Is It Tough Playing the Friend?

Phew . . . Good grief.

A young boy let out a heavy sigh, looking down at the disintegrating corpse of a grotesque creature.

In a deserted parking lot close to the bustling city streets, dusk crept in slowly during what's known as the twilight hour.

That's where the boy had once again successfully vanquished his foe.

He had protected the town from grotesque creatures bent on bringing death and destruction to this world.

By the time I arrived, the battle was already over.

Thus, I had no idea how he defeated the enemy. Whether he unleashed a wave of energy from his hands, summoned a legendary sword, or maybe even fired beams from his eyes . . . the possibilities were endless, but it wasn’t my concern.

Because that was a realm I should not step into.

Ordinary people without any powers like me shouldn't meddle recklessly.

Still . . . even if the enemy appeared out of nowhere, was it really okay to fight in a parking lot? There are like three cars flipped over.

While I was preoccupied with such concerns, the grotesque remains of the creature continued to evaporate.

The creature I had briefly glimpsed on the main street, once three or four meters tall, had now turned into a sludgy, solid mass about the size of a pickling stone.

Why do these creatures always seem to prefer vanishing or exploding in the end? Could it be some kind of cover-up? Well, from a human perspective, it certainly saves the trouble of dealing with the corpse.

Well then, should I start playing my part now?

Once I confirmed that the grotesque creature had completely disappeared, I dashed out from behind the utility pole and ran toward the boy.

Putting on a convincing act as if I’d just arrived, I call out to him from behind, my voice cracking slightly.

H-hey Ryuga! So this is where you were!

Ah, Ichiro.

Ryuga quickly turned around, and for a brief moment, a look of concern flashed across his face.

Relax. I don’t know anything, and I haven’t seen anything. The thought that a grotesque creature was here? Never even crossed my mind. And the faint smell of decay? I’m not bothered by that either.

Before he could say anything, I blurted out in a flustered rush.

I panicked when you suddenly disappeared! Let’s get out of here, quick! That creature might still be close by!

It feels odd saying that to the very one who defeated it, but it can't be helped.

After all, I’m supposed to be completely oblivious to his secret identity. That’s just the way it is.

Look, Ryuga! The cars are flipped over like pancakes! It must be the creature's doing! I'm telling you, it's dangerous to stay here!

It’s okay, Ichiro. It seems like the creature has vanished.

I was desperately urging us to flee the scene, but Ryuga just gave a casual shrug.

Wait, is he going to be honest about it now? After all the trouble I went through to wait until the creature disappeared . . .

V-vanished? What do you mean?

Hmm . . . I'm not sure myself, but until just a moment ago, a creature was lying defeated over there. It seems like someone fought it and won.

It was you. You defeated it.

When I found the creature's body, it was barely recognizable. But I’m pretty sure it was the same one that appeared on the main street.

Y-you’re serious?

Yeah.

Who on earth could have taken down such a creature . . .

Who knows. But I'm sure it’s all right now.

Saying this, Ryuga grinned.

He had a refined, androgynous face, the kind that might suit cross-dressing surprisingly well. His straight, silky hair was tied back at the nape of his neck, his skin was moderately tanned and healthy-looking, and he had long, slender legs.

For a second-year high school student, he was a bit petite and lean, making his school blazer look slightly big on him. But likely, beneath that uniform lay a well-defined, feline physique, with lean, sculpted muscles.

Yes, he definitely had a certain charisma—just what you'd expect from a protagonist.

Come on, Ichiro, let’s head back.

Y-yeah.

As Ryuga started walking, I quickly followed. Normally, no one would be satisfied with such a vague explanation, but I didn't push for more.

If he said so, then the incident was over.

This was the end of that episode.

The boy endowed with supernatural powers, who fights unknown creatures in secret.

He dares to face enemy after enemy and, today as well, continues to protect this world . . .

I knew that this was that kind of story.

The boy I call Ryuga . . . He is definitely the protagonist of this story.

Although we are both high school students, he is clearly from a different dimension than I am. The world I live in undoubtedly revolves around him. This isn't some delusion—I'm certain of it.

How could a person like him just casually be a student? It's pointless to dwell on it. I simply have to accept that this is how things are.

In any case, this world is surely a "stage" for a story with him as the main character.

The main storyline unfolded somewhere beyond my reach. A story of Armageddon and Ragnarok-style battles that involved the Judgment of the Gods and the like, in order to conquer sinister creatures, with Ryuga as the main character.

I suppose there must also be ally characters who fight alongside him.

