Gate Guardian - Song of the Frozen Soul

PHASE 32 - THIS COULD BE LOVE AGAIN

PHASE 32 - THIS COULD BE LOVE AGAIN

“W-What was with that place?” I’m now sweating as if I forgot to use my towel after a thirty-minute shower. It’s even cold.

Tiara made a gloomy aura as she bowed down, covering her face with the shadow of her bangs. “I-It’s where I was born. My mother and I used to live there until she was burned in a stake by those people... “

“The Brightmore Witch… “ I muttered.

Tiara probably heard my words as she looked into my eyes. Her puppy eyes are about to release tears. I must have offended her. Now I feel guilty.

“I-I’m sorry for bringing that up… “ I said.

Good thing she replied with “It’s nothing.” with a hint of a smile on her face. Then she shook her head to cast off some emotional vibes.

“Oh!” Suddenly, there was a light bulb on her head. She searched her bag for a while and then reached a book of red tickets.

“Um… Rikkun... “ She was shaking as she presented a ticket. It’s clear that she’s mustering all courage she got. “P-Please watch me perform after the exams!”

I looked at the ticket closely. It has a title of “Idol Club presents Post-exam Stress Concert! Relieve your mind from the depressing exam by watching the cute Idols of Dradecim City!”. That’s a long title!

...But I’ve never seen our school Idol Club perform so it should worth a try…

“Interesting.” I held my chin. “How much?”

“Just a thousand~” Tiara tilted her head and made a brilliant smile. She’s sparkling. So adorably bright...

“Too steep!” I shouted. It felt like bubbles would come out from my mouth.

“P-Please watch me!” She cried as she bowed. “Nette-Senpai and Miss Helena will not be attending and Key is not interested in concerts. You’re the only one I can ask you about this… I’ll give it to you for free if you want to, but promise me that you’ll support me from the VIP audience seat...”

“I’m sorry…” I muttered. Her cuteness would usually make me convinced but I know I would be out of place if I went to the concert alone. If only I could drag one of my male friends in that event, there will be no problem. “I would if I could, but…”

“I’ll give four more free tickets so that you can invite the whole nerd squad!” Now she pushed her face to mine. Her eyes are really crying due to desperation. Am I really needed at that concert?

“Y-You sure?” I forced a smile. “You’re spending a lot…”

“Mmm~” She nodded. “Emotional support from a precious friend is always priceless!”

Nothing bad comes from a free concert ticket. So I took it. In exchange, Tiara thanked me while holding both of my hands. Her hands are soft and warm… It was a lot different from the silver-haired witch, which has cold razor claws.

<>

So the hell week started. Exams.

I was able to focus on studying since there was no Eidolon attacking the city. I think I did well in all the subjects because I answered all the questions quickly. On the other hand, Tiara struggled but made it through. She may not be studying at all due to her extra activities, but she was able to cram on the last day.

Amy also has no problems with the exams, I guarantee it. Since first grade, her marks are on par with the top fives. She may even make it to the salutatorian or valedictorian if she throws away her Gate Guardian duty.