After a few short minutes... Tomoki brought out two bottles of freshly prepared Dango Milk, placing them carefully in front of the two women. The milk wasn't warm—it was at room temperature, perhaps even a little cool to the touch.
"Thank you for waiting! Please, have a taste!"
Tomoki rubbed his hands together excitedly, eyes full of anticipation. His heart thumped wildly in his chest as he waited for the two beauties' reactions.
"Thank you."
Ei replied politely.
She reached first, taking the bottle on her right—the one with a color tone opposite to the one on her left. Gently, she twisted open the cap and brought it close to her nose, taking in the scent inside.
Hmm... it didn't smell bad. In fact, it was quite similar to ordinary milk—perhaps with a faint hint of fruitiness?
"..."
Before drinking, she glanced sideways at the Shogun beside her. At that moment, the Shogun also picked up her own bottle and, just like Ei, gave it a cautious sniff.
Pfft...
Ei chuckled inwardly. Seeing her daughter's hesitation, she decided to take the lead as the "vanguard" and brought the bottle to her lips, taking a sip.
"!"
The Shogun blinked in surprise when she saw Ei drink without hesitation.
So decisive?! Was she not worried it might be some kind of dark culinary experiment?! She herself certainly wouldn't dare.
"...How is it?"
After watching Ei take a sip, the Shogun asked carefully, studying her mother's expression. Tomoki, of course, was also watching eagerly, full of hope.
"Hmm—"
Ei didn't swallow right away. She let the milk linger in her mouth, savoring its texture and flavor.
"Sweet... delicious! It even has the texture of a dessert. Drinking it feels quite novel. You'll probably like it."
Her eyes narrowed slightly in delight as she spoke softly, clearly enjoying the sweet taste. She then turned to her daughter, gesturing for her to try the bottle in her hand.
"..."
The Shogun looked at the bottle in her hand, still a bit hesitant. But even so, she didn't want to seem reluctant in front of her mother.
"Go on, try it... See? I've already had some. It's really good."
Ei encouraged her gently.
Could this possibly taste worse than medicine? Ei didn't quite understand her hesitation.
"... (gulp)"
Under the expectant gazes of both her mother and Tomoki, the Shogun awkwardly took a sip.
As she let the flavor spread across her tongue, she realized that Ei was right... it was sweet, with a soft, chewable texture—almost like yogurt. The smooth richness of it made her eyes soften in quiet enjoyment. Truly, they were mother and daughter—down to even the smallest gestures.
"How is it? Good?"
Seeing her daughter's expression, Ei smiled fondly, her tone warm and loving.
"Ahem... not bad. Pretty good, actually."
The Shogun cleared her throat softly, answering in a low voice as a faint blush crept across her cheeks—embarrassed by her own reaction. But she quickly composed herself a moment later.
"Really?! That's amazing... wow... my Dango Milk has finally been approved!"
Tomoki cheered in delight.
And not just by anyone—by the Shogun herself! Incredible!
"It truly is delicious... It's a bit like porridge, yet not quite the same. Either way, I quite like it."
Ei offered her own praise, smiling brightly.
To think such a simple drink could taste so pleasant—what a delightful surprise.
"Thank you so much, Shogun-sama!"
Tomoki clasped his hands together and bowed deeply, nearly trembling with joy. He felt like he was dreaming.
"With something this tasty, it must sell well, doesn't it?"
Ei took another sip, speaking casually as she struck up small talk. Logically speaking, such a delicious drink should be a hit with customers. So why was his stall so quiet today?
"Ah... well, to be honest, sales are rather average."
Tomoki scratched the back of his head awkwardly, admitting the truth.
"Oh? Not selling well? Why is that?"
Ei raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised.
Could it be that people's tastes had changed that much? Was her own taste outdated now? That would be such a shame.
"Because... most people are hesitant to try it. They think the combination sounds strange. But those who have tried it all say it's good."
Tomoki explained earnestly.
"That's simple enough to fix. Have the Kanjou Commission purchase a few hundred bottles and distribute them door-to-door."
