"Hoo, a party? That sounds interesting." Maya offered a thin smile after hearing Tatsuya's story.
"Mother?" Tatsuya called out hesitantly, a sudden, ominous premonition washing over him.
Maya's smile turned sweet. "How about I tag along?"
"Absolutely not! If you're there, the free-spirited atmosphere of a youth party will be completely ruined!" Tatsuya retorted firmly.
Maya looked so heartbroken that tears began to well up in her eyes.
"Ugh, regardless, the answer is no. You are strictly forbidden from coming with me to the party!"
Maya no longer held back; she wept piteously, looking as if she had been deeply wronged. Her tears managed to tug at Tatsuya's heartstrings.
"In exchange, I'll grant you one request. Is that enough?" Tatsuya conceded.
Maya wiped her tears almost instantly, nodding with a blissful expression.
'Ah, I've been played.'
Despite the realization, Tatsuya had no intention of going back on his word.
"In that case, we're sleeping together tonight. I won't take no for an answer."
Pfft!
Tatsuya spat out the drink in his mouth, staring at Maya in utter disbelief. Maya wore a devious smirk, looking like a triumphant manipulator happy that her plan had succeeded.
"I've been completely tricked..."
That night, Tatsuya did indeed sleep with Maya. To be clear: they only slept. Tatsuya did nothing that violated basic human morals. Initially, he found it hard to drift off, distracted by the fragrance of Maya's body. Eventually, Maya had to use magic to relax him, lulling him to sleep in her arms.
She leaned down and kissed his forehead. "Sleep well, Tatsuya."
...
On the night of the party, Tatsuya dressed up sharply and posted a photo of himself in the Destiny Chat Group.
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Well? Does it suit me?
Sword Princess: It does. You look like a prince from a distant land.
Time Eater: Ara~ ara~ why the sudden photo? Trying to catch this girl's attention?
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Ahem, I just wanted to liven up the chat. Besides, this group hasn't given us any missions yet; I'm starting to suspect this is a fake group.
(@Tatsuya Yotsuba has been banned for four rounds.)
Sword Princess: Strict as always, Mr. Moderator.
Time Eater: Ara~ ara~ how terrifying.
White: I don't know what to say.
Makoto: @Tatsuya Yotsuba, come back soon!
Tatsuya Yotsuba: ...My apologies.
(Hmph!)
Sword Princess: Back to the topic—why the suit? Is there an event?
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Yes, I'll soon be attending a party specifically for the youth of the Ten Master Clans and the 18 Assistant Houses.
Time Eater: If I'm not mistaken, those groups are the highest power-holders in your country, right?
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Correct. If we were serious, the government would be no match for us.
White: I'm interested in the other humans in your world. Why not show them to us?
Makoto: True, I want to see the Japan of another world, too.
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Very well, since you're all so insistent, I'll show you.
(Tatsuya has started streaming.)
Tatsuya waved at the group members, speaking in a casual tone. "Follow me. You might find a grand surprise."
Sword Princess: Can't wait.
Time Eater: +1
White: +2
Makoto: +3
Tatsuya waited for Miyuki outside. Before long, Miyuki appeared, wearing a blue dress that showcased her skin, which was as smooth and white as snow. Tatsuya should have been used to it, but seeing her in person still left him mesmerized.
"Um, Onii-sama, how does Miyuki look tonight?"
"Perfect. You're so beautiful I can't take my eyes off you."
"Hehehe, thank you. Miyuki is happy that Onii-sama likes it."
Tatsuya laughed softly. Miyuki took the initiative to walk over and wrap her arm around his.
Sword Princess: Such a beautiful woman. Is she your sister?
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Let's just say that.
Sword Princess: ?
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Miyuki is the daughter of my mother's sister. Indirectly, she became my younger sister.
Time Eater: I understand what you're trying to say, but in my eyes, you two are closer than just siblings. Don't tell me you're dating?
Makoto: Seriously?! That means a forbidden relationship?!
Time Eater: Exactly.
Sword Princess: ...
White: I don't know why it's called forbidden, but I think as long as they love each other, there's nothing wrong with it.
Time Eater: A demon's mindset really is different. I'm at a loss for words.
Sword Princess: +1
Makoto: +2
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Stop talking about me behind my back. My relationship with Miyuki is strictly as siblings for now.
Time Eater: "For now"?
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Right. There are many uncertainties in my life, and it will take time to solve them all.
Time Eater: I don't follow.
Tatsuya Yotsuba: Of course you don't. After all, I'm even confused by myself.
Time Eater: ...
Sword Princess: ...
White: ...
Makoto: ...
To be continued...