And, I imagine, there are endearing heroine characters by his side.

Of course, it goes without saying that there are also enemy characters that need to be defeated.

Even the numerous mob characters aren't to be underestimated.

The world exists for the sake of this story, and everyone is a character in it.

Even if I never got involved in the main story, I still have the worthy role of "a person who lives peacefully, knowing nothing of it."

. . . So, who am I, you ask? Let me introduce myself.

My name is Ichiro Kobayashi.

I am what you'd call a protagonist's friend character.

In the world of anime and light novels, I'm the guy who's in charge of anything that happens in the everyday life episodes.

I mingle with the protagonist during the story's downtime, balancing the seriousness of the main plot with a bit of comedic relief as a supporting character.

That's the role I play in this story.

At least, that's how I perceived my own existence.

1

I know I'm repeating myself, but my name is Ichiro Kobayashi.

I think it's a very common name. So ordinary, in fact, that it's ironically hard to remember. It's a different kind of cross to bear compared to the modern flashy names. Being the eldest son, it’s naturally where my name comes from.

By the way, I am a second-year student at Omei High School.

Again, it's an ordinary high school, with no exceptionally brilliant students nor extreme delinquents. There aren't any clubs that make it to nationals, either.

As for myself, I have no particularly remarkable traits. Average build, probably average looks— an embodiment of your typical high school student.

. . . If I were a novel author, I would make a guy like me a background character.

If I were involved in the main story, I would probably just end up as fodder for some creature. Not much use other than becoming a pitiful sacrifice.

A person like me is, ultimately, just that insignificant . . . it's something I've realized long ago, ever since I became self-aware.

However, even someone like me has a special skill.

And that is my talent as a supporting role.

I may not stand out myself, but I can make others stand out. I can uplift them, build them up, make them shine—that's where my skills lie, or so I believe.

And now, fortunately, I have come across the best position as the protagonist's friend.

I'm entrusted with a major supporting role where I can fully utilize my ability to assist others.

But, it's not that I've never aspired to be the protagonist myself.

As a kid, I always cheered for the Red Ranger when watching Power Rangers. I scorned Rangers wearing the other colors as mere "add-ons" to the Red Ranger.

What made me start paying attention to supporting roles was a kindergarten play where I acted as one of Momotaro's animal companions.

However, I wasn’t the monkey, the pheasant, or the dog—I was a frilled lizard. Since there were too many children for the usual roles, original characters were added.

I think there was also a raccoon, a seal, and an alpaca. Out of consideration for the parents watching, we were Momotaro's "friends" rather than servants.

I wanted to be Momotaro too . . . but I guess I'm too plain . . .

Despite such thoughts, I played the role of the frilled lizard to the fullest. In the end, I shielded my best friend, Momotaro, from a demon's attack and became the only casualty on the hero's side.

Don't cry, Momotaro . . . You still have things . . . t-to do . . .

With those words, the frilled lizard breathed its last. Of course, such a development wasn't in the script, but I wanted to enhance the story's climax in my own way.

When the play was over, the teacher was in tears.

Ichiro's frilled lizard play was top-notch. He made Takashi, who played Momotaro, look like a real hero.

I was praised to the heavens for it. Even the parents were thoroughly impressed with my acting.

That indescribable sense of achievement, elation, and fulfilment . . .

That was, without a doubt, the origin of Ichiro Kobayashi as I am today.

Since then, whenever I watched Power Rangers, I found myself more interested in the Green Ranger than in the Red. I've become strangely invested in him, even in episodes where he was not the focus and was just going along as the others took the lead.

Eventually, this fascination extended to characters who aren't even part of the Power Rangers team, like the scientist, the chef, or even just some ordinary old man.

As a child, I’d watch these occasional characters with intense focus, but no one seemed to understand how I felt.

Everyone around me cheered only for the main characters . . . even my mom.

We don’t have any soft vinyl toys of the old man, you know.

I remember someone saying that to me.

Even when I was taken to a hero show in the summer of my second-grade year, only the main team members were there. I couldn't understand why the other kids my age were so excited about it.

Everyone underestimates the side characters. They don’t realize that the story doesn't revolve only around the main characters. It’s the presence of a diverse cast that gives a world its depth . . .

Frustrated with these thoughts, I, as a fifth grader at the time, decided to act on them.

I approached one of the somewhat alienated students in our class, determined to make him shine.

With the right side characters and friends, a protagonist can become much more charismatic . . . I wanted to run an experiment to prove just that.

