel like something is leaving my body?

...Well, whatever. Anyway, if she likes it, then the plan is a success. Heh heh, just as planned...

By the way, there are no impure intentions here.

"Yoshino."

"——Fue? Wh-what is it? Chitose-san..."

I separated Yoshino from Yoshinon for a moment and turned to face her properly.

While taking mental damage from Yoshino, who looked like she was about to cry from being separated from Yoshinon, I removed Yoshinon from my left hand and attached it to Yoshino's left hand.

"...Eh?"

"Here, now Yoshino and Yoshinon can be together forever. ...You're not alone anymore, right?"

"Ah..."

Yoshino seemed puzzled by my actions, but when I told her what she had said to me earlier, Yoshino remembered it and probably started crying from happiness.

You're crying because you're happy, right? Right? If not, I might start crying, so say it's that, you bunny! Or is it bunny?

Ignoring my feelings, Yoshino, holding Yoshinon on her left hand and raising it near her shoulder, finally began crying while sobbing.

...BAD, SERIOUSLY BAD. She's seriously started crying?

I mean, what do I do now? I ended up saying things like "Yoshinon will be with you forever~" but since I was talking through ventriloquism, Yoshinon itself doesn't actually talk.

It's fine when I'm here, but if she realizes after I'm gone, I'm done for. Who was the one who said "just as planned"? The plan is full of holes!

Sigh... I did it to somehow ease Yoshino's loneliness, but how am I supposed to handle this...

And as I held my head beside the crying Yoshino..."IT" suddenly started ( ・ ) talking ( ・ ).

'There there Yoshinon. You mustn't cry, Yoshino. Come on, smi~le!'

...Oh?

I returned to my senses at the unexpected voice and shifted my gaze to Yoshino.

There... was the scene of Yoshinon moving its arm closer to Yoshino, stroking her head as if comforting her.

"Yoshi, non... uuu"

'Ho~ld on! If you cry like that, Chitose-chan will be troubled? You have to say thank you since she took care of you. With a smile, of course?'

"U, un... *sniff*... Chitose-san. Th-thank you... very much... for today."

"——Huh? Ah, yeah. Don't mention it. As long as Yoshino has become cheerful, that's all that matters."

'But still, Chitose-chan. You seem to have been quite concerned about Yoshino? What what? Did you fall for Yoshino's prettiness?'

"No, since I'm a girl right now, it's not about falling in love. If anything, it's affection."

'Hmmm. ...Oh? Right ( ・ ) now ( ・ )? What does that mean?'

"...Ah. Ah... well, don't worry about it. For now, my gender is female, that's fine, right?"

'Hmm... well, that's fine! Bu~t, you're kinda boyish, aren't you?'

"I know that. But that's fine, right? It's just my personality."

'So Chitose-chan is what they call an "orekko"! You have an interesting attribute~'

"Ha ha ha. Yoshinon is unique and cute too, aren't you?"

'Whoa! Yoshinon got hit on! But no~pe. Yoshinon is Yoshino's hero, so I can't accept that offer♪'

...What is this puppet?

Hasn't its character become stronger than when I was doing the ventriloquism? And judging by Yoshino, it doesn't seem like she's doing it herself... What's going on with this?

Does Yoshino actually have a talent for ventriloquism? No, that would be too sudden, wouldn't it?

But there don't seem to be any flaws anywhere... and she's really good at manipulating the puppet. It's as if a ( ・ ) soul ( ・ ) has ( ・ ) inhabited ( ・ ) it ( ・ ).

——Well, Yoshino seems satisfied too, so all's well that ends well... maybe?

No, but since I'm the one who did it, I'd like to at least know what's going on...

Hmm... WHYYYY...

"——Huh? Yoshino? Yoshinon?"

While I was thinking about Yoshinon for a while, Yoshino and the others had disappeared from in front of me before I noticed. To only realize now... I was really lost in thought, wasn't I?

Hmm, did they go home? But if she's an abandoned child... I should have asked where she lives.

But then why so suddenly——

"——Don't tell me."

C-could it be... no, even so, that would be too abrupt...

But Yoshino and the others are actually gone, so probably——

"...I got run away from. Is that... what happened? Haha..."

Chitose: Life Points = 1300

Direct Attack to Chitose = 4500 damage

Remaining Life Points = 0 (-3200)

"...Heh heh."

I stood up from the bench and walked with unsteady steps to where there was a handrail.

Once I reached the handrail, I lifted my face and looked up at the sky.

Before I knew it, the rain had stopped, and the evening sun was streaming through gaps in the clouds. That evening sun stings my eyes.

——But, I wonder why? Why is my face wet even though it's not raining...

"I feel like my heart is going to break..."

Someone, give me a campfire. Or a Humanity... I feel like I'm going to turn into a Hollow.