Ei then turned to the Shogun.
"Shogun... tell Ayaka about this later."
She leaned in slightly and whispered quietly.
After all, Ayaka was her daughter's close friend—having her handle it would be most appropriate.
"...Alright."
The Shogun gave a speechless look but responded simply, feeling a twinge of guilt toward Ayaka in her heart.
I'm sorry, Ayaka... for troubling you.
"No, no, no!! That's too much, I can't possibly accept that!"
However, Tomoki immediately refused the suggestion before anyone could say more.
That would be the end of him! Even if it sounded amazing, it was far too excessive!
"Oh? Too much? I just thought it would be nice if everyone could try it. For those who've never had Dango Milk... it would be such a shame."
Ei shook her head regretfully, as if saddened by the thought. It was as though she mourned for the world itself—was this the burden of a god?
"...To have the Shogun herself praise my work like this—it's truly an honor."
Tomoki smiled proudly, his face flushing red with joy.
"..."
During this, the Shogun glanced toward Ei and noticed that her mother was still sneaking glances at the unopened bottle before her, as if she hadn't had enough yet.
"Would you like another?"
She asked knowingly.
That expression said it all.
"Y—Yes—! Ahem... never mind. I shouldn't. It's not like I'm that obsessed or anything."
Upon hearing her daughter's question, Ei blurted out an instinctive "yes," but then quickly coughed awkwardly, regaining her composure.
After all... she had just said she didn't want her daughter spending money on her. Losing control over a little craving—how embarrassing.
"You clearly want one."
The Shogun's tone carried a teasing lilt—perhaps precisely because of their relationship, she didn't bother giving her mother an easy way out.
"I... may want another... but I'm not addicted. Forget it."
Ei pursed her lips, as if resisting temptation itself, and turned her face away, trying to stay calm.
Pfft... Not addicted, huh? You're a terrible liar, Mother.
The Shogun sighed internally.
Clink...
She reached into her pocket, took out her Mora pouch, and handed Tomoki the corresponding amount of Mora.
"Two more bottles, please."
She instructed simply.
"Oh, no, no! I can't possibly accept your money, my lady! Absolutely not! Please, allow me to treat you both—it's on the house!"
Tomoki was terrified. The Shogun's money?! How could he take that?! Having them here at all was already more than enough honor—taking their payment would be madness!
"Now, now... don't make a fuss. Whatever the price is, that's what you'll be paid. We didn't come here to freeload. Treat us like ordinary customers. This Mora is the rightful reward for your effort—take it."
The Shogun explained calmly, pressing the coins into his hand before he could protest further.
Did they look like paupers to him? Even if Ei truly had no money, she wasn't poor—her daughter had more than enough for the both of them.
"B-but, my lady—!"
Tomoki stammered, at a loss for words.
"My mind is made up. Or... are you refusing me?"
Her tone grew slightly cooler—her expression one of quiet authority, the kind that said "You will take this money, whether you want to or not."
"Uh... it's just that... you've given too much."
Tomoki counted the coins, realizing there was extra.
"That covers the first two bottles as well—no more, no less."
She clarified, firmly pressing the Mora into his palm.
"O-of course... I'll prepare them right away."
Tomoki, left with no choice, accepted the payment with both hands and hurried back to his stall.
"For takeaway," the Shogun added casually.
"Understood!"
Tomoki responded quickly and ran off to prepare the drinks.
"..."
Ei looked at her daughter in surprise. The Shogun noticed her gaze and began to explain.
"...What I said earlier about not having Mora was just a joke. I actually saved this money just for today. I know you don't have any, so if there's anything you want... just tell me. I-I'll buy it for you. ///"
As she spoke, her fair, beautiful face turned faintly pink. Her lips, like cherry petals, trembled softly as she bit them in embarrassment. Her slender fingers fidgeted with the drawstring of the Mora pouch.
"..."
Ei's nose stung slightly, and her eyes grew misty—but she managed to hold back her tears.