First off, I set my sights on Ishida, a transfer student from Okinawa. He was a shy soccer boy who had trouble fitting in with the class. During breaks, he was always alone in a corner of the schoolyard, sadly juggling a soccer ball.

Seizing the opportunity during break time, I quickly initiated contact with him.

Ishida! Don’t just juggle, practice shooting too!

Caught off-guard by my sudden approach, Ishida was startled.

Ko-Kobayashi . . . ?

The real protagonist is always the ace striker, right? Come on, shoot! I'll be your goalkeeper!

Kobayashi, are you into soccer too?

Not really! I'd be just as happy playing table tennis!

Despite Ishida’s confusion, I became his friend and coach from that day onward.

It turned out Ishida had a natural aptitude for being a forward, and he improved rapidly. He developed strong breakthrough skills, became adept at heading, and got better at dashing to fill gaps.

Meanwhile, I diligently promoted soccer throughout the class, making it the go-to activity during breaks. I even negotiated with our grade’s head teacher to change the school's ball-game tournament from basketball to soccer.

I also coached Ishida to heavily incorporate his Okinawan roots into his persona. I made him adopt "No worries!" in the Okinawan dialect as his catchphrase, and named his shot the Chinsuko Bazooka.

Um, Kobayashi. Can we change the name of the shot, please . . . ?

Idiot! A character must be clearly defined! If I could, I’d even have you constantly munching on sugarcane!

N-No way.

. . . Thanks to my character-building skills, before long, Ishida became a central figure in the class. To my knowledge, there were even six girls who liked him.

Now, "Ishida, the Okinawan Soccer Player" was known by everyone in our elementary school . . . The experiment was a resounding success.

Kobayashi, why do you go to such lengths for me?

Because I’m a side-character. Unlike you, I’m plain and unremarkable.

But most of my goals are thanks to your assists . . . I’m really grateful to you, Kobayashi. Without you, I would have always been alone . . .

Some time after that, my humble friend Ishida moved away before he could even graduate elementary school.

In a letter, he told me he’d passed the selection and joined a club team's junior division. He mentioned that he still hadn’t found a player who could match his rhythm the way I did.

Indeed, my talent for being the supporting role was the real deal. And somehow, being a side character was incredibly fun . . . I want to play the supporting role even more!

After the intial warm-up, I set out to broaden my activities even further when I entered middle school.

One time, I decided to help Yamashita with his love life by intervening with the girl he liked.

Come on, just try going out with him for a bit.

Just as I was pressing the girl, Yamashita rushed in and rescued her. Soon after, they happily became a couple.

Ichiro, you're really good at playing the thug, aren’t you?

Yamashita was impressed.

I also once made a delinquent called Watanabe become the school boss. When he encountered tough opponents, I knocked them down and let him take the credit. In the end, like a true protagonist, he reformed for the better.

Ichiro . . . I feel like I’ll never be able to beat you.

Watanabe admitted, feeling intimidated.

I also helped Sekiguchi, the student body president, become the top student at school. I tutored him relentlessly and helped him score perfect marks on every test. Of course, cheating was out of the question for a protagonist.

Ichiro, how come you're better at studying than me . . .

Sekiguchi groaned in frustration.

In this way, I played various friend character roles and produced many Red Ranger characters. Thanks to that, I ended up making more friends than I really needed.

Yet, deep down, I still felt a lingering dissatisfaction.

No, these aren’t the ones. The one I want to support is a real protagonist. Someone the world seems to revolve around—a true hero. Isn’t there anyone out there? An ideal protagonist among protagonists . . .

With such yearning in my heart, I graduated from middle school and began my first day at Omei High School.

That's when I met him.

I first saw him about a year ago, just after the entrance ceremony, as I stepped into my new classroom.

I knew at first glance he was no ordinary person.

While the other classmates were chatting around the room, he stood alone by the window, with an aura that clearly set him apart from the others.

Who is this guy . . . ? He’s got an aura like no other.

The wind blew softly, rustling his hair gracefully. Despite his slender build, there was an undeniable presence about him. Even the school bag at his feet seemed somehow majestic.

There was something extraordinary about him, as I watched him lean against the window, staring outside.

His profile was calm, yet his eyes beamed brightly. Seeing such sight, a strong character in a story would say, "Hmm, what good eyes you have. Eyes without a trace of hesitation."

I can tell. This guy is definitely a genuine Red Ranger. No, more like Scarlet or even Crimson. Who in the world is he? Where did he come from?

Before I knew it, I was heading straight toward him, even before checking where my own seat was.

I wanted to know more about him. I needed to know his detailed character background . . . As a supporting character, my blood was buzzing with excitement.

