A Brief Farewell

"A Brief Farewell" (しばしの別れ) is a short story from Gamers' store privilege for volume 3 of 2nd Year arc of You-Zitsu light novel series, together with other three short stories.

Summary
After landing on the island and talking with Ayanokōji for a bit, Horikita took her leave. She believed that Ayanokōji was going to stay at the starting line for a while after seeing her off. As someone going solo, Horikita was worried about performing well in the exam. Even though Ayanokōji was in a similar situation, she believed that he would do well, even without her having to worry.

Horikita then began wondering since when did she begin to have such confidence in him. She looked back at him, who was looking at her with a puzzled look and realized how he had always been more capable than what he made himself look. After having watched him closely for more than a year, she had noticed just how perfect his answers were for every problem he faced. Even if he had certain flaws, he had always covered them by using others conveniently, and as such, always came out on top.

Having found a newfound resolve, Horikita took a step forward, wanting to fight her best in this unforgiving uninhabited island exam. This resolve was not due to feelings of 'jealousy' or 'admiration' for Ayanokōji, but because of a wish to become someone who can walk together with him, like a partner he could rely on.