They say that a daughter's affection is the most direct remedy for the soul—and truly, this child's love was a medicine stronger than any in the world.
She reached out and pulled her daughter gently into an embrace, pressing her cheek affectionately against hers.
As long as you have that heart... I'm already happy, Shogun.
Indeed, her daughter's words were more healing than any medicine this world could offer.
I love you, Shogun.
After saying goodbye to Tomoki and his little food stall, the two continued their stroll toward the end of Hanamizaka. Ei carried a small plastic bag in her hand, the corners of her lips curving slightly into a faint smile. Seeing that, the Shogun couldn't help but smile softly to herself as well.
Inside the bag Ei held were two bottles of Dango Milk, and the way she carried them—brimming with the innocent joy of a young girl—was simply adorable. The Shogun thought to herself that spending this money had been well worth it. It had been far too long since she'd last seen her mother so genuinely happy.
"Look at you. You can't even hide your smile."
The Shogun walked beside her, umbrella in hand, leaning closer to peek at her mother's face teasingly.
"Hmm? Am I smiling?"
Ei blinked in mild confusion and brought her hand to her cheek and lips, as if trying to confirm it herself.
The Shogun shook her head slightly, then reached into her kimono pocket and pulled out a small mirror, holding it up for Ei.
"..."
Ei accepted it curiously and looked inside—only to see the reflection of a woman whose lips were indeed curled in a faint, innocent smile. She looked just like a carefree maiden.
"Well? Who's that in the mirror?"
The Shogun grinned softly. She couldn't help teasing her mother a little—such playfulness came naturally between them. That was simply the bond between mother and daughter.
"...It's me."
Ei answered blankly, still staring at her own reflection, which left the Shogun momentarily speechless.
"Is this mirror yours?"
Ei soon noticed the small lavender mirror in her hand—it was girlish in design, almost too cute. She turned to her daughter, puzzled.
"Y-yes... why? Is it strange?"
The Shogun asked, her tone slightly embarrassed.
"No... I just didn't think you were the type to use mirrors."
Ei replied hesitantly.
Wait, did her daughter actually check her appearance in mirrors? That was unexpected—she herself never bothered with that sort of thing. Could it be that her daughter had become... vain?
"Ahem... so what if I do?"
The Shogun instantly understood what Ei meant, her face flushing faintly pink as she spoke awkwardly.
"Nothing... I was just surprised, that's all."
Ei caught the hint of embarrassment and softened her tone, ending the subject tactfully.
"I'm a woman too. Isn't it normal to look in the mirror once in a while?"
The Shogun said quickly, then hastened her pace, stepping past her mother—clearly a little sulky.
"I know, I know. I just don't have the habit myself. Perfectly understandable... after all, you're still—"
The Shogun suddenly stopped in her tracks and turned slowly toward her. Ei froze, realizing she might have said something she shouldn't have.
"Still what?"
The Shogun asked with a faint smile, though dark energy seemed to swirl faintly around her.
"Still... in your adolescence."
Ei thought for a moment, then cautiously answered in a small voice.
"!!"
The Shogun nearly choked on air. Sometimes, her mother could truly be dense!
"Haa! Forget it!"
She turned away, sighing sharply, and strode off ahead, leaving her mother standing there in confusion.
"...Did I say something wrong again?"
Ei lowered her eyes, feeling slightly disheartened. Was the generation gap between them really that wide? She sighed and hurried to catch up.
The Shogun stood on the arched bridge, gazing at the clear pond below. Petals of cherry blossoms drifted down, landing softly on her umbrella. Her long, flowing hair cascaded down her back like silk, a delicate golden hairpin tying part of it into an elegant bun. Graceful and pure—no wonder the young ladies of Inazuma admired her so much.
Watching her breathtaking daughter, Ei felt a little awkward as she approached, gently placing her hands over her daughter's.
"..."
The Shogun felt her touch but didn't pull away, allowing her to hold her hand quietly.
"I'm sorry... I'm not sure what I said wrong, but... still, I'm sorry."