Hey, you're in this class too?

I just threw out those words to break the ice. I mean, any greeting would do.

Man, I was worried not knowing anyone here. Looking forward to getting hanging with you!

Despite these words, he just glanced briefly at me before returning his gaze to the scenery. Seems like he's got a bit of an aloof style. Well, I'm used to this type.

I'm Ichiro. Ichiro Kobayashi. And you are?

. . . Ryuga Hinomori.

That was the first shock.

R-Ryuga . . . Hinomori?

Already, there was a chasm between the characters in my humble name, "Ichiro Kobayashi", and the impactful name he had, "Ryuga Hinamori." I was merely a bush; he was a whole forest. Moreover, a forest on fire. His name was so enigmatic that its origins were completely elusive.

I had never met anyone with such a protagonist-like name before.

Wow, that's a cool name. Sounds like something out of an anime or a light novel.

I'm not really fond of it, this name.

Huh? Why?

It feels like . . . I'm bound by fate until I die.

. . . Interesting. Very interesting.

That's amazing. Isn't he just like a real protagonist?

This might be the guy I've been looking for!

Anyway, let's get along, Hinomori. Hey, can I call you Ryuga?

It doesn't bother me, but . . . just so you know . . .

Hmm?

You might be better off not getting too involved with me. For your own sake, really.

. . .

Normally, I would think, "What is this guy talking about?", but I felt like the words pierced my heart. It was almost a perfect line in my book.

No way, how cool! Seriously, isn't this guy like some kind of protagonist?

Just then, the class teacher appeared, and our initial conversation ended.

But, during the subsequent self-introduction, another shock was awaiting me.

I'm Ryuga Hinomori. Up until entering high school, I lived in a secluded part of China due to family reasons.

What's that about! What kind of a coincidence is this?

Such a remarkable name, such an exceptional circumstance—I was completely captivated by Ryuga Hinomori from that moment, to the point where I had forgotten about my own introduction.

I wanted to be friends. I wanted to be the supporting character that helps him . . . that was all that was on my mind.

Later, I found out that I'd seemingly introduced myself as . . .

Ryuga's best friend, Ichiro.

From that day on, I was always by Ryuga Hinomori's side.

Morning, break time, lunch break, after school. Whenever I had a minute, I would talk to Ryuga. Since he was so aloof, I decided to go with a high-energy, goofy vibe.

Initially, Ryuga seemed visibly annoyed, but after a few months, he began to respond to my conversations. Gradually, his demeanor softened, and he started to smile.

Ahaha. Ichiro, you're such an idiot. No way that's true.

Who's an idiot! I'm serious! I had a conversation with a fart!

What did you talk about?

When I muttered, "What's the capital of Belgium again?", it said, "It's Brussels, sir.

That's definitely a lie.

The real Ryuga was more straightforward and better at retorting than I initally imagined, perfectly matching my character.

Speaking of which, Ryuga, do you want to go to the pool sometime? There's a big one in the town nearby.

Sorry, but I'm not really into swimming.

Who said anything about swimming? We're going for the view! What do you think pools are for?

I could ask you the same thing.

As we spent more time together both in and out of school, I became increasingly convinced that Ryuga was undeniably the main character. And with each passing day, that belief only grew stronger.

First off, he barely spoke about his past.

Whenever I asked about his life before high school, he invariably dodged the question.

There's not much to tell.

I've seen characters like that in anime before.

Also, he frequently sneaked out during classes.

When he did return, he was either unusually exhausted, or bleeding from the lips, with his uniform's sleeves and hems torn. I've seen main characters like that in light novels.

Plus, he has supernatural abilities.

Once, he burned a manga to ashes with an aura emitted from his hands.

But I haven't even finished reading it . . .

I overheard him say, looking all depressed. I've seen main characters like that in serial publications.

It's true. He's the real deal who secretly battles grotesque monsters, the embodiment of my ideals; a real life courageous warrior!

I never imagined such grotesque creatures actually existed, but a minor detail like that didn't really matter to me.

I had finally met him. The one and only existence worth supporting with everything I have; the protagonist of all protagonists, the very center of my world!

Eventually, we moved to the second year and ended up in the same class again.

I'm glad we're together again. Looking forward to another year with you, Ichiro.

Huh?

At first, you were kind of a nuisance, but now, Ichiro, you're dear friend to me.

Ryuga . . .

You know, when I'm with you, I can forget about my duty for a while . . . ah, never mind.

Hearing those words, I couldn't help but swell with pride and respond, "Leave it to me!"

