Devoid of emotions.
Analytical to the core.
A void within.
Is this the true essence of Kiyotaka Ayanokoji? Or is it an imposition, a facade concealing a version of Kiyotaka who fears his own existence?
Perhaps his genuine nature recoils in terror at...
While Arisu sat comfortably in the chair opposite me, I meticulously arranged the chessboard pieces.
"So, Arisu, with what would you like to start our conversation?"
"Such a gentle person you are, Kiyotaka. If you want my proposition, I'd like to hear your opinion on our newfound Tyrant of Class C."
As we initiated our discussion, I finished arranging the pieces and took my seat.
"I see. I have nothing against such a start. By the way, which color do you prefer?"
"White, please."
I adjusted the board accordingly after Arisu's choice, and she made her first move, e4, a common yet effective choice.
"If you're seeking my opinion on how Ryuuen manages his class, I'd say it's quite a risk he takes."
In response to her move, I played h6, an unconventional move rarely seen in chess.
"Huh, interesting move, Kiyotaka. It's the second time in my life I've seen Carr's defense in a real match."
After this, Arisu made a couple of standard moves, and I responded with a couple of unorthodox ones: d4, e6, and c3, a6.
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"I've been meaning to ask."
"What is it, Kiyotaka?"
For a moment, I subtly revealed something that a regular person wouldn't even notice.
My eyes changed for a second.
While she did notice, what surprised me more was that her expression remained unchanged.
"I assume it was foolish to believe that all of this would hold up longer, huh?"
"Indeed, Sakayanagi."
"Fufu, wouldn't it be strange if, after starting to use our first names, we reverted to using our family names?"
"I don't mind you using my name, Arisu. However, tell me, doesn't it scare you?"
Upon hearing this, she shot me a dissatisfied glance.
"If you're talking about your past, then my answer should be quite clear from my facial expression."
"Not only the past, but the present as well. We both know that I haven't changed a bit."
"I see nothing wrong with that. People don't change in one day."
This girl spoke about the monstrosity I am in such a calm manner, as if we were discussing a child misbehaving in a store.
"By the way, Kiyotaka, you can stop holding this mask of yours if you want. I've arranged everything; no one will interfere without us knowing about it beforehand."