She didn't know exactly what had caused the Shogun's sulkiness, but she knew apologizing was always a safe choice—and her daughter usually softened easily when she did.
"Haa..."
The Shogun sighed softly, her violet eyes reflecting a mixture of emotions as she looked at her mother.
"Would you like a drink?"
Ei lifted one of the bottles of Dango Milk from the bag, offering it to her with a hopeful look, as though trying to cheer her up.
"There are only two. You should keep them for yourself."
Sometimes, the Shogun truly felt like she was the mother here. She exhaled helplessly.
"Oh, then I'll drink it."
Ei said simply, opening the bottle and taking a sip without hesitation. The Shogun could only stare in silence before a helpless, affectionate smile appeared on her lips. That childlike innocence of hers—perhaps that was what made her mother so endearing.
Even though Ei was a single-minded warrior by nature, the Shogun could still feel her mother's efforts to express affection in her own unique way—and that alone was enough to fill her heart with quiet contentment.
"Haa—Sweet treats really do help one relax. It's so much better than sitting alone in silent meditation."
After taking another sip of the sweet milk, Ei narrowed her eyes in delight, a soft smile playing on her lips as she spoke cheerfully. Her hand even gave the Shogun's arm a small squeeze now and then, as if to gauge her reaction.
"Pfft..."
The Shogun held back a laugh, shaking her head.
She really did love it, didn't she? Maybe she should buy a whole crate later and send it to the Plane of Euthymia instead of bothering Ayaka to buy it for her next time.
"Oh, right..."
Ei tugged lightly at her daughter's sleeve, making her turn.
"I want to visit 'Yae Publishing House.' Miko said they sell... light novels there."
She proposed eagerly.
Of course—her interest was piqued. The book they had seen earlier in Tenshukaku—the one that featured the "Raiden Shogun"—had apparently been published by Yae Publishing House. She finally had some free time today, so why not go take a look at those so-called light novels for herself?
"You... want to see light novels?"
The Shogun asked, a little surprised.
"Mm—That book we read before, I didn't really understand it... and I don't have much of a concept of what 'light novels' are. So I thought I'd go there and see if they have any others."
Ei sealed her half-finished bottle of Dango Milk, slipping it back into her pocket as she smoothed a few stray strands of hair and looked at her daughter.
"Then let's go."
The Shogun replied without hesitation. Since today was all about accompanying her mother, she wouldn't refuse any request. If it made Ei happy, that was all that mattered.
"Mm..."
Ei's expression brightened visibly as she linked arms with her daughter, following her down the now-familiar path.
The two crossed the arched bridge and descended the stone steps to the lower platform.
Hanamizaka's commercial district was vast, stretching from the upper to lower areas, filled with bustling shops in every corner. Even now, though evening had fallen and the crowds had thinned, the street still glowed with a gentle liveliness.
On the right side of the street stood a shop with a wooden signboard that read "Yae Publishing House."
This store was owned by Yae Miko herself, primarily dedicated to publishing light novels for public readership. It even carried foreign works on occasion. The shop was spacious, with wooden counters and the warm glow of lantern light illuminating the colorful covers of novels neatly displayed on the shelves. In the quiet of the evening, the place exuded a comforting, homey warmth.
Behind the counter, one of Yae Publishing's editors—Kuroda—froze in mild panic when he saw the two women approaching. But the problem wasn't the lady with the umbrella... it was the one beside her—the Raiden Shogun herself!
"Sh-Shogun-sama?!"
"Your Excellency's personal visit to Yae Publishing... may I ask if there's... any official business?"
His hands trembled as he pushed his glasses nervously up his nose, his voice quivering slightly while a thin sheen of sweat appeared on his forehead.
"It's nothing. Don't be nervous... we're just here to take a look."
Ei, seeing his reaction so similar to Tomoki's earlier, could only smile helplessly and tried to reassure him with a gentle tone.
The Shogun, however, felt weary.
Why were they all like this? Was she truly that frightening in daily life? Perhaps... it was time to reconsider that image.
—
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