I had been officially recognized as friend of the main character.

Now and in the future, I could stay by his side. I passed the audition to be Ryuga's friend!

And so, my life as a friend character continued.

Ryuga might have laughed when he's around me, but I knew he was going through a lot. After all, the fate of the world rested on his shoulders. I worried he might go bald from all the stress.

Since I was supposed to be oblivious to everything, there wasn't much I could do for him. Even when his secrets were painfully obvious, all I could do is look the other way.

But that's okay. Honestly, I was not that interested in Ryuga's main story. The Ryuga I cared about was the one who was looking for brief moments of peace.

I was not one of Ryuga's allies, but simply a friend . . . I did not want to become the frilled lizard that fought alongside him, but instead, take on a more modest role. I've gained enough experience to do this.

I wanted to bring him moments of peace and entertainment in our everyday life to the best of my ability, so he could forget his troubles.

That was my mission.

Undoubtedly, I was the only one who could take on this role for Ryuga.

2

It's been just over a year since I met Ryuga Hinomori.

Spending that much time together, I've come to know quite a lot about him.

To put it bluntly, Ryuga was a pretty clichéd protagonist—a bit of a stereotype. Not that he even realizes it himself, and if he were any more eccentric, it might cause issues. So, I thought this balance was just fine.

Ryuga didn't participate in any of the school clubs.

Since it's difficult to predict when enemies would appear, it was only reasonable for him to be a part of the going-home club. He was burning his youth amidst an endless battle between light and darkness.

Ryuga also often got caught up in strange incidents.

In this town, incidents that defy modern science and involve unverified creatures attacking people happened frequently, but they always seemed to settle down shortly after Ryuga got involved. Naturally, it was because he was taking down the monstrous culprits.

And yet, Ryuga kept on insisting that he was nothing more than an ordinary high school student.

This claim was as unconvincing as a man emerging from the girls' restroom with a camera, insisting he's "not suspicious." Ordinary high school students don't just happen to notice the sinister presence of monstrosities.

But I didn't question him about it. I gracefully let the comment slide.

When you're a friend as experienced as I am, you see right through such blatant modesty as a heroic formality. Ryuga was a seasoned protagonist after all.

And the icing on the cake—Ryuga Hinomori was always surrounded by beautiful girls.

His angelically cute, middle-school sister, Kyoka Hinomori.

Shiori Yukimiya, who was treated around the school like an idol.

Rei Aogasaki, a refined beauty and master swordswoman.

A mysterious transfer student, Elmira McCartney, who even had red hair.

These were all childhood friends Ryuga has reconnected with after several years. All were unnaturally gorgeous, each a different type, with just the kind of names fit for heroines.

However, these girls' presence proved to be quite troublesome to me.

Whenever they appeared before Ryuga, I had work to do.

Each time they interacted with Ryuga, I had to say things like . . .

Hey, hey Ryuga! How do you know Yukimiya?

Whoa, our beautiful swordsman Aogasaki came all the way to the classroom to see Ryuga?!

E-E-Elmira! What do you see in someone like Ryuga!

I just had to make a big fuss about it.

Reacting with shock, jealousy, and indignation . . . these are the basics for any friend character, but they are by no means easy.

In truth, it’s more exhausting than it may seem from the sidelines.

Even I have days when my enthusiasm was low. However, I couldn't just neglect my duties. If necessary, I might even be expected to burst into tears.

Sometimes, when these girls ran into each other, things escalated into a full-blown battleground, and Ryuga ended up facing ridiculous situations.

In those moments, I never forgot to taunt him.

Hah, getting what you deserve now, Ryuga?

To that Ryuga always responded with . . .

. . . Good grief.

That was his catchphrase.

So far, none of the heroines have significantly closed the distance with Ryuga—they are still on equal footing.

Who will finally win Ryuga over . . . Personally, I wish they'd clear up this harem situation. It's so frustrating.

But then again, it’s not even certain that all potential candidates have shown up yet.

There’s a good chance more new heroines will keep popping up, further expanding Ryuga's harem. I should probably prepare myself for at least two or three more.

I'm worried about Ryuga's stamina. I'm worried about my blood pressure too. But . . . oh well. Bring it on.

No matter who shows up, I'll hype them up with my sparkling heart eyes, yelling,

You're just, so cuteeee!

Honestly, I found girls a bit of a hassle, but I never let that show and instead, I puffed up with enthusiasm.

Because, after all, I was a pro at being the friend character.

Hey Ryuga, let's grab some lunch.

