Conquering Villains and Capturing Targets Is Harder in Real Life than in Games

49: Nothing is impossible unless you think it is.

"It's astonishing how many more people are here today than yesterday," commented Mika as she held up her camera to take test shots. "I thought the audience was big yesterday but it's really nothing compared to the number of people that are here today. When I look into the viewfinder, all I can see are the backs of peoples' heads."

Mika sighed. Although, she had specifically brought her favourite DSLR camera today to take better quality photos of her friends on stage, she knew that the seat that she was in made would it difficult for her to capture the actors' full figures.

"Since that's the case, you should just a break from taking pictures altogether, Mii-chan. Make today the day where you just sit back, relax, and watch the show," advised Fuyuki. "In the mean time, you want to hear some hot gossip I just heard?"

"Hot gossip? What is it?"

"Apparently, there's a rumour going around that the superintendent is here at our culture festival right now in a disguise!"

"Such an uninteresting piece of news is considered hot gossip at this school?" Yoru shook his head. "The students here really are something else."

"Oh how you disappoint me with those comments, Aki-tan. It's obvious that you're not thinking of the implications." A Cheshire-like grin spread across Araki's face. "If what Fuyuyu says is true then isn't it possible that the superintendent is here to investigate some scandalous claim made against the staff at Kigaku? It would explain the need for a disguise, wouldn't it?"

Araki drummed his fingers on leg. "Who knows? Maybe the principal is embezzling school funds. Maybe the vice-principal is leaking exam questions to the students from rich families. Maybe the science teacher produces and sells his own drugs. Don't limit your imaginations, children. Haven't you ever heard the saying, "Nothing is impossible unless you think it is?"

Satoru's mouth was set into a line. By chance he had heard of that saying and in fact, he even knew that it was Paramahansa Yogananda that had said it. As a result, he was almost certain that Araki was misappropriating the preeminent spiritual figure's words.

"If he's really here and in disguise, then isn't it more likely that he received a guest ticket from a grandson or granddaughter who goes to our school? He is about the right age." The group of four collectively fixed their eyes on Mika who was polishing her camera's lens. "Maybe they wanted to hide their relationship since it might be burdensome for a student to have everyone know that their grandfather is the superintendent."

"Bleh. That explanation sucks, Mikkan. It's too cut and dry. I refuse to accept it."

Mika smiled, then waited a moment before changing the subject. "Should we take a group photo before the show starts?"

Her proposal was met with positivity from Fuyuki, Yoru, and Satoru.

Only Araki rested his chin on his palm in contemplation. "Hm, normally, I'd charge people for photos, but I suppose I could make an exception if it's for you, Mikkan."

Mika giggled. "I appreciate it, senpai."

Araki shot her a wink. "Just try not to fall for me after this, babe. A sweet girl like you couldn't handle a bad guy like me."

Fuyuki cringed as she covered her eyes. She reckoned that if being shameless was a crime, her brother would immediately be sentenced for life.

Of course, had Shizuka been present she would've stated that Fuyuki wouldn't be allowed to roam in free in such circumstances either since she was only a tiny fraction less shameless than her brother.

When everyone had scooted closer, Mika took two photos in rapid succession.

After examining the saved images, Satoru flashed Mika a thumbs up. "These turned out great!"