It was lunchtime, and as usual, I called out to Ryuga while holding a bag of bread from the convenience store.

The chances of us having lunch together these days weren't very high. Maybe only once in every five attempts.

Most of the time, Ryuga was whisked away by one of the potential heroines, whether it was to a deserted rooftop, an unused classroom, or sometimes even outside the school.

There was no point in complaining about it. They were the main characters of the story, after all. It's only natural they'd take precedence over a side character like me.

But, fortunately, today, there are no heroines interrupting. It seems it's just about the scene with the protagonist's friend today.

Hey Ryuga, listen. I've updated my "Cute Girls List" again!

With that said, I started rattling off information about girls considered cute at school. I proudly pulled out my secret notebook, whispering to Ryuga their birthdays, heights, weights, blood types, and even their measurements.

. . . Truth be told, I was not really interested. I'd rather memorize a historical timeline than the profiles of numerous girls.

But, I had to tell Ryuga. I needed to boast with a smug face, expecting to be met with disbelief. I realize that the friend character I've chosen was a bit retro.

Ichiro, seriously . . . What are you even doing with all that information?

As expected, with his eyes half-closed, Ryuga sighed and gave me a scornful look.

I don't know how you got your hands on this, but you know you'd be in serious trouble if you got caught, right?

Don't worry. I take enough precautions against leaking personal information. I only share this stuff with you, my best friend.

You could use that energy for something else, you know . . .

Chewing on a straw from the milk carton in his mouth, Ryuga sighed once again.

Good grief.

Honestly, I couldn’t agree more. What's the point in tracking the changing measurements of growing people? Even I gain or lose a kilo or two every month. It's an utterly pointless task for the effort involved.

But, well, it can't be helped. In my book, the friend of a cool protagonist is supposed to be "stupid and perverted." I'm just being faithful to my role.

On the other hand, our homeroom teacher, Minegishi, is incredibly infuriating. He's way too earnest and hardworking for a teacher.

The protagonist's homeroom teacher should be more careless and nonchalant.

He should frequently turn lessons into self-study sessions, giving Ryuga chances to slip out of school. And then, Ryuga could say . . .

Good grief, is this school gonna be all right?

Moreover, Minegishi is a middle-aged man.

The protagonist's homeroom teacher should be a female teacher. Perhaps a sexy, beauty, an extreme loli-type, or a naturally clumsy, big sister-type. Minegishi, you just don’t pack enough punch.

I was wondering if Minegishi would ever transfer somewhere else, when at that moment, suddenly, Ryuga clutched his chest in pain.

Ugh, ghh . . . !

His whole body trembled, eyes wide open, and hands scratching at his uniform. It seemed like he was desperately fighting against something.

Probably, it's something like "an immensely powerful force" on the verge of running wild. It must be a dangerous power, something beyond human control, that could make its wielder either a god or a demon. Not that I really know the details.

While it was pitiful to see him sweating like that, I had to be merciless.

Hahaha, what are you playing at, Ryuga?

. . . A true friend wouldn't react like this. They'd be serious and genuinely worried, which is how I actually wanted to respond.

However, I couldn't allow myself to be nearly as considerate as that. I couldn't break my role as the clueless, carefree friend, totally oblivious to the protagonist's struggles.

Taking good care of Ryuga in situations like that should be the heroines' job. If an unattractive guy like me did it, there would be complaints.

So, someone—anyone—come quick and take care of Ryuga.

He's literally radiating a golden aura from his back. It's seriously quite sad, so please, someone help!

Hah, hah . . . phew.

Oh, he's recovered. Ryuga got better without even waiting for a heroine to show up.

Is that . . . okay? Wasn't he supposed to need a heartfelt call from a beautiful girl?

It was a chance for one of them to stand out, but what in the world are those girls doing? Without such instincts, they can't claim the main heroine spot. If a to-be heroine messes up like that, she should be given a buzzcut.

As I was fretting, Ryuga soon looked up.

Hey, Ryuga, are you okay? You don't look so good.

He seemed to take my panic as just a slight concern and, while breathing heavily, gave me an awkward smile.

Ah, sorry . . . it's nothing.

. . .

Don't worry about it. It really is nothing.

It can't possibly be "nothing."

He was emitting an aura. His eyes were glowing. There was even a mysterious rumbling sound.

But of course, pointing this out was taboo. I quickly plastered on a smile, and responded with an optimistic comment.

You're probably just sleep-deprived, aren’t you?

If it's nothing, then fine. But you should really get some sleep, you know?

Yeah, I know.

You were probably up late playing games, right? Or were you reading some naughty magazines? Pass them on to me, you, you—

Ahaha. Well, something like that.

Even I think this conversation is absurd.

Suffering from lack of sleep? I'm supposed to ignore the aura? It was even starting to take a dragon-like shape.

When we first met, even I thought that Ryuga was just a delusional teenager. But as you can see, it was real.

A recent incident where people were turned into stone in the area was also resolved thanks to Ryuga’s efforts.

. . . Ryuga. Come with me for a moment.

That same afternoon, after the classes have ended, Rei Aogasaki, who had somehow heard about the lunch break incident, stormed into the classroom.

Her entrance alone made the room buzz. As always, her samurai-like boldness and model-like proportions blended magnificently . . . Her piercing gaze swept over the room, instantly causing two girls to faint.

Ignoring all of this, Aogasaki strode over to Ryuga, her long ponytail swinging in the air. She grabbed his arm, making him stand up.

Ah, ah, Aogasaki is taking Ryuga again! What exactly is their relationship—

Kobayashi, I don’t have time to deal with you today. I need to borrow Ryuga.

Without letting me intervene, Aogasaki took Ryuga away. Despite being a heroine candidate, she was taller than Ryuga—probably around 170 cm.

I’ll go instead of Ryuga! To a hotel, to the ladies' bathroom, wherever!

Control yourself, you pervert.

With a sharp glare directed at me, Aogasaki left.

I planned to go home with Ryuga, but I couldn’t oppose the intervention of a heroine candidate. She was a character of far greater importance than someone like me.

Maybe I should take a peek . . .

After some hesitation, I decided to secretly follow the two of them.

I had always kept a hands-off approach with regards to the main plot, but thinking about it, I should at least know the basics of Ryuga's supernatural abilities.

At the very least, I wanted to understand what this dragon-like aura was all about.

It seems like it might be some kind of a guardian deity residing within Ryuga . . . I wonder if it has a name?

Luckily, the two headed to the dojo inside the school. It seemed there were no club activities today, and only Ryuga and Aogasaki were there.

Ryuga was in the center of the dojo, forced to sit and meditate.

Dressed in her kendo outfit, Aogasaki spoke to Ryuga. The room was so quiet that even I could hear her clearly from behind the door.

Ryuga, it seems the guardian deity within you nearly went berserk.

. . . There was indeed a guardian deity.

Yeah. Until now, I've managed to keep it under control . . .

With the increasing opportunities to unleash its power, the great Dragon God within you might be awakening.

. . . There definitely was a dragon guardian deity.

But don’t worry. I won’t be swallowed up by its power.

I know, Ryuga. You are the only man I acknowledge who can surely control the Dragon God.

The conversation seemed to continue, but I decided to leave the dojo there.

For now, I got the basic information. There’s no need for me to know more. That's something only the main characters need to be aware of.

Not that I’m likely to accidentally spill the beans, but it's best not to hear such things. Knowing these kinds of secrets is different from knowing the BWH measurements of girls.

Still . . . a "Dragon God", huh?

Isn’t that a bit too cliché?

Couldn’t it have been something more exotic, like "Leviathan", "Jormungandr", or "Quetzalcoatl"? That’s my only concern.

Of course, even I understood that not everything can be as tidy as fiction.

Ryuga's story was a real-life drama, an almost surreal reality. That’s why there was no need to twist it any further.

But at least, the names could’ve been a bit more creative . . .

3

After that, the rest of the weekdays passed without any further incidents, and Sunday arrived.

Even during holidays, I was not completely off duty. As Ryuga’s best friend, I’d often go out with him around town. School wasn’t the only stage for me.

When meeting Ryuga in casual clothes, I had to be appropriately cautious.

Even though I played a comedic side character, I was still the protagonist's best friend. There was no need to dress up, but I couldn't afford to look too shabby either. Most importantly, I had to avoid wearing anything that would clash with the protagonist's fashion.

Well, I didn't have any plans with Ryuga on that particular day.

I thought I’d relax and shake off my usual responsibilities for once . . . but then my plans got unexpectedly derailed.

At the station, I unexpectedly ran into Shiori Yukimiya, the school idol.

Hey, Yukimiya. Are you waiting for someone?

Yes, well . . .

Could it be Ryuga, by any chance?

As I asked, Yukimiya's face turned red and she looked down. I see, so Ryuga has a date event today.

Yukimiya, as a classic pure-hearted heroine, wore a chic pure white dress. Her long flaxen hair reached down to her waist, perfectly complementing her outfit. In a small basket she held with both hands, there was no doubt a homemade lunch prepared just for Ryuga.

. . . Shiori Yukimiya is the dreamgirl of all the boys in the school and a daughter from a distinguished family.

She is graceful, kind to everyone, yet naive—a combination that adds to her charm. It's a pity though that she's a bit modest in the bust area, but she is indeed a central figure among Ryuga's harem candidates.

Despite being a top student, she often skips classes, presumably to fight alongside Ryuga.

That means Yukimiya too, must be a person with special abilities.

Um, you're Hinomori's friend, right?

Yes!

I energetically replied to Yukimiya with a smile, like a kindergarten kid.

Just like Yukimiya. Even a minor character like me isn't treated with disdain by her. It's surprising to see such a soft smile directed at someone who has been dubbed the great pervert for looking into girls' measurements.

You're Ichiro Kobayashi, aren't you?

Eh? Oh, right, Kobayashi! Wow, I'm touched you remembered!

. . . I was momentarily slow to react, which was unlike me.

Since Yukimiya is in the next class, it's considerate of her to remember my name, but in this case, it was somewhat off.

No, Yukimiya, that's not it.

You're supposed to not get my name right.

It could have been "Daihayashi" or "Nakahayashi". It was the perfect chance to show a bit of your playful side!

Getting it right was actually wrong. It was a mistake in its own way.

Just because she has the classic heroine attributes doesn’t mean she can rest easy. Characters like that often end up getting overshadowed by other heroine candidates.

If Shiori Yukimiya wants to secure the role of the main heroine, she needs to add a bit more spice to the mix.

Ah, by the way, Kobayashi, if you have a moment, may I ask you something?

Yukimiya asked, completely unaware of my disappointment.

A question? What is it?

Well, it's just . . .

Yukimiya suddenly became fidgety.

She glanced up at me with puppy eyes, hesitating for a while.

Is it that hard to ask?

No, it's not that . . . just wondering, what's Hinomori usually like?

Yukimiya murmured in a voice barely above a whisper, and I couldn't help but smirk to myself. I see, so that's what she wants to know.

Wanting to know how the protagonist acts around male friends is a natural feeling for a heroine—it's practically a duty.

Her embarrassed expression, her fingertips touching lightly—it's perfect. Shiori Yukimiya, you're more adept at this than I expected. You've redeemed yourself from the earlier mishaps.

What's he usually like? Hmm, let me think.

In that moment I wanted to lavish praise on Ryuga, but instead, I quickly cut the chase.

That guy—he's just a weirdo.

Huh, a weirdo?

Yeah. It’s hard to tell what he’s thinking, he’s been kind of distant lately. His parents are on a long business trip, so they hardly ever come home, which is also why Ryuga is absurdly good at cooking.

Ignoring the puzzled expression Shiori Yukimiya gave me, I smoothly continued my tirade, casually slipping in some details about Ryuga’s family situation.

It pains me to speak ill of my best friend, but this too is a part of my role.

But well . . . unlike me, Ryuga is a reliable and steadfast guy. I bet he’d treasure his girlfriend a lot.

And finally, I used myself as a foil to boost Ryuga’s image in one fell swoop.

This isn’t belittlement, it's modesty. It raises my stock too. I am Ryuga’s mischievous friend and his confidante.

You should try your best too, Yukimiya. Ryuga is quite the catch, after all.

W-what? I’m not, I mean, that’s not . . .

Shiori Yukimiya turned bright red and shook her head vigorously. What a great reaction, Yukimiya.

You’re heading out on a date with Ryuga, right? He likes romantic movies. There’s one he mentioned wanting to see that’s playing now, maybe you could ask him to go?

Ah, thank you for the advice . . .

Yukimiya bowed politely, her ears bright red. Unfortunately, this is as far as I could go in supporting a heroine. I couldn't play favorites too much.

It's about time for Ryuga to arrive, so I'll take my leave now.

Wait a minute . . .

Suddenly, a nagging doubt crossed my mind. "Was this really okay?"

Interacting with the heroine instead of the protagonist . . . Was this an overstep for a friend?

Yukimiya ultimately belongs to Ryuga. If I accidentally medded, it might be seen as a green light, which could lead to trouble. Resulting outcomes aren't always so easy to predict.

Maybe I was a bit inconsiderate. Maybe I should have just said hello and left. To top it off, I ended up being thanked by Yukimiya . . . I acted uncharacteristically rash.

Maybe I should make some adjustments . . .

Yukimiya, let’s just pretend this conversation never happened, okay?

Huh?